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THEREFORE
I’ve taught Bible classes for years now. Some for children, some for adults. No matter the age group, I love sharing the joy, hope, and peace I find in God’s Word. And while I make sure every lesson explores the truths and true stories of the Bible, there’s one other thing I believe is essential to include: the therefores.
Therefore is a conjunction, a joining or connecting word. It joins God’s truths with the changes I need to make and the actions I need to take. Because “head knowledge” of the Bible’s concepts and commands isn’t enough. Even the evil one knows these things (Matthew 4:6). What matters is how I allow that knowledge to change me. And it’s the therefores that compel me to make those changes.
Sometimes it’s a call to change who I believe I am: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Other times, it’s a call to soften my heart and change my attitude: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Colossians 3:12).
It can be a command that compels me to take action: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).
And then there are those beautiful passages in which therefore is a promise to claim and a foundation to build a life of faith upon: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).
As you dive deeper into God’s Word, I pray that He will shine a light onto some new-to-you truth—big or small—and that it will become a “therefore” in your own life. A therefore that sends you seeking Him in His Word and in every moment . . . and finding Him always at the intersection of ordinary and divine.
Challenge: Search the Bible for God’s therefores and take note of what you find.
We hope this plan encouraged you. Learn more about Everyday Joys Devotional by Tama Fortner here.
About this Plan
Life is full of ordinary moments that might seem routine. But what if each held an opportunity to meet with God? This is your invitation to recognize God’s divine presence in all the moments of life. No matter what fills your day-to-day, you can experience holy ground right where you are because God is there, waiting for you at the intersection of ordinary and divine.
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