Author: Sacred Journey Devotionals: A Journey To Wholeness

I am a child and friend of the Triune God. This devotional documents my divine and sacred journey on the path that God has set for my life. I am connected to ALL that is a divine and loving reflection of God. It is my desire to share words and uplifting music that helps us tap into the powerful and life changing mind of Christ, so that we can experience exceedingly abundantly living, both here on earth and beyond.

159 of 365: El Shaddai

Sacred Journey Devotionals: A Journey To WholenessLeave a comment

Greetings, Precious Family. May the peace of the Lord be with you always.

Family, over these past 158 days, since January 1, 2026, I have taken a journey that has brought me back to one of the happiest times in my life.

There was a time when worship was the most important thing to me. I woke up worshipping and I went to bed the same way.
A lot of life has happened in between those years, and somewhere along the way God stopped being my first love.

When God called me to write a devotional every day of 2026, I never imagined that this journey would bring me back to my happiest place, His presence.

As I have studied His Word, prayed, written, and reflected, I have found myself remembering a question I used to ask God as soon as my eyes opened in the morning:
“How can I make You smile today, Lord?“

Today, as I continue this new mini-series on the Names of God, I find myself smiling.
For the longest time, a voice deep within my spirit has continued to whisper:
“Remember who you are, Marcia.”

As I speak about El Shaddai, God Almighty, the All-Sufficient One, I am reminded that El Shaddai was also the first solo I ever sang in church. Long before I understood the depth of that name, I was worshipping the One who bears it.

In Genesis 17:1, God revealed Himself to Abraham as El Shaddai and instructed him to walk before Him faithfully and be blameless. Abraham was facing circumstances that seemed impossible, yet God reminded him that His promises would be fulfilled not by human strength, but by God’s almighty power.

Today, I understand that worship is far more than a song. Worship is found in the everyday moments. Worship is a lifestyle. Worship is a love story between a faithful God and His children. Worship is our response to who God is and all He has done.

As I reflect on the name El Shaddai, I am reminded that the same God who sustained Abraham has sustained me. Through every season, every challenge, every blessing, and every lesson, He has proven Himself to be more than enough.

He is El Shaddai.
He was enough then.
He is enough now.
And He will always be enough.

Let Us Pray

Abba,

Tonight we come before You with grateful hearts and declare that You are El Shaddai, God Almighty, the All-Sufficient One.
Thank You for revealing Yourself to Abraham when the promise seemed impossible. When human strength had reached its limit, You reminded him that Your power has no limits. What was impossible for man was possible for You.

Lord, how often we find ourselves standing in that same place. We face situations that seem too difficult, burdens that feel too heavy, and seasons that leave us weary. Yet Your name reminds us that we do not serve a limited God. We serve El Shaddai.

You are sufficient when our strength fails.
You are faithful when our faith feels weak.
You are able when circumstances seem impossible.  You are enough.

Abba, teach us to walk before You faithfully, just as You instructed Abraham. Help us to worship You not only with our words, but with our daily lives. Let our obedience become an act of worship. Let our trust become an act of worship. Let our surrender become an act of worship.

Thank You for every promise You have fulfilled and for every promise You are still bringing to pass. Thank You for sustaining us through seasons we never thought we would survive. Thank You for carrying us when we could not carry ourselves.

Lord, rekindle in us a love for Your presence. Draw us closer to You. Remind us that our greatest joy is found not in what You give us, but in You.

May we leave tonight resting in the confidence that You are El Shaddai, The Almighty God who sees us, sustains us, provides for us, and is more than enough for every need we will ever face.

We love You, Lord.
In Jesus’ name, Amen, Amen, and Amen.

Worship Video of the Day

Official Live Music Video for “El Shaddai” by Amy Grant
Stream & Download: https://amygrant.lnk.t…​
Subscribe to Amy Grant’s YouTube: https://amygrant.lnk.t…​

Rev. Marcia Davis, BA, MA

Covington, GA (USA)

Day 158 of 365: Jehovah Shalom – The LORD Is Peace

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Greetings, Precious Family l. May the Peace of the Lord be with you always.

