TOPIC: God Knows What We Need
TODAY’S READING
Psalm 103:13-18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. – Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
THE UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL – 13 DECEMBER 2022 MESSAGE
I attended a worship service in my church with a heavy heart. My dad was dying, and nothing more could be done for him medically. Tears streamed down my face, but I could not easily leave because I was sitting in the front row where I expected a friend to join me. Beautiful flowers rested on the altar table and the sermon was inspiring. But what touched me most that day were the hymns we sang with joy and enthusiasm. Those hymns touched my heart and reminded me that God knows exactly what we need.
When the service was over, my face was tear-stained. But I left the church feeling far better than when I entered. I knew that whatever lay ahead for my dad and me, my heavenly Father would give me strength. I resolved to keep my heart receptive to the experiences God offers me and the ways God wants me to use my life.
My dad is now with my mother in heaven. And God is still faithful. I give thanks that God is always available to us, in both our pain and our joy.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Good and gracious God, help us to remember that your grace is sufficient for our every need. May our focus be on you always. We pray in the name of your Son, Jesus. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
When my heart is heavy, spending time with God can lighten the burden.
PRAYER FOCUS
Someone whose parent is dying
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Salvation Prayer
Have you ever made Jesus the Lord and Savior of your life?
If not, pray this prayer and start a new life in Christ.
Dear God, I come to You in the Name of Jesus. I admit that I am not right with You, and I want to be right with You. I ask You to forgive me of all my sins. The Bible says if I confess with my mouth that “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in my heart that God raised Him from the dead, I will be saved (Rom. 10:9). I believe with my heart and I confess with my mouth that Jesus is the Lord and Savior of my life. Thank You for saving me! In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.
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