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- Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
- Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
- Sprache: Englisch
- Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2022
The Word of God is not simply a historic document that we are intended to read arbitrarily for the sake of obedience. His Word is living and active. It provides a guideline for life and answers to our many questions. Start or end your day reflecting on these Scriptures, devotions, and prayers. Even when your faith is weak, God's love is everlasting and his compassion certain. He will show unfailing kindness and give you strength as you call out to him. All of God's promises will be fulfilled and we will one day be in the presence of his absolute goodness. Our hope is rooted in Christ and assured by his faithfulness. Features: - High-grade faux leather provides durability and exquisite tactile appeal. - Heat debossing on faux leather darkens its color, giving the cover a two-tone appearance and creating indentation which shows off the intricate design and varied texture. - Metallic and matte foil finishing touches are elegantly placed to enhance certain features, capturing attention and adding class for an aesthetic appeal. - High-quality sturdy Smyth-sewn binding stitches book signatures together creating durability and allowing pages to lay flat when open. Decorative head and foot bands are also added to further complement the overall design. - Matte art high quality paper with a smooth satin touch provides long-lasting vivid coloration and durability. - A beautiful satin ribbon marker conveniently keeps your place so you can quickly pick up where you left off.
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BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC.
Savage, Minnesota, USA
Broadstreetpublishing.com
KJV Devotional
© 2022 by BroadStreet Publishing Broadstreetpublishing.com®
978-1-4245-6429-3
978-1-4245-6430-9 (ebook)
Devotional entries composed by Brenna Stockman.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.
All Scriptures are taken from the KING JAMES VERSION (KJV): KING JAMES VERSION, public domain.
Design by Chris Garborg | garborgdesign.com
Editorial services by Michelle Winger | literallyprecise.com
Printed in China.
22 23 24 25 26 27 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Contents
Introduction
January
January 1: Seek His Face
January 2: Victory in Christ
January 3: Loyal Love
January 4: Mindset of Christ
January 5: Delight in the Law
January 6: Comfort
January 7: Perfect Peace
January 8: Lacking Wisdom
January 9: True Life
January 10: Surefooted and Strong
January 11: Cry and Laugh
January 12: Strength
January 13: Patience
January 14: Gentle Spirit
January 15: Tempered Anger
January 16: Overcome the World
January 17: Fountain of Salvation
January 18: Ability
January 19: Banishing Bitterness
January 20: Defender
January 21: Be Patient
January 22: Devotion
January 23: Discipline for Life
January 24: Love
January 25: Hear my Voice
January 26: Listen and Obey
January 27: Rewards
January 28: Comfort and Strength
January 29: Commandments
January 30: Teach and Guide
January 31: Everything
February
February 1: Given Life
February 2: Faith
February 3: Gentle Answer
February 4: Rejoice
February 5: Looking Forward
February 6: Serve
February 7: Humble Honor
February 8: Harvest of Righteousness
February 9: Love in Deed
February 10: Considering God
February 11: Banner of Love
February 12: Saved by Grace
February 13: Humble Wisdom
February 14: Great Mercy
February 15: Fearless
February 16: Word Became Flesh
February 17: Cornerstone
February 18: Not Destroyed
February 19: Believe in Faith
February 20: Seek God
February 21: Things Above
February 22: Repentance
February 23: Counsel
February 24: Enduring Temptation
February 25: Passionate Love
February 26: Gentleness
February 27: Compassion and Justice
February 28: Giving Thanks
March
March 1: Faithful Service
March 2: Genuine Affection
March 3: Trustworthiness
March 4: Pressing Heavenward
March 5: Path of Life
March 6: Calloused Hearts
March 7: Walking Blameless
March 8: Quick to Listen
March 9: God Hears Us
March 10: Instruction
March 11: Righteous Showers
March 12: Thanks Always
March 13: Constructive Criticism
March 14: Love Covers
March 15: Heart Meditations
March 16: Ask and Receive
