Trusting God Archives

February 26, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Lord Establishes His People

Opening Verse

“And Elishama, and Eliada, and Eliphalet.”
— 2 Samuel 5:16 (KJV)

At first glance, this verse appears to be a simple record of names, but it carries a profound message about God’s faithfulness, divine establishment, and the continuation of His covenant through David. These three names, along with others listed earlier in the chapter, represent the sons born to David in Jerusalem, symbolizing not just his growing household but God’s blessing upon his reign.

Each name carries meaning:

Elishama – “God has heard,” reminding us that the Lord listens to the prayers of His people and fulfills His promises.
Eliada – “God knows” or “God is aware,” signifying God’s intimate knowledge and care over our lives.
Eliphalet – “God is deliverance,” pointing to the fact that true security and salvation come from God alone.

These names are more than historical facts; they reflect God’s presence in David’s life and the legacy of faith He was building for future generations.

Understanding the Context

This verse is part of a larger passage (2 Samuel 5) that details how David was finally established as king over all of Israel. After years of being pursued by King Saul, enduring hardships, and waiting patiently for God’s timing, David had reached a place of victory. He had conquered Jerusalem, made it the political and spiritual center of Israel, and was now experiencing the blessings of God, including a growing family.

This was a pivotal moment in biblical history. The city of Jerusalem, which had once belonged to the Jebusites, was now the stronghold of Israel. God was fulfilling His promise to David, confirming that his rule was not by human effort but by divine appointment. The fact that David’s family was expanding in Jerusalem signified stability, security, and the continuation of God’s covenant.

Spiritual Meaning and Application

1. God Establishes Those Who Trust Him

David did not become king by his own efforts. He was chosen by God as a young shepherd, and through years of trials, he learned to trust in the Lord’s timing. When God finally established him, it was in a way that left no doubt—it was divine.

Application: If you feel like you are in a waiting season, trust that God is working behind the scenes. What He establishes, no one can undo.

“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.” — 1 Peter 5:6 (KJV)

2. God’s Blessing Brings Multiplication

David’s growing household in Jerusalem was a visible sign of God’s blessing. In the Old Testament, children were often seen as a direct blessing from God, symbolizing fruitfulness and a legacy that would continue. God had promised David that He would make his name great (2 Samuel 7:9), and this expansion of his family was an early fulfillment of that promise.

Application: When we walk in obedience, we experience the multiplication of God’s blessings—not always in material things, but in spiritual fruit, wisdom, and opportunities to serve Him.

“The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.” — Proverbs 10:22 (KJV)

3. God’s Promises Are Fulfilled in His Timing

David was anointed king as a young boy, but he had to wait years for the fulfillment of that calling. Through trials, betrayals, and battles, he remained faithful. This moment in 2 Samuel 5:16 is a reminder that when God establishes something, He does it completely.

Application: If you are waiting for God’s promise to come to pass, don’t lose heart. God’s timing is always perfect, and when He fulfills His word, He does it in a way that leaves no doubt.

“For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” — Habakkuk 2:3 (KJV)

4. A Foreshadowing of the Greater Promise

David’s growing family was not just a personal blessing—it was part of God’s larger plan. From David’s lineage would come the Messiah, Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of God’s covenant. The establishment of David’s house in Jerusalem foreshadowed the eternal kingdom of Christ.

“And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever.” — 2 Samuel 7:16 (KJV)

Application: The work God does in our lives is never just for us—it is part of a greater plan. When He establishes us, He does so with eternity in mind.

Think About This

Are you trusting in God’s timing for your own establishment?
Have you recognized the blessings of spiritual multiplication in your life?
How does knowing that your life is part of a greater plan give you confidence in God’s purpose for you?

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
I trust You to establish my life according to Your perfect plan. Just as You fulfilled Your promises to David, I believe You are working in my life, even in seasons of waiting. Help me to trust in Your timing, to walk in obedience, and to see the fruitfulness of Your blessings. Establish me not just for my sake, but for Your kingdom and Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.”
— Psalm 37:23 (KJV)

February 9, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Growing in Christ

Opening Verse

“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.”
— 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV)

Introduction

Spiritual growth is a journey, not a destination. Just as a tree takes time to grow deep roots and bear fruit, so does our walk with Christ. Growth in the faith requires nourishment from God’s Word, time spent in prayer, and the refining work of the Holy Spirit. Without growth, our faith becomes stagnant, and we become vulnerable to the enemy’s deception.

Devotional Story

A young man planted a small apple tree in his backyard. Every day, he would check it, expecting fruit. But weeks went by, and nothing happened. Frustrated, he nearly gave up. An older gardener saw his impatience and said, “A tree doesn’t bear fruit overnight. First, it must grow strong roots. Water it, care for it, and in time, it will bear fruit.”

