Bible Study & Devotional 216
Guiding Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:17 “For Christ didn’t send me to baptize, but to preach the Good News—and not with clever speech, for fear that the cross of Christ would lose its power”
Division is a Distraction
Contributing Writer: Christina Price
One of my most significant accomplishments and challenges was completing my first book, “Saved by Choice.” It is a devotional memoir discussing my journey to build a relationship with Christ. Aside from the hurdles of writing, formatting, and publishing the book, the biggest insecurity I faced was acceptance, especially by other believers.
As we begin our journey within the church of Corinth, Paul starts his letter with thanksgiving to God and addresses the division of the church head-on. As we read in the first chapter, the church of Corinth becomes distracted by the vessels of God (i.e., Apollos, Peter, Paul) instead of finding unity in the message (Good News of Christ).
This division is a distraction tactic from the enemy, and I realized this distraction in my journey. In enhancing the insecurities around me, the intention was to prevent me from spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. Similarly, in being distracted (and creating favorites) by who preached or baptized, the people of Corinth caused unnecessary friction and could ultimately lead to others not being led to Christ.
The enemy is strategic and will continuously find ways to manipulate our minds, words, and behaviors to steal, kill, and destroy. The Bible teaches us about the armor of God in Ephesians chapter 6, and the Shoes of the Good News are part of that armor.
As Believers, we should not be ashamed of the Good News as it is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes (Romans 1:16). This good news becomes even more powerful when you combine it with your personal testimony of finding Jesus. The devil will do all he can to discourage you from sharing the message. Push past the distraction of the enemy. Your story could lead to someone’s salvation.
Prayer: Father, thank you for wisdom. I pray for guidance as I navigate your calling on my life. Please help me with every person I encounter to have the right words to share the good news of Christ boldly. I pray to have a heart of compassion and to seek to minister to others just as Jesus did. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan
2 Chronicles 35:1-36:23, 1 Corinthians 1:1-17, Psalm 27:1-6, Proverbs 20:20-21
Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan
Connect with Christina Price on Instagram and visit www.amazon.com to purchase her devotional memoir Saved By Choice
Christina Price was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up in a Hindu household. She accepted Jesus as a teenager after being introduced to Christianity by her mother, who became saved herself just a few years before passing away from cancer. After walking away from her faith for years, Christina recommitted her life to Christ as an adult and is now passionate about the Lord and serving others. She believes sharing her experiences will encourage readers to stretch past the superficial trappings of life, and embrace the sovereignty of God’s purpose in their lives.
