Jesus Calling, Sarah Young,October 23, 2025
Reading the "Jesus Calling" devotion for October 23 always feels like a warm embrace, doesn't it? It's one of those "Devotions for Every Day of the Year" that really speaks to your heart, encouraging us to actively seek and experience God's presence. The message from Sarah Young today is a powerful invitation to shift our focus and open ourselves up to a deeper connection. What really resonates with me from this particular entry is the idea of turning our attention to Him and feeling the "Light of My Presence shining upon you." It’s not just a passive receiving, but an active turning. I often find myself getting caught up in the daily hustle, and this devotion is a gentle nudge to pause, take a deep breath, and intentionally acknowledge that God is right here, ready to pour out His love. When I do this, it truly feels like a "heavenly smile of approval" is shining down, an affirmation that I am seen, loved, and valued. The imagery of "My gold-tinged Love wash over you and soak into the depths of your being" is incredibly comforting. It paints a picture of complete immersion in divine affection, not just a surface-level feeling, but something that penetrates every part of who we are. For me, this means letting go of worries and anxieties, and allowing His peace to fill those spaces. It’s about trusting that His love is powerful enough to transform even the deepest parts of our struggles. And then, the beautiful promise of "joyous union with Me: I in you, and you in Me." This isn't just a theological concept; it's an experiential reality. When I truly lean into His presence, I feel a profound sense of belonging and completeness. My "Joy-in-Me and My Joy-in-you become intertwined and inseparable." It’s a reciprocal relationship, where His joy becomes mine, and my joy brings Him delight. This intertwining of joy is a source of strength and resilience in challenging times. To practically apply this "Enjoying Peace in His Presence" message, I try to incorporate small moments of focused attention throughout my day. Maybe it's a quick prayer while waiting in line, or simply acknowledging His presence while enjoying a cup of coffee. It’s about creating space, even just for a few seconds, to receive that "gold-tinged Love" and remember that I am never alone. The devotion reminds us that "I suffuse your soul with Joy in My Presence; at My right hand there are pleasures forevermore." This promise of unending joy and pleasure in His presence is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the ultimate good that awaits. It encourages me to live each day with a heart open to receiving His boundless love and joy, knowing that true peace comes from this intimate union with Him.
