Tag: guidance

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 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 1, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Importance of Vision

Opening Verse

“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” – Proverbs 29:18 (KJV)

Introduction

Vision is essential in every aspect of life. Without a clear vision, direction is lost, and confusion prevails. This verse from Proverbs highlights the critical role that vision plays not only in leadership but in our spiritual walk with God.

Devotional Story

Imagine a group of travelers lost in a dense forest. With no map or compass, they wander aimlessly, growing more desperate with each passing hour. But suddenly, one of them spots a distant light—a beacon that promises safety and direction. With renewed hope, they follow the light, and it leads them out of the forest to safety.

This is what vision does for us. Without it, we are like those lost travelers, wandering in circles, unsure of which path to take. Vision gives us direction, purpose, and the ability to persevere through challenges. Spiritually, this vision comes from God’s Word, which lights our path and guides our steps.

What This Means

Proverbs 29:18 warns us of the danger of living without vision. In a spiritual sense, this means living without a clear understanding of God’s will for our lives. It is God’s law—His Word—that provides us with the vision we need. When we adhere to His teachings, we are not only guided but also find happiness and fulfillment.

Living without this divine vision leads to spiritual death, but those who follow God’s commandments experience true joy and life.

Think About This

Do you have a vision for your life that is rooted in God’s Word? Are you allowing His law to guide your decisions and actions? Take time today to seek His vision for your life, and commit to following His path.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the vision You provide through Your Word. Help us to follow Your law and keep our eyes fixed on the path You have set before us. May we live lives that are pleasing to You, finding joy in obedience to Your commandments. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Closing Verse

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

July 29, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Every Word of God is Pure

Opening Verse

“Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.” – Proverbs 30:5 (KJV)

Introduction

Proverbs 30:5 reminds us of the absolute purity and reliability of God’s Word. This verse assures believers that every word from God is flawless and serves as a protective shield for those who trust in Him.

Devotional Insight

In a world filled with uncertainties and shifting values, the Word of God stands as an unchanging, pure source of truth and guidance. The purity of God’s Word means it is free from error, deceit, or corruption. It is wholly trustworthy and serves as a perfect standard against which we can measure our lives and decisions.

What This Means

The purity of God’s Word assures us that we can fully rely on His promises and instructions. When we put our trust in His Word, we are placing our faith in something that is completely true and dependable. This trust provides us with a shield against the doubts, fears, and falsehoods that we encounter daily. God’s Word not only guides us but also protects us from spiritual harm and deception.

Think About This

Reflect on areas in your life where you need guidance or assurance. Are you turning to the pure Word of God for direction and strength? Trust in His Word and let it be your shield.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the purity and reliability of Your Word. Help us to trust in Your promises and find our protection in Your truth. Guide us through Your flawless Word, and shield us from all that seeks to lead us astray. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Closing Verse

“The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.” – Psalm 12:6 (KJV)

June 30, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Stay Vigilant and Trust in God’s Guidance

Opening Verse

“The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” – Psalms 27:1 (KJV)

 

Introduction

Life often presents us with aggressive or irrational opposition. How we handle these challenges can define our spiritual journey. Instead of direct confrontation, strategic action rooted in wisdom and vigilance can lead us through these adversities. This devotional explores the importance of staying alert and trusting in God’s guidance.

 

Devotional Story

King David faced many adversaries throughout his life, but one significant example of his strategic action is found in 1 Samuel 24. Saul, the king of Israel, pursued David out of jealousy and fear. Despite Saul’s relentless pursuit, David did not confront him directly with aggression. Instead, he stayed vigilant and sought the Lord’s guidance.

 

While hiding in a cave at En Gedi, David had the perfect opportunity to kill Saul, who entered the cave alone and unaware of David’s presence. David’s men saw this as a divine opportunity, urging him to take Saul’s life. However, David chose a different path. He secretly cut off a corner of Saul’s robe, symbolizing that he could have harmed Saul but chose not to.

 

When Saul left the cave, David revealed himself and showed the piece of robe, demonstrating his loyalty and the righteousness of his actions. This act of strategic restraint moved Saul to tears, and he acknowledged David’s future as king of Israel. David’s decision to avoid direct confrontation and trust in God’s timing highlighted his wisdom and faith.

