Singing Into Battle

Devotions for Courageous
Christians

   

January
Devotions

Click on date below
to read the devotion for that day:

1 It is Good

Bible Reading: Genesis 1:1-31; 1 Timothy 4:4-5.

During creation, God paused each day to declare, "It is good!" He was pleased and delighted with what He had done. In our daily lives, we are bombarded with much that is negative: wars and rumors of wars, hate, murder, crime, terror - the list goes on and on. We have a growing sense of despair and failure, because we are focused on the small portion of our lives that is negative. Instead, we need to survey what we have done, and look for the positive. We need to focus on what is good.

Moment of Meditation: Small successes add up to big victories.

A Talk with Jesus: Dear Jesus, help me to focus on the many blessings you heap upon me daily. And let me rejoice, as You do, in the good things I accomplish for Your Kingdom. Amen.

For Further Study: Philippians 4:8; 2 Peter 3:1-5,17-18.

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2 City Dwellers

Bible Reading: Genesis 2:8-15; 11:1-4; Psalm 33:6-9; 118:24.

Statistics tell us that most of the world's population now lives in cities, in man-made boxes, breathing air pollution, living under the stress of too many people in too little space. It is interesting that the creator of cities is man, not God. God made man to live in a garden. There is something about nature that can speak to a weary soul. There is magnificence about even a humble weed. Take a walk in the woods, or go to the beach, or take a drive in the country, and be soothed by what God has made.

Moment of Meditation: The soul stayed on God is a well-watered garden.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, soothe me with Your spirit of peace as I rejoice in what Your hands have made. Amen.

For Further Study: Isaiah 40:28,31; 58:11; Matthew 11:28.

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3 Co-Creators

Bible Reading: Genesis 1:27; Ephesians 2:10; 4:22-24; Colossians 3:9-10.

I often have people tell me: "I can't draw. I'm not creative. I'm no good at creative things." Being creative doesn't depend on whether you can draw a straight line or not. Our Father, the Creator, made us in His image. God intended for us to be creators, too. You might find a new solution for a domestic problem, or create a new way to deal with poverty. The world is crying for the creative solutions that you can bring to its problems. Get to know the Creator, and become a co-creator with Him.

Moment of Meditation: The Creator of the universe can show you how to solve any problem He places in your hands.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, free me from bondage to fears of inadequacy so that I can be a co-creator with You. Amen.

For Further Study: Exodus 28:15; 31:1-11; Proverbs 8:12,22-31; 2 Corinthians 5:17.

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4 Rulers R Us

Bible Reading: Genesis 1:26-28; Psalm 8:4-8.

When God created man in His image, He made us to be rulers just like He is. He said for us to take dominion over all the earth. Why do so many of us live in defeat and despair, burdened down and bound by our problems, when God created us to rule over them? We are not reading His word or listening to His voice. We are letting other voices draw us into discouragement and bondage. We need to let Him rule our hearts, and then we will rule over our circumstances.

Moment of Meditation: Problems should not rule the life of a Christian; he should reign over them all in Christ Jesus.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, I take dominion over what you have given me in Your Name. Amen.

For Further Study: Psalms 119:133, 2 Timothy 2:12; Revelation 22:3-5.

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5 The Day of Rest

Bible Reading: Genesis 2:2-3; Psalm 62:1,5; 91:1; Matthew 11:28;

We are told in the Bible that God never slumbers or sleeps, nor does He grow weary. Why then, did He find it necessary to rest on the seventh day after the work of creating that He had done? I believe He did it as an example to us. We are not omnipotent. We grow weary and need rest. We also need time to delight in what we have accomplished during the week. But most importantly, we need time to come aside and commune with God. If you are not resting one day a week, you are missing an essential blessing.

Moment of Meditation: Both work and rest are essential to a successful Christian walk.

A Talk with Jesus: Jesus, when I am weary, I rest in You. I delight in what You have accomplished through me. I worship You. Amen.

For Further Study: Exodus 33:14; Joshua 21:44; 1 Kings 5:4; Isaiah 11:10; 30:15; 32:18; Jeremiah 6:16; Mark 2:27.

