THE UPPER ROOM ROOM DAILY DEVOTIONAL
The Upper Room Daily Devotional 28th January 2023 by Melanie Sue Fretz (Pennsylvania, USA)
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: My Focus
TODAY’S READING
Philippians 4:4-9
Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. – Philippians 4:8 (NRSV)
The Upper Room Daily Devotional 28th January 2023 MESSAGE
Some days everything seems wrong, and everywhere I go appears dismal. I notice dirt on the floor, smudges on the windowpanes, a new gray hair, and an endless list of stressors. While driving, traffic lights take too long to change, drivers are aggressive, and I have to avoid potholes.
When I meditate on today’s scripture verse, I realize that the real problem may be my focus. If I focus on what’s wrong, that’s what I’ll see. But if I focus on what is lovely, pure, and just, that’s what I’ll find. The world is full of both good and bad, and God tells us to meditate on and fill our hearts and minds with the good. In this way we can exhibit the peace that draws others to Christ.
When we change our focus, we are sure to find God in every part of creation. When I notice the amazing aroma of coffee, the birdsong outside my window, or the stunning colors of a sunrise, my problems fade into the background. When my day is interrupted, I can pause to enjoy a few deep breaths and remind myself of my blessings. May we focus on what is lovely, pure, and just as we observe the world around us today.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear God, help us to shift our focus away from what is stressful to see what is lovely in the world you have created. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Today I will seek God’s presence everywhere I go.
PRAYER FOCUS
To notice God in my surroundings
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More From Melanie Sue Fretz
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