Never Will I Leave You
Date: December 15, 2023
I use the BLESS method every morning for my devotional.
B - Bible Verse
L - Listen for God's Voice and pray
E - Explore the History and meaning
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases
S - Summarize and Share
You can read more about it by going to: What is a Faith Journal?
B - Bible Verse (NIV): Hebrews 13:5 (NIV): "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'"
L - Listen for God's Voice and Pray: Dear God, help me to listen to Your voice and understand the profound message in this verse. In a world that often emphasizes material wealth and possessions, teach me to prioritize contentment in Your presence and promises over the pursuit of worldly gain. As I pray, open my heart to receive Your wisdom and guidance.
E - Explore the History and Meaning: The book of Hebrews was written to a community of Jewish Christians who were facing various challenges, including persecution. The author encourages them to stand firm in their faith. In this verse, the message is clear: do not fall into the trap of coveting wealth and material possessions. Instead, find contentment in the assurance that God will never abandon His people, no matter the circumstances.
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases:
"Love of money": This warns against the unhealthy obsession with wealth and material possessions.
"Be content with what you have": Encourages us to find satisfaction in God's provision.
"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you": A promise of God's constant presence and support.
S - Summarize and Share
In a world where the pursuit of wealth and possessions often takes center stage, this verse reminds us of a profound truth: true contentment isn't found in accumulating worldly goods. It's discovered in the unchanging presence of our Heavenly Father. As we journey through life, we're prone to be enticed by the glamour of material wealth, thinking it will bring happiness. Yet, we're called to resist the love of money and instead focus on what truly matters.
God's promise, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you," is an anchor for our souls. It's a reminder that regardless of our circumstances, we are never alone. We have a faithful and loving God who walks beside us every step of the way. In times of abundance, we find contentment in His blessings. In times of scarcity, we find hope in His provision. In moments of despair, we find solace in His presence.
So, let's strive to keep our hearts free from the grip of materialism and nurture contentment in the assurance of God's unwavering companionship. In doing so, we discover a deeper, lasting joy that transcends the fleeting pleasures of this world. Share this truth with others, and together, let's embrace the richness of God's presence in our lives.
4 Bible Cross References:
Psalm 23:1 (NIV): "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing." Recognize that in God, we lack nothing essential.
Matthew 6:24 (NIV): "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." Understand the importance of prioritizing God over material wealth.
Philippians 4:11-13 (NIV): "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." Explore the concept of contentment in various life situations.
1 Timothy 6:6-7 (NIV): "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it." Reflect on the significance of godliness and contentment as true treasures.