GRACE CENTRE DAILY DEVOTIONALS
Date: Tuesday June 8th 2021
Topic: Firsthand Experience
Memorize: 1 John 1:1
That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
Read: Galatians 1:11-24
11.But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. 12.For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. 13.For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: 14.And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. 15.But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, 16.To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: 17.Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. 18.Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. 19.But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother. 20.Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not. 21.Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; 22.And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: 23.But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed. 24.And they glorified God in me.
MESSAGE
First hand experience means first hand revelation, personal encounter and first hand contact. No doubt peter, James , John and other apostles had a first hand experience with the lord and they shared this experience with many people getting them saved. But in the bible reading, apostle Paul never settle for a second hand experience of being taught the experience of others, he pressed for a first hand revelation.
We are not really helped by second hand experience and second hand truth. It maybe great, the person sharing the experience may be filled with joy And excitement. But oh there will be a gap! It will always be shallow. Real service to God doesn't come by training nor by second hand revelation, it comes by first hand revelation.
We must press to have a first hand experience with the lord, only then can deep call upon deep. Running the Christian race on the experience of others can be likened to a sinking ground. When the storm of life rages, tests and trials of faith emerges, will the house still stand?
Food For Thought: Second hand experience is not the end but a means to the end. Don't settle for a loaf of bread when you can own the bakery!
Prayer point: Lord help me never to settle for less, Lord help me never to stop seeking you but rather beholding your glory. Amen
