SEEK DAILY (NBC) DEVOTIONAL FOR March 25, 2022 (HOUSE OF PRAYER)
TOPIC: HOUSE OF PRAYER
Bible Text: Matthew 21:12-13
Memory Verse: ‘It is written,’ he said to them, ‘“My house will be called a house of prayer,” cbut you are making it “a den of robbers.”’ Matthew 21:13, NIV
MESSAGE
Early African converts to Christianity were earnest and regular in private devotions. Each one reportedly had a separate spot where he would pour out his heart to God. Over time, the paths to these places became well worn.
As a result, if one of these believers began to neglect prayer, it was soon apparent to the others. They would kindly remind the negligent one, “Brother, the grass grows on your path.”
When Jesus Christ went to Jerusalem, He entered the temple only to discover people who were buying and selling.
He drove them out and overturned their tables. He declared the temple as the “House of prayer” (vs.13) and not the den of robbers. There was deviation from its original purpose. The purpose of God’s house was evangelistic, a place where genuine seekers could come to find the one true God. It is always good to remember the Lord’s purpose for our gathering as a local assembly. We should follow God’s design and seek to honor him.
Any twisting or perverting of God’s design for selfish purposes will attract His wrath.
Cultivate a praying habit. Create space in between the hours of your day to observe your ‘quite time’. Make it your top priority to keep the temple of God Holy, teach others to do same and always remember to pray.
Insight: God always honors His temple, honor it also for His purpose.
Prayer: Lord, help me not to deviate from your will and purpose.
RBT Passage: 1 Samuel 13-14