The Upper Room Devotional 13 April 2026, Monday Message
God’s Direction
Preeti Stanly Thakor (New South Wales, Australia)
Today’s Reading
Genesis 12:10-20
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. – Psalm 32:8 (NIV)
One day while traveling to work I had to change buses. When I reached my first stop, my phone navigation indicated that my next stop was across the road and to the left. But I didn’t see a bus stop on the left, so I walked to a stop I could see on the right. It wasn’t the correct stop, though. I decided to trust the navigation, but when I reached my supposed destination I still didn’t see a bus stop. Then I looked up and saw a sign hidden among the trees. Relieved, I caught the bus in time and made it to work.
In Genesis 12:10-20, Abram traveled with Sarai to Canaan, a land that God promised would be blessed. When Canaan experienced famine, Abram chose to go to Egypt instead. However, God remained faithful and protected Abram and Sarai, eventually leading them back to the right path.
Like Abram, when we follow God’s direction, we may encounter difficulties that seem to contradict God’s promises. This doesn’t mean the path is wrong — rather, it is a test of our faith. Even when we face challenges, God is trustworthy. If we have faith and follow God’s guidance, we will eventually reach the right place.
Thought for the Day
Even when I can’t see the destination, I will follow God’s guidance.
Prayer Focus
Those who feel lost
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Today’s Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us to put our trust in your guidance, even among hardships and uncertainty. Sometimes we cannot see the whole picture, but we know you can. Amen.
The Upper Room Devotional 13 April 2026 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