August 22

Who has performed this and carried it out, calling forth the generations from the beginning? I, the LORD—the first and the last—I am He. — Isa 41:4 BSB

Many people become stranded after beginning their journey toward holiness because they rely on the experience itself rather than on the One who gave it. They believe they have been fully and permanently delivered from sin, and in the initial joy of their experience, they imagine they will never again face trials or temptations as they did before. But when they encounter the realities of the Christian life and find themselves failing, they become confused and discouraged. They may try again and again, only to fall back into old ways, concluding that their experience was a mistake or not meant for them. Eventually, their last state is worse than their first.

What people need today is not a state of sanctification but a relationship with Christ as a living Person.

Lord Jesus, give me Your heart, Your faith, Your life—give me Yourself.