Daily Manna

Daily Devotions from the Bible!

Category: Old Testament Page 11 of 12

Specific devotions focusing on passages from the Old Testament.

A Christian’s Three Must-Have Resolutions: Seeking, Growing, Sharing!

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On 1 January 2024, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament, Old Testament

Today’s Manna!

As we step into a new year, Christians are presented with an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to their faith. Consider three must-have resolutions that can deepen your walk with God, foster spiritual growth, and fulfill the Great Commission.

  1. Resolution to Seek God Intimately:
    Reference: Psalm 105:4 – “Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.”
    Make it a priority to spend quality time with God through prayer, meditation, and studying His Word. D.L. Moody once said, “The only way to keep a broken vessel full is to keep it always under the tap.” Seek God’s presence daily, and you’ll find strength, wisdom, and peace.
  2. Resolution to Grow Spiritually:
    Reference: 2 Peter 3:18 – “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
    Commit to spiritual growth by engaging in Bible study, attending church, and participating in fellowship. As C.S. Lewis wisely noted, “You can make anything by writing.” So, journal your spiritual journey, recording insights and reflections. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and let the transformative power of God shape you into the person He designed you to be.
  3. Resolution to Evangelize and Share God’s Love:
    Reference: Matthew 28:19-20 – ” Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
    Resolve to share the love of Christ with others, whether through acts of kindness, inviting someone to church, or sharing your personal testimony. Charles Spurgeon encouraged, “Every Christian is either a missionary or an imposter.” Recognize that evangelism is not only for a select few but an integral part of every believer’s calling.

Heavenly Father, as we embark on this new season, we commit to seeking Your face, growing in Your grace, and sharing Your love with those around us. Grant us the strength and wisdom to uphold these resolutions in the year ahead. May our lives be a testimony to Your transformative power. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Counting Blessings as We Await the New Year 2024!

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On 31 December 2023, Sunday

In Biblical, Old Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Psalm 103:2

“Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, the psalmist’s words echo a timeless truth – an invitation to the depths of our souls to praise the Lord and remember His abundant blessings. In a world often marked by challenges and uncertainties, God’s care for His people remains unwavering.

Psalm 92:1-2 (NIV) beautifully complements this sentiment, saying, “It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night.” Together, these verses emphasize the rhythm of praise woven into the fabric of our days. In praising God, we find a transformative practice, a way to recognize and appreciate His constant care.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) further illuminates this theme, urging us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” As we approach the new year, this passage beckons us to trust God, to lay our worries before Him, and to embrace the peace that comes from recognizing His sovereignty.

In the spirit of awaiting the new year, let us count on God’s blessings, remembering the ways He has faithfully carried us through the past and trusting His promises for the future. As we reflect on Psalm 103:2, may we intentionally recount the benefits of our relationship with Him – His forgiveness, healing, redemption, and boundless love.

New Year Wish: As we step into the canvas of a new year, my prayer for you is that God’s grace continues to abound in your life. May you experience His peace that surpasses all understanding, and may each day be a testament to His faithfulness and goodness. Happy New Year 2024!

Let’s pray: Gracious Lord, as we stand on the cusp of a new year, we praise You and forget not all Your benefits. Help us to count our blessings, to trust in Your care, and to find peace in Your unfailing love. As we wait upon You for the new year, may Your grace and favor be our constant companions. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Dear Beloved Readers,

Heartfelt gratitude for being steadfast followers of our devotional site. Your support truly warms our hearts. Please share the devotional with your family and loved ones, and please do not forget to join us on Instagram and YouTube. Your personal touch makes our community special. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. Happy New Year 2024!

Warm regards,

Daily Manna Team!

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Seizing the Gift of Time!

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On 29 December 2023, Friday

In Biblical, Old Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Psalm 90:12 (NIV)

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

In the hurried pace of life, it’s easy to lose sight of the precious gift of time that God has bestowed upon us. The psalmist implores God to teach us to “number our days.” This isn’t a mere counting of moments but a profound recognition of the brevity and significance of each day we are given. As we reflect on this verse, we are invited to view time as a valuable currency, spending it wisely and investing it in pursuits that align with God’s purpose for our lives.

The prayerful request to “gain a heart of wisdom” reveals the essence of the psalmist’s plea. Wisdom is the key to navigating the complexities of life and making choices that honor God. By acknowledging the limited nature of our time, we are prompted to live intentionally, seeking God’s guidance in all that we do. Wisdom allows us to discern God’s will, prioritize our pursuits, and cultivate a heart that beats in rhythm with His.