March 17: Unfathomable
March 18: Do Good
March 19: Confident Trust
March 20: Wait Patiently
March 21: Devoted to Prayer
March 22: Harmony
March 23: Victory
March 24: Love Others
March 25: Blessed
March 26: Believe
March 27: Set Apart
March 28: Spirit of Power
March 29: Stay Calm
March 30: The Little
March 31: Extravagant Grace
April
April 1: Shield of Salvation
April 2: Association
April 3: Let It Go
April 4: Contentment
April 5: My Shepherd
April 6: Weightiness
April 7: Trusted Words
April 8: Love for Life
April 9: God’s Home
April 10: Tender Mercies
April 11: Steadfast Love
April 12: Compassionate
April 13: Wise Words
April 14: Into Marvelous Light
April 15: Reliance
April 16: True Worshippers
April 17: Gently Leading
April 18: Time
April 19: Maturity
April 20: Refuge and Strength
April 21: Spirit Filled
April 22: Glory in Suffering
April 23: Good Medicine
April 24: Labor in the Lord
April 25: Live to See
April 26: Trust
April 27: Upheld
April 28: Lord of Peace
April 29: Fall Like Rain
April 30: Passion for Life
May
May 1: Clean Hands
May 2: Transformed
May 3: Listen to Advice
May 4: Working in Me
May 5: Brave and Courageous
May 6: Love Your Enemies
May 7: Persuading Leaders
May 8: Wisdom from Above
May 9: Like Jesus
May 10: Trust God
May 11: Many Waters
May 12: United in Spirit
May 13: Friendship
May 14: Restoration
May 15: Delight in the Lord
May 16: Love One Another
May 17: Never Forsaken
May 18: Promises Fulfilled
May 19: Alive and Active
May 20: My Rock
May 21: Forgiveness
May 22: No Longer Slaves
May 23: Encouragement
May 24: Nearness
May 25: Hope in the Lord
May 26: Division
May 27: Everlasting Love
May 28: Great Gain
May 29: Book of the Law
May 30: Wait Quietly
May 31: Destruction
June
June 1: God Is with You
June 2: Gifts from God
June 3: Graciousness
June 4: Prayers and Petitions
June 5: Meekness
June 6: One Master
June 7: Not Disappointed
June 8: Pioneer and Protector
June 9: Worldly Desires
June 10: Rock and Refuge
June 11: No Evil
June 12: God’s Handiwork
June 13: Walk with the Wise
June 14: Brotherly Love
June 15: Pleased with Me
June 16: Grief and Joy
June 17: Eternal Lord
June 18: Renewed
June 19: Assembling Together
June 20: Undivided
June 21: In Jesus’ Name
June 22: Unseen
June 23: Success
June 24: Rejoice in Truth
June 25: Exaltation
June 26: Good Father
June 27: Potter and Clay
June 28: Encourage Others
June 29: God Is God
June 30: Upright
July
July 1: The Heart
July 2: Living Sacrifice
July 3: Fear the Lord
July 4: Selflessness
July 5: Casting Cares
July 6: Rest
July 7: Rebuke
July 8: Opportunity for Joy
July 9: Approaching God
July 10: Sing of Strength
July 11: What Is Required
July 12: Deal with Anger
July 13: Wisdom Granted
July 14: End of All Things
July 15: Extravagant Love
July 16: Nothing on My Own
July 17: Forget Former Things
July 18: Adding
July 19: Subject to Weakness
July 20: All Generations
July 21: Worthy of the Lord
July 22: Blessed to Give
July 23: Cheerful Face
July 24: One Body
July 25: Carry Me Away
July 26: Judgment
July 27: Boast in the Lord
July 28: Scripture
July 29: Follow and Fear
July 30: Set Free
July 31: Cheerful Giver
August
August 1: Strength and Insight
August 2: Bear the Weak
August 3: Straight Paths
August 4: Any Circumstance
August 5: Joy of the Righteous
August 6: Cold Water
August 7: Get Wisdom
August 8: Sacrifice of Praise
August 9: Abide
August 10: Steady Hearts
August 11: Lovers
August 12: Work for the Lord
August 13: Timely Words
August 14: Lifted Up
August 15: Highways to Zion
August 16: True Disciples
August 17: Not Ashamed
August 18: Good Example
August 19: Hold onto Hope
August 20: Faithful Forever
August 21: Approach God
August 22: God is for Us
August 23: Guard Your Heart
August 24: Growing Up
August 25: Abundantly Merciful
August 26: Love Your Enemies
August 27: It Will Happen
August 28: Full Understanding
August 29: Gracious God
August 30: Today
August 31: Image of Christ
September
September 1: Bravery
September 2: Living Peaceably
September 3: Self-Control
September 4: Sincere and Blameless
September 5: Make Him Known
September 6: Received
September 7: Security
September 8: Father of Lights
September 9: Worthy
September 10: Take Refuge
September 11: Maker
September 12: Submit
September 13: Do Not Stray
September 14: Neighbors
September 15: Covering
September 16: Peace Given
September 17: Praise
September 18: Not Slow
September 19: Time of Need
