THE UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL 24TH SEPTEMBER 2025, WEDNESDAY MESSAGE
God With Us
Jether Ann F. Rizaldo (Benguet, Philippines)
Today’s Reading
Exodus 33:12-23
The Lord said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name.” – Exodus 33:17 (NIV)
I’m almost 30 years old, but I have never traveled alone — until now. I feel like I’ve been cooped up in my comfort zone. And as safe as that feels, I recognize that it hinders my growth. I’m at a point in my life where I want to challenge myself.
With my bags packed, I went to Mass before heading off on my trip. As I entered the church, I knew what my prayers would be — to ask for God’s guidance and to lay down my fears. During the priest’s message, he reminded us of the name Immanuel, emphasizing its meaning: God with us. (See Matt. 1:18-25.) This reminder was all I needed to calm my doubts and fears about my trip. I had not yet voiced my prayers, but God had answered me already through the priest’s message. God knows our prayers, as well as our doubts and fears, before we utter them.
In today’s scripture reading, Moses talks with God and asks for guidance and favor as he and the Israelites travel to the Promised Land. God assures Moses that God will be with them, even though they will not be able to see God. By faith we know that God is with us and always will be.
Today’s Prayer
Dear God, thank you for being with us always. May our thoughts, words, and deeds glorify you. Amen.
Thought for the Day
God knows me and calls me by name.
Prayer Focus
People traveling alone
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The Upper Room Devotional 24th September 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