The young man took the advice to heart. He faithfully watered and nurtured the tree. A year later, he saw small buds forming, and in time, the tree bore its first apples.

This is how spiritual growth works. We often expect instant change, but God develops our faith over time. He strengthens our roots before He brings visible fruit in our lives.

What This Means

Growth in Christ takes time, effort, and patience. We must stay connected to God’s Word, pray without ceasing, and trust His process. Even when we don’t see immediate results, we must continue to seek Him, knowing that He is working in us to produce a harvest of righteousness.

Think About This

Are you actively growing in your faith, or have you become stagnant?
What steps are you taking to deepen your relationship with God?
Do you trust God’s timing, even when growth feels slow?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to grow in Your grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Strengthen my faith, deepen my roots, and produce in me the fruit of the Spirit. Even when I do not see immediate change, I trust that You are working in me. Thank You for guiding my growth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.”
— Colossians 1:10 (KJV)

January 18, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Trusting the God Who Sustains Us

Opening Verse

“But thou art he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother’s breasts.” – Psalm 22:9

Introduction

From our very first moments, God has been our sustainer. Psalm 22:9 reminds us that even before we were aware of Him, He was nurturing and guiding us. This verse is a testament to God’s intimate care and the hope He instills in us from birth.

Devotional Story

A young mother once shared how her newborn seemed to instinctively know where to find comfort. As she cradled her baby close, she marveled at how the child’s needs were met without words—how God had created such an innate connection. This experience brought her to reflect on her own life and how God had always provided for her, even when she didn’t recognize His hand at work.

As she read Psalm 22:9, she understood that her life, like her child’s, was held in God’s hands. From infancy to adulthood, He had been her hope and sustainer. She realized the call to continue trusting Him as she faced new challenges, just as her child trusted her for every need.

What This Means

God’s care for us begins before we are even aware of it. He is the one who brings us into this world, provides for our needs, and instills hope in our hearts. When we face difficulties, we can look back on His faithfulness from the very start of our lives and trust Him to carry us through.

Think About This

How has God shown His care for you throughout your life, even in ways you didn’t recognize at the time?
Are you placing your hope in the One who has sustained you from birth?
Reflect on God’s faithfulness as a reminder to trust Him in every season.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the one who brought me into this world and has sustained me from my first breath. Help me to trust You fully, knowing that You are the same God who has cared for me through every stage of life. Instill in me the hope that comes from Your constant presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.” – Psalm 28:7

January 17, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Delivered by God’s Justice

Opening Verse

“The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead.” – Proverbs 11:8

Introduction

Life is full of trials and challenges that often leave us wondering how we will make it through. Yet, for the righteous, God’s hand is always at work, delivering them from trouble in ways only He can. This verse reminds us of His justice and faithfulness.

Devotional Story

A man once found himself in dire straits, facing accusations he could not disprove and enemies who seemed relentless. With no one to defend him, he turned to God in prayer. Days passed, and nothing changed—his trouble seemed to deepen.

Then, one morning, he awoke to find the situation miraculously reversed. The very individuals who had plotted against him were now exposed, and the truth shone brightly. He marveled at God’s justice, remembering the words of Proverbs 11:8. In his gratitude, he realized that God not only protects but also ensures that righteousness prevails in the end.

What This Means

God is a defender of His people. He sees the troubles of the righteous and works behind the scenes to deliver them. At times, this may involve waiting and trusting Him, but He never fails to act in His time. The wicked, by contrast, often face the very consequences they sought for others. This verse encourages us to rest in God’s justice, knowing He will uphold His promises.

Think About This

Are you trusting God to deliver you in difficult situations, or are you trying to resolve them in your own strength?
How does remembering God’s justice give you peace in the face of trouble?
Reflect on times when God has delivered you in unexpected ways.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for being my deliverer and defender. When trouble comes, help me to trust in Your justice and timing. Strengthen my heart to wait on You and remind me that You will always make a way for the righteous. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.” – Psalm 34:19

January 7, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

God’s Light

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?” – Psalm 27:1 (KJV)

Introduction

God’s light is more than physical brightness; it is the illuminating truth, guidance, and presence that dispels darkness from our lives. In a world filled with confusion and fear, the light of God provides clarity, direction, and peace.

Devotional Story

In a small rural village, a young girl named Leah found herself overwhelmed by the darkness of her surroundings. Each night, as power outages engulfed her town, she would light a single candle to illuminate her home. Though small, the light of that candle pushed back the darkness and allowed her family to find their way.

