July 2024 - Page 2 of 4

July 21, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Sometimes You Just Have to Leave Things as They Are

Opening Verse

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.” – Isaiah 55:8 (KJV)

Introduction

Life often presents us with situations that challenge our understanding and control. We may find ourselves struggling to change circumstances that are beyond our power. In such moments, it is crucial to recognize that sometimes, we must simply leave things as they are, trusting in God’s greater plan.

Devotional Story

A farmer once faced a severe drought that threatened to ruin his crops. Despite his best efforts to irrigate the land and protect his plants, the heat persisted, and the rain did not come. One day, his neighbor, seeing his distress, said, “You have done all you can. Now, it’s in God’s hands.”

At first, the farmer was frustrated by this advice. He was not accustomed to giving up. But as he reflected on his neighbor’s words, he realized that he had reached the limits of his human ability. He prayed for rain, but more importantly, he prayed for peace in accepting the situation. Eventually, the rain came, but even before it did, the farmer found solace in surrendering to God’s will.

What This Means

This story illustrates the importance of recognizing our limitations and trusting in God’s wisdom. There are times when our efforts will not change the outcome, and it is in these moments that our faith and trust in God must be strongest. God sees the bigger picture and has plans far beyond our understanding.

Think About This

Are there areas in your life where you are struggling to maintain control? Reflect on these areas and consider if it is time to surrender them to God. Trust that His plans are for your good, even when you cannot see the immediate benefits.

Prayer

Dear Lord,

Help me to recognize when I have done all that I can. Grant me the wisdom to know when to let go and trust in Your perfect plan. Give me peace in my heart and the assurance that You are in control. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)

July 20, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Boldness in Prayer

Opening Verse

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” – Hebrews 4:16 (KJV)

Introduction

Prayer is a powerful tool given to us by God. It is our direct line to communicate with Him. However, many of us approach prayer timidly, unsure if we are worthy or if God will listen. The Bible encourages us to come boldly to God’s throne. This boldness is not about arrogance but confidence in God’s love and promises.

Devotional Story

There was a man named David who had a deep relationship with God. He faced many challenges, from confronting Goliath to fleeing from King Saul. Despite these trials, David prayed with boldness. One night, when surrounded by enemies, he cried out to God, not with fear but with trust. “O Lord, how many are my foes! Many are rising against me,” he said. Yet, he concluded, “But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head” (Psalm 3:1, 3).

David’s boldness in prayer was rooted in his understanding of God’s character. He knew that God was his protector and provider. This confidence allowed him to approach God without hesitation, even in the direst circumstances.

What This Means

When we pray boldly, we acknowledge our faith in God’s ability to answer and His desire to help us. Bold prayer is an expression of our trust in His power and love. It does not mean demanding things from God but coming to Him with the assurance that He hears us and cares for us. This kind of prayer strengthens our relationship with God and opens our hearts to His guidance and peace.

Think About This

Are you hesitant in your prayers, unsure if God will respond? Reflect on the times God has been faithful in your life. Approach Him with confidence, knowing that He invites you to come boldly. Remember, bold prayer is not about our worthiness but about God’s gracious invitation to us.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for inviting us to come boldly before Your throne. Help us to approach You with confidence, trusting in Your love and mercy. Strengthen our faith and teach us to pray with boldness, knowing that You hear us and will provide for our needs. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us.”

– 1 John 5:14 (KJV)

July 19, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God’s Infinite Forgiveness

Opening Verse

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9, KJV

Introduction

God’s forgiveness is a central theme throughout the Bible. It reassures us that no matter how often we falter, God’s mercy is always available to us. The key to receiving this forgiveness is genuine repentance and a commitment not to repeat our sins.

Devotional Story

Consider the story of King David, a man after God’s own heart. David’s life was marked by several significant sins: his affair with Bathsheba, the murder of Uriah, and the census of Israel, among others. Yet, David’s response to each sin was consistent—he repented sincerely and sought God’s forgiveness. He did not make the same mistake twice, demonstrating a heart committed to God despite his flaws.