Time is a gift, and how we use it reflects our understanding of God’s purpose for our lives. When we number our days, we begin to appreciate the value of the present moment. Instead of being consumed by worry about the future or dwelling on the past, we learn to embrace the opportunities that each day brings to draw closer to God and serve others.

As we meditate on Psalm 90:12, let us be intentional about our time. May we seek God’s guidance to prioritize our days, investing in activities that contribute to our spiritual growth and the well-being of others. Let us not squander the precious moments we have been given, but rather, use them to glorify God and fulfill His purposes for our lives.

Gracious God, teach us to number our days and grant us a heart of wisdom. Help us to appreciate the brevity of life and guide us in using our time intentionally. May each day be an opportunity to draw closer to You, to serve others, and to live in alignment with Your purpose. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Lamentation Turned into Hope: The Slaughter of Infants and the Birth of Redemption!

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On 20 December 2023, Wednesday

In Biblical, Old Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Jeremiah 31:15

In Jeremiah 31:15, the prophet voices the haunting lament of Rachel, the mother of Israel, mourning for her children in Ramah. This poignant prophecy echoes through the corridors of time, finding its tragic fulfillment in the Gospel of Matthew 2:16-18. Here, Herod’s ruthless slaughter of infants in Bethlehem plunges the region into inconsolable grief, mirroring the prophetic words spoken centuries earlier.

The slaughter of infants stands as a chilling reminder of the brokenness of the world into which Jesus was born. It paints a stark contrast between the darkness of human sin and the dawning light of God’s redemptive plan. The fulfillment of Jeremiah’s prophecy in this tragic event underscores the profound impact of Jesus’ arrival, signaling the cosmic battle between the forces of evil and the divine mission of salvation.

Amidst the weeping and mourning, the birth of Jesus emerges as the beacon of hope. The fulfillment of prophecies, such as Jeremiah’s, attests to the meticulous orchestration of God’s redemptive plan. The darkness that shrouded Bethlehem on that fateful day foreshadowed the cosmic struggle Jesus would confront on the cross, where the innocent Lamb would ultimately triumph over the forces of sin and death.

As we reflect on the slaughter of infants and its connection to the birth of Jesus, we find solace in the assurance that God’s plan transcends the tragedies of this world. The tears shed in Ramah were not in vain; they became part of the redemptive narrative that unfolded through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

Heavenly Father, we acknowledge the pain and sorrow woven into the fabric of humanity’s brokenness. Yet, in the midst of darkness, Your redemptive plan shines through. Thank You for the hope born out of tragedy, exemplified by the birth of Jesus. May the fulfillment of prophecies remind us of Your sovereign control over history, and may the promise of redemption bring comfort to all who mourn. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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The Branch of Jesse: A Promise Fulfilled in Christ

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On 17 December 2023, Sunday

In Biblical, Old Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Isaiah 11:1-2 (NIV)

In the tapestry of divine promises, Isaiah 11:1-2 threads the anticipation of a shoot emerging from the stump of Jesse, a Branch bearing fruit, upon whom the Spirit of the Lord would rest. This prophetic imagery symbolizes the restoration of a seemingly cut-off lineage, a revival destined to bring forth the Messiah.

As we turn to the genealogies in Matthew 1:1-16 and Luke 3:23-38, we witness the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. In the detailed listings of generations, the names of Jesse, David, and their descendants come alive, converging to reveal Jesus as the promised Branch. The shoot from the stump of Jesse, the long-awaited Messiah, emerges in the person of Jesus Christ.

The imagery of a stump implies a history of fallen kingship and shattered dynasties. Yet, from this seemingly lifeless remnant, a shoot springs forth. The Branch, Jesus, not only restores but brings forth eternal life and fruitfulness. The fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy is not merely about the restoration of a lineage; it’s about the renewal of hope, the rekindling of a divine purpose that surpasses the temporal.

As the Spirit of the Lord rested on Jesus, His ministry unfolded, bringing forth the fruits of love, grace, and salvation. Jesus, the true Branch of Jesse, embodied the divine attributes foretold by Isaiah, and His impact transcended the limits of earthly kingship.

This prophecy encourages us to see beyond the apparent stumps in our own lives – moments when dreams seem cut off or purpose appears lost. From those very places, God can bring forth shoots of renewal and growth. In Christ, we find the embodiment of God’s promise to revive and restore, reminding us that His plans always surpass our human understanding.

