God is so good that as I was typing the title an email came in with 17 options to look into today. He is so faithful as one door locked closed a new door appeared to start knocking on. God’s plans are for good and not for evil, to give us a hope and a future, so as I get up and get going today, I grab a hold of this truth and step into it with the joy of the Lord as my strength. I’ve learned over the years that when God calls me to it, He will get me through it. So today, I look to God’s Word to help me reflect upon things as I consider the command to “go back”.
In God’s Provision: The Path of Faithfulness
Reflecting on Genesis 31, we see Jacob faced with a directive from God to “go back” to his homeland. Despite uncertainties and potential risks, Jacob trusted in God’s provision and embarked on the journey. This narrative reminds us of God’s faithfulness in guiding our steps, even when the path ahead seems unclear. Just as God provided for Jacob’s needs during his return journey, we can trust that He will sustain us as we obediently follow His leading.
Key Takeaway:
Genesis 31:3 – “Then the Lord said to Jacob, ‘Go back to the land of your fathers and to your relatives, and I will be with you.'” This verse underscores the assurance of God’s presence and guidance as we obey His commands.
Application:
In our own lives, when God prompts us to revisit past places or situations, let us step out in faith, trusting that He will provide for our needs and guide us every step of the way.
Navigating Through Challenges: Lessons from the Journey
As Jacob journeyed back to his homeland, he encountered various challenges and obstacles along the way. From conflicts with Laban to the fear of facing Esau, Jacob’s journey was not without difficulties. Yet, amidst the trials, God remained faithful to His promise to protect and bless Jacob. This journey teaches us valuable lessons about perseverance, trust, and reliance on God’s strength during times of adversity.
Key Takeaway:
Genesis 32:9-10 – “Then Jacob prayed, ‘O God of my father Abraham, God of my father Isaac, Lord, you who said to me, ‘Go back to your country and your relatives, and I will make you prosper,’ I am unworthy of all the kindness and faithfulness you have shown your servant.” These verses highlight Jacob’s acknowledgment of God’s faithfulness despite his own unworthiness.
Application:
When faced with challenges or uncertainties, let us follow Jacob’s example by turning to God in prayer, acknowledging His faithfulness, and seeking His guidance and strength to overcome obstacles in our journey of faith.
United in Purpose: Trusting in God’s Guidance
As we journey through life, facing uncertainties and challenges, we can find assurance and strength in God’s unwavering guidance. Just as Jacob trusted in God’s command to “go back” and experienced His provision and protection along the way, we too can rely on God’s faithfulness to lead us in the paths of righteousness. Whether we are revisiting past territories or venturing into new territories, let us anchor our trust in God’s promises and follow His leading with unwavering faith.
Key Takeaway:
Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This verse encourages us to trust in God’s guidance wholeheartedly, knowing that He will direct our steps.
Application:
As we continue our journey of faith, let us commit to trusting in God’s guidance, surrendering our plans to His sovereign will, and walking in obedience to His Word, confident that He will lead us to fulfill His purposes in our lives.
Today’s Reading:
My Notes:
As you visit today, consider what God has to tell you through today’s reading. God’s Word never returns void and so I recommend you use the links above and read or have it read to you so that you can capture your own notes, meditating on what God has to say to you through it all. God’s Word is active and alive and is able to judge the thoughts and attitudes of the heart, getting to the core of the situation or matter.
Deuteronomy 19
In God’s Provision: The Path of Faithfulness
Deuteronomy 19:9 - "This is how you are to establish the cities of refuge so that anyone who kills a person accidentally and unintentionally may flee there and find protection from the avenger of blood."
In Deuteronomy 19, we encounter instructions regarding cities of refuge, a provision made by God for those who unintentionally caused harm to others. This chapter underscores God’s provision for justice and mercy, reflecting His character of love and compassion. Just as God provided cities of refuge for the Israelites, He continues to provide for our needs today, guiding us in paths of righteousness and offering refuge in times of trouble.
