The Upper Room Daily Devotional 2nd January 2023 by Deborah Priyali (Telangana, India). 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: Our Refuge
TODAY’S READING
Psalm 34:1-7
This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. – Psalm 34:6 (NIV)
The Upper Room Daily Devotional 2nd January 2023 MESSAGE
I was going through a difficult time in my life which often made me feel hopeless and afraid. I was ashamed of my feelings because I thought that as a Christian, I should have a better response to my problems. Amid my hopelessness and fear, I was reminded of the words of David and the other authors of the psalms. Their words are honest and heartfelt, and meditating on the Psalms has helped me to be more honest with God about my feelings.
God desires a deeper relationship with us, and through our relationship with God we are comforted and encouraged to keep going. God is our refuge.
Though our problems may be overwhelming and beyond our control, we can rest assured that the God of Jacob is with us. As we read in Psalm 46, we need only to be still and acknowledge God’s power and presence.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Lord God, you know the problems we are going through. Help us to share our feelings honestly with you, our safe place. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
I can find comfort in God when I honestly share my feelings.
PRAYER FOCUS
Those facing difficult situations
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