Akedah, Author at Akedah

October 12, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

You Can Be Technically Right but Spiritually Wrong

Opening Verse:

“There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.”— Proverbs 14:12 (KJV)

Introduction:

Being right in the eyes of men doesn’t always mean you are right with God. Two biblical figures remind us of this lesson: Uzzah, who touched the Ark of the Covenant to steady it, and Simon the Sorcerer, who tried to buy the Holy Spirit’s power. Both thought they were doing something acceptable, but their hearts were far from right with God.

Devotional Story:

Uzzah’s story, found in 2 Samuel 6:6-7, is a sobering example. As the Ark of the Covenant was being transported, Uzzah reached out to steady it when the oxen stumbled. Although he might have believed he was protecting something holy, God struck him dead on the spot. His action seemed reasonable, but it violated God’s clear instructions about how the Ark was to be handled. Uzzah failed to recognize the holiness of God and the need to obey Him completely.

Similarly, in Acts 8:18-23, Simon the Sorcerer believed he could buy the power of the Holy Spirit after seeing the apostles perform miracles. He thought in human terms, where influence and power can be purchased, but his heart was not right before God. Peter rebuked him sharply, pointing out that Simon’s thoughts were poisoned by greed and self-interest.

Both Uzzah and Simon were technically “right” by human standards—they sought to do something that made sense in the moment. Yet, both were spiritually wrong because their hearts did not align with God’s will.

What This Means:

Being technically right, doing something that looks or feels correct, can be dangerous if we are not spiritually aligned with God’s will. God desires obedience and a heart that seeks Him above all. Uzzah’s mistake was in disregarding God’s instructions, and Simon’s was in thinking that the power of God could be manipulated for personal gain. Both stories teach us the importance of understanding God’s holiness and approaching Him with reverence and sincerity.

Think About This:

Are there areas in your life where you might be technically right but spiritually wrong? Are you seeking to honor God with not only your actions but your heart? Take time to examine your motives and align them with God’s will.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, help me to walk in obedience and to understand Your holiness. Guide me to have a heart that seeks You above all else. May my actions be motivated by a desire to honor You, not by what seems right in my own eyes. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.”— Psalm 111:10 (KJV)

October 11, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Rejoicing in God’s Revelation

Opening Verse

“In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.”
— Luke 10:21, KJV

Introduction

Jesus found joy in the simple yet profound truth that God often chooses to reveal His deepest mysteries to the humble and childlike, rather than to those who rely on their own wisdom. This teaches us that spiritual understanding doesn’t depend on how smart we are but on how open our hearts are to receiving God’s truth.

Devotional Story

A young man, eager to know more about God, attended Bible studies and read countless books. He wanted to impress others with his knowledge of Scripture and theology. Yet, despite his efforts, he often felt far from God. His head was full of information, but his heart was empty.

One evening, he attended a small prayer meeting at a neighbor’s house. There was an older lady in the group who wasn’t formally educated, but she loved God deeply. As the group prayed, she spoke simple words of thanks, acknowledging God’s goodness. Her prayers weren’t elaborate or filled with fancy words, but they were full of heartfelt faith.

In that moment, the young man realized that all his knowledge couldn’t replace the pure and simple faith of someone who truly trusted in God. He had been seeking God with his mind, but this woman was experiencing God with her heart. It was in her humility and childlike trust that she truly knew the Father.

What This Means

God often chooses to reveal His truth to those who are humble, those who approach Him with a childlike faith. We live in a world that values intellect and expertise, but the kingdom of God is different. The key to understanding His heart is not through human wisdom but through simple, sincere trust. Jesus rejoiced in this truth, knowing that anyone who humbles themselves like a child can truly experience God’s love and presence.

Think About This

Are you striving to know God through your own understanding, or are you trusting Him with childlike faith? Are you open to learning from those who may not be educated in the world’s eyes but who are rich in spiritual wisdom? True wisdom comes from God, and it is often found in the simplicity of a humble heart.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to come to You with a heart that is humble and open. Teach me to trust You as a child trusts a loving parent. Let me find joy in the simple truths of Your word and rest in the knowledge that You reveal Yourself to those who seek You with a pure heart. Thank You for Your grace and for making Your wisdom known to the humble. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing 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

October 10, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Rejoicing in God’s Power

Opening Verse

“And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.” – Luke 10:17, KJV

Introduction

In Luke 10:17, we witness the excitement of the seventy disciples after returning from a mission where they experienced the power of God firsthand. Filled with joy, they marveled at how even the demons obeyed them through the name of Jesus. This verse reveals not only the authority given to believers but also the deeper truth about where our true joy should come from.

