“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand.” (Psalms 37:23-24 from the KJV of the Holy Bible) Have you ever used a compass?…
“And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way;” (Exodus 13:21 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible).
Walking around with your head in the clouds is not always negative! Oh, how I want to spend my day walking under the cloud of God’s direction. The cloud of His presence can provide protection from the heat of difficult circumstances or bring a refreshing rain to my soul.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being my pillar of cloud everywhere I go!
Devotion by Julie Long
It is said that there are two occupations that require 24/7 duty – doctors and preachers. But, God is the original “on call,” any time, all the time, overtime worker!
“For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil” (I Peter 3:12 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible).
God is aware of every move I make and every breath I take. Much of the world prays to gods of stone or wood – images made by man’s hands. These idols cannot hear or answer, nor are they concerned about the everyday life of their followers.
Prayer: Lord, I am thankful for the attentiveness of a Living Savior!
Devotion by Julie Long
“But I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve” (Jeremiah 17:10 in the New Living Translation of the Holy Bible)
This verse gives new meaning to the phrase, “You can read me like a book.” Our hearts and minds are like an open book to our Heavenly Father. Our every thought and actions are known to Him. This realization should make us want to cry out, “Search me O, Lord and make me clean!”
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I long for Your approval upon my life. Help me to conduct myself in a manner that is pleasing to You and let everything I say, think and do bring glory to You! Amen.
Devotion by Julie Long
How often have you said, “I just wish someone understood me?” This verse reminds us once again that God really does understand what we are going through. Jesus is no stranger to pain and suffering.
“He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not” (Isaiah 53:3 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible).
Prayer: Lord Jesus, when I think of the rejection and agony You experienced on the cross, all of my difficulties fade in comparison. You became a victim, so I could be a victor. Thank You, Lord!
Devotion by Julie Long
“They attacked me at a moment when I was in distress, but the LORD supported me” (Psalm 18:18 in the New Living Translation of the Holy Bible).
The strength of a building lies in its framework and foundation. The shell of wood, steel and concrete ensures the integrity and durability of the structure. In the same way, if Jesus Christ is the sure foundation and framework around which we have built our lives, when life’s storms and calamities threaten to overwhelm us, He is our strong support!
Prayer: In my moments of fear; through every pain, every tear; You have been my tower of refuge and strength. I lean on You, Lord!
Devotion by Julie Long
“Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.” (John 4:34 in the New Living Translation of the Holy Bible).
It’s not often that we accept the statement, “You have a one-track mind”, as a compliment. But, when it comes to serving God and fulfilling His will in my life, I want to have singleness of purpose. Just as Jesus did not allow friends or family to sidetrack Him from the mission, it is my prayer that God would keep me from distractions that would blur my vision and keep me from reaching my Heavenly goal.
Prayer: Lord, I thank You for a single-minded focus!
Devotion by Julie Long
“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible.)
Waiting for someone or something is not one of my virtues. In fact it really does grate on my nerves. According to this scripture, waiting on the Lord will renew your strength. After waiting our energy will be renewed so we can run and not become weary and walk and not faint.
There have been times when I felt totally depleted and found myself at His feet. After waiting on the Lord, I felt invigorated. It was worth the wait!
Prayer: Lord, today I fall at Your feet needing strength to go on. Thank You for Your Word that gives me clear direction on how to increase my physical and spiritual stamina. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Devotion by Kaye Singleton
“And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.” (Luke 1:33 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible.)
The family of Jacob, or the descendants of Jacob are the same as the children of Israel. This was the name by which the ancient people of God were known, It is the same as saying that he would reign over His own church and people forever. He’s in charge. He guides them and defends them. He has given laws for them to follow.
This scripture addresses Mary when she was told she was with child. Mary had seen turmoil in her world; Kingdoms rising and falling all around. The child she would give birth to would form an everlasting kingdom.
I’m so glad I have an interest in His Kingdom. He shall reign among his people on earth until the end of time, and be their King forever. His Kingdom is the only Kingdom that will never end. How exciting to think about! You can be a part of this kingdom also.
Prayer: Thank You Lord, that You have made me a part of Your unending Kingdom. One day we will be with You forever. It’s hard for my mind to imagine being with You forever!
Devotion by Kaye Singleton