Daily Devotional from Pastor Mary 10-19-17

Daily Reading 10-19-17

Psalm 96:1-9 Living Bible (TLB)

 

The other day Mother and I were meeting with her oncologist and he asked, “Ida, how are you doing?”  My mother is an eternal optimist, so I looked her in the eye before she could answer and said, “Confession is good for the soul, Mom!”  We laughed because we knew how hard the past few weeks had been on her physically, but in the midst of all of it God remained faithful to get us the help she needed.  The doctor laughed, because he was overwhelmed with the joy we expressed in that moment.   Then the doctor shared with us that Mom’s recent MRI and CT scan showed no new cancer growth, Praise God!

 

We are to live each day by praying without ceasing—putting our needs before the Lord—and praising God for the provision and strength to press on.  We overcome by the blood of the Lamb—Christ—and the words of our testimony (Rev. 12:11).  Mom clings to Jesus Christ who is the true Life and she finds joy in the midst of the “mess!”  

 

Many people can praise God when life is going smoothly and emotions are running high and positive.  But, we are to be overcomers when it comes to this life; we overcome by bringing a sacrifice of praise.  I don’t know what you are facing, today, but grab ahold of your confession and make it count for God’s glory.  Holy joy—spiritual fruit—will fill you!

 

Psalm 96:1-9 Living Bible (TLB)

96 Sing a new song to the Lord! Sing it everywhere around the world! 2 Sing out his praises! Bless his name. Each day tell someone that he saves.

 

3 Publish his glorious acts throughout the earth. Tell everyone about the amazing things he does. 4 For the Lord is great beyond description and greatly to be praised. Worship only him among the gods! 5 For the gods of other nations are merely idols, but our God made the heavens! 6 Honor and majesty surround him; strength and beauty are in his Temple.

 

7 O nations of the world, confess that God alone is glorious and strong. 8 Give him the glory he deserves! Bring your offering and come to worship him. 9 Worship the Lord with the beauty of holy lives. Let the earth tremble before him.

 

Prayer:  Lord, if I am willing you always find a way to turn my attention toward your goodness and provision.  Thank you for capturing my heart and my attention with your love.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.