Day 22

Be Still:  Dear Father, Jesus was abandoned by all who followed Him.  Please forgive us when we turn away from You.  Thank you that You never abandon us.  In Jesus’ name, through the power of the Holy Spirit, Amen

Be Strengthened:  John 16:23-33

 ²³“In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. ²⁴Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.

²⁵"Though I have been speaking figuratively, a time is coming when I will no longer use this kind of language but will tell you plainly about my Father. ²⁶In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. ²⁷No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. ²⁸I came from the Father and entered the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father."

²⁹Then Jesus' disciples said, "Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. ³⁰Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God."

³¹"You believe at last!" Jesus answered. ³²"But a time is coming, and has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.  ³³I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Be Stretched:  Jesus knew He was about to be abandoned by all of His disciples but would still have the Father with Him.  Today, think of times you have felt alone.  Were you aware of God being with you?  Thank our loving Father that even when we are not aware of it, He is with us.  Ask Him to help you stay connected to Him so that, when you are troubled, you will sense His overcoming presence.