Daniel Fast- Called to Fight Until Victoryಮಾದರಿ
Day 1: Worship the Almighty
Many individuals yearn for something spiritual, sublime, and beyond comprehension, as humans are inherently designed for worship, created for the glory of God. Even if not consciously acknowledged, people invariably worship someone or something, and these objects of worship shape their motives, goals, and lifestyles. Whether it's money, material possessions, work, ministry, position, career, nature, beauty, music, sports, hobbies, family, or another person—each influence significantly impacts an individual's life. According to Psalm 115:4-5, a person becomes like the object of their worship.
Who do we worship? Who is God to us in our everyday lives? Who we choose to worship defines our reality. The apostle Paul considered knowledge of Christ to be invaluable. Everything else he considered trash, forsaking all else to gain Jesus (Philippians 3:7-8). Jeremiah emphasizes the importance, to the Lord, of people knowing and understanding Him (Jeremiah 9:24). In the book of the prophet Hosea, we also see the Lord saying, "For I desire…the knowledge of God rather than burn offerings" (Hosea 6:6b).
Deepening our understanding of the Lord and what He does for us, our families, and our nations leads to a profound desire to bow before Him, acknowledging Him as the God of gods, Lord of lords, and King of kings. Worship becomes the expression of our awe of God's greatness and our love for Him. Failure to recognize who God truly is may clutter our hearts, diverting us from what matters most—our Lord.
God foresaw that upon Moses’ death and Israel entering the Promised Land, Israel would turn away from the Most High and worship other gods. He instructed Moses to write a song that would be passed down from generation to generation (Deuteronomy 31:19-22). The song emphasizes that He alone is the Most High, the Lord of the universe, and no one is like Him (Deuteronomy 32:39-40). He is our stronghold. He is perfect, righteous, faithful, and true. He is a loving Father who cares for His children. He will judge his people and avenge their enemies. Understanding God's sovereignty helps us find joy amid life's challenges. Nothing, absolutely nothing, can happen without His knowledge.
Following Moses, Joshua reminds the people of who their Lord is, emphasizing His exclusivity in their hearts (Joshua chapters 23 and 24). God desires an undivided reign in our hearts. He wants us to recognize Him and be transformed into His image, to worship Him, and to become more and more like Him. God wants us to be true worshipers of Him (John 4:23). He wants to reveal Himself to us. He desires to reveal His glory and power to us, but it is important to seek Him with all our heart and soul (Deuteronomy 4:29). Whatever condition the Lord finds us in today, let us bow before Him and praise Him.
If we find ourselves well, calm, and with hope firmly established in our hearts, let us bow down before the Lord, praising Him for His mercy and rejoicing in salvation!
Conversely, if we are overcome by dark thoughts, anxiety, fear, or doubts, let us still bow before the Lord, praising Him for His mercy and steadfastness. He cares for us and will not leave or forsake us!
In times when our prayers seem unanswered, or problems arise in our relationships, let us bow before the Lord and praise Him for His mercy. He hears us, knows our concerns, and will come to our aid, providing wisdom to those who seek it.
In moments of facing the enemy, struggling with temptation, or seeking deliverance, let us bow before the Lord and praise Him for His mercy. He fights for us and equips us for the spiritual battle!
Regardless of our current state, may our hearts be filled with worship for our Lord—the Source of our life, the Perfect and Holy One, the Loving and Just One, the Faithful and Unchanging One—who is always in our midst!
Let us not lose heart even in the busiest hours of the day. Utilize every moment of silence with God to rest in His love. He is the pure source of our life, present in every aspect—whether at work, in the store, in line, or driving. Even under challenging circumstances of hopelessness and grief, the Lord is with us, and our lives are brimming with moments to devote to our Savior, bowing before Him, taking refuge in Him, and walking in the light of His face.
Life is permeated with His presence. He is everywhere, with us at every moment. He alone is worthy of worship and adoration. Therefore, let us not waste ourselves on irritation, anger, rage, boredom, or restless thoughts. Instead, let us avoid filling the silence with something insignificant, meaningless, idolatrous, or adversarial. Instead, let us reshape our lives in the light of His presence and worship Him every second and minute of our existence. For He alone is worthy—God of gods, King of kings, Lord of lords!
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”
The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Psalm 46:10-11
Reflection Questions:
1. As you embark on your fasting journey today, consider the profound question: Who is God in your everyday life? How do you see Him?
2. Reflect on the recent blessings bestowed upon you; what joys have come your way?
About this Plan
This devotional delves into the truths of the book of Joshua, which will help us stand in the most challenging spiritual battles against the world, the flesh, and the devil. Using the fearless leader Joshua as an example, we will learn how to endure the spiritual battle with a hostile and fierce world and emerge victorious. We are called to fight until victory!
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