This 365-day devotional walks you through the Bible in a year, following a custom reading plan that delves into the stories of the Bible from five unique perspectives.
April 27: Walking in Circles
Joshua 18:1–19:9; 2 Corinthians 12:1–10; Psalm 56:1–13
I often wish things were more obvious. I ask God to help me understanding His timing so that I can easily act. I ask for everything to happen at the right moments. I ask Him to give me such clear directions that I can’t fail in following them. I used to think this was a good thing, but I realize now that all my questions could indicate a lack of faith. It seems that my questions lead to more questions. Like a man losing his memory in old age, I end up walking in circles around the block rather than finding my way home.
Maybe it’s not the lack of knowing that disturbs me, but that when I really know what God wants, I will have to act. In general, this seems to be the problem with faith in western Christianity. We say we don’t know what God wants. However, if we’re honest with ourselves, perhaps we don’t really want to know what God wants. In our hearts, we’re certain that knowing will mean uncomfortable change.
Joshua calls the Israelites on this type of faith problem: “How long will you be slack about going to take possession of the land that Yahweh, the God of your ancestors, has given you?” (Josh 18:3). The same question applies to us. How long will we wait? We really know what we’re supposed to do? If we don’t, might the reason be that we don’t want to know?
Often we hesitate because we’re afraid of our weaknesses—that we don’t think we have what it takes. Paul addresses this when discussing his own weaknesses: “And [God] said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, because the power is perfected in weakness.’ Therefore rather I will boast most gladly in my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may reside in me’ ” (2 Cor 12:9).
Rather than live in fear, we should boast in our weaknesses. Christ is working in us, to use us, in spite of them. No one is perfect; only Christ has the honor of perfection. And while we are weak, He will give us strength in Him. His strength can overcome whoever we are, wherever we have been, and whatever we will do.
Rather than walking in circles looking for home, let’s realize that we are already home. Our home is Christ.
In what ways are you currently walking in circles? What should you be doing instead?
John D. Barry
Barry, J. D., & Kruyswijk, R. (2012). Connect the Testaments: A One-Year Daily Devotional with Bible Reading Plan. Lexham Press.
Hope you are doing well
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God’s timing is amazing, thank you for asking my friend, preliminary results from routine bloodwork, etc., 2 weeks ago may have revealed a disease issue in the groin. Follow-up visit is targeted at the end of the month. Presuming this is not a false positive (of whatever might be going on) the early flagged warning should provide (thru God’s plan) ample time to address this issue. My cardiologist tells me my heart is functioning at rock star status, depression & anxiety are still kicking my tail. Thank God He has made me relentless, loyal & humble during all of the trials set before me with our Armour provided by God. I will keep you up to date, thank God for you.
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Wow. Just prayed for you
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Amen 🙏
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And amen!
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