Kerusso Daily Devotional: Recent Episodes
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Kerusso® Daily Devotionals help you make more room for Jesus. Here you’ll find faith, hope, and joy — bite-sized moments of inspiration for busy believers.
ABOUT THE KERUSSO DAILY DEVOTIONAL — Developed by Kerusso®, makers of Christian apparel, accessories, and gifts, the Kerusso Daily Devotional: ● Features personal and historical stories influenced by the Bible. ● Uses various Biblical translations including NIV, KJV, ESV, and NLT. ● Includes professionally recorded audio of original content. ● Connects you to God’s Word through stories and themes you can identify with on a personal level. ● Offers 90-second devotional readings to inspire and encourage you.
Charles McGee is one of those improbable heroes. Part of the reason is because he started life with obstacles to overcome—just because of the color of his skin. He is now the last surviving member of the famous Tuskegee Airmen. This was an incredible group of pilots made up of African Americans during World War 2.
He pushed to achieve great things, and God was with him every step.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
The dapper, Charles McGee, flew an incredible 400 missions during his service in three wars. Today he inspires his grandson, whose goal is to be part of the newly created Space Force.
Heroes and warriors don’t always ‘look the part.’ In fact, some of the bravest don’t stand out in any particular way. They just walk the path God has set before them. The rest of us are the beneficiaries of this kind of valor. No doubt you know people like this. Men and women, boys and girls can all play this part God sets before them.
Let’s pray. Lord, help us to be willing to step through the doors you open for us, and to be warriors for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Donna and Betty were sisters, but in midlife they were both tired of the fighting and the mistrust and the hurt. Each had their grievances. Both were stubborn.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
At one particular time of the year, Betty heard this verse spoken in a service. And here’s an ironic thing: of the two sisters, most people would agree she was definitely the most stubborn!
But that day she did an amazing thing. She went home and she called Donna. Betty made a choice to forgive and forget, and she did so through a lot of tears. Donna was shocked but grateful. And she owned up to her own mistakes.
God can bring about good will between anyone, including sisters who may fight, but really love each other.
Do you need to be a catalyst for peace this week?
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are ever new. Your love heals old wounds, and we need that. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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In May 1962, an intimidating figure delivered a final public speech at West Point Military Academy.
Douglas MacArthur, who led America to victory in the Pacific during World War 2, addressed cadets. He told them simple truths, ones that define honor and glory.
The hall was completely still as the old general spoke in hushed tones. Everyone heard him speak of the honorable soldier who must rely on “those divine attributes which his Maker gave when He created man in His own image.”
Here was perhaps the most legendary military man in the country in the 20th century, and despite his personal awards and recognition, he humbled himself to acknowledge the One who deserves all our honor and glory.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
The name of Christ is the one that leads us to final victory. MacArthur spoke to those cadets of the American tradition of seeing things through to complete and decisive victory.
The Bible tells us we are soldiers in Christ’s army. We are standing on the most important battlefield in all of history. Our mandate is to share the Good News of Jesus, so that individuals live for eternity with their Creator.
Let us glory in that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are our deliverer and the victor. We honor you with our worship, and with our eternal thanks. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Joshua was called by God to lead the 12 tribes of Israel after the death of Moses. Those were some pretty big shoes to fill, and the Lord chose Joshua because he was faithful.
Joshua knew that when he called on God in times of trouble, He would answer.
In one powerful example, Joshua asked God to cause the moon and the sun to stand still so that he and his army could continue fighting a difficult battle by daylight.
Joshua 10:12–13 says, “On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel: ‘O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon.’ So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the nation avenged itself on its enemies, as it is written in the Book of Jashar. The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day.”
Joshua went on to lead the fight in many other battles, eventually conquering Canaan and dividing its lands among the 12 tribes.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray continually.”
As darkness began to fall, Joshua didn’t give up the fight, and he didn’t turn inward for a solution—he turned to God!
Let’s pray.
God, you led the Israelites to victory against their enemies on behalf of your faithful servant Joshua, and you hear our prayers today. Lord, thank you for the miracles we read about in the Bible, and for those we experience in our own lives. We love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Seventy five years after he landed in France to help the Allies liberate Europe from Nazi control, Russell Pickett stood at attention as the President spoke.
A private in 1944, Pickett was now receiving the adulation of a grateful nation. He knew firsthand the reality that there is very little glory in war death. And yet here his country was honoring his service in that memorable conflict. The President even hugged him!
He stood with several of his comrades, men now in their 90s, and they shook hands with heads-of-state and the famous milled around. But a little-reported story is that many of the veterans spoke of their reliance on the Almighty. They knew their Source of victory.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
There have been many brave men and women in our nation’s history. And many of them fight today in places we’ll never know about. But we have only one General, only one true Commander-in-Chief. The Lord of History is the only One truly deserving of our adulation.
One day, when we achieve our final victory, it is Him we will see face-to-face. What glory that will be.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always on the battlefield with us—you never leave us. Your kindness to us is eternal, and glory belongs to you alone. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever been really angry at someone, and had a tough time letting it go?
Maybe a work colleague let you down, or got you in trouble with the boss. Maybe family drama is dragging you down, and there are unresolved hurt feelings. Maybe your spouse betrayed you, and you aren’t sure how to move past it.
Unforgiveness in our lives is painful, and as believers, it can affect our prayer life, and even our relationship with the Lord.
Mark 11:25 says, “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”
God’s amazing grace is one of the most beautiful aspects of Christian belief. He sent His Own Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross in exchange for our sins. We are forgiven because of the sacrifice Jesus made, and have eternity in heaven to look forward to because of that forgiveness.
The truth about unforgiveness is it does the most damage not to the party we hold a grudge against—but to ourselves. You can’t see it on the outside, but an unhealed wound on our hearts is like cancer, spreading and growing, and preventing us from experiencing joy to the full.
God wants better for us. If you are struggling to forgive someone, give it to God today, and ask Him to help you let it go.
Let’s pray.
Lord, there may be someone reading this right now that has a person or situation to forgive that is weighing heavily on their heart, and they need your help. Please give us the strength to forgive, and renew our sense of peace. God, we give you every aspect of this situation in our lives, and we love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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In thinking about different kinds of love, it’s a beautiful thing to realize that God has placed certain people in our lives for specific reasons. Friendship is one of His greatest gifts to us, of all time.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Do you have someone in your life that’s not blood-related, but it sure feels like it? In fact, beautiful friendships often feel like a closer relation, than biological family!
Notice what the writer of Proverbs tells us. A friend does two things: First, they love us no matter what, and second, God set a time for them to stick with us when we need it the very most.
Think about that! That guy you met in third grade will impact the rest of your life. The girl who brought you a coffee on your first day on a new job was meant to do that.
As we think about all this and marvel at God’s plans, don’t forget to turn it around. Think about how we can be that brother or sister to someone in your life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we thank you so much for the friends you bring to us. Help us to be worthy of that special love. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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You’ve heard that joke about family gatherings, haven’t you?
If you weren’t related to these people, you’d never see them.
What a horrible punchline, really.
1 Corinthians 13:7 says, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
God’s world has purpose in everything. Everything.
He gave you a specific family for specific reasons. It’s super easy to be nice to people we aren’t around very much. Short-term “love” is pretty common. It’s when we get in close quarters with long-term relationships that our true character really comes out.
Sure, some family members are not nice people. There are still ways to manage that, taking our cues from Scripture.
Love—especially family style—is for the long haul. That beautifully worded verse from 1 Corinthians says it all: We bear one another’s burdens, and we hope for the best. And we endure any obstacle that blocks us from truly loving the family God gifted us with. No joke.
Let’s pray.
Lord, remind us daily of the unique gift our families are for us. Help us look for ways to enhance these special communities you’ve placed us in. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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As citizens of the United States of America, our nation’s leaders have always acknowledged God, even if some of them haven’t always been model Christians. For one thing, no one can occupy the Oval Office and not lay aside some pride.
And if our nation’s spiritual health has sometimes been less-than-desired, there is a unity that we all enjoy. This community spirit has made America a very interesting experiment.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
We’re now more than 200 years into our story, and even the harshest critics would be hard-pressed to prove that God hasn’t blessed this country. Wars and economic upheavals and scandals have not phased God in His ability to keep us upright.
History tells us nations that acknowledge God enjoy blessings that others don’t. In His mercy, God has been for us—especially when it counted most.
And do you know the best part? A success story like that couldn’t have been made possible without thousands of individuals who wanted nothing more than to be in God’s will.
They make up our family, and together we look to the future. Being in God’s will for generations to come.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you hold our future in Your hands. The ancients understood that You are the Creator and the shaper of everything that is good. Help us to remember that in our time. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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You may have heard someone say before that they’ve put down deep roots. Usually, they’re not talking about gardening, but about the roots of their lives. Family. Friends. A career. A church home.
We all want to belong. We want to be planted deep in the soil of community.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
If you’re searching right now, wondering where you should be, consider this verse. In it, we find that Christ our great Savior has a deep desire to keep us growing in good soil. Spiritually, we are to put down deep roots where He has planted us.
If you find yourself far from family, either geographically or because of hurt and conflict, turn to Jesus and tell Him how you feel.
His strong hands will carry you to the place He has waiting just for you, where you will belong. And He will plant you deep.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for caring about us as individuals, and knowing exactly what we need and when. We love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Jesus, the greatest teacher who ever lived, spent a lot of time giving out wisdom in the form of stories. Once, he told His disciples a story that illustrated the importance of understanding that God never quits us, and we should not quit Him.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
That story was about a woman who didn’t give up in her pursuit of justice. Jesus then said that God hears our pleas for what we need, and He acts accordingly. He doesn’t forget, or lose interest. Ever.
Isn’t that one of the most comforting things you’ve ever heard? In all the messes of our lives, God does not give up on us, no matter where we are. He knows everything about us, and His infinite strength is far too much for evil to overcome, and His grace covers all of our brokenness.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for your willingness to stay with us in the worst of times. You are our strength, now and forever. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever been in such a dark place that you wondered if God cares about you, or if He even exists? Maybe it’s all some cosmic joke, right? We’ve all been there. Humans doubt. We doubt ourselves, we doubt product labels, we doubt our kids. We question everything.
But the worst one is trying to figure out where God is in the middle of life’s great difficulties. Sometimes the world is just flat-out mean, and it seems like it’s an entity that’s trying to break you in half.
It’s in this very moment that God’s ancient and eternal words come to us.
Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that! Jesus lives so that you will live forever. And in the interim, He will walk with you and carry you when necessary. He never fails and what’s more, His willingness to never leave us has been proven over and over again, in a billion different ways.
If you need Him right now, don’t doubt Him. Call out to Him. Your circumstances might seem impossible and impossibly unique. But don’t believe it; believe Him instead.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you promised that you would never leave us. We know that’s true, but help us with our faith in our weak moments. God, make us believe. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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At an address in Columbus Ohio in 1900, former slave Booker T. Washington kept the room spellbound. This man, who had built Tuskegee Institute to lift blacks out of economic bondage, was revered around the world.
But he said something that surprised more than a few in the audience. He said that one of his main priorities for the Institute was hiring more Bible teachers!
Washington, who had been forced to work in an evil system, once felt powerless. Yes, an American president legally freed the slaves—but Washington’s faith in Christ was the real key in lifting him up.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Are you down and out right now? Are you chained to problems too big for you to overcome? Take Paul’s letter to heart and realize that all things are possible for your future, through faith in Christ. He has perfect strength, all you’ll ever need. Tell him that today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your perfect will is more than enough to help us escape a terrible past and future. Our future is what you have told us it will be. Thank you for that blessing. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Bill was a very successful businessman for a lot of years. About 10 years ahead of retirement, he decided to entrust a lot of money to the investment wizardry of Bernie Madoff. And when Madoff’s Ponzi scheme imploded, Bill joined many others who now had to wonder where their money went. And he thought of suicide.
For fully two years, he struggled to get out of bed. He felt sapped of energy every waking moment. Then, on a park bench one afternoon, he met Mildred, who shared the Good News of Jesus with him. And Bill said later that during his walk home, he could feel blood flow back into his legs. And by the time he got home, he dusted off a Bible and began his journey to Christ. He says, “He saved me in every way. I no longer felt weak and helpless. Today, I look forward to my future.”
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” And Christ longs to give you the strength to live a full life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, our hope is in you and you alone. Thank you for loving us enough to want the very best for us. Thank you for strength for the journey. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Are you the kind of person everyone looks at and assumes you are strong and you have it all together? You too, huh? Many of us look fine on the outside, but the human condition is often much different on the inside.
Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
As believers, we can laugh in the midst of struggle because God did not make us to have a spirit of fear. He never planned for us to suffer from depression or anxiety.
Look—life happens. Sometimes…many times…we are rocked by our circumstances. But God’s Word says that we don’t stay there. We keep our eyes on Him, and He is our strength. It’s not even our job to find the strength to breathe and go about our day. It’s our reliance on God—that is our job.
The person who endures a cancer diagnosis isn’t doing it on her own. The man or woman experiencing sudden job loss doesn’t stand tall by him or herself. When Christ dwells in you, He takes the burdens and promises that in the end, we will be healed. And He will provide. That’s not a guarantee that the things of this life will all work out in a positive and favorable way, but our reliance on Christ is the answer.
If you look like a confident statue on the outside, but you’re about to lose it on the inside, take time to tell that to Jesus. Give Him your fears and doubts.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that we’re not in this alone. Your grace is sufficient for all of our needs, every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Trust issues. Lots and lots of people have trust issues. Someone has hurt you in the past. Maybe it’s been multiple times. This world can be a painful place.
But stop and think about how much your damaged trust affects your relationships now. Is there a way out of this long, dark tunnel?
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
People who hurt others tend to continue their hurtful ways. Bottom line: that person might not stop targeting you. Why not rely on Jesus to be your shield? He promises us so much more than protection in this life, though He does that, too. But in putting your trust in Him, you’ll begin to shift your thinking to the long view that Jesus will keep you safe from the effects of sin, forever.
If you find yourself in the difficult position of being a target of a bad person, tell all that to Jesus. Tell Him you need His help. He’ll provide it and soothe your stress. In Him, you will find the One person you can trust anytime, all the time. He doesn’t take days off. And He doesn’t take His eyes off you. Give Him your situation. Rest in the assurance His Word gives you, that everything will end up alright.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for never letting us down, and never letting evil overcome us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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When the last artillery rounds were heard on the Western Front and World War I ended, good men of conscience tried to create a global body that would bring lasting peace to the earth. Their hearts were in the right place. History teaches us though that real peace is elusive and rare.
John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
We see in Christ that there is no fixing the human heart without Him. He is our peace. When the kids are driving you bonkers, Jesus is your peace. If your finances have collapsed, Jesus is your peace. If you are anxious or frustrated or depressed about anything, Jesus is your peace. And because the Bible tells us that He is truth, we can rely on Jesus’ promise to give us peace. Tell Him today that you need His peace. He hasn’t left you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, life can be stressful. It’s just part of the experience. Thank you that you are literally our peace, and that we can come to you at any time, night or day. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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There are several stories in the Bible that tell us when God’s people obey Him, they are in better physical and emotional shape. Remember, Daniel and his friends refuse to eat the rich food sent by the king. After several weeks of their own diet, they emerged healthier than other young men in the Babylonian kingdom. So, too, do we learn that an attitude of forgiveness leads to peace.
In Matthew 18:21–22, we read, “‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but 77 times.’”
When Peter asked this, Jesus was thinking not only of the person who was to be forgiven, but also about the well-being of Peter. We know from scripture that the hot-tempered Peter learned to temper his temper over time.
Notice that the exchange between Peter and Jesus about forgiveness is an ongoing process. It isn’t a one-time deal. Being intentional about the art of practicing forgiveness ensures that we don’t fall back into bad habits.
A Journal of Behavioral Medicine study tells us that forgiving someone can reduce feelings of tension, anger, depression, and fatigue. This leads to much better sleep patterns. Another study provides evidence that forgiveness can lower blood pressure significantly, especially among spouses. An article in the Journal of Health Psychology provides a link between much lower stress levels and people who forgive.
God knows us in every way. He created us. In Philippians 4:7 we read, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This comes in the form of a person who is willing to make a conscious choice to forgive, and let grudges go.
The enemy of our souls wants us to hang on to bitterness. The God who created us and loves us wants to see us well, along with those who have hurt us. Healing replicates itself, and it starts with us.
Let’s pray.
Father, it’s painful to watch someone who’s locked down by unforgiveness. Help us model what it looks like to be healthy and whole when we forgive. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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Emily Dickinson, one of the greatest of American poets, attended seminary for a while, and then she went back home to Amherst. And for the rest of her life, she lived mostly in seclusion. That’s kind of weird, right? Maybe not.
You see, God made each of us with a distinct personality. Sometimes it’s actually unhealthy to try and fit a square peg into a round hole. It hurts. We get more stressed out. Emily Dickinson lived a full life. Her relationships were in correspondence, a whole lot of letters. And guess what? She wasn’t unhappy.
If your aloneness has gotten under your skin, don’t stress about it. If you’re fulfilled with limited relationships, that’s okay. Figure out what works for you. And remember, what the Bible says in Proverbs 18:24, “There is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.”
Let’s pray.
Lord, you made us to have relationships with you first. So if we’re not the outgoing type, help us rest in that. Help us enjoy the life we have and be fulfilled by having right relationship with you as our priority. Thank you for never leaving us, and for giving us the very best companionship. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Dr. James Dobson has decades of experience coaching people to overcome fear and doubt, and put their trust in Christ. He relates a fascinating experience he once had when he learned that sometimes our fear is all in our head.
It seems that he was preparing to graduate from Southern Cal with a PhD in psychology, and as he got ready at home that day, anticipating the happy drive with his family, a cold fear just came over him. He says now that he felt a growing dread, seemingly out of nowhere, that he would be killed in a car accident on the way. Honestly, this sounds crazy, and it kind of is. Even Dobson admits that. He says today that he realized this fear of death and tragedy that gripped him was obviously not from God, and the obvious source is that of our enemy. In some weird way, he can influence our thoughts.
