January 13th Devotional
Topic: When We Stray, God Still Saves
Scripture (KJV):
“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.”
— Isaiah 53:6
Devotional Message
Isaiah 53:6 offers a sobering yet hope-filled picture of the human condition and God’s redemptive plan. The verse begins with a universal truth: “All we like sheep have gone astray.” This is not an accusation aimed at a few people; it is a clear statement about all humanity. At some point in our lives, we have wandered away from God’s path, choosing our own desires, opinions, and direction over His will.
Sheep do not usually wander because they intend to be lost; they drift slowly, step by step, until they no longer recognize the way back. In the same way, spiritual drifting often happens quietly—through small compromises, neglected prayers, or misplaced priorities. Yet God does not abandon us in our wandering.
The heart of this verse lies in its powerful conclusion: “the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.” This prophetic passage points directly to Jesus Christ. Instead of leaving humanity to bear the full weight of sin, God placed that burden on His Son. Jesus carried what we could not, paid a price we did not earn, and offered grace we do not deserve.
Isaiah 53:6 reminds us that salvation is not about our perfection but about Christ’s sacrifice. Even when we go our own way, God provides a way back through Jesus. This truth calls us not only to gratitude but also to repentance and renewed obedience. Having been forgiven so freely, we are invited to walk intentionally in God’s will, not our own.
Today’s devotional is a reminder that no matter how far we have wandered, God’s grace still reaches us. The Good Shepherd seeks, restores, and leads us back into right relationship with Him.
Lessons to Learn
1. Everyone Needs Grace
No one is exempt from going astray. This truth keeps us humble and dependent on God.
2. Jesus Bore Our Sin
Christ willingly carried our iniquities so we could receive forgiveness and peace with God.
3. Repentance Leads to Restoration
Acknowledging our wandering opens the door for spiritual renewal and growth.
4. God’s Love Is Redemptive, Not Condemning
God’s response to our sin was not rejection, but sacrifice.
Reflection Question
In what areas of your life have you been going your own way instead of seeking God’s direction?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me even when I stray. Thank You for laying my sins upon Jesus and offering me forgiveness and restoration. Help me to walk in Your ways and follow Your voice daily. Draw my heart closer to You and keep me aligned with Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.