Monday, October 28, 2024

Daily Devotion: Why Are You In This Condition by J.E. Smith


Bible Reading: Galatians 6:5-12 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."
- Galatians 6:7 KJV

The 2003 low-budget Christian video "Flywheel" chronicled the life of a dishonest used-car salesman and his journey to eventually turning to Jesus. The quality of the movie was a bit rough since it was produced, filmed and acted by amateurs from a local church in Albany, GA. However, it delivered a line that has stuck with our family over the decades: You are in the shape you are in today because of the choices you've made. You can see this line delivered in the movie trailer linked above.

The condition of people's lives can be attributed to various factors, including their choices, circumstances, and spiritual state. In Romans 3:23, we read, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." This verse highlights the fact that all people are born with a sin nature and have fallen short of God's standard of righteousness.

Furthermore, our choices and actions play the most significant role in shaping our lives. In Galatians 6:7-8, we read, "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." These verses emphasize the importance of making choices that align with God's will and that lead to life and blessings.

Though it is not always our choices, sometimes God allows circumstances in our life for His glory.  In John 9:1-3, we see an example of a man born blind, and the disciples ask Jesus whose sin caused this. Jesus replies, "Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him." This passage reminds us that God can use difficult circumstances to bring about His purposes and to draw people to Himself.

Lastly, our spiritual state is a key factor in determining the condition of our lives. In Matthew 6:33, we read, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." This verse encourages us to choose to prioritize our relationship with God and to seek His righteousness, which will lead to the blessings and provisions we need.

In conclusion, people's lives are shaped by a combination of their sin nature, choices, circumstances, and spiritual state. By recognizing our need for God's grace and forgiveness, making choices that align with His will, trusting in His sovereignty, and choosing to prioritize our relationship with Him, we can experience transformation and live lives that are pleasing to God.

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