The Upper Room Daily Devotional 20th December 2022 written by Beatriz Nascimento (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). As you study today’s devotional, remember this; “Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 (NLT)
TOPIC: At the Feet of Christ
TODAY’S READING
Luke 10:38-42
Jesus said, “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” – John 14:12 (NIV)
The Upper Room Daily Devotional 20th December 2022 MESSAGE
When I think about the struggle for women’s rights around the world, I am reminded of the women who came before me. They overcame many challenges, and their work allows me to be where I am. I especially think of the time many of those women must have spent at the feet of Jesus.
In Luke 10, Mary sat at Jesus’ feet to hear his teachings. Women did not often participate in teaching this way, but Mary overcame prejudice to listen to Jesus. Like Mary, my mother always overcame challenges to spend time with Christ. She valued daily family devotional time, and she always made time for us to share our experiences and pray. My paternal grandmother also had a strong faith, and she regularly recited Bible verses to express it. She worked tirelessly to support her children, staying strong and overcoming many challenges.
John 14:12 makes me reflect on the great works of so many women — works that reached far beyond their own lives. May we be grateful to those who have inspired our faith and paved the way for us. And may the image of sitting at Jesus’ feet lead us to reflect on the ways we can overcome difficulties and do great works.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear God, thank you for the women who inspire us. Help us as we navigate life’s challenges while striving to stay near to you. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Because of my faith, I can do great works and inspire the faith of others.
PRAYER FOCUS
Women who inspire me
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. Read More