A friend once asked me, "Knowing what you know now after a lifetime of following Jesus, what words of wisdom would you have given to your younger self?" I have now had enough years of life and experience to help me answer that question. If I had to pick one piece of advice that I would have given to my younger self to help me to navigate my remaining years of life, it would be this: Trust God with the unknown future, and don't be afraid of it!
When I was younger, I tried to peer into the future, wondering what life would bring. Among other things, I worried about future finances and health. I'd say that even though our worst fears often don't materialize, careful planning is still wise. My husband and I prepared for our retirement years, and this careful planning was extremely important. Our sacrifices during our younger years have proven to be worthwhile.
Declining health is inevitable as we get older, but it is still possible to live a rich, full life at any stage. I'm responsible for being proactive in matters of health and wellbeing, and a positive outlook on life is invaluable. I can't guarantee that I will be able to be well and active to the very end, but wise lifestyle habits relating to diet, rest, and exercise will pay off. Worrying and fretting about potential health issues won't help.
I would repeatedly remind my younger self that even though it may be difficult and disagreeable, discipline and sacrifice in both physical and financial matters are well worth the outcome in later years. God knows my needs and will care for me.
Psalm 48:14 – For that is what God is like. He is our God forever and ever, and he will guide us until we die. (NLT)
God knows how many years that I have remaining here on earth. I can trust Him to shepherd me safely to the very end and take me through the deep waters of death. John Bunyan's old classic, Pilgrim's Progress, tells of Pilgrim crossing the river of death to reach the Celestial City. Pilgrim panics in fear as he loses his footing and as the cold water rushes over his head. But there is no turning back, and what joy awaits him as he reaches the other side! I, too, may dread the experience of death, but I am not afraid of dying. God promises us:
Isaiah 43:2 – When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. (NLT)
So, there you have some thoughts that I would have given to my younger self as I tried to peer into my future. God will take care of us. He will safeguard and provide for all of us who call Him "Father". Let's all trust Him with our future and our final days.
Prayer: O Lord, You have promised to be our Shepherd to the end. May we give our lives to You for safekeeping until the day that You call us home. Amen.
Today's Bible Verse2: Matthew 13:22 – [Jesus said,] "The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful." (NIV) Today's Daily Manna3: Isaiah 51:16a – And I have put my words in your mouth and covered you in the shadow of my hand. (ESV) Today's Bible Reading3: Matthew 18:21-35 Today's One-Year Bible Passage4: John 19-21 Today's Two-Year Bible Passages5: Lamentations 4-5; 2 Peter 2:10b-16
PrayerLine Jesus promised, "If two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven." (Matthew 18:19 NIV)
Indicate that you have prayed for a PrayerLine Request by clicking on the "I Prayed For You" icon beside each Request. The PrayerLine Editor is George Myers.
Worldwide Ministry posted on Friday, September 22, 2023
In Canada and America — Give thanks that many of our churches can offer hospitality to outside groups for their meetings. As these groups and people come into our buildings, pray that they may come to experience Jesus in their midst, and seek the peace of Christ.
Mrs--a former devotional writer posted by June Heale on Thursday, September 21, 2023
September 21,2023. I humbly request healing prayers, I am having some very serious health problems now as I approach my 90th birthday on Oct. 16th., which have hit me a couple of weeks ago, mostly brought on by being on a not very good medication for my heart because I have had to wait indefinitely in our slow health system for a pacemaker, causing me to have high potassium levels. I also have a serious bowel issue. Yes, I covet your prayers. Due to the neglect I now have a kidney problem. Please keep up the devotionals folks, I have backslid in my old age. God Bless all of you. (Special prayers for Rev. Robin Ross and his family. Robin's Dad was my minister in Ontario in younger days.)
Please pray for Shawn posted by Jonnie on Thursday, September 21, 2023
September 21, 2023. Shawn has struggled to breathe for many years and is in the hospital again after the worst attack so far. I know that only God can save and heal him. Otherwise, Shawn knows that he won’t ‘bounce back’ in the future. He is a very caring man, putting others needs above his own, working hard to help. Now, he is in need of your prayers. God bless you and your loved ones today.