Family, for the past several days, we have explored the power, authority, and beauty found in the name of Jesus. As we continue our journey through Scripture, we now turn our attention to the names God reveals about Himself. Each name unveils a different aspect of His character, helping us know Him more deeply and trust Him more fully. We begin with a name that speaks directly to anxious hearts: Jehovah Shalom – The LORD Is Peace.

In this series, I will be using different biblical versions from NIV, The KJV, and New JKV, The Living Bible, The Orthodox Jewish Bible and others. I am doing this in order to paint as clear a picture as possible of the depth, height, and width of God’s love for us. The entire Bible is the greatest love story.

Read today’s passage below to see how Gideon honored and trusted God even when things looked impossible.

Scripture Passage

Judges 6:20-24
New King James Version

20 The Angel of God said to him, “Take the meat and the unleavened bread and lay them on this rock, and pour out the broth.” And he did so.

21 Then the Angel of the Lord put out the end of the staff that was in His hand, and touched the meat and the unleavened bread; and fire rose out of the rock and consumed the meat and the unleavened bread. And the Angel of the Lord departed out of his sight.

22 Now Gideon perceived that He was the Angel of the Lord. So Gideon said, “Alas, O Lord God! For I have seen the Angel of the Lord face to face.”

23 Then the Lord said to him, “Peace be with you; do not fear, you shall not die.”

24 So Gideon built an altar there to the Lord, and called it [a]The-Lord-Is-Peace. To this day it is still in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.

Family, how many times has God had to reassure you that He was with you and that everything would be alright if you simply trusted Him?

When we read Gideon’s story, it is easy to focus on the mighty victory that came later. But before God ever used Gideon to deliver Israel, He first had to calm Gideon’s fearful heart.

Gideon was living during a time of oppression, uncertainty, and hardship. The Midianites had devastated the land, and Israel was overwhelmed by fear. When the Angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he did not see himself as a mighty warrior. He saw himself as weak, insignificant, and unqualified. Yet God saw something greater.

After realizing that he had encountered the Angel of the LORD, Gideon became terrified, believing he might die. But God spoke words that countless believers have needed to hear throughout history:
“Peace be unto thee; fear not: thou shalt not die.” (Judges 6:23, KJV)

In response, Gideon built an altar and called it Jehovah Shalom, which means “The LORD Is Peace.”

Notice that God did not immediately change Gideon’s circumstances. The Midianites were still there. The challenges had not disappeared. The battle had not yet been fought. Yet God revealed Himself as peace in the middle of the storm.

That is often how God works in our lives. We pray for Him to remove the difficulty, but sometimes He first reveals His presence within it. True peace is not the absence of trouble; it is the presence of God in the midst of trouble.

Looking back over our lives, we can see countless moments when God carried us through situations that seemed impossible. At the time, we may have been anxious, afraid, or uncertain of what would happen next. Yet somehow, God provided strength for each day, wisdom for each decision, and grace for each step forward.

On the other side of those seasons, we can see the beauty of God’s faithfulness. What once looked impossible became a testimony. What once brought fear became evidence of God’s presence. What once kept us awake at night became another reminder that Jehovah Shalom was with us all along.

Today, whatever battle you may be facing, remember that the same God who spoke peace to Gideon still speaks peace to His children. His presence has not changed. His power has not diminished. And His peace is still available to every heart that trusts Him.

Let Us Pray

Spirit of the Living God,

You know every burden I carry and every fear I do not speak aloud. Thank You for revealing Yourself as Jehovah Shalom. When my mind is restless, be my peace. When my heart is weary, be my peace. When answers are delayed and circumstances remain uncertain, help me remember that Your presence is greater than my problems. Teach me to rest in You, not because everything around me is calm, but because You are with me. In Jesus’ name, Amen, Amen and Amen.

Video of the Day

CityHope Music’s single “Jehovah Shalom”.

