Devotion: Whatever You Ask For
Please take a moment to read John 14:1-14
As I have confessed in the past, my mind has a difficult time remaining calm. Thoughts and worries about the current world as well as the health of my family swirl daily and sadly, at night. So, when Jesus whispers as in John 14:1 “Do not let your hearts be troubled,” he reassures me that he not only knows me but he also understands my needs.
When Jesus spoke to his disciples, it was during a time of deep uncertainty and filled with worldly chaos. He understood that his chosen followers needed increased faith, reassurance, and a deepened trust in divine guidance. Daily troubles in our current world increase our daily stress and worry.
How do we to apply Jesus’ lessons in our daily life? In my studies of these verses after listening to Pastor Michelle’s sermon, I learned that whenever we are anxious, we should:
1.) Stop, take a moment to reflect on these verses. Ask our Lord for help to ease our troubled hearts. Trust him as we trust the love and stability of our own families and homes.
2.) Surround ourselves with individuals who uplift and encourage us. We can lean on God’s reassurances just as we count on those closest to us. He hears each word. In John 14:14, He tells us that we can ask for anything in his name, aligning our hearts with His. As we grow in our relationship with Him, we learn to trust His heart and timing, knowing that he is empowering us to do His work in the world.
3.) Focus on the present. Anxiety about the future leads to unnecessary distress. Instead, take the world one day at a time and rely on our faith.
In verse 14:6, Jesus reminds us, “I am the way and the truth and the life.” Verse 14:12 emphasized the road which we are to take. “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father,” and so will we. No matter the chaos around us, no matter the choices of others, we know the road to travel. We are assured of reaching our eternal home.
Dear God, I know that you understand my fragilities and my needs. Continue to whisper in my ear and assure me of your promises. Walk with me on my daily road to the truth and the life. In your name, I believe and trust daily. Amen.
Written by Glenda Clare
Glenda and her husband, Steve, are Sheridan Lutheran members and have been blessed by the pastors and the congregation of friends. Glenda enjoys reading, writing, and caring for her three-year-old granddaughter, Rose.