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New to the Lent, A Closer Walk with God 40-Day Devotion? Start with Day 1!

Take this time to enjoy a closer walk with God. Read a short devotion and a selected Bible verse each day.

It’s Day 24 of the Lent, A Closer Walk with God 40-Day Devotion.

DEVOTION

After years of walking with the Lord, I was no stranger to trials. However, after losing multiple family members, I struggled to understand God’s heart and to trust His sovereignty. The path grew even darker when a series of family crises rolled in, one hard upon the heels of the last. I tried not to worry about the future or about losing more loved ones but could not turn the fear spigot completely off.

Faithful Christianity does not shield us from the pain of loss and hardship; quite the opposite. Jesus told us that in this world we will have trouble. Not may—will. What happens when life’s circumstances challenge our faith?

We pray for our suffering to be removed and for our circumstances to change. But that is not the path our Savior walked. Jesus saw His life and circumstances through the lens of a mind renewed with Scripture. For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross and faithfully finished the work God gave Him to do.

Without a renewed mind, the suffering of this world can shatter our faith. We don't need to change our challenges nearly as much as we need to change our perspective on them. When we face trials through the lens of a renewed mind, we too will finish the work God has given us to do.

PRAYER

Father, even as I pray for my suffering to be removed... I know it may linger. But I trust you to guide, encourage, and even carry me through it. Renew my mind so I can withstand the struggles ahead. Amen.

VERSE

Verse Romans 12:2 (NIV)

Don't have your Bible handy? Click here to read online.

AUTHOR

• Bethany Macklin

  For two decades, Bethany has explored the power of God's attributes to anchor faith through life's fiercest storms. A contributor to Focus on the Family, in(courage), and K-LOVE Radio’s Faith Blog, her Bible study book, "God's Heart, My Harbor" breathes hope into weary hearts. Connect with Bethany to receive bi-monthly servings of faith-building devotions featured in her newsletter.

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