One stormy evening, the power outage lasted longer than usual, and Leah’s father, a farmer, was caught outside in the pitch-black night. Leah ran to the door, her candle flickering in her hand. Despite the raging wind and pouring rain, her father saw the light from afar. That small flame became his guide back home.

Reflecting on the event later, Leah’s father said, “Your little light reminded me of God’s promises, how even the smallest glimpse of His light can lead us out of the darkest valleys.”

What This Means

God’s light shines through His Word, His Spirit, and His people. Like Leah’s candle, even the smallest act of faith can serve as a beacon for others lost in the dark. The Bible reminds us in John 8:12 that Jesus is the Light of the World. When we walk with Him, we will never stumble in darkness.

Darkness symbolizes fear, sin, and confusion, but God’s light represents truth, righteousness, and hope. It pierces through despair and leads us back to safety. His light in us is not only for personal comfort but also for the guidance of others who are struggling.

Think About This

Are you allowing God’s light to guide your steps?
In what ways can you be a light for someone in need today?
How does trusting in God’s promises help you navigate through life’s storms?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the light in my life. In moments of darkness, help me to trust in Your guidance. May Your Word be a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Use me to reflect Your light to others who are in need of hope and direction. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

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

December 13, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Facing God’s Challenge with Humility

Opening Verse

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

Introduction

Every challenge we face is an opportunity to either draw closer to God or let pride and self-reliance pull us away. Arrogance, unchecked, can blind us to the blessings and growth God desires for us through our struggles.

Devotional Story

There was once a craftsman who prided himself on his ability to create beautiful pottery. One day, he encountered a lump of clay that seemed impossible to mold. Frustrated, he hurled it aside, declaring it unworthy of his skill.

But a fellow potter picked up the same clay, kneading it with patience and humility. Over time, he shaped it into a vessel so exquisite that even the first craftsman marveled at its beauty. The first potter learned that arrogance had blinded him to the potential hidden in the challenge.

What This Means

God often uses challenges to reveal our need for His guidance and grace. Arrogance leads us to rely on our strength, but humility opens the door to His wisdom. As James 4:6 reminds us, “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”

Today, ask yourself, “How can I approach today’s challenges with humility?” Whether at work, in relationships, or personal goals, invite God into the process.

Think About This

How has pride hindered your spiritual growth or relationships?
What can you accomplish today by submitting your challenges to God’s hands?

Prayer

Lord, I recognize my need for You in every challenge. Forgive me for times when pride has taken control. Teach me to walk humbly, trusting that You can turn every obstacle into an opportunity for growth and glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.” – 1 Peter 5:6 (KJV)

November 18, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Obeying Even When You Don’t Want To

Opening 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)

Introduction

Obedience to God can be challenging, especially when His instructions seem difficult or inconvenient. However, choosing to obey—even when you don’t feel like it—is a testament of faith. God honors our obedience and strengthens us in the process.

Devotional Story

Anna was a woman who loved her family but struggled with a strained relationship with her sister. One morning during prayer, she felt God prompting her to forgive and reconcile. Anna resisted, arguing with herself that her sister didn’t deserve forgiveness. The thought of humbling herself and reaching out felt unbearable.

Still, the gentle nudging of the Holy Spirit wouldn’t stop. After much internal wrestling, Anna finally obeyed. She picked up the phone, apologized for her part in the conflict, and forgave her sister. To her surprise, her sister also apologized, and their relationship began to heal. Through this experience, Anna realized that her obedience wasn’t just about her—it was about God’s greater plan for restoration.

Anna’s story mirrors Jonah’s journey. When God called him to preach to the people of Nineveh, Jonah resisted because he didn’t think they deserved God’s mercy. Despite Jonah’s reluctance, God’s patience and persistence led him to obey, and through that obedience, an entire city was saved (Jonah 3:5-10).

What This Means

God’s commands often lead us to step out of our comfort zones. While obedience may feel difficult, it’s an act of trust in His wisdom and love. When we follow Him, even reluctantly, He works through us in ways we cannot imagine, and His strength carries us through.

Think About This

Are there areas in your life where you’re resisting God’s guidance?
What blessings might be waiting on the other side of your obedience?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I confess that there are times when I struggle to obey Your instructions. Please help me to trust You, even when I don’t fully understand or want to act. Give me the courage to follow where You lead, knowing that Your plans are for my good and Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.” – Isaiah 1:19 (KJV)

October 21, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God’s Grace is Enough

Opening Verse

“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
—2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV)

Introduction

Sometimes in life, we feel like we don’t have enough—whether it’s money, energy, or even faith. But God reminds us that His grace is always enough for us, even when we feel like we’re lacking something important.

Devotional Story

There was a man named Kingston who often felt like he wasn’t doing enough. He worked hard at his job, took care of his family, and even volunteered at church, but deep down he always felt like something was missing.

