Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Identity in Christ marked by Baptism

Bible Reading: Exodus 14:15-31
Key verse:  

V 15 : “Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on.”

DEVOTION

The Christian walk isn’t always on the mountaintop; it has valleys too. God is reminding us of one truth, that He is dependable. Fear and constant complaining, dishonor Him but He is faithful, even when life feels uncertain.

Israel was trapped between a suffocating past and an impossible future. Behind them raged Pharaoh’s army, ahead lay deep, roaring waters. Yet in that impossible place, God gave a clear word: “Don’t look back. Move forward.”

The Red Sea crossing pictures Holy Baptism. It’s the moment God brings us out of spiritual bondage and into a new covenant life with Jesus. Israel went into the sea as slaves and came out as God’s free nation.  The waters buried Pharaoh and ended the legal claim Egypt had over them.  

In the same way, Paul tells us that in baptism, our old self is buried with Christ and sin’s power is broken, and we are raised to walk in new life. (Romans 6:4).

Baptism gives us an identity that cannot be shaken.  We are no longer defined by our past bondage, guilt, or fear.  Instead, we are marked and sealed as God’s beloved sons and daughters. So, when we face our own “Red Seas” in life, we’re not called to panic and run back.  We’re called to step forward in faith, trusting the identity God gave us in baptism.

 

PRAYER

"Gracious Father, we thank You for claiming us as your children through baptism.  Grant us steadfast faith to move forward boldly, confident in your power to deliver us in every trial.  In Jesus name we pray. Amen.”

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
“Baptism buries our past bondages and seals our eternal identity as God's redeemed children.”



 
Kevin George Sam

Toronto St. Mathews Mar Thoma Church.

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