🙏Weekly Devotion July 23rd, 2026

Fjeldberg – Devotion for July 23rd, 2026

READ (Romans 8:12-13)

So then, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation, but it isn’t an obligation to ourselves to live our lives on the basis of selfishness. If you live on the basis of selfishness, you are going to die. But if by the Spirit you put to death the actions of the body, you will live.

REFLECT 

There are many moments in parenting when I have to remind myself to zoom out and remember the bigger picture. This past Sunday, I was watching the World Cup final when one of my kids came in begging me to get in the pool. By that point in the match, I felt invested enough that I wanted to wait and see someone score. After enough persistent asking, I finally gave in, and we headed outside. As we played and laughed together, I eventually settled back to just float and relax. That's when it hit me: there are only so many summers when my kids will want me to jump in the pool and play with them. The game would end whether I watched it or not, but this moment with my kids wouldn't last forever. 

Life constantly pulls us in different directions, and it isn't always easy to know what deserves our time and attention. That's why we need the Holy Spirit to help us zoom out and see the bigger picture. Paul reminds us in Romans 8 that we are no longer obligated to live according to our own selfish desires. Instead, the Spirit leads us toward what truly gives life. Left to ourselves, we often chase what is temporary or convenient. But God's Spirit continues to call us into a richer, fuller life, one marked by love, service, and relationships that reflect Christ. 

May God give us the wisdom to see beyond the moment and the courage to choose the things that lead to life.  

PRAY   

Almighty God, we thank you for the many blessings that you have given to us. Help us to see you and the life that you have called us to. Give us the courage to let go what needs to be released, and the wisdom to continue growing closer to you and sharing your love. Amen

Devotions by Pastor Tim