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6 Caring Rulers

Bible Reading: Genesis 2:15; Jeremiah 12:10-11; 1 Thessalonians 2:6b-9.

When God told us to take dominion over the earth, He didn't mean for us to destroy the environment like we have. He meant for us to care for the earth as a gardener would a prize garden of priceless roses. He certainly is displeased with the poisons we are daily flooding over this planet. He is also displeased when we flood the world with the venom of hatred, prejudice, scorn, backbiting, gossip, and unkindness. We must be filled with the love of Jesus Christ to become the caring rulers God intends for us to be.

Moment of Meditation: The successful gardener has a gentle touch.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, cleanse me of hatred and unkindness. Fill me with compassion and understanding, so that I can become the caring ruler you intend for me to be. Amen.

For Further Study: Deuteronomy 11:11-12; Psalm 65:9; Proverbs 12:10-11; 29:7; Isaiah 42:3; Matthew 12:15-21; John 21:16; Ephesians 5:28-29; 1 Thessalonians 2:6-9; 1 Timothy 3:2-5; 1 Peter 5:2-3.

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7 A Suitable Helper

Bible Reading: Genesis 2:19-20; Matthew 9:36; 1 Corinthians 12:28.

The Bible says that God made Adam first, and then made Eve from his rib, to be a suitable helper for him. This is an unpopular concept today, for many people, men and women, do not want to be helpers, they want to be in charge. They want to be Top Dog, the Big Cheese. It's hard to be a helper, to submerge your desire for acclaim under the desire to lift someone else up. Jesus stepped down from His throne to help us. Maybe you would be a lot happier if you stepped down from your throne and became a helper, too.

Moment of Meditation: You will not get to Heaven by using others as stepping stones. You have to step down and help lift them up.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, I want to be a helper in Your Kingdom. Amen.

For Further Study: Psalm 10:12,14; Ezekiel 28:2; Acts 9:36; Ephesians 4:29; 1 Timothy 5:10; Hebrews 13:6; Revelation 3:21.

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8 Marriage

Bible Reading: Genesis 2:19-20; Ecclesiastes 4:9-11; 1 Corinthians 7:12-14,16.

Marriage can be a pain. Oh, it's nice the first few years when the glow of the honeymoon still shines. But after that, it ain't easy. Modern men and women have decided that adultery or divorce or cohabitation is a better alternative. But God made marriage. The value of marriage is commitment. Even in a bad marriage, true commitment makes you more like Christ. And in a good marriage, commitment is a cure for the essential loneliness of mankind. Adam could not find companionship with any of the animals, he needed a wife.

Moment of Meditation: The marriage relationship is the closest thing on this earth to the relationship between Christ and His Church.

A Talk with Jesus: (If you are married, pray) Lord sanctify my commitment to my spouse. Amen. (If unmarried, pray this prayer for a loved one)

For Further Study: Deuteronomy 24:5; 1 Kings 8:61; 2 Chronicles 16:9a; Romans 2:22; 13:9-10; 1 Timothy 4:1-3; 1 Peter 4:19.

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9 Marriage, II

Bible Reading: Genesis 2:22-25; Psalm 51:17; Matthew 19:4-5; Romans 12:1.

When Adam first saw Eve, he said "Wow!" Not really, he actually said, "This is now bone of my bones, flesh of my flesh". Marriage is the only human institution where 1 plus 1 equals 1. In order for this equation to work, both parties involved must be willing to subtract (or sacrifice) things in their lives. Oneness in marriage takes work. It is not a Hollywood "happily ever after" that just happens because bells ring when you kiss. If you are not willing to work at oneness, stay single.

Moment of Meditation: Achieving oneness in marriage grows out of physical, emotional and spiritual agreement.

A Talk with Jesus: (If married, pray) Lord, lead me into oneness with my mate and with You. Amen. (If unmarried, pray) Lord, lead me into oneness with You. Amen.

For Further Study: Romans 6:5; Ephesians 5:28-32; Philippians 2:1-2; Colossians 2:2-3; 3:14.

