Author: Akedah

November 28, 2023 Devotional 1 Comment

God is my Oath

Opening Verse:

“God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not fulfill it?” – Numbers 23:19 (NKJV)

Introduction:

“God is my oath” is a simple way to say we can fully trust God. Unlike people, who might sometimes break their promises, God always keeps His.

Devotional Story:

Eliana, a young girl from a small village, was facing tough times with her family. One day, her grandmother shared an old, treasured Bible with her. Inside, a verse was highlighted: “God is not a man, that He should lie…” (Numbers 23:19). Her grandmother explained that this verse was a special reminder to their family that God’s promises are always reliable. Eliana began to find peace, knowing that God’s promises are like a promise that never gets broken.

What This Means:

“God is my oath” means that we can rely on God completely. God’s promises are solid and dependable, much more so than human promises, which might change or fall through.

Think About This:

1. Have you ever been let down by a broken promise? How does it feel to know God’s promises are unbreakable?
2. How can remembering “God is my oath” help you in difficult times?

Practical Application:

1. Journaling God’s Promises: Start a journal where you write down the promises of God you come across in the Bible. Reflect on them, especially when you feel uncertain or worried.

 

2. Daily Reminder: Choose a verse about God’s faithfulness, like Numbers 23:19, and put it somewhere you’ll see daily, like on your fridge or as a phone wallpaper. Let it be a constant reminder of God’s unbreakable promises.

 

3. Sharing Testimonies: Share stories with friends or family about times when you felt God kept His promises. This can encourage others and strengthen your faith.

 

4. Prayer Focus: During your prayer time, thank God specifically for His reliability and trustworthiness. Ask for help to trust Him more.

 

Further Reading:

1. Psalm 145:13-14: These verses highlight God’s faithful nature and His support for all who fall.

 

2. 2 Corinthians 1:20: This passage explains how all of God’s promises are fulfilled in Christ.

 

3. Joshua 23:14: Joshua talks about how none of God’s good promises to Israel failed.

 

4. Book Recommendation: “God’s Promises for Every Day” by Jack Countryman – This book is a great resource for finding Bible verses about God’s promises for different situations in life.

 

Remember, as you explore these applications and readings, the key is to deepen your understanding of God’s unbreakable promises and to learn to rely on them in your daily life.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank You for being a God who never breaks His promises. Help me to remember that Your word is always true and dependable, especially when I’m facing challenges. Teach me to trust You more each day. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” – Hebrews 10:23 (NKJV)

November 27, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

One Flesh

I want to dedicate today’s devotional to my wife, Keren. May God continue to bless our marriage and our family always.

Opening Verse:

“And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam, there was not found a helper comparable to him.” – Genesis 2:20 (NKJV)

Devotional Insight:

In the Garden of Eden, Adam’s role in naming every living creature signifies a deep, inherent connection with God’s creation. This act of naming, done before he even had a name for himself, underscores a profound humility and stewardship. It wasn’t until after he named Eve as ‘woman’ that he identified himself in relation to another – a shift from solitude to companionship.

However, with the Fall, Adam’s response to God was not of humility or leadership but of blame and evasion. Instead of confessing and embracing his role, he chose to blame Eve and even God. This moment reflects a departure from the man God intended him to be.

In Christian teachings, men are called to be leaders in their households, but this leadership is not about dominance or ego. It’s about leading with love, compassion, and support, treating their wives as their own flesh. This mirrors Christ’s love for the church – selfless, sacrificial, and nurturing.

God’s design for men in relationships is to be pillars of strength, accountability, and loving guidance. The lesson from Adam’s story is clear: leadership in a relationship is not about asserting control but about nurturing and cherishing one’s partner, in a reflection of God’s love and grace.

Think About This:

– How can we, as men, lead our households in a way that reflects Christ’s love for the church?
– What lessons can we learn from Adam’s response in Eden about accountability and humility in our roles?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, grant us the wisdom and strength to lead our homes with love, humility, and grace. Help us to emulate the selfless love of Christ, treating our partners with respect, compassion, and understanding. May we always remember to lead by example, fostering a relationship of mutual respect and love. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“For the husband is the head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body.” – Ephesians 5:23 (NKJV)

November 26, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

Transformed Thoughts

“But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, ‘Why do you think evil in your hearts?'” – Matthew 9:4 (NKJV)

Introduction:

In this verse, we see Jesus addressing the thoughts of the religious leaders. He challenges the very nature of their internal dialogue, pointing towards a deeper spiritual truth about our thoughts and their impact on our lives.