Maybe this happens when we’re exhausted or distracted. Maybe these thoughts of failure and terror come from stress. Whatever the circumstances though, they’re evil. They have no place in our hearts and minds. James Dobson said that day, he simply got in his car and he led his family to the USC campus where he received his hard-earned degree. Afterward, they had a lovely lunch, and the day remains a great memory for the Dobson family.
Mark 5:36 says, “Jesus told him, ‘Don’t be afraid. Just believe.’”
For Dr. Dobson, this also remains a powerful lesson that oftentimes our greatest fears are not even real. They don’t even come to pass. Learn to recognize the real from the imagined.
And of course, there are times where our fears are very real. Maybe it’s a scary diagnosis from a doctor, or a wayward child just digs himself deeper holes in life. In those times, remembering the source of our fears is really important. When real dangers do crop up, literally speak to the Lord and tell Him you are giving Him this giant problem. Tell Him you can’t solve it, but you know He can.
Another thing to remember if you determine your fear is legitimate, is seek the care of a good friend. Likewise, if you see someone weighed down with fear, you be that shoulder to lean on. We can determine to help each other.
Proverbs 12:25 tells us, “An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.”
One day God will permanently remove our fears. And until then, learn to recognize the difference in real and imagined problems in your life.
Let’s pray.
Father God, your Word tells us that in this world we will have trouble. Problems will challenge us, but you have overcome the world, and that is our ultimate safety net, where evil can’t hurt us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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How many different colors can you name?
There are seven colors in the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. As it turns out, the human eye is capable of discerning color to an incredible degree. According to laboratory tests, humans are capable of detecting a total of 10 million colors. That’s a pretty big box of crayons.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
Imagine the most colorful painting or photograph you’ve seen in an art gallery, or come across in your Facebook feed. Our Creator God has every color in the universe to work with, the knowledge of a master craftsman, and the most significant artistic talent in existence. And He calls us—you and me—His masterpiece.
When you look in the mirror and wish you were taller, better looking, or somehow measured up to your ideal, remember—we are created in God’s image. When you envy someone else’s position or title at work or wish you were better at math, cooking, or public speaking, remember—we are God’s masterpiece. And He has a good plan for each of our lives.
God had 10 million colors and countless personality traits and unique skills with which to create each of us, and the palette of colors and mix of materials He used to make you, is one of a kind.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, thank you for making us who you did. We’re your children and one-of-a-kind creations. You’re so good, and we have so many things to be thankful for. Help us to use our unique skill sets and talents you’ve blessed us with, to do your work. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Identifying where our problems originate is one thing, but locating the Divine Healer is key in getting clear of obstacles in our lives.
At each mile marker in our life journeys, God is standing alongside the road, smiling at us, and holding out His strong hand to guide us. And from the indispensable wisdom of scripture to stories of human triumphs over tragedies, He is always there reminding us we’re never truly alone.
His grace and mercies begin to overshadow and overwhelm those forces that want to harm us, and it’s then that we see God for who He truly is.
1 Peter 5:10 says, “And after you’ve suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”
And that is Good News!
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s important to see who our enemy is, but it’s more important to look past that and concentrate our focus on you who brings us that peace that passes all understanding, the kind that gets down deep in us and calms us from the inside out. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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We know that a consistent heart of gratitude keeps us in harmony in our relationship with God, but in a practical sense, how do we maintain it, and how can we be intentional?
A first clue is the example of Paul. Philippians 4:12–13 says, “I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I’ve learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
Notice that the famous preacher trained his mind and heart to be always grateful. This meant a conscious, daily, hourly focus on the good things God has brought him. And sometimes we’re down to basics on this: life, food to eat, clothes to wear, shelter. That’s all many people have, and it’s easy—living in the U.S. especially, to forget that our basic needs are met. But choosing gratitude is key. The actor Will Arnett does this. He says, “I’m happy because I’m grateful, and I choose to be grateful. That gratitude allows me to be happy.”
Another way to maintain a grateful heart is being very mindful every day of what God has gifted us with. Music icon Willie Nelson understands the value of such an attitude. He says, “When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.” Take stock every day, and actually list the things you’re grateful for. Soon enough, it’ll be part of your daily routine.
A third way to maintain a grateful heart is to choose to focus on the positive. There’s enough junk in the world. What you choose to focus on will in large part define you. It’s sort of like a natural law. If you do an act of kindness for someone, or sit for 20 minutes watching a gorgeous sunset, instead of scrolling through the news on your phone, you’ll find that joy and a grateful heart become your reality. God loves you. Start your journey toward gratitude with that.
Let’s pray.
Father God, no one can stop us from thanking you for your love and grace. That’s our first step toward having a grateful heart. From breathing clean air to enjoying a holiday with family and friends. We commit ourselves to a life of gratitude. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Sudden or even long-term setbacks in our lives can disorient us, impairing our decision-making. Circumstances beyond our control leave us where we can’t focus, and we can’t see what’s behind our difficulties. It’s then that we can’t make good decisions.
If we don’t know if our problems are caused by emotional, mental, or physical challenges, we can’t see our way out of the forest. Identifying the source helps us settle into God’s perfect peace, and He’s given us the ability to make good choices when dealing with issues beyond our control.
1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability. But with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
You hear that—God will provide, and you can endure.
Let’s pray.
Lord, in our imperfect state, our bodies sometimes fail us. We don’t know if up is down or which direction to go. In those moments, bring to our minds the knowledge that we can seek your good solutions, whether it be medical, or psychological. It’s then we can find ourselves set on the right path to health and wholeness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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It’s been said that in the Fruit of the Spirit list, all of them collectively, practically define the nature of Christ. Even David the Shepherd knew his Messiah was coming. Remember what he said about following his loving God? He said, “Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life!”
We instinctively know what goodness is. It’s a kind touch, a gentle word, a gift that was unexpected.
Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
And in life, we understand the distinction between good and evil. These two—always warring with each other. The key thing to remember in this conflict is that God is good, and infinitely stronger than evil. That’s important to remember as we see injustice.
What did Micah tell us? That goodness is wrapped up in the choices we make: oppose injustice, love what is kind, and be humble. The truth is, all of us have been given so much good by our good God that it should be second nature to model that for those we meet in our journey.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for your sweet goodness. Sustain us with that goodness for the journey. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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What would you think is one of the biggest stumbling blocks for us as we try to live our lives with integrity?
How about pride?
The Bible tells us that the sin of pride can lead to a whole range of bad outcomes.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Walk humbly? Man…that can be the most difficult part of living out this verse. We have to constantly check our spirits to make sure our motives are pure, and are centered on God’s plan for us and those we encounter.
Micah is communicating to us that God actually requires certain things of us. Justice and love are critical, but staying humble is no less important. It puts legs to the journey God has mapped out for us.
Lay down your pride and see what God will do!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are at war with ourselves at times. God, our desire is to be the object of attention. Father, help us to lay this aside, and to live only for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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No one is truly alone. Some people have many relatives and friends, others, just a few. Occasionally, someone will have no real friends or family, but all of us interact with humans, and that over time has proven to be dicey.
The health of our relationships is one of the biggest factors in how we function each day. Turmoil and chaos at home or work, or both, puts us in emotional quicksand. On the other hand, healthy relationships in our lives improve our overall health and make us more productive.
In Genesis, God modeled right relationships for humans, and this model continues through the Bible right to the end in Revelation. From this, we see that our first priority in relationships is to be in fellowship with our creator. Get that one right and everything else flows. Following close behind is finding harmony in our human relationships, and getting this right is crucial to finding peace.
Ephesians 4:2–3 says, “Be completely humble and gentle. Be patient bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace.”
Most people are familiar with the well-known Bible verses that deal with relationships such as Paul’s wisdom from Ephesians. But scripture is loaded with helpful and healing relationship commands. We hesitate to call it advice because God doesn’t really give advice. He tells us what is good for us, and what may be harmful.
For example, a fairly obscure passage in Job speaks to mean in any era having healthy relationships with women. In Job 31:1, the suffering man says, “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look with lust at a young woman.” Wow, so simple—yet very important and profound.
That chapter goes on to say that God sees all that we do. He’s watching how we treat people. Job made it clear that a man can decide he is going to treat women with respect. It isn’t complicated or beyond our reach. So often, simply deciding to be a decent human being leads to waves of healing and peace of mind for everyone.
Lots of books have been written about relationships from marriage to raising children, but the best book of all has the best wisdom, and if you check that out, I think your relationships will thank you.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you’ve given us the gift of interacting with other people. Each is unique and created special. We ask that you send the Holy Spirit to guide our relationships so that they’re pleasing to you and to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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1 Peter 5:6–7 says, “Humble yourselves, then, under God’s mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.”
These two short verses tell us several things: One—if we submit to God’s power by acknowledging we can’t solve our problems, He is strong enough to intervene and bring about the outcome we really want.
Second, He does this in His own time, on His own timetable.
Third, we are to leave our problems at His feet. There is nothing wrong with getting an image in your mind where you actually do this, and then walk away—your burden lifted.
Key in getting on track is recognizing that you might have a trust problem. If you’ve been deeply hurt by, say, a family member, you might subconsciously be failing to trust God himself.
And this is the first step in getting free of fear for good.
Know that an unburdened mind is not usually gained quickly, or without what we would call maintenance. The only thing predictable about our world is that it’s unpredictable. If you think you’re going to have one great afternoon and then every day after that is carefree, you’re deluding yourself.
We’ve already established that a daily time of prayer, reading your Bible, and focusing on God’s love for you is a combination that our enemy can’t overcome. Choosing to believe God’s Word is practical, and it works. That can’t be emphasized enough!
Jesus said in John 16:33 that we will absolutely have trouble in our lives, but that He has already overcome the world. This fact will help to keep you on that straight path that will ultimately one day lead to paradise with the One that created you, sustains you, and loves you forever.
Let’s pray.
Lord, having the discipline to daily rely on you is something we often lack. When we focus and concentrate our minds and our hearts on your good gifts, fear leaves, and can be replaced with courage and peace. Thank you for providing for all of our needs, all the time. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Micah had a tough job. The prophet that lived in the time of Isaiah warned the people in the land at the time that God was not pleased with their behavior.
He was not exactly a popular guy! He told them that the rituals they performed did not bring them closer to God.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
In Micah’s time, foreign enemies did a lot of damage, but the message the prophet brought was that the Savior was coming one day. It was a message that resonates in our own day.
Tough times are not fun. Sometimes it feels like life is crushing us. But Jesus is coming! He is with you in this life and the life to come. The prophets were sure of it. And we can be, too!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your will is where we want to be. God help us stay in line with your best outcomes for us. We love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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In the last century, a 4'10" woman from England answered the call of God to become a missionary in China. Her accomplishments there, especially in saving orphaned children during war and conflict, have made her sort of a legend.
Near the end of her life, Gladys Aylward gave an interview in which she said the most amazing thing—something that could only have come from the heart of a truly humble servant:
“I wasn’t God’s first choice for what I’ve done for China. There was somebody else…I don’t know who it was—God’s first choice. It must have been a man—a wonderful man. A well-educated man. I don’t know what happened. Perhaps he died. Perhaps he wasn’t willing…and God looked down…and saw Gladys Aylward.”
Ephesians 4:1–3 says, “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
If you remember who you are in Christ, and remember that only through His strength can you accomplish anything worthy of leaving a legacy, you’ll find contentment that most only dream of.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a humble heart in everything we do. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever had the pleasure of waking up in a cozy cabin…after you’ve let the fire go out from the night before? If you don’t get out of bed and put more wood in, the squirrels or raccoons aren’t going to do it for you!
Much more serious is the tendency to get lazy about the fire inside us to share the love of Christ. After so many years of being a Christian—especially living in a free country—sharing the Gospel can be put on the back burner.
Romans 12:11–12 says, “Never let the fire in your heart go out. Keep it alive. Serve the Lord. When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful.”
Do you see what God is urging us to do in Scripture? He says to never let the fire go out! Never doesn’t mean sometimes, when we’re tired or annoyed about something. This is too important to mess up. Remember—Jesus saved you. And more than likely, through someone keeping their own inner fire going, they saw you through the eyes of compassion.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a passion for the souls of all people, at all times. And help us be ready to share Christ with them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Some of the greatest stories of believers down through time have involved those who really studied God’s Word. These people have gone before us to show us the way. From Charles Spurgeon to a missionary mother in China, daily study of the Word, and prayer, prepared them to mentor entire generations.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
We also read in Romans 10 that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. We have to do it, so that others know how. And remember, there is no substitute for spending time in God’s Word.
In order to properly train an apprentice, you need to obviously be prepared and adept. Anything less leads to weak faith, or no faith at all.
This is what the Great Commission—sharing the Gospel—has always been about. Duplicating disciples. Grounding your own faith in the Bible, and then imparting that to others. That is the essence of true iron sharpening iron.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us about your work by daily reminding us to spend time with you in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Sweat was pouring off Peter as he moved to protect Jesus. As Roman soldiers held the one who had been labeled a heretic, Peter drew a sword and cut off a soldier’s ear. And he was stunned when Jesus told him to put the sword away. You see, Jesus knew infinitely more than Peter or anyone else. He knew the end from the beginning, and He knew He had an agenda to see through to the end. Peter couldn’t see that, and impulsively He moved to change the facts on the ground.
And that’s so typical of us as humans. The authentic Christian wants to do something to fix things or change the world. The theologian, Francis Schaeffer, wrote a whole book titled, How Should We Then Live, on the role of a Christian in the modern world. And there are arguments over whether America is still a Christian nation or whether postmodernism has won the day.
But what does the Bible say about being a witness in the world?
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Notice it doesn’t say engage. We’re in fact told not to become like the world in all its anti-God stuff. Yet we also know one of the last things Jesus said to His disciples before he ascended into heaven was that we should go into all the world and make disciples. The Apostle Paul made an interesting observation in 1 Corinthians 9. He said that he was free from conformity to the world. It had nothing he coveted. But that he chose to be a servant to all, so that his example might win some to Christ.
In Hebrews 13, we’re told to practice hospitality. And this echoes many Old Testament passages, too. The idea is a believer is to be an example of what life with God looks like in hopes it will draw unbelievers. And this must be done with sincerity, though, especially in our jaded modern culture. First Corinthians 10 tells us, whatever we do, do it for the glory of God alone.
To sum up, the Bible tells us to absolutely live in this world and be appealing to people. But to do all this while holding onto our convictions. Balancing being a gospel witness, while also being seen as personable is the approach for our modern world.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you’ve given us direction for all that we do. Help us to continually have a burden for the lost and to always remember we’re to be salt and light for a hurting world. It’s in Jesus’ name we pray, amen.
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It was once said that the sun never set on the British Empire. The island nation had expanded its reach around the world for hundreds of years, and the Union Jack flew over many countries. But as happens with earthly kingdoms, the sun did set. Today, the British are back to being basically just that island nation.
The Bible talks about a kingdom that will have no end. What do we mean when we talk about that Kingdom? The Kingdom of God. The concept is found in the New Testament and refers to the entrance of God into the world again, through His Son, Jesus. They will be fully established at the end of history when God reconciles all things to Himself, and opens a glorious eternity for believers. Christians are invited to participate in making sure the Kingdom of God is heavily populated. We do this not in our own strength, but through the power of the Holy Spirit.
For 300 years, the Roman Empire tried to kill Christianity, but by the end of the first century, there were 500,000 Christians throughout the empire. By the Middle Ages, with all its terrors and plagues and wars, the Kingdom of God had increased to 50 million. And today, even in oppressed areas like China, Christianity is experiencing explosive growth. Worldwide there are 2.2 billion Christians.
When times are tough, people turn to the living God. And as we’ve discussed, God invites us to participate in building His kingdom. We have daily opportunities to talk freely about what Jesus Christ has done for us.
Talk about a purpose-driven life—making your life count for something eternal. Share the Good News so much that when eternity comes, you’ll have no regrets.
Revelation 21:23 says, “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it. For the glory of God gives it light and the Lamb is its lamp,” and that is a kingdom that will never sit in twilight.
Let’s pray.
Father, you are always adding to your kingdom, drawing people to you. Thank you that we can participate with you by sharing our faith in all the diversity of our days. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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A trait most of us share is a tendency to do things our own way, and possibly ignore helpful suggestions that might enhance our efforts. In business, it’s easy to see how this could waste time and produce counterproductive results. In other areas of life, the impact of going our own way has much bigger implications.
As people of faith, we believe nothing is more important than sharing the gospel. Too many times though, we obsess over the process and perfecting the marketing. Yet two New Testament stories give us the perfect blueprint for effectively sharing our faith.
In the first from the Gospel of Luke, Jesus tells a group of fishermen to head out to deep water and lower their nets. They did exactly as He said, even though the night before they had caught nothing. Peter did as he was told, and when they brought up the nets, the hall was so great the nets began to break.
In the second fishing miracle from the book of John, Jesus appeared to the disciples after His resurrection. The situation was similar to the first: a previous night of fishing yielded not much. Calling to them from the shore, Jesus told them very specifically to lower their nets over the right side of the boat, and they would catch some fish. And once again, the nets began to break.
Have you noticed the common denominator when it comes to sharing the gospel? This is what Jesus meant, of course, by telling them that He would make them fishers of men. Fishing was something these men understood very, very well. It is when we are obedient to the Lord that good things happen, and obedience is key.
We don’t have to be able to speak like Billy Graham. Most of us don’t have some amazing, unusual gift of talent, but we can have an obedient spirit, and a willing heart. It is then we lose our fear of engaging others. We no longer focus on having a little memorized pitch ready. We just believe God.
