Oct 25 2024

Afternoon Bible Verse

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair.

Afternoon Bible study

The Apostle Paul certainly knew about trouble. He wrote about being beaten and put in prison, left for dead, stoned, floated out in the open water for a day and a night and also being shipwrecked. And throughout the New Testament, trouble seemed to follow Paul everywhere he went.

When we face trouble, we may get frustrated, angry, and even do dumb things. But it's actually what we do in the face of trouble that shows how much Christ is dwelling in our lives.

How do you react when you face a troubling situation that you can't fix on your own? Whom do you call on?

Unfortunately, the troubles we experience in this life never really go away; they only go into hiding. There will always be giants to face, rivers to cross, walls that separate us, and armies to be defeated. And God will give us the wisdom and strength to do what it takes to conquer those troubles.

Paul wrote to the church in Corinth to share with them that even though he faced trouble and despair, he was not going to give in to it. He had found his contentment in Christ, despite extremely difficult circumstances.

Contentment during times of trouble… those concepts seem to be complete opposites. But through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can have contentment no matter how troublesome our circumstances may be.

When we find our strength in Christ alone, trouble, distress, and despair cannot exist. And the more we trust Him to take over, the more peaceful and content we will be.

Afternoon Prayer

Lord, help me to seek your peace. No matter what trial or circumstance I find myself in, lead me to the way of being content in you. Let my reactions be a reflection of Christ who lives in me. In Jesus' name, amen.

Oct 24 2024

Yesterday Afternoon's Bible Verse

And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed. :

Yesterday Afternoon's Bible study

How do you begin your day? For many it begins with breakfast and some sort of daily routine before going to work. That routine might include watching the morning news, getting kids off to school, or doing an exercise workout.

Some people start their mornings by spending time with God, reading daily devotions, studying His Word, and praying. Of course, this can take place any time of the day or night, but first thing in the morning is ideal for one-on-one time with God. Maybe that's why Jesus chose mornings, "rising up a great while before day" to spend time with His Father as this afternoon's verse in Mark 1 explains.

As our day progresses, it's easy to become so immersed in events and activities that time slips away before we realize it's gone. The next thing we know, we're lying down at night, feeling sleepy, and suddenly realize we went through an entire day without spending time with God. We say a quick prayer and vow to do better tomorrow… but will we?

If you don't already have Time with God scheduled into your regular morning routine, now is a great time to add Him—and to make it your highest-priority activity. By doing so, you'll be starting your day off right and will be better equipped than ever to tackle everything that the day holds for you.

Yesterday Afternoon's Prayer

Heavenly Father, your Word says that joy comes in the morning. Help me to find the joy that comes from spending time with you and your Word early in the day. Let it be a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. In Jesus' name, amen.
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