Broken friendship-CB posted by Clint B on Thursday, September 21, 2023
September 21,2023. Please pray for the restoration of a lifelong friendship. Their friendship has grown cold, from what I understand, is some very old gossip. I only visit them a couple of times a year as they live a couple of hundred miles from my home. I pray that the Lord will heal their hearts and mine.
I love reading and listening to PresbyCan Daily Devotionals as well as singing along with the music. I look forward to my devotionals every day. Thank you for these daily devotionals they are a blessing and a gift and a great way to start one’s day. Blessings and Peace.
My friend Karen Milam is an author and writes inspired devotionals. She told me about this. God bless this special friend who studies the scriptures with me!
I will miss these devotionals while on vacation. I so appreciate and enjoy them.
As Mike (above) says “the perfect start to every day”. Thanks to all who contribute
Hello, I am unsubscribing because I am moving this week. The current internet connection, etc. will be cut off tomorrow. When I have my new email address, I will subscribe again. This may take up to a week.
I have very much enjoyed these devotionals over several years now, and will miss them until I can start again. Thank you very much.
I am blessed each and every day by what is shared in PresbyCan Daily Devotional. Thank you one and all and a special “Thank you” Robin Ross. May God bless you.
Thank you, Robin and crew for your fine work. This daily devotional has helped me to focus through some very rough patches in my life,and I look forward to receiving it. So often the words strike a chord, and help me to remember that God is always here beside me , helping me through.
I am responsible for our church’s outdoor sign. When there isn’t a notice to put up I often use the Devotional’s thought for the day. People passing by on the street have told me how much they enjoy reading these thoughts.
I wish to say a big ‘THANK YOU’ to all the writers of PresbyCan Daily Devotion. You are a very talented group, I enjoy all of the daily devotions and the prayers especially.
One of the first task each day for me is reading these devotions and I really look forward to receiving them.
Keep up the good work and may God’s richest blessings and guidance continue to be with all of you.
I am a Stephen Minister and am always amazed (but I shouldn’t be) how often one of the Daily Devotions talks about the situation my care receiver is struggling with! I have often printed a devotional off and taken it to share at our next meeting! They are always well received – and kept to be read again later! Thank you so much for being part of my God Circle!
My sincere “thank you” to Robin Ross, and to each of the Christian men and women who write thoughtful and thought-provoking articles that I appreciate, ponder over, learn from, and enjoy. I am pleased to have this opportunity to let each of you know how very much I value the thought and effort that you put into this work and it is evident from some of the personal moments you touch upon that you take time from otherwise busy lives to share your faith with us. (I’m a member of the Anglican communion and am so pleased that some kind, and to this day still unbeknownst, friend sent me a membership. I am indebted.) “Thank you” one and all.
I was suggested this blog by my cousin. I’m not sure whether this post is written by him as no one else knows such details about my difficulty. You are wonderful! Thanks!
I’m not new to the Daily Devotional, but glad to be back. It is here, waiting for me, when I open the computer in the morning for devotions and prayer. Thank you, Robin and staff, for all the years of dedicated service and thank you to all who share in this ministry by writing devotions.
Congratulations on 20 years of faithfulness to God and to your subscribers! I have enjoyed getting the Daily Devotional for 10 years now, and have also been privileged to have been able to make a modest commitment to the writing of Devotionals
These devotionals have jump started my day from wherever my travels have landed me for many years. I have come to recognize each author by thier words & style…some write more frequent than others, but all are beautiful facets on this jewel of a site & service this site provides….
I am about to once again to send another gift subscription… I pray the recipient receives the blessings daily as I do…
My FATHERS blessings continue to rain upon this site, writers & staff…
In JESUS name i pray
AMEN & AMEN,
richard shumpert
Lake Texoma, Texas shore
USA
I respond often to the authors. This is my way of starting my day. I read it first, sometimes I miss the devotional if I am away from the computer, rarely though. May Father rain down blessings upon each author and you.
I thank God for the group that writes the devotions. Starting the day with prayer and a well chosen bible message daily brightens the day and lightens the pressures we face in this fast pace world. God Bless you all
I have kept many copis of the Devotionals which I use on several occasions – e.g. our weekly choir practice, WMS meetings, Ladies Retreat. There is always one that is “just right” for the service.