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10 The Crafty Serpent

Bible Reading: Genesis 3:1-5; Matthew 24:4-5,10-11,24; 2 Corinthians 11:3; 1 Peter 2:21-22.

In the book of Genesis, we are told that the serpent was sneakier than any of the other wild animals. The first thing he told Eve was that "God doesn't really mean what He says". The serpent is still around today, still trying to make us believe that God doesn't know what He's talking about. Eve believed the serpent, and we are all suffering because of her mistake. When the serpent starts whispering in your ear, tell him to "shut up!" God knows what He's talking about. Listen to God.

Moment of Meditation: The devil's most dynamic device against us is deceit, and his strongest strategy is subterfuge.

A Talk with Jesus: Jesus, give me spiritual discernment concerning the devil's devices against my life. Amen.

For Further Study: Proverbs 12:2; Acts 13:10; Mark 13:5-6,22; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; 1 Peter 3:10; Revelation 13:13-15; 20:8; 21:27.

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11 New Age/Old Lies

Bible Reading: Genesis 3:4-5; Job 40:1,9-14; Matthew 6:24; Acts 2:21; 4:12; 2 Corinthians 1:9.

The religious alternatives available in the modern world are varied and bewildering. How do you know which is true? Many beliefs are promoted as being "New Age", the very best and latest discoveries in the metaphysical realm.

In reality, however, New Age beliefs are only old lies packaged for today's world. Way back in Eden, Satan told Adam and Eve, "You will be like God". Don't you believe his lie. You have no divine power. You cannot save yourself. Jesus Christ is the ONLY way to salvation.

Moment of Meditation: Practicing New Age meditation on your "god consciousness" brings spiritual paralysis.

A Talk with Jesus: Jesus, I know that I cannot save myself. I thank You and You alone for my salvation. Amen.

For Further Study: Deuteronomy 3:24; 1 Chronicles 17:20; Isaiah 44:6-7; Jeremiah 10:10-11; Micah 7:18; Acts 19:26; Romans 10:13; Philippians 2:9-11.

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12 Temptation

Bible Reading: Genesis 3:6-7; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Hebrews 4:15; 2:18.

When Eve looked at the forbidden tree in the garden, it was "pleasing to the eye". The fruit looked good to eat, and she wanted to gain the wisdom that the serpent promised her it would bring. Temptation is always pretty. The devil is not going to show you the ugly consequences of disobeying God. He is always going to concentrate on what looks good or feels good. When you yield to sin, it will open your eyes to its' ugliness. But God can open you eyes before you fall, if you will ask Him.

Moment of Meditation: Anticipation of a desired things is often more exciting than its' fulfillment, particularly when the thing desired is sinful.

A Talk with Jesus: Jesus, open my eyes to the deception of temptation. Amen.

For Further Study: Matthew 4:1-11; Philippians 1:9-11; 1 Corinthians 1:8-9; Hebrews 5:14; 2 Peter 2:7-9.

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13 The Curse of Sin

Bible Reading: Genesis 3:14-19; James 1:15.

After Adam and Eve sinned, they brought curses down upon themselves, the earth and all humankind. Although God yet loved them, and made a way for them to be redeemed, they still had to suffer the consequences for their sins. Make no mistake, sin always carries a curse with it. You might think that what you want to do won't hurt anyone else. Oh, but it will. Sin will destroy you and everyone you touch. Even when you repent, sin's consequences can poison your life. Sin is deadly, avoid it at all cost!

Moment of Meditation: Although sin may look attractive on the outside, the inside is full of deadly venom, which will destroy you and the ones you love.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, keep me safe from sin's curse. Hide me in Your love. Amen.

For Further Study: Genesis 4:11; Numbers 32:23; Deuteronomy 11:26-28; Psalm 38:17-18; Proverbs 3:33; Isaiah 64:5-7; Malachi 2:2; Mark 9:43-47; Romans 6:23; 1 John 3:6-10.

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14 Controlling Anger

Bible Reading: Genesis 4:1-8; Proverbs 29:11,22; 30:33; James 1:19-20.

