Akedah, Author at Akedah

September 28, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Drawn to The Light

Opening Verse:

“Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”
— John 8:12 (KJV)

Introduction:

In life, we often experience moments of darkness—situations that feel overwhelming or filled with uncertainty. Yet, it is in these moments that we can see the light most clearly. Just like insects are drawn to a light on a dark night, we are drawn to the light of Christ when the darkness around us feels suffocating.

Devotional Story:

There once was a man who found himself lost in a forest as the night set in. The deeper he went, the darker it became, until he could hardly see his hands in front of him. Fear crept into his heart, but just as he was about to give up hope, he saw a glimmer of light in the distance. Instinctively, he walked toward it, drawn by its warmth and brightness.

As he got closer, the light revealed a safe path leading out of the forest. He realized that the light had been there all along, waiting for him to see it. In the same way, when dark times surround us, God’s light is always shining, guiding us toward safety and peace.

What This Means:

Darkness is inevitable, but it often reveals where the true light shines brightest. When difficult things happen, they have the power to push us closer to God, the only source of light that can guide us out of life’s darkest moments. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world,” and as we follow Him, He will always lead us out of darkness.

Think About This:

Are there areas of your life that feel overshadowed by darkness? Remember, even the smallest light can overcome the deepest darkness. Just like the bugs that swarm toward the light at night, we must also turn our hearts toward Jesus, allowing His light to guide us through.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for being the light in the midst of darkness. Help me to follow Your light, especially when I feel surrounded by trouble or confusion. Let Your presence shine brightly in my life, leading me on the path of righteousness and peace. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“The light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.”
— John 1:5 (KJV)

September 27, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Securing the Heart: Inside and Out

Opening Verse

“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness.”
(Matthew 23:27, KJV)

Introduction

In life, we often focus on securing what is visible—the reputation, the appearance, the outward actions. However, what good is it to build the strongest walls if what lies inside is decaying? True security, in God’s kingdom, begins with the heart.

Devotional Story

There was once a wise king who built a mighty fortress. Its walls were thick, the towers high, and the moat deep. Armed guards stood watch day and night. The king believed his kingdom was invincible. However, within the walls of the fortress, corruption festered. His trusted advisers were greedy, and his soldiers’ hearts were hardened with pride. Despite the king’s efforts to secure his realm externally, the internal decay weakened the kingdom.

One night, as the guards stood vigilant, the gate creaked open from within. Betrayed by those inside, the enemies of the kingdom flooded in through an unguarded passage.

What This Means

Jesus tells us that it is not just outward actions that matter, but the condition of the heart. Just as the king in the story failed to secure his kingdom from within, we too can be vulnerable if we neglect the state of our hearts. We may put on a front of righteousness, but if sin, selfishness, or bitterness lie within, it will eventually find a way to destroy us.

Righteousness and purity must start within, with a heart surrendered to God. Only then can we be truly protected—internally and externally. The Pharisees, whom Jesus rebuked, looked perfect on the outside but were spiritually dead inside. We must guard our hearts first, for it is from the heart that the true issues of life flow (Proverbs 4:23).

Think About This

What are the “back doors” in your life? Are there areas of unaddressed sin or attitudes that you have allowed to remain? Remember that external protection is not enough if your heart is not surrendered fully to God.

Prayer

Lord, help me to guard my heart and not just focus on outward appearances. Show me areas of my life where I need to seek forgiveness and purity. Let me be secure not just in what I do, but in who I am before You. Protect me from the enemy within and without, that I may stand firm in Your righteousness. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”
(Proverbs 4:23, KJV)

September 26, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Authority to Stop Wickedness Before It Arises

Opening Verse

“No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.”
(Isaiah 54:17, KJV)

Introduction

As followers of Christ, we have been granted authority to not only confront wickedness when it manifests, but to stop it even before it fully arises. The Holy Spirit equips us with discernment to see the enemy’s schemes and empowers us to put an end to them before they take root.

Devotional Story

There was a woman named Maria, who was known for her strong prayer life. One morning, as she spent time in prayer, she felt a strong sense of unease. The Holy Spirit warned her that a close friend was about to fall into a trap of gossip and deceit. Maria prayed immediately, taking authority over the situation in Jesus’ name.

Later that day, her friend called her, frustrated over a situation at work that could lead to bitterness and division. Maria spoke words of wisdom, reminding her friend of God’s ways and encouraging her to choose peace. Because Maria had already taken spiritual authority in prayer, the seeds of wickedness were stomped out before they had a chance to grow.

This is the power we have in Christ—not just to react to evil, but to stop it before it can arise.

