THE UPPER ROOM ROOM DAILY DEVOTIONAL
The Upper Room Daily Devotional 12th March 2023, Sunday Message. As you study today’s devotional, remember this; “Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 (NLT)
3rd Sunday in Lent
Carol Harrison (Saskatchewan, Canada)
TODAY’S READING
Joshua 3:7-17
KEY VERSE: Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. – Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
The Upper Room Daily Devotional 12th March 2023 MESSAGE
I stood staring at the far side of the 604-foot-long swinging pedestrian bridge that spanned a wide river far below. My fear of heights kept me rooted in place, unable to enjoy an adventure. My daughter promised not to make the bridge swing too much and encouraged me to face my fears by taking a few steps out onto the bridge. I hesitated a few minutes longer. The bridge appeared sturdy with thick, metal handrails. I watched someone stride across without pause or concern. The bridge swayed less than I expected.
One step at a time I began to move toward the other side. I paused in the middle to survey the wonderful view only visible from this new perspective. Then I completed my journey to the other side — one step at a time.
In Joshua 3, God commanded the Israelites to cross the Jordan River so they could enter the Promised Land. God instructed the priests to step into the river. They obeyed God’s command to stand still in the raging flood waters before God miraculously stopped the river’s flow and the people crossed on dry ground. We face many frightening moments, most of them beyond our control. Placing our trust in God helps us to conquer those fears and move forward.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear God, give us courage to face our fears and to trust that with your help, we can move forward — one step at a time. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
What fears do I need God to help me conquer today?
PRAYER FOCUS
For courage to face my fears
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More From Carol Harrison
The Upper Room is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More