One Sunday, after a tough week, Kingston sat in church listening to the pastor talk about the Last Supper. The pastor explained how Jesus took a cup of wine and said, “

This is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you” (Luke 22:20, KJV).

As Kingston listened, he suddenly realized something—he didn’t need to be perfect or have everything figured out. God had already given him what he needed through Jesus.

Even though Kingston didn’t feel like he had everything, God’s grace was enough. It covered all his mistakes and shortcomings. Kingston finally understood that he didn’t need to work so hard to feel “good enough.” God’s grace was more than enough for him, even when life was tough.

What This Means

We often think we need more to be happy or to feel complete. But God’s grace is always enough. Even when we feel weak or like we’re missing something, God steps in and gives us exactly what we need.

Think About This

Have you ever felt like you didn’t have enough or that you weren’t good enough? Remember, God’s grace is always there for you, filling in all the gaps and giving you strength. Think about the times when God’s grace has carried you through difficult moments.

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for reminding me that Your grace is enough. When I feel weak or like I’m missing something, You fill me with Your strength. Help me to trust in Your grace and know that I don’t have to do it all on my own. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”
—Matthew 4:4 (KJV)

October 15, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Seasons of Change

Opening Verse:

“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1 (KJV)

Introduction:

Just like we prepare for different weather seasons—whether it’s the warmth of summer or the chill of winter—we also experience spiritual seasons that require different approaches. These seasons might be joyful, full of growth, or they might feel challenging and dry. No matter what season you’re in, God has a plan and purpose for it.

Devotional Story:

Julia had always loved the beauty of autumn. The vibrant colors of the leaves changing reminded her of the cycles of life. But this year, it felt different. She was going through a difficult time—her prayers felt empty, and her faith seemed to waver. She was in a spiritual winter. It wasn’t like the summer of last year, where everything felt alive and blessed.

During one of her quiet times, Julia opened her Bible to the book of Psalms and read,

“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5).

She realized that just as she prepared her home for winter by gathering blankets and lighting the fire, she needed to prepare her heart for spiritual winters. She began spending more time in prayer, seeking God’s presence even when He felt distant.

Over time, the cold of winter in her soul began to thaw, and the warmth of God’s love filled her heart again. Julia understood that just as seasons change, so do our spiritual walks. What matters is how we prepare and trust in God through every season.

What This Means:

Just like we adjust for each season in nature, we must adjust our spiritual lives. When we’re in a season of abundance, it’s a time to be grateful and grow. When we face hardship, it’s a time to lean on God and deepen our faith. Each season, whether high or low, has its purpose in shaping us into who God wants us to be.

Think About This:

What season do you find yourself in right now—spiritually speaking?

Are you prepared to trust God in both the “summers” and the “winters” of life?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for being with us in every season of life. Help us to recognize that each season serves a purpose in our walk with You. When times are hard, remind us to hold onto Your promises, and when times are good, help us to remember to praise You. We trust that You are in control of every moment and every season. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse:

“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” – Galatians 6:9 (KJV)

October 14, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Spiritual Amnesia

Opening Verse

“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”
Psalm 103:2 (KJV)

Introduction

In our walk with God, there are times when we forget His goodness and faithfulness in our lives. We face new challenges and quickly fall into worry, forgetting how He has delivered us time and time again. This spiritual forgetfulness, or “spiritual amnesia,” causes us to lose sight of His promises and power.

Devotional Story

Imagine a hiker trekking through a dense forest. He’s been on this path before, yet every rustle in the bushes startles him, and every shadow seems menacing. As he progresses, he forgets the times he found his way, the beautiful clearings he discovered, and the strength he felt upon reaching his destination. Instead, he’s overwhelmed by the fear of getting lost, even though the path is familiar.

In our spiritual lives, we often behave like this hiker. We face trials and act as though we have never experienced God’s deliverance. We forget the moments when He provided, healed, and guided us. This forgetting can lead to fear, anxiety, and doubt, overshadowing the truth of His constant presence and care.

What This Means

When we let ourselves forget God’s past faithfulness, we are more prone to fear and uncertainty. But the Bible reminds us to recall all His benefits and His acts of grace. By actively remembering and recounting His goodness, we strengthen our faith and trust in Him.

Think About This

What are some specific instances where God has shown His faithfulness in your life? How can you keep these memories alive to combat spiritual amnesia during challenging times?

Prayer

Dear Lord, forgive me for the times I forget Your goodness and faithfulness. Help me to remember Your many blessings and acts of mercy in my life. Strengthen my faith so that I may trust You fully, even in the face of uncertainty. Amen.

Closing Verse

“I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.”
Psalm 77:11 (KJV)