Your Daily Crossroad

Thanksgiving Perseverance

Posted on Nov 25, 2021 in Devotions | Tags: Perseverance, Philippians, Thanksgiving

Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:12-14)

Here is a part of the Thanksgiving story you may not know. While the first Thanksgiving was celebrated in October of 1621, it was not until October of 1777 that all 13 colonies celebrated Thanksgiving, for the first time. At one point, our first president, George Washington, proclaimed a National Day of Thanksgiving, but conflict and difficulties among the colonies put an end to its observance.

It was a magazine editor, Sarah Josepha Hale, whose work led to the celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday we observe today. Hale wrote letters to governors and presidents, and editorials in magazines, books and newspapers, promoting the observance of Thanksgiving. In 1863, after 40 years of letter writing and campaigning (that’s not a typo, she really wrote letters for 40 years), Hale’s persistence paid off and President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a National Day of Thanksgiving. Since then, every president has supported Thanksgiving. Forty years of dedication, persistence and passion, all to make sure that this country would celebrate a National Day of Thanksgiving each year. Impressive.

We can learn from Hale’s perseverance. It took her 40 years to accomplish what she set out to do. Just like her story, the Christian faith is often described as a marathon, not a sprint. Each day of our life is another day to choose between right and wrong, to help someone in need, to read our Bible and pray. As Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:12-14. Christians are called to persevere, to press on. Sometimes it can feel like an unrewarding task. It is hard, but important, to look to God for the BIGGER plan. What if Hale had chosen to give up after one year or ten years? Her goal would have been left unfinished. Press on towards the call of Christ! Endure! But be forewarned, just like Sara Josepha Hale, it may take 40 years to see the fruit of your labor!

What a powerful devotion. I pray you are inspired and blessed by this as you set out to celebrate Thanksgiving in whatever way you choose. Look to God for the BIGGER plan, press on and endure. Hallelujah and Amen!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Nov '21

Trust Jesus

Posted on Nov 23, 2021 in Devotions | Tags: Jesus, Trust

Nov '21

And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. (Matthew 17:20)

Have you ever wondered why some things in your life are seemingly immovable?

In this passage of Scripture, the disciples were facing a situation that was not going their way.

Like we often do, they questioned Jesus as to why things were not working out. Jesus explained to them that they lacked faith.

While it is the power of God that causes mountains to move, Jesus desires that we have faith in Him to do so.

When we feel weak or discouraged, it is often due to our lack of faith or trust in God.

So what mountain in your life remains unmovable? Do you believe God can provide what you need to deal with this issue?

He can and will do it! Just think of the contrast in this verse. Something as tiny as a mustard seed is all that is needed to move something as large as a mountain.

Whatever it is that you are facing today, trust Jesus to take you through it. He can do far above all we ask or imagine!

I love this devotion, two incredibly powerful words to live by each and every day, trust Jesus. Oh how I love my Master, He first loved me.

Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!

Nov '21

Total Trust

Posted on Nov 17, 2021 in Devotions | Tags: Psalm, Total Trust

Nov '21

I have called upon thee, for thou wilt hear me, O God: incline thine ear unto me, and hear my speech. (Psalm 17:6)

Have you ever experienced a time in your life that God seems silent?

You keep praying, but you don’t receive an answer to your prayers.

Our natural response as humans is to become discouraged or doubt.

But God wants us to turn to Him in total trust, believing that He will provide an answer in the way that is best suited for us.

So, how do we trust God when we are suffering and questioning?

We do not lean on our understanding or look at our circumstances.

Instead, we look at who God is. We focus on His attributes because He never changes!

Holy Father, you are a God of miracles. It is in Your character to show Yourself and Your glory to us by working in the most impossible of places. So today, Jesus, I ask you to please show yourself in my life, heal my body, heart, and mind. Provide when the bills mount, and the finances seem impossible. Heal and reconcile relationships that need your special touch.

Holy Father, we thank you for being near. We ask you to draw close to us today. Fill us with Your mercy, compassion, grace, and overwhelming love that only You can provide.

Beautiful devotion…

Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!

Nov '21