Tag: Peace

September 12, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Inner Self Creates the Outer World

Opening Verse

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

Introduction

The condition of our heart and mind is reflected in how we live our lives. What we nurture internally often becomes visible in our actions, relationships, and decisions. As Christians, we are called to guard our hearts and minds because our inner thoughts and attitudes shape the world we experience.

Devotional Story

There was once a man named Roger who always seemed overwhelmed by stress and negativity. No matter what good things happened, he couldn’t shake his feelings of frustration. One day, his friend James asked him, “Why do you see so much hardship in your life?”

Roger responded, “Because life is hard. No matter what I do, something always goes wrong.”

James paused and then said, “Roger, could it be that your focus on the negative is shaping your experience? Jesus said in Matthew 12:34, ‘For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.’ What fills your heart comes out in how you live. If you fill your heart with God’s peace, your world will begin to change.”

This conversation struck a chord with Roger. He began to spend more time in prayer and meditation on God’s Word, focusing on His promises rather than his frustrations. Over time, Roger noticed a shift. His circumstances hadn’t changed drastically, but his heart had. And because his heart changed, his view of the world became more hopeful.

What This Means

The way we perceive and experience the world often starts with what’s inside of us. If we allow worry, anger, or bitterness to rule our hearts, that’s what we will see in our daily lives. However, when we fill our hearts with God’s love, peace, and joy, those same qualities begin to reflect in our outer world. The Apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 12:2 to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” It all starts within.

Think About This

  • What thoughts and emotions are ruling your heart today?
  • Are you allowing God’s peace and love to fill your heart, or are you letting the world’s troubles dominate?
  • How can you take a step today to shift your focus from outward problems to inner peace with God?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to guard my heart and mind. I know that what I allow inside of me will shape how I see the world around me. Fill me with Your peace, love, and joy, so that my life reflects Your goodness. May I look inward first and trust that You will guide my steps in the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.” — Matthew 12:35 (KJV)

 

July 21, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Sometimes You Just Have to Leave Things as They Are

Opening Verse

 

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.” – Isaiah 55:8 (KJV)

 

Introduction

Life often presents us with situations that challenge our understanding and control. We may find ourselves struggling to change circumstances that are beyond our power. In such moments, it is crucial to recognize that sometimes, we must simply leave things as they are, trusting in God’s greater plan.

 

Devotional Story

A farmer once faced a severe drought that threatened to ruin his crops. Despite his best efforts to irrigate the land and protect his plants, the heat persisted, and the rain did not come. One day, his neighbor, seeing his distress, said, “You have done all you can. Now, it’s in God’s hands.”

 

At first, the farmer was frustrated by this advice. He was not accustomed to giving up. But as he reflected on his neighbor’s words, he realized that he had reached the limits of his human ability. He prayed for rain, but more importantly, he prayed for peace in accepting the situation. Eventually, the rain came, but even before it did, the farmer found solace in surrendering to God’s will.

 

What This Means

This story illustrates the importance of recognizing our limitations and trusting in God’s wisdom. There are times when our efforts will not change the outcome, and it is in these moments that our faith and trust in God must be strongest. God sees the bigger picture and has plans far beyond our understanding.

 

Think About This

Are there areas in your life where you are struggling to maintain control? Reflect on these areas and consider if it is time to surrender them to God. Trust that His plans are for your good, even when you cannot see the immediate benefits.

 

Prayer

Dear Lord,

Help me to recognize when I have done all that I can. Grant me the wisdom to know when to let go and trust in Your perfect plan. Give me peace in my heart and the assurance that You are in control. Amen.

 

Closing Verse

 

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)

July 13, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Voice of the Lord

Opening Verse

“The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.”
Psalm 29:4 (KJV)

Introduction

The voice of the Lord carries a power and majesty beyond human comprehension. In this world filled with noise and distractions, it is essential to pause and listen for His voice.

What This Means

God’s voice is not drowned out by the world’s noise. Instead, it stands strong and majestic. We must intentionally seek moments of quiet to hear Him, understanding that His voice brings peace, guidance, and reassurance.

Think About This

  • How often do you find time to be silent and listen for God’s voice?
  • What changes can you make in your daily routine to create space for hearing Him?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help us to quiet our hearts and minds to hear Your powerful and majestic voice. Amidst the chaos of life, remind us to seek Your presence and listen for Your guidance. Thank You for speaking to us with authority and love. Amen.

Closing Verse & Song

“The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.”
Psalm 29:4 (KJV)

“The Voice of the Lord” By Akedah

Lyrics:
[Verse]
The voice of the Lord is strong
Powerful and clear
In the storm it rides along
In the still we hear
[Verse 2]
The voice of the Lord brings peace
Over waves and seas
In His name all worries cease
Heart and soul are free
[Chorus]
Sing out
The voice of the Lord
Let His praise be heard
Feel His mighty word
[Verse 3]
The voice breaks the cedars tal
l Mountains bow and fall
In His name we stand in awe
Hear His righteous call
[Bridge]
In the quiet and the loud
His voice fills the air
Every knee and head be bowed
In His love we share
[Chorus]
Sing out
The voice of the Lord
Let His praise be heard
Feel His mighty word

 

You are free to use this praise and worship song in churches and across all media platforms. This song is open source and can be distributed, performed, and shared without any restrictions. Please mention our website akedah.faith in the credits. God Bless!

