Devotions By Jan

Category Archives: God’s Word


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Forget Where You Were Going?

Scripture for Today: Proverbs 4:5 “Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them.”

If you see an ostrich walking aimlessly or in circles, it may be that he has forgotten where he is going! The short term memory of an ostrich is only about 10 seconds. That means that he can be running away from a predator and if distracted could suddenly slow down, forgetting why he was in such a hurry! I can relate to this bird, walking into a room and forgetting what I came in for!

Today’s verse is a proverb from a father to his sons, admonishing them not to forget his words or turn away from them. Wisdom and understanding come from keeping commands (verse 4), keeping your foot from evil (verse 27) and staying in that path of righteousness (verse 18). In the same way, God’s children or those who have placed their trust in Him are not to forget His Words. Remembering and obeying His commands is a challenge when continually distracted by our own contrary desires. But when we forget we are not wise and live without understanding, without the purpose He intended.

When surrounded by a culture that encourages self indulgence, it is easy for me to forget God’s higher purpose for me. I am easily distracted by the baubles the world offers. And yet, I am prey for that “roaring lion” that seeks to devour! (I Peter 5:8) I dare not forget to heed and obey God’s word. When I remember, I can gain wisdom and understanding! God’s words are life and health (verse 22) and keep me focused. I remember why I am here and where I am going!

Lord, don’t let me forget or turn away from Your Word.


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All Directions?

Scripture for Today: Joshua 1:7 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law My servant Moses gave you.; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.”

These signs are common in France. Apparently, everywhere I want to go is to the left! “All Directions” is actually a helpful indication when trying to change course. It helps to know how to change direction when confused. Details come later. This sign at least points toward major streets from which one can exit the area. By following it, one can avoid going around in circles and getting tied up in a maze of one-way streets.

Today’s verse calls for strength and courage. This is the charge the Lord gave directly to Joshua as he took over as leader of the Israelites. The law came through Moses but was not to be considered invalid at his death. Obedience to the law was to continue. And following it would bring blessing and success.  But there was plenty of temptation to turn away from it. A few steps to the left or to the right would be detrimental. The verse warns us to be careful not to turn away from what God had said.

There are signs everywhere encouraging me to turn off with promises of an easier route. The sign, “All Directions” is everywhere. Surely, there is more than one way. Try this route, or maybe that one is just as valid with less trouble. There are roads that are narrow that lead to life or there are roads that are wide that lead to destruction (Matt 7:13-14). All directions? No, only one way leads to the destination I want. How important it is for me to choose God’s way!

Give me strength and courage Lord, to carefully follow Your way!

(Look familiar? This is a repost from 2015)


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The Ferret

Scripture for Today: John 17:17 “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.”

Did you know that a group of ferrets is called a “business of ferrets?” Apparently, the business of the ferrets we knew was to infiltrate our 100 year home in Guebwiller, France and throw dance parties in the attic at night! The “business” of ferrets used to be helping hunters by flushing out rabbits and rodents from their burrows. Later, chasing down a rabbit evolved into the expression of chasing down or “ferreting out” the truth.

Today’s verse is part of the prayer of Jesus to His Father concerning those who follow Him. There is no need to “ferret out” truth as Jesus plainly says that God’s Word is truth. And this truth of God’s eternal and infallible word does something for the believer. It sanctifies or sets him apart as different and distinct from others. The believer is set apart for His purposes and for His service. Living in the light of God’s truth makes the believer atypical as it changes our desires, values and worldview.

Being convinced of the truth of His Word motivates me to stay the course, regardless of the fluctuating ideas of “truth” around me. Because there is absolute truth in the spiritual realm, my faith remains firm. Not only does God’s Word instruct, correct and reassure, but I am upheld by the Person who is Truth. (John 14:6) It is on the solid ground of His truth that I can stand and what a difference this makes in my life!

Lord, thank you for the stability and purpose Your word gives me!


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Strawberries Grow on Trees?

Scripture for Today: Psalm 119:103 “How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth.”

Who would have thought it, that strawberries could grow on trees! Of course, this berry growing on the Arbutus Marina (or Strawberry Tree) is not quite the same. Its taste is bland and not so sweet except when cooked and mixed with sweeteners or other fruit. But it is nutritional being a source of vitamin C, about three times the amount in an orange. It is also good for fiber and rich in antioxidants and tannins. It is just not very sweet.

Today’s verse likens God’s words to sweetness. His words are like honey for the soul. Whether we hear them from a Bible teacher, a song or a devotional, it is always sweet. But there is a different more intense flavor when we discover a nugget of truth for ourselves in His Word. The taste is better and sweeter when He speaks to us directly from His Word without any other intermediary. It is just picked. It is fresh and there is a special sweetness.

I am encouraged by others’ teaching. God uses the study and clear exhortation of Bible scholars in my life. There is a myriad of wonderful study guides. They are all sweet and have their place. But there is a more satisfying and intense flavor to His Word when I take the time to open it on my own. It is especially sweet when the Lord meets me and speaks to me directly. His Spirit is so personal, guiding me into a truth for that moment and for my exact need.

Lord, I need Your sweet words.  Make them fresh for me today.


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Disinformation

Scripture For Today: John 17:17 “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”

Disinformation is not a new word but I am sure hearing it used a lot more frequently lately! Different than “misinformation” which is also false but spread unwittingly, disinformation is a conscious attempt to present lies as truth. Disinformation presents what is novel and surprising in hopes of swaying opinion and can come from governments, organizations or individuals. To steer clear we are advised to use several credible sources and do fact checking.

Today’s verse is part of a beautiful prayer Jesus prays for His disciples and for all of us (vs 20). His desire is for His followers to use God’s Word as the standard measure for truth. Because of God’s Word we can know the answer to Pilate’s question, “What is truth?” (John 18:38) Jesus calls Himself “truth.” (John 14:6) and promises that His Spirit will guide us into all truth. (John 16:13) In contrast, Satan is called the “Father of lies.” (Eph. 6:14)

The truth that I personally cling to in this election season where misinformation and disinformation are so prevalent is that God is Sovereign and has an ultimate plan for this world. No one individual can thwart what He purposes. That reassures me that despite any lack of judgement on my part or any deception out there, the God of the Universe is slowly bringing about all His promises and prophecies behind the scenes!

Thank you Lord, that Your Word is always the most credible source!