Living Under an Open Heaven

Devotional From The Sermon: Cross-Covered, Not Crystal Carried

Rev. Dr. Bankole Akinbinu

Reading: Matthew 3:13-17; Ephesians 2:4-7

Devotional:

When Jesus emerged from baptism, heaven opened and the Father declared His pleasure. Through union with Christ, you too live under an open heaven. God’s favor toward you isn’t based on your performance but on Christ’s perfection. You don’t wake up wondering if God is pleased—He already declared His pleasure over His Son, and you are in Him. This changes everything. You approach today not as one striving for approval, but as one already approved. Not as one earning favor, but as one already favored. Not as one hoping for acceptance, but as one already seated with Christ in heavenly places. This is your identity: beloved, accepted, favored—not because of crystals you carry, but because of the Christ who carries you.

Reflection:

• How would I live differently if I truly believed I’m already favored by God?