Recent Devotions
Job is one of the finest characters in the Old Testament; he was committed to his family, he was faithful to Yahweh, and his resilience to suffering is commendable. However, Job’s friends are criticized harshly for their lack of finesse regarding Job’s torment. At one point, even Job refers to them as miserable comforters (Job 16:2, NRSV). However, Job 2:12–13 reveals a redeeming characteristic and a compelling twist of their attempt to comfort their friend: When they saw him from a distance, they did not recognize him, and they raised their voices and wept aloud; they tore their robes and…
“In the fear of the Lord one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge.” (Proverbs 14:26, ESV Many countries around the world are celebrating Father’s Day today. Each country may have its own traditions, but it is a time to show appreciation for those who have lovingly and faithfully…
But I protested, “Oh no, Lord GOD! Look, I don’t know how to speak since I am only a youth.” Then the LORD said to me: Do not say, “I am only a youth,” for you will go to everyone I send you to and speak whatever I tell you. Do not be afraid of anyone, for I will be…
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“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost” (Romans 15:13). Has life ever felt without hope? Perhaps you woke this morning struggling with feelings of hopelessness. There is a way out. It sounds simplistic, but our hope comes from God. Job experienced deep despair when he lost his possessions, his children, and his health in just a short span of time. He cried out, “My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle, and are spent without hope” (Job 7:6). His wife…
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;” Ephesians 6:18 I was meditating on prayer this morning and came up with this acrostic about the different kinds of P R A Y E R: Perseverant Prayer – James 5:16. “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” In our daily prayer time, we bring the needs of our family, our church family, our missionaries, etc., to the Lord, and in faith believe that He is going to answer. Routine…
“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.” Psalm 37:23-24. No matter how long we have served the Lord, there are still times when we will find ourselves making mistakes and failing to do what the Lord wants us to do. We need to remember that nothing we do changes God’s love for us. He knows everything about our lives, and He has had a plan from the very beginning. He knows the…
“Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1, New King James Version). How long does it take before God answers a prayer? Is there a point when we just give up asking? Even if we find prayer—and how to receive an answer—so unclear at times, the Bible assures us persistence will pay off. The Lord gave two parables illustrating this. Luke 18 tells the story of a widow seeking justice in her situation. The judge seems a harsh man with little regard for God or man. Yet, because of…
