Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them. We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat. (Heb. 13:9-10)
I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God’s grace. (Acts 20:24)
Dear Lord Jesus, in recent weeks, you’ve fueled my thankfulness. I’ve never been more grateful for the family you’ve given me. We’re a broken, but beloved, bunch—each of us is on the path of groaning and growing in grace. And I praise you for good friends and a “gospel posse” with whom to share longings and laughter, the worries of life and the wonders of your love.
But in particular, I’m most thankful for the ways you continue to show me more of yourself—the author and perfecter of my faith. I can afford to be flexible about many theological issues; but I can ill afford to be wrong about you.
Over the past several decades of knowing you, you’ve been faithful to rescue me from all kinds of “strange teachings” (Heb. 13:9)—especially from false expressions of the gospel (Gal. 1:6-9). These include gospels that make you a model to follow, rather than a substitute to trust; grace-less legalism and obedience-less grace; gospels that privatize knowing you and minimize serving you; gospels that chide the poor and empower the rich.
Jesus, thank you. Continue to fill my heart with more of your glory and your grace. May the gospel keep getting bigger and bigger, and more and more liberating in my life. I want to boast much more fully in your righteousness, and more humbly in my weaknesses. I want to finish my race knowing and living, sharing and serving the gospel of God’s grace.
Therefore, strengthen my heart daily with your grace, Jesus. Though I know and love you in part, you know and love me perfectly; and that is all I need to know. So very Amen I pray in your peerless and powerful name.