21 Days of Prayer & Fasting 2024: Day 1

Monday, January 15
DAY 1: GOD’S PRESENCE THAT PROTECTS

READ
1 Samuel 19-30; Psalm 18:1-29

REFLECT
As we begin our 21-day devotional, we will focus this week on Bible stories where certain people discovered what God’s presence meant during their desert/wilderness experiences. Today, we will look at David’s experience in his own physical and spiritual wilderness. Although David experienced God’s presence in a variety of contexts, he often experienced God’s protective presence. As David was running from Saul, he constantly looked to God for protection. David was lost, scared, and unsure what to do next but he knew where to look. He knew that when he looked to God’s presence, he could overcome whatever challenges he faced.

We can often feel like David—lost, scared, and unsure what to do next. But this is where we need to be aware of and lean into God’s presence that can protect us. God’s presence protects by reminding us that He is bigger than any obstacle we may face. Therefore, we can approach our challenges with confidence. God is not merely cheering us on from the stands; He is right next to us and engaging in the battle with us. As David said, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold” (Psalm 18:2). In times of uncertainty, we can be certain that God’s presence will protect us.

RESPOND
Spend time in prayer, following the Upward, Inward, Outward, Upward format.

Upward: Who God is; What God has done, is doing, will do

Inward: Who you are; How you live

Outward: Intercession for others

Today’s Prayer:
My Protecting God, thank you for being near me. I confess that my sin causes me to forget that you are near me. It causes me to look at the bigness of my challenges rather than your bigness. Teach me to cherish your presence more than anything this world offers. Remove anything in my life that causes me to forget your presence and cherish more than your presence.

Upward: Thanksgiving and Worship

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