01/06/24
JOEL OSTEEN MINISTRIES
TODAY’S WORD
Today’s Scripture
And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
Luke 24:27, NIV
WHO’S WALKING WITH YOU?
On the Sunday after Jesus was crucified, two of His disciples were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus. They were so discouraged and sorrowful that Jesus was gone, that their hopes and dreams were shattered. They were so focused on what didn’t work out, this great disappointment, that they didn’t recognize the risen Jesus who suddenly joined them in their journey and conversation. In that incredible moment, He began to explain to them all that the Scripture had predicted about Him, how He would be crucified and rise from the dead on the third day. It wasn’t until later that day that they realized their seven-mile walk had been in the presence of the risen Savior.
How many times on our daily journey are we not recognizing what God is doing? We’re so caught up in dealing with problems, trying to fix our finances or our family or an illness, that we don’t see all the good things God is doing in the present moment. Don’t be so focused on what’s wrong that you don’t recognize that Jesus is walking with you through it all.
A Prayer for Today
“Father, thank You that You are walking with me and working in my life every day. Help me to not be so focused on today’s challenges that I miss the good things that You’re doing in this present moment. Open my eyes as You did with these two disciples so that I can see. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”
SECTION TWO
Today, we are beneficiaries of God’s favor, because His wrath against our sins has already been completely satisfied at Calvary. In Hebrew, the word used for “favor” is ratsown, which means His pleasure, delight, goodwill, and acceptance.
Our place of protection was purchased with the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. In Him, we have been made righteous, and all the blessings of the righteous, including protection, provision, and length of days, are our inheritance.
That’s the place we are in today. Isn’t that beautiful? No wonder the Scriptures tell us, “The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion” (Prov. 28:1).
It also tells us, “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16). A righteous man (or woman) is who you are in Christ, and when you pray the prayer of protection in Psalm 91, your prayers avail much, for God answers your prayers!
I received a testimony of God’s divine protection from Sally, who lives in South Africa. Be encouraged as you read how she prayed for protection knowing that she is righteous in Christ:
I was driving a rented car when I heard a loud bang. Within moments, the car was on fire. I immediately switched off the engine to get out. But to my horror, I could not remove the seat belt or open the door! I was stuck.
Finally, I managed to get the door opened. By then, the flames were threatening to come inside the car and I had to close the door again because I was trapped by the seat belt. I called out to Abba Father and just declared, “I am Your righteousness. You are the only One who can save me!”
As those words were echoing in my ears and heart, I heard a click as the seat belt was released. I dashed out of the car.
When the fire department arrived, they were able to stop the blaze. I praise the Lord for delivering me safely out of this dangerous situation! I realized that the devil has long been defeated and we don’t have to fear anything anymore.
Praise the Lord for His deliverance and protection. I rejoice that we are shielded from danger because of the righteousness we have in Christ!
Dara Network TV 