January 9
Today’s Reading
Genesis 23–24; Luke 9
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Scripture Focus
“The Hittites replied to Abraham, ‘Listen, my Lord, you are an honored prince among us…’”
—Genesis 23:5–6 (NLT)
“For the Lord, the God of heaven… will send his angel ahead of you, and he will see to it that you find a wife there for my son.”
—Genesis 24:7 (NLT)
“Praise the Lord, the God of my master, Abraham… the Lord has shown unfailing love and faithfulness.”
—Genesis 24:27 (NLT)
(Additional focus: Genesis 24:40, 45, 48, 50–52, 56)
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Reflection
Abraham is now a man advanced in years—respected, honored, and well known among the people. But what stands out most is not his age or status; it is the maturity of his faith. He has walked with God long enough to know that God keeps His promises. Abraham does not panic about the future. He does not manipulate outcomes. He rests in what God has already spoken.
In Genesis 23, even in grief, Abraham walks with dignity and integrity. The people recognize something different about him—he is called an “honored prince.” His testimony precedes him. A life lived before God leaves an imprint on others.
In Genesis 24, Abraham’s faith is clearly passed on. He speaks with confidence—not hope-so, but know-so faith. “The Lord… will send His angel ahead of you.” Abraham believes God is already working in the unseen. And the servant responds the same way—praying quietly, watching carefully, obeying fully, and worshiping immediately when God answers.
What is so beautiful here is how often worship shows up. Before the journey ends… before the task is finished… before Isaac even meets Rebekah—there is worship. Prayer is answered, direction is given, and praise rises naturally.
This chapter reminds us that when God is truly leading, doors open without striving, confirmation follows obedience, and peace accompanies God’s will.
Luke 9 echoes this same truth—following Jesus requires trust, surrender, and obedience without delay. God is not looking for perfect people; He is looking for willing hearts that will follow when He speaks.
⸻
Lesson for Me
A life that walks closely with God grows steady, confident, and discerning. Faith matures through obedience over time. When I trust God’s promises, I don’t need to rush, force, or fear the future—God goes before me.
⸻
Application Questions
1.Is there an area where God is asking me to trust Him without needing all the details first?
2.Am I praying and watching for God’s direction, or trying to control the outcome?
3.Do I pause to worship and thank God when He answers, even in small ways?
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Prayer 🙏
Lord, thank You for going before me. Teach me to trust You the way Abraham did—with quiet confidence and steady obedience. Help me to listen, to wait, and to worship You as You lead. I want my life to reflect faith that honors You and points others to You. Amen.
⸻
Journaling Reminder
Sit quietly and listen for the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart. Write down everything He brings to your mind and heart. Keep writing until your thoughts come to a pause. Then reread what you wrote.
Begin your journal with:
“My little lamb…” or “Dear daughter…”
Today’s Reading
Genesis 23–24; Luke 9
⸻
Scripture Focus
“The Hittites replied to Abraham, ‘Listen, my Lord, you are an honored prince among us…’”
—Genesis 23:5–6 (NLT)
“For the Lord, the God of heaven… will send his angel ahead of you, and he will see to it that you find a wife there for my son.”
—Genesis 24:7 (NLT)
“Praise the Lord, the God of my master, Abraham… the Lord has shown unfailing love and faithfulness.”
—Genesis 24:27 (NLT)
(Additional focus: Genesis 24:40, 45, 48, 50–52, 56)
⸻
Reflection
Abraham is now a man advanced in years—respected, honored, and well known among the people. But what stands out most is not his age or status; it is the maturity of his faith. He has walked with God long enough to know that God keeps His promises. Abraham does not panic about the future. He does not manipulate outcomes. He rests in what God has already spoken.
In Genesis 23, even in grief, Abraham walks with dignity and integrity. The people recognize something different about him—he is called an “honored prince.” His testimony precedes him. A life lived before God leaves an imprint on others.
In Genesis 24, Abraham’s faith is clearly passed on. He speaks with confidence—not hope-so, but know-so faith. “The Lord… will send His angel ahead of you.” Abraham believes God is already working in the unseen. And the servant responds the same way—praying quietly, watching carefully, obeying fully, and worshiping immediately when God answers.
What is so beautiful here is how often worship shows up. Before the journey ends… before the task is finished… before Isaac even meets Rebekah—there is worship. Prayer is answered, direction is given, and praise rises naturally.
This chapter reminds us that when God is truly leading, doors open without striving, confirmation follows obedience, and peace accompanies God’s will.
Luke 9 echoes this same truth—following Jesus requires trust, surrender, and obedience without delay. God is not looking for perfect people; He is looking for willing hearts that will follow when He speaks.
⸻
Lesson for Me
A life that walks closely with God grows steady, confident, and discerning. Faith matures through obedience over time. When I trust God’s promises, I don’t need to rush, force, or fear the future—God goes before me.
⸻
Application Questions
1.Is there an area where God is asking me to trust Him without needing all the details first?
2.Am I praying and watching for God’s direction, or trying to control the outcome?
3.Do I pause to worship and thank God when He answers, even in small ways?
⸻
Prayer 🙏
Lord, thank You for going before me. Teach me to trust You the way Abraham did—with quiet confidence and steady obedience. Help me to listen, to wait, and to worship You as You lead. I want my life to reflect faith that honors You and points others to You. Amen.
⸻
Journaling Reminder
Sit quietly and listen for the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart. Write down everything He brings to your mind and heart. Keep writing until your thoughts come to a pause. Then reread what you wrote.
Begin your journal with:
“My little lamb…” or “Dear daughter…”
Type your new text here.