Daily devotional, February 02, 2024 Behind the Scenes
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose"
Romans 8:28
One of the usual promotional videos for films that are being launched are snippets of behind-the-scenes footage of the movie. It shows outtakes, rehearsals and coaching, and even bloopers. Whatever the BTS footage may include, its underlying message is how the actors and the crew worked hard during the whole filming process.
Our life is full of BTS moments too. We may never understand why things happen, and who times everything that occurs in our lives but once we acknowledge that there is a higher power, we can calmly collect ourselves amid triumphs and tragedies.
"For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together." Colossians 1:16-17
In our Christian walk, we should always make sure that our BTS moments are solely and fully directed by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He should be our guide, and He should be the reason behind everything that we do. In his epistle, James the brother of Jesus assured early Christians that God will not think twice about directing the steps of a faithful person seeking for His guidance.
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind."
James 1:5-6
And as we shine His light on others, may we, too, be modest enough to blend in the background. We must make sure that it is His name and power that gets exalted and not ours. For instance, in our personal ministry or our efforts to propagate the Gospel, we have to be conscious to give all the glory to Him. We should not get tempted to uplift ourselves and share His spotlight.
"Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven."
Matthew 6:1
So instead of posting an Instagrammable bible study photo of your bible, your coffee, and your journal, why not go BTS and be a good example of a bible-studying Christian? Join a bible study group and be committed to join each meeting. Invite friends to join the bible study and lead them quietly to the Lord.
Form your own bible study group from your other social circles. If you cannot be the leader yet, invite someone who can teach your group. Make sure to equip yourself too by joining church seminars and reading more, so that in time you can lead the study group yourself too. You can also form a group of children in your neighborhood or social circle and teach them bible stories every weekend.
More importantly, abide in His words. Everything you have learned about Him and His commands, live out in your life. You do not have to post everything in your feed, you can go behind the scenes, and just do everything for Christ.
"But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses."
1 Timothy 6:11-12
When people start to see Jesus’ light in your eyes, you can effectively communicate His message. Such will be more compelling than a heavily shared and liked social media post because with your actions, people can see concrete evidence of how Jesus can transform lives.
Let your life be that message of grace to people who have yet to surrender themselves to Jesus. Allow your loved ones and everyone you meet to experience the forgiveness, redemption, love and peace that only our Savior can give.
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Matthew 6:1-4 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: How do you share Jesus to others?
Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father we praise and thank you for your goodness and love. From working behind the scenes in our lives, and for being a good example for all of us. That as we strive to share knowledge about you to others, we should follow your example of humility and exalt your name, power and glory alone. Amen.