THE UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL 20TH NOVEMBER 2025, THURSDAY MESSAGE
God Chose Me First
Gaylen A. Carpenter (Tennessee, USA)
Today’s Reading
John 15:12-17
Jesus said, “You did not choose me, but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name.” – John 15:16 (NRSVUE)
I was four years old when Mom’s best friend invited us to Bible school. It was there that the Spirit of God touched my young heart. Since my parents didn’t attend church, I wasn’t able to go again until three years later when my family moved across town. Playing in the yard one day, I noticed the steeple on a church down the street. I had no memory of church, but I had the desire to go. One day I ran from the yard into the house and told my mom I needed her. When we got outside, I pointed to the steeple and blurted out, “I want to go there!” She remained silent for a moment before giving me permission. When the day arrived, she watched intently as I made my way safely to Sunday school. From then on I attended church regularly.
At age 10, I invited Jesus into my heart. Afterward, I began praying for my parents to attend church. I was in my mid 30s when Mom and Dad started going to worship. A few years later, my dad walked down the aisle and accepted Christ as his Savior. Years passed, and at the age of 89, Mom asked Jesus into her heart.
As a young child, before I knew anything about God, God had chosen me. And in the proper timing, God answered my prayers.
Thought for the Day
God always answers prayers.
Prayer Focus
Children’s ministries
Today’s Prayer
Heavenly Father, before we were created, you knew us. You chose us before we chose you! Thank you for loving us enough to send your Son. Amen.
The Upper Room Devotional 20th November 2025 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