Begin with 2 minutes of silence and stillness before God.

We as believers are called to be set apart. As followers of Jesus, we are held to a higher standard of integrity and morality as we seek to represent his new way of life to our communities. I love how 1 Corinthians explains to us that God called each of us to follow Him. He wasn’t selective based on any set of characteristics. It doesn’t require a large bank account, a successful credit score, or a college degree, but rather a pure heart. Salvation is not based on human wisdom, but it is the gift of God’s dramatic love for all who believe.

In essence, Paul’s letter to God was not saying that it is better to be foolish or uneducated, but rather, He is saying that the world’s wisdom and education do not bring us salvation in Jesus Christ. God has called the weak and ignorant first, but not exclusively; shepherds first, then wise men; fishermen first, then the educated (like Paul, who was himself an educated man). God uses the weak and humble to complete His work. Sometimes living a life pleasing to God is simply hampered by our prideful ways. When we surrender that pride, God can do so much more in and through our humble spirits. True humility is being willing to give up everything that comes from me in order to be obedient to God and do His will. True humility is the attitude that I can learn from Jesus: “Not My will, but Yours be done.” Luke 22:42.

Take 2 minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

• Have you ever realized that once you are saved and the Holy Spirit lives within you that you have a new spiritual mindset? As believers, we are able to see things from a spiritual eye that is only available to those who believe. Reflect on the ways that you have been set apart. How many ways has God used you for His kingdom work? Are there any ways in your spirit that keep you from reaching this full potential to live a life pleasing to Him?
• Prayer: Dear God, We are so thankful for the true wisdom that comes from a closer walk with You. We are sometimes tempted to be prideful, Lord, but You use those who are humble. Help us see the ways that pride gets in the way of true service to You. Amen.

Family Devos: 1 Corinthians 1 

By: Amy Stampley  

When partnering with your family to know, love, and follow Jesus, we strive to create and share content filtered by the Head-Heart-Hands model. 

Head: the knowledge of God and His Word | Heart: the personal connection from scripture | Hands: a missional mindset 

Head

Have you ever noticed in church that there are many people doing different “jobs”.  There is the preacher who is obviously really smart at studying the Bible and teaching the people.  There are people who play different instruments and some who sing beautifully.  There are people that direct traffic on Sunday mornings and wave with big smiles on their faces, while others gather and teach all the little children.  This is a perfect example of what the body of Christ looks like.  There are many people who do individual parts to carry out the service of the church to the church family and to the community.   

Heart

In 1 Corinthians 1, scripture reminds us that we all have an important role to play in the body of Christ. 

Sit down and think about all the different parts it takes to make church work.  Think about some of the gifts that God has given you that can contribute to the body of Christ.  God made you unique.  There is no one else just like you!  Maybe you can sing or maybe you can write?  Maybe you can usher people that need assistance to their seats.  Ask God to show you the ways that you can help!  

Hands

Prayer: Dear God,  Thank you for making each of us different.  Help us to know and recognize the great gifts You have given us to fulfill Your calling to serve others.  Show us the ways that we are important to the body of Christ.  Amen.