A Call to Obedience and True Worship

Lenten Devotional -day 20 

Scripture Readings:

• Jeremiah 7:23-28
• Psalm 95:1-2, 6-end
• Luke 11:14-23

Reflection

The Lenten journey is a time of deep reflection, repentance, and renewal. As we reach Day 20, today's readings remind us of the essence of true devotion—obedience to God, sincere worship, and unwavering faith in Christ.

In Jeremiah 7:23-28, God laments over Israel’s disobedience. He had given them a simple command: "Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be my people." Yet, instead of heeding His call, they turned their backs on Him, following their own ways and hardening their hearts. This is a strong reminder to us—Lent is not merely about outward religious observances but about aligning our hearts with God's will. Are we truly listening to His voice, or are we caught in our own ways?

Psalm 95 is a powerful invitation to worship:
"Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation!" (Psalm 95:1)
True worship is not just about rituals but about surrender. The psalm also carries a warning: "Do not harden your hearts as you did at Meribah." During Lent, we must allow God to soften our hearts, drawing us into a deeper relationship with Him.

In Luke 11:14-23, Jesus demonstrates His power over evil by casting out a demon, but some accuse Him of working by Satan’s power. He responds, "Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters." This challenges us: Are we truly on the Lord’s side? Lent is a time to renounce every form of spiritual compromise and fully commit to Christ.

Lenten Exhortation

1. Obedience over Rituals – God desires our hearts, not just our religious acts. Lent calls us to truly listen and follow His ways.
2. True Worship – Our worship should be heartfelt, filled with gratitude and surrender, not just routine.
3. Commitment to Christ – There is no neutral ground in our walk with God. Lent is a season to take a stand—fully for Christ.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, soften our hearts and turn us away from disobedience. Help us to listen to Your voice and walk in true worship. May this Lenten season draw us closer to You, making us fully committed to Christ. In Jesus' name, Amen.

May our hearts be forever settled in Christ!