December 2024 - Akedah

December 8, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Help Those God Puts in Your Path

Opening Verse

“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” – Galatians 6:10 (KJV)

Introduction

Life is full of divine appointments. God orchestrates moments when we cross paths with others in need. These aren’t coincidences but opportunities to demonstrate His love. When we feel the nudge to help, it’s vital to act.

Devotional Story

A young man named Mark worked late nights at a convenience store. One evening, a frail elderly woman walked in, carrying only a small bag of coins. She asked softly if she had enough to buy a loaf of bread. The total exceeded her coins by just a few cents.

Without hesitation, Mark took the remaining change from his own pocket and completed her purchase. The woman’s eyes filled with tears of gratitude. As she left, she whispered, “God bless you, young man.”

Later that night, Mark couldn’t shake the feeling that their encounter was orchestrated by God. He remembered Proverbs 3:27:

“Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.”

Mark realized that the small act of kindness was a way of reflecting God’s love to someone in need.

What This Means

God often places people in our paths for a purpose. It might be a stranger needing encouragement or a friend going through a tough time. When we respond with kindness and generosity, we not only meet a practical need but also glorify God. Every act of love is a seed planted for His kingdom.

Think About This

How often do you notice the needs of others around you?
What stops you from helping when you feel prompted by the Holy Spirit?
Can you recall a time when someone’s kindness made a difference in your life?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for placing opportunities in my path to show Your love. Help me to recognize and respond to these moments with grace and compassion. May my actions glorify You and bring others closer to Your heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in.” – Matthew 25:35 (KJV)

December 7, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God’s Daily Grace

Opening Verse

“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV)

Introduction

Every new day is a gift from God, filled with His mercy and grace. No matter what yesterday held, God’s faithfulness is unchanging, and His love is fresh and ready to meet our needs today.

Devotional Story

A woman woke before sunrise, feeling the weight of the day ahead. The responsibilities of life had worn her thin, and she worried about how she could manage. As she sat quietly, she noticed the first light of dawn breaking through the horizon. In that moment, a thought stirred in her heart—a reminder that God’s mercies are as constant and fresh as the morning light.

She opened her Bible and read Lamentations 3:22-23, letting the words settle in her spirit. She realized that just as the sun rises every day without fail, God’s grace is always there, new and sufficient for every challenge. Her heart lifted as she prayed, thanking God for His faithfulness.

As the day unfolded, she noticed God’s hand in the little things—a kind word from a friend, the strength to complete her work, and the peace that came from trusting Him. She carried the promise of God’s new mercies with her and felt renewed strength to face the day.

What This Means

God’s grace is not stored up from yesterday or limited by our failures. Every morning, His mercy is new, meeting us exactly where we are and giving us what we need for the day. Like the sunrise, His faithfulness never misses a day.

Think About This

Do you start your day with an awareness of God’s fresh mercies?
How can you rely more on His strength and less on your own?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your grace that meets me fresh each morning. Help me to trust in Your mercies today and not carry yesterday’s burdens into this new day. Fill me with the strength and peace that only You can give. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
James 4:6 (KJV)

December 6, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God Will Guide You with His Eye

Opening Verse

“I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” – Psalm 32:8 (KJV)

Introduction

God’s guidance is not just a promise—it’s a picture of His constant presence, much like a loving parent watching over their child. He never leaves us to navigate life alone. Instead, He keeps His eyes on us, ready to guide, protect, and catch us if we stumble.

Devotional Story

A young girl named Emma loved the playground, especially the monkey bars. She’d watch older kids swing effortlessly from one bar to the next, and her heart longed to do the same. One day, with her father standing nearby, she decided to try.

“Go ahead,” her father encouraged, smiling as he stood just a step away. Emma gripped the first bar tightly and swung to the next, but her arms began to tremble. Fear crept in as she looked down, seeing how high she was. Her father’s calm, steady voice broke through her thoughts: “Keep going. I’ve got you.”

With his reassuring eyes fixed on her, Emma stretched for the next bar. But suddenly, her hand slipped, and she began to fall. Before she could hit the ground, her father’s strong arms caught her mid-air. “I told you I wouldn’t let you fall,” he said gently as he set her back on her feet.

In the same way, God is our ever-watchful Father. He watches us as we step out in faith, encourages us to trust Him, and is always ready to catch us if we falter. His guidance is both an invitation to move forward and a promise of His unfailing care.