Heavenly Father, we marvel at the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy in the birth of Jesus, the Branch of Jesse. Thank You for the promise of renewal and restoration that comes from You alone. In moments of despair or apparent loss, help us trust in Your ability to bring forth life and bear fruit. May the Spirit of the Lord rest on us, guiding our steps in alignment with Your divine plan. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Bethlehem’s King: The Prophetic Prelude to Christmas!

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On 15 December 2023, Friday

In Biblical, Old Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Micah 5:2

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.

In the quiet town of Bethlehem, nestled among the clans of Judah, Micah’s prophecy unfolded with divine precision. Micah 5:2, a timeless proclamation echoing through the corridors of time, foretold the birthplace of a ruler destined to shepherd Israel, whose origins reached back to ancient times. Little did Bethlehem know that within its humble confines, the grand narrative of redemption was about to be unveiled.

Matthew 2:1-6 recounts the fulfillment of this prophecy, as wise men from the East sought the newborn King. Their inquiry led to an unexpected source of confirmation: the scribes and chief priests, well-versed in the Scriptures, pointed to Micah’s prophecy. Bethlehem, though small, emerged as the sacred stage for the entry of a ruler whose impact would transcend the boundaries of time.

The significance of Bethlehem lies not in its size or prominence among the clans of Judah but in its role as the chosen birthplace of the Messiah. It was a town embraced by God to fulfill His promise, a reminder that God often works through the seemingly insignificant to accomplish His extraordinary plans.

Consider the scene in Luke 2:4-7 – Joseph and Mary, compelled by a census decree, find themselves in Bethlehem. It is in this unassuming town that Mary gives birth to Jesus in a humble manger. The fulfillment of Micah’s prophecy becomes tangible as the ruler over Israel, the Shepherd of hearts, takes His first breath in Bethlehem.

As we reflect on Micah’s prophecy, we are reminded that God’s promises are never in vain. The meticulous alignment of circumstances, from the census to the guidance of the wise men, reveals the divine craftsmanship in fulfilling prophecies. Bethlehem, though small, became the epicenter of divine intervention, highlighting God’s ability to use the seemingly insignificant to accomplish His majestic purposes.

Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your precise fulfillment of prophecies, such as Micah’s proclamation about Bethlehem. Thank You for orchestrating the details of Jesus’ birth in the most unassuming of places. May we, like Bethlehem, recognize the significance of our role in Your divine plan. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Advent Christmas: Anticipating the Light of Hope

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On 5 December 2023, Tuesday

In Biblical, Old Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Isaiah 9:2

In the quiet hush of the Advent season, we find ourselves at the threshold of expectation and anticipation. The word “Advent” beckons us to lean into the longing, to fix our gaze on the promise of a coming Light that will pierce through the darkness of our world.

As we light the first candle on our Advent wreath, we symbolize the profound truth that Jesus, the Light of the World, is drawing near. The prophet Isaiah’s words echo through the centuries, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned” (Isaiah 9:2, NIV). Advent is our time of waiting, of yearning for that dawn.

In this season, we reflect on the journey of the wise men who, guided by a celestial light, sought the newborn King. Their anticipation mirrored the longing of humanity for a Savior. As we embark on our own Advent journey, may we align our hearts with theirs, eagerly anticipating the revelation of Christ’s light in our lives.

The Advent candles symbolize the facets of our expectation – hope, peace, joy, and love. Each week, we kindle a new flame, not merely as a ritual but as a spiritual practice, a deliberate act of turning our hearts toward the source of our hope. Christ’s advent is not just a historical event; it’s a continuous reality, an invitation for us to renew our hope in the promises of God.

As we prepare for the celebration of Christ’s birth, let us not be consumed by the hustle and bustle, but rather, let the Advent candles remind us of the significance of our waiting. In the darkness, the light of Christ is a beacon of hope, assuring us that even in the bleakest moments, His light will dawn, dispelling despair and bringing new life.

Prayer:
Gracious Father, as we embark on this Advent journey, may the anticipation of Christ’s coming fill our hearts with hope, peace, joy, and love. Illuminate our lives with the light of your presence, and may our waiting be marked by a deepened connection with you. In the name of Jesus, our Emmanuel, we pray. Amen.

A Child, A Son, Our Wonderful Counselor!

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On 1 December 2023, Friday

In Biblical, Old Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture Reference: Isaiah 9:6

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Picture the profound significance of a newborn child—a symbol of hope, innocence, and promise. In Isaiah’s prophecy, this child is not just any child; he is the embodiment of God’s divine plan. Much like the birth of a royal heir, this child’s arrival carries immense weight, for he is destined to bear the government on his shoulders. This parallel echoes the responsibility of earthly leaders while emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the child foretold in Isaiah.

