Author: Akedah

February 21, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Danger of Forgetting God

Opening Verse

“For he built again the high places which Hezekiah his father had broken down, and he reared up altars for Baalim, and made groves, and worshipped all the host of heaven, and served them.” – 2 Chronicles 33:3, KJV

Introduction

In life, it’s easy to stray from the path that leads to light and truth. Much like Manasseh, we might find ourselves building up things that take us away from God, chasing after what seems appealing but ultimately leads us away from true peace and happiness.

Devotional Story

Consider a young man, filled with ambition and dreams, who starts to believe that success and happiness come from wealth, power, or popularity. He pours his energy into achieving these, neglecting his spiritual life, much like Manasseh did by turning to other gods and away from the Lord. But deep down, there’s a feeling of emptiness, a whisper that something crucial is missing.

What This Means

Manasseh’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter how far we stray, the road back to God is always open. It’s a call to examine our lives, to see what “altars” we’ve built that lead us away from Him, and to remember that genuine peace and fulfillment come from walking with God, not from the things of this world.

Think About This

Have you built “high places” in your life that need tearing down? Are there things you’ve put before your relationship with God that have led you away from Him?

Prayer

Dear Lord, help us to recognize the “altars” we’ve built in our lives that lead us away from You. Give us the strength to tear them down and return to Your path, knowing that true happiness and peace come from You alone. Amen.

Closing Verse

“But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.” – Deuteronomy 4:29, KJV

February 20, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Message in the Tall Grass

Opening Verse

“And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:” – Matthew 6:28 (KJV)

Introduction

In a world that often feels rushed and burdened by daily concerns, there’s a profound lesson to be learned from the simplicity and beauty of nature. Today, we turn our eyes to the tall grass, a common yet overlooked part of God’s creation.

Devotional Story

Imagine walking through a field of tall grass on a warm, sunny day. The grass sways gently in the breeze, a sea of green that stretches as far as the eye can see. In this moment, there’s a sense of peace and a reminder of God’s care for all of His creation.

In the Bible, Jesus uses the lilies of the field to teach us about reliance on God. Just like these lilies, the tall grass does not worry about its existence; it simply grows, nourished by the sunlight and rain provided by God. This imagery can teach us a valuable lesson about trust and surrender.

What This Means

The tall grass stands as a testament to God’s provision and care. It does not worry about tomorrow, yet it is taken care of. Similarly, we are called to place our trust in God, knowing that He will provide for our needs. It’s a call to live a life of faith, not of worry.

Think About This

As you go about your daily life, consider the tall grass. Let it be a reminder to you of the importance of trusting in God’s provision. How can you cultivate a deeper trust in God, letting go of your worries and embracing a life of faith?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the beauty of Your creation that reminds us of Your constant care and provision. Help us to trust You more deeply, just as the tall grass does not worry about its existence. Teach us to rely on You for our every need, surrendering our worries and living in faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” – Matthew 6:33 (KJV)

February 19, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Door of Life & Death

Opening Verse

“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” (Revelation 3:20, KJV)

Introduction

Every day, we face a choice that determines the direction of our lives. This choice isn’t always obvious, cloaked in the mundane or the routine, yet it holds eternal significance. It’s about whom we are opening our hearts and lives to.

Devotional Story

Imagine two visitors knocking at the door of your heart. One is the King of Glory, full of love, truth, and eternal life. His presence brings peace, hope, and joy that surpasses understanding. The other is a deceiver, the prince of this world, who promises temporary pleasures that lead to destruction and despair.

Every action, every thought, every decision is an act of opening the door to one of these visitors. When you choose kindness, honesty, and love, you open the door to God. When you indulge in selfish desires, deceit, or harm towards others, you open the door to the enemy of your soul.

What This Means

The choices we make daily are a testament to whom we are truly serving. Serving God brings life, peace, and eternal joy, while serving the earthly desires leads to emptiness and eternal separation from God’s love.

Think About This

Consider your daily choices and actions. Who are they inviting into your life? Are they reflecting a life dedicated to God’s glory or are they aligned with the fleeting pleasures of this world?

Prayer

“Heavenly Father, guide me in making choices that open the door to You and Your eternal kingdom. Help me to recognize the true nature of the decisions I face daily and to choose You above all. Amen.

Closing Verse

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

February 18, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Shield of Faith

Opening Verse

“Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.” – Ephesians 6:16 (KJV)

Introduction

In a world filled with challenges and adversities, our faith serves as a shield, protecting us from the onslaught of doubts, fears, and negative influences. This verse from Ephesians reminds us of the importance of faith in our spiritual armor.

Devotional Story

Imagine a soldier stepping onto the battlefield, fully aware of the dangers that lie ahead. This soldier, however, carries a special shield, one that is not made of metal or wood, but of unshakeable faith. As arrows fly and challenges emerge, the shield of faith deflects every threat, keeping the soldier safe and steadfast.

What This Means

Ephesians 6:16 teaches us that faith is not just a part of our spiritual armor; it is a critical defense mechanism against the forces that seek to harm us. Our faith in God and His promises allows us to stand firm, regardless of the trials we face.

