Devotions Archives | Page 6 of 122 | New Rocky Creek Baptist Church

Serving Even in Heaven

Posted on Apr 3, 2025 in Devotions |

Introduction: Are you saved? You say… By Grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. I’ve got a Pastor friend who always ADDS, but we are NEVER ALONE! Now that you are saved from sin’s penalty (Rom 6:23), are you SERVING our Lord Jesus?

Some people tell me they do not need the Church. Unfortunately, that is a gross misunderstanding of God’s intention for every CHRISTian. Paul makes it very clear that once a person has a relationship with Jesus Christ, then he or she should fit in and function within a local assembly of believers called the Church. For instance, writing to followers of Jesus Christ in the Church of Rome, he notes Motivational gifts:

1. Do you know your Spiritual gift(s)? (Rom 12:4-8) – “For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.”

In other words, the purpose of Jesus forgiving our sins and bringing us into a right relationship with our Heavenly Father is to SERVE Him. In order for this to happen, He gave each believer the Holy Spirit. In turn, the Holy Spirit imparts spiritual gifts. In this passage, these are SERVING gifts meant to be used within the body of Christ, the Church.

2. Did you notice some of these Spiritual gifts? (Rom 12:4-8)

teaching
ministering
administrating
exhorting
giving
showing mercy and compassion
discerning
serving

3. How about the Spiritual gifts for the Ministry? (Eph 4:11-13) – “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:”

Through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, servant leaders, Pastors/teachers, and evangelists are placed into the Church to serve the Lord Jesus who is head of the Church.

“Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.” (Eph 1:20,23)

Conclusion: Guess what every CHRISTian will do in heaven, more specifically the New Jerusalem?

“And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:” (Rev 22:3)

We will continue to SERVE Jesus!

Also please do not forget, we will either be rewarded or suffer loss at the “Judgement Seat of Christ.” This test will determine HOW we used or did not use the gifts given to us by the Holy Spirit. Finally, after studying this subject, it is apparent that we can get a lot of practice right now – with on the job training here on earth!

Love yall,

Dr. Randy Reese

Apr '25

Progressive Sanctification

Posted on Apr 2, 2025 in Devotions |

Apr '25

Introduction: After salvation, the process of sanctification takes place. Both mentally and spiritually, the Spirit of God is changing us – setting us apart… making us more like Jesus. But how? This devotion will share a few ways this process takes place.

1. The Life changing Power of the Word of God! (Col 3:16) – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

When the Word of God is at home (oikos) in our hearts, it imparts wisdom. Therefore, our hearts need to be fertile ground for the incorruptible seed of the Word of God.

Peter writes, “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” (1Pet 1:23).

Heaven and earth will pass away but God’s Word is forever!

2. The Cleansing Power of the Blood of Jesus! (Rom 3:25) – “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God.”

By faith in the blood of Jesus, our sins are forgiven. And by continual faith in Jesus’ blood, we can stay in fellowship with our Lord.

3. The Filling Power of the Holy Spirit! (Acts 1:8) – “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

The power of the Holy Ghost is the secret element in witnessing. Do you have it? Are you being a witness?

4. The Supernatural Power of Prayer! (Eph 3:20) – “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.”

Think about it. Whatever we ask our Lord, He is able to do more. Wow! Makes us want to ask for more!!

Conclusion: God’s will for every believer in Jesus Christ is to be conformed to His image.

“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren” (Rom 8:29).

He’s the POTTER, we are the CLAY!

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Apr '25

Why Revival?

Posted on Apr 1, 2025 in Devotions |

Apr '25

Introduction: Admit it. You need to be revived! Why?

First, in order to stay in real, close, intimate fellowship with Jesus, we must be cleaned up and filled up. Are you a candidate for a fresh filling?

Secondly, because of this old world’s stress and pressure, it demands we stay restful and fruitful.

Thirdly, with so much hatefulness, bitterness, and ugliness, which we cannot control, we need to stay humble and useful.

Fourthly, living in a world of negativity, dog-eat-dog mentality, spiritual apostasy, along with blatant immorality are all signs of the time to get ready for our Lord’s return.

Fifthly, sometimes our vision becomes blurry, our priorities get mixed up, and our purpose goes lacking. That is why we need Jesus, by His Spirit, to keep us focused in the right direction.

