THE UPPER ROOM ROOM DAILY DEVOTIONAL
The Upper Room Daily Devotional February 1, 2023 by Audrey Tafadzwa Chidavaenzi (Midlands, Zimbabwe). 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: Remembering Promises
TODAY’S READING
Hosea 6:1-3
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
I graduated from high school in June 2019 with nearly perfect grades. I hoped to attend law school at a prestigious university in Zimbabwe, but that didn’t happen. I applied to two universities and was declined by one and told by the other that I would only be accepted to university if I stopped applying to law school. I was devastated and asked, Why me? Suddenly, all my wrongdoings and sins rushed into my mind. I told myself I was being punished.
I was mad at myself and at God. I asked, “Aren’t you supposed to be forgiving?” and “Couldn’t you punish me in any other way?” It took seven months before I was able to pray or open the Bible to seek answers. But when I did, God was there, telling me to trust and that everything would be okay.
My story does not have a miraculous ending right now, but it has a beautiful reunion between me and God as I remember that God’s word has never failed, and God’s promises remain the same. I want to tell everyone who has separated or distanced themselves from God that when they return to God’s presence and promises, they will find understanding and peace.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Faithful God, thank you for loving us when we distance ourselves from you. Remind us that no matter our circumstances, we can find peace in your presence. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Even when my life does not go as I had hoped, God’s promises remain true.
PRAYER FOCUS
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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