Think About This

Consider the challenges in your life as fiery darts. How has your faith served as a shield? Reflect on moments when your faith protected you and strengthened your resolve.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, grant me the shield of faith so I may stand strong against the trials and tribulations of this world. Help me to remember that with faith, I can overcome any obstacle. Strengthen my trust in You, so that my faith may always be my shield. Amen.

Closing Verse

“But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:8 (KJV)

February 17, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

From Barren to Blessed

Opening Verse

“And give him no rest, till he establish, and till he make Jerusalem a praise in the earth.” – Isaiah 62:7 (KJV)

Introduction

In the heart of Isaiah’s prophecy lies a call to persistent prayer and intercession. This verse is a powerful reminder of our role in God’s plan for restoration and praise.

Devotional Story

In a small village, there lived a dedicated gardener named Santiago. His garden was his pride and joy, but it was situated next to a neglected and barren plot of land that belonged to the village. Every day, Santiago would look over the fence, dreaming of turning that wasteland into a flourishing extension of his garden.

One day, Santiago decided to take action. He began to clear the land, remove the weeds, and prepare the soil, all while praying for the village’s support and permission to transform the plot. Despite initial resistance, his persistence in prayer and action eventually won the village’s approval.

Years later, the once barren land became a beautiful park, praised by all who visited. Santiago’s dedication mirrored the call in Isaiah 62:7 to not rest until the mission is fulfilled, showing the power of persistent prayer and action.

What This Means

Isaiah 62:7 isn’t just about praying for the physical city of Jerusalem; it’s a metaphor for being relentless in our prayers for God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. Like Santiago, we are called to be gardeners in this world, working and praying without ceasing for the restoration of all things.

Think About This

Consider the “barren plots” in your life or community. How can you, through persistent prayer and action, be a part of God’s restoration plan?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, grant us the strength and perseverance to pray without ceasing for Your kingdom to come and Your will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. Help us to be agents of change, transforming barren plots into places of beauty and praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The LORD hath sworn by his right hand, and by the arm of his strength, Surely I will no more give thy corn to be meat for thine enemies; and the sons of the stranger shall not drink thy wine, for the which thou hast laboured:” – Isaiah 62:8 (KJV)

February 16, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Rainbow Throne

Opening Verse

“And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.” – Revelation 4:3 (KJV)

Introduction

In the heart of heavenly visions shared in the Bible, the image of the Rainbow Throne stands out as a beacon of God’s majesty and promise. This throne, surrounded by a rainbow that looks like an emerald, is not just a symbol of authority but a reminder of God’s covenant with all of creation.

Devotional Story

Imagine a man named Michael, who, after years of struggling with his faith, finds himself in a quiet church one rainy afternoon. As he sits there, the pastor begins to speak about the vision of the Rainbow Throne from Revelation. Michael is captivated by the description of the throne’s beauty and the rainbow that encircles it. For the first time in a long time, he feels a sense of peace and assurance. This image of the throne becomes a turning point for him, reminding him of God’s eternal presence and the promises that extend beyond the storms of life.

What This Means

The Rainbow Throne is a powerful symbol of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. It reminds us that, just as the rainbow appears after a storm as a sign of hope and renewal, God’s presence and promises are constant, even in our darkest moments.

Think About This

Consider the storms in your life. How does the image of the Rainbow Throne and its promise of God’s unchanging presence and covenant offer you comfort and hope?

Prayer

Lord, help us to remember the image of your glorious Rainbow Throne in our moments of doubt and despair. Remind us of your eternal promise and presence, just as the rainbow appears after a storm, bringing hope and renewal to our hearts. Amen.

Closing Verse

“And God said, This is the token of the covenant which I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth.” – Genesis 9:12-13 (KJV)

 

February 15, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Fleeting Shadow

Opening Verse

“Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity.” – Ecclesiastes 1:2 (KJV)

Introduction

In a world where the glitter of possessions often blinds us, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly enriches our lives. The Bible offers profound insights into the emptiness of coveting material wealth.

Devotional Story

Imagine a woman named Amanda, who became captivated by a stunning piece of jewelry she saw in a boutique window. This wasn’t just any piece of jewelry; it was a ring adorned with the most exquisite gemstones, seemingly whispering promises of happiness and social prestige. Amanda believed that owning this ring would not only enhance her beauty but also elevate her status among her peers. She devoted much of her time and resources to acquiring it, often at the expense of her relationships and spiritual well-being.

Once Amanda finally possessed the ring, the initial joy it brought her quickly faded. She realized that the admiration from others was fleeting, and the ring did not fill the void she felt inside. This experience led Amanda to a moment of reflection, where she understood that her pursuit of the ring was a pursuit of vanity. It was a stark reminder that true contentment and fulfillment come not from material possessions but from a life lived in accordance with God’s will.

What This Means

Amanda’s story teaches us that the pursuit of material objects can often lead us astray from what is genuinely important. While it’s natural to appreciate beautiful things, allowing them to dictate our happiness and self-worth is a path to emptiness.

Think About This

Consider the things you value most. Are they temporary and worldly, or do they have eternal significance? Reflect on how shifting your focus towards spiritual growth and serving others can lead to lasting joy and fulfillment.

