Devotion for Friday, July 14, 2023

“And the temple of God which is in heaven was opened; and the ark of His covenant appeared in His temple, and there were flashes of lightning and sounds and peals of thunder and an earthquake and a great hailstorm” (Revelation 11:19).

The promises of God which were made on Mount Sinai are just as valid today as the day they were made.  Although we may not be sure where the ark is, the Lord knows. It will appear at the right time.  The Creator of all things has given His word and He is not slow as many count slowness.  The earth is His, for He made it, and He who made all things will bring all things unto Himself.

Lord. I am startled at things that You do and I do not know why.  Of course, You are in control of the earth and guide the things that happen here.  Earthquakes and lightning?  What is that to You who made them?  You are the One in whom all things have their being.  Apart from You is nothingness.  Through the salvation You give, those who are in You live in hope of the promise that is forever.

Lord, in the mystery of life, I often find myself not comprehending things as they truly are.  Lead me, O Lord, in the way of everlasting life so that I may be found following You.  If calamity comes, what is it but a momentary diversion.  If my life here ends, what is that but the shortest way home.  The attitude toward You is what is important.  Let that be unmoved by circumstance.

Lord, You know my fears.  A bit of turbulence and I fear death.  Why?  I am in You and I know nothing can happen that will thwart Your will.  Lead me to the place where my trust in You is greater than my fears.  Guide me according to Your goodness to know that in You is all hope and the only true future worth living.  Keep me focused on You, Lord, according to Your purposes.  Amen.