The fear of insignificance arises when we compare ourselves to the standard of the world. However, when we realize that we have “peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us,” everything changes!
Daily Devotion
Daily Devotion
Refuge: Grace and Power
Stephen was a man “full of God’s grace and power” who “performed amazing miracles and signs among the people” (Acts 6:8). When opposition came against the early Christians, he was one of the first to be arrested. As he faced the accusers during his trial, all who saw him said “his face became as bright as an angel’s” (Acts 6:15).
Refuge: Connected
After a windy day, dead branches lay all over our yard. Dead branches are, well, dead. No leaves; no life. We either throw them away or put them on top of our firewood to be used for kindling. Okay, my wife, Lori, either throws them away or puts them on top of the firewood.
Refuge: With Jesus Forever
Heaven is actual existence. Heaven is not a state of mind. Jesus told his disciples that he was going to get it ready. He promised he would come and take his followers to be with him. We will not float forever in a mental neverland. Heaven is real.
Refuge: Resurrection!
Jesus’ words in today’s passage were spoken to a woman in despair. Her brother, Lazarus, had died, and she felt the sharp pains of grief; but Jesus reminded her that while physical death was inevitable, spiritual death was not. Those who believe in Jesus “will never ever die.”
Refuge: From Death to Life
There are many reasons you may have for not being a Christian. You may not feel like you need Jesus. You may not believe the Bible to be true. You may have had a bad experience with a church or with Christians. However, there is one thing that we can all agree on—we are all going to die.
Refuge: Confidence in Death
The ending starts at the beginning. At birth, the body, always vulnerable to a disease or tragic demise, begins the process of aging, which culminates in a worn-out, weakened fight for the last breath. Death is the feared and final enemy (1 Corinthians 15:26).
Refuge: A Child of God
In his song “Identity,” Lecrae raps, “I’m not the shoes I wear. I’m not the clothes I buy. I’m not the house I live in. I’m not the cars I drive, no. I’m not the job I work. You can’t define my worth by nothing on God’s green earth. My identity is found in Christ, is found in Christ.” You may or may not appreciate Christian rap, but you can’t deny the biblical truth found in this song.
Refuge: Unfailing Faith
Certainly an “excessive and unhealthy interest” in the demonic realm is dangerous, but, as Lewis reminds us, so is disbelieving or ignoring their existence. Satan is real. He prowls around like a roaring lion. He desires that we fail. Satan also desires that we are afraid of failing.
Refuge: Finding Rest
Jesus’ special invitation is for all who are carrying heavy loads. The weight wears a person down mentally, physically, and spiritually. There is only one remedy for body and soul exhaustion—rest. And that’s exactly what Jesus promises.
Refuge: Unchangeable
Everything changes. Money comes and goes. Investments are up and down. Spring becomes summer becomes fall becomes winter. Kids mature. Adults age. There are changes in jobs, homes, cities, and lifestyles. Everything changes.
Refuge: A Mighty Savior!
Whatever you are going through today, God is on your side. We are always held by the embrace of his presence, strength, and love. Today’s verse, tucked away in the Old Testament, is a great reminder of who God is and how he works in our lives. Let’s consider the truths of this passage one at a time.