Prayer

Dear Lord, help us to recognize the vanity in worldly pursuits and to find our true worth and happiness in You. Guide our hearts to treasure what is eternal and to seek Your kingdom above all else. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:” – Matthew 6:19-20 (KJV)

 

February 14, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Flaming Sword

Opening Verse

“So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.” – Genesis 3:24 (KJV)

Introduction

The image of a flaming sword blocking the entrance to Eden is a powerful symbol of God’s holiness and the seriousness of sin. It represents not just a barrier but also a clear message about the consequences of disobedience and the gravity of being separated from God.

Devotional Story

Once, in a small village, there was a wise old man known for his deep understanding of life and spirituality. He often told stories to teach the villagers about the importance of living righteously. One day, he gathered the villagers to share a story about a great king who had a beautiful garden filled with every type of fruit and flower one could imagine. This garden was the joy of the king’s heart, and he allowed everyone to enjoy it, with one condition: they must respect the garden and not harm it.

However, one day, someone broke the rule, causing great harm to the garden. In response, the king, with a heavy heart, placed a guard at the entrance with a flaming sword that turned every way to prevent anyone from entering the garden and causing further harm.

The wise old man explained that the story mirrors the lesson of the Garden of Eden, where the flaming sword represents the consequences of our actions and the importance of living in a way that honors the boundaries set by God.

What This Means

The flaming sword symbolizes the separation between humanity and God due to sin. It reminds us of the need for redemption and the seriousness with which God regards disobedience.

Think About This

Consider your own life and the boundaries God has set. Are there areas where you’ve crossed into places you shouldn’t, causing separation from God? The story of the flaming sword invites us to reflect on our actions and their impact on our relationship with God.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we acknowledge our sins and the times we have strayed from Your path. Help us to respect Your boundaries and live lives that reflect Your holiness. Guide us back to the path that leads to life, and through Your grace, may we find our way back to You. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” – Revelation 22:14 (KJV)

 

February 13, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Wisdom of Constructive Feedback

Opening Verse

“Therefore, putting away lying, ‘Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,’ for we are members of one another.” – Ephesians 4:25 (NKJV)

Introduction

In a world eager to speak, the value of listening—especially to feedback that encourages personal growth—is immeasurable. This devotional speaks into the wisdom of embracing constructive criticism, a practice that echoes the discernment and humility from biblical teachings.

Devotional Story

Imagine two friends, Jim and Alex, meeting over coffee. Jim shares an observation about Alex’s tendency to interrupt others during conversations. Instead of reacting defensively, Alex pauses, thanks Jim for his honesty, and reflects on how this habit might affect his relationships. This moment of humility and openness to change strengthens their friendship and respect for each other. Alex’s willingness to listen and adjust his behavior exemplifies a heart ready to receive wisdom and grow from it.

What This Means

This story illustrates that true wisdom and humility are found in our response to feedback. It challenges us to see criticism not as a personal attack but as a golden opportunity to refine ourselves and move closer to the person we aspire to be.

Think About This

Consider a moment when someone pointed out a behavior of yours that needed change. How did you respond? What does this interaction reveal about your own humility, wisdom, and journey of personal growth?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, grant me the humility to accept constructive criticism with grace and the wisdom to use it for my personal betterment. Help me to listen with an open heart and to speak truths that build up, rather than tear down. In Your name, I pray. Amen.

Closing Verse

“He who heeds rebuke gets understanding, but he who ignores correction leads others astray.” – Proverbs 15:32 (NKJV)

February 12, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Urgency of God’s Judgment

Opening Verse

“Come near, ye nations, to hear; and hearken, ye people: let the earth hear, and all that is therein; the world, and all things that come forth of it.” – Isaiah 34:1 (KJV)

Introduction

Isaiah 34 beckons everyone, near and far, to listen closely to the Lord’s declaration. It is a solemn call to witness the scope and seriousness of God’s judgment upon the nations.

Devotional Story

In a small village, there lived two friends who shared everything since childhood. One day, they found an old book in the attic, warning of a great storm that would come to their village. The first friend took the warning seriously, preparing and urging the village to do the same. The second friend, however, laughed it off, considering it an old tale with no relevance to their lives.

As the sky darkened and the first signs of the storm appeared, the villagers remembered the warning. Those who had prepared found shelter and safety, while those who had ignored the warning scrambled in fear and confusion.

What This Means

Isaiah 34 isn’t just about ancient judgments; it’s a timeless reminder of the consequences of ignoring God’s warnings. Just like the villagers who heeded the warning, we are called to listen and prepare our hearts for God’s word.

Think About This

Consider the areas in your life where you might be ignoring God’s warnings. Are there habits, attitudes, or relationships that you need to change in response to His word?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help us to heed Your warnings with seriousness and urgency. Give us the wisdom to prepare our hearts and lives according to Your word, so we may find safety and peace in Your promises. Amen.

Closing Verse

“For it is the day of the LORD’s vengeance, and the year of recompences for the controversy of Zion.” – Isaiah 34:8 (KJV)