Lent Devotions

February 23, 2012 – Mark 1:9-15 – Day 2

                Jesus went into the wilderness for forty days to fast and to pray.  He did not go to be tempted, but while he was there he was tempted by Satan.  Why do we spend forty days fasting and praying for Lent?  Partly because it was Jesus’ example to fast and pray for forty days as he prepared for his ministry.   Partly because it is a significant time to overcome something in our lives.  If we give up a bad habit for forty days, it is very likely we can continue to give that up after Resurrection Sunday.    During these next weeks you will be tempted in many ways.  Tempted to cheat on our fast.  Tempted to be too busy to pray.  Tempted to put off doing the acts of service you have committed to.  In many ways when you go to the wilderness for forty days you are asking for temptation.  Expect it!  Memorize 1 Corinthians 10:13:  The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.  

                Pray that God would help you to keep your promises to God this Lent season and that you would be able to fight the temptations that come.  Remember, if you do stumble, it is okay to get back up and keep going. 

Daily Lent Devotions are available on the "What is Happening Now" page of www.livingfaithgirard.com 

Lapis Lazuli

In Exodus 24 we read of Moses and the elders of Israel up on the mountain of God eating a covenant meal in the presence of God.  It says that the earth below the presence of God was like lapis lazuli.  A blue rock that is found in the Middle East.  God's presence impact everything that comes close to Him.  The ground underneath God was turned into a glowing blue rock.  When we are in God's presence His presence will impact who we are and what we are about.  His presence can make dirt look like a beautiful rock.  His presence can make us look beautiful as well.