No. 365 - Enduring in Faith to Inherit the Kingdom of God

The Call to Spiritual Holiness

Enduring in Faith to Inherit the Kingdom of God

Galatians 5:21

"Envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." 

Prayer 

Dear Lord, grant me the strength to endure in faith and to reject any behaviour that would hinder my inheritance of Your kingdom. Help me to live a life pleasing to You and to persevere until the end. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Background  

In Galatians 5, the Apostle Paul addresses the believers in Galatia about the fruits of the Spirit versus the works of the flesh. He warns that those who continue to live in sin, such as envy, drunkenness, and other such behaviours, will not inherit the kingdom of God. This letter was written to guide Christians on living a life in accordance with the Spirit, encouraging them to avoid the actions that lead to spiritual ruin. Today’s title concludes our weekly theme of spiritual holiness.

Be Encouraged

The message of Galatians 5:21 is a powerful reminder that our choices in life have eternal consequences. For example, if someone has struggled with habits or behaviours that lead away from God, such as gossiping or drunkenness, making a conscious effort to turn away from these actions can lead to a renewed and faithful life. Your perseverance and dedication to avoiding such pitfalls will be rewarded by God.

Application  

In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, we are told, “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.” This verse underscores the importance of living a life free from such behaviours. If someone has been involved in these actions but seeks to change, they should seek God’s help and guidance to overcome them and live according to His will.

Another relevant verse is Revelation 21:8, “But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” This verse warns of the consequences of not repenting and changing our ways. By embracing God’s forgiveness and striving to live a holy life, we can avoid such outcomes and secure our place in His kingdom.

Invitation 

If you have not yet surrendered your life to Christ, I urge you to visit a nearby Church of Christ. There, you will be guided on how to obey the gospel of Christ through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of your sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38). By doing this, you will be added to His church, where you will continue to learn more about God and practice Christ’s commandments (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:47). Embrace the call to spiritual holiness, and let today’s message inspire you to endure in faith. Share this message with others and encourage them to follow Christ.

Concluding Prayer  

Thank You, Lord, for the insight and strength to endure in faith. Help me to remain faithful and to live in a way that honours You, so that I may inherit Your kingdom. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Congratulations! 

Well done on reaching 365 days of daily meditation! It's a real achievement and shows your commitment to deepening your faith. 

Let's take a short break from our regular messages after tomorrows. I wish to gather more resources in order to add more engaging features to my presentation as we continue our spiritual journey.

As always, your support and prayers mean the world to me. Knowing that I have your encouragement behind me makes all the difference. Keep reading the Bible and praying!

May the Lord bless your day.

 

Theodore J. Quist 

Evangelist 

Church of Christ 

Abokobi - Accra 

Ghana

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