What This Means

God has given us spiritual discernment and authority so that we can stop wickedness in its tracks, even as it begins to form. The enemy often seeks to plant seeds of destruction through thoughts, words, or situations, but we have the power to uproot them before they flourish. Through prayer, obedience, and the power of the Holy Spirit, we can prevent evil from gaining ground.

Think About This

Are there areas in your life where you sense the enemy is trying to plant seeds of wickedness? Pray for discernment, and take authority in the name of Jesus to stop these schemes before they take hold. Remember, you are equipped to stop evil from arising, not just react to it after the fact.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for giving me the authority to stop wickedness before it even begins. Help me to be vigilant, to listen to Your Spirit, and to act in faith when You show me the enemy’s plans. I declare that no weapon formed against me will prosper, and I stand in Your strength to stomp out evil before it can take root. In Your mighty name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Neither give place to the devil.”
(Ephesians 4:27, KJV)

September 25, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

A Year of Exposure and Righteousness

Opening Verse

“For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him.”
— 2 Chronicles 16:9 (KJV)

Introduction

Every year, we long for justice, peace, and righteousness to prevail in our world. Yet, often, we witness the wicked holding positions of influence, spreading harm and injustice. But we serve a God who sees everything and works to expose wickedness, bringing the truth to light.

Devotional Story

There was a king in ancient Israel named Ahab, who ruled with cruelty and deceit. His wickedness grew when he was influenced by his wife, Jezebel, a worshipper of false gods. Under their reign, idolatry and injustice flourished, and the people of Israel suffered under oppression.

But God, who is just, did not allow their wickedness to endure forever. In His time, He sent the prophet Elijah to confront them and expose their evil ways. Eventually, Ahab’s household met its downfall, and justice was served. God showed His faithfulness by removing the unrighteous and bringing justice to the nation of Israel.

What This Means

God sees all things. Nothing escapes His notice. Though wickedness may seem to flourish for a time, God will expose the hearts of those in power, removing them in His perfect timing. He will raise up righteous leaders—those who follow His ways and honor Him in their leadership. We must trust in God’s justice and continue to pray for righteous leadership in our homes, cities, and nations.

Think About This

Are you praying for God to expose evil in the leadership around you?
Do you trust that God will raise up righteous leaders, even when it seems the wicked are prospering?
How can you be a leader who honors God in your daily life?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You, asking that You expose the wickedness in leadership and remove those who do not walk in Your ways. Place righteous leaders who will honor You and lead with justice, peace, and integrity. Help us to trust in Your timing and Your plan, knowing that You see all and will bring truth to light. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The Lord is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands.”
— Psalm 9:16 (KJV)

September 24, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Voting with a Clear Conscience

Opening Verse

“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.” – Romans 13:1 (KJV)

Introduction

As followers of Christ, choosing a leader is a sacred responsibility. It’s more than just a choice based on charisma or appearance. We are called to seek God’s will even in matters of leadership. One key issue to prayerfully consider is where candidates stand on moral issues such as the sanctity of life.

Scripture Analysis

When we look at Romans 13:1, we see that God ordains authority. However, this does not mean that every decision made by leaders aligns with His Word. We are called to live righteously and stand against sin in all forms. Abortion, in particular, is an issue that stands at the core of life itself. Scripture is clear that life is precious from the womb:

“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee.” (Jeremiah 1:5).

Personal Reflection

It can be tempting to look at a candidate’s personality, promises, or external traits. But when we reflect on God’s truth, we realize that actions and values matter far more. Supporting someone who advocates for practices like abortion is a serious decision with eternal consequences. We must ask ourselves if we are aligning our votes with God’s principles.

Practical Application

Before casting your vote, take time to research where each candidate stands on life, morality, and justice. Pray for discernment, asking God to help you make a choice that honors Him. Voting isn’t just a civic duty; it’s an opportunity to make a statement about what you value as a believer.

Spiritual Encouragement

Though we live in a complex world with many different opinions, God’s truth remains simple. Life is a gift, and every child formed in the womb is precious in His sight. Stand firm in your faith, and when you vote, do so with a clear conscience, knowing that your choice reflects God’s heart for justice and righteousness.

Closing Verse

“I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.”
Deuteronomy 30:19 (KJV)

September 23, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Importance of Following God’s Instructions

Opening Verse

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
— Psalm 119:105, KJV

Introduction

How many times have we tried to assemble something without looking at the instructions? We may have the best intentions, thinking we know what we’re doing, only to find out we’ve put everything together wrong. In the same way, we sometimes try to navigate life without reading the instructions that God has provided for us in His Word, the Bible.

Devotional Story

A man once bought a new bookshelf, eager to put it together. Confident in his own abilities, he tossed the instructions aside, thinking, “I can do this myself.” But as he worked, things weren’t lining up. He struggled with pieces that didn’t fit and screws that seemed too many. Frustrated, he finally gave up and went back to the instruction manual. Only then did he realize how easy it was when he followed the step-by-step directions.

