In Touch Ministries Daily Devotions - Spiritual Maturity

0:00Here's today's Intouch Devotion. Today's Scripture reading is Isaiah chapter 48 verses 10 and 11. Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver I have tested you in the furnace of affliction. For my own sake, for my own sake I will act. For how can my name be profaned and my glory I will not give to another? The world's way is to choose the strongest and smartest individuals to accomplish tasks. In contrast, the Lord works through those whose greatest qualification is their dependence on Him. Reliance on God is what characterizes the mature in faith. This kind of maturity isn't automatic. Our Father patiently meets people where they are, but lovingly refuses to let them stay there. He helps us to grow more and more like His Son.

1:02The Holy Spirit illuminates our understanding and then, over time, the Lord builds in us a deeper dependence on Himself and a submission to His Spirit. This transformation is often gradual, but God sometimes allows difficulty to deepen our alliance on Him. Let's consider some biblical models of faith. Sarah and Abraham dealt with infertility before receiving the promised child. Joseph was sold into slavery and in prison before he helped his nation survive famine. These people faced hardships and brokenness, which allow them to recognize both their own inability and God's ability. Whatever is holding us back from fully trusting the Lord, His invitation remains the same. Lean into Him. In our weakness, He is strong.