September 20: People of Integrity
September 21: Control Your Thinking
September 22: One Voice
September 23: Friend and Brother
September 24: Stand Firm
September 25: Sing Praises
September 26: Good Measure
September 27: Unsearchable Things
September 28: Useless Arguments
September 29: Strong and Courageous
September 30: Commandments
October
October 1: Ruler Over All
October 2: Nothing Can Separate
October 3: Humility
October 4: Life in Christ
October 5: God’s Goodness
October 6: Christ’s Compassion
October 7: Search Continually
October 8: Strive for Peace
October 9: Fellowship
October 10: Unity
October 11: Plans
October 12: Freedom
October 13: Winning Back
October 14: Respect
October 15: Offering
October 16: In His Arms
October 17: Crown of Joy
October 18: Fulfill the Law
October 19: Patient Endurance
October 20: Wonderfully Made
October 21: Your Best Work
October 22: Different Gifts
October 23: Wisdom is Pleasing
October 24: Love Always Endures
October 25: Give Thanks
October 26: Share
October 27: Crown of Beauty
October 28: God’s Will
October 29: Wherever You Go
October 30: Guard Your Mouth
October 31: Weakness
November
November 1: Obedience is Better
November 2: Abound in Hope
November 3: Overlook an Offense
November 4: Fix Your Thoughts
November 5: Hard Pressed
November 6: Valuable
November 7: Teachable
November 8: Unstained
November 9: Hearts at Rest
November 10: Celebrate
November 11: Delighted
November 12: Walk Wisely
November 13: Without Walls
November 14: Providing an Answer
November 15: Hidden in My Heart
November 16: Not Abandoned
November 17: Covenant of Peace
November 18: Like Newborns
November 19: Run with Endurance
November 20: The Lord’s Delight
November 21: Whole Body
November 22: Build Up
November 23: Get Advice
November 24: No Confusion
November 25: Unfolding of Words
November 26: Golden Rule
November 27: Like a Tree
November 28: Accept Your Gift
November 29: Smile on You
November 30: Never-ending Kingdom
December
December 1: God’s Purposes
December 2: At All Times
December 3: Sharpening
December 4: Bright Lights
December 5: Protection
December 6: Numbered
December 7: Listen and Learn
December 8: Elementary Teaching
December 9: No Fear in Love
December 10: Written
December 11: Servant of All
December 12: Chosen Ones
December 13: Path of the Righteous
December 14: Outcome of Faith
December 15: Held
December 16: Condemnation
December 17: Higher Ways
December 18: Fruit of the Spirit
December 19: Faith is Evidence
December 20: Knit Me Together
December 21: Glory Revealed
December 22: Acceptance
December 23: Calm
December 24: Love Forgives
December 25: Love Your Law
December 26: Know His Voice
December 27: Turn to the Lord
December 28: Traditions
December 29: A Thousand Generations
December 30: Shouts of Joy
December 31: Home
It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
LAMENTATIONS 3:22-23
Introduction
The Word of God is not simply a historic document that we are intended to read arbitrarily for the sake of obedience. His Word is living and active. It provides a guideline for life and answers to our many questions.
Start or end your day reflecting on these Scriptures, devotions, and prayers. Even when your faith is weak, God’s love is everlasting and his compassion certain. He will show unfailing kindness and give you strength as you call out to him.
All of God’s promises will be fulfilled and we will one day be in the presence of his absolute goodness. Our hope is rooted in Christ and assured by his faithfulness.
January
He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
2 CORINTHIANS 12:9
JANUARY 1
Seek His Face
Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.
1 CHRONICLES 16:11
It can be difficult to ask for help at times, and we like to try to solve our problems on our own. That is not how the Lord created us to operate. We need his strength to persevere, and we need the support of others as well.
Rather than trying to muster up enough power to forge through life alone, we should seek the Lord’s face and ask for help in times of trouble. The Lord is gracious and generous. He gives us strength, and he also gives us each other.
Lord, I will seek your face always! When I feel overwhelmed and incapable of carrying on, I will come before you and ask for strength. Humble me to ask others for help when I need it and give me eyes to see when someone else may need my help.
