Constructed with Integrity

Sometimes there is a desire to cut corners to get ahead but if we work hard and do things the right way, our lives will be constructed so we are aligned upright with God and He will bless us. What a wonderful tool we have in the word of God to help us do what is right. Reading the word today with attention to Isaiah 56-57, the people were still captive in Babylon. To escape their bondage, they needed to be delivered.

Today’s passage explains that there is fear in those who have not done what is right. there were people that were unsure about whether the invitation of deliverance embraces foreigners or gentiles that were not in the covenant family of Israel. Those who thought that they were not accepted into God’s family because of their race, social position, work, or financial situation.

Also touched upon in today’s passage is the worship of idols and that when the people truly needed help, idols had no power. Instead, those who took refuge in God would be helped. That is why it’s important to serve God each day and to have a day called the Sabath that is special as we set aside plenty of time to worship, rest, and pray.

While off during summers going through college, I worked for a construction company. In construction, there are tools used to measure the integrity of what is being built. For example, in building a house, a tool called the level is used to measure horizontally to make sure the doors and windows are level. While framing the walls before construction of the roof, a plumb line is used to make sure the structure is centered or aligned so it can support the weight as the walls and roof are built. 

There is a verse in the Bible about a plumb line in Amos 7:8.

And the Lord asked me, “What do you see, Amos?” “A plumb line,” I replied. Then the Lord said, “Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I spare them no longer.

The Word of God is our plumb line in life. It measures so we can align our thinking and do what is right in the eyes of the Lord. The plumb line may show that we are off center at times but let us be thankful that Jesus is our deliverer. With Jesus by our side, we have the counselor or Holy Spirit to help us maintain justice and do what is right. To make us upright and true to serve God every day and to bring Him glory.

Lord, You have high standards and that is a good thing. We are thankful that grace gives us a chance to get it right. You give us Your word as a tool to get aligned and the Holy Spirit councils as we pray and live out each day being honest with ourselves. Help us have the attitude of wanting to know when we are out of balance so we can consider what we need to do. We accept Your love in giving Your one and only Son to get us in right standing. Love along with Truth provides us with what is needed as we construct our lives to handle the weight the world puts on our shoulders. Amen.

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Accomplish What God Desires

As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. – Isaiah 55:10-11

The main takeaway from Isaiah 55 as explained in “Seeking God with Eagerness” is the need to follow the call and accomplish what He desires. Let us prepare for each day by seeking God with eagerness in word and prayer so confidence for a good day is assured. Let us work and be dedicated to fulfilling His purpose as He sets things up for attainment.

This day, let us desire God’s way and see the rewards ahead. Celebrate with the song O Praise Him by David Crowder Band and raise a joyous noise for our King

Index of devotionals

Thanks for reading. Please like, follow, and pass on to others … Let’s accomplish what God desires!

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Seeking God with Eagerness

Thinking about the past of Israel, God had brought His people out of Egypt after being in bondage. Then Assyria oppressed them. At the time of today’s passage, the people were still captive in Babylon, but the way to freedom was set up. Reading Isaiah 55, an invitation is given to those reluctant to begin the journey home, but a call that comes from down the road inspires them to start.

Explained is that God’s way is greater than our way. His plan for us is better than our own. He controls all things and will bring what is needed. He brings rain to water the earth, seed to grow, and food to eat. What was barren will flourish.

God’s word is like the seed and will flourish in the hearts of people to accomplish what He desires and achieve the purpose for which He sent it (v. 11). The people will be accompanied back home with joy and led by peace. The mountains and hills will burst into song and the trees will clap their hands (v. 12).

To follow the call that comes from down the road, let us prepare for each day by seeking God with eagerness in word and prayer so confidence for a good day is assured. Let us work and be dedicated to fulfilling His purpose as He sets things up for accomplishment.

Reflecting on today’s passage, I’m reminded about one summer a while back when Texas had not received any rain. Tanks for livestock were drying up. My dad had to carry water in gallon jugs to fill the troughs so his cows could have water to drink. There was some desperation and urgency, and a plan came to my dad. He would get approval to tap into the nearby city water supply. It would require hard work to dig a trench and lay down the pipes, but it was achievable.

In our spiritual lives, how do we tap into the source? The answer is Jesus who wants us to drink His water and be satisfied. To receive the gift of the Holy Spirt which Jesus offers, we can lay down the pipes that connect the source through daily study of God’s word, prayer, and community support from other believers. Let us seek God with eagerness this day

Lord … we come to You in prayer as we seek You with eagerness. Ready to get prepared to take on the challenges ahead. For our best way forward, we put Jesus in charge because He is the Way maker, the miracle worker, promise keeper, and Light in the darkness. We set aside time right now to listen to the Holy Spirit and plan out our steps. We are confident that today will be a great day because You are in control. Amen.

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Declarations of Faith for 5-18-2025

Here are this week’s declarations of faith.  Say them aloud, write them down, or simply reflect on them throughout this week. May they uplift and empower you for a great week ahead!

  • I am sustained by the bread of life, receiving strength for my heart and mind.
  • Forever and ever, I walk in the blessing of divine guidance.
  • I am connected to the vine, drawing wisdom, renewal, and purpose.
  • With every step I take, I am enabled, strengthened, and guided.
  • The path ahead is illuminated, and I move forward with faith and resilience.
  • I embrace growth, knowing I am supported in every moment.
  • My heart and mind are nourished, and I am filled with peace and clarity.

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The Book of John in Poetry – John 1 Through 2

Inspired by the wisdom in the book of John 1-2, we are called to walk in the Light—the Light that leads to true freedom and reveals the path of grace. In a world that longs for hope, we are entrusted with sharing the Good News, lifting up those who search for something greater. Humbly, we ask for His Power to strengthen us, to guide our steps, and to illuminate the way forward. Along this journey, we uncover precious nuggets of gold—divine truths that refine our hearts, wisdom that deepens our faith, and moments that remind us that in the Light, all things are made new.

Link to a poem inspired by the book of John 1 Through 2

Photo Source – “Bing.” Microsoft. N.p., n.d. Web. Images >.

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