For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
1 Corinthians 1:18 (NIV)
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Today’s Devotional
In 1 Corinthians 1:18, Paul highlights the contrasting perspectives on the message of the cross. For those who are perishing–those who have not accepted the salvation offered through Jesus Christ–the cross appears to be foolishness. It does not align with the world’s wisdom or values, and the idea of salvation through the sacrificial death of Jesus can seem absurd. However, for those who are being saved, the cross represents the incredible power of God at work, bringing about forgiveness, redemption, and eternal life.
The wisdom of the world often emphasizes self-reliance, ambition, and the pursuit of personal success. In contrast, the message of the cross calls us to recognize our own sinfulness and our need for a Savior. It invites us to humble ourselves and receive the gift of salvation by grace, through faith in Jesus Christ. This radical message challenges our human pride and highlights the vast difference between worldly wisdom and divine wisdom.
Time to reflect
Reflecting on 1 Corinthians 1:18, consider these points as we embrace the power and wisdom of the cross:
- Acknowledge our need for a Savior and the insufficiency of human wisdom to bring about salvation.
- Recognize the transformative power of the cross in our own lives, as it brings forgiveness, healing, and a renewed relationship with God.
- Share the message of the cross with others, trusting that God’s power is at work even when it seems foolish to the world.
- Pursue a life marked by humility and dependence on God, rather than relying on our own wisdom and understanding.
- Remember that the wisdom of God often defies human expectations, and be open to the unexpected ways He may be at work in our lives.
Prayer Of The Day
Lord, thank You for the incredible gift of salvation through the cross. Help us to recognize and embrace the wisdom and power of the cross, even when it challenges our human understanding. Fill us with humility and gratitude for the amazing grace You have shown us, and empower us to share this life-transforming message with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Strengthening Faith
To live in the light of the wisdom and power of the cross, we can:
- Regularly remind ourselves of the significance of the cross and the depth of God’s love for us, as demonstrated in Christ’s sacrifice.
- Pray for opportunities to share the message of the cross with others and for the boldness to speak the truth in love.
- Seek God’s wisdom in all areas of our lives, rather than relying on our own understanding or the wisdom of the world.
- Be willing to embrace a life of humility and service, following the example of Jesus Christ.
- Encourage fellow believers to remain focused on the power of the cross, spurring one another on in faith and love.
Today Wisdom
The message of the cross may seem foolish to the world, but for those who have experienced the power of God’s saving grace, it is the most profound and transformative truth. As believers, we are called to embrace the wisdom and power of the cross, allowing it to shape our lives and guide our interactions with others. By living in light of the cross, we can point others to the hope, forgiveness, and eternal life found in Jesus Christ, and experience the fullness of God’s love and purpose for our lives.
