Our Daily Bread Podcast

Episode: Pursued by God | Audio Reading | Our Daily Bread Devotional
Date: October 16, 2025
Host: Our Daily Bread Ministries
Devotional Author: Marvin Williams
Reader: Wes Ward

Main Theme

This episode centers on the profound truth that when we veer off course spiritually, God's love compels Him to pursue us and guide us back. Reflecting on Psalm 119:169-176, the devotional explores our tendency to stray and God's enduring commitment to lead us home, much like a shepherd seeking a lost sheep.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Scripture Foundation (00:00–01:25)

• The episode opens with the reading of Psalm 119:169-176, a heartfelt plea for understanding, deliverance, and guidance from God.
  • “May my cry come before you, Lord. Give me understanding according to your word.” (00:07)
  • The culmination: “I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands.” (01:17)

Illustration: Navigational Challenges (01:25–02:10)

• Marvin Williams introduces David Utall, a cognitive scientist who ironically struggles with physical navigation, exemplified by a story from his youth when he got lost on a hike for two and a half days.
  • Utall's lifelong difficulty with direction mirrors the spiritual confusion we sometimes face: “Some people are natural navigators... Others, like Udal, struggle even with clear directions and often get lost.” (01:45)

Spiritual Navigation & The Straying Sheep (02:10–03:15)

• The Psalmist likens his spiritual state to a lost sheep, needing rescue.
  • “The psalmist's spiritual navigation skills had deteriorated and his spiritual sense of direction had faded, so he needed God to pursue him and give him a discerning mind.” (02:45)
• Sheep are valuable yet prone to wandering, emphasizing the necessity for the shepherd’s intervention.

God’s Pursuit & Guidance (03:15–04:00)

• When believers drift from God's care, He seeks them out, offering guidance and restoration.
  • Notable quote: “When we wander away from God's care, He loves us enough to seek us and lead us back to Himself, as He helps us understand the Scriptures and follow all his commands, and we can avoid getting spiritually lost.” (03:30)

Concluding Prayer (04:00–04:40)

• The episode transitions into a prayer for spiritual guidance, steady hearts, and renewed devotion.
  • “Lord, we are often prone to wandering off and getting lost, much like sheep. And when we lose our way, would you lead us back to the safety of your care? Give us discerning minds and steady hearts so that we may follow your word and walk in step with you. Thank you, Lord. It's in Jesus name that we pray. Amen.” (04:05)

Reflection Questions (04:40–05:00)

• Listeners are encouraged to contemplate:
  • “In what ways have you drifted away from God and His wisdom?”
  • “In what ways will you remember his instruction today?”

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Wes Ward (Reader):
  • “I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands.” (01:17)
  • “Some people are natural navigators... Others, like Udal, struggle even with clear directions and often get lost.” (01:45)
  • “When we wander away from God’s care, He loves us enough to seek us and lead us back to Himself.” (03:30)
  • “Lord, we are often prone to wandering off and getting lost, much like sheep. And when we lose our way, would you lead us back to the safety of your care?” (04:05)

Important Segment Timestamps

• Scripture Reading: 00:00 – 01:25
• Navigational Anecdote: 01:25 – 02:10
• Sheep and Spiritual Lostness: 02:10 – 03:15
• God’s Pursuit: 03:15 – 04:00
• Prayer: 04:00 – 04:40
• Reflection Questions: 04:40 – 05:00

Recap

The episode gently reminds listeners that spiritual “lostness” is a universal human experience, but God’s loving pursuit is steadfast. Drawing a parallel between everyday navigational struggles and our spiritual journey, the devotional reassures believers: God does not abandon His stray sheep but actively seeks them, offering understanding, restoration, and peace through His Word and guidance.

For daily encouragement and connection with God, the Our Daily Bread podcast offers accessible, relatable devotionals to enrich your faith journey.