Devotional Story:

Mark, a young man, often found himself judging others silently. He thought nobody knew, but his attitude affected his relationships. One Sunday, his pastor preached on Matthew 9:4. Mark realized that even if others didn’t know his thoughts, God did. He decided to change his mindset, focusing on kindness and understanding rather than judgment.

What This Means:

This verse reminds us that God is aware of our innermost thoughts and intentions. It calls us to examine what we harbor in our hearts and to align our thoughts with God’s love and truth.

Think About This Questions:

1. How do your thoughts affect your actions and relationships?
2. In what ways can you align your thoughts more closely with God’s will?

Prayer:

Dear Lord, help me to be mindful of my thoughts and to keep my heart pure before You. Guide me to think in ways that honor You and reflect Your love. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties;” – Psalm 139:23 (NKJV)

November 25, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

Steadfast in the Midst of Trials

Opening Verse:

“But the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.” – Daniel 11:32 (NKJV)

Introduction:

In a world teeming with uncertainties and challenges, Daniel 11:32 emerges as a beacon of hope and strength. It speaks directly to the heart of those seeking to navigate life’s tumultuous waters with faith and resilience.

Narrative:

The verse from Daniel 11:32 isn’t just a statement; it’s a promise and a call to action. It reminds us that in times of trial and tribulation, our strength lies in our relationship with God. Think of Daniel himself, who, amidst the lions’ den, found his strength not in his own might, but in his unwavering faith in God. His story is a testament to the truth that when we know God, truly know Him, we are empowered to face any challenge with courage and carry out great exploits.

In the same vein, consider the story of David, a young shepherd boy who faced Goliath. His story, found in 1 Samuel 17, echoes this truth. David, seemingly under-equipped and under-experienced, was able to defeat Goliath not by physical strength but through his deep faith in God.

Deeper Insight:

Knowing God goes beyond mere intellectual understanding. It involves an intimate relationship with Him, characterized by trust, obedience, and love. When we know God in this way, our perspective on challenges changes. We no longer see them as insurmountable obstacles but as opportunities for God to display His power and faithfulness in our lives.

Personal Reflection Questions:

1. How does your current understanding of God shape the way you face challenges?
2. Can you recall a time when your faith in God gave you strength in a difficult situation?
3. What steps can you take to deepen your relationship with God?

Practical Applications:

– Set aside time each day for prayer and reading the Bible, fostering a closer relationship with God.
– In moments of challenge, recall biblical stories of faith and draw strength from them.
– Share your experiences of God’s faithfulness with others, encouraging them in their own faith journey.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise that in knowing You, we find strength and courage. Help us to deepen our relationship with You, that we may stand firm in trials and be instruments of Your great exploits. Guide us in Your wisdom and fill our hearts with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Conclusion:

Daniel 11:32 doesn’t just speak to the ancient faithful; it’s a living word for us today. In knowing God, we find an unshakable foundation that enables us to face life’s challenges with confidence and strength.

Further Readings:

– Daniel 6 (Daniel in the Lions’ Den)
– 1 Samuel 17 (David and Goliath)
– Ephesians 6:10-18 (The Armor of God)

Faith Notes:

Let this verse be a reminder to continually seek a deeper understanding and relationship with God. In doing so, we not only equip ourselves for personal trials but also prepare to make a positive impact in the world around us.

Closing Verse:

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” – Ephesians 3:20-21 (NKJV)

November 24, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

Generations of Faith

Opening Verse:

“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.” – 1 Peter 2:2 (NKJV)

 Introduction:

In today’s world, where complexity often overshadows simplicity, it is vital to remember the essence of faith – innocence and intention. This devotional explores how these themes weave through our spiritual journey, highlighting the beauty of worship and the importance of imparting spiritual truths across generations.

Devotional Story:

There was once a small village where faith was the cornerstone of life. In this village lived an old man, known for his wisdom and devotion. He spent his days teaching the children about the simplicity of faith and the power of innocent trust in God. The children, in turn, reminded the adults in the village of the purity of worship, free from the complexities of the world. As time passed, these children grew up and became teachers themselves, passing on the lessons of innocence and intention to the next generation.

What This Means:

This story reflects the purity and simplicity of faith, reminiscent of a child’s unadulterated trust. It teaches us that worship, in its most genuine form, is not complicated. Moreover, it highlights the responsibility of each generation to teach and nurture faith in the next, ensuring the continuity of spiritual truths.

