“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful always” (Colossians 3:15).
Listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit and allow the violent and stubborn forces of your nature to be calmed, the hardness of your affections to be softened, and your self-will to be subdued. When something contrary rises up within you, immerse yourself in the blessed ocean of meekness and love. God loves the meek, those who are willing to suffer for their brothers and sisters, placing the good of others above themselves.
God also loves the obedient, those who follow His commandments even when their nature inclines toward disobedience. True obedience is not merely an outward act, but a deep desire to honor God above all things, trusting in His wisdom and goodness. These faithful ones, who renounce their own will to do the will of God, find divine favor.
It is these faithful souls whom God loves, guides, blesses, and prepares to be with Jesus. Through meekness and obedience, the heart is shaped into the image of Christ, and life becomes a reflection of the Lord’s love and grace. May our prayer be to live like these faithful ones, submissive to the will of God, confident in His love, and ready to fulfill His calling. -Adapted from Gerhard Tersteegen. Until tomorrow, if the Lord allows us.
Pray with me: Dear God, I ask that Your divine love calm the restless forces within me. Soften the hardness of my heart and subdue my self-will, so that I may live in meekness and put the good of others above my own interests. Teach me to reflect Your love in every action and to trust You in all circumstances.
My Father, today I ask You to shape my heart for true obedience, which is born from a sincere desire to honor You above all. Help me to renounce my own will to follow Your commandments, even when my nature inclines toward disobedience. May my life be an expression of trust in Your wisdom and goodness.
Oh, Most Holy God, I adore and praise You for being a Father who loves, guides, and blesses Your faithful children. Thank You for shaping my heart into the image of Christ and for preparing me to live in communion with You. Your beloved Son is my eternal Prince and Savior. Your mighty Law is my faithful friend, always protecting me from crooked paths. Your beautiful commandments never leave my mind. I pray in the precious name of Jesus, amen.
