“God cares for his people (Joshua 5:9-12) and forgives our sins. We can trust him and his steadfast love – he is our refuge in times of distress (Psalm 32). Through Christ, we become a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:16-21) and are heirs to the kingdom of God (Luke 15:1-3, 11-32).” -Thomas Oden, Ancient Christian Devotional
God provides refreshment for the thirsty (Isaiah 55:1-9). Humbly seek God’s presence, remember his blessings and praise his name (Psalm 63:1-8). We learn from those who have gone through the wilderness before us and ask God to help us endure our own times of temptation (1 Corinthians 10:1-13). God is gracious, but the consequences of refusing to repent stand as a warning for all (Luke 13:1-9).
The Lord is our light, inspiring boldness in the midst of fear and darkness (Psalm 27). The promises he has made are sealed in blood and continue for untold generations (Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18). Like Jesus, we press on toward the cross because our citizenship in heaven is guaranteed (Philippians 3:17-41). In spite of adversity, Jesus stayed faithful until his mission was accomplished (Luke 4:1-13).
Trust in the Lord and make him your dwelling place (Psalm 99:1-2, 9-16). God provides deliverance and salvation to his people. Therefore, we should offer God the first fruits of our labor to celebrate his provision. (Deuteronomy 26:1-11) All those who confess Jesus as Lord, and call on his name are counted among God’s beloved children and will be saved (Romans 10:8b-13). Jesus has done what we could not. He has fully rejected the temptations of the evil one in order to glorify God and secure our salvation (Luke 4:1-13).