Think About This:

– How can you simplify your approach to faith to embrace its innocence and purity?
– In what ways can you contribute to passing on spiritual truths to the next generation?
– How does maintaining a child-like faith help in discerning the complexities of the world?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, grant us the grace to embrace the simplicity and innocence of faith. Help us to worship You with a pure heart and teach us to impart Your truths to the next generation. Guide us in discerning Your will in this complex world, keeping our faith pure and intentional. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Tell it to your children, and let your children tell it to their children, and their children to the next generation.” – Joel 1:3 (NKJV)

November 23, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

A Silent Hero’s Refuge: Elior’s Journey Beyond the Stars

 

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV)

 

Introduction:

This story is about Elior, a pilot in outer space, who learns an important lesson about what really matters in life. It’s a story for anyone who’s ever felt overlooked and is searching for true meaning.

 

Story:

Elior was a brave pilot who fought in a big space war. He did an amazing job and won, but when he came back, no one noticed or thanked him. This made Elior feel lonely and unappreciated. He started thinking about what really matters in life.

 

Elior decided to go away to a quiet place to think and understand better. He found an old, big house on top of a mountain. This house was once full of life but now was quiet and empty. Elior liked the quiet. It helped him think and listen to his heart.

 

In this quiet place, Elior realized that being famous or getting a lot of attention wasn’t the most important thing. What mattered more was changing inside, becoming a better person, and having a strong connection with God.

 

What This Means:

Elior’s story is like our own life. Sometimes we try so hard to be noticed and feel important, but we forget that the biggest changes happen inside us. Elior learned that real victory is in being a good person and having a strong faith.

 

Think About This:

– Have you ever worked hard but felt like no one noticed?

– Do you sometimes focus too much on what others think about you?

– How can spending time alone and thinking help you understand what’s truly important?

 

Prayer:

Lord, help me to focus on becoming a better person and to strengthen my faith. Remind me that being noticed isn’t everything. Help me to find peace and purpose in You. Amen.

 

Closing Verse:

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” – Psalm 46:10 (NKJV)

 

 

November 22, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

Embracing God’s Peace

 “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.”- Colossians 3:15 (NKJV)

Introduction:

In our lives, filled with constant distractions and challenges, finding true peace can seem elusive. This verse from Colossians reminds us of a profound truth: peace is not just a feeling, but a divine guidance in our hearts. It also emphasizes the importance of gratitude and unity in our spiritual journey.

Devotional Story:

Shannon was overwhelmed with the pressures of work and family responsibilities. Despite her best efforts, stress and anxiety seemed to be her constant companions. One day, her friend, Mike, noticed her distress and shared Colossians 3:15 with her. Intrigued, Shannon decided to explore what it meant to let God’s peace rule in her heart. She started dedicating time each day for prayer and reflection, focusing on the blessings in her life. Gradually, she noticed a change; the chaos around her remained, but she found a sense of calm and thankfulness in her heart.

What This Means:

Colossians 3:15 teaches us that God’s peace is a guiding force, one that we can choose to allow to govern our hearts. It’s not just about the absence of conflict or stress, but the presence of a harmonious and grateful spirit, even in challenging times. This verse also reminds us of our connectedness in Christ — we are called to peace as members of one body, highlighting the importance of unity and collective spiritual growth.

Think About This:

– How can you actively let God’s peace rule in your heart amidst daily challenges?
– In what ways can you cultivate a spirit of gratitude, even in difficult circumstances?
– How does the concept of being part of ‘one body’ influence your interactions and relationships with others?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I pray for the grace to let Your peace rule in my heart. Help me to recognize and be thankful for Your blessings, even in times of difficulty. Guide me to live in unity with others, reflecting the love and peace You have called us to as members of one body. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”- Philippians 4:7 (NKJV)

November 21, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

The Quiet Quest

“A prudent man conceals knowledge, But the heart of fools proclaims foolishness.” – Proverbs 12:23 (NKJV)

 

Introduction:

In this simple lesson, we learn about the power of keeping quiet at the right time. The Bible tells us that smart people know when to hold back what they know, but foolish people just say whatever they think.

Devotional Story:

In a small town, there were two guys, John and Thomas. John was quiet and careful with his words, but Thomas always blurted out whatever was on his mind.

One time, a rumor spread about a hidden treasure in the town. Thomas quickly said he knew where it was, even though he didn’t have any proof. This caused a lot of excitement and trouble among the townspeople.

John, who had actually found an old map suggesting where the treasure might be, didn’t say anything. He knew that talking too much could cause problems.

While Thomas’s wild guesses led nowhere and left people disappointed, John quietly talked to the town’s wise leaders about his map. Together, they made a secret plan to look into it without causing a fuss.

What This Means:

The Bible verse from Proverbs 12:23 teaches us it’s smart to think before we speak. John’s decision to keep quiet until the right time was a good example of being careful and keeping the peace.