What This Means

David’s story shows us that God does not expect perfection, but He does desire a repentant heart. True repentance involves acknowledging our sins, seeking forgiveness, and striving not to repeat them. When we do this, God is faithful to forgive us, cleanse us, and help us to grow in righteousness.

Think About This

– Do you truly repent when you recognize sin in your life, or do you find yourself repeating the same mistakes?

– How can you cultivate a heart like David’s, one that is quick to repent and eager to stay faithful to God?

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless mercy and forgiveness. Help me to recognize my sins, repent sincerely, and avoid repeating them. Give me a heart like David’s, quick to seek Your forgiveness and eager to remain faithful to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.” – Psalms 103:8, KJV

July 18, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Low Batteries

Opening Verse

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28

Introduction

Everyone experiences days when their energy feels completely depleted, similar to a device running on low batteries. Life’s demands can leave people feeling weary and burdened. Yet, hope and renewal are available through Christ.

Devotional Story

There was a woman named Sandra who, like many others, found herself caught in the rush of daily tasks. One day, as she hurried through her errands, she noticed her phone battery was critically low. This small moment sparked a reflection in her mind about how often people neglect to recharge their spiritual batteries.

Just like phones need charging, people need to stay connected to their source of power. For Sandra, and many others, that source is God. Without His strength and guidance, they can quickly become overwhelmed and exhausted by life’s challenges.

Sandra recalled a time when she was working tirelessly to meet deadlines and care for her family, only to feel completely worn out. It was during one of these low moments that a friend reminded her of the importance of spending time with God. The friend wisely said, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

What This Means

People need to take regular breaks to connect with God, much like they charge their devices. Jesus invites everyone to come to Him when they are weary, promising rest and renewal. He is the ultimate source of strength and peace.

Think About This

Are you feeling spiritually drained today?
How often do you take time to recharge with God’s word and prayer?

Prayer

Dear Lord, I come to You feeling weary and burdened. Please recharge my spirit and give me rest. Help me to remember to stay connected to You, my source of strength. Thank You for Your promise to give me rest. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“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

July 17, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Building Blocks in Life

Opening Verse

“For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.”
1 Corinthians 3:9 (KJV)

Introduction

Life often presents us with various challenges and obstacles, which can feel like stumbling blocks on our journey. However, these blocks can also be seen as building blocks that God uses to shape and strengthen us.

Devotional Story

There was once a young man named Barry who dreamed of becoming an architect. He faced many setbacks: financial struggles, failed exams, and personal doubts. Each obstacle felt like a heavy block, weighing him down. Yet, Barry had faith that God was with him.

One day, while working on a construction site to earn some money, Barry noticed how each brick and stone, despite its rough edges and imperfections, contributed to the beauty and stability of the building. It struck him that his own struggles were like those bricks. Though they seemed insurmountable at times, each one was a necessary part of God’s design for his life.

Barry’s perspective changed. He began to see each challenge not as a roadblock but as a building block, essential for his growth and the fulfillment of his purpose. He prayed for strength and wisdom, trusting that God was the master builder of his life.

What This Means

Life’s difficulties can be overwhelming, but they also serve a greater purpose. Each challenge we face can be a building block that God uses to develop our character and faith. When we trust in God’s plan, we can see these blocks not as barriers but as stepping stones toward our destiny.

Think About This

Are there challenges in your life that feel like insurmountable blocks?

How can you view these challenges as building blocks that God is using for a greater purpose?

What steps can you take to trust in God’s plan and see the bigger picture?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the master builder of our lives. Help us to see the challenges we face not as stumbling blocks but as building blocks that You use to strengthen and shape us. Give us the faith to trust in Your plan and the courage to persevere through difficulties. May we always remember that You are with us, guiding us every step of the way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28 (KJV)

July 16, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Don’t Let Inconveniences Get You Down

Opening Verse

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 KJV

Introduction

Life is full of inconveniences, both big and small. They can range from minor annoyances to constant disruptions that challenge our patience and faith. However, it’s important to remember that Jesus has overcome the world, and through Him, we can find peace and strength to rise above these difficulties.

Devotional Story

Liz was a dedicated teacher who loved her job. However, her daily commute was fraught with constant delays and traffic jams. Every day seemed to present a new obstacle, whether it was road construction, bad weather, or unexpected detours. These daily inconveniences began to wear her down, affecting her mood and outlook on life.