Scripture Analysis

The seventy disciples had been sent out by Jesus to proclaim the kingdom of God, heal the sick, and cast out demons. When they returned, they were amazed at the authority they had in Jesus’ name. Their joy came from seeing the results of their ministry and witnessing the power of God over the forces of darkness.

However, Jesus later reminded them that their true joy should not be in the authority over demons, but in the fact that their names were written in heaven (Luke 10:20). This scripture teaches us that the power of God is real and active, but our greatest treasure is the salvation we have through Jesus Christ.

Personal Reflection

Have you ever experienced a moment when you felt empowered by God to do something extraordinary? It’s easy to feel joy and excitement when we see God working through us in powerful ways. But Jesus calls us to remember that our greatest reason to rejoice is in the eternal gift of salvation. No earthly success or spiritual victory compares to the joy of knowing that we belong to Him forever.

Practical Application

In moments of success, whether in ministry, work, or life, it’s important to remember the source of our strength: Jesus Christ. While we can celebrate victories and breakthroughs, we should always anchor our joy in the fact that we are children of God, redeemed by His grace.

Whenever you experience God’s power working through you, pause to give thanks for His saving grace. Remember that your relationship with Him is the most precious thing you have. This mindset keeps us humble and focused on what truly matters in life.

Spiritual Encouragement

God has given us authority and power through Jesus’ name, but our ultimate joy comes from our relationship with Him. No matter what challenges or victories you face, keep your eyes on the eternal truth: you are loved, saved, and secure in Christ. Let this be the foundation of your joy, knowing that your name is written in heaven.

Closing Verse

“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.”
Philippians 4:4, KJV

October 9, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Days of the Son of Man

Opening Verse

“And he said unto the disciples, The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see it.” – Luke 17:22, KJV

Introduction

Jesus spoke often about His return, preparing His followers for the time when He would no longer be with them physically. In Luke 17:22, He warns His disciples of a time of longing for His presence. There would come days when they would wish to see even a glimpse of the days when He walked with them, but those days would be no more. What does this mean for us today?

Scripture Analysis

The phrase “the days will come” reminds us that time moves forward, and seasons change. Jesus was telling His disciples that they would go through a period where they would yearn for the past—when they had the privilege of walking with Him daily. This prophetic statement is not just about physical presence, but also about spiritual longing.

As the early church faced persecution and trials, they undoubtedly longed for the days when Jesus performed miracles and taught them directly. Today, we too might feel this desire when we face hardship, waiting for a clear sign of His presence.

Personal Reflection

Have you ever gone through a season when you desperately wanted to feel God’s presence but felt like you couldn’t? This scripture speaks to that feeling. There are times in life when it feels like God is far away, and we long for a closer, more tangible connection. Just as the disciples would miss walking with Jesus, we may miss times of spiritual closeness. But Jesus’ warning here also carries hope—because even in these moments, He is still working His plan.

Practical Application

When you feel distant from God, take heart that you are not alone. Like the disciples, we go through seasons of spiritual hunger. But this longing is meant to draw us deeper into seeking Him. Instead of losing hope, we are called to press on in faith, knowing that Jesus has promised to return.

Use these moments to grow in your trust in God. Spend more time in prayer and Scripture, remembering that His timing is perfect. The absence you feel is not permanent; it’s a call to draw nearer to Him in anticipation of His ultimate return.

Spiritual Encouragement

Even when the days are difficult, and you feel a spiritual longing for the past, know that Jesus is with you. He may seem distant at times, but His promise is sure—He will return, and His presence is with us through the Holy Spirit. Keep your eyes on the hope of His coming, and don’t grow weary in waiting.

Closing Verse

“For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.”
Hebrews 10:37, KJV

October 8, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Wait for the Foundation

Opening 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 (KJV)

Introduction:

Have you ever felt the urge to rush ahead with a plan, only to realize that the foundation wasn’t ready yet? Much like trying to build on wet concrete, stepping into something before it’s fully set can lead to disastrous results. Spiritually, this happens when we try to force our plans or rush God’s timing, without allowing Him to lay the proper foundation.

Devotional Story:

Years ago, a man began building a shed in his backyard. Excited to get started, he poured the concrete foundation but didn’t give it enough time to dry. Impatient, he started constructing the walls, eager to see his vision come to life. But within a few days, the walls began to shift, and the entire structure became unstable. All his effort was wasted because he hadn’t waited for the foundation to dry.

This can happen to us spiritually. We sense God’s calling or direction, and in our excitement or impatience, we rush ahead before God has fully prepared the way. We may pray and expect immediate results, but God is in the business of building strong, lasting foundations.

The Bible is filled with examples of people who had to wait for God’s timing. Abraham waited for the promise of a son, David waited to become king, and Jesus waited until the appointed time to begin His ministry. In every case, God’s timing proved perfect.

