This is the Upper Room Devotional for January 18, 2025. The topic is Alone With God and it is brought to you by Upper Room Ministries as written by Kaitlyn Handy.

Upper Room Daily Devotional 2025 – January 18, 2025

TOPIC: Alone With God

TODAY’S READING: Joshua 1:1-9

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Sometimes it takes being lonely to hear God’s voice.

If God is for us, who can be against us? – Romans 8:31 (NIV)

When I was 18 years old, I moved across the world. I left my small hometown for the city of Sydney, Australia. As I stepped off the plane, I felt afraid. “God, stay with me,” I prayed as I clenched my fists and looked up desperately to the sky. After a taxi ride that felt longer than it was, I set foot in my new home. The fear I had felt quickly turned into overbearing loneliness.

As I began to unpack, I pulled out my Bible. At the time, it seemed the only familiar sight in this strange, new country. Holding back tears, I decided to take a break from my unpacking and read God’s word, thinking it might comfort me. I came upon the story of Joshua leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. Sydney, Australia, was as new and unknown to me as the Promised Land was to Joshua. But God frequently reminded Joshua and the Israelites not to be afraid.

Once I finished reading, I felt a great sense of comfort. The Lord spoke to me through Joshua’s story, reminding me that I am never alone. Even when it seems that fear and loneliness are our only companions, God remains with us, holding us as we embark on any new adventure.

TODAY’S PRAYER

Ever-present God, help us remember that we are never alone because you are with us. Thank you for continuing to guide us each day. Amen.