A lot of movies today advise to let your anger take control. Take revenge, let yourself hate, let it all hang out. Be a "Terminator". The first murder, which involved brothers and jealousy, was a direct result of anger. Cain's offering did not please God. Abel's did. Cain became enraged, and let his anger consume him. Anger is a powerful emotion. It must be controlled. Having a "temper" is nothing to be proud of. If you don't learn to control your anger, it will destroy you.

Moment of Meditation: The road called Anger is a direct route to hatred and murder.

A Talk with Jesus: Jesus, check my anger with Your Spirit of Peace. Amen.

For Further Study: Proverbs 15:1; 21:23; 22:24-25; Matthew 5:22; 1 Corinthians 13:4-5; Ephesians 4:26-27.

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15 True Humility

Bible Reading: Numbers 12:3; 34:10-12; Matthew 11:29; 21:12-13; 23:11-12.

Some people have the misguided notion that true humility means that a Christian must be a wimp, a limp doormat, a spineless jellyfish. But it takes backbone, intestinal fortitude, guts, and a whole lot more to withstand the evil present in this world today. True biblical humility involves having your strength under the control of the master, Jesus Christ. Like a magnificent racehorse, whose strength is under the control of the jockey, a Christian is not a wimp at all, but a thoroughbred whose strength is directed by Christ.

Moment of Meditation: The meek aren't weak.

A Talk with Jesus: Jesus, I offer my strengths to You for discipline. Amen.

For Further Study: Psalm 25:9; 149:4; Proverbs 3:34; 11:2; 22:4; Zephaniah 2:3; Ephesians 4:2; James 3:13; 1 Peter 5:5-6.

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16 Discouraging Others

Bible Reading: Numbers 32:5-15; Hebrews 3:12-14.

When the tribes of Reuben and Gad refused to go across the Jordan with the rest of Israel, Moses became angry and asked, "Are you trying to discourage the rest of the people from going across to the land the Lord has given them?"

This is exactly what the 10 spies did to God's people after the original Exodus from Egypt, and they wandered for 40 years in the wilderness and died there.

If we fearfully settle for less than God's best for us, we not only lose out for ourselves, but we may be discouraging others from obtaining what God has for them as well. On the other hand, if we valiantly press forward for God's best, then we will encourage those around us to do the same.

Moment of Meditation: "Discourage" means to rob courage from someone. "Encourage" means to build up courage and valor in those around you.

A Talk with Jesus: Jesus, encourage my heart that I might encourage others. Amen.

For Further Study: Exodus 6:6-9; Deuteronomy 1:20-37; 31:7-8; Joshua 1:9; 8:1; 10:25; Job 4:5; Isaiah 42:1,4.

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17 Drive Them Out

Bible Reading: Numbers 33:51-52; Psalm 106:34-43; Galatians 5:13-24; 1 Peter 2:1.

God's command to Moses concerning the inhabitants of Canaan seems harsh and cruel today: "You must drive out all the people living there." Why was God so harsh and unyielding? Because those people were idol worshippers, practicing all manner of shameless immorality, and encouraging others to do so as well.

In our lives, we are reluctant to take dominion over every area for Christ. We tend to go easy on the "little sins" - our bad habits, negative personality traits, and social compromises. But if we want to wholeheartedly serve God, we must drive them all out.

Moment of Meditation: The "little" sins that we tolerate are like quietly growing cancers.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, examine my life and expose everything not pleasing to You. Drive out all of the little sins that keep me from wholeheartedly serving You. Amen.

For Further Study: Psalm 39:17; 66:18; 119:33; Proverbs 10:17-20; 17:19-20; Romans 7:5,15-25; 8:5-8,13; Galatians 6:8; 1 Peter 2:11.

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18 New Age Philosophy

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 18:9-13; Leviticus 19:26,31.

There is great interest today in the esoteric philosophies collectively known as the New Age Movement - transchanneling, ESP, visualization, out-of-the-body experiences, and so forth. There is really nothing new about these practices, except perhaps new names for them. They are the same occult practices that God forbade Israel to engage in long ago: divination, sorcery, interpreting of omens, witchcraft, casting of spells, magic arts, mediums or spiritism. These practices are expressly forbidden by the Bible and are detestable to the Lord. They will not go unpunished. The so-called New Age Movement will not move you into new heights of mental or spiritual prowess, but into the wrath and fury of God.