Who has the Lord put in your life who has been a source of strength and encouragement for you?
JANUARY 2
Victory in Christ
The God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
ROMANS 16:20
As we continue to follow the ways of truth and godliness, the enemy also persists in his attempts to thwart us. Paul warned the people of false teachers and doctrine, which is one of the devil’s crafty ways of undermining the work of Christ and Christians. God gives us the promise, however, that these attacks will ultimately fail and our enemy will be struck down! Everything that is a lie will fall away and only what is true will remain.
Through all of life’s trials and the deception of others, we are given the promise that Jesus’ grace will be with us. All the calamity and lies of the world cannot derail us from following Christ when we have been given the gifts of grace, peace, and truth.
Thank you for your grace, Lord Jesus. Thank you for standing up for me and protecting me from the enemy’s attempts to destroy me. You are my victory and I find great peace in your promise of deliverance.
How do Paul’s words associate with God’s prophetic promise in Genesis 3:15?
JANUARY 3
Loyal Love
Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart.
PROVERBS 3:3
The Lord’s loyalty toward us and his love for us is unbreakable! That same love and loyalty that he pours on us he also places in us. Our sinful natures can at times take over, but when we focus on how God truly remade us and fashioned us in his love, we find that he is the one who helps us live out our true selves.
We must hold fast to this love, be faithful to God, and act in the way he has taught us to. Reading his Word and taking his lessons to heart will imprint his integrity and truth on us.
Your loyal love overwhelms me, Father, it is unfathomable. The enemy tries to disrupt it, but you have always remained faithful to your people even to the point of death on a cross. Thank you for this incredible gift.
How do you hold on to loyal love?
JANUARY 4
Mindset of Christ
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
PHILIPPIANS 2:5-6, 8
The attitude Christ bore was one of servanthood and sacrifice. His humble obedience is meant to serve as a model for us to replicate. If the King of the universe is willing to overlook his grandiose rights for the sake of love, and subject himself to all the mistreatment of the world, then we can also partake in serving others in the relationships God has given us.
Whatever our current calling, we know we are walking with a God who understands.
Lord, help me to embrace the relationships you have given me with the same attitude you have. Whether I am loving my spouse, parents, children, friends, neighbors, bosses, or strangers, I want to love them the way you loved me.
As you find yourself in situations that require Christlike servanthood, do you embrace them with a humble and obedient mindset as well?
JANUARY 5
Delight in the Law
Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
PSALM 1:1-2
We walk in truth and in the light, so our actions are transparent and we invite accountability. We study the Word of God and find our delight in it, for it reveals truth to us.
There is a big difference in sitting with the sinner and sitting in the way of the sinner. Jesus sat with sinners; in fact, he sought them out. We are called to love the lost and even to welcome them into our lives. We are not supposed to act the way they do or delight in their wrongdoing. We identify ourselves with Christ and mimic his ways which were always good and pure.
Oh God, your way is the only way. I will choose to walk the way you walked and ponder your words day and night. Your Scriptures are my guide and the blueprint for my life.
What delights you about the law of the Lord?
JANUARY 6
Comfort
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
MATTHEW 5:3-4
Poverty is not simply an economic hardship, it can be a spiritual one too. The phrase “blessed are the poor” has become well-known, but when Jesus first spoke it, it was outrageous! The word blessing in those days was synonymous with wealth; it was not simply a spiritual virtue.
Jesus came to turn the tables and change the world’s systems. Although the planet still suffers under the weight of sin, another law has been set in motion which we, as Christians, are devoted to above any other law. The law of Christ is love. Love God and love others. The poor in spirit will not be cast out or ostracized; in fact, the kingdom of heaven is theirs! Those who mourn will find comfort in Christ.
You are my comfort when I mourn. My tears and my suffering are not forever, but you and your kingdom are. You are my blessing and my richness, dearest Lord.
What comforts you when you mourn?
JANUARY 7
Perfect Peace
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.
ISAIAH 26:3
Not only does the Lord reward those who trust in him with peace, but that is also the obvious outcome of having a God-centered mind. This world is full of trouble and mishap. If we focus on our problems, we are bound to become anxious. Even if we focus on ourselves, our inadequacies can become our impending apprehension.
By focusing on God and truly trusting in his ability to overcome every problem, our hearts and minds can be at peace because we know we are secure in his love and his capable hands. There is no problem too big for the Lord to lead us through it.
