TD Jakes Daily Devotional (June 27, 2025) The Power of Mind and Influence in the Midst of Distance and Bondage.
Bible Verse: Philemon 1:8-9 (NIV) "Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love."
The story of Onesimus, Philemon, and the Apostle Paul is a compelling narrative that speaks to the power of grace, even in the midst of distance and bondage. It's a story that reminds me of the atomic structure of molecules, where atoms are separated by a space. This space is crucial for how the molecule behaves. I call this space the "Grace Space," a place where God intervenes despite the distance.
You see, you don't have to be physically close to someone to influence them. You don't have to look like them, be of the same gender, or even be from the same generation to bring them out of chaos. Like atoms in a molecule, we operate in a space of grace. Paul, even while imprisoned, was able to negotiate freedom for Onesimus because he operated from this Grace Space. His mind was free, and that made him potent.
As your spiritual guide, if there's one thing I want you to hold onto, it's your mind. Your mind is the first computer ever designed, equipped with hard drives and software, capable of independent thought. You can give away your car or your house, but never give away your mind. Love with your heart, but keep your mind to yourself.
Prayer: Lord, we thank You for the Grace Space, where Your divine intervention occurs despite physical distance or circumstances. We pray that we may always operate from this space, keeping our minds sharp and our hearts open to Your influence. Help us to understand that even in bondage, we can negotiate freedom through the power of our minds. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Call to Action: If you find yourself in a situation where you feel distant or disconnected, remember the Grace Space. Remember that your mind is a powerful tool that can influence and change situations, even when you're physically bound. Hold onto your mind, for it is in this space of grace that God works His miracles. Amen.