Sixthly, in order for us to fulfill our calling as godly dads, moms, grandparents, husbands, wives, and CHRISTians, we must be empowered daily by the Holy Spirit. Otherwise, we cease to be able to meet the needs of those around us. Are you feeling overwhelmed because of the different responsibilities that face us every day?

Seventhly, if we are going to be “good salt” and a “bright light” in this dark world, it is going to take resurrection power! Besides that, if we are going to be prepared to stand before Jesus Christ at the Judgment Seat not feeling ashamed (1 John 2:28), then we must yield to His control.

Next, with our Lord’s last words before ascending into heaven giving us His Great Commission to preach and teach the gospel to all the world, the only way to follow that imperative mood verb—“Go…” (meaning a command, not a suggestion) is to examine our motives, evaluate our lives, and enlarge our goals by being renewed, refreshed, and revived.

Conclusion: With all being said about “Why Revival,” what is left?

Will you acknowledge that you need to be REVIVED? Fall in love with Jesus once again! Let’s return to our first love!

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Mar '25

Spring = New Growth

Posted on Mar 31, 2025 in Devotions |

Mar '25

Introduction: Spring is in the air… including the pollen! But spring brings “New Growth.” Do you want to see New Growth? Moving past a cold and bitter winter, now the birds are singing, the grass is growing, and the temperatures are rising. Since God’s creation is changing, perhaps we could use the same. But where?

Think about what changes that you need to make:

1. Spiritual Grace and Knowledge Growth! (2Pet 3:18) – “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”

Are you growing spiritually? If not, why not? Is it someone else’s fault? Come on. We must make deliberate choices to grow spiritually. That comes with spiritual disciplines, setting priorities, and being decisive. Are you procrastinating? What are you waiting for?

2. Financial Stewardship Growth! (1Cor 4:2; 2Cor 9:6-7) – “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” “But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”

The better we can handle God’s finances, the more He entrusts with us. Are you being a good steward of what our Lord has given you? Do you need to make wiser investments? Will you lay up all your treasures on earth or heaven? If the former, then expect them to get eaten up by moths and corrupted by rust, according to Jesus.

3. Relational Growth! (Col 3:18-21) – “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them. Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.”

Truthfully, all of us could use some “relational growth” if we are honest. Why? Because some of our relationships need improvement. Do any of yours? What are you going to do? Do pray. But there may be more you can do after praying; i.e. show unconditional love, grace, forgiveness, etc.

4. Biblical Growth! (Heb 5:12; 1Pet 2:2) – “For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.”

How can we grow biblically? One way is by reading and heeding these devotions. Another way is by setting aside some time with a plan to not just read but study the Word of God. Will you? After all, we make time to do what we want to do—watch T.V., go to ball games, and be entertained. Honestly, it all has to do with priorities—what is important. Really, what is important to you? Is standing before Jesus Christ at the Judgment Seat important to you?

Conclusion: Since spring is here, why not focus on growing like the grass, blooming like the flowers, and coming alive like the forest? Make this spring a season of growing in these areas and you will be blessed!

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Mar '25

Wise Counsel

Posted on Mar 28, 2025 in Devotions |

Mar '25

Introduction: Do you ever seek Wise Counsel? Or are you really self-reliant? Self-sufficient? Self-dependent? Truthfully, at times, we all need godly counsel. Perhaps right now, you need biblical insights. Thanks for reading this devotion. These are intended to bring biblical truths to light that may be applied to our daily lives. With that in mind, consider the following:

1. Biblical counseling brings safety! (Prov. 11:14) – “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”

The word counsel is תַּחְבֻּלָה, which literally means guidance or strategy. It can have to do with steerage or a plan. The word counsellors is יָעַץ, which means to advise, counsel, or consult. It can also mean to determine. Do you get the picture? God is the ultimate adviser. However, at times, He can use a human vessel to communicate His truth accompanied by life experiences.

Please note the following: All biblical counseling should point people to a personal relationship with JESUS CHRIST. Does your life measure up to being a biblical Christian {non-professional} counselor? Be careful about being quick to give counsel. Why? Because giving wrong advice can end up in a lawsuit! What starts out as good intentions can end up as the devil’s mouthpiece!

2. Biblical counseling can help avoid falling. (Prov. 15:22) – “Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.”

Bringing clarity to one’s situation is like pouring water on a drooping flower. Remember, the counsel should be biblically sound all the way around. Plus, keep in mind that co-dependent relationships can develop unintentionally while giving counsel.