Subscribe to our channel: ‪@cityhopemusic‬
Subscribe to CityHope Church’s channel: ‪@CityHopelive‬ and join us for worship live on Sunday mornings at 9 & 11AM CST.

Learn more about CityHope Church: https://cityhope.cc/

Rev. Marcia Davis, BA, MA

Covington, GA (USA)

Day 157 of 365: Preparation Day – Why God’s Names Matter

Sacred Journey Devotionals: A Journey To WholenessLeave a comment

Greetings, Precious Family. May the Peace of the Lord be with you always.

Family, as I prepare to introduce a new mini series to you, I want to thank you for continuing to go on theses daily journeys with me. We just concluded the mini series on “What Is It About The Name of Jesus?” and now we are about to dive into a new mini series on the different names of God.

Psalm 9:10
New International Version

10 Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.

In Scripture, God’s names are never mere titles. They reveal His character, His nature, His promises, and His relationship with His people.

When God reveals a new name, He is often revealing a new dimension of Himself in response to a human need. To the fearful, He reveals Himself as peace. To the wounded, He reveals Himself as healer. To the wandering, He reveals Himself as shepherd. To the weary, He reveals Himself as provider.

God’s names are invitations to know Him more deeply.

Many people know facts about God, but throughout the Bible God continually reveals His names because He desires relationship, not merely information. Every name teaches us something about who He is and how He cares for His children.

As we begin this new journey together, we are not simply studying ancient Hebrew names. We are drawing closer to the living God. Each name we explore will reveal another facet of His heart and remind us that the God of Scripture is still actively working in our lives today.

Over the coming days, we will discover names such as Jehovah-Jireh, the Lord who provides; Jehovah-Rapha, the Lord who heals; Jehovah-Shalom, the Lord our peace; and many others. Each name carries a testimony of God’s faithfulness.

The question is not merely, “What is God’s name?” The deeper question is, “What is God revealing about Himself to me through this name?”

Question: Which aspect of God’s character do you need most in this season of your life? Provision? Peace? Healing? Guidance? Protection? Ask God to prepare your heart to encounter Him in a fresh way as we begin this journey through His names. 

Let Us Pray

Abba, Thank You for revealing Yourself to us. You are not a distant God hidden from Your people. Throughout Scripture, You have made Yourself known through Your names, Your works, and Your faithfulness.

As we begin this new series, open our eyes to see You more clearly. Teach us not only what Your names mean but what they reveal about Your heart. Help us move beyond knowledge into deeper relationship with You.

Prepare our hearts to receive fresh understanding, fresh faith, and fresh trust. May every name we study draw us closer to the One who bears it. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen, Amen, and Amen.

Worship Video of the Day

This is the official live worship video for “Names Of God” by Mercy Culture Worship. This is Mercy Culture Worship’s newest single available now everywhere you choose to stream!
Click this link to get right to the release: https://mcw.lnk.to/NAM…
—————————–
Mercy Culture Worship is a presence-driven worship community of Mercy Culture Church based out of Texas. We exist to take people from corporate encounters with God to daily personal encounters with God. Our greatest desire is to please the Lord above everything else.
FOLLOW US
— YouTube     / @mercycultureworship  

Rev. Marcia Davis, BA, MA

Covington, GA (USA)

Day 156 of 365: What Is It About The Name of Jesus? (Day 10)

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The Name We Will Worship Forever

Greetings, Precious Family. May the Peace of the Lord be with you always.

Revelation 19:11-16
New International Version

The Heavenly Warrior Defeats the Beast

11 I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war. 12 His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. 13 He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. 14 The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. 15 Coming out of his mouth is a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.”[a] He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. 16 On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:
King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Revelation 22:3-4
New International Version

3 No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. 4 They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads.

Family, the name of Jesus is not temporary. It is not merely the name that carried us through this life. It is the name that will reign throughout eternity.

