Author: Akedah

November 21, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God Works Through Us

Opening Verse:

“For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”
— Philippians 2:13 (KJV)

Introduction:

God is the Creator of all things. Nothing exists outside His sovereignty, yet He allows humanity free will. This freedom brings both beauty and brokenness, as evil actions poison the world. However, God calls His people to be His vessels, leading the way through His power, not our own.

Devotional Story:

James was a community leader burdened by the rising crime and despair in his neighborhood. As he prayed for answers, he heard a gentle reminder from God: “It’s not about what you can do, but about what I can do through you.”

He began organizing prayer walks, inviting neighbors to join. What started as a small gathering grew into a community revival. The change didn’t come from James’ efforts alone but from how God worked through the collective faith and obedience of His people. The atmosphere in the neighborhood shifted as hearts softened, relationships healed, and hope returned.

What This Means:

Evil in the world is a result of humanity’s choices, but God’s power is greater. He works through those who surrender to Him, using them to shine His light in the darkest places. It is not by our strength but by His Spirit that the world is changed.

Think About This:

  • How can you allow God to work through you in your current circumstances?
  • Are you trusting in your own strength, or relying on His power to bring change?

Prayer:

Lord, I surrender my will to Yours. Use me as Your vessel to bring light into dark places. Help me trust that Your power is sufficient to overcome evil and bring restoration. Let Your glory shine through my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.”
— Zechariah 4:6 (KJV)

November 20, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God Qualifies the Called

Opening Verse:

“But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.”
— 1 Corinthians 1:27 (KJV)

Introduction:

God doesn’t choose people based on their abilities, qualifications, or status. Instead, He calls those whose hearts are willing, and He equips them for His purpose. This truth reassures us that no matter how inadequate we feel, God’s grace is sufficient to empower us for His work.

Devotional Story:

Amy was a single mother working two jobs to provide for her children. Church and prayer were her only form of peace. One Sunday, the pastor announced a need for someone to lead the children’s ministry. Amy felt a stirring in her heart but quickly dismissed it. “I’m not qualified,” she thought. “I don’t have teaching experience or a theology degree.”

Weeks passed, and the need remained unmet. During a prayer meeting, Amy heard the pastor share the story of Moses, a man who doubted his ability to lead but was empowered by God to free His people. The pastor concluded with these words: “God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called.”

The words gripped Amy’s heart. She hesitantly volunteered, feeling nervous and unprepared. But as she began teaching, Amy discovered a gift she didn’t know she had. The children loved her storytelling and the creative ways she explained Bible lessons. Over time, Amy realized that God had been preparing her through her life experiences, giving her the patience and compassion needed to guide these children.

What This Means:

God’s calling is not dependent on our qualifications but on our availability. When we say “yes” to Him, He supplies the strength, wisdom, and resources we need to succeed. Like Amy, we often discover that God has already equipped us in ways we didn’t expect. God does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called!

Think About This:

  • Have you felt inadequate for something God is calling you to do? Remember Moses, David, and the apostles—none were chosen for their credentials, but for their hearts.
  • How can you step out in faith today, trusting that God will provide what you need?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing me despite my weaknesses. Help me to trust that Your strength is made perfect in my weakness. Equip me for the tasks You have called me to, and give me the courage to step out in faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God.”
— 2 Corinthians 3:5 (KJV)

November 19, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Not Today Satan!

Opening Verse

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8 (KJV)

Introduction

When the Bible warns us about Satan being like a lion, it’s not just poetic language. The comparison is chilling when we understand the behavior of real lions. These apex predators are methodical and strategic, embodying the relentless nature of our spiritual adversary.

Devotional Story

In the wild plains of Africa, lions rule as master hunters. But they don’t chase their prey recklessly. Instead, they study their targets, choosing the weakest or most distracted member of a herd. A lion’s roar can be heard up to five miles away, not just as a show of dominance but as a tactic to disorient and intimidate prey. The sound reverberates through the ground, freezing animals in fear. Once the prey is stunned, the lion moves swiftly and strikes.

Spiritually, Satan operates the same way. He looks for believers who are spiritually weak, isolated, or distracted. He doesn’t attack randomly; he calculates his moves, waiting for the perfect moment to pounce. The “roar” of the enemy might be fear, temptation, or lies—anything that shakes our faith and paralyzes us.