 

What This Means

This story illustrates that in times of trouble, we should not react impulsively. Instead, we must seek God’s guidance and remain aware of our surroundings. The Lord is our light and salvation, providing the strength and wisdom to navigate through life’s adversities.

 

Think About This

– Are you facing opposition or challenges that seem irrational?

– How can you seek God’s guidance in these situations?

– What strategic actions can you take to avoid direct confrontation and still move forward?

 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being my light and salvation. Help me to stay vigilant and seek Your guidance when facing opposition. Grant me the wisdom to act strategically rather than impulsively, trusting in Your protection and strength. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

 

Closing Verse

“Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.”   – Psalms 27:14 (KJV)

 

June 24, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Never Lost to Jesus

Opening Verse

“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” – Luke 19:10 (KJV)

 

Introduction

Have you ever felt lost, like you were wandering without direction? Sometimes in life, we stray from the path and it’s difficult to find our way back. But there’s good news: Jesus is always seeking us out.

 

Devotional Story

A shepherd had a hundred sheep and one of them went astray. He left the ninety-nine and went into the wilderness to find the one that was lost. He searched diligently, not giving up until he found it. When he finally did, he joyfully put it on his shoulders and brought it home. This story reminds us of how Jesus pursues us when we wander off.

 

What This Means

Jesus never stops looking for us, no matter how far we have strayed. He is the Good Shepherd who cares deeply for each of His sheep. When we feel lost, we must remember that Jesus is actively seeking to bring us back to Him. His love is relentless and His desire is to save us.

 

Think About This

– Have you ever felt lost in your spiritual journey?

– How does it make you feel to know that Jesus is always seeking you out?

– What steps can you take to stay close to Jesus and avoid getting lost?

 

Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for never giving up on me. Even when I feel lost and alone, I know You are searching for me. Help me to stay close to You and follow Your guidance. Thank You for Your unwavering love and care. Amen.

 

Closing Verse

“I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” John 10:11 (KJV)

June 14, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Humble Yourself and Take Correction

Opening Verse

“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”
Proverbs 16:18 (KJV)

Introduction

Humility is a virtue that can save us from many troubles. Being open to correction is a sign of wisdom, not weakness. It’s like using a GPS that alerts you immediately when you miss a turn. Wouldn’t you rather be corrected promptly than find yourself miles off course?

Devotional Story

Jane was driving to a friend’s house in a new city. She confidently set off, believing she knew the way. However, she missed a turn and continued driving, unaware of her mistake. Her GPS beeped, indicating she needed to make a U-turn. Frustrated, Jane ignored it, thinking she knew better. After 45 minutes of driving in the wrong direction, she realized she was hopelessly lost.

When Jane finally humbled herself and followed the GPS instructions, she arrived at her friend’s house much later than expected. This experience taught her a valuable lesson about the importance of accepting correction promptly.

What This Means

We all make mistakes, but our response to correction defines us. Pride can lead us down the wrong path for much longer than necessary. When we humble ourselves and accept guidance, we can correct our course and avoid unnecessary hardships. Just like a GPS, God’s Word and wise counsel are there to guide us. Ignoring them only leads to more confusion and delay.

Think About This

  • How do you react when someone corrects you?
  • Are there areas in your life where pride is keeping you from accepting guidance?
  • How can you practice humility and be more open to correction?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, teach me to humble myself and accept correction with grace. Help me to listen to Your guidance and the wise counsel of others. Protect me from the pride that leads to destruction. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.”
Proverbs 18:12 (KJV)

 

June 8, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Eyes to See the Fakes

Opening Verse

“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.”- 2 Corinthians 11:13 (KJV)

 

Introduction

In our journey of faith, we must be vigilant. The devil and the world are experts in deception, offering fake counterfeits that seem genuine but lead us astray. These distractions can divert us from God’s true plan and purpose for our lives. Therefore, it is crucial to pray for discernment and wisdom to recognize these falsehoods.

