Episode 168

TODAY’S READING:

My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.

John 17:15

 

Today’s devotional actually sparked a visual for me. When I read this verse, “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world, but you protect them from the evil one,” it reminded me of a rollercoaster.

 

God created us; he hasn’t asked a lot from us. He just wants our love. He pursues us and protects us. He doesn’t want us involved with things that may hurt our bodies, souls, or spirits. He wants to keep us from wicked ways. He is a protective father. But at the same time, he gave us free will and this world to live in.

 

The scriptures a clear, don’t live for the world but live for God, but it’s also clear, we must find a way to live in this world for God.

 

Let’s take rollercoasters, for example. They are fun a thrilling, and once you’re on, you are on. There is no going back, not until it’s over. A much like life, it’s exhilarating, with winding tracks that could be 50 feet tall one second and ground level the next. It can speed up, slow down, and some even go back before switching tracks. It sounds a look like picking a degree in college.

 

All in all, it’s a lot of fun, but it can be dangerous. You can just get into a cart and let the ride begin. You have to strap yourself in. In the same way, life is exhilarating; there are winding roads, and it can be dangerous if you are not fully protected. We have the Word of God for that. The Bible protects us from the world. It protects us from the evil one.

 

Like this verse says, my prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. We must learn to live a life full of purpose, laughter, fun, and exhilarating moments, but without strapping into the word of God, any wrong turn can have you spinning out of control.

 

PRAYER

Father God, thank you for your word. Thank you for your life. We know there are wicked ways all around us, but we latch on to you, father. Show us, guide us, give us strength. May we strap to your word. May it is what guards our hearts and our souls every single day. We want to live a life in accordance with your ways. We want to live a life full of joy, laughter, and love, but we ask that you protect us today, tomorrow, and for the rest of our days. It is in your holy name that we pray, Amen!