Scripture Reading: Luke 12:1-59, Psalm 23:1, 1 Peter 1:3-4
In the spring of last year, our home was destroyed by a tornado. The forecast was consistent: It was an atmospheric recipe for a literal disaster. And just after midnight, while we were out of town, that disaster became our reality. I never managed to sleep that night, so by the time I made it back to town, my executive functioning was at an all time low. A dear friend offered to go with me to find some clothing essentials for our family, and as I walked to my van, she took the keys, handed me food, and said “I’m driving. You’re going to eat now.” She knew what I needed, and she was going to take care of it.
The people Jesus taught had needs, too, and they had likely experienced emotions similar to those I had after the tornado—feeling overwhelmed to the point of being unable to discern what was needed next. Throughout Luke 12, Jesus addressed many of the situations we tend to spiral in worry over: physical safety, opposition or persecution, how much money is enough, how to provide for basic needs, which priorities are appropriate and productive, and so on. Jesus’s central message of the passage comes in verse 32: “Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Father delights to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32).
In other words, God knows what you need, and He’s going to take care of it.
In my own life, I often find myself in the middle of a push-and-pull relationship between trust and fear. They are flip sides of the same coin, both responses to what I perceive as a need. It seems that when I choose trust—that settled belief that God is who He says and does what He promises—it reveals what my heart sees as enough. Fear, on the other hand, often reveals those places where my heart perceives lack. In response, I heap more pressure on myself to supply my needs in my own strength, refusing to believe that God delights to give us what we need—when what we need most is His kingdom reigning in our hearts.
When I put my daughters to bed hours before the tornado, my oldest told me she was scared that a tornado was going to destroy our home. I looked at her (maybe a little too confidently) and told her I wasn’t scared. I told her that it could happen, and if it did, I knew God would take care of us. But truthfully, my trust was in the statistical unlikelihood of it actually happening. I said the right words, but it wasn’t from a heart that was fully trusting God. When I read this passage today, I’m reminded that Jesus knows us intimately. His message to His listeners that day lovingly invited them, and us, to remember the words of David: “The LORD is my shepherd; I have what I need” (Psalm 23:1). May we all walk one step at a time, hand-in-hand with Jesus, toward a deeper trust in our Father, who delights in providing for us all.
Written by Becca Owens
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110 thoughts on "The Father’s Delight"
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❤️✝️ The Lord is my shepard, I shall not want. He provides all my needs. Amen.
Consider the ravens…
God tells us not to worry about anything and leave it all to Him, because He tells us that us worrying won’t add a single hour to our day. God is always near even when we can’t feel Him, let’s always remember that God will never leave us alone or forsake us He has been there for us sense the start of our life and will roam with us until the end of time. When we have Jesus has our shepherd we
Amen
Amen
music drop: “One Step at a time” by Jordin Sparks
(one of my favorite songs to clean house- on a side note, I probably dance more than I clean… BUT still a good upbeat dance tune. :)
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I was wondering what exactly “readiness” meant in reference to being ready for the return of Jesus alluded to in the parables in Luke 12:35-48.
From Enduring Word commentary: Jesus here clearly connected the readiness for His return to a life of love, spiritual focus, and self-control.
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Let it be so. ❤️
Happy birthday Susan! Today is also my birthday. Praying for you all today.
Birthday blessings!!
Hope it was a special day!
Happy birthday Kimberly, hope you feel the blessings, and love all around, ❤️
I’m a day behind (and will definitely need grace day this week!) but want to thank everyone for great comments yesterday. So much wisdom from you all!
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Searching, your comments on the Lord’s Prayer were especially thought provoking. Thanks for including me on your prayer prompts. ❤️
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I am thankful for this reminders to trust God to supply our needs and not try to do it myself.
I am thankful for the reminder to trust God for all my needs and to not try b to take care of things myself.
