Journey to the Cross

Pause

Close your eyes. Breathe.

Prepare your heart to be welcomed into God’s presence through scripture. Be at peace knowing that God is there even when you feel all alone.

Allow God’s word to challenge and inspire you today.

Listen

The devil brought him into Jerusalem and stood him at the highest point of the temple. He said to him, “Since you are God’s Son, throw yourself down from here; for it’s written: He will command his angels concerning you, to protect you and they will take you up in their hands so that you won’t hit your foot on a stone.

Jesus answered, “It’s been said, Don’t test the Lord your God.” After finishing every temptation, the devil departed from him until the next opportunity.

Luke 4:9-13

Think

I remember asking God (and still find myself praying today): “If you do this, then I will do this in return.” Maybe we want help passing a test or making the sports team. I think we all find ourselves testing God to see if God really cares.

Reading today’s verses, I am reminded that faith is about just trusting that God is there. It’s hard. It’s hard to believe in something you can’t see. But that is what faith is all about. Faith is about assurance, a sense of security and peace that comes from knowing Christ.

My favorite verses in Jeremiah 29:11-13 remind me everyday that God is with me. It gives me comfort knowing that God has plans for me. That doesn’t mean that life will be peachy. Life is filled with joys and heartache, good and bad times. However, it means we can stop bargaining with God or asking for proof that God’s still there, and start trusting in the God who patiently loves us always.

Michelle Phillips

Pray

Timeless Creator, give me peace in knowing you are there in times of trial and celebration, in times of wilderness and abundance. Help me know that I don’t have to test you or strike a bargain with you for your will to be done; give me confidence that you love me no matter what. Amen.

Go

Love and live this day, knowing that you have the strength of Christ to guide you and keep you during your times of wilderness.