Devotions By Jan

Category Archives: God’s Strength and Power


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Restless Racehorse

Scripture for Today: Proverbs 21:31 “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.”

Did someone “get your goat?” This phrase, meaning to annoy or infuriate, is thought to be derived from the French phrase, “take the goat.” It may have been used when stealing the mascot from a military unit. In more recent times, in the world of horse racing, a goat would share the stall of a racehorse the night before a race in order to keep the horse calm. If someone was intent on sabotaging the race, he would sneak into that stall and get the goat.

Today’s verse talks about getting a horse ready, not for racing but for battle. Were goats used then in the same way to keep the horse calm? Certainly, there were all kinds of preparations for that horse to be ready. After all, the success or failure of a battle can easily hinge on the behavior of the horse. We as believers are also to be prepared for spiritual battle by putting on the full armor of God. (Eph. 6:10-17) And we can be just as anxious or skittish as that horse.

Thankfully, the Lord does not lead me into spiritual battles without equipping me or without reassuring my heart. I can be strong and courageous, not afraid and not discouraged because our powerful God is with me (Josh. 1:9). This promise is my “goat” and nobody and nothing can take it away. The Lord is always true to His Word. The victory is His and I am on the Lord’s side!

Thank you Lord, that the battle is Yours!


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Lion’s Mane

Scripture for Today: I Chronicles 16:11-12 “Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always. Remember the wonders He has done, His miracles and the judgements He pronounced.”

This very bizarre-looking fungus is aptly nicknamed, “Lion’s mane.” You can find it in many damp shaded places, feeding off a dead log. This photo was taken near Mosquito Falls in Michigan. Its thick white stalk will have several branches covered by white clusters, bringing to mind a lion’s mane or icicles. Recent studies with mice show some promising discoveries using compounds from this mushroom. Already used in Asian countries, studies continue to explore potential effects on memory.

Today’s verse asks the believer to look to the Lord and His strength. We seek His face when we remember what He has done. When we forget His wonders, His miracles and His judgements, we are more likely to forget Him! But when we are reminded of His incredible power we are more likely to seek Him out and the strength He offers. Seeking His face is not a “one-and-done” exercise but a lifestyle of depending on Him.

My self-absorbed and independent mindset is definitely at odds with always seeking His face! But when I remember His miracles in my life or in the lives of others, I am motivated to come to Him for help and strength. He always welcomes me without the reproach of, “Where have you been??” And often what reminds me of His power is His Word. This is my “Lion’s Mane,” that helps me remember! (Psalm 111:4)

Lord, remind me to seek You and Your strength today!


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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.)