Scientists also reveal that lions conserve their energy for the hunt, often stalking their prey during twilight hours when visibility is low. Similarly, Satan often attacks during our moments of darkness—when we are tired, discouraged, or vulnerable.

What This Means

Understanding how lions attack helps us prepare spiritually. Just as prey must stay alert and together in herds to deter predators, we must stay vigilant and connected to our faith and community. Satan’s “roar” loses its power when we are grounded in God’s Word and surrounded by fellow believers.

God equips us with armor to withstand the enemy’s attacks: faith to shield us, Scripture as our sword, and prayer to keep us vigilant. When we recognize the enemy’s tactics, we can stand firm and say, “Not today, Satan.”

Think About This

  • Are you staying spiritually alert, or are there areas where you feel vulnerable to attack?
  • How do you respond to the “roar” of fear or temptation? Do you freeze, or do you turn to God?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for being my protector and strength. Help me to remain vigilant, discerning the enemy’s schemes and standing firm in Your truth. Equip me with faith to withstand every attack and guide me to walk boldly in Your light. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7 (KJV)

November 18, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Obeying Even When You Don’t Want To

Opening 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)

Introduction

Obedience to God can be challenging, especially when His instructions seem difficult or inconvenient. However, choosing to obey—even when you don’t feel like it—is a testament of faith. God honors our obedience and strengthens us in the process.

Devotional Story

Anna was a woman who loved her family but struggled with a strained relationship with her sister. One morning during prayer, she felt God prompting her to forgive and reconcile. Anna resisted, arguing with herself that her sister didn’t deserve forgiveness. The thought of humbling herself and reaching out felt unbearable.

Still, the gentle nudging of the Holy Spirit wouldn’t stop. After much internal wrestling, Anna finally obeyed. She picked up the phone, apologized for her part in the conflict, and forgave her sister. To her surprise, her sister also apologized, and their relationship began to heal. Through this experience, Anna realized that her obedience wasn’t just about her—it was about God’s greater plan for restoration.

Anna’s story mirrors Jonah’s journey. When God called him to preach to the people of Nineveh, Jonah resisted because he didn’t think they deserved God’s mercy. Despite Jonah’s reluctance, God’s patience and persistence led him to obey, and through that obedience, an entire city was saved (Jonah 3:5-10).

What This Means

God’s commands often lead us to step out of our comfort zones. While obedience may feel difficult, it’s an act of trust in His wisdom and love. When we follow Him, even reluctantly, He works through us in ways we cannot imagine, and His strength carries us through.

Think About This

  • Are there areas in your life where you’re resisting God’s guidance?
  • What blessings might be waiting on the other side of your obedience?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I confess that there are times when I struggle to obey Your instructions. Please help me to trust You, even when I don’t fully understand or want to act. Give me the courage to follow where You lead, knowing that Your plans are for my good and Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.” – Isaiah 1:19 (KJV)

November 17, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God Will Help You Even When You Feel Unworthy

Opening Verse

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8 (KJV)

Introduction

Feeling unworthy is a common struggle, but God’s love isn’t based on our perfection. His grace meets us in our mess and reminds us of His unchanging commitment to us. When guilt or shame creeps in, it’s vital to remember that His love is unconditional.

Devotional Story

A man named Peter once felt utterly unworthy. He had made mistakes that left him ashamed and isolated from his loved ones. One evening, as he sat by a quiet riverbank, he prayed a simple prayer: “God, if You’re still there for me, please let me feel it.” At that moment, a soft breeze stirred the trees, and Peter felt a deep peace wash over him—a reminder that God hadn’t left him.

Peter was reminded of the Apostle Peter in the Bible, who denied Jesus three times. Yet, Jesus didn’t cast him aside. Instead, He sought Peter out after His resurrection and reaffirmed His purpose for him, saying, “Feed my sheep” (John 21:17). Just as Jesus restored Peter, He restores us when we feel unworthy.

What This Means

Your worth isn’t determined by your past or your feelings. It’s defined by God’s love and the price Jesus paid on the cross. God uses imperfect people to fulfill His perfect plans. You don’t have to earn His help; it’s freely given.

Think About This

  • What mistakes or feelings of unworthiness are holding you back?
  • How can you trust God’s promises even when you feel distant from Him?

