Message Magazine’s Online Devotional for Thursday, August 20 2015
Today’s Scripture:
“And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.” (Genesis 5:24).
Question for Deep Consideration
If God were the chief marketing officer of a multimillion-dollar corporation, how would He guarantee interest in His company’s service? What near foolproof tactic might He employ to close the deal with most prospects?
Today’s Observation:
Almost every time I watch an infomercial on television, no matter what it is about, I can feel my pulse quicken. My interest is sparked through the effective advertising and marketing of those who produce the infomercials. I believe that the element that makes their campaigns so effective is their use of testimonials. They showcase ordinary people who are willing to say that the product or service absolutely changed their lives, and can change yours too. They say that if they have benefited so tremendously, so can you. I have caught myself imagining that I was actually experiencing the results they claimed that I would. From the perfect knives, vacuum cleaners, massagers, and food processors, to the best real estate investment, currency trading, and Internet business programs, all are compelling. The reason had everything to do with the testimonials. If God were to produce an infomercial advertising the power of relationship with Him, who might He get to give testimonials?
Are there before and after life photos that prove how effective He has been at addressing our problems with sin?
The Bible says that Enoch walked with God. His experience with God was so rich that God translated him to heaven without seeing death. God must have been included as the center of all that Enoch’s everyday life entailed. He must have been so interwoven into Enoch’s life that they were close friends. Enoch probably consulted the Lord before making any decision, because He valued God’s input so much. Enoch and the Lord became so close that God could not bear to wait thousands of years for Jesus to come in the clouds, to have him in heaven. God took him into heaven early, so He could have that much more time with him, and demonstrate to us how wonderful a relationship with God is.
I am sure that God would use the testimonials of people like, Rahab, David, Joseph, Mary Magdalene, and Abraham as well. If I were watching their testimonies, my pulse would quicken knowing that if these ordinary people could live victorious lives, I can too. God’s infomercial would leave us with no need for doubt or apprehension. We could fully believe the claims of the producer and totally invest ourselves to receive the benefits shown. I am so glad that God has shown through so many people just like me, that we can have a successful life in Christ. This gives me hope.
Life Application:
The absolute best way to drum up interest in our God, is to share our real experiences with others. How has He changed our lives since we started following Him? What changes has He made in our lives? Are there before and after life photos that prove how effective He has been at addressing our problems with sin?
Since God has been so good to you, why not become His biggest spokesperson?
A Prayer for Your Hearts:
Lord, thank you for having such an incredible impact on our lives to make us holy people. Please help us to share your love with others. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.
