March 17

A Life of Devotion

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 40:6-10 | Numbers 26:1-51 | Luke 2:36-52 | Proverbs 11:15

Today’s Scripture Focus:  Luke 2:36-52

And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin,  [37] and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day (Luke 2:36-37 ESV). 

Anna turned a tragedy into an opportunity to serve God. She had been married only 7 years when her husband died, leaving her in a difficult situation. What would she do?

She turned the difficult situation into an opportunity to serve God.  She spent the rest of her life (84 years of it) developing her walk with the Lord.  She focused her life on fasting and prayer at the temple.  

Some might have grown bitter. Others would have felt hopeless. She chose to speak with God about her struggles. And that conversation led to a life of devotion.

That life of devotion led to the blessing of being one of the first to see and recognize young Jesus as the promised Messiah. This woman of discernment was given the opportunity to praise God and tell others what she had seen.

What are your struggles? Take them to the Lord in prayer. Develop your relationship with Him. After years of intimate conversation, you too may develop a life of intimacy like Anna. You too may gain the insight and discernment of one who has long walked with God.

Ancient of Days, help me to live a life of devotion—faithful all my days. As I bring my concerns to you, may I grow in intimacy and fellowship with you. Amen.