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me even when I feel unworthy. Remind me that Your grace is sufficient and that nothing can separate me from Your love. Help me to trust in Your plan and to walk in the purpose You have for my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” – Psalm 34:18 (KJV)

November 16, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Walking the Straight Path

Opening 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)

Introduction:

Faith in God is meant to be steady and unshaken, yet many believers experience ups and downs in their spiritual walk. True stability comes not from external circumstances but from rooting ourselves deeply in the unchanging character of God.

Devotional Insight:

Faith is not a feeling or a fleeting moment of inspiration; it is a deliberate trust in God’s promises and a disciplined walk with Him. When we waver in faith, it often reflects a reliance on our own understanding or a response to life’s challenges. However, God calls us to lean entirely on Him.

To stabilize your faith, consider these key principles:

  1. Acknowledge God in All Things
    Proverbs 3:6 reminds us to acknowledge God in everything we do. This means submitting every decision, worry, and plan to Him. Acknowledging God is not just a ritual; it’s a heart posture that says, “Lord, I trust You above all else.”
  2. Guard Against Emotional Swings
    Emotions can be unpredictable, but God’s truth is constant. Anchor your faith in His Word, which never changes. Isaiah 26:3 says, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
  3. Practice Daily Dependence
    Stabilized faith grows through daily practices of prayer, Scripture reading, and obedience. These disciplines keep us connected to God and strengthen our spiritual foundation. Jesus said in John 15:4, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.”
  4. Remember God’s Faithfulness
    Reflecting on God’s past faithfulness can remind us that He will carry us through current and future challenges. Lamentations 3:22-23 proclaims, “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed… They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”

What This Means:

Stabilizing your faith is not about avoiding difficulties but about standing firm through them. It requires intentional focus on God, His Word, and His promises. When we let go of our need to control and trust God’s perfect plan, our faith matures into unwavering trust.

Think About This:

  • Are you placing your trust in God or in your own ability to figure things out?
  • How can you create habits that keep your faith consistent?
  • What promises from God’s Word can you meditate on to strengthen your trust?

Prayer:

Lord, You are my steady foundation. Teach me to trust You wholeheartedly, even when life feels uncertain. Help me to keep my mind fixed on Your promises and to walk faithfully in Your ways. Stabilize my heart and guide me along the straight path You’ve prepared for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse:

“But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.” – James 1:6 (KJV)

November 15, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Holy Anger

Opening Verse

“Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.” – Ephesians 4:26 (KJV)

Introduction

Anger is often seen as a negative emotion, but there is a kind of anger that is righteous—a “holy anger” stirred by injustice, sin, or dishonor to God. How can we channel this emotion to reflect God’s heart and remain free from sin?

Devotional Story

Claire worked tirelessly as a volunteer at a community shelter. One day, she overheard someone mocking a struggling mother who had come for help. Claire’s heart burned with anger—not because of personal offense, but because she saw the injustice and cruelty toward someone vulnerable.

She paused and prayed, “Lord, help me respond in a way that honors You.” With that prayer, Claire addressed the situation calmly but firmly, reminding the person to treat others with dignity and compassion. Her words not only diffused the tension but also inspired others to reflect on their actions.

Claire’s anger wasn’t sinful; it was fueled by a desire to uphold justice and show love, just as Jesus did when He cleansed the temple (Matthew 21:12-13). Holy anger motivated her to act righteously.

What This Means

Holy anger is not about losing control or seeking revenge. Instead, it reflects God’s own heart for justice, purity, and righteousness. It drives us to act in love and truth while steering clear of bitterness or hatred.

Think About This

  • What injustices or sins in the world stir your heart to holy anger?
  • How can you ensure your anger leads to God-honoring actions rather than sin?

Prayer

Righteous God, thank You for showing us that anger can be holy when it reflects Your heart for justice and righteousness. Teach us to handle our anger in ways that honor You and bring healing to others. Help us to respond with love, truth, and grace, even when faced with injustice. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” – James 1:20 (KJV)

November 14, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

When the Heavens Declare His Glory

Opening Verse

“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.” – Psalm 19:1 (KJV)

Introduction

Space, the vast and mysterious expanse above us, has always captured humanity’s imagination. As we gaze into the night sky, the stars, planets, and galaxies remind us of God’s infinite power and wisdom. What can we learn about God through His creation of the cosmos?