What This Means:

Spiritually, it’s important to wait until God has completed His work in our hearts and lives before we rush into action. When we act prematurely, we risk crumbling under the pressure because we haven’t allowed God to strengthen our foundation.

Just like concrete needs time to dry, our faith and character often need time to grow before we can bear the weight of what God is calling us to do. Trusting God’s process, even when it takes longer than we want, is an act of faith.

Think About This:

Are you trying to build on a foundation that’s not fully set? Are there areas in your life where God is asking you to wait, but you’re struggling to be patient? Remember, God is never late. He’s preparing you for something greater, but the foundation must be strong enough to support it.

Prayer:

Lord, teach me to wait patiently for Your timing. Help me not to rush ahead, but to trust that You are laying a firm foundation in my life. Strengthen my faith and give me wisdom to wait on You. I know that when I trust Your process, the results will be greater than anything I could achieve on my own. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Unless the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.”
—Psalm 127:1 (KJV)

October 7, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Hidden Truth Revealed

Opening Verse

“For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.” (Luke 8:17, KJV)

Introduction

Life often presents situations that seem stable and secure. However, beneath the surface, issues may be festering, hidden from plain sight. It’s easy to overlook these subtle signs, but God calls us to be discerning and seek the truth. We are reminded that while some things may be concealed, nothing remains hidden forever. In time, the truth always comes to light.

Devotional Story

A woman named Lisa had been working at a company for many years. On the outside, everything seemed perfect—her job was stable, and her coworkers appeared friendly. But Lisa began to feel a deep unrest in her spirit. Something was off, but she couldn’t quite figure out what it was. Instead of ignoring this inner prompting, she started to pray for wisdom and clarity.

As time went on, Lisa discovered that some of her colleagues were involved in unethical practices that were being hidden from the leadership team. It became clear that what seemed like a secure environment was actually quite fragile. Trusting God’s guidance, Lisa approached the situation carefully and brought the truth to light. While this caused an initial disruption, it led to healing and restoration in the workplace.

What This Means

We often go through life trusting that things are fine, only to discover later that there are hidden issues. God calls us to seek His wisdom in these moments. When we face situations that seem uncertain or uneasy, it’s crucial to trust that He will reveal the truth in His time. Protect what matters most, whether it be relationships, your integrity, or your faith. Remember, God brings all things to light, and He works all things for good.

Think About This

Are there situations in your life that seem stable, but deep down you feel unsettled? Are you willing to ask God for discernment, trusting Him to reveal hidden truths in His perfect time?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to discern the things that are hidden beneath the surface. Give me the wisdom to seek Your truth and the courage to act on what You reveal. Help me protect the things You have given me and trust that, in time, You will bring all things to light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7, KJV)

October 6, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Faithfulness Through Life’s Trials

Opening Verse:

“I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.”
— Psalm 122:1 (KJV)

Introduction:

Life can be full of trials, setbacks, and unexpected challenges. Yet, as believers, we are called to remain faithful in following God, even when the road is hard. This includes remaining steadfast in attending His house, no matter what life throws our way.

Devotional Story:

There was a woman named Clara who had faced many hardships in her life. From health struggles to financial difficulties, it seemed like every time she overcame one obstacle, another would arise. But through it all, she never stopped attending church.

One Sunday morning, a terrible storm hit her town, knocking out power and making the roads dangerous. Many people decided to stay home, but Clara, despite her frailty, put on her raincoat and made her way to church. She arrived drenched and exhausted, but with a peaceful heart.

During the service, the pastor spoke about the importance of perseverance, quoting Psalm 122:1, “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.” Clara felt those words deeply in her spirit. It reminded her that no matter how tough life gets, there is joy and strength in being in God’s house with His people.

What This Means:

Clara’s faithfulness in attending church, regardless of the storms in her life, is a powerful reminder for us. Sometimes, we may feel too tired, discouraged, or overwhelmed to go to church or follow God’s path. Yet, it’s in those moments of weakness that our faith is tested and strengthened the most. Going to God’s house is more than a ritual; it is an act of worship and a declaration of our trust in Him, no matter the circumstances.

Think About This:

Are there storms in your life that have kept you from attending church or fully following God’s calling? Remember, it’s not about perfection, but about perseverance. Just like Clara, your faithfulness will inspire others and bring you closer to God.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness in my life, even when times are tough. Help me to remain faithful in following You and coming to Your house, no matter what challenges come my way. Strengthen my heart and give me the courage to persevere, knowing that You are with me always. Amen.

Closing 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)

October 5, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Blessing of God’s Omnipresence

Opening Verse

“Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.” (Psalm 139:7-8, KJV)

Introduction

God’s omnipresence means that He is everywhere at all times. There is no corner of the universe where His presence is absent. This truth brings comfort to those who feel alone or overwhelmed. Whether you’re in a crowded room or a quiet, empty space, God is with you, fully present and fully aware.

