“Joseph made the sons of Israel swear an oath. He said, ‘God will surely come to you. Then you must carry my bones up from this place.’ So Joseph died at the age of 110. After they embalmed him, his body was placed in a coffin in Egypt” (Genesis 50:25-26,…
“For who will hearken unto you in this matter? but as his part is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike.” I Samuel 30:24 David and his band of followers had been given refuge by King Achish,…
“And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you” (Isaiah 46:4). Recently I read a perfect illustration of trust. Have you ever noticed the expression of an infant being carried on the shoulder of his mother or father? The baby’s face is a study in total relaxation and trust. While the parent sees where the two are headed, the child can see only where they have been. The infant is not worried about being at least five feet in the air because he trusts the one that is holding him. God promises to carry us for a lifetime.
Prayer: Lord, I want to trust You more. I want to continue leaning on my Father’s shoulder knowing that He knows the way to take me. I am dependent on Your care.
Devotion by Kaye Singleton
“And my God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory…” from Philippians 4:19 in the Holy Bible, Amplified Version.
I have experienced this promise of God many times since choosing to follow Him. One such time stands out in my memory: Money was scarce, and what money we did have went to feed and clothe our four small children. I had gained so much weight, that none of my clothes fit me. I whispered a prayer to God asking for something to wear. The next day, on my doorstep was a paper grocery bag filled with clothes that fit perfectly! God liberally supplied my need that day, and He will do the same for you!
Prayer: Father, I’m so thankful that you have a liberal supply of blessings to give to your children! Bless me today and meet my material needs of clothing, food and shelter.
Devotion by Debbie Simler-Goff
“But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting” (Micah 5:2 Holy Bible, King James Version).
A modern day expectant mother carefully selects the best and most convenient hospital or alternate facility for the birth of her child. Mary, the mother of Jesus was given no choice in her child’s birthplace. Her holy child would be born in Bethlehem far away from Nazareth, Joseph’s home, as prophesied. This single event would shine a spotlight on an obscure village for the whole world to see.
Prayer: Eternal God, tiny Bethlehem was destined to be the birthplace of Jesus. Nothing could change that because Your prophecies and promises are certain. This gives me great faith. You have known my future from the beginning and You are in control of events in my life, too. Amen.
Numbers 24:17 in the Amplified Version of the Holy Bible, “What I saw in my vision hasn’t happened yet. But someday, a king of Israel will appear like a star…”
Imagine! Some 2000 years passed from the time of this prophetic declaration of Jesus’ birth until its fulfillment in Matthew 2:2. An unusual star did light the night sky giving direction to the wise men who came to worship the new born King. It was the will of God that this brilliant celestial body would announce to all the nations that the Gospel of Jesus Christ would extend itself beyond the borders of Israel to the entire world.
Prayer: Dear God, I pray that I won’t miss Your invitation to draw near and simply worship. You are my bright and morning star! You have called me to bring my gifts of praise and adoration into Your throne room. While I linger in Your presence, grant me patience and unwavering faith to endure until the fulfillment of the promises You have given me. Amen.
Devotion by Julie Long