Robin: In my humble opinion the devotionals are getting better and better. for me anyway.
The devotionals provide for me a foundation for each day, and I am grateful.
Good Morning to other Christian Friends, I enjoy starting my day in prayer & devotions, god is so Good, it is good to pray for others, God Bless all who write these devotions
I have enjoyed receiving the devotionals for the past number of years. I love to hear about life experiences/related to scripture that people have had involving the hand of God, they have spoken volumes into my life.
Please pray for my friend D’ S. who is dealing with depression. Please pray that she will be healed that she will experience new joy, peace, love and Hope..AMEN. Thank you.
Friday, September 22, 2023 – In Canada and America — Give thanks that many of our churches can offer hospitality to outside groups for their meetings. As these groups and people come into our buildings, pray that they may come to experience Jesus in their midst, and seek the peace of Christ.
PrayerLine Requests
Broken friendship-CB: "September 21,2023. Please pray for the restoration of a lifelong friendship. Their friendship has..." (more) Please pray for Shawn: "September 21, 2023. Shawn has struggled to breathe for many years and is in the hospital again..." (more) Mrs--a former devotional writer: "September 21,2023. I humbly request healing prayers, I am having some very serious health problems..." (more)
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Today's Verse
Matthew 13:22 – [Jesus said,] "The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful." (NIV)
Today's Daily Manna
Isaiah 51:16a – And I have put my words in your mouth and covered you in the shadow of my hand. (ESV)
Although PresbyCan doesn't have a mobile app, you can still have a PresbyCan icon on your mobile phone home screen. Here's how to do it.
Friday, September 22, 2023 – In Canada and America — Give thanks that many of our churches can offer hospitality to outside groups for their meetings. As these groups and people come into our buildings, pray that they may come to experience Jesus in their midst, and seek the peace of Christ.
Broken friendship-CB: "September 21,2023. Please pray for the restoration of a lifelong friendship. Their friendship has..." (more)
Please pray for Shawn: "September 21, 2023. Shawn has struggled to breathe for many years and is in the hospital again..." (more)
Mrs--a former devotional writer: "September 21,2023. I humbly request healing prayers, I am having some very serious health problems..." (more)
I love reading and listening to PresbyCan Daily Devotionals as well as singing along with the music. I look forward to my devotionals every day. Thank you for these daily devotionals they are a blessing and a gift and a great way to start one’s day. Blessings and Peace.
Signing up for your emails and hoping to find a way to attend church!
I love reading Presbycan Daily Devotional! It’s a wonderful way to start my day.
A friend shared this with me. I’m looking forward to receiving these devotionals. Thank you.
Thank you so much. I missed this devotional. Glad to have found it again. Be blessed.
Very powerful and made easy to read and to understand by all. Good works will never go to waste. May God bless you for your impact on this generation.
How helpful these daily devotionals are!
Looking to receive daily devotionals.
I’ve missed these devotionals so I’m reconnecting.
My friend Karen Milam is an author and writes inspired devotionals. She told me about this. God bless this special friend who studies the scriptures with me!
I will miss these devotionals while on vacation. I so appreciate and enjoy them.
As Mike (above) says “the perfect start to every day”. Thanks to all who contribute
Hello, I am unsubscribing because I am moving this week. The current internet connection, etc. will be cut off tomorrow. When I have my new email address, I will subscribe again. This may take up to a week.
I have very much enjoyed these devotionals over several years now, and will miss them until I can start again. Thank you very much.
I am blessed each and every day by what is shared in PresbyCan Daily Devotional. Thank you one and all and a special “Thank you” Robin Ross. May God bless you.
Thank you, Robin and crew for your fine work. This daily devotional has helped me to focus through some very rough patches in my life,and I look forward to receiving it. So often the words strike a chord, and help me to remember that God is always here beside me , helping me through.
I am responsible for our church’s outdoor sign. When there isn’t a notice to put up I often use the Devotional’s thought for the day. People passing by on the street have told me how much they enjoy reading these thoughts.
Thank you
I wish to say a big ‘THANK YOU’ to all the writers of PresbyCan Daily Devotion. You are a very talented group, I enjoy all of the daily devotions and the prayers especially.
One of the first task each day for me is reading these devotions and I really look forward to receiving them.