Devotional Story

A man found himself at a difficult crossroad in life, facing loneliness and uncertainty. One night, as he sat alone in his living room, feeling abandoned, he remembered the story of David in Psalm 139. The reminder that God’s presence is always with us began to fill his heart with peace.

The next morning, as he walked through the city, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace. It wasn’t the absence of problems that gave him comfort, but the realization that God was with him through it all. Whether at home, at work, or in a quiet park, he was never alone.

What This Means

God’s omnipresence assures us that no matter where we are—whether it be in a high place of joy or a low valley of despair—He is there with us. His presence isn’t limited to the church or moments of prayer; He is with you in every moment of your life. This truth reminds us that we don’t need to go searching for God, because He’s already where we are.

Think About This

Are you aware of God’s presence in your daily life? In the moments when you feel distant or lost, remember that God is not far away. He is right beside you, ready to comfort and guide you through every situation.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being with me everywhere I go. Help me to be more aware of Your presence in my life, knowing that I am never alone. Let Your presence bring me peace and strength, no matter where I find myself. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” (Isaiah 41:10, KJV)

October 4, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Faith in God’s Healing, Even When You Don’t Feel It

Opening Verse:

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
(Hebrews 11:1, KJV)

Introduction:

Believing in God’s healing can be challenging, especially when you don’t feel any immediate change in your body or situation. Faith, however, calls us to trust beyond our senses. It demands that we look to God’s promises, even when our emotions and experiences tell us otherwise.

Devotional Story:

There was a man named Caleb who had been struggling with chronic illness for many years. Doctors had no solution, and Caleb began to lose hope. He prayed often but never felt a physical change. One day, a friend shared a verse from the Bible: “By His stripes, we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). This verse became a beacon of hope for Caleb.

He held onto this promise, even when his symptoms persisted. At church, Caleb would stand during healing services, trusting God was working in him, even if he couldn’t feel it. His faith wasn’t in what his body told him, but in what God’s Word said. Over time, Caleb’s faith strengthened, and while his healing didn’t come instantly, his spirit became stronger, and peace filled his heart.

What This Means:

Faith in God’s healing does not always mean instant results or an immediate physical change. Faith means trusting that God is working, whether you see it or not. Like Caleb, we are called to believe in what God has promised us, trusting Him completely. Healing can manifest in different ways—sometimes in our bodies, sometimes in our hearts. But God is always faithful to His Word.

Think About This:

Do you trust God’s promises even when you don’t feel the results immediately? Faith isn’t about what you see or feel, but about trusting in God’s character and His ability to do the impossible.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I trust in Your healing power, even when I don’t feel it. Strengthen my faith to believe in Your promises above my circumstances. Help me hold onto the truth that by Your stripes, I am healed. 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, KJV)

October 3, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Power of Thoughts

Opening Verse

“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.” – Proverbs 23:7 (KJV)

Introduction

Our thoughts shape our lives. The Bible teaches that how we think in our hearts will guide the direction of our actions and ultimately our destiny. If we want real change in our lives, we must first change the way we think. The path to transformation begins in our minds, where faith, hope, and determination are birthed.

Devotional Story

A man was struggling with his job and his relationships. No matter how hard he tried, it seemed like nothing was going right. He would often think to himself, “Things never go well for me.” Over time, these thoughts started to manifest in his actions. He stopped giving his best effort at work, and his relationships grew cold.

One day, a friend who noticed the man’s frustration invited him to a Bible study. There, they talked about the power of our thoughts and how God can renew our minds. The man realized that his negative thinking had taken control of his life. He prayed and asked God to help him change his thoughts.

As he started to focus on God’s promises instead of his problems, things began to change. His mindset shifted from defeat to hope. He found joy in his work again and his relationships began to heal. The transformation all started with a change in his thoughts.

What This Means

The way we think has a powerful impact on our lives. If we think thoughts of defeat, we will live defeated lives. But when we allow God’s Word to shape our thinking, we begin to experience victory and joy. We must remember that our minds are a battlefield, and what we allow to dwell there determines the outcome of our battles. If we want to see change, it begins with thinking in line with God’s truth.

Think About This

What kind of thoughts do you dwell on daily?
Are they thoughts of hope and faith or defeat and doubt?
Ask God to help you recognize negative thoughts and replace them with His truth.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to guard my thoughts and focus on Your promises. I know that my thinking shapes my life, so I ask for Your strength to think thoughts that align with Your Word. Renew my mind and help me to live a life of faith, hope, and victory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” – Romans 12:2 (KJV)