Be on Your Guard

Read it: “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow” (Isaiah 1:17, NIV).

Last week we looked at being motivated by love. This week, we focus on another part of 1 Corinthians 16:13–14, “Be on your guard”. Guards exist to protect, from security guards to mouth guards and their purpose is to keep something safe.

As followers of Jesus, we’re called to guard two important things. First, we guard those who can’t defend themselves. God cares deeply for people who are overlooked or hurting and He invites us to stand with them in love. Self-Denial is one way we join The Salvation Army in fighting for justice and care.

Second, we guard our own hearts. Proverbs 4:23 reminds us that everything we do flows from our heart. When we protect our relationship with God, we keep our motivation grounded in love.

• Who might God be asking you to guard or stand up for this week?
• How can you be intentional about guarding your heart and your relationship with God?

Spend time praying together and asking God to show you how to guard your heart and others.

God, thank You that You care for every person. Help us protect those who need support. Guard our hearts so our actions flow from love. Amen.