Devotion
He Will Strengthen Us
Chipo Biti
When we look at the world around us, it can become very easy to become discouraged by what we see. The amount of hatred that runs deep in the hearts of many people, and the constant agony that we see across the world is enough to make a person question life. But as Christians, we don't need to question life.
We know that all things relating to doom, death and destruction are of the enemy. We know that all things good come from God and he has commissioned us to go into the world and release this good to all mankind. The ultimate good being the gift of salvation.
Preaching the gospel will come with consequences. People will try to discourage us. We will be threatened. People will abandon us. There will be moments where it will feel as if the entire world is against us. But we have to choose to hold on to God and to praise him regardless of what is happening.
God is always good, no matter what we face on this earth. When we remind ourselves of his goodness, it helps us endure the trials and tribulations of life. In times of trouble, we need to turn our eyes to God and seek Him as our refuge. We can only receive comfort and strength from God.
Human beings will always let us down. We will also let people down. The only one who will never let us down is God. His faithfulness is always assured. No matter what. God's word informs us of the many reasons we can trust God in peace. He has been faithful even before we realized the weight of his love.
Prayer
God remained faithful to the children of Israel, even after they turned their backs on Him. Whenever they cried out to Him, God would help them. Even if they had hurt him in the worst ways, he continued to come back.
When we are faced with daunting situations, we need to fall back on these truths, and on the word of God, realizing that God is with us and He will strengthen us no matter what.
Devotion
They Turned Away
Frances Taylor
Once Joshua died, it didn't take long for the Israelites to turn away and worship Baal. It only took one generation. The latest Pew Report on religious affiliation shows rapid decline in those who declare themselves to be Christian as well as those who attend church on a regular basis. This decline has been going on for several generations and who knows where it will end? Forty years ago, most states had laws preventing businesses being open on Sunday. Today, people get offended if a business closes on Sunday. It's not that long ago that sports for youth could not take place until the afternoon so that families could attend church. But then greed took over and stores are now open as if it's just another day. When Sunday openings first happened, workers had a choice whether or not they were willing to work; now they have no option. Sunday mornings are now for youth sports because their parents want to stay home on Sunday afternoon and watch sports ...
Morning Prayer
Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
Inspiration
It is Christ who found us first, not the other way around. He has chosen us to propagate the gospel across the whole world – regardless of our social standing, our nationality, our race, our financial statues, or anything else. God has called every single one of His children to spread the word of His love that was shown through his son, Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Dear God, I pray that I remain focused on what you have always called me to do – spread the message of the gospel. I desire that more and more people in this world will come to the knowledge of who you really are. Father, may you help me in every moment to spread the word of the gospel. May I never be intimidated or afraid, Lord. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Night Prayer
What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
Inspiration
We have nothing to fear when disaster and misfortune become visible upon the horizon of life! God's love is more powerful than we can fathom, and He is present in every moment. He understands the difficulties we face each day and actively seeks to lift our burdens by turning devastation into abounding blessings. With God alive in our hearts, there is no hurdle we can't jump and no obstacle we cannot overcome.
Prayer
Dear God, You are always with us and intend our misfortunes to produce opportunities for spiritual growth. We are thankful for Your oversight and presence in our lives. In Jesus' Name, Amen.