Key Takeaway:
God’s provision extends beyond physical needs to include justice, mercy, and protection. Just as He provided cities of refuge for the Israelites, He offers us refuge in His loving embrace.
Application:
As we encounter challenges or uncertainties, let us seek refuge in God’s presence, trusting in His provision and guidance. Let us also extend God’s mercy and compassion to others, reflecting His character in our interactions with those around us.
- Cities of Refuge
- Witnesses
Deuteronomy 20
Navigating Through Challenges: Lessons from the Journey
Deuteronomy 20:4 - "For the Lord your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory."
Deuteronomy 20 outlines instructions for warfare, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God’s strength rather than relying solely on military might. This chapter reminds us that victory comes through dependence on God and obedience to His commands. Like the Israelites preparing for battle, we too face various challenges in our journey of faith. Yet, just as God assured the Israelites of victory, He assures us of His presence and power to overcome every obstacle we encounter.
Key Takeaway:
Victory in life’s battles comes through reliance on God’s strength and obedience to His commands. Just as God fought for the Israelites, He fights for us today, ensuring our triumph over adversity.
Application:
When faced with challenges or opposition, let us remember to rely on God’s strength rather than our own. Let us trust in His promises and obey His commands, knowing that He is faithful to grant us victory in every circumstance.
- Going to War
Deuteronomy 21
United in Purpose: Trusting in God’s Guidance
Deuteronomy 21:9 - "In this way you will purge from yourselves the guilt of shedding innocent blood, since you have done what is right in the eyes of the Lord."
Deuteronomy 21 addresses various laws and regulations concerning justice, family relations, and societal issues. This chapter emphasizes the importance of aligning our lives with God’s principles and seeking His guidance in all matters. Just as the Israelites were instructed to follow God’s laws diligently, we are called to walk in obedience to His Word and trust in His guidance for our lives.
Deuteronomy 21 addresses various laws and regulations concerning justice, family relations, and societal issues. This chapter emphasizes the importance of aligning our lives with God’s principles and seeking His guidance in all matters. Just as the Israelites were instructed to follow God’s laws diligently, we are called to walk in obedience to His Word and trust in His guidance for our lives.
Key Takeaway:
Aligning our lives with God’s principles leads to righteousness and blessing. Just as the Israelites were instructed to uphold justice and righteousness, we are called to live according to God’s Word in every aspect of our lives.
Application:
Let us commit to seeking God’s guidance and following His commands in all areas of our lives. Let us strive to live righteously, upholding justice, mercy, and compassion, as we trust in God’s wisdom to guide us in fulfilling His purposes.
- Atonement for an Unsolved Murder
- Marrying a Captive Woman
- The Right of the Firstborn
- A Rebellious Son
- Various Laws
Embracing God’s Guidance: Journeying in Faith
As we reflect on the themes of God’s provision, navigating through challenges, and trusting in His guidance, we are reminded of the unwavering faithfulness of our Heavenly Father. Just as Jacob obeyed God’s command to “go back” and experienced His provision and protection along the way, we are called to step out in faith, trusting in God’s promises and following His leading with unwavering confidence. Whether we find ourselves revisiting past territories or venturing into new territories, let us anchor our trust in God’s provision, persevere through challenges, and walk in obedience to His Word. As we commit to trusting in God’s guidance and relying on His strength, we can journey forward with assurance, knowing that He will lead us to fulfill His purposes in our lives.
Key Takeaway:
Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Application:
Let us embrace God’s guidance wholeheartedly, surrendering our plans to His sovereign will, and walking in obedience to His Word. May we journey in faith, confident that God’s plans for us are for good and not for evil, to give us a hope and a future.
Today is a day that thanks to Jesus is filled with inspiration. So let us make sure we receive the gift of grace through Jesus by faith in Him and step up and out to accomplish all the good works He has prepared in advance for us to accomplish. If you haven’t received Jesus as your Lord and Savior, why not choose today to be the day your life is transformed and you become a new creation and start the journey of becoming everything God created, purposed, and planned for you to be?
Let’s pray:
God's story through my life from 2005 to eternity... 