A big thank you to everyone who prayed for my daughter and the trial she was defending yesterday. It was amazing to watch her in action. She’s a really smart, professional attorney. I was thrilled to have what I’ve always called a “proud mommy moment.” And I became totally invested in the outcome of the trial, seeing why she believed in the innocence of her client. I spent last night and today praying for the truth to be seen by the jury, even if we were wrong. I heard from her a little while ago that her client was found not guilty. I’m very relieved for him, and for her. I’ve never seen her take a case so personally, and was concerned how she would handle it if he was found guilty and she thought an innocent man went to prison for life. BUT GOD … The jury saw through the lies being told, and God’s truth shined through.
The only negative is that the accusing party brought several very rough looking characters to court today, who gave intimidating looks to Amanda and her co-counsel and their client. It was obvious enough that the bailiffs and all sheriff deputies in the courthouse went to Amanda’s office with her and her co-counsel, and stayed there until they were ready to leave, then walked them to their cars. They removed her client from a backdoor.
Please keep Amanda, her co-counsel and their client in your prayers that they will be safe, and these people will not try to retaliate with violence.
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Teresa, how exciting that you were there to support Amanda. Prayers for safety for all involved and that those close to the other side will come to have peace in the decision of the court and reject any thoughts that would get them in trouble. Difficult for either side for sure. ❤❤❤
Oh Teresa, that must have been something special!❤️
I loved today’s reading and devotional. Sometimes, I’m convinced I have full trust in God. At other times, I know it’s not as full as it could be, because I worry that the outcome of a situation, illness or relationship may not be what I really want. May my prayer be to put my FULL trust in God, and know that whatever the outcome, He’s got this, and I’m going to be okay, because I’m His, He loves me, and He knows what’s best for me.
That’s the part that is hard to accept. Knowing that HIS best doesn’t always mirror our desire. That’s where anxiety lives for me. Experiencing that right now with events of the last week.❤
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Right? We need to let go a lot more and let God..❤️
So… another prayer request. Having aging parents stinks. Hubby’s mom showed up here at 8am in her pajamas! (We are about a 20 minute drive from her house.) She stayed for a few minutes then left. Told her to call me when she got home, which she did, but that was over an hour later. She got lost but was enjoying her drive! She drives fine, so we aren’t worried about a crash or the possibility of her killing someone. I reached out to her PCP, who is a friend from church. We’ll see what she suggests. Hubby thinks we just need to “let it run its course”, but I am freaking out a bit! I guess prayers for her and that we figure out how to proceed would both be good! Thanks!
Oh, my, Adrienne. That really is concerning. I pray you are able to get your MIL evaluated for signs of cognitive decline and that she will be safe. And i pray for you and your husband with the additional worry this gives you. Praying for God’s peace and protection. ❤️
Adrienne, that is so scary! The fact that she got lost is a big tell. Agreeing with Teresa! ❤❤❤
Ooo, for sure praying, Adrienne.. scary stuff..Lord in your mercy..x
Praying, Adrienne. Aging parents are extremely hard.
Amen.
I’m not sure when I learned that acceptance was a beautiful thing. I’ve had many unusual things happen in my life and maybe that is what did it. My dad died in a house fire. My sisters daughter had a stroke at the age of 2. My brothers son had a hole in his heart that needed repair. He then died of alcoholism at the age of 30. Tanner’s illness is 1 in 2,000 in the world. And there is even more in generations before my parents. Wow there must have been a lot of sin happening way back when to be punished to the 3rd and 4th generation. A little joke there, but possibly some truth. But it taught me to trust in God. To not fall apart when tragedies happen. To know that God will provide whatever it is that I need. Peace, strength, courage, perseverance, etc. I learned to not look to far ahead. As Sharon said, one step at a time.
Goodness, not to but too.
God, please bring peace and comfort to Traci’s heart.
Traci, your faith and trust in the face of such tragedies is strong, and an example of God’s love and provision to all who know you. ❤️
Adding my amen to Teresa’s prayer and comment! ❤❤❤
And mine too!