Keep up the good work and may God’s richest blessings and guidance continue to be with all of you.
I am a Stephen Minister and am always amazed (but I shouldn’t be) how often one of the Daily Devotions talks about the situation my care receiver is struggling with! I have often printed a devotional off and taken it to share at our next meeting! They are always well received – and kept to be read again later! Thank you so much for being part of my God Circle!
My sincere “thank you” to Robin Ross, and to each of the Christian men and women who write thoughtful and thought-provoking articles that I appreciate, ponder over, learn from, and enjoy. I am pleased to have this opportunity to let each of you know how very much I value the thought and effort that you put into this work and it is evident from some of the personal moments you touch upon that you take time from otherwise busy lives to share your faith with us. (I’m a member of the Anglican communion and am so pleased that some kind, and to this day still unbeknownst, friend sent me a membership. I am indebted.) “Thank you” one and all.
I was suggested this blog by my cousin. I’m not sure whether this post is written by him as no one else knows such details about my difficulty. You are wonderful! Thanks!
I’m not new to the Daily Devotional, but glad to be back. It is here, waiting for me, when I open the computer in the morning for devotions and prayer. Thank you, Robin and staff, for all the years of dedicated service and thank you to all who share in this ministry by writing devotions.
Robin and Staff
Congratulations on 20 years of faithfulness to God and to your subscribers! I have enjoyed getting the Daily Devotional for 10 years now, and have also been privileged to have been able to make a modest commitment to the writing of Devotionals
I received from a friend, and liked it so much. I appreciate my friend for sharing with me. You do a great service. Thank you!
Thank you for these devotionals which will help keep me focused on Christ’s teaching daily.
Thank you so much for this wonderful site, I so appreciate the comfort and encouragement. May God Bless you all.
Brian
I am looking forward to receiving my subscription to Presbycan Daily Devotional. Thank you in advance to all who prepare them.
The perfect start to any (every) day.
I am looking forward to receiving your Daily Devotionals daily. Thank you for your support.
These devotionals have jump started my day from wherever my travels have landed me for many years. I have come to recognize each author by thier words & style…some write more frequent than others, but all are beautiful facets on this jewel of a site & service this site provides….
I am about to once again to send another gift subscription… I pray the recipient receives the blessings daily as I do…
My FATHERS blessings continue to rain upon this site, writers & staff…
In JESUS name i pray
AMEN & AMEN,
richard shumpert
Lake Texoma, Texas shore
USA
I respond often to the authors. This is my way of starting my day. I read it first, sometimes I miss the devotional if I am away from the computer, rarely though. May Father rain down blessings upon each author and you.
Thanks for preaching and reaching thousands online.
I thank God for the group that writes the devotions. Starting the day with prayer and a well chosen bible message daily brightens the day and lightens the pressures we face in this fast pace world. God Bless you all
Angeline
I have kept many copis of the Devotionals which I use on several occasions – e.g. our weekly choir practice, WMS meetings, Ladies Retreat. There is always one that is “just right” for the service.
Robin: In my humble opinion the devotionals are getting better and better. for me anyway.
The devotionals provide for me a foundation for each day, and I am grateful.
Hello,
I just signed up for the devotionals and I am looking forward to having my spirit uplifted and my mind mentally refreshed by the word of Jesus Christ.
Thank you for writings like this to inspire us to deeper Godly thinking.
Thanks for the devotionals. They are an inspiration.
Keep up the good work….Thanks
Good Morning it is so good to start our day in prayer and devotions God Bless all who write these devotions,
Good Morning to other Christian Friends, I enjoy starting my day in prayer & devotions, god is so Good, it is good to pray for others, God Bless all who write these devotions
Thanks I think I’ll enjoy the daily devotional
I can only say Amen amen to the above comments. I find the devotionals add volumes to my knowledge and understanding.
I have enjoyed receiving the devotionals for the past number of years. I love to hear about life experiences/related to scripture that people have had involving the hand of God, they have spoken volumes into my life.
Please pray for my friend D’ S. who is dealing with depression. Please pray that she will be healed that she will experience new joy, peace, love and Hope..AMEN. Thank you.
I learn much from these devotionals and send them to friends near and far.
It’s good to receive these devotionals again! Thank you.