What This Means

Life can feel like swinging across monkey bars—exciting yet uncertain. We may fear falling or failing, but God’s eyes are always on us. He encourages us to keep moving, and His strength is there to catch us if we lose our grip. Trusting His guidance means taking bold steps, knowing that His love never fails.

Think About This

What “monkey bars” are you trying to cross in your life right now? How can you trust God to guide and catch you?
Are you looking to God for reassurance when fear threatens to stop your progress?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being my watchful guide. Help me to trust that You are always near, encouraging me to take steps of faith and catching me when I falter. Teach me to rely on Your strength and guidance in all I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.” – Psalm 37:23 (KJV)

December 5, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Don’t Give Up the Fight!

Opening Verse

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
— Philippians 4:13

Introduction

Sometimes, it feels like giving up is the easiest thing to do, especially when things seem too hard. But did you know that’s exactly what the enemy wants? The enemy doesn’t want you to fight because he knows that with God on your side, you can win every battle.

Devotional Story

A little boy named Caleb loved running races at school. One day, his friends dared him to join a race that looked impossible. Caleb thought, “There’s no way I can win. I should just sit this one out.”

But then, Caleb remembered a verse he learned in Sunday school: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” He decided to give it his best shot, trusting God to help him.

When the race began, Caleb pushed through. Even when it felt tough, he didn’t give up. To his surprise, he not only finished but came in second place! He learned that the real win was in not giving up.

What This Means

The enemy tries to trick us into thinking we’re too weak to win. He whispers lies like, “It’s too hard,” or “Why bother?” But God says, “Don’t give up! I am with you!” Even if you feel small, God’s strength in you is bigger than any challenge.

Think About This

What battles are you facing right now?
Do you trust that God will help you win?
How can you keep going, even when you feel like giving up?

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for giving me the strength to fight and not give up. Help me remember that with You, I can do all things. When the enemy tells me I can’t, remind me of Your power. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.”
— Deuteronomy 31:6

December 4, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The World is Satan’s, But Victory is the Lord’s

Opening Verse

“And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.”
— 1 John 5:19, KJV

Introduction

The Bible describes Satan as the prince of this world, a deceiver who entices through fleeting pleasures and false promises. Yet, we are reminded that while the world is under his influence, it is not his to claim. God is the ultimate authority, and He calls us to resist Satan’s schemes and trust in Him.

Devotional Story

A young man once entered a grand casino in search of wealth. The lights dazzled, the music thrilled, and every game promised the chance of winning it all. He started small, and for a while, it seemed like luck was on his side. But as the night wore on, he lost not just his money but also his peace. The “house” always wins, he thought bitterly, leaving with empty pockets and a heavy heart.

In his despair, he walked into a quiet church across the street. The pastor was preaching on 1 John 2:15-17:

“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.”

He realized the “house” that always wins is not just a casino—it is the world, designed by Satan to ensnare and devour. But the message didn’t end in despair. The pastor spoke of Jesus, who said,

“In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, KJV).

The young man knelt and prayed, giving his life to Christ. He left the church not with worldly riches but with eternal treasure: salvation and peace.

What This Means

The world may seem unbeatable, like a system rigged to win at our expense. Yet, Scripture assures us that Satan’s dominion is temporary. Jesus Christ has already conquered sin, death, and the world. Our victory lies not in earthly gain but in eternal life through Him.

Think About This

Are there “games” in your life where the house seems to always win?
How can you turn your focus from the world’s empty promises to the eternal hope found in Christ?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, remind us that the riches and rewards of this world are temporary, but Your love endures forever. Help us to resist the schemes of the enemy and cling to the eternal treasure found in Your Son, Jesus Christ. Give us wisdom and strength to walk in Your light, even when the world feels overwhelming. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”
— Colossians 3:2, KJV

December 3, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Ask God, He Will Show You

Opening Verse:

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” – James 1:5 (KJV)

Introduction:

Life is filled with decisions, both big and small. Sometimes, the right path isn’t clear, and uncertainty weighs heavy on our hearts. In those moments, we often forget one simple truth: God is ready and willing to guide us if we simply ask. He is the source of all wisdom, and His answers bring clarity, peace, and purpose.

Devotional Story:

In a small Russian village, a woman named Yelena found herself overwhelmed. She had been offered two job opportunities—one with a higher salary but requiring her to move far from her aging parents, and another closer to home but offering less pay. Yelena spent sleepless nights analyzing pros and cons, yet peace eluded her.

One night, she knelt by her bed, tears streaming down her face, and prayed, “Lord, I don’t know what to do. Please show me the way.” She remembered James 1:5 and clung to the promise that God gives wisdom generously.

