Devotion for Sunday, November 19, 2023

“And the rest were killed with the sword which came from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse, and all the birds were filled with their flesh” (Revelation 19:21).

The devil has mocked the Lord since the beginning, but the truth is that everything that exists came into being with His Word.  The LORD speaks and it is so.  The sword of the Word both saves and kills.  It kills the sinner and raises the saint.  It slays the sinner and condemns the wicked.  The Word of the Lord gives promise and the promise of salvation is for those who believe and obey.

What is belief Lord, that I should do this and though I die, live?  Is not my belief what I do?  Is this why Your Word keeps reminding me that my actions really do matter, for they reflect what I actually believe?  Lord, I may not know many things, but I hear Your voice which has called me through the water of my baptism into faith.  You have given me faith, but I need Your Word to cut through my heart so that I may live.

Lord Jesus, where there is unbelief, slay it.  Where there is hesitance, spur me on.  Where I am not acting when, where, and how I should, lead me, Lord, according to Your goodness and mercy.  Guide me always, Lord, so that I may now and always walk humbly with You, whose Word holds true and stands forever.  You are the author of my faith.  Speak into me all that is needed to lead me into eternal life with You.  Amen.