Love BBQ or just food in general? Don’t miss this Saturday from 12-2pm for the Tri-State’s 1st Annual BBQ Competition at the South Point Parks. Get more information
4 x 6 Plan | Read: Matthew 10:16-33 & Romans 8:1-11
“Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves. (Matthew 10:16)
Oxymorons are two things that are put together but seem to be opposite. Like Jumbo shrimp, Bittersweet, Pretty ugly, Act naturally, Original copy, Awfully good. I think you get the picture. In a culture that often celebrates cunning strategies and self-preservation, it can be challenging to navigate our way with wisdom and integrity. But to follow Jesus, we are called to be shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves. This intriguing combination almost seems like an oxymoron.
In Matthew 10:16, Jesus instructs His disciples to be shrewd as snakes but innocent as doves. This seemingly paradoxical instruction reminds us that as we follow Him, we are called to navigate the world with wisdom and discernment, while at the same time maintaining our innocence and purity of heart. It’s a delicate balance, but one that is made possible through the grace of the gospel.
Being shrewd as snakes requires us to be alert and aware of the challenges and deceptions of the world. We must be discerning, making wise choices and being cautious in our interactions. However, our shrewdness is not driven by self-interest or manipulation but by a desire to walk in alignment with God’s will and bring His kingdom values into every situation. At the same time, we are called to be innocent as doves. This innocence is not naivety or ignorance but a purity of heart that flows from the transforming work of God’s grace within us. It means living with integrity, authenticity, and a childlike trust in our Heavenly Father.
As we embrace the gospel really is good news for everyday of our lives, we can navigate the complexities of the world with confidence. We can rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us in making shrewd decisions that align with God’s purposes and reflect His love and grace. Let us strive to be shrewd as snakes, discerning the ways of the world, while maintaining our innocence as doves, radiating the transformative power of God’s love to those around us.
The “Great” News of the Gospel | Romans 5:1-11
In Romans 8:1-11, the apostle Paul proclaims the incredible good news of the gospel. He assures us that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. This powerful truth sets us free from the burden of guilt and shame, reminding us that we are forgiven and accepted by God. The grace of the gospel emphasizes that our salvation is not based on our own efforts or performance, but on the finished work of Jesus Christ.
Through the Holy Spirit, we receive the gift of life and power. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead dwells in us, transforming our lives from the inside out. This grace perspective reminds us that we are not left to our own devices, but we have divine assistance every step of the way. We have the power to overcome sin and live a life that pleases God.
The gospel is great news because it offers us complete freedom and a new way of living. We are no longer bound by the chains of sin and death, but are made alive in Christ. Let us embrace this grace, knowing that we are fully accepted and loved by God. As we yield to the Holy Spirit’s leading, we can experience true transformation and live in the abundance of life that Christ has provided for us.
Action Steps
Bible: What is God showing me? What am I going to do about it?
Bless: Serve one person through word, action, or gift today.
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