Everyday JoysSample

THEREFORE

I’ve taught Bible classes for years now. Some for children, some for adults. No matter the age group, I love sharing the joy, hope, and peace I find in God’s Word. And while I make sure every lesson explores the truths and true stories of the Bible, there’s one other thing I believe is essential to include: the therefores.

Therefore is a conjunction, a joining or connecting word. It joins God’s truths with the changes I need to make and the actions I need to take. Because “head knowledge” of the Bible’s concepts and commands isn’t enough. Even the evil one knows these things (Matthew 4:6). What matters is how I allow that knowledge to change me. And it’s the therefores that compel me to make those changes.

Sometimes it’s a call to change who I believe I am: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Other times, it’s a call to soften my heart and change my attitude: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Colossians 3:12).

It can be a command that compels me to take action: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).

And then there are those beautiful passages in which therefore is a promise to claim and a foundation to build a life of faith upon: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).

As you dive deeper into God’s Word, I pray that He will shine a light onto some new-to-you truth—big or small—and that it will become a “therefore” in your own life. A therefore that sends you seeking Him in His Word and in every moment . . . and finding Him always at the intersection of ordinary and divine.

Challenge: Search the Bible for God’s therefores and take note of what you find.

We hope this plan encouraged you. Learn more about Everyday Joys Devotional by Tama Fortner here.