Devotional Story

A young astronomer named Liam spent countless nights gazing through his telescope, marveling at the wonders of space. One evening, while observing a distant nebula, he felt a deep sense of awe. How could something so intricate and beautiful exist in such perfect harmony?

Liam turned to the Bible and read Psalm 19:1. For the first time, he realized that the God who created the vast universe was the same God who cared for him personally. The stars weren’t just lights in the sky; they were a testament to God’s creativity and majesty.

From that night on, Liam’s view of space changed. Each star became a reminder of God’s promises, each planet a symbol of His order, and the infinite stretches of the universe a reflection of His eternal nature.

What This Means

Space demonstrates the power and precision of our Creator. The same God who placed the stars in the sky also knows each of us by name. His greatness is evident in the universe, but so is His care for the smallest details of our lives.

Think About This

  • When you look at the stars, do you see them as a reflection of God’s glory?
  • How can the vastness of space inspire your trust in God’s power and plan?

Prayer

Lord of the universe, we marvel at Your creation. The heavens proclaim Your glory, and we stand in awe of Your works. Help us to trust You, knowing that the God who set the stars in place also holds our lives in His hands. Teach us to see Your greatness in the vastness of space and Your love in the details of our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“He telleth the number of the stars; he calleth them all by their names.” – Psalm 147:4 (KJV)

November 13, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

When Life Gives You Lemons

Opening 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)

Introduction

Life often presents us with unexpected challenges. The saying, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade,” encourages us to turn difficulties into opportunities. But how do we do this with a heart that honors God?

Devotional Story

A woman named Grace experienced what felt like a cascade of misfortunes. A lost job, a broken-down car, and mounting bills had her feeling overwhelmed. Sitting at her kitchen table, staring at a pile of lemons from her neighbor’s tree, she found herself chuckling at the irony. The lemons seemed like a physical representation of her life—sour and unrelenting.

Grace decided to pray. “Lord,” she said, “I don’t know how to make lemonade from this mess, but I trust You can.” That prayer sparked an idea. Grace began baking lemon bars and selling them to her friends and neighbors. What started as a small project to make ends meet turned into a flourishing business that provided for her needs and even allowed her to bless others.

Through her challenges, Grace learned that when life hands us difficulties, God can transform them into opportunities if we trust Him.

What This Means

God has a way of using our sour circumstances to produce something sweet and meaningful. The key lies in our response. When we bring our troubles to God, trusting in His sovereignty, He works everything for good—even the lemons of life.

Think About This

  • What “lemons” has life given you recently?
  • How can you invite God into those challenges to bring transformation?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the assurance that You can work all things for good. Help us to trust You with our challenges and to see the opportunities You provide in the midst of difficulties. Teach us to lean on Your strength and glorify You through every season of life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” – James 1:2-3 (KJV)

November 12, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Strength in the Midst of Life’s Attacks

Opening Verse

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”
—1 Peter 5:8 (KJV)

Introduction

Life’s challenges can feel like waves crashing against us, often without warning. We face hardships, disappointments, and attacks on our faith that can shake our foundation. But God reminds us to be vigilant and prepared, leaning on His strength rather than our own.

Devotional Story

Imagine a young man named Isaac. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family, but it seemed that one obstacle after another kept appearing. His car broke down, unexpected bills piled up, and his health began to falter. He felt like he couldn’t catch a break, as if life itself was attacking him from every angle.

Isaac remembered his grandmother’s words: “When life hits, get down on your knees and pray. That’s where you fight.” He knelt in prayer, laying all his burdens before God. Though his circumstances didn’t immediately change, his heart did. Peace filled him as he remembered that God was in control, even when life seemed out of it.

What This Means

God calls us to stand firm when life attacks, not in our own strength but in His. When we pray, we connect to the One who has overcome the world. No matter the battles we face, God equips us to be “more than conquerors through him that loved us” (Romans 8:37). His Word becomes our weapon, and prayer our shelter.

Think About This

When life’s attacks come, do you run to God in prayer? Do you remind yourself that He is your refuge and fortress? Reflect on how you can arm yourself with faith, prayer, and the Word of God to face life’s challenges.

Prayer

Dear Lord, in the midst of life’s attacks, help me to remember that You are my strength and shield. Teach me to trust You in every battle and to turn to prayer as my first line of defense. Strengthen my faith and help me to stand firm, knowing that You are always with me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.”
—Psalm 18:2 (KJV)