Joyce Meyer Devotional 21 April 2025 (Monday) Message
TOPIC: Count the Cost Before Committing
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful. – Psalm 1:1 (NKJV)
Today’s scripture says that we are not to take counsel from the ungodly. I believe that taking advice from our feelings fits into the category of “the ungodly” and is a big mistake. Feelings are simply fickle; they change frequently, and you just can’t trust them.
We can hear a good speaker talk about the volunteers needed at church and be so inspired that we sign up to help. But that doesn’t mean we’ll feel like showing up when it’s our turn to work. If we sign up and then don’t show up because we don’t feel like it, our actions don’t have integrity or honor God. When we don’t keep our word, we know it isn’t right. And no matter how many excuses we make, the fact that we were not dependable sits on our conscience like a weight.
If we desire to follow the Holy Spirit, our actions must be governed by principles—a precise standard of right and wrong. How we feel does not alter that standard. We should always count the cost to see if we have what it takes to finish a thing before we begin it (Luke 14:28). If we begin and find we cannot finish, then we need to communicate openly and honestly with all parties involved. Our emotions will help us commit, but people who honor their commitments and finish the job must eventually press on without feelings to support them.
Prayer of the Day: Lord, help me to trust You while I wait. Give me patience, strength, and a positive heart. I trust Your timing and believe You will always show me the way.
Joyce Meyer is one of the world’s leading practical Bible teachers. She is a New York Times bestselling author, and her books have helped millions of people find hope and restoration through Jesus Christ. Through Joyce Meyer Ministries, she teaches on a number of topics with a particular focus on how the Word of God applies to our everyday lives. Her candid communication style allows her to share openly and practically about her experiences, and helps others understand how to apply biblical principles to their own lives. Christ, amen.