Today’s Devotion
Topic: How We Had Hoped!
Text: Luke 24: 17- 21
17 He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” They stood still, their faces downcast. 18 One of them, named Cleopas,asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?”
19 “What things?” He asked. “About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed Him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified Him;
21 but we had hoped that He was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. Amen
Sometimes before the promise of God for your life is fulfilled, circumstances may make you wonder whether there was a promise in the first place, and even if so, whether that promise is practical per the situation you find yourself. Everything could suddenly head anti-clockwise, and with such speed that makes you wonder if there is any reason to keep hope alive.
Those who used to believe in you and thought God had a special plan for you, now say among themselves “oh, we had hoped he would be a great person. And what’s more, it’s been several months and we don’t see anything getting better for him.” Hearing this breaks you down and you begin to entertain negative thoughts.
But you see, Beloved, whenever your life story is told this way by family and friends, it means like Cleopas, they actually saw so much potential in you and had high expectations in the Lord for you. But now, the vision seems unclear and their faith unsure, so they are disappointed.
However, Child of God, never let it bother you when you find yourself in a situation like this. Every SEED sown must necessarily DIE in the soil first, before it germinates and grows to become a huge tree with wide branches, beautiful flowers and delicious fruits.
The pathway to living the purpose of God can be tough and rough. Things may get really bad before the best results manifest. Trust therefore in God’s abilities, not your own. Persevere through the storm and be determined to do exactly what God instructs you to do. You will see the redemption grace of God intervene for you on every side until His love rewrites the story.
Let us note that all this while, it was Jesus (Himself) speaking with Cleopas and his friend. They didn’t even realise it was Him. Their minds were too occupied with events unfolding than to realise Jesus was in the situation as the evidence of God’s faithfulness. They were discussing their disappointment in His death when He was there with them actually, proving the power of His ressurection. They didn’t get it till later.
EVEN NOW, HE IS SITTING AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD INTERCEDING FOR US! Do you realise that’s your proof that things are already better or like Cleopas, you don’t see it that way? Begin to pray now. Just as Jesus rose triumphantly from the grave, you too, arise now in Jesus name and keep on keeping on. May the ressurection power of Christ lift you above all that presses you down and grant you wings to sour heights that the falcons do not dare.
After this prayer, always remember that some people genuinely love you and are hoping you will be great. Don’t give up this early. Arise and shine! Click: https://youtu.be/q7jV1d2O40M.
NB: The sensational 4JBAND will be live in concert on sunday, 27th dec. @ 3pm. Venue: Canis MAJORIS- AWOSHIE. It’s going to bless you for 2021. Don’t miss this great service for anything.
(www.yonghana.org, Facebook: Y OUTREACH NETWORK)