In our lives, we encounter various forms of leadership, each with its own set of challenges. However, the promised child, Jesus, is no ordinary leader. He is our Wonderful Counselor, offering guidance beyond human comprehension. When faced with decisions, uncertainties, or the complexities of life, we can turn to Him for counsel. His wisdom surpasses all, and his leadership extends beyond the political to the personal, bringing light to our darkest moments.

Today, let’s challenge ourselves to recognize Jesus as our Wonderful Counselor. Amidst the noise of the world, let us intentionally seek His guidance in our decisions, relationships, and daily struggles. As we do, we discover that the government of our lives finds its true resting place on His shoulders. In embracing Jesus as our Counselor, we align our hearts with the Prince of Peace, inviting His transformative counsel into every aspect of our existence.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, our Wonderful Counselor. As we navigate the complexities of life, help us turn to Him for guidance. May His wisdom permeate our decisions, relationships, and every area of our lives. We surrender the government of our lives into His capable hands, trusting that His counsel brings true peace. In the name of Jesus, our Prince of Peace, we pray. Amen.

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I Lack Nothing When God is My Shepherd!

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On 30 November 2023, Thursday

In Biblical, Old Testament, Psalms and Proverbs

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Psalms 23:1

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.”

In the vast landscape of scripture, Psalm 23:1 stands as a towering peak, offering a panoramic view of God’s provision and care: “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” This verse encapsulates a profound truth that resonates through the ages, inviting us into the restful assurance of God’s abundant provision.

The imagery of God as our shepherd is both comforting and powerful. A shepherd tends to the needs of the flock, ensuring they lack nothing essential for their well-being. In the same way, our heavenly Shepherd takes charge of our lives, providing for our every need. The richness of this provision extends beyond mere material necessities; it encompasses the spiritual, emotional, and relational aspects of our existence.

Consider the language of lack—”I lack nothing.” It’s a bold declaration of trust in the sufficiency of God’s provision. In a world marked by insatiable desires and constant striving, this declaration becomes a counter-cultural anthem. It echoes the sentiment of contentment found in knowing that, under the care of the divine Shepherd, we are complete.

God’s provision is not merely about meeting our basic needs; it’s about abundance. The psalmist doesn’t say, “I have enough,” but rather, “I lack nothing.” This acknowledgment invites us to shift our perspective from scarcity to abundance, recognizing that our Shepherd provides generously and extravagantly.

In our daily lives, where wants often clamor for attention, the truth of Psalm 23:1 becomes an anchor. It reminds us that our Shepherd knows us intimately, understands our needs, and graciously meets them. It’s an invitation to release the burden of striving and rest in the assurance that, in God’s provision, we lack nothing essential for our journey.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, our Shepherd and Provider, we come before you with grateful hearts. Thank you for the abundant provision that flows from your loving care. Help us, Lord, to trust in your sufficiency, to rest in the assurance that in you, we lack nothing. May this truth shape our perspective and fill our hearts with gratitude. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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Delighting in the Lord!

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On 25 November 2023, Saturday

In Biblical, Old Testament, Psalms and Proverbs

Scripture: Psalm 37:4

In the hustle of life, where desires often clash with reality, Psalm 37:4 stands as a beacon of hope and guidance:

“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

Consider your heart’s desires as seeds waiting to be planted. Taking delight in the Lord is like cultivating the soil, ensuring it is rich and ready for growth. When our delight is centered on God, our desires align with His will, and the seeds we sow find a fertile ground (Matthew 6:33).

Imagine delighting in the Lord as a joyful dance, where every step is a celebration of His goodness and grace. In this dance, the desires of our hearts harmonize with the rhythm of God’s purpose, creating a beautiful and fulfilling melody.

Delighting in the Lord involves more than seeking His hand for blessings; it’s about seeking His heart. Just as in a deep and meaningful relationship, spending time in God’s presence, studying His Word, and communing with Him in prayer become the expressions of our delight.

Now, what does it mean for you to “take delight in the Lord” in your daily life? How can you cultivate a heart that finds joy and satisfaction in your relationship with God, rather than solely in the fulfillment of desires?

Are there desires in your heart that need realignment with God’s will? How can you surrender those desires to God, trusting that His plans are higher and more fulfilling than our own (Isaiah 55:8-9)?

As we reflect on these questions, let’s pray:

“Heavenly Father, we seek to delight in You, to find our joy and satisfaction in the beauty of Your presence. Align our desires with Your will, and help us surrender our hearts to Your loving guidance. In delighting in You, may we discover the true desires that bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

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