It also becomes obvious that after we obey the call to share the gospel, we’re not responsible for the rest of a person’s life. To put it a way a fisherman could relate to: we catch ’em, God cleans ’em. Just be willing. Be available. If you do that, results could be identical to those Galilean fishermen 2000 years ago. God will use the obedient person to do great things. Let’s pray.
Lord, our efforts for you sometimes fall short. There could be many reasons, but where the problem lies with us, help us to have hearts open to your direction. It’s in you that we find the desires of our hearts. We pray that we are obedient to your calling to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with anyone we encounter. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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The Apostle Paul wrote that believers are in a spiritual battle all the time against forces that are wickedly strong. He also maintains that we have the power of God with us in these battles, and this New Testament promise is an echo from the days of Joshua, the fearless Israelite commander in ages past. This mindset is a model for all of us.
Dick Winters was a 27-year-old first lieutenant when he jumped into Normandy, France in 1944 with other paratroopers during the invasion of Europe. Once the allies began moving inland, Winters’ unit was given the objective of taking a key French town from the Germans.
As Winters and his men approached, machine gunfire pinned them down along a road leading into the town; they had nowhere to go. All of a sudden, Winters stood straight up and began shouting orders at his men. Stunned at first, they looked up and decided that if he could do it—so could they.
The entire force leaped to their feet and charged the German position. That was the last day Nazi forces controlled the current in France. The next day, Winters was awarded the Distinguished Service cross.
This is precisely how we can overcome great odds, great challenges. When circumstances threatened to overwhelm us, we can fight back with confidence in Christ. He’s the one leading us along dangerous roads.
Psalm 27:3 offers encouragement for life’s battles, “Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.”
When the army of God is with you who can stand against you.
Let’s pray.
Father, only you can lead us in the battles of life. You are all we need. We believe that no enemy can stand against you and your army. Your strength holds us up above the danger and sets us on safe ground. Thank you, Lord, for your eternal faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever been in such a dark place that you wondered if God cares about you, or if He even exists? Maybe it’s all some cosmic joke, right?
We’ve all been there. Humans doubt. We doubt ourselves, we doubt product labels, we doubt our kids. We question everything.
But the worst one is trying to figure out where God is in the middle of life’s great difficulties. Sometimes the world is just flat-out mean, and it seems like it’s an entity that’s trying to break you in half.
And that‘s the very moment God’s ancient and eternal words come to us.
Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that! Jesus lives so that you will live forever. And in the interim, He will walk with you and carry you when necessary. He never fails and what’s more, His willingness to never leave us has been proven over and over again, in a billion different ways.
If you need Him right now, don’t doubt Him. Call out to Him. Your circumstances might seem impossible and impossibly unique. Don’t believe it. Believe Him instead.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you promised that you would never leave us. We know that’s true, but help us with our faith in our weak moments. God, make us believe. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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When Hurricane Katrina destroyed the church and home where E.J. Scott had pastored for 20 years, he and his wife found themselves living a bit like refugees in Dallas, Texas.
After years of being strong for his flock, Pastor Scott needed something to strengthen his own faith. He was devastated.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
When we walk with God through a storm, we are told to hold onto Him with everything we have. In this way, we are exercising our faith. We’re putting our trust in Him, because honestly, no one else can help us.
Pastor Scott says today that he learned to focus on how God would raise him up, rather than the terrible circumstances he was in. His faith was strengthened, and hope sustained him.
We all need to exercise our faith, so that we can stand in times of crisis. God is our refuge from the storms.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you stand for us in times of trouble. While the enemy wants us to focus on terror, your Word teaches us to focus on your provision. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be one of the original settlers in America? As a person leaving the safety of England to come to the New World and start over?
Those people came here for religious freedom and risked it all. And when they landed in New England, they literally put down roots as they built and planted the beginnings of an amazing experiment that is still ongoing.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
Our ancestors were definitely strengthened in their faith as they faced challenges and danger. But the payoff was worth it.
Maybe you’re going through something similar. You’ve moved to a new place. New job. New social circle. You want to find a church! Just tell Jesus you need help with all these things, and He’ll be right by your side.
Let’s pray.
Lord, forever you have walked with us, and forever you will keep us close, making us strong in the faith. God thank you for your faithfulness to your mission. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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In all the world, there are almost countless ways people try to find God. Some are drawn to the mystical, while others chase after the practical.
Does it work?
God knew we would all look to fill the void in our spirits—the one put there when man first sinned. He also already knew what our escape route would be, the path back to Him.
Romans 10:9–10 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”
The so-called “Roman Road” is in reality a face-to-face with the Living God. Jesus Christ Himself is our aim, and our benefactor. He loved us so much that He offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin. It’s very simple. God accepted the sacrifice and raised His precious Son from the dead. And now it is there, waiting for us to accept that great and priceless gift.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we complicate things sometimes, but your salvation is a simple choice, and it is free. Blessed be your name forever and forever! In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Beryl Markham could have given up on her aviation dreams after crash-landing in Nova Scotia. But she didn’t.
Instead, this determined woman became the first person to fly from England to North America. She later said that in order to move forward, we can’t stay in the past. In fact, she said, “Leave it the fastest way you can!”
This pioneer knew that staying stuck was not inevitable—that we must choose to keep our eyes on what it is we are yet to accomplish in life.
Ephesians 4:31–32 says, “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
Maybe you’re letting some past hurts keep you from your destiny. Don’t waste another moment! Your future is waiting on you to turn your eyes to it, and stop staring at a past failure.
Leave those past hurts as fast as you can!
Let’s pray.
Father God, we are grateful that you make a way for us to forge ahead and not be limited by the things of the past. Walk with us, always, Father, and bless our efforts. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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There’s a wonderful scene in the classic film to kill a Mockingbird, when the attorney Atticus Finch is confronted by the father of a girl who has accused a black man of rape. The father, enraged, walks up to Finch—played perfectly by Gregory Peck. He spits in Finch’s face as the attorney’s children watch.
You can see the anger in Finch’s face, but he slowly and calmly maintains his composure. He simply walks past the man, who now looks pretty small in everyone’s eyes.
God has given us the power over difficult people. It’s called not letting them set the rules.
1 Peter 3:9 says, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing because to this you were called, so that you may inherit a blessing.”
Not always easy, definitely, but we’re capable of it. Remember that.
This life is very much about winning and losing. Determine that a difficult person in your life is not going to win by controlling you and getting under your skin. In wrestling terms, don’t let that person pin you.
Is that obnoxious person in your life really all that obnoxious, or are you a grouch, letting yourself get caught in what is really only a difference in personalities? Go home from work one evening and think about that. Make your mind up to start out the next day by being nice to that person. You’ll be surprised how that can change the equation. And that’s what Colossians 4:6 is talking about when it says, “Let your speech be always with grace seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man.”
Or maybe you’re a man frustrated with the relationship between your wife and your mother. This is always a potentially difficult situation. Maybe you think your wife should be more adaptable, but have you forgotten what God told the man in Genesis 2:24? It says, “This is why a man leaves his father and mother, and is united to his wife. And they become one flesh.” Your responsibility in that situation is to your wife, not to making sure your parents’ feelings come first in all situations.
So you see, often that difficult person you’re dealing with is you, or at the very least a different perspective will help you see where the fault really lies.
Finally, in First Corinthians 5, we read that Paul advises for really difficult people, a cooling off period is legitimate. For example, the person who is causing real strife in a church should not be allowed to go on like that indefinitely; bad behavior sometimes must be confronted for the good of the community. And even for the good of the offended person, this is sound advice.
So if we stick to what the Lord has already told us, and our tried and true methods for dealing with difficult people, we can get to a better place.
Let’s pray.
Father God, a person who is angry or a troublemaker creates chaos for everyone. Help us analyze each of these situations as unique so that we know how to handle them from Your Word. And most especially, help us make it a habit to pray for those who are difficult, so that we might see their lives changed, and brought into harmony and unity. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Paul was a stubborn man. He was completely committed to his job. The very definition of a zealot. More than anything, he hated religious people. In fact, he worked every day to make their lives miserable.
You’re probably aware of who we’re talking about. Yes, this is the famous Apostle Paul, whose pen dominates much of the New Testament. Paul, or Saul as he was known when he was persecuting Christians, didn’t need anyone. He didn’t have friends.
On his way out of town, Paul was knocked off his horse by a blinding flash of light. A commanding voice spoke to him.
It was the voice of Jesus.
Jesus, in an instant, gave Paul a new mission in life, as He revealed Himself to the angry young man.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
Jesus showed Paul a better way. No more would he terrorize people. For the rest of his life, this new man in the spirit redirected his zeal to bring people into God’s Kingdom.
Do you need to work on your attitude and just let Jesus show you a better way?
Let’s pray.
Lord, only you can change hearts. And we all need that at some time. Thank you for being a merciful friend to us! In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever been hurt in a relationship? If you’ve been alive very long at all, the answer is probably, “Yes!” Reality has shown us that love can be the most wonderful feeling ever…or it can be ugly and brutal. It can feel like your heart has been run over by a truck.
We’re talking about loving like Jesus, and as usual, His Word unlocks the secrets of our hearts, and it shows us the way to healing.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Frankly, each of us is supposed to love like this. But just briefly, let’s focus on you. Because it’s okay to do that if you understand that Jesus loves you, and wants the best for you.
Has someone hurt you in a relationship? Has romance been a challenging topic for you? Then please, meditate on Scripture and realize that Jesus wants a partner for you who is patient, kind, honors you, and doesn’t take out their frustrations on you.
Use our verse from First Corinthians to not only guide how you operate in a relationship, but as you search for a partner—the qualities they should exhibit as well.
Let’s pray.
Father God, help us to be mindful of your desires for us in the area of relationships. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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I’m not sure where you’re at today. You might be angry at God. Something happened, maybe, in your life—that has damaged your faith. If we live in the world long enough, it can happen to any of us.
How you respond is really important. If you’ve listened previously, you know that this week we are talking about how to live by faith.
Having perseverance when we’re miserable is really, really hard. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you’re alone.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, and not by sight.”
Again—really listen to the words: “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
That’s how we’re supposed to live. Not for a few hours or a day or even a season. For life. It’s how we’re supposed to live. And we don’t always cling to what we can see in the short term.
Strong faith is built over time. Think back over your life to those times when God met your needs. Big needs! Those were the moments He gave you to prove that His strength is not limited.
That’s how we walk by faith!
Let’s pray.
Lord, life is a marathon, it’s not a quick sprint. God help us to walk by faith, from beginning to end. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Standing in the door of the plane, with a fierce wind whipping his whole body, Curtis wondered why he’d volunteered for the paratroopers.
It was glamorous, they said.
It’ll make a man out of you, they said.
Shutting his eyes, Curtis prayed the most honest prayer of his life. He stretched out his hands and took a step...
Lamentations 3:25–26 says, “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.”
Rolling on the ground wrapped in silk, Curtis realized he had followed his instructions to the letter. With his landing, he graded out the highest of anyone in his company.
That story is exactly how we are to interact with our Savior. When we let go, confident that Jesus has us, we have no more pressure on us. He is carrying us to safety.
And we land in the right place every time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have so much gratitude for the countless ways you lead us through life. We love you. Thank you for every safe landing, and for holding us safe in the palm of your hand. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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When you’re having a bad day, a run-in with an immensely cheerful person doesn’t always turn that frown upside down. Does it? Commiserating with someone else though—a word literally defined by two or more people wallowing in misery together—that can be a balm to an anxious and worried mind. Sometimes. The relief though, is temporary.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
The apostle Paul was talking about more than mere cheerfulness in his letter to the Christian believers of Rome. Nowhere in the Bible does the Lord command us, ‘Thou shalt always be chipper,’ but these wise words from Paul remind us to think—before we sink. No matter what hardships we face, our hope is found in Jesus Christ and this hope is an infinite well of joy we can turn to in times of trouble.
Paul also reminds believers to be patient no matter what befalls us. Paul was a respected missionary, even honored and admired by powerful officials of his day who didn’t share his Christian beliefs. Despite his good standing, for a period of two years he was in prison—literally chained and under constant guard. And from this depth of experience, he’s able to tell others to be patient in affliction. Whether our chains are literal or figurative in nature, the trials we face can mold our character and build our patience if we choose to let them.
The most important part of Paul’s message in this verse is the reminder to be faithful in prayer. God is worthy of all honor and praise, but He also knows us, understands our weaknesses, and loves us anyway. On the days life feels too difficult to approach the Lord with a smile on our faces and joy in our hearts, He still wants to hear from us. Prayer is not a sometimes thing; it’s an all the time practice that grows our faith, strengthens our relationship with God, and changes our lives.
So, be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the source of all our hope, the teacher of patience, and the one who listens to every prayer. Help us to choose joy over despair, patience over exasperation, and to pray faithfully. Sometimes fear and frustration threaten to overwhelm us, but you are near, and we pray you will turn our hearts to you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Since prayer is, by nature, personal, we often want to know how things are going to turn out, even before we start praying. We wonder if God will actually answer our prayer. Maybe not as dramatic as some stories, but still if we’re honest, we would like an answer to our prayer. Why else ask?
Luke 18:1 says, “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”
The fact is, of the 650 prayers in the Bible, 450 of them were answered, at least as the accounts were recorded. Others might have been answered later, but there are indications that—no—God does not always answer a prayer. And this is where our human perspectives can hamper our ability to see the full picture.
Isaiah 55:8 says, “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts. Neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord.”
From our limited perspective at this moment in time, we might not understand how or if God is answering our prayers. Remember Job and his friends prayed and tried to figure out for some time just what God was up to in this suffering man’s life. The most interesting takeaway from the Book of Job is that, in the end, when God addresses Job, he never once tells him why he suffered.
He basically puts Job in his place by saying that He, God, knows and understands everything, and we obviously do not. It’s worth noting that in Job’s case, God restored everything to him and more. As we read in Luke 18:1, part of our responsibility in praying is perseverance. We’re not supposed to act like children and throw a fit if we don’t get our way.
In those times when we think God is slow in answering us, it’s necessary for us to have some patience. Nowhere are we promised a quick answer or even an answer at all. Sometimes we just have to have faith that God will work everything out for us.
Let’s pray.
Father God, like Job, we want to trust you no matter what. Even if an answer to our prayer is slow, we love you anyway and we thank you that you love us for eternity. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Most people at one time or another wonder who they should address when starting a prayer. The Christian concept of the Trinity has caused people to hesitate to pray. It’s like, “Who do I pray to?”
Luke 6:12 says, “One of those days, Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.”
Interestingly, when Jesus prayed, as recorded in the Bible, He prayed to His Father. This is a difficult concept for many to embrace. How can someone be God but pray to Himself? In some sense, this is a matter of faith. We can’t know and understand everything about the mysteries of God. But we can accept by faith that God the Father was manifest in earthly ministry as Jesus. So He models for us how to pray to the one true God.
In Matthew 6:9–13, we read, “Pray like this, Our Father in Heaven, Your name is holy. May Your holy nation come. What You want done, may it be done on Earth as it is in Heaven. Give us the bread we need today. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.”
That’s from the New Life version, Matthew 6:9–13. And this is the famous Lord’s Prayer. It's when Jesus tells His disciples how to communicate with God. Immediately before the prayer itself He tells them to go find a quiet place and God will see the sincerity of the heart offering a prayer.
He also says something else amazing. God knows what we need even before we ask Him. Confusion over who we are praying to is one of the most commonly asked questions, yet God is not waiting to turn away or shut the door on us if we fail to use some formal greeting. There are plenty of examples in scripture of prayers to God the Father, of course. God exists as God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. And the point is, this is not a trick that is set up so that you can fail. The triune God wants to hear from us, and a sincere heart wishing to talk to God will get through just fine.
Let’s pray.
Father God, there are some things that are hard for us to process. We can have assurance that talking with You anytime is available to us and we don't have to be perfect. Thank you for that Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever felt without hope? It’s a pretty desperate place to be. It’s been said that hope is the one thing a human being can’t be without.
Beth was once accused of some pretty terrible things. She wasn’t guilty of any of them, but it took two years and serious legal hurdles to clear her name. Her future was uncertain.
In the end, she told reporters that her best ally was the Lord. Her story was itself a great witness.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Truthfully, God isn’t obligated to do anything for us. He does it because He loves us. That’s it. But within each difficult night and day, it is important that we take the scripture to heart. Keep your joy, be patient, and pray.
If you’re in a dark place, pray to the Lord for help. Even if you’re emotionally exhausted, take the time to simply talk to Him.
He’s promised that He’ll be listening.
Let’s pray.
Oh Lord, may we never be hopeless! May we never be without your love. Remind us daily that You will never leave us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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In the dark days of mid-20th century Europe, a lone German decided to make political waves. His choices put his own life in grave danger.
Oskar Schindler was a businessman with factories in countries occupied by the Nazis. Jews everywhere were being shipped like cattle to extermination camps. Some of Schindler’s employees were in danger.
What did he do? He saved over a thousand of them by keeping their names on a list of employees necessary to conduct business. By war’s end, he had spent his entire fortune bribing officials to look the other way while his workers remained in their jobs.
Oskar Schindler took that road less traveled that we’ve heard about.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”
In another life-and-death matter, for much higher stakes, Jesus has called us who love Him to share the Good News of His sacrifice with others. Sometimes this will place us in danger. Sometimes we will lose friends and alienate family.
None of that matters. All that matters is that lost people who have no other hope for escape will rely on what we tell them about our King.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross has given us eternal life. Please keep giving us opportunities to reach others with this Good News. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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As a believer, have you noticed that it’s often easier to stay in God’s will when you’re at home? At work, it can get a little dicey. It’s at work that people see us, and our decisions can have such impact. Not being in God’s will in that setting can be catastrophic.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Terry Looper is the CEO of a multi-billion-dollar company. Once, he was negotiating a sale and was at the finish line when he realized he hadn’t sought God’s will in the matter. He stopped, prayed, and read the Word for discernment. And He was shocked to find that he wasn’t supposed to sell at all!