July 6, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Unexpected Explosion

Opening Verse

“For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.”
Psalm 91:11 (KJV)

Introduction

Fireworks can bring joy and celebration, but they can also be dangerous if not handled properly. Today, we explore an incident where a firework malfunctioned but the people involved were miraculously unharmed.

Devotional Story

There was a time when a group of friends decided to celebrate with some fireworks. They had an old launcher, one that had seen many celebrations over the years. As they lit the firework, expecting a beautiful display in the sky, things took a turn for the worse. The launcher, due to its age and wear, split in half. The firework exploded not in the sky, but on the ground, right where the friends were standing.

It was a terrifying moment. The sound was deafening, and the explosion scattered sparks and debris everywhere. The friends fell to the ground, bracing for the worst. Yet, when the smoke cleared, they were astonished to find that none of them were hurt. Despite the chaos, they were safe.

What This Means

This incident is a powerful reminder of God’s protection over us. Just as the friends were kept safe despite the dangerous situation, God watches over us and keeps us from harm. It may not always be in such dramatic fashion, but His protection is ever-present. When we trust in Him, we can find peace even in the midst of the storm.

Think About This

Have you ever experienced a close call where you felt protected? How can you remind yourself of God’s presence and protection in your daily life? Consider how you can trust Him more deeply, knowing that He watches over you.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your constant protection and care. We are grateful for Your angels who watch over us and keep us safe. Help us to trust in Your protection and to find peace in Your presence, no matter what situations we face. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.”
Psalm 34:7 (KJV)

July 4, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Peace

Opening Verse

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” – John 14:27

Introduction

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the promise of peace can seem elusive. Yet, Jesus offers us a peace that transcends all understanding.

Devotional Story

There was a man named Mark who lived a very stressful life. His job demanded long hours, and his personal life was fraught with conflict. One evening, feeling utterly overwhelmed, he turned to his Bible for comfort. He stumbled upon John 14:27. As he read the words, he felt a sense of calm wash over him. It was as if Jesus Himself was speaking directly to his troubled heart.

Mark decided to meditate on this verse daily. Each time he felt stress rising, he would recall Jesus’ promise of peace. Over time, he noticed a profound change. His circumstances hadn’t changed, but his heart had. He was no longer ruled by fear or anxiety. The peace Jesus had promised became real to him.

What This Means

The peace Jesus offers is not like the temporary, fleeting peace the world gives. It’s a deep, abiding peace that remains even in the midst of turmoil. This peace comes from knowing that Jesus is with us, guiding us, and protecting us. It reassures us that no matter what happens, we are safe in His hands.

Think About This

Are there areas in your life where you lack peace? Remember, Jesus has promised to give you His peace. Take a moment to invite His presence into your situation and allow His peace to fill your heart.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding. Help us to remember that this peace is available to us at all times through Jesus Christ. When we are overwhelmed, remind us to turn to You and receive Your calming presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace.” – Psalms 29:11

June 23, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Hiding Place

Opening Verse

 

“He made darkness his secret place; his pavilion round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies.”- Psalms 18:11

 

 

Introduction

Life often brings moments of uncertainty and fear. We may find ourselves seeking a place to hide, a sanctuary where we can feel safe and secure. The Bible assures us that God provides this hiding place.

 

Devotional Story

Imagine a stormy night where thunder roars and lightning flashes across the sky. A small child, frightened by the storm, runs to their parent’s arms, finding comfort and safety. In much the same way, we can run to God when life’s storms rage around us.

 

King David, the author of many Psalms, often faced danger and uncertainty. Despite his fears, he found refuge in God. David describes God as a secret place, a shelter in times of trouble. Just as a pavilion protects from the elements, God’s presence shields us from life’s storms.

 

What This Means

God’s hiding place isn’t always about escaping physical danger. Sometimes, it’s about finding peace amidst chaos, comfort in grief, or strength in weakness. When we seek Him, we find a profound sense of security and calm, even when the world around us is turbulent.

 

Think About This

Do you feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Remember, God offers a hiding place. Take a moment to seek His presence and find rest in Him.

 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being my hiding place. When I am afraid, help me to run to You and find peace and safety. Remind me that in Your presence, I am secure. Amen.

 

Closing Verse

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” – Proverbs 18:10

June 5, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Solid Rock

Opening Verse

“He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.”  – Psalms 62:6 (KJV)

Introduction

Life is full of challenges that can wear us down. Negative emotions like anger, frustration, and disappointment can chip away at our peace and joy. However, there is a way to remain strong and unshaken, no matter what comes our way.

