The Upper Room 20 May 2022 Daily Devotional for Friday Message. Read The Upper Room 20 May 2022 Daily Devotional by Suzanne Renfro (Tennessee, USA)
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TOPIC: A Neighborly Surprise
TODAY’S READING
Matthew 22:34-40
KEY VERSE: Wanting to justify himself, [a lawyer] asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” – Luke 10:29 (NRSV)
The Upper Room 20 May 2022 Daily Devotional MESSAGE
Rain was pouring down, and water and mud from a neighboring farm were cascading down my hillside and pooling in my backyard. I didn’t know these neighbors, and I wondered if they would address the flooding problem or if I would have to find my own solution. I spent a sleepless night going over every scenario, although scripture and God’s voice reminded me that I need not worry.
Early the next morning it was still pouring rain, but my neighbors sent me a message saying they had seen the flooding issue and would bring a landscaping professional to assess the situation. They also promised to repair any damage. My worries dissolved. I saw God’s Spirit at work and my prayers answered. Where I had expected conflict, God had paved the way for cooperation. These neighbors and I have now formed a wonderful friendship that enriches our lives.
I wonder what opportunities I have missed because of a harsh word in a tense moment. I’m grateful for the example my friends set by responding to a problem in a God-honoring way. I hope I will also be that kind of good neighbor. In our strife-riddled world, may we all be instruments of God’s peace.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Heavenly Father, help us remember that we represent you. Let your Spirit guide us so that you can work through us in amazing ways. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Where can I be a good neighbor and sow seeds of peace?
PRAYER FOCUS
My neighbors
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The Upper Room 20 May 2022 Daily Devotional Message. The Upper Room is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. The meditations are stories of real people working to live faithfully with the Bible as their touchstone. Every day, readers of The Upper Room around the world read the same story in many different languages and pray the same prayer together. Read More