Trusting God’s Power and Authority

March 7, 2025
Daily Devotion & Scripture Insights

Morning: Deuteronomy 3-4
Evening: Mark 11:20-33

In Deuteronomy 3-4, we see Moses recounting Israel’s journey and God’s mighty acts. Though Moses longed to enter the Promised Land, God told him no, yet He reassured him of His continued faithfulness to Israel. Meanwhile, in Mark 11:20-33, Jesus teaches about faith, prayer, and recognizing divine authority. When Peter noticed the withered fig tree, Jesus emphasized the power of faith-filled prayer, calling His disciples to trust in God without doubt.

Both passages remind us that God is sovereign, and His plans are always for our good, even when they differ from our desires. When we trust His authority, walk in faith, and align our hearts with His will, we experience His power in ways beyond our understanding.

Key Insights:

  1. God’s Sovereignty is Absolute – Moses was denied entry into the Promised Land, yet God’s greater plan prevailed. We must trust that when God says no, He is still working for our good (Deuteronomy 3:26-27).
  2. Faith Produces Results – Jesus told His disciples that faith in God can move mountains. Doubt hinders, but unwavering belief in God’s power releases His work in our lives (Mark 11:22-23).
  3. Prayer and Forgiveness are Linked – Jesus emphasized that when we pray, we must also forgive others, ensuring that nothing blocks our connection with God (Mark 11:25).
  4. God’s Authority Should Lead to Obedience – The Pharisees questioned Jesus’ authority, but their unwillingness to submit to truth kept them from receiving Him. Recognizing God’s authority should lead us to faithful obedience (Mark 11:27-33).
  5. Teaching the Next Generation Matters – In Deuteronomy 4:9, Moses instructs Israel to teach their children about God’s works, reminding us that passing down faith is a responsibility, not an option.

Connection to Other Scripture:

  • Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV) – “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Just as Moses had to trust God’s plan, we must surrender our desires to His wisdom.
  • Hebrews 11:6 (KJV) – “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Faith is the key to seeing God move in our lives.
  • Matthew 6:14-15 (KJV) – “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Forgiveness is vital to an effective prayer life.

Questions to Reflect On:

  1. Have you ever struggled to accept God’s “no” in your life? How did you respond?
  2. What is one area where you need to trust God more and exercise faith in prayer?
  3. Are there any unforgiven offenses in your heart that might be hindering your prayers?
  4. How do you respond to God’s authority—do you resist it, question it, or submit to it with trust?
  5. What steps can you take to ensure the next generation knows and trusts in God’s mighty works?

A Prayer for Today:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your perfect wisdom and sovereignty. Even when I don’t understand Your plans, help me to trust You completely. Strengthen my faith so that I may pray boldly, knowing that You hear me. Search my heart and remove any unforgiveness that may hinder my walk with You. Teach me to recognize Your authority and obey Your leading without hesitation. I surrender my desires to You, knowing that Your ways are higher and better than mine. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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