I have my devotional time with the Lord in the morning. For me, it works best to start my day with the Lord; it helps me to stay in focus with Him the whole day. I must admit, though, that at times, I am guilty of just going through the motions.

Have you ever had one of these days when you get up with an agenda — whether big or small — for the day, but once the day begins, plans suddenly change? Sometimes, the change is for the good; sometimes for the not-so-good. I recently found myself in the midst of one of those days. Looking back now, I could have stopped myself as soon as things began to go astray and gone into prayer with the Lord. I didn't do that, though; instead, I moved through the day aimlessly, accomplishing nothing. Each thing I started to do, I did not complete; it was a total loss of a day, as days go.

The next day, though, as I came before the Lord, I found myself unable to read and focus on the day's devotional. I kept feeling myself being drawn back to the previous day's devotional. As I began to read that one, I was met with the following Scripture:

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 – May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father encourage you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say. (NCV)

As I began to re-read the previous day's devotional, I was challenged and convicted. It talked about how quickly we forget so much that happens in our lives through the years. We don't consciously turn away from God; we just don't take Him with us.

Has it been a while since we just sat and watched a sunrise or sunset, or just stared into the star-filled sky in speechless amazement? Has it been a while since we realized God's divinity and our carnality? If so, we need to know that He is still there, waiting to offer us grace and forgiveness.

Psalm 25:4-5 – Show me the path where I should walk, O Lord; point out the right road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. (NLT)

Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank You for the gentle reminders in our lives — whether through devotionals or people in our lives — that bring us back into alignment with You. We confess that at times, we go astray and give in to sin. Thank You for Your grace in our lives. Help us to come alongside others in a gentle and loving manner. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author:

Julie Bowles <julieanni@rogers.com>
Barrie, Ontario, Canada
Send your feedback to the author