Joel Osteen Devotional December 13 2020 – Readied for the Battle

Exodus 13:17, NIV

God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.”

Today’s Scripture says that God didn’t lead the Israelites on the easiest route to the Promised Land because they were not ready for war. He had to toughen them up so they would be prepared for what He had in store. Don’t get discouraged by troubles. Trouble is not going to defeat you; it’s going to prepare and promote you for the battles ahead.

You trust God when everything is good, so trust Him in the times of trouble. Believe that even though you don’t understand the bad break or disappointment, He’s still directing your steps. That trouble means you’re on the way to your destiny. If you’ll stay in faith, you’ll see there was a reason that door closed and a reason you didn’t get that promotion. God had something better in store. He’s already lined up the breaks you need, the vindication, the funds, and the healing. He was using that trouble to move you into your destiny.

“Father, thank You for loving me so much that You take troubles that were meant for my harm and use them for my good. I trust You in trouble. I trust You when it’s not happening my way. I trust You even though I feel as though I’m going backward. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”