In our scripture passages this evening, when the Apostle John looked into heaven, he saw Jesus not as the suffering servant hanging on a cross, but as the conquering King riding on a white horse. The One who was mocked now wears many crowns. The One who was rejected now rules over all creation.

John writes that on His robe and on His thigh is written:

“KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”


Every earthly kingdom will fade. Every government will pass away. Every human title will eventually be forgotten. But the name of Jesus will remain forever.

The story of redemption does not end with the resurrection. It ends with the eternal reign of Christ.
In Revelation 22, John describes the New Jerusalem where God’s servants worship Him continually. One phrase stands out:

“They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads.“

Throughout Scripture, God’s people have called upon His name. In eternity, His name will permanently mark His people. No more separation. No more spiritual battles. No more tears. No more waiting. The name we have trusted by faith will become the name we behold with our own eyes.

Today we worship through imperfect voices and distracted hearts. One day we will worship in perfect holiness, standing before the King Himself. The name of Jesus is not merely the answer to our problems. It is the ultimate reward of our salvation.

Heaven is glorious because Jesus is there.
The greatest promise of eternity is not streets of gold, gates of pearl, or mansions prepared for the saints. The greatest promise is that we will finally see the One whose name carried us through every trial, every heartbreak, every battle, and every victory. And the worship will never end!!!! Hallelujah!!!!

Let Us Pray

Spirit of the Living God, Thank You for the name of Jesus, the name that saved me, carried me, protected me, strengthened me, and never left me. Thank You that His name is not only powerful for today but eternal forever.

Lord Jesus, You are the King of kings and the Lord of lords. Every crown belongs to You. Every victory belongs to You. Every breath of worship belongs to You.

Help me live each day with eternity in view. When life becomes difficult, remind me that this world is not my home and that a day is coming when I will see Your face. Until then, let my heart remain fixed on You.

May my worship grow deeper as I remember that I am preparing for an eternity spent in Your presence. Thank You for the promise that one day I will see the King whose name I have loved and trusted all my life. In the mighty and everlasting name of Jesus, Amen, Amen, and Amen.

Worship Video of the Day

Bishop Hezekiah Walker sang “Every Praise” alongside his choir (The Love Fellowship Choir) on his 2013 album, Azusa: The Next Generation. The track was co-produced by Walker and acclaimed gospel producer Donald Lawrence. It was written by John David Bratton.

Rev. Marcia Davis, BA, MA

Covington, GA (USA)

Day 155 of 365: What Is It About The Name of Jesus? (Day 9)

Sacred Journey Devotionals: A Journey To WholenessLeave a comment

We Pray In His Name. More Than Magic Words

Greetings, Precious Family. May the Peace of the Lord be with you always.

John 14:6-7
New International Version

6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you really know me, you will know[a] my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”

John 14:12-14
New International Version

12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. 13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.


Family,  many people have walked away from God because they believed He did not answer their prayers.

They prayed for healing that did not come when they expected. They prayed for relationships to be restored. They prayed for financial breakthroughs, open doors, and relief from pain. When the answer was different than what they hoped for, or when the answer seemed delayed. They concluded that God’s promises had failed.

One of the most misunderstood passages in Scripture is Jesus’ promise:

“13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son..” (John 14:13)

Taken alone, these words can sound like a blank check from heaven. Some imagine that saying “in Jesus’ name” is the spiritual equivalent of signing a request form and expecting immediate approval.

But Jesus was not offering a formula. He was revealing a relationship.

Before making this promise, Jesus declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” He was reminding His disciples that everything begins and ends with Him. To pray in His name is not simply to speak His name. It is to pray as one who belongs to Him, trusts Him, follows Him, and seeks the Father’s glory.

Notice what Jesus says: “That the Father may be glorified in the Son.”

That changes everything.

Praying in Jesus’ name is not about getting our will done in heaven. It is about God’s will being accomplished on earth through us. It is about asking for what reflects His heart, His purposes, and His kingdom.

Sometimes God’s answer is yes.

Sometimes His answer is wait.

Sometimes His answer is different than what we imagined.