Looper learned his lesson. Being in God’s will in every area of our lives is the key. It’s great to be godly and led by the Spirit sitting in your den with a Bible open. But it’s not less important to be led by the Spirit in the boardroom, or on the floor of the plant where you work.
People see you. They see what we do. If we want to be sure success finds us, we’d better make sure we’re looking in the right place.
There are no shortcuts to fully being in God’s will.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you bless us in every area of our lives. Thank you for being on our side, all the time. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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It’s no accident that Jesus chose as some of His apostles a group of fishermen from Galilee. These were men who could understand Him when Jesus told them He would make them “fishers of men.” He meant, of course, that they would share the Good News about Him with everyone they came in contact with.
And that’s exactly what each of them did, for the rest of their lives!
John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
Fishing requires patience, and a feel for your surroundings. The men Jesus picked were steady, and used to adapting to shifting opportunities. They were perfect for the work He gave them to do.
Just as Jesus knew what His disciples were suited for in order to build His Kingdom, He also knows exactly the purpose He has for you. You are invited to flow into the River of Life He has created, in order to see the Kingdom grow.
Others will see the life flowing from within you, if you’re willing to follow God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you invite us to participate in the beautiful future you’ve planned for people everywhere. Help us be willing to look for those fishing opportunities. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever visited a construction site, or maybe lived near one?
A construction site is a unique kind of mess. Dirt and mud mingle with piles of wood, shingles, and other building materials. Utility flags poke up from the ground like man-made weeds. Trampled grass and dirty sidewalks give further evidence of the work at hand.
Eventually, what began as an empty field will grow into something more: a business, a medical facility, or a home.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Sometimes, in the midst of building our lives, we look around and see only chaos: Our relationships aren’t as blissful as we hoped. Our career isn’t following the upward path we planned. Our health or finances or life circumstances are a mess, and we wonder why our best-laid plans didn’t result in the stable, structured life we wanted.
God does some of his very best work in the midst of our biggest messes, if we invite him in, and step back to let him work in our lives.
Let’s pray.
Lord, what we see as unworthy, undesirable, and impossible—you see as beautiful, lovable, and filled with potential. We invite you to be the master architect for our lives, and to bring a sense of order to our days, and our circumstances. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Scores of people today, even in many of our churches, walk around aimless. They work their jobs and take care of their families, but they struggle to understand what it is that God wants them to do.
He’s told us! As with every other situation, His Word speaks directly to our circumstances.
Micah 6:8 says, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
The Lord requires of us that we have the mind of Christ. That we aim for showing justice and mercy to those we encounter. And notice: we are to love doing these things, not just go through the motions.
And finally, we are to remember to be humble. There’s only One Who is perfect and that is the Father. In our present state, we are to emulate the qualities that caused His Son Jesus to turn the world upside down for good.
If you ever wonder what your purpose is, start with these awesome words from the prophet Micah.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to keep in front of us at all times the simplicity that is in Christ. He shows us the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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The story of the Prodigal Son is one we can all relate to. The Bible tells the story of a brash young man who leaves his home after asking for his inheritance. His loving father complies, and let’s just say the son learns some valuable lessons on his travels.
Eventually, he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family. It’s really a story of Jesus and us.
Matthew 7:7 says, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
We screw up sometimes. And maybe it’s so bad that we can’t possibly see a way back.
That’s when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn’t as concerned with where we’ve been as He is where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real healing for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you’ve screwed up too much, or fallen too far—put that out of your mind, and simply tell Jesus you need Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your willingness to welcome us back is something to behold. We are so grateful for your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Who likes to wait for what we need or want? Basically, nobody.
Of those nine elements that make up the Fruit of the Spirit, patience may be the hardest.
Romans 8:25 says, “But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.”
And patience is learned, which makes it one of the sweetest fruits the Spirit gives us. Waiting for a “payoff” of some kind makes the end result that much more rewarding. Life teaches us that.
A childless Hannah endured mocking and ridicule, but the Bible tells us in First Samuel that she prayed, and she waited. Imagine how she felt when the date of her delivery drew near! She eventually had several children, but it was her patience in waiting on Samuel that made all the difference.
If you’re waiting for something very important, read and meditate on the Fruits of the Spirit, especially patience.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us the patience of Hannah when we’re frustrated by waiting. Teach us humility in the process. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Usually, when we’re looking for some kind of emotional lifeline to get us through the day, we only want to know what God can do for us.
How do we get that peace of mind we desperately need?
One component is obedience. At first, this sounds like a test that’s too hard. We need relief right now!
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Wow, that sounds like real peace of mind. It requires that we concentrate on ejecting all the junk in our heads and replacing it with God’s Word. Learning obedience is key, because it reveals the Father’s perfect will for our lives.
In this way, we almost back-into the peace we were already looking for. This brings us into harmony with our Creator.
A renewed, fresh, and clean mind is also a mind that is at rest.
Let’s pray.
Lord, teach us your ways. Help us uncover the peace of mind that those without God don’t have. Then help us show them the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever been downright stuck in a difficult situation? Maybe you’ve held a job with a colleague or supervisor you didn’t see eye to eye with, and other career opportunities were scarce. Maybe you’ve been halfway through the semester and realized you’re headed for a poor grade, but it’s too late to drop the class. Maybe you’ve struggled in a relationship with a spouse or close family member, and you are wading through heartbreak with every interaction.
When the Apostle Paul wrote to the people at Philippi, he was in a tough spot. He wrote this letter from prison in Rome—an uncomfortable place to be sure. He was in prison not for what we would consider a crime, but for his faith in Jesus Christ. But Paul had a secret.
Philippians 4:11 says, “I have learned, in whatever circumstances I am, to be content.”
From the moment Paul received the Lord as his Savior, he began to love and experience Christ in a meaningful way. Chapter after chapter, the book of Philippians reveals that experiencing Christ was Paul’s secret to contentment.
Paul preached contentment through faith in Jesus from behind bars and reached out to his brothers and sisters in Christ to encourage them to choose contentment in the Lord. Paul’s example inspired his friends at Philippi, and continues to inspire believers today.
Let’s pray.
Lord Jesus, we won’t achieve perfection this side of heaven, but we know your plan for us is for peace in our hearts, and contentment in our lives. Let us live by the Apostle Paul’s example, choosing contentment in all circumstances in your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Carissa was having one of those days. Instead of hitting the snooze button on her alarm clock, she had turned it off. Now the kids were late for school, she was late for work, and the tone for the day was one mad rush—emphasis on the mad.
As the day wore on, she thought about her impatience and frustration with her children as everyone got dressed and grabbed a granola bar on the way out the door. It wasn’t their fault the family was running behind, and she regretted sending them to school with tension, instead of hugs and kisses.
Ephesians 4:2 says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
Of all the lessons we teach our children, kindness stands out. We have an opportunity to show patience, humility, and God’s love to colleagues, classmates, neighbors, and friends—and the people in our lives learn more from watching how we behave, than they do from just being told what to do.
We have a choice in how we treat others, and God asks us to approach the people around us with love. When Carissa arrived home from work, the first thing she did was apologize to the kids for the cranky way their day began, and let them know kindness matters morning, noon, and night—even when we’re running late.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the wisdom the Bible teaches us about kindness. Help us to be patient when we’re short on time, and to be an example of your love in every situation—even when circumstances fall short of perfect. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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We all screw up. We all fail in some way. We fall short of goals, or get embarrassed in some kind of career implosion or other event. It’s easy then to feel like we’ll never win again. And that is not how God sees you.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Hope and a future. That’s what’s ahead, not depression and failure.
The Bible is full of stories of people God would not allow to slip away. Peter denied Christ, and the Savior forgave him! Sarah mocked the idea that she would ever have a child, but God let her be a mother late in life!
This is the world God created. Not one of misery and losing. Does it make sense that He would create you in very specific ways, uniquely gifted as you are, and then just give up on you?
Don’t let that be your story. Your part in it is refusing to believe the enemy when you hear that voice that tells you it’s all over. God knows the plans He has for you! Remember that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you don’t let us sink out of sight. Thank you for setting us on our feet, and helping us move forward. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Picture what it would look like to lose everything in one fell swoop. Your house burns to the ground. The stock market plummets and all your money is gone. Worst of all, your children fall ill and die. Suddenly, you’ve lost not only your material possessions, but your family, too.
When people refer to someone as having “the patience of Job,” they say that for a reason.
Job was a man of immense wealth, the richest man in the region, and was the father of 7 sons and 3 daughters he loved dearly. He was also a faithful servant of the Lord, and grateful for every blessing.
In a terrible turn of events, Job lost his fortune in a single day. His crops, property, livestock, and servants…gone. Most devastating of all, Job lost his children. But Job didn’t blame God. He accepted that God had a plan for him, and was patient as he waited for the Lord to reveal that plan. He knew that sometimes bad things happen, and he continued to praise the Lord in the midst of trial.
Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
Job lost everything, but he didn’t take matters into his own hands to seek justice for what he had lost. He fell to his knees and worshiped the Lord, and then he was still. In the quiet of his soul, Job knew God had a plan, and in the end, God restored to Job twice as much as he had in the beginning.
A godly man is patient.
Let’s pray.
Lord, waiting is hard to do. Waiting for an answer. Waiting for resolution. Waiting for things to get better. Restore peace and patience as we grow in faith and learn to wait on you. We trust you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever thought much about grace? We hear the word, but the concept itself might be a little elusive. That might be because it’s hard for humans to understand and embrace.
Grace means simply that someone gives you something with no strings attached. Just for your good.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
The Bible tells a simple story, really. Mankind sinned and brought evil into the world. God made everything, so He has the right to set the rules. And in His system, sin cannot be tolerated. He made a way for us to be reconciled to Him, through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Often, we try to do things to help life along. We plan, plot, and come up with programs and agendas... Our own ideas seem like the right thing to do.
But God’s way is always the right thing to do.
Setting aside our own ego is key to finding peace in Christ. We literally don’t have to do anything for it. We accept it in faith. That’s the gift of God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, in your love for us, you make our path simple. Not always easy, but simple. We thank you for the gift of eternal life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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As humans, we tend to have a problem asking for help. We can probably chalk that up to our proud hearts. Often, when we’re really up against it, that’s when we resist seeking help.
The God of the universe does away with all of that.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Ask yourself: is my pride keeping me from asking for help? If so, mull that over. And then, take a step toward the Lord and ask for what you need.
God opens doors when we ask Him to. Sometimes what we find on the other side isn’t what we expected. And when that happens, we choose patience, and we remain open to His good plans for us.
When you’ve asked God to help and your prayers are answered, share the Good News with the people you meet. Tell anyone who will listen that the Lord of the Universe cared about you, and delivered you from a problem no one else could solve.
And if the answer He gave was totally unexpected and sent you in a different direction—share that, too! Accepting God’s plan when it doesn’t match up with our own best-laid plans is what faith is all about.
Let’s pray.
Lord, please give us a heart that seeks you. God, we want to be obedient. And we know that your blessings, whatever they look like, will follow. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Would it surprise you to know that God has always been interested in you? Did you know He knew you before you were born? He has a vested interest in how your life turns out.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
He isn’t some remote deity. God doesn’t pay attention only most of the time. He doesn’t form His plans here and there. He is there for us all the time.
The question is, where are we?
Before you were born, it was God’s will that you would have a relationship with Him. He has always wanted your life to be successful. He wanted you to have joy hundreds of years before your parents were even born!
So God’s will for your life isn’t confined to now, or even now, and going forward. He has always been with you, guiding you through your life. As you look back now, you can see that this is true.
Being in God’s will is all-encompassing. It is the beginning, middle, and end of our stories.
If you weren’t exactly in God’s will in the past, you can learn from that, and move forward with Him all the time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you hold us in your protection for the entirety of our lives. We thank you that you never get tired of that. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Part of the joy of being a believer is that we can share the Good News with literally anyone and everyone. And how we share that faith is often critical for the other person’s future.
Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
As we share this week about holding fast to faith, it should be obvious that we are greatly blessed to be able to show others the way. And in that, we can be an example that just because things don’t always go our way, Jesus is better than anything.
On a difficult day, or in the midst of life’s challenges, we can let doubt fester and complain to those around us…or we can turn to Jesus, and point to Him no matter our circumstances.
People are watching. Don’t doubt that. If you put yourself out there as a Christian, others will look to see how you handle yourself when the going gets tough. Some look for you to mess up, but many more genuinely are curious about what you have.
Show them that your faith isn’t dependent on every day being smooth. Your task is to walk in faith—up and down the hills. No Grit, No Glory!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us the gift of sharing the Good News! In Jesus' name, amen.
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Have you ever gotten tired of treading water?
Martha is a 20-something-old lifeguard in Los Angeles. Besides dealing with deck chairs purposely thrown into the water and parents asking her to babysit poolside, she’s noticed another aspect of the job that really tugs at your heart. “Kids pretend to drown in the pool so that I will pay attention to them.”
Wow. Think about that.
At a young age, humans need to be nurtured and cared for. They want to be loved. So a young lifeguard becomes their emotional lifeline. These kids were actually pretending to nearly die so that someone would pay attention. It’s pretty sad—but not that different from the rest of us. Everyone wants to belong, and sometimes life is like a raging storm, and problems can flood the soul.
In Matthew 14, we read the story of Jesus providing comfort to His disciples in a difficult situation. He had gone to pray on a mountain while they stayed behind in a boat on the Sea of Galilee. Normally, this is a very picturesque, calm lake, but this night, a storm came up. As the waves were about to capsize the boat, the men looked and saw a figure walking on the water. Peter cried out, and Jesus told him to get out of the boat and walk toward Him. Peter, known for his passionate faith, got out. But as he took his eyes off Jesus and began looking at the storm around him, he sank. Jesus, though, grabbed his arm and pulled him up. “Why did you doubt,” He asked Peter.
It’s a valid question—for anyone.
Jesus has proven Himself to us many times over. When you feel overwhelmed, remember to call out to Him, and He will lift your burden.
Let’s pray.
Father God, sometimes it feels like life is just pulling us under. We thank you so much that we have examples from scripture where you rescued drowning people. You’re indeed our lifeguard. Help us keep this in our hearts and our minds daily so that we can be reminded of your blessed assurance and to call out your name, the one who provides for all of our needs. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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The prophet Isaiah lived during a difficult period for the ancient Israelites. Turning away from faith in God and under the control of corrupt kings, the nation entered a period of darkness. They needed hope more than anything.
In our discussion this week, we’re talking about this human condition. Today, we are really no different from people in ancient times: We all need a relationship with our Creator.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Don’t those words give a feeling of peace and calm? You can say them to yourself, with no one around, and begin to feel God’s strong arms wrapping you in love. He wants you to be free from all the strongholds that keep you from your destiny.
Wouldn’t you like to spend the rest of this week at rest emotionally and mentally? You can. This is the Lord’s will for you, as we heard in this famous passage from the book of Isaiah.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for your Word. God, thank you that your perfect love always comes through for us. Just as you didn’t abandon your people long ago, we know you will remember us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever been in such a dark place that you wondered if God cares about you, or if He even exists? Maybe it’s all some cosmic joke, right? We’ve all been there. Humans doubt. We doubt ourselves, we doubt product labels, we doubt our kids. We question everything.
But the worst one is trying to figure out where God is in the middle of life’s great difficulties. Sometimes the world is just flat-out mean, and it seems like it’s an entity that’s trying to break you in half.
That’s the very moment God’s ancient and eternal words come to us.
Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that! Jesus lives so that you will live forever. And in the interim, He will walk with you and carry you when necessary. He never fails and what’s more, His willingness to never leave us has been proven over and over again, in a billion different ways.
If you need Him right now, don’t doubt. Call out to Him. Your circumstances might seem impossible and impossibly unique…but don’t believe it. Believe Him instead.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you promised that you would never leave us. We know that’s true, but help us with our faith in our weak moments. God, make us believe. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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The Bible is full of what many would call difficult stories. Some of them don’t make a lot of sense. Others seem contrary to what we think should happen. One such story is breathtaking if we follow it through. It involves a father trusting God more than his own instincts.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, and not by sight.”
In Genesis, we read about Abraham being instructed by the Lord to offer his young son Isaac as a sacrifice. As a sacrifice?! Nothing could be more repulsive! Telling a man to kill his own son? Why?
We gain a different perspective when we trust God to the end of this story.
Climbing a high mountain, Abraham intends to obey God all the way. As he raises a knife over his son, God stops him. God’s compassion hadn’t taken a vacation. He taught Abraham an important lesson about obeying Him no matter what. And in fact, Abraham and Isaac would go on to become two of the greatest men of all time.
Learn to trust God—even if you don’t understand.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your ways can at times be mysterious to us, but you do always want the best for us. God—teach us to trust you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Only a person who is willfully blind could deny that miracles happen today. They didn’t end at the shore of the Red Sea.
Malachi 3:6 says, “I the Lord do not change.” From this, we can logically see that the Bible’s powerful and majestic miracles didn’t stop in the first century. They’re still happening. God didn’t suspend the love He dispenses in the form of miracles.
Taylor McCaffrey was an alcoholic as a teenager. He was also a preacher’s kid, and these combined to weigh him down with guilt. From the age of 16, he drank heavily, but God didn’t leave him there. He says, “On my 21st birthday, I’d been drinking about eight hours straight and simply heard the voice of the Holy Spirit inside me say, ‘Either do what I’ve called you to or I will not continue wrestling you.’”
It sounded so stern. However, so loving, “I was instantly sober.” And that was several years ago. Today, Taylor is still sober. There are also countless examples of what we might call ‘corporate’ miracles—those that bless whole communities.
At Christmas time of 2004, a group of 400 believers wanted to hold a Christmas service. The local authorities, though, told them that they could not do that in the city of Meulaboh in North Sumatra. The 400 decided to hold their service in a remote mountain region, and they stayed overnight. Early next morning, an earthquake and resulting tsunami flattened their city, but they were safe in the higher elevations. Had they opted not to worship Jesus during their holiday, they would have perished.
