There are times when I’m reading my Bible, and I pause to spend extra time studying a specific passage. I want to share some personal insights on the verses in 1 Corinthians 1:4-9 with you in today’s devotional post.
The first letter Paul wrote to the believers in Corinth begins by introducing himself and addressing his audience. He also sends a greeting of grace and peace (see 1 Corinthians 1:1-3). Then, Paul tells his readers that he constantly thanks God for their new life in Jesus Christ and the spiritual growth they have demonstrated.
I always thank my God for you because of His grace given to you in Christ Jesus. For in Him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge.
- 1 Corinthians 1:4-5 (NIV)
I always thank my God for you.
Paul’s example: We should regularly thank God for the people in our lives.
Continue seeking opportunities to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.
– Galatians 6:2
The grace of God was given to you in Christ Jesus
You have received the gift of salvation through Jesus’ obedience to His Father.
God’s grace is actively working in your heart, soul, and mind.
You were enriched in Him … in all speech and all knowledge
The Holy Spirit will guide and direct us on our spiritual journey.
As believers grow in faith, their ability to share the Good News of Christ will improve.
This way, we will strengthen our understanding of Christ.
This confirms that what I told you about Christ is true. Now you have every spiritual gift you need as you eagerly wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.
- 1 Corinthians 1:6-7 (NLT)
The testimony concerning Christ was confirmed in you
Paul desires the believers at Corinth to recognize the significance of their Christian testimony.
We represent Christ every single day.
You are not lacking in any gift as you wait eagerly for our Lord Jesus Christ
You are blessed and equipped to serve the Lord.
We live for His glory as we wait for Jesus.
He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be free from all blame on the day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns. God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
- 1 Corinthians 1:8-9 (NLT)
He will keep you strong to the end—until Jesus Christ returns
God’s Promise: Jesus Christ will come back and take us home to heaven.
The Lord will strengthen us every day.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
– Deuteronomy 31:6
God is faithful
We have God’s promised assurance of His faithfulness.
He will finish the good work He started.
For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.
– Philippians 1:6
We all have been called into fellowship with God’s Son, Jesus Christ our Lord
In this brief passage, Jesus’s name appears five times.
Friends, our salvation is based on the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.
Past: Jesus paid the price—death, burial, and resurrection—to redeem us from sin and provided a way for us to be reconciled with God.
Present: Sanctification is at work in our daily lives.
Future: The ultimate event of glorification, when we will be redeemed from the presence of sin. This will mark the final restoration.
Head to Heart
Remember, God’s Word is alive and active. Through His power and grace, the Lord wants us to live differently today. How can we apply the truth in these verses to our daily lives?
Daily Prayer Time
Dedicate daily time for prayer.
Create a prayer list or prayer cards for people in your life. (Tip: Include names from text messages, emails, and other notes you receive.)
Select a passage from Scripture and meditate on the verses during your prayer time. Include words of praise, confession, and petition as well.
Practice Gratitude—Every Day
Start a gratitude journal or jar. Write down 2-3 things you’re thankful for each day.
Make it a daily habit to say “thank you” to others.
Write notes of appreciation and express how much you value their friendship.
DGTM RESOURCE: Your Personal Decision to Walk with God
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