Moment of Meditation: There is no "hidden wisdom" as the New Age adherents claim, for God has openly revealed, to those who trust in Him, the mysteries of His wisdom in our Lord, Christ Jesus.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, guard my heart from the old seductions of Satan that are now called new. Amen.

For Further Study: Leviticus 20:6,27; Job 11:7-9; Isaiah 45:3; Ezekiel 13:6-9,20-23; Daniel 2:27-30; 4:7,9,18; Ephesians 3:3-9; 6:19; Colossians 1:25-27; 2:2-3; Revelation 21:8; 22:15.

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19 Goliath's Derision

Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 17:42-44; 1 Peter 4:14; 1 John 4:4.

When Goliath saw God's little champion approach, he despised David, insulted that a mere boy would dare defy him. Did David think that mighty Goliath was a puppy dog that he could chase away with a stick? When we go out to fight God's battles, armed only with His Word, not only the devil, but the world will meet us with laughter and scorn: "You do not look like mighty warriors!"

But the enemy's derision at our supposed helplessness does not change the fact that when we obey God's Word, in Jesus' Name we have the backing of all the power of heaven. Our enemy's apparent strength crumbles when met with God's power, and we are triumphant in Christ Jesus.

Moment of Meditation: All Heaven cheers for God's warriors, no matter how puny they may otherwise seem.

A Talk with Jesus: Jesus, I thank You that I am never helpless, no matter what my circumstances are, as long as I obey Your Word. Amen.

For Further Study: 2 Chronicles 20:15; 32:7-8; Psalm 24:8; 989:13; Proverbs 24:5; Isaiah 63:12; Zechariah 4:6; Luke 10:19; 2 Corinthians 13:4; Ephesians 3:16; 2 Peter 1:3.

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20 Distressed Discontented Debtors

Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 22:1-2; 2 Samuel 24:9; Mark 1:16-20; 2:14.

David's first army of 400 men, who gathered around him at the cave of Adullam when he was fleeing from Saul's wrath, must have been a ragtag bunch indeed! "All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their leader." This was not a likely retinue for a king to have, was it? But out of this core group of distressed discontented debtors, he was to form an impressive army.

Jesus' first followers were not impressive either: some smelly fishermen, a few wide-eyed rebels, a hated tax collector, and whoever else cared to tag along. But out of this motley assortment, Jesus formed the mighty army of the Church and the world has never been the same.

Are you in distress, in debt, or discontented? Then you are the perfect choice for a soldier in Jesus' army. When you submit to the Commander-In-Chief of the universe, you will become a mighty warrior for God.

Moment of Meditation: Those things which cause you discontent can lead you to contentment when you offer them to Jesus.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, take my restless spirit and replace it with Your peace; take my distress and soothe me with Your joy; and pay my debts out of the bounty of Your love.

For Further Study: John 1:35-50

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21 Census

Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 24:1-17; Psalm 44:6-7.

We take census taking for granted in America, and every 10 years we expect a knock on our door. But when King David made a census of the fighting men, the Lord punished him.

Why would it be wrong to take a census of the fighting men? David found that he had 800,000 men in Israel and in Judah there were 500,000. Now when David planned a war, he would automatically calculate his strength against his enemy's strength, trusting in the number of men he had, rather than in the strength of the Lord to win the victory.

When we are fighting our battles do we take a census of our strengths, or do we depend on the Lord for victory?

Moment of Meditation: Our strengths in themselves are no match for the devices of the devil.

A Talk with Jesus: Jesus, I depend upon You, and You alone, to bring me victory over all of the enemy's attacks in my life.

For Further Study: Ephesians 6:10-18

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22 The Cost of Sacrifice

Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 24:18-24 (NIV); Mark 10:17, 21-22.

King David went to buy the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite so that he could he could build an altar to the Lord to stop the plague. Araunah offered to give the king not only the threshing floor, but the oxen and the wood as well. David replied, "No, I insist on paying for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing."