 

Devotional Story

Imagine you are a beautiful statue carved out of a single, solid rock. Over time, small but constant chipping from various tools begins to wear down your surface. These tools represent the negative influences and emotions that we allow to affect us daily—anger, frustration, and disappointments. Slowly, they erode our peace and stability.

 

But what if the rock is no ordinary stone? What if it is the firm foundation of God’s love and strength? When we build our lives on the solid rock of God’s truth and seek Him wholeheartedly, we become resilient. His love and power can turn any situation around, restoring what was chipped away and making us whole again.

 

What This Means

Allowing negative emotions to control us is like letting those small chisels continue to wear us down. However, when we turn to God and anchor ourselves in His truth, He provides the strength we need to withstand any adversity. God is our rock, our unshakable foundation. By seeking Him wholeheartedly, we ensure that we remain strong and intact, no matter the external pressures.

 

Think About This

What are the small things that chip away at your peace? How can you turn these over to God and trust Him to be your solid rock?

 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I thank You for being my rock and my salvation. Help me to stop letting negative emotions and situations chip away at my peace. I seek You wholeheartedly, trusting that You will hold me up and keep me together. Turn around any situation that threatens to break me, and let me stand firm in Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

Closing Verse

“The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.”  – Psalms 18:2 (KJV)

May 13, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Overcoming Spiritual Road Rage

Opening Verse

“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” – John 10:10

Introduction

Like an unruly driver on the road, the devil often tries to provoke us into losing our spiritual composure, simply for his own amusement.

Devotional Scenario

Picture yourself driving calmly when suddenly a driver, reminiscent of the devil, pulls up beside you, honking, yelling, and making wild gestures. This driver isn’t really concerned about traffic; his main goal is to upset you, to disrupt your peace and draw you into chaos.

What This Means

This scenario shows us how the devil operates. He aims to provoke us into reacting with anger or fear—emotions that lead us away from God. Like the aggressive driver, the devil gets a perverse pleasure from our turmoil. But as followers of Christ, our call is to stay in our lane, maintain our peace, and keep our eyes on God’s path.

Think About This

When faced with such provocations, remember that if you stay in your lane and remain steadfast, the spiritual road rage driver will eventually give up and move on to find another victim. How can you apply this patience and focus in your daily spiritual walk?

Prayer

Lord, help me to stay focused on Your path when I am provoked. Remind me that staying in my lane and not engaging in the chaos is a powerful response. Grant me peace to continue my journey without being swayed by the enemy’s distractions. May Your presence be my shield and guide. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” – Isaiah 26:3

May 6, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Stop Stressing: The Lord Has You!

Opening Verse

 “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

Introduction

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with worries and stress. However, the Bible reminds us that we have a reliable refuge in the Lord.

Devotional Story

Imagine a young man named Michael, burdened by his job and worrying about his future. One evening, feeling particularly overwhelmed, he remembers a verse his grandmother used to recite: 1 Peter 5:7. Deciding to put his anxieties aside, he kneels and prays, surrendering his troubles to God. Over the next few weeks, Michael notices a change in himself. Though his circumstances haven’t drastically changed, his perspective has. He feels lighter, trusting that God is managing things beyond his control.

What This Means

This story illustrates the power of prayer and the peace that comes from truly believing that God cares for us. When we cast our cares upon Him, we acknowledge His sovereignty and trust in His divine guidance.

Think About This

How often do you take your worries to the Lord in prayer? Are there areas in your life where you need to trust Him more?

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for always being there for me. Help me to remember to bring all my worries to You in prayer, trusting that You are in control and care deeply about my life. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” (Philippians 4:6)

April 30, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Break Free and Run to Christ

Opening Verse

“The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” – Proverbs 18:10

Introduction

Life’s journey can often take us into rough waters where our deepest fears and doubts try to drown our peace and identity. Facing these giants can be daunting, but there is a pathway that leads to safety and truth—it starts at the feet of Jesus Christ.

Devotional Story

Imagine Anna, a woman who faced severe anxiety and uncertainty as she transitioned to becoming a single mother. The weight of her new reality seemed unbearable. Yet, in her darkest moments, she remembered the simpler, joyful times of her childhood faith. This memory sparked a desire to reconnect with that faith, leading her to seek comfort and guidance through prayer and scripture.

What This Means

Anna’s story is a call to action for all of us. When the shadows of fear grow long and our hearts feel overwhelmed, it’s a signal to not just stand still but to run—run towards Christ. He is our refuge, our strong tower where safety and peace are found.

Think About This

Consider what fears are holding you back today. Are you ready to let them go and trust Christ to lead you into His light? He is waiting to turn your fears into freedom.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, we come to You in our weakness and fear. We ask You to be our strength, our guide, and our protector. As we run towards You, hold us close, transform our fears, and let Your peace fill our hearts. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28