FCA ResourcesDevotional
The Lord Gave
Ready
So the Lord gave Israel all the land he had sworn to give their ancestors, and they took possession of it and settled there. The Lord gave them rest on every side according to all he had sworn to their ancestors. None of their enemies were able to stand against them, for the Lord handed over all their enemies to them. None of the good promises the Lord had made to the house of Israel failed. Everything was fulfilled.--Joshua 21:43-45
Set
Do you remember the first ball you were ever given?
I don't. I also don't recall being given the many gloves I possessed, or the first time I was given the opportunity to play on a team. These gifts were simply there, and most of the time, I lived my life as if I deserved them. Looking back, I wonder how much more I could have gotten out of these possessions and opportunities if I had remembered on a daily basis that they were a gift, not a right.
Joshua chapters 13-21 can be challenging to read because they are primarily a list of how the land was distributed. However, at the end of these chapters, there are some key words to remember. "The Lord provided!" God bestowed the land upon Israel. And Joshua made an effort to ensure that they did not forget this truth.
Surveying the land (our lives) to see what God has given us is a worthwhile endeavor. Homes, families, faith, love, joy, peace, and careers are just a few examples. A quick glance cultivates a grateful heart and better positions us to make the most of the possessions and opportunities that the Lord has bestowed upon us.
Our heart's health is directly related to the awareness that the Lord has given to us.
Go
- Draw a heart on a sheet of paper and write the words, “The Lord Gave” inside the heart. Now survey your life and write down everything you can think of that the Lord has given you on the rest of the sheet of paper.
- Reflect on one or two gifts that you believe God wants you to make the most of today.
Workout
Job 1:21, John 15:1-7. Galatians 5:22-23, Phil 3:8-10
Overtime
Lord, thank you for the gifts and opportunities that you have given. You are my provider and you are good. I confess that I have forgotten this truth too many times in my life and lived with a heart of entitlement instead of a heart of gratitude. Would you help me to remember today as I seek to use all that you have given for your glory. Give me a healthy heart of gratitude that is ready to serve. In Jesus name, Amen.
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