You Are a Letter Not Written in Ink
Author: Ayodeji Oludapo
Date: September 23, 2024
Scripture: "You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts." — 2 Corinthians 3:3 (NIV)
Devotional Thoughts
In our daily walk as Christians, it's profound to consider that we are living letters from Christ to the world. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, emphasizes that our lives are messages authored by Jesus Himself, not penned with ink on paper but inscribed by the Spirit on our hearts. This metaphor highlights the intimate and transformative work God performs within us, making us carriers of His grace and truth.
Imagine being the only representation of Christ someone might encounter. Our actions, words, and attitudes become the script that others read. When we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, our lives reflect the love, compassion, and righteousness of Jesus. It's not about perfection but about authenticity and a genuine relationship with God that shines through us.
Practical Reflections
Live Authentically in Christ: Let your daily life reflect Jesus' teachings. Be honest about your struggles and victories, showing others that faith is a journey.
Exhibit the Fruit of the Spirit: Cultivate love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These qualities are evidence of the Spirit's writing on your heart.
Be Mindful of Your Influence: Recognize that others observe your behaviour. Your response to challenges can inspire or deter someone from seeking Christ.
Share Your Testimony: Your personal story of God's work in your life can be a powerful letter that resonates with others seeking hope.
Encourage and Uplift Others: Use your words to build up, not tear down. Speak life into the people around you.
Closing Thoughts
Being a letter from Christ is both a profound privilege and a significant responsibility. It's an invitation to partner with God in His redemptive plan for humanity. As we embrace this role, let's commit to allowing the Holy Spirit to continually write His will upon our hearts so that through us, others may come to know the love and salvation found in Jesus.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing us to be letters of Your love and grace to the world. We ask that You fill us with Your Holy Spirit, writing Your truths upon our hearts. Help us to live lives that genuinely reflect Jesus so that others may be drawn to Him through us. Grant us the courage to share our stories and the compassion to love others as You have loved us. In Jesus' name, we pray.