Father, fill me with your peace. My focus is on you and I eagerly soak up your words. You have covered me with your love and given me your joy. I know you will also preserve me with your perfect peace if I put my trust in you.
How do you maintain focus on God when life is piling on problems?
JANUARY 8
Lacking Wisdom
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
JAMES 1:5
It is easy to say we want wisdom and to ask God for it, but when those difficult decisions come and we feel trapped between a rock and a hard place, what we truly rely on becomes evident. Do we trust ourselves first? Would we rather follow the systems of this world? Or is our first response to turn to God’s Word and prayer?
The Lord promises to supply what we’re lacking and give us the answers we need. He does not treat us with disdain for our lack of wisdom but invites us to partake in his.
Please help me to trust you in any and all of life’s circumstances, dear Father. May I turn to you for wisdom rather than myself or the world. You are always faithful to answer and deliver on your promises, and your generosity is limitless.
Can you think of a time when the wisdom of God was in direct conflict with the teachings of this world? How did you proceed? What was the outcome?
JANUARY 9
True Life
In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.
1 JOHN 4:9
The Bible is so clear that Jesus is God’s Son and that true life is found only through him. It says that God sent him, implying that he came here from elsewhere. Jesus was not simply born here like the rest of us; he existed before time with God and as God. They are one together and divine in nature.
Being sent also indicates that Jesus had been given a mission. He was not on a casual visit to earth, but on an assignment to demonstrate God’s love for us, his complete dominance over death and all evil realms, and to free us from every form of bondage by taking it on himself.
Oh Jesus, I am in awe of your love and compassion! You are my God and King, wholly deserving of my love and devotion. Thank you for your gifts, your sacrifice, and the life you have so lovingly given to me.
How does this verse remind you that love is more than a feeling; it demonstrates actions and change?
JANUARY 10
Surefooted and Strong
It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds’ feet, and setteth me upon my high places. He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms.
PSALM 18:32-34
When we are walking God’s way, we can be as surefooted as a deer because we will not question the integrity of our steps. Even on a high mountain, we do not need to fear because we know that the Lord is guiding us.
God has trained our hands and our feet to operate according to his will, and so whatever comes our way we know that we have the strength to face it.
Lord, you are the skip in my step! Not only am I confident because you are my diligent guide, but I experience so much joy following you. You make me surefooted and strong, capable of facing anything that tries to distract me from pursuing you.
Does walking in God’s perfect way mean you will not face trouble? Why does God give you strength and train your hands for battle?
JANUARY 11
Cry and Laugh
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.
ECCLESIASTES 3:4
Sometimes in life we experience heartache. To deny how we feel and attempt to go about our lives as if nothing has happened can be harmful. The Lord wants to lead us through the hard times not around them. He is prepared to be our Comforter, but we must first admit that we need the comfort.
There is also a time to surrender our sadness to the Lord and get back up again. There are some things we cannot simply stop feeling, but we also cannot let them keep us down. Embracing our laughing and our dancing again is not denying the sad times; it is choosing to press forward in the comfort and love of God.
I recognize that there are times to cry and times to laugh, and both are important. You yourself, dear God, have cried and laughed. Please give me courage to embark on both paths when it is time and lead me through them by your love.
Do you struggle with transitioning between sadness and feeling happy again? Have you asked God to guide you?
JANUARY 12
Strength
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
EPHESIANS 6:10
Paul did not undercut the importance of the spiritual battles we engage with. He wrote often about how we are in a war against evil and cautioned us to be alert to it. Just prior to describing a detailed metaphor of suiting up in spiritual armor with each of its specific components, he gave the most necessary piece of battleplan advice: “Be strong in the Lord.”
God is ready and willing to give us everything we need for any situation. Often, however, he will wait for us to ask so we are reminded that he is our source of strength and that we should always be turned toward him.
I am inadequate and overwhelmed without you, God. Your strength and power are what win the battles and even what carries me through each day. When I am attacked or confronted with evil, please equip me with your strength and your spiritual armor so I remember that, despite my inadequacy, I am not helpless because you are with me.
What other battleplans does the book of Ephesians offer?
JANUARY 13
Patience
He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.
PROVERBS 14:29
One of the best ways to learn is to listen. When we are hasty and quick to anger, we fail to glean any further understanding about the situation. Even if we are correct in our anger, there may be pieces of the controversy that we have not yet realized. Perhaps there are things we cannot see.
