The Upper Room Devotional 24 August 2022 || Expect the Best

THE UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL 24 AUGUST 2022, WEDNESDAY

Today’s Topic: Expect the Best
Esther Bonner (California, USA)

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
When I focus on God’s goodness, I can better see the good around me.

More than anything you guard, protect your mind, for life flows from it. – Proverbs 4:23 (CEB)

There’s a tunnel just a short distance from my house, and when traffic is light, you can yell out the window of your car and hear a marvelous echo. Whatever you say comes back to you.

That echo is incredibly reminiscent of my life — what I put out there is exactly what I’ve gotten back. For years I had a negative attitude, filled with doubt, fear, and low expectations. I was a firm believer that anything that can go wrong will. And like an echo, I got back exactly what I put out, what I expected and dwelt on.

After my mother passed away, I turned to scripture for comfort. I got an unexpected attitude adjustment. As I took in the stories of God’s love, forgiveness, kindness, and compassion, my heart changed. I found myself genuinely happy. The more I focus on the goodness of God, the more enjoyable my life becomes. I still have challenges to face, but my heart is lighter as I face them.

TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear Lord, help us to see the world and all who live in it through your eyes. Amen.

PRAYER FOCUS
To focus on God’s goodness