Many people today will serve the Lord gladly if it costs them nothing. But the very word sacrifice implies that a price of some kind is paid. God gave us all that He had, His very life, for you. What price are you willing to pay to serve the Lord?

Moment of Meditation: What will the things that you value highly in this life be worth in eternity?

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, help me to be willing to sacrifice everything to follow you.

For Further Study: Romans 12:1-2; Hebrews 13:15-16.

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23 True Strength

Bible Reading: 2 Chronicles 11:11-12, 16-17; 12:1; 1 Corinthians 1:25.

Rehoboam, son of Solomon, served God only three years after he succeeded his father as king. After he established his kingdom and strengthened himself, he forsook the Lord, and all Israel followed him.

How typical! We seek the Lord when we are weak and afraid, but when we perceive ourselves to be strong and established, we don't need God any more. And we encourage others who look to us for guidance to forsake Him as well.

If you have reached some pinnacle of success in life, beware that you don't forsake the Lord. Now matter how secure and strong you feel, your soul's enemy is always stronger. If you forsake the Lord, you will ultimately fail.

Moment of Meditation: God's weakness is stronger that man's greatest strength.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, let us never forget you, no matter what our accomplishments are.

For Further Study: Mark 8:31-37; Colossians 3:1-3.

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24 A Seeking Heart

Bible Reading: 2 Chronicles 12:13b-14; Psalm 119:2,10.

Although King Solomon was very wise, he did not make use of that wisdom in choosing his wives. One of them was Naamah, the Ammonite, mother of Rehoboam.

The Bible says that Rehoboam, "did evil because he had not set his heart on seeking the Lord". No wonder! With a pagan mother and a busy father, Rehoboam did not have the kind of upbringing that would direct him to seek the Lord. Although he made a big show of serving God for three years, his heart was not in it, and eventually his true beliefs became evident.

Becoming a Christian and serving God is not an accident. An uncommitted heart is a wayward heart. You must purpose in your heart to seek God's will.

Moment of Meditation: Know your heart.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, help me always to have a seeking heart, a committed heart, a heart set on doing Your will.

For Further Study: Matthew 7:7-8; Jeremiah 11-14..

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25 Strength for Weakness

Bible Reading: 2 Chronicles 19:3; 20:2-4; 12-13, 24; 2 Corinthians 12:10.

Jehoshaphat was a good king in Judah and he "set his heart upon seeking the Lord". Moab and Ammon decided to make war on Judah and mustered a vast army. Jehoshaphat was alarmed and "resolved to inquire of the Lord". All of the men, women, and children of Judah stood before the Lord, and Jehoshaphat prayed: "Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." Jehoshaphat and all of Judah were miraculously saved because they turned to God for help. They confessed their inadequacy to God, but kept their faith in His power to deliver them.

Today satan has mustered a vast demonic army against us and we are no match for it. But when we confess our weaknesses to God and praise Him, He will deliver us by His mighty arm.

Moment of Meditation: Our weaknesses will not defeat us if we convert them to strengths by submitting them to the Lord Jesus Christ.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, let me look to You in the midst of my trouble, take courage, and trust in You for deliverance.

 

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26 God's Battle

Bible Reading: 2 Chronicles 20:14-17; 2 Samuel 17:47.

When threatened by the vast army of Moab, Ammon, and Mt. Sear, Jehoshaphat and his people sought the face of the Lord. The Lord spoke through the prophet Jahaziel, saying: "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's."

How many times do we try to fight God's battles for Him? And how many times do we fail? Our human strength is pitifully inadequate to defeat the foes that are arrayed against us. And they know it! That is why the devil does everything in his power to get our eyes off of God. Then he knows he can defeat us.

But if we look to God and His word for victory, we will never be disappointed! Admit your weakness and let God fight your battles for you!

Moment of Meditation: What we see as major battles are mere skirmishes in the eyes of God, easily won by His power.

A Talk with Jesus: Dear Jesus, bring victory into my life today.

 

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27 Singing into Battle

Bible Reading: 2 Chronicles 20:20-23; Ephesians 5:19.

