For all things are possible with God. Mark 10:27b
I continue my pause of my study of 1 Corinthians as I participate in a men's discipleship group (d-group) at my church - this morning my d-group gathers to discuss 2 Thessalonians 1 and Titus 2. My individual study, however leans on DesiringGod.com's Solid Joys daily devotion, which today looks at Mark 10:27b and how this text provides "Medicine for the Missionary." John Piper directs this devotion to Christian Hedonist missionaries, which can be broadly defined as all believers who assume the mantle to bring the Good News into the world because they can't help but spread the joy that overflows from the grace of God into their hearts. Piper writes: "[s]overeign grace is the spring of life for the Christian Hedonist. For what the Christian Hedonist [missionary] loves best is the experience of the sovereign grace of God filling him, and overflowing for the good of others." He refers us to 1 Corinthians 3:7, 15:10, Romans 11:36, 15:18, John 15:5, and 2 Corinthians 3:5 and how missionaries rely on the grace of God to accomplish what only He can do. Missionary work is seen as difficult, requiring encouragement, strength, and hope. Jesus's words from Mark 10:27b (see also Luke 18 and Matthew 19) provide this encouragement, strength and hope. Piper concludes the devotion by sharing that Mark 10:27b provides "the antidote to despair and the antidote to pride — the perfect missionary medicine."
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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are a good, good Father and I know You love me beyond what my words can describe. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of Your love, the hope You provide, and for how You arm me for battle against sin. My sin is great and it is daily. I pray that I remain in You and You in me. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