But every answer given through the authority of Jesus’ name serves a greater purpose than our comfort, it serves the glory of God.

The power is not in using the words “in Jesus’ name” at the end of a prayer.

The power is found in the One whose name we bear.

When we pray in alignment with Jesus, we can trust that He hears us, works for us, and accomplishes exactly what will bring the Father the greatest glory.

I tell people all the time, God does things in our life for two reasons and that is FOR OUR GROWTH and HIS GLORY.

That is what is so powerful about the name of Jesus. Jesus is speaking to disciples who know Him, believe Him, follow Him, and desire the Father’s glory. To pray in His name is not merely to use His name; it is to pray in alignment with His character, His will, His mission, and His glory. The promise is not about getting everything we desire. It is about Jesus accomplishing through His people everything that fulfills the Father’s purposes.

Let Us Pray

Spirit of the Living God, Thank You for the gift of prayer and for the privilege of approaching You through the name of Jesus. Forgive us for the times we have viewed prayer as a way to get what we want instead of a way to draw closer to Your heart. Teach us what it truly means to pray in the name of Jesus, not merely with our words, but with a surrendered heart that seeks Your will above our own.

When Your answers are different than our expectations, help us trust Your wisdom. When the answer seems delayed, help us to remain faithful. When we do not understand what You are doing, remind us that You are always working for our good and for Your glory.

Shape our desires until they reflect Your desires. Align our heart with Your purposes. Let our prayers become less about our plans and more about Your kingdom.

Lord Jesus, thank You that Your name gives us access to the Father. Thank You that we never pray alone. Help us to live, walk, believe, and pray in a manner worthy of Your name.
May every prayer we offer bring glory to the Father through the Son.
In the mighty and holy name of Jesus, we do pray. Amen, Amen and Amen.

Worship Video of the Day

Ada performs “IN YOUR NAME” Live from the Future Now Concerts featuring Johannesburg South Africa, Lusaka Zambia, London UK, Maryland USA.
Watch More Videos:     / adaehi  
Subscribe to Ada Ehi’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.co…
FreeNationINC 2019

Rev. Marcia Davis, BA, MA

Day 154 of 365: What Is It About The Name of Jesus (Day 8)

Sacred Journey Devotionals: A Journey To WholenessLeave a comment

Protection in His Name

Greetings, Precious Family. May the Peace of the Lord be with you always.

Proverbs 18:10
New International Version

10 The name of the Lord is a fortified tower;
the righteous run to it and are safe.

Family, there are moments in life when we become keenly aware of our need for God’s protection. Sometimes the attacks are obvious. Other times they come quietly through fear, anxiety, discouragement, temptation, confusion, or restless nights that leave us feeling unsettled and weary.

Throughout Scripture, God’s people found safety not in their own strength but in the Lord Himself. Proverbs 18:10 paints a powerful picture: the name of the Lord is a fortified tower. In biblical times, a fortified tower was a place of refuge during battle. When danger approached, people ran to the tower because they knew they would be protected there.

What makes this verse so beautiful is that it reminds us where our safety is found. The righteous are not safe because they are strong. They are safe because they know where to run.

As believers, we have been given the precious name of Jesus. His name carries authority over every power of darkness, every scheme of the enemy, and every fear that seeks to overwhelm our hearts. When we call upon the name of Jesus, we are not reciting a formula; we are placing our trust in the One who has all authority in heaven and on earth.

There have been times in my own life when I have felt under attack. In those moments, I have learned that my greatest weapon is not panic but prayer. My greatest defense is not fear but faith. When I call upon the name of Jesus, I am reminded that I belong to Him and that He is watching over me.

The enemy may try to disturb our peace, but he cannot remove us from the protective care of our Savior. We can pray over our minds, our homes, our families, our bodies, and even our sleep. We can rest knowing that the God who never slumbers nor sleeps is faithfully watching over His children.

What is it about the name of Jesus?

His name is a refuge for the weary. His name is a shelter in the storm. His name is a defense against the enemy. His name is a fortified tower for all who run to Him.