When King Jehoshaphat and his army went out in the power of the Lord against their seemingly invincible foes, he appointed men to lead the army singing the praises of God. What a ridiculous idea! Could you imagine our Marine Corps singing "Praise ye the Lord, Hallelujah!" before battle?

Yet the Lord honored their faith in Him, and they didn't have to lift a spear. Their enemies destroyed each other before Judah even entered the battle!

When your enemy seems too strong for you, begin to sing and praise the Lord, and watch God do your fighting for you!

Moment of Meditation: Praising God shows we are thankful for all of His blessings, and trust Him to take care of us.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, I praise you for the splendors of your holiness and might. Give me a thankful, trusting spirit. Amen.

 

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28 True Security

Bible Reading: Job 31:24-25,28; Proverbs 3:25-26.

Suddenly, some executives and other long-term employees are finding themselves out of a job due to corporate "down-sizing". They no longer have any job security, and are facing terrible financial hardship.

The only security that anyone truly has is in God. His promises have been proven true for thousands of years. We can trust in them always. Don't put your confidence in your job or any other man-made thing. For true security, trust in God through the Lord Jesus Christ.

Moment of Meditation: The Kingdom of God is ever-expanding as souls put their confidence in Jesus Christ.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, as I examine my life, show me what I am truly placing my confidence in. Thank you that I am eternally secure in You. Amen.

For Further Study: Psalm 15:5,9; Psalm 112:8; Proverbs 14:26; Jeremiah 7:17; Philippians 3:3, Hebrews 10:35; 1 John 5:14.

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29 The Underside of God's Love

Bible Reading: Psalm 23:4-6; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10.

When difficulties come, it is hard sometimes to believe God cares for us, isn't it? But if He truly loves us as He says He does, there must be a good reason for even the severest trial. Peter Marshall said, "It must be the underside of love, for God is a God of love. When you are in the sunshine you may believe it. But when you are in the shadow, you must believe it, for you have nothing else."

Are you experiencing the "underside of God's love"? Take cheer, because His promises are true. And soon you will surely step from shadow into sunshine. You can be confident of God's love and hope in Him.

Moment of Meditation: God's love is not dimmed by even the deepest shadow that touches our lives.

A Talk with Jesus: Jesus, light my path through the darkness of this trial as I focus my trust in You. Amen.

For Further Study: 1 Thessalonians 3:3; 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4; James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:6-8; 2 Peter 2:9.

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30 Eating Out

Bible Reading: Psalm 23:5; Isaiah 55:1-2; Luke 22:29-30.

One of America's favorite pastimes is "eating out". Restaurants spring up like weeds at every corner. The problem is that is takes money to "eat out".

Did you know there is a delicious feast waiting for us that doesn't cost any money? God has "prepared a feast for us" and invites us to "come and dine", free of charge. Are you famished?

No one ever goes away hungry from the Father's table!

Moment of Meditation: We try to satisfy our spiritual hunger with material things, and we remain hungry.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, thank You for the feast that You have prepared for my heart in Your Word. Amen.

For Further Study: Proverbs 15:15-17; 17:1; Psalm 22:26; 34:8; 63:5; Jeremiah 31:14; Luke 12:22-31; Revelation 2:7; 3:20.

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31 The Meaning of Salvation

Bible Reading: Psalm 69:29; Isaiah 33:2; Acts 4:10-12.

Christians are always trying to get sinners "saved". What does "salvation" mean anyway?

Salvation means "to be preserved, delivered, or rescued from danger, apprehension, sickness or bondage". Jesus saves us from an eternity in hell, but more than that, He saves us from the reign of evil and despair on this earth. No matter what befalls mankind, the person that Jesus saves is safe from harm. Be saved, come to Jesus, repent and believe on Him today.

Moment of Meditation: Salvation is God's most costly gift, and man's most precious possession.

A Talk with Jesus: Lord, I repent of all my sins and rejoice in my salvation today. Amen.

For Further Study: Isaiah 45:17; 2 Corinthians 6:2; 7:10; Hebrews 2:3; 5:9.

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