Our lives are much like this. We often try to figure things out on our own, but without God’s guidance, we can make a mess. The Bible is our instruction manual for life, showing us how to live in a way that pleases God and leads to blessing.

What This Means

God has given us clear instructions in His Word. We are not left to wander through life blindly. The Bible teaches us how to live righteously, how to love others, and most importantly, how to follow Jesus Christ. It’s easy to get caught up in our plans and forget to consult the instructions God has already given us.

Think About This

When was the last time you paused and consulted God’s Word before making a decision? Do you trust that His instructions are for your good, even when they might go against your plans?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I’ve tried to live by my own understanding without turning to Your Word for guidance. Help me to remember that Your instructions are for my good, leading me in the way I should go. Give me a heart that seeks You daily, relying on Your Word as my guide. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
— 2 Timothy 3:16, KJV

September 22, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Worship with a True Heart

Opening Verse

“But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.”
—John 4:23 (KJV)

Introduction

Worship is a personal connection with God, and it should come from a genuine heart. The Bible calls us to worship in spirit and truth, not just by following others. Just as each person is uniquely created, so is their worship. It reflects their relationship with God, which is deeply personal and meaningful. We are warned not to be like the Pharisees, who appeared righteous outwardly but were far from God in their hearts.

Devotional Story

A man once attended a service where everyone seemed to worship in the same way—lifting their hands, shouting, and dancing. He felt pressured to mimic the others, thinking that if he didn’t worship like them, his devotion was lacking. But deep inside, he knew that God wanted him to express his love in his own way. One day, he decided to stay true to his personal form of worship, quietly praying and bowing his head. As he did, he felt a deep peace, knowing that God was pleased with his sincerity.

This experience taught him that true worship is not about outward displays or following what others do. It’s about connecting with God in the way that is authentic for you. Jesus Himself condemned the Pharisees for performing religious acts for the sake of appearances while their hearts were far from God.

What This Means

God looks at the heart, not the outward actions. Worship is about authenticity, and God sees your heart even when others don’t. Just because someone worships differently from you doesn’t mean their way is right or wrong—everyone has their personal journey with God. Don’t be a Pharisee who seeks to impress people; instead, seek to please God with a pure heart.

Think About This

Is your worship more about outward appearances or an inward connection with God? Reflect on your personal relationship with Him and how you can express that in worship. Ask yourself: Are you worshiping to be seen by others, or are you worshiping because you genuinely love and honor God?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to worship You with a true and sincere heart. Teach me not to mimic others but to express my love for You in a way that is honest and personal. Let my worship be a reflection of my relationship with You, full of spirit and truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness.”
—Matthew 23:27 (KJV)

September 21, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Power of Words and Actions

Opening Verse

“A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man’s hands shall be rendered unto him.”
Proverbs 12:14 (KJV)

Introduction

Words have incredible power, more than we often realize. What we speak and how we act not only affect others but also shape our own lives. Proverbs 12:14 teaches us that good words and diligent actions lead to blessings, but we must be mindful of the fruit our words and deeds bear.

Devotional Story

There was a woman named Grace who loved to talk. She enjoyed giving advice, offering opinions, and making people laugh. But, without realizing it, her words often left others feeling criticized or belittled. One day, her friend Sarah came to her with a heavy heart, looking for comfort. Instead of listening, Grace quickly offered her opinion on what Sarah had done wrong, leaving her friend in tears.

Grace’s heart sank as she realized how her words, though unintentional, had hurt someone she loved. She prayed that night, asking God to help her speak words that would lift people up, rather than tear them down. The next day, when she saw Sarah, Grace apologized and offered genuine encouragement. Sarah’s face brightened, and their friendship was restored.

In time, Grace learned to pause before speaking, to consider the impact of her words. She began to experience the joy of seeing people encouraged, uplifted, and blessed by the “fruit of her mouth.” Her words had become seeds of kindness, and they bore good fruit in her relationships.

What This Means

Proverbs 12:14 reminds us that both our words and our actions have consequences. When we speak kindly and work diligently, we will be satisfied with the blessings that come. However, if we speak carelessly or act with selfishness, we will also face the results of those actions. This verse challenges us to think about how our words can either plant seeds of life or harm.

Our actions matter too. God promises that what we do will return to us, whether for good or bad. This is not just about receiving rewards but about creating a life that reflects God’s love and grace. Every word and every deed is an opportunity to serve God and others, leading to satisfaction and fulfillment in our hearts.