Whatever the case, we have an obligation to conduct ourselves as Christ would, and his patience in the face of injustice and controversy is resolute. To act in any other way is to demonstrate foolishness before God and others. Practicing patience will increase our understanding.
Lord, I ask for patience and greater understanding. When I feel attacked or offended, please help me to hold back my anger and pray. Reveal to me your better way and guide my mouth to speak truth into every situation.
When did Jesus display patience in the Bible?
JANUARY 14
Gentle Spirit
Let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
1 PETER 3:4
Writing specifically to Christian wives, Peter cautioned that women find their true worth and beauty in their unseen character rather than outward appearance. As women, we are daily inundated with messages about our appearance and given insurmountable standards. Rather than striving to achieve some form of impossible physique, our focus should be on cultivating a humble and quiet heart.
Peter is not commanding women to stay quiet but to possess a quiet spirit. To obtain this necessitates a level of peace and contentment. It means overcoming anxiety and strife, faithfully leaning on God in every aspect of life, and choosing to be gentle like Christ. It’s often easier to harden our hearts. In a world that praises impenetrable toughness, we need to choose to follow the example of Christ who was literally pierced for the sake of love.
Lord, it is so much easier to allow my heart to grow hard and hide behind a cover of not caring. Instead, I pray that you keep me gentle and loving; keep my heart open to weep and laugh and learn. I desire to be precious in your sight.
If not silence, what are the outward signs of a gentle and quiet spirit?
JANUARY 15
Tempered Anger
Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.
PSALM 4:4
Anger is not in itself a sin but acting malicious and impulsively is. Often the Lord is angered, but his reactions are always calculated and loving. He can see the big picture, and we cannot. Rather than act on our anger, the Bible encourages us to ponder it and opt to stay silent.
Once submitted to the Lord, we will know how to proceed, but rarely is our reaction loving when anger is newly stirring in our hearts. Taking time to contemplate the matter and pray will help us gain perspective and keep from sinning.
Help me in my anger, Lord. Keep my mouth and heart from sinning. I will bring every matter before you and ask for your wisdom, then I will follow your example in how I proceed. Fill me with love for others and may peace be the outcome I am striving for.
In the moment something angers you, how can you stay tempered and keep from sinning?
JANUARY 16
Overcome the World
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
JOHN 16:33
There is no evil in this world that Christ has not already overcome. He has accounted for everything that may happen to us and guarantees that we can overcome it through his power. We can take heart and have confidence knowing that we also have secured victory because of the Lord Jesus’ resurrection.
God has related his plan to us so we may have peace knowing that our future with him is guaranteed. Regardless of what terrible situations we face in this life, they will pass away. Christ’s kingdom is lasting and his victory is forever.
You are the Prince of Peace and you have truly overcome the world! I also experience your peace because of the victory I am promised through you. Calm my heart when it wanders or forgets your truth, Lord Jesus, and help me to remember my position in your eternal kingdom.
What trials shake your peace and cause you to doubt? How has Christ demonstrated that he has also overcome these trials?
JANUARY 17
Fountain of Salvation
With joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.
ISAIAH 12:3
The Lord refreshes the hearts of those who choose to seek him. Not only does salvation save our souls, but it constantly rejuvenates us. God is not simply interested in numbers of followers but of cultivating a loving relationship with each of us.
Our caring Father walks with us daily, listens to our prayers, intervenes on our behalf, and orchestrates everything for our good. When we are weary, we can turn to him, our Creator and Comforter, and drink from the fountain of his salvation. He did not fashion us and then leave us on our own; he is our Savior as well as our sustainer.
Father, I come before you thirsty, and you never fail to quench my thirst. Over and over, I return to your fountain because your grace never runs dry. Your love pours over me, and I am flooded with your joy.
Do you view your salvation as a one-time gift, or as the beginning of a loving and active relationship?
JANUARY 18
Ability
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God.
2 CORINTHIANS 3:5
When the Lord gives us a mission, he does not intend for us to obediently march forward in it alone, like impersonal soldiers. His invitation is to go forth with him, working together, and growing more and more in love with each other. There is no work the Lord has called us to that he will not also equip us for.
God trains us and prepares us when we cultivate an active relationship with him. We are incapable of living a holy life without him, so it is important that we stay aware of our need for him and turn to him in the good times and the bad.
