Devotions By Jan

Category Archives: God’s Strength and Power


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In Hedgehog Heaven

Scripture for Today: Ephesians 6:13 “Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground and after you have done everything, to stand.”

I was sad to see this hedgehog thrown to the side of the road outside our house in France. I suppose he saw the car coming but in his little brain he must have misjudged his chance to reach safety. With a top speed of only 4mph, he does not run as quickly as other animals his size. The hedgehog perhaps thought his roughly 5 thousand brown and white spines might protect him if he rolled up into a ball. But of course they are no match for a heavy car. Someone thoughtfully laid that flowering branch over him.

Today’s verse teaches that there is a day of evil coming, barreling towards us like that car. And we are to be prepared, wearing the various pieces of armor God has provided (vs 10-18). We need this spiritual armor for our struggle against what we cannot see (vs. 12). It helps us to stand against the devil’s schemes (vs.11). With God’s armor in place we are strong, not in ourselves but in His mighty power (vs 10). We as believers never need to fear any evil day coming as He has given us the ultimate victory in Christ Jesus (I Cor. 15:57).

What an encouragement to know that I am not without defense! Against the Father of lies I am on the side of Truth. I can stand firm in His righteousness against the accusations of the enemy and not be crushed. My faith protects my heart from wavering and doubt. My salvation is secure because of Him. God’s Word will defeat the enemy every time! And He has even given me the privilege of brokering peace through the Gospel!

Thank you Lord, that sin will not win and evil will not prevail!!


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Covered by His Shadow

Scripture for Today: Isaiah 51:16 “I have put my words in your mouth and covered you with the shadow of my hand – I who set the heavens in place, who laid the foundations of the earth, and who say to Zion, ‘You are my people.'”

The shadow of a person can evoke a variety of emotions. When one thinks of a shadow, it can sometimes be in a context of fear! If the presence is menacing than it follows that the shadow of that presence is as well. But a shadow can be reassuring and even comforting when it comes from a loving presence.

Although God is spirit, today’s verse uses the image of the shadow of His hand. It is a powerful hand that has established the heavens and the earth. This passage describes how His hand is able to loose chains and set captives free. Because He covers us with the shadow of His hand, there is no reason to be fearful of man (verse 12). What can man do?  God’s power and presence gives comfort rather than fear to those who belong to Him.

The shadow of His hand reassures me of His love and protection. I sense that divine shadow when a Biblical truth will come to mind at the exact moment when needed! His shadow reminds me that I belong to Him and not to this worldly kingdom. His shadow is evidence that He is at work in my life. And His daily care and blessing are shadows of His loving presence!

Thank you, Lord, for helping me sense Your loving shadow.

(Look familiar? This is based on a post from 2015)


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Help Wanted

Scripture for Today: Psalm 121:1-2 “I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

The French Alps were in our backyard that first year of language school in 1989. When we revisited there, I had trouble getting this photo of my husband, Randy, without the clouds covering the peaks. But it triggered a memory of that first year when often the Alps were completely covered with clouds. How much those clouds affected my mood! When I could see the mountain tops, I felt like anything was possible, even learning French! But when the mountains were covered in fog and clouds for days, it was easy to believe they were no longer there.

Today’s verse reminds us where to look for help. It is wonderful when the mountains are visible and we are reminded of God’s power. But sometimes the mountains are not visible. When clouds of trouble and worry obscure our view, we can doubt His presence and power. David expressed this in Psalm 69:17 when he felt that God was hiding His face. Job had these same thoughts when experiencing his trials. But regardless of our feelings, the reality of His presence does not change.  He has promised to never leave us or forsake us. (Heb. 13:5)

There will always be clouds. But rather than seeing those clouds, I need to see that the mountain is still there. And even if the mountains shake and the hills are removed, His love is unfailing and His love is never shaken or removed. (Is. 54:10) Like David, I can look up to the Maker of heaven and earth and find help. Nothing is too hard for Him.  I am so thankful that in His grace He gives me cloudless moments when the view of His presence is magnificent!

Thank you Lord, that You are always there to help.

(Look familiar? This is a revised post from 2012.)


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Remembering….

Scripture for Today: Psalm 111:4 “He has caused his wonders to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and compassionate.”

Photo by Peter Lee https://www.flickr.com/photos/oldpatterns/5784607734/in/photostream/

This week, North Americans remember on Memorial Day those soldiers who have fallen to secure our freedom. We need these special days to remember. Memories fade without them or without a physical memento to remind us. These dog tags hang in the Old North Memorial Garden near the Old North Church in Boston, MA. They commemorate those who have lost their lives in the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. Today we can identify remains through DNA. Even so, dog tags are still issued. They serve as an important reminder of sacrifice.

And we need important reminders. Today’s verse teaches us one of the many ways the Lord shows us His grace and compassion. He helps us remember. He knows that we are forgetful. We continually need His reminders of the wonders He has done. He brings them to mind at the most opportune time; when we are depressed and our soul is downcast (Ps. 42:6) and when we are on our bed and all is quiet. (Ps. 63:6) We find comfort when we remember His Word. (Ps. 119:52)

My tendency is to forget what I have studied in His Word, what I have seen and experienced of His wonders. Over time, they fade from my heart. (Deut. 4:9) if I am not careful and watch myself closely. It seems to be my default setting. But when I forget, I will need to learn it all over and over again, rather than growing in my faith! I may not have dog tags, but I have His many reminders through His Word and His personal reassurances of His faithfulness in the past!

Thank you Lord, for Your reminders.


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French Citadel

Scripture for Today: Psalm 48:3 “God is in her citadels; he has shown himself to be her fortress.”

photo credit Frans de Wit https://www.flickr.com/photos/fransdewit/5676870741/in/photostream/

The citadel in this French town can be seen from many different vantage points as it dominates the landscape. Its history there in Bitche (pronounced “beach”) is a long one, having been constructed on the site of an old castle in the early 1600’s. The citadel was destroyed at one point but restored and strengthened in the 1700’s. This fortress has since survived all succeeding wars as much of it is excavated in red sandstone rock, making it bomb-proof. There was something comforting about its strong presence during our stay there.

Today’s verse talks about the citadel of Jerusalem; the city is also referred to as “city of God” and “Mount Zion.” Written by the sons of Korah, this psalm or perhaps song, was written as a celebration of safety and security. The citadel or fortress in and of itself was not being praised. Rather, the fact that God resided there gave the people a sense of security and well-being. It was a physical reminder of God’s special relationship with His people.

I have the same need to look up and be reminded of God’s love, presence and protection. I need to continually “lift my eyes” to the One who sits enthroned in Heaven. (Psalm 123:1) I may not have a literal brick and mortar fortress within my line of vision, but with eyes of faith I can look up. With that changed perspective I see His power rather than my weakness. Problems and obstacles grow smaller as HE looms larger.

Lord, remind me to look up!