This is the Upper Room Devotional for January 16, 2025. The topic is Fear Not and it is brought to you by Upper Room Ministries as written by Rachana M. Ghazan.

Upper Room Devotional 2025 (January 16, 2025) – Fear Not

The psalmist wrote, “I cry to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me.” – Psalm 57:2 (NRSVUE)

TODAY’S READING: Psalm 57:1-4

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God’s blessings can come from the most difficult circumstances.

When I was 37 weeks pregnant with my only daughter, my doctor informed me that I would have to undergo a C-section. My oxygen levels had dropped; my baby was having trouble breathing and was not moving as much as expected. I had an ultrasound and was then moved to the operating room for emergency surgery.

I was puzzled — and petrified. My husband was not with me because I was with my parents. As I lay worried and afraid, my mother comforted me with these words: “Fear not.” She reminded me that the Lord God was with me and would never leave me. She also told me of God’s promise in Psalm 57:3 — that God who is faithful would surround me with love.

My mom’s words gave me strength. By holding on to God’s promise and blessings, I underwent my operation and received the biggest blessing of my life — my daughter. I will forever trust that no matter what the circumstance may be, my loving God is with me.

TODAY’S PRAYER: Dear God, thank you for the love and blessings which you bestow on us and our families. Give us strength to trust in your love for us when challenges arise. Amen.