.Much love my dear!❤️
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This meshes well with last week’s Sunday School lesson from Lifeway Explore the Bible Series on Romans 8:14-27. Lots of videos on youtube present the lessons each week. I only follow 2: Shawn E. Thomas and Dr. Jay Cardinell of Fairview Baptist Church in Coushatta, Louisiana.
Both of those are good!
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Love, hugs,and prayers! ❤
Prayer need:
I have a serious procedure scheduled for next week and our son got up with extreme sinus issues- hopefully from some drywall dust he inhaled at work yesterday. Please pray my husband and I stay healthy (since he has to be present for the whole procedure time). Of course I am praying no serious/long-term damage for our son. Thanks, sisters! ❤❤❤
Prayers!
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Praying Cee Gee❤️❤️
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Praying over your family
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Prayers, sister.❤️
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Praying, Cee Gee ❤️
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Praying for you and your family, Cee Gee.
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Praying dear friend on all counts..Hugs ❤️
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Praying CeeGee
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Well I deleted what I wanted to say but I will just say, this is a great reminder to me of where my heart is! I appreciated all of your comments!
Praying for all!
“The Lord is my Shepard; I have what I need.” YES I do! Yes WE do! Sigh…..
God is SO good! My heart is filled with JOY for this reminder. I have been beating myself (again) over the fender bender, could of, would of, should of. BUT GOD does NOT see me as I see myself. YES I am embarrassed, sigh…., I can not and should not worry what others think. I’m ALSO reminded (and tell my story over and over) how far I’ve come and how My God has been providing for me! I have a very deductible and I know the repair, though its minor, its going to be a lot! BUT God…oh…my sweet JESUS… I received, a kid you not, an unexpected refund!! It may not over completely, BUT I really felt it was God’s way reminding me He has me!!!
ALSO…. not sure if I mentioned, the owner of the vehicle was not present, and the only thing I had to write on was a SRT postcard. She did reach out and it her message wasn’t the greatest BUT I’m praying she sees the postcard and seeks the JESUS!
Prayers for you and your situation. I have had my share of accidents to the point my husband has told my kids that is why I have a D on my license and he has an A…he drives and owns a dump truck. God shows up and shows out when we least expect it. He has got you and your faith in Him shows. Don’t stop shining your light sister!
Do not worry about anything but in all things pray without ceasing.. He is near and with you, whatever the outcome, He is present, and remember Father God WILL never leave you nor forsake you.. He is indeed your Shepherd..
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Sending hugs my dear!❤️
“May we all walk one step at a time, hand-in-hand with Jesus, toward a deeper trust in our Father, who delights in providing for us all.”
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The key we see here: one step at a time – not two, not three, not four – but one. And, walking hand in hand with Jesus. When we have His hand we can feel where He leads. When we have His hand, He catches us when we fall. When we have His hand we feel His strength.
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Take His hand, walk with Him, trust the God and Father who provides all that we need so that we do not lack anything.
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He is faithful!
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Happy Wednesday She’s. ❤️
Amen! So simple, so profound. One step at a time…trusting. obeying. following. discipleship.
Beautifully said.
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That’s beautiful, Sharon ❤️❤️
One step at a time.. love it! Thank you Sharon..❤️
“God knows what you need, and He’s going to take care of it.”
Todays verses and Becca’s words are so timely for me today and a good reminde. I am teetering a bit on the edge but my husband feels like he is in the vortex of a tornado. We(mostly him)are 10 months into daily caregiving in some way for his parents – he manages every part of their lives. He is self employed, trying to still work everyday, his job is very stressful and he also has a work crisis going on right now with a client. And then he has me to support and take care of. His tornado is spinning at warp speed, he can’t shut his brain off. he is exhausted. I am very concerned for him. I am praying that he can continually be reminded that God knows what he needs and to trust and rely on Him not his own strength. What a comfort that we can know our great God is so vested and present to every part of our lives. Thank you Lord ❤️
Appreciate your prayers SRT sisters. I was very tired and didn’t feel well much of the day yesterday but felt a bit better by evening. First thing this morning, I feel ok so am planning to head to work for a while and then my MIL will be moved later this morning so we will meet her at the hospice to get her settled.❤️
That is a lot. I feel like men feel more of the load to “do” themselves to take care of everything, rather than trusting completely on the Lord. But let’s face it, they do have to “do” the things that have to be done, but it’s trusting the Lord within that. Praying he feels the Lord giving him the strength to manage everything put on his plate. And praying for you and your health. I CAN relate to a body that just doesn’t feel good. It is draining when it’s chronic pain that keeps on and you just don’t feel like doing anything, praying you will Feel normal!
