THE UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL 7TH MARCH 2025, FRIDAY MESSAGE
Read The Upper Room Devotional 7th March 2025 written by Ehi Ogwiji (Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria)
TOPIC: Finding Encouragement
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Today’s Reading
1 Samuel 30:1-8
David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God. – 1 Samuel 30:6 (KJV)
After high school, I had high hopes for my continued education because I passed the university entrance examinations. To my surprise, however, I wasn’t on the list of candidates for my preferred school. I had prayed and trusted God, but my expectations were dashed and discouragement set in. I was also upset because a friend who had earned a lower score was accepted. I became angry with God, my faith became weak, and I stopped attending our local church.
However, I heard a sermon that changed my perspective. The preacher talked about a difficult time in David’s life and emphasized that despite all that befell David, “He encouraged himself in the Lord his God.” He was at risk of being stoned, yet he did not give up on God. Thinking of David’s response, I felt ashamed of how I reacted to my situation.
I learned that God wants us to encourage ourselves during our difficult times by remaining close to God. If we hurry off in anger, we might not learn what God has to teach us. Eve n when we feel discouraged or distressed, we can follow David’s example and encourage ourselves in the Lord. Doing so demonstrates our true trust in God.
Today’s Prayer
Dear God, give us wisdom to learn from our challenges. Help us to encourage ourselves through scripture and by staying close to you. Amen.
Thought for the Day
When challenges arise, I will seek encouragement in God.
Prayer Focus
Recent graduates
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The Upper Room Devotional 7th March 2025, 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
