Strength & Shield

DEVOTIONAL

I AM YOUR STRENGTH AND SHIELD

I know there are days when you feel the struggles and distractions of life increasing around you.  The world seems to cry out to you that there is no deliverance for you, no hope, and certainly no freedom.  If you listen carefully, you will hear another voice.  You have not been left alone.  God is with you, by your side, and He is your strength and your shield.  

Strength is much more then brute force, and a shield does much more then just keep things out.  It is His strength working when you feel defeated but you decide to try again.  It's His strength you feel when you're hurting but choose to forgive.  It is His strength that moves you forward when you are afraid of what lies ahead but take a step forward anyway.  Through all these things He gives you peace as a shield over your heart and your mind.  His shield is there to provide a place of rest for you in the middle of the storm.  I encourage you to lift up your head because He is the place your help comes from.  Don't look down; look up, He is right there ready to be strong on your behalf.

SCRIPTURES

“But you are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head.” — Psalm 3:3

“I lift up my eyes to the hills where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” — Psalm 121:1,2

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me.” — John 10:27

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your heart and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6,7

PRAYER

Father,

I lift up my eyes to You today.  Thank You for reminding me of Your strength that helps me to be victorious in all I do.  Be my guide as I plan today; I trust that You order my steps.  You are my shield.

I ask for your continual guidance and provision over our Lead Pastor, Jon Chasteen and his family, that whatever they put their hands to, You bring prosperity for Your glory.

Bless our day.  Father, all blessing, glory, honor, and power be unto You.

In Your name…Amen