Devotional - Oct. 30, 2024

Scripture: Galatians 6: 11 - 13  See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand!  Those who want to impress people by means of the flesh are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ.  Not even those who are circumcised keep the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your circumcision in the flesh. 

Here at the end of the letter, the second shoe drops.  The motivation behind the Judaizer’s actions is revealed.  They fear persecution.  If the Galatian church adopted a theology that centered more on Judaism, than Christianity, it would be accepted as a variation of the norm.  An acceptable norm in their society.  Paul goes on to point out that those who are telling them what to do, do not do what they are saying.  Does any of this sound familiar, ...contemporary?  Sure it does, and maybe even from our own mouths.  We tell others this and that, when we ourselves do not do what we say.  I'm not excusing the behavior, or judging it, I am pointing it out.  Even when we want them to, our aspirations and our actions rarely line up.  Paul came to terms with this when we wrote, I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do (Romans 7:15).  Maybe that sounds familiar too...  In the end Paul says, Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 7:25)!  Again, Paul is not excusing what he does, but his hope, like ours, is founded in Jesus Christ.  That is the difference between him and the group that is active in the Galatian church.  They are claiming their form of Christianity is valid, when it is not.  It is a way of appeasing the world and avoiding persecution.  Being afraid of persecution, especially when it could lead to death or being ostracized is not without merit.  For some, the thought of being an outcast or rejected by others is enough to keep them in line with any social norm.  No one wants to be alone.  Yet, before we go the way of the world, realize that some alone time with God is quite rewarding.  God knows about your struggles and your short-comings whether you have come to terms with them or not.  But know this, none of it separates you from the love God has for you (Romans 8: 31-39).  So, spend time with God, unload (1 Peter 5:7), work things out, study, pray, it is time well spent.

Pray with me ..., Holy God we confess at times we cave to the pressures of this life.  To conform to the world and not You.  Continue to work with us, strengthen and enlighten us, as we continue on with You.  Hear us as we pray for our loved ones.  We ask Your blessing upon them and on our church, that we may be the people You call us to be, in Jesus' name, Amen.

God's peace,

Pastor Brian