Today, whatever battle you may be facing, do not focus on the size of the attack. Focus on the strength of the tower. Run to Jesus. You will find that His protection is greater than anything that comes against you.

Let Us Pray

Spiritof the Living God, Thank You for being our refuge, our fortress, and our strong tower. Thank You for the protection that is found in Your presence and in the mighty name of Jesus.

When fear tries to overwhelm us, teach us to run to You. When attacks come against our minds, remind us that our thoughts belong to Christ. When discouragement seeks to steal our peace, help us stand firmly upon Your promises.

Lord, we ask for Your protection over our homes, our families, our bodies, our minds, and our sleep. Surround us with Your peace and guard us from every scheme of the enemy. Let Your presence fill every place where fear has tried to enter.

Thank You that we do not stand alone. Thank You that the name of Jesus is greater than every power of darkness and stronger than every attack we may face. Help us trust You completely and rest securely in Your care.

We run to You today, our Strong Tower, knowing that in You we are safe. In the powerful and precious name of Jesus, Amen, Amen and Amen.

Video of the Day

Katy Nichole
Listen/Stream “In Jesus Name (God of Possible)” at https://fanlink.to/inj…
Director: Nathan Schneider
Producers: Joshua Wurzelbacher and Alicia St. Gelais
Director of Photography: Noah Hanson
Actors:
Holland Clement
Brittany Goodwin
Atticus Pope
Follow me here:
   / katynicholemusic  
   / katynichole_  
   / katynicholemusic  

Rev. Marcia Davis, BA, MA

Day 153 of 365: What Is It About The Name of Jesus? (Day 7) 

Sacred Journey Devotionals: A Journey To WholenessLeave a comment

Peace In His Name

Greetings, Precious Family. May the Peace of the Lord be with you always.

John 14:27
New International Version

27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

John 16:33
New International Version

33 “I 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.”

Family, isn’t it so very interesting that Jesus offers Peace when we are sometimes in the most chaotic moments? In full transparency, today has been hard, very hard. I’m trying my best, and Im pulling from everything I have to write tonight.

The only thing I really want to do is to put on some worship music, crawl into bed, and allow the Lord’s peace to restore me. I know that my emotions can sometimes get the best of me, because of what I face from time to time.

One thing, I always know to be true is that the peace of the Lord is always there. So tonight, if you don’t mind, Im going to do exactly what our scripture passage instruct us to do, Im going to rest in the Lord’s peace.

May the Peace of the Lord be with you always.

Let Us Pray

Jesus, I am tired. Some of my strength has been spent carrying things I cannot control.
I bring You my weariness, my frustration, my questions, and my silence. I do not ask You to make me stronger tonight. I ask You to be my strength. Let Your peace settle over my heart and mind. Remind me that I do not have to carry tomorrow tonight. In Your precious name, Amen.

Worship Video of the Day

Official Music Video for Maverick City Music’s “Hymn Medley” feat. Chandler Moore.
Listen to Chandler’s new album Live In Los Angeles: https://chandlermoore….​
This song is a medley of Great Is Thy Faithfulness, ‘Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus, and It Is Well – and this video was captured during a live recording by Maverick City Music.

Rev. Marcia Davis, BA, MA

Day 152 of 365 — What Is It About the Name of Jesus? (Day 6)

Sacred Journey Devotionals: A Journey To WholenessLeave a comment

Healing In His Name

Greetings, Precious Family. May the Peace of the Lord be with you always.

Acts 3:1-8
New International Version

Peter Heals a Lame Beggar

3 One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. 2 Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. 3 When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. 4 Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” 5 So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.

6 Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” 7 Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. 8 He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.

Family, what a powerful Scripture passage we have this evening. Once again, the power and authority of the name of Jesus is shown so clearly.

Two things are happening at the same time. First, Peter and John were exactly where God wanted them to be. They were on their way to the temple to pray, making themselves available to be used by Him. How many blessings, opportunities, and divine appointments happen when we simply remain obedient to God’s leading?

