Day 2: Participating With God

When Paul wrote this letter to the people of Corinth, there was a Greek translation of the Old Testament that was publicly used for reading and teaching. Within this Greek translation, terms such as idols or false gods in the Old Testament were translated as demons. Similarly, the other Greek and Roman gods that were regularly worshiped by the people were also referred to as demons. Knowing this, Paul addresses the topic of participation. For example, Paul writes In 1 Corinthians 10:20, “…I do not want you to be participants with demons.”

This term participation is quite strong. It means to have a close association or fellowship with someone, or something. It’s much deeper than simply having an affiliation with something. Instead, to participate is to be united with the beliefs, goals, objectives, etc. 

In other words, this was Paul’s way of saying, “You can participate in the gospel, and be in fellowship (participation) with Jesus (1 Corinthians 1:9). Or you can be in participation with false gods, idols, or demons. But what you cannot do, is be in participation with both. So ask yourselves, with whom or what are you most participating (experiencing fellowship)? With God, or with God’s enemy?” As you read today, consider this question in your own life.

READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 10:14-22

How often do you pause to think about how well you’re participating with God or with God’s enemy?

With whom or what are you most participating (experiencing fellowship)? With God, or with God’s enemy?

How will you choose to be in participation with God this week?

F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)

Read: Esther 8, 9, & 10

Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today?

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, I confess that I don’t regularly view my life as whether I’m participating with You or participating with Your enemy. I’m grateful that Your word makes it clear that I can only do one or the other: be with You, or against You. While I recognize I will occasionally fail, the lifeline choice I’m making is to be with You because You have done everything in Your power to be with me. Today, provide me the wisdom to see how I can better participate in life with You. Help me to see that I can participate with You in every part of my life. I pray these things in Jesus’ name. Amen. 

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