3. Biblical counseling brings rejoicing! (Prov. 27:9) – “Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man’s friend by hearty counsel.”

Having confidence about a matter as to how to proceed gives great peace of mind as well as rest in one’s heart. We all have been there! Right?

4. Biblical counseling gives wisdom! (Prov. 13:10) – “Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well-advised is wisdom.”

Wisdom is seeing things from God’s perspective. Wisdom is the God-given ability to look at things from different angles. Wisdom considers pitfalls and avoids them. Wisdom is having the mind of Christ. Wisdom relies upon biblical truth. Are you using wisdom?

5. Biblical counseling gives insights! (Prov. 12:15) – “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.”

While on the one hand, we need to be extra careful how good-intentioned people will tell you what they think we ought to do, on the other hand, being stubborn or hard-headed by refusing to listen to anybody can lead to bad decisions that may reap a corrupt harvest. Do you know the balance of the two? Are you putting into practice this concept?

Conclusion: There is no amount of human counseling that replaces or substitutes Holy Spirit counseling. Jesus reminded His disciples concerning His Spirit’s role (John 14, 15, 16). So remember, the Word of God is our counselor along with the Holy Spirit. Seek His counsel first. Then, as He leads, use caution in asking others for their opinion.

Hope this helps!

Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese

Mar '25

Time to Be Refreshed or Dominated by the Flesh?

Posted on Mar 27, 2025 in Devotions |

Mar '25

Introduction: Which is it going to be? Are you going to be REFRESHED or controlled by the FLESH? It is definitely a constant battle! As a Christian, we are either walking in the Spirit or fulfilling the desires of the flesh, according to Paul’s inspired letter to the Galatian believers.

Revival brings times of REFRESHING! Sins are confessed; grudges are forgotten; love is restored; Satan is exposed; joy is discovered; peace is imparted; faith is reestablished; prayers are offered; cleansing is found; vision is reclaimed; missions are planned; testimonies are purified; families are united; relationships are rebuilt; sicknesses are cured; Jesus is enthroned; the Church is empowered; and God is glorified!

1. When We Are Revived, We Are Refreshed by the Spirit! (Acts 3:19) – “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.”

Without repentance, there will be no revival. Repentance is a change of mind and heart that results in turning from sin and turning to God—a complete U-TURN. Do you need to make a U-TURN?

Has something—a secret sin—crept into your life? Unknowingly, it will destroy you. Whether intentional or not, things that displease our Lord must be dealt with. Revival for the Christian means dealing with unconfessed sin. Are you willing to ask God to search your heart? That is the first step toward being revived.

Remember: LITTLE COMPROMISES lead to BIG CONSEQUENCES!

Have you compromised your convictions? Is the Holy Spirit nudging you to forgive? To reconcile? To stop excusing? To stop blaming? To stop justifying? To stop giving ground to the devil? To start being humble? To start being loving instead of critical? To start being compassionate toward others? To start sharing your faith in Jesus?

2. When We Are Not Revived, We Are Controlled by the Flesh! (Acts 3:19) – “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.”

A lame man had been healed. The religious crowd ridiculed Peter and the disciples. So he stood and called the men of Israel to repent. Then and only then would there be times of refreshing in the presence of the Lord.

Even after conversion, our hearts need reviving. Why? Because of the war between the flesh and the Spirit! Satan is constantly shooting his fiery darts, attempting to ruin our testimony and make us ineffective in witnessing to others about God’s love and grace.

Are you feeling the pull of the world, the flesh, and the devil? Are you going to trust Jesus Christ to revive and refresh your heart?

Conclusion: While this message was technically directed at Israel, the same call is for the Church today. This does not mean being saved again—which cannot happen—but instead being refreshed and revived after salvation.

Will you let God refresh your heart today?

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Mar '25

The Devil’s Big Lie

Posted on Mar 26, 2025 in Devotions |

Mar '25

Introduction: Have you ever walked into a spider web? The web wraps around you and clings to you sticking to your hair and skin without letting go. You wonder if there is a black widow somewhere or a brown recluse ready to sink it’s fangs into your bloodstream. If you have ever walked in the woods at night or in a dark room without a light you can relate to this sticking situation. But if you have a beam of light from a flashlight shining in front of you it will detect the spider web. The bright light will eliminate the chance of being tangled up in a mess from a spider web. Did you know the devil has his spider webs? Yet, if we use the BRIGHT LIGHT of the Word of God it will show the demonic webs around us!

