Devotion 1/6, I Pray the Name of Jesus Over You!

This is what the Lord says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.”
Isaiah 43:16,18-19

God is extending mercy to the Israelites who are living in rebellion to Him. They are worshipping idols that have no power to help them, instead of turning to Him, the only true God, who has shown them His power to save and care for them time and time again.
We look at this and say, “Wow, why did they not understand that God was the only One who could rescue them?” Well don’t be to hasty in judging them, we tend to do the same thing today. While we may not bow down to idols made of wood and stone for help, how many times when we are in trouble do we turn to God FIRST? Sadly, He is the place of last resort sometimes. How many times have we said, “Well all we can do now is pray.” Turning to God in prayer should always be our first line of defense! He is where the only true power is.

Do we place Him at the center of our lives, or other people, money, power, career….etc.? Whatever holds our thoughts and attention is our idol, our god.
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you.”

Last year, last week, yesterday are all in the past. We cannot reclaim it or undo it. We cannot rest on the great distance it has brought us. As today dawns, it is another day, a new opportunity, and the time to show our faith in Jesus as Lord. Let’s journey forward, knowing that God already inhabits the future and promises to provide us refreshment on our journey there. And God is with us today, Emmanuel! Live today in celebration of your relationship with Him. And by what you say and do, and how you say and do will be a reflection of your relationship with Christ to others. People should be able to see Christ’s presence in our lives all the time.

Lord of all eternity, please help me to learn from my mistakes of the past, but not to dwell on them. Please help me not rest on my accomplishments in this past, but use them to further your work in me and through me. Please help me not quarrel with those who injured me yesterday, last month, or in the past. Instead, O Father, lead me in your paths and help me see your mighty works this day and all of my tomorrows. In Jesus’ name and by His power I ask it. Amen.

Seems like there’s alot of sickness and hurting all around us. It’s our privilege and obligation to pray for those near us or simply acquaintances. Pray for their healing, for God’s peace and Christ’s presence in their heart. Pray for Jesus over them. The power of prayer is one of the most powerful tools we have to help others.
Lord, I pray for the vision and awareness to recognize those that are struggling or hurting around me. I pray to lift them up that they may have you in their life for the strength to endure and comfort to know You are at their side, always. I pray for their healing and salvation through Jesus Christ. Thank you Lord, for your presence in my life. Thank you for accepting me, a sinner, and showering me with your grace, mercies and love. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.