“For the Law never made anything perfect—but instead a better hope is introduced through which we [now] come close to God.” Hebrews 7:19 (AMP)

My friend Kayleigh is 15 years younger than me, but 15 times more serious in the kitchen. While I am an adequate cook, Kayleigh pours through recipe books to discover the next great recipe. When our church had a dessert contest for a lady’s event, Kayleigh spent all day making chocolate ganache tarts and she won first prize!

When it came to encouraging believers to display the name of Jesus Christ well, the apostle Paul wanted Christians to move beyond “good” to become “great.” Ephesians chapter four is a recipe for how believers should live. “Thieves must quit stealing and, instead, they must work hard. They should do something good with their hands so that they’ll have something to share with those in need” (Ephesians 4:28, AMP). Stealing is bad, working hard is better, doing good and sharing with others is great!

In the Old Testament God gave the Law—rules and regulations to guide the Israelites in doing good. In the New Testament, as followers of Jesus Christ, good is not good enough. We must go a step beyond. We must allow Jesus to fill our hearts and guide our lives. While I’m a fine cook, it’s the great cooks and bakers who win contests. While I can live a good life on my own, with Jesus strengthening me, I can give beyond my desire, share beyond my ability, and love beyond myself.

Jesus knows we can’t go from good to great without Him. All we have to do is ask Him to take over control of our lives on a daily basis. And the most wonderful part is not the great things He guides us to do… but the deepening relationship with Him through the process!

Faith Step: Think of something great a friend has done—something that you know was only accomplished through Jesus Christ. Then write a note letting your friend know that his or her model is one you are thankful for and strive to follow.

Read the original post at Guideposts.org. Want more devotions? Check out Mornings with Jesus 2016.

Put the world on hold and step into the presence of Jesus, who gladly takes our burdens and stress and restores them with “the peace that surpasses understanding.”

This uplifting daily devotional book includes 366 short five-minute readings that help you rest and recharge your spirit by putting your focus on the Living God. Each page begins with a Scripture quote, followed by and uplifting devotion that demonstrates how Jesus’ life and teaching apply today. With humor, humility, and grace, the writers share insights that are easily relatable. A Faith Step is also included for you to practice throughout the day. The Faith Step will inspire and challenge you to apply the day’s message to your life.

For those who are seeking a deeper experience in their relationship with Christ, Mornings with Jesus 2016 offers a fresh perspective of who Jesus is and what that means for day-to-day life. As you focus on His truth, you will experience an abundance of blessings that spring from your ever-growing personal relationship with Him.

With a warm and friendly voice, 366 short devotional writings on the character and teachings of Jesus encourage you to greet each day by drawing near to Him and inviting His presence into your day. Spend time with Jesus at the beginning of each day and experience His nearness and peace in a new way throughout the year.

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