One morning, after an especially frustrating drive to work, Liz decided to take a moment to pray. She asked God for patience and a positive attitude despite the daily challenges. She remembered the verse from John 16:33 and took comfort in knowing that Jesus understood her struggles and had already overcome the world.

As the days went on, Liz perspective began to shift. Instead of focusing on the inconveniences, she started to look for the small blessings in her day—a kind gesture from a colleague, a beautiful sunrise, or a moment of peace during her drive. She realized that while she couldn’t control the traffic, she could control her response to it. With God’s help, Liz learned to face her daily challenges with a renewed sense of peace and gratitude.

What This Means

Inconveniences are a part of life, but they don’t have to control us. By shifting our focus and relying on God’s strength, we can rise above the daily challenges and find peace in the midst of chaos. Jesus has already overcome the world, and in Him, we can find the resilience to keep going, no matter what comes our way.

Think About This

What daily inconveniences challenge your patience and faith?
How can you change your perspective to see the small blessings in your day?
In what ways can you rely on God’s strength to overcome these challenges?

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for Your promise of peace in the midst of tribulations. Help us to remember that You have overcome the world and that we can find strength in You. Teach us to see the blessings in our daily lives and to respond to inconveniences with patience and gratitude. Guide us to trust in Your plan and find comfort in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.”
Colossians 3:15 KJV

July 15, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Jesus Healing the Roman Soldier’s Servant

Opening Verse

“When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.”
Matthew 8:10 KJV

Introduction

In the New Testament, we find numerous examples of Jesus’ healing miracles. One particularly profound instance is when Jesus healed the servant of a Roman centurion. This story is not just about physical healing but also about faith and humility.

Devotional Story

A Roman centurion, an officer in the Roman army, had a servant who was very dear to him and gravely ill. Hearing about Jesus, the centurion sent some Jewish elders to Him, asking for His help. The elders pleaded earnestly with Jesus, saying that the centurion loved their nation and had even built their synagogue.

As Jesus set out towards the centurion’s house, another message arrived from the centurion. He expressed that he felt unworthy to have Jesus come under his roof. Instead, he believed that if Jesus simply spoke the word, his servant would be healed. He explained his understanding of authority, acknowledging Jesus’ supreme authority over illness.

Jesus was amazed by the centurion’s faith. He turned to the crowd following Him and declared that He had not found such great faith in all of Israel. Jesus then spoke the word, and the servant was healed at that very moment, even though Jesus never physically entered the centurion’s home.

What This Means

This story illustrates the power of faith and the authority of Jesus. The centurion’s belief in Jesus’ power was so strong that he trusted in a miracle without Jesus being physically present. It reminds us that Jesus’ power is not confined by space or proximity. Our faith, too, can move mountains and bring about miracles, even from a distance.

Think About This

How strong is your faith in Jesus’ power?
Do you trust that Jesus can work miracles in your life, even when you can’t see Him working?
How can you show humility and faith like the centurion in your daily walk with Christ?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of the centurion’s faith. Help us to trust in Your power and authority over every situation in our lives. May we always come to You with humility and confidence, believing that nothing is impossible for You. Strengthen our faith and help us to witness Your miraculous works in our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.”
Matthew 8:13 KJV

July 14, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Enemy Doesn’t Want You in Church

Opening Verse

“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:25 (KJV)

Introduction

The church is a vital part of a Christian’s life, providing fellowship, support, and spiritual growth. Yet, there are many distractions and obstacles that can keep us from attending. These hindrances are not mere coincidences; they are deliberate attempts by the enemy to isolate us from our faith community.

Devotional Story

Sarah loved attending church every Sunday. It was a time for her to worship, learn, and connect with other believers. But lately, she noticed a pattern: every Sunday morning, something would come up. Her alarm wouldn’t go off, she’d feel unusually tired, or unexpected plans would arise. These constant disruptions started to weaken her resolve. One Sunday, determined to attend, she pushed through the excuses and made it to church. There, the sermon spoke directly to her situation, reminding her that these distractions were not just random but were efforts by the enemy to keep her from the blessings of gathering with fellow believers.