My ability comes from you, Lord God. You train me, teach me, and raise me up. Like a loving Father, you are always nearby, imparting wisdom and showing me the way. Thank you for the work you have given me to do and the purpose you have brought to my life.
What abilities has the Lord given you?
JANUARY 19
Banishing Bitterness
Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.
HEBREWS 12:15
We carry more of a mantle than to simply look out for our own wellbeing, but also for the welfare of others. Peace and holiness are often achieved in our interactions with others, rather than when we are simply undisturbed.
We cannot tolerate bitterness remaining in our bodies and wreaking havoc in our lives. Unforgiveness is in direct dissention of God, so how can we presume to have his protection and blessing if we live contrary to his commands?
Lift my face, Lord, so I recognize the plights others around me are facing, rather than becoming too engrossed in my own. As part of a body of believers, direct me to care for others and to truly be your hands and feet on the earth.
How can you diligently keep bitterness out of your life?
JANUARY 20
Defender
The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.
PSALM 9:9-10
In this cruel world, those who suffer have somewhere to turn. When injustice seems to be all around us, God defends the oppressed. This world does not offer lasting hope, but the Lord extends his hand to whoever needs it, pulling them out of the mud and reestablishing them on his unshakable truth.
If we run to God, he guarantees us a place of refuge and rest, and he will never abandon his children.
Father, my home is with you. It is you who sets the captives free, heals the broken, and defends the weak. I can bring all my suffering and mistreatment to you because you care. My suffering may not end yet, but I know that you are standing with me, giving me the strength to endure, and creating something beautiful out of my brokenness.
What do you need to be defended against? Do you trust the Lord to protect you?
JANUARY 21
Be Patient
With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love.
EPHESIANS 4:2
Although we serve one God and share one faith, we are each created uniquely. Rather than reject and reprove the faults of others, we should use our strengths to help others in their weaknesses. In turn, other believers may help us when we are struggling.
The trademarks of a true Christian are clearly communicated here. We are to be humble, gentle, patient, and loving. Over and over Christ demonstrated these characteristics, even when it was not fair, convenient, or reciprocated. As his followers, we are called to live the same way. This is how the world will recognize who Christ really is.
Lord Jesus, you chose to live humbly, yet your life impacted the entire world and still does to this day. With your testimony as my example, please help me to walk as you walked. I will choose the humble path as well.
What is the difference between making allowances for each other’s faults and endorsing sin?
JANUARY 22
Devotion
They continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
ACTS 2:42
The devil has an agenda and so does the Lord. The one is bent on destruction while the other is devoted to loving us. The choice to do nothing is to simply accept the systems of this world with all its self-gratification and spiritual numbness. The early believers understood that there was a war being waged for their souls, so they diligently took to heart the apostles’ teaching and fellowship with other believers.
We were designed for community because we are stronger together. By fellowshipping, sharing communion, and praying together, we invite others to have an active role in our lives. We enjoy our time together, but we also confess our sins and our weaknesses. We bear each other’s burdens and stay devoted through the good times and bad.
Thank you for establishing a family of believers who I can turn to in times of trouble. Sometimes other people can be very difficult, so please help me humble my heart to walk in service to you.
Who have you opened your spiritual life to? Who knows your struggles and your successes?
JANUARY 23
Discipline for Life
He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.
PROVERBS 10:17
Rarely do our decisions affect us alone. Sin and love both have a way of multiplying. The Lord disciplines those he loves because he cares about our betterment. If we are humble enough to receive his loving discipline and grow from it, we can use our spiritual maturity and our learned lessons as a gift to others. Having a faith that we can share is an incredible thing!
If we live unwilling to learn or yield, it can be to our detriment and the detriment of others. This is especially true with leaders in the church, teachers, and parents.
Convict me of your holiness, dear God, and keep my heart from growing hard. I want to hear your voice and respond. Thank you for not allowing me to wander alone but correcting me and keeping me safely on your straight and narrow path.
Has the Lord corrected or disciplined you lately? How did you respond? Did it make you feel loved?
JANUARY 24
Love
Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up.
1 CORINTHIANS 13:4
The love Paul is describing in this eloquent, poetic, well-known passage is agape love. It is different than brotherly love (phileo) or romantic love (eros). Agape love is godly love. Paul took great care in accurately delving into the attributes of agape love, and describing it in detail to the self-centered Corinthians.