Caregivers truly never get a break. Even if a physical break
is possible, rarely does the emotional/mental break happen. My heart goes out to both of you and pray for strength and clarity for the days ahead with his parents, your health, and the work situation. Love you, sister!!!❤❤❤
Prayers for you and your family.
Prayer for you and your husband❤️
Praying Wendy❤️
I hear you on so many fronts, Wendy. Prayers for your family as you navigate. ❤️
Wendy, I’m praying for you and for your husband ❤️
Thank you friends ❤️❤️❤️
Ahh, Wendy, joining our sisters in prayer for you and yours.. BUT GOD..❤️
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” To seek[God’s] kingdom means to live as his representatives (v.31).We must represent and reflect his righteousness in a world unconcerned about knowing God. This is the constant call of a disciple, as the Greek imperative
“seek ” indicates.”
NIV Application Commentary
Amen
These verses and Becca’s reflection are such a good reminder. Faith does not mean trusting that nothing bad will happen. God never promised that. Tornadoes destroy homes, people get cancer, kids wander….Faith means trusting that when these things happen (and they WILL) God is with us, meeting us in our need.
Yes so true! It’s so hard sometimes!
Yes! Amen!
Luke 12:15-21 triggers several things for me to ponder – the coveting mentioned, greed, lack of generosity, man’s (or woman’s) plans vs God’s perfect plans, how much is enough, good stewardship, responsible vs irresponsible, strength of faith, excess and accumulation, unbelievers flourishing, believers suffering from hunger, needs vs wants.
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Luke 12:34 “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
12:40 “Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Isaiah 55:6 Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near.
1 Peter 1:3 … a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ …
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WENDY B ❤️ praying for your in-laws and for relief from any injection side effects
MERCY ❤️
CEE GEE ❤️
TRACI GENDRON ❤️
B ❤️
LYNNE FROM AL ❤️ praying for recovery progress and decreasing pain
TINA ❤️
LANIE H ❤️
KELLY (NEO) ❤️ praying for your job search and for young mama’s needs
DEBBY KEIRAN ❤️
thank you Searching❤️
Praying for all!
Good ponders, SEARCHING.
Agreeing in prayer! ❤
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Amen!
Luke 12:43 “Blessed is that servant whom the master finds doing his job when he comes.”
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Lord Jesus, open my eyes to the things YOU have for me to do today. May I be found doing them and not doing my own thing.
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Praying for your requests. May your hearts rest in Him today.
What does He have for me to do today?! Thank you, Kelly, for this. ❤️
Thank you Kelly! I need to be reminded of what The LORD has for me today. Not my plans but His!
Amen, Kelly. Not the things I think are more important but the things God has for me today. May I find peace doing the will of God.
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Thank you Kelly for this reminder.
Amen Kelly, amen.❤️
Amen!
Tornados – I cannot imagine the overwhelm and upheaval that goes with that kind of damage – or fires, or floods or other destructive forces of nature. Oddly what stood out to me today was verse 51: “Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division.” Jesus speaking. This feels very different from the message from the angels to the shepherds: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and goodwill toward men. While not speaking about natural disasters, I think our Lord was telling us again that between now and the perfect peace He will bring at His second coming there will be lots of heartache and distress. We must cling to the hope of our imperishable inheritance in heaven and be ever watchful.
“cling to the hope of our imperishable inheritance in heaven and be ever watchful.”
Amen
Amen! ❤️
Beautifully said! Amen!
Amen❤️
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Amen.❤️
Amen
I love the phrase “little flock”