2020 Daily Devotion - Day 26

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Many years before Abraham Lincoln was elected president, he was a storekeeper in Salem, Illinois. Abe had a rifle displayed in his store that was one of the most beautiful rifles ever made. The barrel was made from the finest steel; the stock from the best walnut wood; and a world-famous gunsmith had assembled the gun. The price was extremely reasonable. Displayed next to this attractive gun was a rack of ordinary Kentucky squirrel rifles. These long-barrel rifles were made from ordinary gun steel, and plain wooden stocks, yet, the price was higher.

A customer entered the store looking for a new rifle. He was impressed by the fine looking gun, but was confused as to why it was priced much lower than the less attractive rifles. Abe explained that the good looking rifle was for show, while the others were for shooting. The pioneer bought the Kentucky squirrel rifle.

A little while later, a rich farmer was decorating a room in his country mansion. He wanted to place a gun over the fireplace mantle with his big game trophies. Abe’s fancy gun was exactly what he needed. The fact it would not shoot was irrelevant. The purpose of the gun had changed.
I truly believe that during this period of isolation, God wants to do something new in our lives. I think this can be a season where we examine why we are here. God has given each of us a Christ-centered purpose. Be in prayer, and ask Him why you are here, and what you are to be doing for Jesus.

Matthew 5:13-16 NRSV
“You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled underfoot.

“You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven."

Pray with me:
Heavenly Father, during this period of isolation, do a new work in us. Help us to know and understand why You have created us. Show us what You would want us to do for Jesus Christ now and after the Coronavirus emergency is over. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Yours because of Him,
Pastor John R. Steward
Senior Pastor
Mount of Olives Church
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