The fact is our world is miracle-heavy. They happen all the time. Miracles happen to ordinary people and to whole nations every day. This is one of the clearest evidences of the power and the majesty of the living God. We can choose to be witnesses for Him by pointing out to everyone we come in contact with that though our world has problems, God is still working in a mighty way.
Let’s pray.
Father God, thank you. The example of miracles. They give us strength in our faith and a boost to our days. We’re forever grateful to you for routinely doing things that some say cannot happen. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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A political science major at a major university was having coffee with a campus pastor. The pastor knew that the student was wrestling with doubt about the existence of God and said to him, “John, you know all of us wonder at some point if it’s all real or not. For example, there are quite a few stories in the Bible that are just hard to believe. Jonah and the whale and all that.” John smiled and said, “No, that’s not my problem. What I wonder about is how God could care about me. I’ve done some really bad things and have had some really bad things done to me. I just can’t understand the concept of forgiveness.”
There you have it. Doubts about the faith come from all directions. While one person cannot bring herself to believe in miracles, another cannot forgive himself for the wrong things he’s done, and can’t fathom how God could.
Thomas Jefferson actually cut out the miraculous sections of the Bible. He couldn’t believe in what some would call the God of the Bible. Francis Crick, the co-discoverer of DNA, thought that Christianity was just a collection of mythical stories. And what about those who want to see the proof, they like evidence and feel a need to make an intellectual case for our faith.
The New Testament writer Luke was like that. He wrote in Acts and the Gospel of Luke about the importance of eyewitness sightings of Jesus and His miracles. Lots of people debate whether evolution and religion are compatible or not. And this is a big stumbling block to believe for many. We all believe something, but our minds can struggle at times to grasp the big stuff, the infinite universe. While for others who doubt, the struggle is more internal. They’re so grieved by their own sin, they can’t accept that God could love them.
Maybe the most famous verse in the Bible is John 3:16, which says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” However, few quote the next verse which says, “For God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” It isn’t God’s wish to condemn you. Instead, He loves you and wants to give you assurance that life is more than struggle and molecules.
Whether you’re looking for evidence to believe the Bible or you just need to know that God loves you, try not to focus too much on your objections. Own them, but just tell God as a child would, that you’re struggling to understand it all.
Will you pray with me?
Father, your grace saves us from a life of struggle with sin and we are accepted by you. Thank you for putting up with our up-and-down faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Life is a process. We know that if we’ve lived very long at all. And this week, we’re talking about the process of trusting God.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Could Jesus meet our needs by just giving us something instantly? Of course. He made everything! And sometimes He does that; the miracles He performed that are recorded in the New Testament tell us that He often instantly met a person’s need.
But He doesn’t always work that way. And that’s because Jesus loves to teach us.
In the book of John, He is telling us the steps necessary to trust Him for provision. First, we ask. Then we learn to receive His good gifts. Finally, we feel real joy, because we know exactly where it came from.
This process is designed to teach us faith, and then to be genuinely appreciative to the Lord for meeting our needs. All through the Bible, we are told that He delights in helping us, in loving us through tough times. The older we get, the more we’re able to look back and see that He and He alone brought us through. There is usually no other explanation. And that is called a miracle.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are dependent on you for everything, and we are blessed that you are our Source. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Part of God’s unchanging nature is that He is sovereign and does things His way. In Isaiah 55, we read that God’s ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts. In other words, He’s infinitely more powerful than we are, especially when it comes to perspective.
We read in the Old Testament that sometimes other nations mocked the Israelites when they were exiled from their homeland. Really, they were mocking God because it was said that maybe He couldn’t keep His promises. After all this, after the Assyrians and Babylonians conquered Israel, neighboring pagan nations remembered that God had promised to give the land to the Israelites. But did that mean God had lied, and was in reality no more powerful than man? No, not at all.
Numbers 23:19 says, “God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?”
In fact, God tells us clearly that He does exactly what He wants, when He wants. We see this in Isaiah 46. When God led the Israelites out of Egypt, but they were then confronted at the Red Sea by Pharaoh’s army—did that mean God had lied when He promised to lead them out of slavery? Of course not. In fact, it was then He performed one of history’s greatest miracles.
In Psalm 16:10, we read that God would not allow your holy one to rot in the grave, and this is a reference to Jesus. Yet, when Jesus died on the cross, many assumed that God had either lied or was powerless to stop Jesus from being entombed. We know how that story ended, and the triumph of life over death. God did raise Jesus from the dead. His body did not decay in the grave. So it’s a matter of perspective, then.
Humans, with their limited understanding, think from time to time that God cannot keep His promises, but He keeps them all the time. All promises fulfilled—100% of the time. He cannot lie.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you alone are powerful and you are our strength. You are perfect in all of your ways and have demonstrated that time after time. Help us let others see that—those who might doubt you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Do you need a miracle?
If we’re honest and open to the truth, miracles have always been a part of our world. In the beginning, God made a dazzling world full of diversity, beautiful animals, gorgeous sunsets, streams of water. He also made us to enjoy it all, and to keep it for Him.
But just like the entrance of sin into our world which marred the original beauty, we sometimes get weighed down with worry and cares of life. We look up one day and the drudgery of our days overwhelms us. The supernatural seems far away, and that’s the very moment God will act. He has always been with us, and one of His greatest promises is that He will be with us to the end, to the moment He ushers in an eternity too wonderful to fully know now.
Revelation 22:1–3 says, “Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing 12 crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse.”
In the meantime, maybe you’re really going through a challenge in your life. You need a miracle. Do you know that you can simply ask Jesus for this? He’s answered too many people, too many times not to be real. And if we’re honest, the presence and regularity of miracles today are staggering. They’re everywhere.
So why not you?
1 Corinthians 1:1–2 says, “To those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be his holy people, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours, grace and peace to you from God, our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
There’s such peace in this. Put aside your doubts and your fears. Just ask Him to help you, and He can. He will. In fact, He will bless you so much, you won’t be able to stay quiet about it. You will have to tell people. You are a miracle.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you rescue us all the time in ways big and small. Your faithfulness in helping us is worthy of our worship. Thank you for making miracles part of everyday life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Today, we’re unpacking a powerful message in Scripture that reminds us of the unparalleled authority and majesty of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 2:9–11 says, “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
This verse tells us God exalted Jesus to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name. This is a testament to Jesus’ divine nature, and His unparalleled power and authority. No matter what challenges we face, there is strength and hope in the knowledge that Jesus is with us, and He has the power to overcome any obstacle.
God’s Word tells us that at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord. This is a powerful call to action for all of us. It’s an invitation to submit ourselves to the will of God, and to embrace the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ.
We often find ourselves caught up in the daily grind, and we forget to take time to reflect on the deeper meaning of our existence. These verses remind us there is a greater purpose to our lives, and our ultimate goal is to glorify God in all that we do.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus. We praise your holy name, and pray that we glorify you with every breath we take, and every choice we make. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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The late writer Christopher Hitchens was a skeptic who claimed that miracles are born from nightmarish ignorance, and that they often are simply 10th-hand reports from illiterate peasants. Wow. The flaw in his argument, of course, is that it isn’t really an argument. It’s simply a rant against God, and the fact is unexplainable miracles happen every day in our world, but Hitchen’s views are shared widely by certain influential people in our time and their claims that miracles are impossible do tend to have an effect on how others think of miracles.
Another reason some have trouble really believing in miracles is because when one is needed, doubt and fear crowd out our belief. Remember, even the ancient Israelites who saw historic miracles almost on a daily basis sometimes complained that God had left them to die in the desert.
Man, our attention span is short.
Maybe the most famous example of doubting a miracle is seen in the New Testament when one of the disciples of Jesus—Thomas—refuses to believe reports of his resurrection. John 20:25 says, “But he said to them, unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”
The 18th-century philosopher David Hume thought that miracles violated the laws of nature. In fact, his views and others like him influenced many people in Europe and America in the next two centuries. So they believed that reason cannot believe in miracles.
Notice that doesn’t mean they don’t exist. The opinions of men too often influence people who haven’t really thought this through. As the Christian writer Timothy McGrew has said, “Science properly understood will tell us the limits of nature, but it will never tell us that nothing lies beyond those limits.”
In the case of Thomas, we could say that he didn’t have enough information. Once he saw the risen Lord with his own eyes, he could believe.
For others, it’s a matter of the heart. Perhaps you’ve been wounded and you’re shutting God out. This can cause you not to see what's right in front of your face. So do this: Allow yourself one day to be open to the possibility of miracles. Scan the news. Listen to friends. Scroll through social media. It would be a miracle if you don’t find a miracle.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you are good to us in big ways and in small ways. You make miracles happen in our lives. From healing to repaired relationships, we know that we can ask you for your good gifts and you will give them. Help us to be ambassadors for your miracle-working power. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Of all the human emotions, fear is perhaps the most paralyzing. Now there are what we call internal and external fears. While many people stress about relationships, depression, and self-doubt, there are also big issues affecting the world: natural disasters, political upheaval, wars, are just a few of the things that create fear.
Sometimes it can feel like everything is unraveling, but our field guide for finding our way through life, the Bible, has much to say about fear. In fact, dozens of verses speak to it. One really helpful verse is 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
In scripture, God either speaks to us directly, or through the stories of men like Moses, who comforted the frightened Israelites at the Red Sea. For us as individuals, there are wonderful reminders of God calming us when we’re afraid.
In Philippians 4, God reminds us not to be anxious about anything. These are soothing words that reach us where we actually live. And as with every other area of our lives, God provides practical help in times of need.
Ashley Smith found that out in 2005 when an escaped killer held her hostage in her apartment. She remained calm, and asked him if she could read. He said yes. So she grabbed her Bible and a copy of “The Purpose Driven Life.” Over a period of hours, the man talked to Ashley, and told her he felt dead inside. Later, she was able to escape and she said she felt that God had brought that man to her so that he wouldn’t hurt anyone else.
God’s Word provides real, workable solutions for the many problems we face. Fear is just one of them, but it can be a big one. And it shrinks in the light of God’s protection.
Let’s pray.
Father God, we love you. We thank you for showing us the way when we’re too afraid to go on. Thank you for giving us a spirit of sound mind, and not a spirit of fear. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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The most influential ruler of all time, the greatest king to ever walk the face of the earth, is also mankind’s greatest example of humility.
Jesus may have been born in a stable, but the Son of our Creator God was anything but ordinary. He lived a humble life, but performed miracles along the way, and showed us what it means to be a humble servant leader among men.
Jesus selflessly took human form, God incarnate, to become a living sacrifice for our sins. He did not profess His innocence and demand to be taken down from the cross; rather Philippians 2:8 says, “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
Jesus gave up His place on the throne where God rules the universe. He gave up His power to defend Himself, but willingly gave His life as a ransom for many. He loved us so much that He died for us. He endured shame, ridicule, torture, and an agonizing death on that cross. What greater humility is there?
Philippians 2:3–4 says, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
A godly man is humble, and Jesus Christ is our ultimate example.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are humbled by your sacrifice. Jesus took our sin upon Himself when He took our place on the cross, and the gift of salvation is the result of His choice. We are so grateful for that love. It’s in Jesus’ name that we pray, amen.
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The giant redwoods of the American Pacific Northwest are among nature’s most beautiful scenes. As tall as skyscrapers, and big enough to drive a truck through.
It’s said that the redwoods are so powerful and strong in part because even these plants have a sense of community. Separated, or as a single tree, the root system is much more vulnerable. But planted with partners all around, the picture changes completely. The redwoods become tall and strong.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
In Christ, we’re part of a strong community. Scripture refers to Jesus as the Vine which provides nourishment to the rest. In Him, we are confident, safe, and rooted.
If you’re feeling vulnerable and without friends, start with the best friend you could ever have. Tell Jesus today that you need Him and His community. It’s a lush Kingdom that will never die.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are so grateful for your love and your provision. Help us stand strong together and do the work of your Father. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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We think of her as a genteel Southern lady, and she was that, for sure.
But Ruth Bell Graham was so much more. While her husband was away so much, preaching to the masses, she was preaching to her own little flock. The result was children who became adults, and in turn, shared the Good News of Jesus with others.
Anne Graham Lotz and Franklin Graham didn’t just fall out of the sky!
Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another.”
In their little home in the mountains of North Carolina, while Daddy was in Brussels, New York, and Sydney, Mother Ruth was faithful for years on end to impart godly wisdom to their children. Much iron was sharpened on cold winter nights and long summer days. Theirs was a home that didn’t always have both parents available, but they thrived.
Use that as an example of how to bring up your own children. You’ll be happy forever that you did.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Your Word is good, and it shines a light on our path. Give us the strength to mentor our own children in your ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Some of the greatest stories of believers down through time have involved those who really studied God’s Word. These people have gone before us to show us the way. From Charles Spurgeon to a missionary mother in China, daily study of the Word, and prayer, prepared them to mentor entire generations.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another.”
We also read in Romans 10 that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. We have to do it, so that others know how. Remember, there is no substitute for spending time in God’s Word.
In order to properly train an apprentice, you need to obviously be prepared and adept. Anything less leads to weak faith, or no faith at all.
This is what the Great Commission, sharing the Gospel, has always been about. Duplicating disciples. Grounding your own faith in the Bible, and then imparting that to others. That is the essence of true iron sharpening iron.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us about your work by daily reminding us to spend time with you in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you had an experience in your life that has prepared you for helping others? Has life dealt you circumstances that speak to a situation in a younger person’s life? If so, you might be ready to help in such a way that will bring honor and glory to God.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another.”
The apostle Paul suffered much for his faith in Christ. A dramatic shipwreck…prison, beatings, and hunger were part of his daily routine.
And then, God set Timothy in his path.
The younger man needed encouragement and instruction as the early Church grew. And Paul stepped in to mentor him. He not only helped Timothy with practical church matters, but he encouraged him to stay strong in the Word, and to rely on God solely.
More than likely, you have a Timothy heading your way. Or maybe a Tina! Whoever it is, resolve in your heart to be everything they need you to be, and to model iron sharpening iron for them.
Stay sharp in the Word, so that your counsel is sound. And keep on the lookout, because Timothy might be about to cross your path!
Let’s pray.
Lord, prepare us to be the person that our own Timothy needs us to be, for as long as he or she needs. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Do you struggle with being humble, and yielding to God’s will? Most of us do. This extends to accepting an iron-sharpening-iron relationship that God has set in our path. And yet the benefits are so good for us.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another.”
Make no mistake, God sets people in our path for a reason. That Bible teacher in your church might have words of wisdom for you from her rich and varied life. Be open to that.
If you’re in fellowship with a mature, older believer, let him or her walk with you on your journey. Learn from them. Ask questions. And learn to be vulnerable.
The benefits and outcomes will be richer than you can ever imagine. This is especially true when someone points out areas where you can grow. It’s not fun—but this is the essence of iron sharpening iron. And it’s good for you.
Let’s pray.
Father God, help us be open to the leading of your Holy Spirit when encountering someone who could mentor us. Help us grow. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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The Bible is full of wonderful analogies, and one of the best is found in Proverbs, which paints a picture of godly mentoring and accountability.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
The idea is that as pieces of iron are drawn against the other, each piece becomes sharper. A further application is made in Hebrews 4:12, which talks about Scripture as being a double-edged sword, and it is with His Word we are to sharpen each other.
The goal is mutual accountability, and imparting wisdom for living.
As author Michael Lazurek has written: “As the body of Christ, we forget that part of our job is to sharpen other brothers and sisters in Christ so that the flame in their hearts, put there by the Holy Spirit, continues to burn.”
Although the “iron sharpens iron” analogy is often used to describe the relationship between men, the application is relevant for everyone who believes. Even at this moment, there are millions of women mentoring girls, and sharpening their wisdom in the Lord!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us wonderful relationships that help us grow. We are so grateful for this. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Of all the themes of the Bible, God’s grace through His Son, Jesus Christ, is the greatest example. It’s the most critical element in a person’s life, and the choice to receive it is ours.
The Bible tells us that before the world was created, God already had a plan to redeem mankind from sin. And because He knows all, He already knew what would take place in the Garden of Eden.
Acts 15:11 says, “We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved just as they are.”
The greatest act of grace then was given at the cross, when Jesus willingly died in our place.
Because God is all-knowing and all-powerful, He decides what is best for human beings. And since He cannot tolerate sin, someone had to stand in as a substitute. Otherwise, each of us would be required to receive the punishment for sin, which is death. And Jesus took all of that away from us.
In Isaiah 50 and in Psalm 22, we read very graphic descriptions of the ways Jesus suffered during the crucifixion. He himself tells us what it was like.
In the Greek and Hebrew, the concept of grace is a picture of someone stooping to help another, and more specifically, it is a picture of a superior person freely offering to help a person in great need, and incapable of doing it for himself.
2 Timothy 1 gives us a clear picture of how God’s grace came into the world, emphasizing that we can do nothing to earn it, and this requires us to get rid of our pride. The passage also tells us that this grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time.
Although we think of the Old Testament as more about law, while the New Testament focuses on grace, there are examples in the Old Testament reminding us that God has never abandoned anyone in any era. Whether you have plenty and don’t feel you need any help from God or you’re in great need, won’t you consider accepting the free gift of salvation and forgiveness of sins that God is offering?
Let’s pray.
Father, just like the old hymn says, Jesus paid it all, and that reality fills us with joy. Our salvation promises that one day when you make all things new, we will be able to fully enjoy that grace for all eternity. You are the great God, and we praise you for your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Corrie ten Boom made a decision at the height of World War II. She would hide Jews from the Nazis in her Dutch home, and she was found out. Surviving the war, she told people for the rest of her life about God’s grace. Though her sister, Betsy, died at the notorious camp called Ravensbrück, Corrie survived.
