Gems of Knowledge

Today’s One Year Bible Verses: Isaiah25:1-28:13, Galatians 3:10-22, Psalm 61:1-8, Proverbs 23:17-18

Sometimes the most merciful thing God does is to pull us out of what we once thought we wanted. His discipline feels shocking, even like exile, but it is always a call to come face to face with Him. In the stripping away of pride and idolatry, He rebuilds us into something stronger—rooted not in ourselves, but in Him.

You Are My Crown, O Lord

My Prayer

You are my crown, O Lord. “You exiled me and called me to account” (Isaiah 27:8). I was pulled from my wickedness like the wind blows dust in the air. You plucked me from unrighteousness, Lord, and though it came as a shock and stripped me of all I once thought I wanted, it brought me to You. You said to me, “And I will bring you into the wilderness of the people, and there I will plead with you face to face” (Ezekiel 20:35).

“Lord, You did this to purge my wickedness, to take away all my sin” (Isaiah 27:9)—because You love me. You tore down all the altars of idolatry in my heart and mind. You exposed my pride and weakness, so You could purge me of all wickedness, then rebuild me to be strong in You.

The curse of wrongdoing that was upon me, Lord, You took upon Yourself. I am no longer condemned (Galatians 3:10–14). You proclaimed, “Here is a place of rest; let the weary rest here. This is a place of quiet rest” (Isaiah 28:11), and I listened and followed You there.

“You have heard my vows, O God. You have given me an inheritance reserved for those who fear Your name” (Psalm 61:5). You claimed me as Your own, Your Bride. Please, Lord Jesus, “add many years to my life… May Your unfailing love and faithfulness watch over me. Then I will sing praises to Your name forever as I fulfill my vows each day” (Psalm 61:5–8).

“Then at last the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will Himself be my glorious crown! He will be my pride and joy… He will give me a longing for justice… He will give me great courage” (Isaiah 28:5–6). I will “always continue to fear the Lord. I will be rewarded for this. My hope will not be disappointed” (Proverbs 23:17–18). You are my crown, O King of Kings! “And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Psalm 23:6). Amen.

Reflection

This prayer reminds us that God’s discipline is not rejection but redemption. His love tears down what cannot stand so He can establish us on a foundation that will never be shaken. He wants to be your king, your King of Kings, and give you all the He has. Through everything in this life He wants to extend His great mercy and grace upon you, even when we feel stripped or exiled. Never doubt He is only leading you closer to Him, so He can plead with you face to face.

Action (5 Minutes with God)

Ask the Lord:

1. “Search my heart, O Lord, and show me if i have any altars of idolatry or pride that need to be torn down?
2. Write down whatever He whispers, no matter how small. Then ask:
3. “What do you want me to know about that?
4. Write down whatever He whispers, no matter how small. Then ask:
5. “What do You want to rebuild in its place and what do you want me to do?”
6. Write down whatever He whispers, no matter how small. Then thank Him for His mercy.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your unfailing love and for Your mercy and grace. Thank you for wanting me and taking me as Your own. Thank you for the times You’ve pulled us away from sin, even when it felt painful or confusing. Thank You for loving us enough to tear down what is false and rebuild what is true. Please continue to lead me in the paths of righteousness for Your name’s sake. Crown us with Your presence, courage, and joy. May my life reflect Your glory, now and forever. Amen. 💎

To read more 5 Minutes with God devotionals click here.

© 2025 Gems of Knowledge. Scripture quotations from the NLT © Tyndale House Foundation.