January 13 – Devotional

Scripture Reading: Exodus 13:17-22

Key Verses: The Lord went in front of them in a pillar of cloud by day, to lead them along the way, and in a pillar of fire by night, to give them light, so that they might travel by day and by night. – Exodus 13:21, NRSV

God does not always lead in the way we expect Him to lead. Moses with his lack of qualifications? A pillar of cloud? A pillar of fire? Why not a heavenly angel or bright, shiny billboards and streetlights to lead the Israelites? The means of God’s guidance is not nearly as important as the fact that God continues to guide us just as He did the Israelites thousands of years ago. And, He guides so we can keep moving by day and by night, in good times and not so good times. Our church experienced years of daylight; people came to us seeking a church home, and growth in worship and outreach was organic. Now the church finds itself in a darker time when most people have no church affiliation, and the traditions and values of the church are seen as antiquated and out of touch with today’s culture. However, even now, God guides us. We are unlikely to see pillars of clouds or fire, so how do we see the direction in which God is leading First Houston United Methodist Church?

Pray:

• • How does God to make clear the path forward for our church?
  • Through which avenues do you sense God speaking to you? Does He use worship, Bible study, prayer, family, friends, work, leisure, music, nature, or another means to speak to you?

Listen: With open eyes, ears, and heart, listen for God to speak to you now and throughout the day.

Share: You can share your thoughts where you feel best. You can share your thoughts in your printed devotional booklet, you can share below in the comments,  you can share a comment on our Facebook page, or you can share a comment on the First Houston United Methodist Church App by following the Daily Devotionals Channel.