The Daily Devotional

07 Dec The Daily Devotional

Read Psalm 1:1-2
Thought for the Day: Devotionals help us hear God’s Word

When we read a daily devotional, we are carrying on a tradition that goes back over a thousand years. Devotionals started in the 9th Century when Oengus the Culdee authored the Felire (in Ireland). While we know few details of Oengus’ life, the impact of his contribution can’t be overstated. Carrying on the tradition, The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas a Kempis, had an impact on a young John Wesley. Over the centuries Leo Tolstoy, Oswald Chambers, and today Sarah Young (author of Jesus Calling) have carried on this tradition. However, the purpose of each devotional hasn’t changed. They help us reflect on God’s Word each day. Is it any wonder that in the late 1930’s when Dr. Bob and Bill Wilson, founders of Alcoholic Anonymous, wanted to help those in recovery learn to think differently that they handed out copies of The Upper Room?

The Book of Psalms stresses the importance of encountering God’s Word daily: “Blessed is the one who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night.” Rather than reading Scripture once and saying ‘I’m all set’, the Psalmist encourages us to meditate on it. By listening to God’s Word each day, we are able to internalize the meaning and let the Holy Spirit apply it to our lives. The Bible, God’s Word, really is the master text for our lives.

Countless Christians have paved the road for us. Today, daily devotionals like “Our Daily Bread” or “The Upper Room” continue to be available. If you have never read a daily devotional, we invite you to try this helpful tradition that started over 1000 years ago. It is still around today because it has helped so many people. When put into practice, it will enrich your life!

In Christ,
Pastors Stan and David