From Stiff-Necked Stance to Humble Submission
Shirlee Abbott
“But they, our ancestors, became arrogant and stiff-necked, and they did not obey your commands.” Nehemiah 9:16 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, I confess that sometimes I forget to remember Your faithfulness from the past, especially when I am overwhelmed with unpredictable things today. Keep reminding me, as I walk through this new day, that You not only see me but You love me. I don’t know exactly what tomorrow will look like, but I do know who I’ll be looking to — You, Lord. Your love is unfailing, and in Your hand is the safest place to rest my hope. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end …” Lamentations 3:21-22 (ESV)
“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7 (NLT)
“so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11 (NIV)
“‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Nathanael asked him.” John 1:46a (CSB)
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” Isaiah 40:29 (NIV)
“I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope …” Psalm 130:5 (ESV)
Heavenly Father, the days feel long, and weariness has begun to settle in. In the places where I’m depleted, lacking, exhausted, foggy, and worn down, would You bring rest and restoration? Clear my mind and heart from any heaviness I’m carrying. Release me from any pressure I’m putting on myself. By Your power and Your strength, be my portion to fill any gaps where I find myself falling short or falling behind. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens …” Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV)
“I went away full, but the LORD has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi? The LORD has afflicted me; the Almighty has brought misfortune upon me.” Ruth 1:21 (NIV)
“But they, our ancestors, became arrogant and stiff-necked, and they did not obey your commands.” Nehemiah 9:16 (NIV)
“We demolish arguments and every proud thing that is raised up against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to obey Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:4b-5 (CSB)
“For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.” 1 Corinthians 15:52b (NIV)
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” Romans 12:18 (ESV)