One night two years after the war, she found out just how meaningful grace really is. After she had spoken to a group of Germans, a man approached her. She then realized that he had been a guard at Ravensbrück. He told her that her talk was very meaningful to him, and that since the war he had become a Christian. He put his hand out and asked her for forgiveness.
Not so easy to acknowledge, Corrie realized. For an eternity of seconds, she couldn’t make her hand move, but when she did and reached for his hand, she said it was like an electric current running through her arm. She told the former guard that she did forgive him, and that single act made all the difference.
Ephesians 4:7 says, “But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of the gift of Christ.”
In our lives we want grace, but we struggle when God gives that same grace to people we feel don’t deserve it. But that’s the point of grace as we’ve already discussed. God’s grace is favor given that is not deserved. We can’t do anything to receive it. The Lord offers it for free.
Maybe you haven’t done anything in life as bad as that Nazi guard, but the Bible says that God hates sin, and sin comes in many forms and we’re all sinners. It was Alexander Solzhenitsyn that said, “The line dividing good and evil cuts through the heart of every human being.”
In a sense, underneath it all, we’re all that camp guard. His horrific sin was out in the open and the pain of that time still affects people, but a woman he persecuted decided to model the love of Christ in forgiveness and that was a moment of divine grace. The Bible is full of stories of God giving His grace freely to people who are broken in one way or another. Our loving Father gave it to them free of charge, the same way He gives it to you.
Let’s pray.
Father God, sometimes we just don’t understand. Injustice bothers us. Please help us to see that you look on all of us—everyone—with compassion. You gave your son to pay the penalty for the sins of people the world over. Help us to see others, God, the way that you see them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Theresa Rosenthal had a rough start in life. She watched her father abuse her mother, and then when she was six, a family friend sexually abused her. Like so many that suffered at the hands of a predator, Theresa pushed the pain down into a secret place, and for decades, she battled with depression and substance abuse. Finally, one day she was sitting in front of her house and just blurted out to God, “What am I supposed to do?”
Within 24 hours, she had a Bible from a new friend who reached out to her, and even though some of Theresa’s bad choices would land her in jail, her friend and that Bible were constant sources of healing. Today, she’s a member of a loving church, and she tells anyone who will listen about God’s grace in her life.
Daniel 4:2 says, “I thought it good to declare the signs and wonders that the most high God has done for me.”
Too often we are too tribal. We think God only works in our circles, but the fact is, God has always been the definition of inclusive. The Bible makes it very clear that God’s grace is available to anyone in all times and places.
Matthew 5:45 is a very interesting verse that illustrates this. It says, “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”
That’s fascinating. What might seem unusual or even unjust to us is routine for God. Because God takes the long view. He knows that our lives on Earth are brief. So if He gives grace to a bad person, He’s thinking of that person’s eternal place. And let’s face it, there are plenty of times in our lives that we didn’t deserve grace. But He gave it anyway.
In God’s economy, a Babylonian brickmaker from 3,000 years ago is as valuable as you are. Theresa Rosenthal was warmed by that grace at a time when she was doing drugs and spiraling into depression, and she had no ability to improve her life. And that's the point of grace. God gives it to a variety of people and circumstances. And life would be unbearable without it.
Let’s pray.
Father God, your grace sustains us, in bad times and in good times, and we might take our focus off you. Sometimes that grace is almost unseen. We might not be aware of it until years later when looking back gives us insight. Thank you for giving us what we don’t deserve. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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It’s been said that grace is simply favor from God, and we didn’t do anything to earn it. Often, grace comes when we need it the most.
The word grace is used about 170 times in the Bible. Most of those occur in the New Testament as the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ unfolds. His sacrifice for all of us—dying on the cross for our sins—was the backdrop for a lot of other moments in grace He gave to those He came in contact with.
Jesus perfectly understood that there’s a lot of suffering in the world. Those poignant moments when He stooped to heal a person in distress, or when He unlocked the emotional chains of people like Zacchaeus and Mary Magdalene. That is supernatural grace. Grace is a moment in time when the living God intervenes in someone’s life. We often hear stories of people being surprised by grace. It arrives when they least expect it, but is really needed.
James 4:6 says, “But he gives us more grace. That is why scripture says, ‘God opposes the proud, but shows favor to the humble.’”
What we learn about grace from the Bible is that although God is the originator, we are also capable of giving grace.
Is there someone in your life that you need to forgive? Maybe that person is badly in need of that forgiveness. Swallow your pride and give that grace. There are many more ways to give grace. That family in your church that is struggling financially. Can you find a way to discreetly help them out? That kind of grace can be just the boost people need to rise above their circumstances.
Some people are prideful, but the truth is all of us need God’s grace. We need it for the duration. So think about that the next time a grudge or stubborn pride is blocking you from being a blessing to others. One day you might just find yourself on the other end of that situation.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you are so good to us, all the time. If we stop and think about the unmerited favor you give us each day, amazing. Help us to keep this in mind as we find ways to pay it forward in our daily walk. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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“Amazing Grace” is one of the most recognizable hymns in the English-speaking world. Written almost two and a half centuries ago in 1772, the words for “Amazing Grace” were borne from the heart, mind, and experiences of the Englishman, John Newton.
As a member of the Royal Navy, Newton faced many perils on the open sea. In the midst of a terrifying storm that almost sank the vessel he was on, he cried out to God.
The vessel was spared, but Newton’s change of heart was short-lived. He went on to become a slave ship master, bringing many enslaved Africans to Europe for several years, and often treating them terribly.
In 1754, John Newton left the slave trade and seafaring altogether. He was ordained as an Anglican priest, and later fought to abolish the slave trade, publishing a pamphlet uncovering the horrors of slavery.
I once was lost,
but now am found,
Was blind,
but now I see.
Ephesians 2:8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so
that no one can boast.”
God’s grace isn’t a one-time offer! When we turn to God in faith, His amazing grace is waiting for us—time and time again.
Let’s pray.
Lord, let your grace be a song of praise on our lips and in our hearts. Remind us to follow your ways, and to seek forgiveness when we go astray. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever paused and thought about how rarely people see you for who you are? Have you ever done something that you feel is almost unforgivable? You need to know that is not the way God wants you to feel.
Psalm 51:10 says, “Create in me a pure heart, oh God, and renew a right spirit within me.”
Some of the most famous people in history were very unrighteous at times. King David, described as a man after God’s own heart—he was loved that much—did dreadful things. Guess what, though? His life ended well. God had cleaned him up on the inside.
Nothing you’ve done is fatal. It really isn’t.
Call on God to heal you on the inside and put a spirit of love, hope, and peace in you. He will—and He’ll do it sooner rather than later, and you’ll be able to breathe again, guaranteed.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your desire to make us clean has been told for centuries. We believe it and we claim it. Thank you, Father God, for the work of renewal you do all day, every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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John Kralik was in a bad place. The LA attorney was generally miserable…divorced again, broke, and living in a dingy apartment with no air conditioning. He was also struggling to pay his employees because clients wouldn’t pay him. Not exactly glamorous, but then John did an amazing thing. He decided he would concentrate on things to be grateful for, and follow that up with writing a thank you note every day for an entire year.
Over time, and not too slowly actually, John’s life began to improve. Life looked good again. One of the greatest outcomes has been the influence he’s had on others. His book, “A Simple Act of Gratitude: How Learning To Say Thank You Changed My Life” sold like crazy. He said that the year-long thank you notes helped him prioritize good things, and helped him focus on that.
John also has noticed a really interesting thing. A person’s natural tendency is to focus on nine things that go wrong. Yet what would happen if we focused instead on even a single good thing? He understands that we all can help each other. Rising tide lifts all boats, as they say. Just as we can help others form the discipline of gratitude, they can be our accountability in a very real way.
Every day we can text, email, call, or otherwise communicate to friends and family things that we’re grateful for. In turn, we can receive their good reports.
Colossians 3:15 says, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts to which indeed you were called in one body and be thankful.”
Whether it’s a community of believers or simply the wider culture, we can help each other every single day by passing along what we’re grateful for. There’s power in telling another what they mean to you, or passing along thanks for something as simple as a shared meal. Such a choice doesn’t cost anything, but it piles up spiritual treasure for us. Pretty soon you’ll be grateful just for being grateful.
Let’s pray.
Father God, your blessings to us are endless. From the perfect distance from the sun for proper warmth and light to the love that you placed in our hearts for family and friends, you’re a good God, and you’re deserving of our praise. We look forward to a glorious future with you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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With the tech boom has come concerns that we are constantly under surveillance, or being watched. And maybe that’s not all a conspiracy theory. But no one in the world knows everything about us. There is still some privacy, some places we can go away from prying eyes.
Except…
Psalm 69:5 says, “O God, you know my folly; the wrongs I have done are not hidden from you.”
We know that we serve the One True God, the One that made everything we see. Part of His infinite knowledge is every single thing about each person. That’s a mind-bender and can actually seem a little scary, but ultimately it’s for our own good. If we mess up, He is there to restore us and heal our shame.
While others gather data on us that could be embarrassing, God wants only what’s best for us. He holds us up to the light of His righteousness, and that reality should be all the motivation we need to live holy lives.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we can feel very, very foolish in your eyes. But we thank you for the accountability you give us, for our own good. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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It’s almost universally believed that tech guru Steve Jobs floated into mega success with Apple, the company he co-founded with Steve Wozniak.
Job’s first go around at Apple didn’t end well in 1985, when he was forced out. His next effort wasn’t a home run either, yet Jobs put his head down like a fullback and plowed ahead. Next up for him was founding Pixar and finally, more than a decade after his humiliating exit from Apple, Jobs returned there as CEO and revolutionized the way people interacted with computers.
Writing about him after his death, Jason Demur said that, “Steve Jobs is lasting evidence that you should never count somebody out—even yourself.” In other words, even if someone pushes you back, you have to keep moving forward. Believe it or not a fellow tech icon, Bill Gates, also had to learn the hard way. His first venture with business partner Paul Allen was a complete failure, but Gates said many times in the years since that learning from failures leads to success, and Microsoft is proof of that.
Christian Ministry leader Jo Walls has some interesting things to say to Christians who have perhaps grown too comfortable in their faith, and she addresses herself first. She says, “God’s been talking to me lately about being too comfortable. He’s challenging me in some ways that I’m not real thrilled about. He’s pushing me to grow,” and in fact, He’s telling her to ‘cheer up buttercup—life can be a grind,’ and that’s when we need to push through.
Even though it can sometimes sting when someone tells us to chin up, it’s ultimately for our good. And let's face it—most of us know it feels good to overcome something really difficult.
Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
When your life is spent following Jesus, fear disappears in the light of God’s reassuring love. He has a plan for you, and you don’t have to walk in the shadows when God’s got your back. Every moment of every day is brighter knowing our Heavenly Father watches over us.
The unknown doesn’t have to be cause for worry. It’s an opportunity for God to work on your behalf. Hand the details over to Him and wait patiently and faithfully for His good plan to come to fruition. The joy of knowing we can always depend on God is a message worth sharing.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we need your strength every single day. We know that some things just don’t come easy. Thank you for bringing us along the way you do. We pray and believe. It feels good to emerge from difficulty and realize that the strength you gave us pulled us out of despair. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Honestly…sometimes as Christians, we think things are going to be easy. After all, when Jesus saves you, it doesn’t get any better than that! The joy we feel is genuine, and lasting.
But—that doesn’t mean we escape this world. Bad things can and do happen. This week we’re talking about having enough grit to get to the glory.
Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
Part of our Christian walk is developing a personal faith that lasts. As Paul tells us in Romans, leaning-in and learning to last is the key to it all. Listen, if you’re walking through a really dark valley right now, you are not alone! Many, many people have and are going through exactly what you’re going through now.
If you bought into the idea that being a Christian means your life becomes easy, you need to go ahead and let that go. True faith requires us to look to the Lord when things go wrong.
Stand up on your feet, Christian, and let Jesus steady you. Hold fast!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your strength sustains us. We love you Lord—for that, and for so many more things. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Do you ever stop and think about the routine things you do every day? Buying detergent so you can wash your family’s clothes. Fixing a couple of boards on your deck. We even grind through staff meetings at work. All of this of course mixed with life, laughter, and love.
But do you think about why you can do these things in our country?
Primarily it’s because of the sacrifices of our fallen soldiers—those men and women who have defended the homeland since Colonial times.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
We are privileged to live in a land of the free precisely because fellow citizens took a different road. They walk a path of danger so that we can have the freedom to live as we choose. So many of them fight with the faith they’ve lived with all their lives, and it’s our duty to thank them—and be thankful for them.
Remember them when you want to complain about those daily chores…which were made possible by their sacrifice.
Let’s pray.
Lord, would you keep our warriors safe, and keep them in your loving arms. We ask you this as we reflect on Independence Day. We thank you for our soldiers, and we thank you for Jesus. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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From earliest times, God commanded His people to see their national home through His holy eyes. In other words, countries around the world are to follow the Lord. Of course, many don’t.
Jeremiah 30:22 says, “So you will be my people, and I will be your God.”
Many great civilizations have risen, but few last beyond a couple hundred years. Although history is debated, the foundations of America see a people who wanted to live holy unto the Lord. Modern America is still an ongoing experiment, but our Pledge of Allegiance, adopted in 1942, used the phrase “Under God.”
Lincoln used it for the first time during his Gettysburg Address, when he told the people that from that point on, we would be one people—united under the Living God.
This is something to celebrate, and we should! Our nation is always stretching to do better, and fulfill an ideal that is more than just some slogan. It’s our calling to be this way…under God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that Christ is proclaimed in freedom in our nation! Help us continue this sacred calling. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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We as Americans tend to relish our history—and most countries do. Famous eras and the glory of battle and all that. Americans love the beautiful land that we’ve been blessed with, as well.
The Bible tells us the true source of our blessings. It points us to the One who made all things possible.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
We are incredibly blessed in America for a lot of reasons. From sufficient food to freedom to make our own choices—we just have so much. But do we always acknowledge the source of our blessings?
Our forefathers did.
George Washington’s tomb at Mt. Vernon has Scripture etched into the stones. The Father of our country knew his Heavenly Father!
The Bible tells us that we should glory first in our great God. He is the one we owe our lives to. Every breath we take. We owe our Savior Jesus our eternal lives.
It is to Him that all honor and glory belongs. Not to us. As proud Americans, we stand on our faith. Of our almost limitless blessings, that is number one.
To God be the glory!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are available to us each day. As we get ready for a new day, help us to remember that You are our source, and You deserve the glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Today in America, two million men and women serve in our armed forces. More than 200,000 of them are deployed to various points around the world.
Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
The Lord has told us directly not to be afraid. We aren’t even to be discouraged! He’s told us through His promises that He’ll be with us every step of the way.
If we stop and think about the amazing history of this country, we can see that God has literally been with us every minute of every hour. He was at Yorktown. He dropped a last-minute winning strategy into Chamberlain’s mind at Gettysburg. God went with our invasion forces in the Pacific and in Europe during World War 2, because people were enslaved and in need of rescue. He has been with us since the terrible moments of 9/11.
Be strong and of good courage today in the Land of the Free!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your provision for us in all times and all places is wonderful. Thank you for never leaving us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be one of the original settlers in America? As a person leaving the safety of England to come to the New World and start over?
Those people came here for religious freedom and risked it all. When they landed in New England, they literally put down roots as they built and planted the beginnings of an amazing experiment that is still ongoing.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
Our ancestors were definitely strengthened in their faith as they faced challenges and danger. But the payoff was worth it.
Maybe you’re going through something similar. You’ve moved to a new place. New job. New social circle. And you want to find a church! Just tell Jesus you need help with all these things, and He’ll be right by your side.
Let’s pray.
Lord, forever you have walked with us and forever you will keep us close, making us strong in the faith. God, thank you for your faithfulness to your mission. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever hunted and hunted for something—maybe your car keys, and you finally find them? The old saying goes (and it’s very unhelpful!) that you find them in the last place you look.
There’s a lot of truth to that.
It also is very relevant to our walk with Jesus. Often, we work really hard to solve our own problems, then we give in and ask Jesus for help.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
As with every other promise in the Bible, the really cool thing about this is, it is true. The promises Jesus has made are literally true. So, for example, if you are looking for a solution to an impossible situation, ask Him. It works!
Let’s pray.
Lord, forgive us for not placing our trust in you all the time. You are our sustainer, and we need to remember that. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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The Bible tells us that King Solomon was a very wise man. He ruled over his kingdom from Jerusalem, and built the famous Temple there.
He was also very human.
This son of King David eventually let his wealth and power go to his head, and he began to follow other religions and almost seemed to enjoy sinning.
And yet God loved him.
In his later years, Solomon realized how wrong he had been to rely on his own strength. And so scholars believe that’s where the book of Proverbs was born. They come from a man weary of the cares of this life. A man ashamed of the mistakes he had made.
Proverbs 3:5–6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all of your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Proverbs is packed with amazing wisdom into right living, after perhaps one has been focused on other kinds of living.
Solomon learned the hard lessons as he fought his way back to a forgiving God whose mercies are eternal. That is a good lesson for us.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your patience with us is humbling, and it is so appreciated. We thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Do you feel like you’re falling apart today? It’s okay to say yes.
Life is life, and we all have obstacles to overcome. Maybe your issue is ongoing, or maybe it’s a sudden thing. But please think of it this way: Jesus is alive and He knows who you are—and He cares about you and your problems.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus is not caught off-guard by problems in your life and most importantly, He truly cares for you and is able to help. Remember what the Bible says: Jesus holds everything together! And that includes you.
If you’re really struggling, tell Jesus. Then drink from the living water He provides. He was here at the beginning, He is present now, and He will be standing at the end of your road to welcome you home one day. Count on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you’ve got all our stuff well in hand. God, help us remember that every day. It’s in Jesus’ name that we pray, amen.
