your daily crossroad
23
Apr '20
Kindness
23
Apr '20
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. (Colossians 3:12-13)
When we feel hurt, irritated or angry it can be easy to give into our frustrations and let others know exactly how we feel…
During this unprecedented time, we are all dealing with extra time at home with our spouses, kids, and extended family members.
And as each day turns in to the next, we may find ourselves especially irritable, frustrated, and scared.
But, as soon as we give into our emotions and react in the flesh, we almost always regret it,…or we will later!
Colossians tells us to “put on” compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another.
By putting on we make these attributes a part of ourselves, almost like an article of clothing.
Paul tells us these things because he knows how hard it is to respond in humility and kindness; especially when we feel hurt.
It is much harder to live a Godly life, than it is to give into our feelings.
However, as believers, we don’t have to do it alone.
God knows our humanness, and He knows how hard these things are to do on our own.
That is why He tells us to equip ourselves, and put them on.
When we pray and read God’s Word, we learn how to rely on God to accomplish what we can’t on our own.
You and I have an opportunity to make a difference…in our families lives…right now! This can be a time of change!
Re-read Colossians 3:12-13. Let the words sink in. When you get dressed this morning, think also about putting on compassion, humility, kindness, meekness, patience, forgiveness, etc.
When I read this devotion it blessed me. I felt it hit close to home for many of us. Typically our first instinct is to react in the flesh, instead of allowing the spirit to guide our reactions. I pray today you are open and honest with yourself and you do a self check and let the words of Colossians 3:12-13 sink in, just as the devotion says. Choose to be the light in someone’s darkness, be kind, always, everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
21
Apr '20
In A Dry and Weary Land, My Soul Thirst for God
21
Apr '20
O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary. Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips. (Psalm 63:1-5)
Have you ever noticed that no matter where you go, you can see the evidence of God all around you? When you go for a walk, you see the squirrels scamper about and the birds singing and you think of all of the marvelous creatures created by God. When driving down the highway, you look all around you and see the ever changing landscapes displaying their beauty before you and think of God who made this beautiful earth.
Here was David in the desert; his first thoughts were of God: My soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water. In thinking of his physical thirst in this dry and parched desert, he thinks of his dry and parched soul thirsting for God. He sees God in the sanctuary, beholding His power and glory causing his soul to burst in praise: Your love is better than life. When in his bed, he thinks of God throughout the watches of the night and sings in the shadow of God’s wings. The 63rd Psalm is such a glorious testimony of a life so filled with the praises to God, that everything around David constantly reminded him of God’s love, protection, and help!
Pray today that God will give you a spirit of praise to Him, and that wherever the day takes you, you will be reminded of your great and wondrous God.
When I read this devotion it blessed me. I couldn’t help but think of that old Hymn, Great Is Thy Faithfulness. No matter if your day looks like a dry and deserted desert, I pray your first thoughts are of God. No matter what lies ahead, God is faithful still. To Him be the glory! Let us rise and Praise Him for He is worthy to be praised.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
16
Apr '20
Pride & Control
16
Apr '20
Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. (Proverbs 19:20)
You’ve heard the expression, “no man is an island.”
Be careful not to get isolated emotionally during the trials of life.
Feelings seem like facts when we are upset.
When we don’t allow others to give us feedback, our blindspots don’t get called out!
It’s pride to think we always know what to do or no one understands our situation like we can.
Lord, your voice has often come through the people around me. Forgive me for any pride or control that has prevented the help you send.
Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established. (Proverbs 15:22)
When I read this devotion I knew it would hit close to home for many of us. I pray after reading this short but powerful devotion that you are honest with yourself and with God about how much pride and control you have been choosing to hold tightly to. Let go and Let God.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
14
Apr '20
Mercy & Love
14
Apr '20
To him that is afflicted pity should be shewed from his friend; but he forsaketh the fear of the Almighty. (Job 6:14)
In Job 6 we are instructed to give kindness to our friends, even when they don’t deserve it.
It is our job to speak truth and be merciful, and it is God’s job to decide what correction another person needs.
Human condition is to give punishment and allow God to give the love and comfort.
But the word says: “Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.” (Luke 6:36)
Initially, God shows us unusual mercy and tenderness so we can learn about him and heal.
Ultimately, God shows us mercy and tenderness to draw that same response out of us towards others.
- Let us be known for our love not our insight.
- Let us be known for our love not our authority.
- Let us be known for our love not our prophetic gifts.
God comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble. (2 Corinthians 1:3)
Father let me give mercy out of the abundance of mercy I have been given!
Let me be known as a disciple of Christ by the mercy I show others!
Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. (Proverbs 3:3-4)
What a powerful devotion on love. I pray it inspires you to love a little deeper and show mercy, even to those you may feel don’t deserve it. It’s easy to love those who love us but far more powerful and beautiful to love the unloveable.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
09
Apr '20
Quiet Time With God
09
Apr '20
For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 3:14)
As much as we might hate to admit it, God doesn’t need or want us to tell Him what He should do. He wants to hear from us, absolutely, but what brings the Lord happiness is our devotion to His plan. That means prayer; creating open lines of communication with God that serve as a dialogue. It means both speaking and listening. We can pray anytime, anywhere. It’s a huge blessing to know that we can speak to God at any moment in our lives…the good and the bad moments. Prayer knows no rules so just pray. Pure, unplugged, heart-tuned-in communication with your best friend is all you need.
This devotion is right in line with our Sunday Devotion. We were challenged to say The Lords Prayer and Psalm 23 every single day for 21 days. Prayer is our lifeline to God, our spiritual breath. Make time today to communicate with God. Never doubt the power of prayer.
MATTHEW 6:9-13, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
PSALM 23, The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
07
Apr '20
Joyful Laughter
07
Apr '20
And Sarah said, God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me. (Genesis 21:6)
Laughter is a blessing from the Lord. It’s the best stress-reliever there is. Through laughter, we can get through some of the darkest moments in life with a small smile. We can become closer with the people around us, celebrate moments of joy, and be thankful for the best friends we have. Laughter and smiles are the best universal communication available. Everyone understands the happiness that comes from laughter and its necessity in our daily lives. Today, laugh a little harder. Smile a little bigger. Appreciate the things that make you feel just that good.
This short but powerful devotion blessed me so much and I felt it needed to be shared. I pray you are uplifted and encouraged today to find a reason to smile and laugh a little harder.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
02
Apr '20
Overshadows Our Weakness
02
Apr '20
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:2)
Dear God, I feel overwhelmed by today, fearful about tomorrow, and very weak to respond to this crisis. But Your Word in 2 Corinthians 12:9 says that Your “strength is made perfect in weakness.” I have a hard time believing this, God, but I bring my unbelief to You … and I adore. Thank You for not being threatened by my weakness but receiving it. I adore You for Your power that overshadows my weakness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
When I read the entire devotion related to this prayer I felt a nudge to do something a little different for today’s devotion and share just this prayer for today. Life is a little unsettling right now in all our lives. We are overwhelmed with all the unknowns, so much news and statistics regarding this epidemic. I felt something with some simplicity and honesty is needed right now. We can all take something from this short but powerful prayer and remember, It’s okay to have moments of weakness. 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. He is faithful that promised.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
31
Mar '20
God’s Love Never Ceases
31
Mar '20
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)
This morning when you awoke, what were your first thoughts of the day?
Did you immediately start thinking about what you needed to do?
Or perhaps you began thinking about current events, fears, and frustrations.
Did the “what ifs” start playing on a loop?
In Lamentations we are told that God’s love never ceases.
His mercies are new every morning and never come to an end.
Jesus’ love for us is so great that He extends it to us every. single. day.
As Jeremiah wrote Lamentations, he was personally experiencing uncertain times and terrible loneliness. However, he still had hope!
He knew that despite all the turbulence and sorrow surrounding him, God would keep his promises.
Jeremiah clung to the Lord and remained hopeful of future restoration and blessing.
As you begin your day, take the first moments to meditate on how great God’s love is for you. Thank Him for His incredible love and remember His mercies are new to you today!
When I awake, I am still with thee. (Psalm 139:18)
What a powerful devotion. I pray it gives you hope and encouragement today. He is always with you, even when you feel isolated, He is there, when you feel alone, He is there. God will keep His promises to you, remain hopeful. Restoration and blessings. Amen!
26
Mar '20
Love in Action
26
Mar '20
Love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. (John 13:34-35)
Love is not just a feeling. It is an action.
Jesus tells us that others will know us by our love..
He also tells us that we ought to love one another.
1 Corinthians 13:4-8 reads, “Love is patient, love is kind.
It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”
True love in action puts the needs of others before our own.
It doesn’t retaliate when someone hurts us.
It is kind, giving to those who don’t always deserve it or may not have earned it… by your definition.
True love is selfless, not self-serving.
If you are home with your family, love them. If you have grandparents or older neighbors home by themselves, call them. There is no time like the present to put Jesus’s commands in action! Love in action!
What a beautiful devotion. Love without action is merely a word. We must all be reminded of this from time to time and especially now. Take a moment and show someone you love them today.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
24
Mar '20
Gratitude
24
Mar '20
This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24)
Gratitude is not only a response to God in good times – it’s ultimately the very will of God in hard times. Gratitude isn’t only a celebration when good things happen. It’s a declaration that God is good no matter what happens ~ Ann Voskamp.
God is still on His throne!
We can walk confidently in this day for we know who is in control.
Our ‘new normal’ may be creating an increase in anxiety and stress for some of you, but in the very midst of that uncertainty we can simplify…focus on gratitude…
Let’s celebrate the good that we can still see all around us!
Choose Gratitude!
