Home > Reading > NALC Devotions – July 9, 2017

Today’s readings: Exodus 6:2-13; 7:1-6; Revelation 15:1-8; Matthew 18:1-14

You cannot teach an old dog new tricks. How often have we heard that statement repeated by someone who feels they cannot accomplish something? I received my first computer in 1985; it did not even come with a hard drive; it did not need one. Things change. I remember the day I gave my father-in-law his first computer. He asked what he needed it for and said it was too much to learn. “You cannot teach an old dog new tricks.” Needless to say he is now on his fourth computer and has learned new programs along the way. What changed? The answer is simple. He let go of his old way of thinking and allowed someone to show him a new way.

In Exodus 6, Moses is 80 years old when God sends him to Pharaoh to free the Israelites. At first, Moses uses every excuse possible to get out of going. What changed? Moses let go of the old Adam and allowed God to use him. What excuses are we using that prevent God from working through us today? If we let go of the old Adam and allow God to use us, we can learn new tricks.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us today to let go of the old Adam, our self-centeredness, and use us for your glory. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by Steven King, Pastor of Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lincolnton, NC.

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