What This Means

The enemy understands the power of community and the strength we draw from being together in faith. He knows that in isolation, our struggles can feel insurmountable. Attending church is not just a routine; it’s a lifeline, a source of encouragement, and a place where we grow stronger in our faith. By recognizing these tactics, we can better prepare ourselves to overcome them and remain steadfast in our commitment to worship together.

Think About This

What obstacles have you faced that keep you from attending church? How can you prepare to overcome these challenges? Remember, the enemy wants to keep you isolated, but God wants you in fellowship with other believers.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I recognize the importance of gathering with my church family. Help me to see and overcome the obstacles that the enemy places in my path. Strengthen my resolve to attend church regularly and to encourage others to do the same. Thank You for the gift of community and the blessings that come from worshiping together. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:”
– Hebrews 10:24 (KJV)

July 13, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Voice of the Lord

Opening Verse

“The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.”
Psalm 29:4 (KJV)

Introduction

The voice of the Lord carries a power and majesty beyond human comprehension. In this world filled with noise and distractions, it is essential to pause and listen for His voice.

What This Means

God’s voice is not drowned out by the world’s noise. Instead, it stands strong and majestic. We must intentionally seek moments of quiet to hear Him, understanding that His voice brings peace, guidance, and reassurance.

Think About This

How often do you find time to be silent and listen for God’s voice?
What changes can you make in your daily routine to create space for hearing Him?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help us to quiet our hearts and minds to hear Your powerful and majestic voice. Amidst the chaos of life, remind us to seek Your presence and listen for Your guidance. Thank You for speaking to us with authority and love. Amen.

Closing Verse & Song

“The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.”
Psalm 29:4 (KJV)

“The Voice of the Lord” By Akedah

Lyrics:

[Verse]

The voice of the Lord is strong

Powerful and clear

In the storm it rides along

In the still we hear

[Verse 2]

The voice of the Lord brings peace

Over waves and seas

In His name all worries cease

Heart and soul are free

[Chorus]

Sing out

The voice of the Lord

Let His praise be heard

Feel His mighty word

[Verse 3]

The voice breaks the cedars tal

l Mountains bow and fall

In His name we stand in awe

Hear His righteous call

[Bridge]

In the quiet and the loud

His voice fills the air

Every knee and head be bowed

In His love we share

[Chorus]

Sing out

The voice of the Lord

Let His praise be heard

Feel His mighty word

You are free to use this praise and worship song in churches and across all media platforms. This song is open source and can be distributed, performed, and shared without any restrictions. Please mention our website akedah.faith in the credits. God Bless!

July 12, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God’s Gift of the Earth

Opening Verse

“The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord’s: but the earth hath he given to the children of men.” (Psalm 115:16, KJV)

Introduction

In the vastness of creation, God has designated a special place for humanity. The heavens belong to Him, but the earth is our domain. This verse from Psalms highlights the immense trust and responsibility God has placed on us.

Devotional Story

Imagine a king with a magnificent kingdom. He has a grand palace where he resides, but he also has lush lands filled with resources, beauty, and potential. This king, in his wisdom and love, chooses to give a significant part of his kingdom to his subjects. He doesn’t just abandon them with it; he entrusts it to them, expecting them to care for it, cultivate it, and enjoy its fruits.

In the same way, God, the King of Heaven, has given the earth to us, His children. He trusts us with its care, its development, and its well-being. Every sunrise, every ocean wave, every tree, and every creature is a testament to His generous gift.

What This Means

God has shown His love and trust in us by giving us the earth. This gift is not just for our use, but for our stewardship. We are to take care of it, to nurture it, and to appreciate its beauty and resources. It’s a reminder of His provision and our responsibility.

Think About This

How do you view the earth and its resources?
Are there ways you can better care for the environment as part of your stewardship?
Reflect on the beauty of creation and how it points back to the Creator.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of the earth. Help us to be good stewards of this amazing creation. Teach us to care for it and to appreciate the beauty and resources You’ve provided. May we honor You in how we use and protect this gift. Amen.

Closing Verse & Song

“The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” (Psalm 24:1, KJV)