Second, even though Peter and John were well-known disciples of Jesus, they understood where their authority ended and Jesus’ authority began. Peter told the beggar, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”

Family, so many times we become consumed by our problems when we should be looking beyond our problems to the One who is greater than them. Peter did not focus on what he lacked. He focused on Who he had. He had Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

We are rich beyond measure because we have Jesus.

The name of Jesus brings healing, restoration, and wholeness. He is able to touch every area of our lives. Sometimes He heals bodies. Sometimes He heals hearts. Sometimes He restores relationships. Sometimes He mends wounds that no one else can see.

His healing reaches into every part of our lives:

• Emotional healing
• Relational healing
• Spiritual healing
• Healing from grief, shame, guilt, and brokenness

Whatever needs healing tonight, there is still power in the name of Jesus. Don’t be afraid to trust Jesus.

Let Us Pray

Lord Jesus, we stand in awe of Your timing.

Every day, this man was brought to the gate called Beautiful. Every day, he sat in the same place, with the same condition, asking for the same help. And yet, on this day, the day recorded in Your Word, everything changed.

Why this day, Lord? Why not yesterday? Why not the year before? Why not sooner?

And yet we see that nothing about this moment was accidental. You had already ordained the steps of Peter and John. You had already prepared the heart of the man who was asking. And in the right moment, You revealed that Your power had been present all along.

Teach us to trust Your timing, even when we do not understand it.

Teach us to believe that delays are not denials, and that what feels like waiting is never wasted in Your hands.

Lord, just as You did at the gate called Beautiful, meet us in our own “today” moments. The places where we have grown used to waiting. The places where we have learned to survive instead of expect.

And when Your moment comes, open our eyes to recognize that You were never absent. Lord, you were preparing, positioning, and perfecting what we could not see.

We surrender our timelines to You. We surrender our understanding to You. And we trust that You are still the God who steps into ordinary days and makes them holy with Your presence.

In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, Amen, Amen and Amen.

Worship Video of the Day

Official Audio Only for “I’ll Just Say Yes” by Brian Courtney Wilson
Purchase the album “Worth Fighting For”:  Music video by Brian Courtney Wilson performing I’ll Just Say Yes. (C) 2015 Motown Gospel

Rev. Marcia Davis, BA, MA

Day 151 of 365: What Is It About The Name of Jesus?

Sacred Journey Devotionals: A Journey To WholenessLeave a comment

Day 4 – The Name That Demons Recognize

Greetings, Precious Family. May the Peace of the Lord be with you always.

Mark 1:23-27

New King James Version

23 Now there was a man in their synagogue with an unclean spirit. And he cried out, 24 saying, “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are, the Holy One of God!”

25 But Jesus rebuked him, saying, [a]“Be quiet, and come out of him!” 26 And when the unclean spirit had convulsed him and cried out with a loud voice, he came out of him. 27 Then they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, [b]“What is this? What new [c]doctrine is this? For with authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.”

Luke 10:17

New King James Version

The Seventy Return with Joy

17 Then the [a]seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.”

Family, there is something extraordinary about the name of Jesus. The demons that tormented people recognized Him immediately. They knew His authority. They knew His power. They knew their defeat was standing before them. While the world may question Him, the kingdom of darkness does not. The enemy knows that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. What a comfort to know that the name we call upon in prayer is the same name that causes darkness to flee and chains to break. We do not stand in our own strength. Family, we stand in the authority of Jesus!!!

I immediately think of the powerful words to All Hail The Power of Jesus Name which says:

All hail the power of Jesus’ Name!
Let angels prostrate fall;
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown Him Lord of all;
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown Him Lord of all.

I recognize that the song does not say, “And crown Him Lord of some. It truthfully says, “And crown Him Lord of All.

Family, the goal of this evening’s devotional is not to become fascinated with demons; the goal is to become overwhelmed by Jesus. The emphasis of the Gospel accounts is never the power of darkness, but the absolute supremacy of Christ over it. That keeps the focus exactly where it belongs, which is on Him.

