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Julie Long

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A One-Track Mind

1 Min Read

womanprayer“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

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Sin = Death

2 Mins Read

The Bible declares in Romans 3:23, “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” Nobody is exempt from the fatal effects of sin. It not only separates us from a relationship with God but it keeps us from restoring that relationship on our own. Sin will keep us from understanding God; it will keep us from seeking God and it will keep us from fearing God. The consequence of sin is eternal separation from a holy God. So, is there any hope? Oh, yes! “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). The mercy of God is calling to all who will recognize their need for a Savior and turn to Him. God will forgive their sin and heal their soul so they can start to relate to Him as He originally intended. “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself” (II Corinthians 5:19). The cross put to death our old, sinful life destined for an eternity without God and the resurrection gave us a brand new life with power over sin and an eternity with God!

Prayer: My sin had sentenced me to death, but O, how You loved me! The results of sin were so serious that You wrapped Yourself in flesh and came to earth to die a cruel death in my place. I was without hope and eternally lost, “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were afar off have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (Ephesians 2:13). Thank You for such amazing, sacrificial love!

Devotion by Julie Long

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A Living Witness

2 Mins Read

“Whoever does not have the Spirit cannot receive the gifts that come from God’s Spirit. Such a person really does not understand them, and they seem to be nonsense, because their value can be judged only on a spiritual basis. Whoever has the Spirit, however, is able to judge the value of everything, but no one is able to judge him.” (I Corinthians 2:14-15 in the Good News Translation of the Holy Bible)

I recently read this quote by an anonymous writer, “When you don’t witness, you just did.” It made me think about how my life is a witness of the truth that God’s Spirit has revealed to me. The ladies at the library; the guy at the gas station; and the gal at the coffee shop cannot understand the awesome power of God’s Truth unless my life reflects the impact the Gospel has made in my own heart.

Today, as you go through your daily routine, ask yourself this question, “Do my words, thoughts and actions bear witness to the transforming love of Jesus Christ or have the stresses of everyday life obscured the beauty of Christ in me the hope of glory?”

Prayer: Lord Jesus, Your Word has reminded me today how critically important my witness is to the people around me. When others cannot understand the Bible or why I choose to follow you, it is my responsibility to live out the principles of Your Word in such a way that it will bring revelation and understanding of spiritual truths. Help me be a living witness! In Jesus Name, Amen.

Devotion by Julie Long

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Head in the Clouds

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“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

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A One-Track Mind

1 Min Read

“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

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Built by Jesus

1 Min Read

“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

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An Open Book

1 Min Read

“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

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On Duty 24/7

1 Min Read

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

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Victim to Victor

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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

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