Agape love is not a mere feeling but an action-oriented lifestyle that we choose when we make the decision to follow God. Love means exercising patience and kindness and resisting jealousy and pride.
Thank you for your patient and kind agape love toward me, dear Father! Thank you for filling me with that same love and sending me out as your beloved child to a lost and loveless world. Rather than bragging about what I have or being jealous of what I don’t, help me to recognize the incredible gift that love is. I want to joyfully share it with everyone.
How can you demonstrate agape love to those closest to you today? Name some specific ways.
JANUARY 25
Hear my Voice
My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.
PSALM 5:3
There is not a single day when the Lord is not active in your life and attentive to your voice. He is constantly guiding and guarding, fulfilling your needs, and answering your questions. At times, it may seem like he is silent or that your needs are great, but the Lord does not view matters the same way we do.
God is answering the deeper questions and fulfilling our greater needs. Every morning, we can be assured that he hears our every prayer and will go through the day with us.
Lord, thank you for hearing my voice and responding. Sometimes you respond in a way I do not like or did not expect, but that is because I see things temporarily from a fixed point in time. You have a much greater plan and perspective. Please help me to be patient and trust you fully.
In the mornings when you are thinking about the day ahead, what do you ask God for?
JANUARY 26
Listen and Obey
He said, Yea rather, Blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.
LUKE 11:28
How can we call Jesus our king if we do not obey what he says? What good is it to know the Scriptures if we do not follow their teachings? Out of our great love for Jesus and our devotion to him, we must study the Word of God. We should take it to heart and live our lives based on its message.
If anyone has the answers and knows the truth, yet they choose to live otherwise, how can their lives be blessed? They have regarded their own wisdom as superior to God’s. Those who listen to the Word of God and also obey it will experience God’s blessings because they are choosing the wiser path.
Lord, incline my ears to your truth, and give me understanding as I study your Word. As I go forward through life, I pray that you help me be obedient to the instructions I have received. May I walk in love toward you and others.
What is an example of being obedient to God’s Word?
JANUARY 27
Rewards
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.
JEREMIAH 17:10
We cannot hide our true intentions or heart motives from God, for he made us and knows us each intimately. He understands us completely and loves us immeasurably! He wants to give good gifts to his children, to reward us for our obedience, and to praise our good deeds.
Like a proud Father, God searches our hearts and minds, and he delights in our faith. Even when we feel like our deeds may be small or insignificant, our heavenly Father finds pleasure in them.
It is bewildering to me, Father, that you find pleasure in me. I am so unworthy of your love, yet you lavishly adore me and reward even my most feeble attempts. You encourage me and pick me up when I fall. Even when my faith seems weak, you take it and make something beautiful out of it. Please, search my heart and my mind, and continue to find pleasure in me.
How have you sought to please the Lord lately?
JANUARY 28
Comfort and Strength
Our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.
2 THESSALONIANS 2:16-17
After being confused about when the Lord Jesus would return, and after facing extreme persecution, the Thessalonians needed the Lord’s refreshing hope, comfort, and strength. By God’s grace, they were able to face every obstacle with confidence and strength. In every action and every word, they were able to choose to do good. Nothing was too much for them because God had demonstrated his love to them.
We also can face all things and cling to what is good. Whenever we feel hopeless, tired, weak, or confused, we can find all the refreshment we need in Christ Jesus. He is our hope and our strength, our eternal comfort, and perfect lover.
Dearest Lord Jesus, thank you for your comfort and strength. There is nothing that can steal me away from you or overpower me because you are with me and your grace is sufficient. I cling to you today and every day.
How can you find comfort in uncomfortable times?
JANUARY 29
Commandments
These words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
DEUTERONOMY 6:6-7
It is one thing to understand the commandments of God, and quite another to craft a life upon them. They are to be the compass of our lives, not a mere plaque on the wall. Others should be well aware of the commandments because of the impression we leave on them. The way we live is a testimony to what we believe, and others see us very clearly.
These commandments should be in our conversations at home and in how we do business out of the home. The way we start our days and the way we end our days should be as obedient children of a God who cares enough to give us his commandments.
Thank you for your commandments, God. You have given me guidelines to keep me on the road that leads to life and to show me how to have the most potential for my life. I love your Word and I will live by it daily.
How do God’s commandments define you?
JANUARY 30
Teach and Guide
Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. Remember, O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old.
PSALM 25:4-6
