A Daily Devotion for Monday, November 3
- ontrakk
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Hebrews 12:1-13
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,because the Lord disciplines the one he loves,and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline —then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.
Psalm 139:23-24
Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
The message in this part of Psalm 139 is so “everyday” and helpful. We all know that it may be easy to see flaws in others, while the ones we carry around 24/7 can remain hidden to us. God can make these flaws and weaknesses more evident to us if we ask. Sometimes we don’t even need to ask! When I find myself uncomfortable or confused after an interaction with someone, it may be my own flaws needing attention. The Holy Spirit is telling me to take a look. This is an important step in transformation, I think. If we ask God to change our hearts, we must be ready to do our part.
Holy Lord, help me to be open to your discipline and direction. I am willing to change, although very stubborn for some reason. Change my heart, I pray. Amen
Monday November 3rd, 2025
MAKING CORRECTIONS
(focus park rangers
Psalm 139:23-24
Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way
I know from experience If I ever want to know if God is speaking to me, I surely have to have a special relationship with him. Spending time with God and meditating on His Word is my sure way to hear God's voice. Everything that I need can be found in the Word of God. I must take time to intentionally hear what God has to say or to show me. Signs that God may be trying to tell…
Hebrews 12:1-13. Psalm 139:23-24
"Search me, God, and know my heart." What would he see this morning if he searched? Certainly the flaws would show up loud and clear. I search my mind and heart often, but haven't actually worked on correcting those flaws. Do I think acknowledging them is enough? Not really, but it is very hard to change my thoughts.
Prayer: Gracious God, help me not only to acknowledge my flaws but help refine me to be more as you would have me be. AMEN
Hebrews 12:1-13/Psalm 139:23-24
The common theme in these two passages seems to me to be a reminder to remain open to God’s direction, correction and, if necessary, discipline. There is an element of humility as in the park ranger who has his press release reviewed before sending it out. There is also an element of respect as in the Hebrews passage example of correction and discipline by a loving human father. Both humility and respect help us on the road to sanctification. We cannot presume to be able to tackle it in our own power. Is it not better to learn to improve rather than assuming you are on the right path only to find out later you were wrong?
Hebrews 12:1-13 / Psalm 139:23-24
As I read the Hebrew passage as it talked about God’s discipline, I never think God is punishing me even in troubling times. His discipline can come in the form of revealing my flaws. He knows me better than I know myself and I must be willing to change when the flaws are brought to my attention. He provides much guidance and provides everything I need to stay on the right path.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your daily guidance and for providing me with everything I need to stay on track and live a life that is pleasing to You. Help me examine myself and strive to be better everyday. Amen