SWHW Bible Reading Plan: October 2021Sample

Top Takeaway from Caroline Foster:

Isn’t it comforting to know that NO MATTER WHAT COMES OUR WAY, we are victorious if we are in Christ Jesus? It can be discouraging to browse social media, listen to the news, and read through the burdens of our brothers and sisters in Christ, BUT simple reminders like Psalms 98-100 remind me that Jesus is fair and just. 

We can worship Him with gladness and come to Him with a joyful song because He is the Lord.

But along with living a life that relishes in His goodness comes obedience. Because our obedience is an overflow of a heart that loves God. I love David’s prayer in Psalm 101 to walk a blameless path.

So how do we live a blameless life? Let's look at a few things David called out in Psalm 101-104:

1. Have our eyes fixed on Jesus. In our own flesh, we live for ourselves. Because of that, our minds become fixed on pride, greed, and idolatry. But in order to live with integrity and wisdom, we must align our efforts with His and rely on His help. 

2. Do not look for the approval of others. We must avoid a haughty heart. The only approval that matters is God’s.

3. Follow others who live blamelessly. Those close to you should be faithful to God. Take a spiritual inventory of those closest to you. On a scale of 1-10, where would they fall? You will be an average of those closest to you, so get people in your life that are pursuing Jesus and push you to be more like Him.

4. Lean into the Lord. Cry out to God and lay out your heart! God cares about the details, friend. Learn how to talk to Him. He wants an intimate relationship with you. When God feels far away, persist in your search for Him. He promised in Matthew 7:7, “Seek and you will find me.” 

We know that God is near because He was in the past, and that means He will be with us now in the present. He never leaves us or forsakes us.

Lord, I lift up the woman reading this devotional. I pray that Your hand would be over her and guide her. Please give her wisdom as she surrenders to Your way and takes steps of obedience. Give her joy and rejoicing in this season, even if it’s hard! I pray that she would lean into You. We love You, Lord.  Amen.