Matthew 4:4
September 4, 2024
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 4 SEPTEMBER
September 4, 2024
THE 4th OF SEPTEMBER
LET’S PRACTICE WHAT WE PREACH
“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” – Philippians 4:9
In the early church, believers did not have the New Testament as we do today. In many communities, like Philippi, the apostles were the primary source of guidance on how to live as followers of Jesus. God sent Paul to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles and establish churches.
To continue guiding new Christians while he was in prison or busy planting other churches, Paul wrote letters, many of which are now part of the New Testament. The apostles were fully devoted to Christ, living lives that served as powerful examples to others. They truly practiced what they preached.
In 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul wrote, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” And he did just that. Paul’s faith and ministry have blessed the church throughout history, and we continue to be blessed by his example today. The more we follow Christ’s example, the more peace we experience and the more God meets our needs.
God is the source of all good things and desires us to live abundant lives, lacking nothing. But we must choose to live righteously, fulfilling His will. By seeking to please God and following His guidance, we can avoid much heartache, stress, and the consequences of poor decisions.
SUGGESTED PRAYER
My beloved Lord, please help me to follow Your example in all I do. You have set the perfect standard by the way You lived in human form, always doing the will of the Father and remaining without sin. Father, help me to understand and learn Your Word and apply it in my life. Please remind me always that You are the only source of my peace and well-being. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen
