THE UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL 2ND OCTOBER 2025, THURSDAY MESSAGE
Out of My Comfort Zone
Mary Ellen Hazen (Ohio, USA)
Today’s Reading
2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Key Verse: The Lord said to Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)
As a Christian, I’ve always been intimidated by the concept of sharing out loud the word of God. My introverted personality made me uncomfortable at the thought.
However, while browsing for clothing in a store, a woman approached me and asked if I would help her decide on an outfit. She was going back to church and wanted to dress for the occasion. She seemed thankful for my help.
Her story was not unique. She had stepped away from her faith for a time, and now she feared being judged by church members. She was concerned that God was angry with her. I felt a connection with her. I seized the opportunity and shared a favorite scripture — 2 Corinthians 12:9. I also reminded her that Jesus paid the price for us all. Hearing two voices saying amen behind us, we turned to see two women listening intently to our conversation. I realized that amid the busyness around us we had just shared a spiritual moment. Both of us had taken a positive step in deepening our faith and trusting more in God. And we received no judgment, only loving support.
Thought for the Day
Expressing my love for God can encourage others.
Prayer Focus
For opportunities to share God’s love
Today’s Prayer
Dear Lord, give us the courage to share your word when the opportunity presents itself so that we can grow in our faith and bring hope to others. Amen.
The Upper Room Devotional 2nd October 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