Day 7: Practicing Church

Daily Devotional

Deuteronomy 10:18-19

18 “He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing. 19 Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt.”

God calls us in these verses to follow His example by showing us His heart for the marginalized and vulnerable. Not only is God concerned with the needs of those who are most vulnerable, He takes clear action by carrying out "justice for the fatherless and the widow" and providing for the outsiders. This kind of call to action is echoed in James 1:27 "religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction..." and Matthew 25:35-36 "For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink...". Putting our faith into action is not only evidence of obedience, but also evidence that we are allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us. Let us be reminded of God's call to love and serve those around us today, allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us to bring about God’s kingdom on earth.

Weekly Application

As followers of Christ, it’s important not just to hear and know the Word of God, but to put it into practice in our daily lives. Start your day by asking the Holy Spirit to guide and direct you each day. As you set your mind on the things that the Holy Spirit wants, He will show you opportunities to put your faith into action. Live out your faith with at least one person each day this week by serving them and loving them as the Holy Spirit leads. You may be led to offer a listening ear to someone who is going through a tough season or to give a portion of your time or resources to someone in need. Have high expectations of what God can do, and ask Him to guide you each step of the way.