Page 22 - Lenten Devotional 2021 updated 01-21

Day 10 - A Personal Matter

Scripture:
“After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray.
When evening came, he was there alone.” Matthew 14:23, Amplified

Reflection:
The days seem shorter and it seems there is never enough time to accomplish the
things that require attention. Technology is supposed to save time, but more time
is spent using the technology because we’re seduced by the bells and whistles.
These things make it easier to get the job done, but it has affected that which is
of more importance – personal relationships. It’s not just the relationship
between husband and wife, parents and children, or even coworker and
coworker.

The consummation of our attention with those things that are outward, has also
debilitated our time with God and therefore the life of the Christian is reflective
of this – powerless! It is a personal matter, as demonstrated by Jesus, that
intimate time with God is needed to receive instruction and the power to
complete the assignment for the day.

Just as there is an expectation from loved ones to spend quality time, God has
this same expectation. Spending time with God is critical because without it there
will not be evidence of spiritual maturity. Our spiritual maturity can be measured
by our relationship to God. There will never be enough time in the day to
accomplish the endless array of tasks if God is not priority. By guidance, the
Holy Spirit lets us know what is required.

Our spiritual formation is a personal matter. It does not happen by osmosis or
gradual and unconscious absorption. But rather there must be intentionality on
the part of the believer. A decision must be made to desire to mature in the things
of God and then respond. Once the decision has been acted upon, momentum
and spiritual maturity begins. In seeking God’s face to learn more about Him,
knowledge is gained about self as well. (1 Corinthians 13:12)

Prayer:
Dear Father, I desire to learn what it truly means to follow Christ and to put into
action all that I have learned and understood by the Holy Spirit’s guidance. As I
journey with You, may I be steadfast and by faith move beyond any trepidation
or anything that would hinder my personal walk with you. Thank you for shaping
and molding me into your self-expressed image. Thank you that Jesus died for
me so that I have eternal life and made it a personal matter. In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

About the Contributor:
Rev Kim L. Terry, Associate Minister,
Reid Temple AME Church, Glenn Dale, MD

A 40-day Journey through a Season of Fasting and Praying 27