Devotion

The Strength You Need

I found a neat way to get someone to read their Bible.

Especially if that someone is dear to your heart—and they KNOW the best way to start the day is to fellowship with the Father—but they tend to let the details of the day get in the way!

So–what happened was I was driving to work and thought about the busy life of mothering 5 children my oldest daughter has. (Glad it’s her and not me—I’m too old for all that 🙂

I generally pray for them as I drive–and this morning as I was praying, I thought of a passage of scripture that I really wanted her to read. Well, I’ve done all the “motherly things”. I’d send cards and notes with verses attached. I’d call and tell her a verse that she’d benefit from. I’d even prayed verses over her life! But today, I wanted her to “read one for herself” and I wanted to KNOW that she had read it.

When she answered the phone, I heard the familiar morning rush behind her. Four of the little ones had gone to school. I was on my way to work. It was early. 7-ish.

The baby was near, I could hear him chattering. “Get your Bible”, I said. “The new one I bought you for your birthday last year.” She had a new NLT—and I loved it! I wanted to see how a particular passage sounded in my ear from that Word.

I called out, read me something while I drive—you know I can’t read and drive. (I DO read and drive—but I wanted her to read to me—I needed HER to get this one!)

Philippians 4:13 “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. “ I knew she needed strength. You could hear it.

Then I asked for Hebrews 12:1-3 “1)Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2) We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. 3) Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up.”

My eyes filled. And spilled. Thinking of all He did for us. Laying aside His heavenly garments and taking on the garment of flesh—all for you. And for me. In my worst state no less. He did it for my worst day. NOT my best day!

He says to each of us, “Child.

Be encouraged.

Be strengthened.

Don’t give up.

Gear up instead.

Take up the shield of faith.

Grab your sword of the Spirit. The battle’s not much longer. You can do it!”
Sisters—I believe with all my heart that the battle is not much longer. However, it will grow hotter. More of HIM will be required. Living closer, more dedicated, with more strength—which comes from Him. Yes, we can do it! Through HIM!

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11 thoughts on “The Strength You Need”

  1. Angie, I dropped in from Tiffany’s. I was very uplifted and encouraged by your post.

    These days are not easy ones. Yes, as time proceeds, our dedication to God must increase. And, yes, praise His name we have His strength.

    Amen! We can do it!

    Blessings to you,

    Andrea

  2. Oh, yes….a mother knows! That <>is<> a good way to get someone dear to read the Bible.

    I needed to read your encouraging words today. We can’t become weary and we need our battle armor on at all times more than ever before.

  3. You have the best Idea!! I will do that with my daughter, how cool is that!! Thanks for the encouragement today my friend, have a great weekend:)

  4. I love this, Angie! I need to remember that for next time the Lord sends me a message in the form of scripture for a dear friend or family member.

  5. “Grab your sword of the Spirit. The battle’s not much longer. You can do it!”
    Sisters—I believe with all my heart that the battle is not much longer. However, it will grow hotter. More of HIM will be required. Living closer, more dedicated, with more strength—which comes from Him. Yes, we can do it! Through HIM!”

    YOU BET SISTER! YOU SAID IT ALL!

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