The next morning, Yelena awoke with an unusual sense of calm. She opened her Bible and read Proverbs 3:5-6: “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.” She realized she had been trying to figure everything out on her own. Instead of striving, she decided to trust God fully.

As she went about her day, Yelena received a call from the company near her home. They offered her the position, plus additional flexibility that would allow her to care for her parents. Her prayer had been answered. God had shown her the way, bringing peace and provision.

What This Means:

When we are faced with choices, it’s easy to rely on our own understanding or fear making the wrong decision. But God invites us to lean on Him. When we seek Him through prayer and trust His wisdom, He will guide our steps. His answers may not always come in the way we expect, but they will always lead us to His perfect will.

Think About This:

Have you been trying to handle decisions on your own, or have you invited God into the process?
Do you trust God to show you the right path, even if it’s different from what you imagined?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the source of all wisdom. Forgive me for the times I’ve leaned on my own understanding instead of seeking You. I ask for Your guidance today. Show me the way, and give me the faith to follow wherever You lead. I trust that Your plans for me are good. In Jesus’ name, 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)

December 2, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Losing Early Before You Lose Late

Opening Verse

“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” – Ephesians 5:15-16 (KJV)

Introduction

Life is full of choices. Each one, no matter how small, can set us on a path that leads closer to God or further away. Losing early, in this context, means making the sacrifices and corrections now that prevent greater loss later. God calls us to evaluate our lives and align them with His will before it’s too late.

Devotional Story

A man once loved his work. He poured his energy into it, enjoying the rewards it brought. But as the years passed, he began to compromise. Small ethical lapses grew into larger ones. He justified them, thinking they were necessary for success.

One day, an unexpected loss struck. A project he had labored over for years failed because of decisions he had made in haste and pride. This wake-up call forced him to reassess his life. He turned to God, who gently reminded him of the verse he had once cherished:

“What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Mark 8:36 KJV).

This loss taught him a valuable lesson: had he acknowledged his failings earlier, repented, and adjusted his ways, he could have avoided the painful consequences.

What This Means

Sometimes God allows small losses to protect us from greater ones. These moments are not punishments but opportunities for growth. They remind us to seek Him and walk in His wisdom. God’s discipline, though painful at times, is an expression of His love, meant to lead us to abundant life.

Think About This

Are there small compromises in your life that could lead to bigger consequences later?
How can you invite God into your decision-making process today?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your guidance and patience with me. Help me recognize the areas in my life that need correction before it’s too late. Teach me to trust in Your wisdom and walk in Your ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.” – Hebrews 12:6 (KJV)

December 1, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

First Fruits

Opening Verse

“Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase.” – Proverbs 3:9 (KJV)

Introduction

The concept of “first fruits” goes beyond material offerings—it’s about giving God our very best in every aspect of life. This principle reflects our acknowledgment of God as the source of all blessings and our gratitude for His provision.

Devotional Story

Rachel was a farmer’s daughter who loved the beauty of her family’s land. Each year, her family celebrated the harvest by setting aside the first portion for God. Before anything else was enjoyed or sold, they would gather their best produce, pray, and bring it to their church as an offering.

One year, a storm devastated their crops, and the harvest was meager. Rachel’s father, however, insisted they honor their commitment to God by giving the first and best portion of what remained. The family prayed, thanking God for His faithfulness despite their challenges.

Weeks later, a neighboring farmer, touched by their faithfulness, gifted them seeds and resources to prepare for the next planting season. The following year’s harvest was abundant. Rachel realized that their act of giving their first fruits, even in hardship, was a declaration of trust in God’s provision.

What This Means

Giving God the “first fruits” of our time, talents, and resources isn’t just an ancient agricultural practice; it’s a principle of prioritizing God in all we do. When we give God our best, we declare our trust in His ability to supply all our needs. It’s an act of worship, gratitude, and faith.

Think About This

What is your “first fruit” today—your time, energy, or resources?
How can you prioritize God in your daily life and decisions?
Are you holding back something that belongs to God?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for being the giver of every good and perfect gift. Help me to honor You with my first fruits, giving You the best of my time, energy, and resources. Teach me to trust in Your provision and to live with a heart full of gratitude. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And the first of all the firstfruits of all things, and every oblation of all, of every sort of your oblations, shall be the priest’s: ye shall also give unto the priest the first of your dough, that he may cause the blessing to rest in thine house.” – Ezekiel 44:30 (KJV)