Encouragement for Today

August 22, 2024 In Case of Emergency TRACIE BRAYLOCK Lee en español

“The steps of a [good and righteous] man are directed and established by the LORD, And He delights in his way [and blesses his path].” Psalm 37:23 (AMP)

Hospitals have emergency codes every employee must be aware of. As a nurse, I’m familiar with how these codes are announced, either within one department or to the entire hospital, depending on the situation. For example, “Code Red” indicates smoke or fire while “Code Blue” indicates a medical emergency like cardiac or respiratory arrest.

When the code is announced, a series of steps are followed so hospital personnel can keep patients, visitors, employees and the general public from undue harm or panic.

In a Code Red, for instance, staff are to complete the R.A.C.E. procedure:

R: Rescue those in immediate danger.
A: Activate the nearest fire alarm.
C: Close all doors and windows within reach, and turn off fans and air conditioners.
E: Extinguish small fires with a fire extinguisher.

As a believer in Jesus, did you know you also have emergency codes you can use in dangerous, dire or discouraging situations? They’re found within the Scriptures!

God has given us the counsel of the whole Bible to guide, bless and teach us — but it is also helpful to know some key verses for encouragement and prayer in hard moments. Here are some examples:

• When you feel alone, you can pray Deuteronomy 31:6.
• When you feel fearful, you can pray Isaiah 41:10.
• When you are in danger, you can pray Psalm 91.
• When you have sinned, you can pray Psalm 51.
• When you need courage, you can pray Joshua 1:9.
• When you are seeking peace, you can pray Isaiah 26:3.
• When you are heartbroken, you can pray Psalm 34:17-19.

God offers the safety and support you need to navigate whatever situation you’re facing.

Psalm 37:23 says, “The steps of a [good and righteous] man are directed and established by the LORD, And He delights in his way [and blesses his path].” Not only do we have steps we can follow, but God redirects our attention away from the pain of our problems and toward Him as our Protector and Provider. God orders and establishes our steps and guards us as we go.

My friend, isn’t it wonderful to know that in times of stress, struggle or stumbling, the Lord still holds and sustains you? God is right there with you every step of the way as your ever-present Guide, helping you navigate both everyday and emergency situations.

Call out His Word, follow the path He’s established for you, and trust Him with each new step. Your safety and deliverance are found in Him.

Dear God, thank You for directing our steps, holding and sustaining us every day of our lives. Let us turn to You, remembering that as we face challenges, we can seek solutions within Your living Word and loving arms. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

OUR FAVORITE THINGS

What if the unseen seasons of our lives are actually the most important? Our Circle 31 Book Club pick for September dives deep into what God has to say about our unnoticed efforts. Join us for: Anonymous: Jesus’ Hidden Years…and Yours by Dr. Alicia Britt Chole. We may feel uncelebrated, unnoticed or unappreciated by others, but we are always seen by God. Discover the sacred strength that comes through an “anonymous” season by reading with us! We’ll be starting on September 1. Get the book!

ENGAGE

Want to connect with today’s devotion author, Tracie Braylock? Connect with Tracie on her website and on Instagram, and be encouraged by her inspiring posts!

FOR DEEPER STUDY

Psalm 119:133, “Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me” (KJV).

Psalm 32:8, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you” (NIV).

What scriptures do you need to call out to help you with a situation you are currently experiencing? How has God helped you navigate emergency situations in your life?

We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments.

© 2024 by Tracie Braylock. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries
P.O. Box 3189
Matthews, NC 28106
www.Proverbs31.org