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Do you find it hard to trust some people? Do you find it hard to trust anyone? Our society is full to the brim of people who have been hurt, wounded, and devastated. It puts up a wall and we live behind it in silence and fear.
After the fall of Saddam Hussein in Iraq, the people of that captive country were free for the first time to tell their stories. One woman said that she had been driven nearly insane by the dictator’s torture chambers, but when he was gone, someone shared the love of Christ with her. And her mind and spirit were restored.
She said that for the first time in her life, she could now trust. It opened her heart to beauty and friendship and love. And most of all, she now loves her Savior with her whole, healed heart.
Psalm 91:2 says, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
Your situation might not be as extreme as our Iraqi sister, but if you have trust issues, take them to Jesus and tell Him with your whole hurting heart that you need Him. He will meet you where you are!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your love heals all kinds of pain. We thank you that your mercies endure forever. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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There is a common metaphor of life being like a road, and with good reason. We are in essence walking a path in life, from beginning to end. For each person, the journey is at different times joyous, grueling, and full of wonder.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
This week we’re talking about walking by faith, something us as humans find difficult to do—especially when times get tough. Yet that is exactly the moment God uses to ignite our faith, and show us things we couldn’t have seen before!
In the Bible, there are many stories of people on journeys. Abraham, Hannah, Moses, and many more. If you’ve read any of those stories, you’ve noticed that God is with them every step. And sometimes the journey takes a long time…years.
If you find yourself on a really hard road right now, remember that others have gone before you. They learned to trust God in tough times, and walk by faith.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are so good to us! You walk with us, and you carry us when necessary. We are grateful. Thank you, in Jesus’ name, amen.
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We often hear that it’s harder to raise kids today than ever before. That isn’t true, of course. All eras down through history have been challenging. We live in a world scarred by sin, after all, and children grow up among all sorts of temptations.
That’s why the role of a parent is something to take seriously, as a sacred duty.
We’ve been discussing the best practical guide for living: the Bible. Nowhere is this truer than in its practical wisdom for raising successful children.
Although we all have the freedom to make our own choices—and your kids certainly will make their own decisions—they benefit greatly from a loving father or mother who also loves the Lord.
Proverbs 22:6 says, “Start children off in the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
This isn’t the kind of thing you hope for—this is scripture, the Word of God, and can be relied on to bring about the promise made. The Lord will honor your commitment to raising children who love their Creator.
One way to do that is to be bold in your discussions with your children, who likely hear anti-God stuff from school, and entertainment. For example, talk with them as if you believe the Bible is really true. Then point out that the book of Exodus commands all of us to value our parents.
Exodus 20:12 says, “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God has given you.”
It doesn’t hurt to point out the bonus: long life.
Make sure that you also share with your children the wonderful practical tips from the Bible. Much of it will save them a broken heart down the road.
For example, Proverbs 18:24 says, “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
This is repeated in the New Testament in 1 Corinthians 15:33, which says, “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.”
God’s Word promises us a sound mind. This state of being will help your children in everything they do from completing school assignments to caring for elderly relatives. A child who knows the Lord, and prays consistently, will become a human being you can be proud of.
Let’s pray.
Father God, children are a gift from you. They are a sacred treasure—entrusted to us for a little while. Remind us daily of our role in shaping their lives, so that they are healthy, and content, in the world that you made for them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Noah was far from perfect, but he was a humble man, and protective of his family. He stands out among fathers in the Bible as a man who remained loyal to God, in spite of the wickedness of the world around him.
Doesn’t that sound a lot like life today? Fathers who choose to follow a life of faith are surrounded by temptation and downright evil in this world, but God is pleased by our devotion, and He has a plan for each of us — even when circumstances are frustrating or difficult.
Genesis 6:5–8 says, “The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. So the Lord said, ‘I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.’ But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.”
The Bible tells us Noah, father of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, was a righteous man and walked faithfully with God. For this reason, God chose Noah to build an incredible ship—the ark —that would save not only mankind, but every variety of living creature on the earth—from peril.
Sometimes fathers feel like their job is a thankless one. They tackle the honey-do list on weekends, help with dinner, keep the kids in line, and help to wrangle them at bedtime...and maybe they don’t hear ‘thank you,’ or ‘great job,’ often enough. But God knows everything you do for your family, from breadwinning to caretaking and everything in between, and He takes delight in your devotion to your family, and to Him.
Deuteronomy 30:2–3 says, “And when you and your children return to the Lord your God and obey him with all your heart and with all your soul according to everything I command you today, then the Lord your God will restore your fortunes and have compassion on you and gather you again from all the nations where he scattered you.”
Modern-day fathers can learn valuable lessons from Noah:
God promises to bless and protect those who faithfully follow and obey him. A man who obeys the Lord will inspire faith in his children as well.
Obedience is not a sprint but a marathon; It means a lifetime of faithful devotion, even (and especially!) when the going gets tough.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Thank you for calling out Noah’s faithful obedience to you so many years ago, and for providing for the safety and provision of his entire family when the world had gone astray. Bless every father who hears this message, Lord, that they might grow closer in their walk with you, and inspire their children to follow in their footsteps. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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What is your relationship with your father like?
That’s kind of a personal question, right? And for some people, it may be a topic they really don’t enjoy discussing.
Sometimes people who don’t have a meaningful relationship with a father or father figure, struggle to grasp just how much God, our creator and provider, loves us. It can be challenging to develop a personal relationship with your Heavenly Father, if you’ve missed out on a positive bond with your father here on earth.
Psalm 90:2 says, “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”
God always was, and He always will be. He is everlasting, the creator of everything, including you, and He has a good plan for your life.
If you’ve been hurt, disappointed, or abandoned by your earthly father, or you struggle to find common ground in that relationship, bring it to God. Unrequited love and family strife don’t have to define your relationship with the Lord; He knows the burdens that you carry, and He legitimately wants to set you free from them, and to empower you to follow Him with a light heart and a renewed sense of joy.
Every human being is a son or daughter of God, the constant source of strength, wisdom, and hope to Christians everywhere.
1 John 3:1 says, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”
Whether you were blessed with a loving, present father or your origin story is more complicated than that, you are a beloved child of God — and He has a plan for your life.
God the Father sees us, knows us, and loves us — and He wants us to follow Him.
God is constant; He never changes. We can depend on Him.
God is faithful.
Our Heavenly Father is an example for earthly fathers to follow.
Ultimately, God is love.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, God—how blessed are we to be called your children. Help us to seek you, to listen for your voice, and to follow your commands. Your love and faithfulness gives us hope. It’s in Jesus’ name that we pray, amen.
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Joseph was a hardworking tradesman who God hand-picked from all the men in the world to be the earthly father of His own Son, Jesus Christ. What an honor! And in some ways, what an incredibly challenging task.
Joseph wasn’t a king, a politician, or a recognized leader of any kind when he was betrothed to a young woman named Mary. A simple carpenter, he was also a man of compassion. When he learned Mary was pregnant and knew the child could not be his, he intended to divorce her quietly and send her back to her family—but God had other plans.
Matthew 1:20–21 says, “An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’”
Joseph worked diligently to protect his wife Mary and their baby, then saw to Jesus’ education and needs as he was growing up. In a time when blended families were not the norm, Joseph embraced Jesus, providing for him, loving him, and teaching him the valuable skills of the carpentry trade.
There was no parenting guidebook for raising God’s Son—so together, Joseph and Mary leaned into prayer, and did everything they could to raise Jesus well, and with love.
The Bible calls Joseph a righteous man, and Jesus must have loved his guardian for his quiet strength, honesty, and kindness. How God’s heart must have broken to send His Son into a fallen world, and how carefully he must have chosen the man who would raise him here on earth.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Just as Joseph was loyal to His Son, we have an opportunity to be loyal to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, too. Joseph’s obedience in the face of unexpected circumstances is an example of what it means to truly trust and follow God—even when the path takes a turn.
From Joseph, Jesus’ father here on earth, we learn that...
God honors men of integrity and rewards them with his trust.
Mercy always wins.
We may face humiliation in this life when we seek to obey God, but we can gain a close relationship with Him.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, every family’s story is unique. Thank you for the blessing of families as unique as a fingerprint, and for calling strong men to the task of providing for and leading them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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One of the things that mark a healthy society is the consistency between generations. In other words, adults who care about the future of their children will invest the time to make sure tomorrow is bright.
God the Father is the ultimate parent, and we would do well to model His love for us.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
Passing the torch, or training up the next generation, involves taking the time to do it properly. If you love your kids, you’ll make time for them. You won’t take the easy way out and settle for schools or the culture at large, to raise them.
Teach them yourself that we all experience tough times in this life, but sticking to God’s plan for their lives is the key to winning. Living the abundant life Jesus taught about, and sharing His Good News is the ultimate win. But we don’t get there by quitting when the going gets tough.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you never leave us, and you never abandon the human community to evil. You are a great God, and we thank you for your commitment to us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Are you struggling right now? Are you listening to this while gripping the steering wheel, wondering how you’re going to go on?
1 Thessalonians 5:23 says, “May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit, soul, and body—and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ.”
He has a purpose for you; He really does. God wants to use you for things no one else can do. And He wants you to do these things with a spirit of peace in your heart. Maybe your biggest dream died a really spectacular death. Like—one that everyone saw and still talks about. That doesn’t matter.
The only thing that matters is that you call on Jesus to comfort you and show you the way. Ask Him to do that right now, right where you are. He wants you to be whole and healthy. And if you ask Him to help you live a holy life, He will cleanse your spirit, leaving you squeaky clean inside and out.
This is very personal. You might feel that you don’t have anyone to turn to; that’s a lie. Your Savior and your champion says otherwise. Turn to Him right now.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for making us completely whole. Complete people, capable of sharing the Good News with everyone we come into contact with. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci is widely looked upon as the most famous painting in the world.
By some historical estimates, the Mona Lisa took as many as 16 years to finish! Capturing Mona Lisa’s famous smile on a poplar plank was no hack job; Leonardo accepted a commission for the work in the year 1503, and completed his masterpiece supposedly around the time of his death in 1519. Clearly, this level of artistic achievement takes time.
When you hear the word “masterpiece,” what do you think of? A famous painting? A beautiful building maybe? Your child’s latest artwork?
What about a giant sequoia tree? A symphony? A pink flamingo? The intricate, miraculous design of the human heart?
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Before you were even born, God knew you, and He had a plan for your life. He created you for a purpose, and He considers you one of his personal works of art. You are a living, breathing miracle capable of wonderful things—God’s own masterpiece.
Let’s pray.
God, we thank you and praise you that in all of creation, you have chosen to make us in your image, and to fashion us as a masterpiece—a work of art designed with care. Help us to be worthy of your effort. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Do you struggle to wonder what God’s will is for your life? Many of us do. Although it isn’t a quick answer, the best way to find God’s will for your life is to read His Word. The Bible will tell you the answer to that question.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Actually, finding God’s will isn’t the hardest part. Deciding to follow His will is where we get tripped up.
People need the skill and the discipline of being persistent. Too often the impulse is to give up and then, if we’re honest, pretend that God hasn’t revealed His will to us.
Good old Abe Lincoln had it right when he said that the only important response is to make sure we are on God’s side, not whether He’s on ours. God has already told us that He’s on our side. He sent His Son, Jesus, to take the penalty for our sin. It doesn’t get any more “on our side” than that.
Change your thinking a bit. Don’t focus on what you think God is supposed to do. Resolve instead to follow God, and to do it every day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your will is the thing that drives us on, to find our purpose in this life. Thank you for sticking with us. Help us to stick with you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Roaming, travel, wandering…all have been part of the human psyche since the beginning. Because we all have that God-shaped hole in us, needing to be filled with Him, we search.
Some find God, and some don’t.
The sense of aimlessness and lack of purpose haunts some. We think of the classic novel “On the Road,” which is the story of two characters traveling the country. At first, the lure of freedom is fun to think about, but the truth is, if people don’t fill that God-shaped hole with God, despair can set in.
We are left rootless in the worst possible way.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
Wherever you put down your physical roots, your spiritual roots are at least as important. In Christ, we are no longer wandering and discouraged. In Him, we live and move and have our being.
If you feel that you’re not anchored to anything, pour out your heart to Jesus. He will keep you close.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are always in fresh supply. We thank you that you plant us in good soil and hold fast to us even when we wander. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever wondered what your place in this world is?
Of course, you have. That’s the human experience. Alone with our thoughts, we wonder who we even are, and what we’re meant to do. It’s a mysterious journey, but the fog lifts and the way becomes clear when we get to know King Jesus.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
You were made for something! You were made to do things for your Lord. The truly beautiful thing is, God created a custom plan just for you. If you aren’t a famous athlete like Tim Tebow, you can still share your faith in wonderful ways. Ways that are life-changing for those you encounter.
Think of that verse again. God made you for a purpose! Created to have the mind of Christ in making this world a better place and making disciples for Him. And God prepared it all long, long ago.
You are His child. That’s who you are.
Let’s pray.
Lord, when we begin to understand even a little bit of your love for us, it transforms us, and it renews our minds and hearts. Thank you so much for that! In Jesus’ name, amen.
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We as people tend to be goal-oriented. Even if you think you’re not, you really are.
Maybe you don’t have a burning ambition to work in finance on Wall Street, or you aren’t going to be a pro athlete any time soon. But you do want to earn a living for your family. Hey, maybe you even want to get your chores finished before your favorite show comes on TV.
Sometimes, this love of goals can trip us up when it comes to eternal matters. We think we can make our own way. It’s just hardwired in us to set goals and meet them in order to reach our reward.
The Bible says otherwise.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Eternal life with God, being reconciled to Him in spite of our sin, is a gift we cannot win for ourselves. In fact, we can’t do anything to get it other than simply receive. This is what God’s Word says. Salvation through Christ does not depend on our talent or initiative or drive. It depends entirely on the choice of Christ long ago to stand in our place as punishment for sin.
Once you wrap your mind around that, you’ll be ready to receive it with joy and anticipation for a future so good, we can’t even imagine it!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you so much for your free gift of salvation. Jesus alone is our Savior. It’s in His name that we pray. Amen.
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Francis was just 6 weeks old when she became ill in the spring of 1820. The family doctor was out of town, and a charlatan pretending to be a doctor prescribed a treatment that rendered the baby completely blind, although she recovered from the initial illness. A few months later, her father died, and her mother went to work as a maid to support the family. She was raised by her grandmother, a devoted Christian who taught her granddaughter from the Bible.
At the age of 8, the little girl wrote this poem:
“Oh, what a happy soul I am,
Although I cannot see!
I am resolved that in this world
Contented I will be.”
The little girl was encouraged to work to the best of her abilities, and not to view herself as limited by blindness. She carried that resourceful attitude throughout her 94 years of living, and during her lifetime penned over 9,000 hymns.
You may not have heard of Fanny Crosby, but if you’ve ever sung or listened to favorite hymns in church, chances are you’ve heard her music.
She poured out her heart writing hymns, many of which are still sung today, nearly 200 years after her birth. Songs such as “Blessed Assurance” and “To God be the Glory” are treasured classics in many denominations.
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.
Fanny Crosby was struck blind as an infant, but she allowed the Lord to shape her story, and used her talents to praise Him, and inspire others to do the same.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the story of Fanny Crosby is an encouraging reminder to rely on you, no matter our circumstances. You had a plan for her life from the very beginning, and the songs you wrote on her heart continue to inspire us today as we worship Your Holy Name. Thank you for writing Fanny’s story so beautifully. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Tim closed his laptop and wondered what to do next.
He had a degree. Great job experience. Enthusiasm and passion for his work… But the job market was tough in his new hometown, and his savings was running out fast.
“Lord,” he prayed, “please help me find a job. You know my talents, and what I need to help support my family. Please provide.”
He’d been praying this same prayer daily, but no job had come along. Tim knew God’s promises were real, but the disappointment of unanswered prayer was weighing on his mind.
Luke 18:1 says, “And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought to always pray and not lose heart.”
God’s timing is not our timing—even when we’re frustrated, even when money is tight and circumstances are strained. The Bible promises when we obey the Lord, we can ask for what we need in prayer and God will provide.
God’s answer doesn’t always come immediately. Sometimes it’s completely different than what we expect. The answer might even be a resounding, “No,” and we have to trust God’s plan, even though it doesn’t meet our hopes or expectations.
Not every story is going to have a happy ending. In Tim’s case though, an ideal job in his field was advertised a couple of weeks later. His new work offered exciting challenges, the opportunity to network in his new community, and a Christian leadership team at work. God came through for Tim, big time!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for loving us through our impatience. Your plans for us are good, and your timing is always right. Thank you for hearing our prayers. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Judson Van DeVenter was an art teacher and artist when he became a layman in the Episcopal-Methodist Church. He was passionate about his work, but also actively devoted to the evangelistic meetings held at his church.
Seeing his abilities, Judson’s friends urged him to quit his job and become an evangelist. For five years, he wavered between the ministry and seeking recognition as an artist. He felt God’s call on his heart, but it was a difficult choice to set aside his career and artistic talent.
Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
One of the most challenging things we can do as humans is to surrender our lives to God. We want to control our lives and make our own decisions, but true freedom comes when we surrender to Christ.
Judson Van DeVenter, or “JW” as his friends called him, finally surrendered his life completely to Christ, and traveled extensively throughout the United States, England, and Scotland as an evangelist—visiting art museums and studying painting as he shared the Good News about Jesus.
Along the way he wrote the beloved hymn “I Surrender All,” among other songs, and was credited later in life as being a positive influence on the work of Billy Graham, who counted him as a friend and enjoyed time in his home for fellowship and singing.
When we surrender to Christ, we allow Him to take control of our lives. We become more focused on following His will, and less concerned about our own desires. We become more dependent on Him and less dependent on ourselves.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord Jesus, today I surrender all to you. Let me lean more on you, and less on my own desires. I give you my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Nick Vujicic, born without arms and legs, faced obstacles few could fathom. Less than 10 people worldwide have this condition. He’s now a person of faith, and one of the top motivational speakers in the world.
