Reformed Doctrine Daily Devotions

Today’s devotion comes from Hebrews 13:1-3.

“Let love of the brethren continue.  Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.  Remember the prisoners, as though in prison with them, and those who are ill-treated, since you yourselves also are in the body.”  Hebrews 13:1-3. 

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“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love;  give preference to one another in honor;  not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;  rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.”  Romans 12:10-13.

“I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand.  Remember my imprisonment. Grace be with you.”  Colossians 4:18.

Thus, when we consider beloved Paul and the other saints who were ill-treated and imprisoned, it is easier for us to be sympathetic, compassionate, and willing, even eager, to remember to pray for them.

Moreover, when we remember that we too “are in the body” and also experience trials, troubles, and tribulations, it is easier for us to be sympathetic, compassionate, and willing, even eager, to remember to pray for them.

All these things motivate us to love our brothers, to show hospitality, and to remember the prisoners as today’s Scripture exhorts us.

But, there is more hope!

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me,
Because the LORD has anointed me
To bring good news to the afflicted;
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to captives
And freedom to prisoners;
2 To proclaim the favorable year of the LORD
And the day of vengeance of our God;
To comfort all who mourn,” Isaiah 61:1-2.

Christ “… gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.” Titus 2:14.

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed; …

For the ministry of this service is not only fully supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing through many thanksgivings to God. Because of the proof given by this ministry, they will glorify God for your obedience to your confession of the gospel of Christ and for the liberality of your contribution to them and to all, while they also, by prayer on your behalf, yearn for you because of the surpassing grace of God in you. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” 2 Corinthians 9:8 and 12-15.