SCRIPTURE: Hebrews (NIV) 8:10 This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time, declares the Lord. I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.
OBSERVATION: The Old Testament covenant centered around laws written on tablets of stone. We call them the Ten Commandments. Motivation was very self-centered — there was a reward promised if it was kept. AND there was punishment promised if it was broken.
The New Testament Covenant is not written on stone tablets, but on hearts of flesh. Jesus’ forgiveness removes the fear of punishment. AND His Presence is better than the rewards. The more we know Him the more we love Him. Our motivation changes from selfishness—from the fear of punishment and hope for reward. Our motivation changes to love.
Once we were being forced into a mold by an outside influence; but now we live to please Him because we love Him. Our motivation comes from the heart where He dwells. We love having Him with us 24 hours each day, 7 days a week!
APPLICATION: How can I not love the One Who loved me so much that He took my penalty. Of course, it is my desire to please him — to bring joy to His heart, to bring a smile to His face.
PRAYER: Jesus, I want to live my life in your honor. You paid the penalty of my sins by dying on the cross in my place. I want to please you and make you smile; this is my daily goal. Amen
Pastor Leon
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