1. Demons Recognize His Identity

While many people questioned who Jesus was, demons consistently identified Him correctly. They called Him the Son of God and the Holy One of God. The spiritual realm recognizes what the natural realm often struggles to see.

2. Demons Submit to His Authority

Throughout the Gospels, evil spirits trembled, obeyed, and departed at His command.
Jesus never argued with demons. He never negotiated with them. He simply spoke, and they obeyed. That reveals the unmatched authority attached to His name.

3. Believers Carry His Name
Perhaps the most encouraging truth is that Jesus has entrusted His name to His followers.
When we as believers pray, worship, serve, and stand against the enemy in the name of Jesus, we are not operating in our own authority. We are standing in His. The power is not in our volume, our emotions, or our strength. The power is in the One whose name we carry.

Let Us Pray

Spirit of the Living God, thank You for the powerful name of Jesus. Thank You that His name is above every name and that all authority belongs to Him. Help us to walk in confidence, knowing that we belong to Christ and that we carry His name. Teach us to trust not in our own strength but in the authority of Jesus. Let fear be replaced with faith, doubt with confidence, and weakness with courage as we remember who He is. May the name of Jesus be exalted in our hearts, our homes, and our lives. It is in His name that we lift this prayer as an acceptable offering to you, Father. And we let it be so, and so it is. Amen, Amen, and Amen.

Worship Video of the Day

Extended Life Worship

Be blessed, Family.

Rev. Marcia Davis, BA, MA

Day 150 of 365: What Is It About The Name of Jesus?

Sacred Journey Devotionals: A Journey To WholenessLeave a comment

Day 3 – What Is In A Name?

Greetings, Precious Family. May the Peace of the Lord be with you always.

Scripture:
Philippians 2:9-11 (KJV)

“Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Family, over the last two nights we have learned that Jesus was given His name by divine instruction and that salvation is found in no other name. Tonight, we take another step in this journey and ask an important question:

What makes the name of Jesus different from every other name?

Throughout history there have been kings, rulers, prophets, teachers, and influential people whose names have been remembered for generations. Some names have inspired nations while others have changed the course of history. Yet Scripture declares that there is one name that stands above them all.

The Apostle Paul tells us that God highly exalted Jesus and gave Him a name above every name. Notice that Jesus did not seize this honor for Himself. Because of His humility, obedience, sacrifice, death, burial, and resurrection, the Father exalted Him.

His name is not above every name because it sounds different. It is above every name because of who He is.

At the name of Jesus, heaven pays attention. At the name of Jesus, hell recognizes authority. At the name of Jesus, the broken find hope, the sinner finds forgiveness, and the believer finds strength. (I had to stop and give God a Hallelujah)

The day is coming when every knee will bow. Not some knees. Every knee. Those who worship Him now will bow in love and adoration. Those who rejected Him will bow in acknowledgment of His Lordship. Every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

What a privilege it is that we do not have to wait for that day to honor His name. We can worship Him now. We can trust Him now. We can call upon His name now.

The name given in a manger is the same name exalted above every name.

Let Us Pray

Spirit of the Living God, Thank You for putting this series about the name of Jesus on my heart. As I study and prepare for each lesson, I am reminded of something so beautiful. The name of Jesus is revealed in the New Testament, but the Person of Jesus is present throughout the entire Bible. From Genesis to Revelation you have always been there and are still here today.

May we continue to see you everyday, woven  throughout our lives. We make room for you Jesus. Have your way in our lives. Thank you for loving us and for continuing to want to have a relationship with us. We call you Holy!! Lord, we lift this prayer to you, in the name of our Redeemer, Christ Jesus. Amen,

Worship Video of the Day

Music video by Jonathan McReynolds performing Make Room. Entertainment One US LP
http://vevo.ly/fZWfnA​

What a privilege it is to serve you, Lord.

Rev. Marcia Davis, BA, MA