Don’t Lose the Hand of God - August 11, 2025
Scripture:
“So, anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished.” – Romans 13:2 (NLT)
“When people escape from the wickedness of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and then get tangled up and enslaved by sin again, they are worse off than before.” – 2 Peter 2:20 (NLT)
Devotional:
It’s easy to talk about God these days. Social media is full of polished clips, catchy quotes, and perfectly timed reels about faith. But there’s a difference between speaking about Him and living for Him. True holiness isn’t popular, it’s costly. It means daily choosing to deny yourself, not just in public, but in private.
I never want God to take away the gift He’s given me. That is the ability to speak His Word, encourage His people, and point souls back to Him. But I also know that gifts without obedience can become dangerous. God’s hand is my covering, my protection, and my favor. Without it, I’m exposed.
And here’s the truth: the enemy doesn’t attack in obvious ways. Sometimes the slip is slow: answering calls from people you know aren’t good for you, entertaining old habits, letting the music, conversations, or jokes you once walked away from find a place back in your spirit. Before you know it, you’re further from God than you ever intended to be.
The Bible warns that it’s harder for those who know the truth and turn back than for those who never knew it at all (2 Peter 2:20). That’s why the fight for holiness is so serious. The standard hasn’t changed, holiness is still the standard. And if I’m truly His, people should see the difference in me, even if it costs me my comfort, relationships, or popularity.
Reflection/Challenge:
Where have I allowed subtle compromises to creep into my walk? Am I guarding the gift God placed in me, or am I slowly drifting?
Prayer:
Father God, in the Name of Jesus,
Thank You for another day. Thank You for waking me up this morning, starting me on my way, clothing me in my right mind, and allowing me to see the dawn of a brand new day.
Lord, I ask You to forgive me for all my sins and shortcomings, and I receive Your forgiveness in my heart. Create in me, O Lord, a clean heart. Purify my thoughts, and cast down every vain imagination and every high thing that tries to exalt itself against the knowledge of You, O God.
Lord, keep Your hand on me. Don’t let me slip back into the things You’ve already delivered me from. Purge my heart, my mind, and my actions so I live in a way that pleases You—publicly and privately. I don’t want to just speak Your name; I want to live Your Word. Make me the standard You’ve called me to be. In Jesus Name I Pray, Thank God and Amen.