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psa 119:105)

Please read and understand 4 steps that lead downward to DESTRUCTION, but 1 step that leads upward to RESTORATION:

1. Watch out for the step down because of a DUMB DECISION! (2Thess 2:9) – “… because they received not the love of the truth..”

Are you praying over your decisions? Are you open to God’s will or have you made up your mind what you want to do?

2. Watch out for the step down because of a DELIRIOUS ILLUSION! (2Thess 2:10) – “And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion..”

Everything is not always as it seems. We all have blind spots! We can be duped by the devil. Wait patiently upon the Lord Jesus for His discernment and wisdom.

3. Watch out for the step down because of DOUBT and CONFUSION! (2Thess 2:11) – “And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.”

We live in a world of distractions. Be sure you are yielded to the Spirit of God.

4. Watch out for the step down because of a DANGEROUS CONCLUSION! (2Thess 2:12) – “That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”

There are BIG Consequences to our daily decisions!

5. Watch out for the step up of RESTORATION because of a DIVINE TRANSFUSION! (2Thess 2:8) – “And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming.”

Praise the Lord….Jesus won the battle!

Conclusion: Jesus is the LIGHT of the world! (John 8:12) John writes God is LIGHT! (1John 1:5) The Holy Spirit of God is the Author who inspired the Scriptures! (2Tim 3:16) The Psalmist declares the Word of God is the light that shines on our pathway and gives LIGHT! “The entrance of thy words giveth light.” (Psa 119:130)

Bottom line: Our Lord Jesus Christ has provided a LIGHT for us to navigate in this life without getting tangled up in the devil’s web of lies. Beloved, let’s walk in that LIGHT!

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Mar '25

Where Revival Starts

Posted on Mar 25, 2025 in Devotions |

Mar '25

Introduction: Did you know, as it has been said, that Satan trembles when the weakest Christian gets on their knees and prays? Do you agree that we need more “Kneeology” than “Theology”?

Bottom line: REVIVAL starts when we get on our knees and PRAY! Are you willing to pray for personal revival? National revival? Community-wide revival? Church-wide revival?

Here are at least three reasons we need to pray today:

1. Because we are the ones who need prayer! (Romans 15:30) – “Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me.”

Writing to believers in Rome—comprised of both Jews and Gentiles—Paul urges them to pray with and for him. Does that make sense? In other words, Christians ought to be praying for each other as well as for the work of the ministry.

Are you praying for someone right now? If not, why not? Have you become self-absorbed with things going on in your circle? Admittedly, at times we do!

Look at the word “strive”—the Greek word συναγωνίζομαι (synagōnízomai) means to struggle together or contend with. It describes someone who fights alongside another. It’s like two people going in the same direction through prayer. Once achieved, Holy Ghost power is the result!

2. Because this is the reason why we need to pray! (Romans 15:31) – “That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints.”

Why pray? To be protected!

“That I may be delivered from them…” The word delivered (ῥύομαι – rhýomai) literally means to rescue or save—to be delivered from danger, destruction, or distress.

Does anyone reading this devotion need to be delivered?

Why pray? To be productive!

Look at the phrase “my service.” Prayer empowers the believer to be fruitful.

Jesus said, “I am the Vine, ye are the branches” (John 15:1-7). Are you bearing fruit? Do you need pruning? Prayer positions you to be both protected and productive!

3. Because here is what can happen when we pray! (Romans 15:32-33) – “That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed. Now the God of peace be with you all.”

What will the Lord do in answer to prayer? Give joy and rest!

Are you in need of refreshing, renewal, or revival? How about God’s peace in your mind and body?

The word “refreshed” (συναναπαύομαι – synanapáuomai) means to find rest together—indicating that the believers in Rome would also experience rest as they prayed.

What will the Lord do in answer to prayer? Give peace of mind and peace in our body!

God grants peace—not just mentally and emotionally, but also physically as we seek Him in prayer.

Conclusion: Will you strike the match that lights a REVIVAL in your heart? Then, will you let it burn and light others with the fires of REVIVAL?

START with PRAYER! PRAY TODAY!!

Love y’all.

Dr. Randy Reese

Mar '25

Why the Resurrection of Jesus Matters!