Think About This

How often do you consider the impact of your words on others?
Are there times when you’ve acted out of impulse rather than care?
How can you be more intentional in both your words and your actions to reflect God’s love?

Prayer

Dear Lord, help me to be mindful of the words I speak and the actions I take. Let them reflect Your grace and kindness. I ask for the wisdom to speak words that bring life and the diligence to work with hands that serve others well. May I be satisfied with the good that comes from living a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.”
Psalm 19:14 (KJV)

September 20, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Use the Fruits of the Spirit to Combat the Antifruits

Opening Verse

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”
— Galatians 5:22-23 (KJV)

Introduction

As followers of Christ, we are given powerful tools to live a life that honors God. These are the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Yet, we are constantly surrounded by forces that work against these virtues—what we could call the antifruits. These could be hatred, anger, anxiety, impatience, cruelty, and many other negative traits. But God’s Word shows us how to resist these and to bear His fruits in every area of life.

Devotional Story

A young man named Daniel faced great temptation at work. His co-workers often gossiped, spreading negativity and harsh judgments about others. This environment pressured him to join in or risk being isolated. At first, Daniel gave in. He found himself making snide remarks about others, losing his sense of peace, and feeling bitterness in his heart.

One day, after a particularly difficult day of falling into this behavior, Daniel felt a conviction in his spirit. He remembered Galatians 5:22-23 and realized he had been feeding the antifruits of envy, anger, and impatience. He knelt in prayer that evening and asked God to fill him with the fruits of the Spirit instead.

From that moment on, Daniel made a conscious effort to replace negativity with love, to spread peace instead of gossip, and to be gentle even in the face of conflict. It wasn’t easy, but as he practiced walking in the Spirit daily, the workplace atmosphere began to change. Others saw his joy, kindness, and patience, and some even followed his example.

What This Means

The fruits of the Spirit are given to us to combat the toxic behaviors and emotions that easily infiltrate our lives. We are called to rise above the antifruits by the power of the Holy Spirit, who transforms us from the inside out. The more we seek to live according to these fruits, the more we can shine as lights in a dark world. Remember, love overcomes hate, joy defeats despair, and patience outlasts anger. When we focus on these fruits, the enemy’s antifruits lose their hold.

Think About This

What areas of your life have you seen the antifruits creeping in?
How can you practice using the fruits of the Spirit to combat negative emotions or behaviors?
Remember that this battle is won by the power of the Holy Spirit. Are you leaning on Him daily?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the fruits of the Spirit. Help us to walk in love, joy, peace, and all the virtues You have given us. Strengthen us to combat the antifruits that try to take root in our hearts. We ask for Your Spirit to guide our thoughts, words, and actions, so that we may reflect Your love and goodness in every situation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”
— Galatians 5:16 (KJV)

September 19, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Be the Solution to the Problems

Opening Verse

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

Introduction

God calls us to be more than just observers in life’s challenges; He invites us to be part of the solution. Through His strength and wisdom, we are empowered to make a difference in the lives of those around us. Often, the answer to someone’s prayer may come through our actions, words, or willingness to serve.

Devotional Story

A man named Thomas worked in a busy office, where problems seemed to spring up at every corner. One day, as he walked into the office, he noticed the frustration on his co-workers’ faces. A crucial project had hit a roadblock, and no one seemed to know how to move forward. The air was thick with anxiety and tension.

Thomas wasn’t the most experienced person in the room, nor was he in charge. But as he stood there, he prayed silently, asking God for wisdom. He remembered the words from James 1:5: “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.” He felt a nudge in his spirit to step up and offer help.

With God’s guidance, Thomas approached the issue from a new angle. He encouraged his team, offering simple yet effective solutions. Before the day was over, the project was back on track. His co-workers were relieved, but more importantly, they witnessed how Thomas handled the situation with calm and faith. Thomas knew that it wasn’t just his own wisdom—it was God working through him to be part of the solution.

What This Means

When problems arise, whether in our homes, workplaces, or communities, we are often tempted to step back and wait for someone else to fix things. But as followers of Christ, we are called to be a light in the darkness. The Holy Spirit equips us to respond to challenges, not with fear, but with faith and action. God can use you to bring peace, solutions, and hope where it is needed most.

Think About This

Are there challenges in your life or in the lives of others that you feel called to help solve?
Have you sought God’s wisdom and guidance before stepping into the situation?

Remember, being the solution doesn’t always mean having all the answers. Sometimes it means showing love, offering a prayer, or just being present in the moment. God uses small acts of faith to accomplish great things.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to be a light in the world. Help me to trust in Your wisdom and guidance when challenges arise. Use me, Lord, to bring solutions, peace, and hope to those around me. May I be a vessel of Your love and grace, reflecting Your goodness in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

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