The Upper Room Devotional for 22nd September 2023
Welcome!!! The word of God is food to the spirit man. As you read The Upper Room Devotional Today, may the word of the Lord powerfully impact on you.
TODAY’S TOPIC: IN OUR SUFFERING
Elly Cantrell Gilbert (Kentucky, USA)
TODAY’S READING
Luke 13:10-13
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Jesus sees me in my struggles and calls me to him.
Jesus said, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” – Luke 13:12 (NIV)
I have a chronic illness. When my disease is active, I look for anything that will provide me with a little relief. Before I had the necessary surgery and got on an appropriate treatment course, I was very sick for about a year and a half. During that time, I tried just about every over-the-counter option I could find to ease my suffering, and, of course, none of it worked. Fortunately, my illness has been in remission for about 10 years now.
I can’t imagine suffering for 18 years like the woman in today’s scripture reading. She was forced to go through life in pain, unable to stand up straight or to interact freely with people. In biblical times, the woman’s disfigurement would have brought not only pain but also shame and stigma. And yet, Jesus saw her and called her to him.
The same is true for us. No matter what our struggles may be, Jesus sees us in our suffering and calls us to come close to him. Our healing may not be instantaneous like it was for the woman in this passage. But we can trust Christ to see us and, as we respond to his call, to set us free from the problems that trouble our hearts.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Healing God, may we never fail to praise you for the good works you do in our lives. Thank you for seeing us and for loving us, no matter what troubles we face. Help us draw closer to you every day. Amen.
PRAYER FOCUS
People with chronic illnesses
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- Daily Prayer and Bible Verse 22 September 2023 (Friday)