Think About This:

Think about times when you spoke without thinking or when you wisely chose to stay quiet. Remember how your words affect others. Try to speak thoughtfully today, thinking about what your words do.

Prayer:

Dear God, help me to know when to talk and when to be quiet. Let my words be helpful, not upsetting or confusing. Help me to use my words wisely, like You do. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive.” – Proverbs 17:28 (NKJV)

 

 

 

November 20, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

Struck by Insight

“For a righteous man may fall seven times And rise again, But the wicked shall fall by calamity.” – Proverbs 24:16 (NKJV)

Introduction:

Our devotional today explores a story of transformation, symbolized by a dramatic moment of reckoning. It’s about Michael, whose life parallels the lost sheep in Jesus’ parable, found in Luke 15:3-4. Like the lost sheep, Michael’s story is a powerful testament to the possibility of change and redemption.

Devotional Story:

Michael, known in his community for his reckless lifestyle, found himself walking along a stormy beach. The chaos of the waves mirrored the turbulence within him. Suddenly, a lightning bolt struck the sand nearby, leaving behind a scorched image of a fallen figure, reminiscent of Satan’s fall from grace.

This moment was a profound wake-up call for Michael. The image in the sand symbolized the downfall that comes from a sinful life, mirroring his own trajectory. It brought to life the words of Proverbs 24:16, highlighting the contrast between the righteous who rise again and the wicked who fall into calamity.

Realizing his life mirrored the latter, Michael was filled with a sense of fear and urgency. The lightning strike was not just a physical phenomenon but a spiritual sign, warning him of the perils of his current path. It was a graphic reminder of the potential destruction awaiting him if he continued to neglect moral and spiritual guidance.

This event marked the beginning of Michael’s transformation. He understood that, like the righteous man in Proverbs, he had fallen but could rise again. This realization ignited a desire for change. He turned to his faith, seeking redemption and guidance. The lightning-struck image became a symbol of his spiritual awakening and a constant reminder of the resilience needed to walk a righteous path.

Contextual Insight:

Michael’s story is a practical manifestation of the biblical wisdom in Proverbs 24:16. It underscores the theme that falling isn’t the end; rather, it can be the beginning of a journey back to righteousness. The lightning strike serves as a metaphorical representation of the falls we encounter and the possibility of rising again through faith and determination.

Personal Reflection and Practical Application:

Reflect on your own life’s storms and falls. Consider how these moments, though challenging, can be opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal. Think about how you can rise again from your falls, drawing strength from your faith and the wisdom of scriptures like Proverbs 24:16.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise in Proverbs 24:16, reminding us that though we may fall, we can rise again through Your grace. Help us to learn from our falls and guide us back onto the path of righteousness. In Your mercy, grant us the strength to overcome and the wisdom to seek Your way in all things. Amen.

 

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand.” – Psalm 37:23-24 (NKJV)

November 19, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

Embraced by Mercy

“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.” – Romans 8:1 (NKJV)

 

Introduction:

When we follow Jesus, we sometimes feel guilty and wish for forgiveness. The story of Jesus and a woman in trouble (John 8:1-11) shows us how Jesus forgives and gives us a new start.

Key Point Summary:

– Jesus met a woman who did something wrong, and he showed her kindness instead of blame.
– He taught us about forgiving and starting over.
– This story shows us that God’s forgiveness is different from how people often judge each other.
– It makes us think about our mistakes and how to change.

Devotional Story:

In Jerusalem, people brought a woman to Jesus who had broken a rule about marriage. They wanted to see if Jesus would say to punish her. Jesus wrote on the ground and then said, “If any of you has never done anything wrong, you can punish her.” One by one, they all left. When they were gone, Jesus asked the woman if anyone had blamed her. She said no. Jesus said, “I don’t blame you either. Go and don’t make this mistake again.”

Contextual Insight:

This story shows Jesus’ way of forgiving. Even when others said the woman should be punished, Jesus was kind. He showed that God loves us and forgives us.

Personal Reflection:

Think about times when you felt bad about something you did. How can this story help you accept Jesus’ forgiveness and forgive others too?

Practical Application:

– Remember Jesus’ words of forgiveness when you feel guilty.
– Try to be kind and not judge others, just like Jesus did.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for always forgiving us. Help me to accept your forgiveness and to forgive others too. Teach me to live without blaming others, following your way. Amen.

Conclusion:

The story of the woman and Jesus’ words, “Neither do I condemn you,” shows us how kind and forgiving Jesus is. With Him, we find forgiveness and a chance to change for the better.

“Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.” John 8:11 (NKJV)