Day 18: Respond In Dependence
Psalm 73:25-26 “Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
Devotional · · · Jesus assures us as His followers, “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in Me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Faithfully following after Jesus, dealing the sinful desires of our flesh or facing the struggles of life, is impossible on our own strength. So, we rely on His promise to carry the heavy burdens we face and accept His offer of rest for our souls (Matthew 11:28-30). We trust in God’s ability to meet our every need (Philippians 4:19). And we remain rooted in Christ as the true source of a vibrant and fruitful life (John 15:1-11). Let us join King David’s song of thanks and declare this over our lives, our families, and our church, “Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice! Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His presence continually!” (1 Chronicles 16:10-11)
Prayer · · · Faithful God, may we adhere to the prayer of James and count it all joy when we face spiritual trials and battles. For we know we are being strengthened and grown as our faith is tested. Rather than turning to this world for comfort and fulfillment, may we instead depend on You as our comfort and our fortress. May we look to You alone as our sustenance, our strength in times of need, and our joy in times of sorrow. Help us Lord to trust in You fully, to abide in You daily, and to seek You continually.