The First 15

Friday March 25, 2022

by First Methodist Mansfield

Today is Friday, March 25 and this week, as we pray through scripture, we are reflecting on our great need for salvation.

Opening Prayer

As I enter into prayer, I pause to be still, I slow down my breathing, and I seek to be more fully present with God in these holy moments.

Pause and Pray


Holy Spirit, help me release my worries and distractions into your capable care as I rest with you in these moments of stillness. Amen.

Scripture Reading

I sense I am in God’s presence here and now, as I join with the ancient praise of all God’s people in the words of Psalm 116.

I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live. The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came over me; I was overcome by distress and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the Lord: “Lord, save me!” What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. – Psalm 116:1-1-4, 12-13

Pause and Pray

Timothy is frequently referred to as the Apostle Paul’s “child in the faith.” Timothy also received a rich faith heritage from his grandmother, Lois, and mother, Eunice. Paul was in prison when he wrote his second letter to Timothy, and, because of his imprisonment, some of his companions were ashamed of him and abandoned him. As I sit and read a portion of this letter, I imagine myself being Paul’s “child in the faith.” How will I receive teaching from my mentor – one who inspires me, challenges me, empowers me, and who is now suffering and alone.

So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. – 2 Tim 1:8-10 NIV

Reflection

Paul compels me to join him in remaining true to the gospel of Jesus Christ. He reminds me that Christ has already destroyed death and “has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” God has saved me. God is saving me. God will save me. In response to the mystery of this ever unfolding gift of salvation, I am called to follow Jesus Christ and live a holy life.

Ask: As Paul was Timothy’s, who is my mentor? Who is helping me remain true to the gospel of Jesus Christ? Who helps me remember that God has saved me and calls me to a holy life?

Pause and Pray

Holy Spirit, help me notice a particular word, phrase or thought you want me to carry with me throughout this day as I slowly read the passage once more.

So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. – 2 Tim 1:8-10 NIV

Ask: What word, phrase or thought from this passage did God’s Spirit guide you to? How will you carry this with you throughout the day?

Pause and Pray

Lord, help me look inward and pay attention to what you have led me to see and hear. I invite you to transform me in these moments so that I might reflect the thoughts and actions of Jesus Christ throughout this day. Amen.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes… – Romans 1:16 NIV

Closing Prayer

Lord, as I leave this time of prayer, make me ready to be faithful to you in every way. Jesus, make me ready to serve others with your compassion and grace. Holy Spirit, transform my inner thoughts and motivations so that all I do, I do to please you. Amen.

The First 15

Sign up to receive an email notification whenever a new devotional is posted to The First 15.