Devotional for Today, October 16. God’s love brings joy. But nowadays, it is popular to explain that to be successful, you must be confident, self-reliant, and have high self-esteem. This attitude has always resulted in anger, disagreement, and loneliness.
Devotional for Today, October 16
I tell you that in the same way, there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. (Luke 15:7)
Admitting our weakness before God seems like a heavy burden for us, modern people. The need to ask for God’s forgiveness insults our dignity. The sin of pride says on many people’s lips: “I don’t need God. I am strong without God.”
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Under the influence of the same pride, people stop going to Church, and repentance has become a foreign and incomprehensible word in their lives.
God’s Love Brings Joy
But Jesus’ words about repentance carry within them the love of God, which gives the possibility of conversion. This possibility is a very positive and joyful gift in human life. It is the most excellent chance for man to create happiness.
It means being freed from the bondage of demons, becoming a child of God, and a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven. It means discovering God as the ultimate goal of life. It also means that life becomes meaningful when you allow God to embrace you.
Jesus speaks about this joy in the parable of the lost coin. (Luke 15:7-10)
When a person opens his heart to God in repentance, the joy and satisfaction that comes from the Kingdom of Heaven overflow: “But we had to celebrate and be glad because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” (Luke 15:32)
Prayer for Today
Lord Jesus, in you, I find true joy. It is a joy that is certain because it is independent of the circumstances of my life. It is dependent on your love because it is eternal and never-ending. Therefore, I pray that you may cleanse all the evil from my heart and fill the space freed with divine joy. Thank you for your love. Amen.