NIV Once-A-Day Bible Worship and Praise DevotionalSample

A BETTER PERSPECTIVE Most people view the world through eyes that see only what is happening right now. And the result of this self-absorbed, impatient mindset? Not very pretty to look at. We end up with an embarrassing episode like the one cited above: Esau forfeiting enormous privilege and honor, essentially throwing away his prominent place in the eternal purposes of God. And for what? A bowl of stew. How tragic! However, throughout the Bible, we read of many of God’s faithful servants who had a different perspective than Esau’s. Rather than becoming obsessed with the small stories of their individual lives, they focused on God’s big story. As they did, these worshiping saints remembered the past faithfulness of God, even as they placed their hope in his future promises. The result is that these people lived steadier lives. They were not susceptible to baser impulses. Because they kept the big picture in view, they finished well. What are you living for today? When you focus on the present and on your feelings, you can quickly lose sight of God’s future and his truth. To put your hope and trust in God is to stand in awe of him and his power with the confidence that God will faithfully perform his Word. Gracious Father, keep me from the foolish trap of . . .