Podcast (daily-devotion): Play in new window | Download | Embed

[expand title=”Devotion Text”]

Hebrews 5:7-9

In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered.  And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him.

What comes to your mind when you picture Jesus? Stoic expression? Unflappable focus? Amazingly, he was able to resist Satan’s temptation after prolonged fasting. He walked through life, eyes set on the cross, only pausing long enough to do some needed teaching and gracious healings. Then I read this passage.

This passage tells us of our Lord’s great emotion. His prayers and petitions were made “with loud cries and tears” to the only One who could save him from the cross. Even within the tears and requests, there was a reverent submission. And through it all Jesus—the Son of God— “learned obedience.” At the point of perfect submission, he “became the source of eternal salvation.”

So, here’s the question: Is Jesus your personal source of eternal salvation? By your own efforts, you cannot have a relationship with God, no matter how hard and how long you try. Your baptism and religious classes do not save you. You cannot work your way to the Father. It is by grace through faith that we place our confident trust in Jesus. I plead with you to trust in the work that he has already done for you.

Taking to God

Lord Jesus, I confess that I am a sinner. Try as I might, I cannot save myself. So right now, I trust in your work on the cross. I trust that you died in my place. Today I trust in you alone to forgive my sins and place me into an eternal relationship with the Father. In your name I pray. Amen.

[/expand]

 

---

 

Today on The Journey Broadcast:

 

CHANGED: Ignited by the Fire – Part 1