Posted on Mar 24, 2025 in Devotions |

Mar '25

Introduction: If Jesus had not risen from the grave, then we might as well throw our Bibles away. If Jesus Christ had not conquered death, then we would all die in our sins. But He has overcome death! Because of that, those who put their faith and trust in Him will overcome as well. Check it out:

1. Death Has Been Defeated! (1 Cor. 15:55-57) – “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Death ruled and reigned over the whole human race. Sitting on his throne with the crown upon his head, no one was able to challenge him. That is, until Jesus left heaven’s glory, was born of a virgin, lived without sin, died to pay our sin debt, and then burst forth from the grave with resurrection power on the third day—just as He said He would. History was made. Eternity was sealed. Death was defeated!

2. The Devil’s Power Over Death Has Been Squashed! (Heb. 2:14-15) – “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.”

Throughout the Bible, God repeats the message that it is appointed unto men to die, and then comes the judgment (Heb. 9:27). However, because the Son of God tasted death for every man, and because He became sin for us who knew no sin, we can now face the grave without fear! Is death intimidating you? Look to Jesus! Have confidence in His finished work! Rest in His Word!

3. Jesus Has the Master Key! (Rev. 1:18) – “I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.”

He had to die. He had to suffer. He had to bleed. Why? So that we could go free—free from sin’s penalty, free from sin’s power, and one day, free from sin’s presence. Won’t that be wonderful?

4. Every Christian Has Assurance and Hope of Heaven Beyond Death! (1 Pet. 1:3-4) – “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you.”

Praise the LORD! Jesus is ALIVE! That means we have a glorious future ahead! Heaven is waiting for its citizens. Actually, according to Paul’s inspired writing, that is what every believer has to look forward to. Do you ever think about it? Can you imagine what heaven is going to be like? “I can only imagine!”

Conclusion: Because He lives, we can face tomorrow! Now we can sing from our hearts with joy and gratitude to our Lord Jesus! Will you join the chorus in heaven and rejoice that we serve a RISEN SAVIOR?

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Mar '25

The Way UP is DOWN!

Posted on Mar 21, 2025 in Devotions |

Mar '25

What do Poverty, Humility, and Agony have to do with Victory?

Introduction: The way UP is DOWN! Humility is on public display in the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, including His second coming. Through the lens of Scripture, one can clearly see both humanity and deity combined.

Following the unmistakable trail of Jesus makes the pathway to Victory possible for every believer. But how is that done, one may ask?

Take an examination from the passage below. Honestly, score yourself. Then, make the necessary changes that are revealed. More than likely, the conclusion will be the title—“The Way Up is Down!”

1. The Way Up is Down! (Philippians 2:5-7) – “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.”

Either SELF is on the throne of our heart, or JESUS is. Which one is really ruling?

Fully God and yet fully man, JESUS was willing to GO DOWN so that we could GO UP! Leaving Heaven’s glory to come to this earth’s suffering meant GOING DOWN… down from heaven’s splendor and praise to be made a SERVANT.

Have you noticed in POLITICS and in our world today, it is about GOING UP without GOING DOWN in HUMILITY? Our Lord did the opposite.

Where are you? Are you willing to take the LOW road called HUMILITY? Or would you rather stay on the hills of PRIDE—SELF-SUFFICIENCY and INDEPENDENCE?

When you are WRONG, will you admit it? When you have been OFFENDED, will you make it RIGHT?

2. The Way Over is Under! (Philippians 2:8-9) – “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”

Dying to SELF—being crucified with Christ, taking up a cross daily—is going UNDER.

However, this is diametrically opposed to the world’s way! Contrary to biblical truth, if we are being CONFORMED to this world instead of being TRANSFORMED by the renewing of our mind, then deep down inside, we reverse going UNDER for striving to be OVER.

However, God’s way, as demonstrated by our Lord Jesus, was going UNDER and then being placed OVER.

Have you got this in proper order? What do you need to change? Before you say nothing, ask the Lord.

3. The Way Out is In! (Philippians 2:10-11) – “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Did you figure out what is meant by the way OUT is IN?

Simply put, the WAY OUT of JUDGMENT and hell is being placed IN a relationship with Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, some choose to stay OUT instead of IN.

Are you IN or OUT?

More than likely, you are IN or you wouldn’t be reading this devotion. So how badly do you want others to be IN?

Imagine being in heaven and bowing at the feet of JESUS!

Conclusion: How did you do with heaven’s exam on HUMILITY? Maybe you need to GO DOWN right now, GO UNDER, and GO IN? If so, then you can expect to GO UP, OVER, and OUT! Praise the Lord!

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese