“Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee; And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing. And I will bless them that bless thee and curse him that curseth thee in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.” Genesis 12:1-3
Today’s Christian daily devotional
“I can’t go back, Lace. I just can’t.” I shudder, not at the piercing wind but at the thought of what would happen to me if I returned to stripping.
Lacey’s expression shows that she has questions she isn’t daring to ask. But, I know what she’s thinking: What will I do? How will I survive without the livelihood that I have built my little empire around?
I grip one of my precious remnants: my Tod’s satchel. After all those years of dancing and the thousands of dollars that flowed freely through my garter, one would have thought that I’d have more than just few great fashion accessories and a couple of other shiny baubles to show for it.
“What are you going to do with all your stuff?” Lacey clenches her wool coat; the Chicago wind fiercely challenging her.
My stomach curdled in regret at the thought of all the cash that was wrapped up in the clothes, accessories and jewelry still left behind in my locker. What a serious waste of money that would really come in handy about now.
In my heart, I knew what must be done. I resolved to burn every last item. But, I keep this revelation to myself, lest Lacey should try and stop me with logic.
“Lace, could you clear out my locker for me?” Of all the girls that I danced with, she was the only one who knew what was going on. Lacey witnessed the demonic realm that was pursuing me. The heavy atmosphere was something both she and I could feel, but not explain.
“Of course. It might take me a few trips, though. I’ve never seen a stripper with more clothes than you.” She nods, knowing it was all she could do to help.
“I’ll call you when your locker is empty.” Leaning over, she hugs me tight.
“Thanks.” I muster weakly as I turn to head home.
Besides the random dog walker, the heavy rain has kept most Chicagoans tucked away in warmer and dryer places.
Slowly inching my way on the desolate road before me, my heart sinks as I ponder all the changes that need to be made. I can barely feel the rain soaking through my thin sweater; I am numb.
Something inside compels me to keep moving forward; and an even stronger compulsion warns me to never look back.
Genesis 12:1-3 speaks about the crossroads that almost every person who chooses to go God’s way eventually has to face. Some loose their family and loved ones because of their decision to follow Christ. Others walk away from a lucrative income or fabulous lifestyle because it is not consistent with the word of God. Taking the road less traveled always comes with a price.
It is important to keep in mind that nothing of value ever comes easy. But, there’s always a reward when you choose God’s way; even if it isn’t in plain sight…today.
“Dear Heavenly Father,
I have stopped myself from moving forward, because I have been afraid of the unknown. I cannot afford to make this grave mistake.
Abram had to leave all he knew before he ever saw the promises you spoke to his heart.
I have taken risks in other areas of my life; yet when it comes to the things of God, I seem to stop myself from fully trusting you. This is wrong, Lord. Forgive me for my lack of faith and courage.
Birth within my heart your vision for my life, so I can move forward in some kind of clear direction. I’m turning away from the things I know you don’t agree with, so I can make room for the people and things you want for me.
Thank you for your patience, mercy and grace. Help me to never take advantage of it like I have in the past. It is time to move forward into greater things. In Jesus name, I trust you; help me to trust you more. Amen.”
Thank you for reading today’s Christian daily devotional on verses: Genesis 12:1-3
Please check back and see what we have for you tomorrow!
Author: Julia Shalom Jordan