Devotional Story

A man named Peter was deeply committed to his walk with Christ. One day, he was presented with a job offer that promised a significant increase in salary and prestige. On the surface, it appeared to be a blessing. However, the job required Peter to compromise his values and spend less time with his family and in ministry.

As Peter prayed for guidance, he felt a nagging sense of unease. He sought counsel from trusted Christian friends and continued to pray for clarity. Finally, he realized that the offer, although attractive, was a counterfeit. It was a distraction meant to pull him away from his true calling. Peter declined the job and soon found another opportunity that aligned perfectly with his faith and allowed him to grow in his relationship with God.

What This Means

Peter’s story reminds us that not every opportunity or situation that looks good is from God. The devil often uses attractive counterfeits to lure us away from God’s will. By seeking God’s guidance and praying for discernment, we can develop the ability to recognize these deceptions and stay on the right path.

Think About This

– Are there areas in your life where you might be accepting counterfeits?
– How can you develop a stronger sense of discernment to recognize what is truly from God?
– What steps can you take to ensure that your decisions align with God’s plan?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I pray for Your wisdom and discernment in my life. Help me to see through the deceptions of the enemy and the world. Give me eyes to recognize the counterfeits that are meant to distract and derail me from Your path. Strengthen my heart to choose Your truth above all else. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.”

-2 Corinthians 11:14 (KJV)

June 4, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Turn to God

Opening Verse

“Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.” – Proverbs 1:23 (KJV)

Introduction

God wants us to listen when He corrects us. His correction isn’t to hurt us but to help us get back on the right track. When we listen to Him, He promises to fill us with His Spirit and help us understand His ways.

Devotional Story

There was a man named Ethan who kept making bad decisions that pulled him away from God. He ignored the advice of his family and friends, thinking he knew better. One day, after a serious setback, Ethan felt completely lost and alone. He remembered a Bible verse about turning back to God.

In his desperation, Ethan prayed for the first time in years, asking God for help. Immediately, he felt a wave of peace. He realized that God’s correction wasn’t to punish him but to guide him to a better life. As Ethan kept turning to God, he found new hope and clear direction for his life.

What This Means

God corrects us because He loves us. He wants the best for us and guides us back to the right path. When we listen to His correction, we open ourselves to His Spirit and His wisdom. This starts with being humble and willing to change.

Think About This

– Is God correcting you in some part of your life?
– How can you respond to His correction to get closer to Him?
– Think about times when you turned back to God after making a mistake and how His guidance changed you.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your loving correction. Help me to see when You are correcting me and turn my heart back to You. Fill me with Your Spirit and guide me in Your wisdom. Lead me in Your truth and help me follow Your ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minde d.” – James 4:8 (KJV)

May 25, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Seek God, Gain Wisdom.

Opening Verse

“Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all things.” – Proverbs 28:5 (KJV)

Introduction

Seeking the Lord brings clarity and understanding. This simple yet profound truth reminds us that while those who do evil are lost in confusion, those who earnestly seek God gain insight and wisdom.

Devotional Story

There once was a man named David who struggled to find meaning in his life. Despite his many accomplishments, he felt an emptiness he couldn’t explain. David often found himself surrounded by people who made poor choices, leading him further into a sense of despair and confusion.

One day, David decided to seek the Lord. He started reading the Bible, praying earnestly, and attending church. As he spent more time with God, he began to understand things he never could before. Situations that once confused him became clear. He found wisdom in God’s Word and guidance in prayer. The more he sought the Lord, the more he understood not just his own life, but also the world around him.

What This Means

Proverbs 28:5 teaches us that seeking God brings understanding. When we pursue a relationship with the Lord, we are given insight that goes beyond human wisdom. This verse encourages us to continually seek God, knowing that in Him, we find clarity and purpose.

Think About This

  • Are there areas in your life where you feel confused or lost?
  • Have you earnestly sought the Lord for guidance and understanding?
  • How can you incorporate more time with God into your daily routine to gain the wisdom you need?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You seeking understanding. We know that true wisdom and clarity come from You. Help us to seek You diligently and to understand the things we cannot on our own. Open our hearts and minds to Your truth, and guide us in all our ways. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Closing Verse

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.” – Proverbs 9:10 (KJV)