I knew when I read this devotion that it had to be shared time and again, even more so right now. I know, especially recently, I’ve had to deliberately focus on gratitude because I have so easily become overwhelmed with anxiety and stress of the unknowns and I have to believe, young or old, I’m not alone. Remember, gratitude turns what we have into enough. Reflect upon your present blessings and trust Him for the unknown.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
19
Mar '20
Carrier of Peace
19
Mar '20
Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. (Isaiah 53:4)
The prophet Isaiah describes the crucifixion and the suffering Christ would endure.
Here are highlights from Isaiah 53.
- He was despised
- He was rejected
- He carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him not
- He was stricken
- He was afflicted
- He was pierced
- He was crushed
- He was oppressed
- Upon him were the punishments that brought us peace.
Jesus chose the cross with all its’ agony so we could have peace.
During times of calamity we can model His peace as a way to share the gospel!
I will not add to fear! I will be a carrier of peace!
I felt this devotion needed to be shared today. May we choose not to add to fear but carry peace. Amen! Isaiah 53:5 goes on to say, He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. With his stripes we are healed, physically, mentally, spiritually, we are healed. Trust Him for the healing and embrace the peace that passes ALL understanding.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.(Philippians 4:7)
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
17
Mar '20
Serving Others
17
Mar '20
And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day. (Isaiah 58:10)
One of the greatest antidotes to depression, fear, or anxiety is service to others.
“There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.”
If you are struggling today, I encourage you to take your eyes off yourself, the circumstances around us, and instead look for ways you can be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Any amount of serving others will do wonders for your soul.
Whether time, money, or prayers; we can all be of service to our communities right now…today.
There are so many families who could use your prayers. Stop this morning and pray for your friend, neighbor, co-worker, bank teller, grocery cashier.
We can serve others through simple encouraging words.
“One of the greatest ironies of life is this: He or she who serves almost always benefits more than he or she who is served.”
And, you can start serving right at home.
Look for ways to put others’ needs before your own and be assured of a miracle in your own life!
Lift others up who may need an encouraging word! Pray for all those around us and trust our God is sovereign and still in control! Amen.
This devotion blessed me. Right now, some of us are confined to being at home and we could easily think our power to serve is limited but prayer changes things. If you are breathing you can pray. Start serving right where you are. The most powerful weapon against trials, the most effective medicine against sickness and the most valuable gift to others is PRAYER.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
12
Mar '20
Repentance
12
Mar '20
Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matthew 4:12,17)
Our repentance is so important to God that he gave it to John the Baptist as his singular message!
When Jesus learned John was in prison, he began declaring the message himself…”repent, God is here!”
Let’s be honest: repentance has gotten a bad rap.
Repentance is viewed as a source of shame and guilt or reserved only for the really BIG sins.
But, the reality is repentance is both a blessing and a gift.
Repentance is a way to transform thought life and behavior.
Legalistic remorse says, “I broke God’s rules,” while real repentance says, “I broke God’s heart.” ~Tim Keller
Repentance is not about shame or guilt – It is about heart transformation! The result will be resounding joy as we lean in to God and turn away from our sin.
When was the last time you used the word repentance when you were talking to the Lord? When was the last time you repented to the people closest to you?
God I don’t want anything that I think, say or do to dull sensitivity to your voice. Help me develop a lifestyle of repentance.
Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance. (Matthew 3:8)
Today’s Devotion blessed me. It’s not a subject that is brought up much anymore but it’s so important in our walk with The Lord! Repentance is the key with which we can unlock the prison from inside. We hold that key within our hands and it is ours to use it.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
10
Mar '20
Teachable
10
Mar '20
And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. (Luke 2:46)
12-year-old Jesus stayed in Jerusalem, although Joseph and Mary had left the feast of Passover.
They found him sitting in the temple listening and reasoning with the elders.
Jesus sat and listened to the elder teachers; The King of all Kings was teachable!
He came to them in great wisdom and humility.
As you mature spiritually, mentors or teachers who can give you revelation may seem harder to find, but guard yourself from believing there’s no one out there for you or you no longer need elder teachers.
We are never too far along in our spiritual journey to not need counsel or guidance.
Humility is key.
There are wonderful spiritual mothers and elders in the body of Christ.
Look for opportunities to mentor others and/or pray for God to bring someone into your life who can mentor you!
Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. (Proverbs 19:20)
When I read this devotion it reminded me of the example we have in Jesus. Everywhere He went He left a footprint for us to follow. Today, take a moment and reflect on this devotion. True humility is staying teachable regardless of how much you already know.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
06
Mar '20
Joy and Goodness
06
Mar '20
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)
Sometimes we focus too much on the enemy and what he is up to!
Jesus came so we wouldn’t just survive life… but have abundant life.
God is so good that He didn’t just provide for our eternity; He provided for this life too.
God gave us Jesus so we would have abundant love, abundant laughter, abundant joy…abundant life!
Purpose yourself to focus on the joy and goodness of what He has done.
Take a minute to write down just a few things you already possess in abundance!
“… whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)
I love this devotion today, it blessed me. What truth! When you focus on the good, the good gets better.
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!