Devotional - March 20, 2020
This is a series of messages from the time of isolation during the COVID19 Response in Oregon, United States.
I believe that our victory in this season is tied to how we choose to abide. Will we abide (or live) in anxiety? No, we will not. Instead, we will abide in Christ and His provision for us.
This is a series of messages from the time of isolation during the COVID19 Response in Oregon, United States.
I believe that our victory in this season is tied to how we choose to abide. Will we abide (or live) in anxiety? No, we will not. Instead, we will abide in Christ and His provision for us.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” - Matthew 6:33
Below are four elements of abiding based on a conversation I had with Anita.
- Word of God (Foundation)
- Prayer with God (Relationship)
- Presence of God (Awareness)
- People of God (Fellowship)
1) The written Word of God is a powerful foundation, and today is a great day to learn about God by reading His words. Scripture teaches about WHO God is. Knowing about God is important to coming to know Him. Besides reminding us of the importance of faith, Hebrews 11:6 also shows that it matters quite a lot what we believe about God. “And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” - Hebrews 11:6
2) Prayer with God is central to our relationship with Him just as conversation with our spouse is critical to a healthy marriage. Time spent equals relationship growth. Yesterday, you may have found “The Lord’s Prayer” in Matthew 6. However the Psalms are also full of model prayers. From the raw - Psalm 60 - to the precious and familiar - Psalm 23 - to the thoughtful and profound - Psalm 4.
Today, I encourage you to read through Psalm 4. I recall one of the most beautiful and powerful sermons I’ve ever heard was preached by an old woman who, on her death bed, recited this psalm from memory and spoke of her strong confidence in the Lord. “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.” - Psalm 4:8
3) You can experience the Presence of God, but you must choose to be aware. God can overwhelm you with His powerful presence. But most of the time, He, like a close friend, comes gently alongside. He makes Himself available, but isn’t pushy. If we insist that we are too busy to spend time with Him, He will honor your choice. However, I suggest that all of us lay all the pressing demands aside and make a sacrifice of some of our freedom and time to seek the Lord. Then, as the Lord directs your day choose to maintain your prayer through the day.
“And He (Jesus) went up on the mountain and called to Himself those whom He desired, and they came to Him.” - Mark 3:13
“And He (Jesus) went up on the mountain and called to Himself those whom He desired, and they came to Him.” - Mark 3:13
Jesus called His people to be apart from the world with Him before and after He invited them into the fray to serve alongside Him.
4) People of God need fellowship together in order to remain encouraged, strong, and growing. The writer in Hebrews challenges believers, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” - Hebrews 10:24-25
During this time, I encourage you to be deliberate about remaining in fellowship with fellow believers. Be assertive. Don’t wait to be called. Call someone. If it is appropriate, visit a believer in person. When you are in that conversation whether in person or on the phone, share a verse that God is highlighting for you. Pray with this other believer. Don’t allow unspoken social pressure to drive your faith into silence. We need the Prince of Peace today.
A Song for today
Brooke Poindexter is part of Believers Church in Tulsa Oklahoma.
Come On:
I can feel the eyes of heaven, the angels and the saints
All who've gone before us, surround us here today
Throw off every burden, lift up our gaze
Get caught in this story, lost in his face
Author of my faith, finisher of my story
I can run this race cause Jesus ran it before me
He is on my side, I have everything that I need
If you listen close, you'll hear heaven cheering for me
"Come On
Come On
Children of God
Be Who You Are"
No fear can shake us, no lie can break us
Only you can make us be who we are
We're the sons and daughters, we're the water walkers
Come and help us Father, be who we are.
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