When All Else Fades

EIBC Devotional #18 - “When All Else Fades”

Emerald Isle Baptist Church

Pastor Zach Emory

Scripture - Jeremiah 9:23-24

23 Thus says the Lord: Do not let the wise boast in their wisdom, do not let the mighty boast in their might, do not let the wealthy boast in their wealth; 24 but let those who boast boast in this, that they understand and know me, that I am the Lord; I act with steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight, says the Lord.

We human beings are frail and fragile creatures. Isaiah and Peter remind us that we are only here for a moment:  “‘All flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls…” (Isaiah 40:6-8; 1 Peter 1:24). James echoes the same thought using different language:  “What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (James 4:14). The legacy that we construct here on earth through our material possessions, acquisition of knowledge, graspings for prestige and power and promotions, and even our relationships will all eventually fade away. Jeremiah reminds that only one thing will endure long after our physical bodies decay–to understand and know God. God is characterized by love, justice, and righteousness. Today’s devotional is a reminder that many things we identify with ourselves will eventually pass away, but our relationship with God will endure forever.

Questions for Reflection

What are you holding onto that may be a source of pride for yourself?

How can you release those things to focus on God’s glory rather than your own?

Prayer - 

Heavenly Father, I recognize that I am small and frail, but I thank you for making me significant and strong. May I offer myself and everything I am unto You.