Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 17-18; 1 Corinthians 10

1 Corinthians 10:12-13 "Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can bear, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it."

Verse 13 is an often used promise for those facing temptations, but we often forget that verse 12 is a warning to be on guard and follows moral instructions on how to live. If we play with fire by drawing as near to sin as possible without crossing the line beware of getting burned. Instead of pursuing temptation, pursue righteousness.

Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 15-16; 1 Corinthians 9

1 Corinthians 9:24 "Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one wins the prize? Run in such a way that you may win."

How is your zeal for pursuing the salvation as your soul? Paul committed to self-control and discipline in his life, not just to be a good witness to others, but also to ensure he stayed close to Jesus and continued to live a life of obedient faith in Jesus. He realized that a sinful life no matter what he said he believed revealed the true character of his heart. Live out your said faith with godliness, compassion, love, and truth.

Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 13-14; 1 Corinthians 8

1 Corinthians 8:9 "But take care lest this liberty of yours somehow become a stumbling block to the weak."

Christian freedom only applies to grey areas not specifically mentioned in the Bible. In other words, the Ten commandments and the moral commands still apply no matter how where you are. Unfortunately way too many Christians have expanded the "grey" areas, claiming Christian liberty. So before you claim Christian freedom to do something another Christian might think is wrong ask yourself these questions: 1) is the action a violation of the heart, mind, or body to God's Word; 2) does the action lead you to a violation of the heart, mind, or body to God's Word (being in a place that serves alcohol is not a sin in itself, but if you can't keep yourself from getting drunk then walking in for you is the same as drinking and should be avoided); and 3) does it cause someone for whom Christ died to stumble in their faith?

Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 11-12; 1 Corinthians 7

2 Samuel 12:7 "Thou art the man!"

David's adultery with Bathsheba and subsequent murder of Uriah had devastating consequences on his life. The Lord promised public humiliation, a broken family, and the death of a child because of David's sins. How foolish are we to think that our sins don't matter to God, that Jesus' death makes our sins irrelevant? God knows, and He is not pleased by a Christian's wicked behavior. For your sake and your family, please don't presume upon God's grace. Fear God. Pursue righteousness today.

Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 9-10; 1 Corinthians 6

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. Therefore glorify God with your body."

God paid the ultimate price for our redemption, His one and only Son. We are not free to live fulfilling selfish and wicked desires. Never forget the presence of God resides in you to move you towards godliness and keep you in close fellowship with Jesus. Honor God with your life today by walking in purity.

Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 7-8; 1 Corinthians 5

2 Samuel 7:27 "For Thou, O Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, hast made a revelation to Thy servant, saying, 'I will build you a house'; therefore Thy servant has found courage to pray this prayer to Thee."

How often do our prayers reflect our desires instead of God's? Notice David's confidence in his prayer comes from God's promise to him. Jesus says if we ask anything in His name God will grant it. So why don't we see more answered prayers? Could it be we are boldly telling God what to do instead of seeking His will and praying in accordance with it? Want to be sure God will answer your prayers? Pray the prayers of Paul found at the beginning of most of his letters in the NT.

Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 5-6; 1 Corinthians 4

1 Corinthians 4:12 "When we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; when we are slandered, we try to console."

As God's children, we face ridicule and persecution from a world that despises Him. Our faith is often tested not by feats of strength, but of patience and perseverance. Show God's transforming grace in you by responding in love and mercy and not anger and revenge when others attack you. Pray for an enemy today.