DEVOTIONAL FOR MONDAY OCTOBER 7TH
Good Morning Everyone,
Our theme for this month: “Peace”
Our Bible verse for today: “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you.” Isaiah 26:3 (NLT)
Our thought for today: “Focus on God, not on circumstances.”
I love the promise God gives us in Isaiah 26:3. If we will keep our thoughts focused on Him, He will help us achieve and maintain a peacefulness deep within. Why? Because our trust is in Him and that pleases Him. So, He grants us peace in return.
What’s the best way to keep your thoughts focused on God? By meditating on Scripture verses. Now, when I say “meditate” I’m not talking about sitting cross-legged on the floor in the lotus position, eyes closed, palms turned upward, and softly saying “Ohmmm ….”. That’s eastern mysticism. To meditate on Bible verses and therefore maintain a focus on God means simply that you have a verse of Scripture in your mind and you recite it to yourself, think about it, chew on it, let it settle deeply into your heart. You can do that as you’re driving in your car, sitting at your desk, walking down the street, or virtually any other time.
Most of us have favorite Bible verses that are especially comforting to us personally and therefore we rely on them frequently. I’ll share a few of my favorites with you:
“Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
“For I know the plans I have for you – this is the Lord’s declaration – plans for your welfare, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.” Matthew 6:33
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful, and he will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape so that you are able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
“Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Those are just a few I rely on frequently. There are many others but the point is that in the Bible God has provided us lots and lots of reassuring promises which help us to stay focused on Him and His power, rather than on our problems and circumstances . It really is true that He will keep in perfect peace the one whose mind is focused on Him.
God Bless,
Pastor Jim
Oak Hill Baptist Church 