August 15 - Standing Strong with God

AUGUST 15 - Standing Strong with God3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 21:22, 24; Hebrews 9–10//3-Year Bible Devotional Book (Year Two) Available on Amazon//________________________________________“A wise man scales the city of the mighty and brings down the stronghold in which they trust. The proud and arrogant man—‘Scoffer’ is his name—acts with insolent fury.” — Proverbs 21:22, 24 (ESV)“For Christ has entered, not into holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true things, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf.” — Hebrews 9:24 (ESV)“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.” — Hebrews 10:24 (ESV)________________________________________Life can feel like a battlefield sometimes—school pressures, social struggles, and inner doubts can all feel like towering walls or “strongholds” in your life. Proverbs 21 shows us that wisdom and courage can overcome even the strongest obstacles. But how do we gain that wisdom? Hebrews 9 reminds us that Jesus has gone before us, standing in God’s presence on our behalf, giving us access to His guidance, strength, and protection. And Hebrews 10 calls us to not just rely on Jesus but also to encourage each other—lifting friends up, cheering them on, and pushing each other toward good choices.Being wise and courageous doesn’t mean facing life alone. It means leaning on God, letting His presence guide your decisions, and surrounding yourself with people who lift you higher. Every choice, conversation, and act of encouragement can break down walls of fear, pride, and doubt—not just in your life, but in the lives of others too.________________________________________THINK ABOUT IT1. Wisdom Wins: Are there areas in your life where pride, fear, or anger are acting like “strongholds” (Proverbs 21:22, 24)? How can you invite God’s wisdom to guide you in those areas?2. Jesus Goes Before You: How does knowing that Jesus stands in God’s presence on your behalf (Hebrews 9:24) change the way you face challenges or difficult decisions?3. Encourage Others: Who around you could benefit from a word of encouragement or an act of kindness today (Hebrews 10:24)? How can you intentionally stir them toward love and good works?________________________________________BOTTOM LINEWith God’s wisdom, Jesus’ intercession, and supportive friends, you can face any challenge and stand strong.________________________________________PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus to stand in Your presence on my behalf and for giving me wisdom to face life’s challenges. Help me to rely on You, make choices that honor You, and encourage those around me to grow in love and good works. Give me courage to stand strong in every situation. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.