Devotions by Susan Waters of Exceeding Joy

Don’t Put It Off

2 Corinthians 6:2 New King James

For He says: “In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of
salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now
is the day of salvation.

Now is the time! Today is the day! Whether it’s getting right with God or
following through on a decision you have been putting off – today is the
day.

Waiting won’t help. Do it now. Take that step of faith now and watch God
miraculously move in your life.

Father, I take that step of faith now. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Look To God

Mark 10:23 New Living Translation

Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for rich
people to get into the Kingdom of God!”

In any area that we prosper in, we are at risk of becoming self-sufficient.
Rich people can still depend upon God, but it’s easier for them to depend
upon their bank accounts.

Whether we are rich, poor, or in-between, we must always look to God – the
One who wants to take us beyond our own natural limitations.

Father, I will look to You at all times. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Power Of The Word

Hebrews 4:12 Amplified Bible

For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active,
operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged
sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and
spirit, and of joints and marrow , exposing and sifting and analyzing and
judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.

When we read and embrace God’s Word, it goes straight to the heart. It
reveals things that aren’t right – not to condemn, but to set us free.
Freedom positions us to receive more of what God has prepared for us.

Father, I embrace Your Word. Reveal truth to me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Grace

Ephesians 2:4-5 Amplified Bible

But God—so rich is He in His mercy! Because of and in order to satisfy
the great and wonderful and intense love with which He loved us, even when
we were dead (slain) by shortcomings and trespasses, He made us alive
together in fellowship and in union with Christ; [He gave us the very life
of Christ Himself, the same new life with which He quickened Him, for] it
is by grace (His favor and mercy which you did not deserve) that you are
saved (delivered from judgment and made partakers of Christ’s salvation).

If God’s grace was enough to save us, then why do so many people doubt
their right standing with Him? We must remember that it’s all about grace.
Yes, we change, but it’s because of grace.

Earthly parents extend grace to their children. God always extends grace.
Grace is part of love. Love is gracious. Love wants the best, easily
forgives, and wants to help. Simply receive God’s grace and embrace His
love.

Father, I receive Your grace and I embrace Your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.