Day 8: Practicing Church

Daily Devotional

Galatians 2:20

20 “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

If we had to choose what Paul’s life motto might be, Galatians 2:20 has to be a top candidate. For so long he tried to earn his salvation by living the right way and obeying God’s law. Now, he knows that it is impossible to earn eternal life by our efforts. But he still wholeheartedly believes that it is important to live righteously, in a way that is pleasing to God. What’s the difference then? He now lives by faith in Jesus, the Son of God. Jesus was the only righteous one and because of his love for us, he died so that we can be saved. Therefore, Paul constantly thinks about the love of Christ as he lives his life for God. His life motto is to live so much like Christ that it is as if Christ who lives in his place. We, too, should dearly hold the love of Christ in our hearts as we obey his commandments and live for him. Spend time to reflect on his love today, and let God’s love motivate you to live for him.

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.