God Gave Me Strength
Pilar González (Coquimbo, Chile)
TODAY’S READING
Psalm 28:6-9
KEY VERSE: The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. – Psalm 28:7 (NIV)
The Upper Room Daily Devotional 20th March 2023 MESSAGE
I was in my final year of university and about to present my thesis. I did not have a family member present because my grandfather, whom I had lived with for four years, was in poor health and several of my family members were caring for him.
While I was waiting among my schoolmates and their family members, my sister called and told me that our grandfather had died. I began to sob. Grief and worry for my family flooded my mind, and I was so overwhelmed that I collapsed and was taken to the infirmary.
My father called to tell me that if I chose not to present my thesis, he would support my decision. However, this would mean that the past academic year would have been wasted. The words of Philippians 4:13 came to me: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” I centered my thoughts and asked God to help me. I was filled with a peace that I can’t explain, and I decided to present my thesis.
Throughout this experience, I felt a deep connection to God, who provided the strength I needed. My friends, family, and professors were astonished. I could only say, “God gave me the strength.”
TODAY’S PRAYER
Eternal God, thank you for your abiding presence and for your word that reminds us to take heart and rely on you. Help us to seek you at all times and in all situations. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
God is the true source of my strength.
PRAYER FOCUS
Students about to graduate
READ ALSO: Our Daily Bread Devotional 20th March 2023 – Catching Contentment
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