Charles Stanley Daily Devotional 20 April 2026 (In Touch) Monday Message
Charles Stanley Daily Devotional TOPIC: Seeking Guidance: The Pattern
SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Matthew 7:7-8
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Yesterday, we saw there’s a pattern to seeking God’s guidance, and the first step—cleansing—is important throughout the entire process. Interestingly, all but one of the remaining steps have no particular order and can actually fit together in many ways.
After we’ve asked for cleansing, we must surrender—this is not an admission of weakness but, rather, an expression of humility and trust. The Lord is looking for commitment to follow Him no matter what. Therefore, surrender must precede even our prayers for guidance. 1 John 5:14-15 says that the Lord hears and grants our petitions when we ask according to His will.
God often guides believers to an answer through His Word (Psalm 119:105). Our reading might take us to a passage that deals with our specific situation, or it might reveal a principle that applies. God can also speak a clear message directly to a person’s heart. The key is to believe that the Lord is going to guide you—and then to live out that faith (Mark 11:24).
The process of seeking guidance is often slow. We are wise to be patient, because running ahead or manipulating circumstances can be a costly mistake. Our omniscient, sovereign God “acts in behalf of the one who waits for Him” (Isaiah 64:4). Those who seek direction will receive—that’s a promise (Matthew 7:7-8).
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Kings 18-19
THOUGHT OF THE DAY: When we truly believe God’s way is best and let go of our own plans, we position ourselves to hear His voice.
Dr. Charles F. Stanley was the founder of In Touch Ministries and a New York Times best-selling author. Throughout his ministry, he demonstrated a keen awareness of people’s needs and provided Christ-centered biblically based principles for everyday life.
