If only

​8-5-21
Today's devotion is based on John 11:21," 'Lord,' Martha said to Jesus, 'if you had been here, my brother would not have died."
Do you ever feel this way? Jesus, if only you had been here, things would still be okay. We often think like Martha in life. The world constantly tries to entice us to live so that we start longing for change when things don't suit us. When things don't work out or if we are put in an uncomfortable position, we are tempted to say, "If only things were different."
As Christians, we should not be living as 'If only' Christians for Jesus is always here for you, for he is with you every moment of every day, shaping, molding, and growing you in his word by his spirit. Whatever happens, you have nothing to fear, for Jesus is the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in him will never die, for faith in Jesus holds onto forgiveness of sin, eternal life, and salvation.
So, be fully satisfied in Jesus. Take his unseen hand in faith, and let him lead you while you walk on this earth doing the work God has sent you to do, sharing Jesus with others. He will one day lead you home where he will hold you eternally.
Please pray with me the prayer for today: Dear Jesus, hold me, take me by my hand every day, and lead me into your work, both in my life and as I meet others. May I have a heart for you, Lord, seeing the needs of others around me, so they know you are meeting them where they are. Thank you that you are all I need and that you provide everything for me in this life and forever. Amen.