To Be A Faithful Follower
BRD REFLECTIONS:
Galatians 3: 1-22 and Psalm 57 (NIV)
(Sandra Choi, CIC Facilitator)
READ:
- Galatians 3: 1-22
- Psalm 57
OBSERVE:
Galatians 3:1-22 is a letter from Paul to the Galatians, who were believers in Jesus Christ. Paul was concerned that they were taking a step backward by trying to work on their salvation through keeping the Jewish law, instead of relying on faith in Jesus Christ. Paul pointed out that Abraham was saved by his faith, and all believers who have faith are children of Abraham. In contrast, the law cannot justify and save; it can only condemn because breaking even one commandment brings one under condemnation. The only way to redemption is believing in Jesus Christ who took the curse of the law upon Himself on the Cross. Hence, through faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the promise of the Spirit.
Paul further illustrates that Abraham believed in God and His promises even when they would not be made fully evident until centuries later at the Cross. The law existed to show how to obey God in grateful response. Faith does not annul the law; but the more we know God, the more we see our sinful nature, the more driven we are to depend on our faith in Christ alone for our salvation. Paul was showing the superiority of salvation and growth by faith over trying to be saved by keeping the Jewish laws. Christ is the only way given by God for us to come to Him.
Psalm 57 is a psalm of David written when he was hiding in a cave from Saul. David was faced with enemies who were trying to attack him physically and verbally. In his suffering, he sought refuge in God’s love and faithfulness; he chose to remain quiet and steadfast in the Lord, praising him and meditating on His promises.
APPLY:
From the reading, I am drawn to the heart of David, who, even in times of suffering and opposition, chose to remain faithful in God and cling to His promises for him. David did not walk ahead of Him, taking the situation in his own hands and acting impulsively. He did not walk behind Him, turning inward to self-pity, blaming God and others for his suffering. But, instead he walked in lockstep with God, seeking His presence and receiving strength and guidance from Him.
I am challenged to reflect in my life whether I have depended on the power of the Cross to deliver me in difficult situations and whether I have anchored myself in the love of Jesus during challenging circumstances.
DO:
To be a faithful follower, I hope to be more intentional and mindful in doing the following throughout the day:
- Acknowledge the presence of the Holy Spirit.
- Acknowledge HIS way is greater.
- Rest in HIS stillness.
- Focus on the Cross.
- Pray and have a conversation with HIM.
PRAY:
Thank you, Jesus, for paying the price at the Cross for my redemption. Thank you for the promise of the Holy Spirit who lives in me, empowering me to live and do your will on earth. I pray with your help that I will be an intentional, faithful follower of Christ, walking in lockstep with you always. And if I’m out of sync with you, give me the courage to acknowledge this and the humility to accept and change. In Jesus’ name I pray.
