“You have heard, no doubt, of my earlier life in Judaism. I was violently persecuting the church of God and was trying to destroy it. I advanced in Judaism beyond many among my people of the same age, for I was far more zealous for the traditions of my ancestors.” Galatians‬ ‭1‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭NRSV‬‬

Series: Galatians: Reading the Bible for Spiritual Formation

Devotional: 2 of 7

Every spiritual journey toward freedom in Christ begins in darkness as a life apart from God. All have sinned, falling short of the glory of God. This is your story. This is my story. And this is the Apostle Paul's story.

But even in darkness, God is actively pursuing restoration. He is the One who initiates a relationship with us, knocking at the door of the hearts of all who walk the earth. Every knock is an invitation to "come and follow Me, to be My apprentice."

In his letter to the Galatians, the Apostle Paul begins his defense of the Gospel message with his own story. It is a story of transformation that starts with life apart from Christ. Galatians 1:13-14 tells us,

"You have heard, no doubt, of my earlier life in Judaism. I was violently persecuting the church of God and was trying to destroy it. I advanced in Judaism beyond many among my people of the same age, for I was far more zealous for the traditions of my ancestors."

Like Paul, you and I have a before-Christ story, a part of our journey through life where we were wandering in darkness, indifferent to God and His ways. After coming to know Jesus as our personal Lord and Savior, it can be easy to want to forget this time in our lives, discounting its value as part of our story.

But as we journey through life with Christ, we will have countless opportunities to share our story of transformation with those around us - friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers who are far from God. As we share what God has done for us, it is essential that we include the details of our life before coming to know Jesus. Why?

Because sharing our whole story, including the part of our story apart from Christ, reminds us that "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." (See Romans 8:1) This constant reminder cultivates empathy in our hearts for the people in our lives who are far from God. Empathy keeps us from falling into the trap of self-righteousness, which often leads to a critical and judgmental spirit. Remembering our story before coming to know Christ keeps our hearts tender toward those around us living in darkness.

I am sure you know at least one person who is far from God—wandering through life without hope for the future. Today, consider interceding in prayer on their behalf. "Lord Jesus, please meet (insert the name of your one person) on their own road to Damascus much like you did for the Apostle Paul. Open their eyes to your love. Invite them to surrender their life to you. And may today be the day they say yes to a life long relationship with you. Amen."

OnThe3rdDay Devotionals

Devotionals that illustrate Biblical principles in a simple and short format that can be applied to your everyday life.

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