Christian Devotionals and Scripture Applied to Everyday Life

There is not much that calms fear like the voice and presence of someone we love and trust. The panic of the lost child in a crowded shopping mall turns to tears of relief when he sees his parent’s face and hears the familiar voice. The distressed patient gains courage when his familiar doctor arrives at the hospital. And the child of God can face any storm if he knows Jesus rides in the boat. His presence calms the storm.

We now live in a world where masks are an everyday reality. Every time you engage with someone - whether at work, school, or store - everyone wears a mask to protect themselves and others. But is this really very different than what has always been? The other day I took my weekly grocery shopping trip into town. While in the store I ran into four people I thought I knew. I didn’t recognize any of them at first because half of their face was covered, but after scrutinizing their other physical characteristics, even one person’s sandaled feet, I realized they were acquaintances. It took some time and effort to recognize these individuals because I couldn’t see an important part of their face.

Have you ever seen someone endure deep pain? When we love someone we are willing to do whatever is necessary to help in times of hurt. But often there is nothing we can do except be there and extend comfort and encouragement. If only we could find the help and healing they need.

Facing the unknown can be a scary prospect. The things we expect give a little bit of advantage because we can prepare. On the contrary, the unknown leaves plenty of room for speculation and fear. But facing the unknown with confidence is possible: it’s by remembering that no matter the circumstances, God’s children are never alone!

A number of years ago Dad and I discovered a quaint little inn smack dab in the heart of Amish country. It has become for me an oasis from all the pressing demands of every day life. I can always tell when there has been too much going on because I start dreaming of this place. The rolling hills scattered with black and white dairy cattle and the neat homesteads I can see from the porch swing on our room’s brick patio fill my mind with ever increasing frequency as the whirlwind of daily business threatens to undo me.

The Bible tells us numerous times that the righteous will live by faith, and that by faith the men of old gained approval. In today’s verse the Psalmist boasted that he had unwavering faith in the Lord. This is the kind of faith we must have too. But how does a person get it?