Oh—and he’s married with four kids.
Oh—and he graduated from college with a double major.
Nick, now 35, was born with a condition known as Tetra Amelia syndrome. Not surprisingly, he faced bullying as a kid, and it continued into adolescence. Then one day his mother gave him a newspaper article to read. It was about a man coping with severe disability. The story touched Nick, and he began going deeper into his faith.
Not surprisingly, as a teen, Nick constantly wondered why he was so different from everyone else. There seemed to be no purpose to his life, and depression was a very real threat. He credits his faith as the sole reason he overcame his condition.
Today, he’s the founder of the ministry Life Without Limbs, and he also launched a motivational speaking company. With global travel and communications taking Nick’s speaking opportunities to new levels, he is absolutely passionate to share his faith. As he says—if God can use a man without arms and legs to be his hands and feet, then He will certainly use any willing heart. Who wouldn’t be inspired by such a person?
Nick’s life perfectly fits Ephesians 2:10, which says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Few of us endure something as radical as what Nick has been through. His limitations, while rare and extreme, have been supernatural inspiration for millions.
How would you react to that severe kind of testing? If you focus on what you don’t have, or on what you wish you were, you are missing a direct and customized blessing for you from God.
Maybe you have an obstacle, or several. You feel stuck in life. And that’s fine…for a little while. If nothing else, reflect on the story of Nick Vujicic, and then read one of the most beautiful verses in all the Bible: Psalm 139:14; it says, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful. I know that full well.”
You are wonderfully made, perfectly suited for the purpose God has always had in store for you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, how many times do we wish we were someone else, or in different circumstances? Sometimes we just aren’t comfortable with who we are, but your word tells us we have freedom in Christ. And as the psalmist says, we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Each of us uniquely made to do your will on this earth. Help us to keep this truth in front of our face all the time. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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The action of sharing the Good News—the Great Commission—means that we don’t just sit in our houses and shut away the world.
Scripture is an action item.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
If the Bible is true—if God’s story intersects with our story—then a hurting world is in need of a Savior. The pain many are enduring will have no end until they meet Jesus. He is our healer and His glory fills the earth.
We all have different personalities and various methods of engaging with others. But whatever personality God has given us, we are tasked with sharing the life-giving news of Jesus and His sacrifice.
Get in the game! God has called you to share His salvation with anyone and everyone.
Darkness can be oppressive—but the Light has come!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you showed up in our world at precisely the moment that we needed you most. God, would you help us tell others that eternal story? It’s in Jesus’ name that we pray, amen.
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If you’ve ever wondered what the best way might be to share your faith and defend it in the modern world, it might help to look at past examples.
In the Bible, the husband-and-wife team of Priscilla and Aquila shared Christ with Apollos, who would become a famous early evangelist. In colonial England, the abolitionist William Wilberforce shamed his own government into freeing slaves.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
Today more than ever, it’s truly important that Christians prepare to defend our faith. The world is hurting and dying. People the world over desperately need the love of Christ, and they will have questions. They might wonder about the divinity of Jesus, or ask you specifically how to be saved.
You should be ready to answer, and do so with a heart full of love and compassion. And don’t be afraid to be bold!
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a spirit of courage in this chaotic world. Help us to love as you love. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Defending your faith can sometimes be a subjective thing. As examples of extremes, we’ve seen the Crusades, and at the other end of the spectrum, it’s perhaps an aggressive “pitch” to someone who isn’t a believer.
The thing is, it’s great to be zealous for our faith, but let’s also be disciplined. We don’t want to alienate a person who might otherwise listen. To put it simply: an angry Christian is usually a lonely Christian.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
We can defend our faith in a strong way. We can be bold in what we believe, sure of our eternity with Jesus Christ. But our messaging is very important. It could be that just having a conversation with someone is the right approach. Don’t feel pressure. Don’t press. Jesus has the job of saving; we just have to be available to share about Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, please always remind us to share the Gospel with love. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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In every generation, it falls to believers to spend time in defending our worldview as Christians. And honestly, it’s not the nicest part of the gig—but it is part of the gig. Usually, it involves simply explaining what your faith is all about.
Followers of other religions do the same thing, but for us, we’re sharing the person of Christ with someone who may not know Him. That makes it a big deal.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
It’s exciting that God has entrusted this to us. It’s a privilege. Even if you find yourself in an adversarial conversation—and they’re not all adversarial—but if it is, remember the main thing: you get to share your faith, and see someone else find freedom in Christ!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you allow us to tell others about you. Help us always to be ready to give an answer when asked about our faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Most of us feel a deep respect in our hearts for those who have sacrificed so that we can remain free. Loving those who have paid the ultimate price is just something we do as people. We pause to remember each year.
Isaiah 56:5 says, “To them I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever.”
God instituted the concept of maintaining memorials. He remembers, and so do we.
Maybe you’ve had a brother or mother or cousin or uncle that never came home from war. Even before the American Civil War, our citizens were placing flowers at the graves of veterans. It’s one way we can keep their sacrifices front-and-center, so that we don’t forget and become complacent.
This year on Memorial Day, stop to take time and pause. Do something tangible, like visit a cemetery. Ask an older relative to give you some insight into a family member who never came home. And then thank the Lord for that sacrifice.
Let’s pray.
Oh Lord, We remember those who had paid with their lives. It’s the least we can do, but we want to do more by keeping their memories alive in our hearts. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Who do you put your faith in?
In the 1930s, as war approached in Europe, the British loved their monarchs. The royal family has been beloved for generations, and King Edward the 8th was ready to take his place on the throne after the death of his father.
The people loved the dashing young king, and he seemed to enjoy his role. And then he fell in love.
Falling in love isn’t a bad thing of course, even for kings. But Edward loved an American woman who was divorced. In royal society, that just wasn’t done. So in an amazing decision, Edward abdicated! He left the throne less than a year after assuming power.
1 Timothy 1:17 says, “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”
Earthly kings come and go, but Jesus Christ will never abdicate. He will never abandon his duties. In fact, His famous sacrifice on the cross would not have been offered by any earthly king. It was far too costly.
Put your faith in the eternal King, today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have confidence in you that you will never abandon us. Thank you for your eternal love and that of your Son, Jesus. It’s in His name that we pray, amen.
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If Genesis describes the beginnings of the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the book of Revelation finishes the story.
Revelation 19 tells us a descendent of Judah, Jacob’s son, will one day come and rule the whole world. And He will be unlike any other king in history.
1 Timothy 1:17, “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”
This verse tells us that the role of the greatest of all kings belongs to Christ alone. The image of a lion, with its sleek coat, fierceness, and strength, best describes Jesus as ruler over all.
He will preside over an eternal kingdom, one that has no end and no boundaries. This picture of our great King is one we can hold fast to and believe in. One day, King Jesus, that strong lion, will even put away all dangers that threaten us. That is an amazing thing to look forward to, and it has been promised to us.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your lion is coming to defeat evil and put away death and suffering forever, and we greatly look forward to that. Thank you for keeping your promises. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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In the Bible, we read of family records that were the original genealogy sources. People knew where they came from, knew their kin. The 12 tribes of Israel were first outlined in Genesis, and from these 12 came an entire nation.
Even Jesus came from somewhere!
One of the Bible’s patriarchs, Jacob, had a son named Judah. The father calls the son a lion’s cub, and blesses him. Judah is told he will have favor in his family.
1 Timothy 1:17 says, “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”
It’s from this family of Judah that Jesus would come. There is even an interesting prophecy about this in Genesis 49; you should read it sometime.
In fact, Jesus was born into the tribe of Judah, and so symbolically, He becomes the “Lion of the Tribe of Judah,” and will return one day to Earth as a conquering King, the greatest one of all time.
The very name, the Lion of Judah, carries with it power and mystery. How thankful we are that this is Jesus’ name.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we love you for many reasons. We love you and thank you that the things you tell us will happen do in fact take place. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever heard of the legendary English king, Arthur? An iconic figure in history, he led a defense of his country against Saxon invaders around 1,500 years ago. He has also been immortalized in literature.
There’s only one problem: We don’t know if he actually existed. We certainly don’t know where he’s buried. And it’s a sure thing that King Arthur, if he lived, wasn’t history’s greatest ruler.
1 Timothy 1:17, “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”
The Bible tells us that the Creator God is the ruler over all. He is the great King, seen on Earth as Jesus Christ, who will come again one day as a conquering king.
Although other kings achieved legendary status, Jesus is no myth. The most documented figure in history, He waits for the right time to restore righteousness and perfection to our world. And we long to see Him!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are indeed our great King, righteous and perfect in all of your ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Do you know Who Jesus is? Do you really understand His identity?
We know from the Bible that He is many things: a child, a carpenter, a leader of men. We know that He is our Savior, the One who went to the cross to take on our sin.
He is also our King.
1 Timothy 1:17, “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”
In this letter to his young friend, Paul emphasized to Timothy that Jesus has dominion over everything and everyone. That’s because Jesus knows exactly what needs to be done in every situation.
While His earthly characteristics and roles give us some picture of Him, it’s the picture of Him as King that best describes Him. God the Father has made Jesus Lord overall, and in Him, we find true peace.
Growing up, did you ever feel safe because you knew your dad or mom was in charge, and would do everything right? We have that confidence in Jesus times infinity! He is our great and good King, forevermore.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have set Jesus aside as unlike anyone else, ever. You placed kingly robes and a special crown on His head. God, thank you for sending your Son for our sake. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Today we wrap up our series on finding contentment by discussing the source of true peace and happiness.
John MacArthur once wrote a book called Our Sufficiency in Christ. In it, he revealed the path to finding true peace and contentment, and he says there’s a single word that encompasses all the riches we find in Christ: Grace. What a magnificent word it is. It’s used more than 150 times in the New Testament to speak of divine favor, bestowed on undeserving people. It is the means by which we receive every physical and spiritual benefit.
People the world over search all their lives for peace, and who doesn’t want to be truly content? But we look for it everywhere but where it is. Chasing adventure or money or career success will, well—it will leave you empty.
Maybe you’ve been running hard for a long time so that you can advance in a career that you find meaningful. There’s nothing wrong with that. So long as there’s balance, and your life can remain focused on Jesus. The Bible tells us very bluntly that anything else will leave us unsatisfied.
And at the very least, you can start by finding even one or two minutes in your day before sun up or late in the evening and just pray. Tell God that climbing the ladder at work is leaving you strangely empty.
The Bible isn’t some interesting old book. It’s not just some historical treasure, it’s life itself. Why? Because from beginning to end, it points us to Jesus Christ, who made us.
Resolve right now, even as you’re sitting at your desk, to begin getting to know Christ. And sooner rather than later, you will feel your anxiety lesson and your priorities shift. You’ll discover what many have looked for in the wrong places for centuries. You’ll find peace for your soul.
Writing in 2 Corinthians, Paul said of Christ’s message to all of us, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.”
Philippians 4:12–13 says, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I’ve learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Realizing all this, your circumstances might not change, but you will change for the better—for all time.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you are sovereign and that should make us calmer. Your power upholds everything in the universe, and you are good. You are not some impersonal being or one who is indifferent to our needs. Help us seek your Son Jesus at every turn. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Today’s message is really about taking the long view.
The human attention span is short, like really, really short. Between the world wars, Winston Churchill warned Europe that Hitler was a threat to the continent at least, but people ignored him. And then when the Nazis turned violent, the people turned to Churchill as their prime minister.
Having led the country through another costly war to preserve freedom, Churchill was defeated for reelection in the last days of World War II. It’s like the people had forgotten his priceless contribution to world peace. He knew the war would take a long time and that it would be costly, and the people wanted to avoid thinking about it, and even later wanted it over quickly. And that’s rarely how life works. Churchill returned as Prime Minister in the 1950s, but his experiences show that people mostly want short-term solutions.
Working for the long goal is rarely popular.
Jeremiah 15:15 says, “Lord, you understand. Remember me and care for me, avenge me on my persecutors. You are longsuffering. Do not take me away. Think of how I suffer reproach for your sake.”
Here God is reminding us that often, we’re required to stay in it for the long haul. Nowhere is this more true than in the pursuits of peace and contentment. That kind of thing is not built quickly, and not surprisingly too many people don’t stay with it, and they stumble along looking for solutions in the wrong places.
If you’re in a bad place today, you’re going to have to start with basic steps. Talk to Jesus and tell Him you’re struggling. Maybe you have a vague sense of depression and just can't locate the direct cause. Take the example of people who did understand the source of true happiness, and were committed to seeing it through no matter how long it took.
Abraham knew the value of prayer, and he waited for decades to have a son. Hannah was also unable to have children, but she prayed and stayed faithful, and eventually, God gave her a child and she felt fulfilled. Joseph spent years in exile in prison because of his brother’s actions, but his faith didn’t waver. He actually found his contentment in the middle of these trials, and eventually, God restored his family, and all he had lost.
If you’re depressed or ground down from money worries, or facing some other huge challenge—go to God right now and tell Him you need peace for your soul. Tell him you fully trust Him and will wait with as much patience and faith as you can. It’s then you start the clock ticking on your difficult circumstances, and while you wait, your heart will be at rest.
Let’s pray.
Father, thank you for the good gifts that we already have. Help us be grateful for those things that sustain life. We fully trust you to bring about our delivery from life’s circumstances precisely the moment you have chosen. Sustain our spirits on this journey, Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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The big question for today is, can we find contentment in things?
Have you ever listened to a very successful person complain about the fact that his wealth doesn’t make him happy? How the success of life has left him or her empty? Of course, you have. We’ve all heard stories like that, but pay attention to that—because it’s really important.
Watch people roll their eyes when they hear those stories. Why do they do that? Because they’re thinking, “Yeah, just give me some of that emptiness. I’d like to live on that side of town for a while,” but that attitude misses the point that’s trying to be made. From the past to now there have been at least multiple millions of these stories, these laments from very successful people who would trade it all to be content. Millions and millions of successful, but unhappy people.
It’s when we’re confronted with numbers like that, that we should say to ourselves, “Wait a second…I need to think that through. Maybe having things and fame and success really doesn’t satisfy.” It’s then we start walking the right road to contentment.
April Motl is a writer in California who works with her husband in ministry. Recently, she made a fascinating point. She said, “About six months ago, my husband said he thought the Lord was trying to teach him to be content with mediocrity. ‘Mediocrity? Never! We should always be striving for the best,’ I thought to myself. But in light of a few life lessons of my own, I think I now understand what my husband was saying. It’s easy for us to want the best life has to offer, but sometimes ‘the best’ is learning to be content with what we have.”
Hebrews 13:5 says, “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have. Because God has said, never will I leave you. Never will I forsake you.”
You don’t actually need to hear another story of unfulfillment from someone you’ve admired to know that stuff doesn’t ultimately satisfy. You have only to think about your own life and realize that what God has given you materially is not the ultimate prize. It’s only when you’re in harmony with Him that you begin to know a life of contentment.
Let’s pray.
Father, we know in our hearts that things don’t bring fulfillment. That fact is plain to us, no matter how much we have. Help us be mindful that in you alone, we find the desires of our hearts. Remind us daily not to pin our hopes for the future on what we can acquire today. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Today, our big question is, can we find contentment in relationships?
How many times has this scene been repeated? A guy sees a girl he can’t live without. He thinks she will bring him happiness—and for a while, that's how it plays out. But then one day he’s melancholy just like he used to be. Or how about the woman who believes marriage will fulfill her heart’s desires, but then over time her husband isn’t so perfect?
You see the common denominator in these two scenarios. Partners aren’t the issue. The lack of contentment comes from the person seeking it. It comes from within. They’re looking in the wrong place.
Romans 12:2 says, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world. Let God transform you into a new person. By changing the way you think, then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”
Author Rob Kuban sums up right relationships for those seeking contentment. He says the Bible calls us to allow our convictions, not our circumstances, to govern our sense of contentment. If you aren’t willing to do the work of changing from within, your desires will largely go unmet, and honestly, you will not be attractive as a potential friend or mate.
Our first assignment is to find peace with God, and then seek the one He has for us. You see, choosing to be content is the first step. It’s just that so many people want shortcuts.
Read Ecclesiastes sometime, it’s a leadership book, really, but it opens a window into Solomon’s mind and heart. Here we see his thoughts on what happens when a person looks in the wrong places for real happiness. Solomon was the richest man of his time, and he also had hundreds of wives. But as an old man, he was bent in body and spirit from too many years of pursuing everything but his creator. Learn from his example and fix your eyes on the ultimate relationship. People will then be able to see the contentment on your face.
Let’s pray.
Father God, our first priority should be a right relationship with you. Only you can bring peace to our hearts and minds long-term so that in turn we can bless others. Thank you, Father, for making a way for us to be content. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The diversity of life on this planet is astonishing, good, bad, beautiful, painful. Our world is a place of blessing and it’s also a struggle for a lot of people. Each of us has a whole batch of issues to deal with every day, ranging from physical challenges to emotional needs. And a fascinating element in all this is how we see contentment.
What is it?
Where is it found?
Is it lasting?
Matthew 6:32–33 says, “For the pagans run after all these things and your Heavenly Father knows that you need them but seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Our old friend balance is so important. In every aspect of our lives, we should have a goal of keeping steady. Solomon spoke to this in Proverbs 30, when he asked God to give him not too much or too little. He reasoned that if he had great wealth, he might forget God. If he was in poverty, he might be inclined to steal. This effort to find balance is the heart of finding contentment. God is the ultimate source and He gives us the capacity to be content, using scripture as our guide. And as usual, God has a comprehensive plan for you, especially in the area of contentment.
Notice what Proverbs 14:30 says, “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.”
The actor Chris Tucker discovered all this after the huge success of “Rush Hour” and other projects. But he became a Christian, and now he’s selective in what he does, and he keeps it clean and real. It’s been estimated that since he turned to faith, Tucker has turned down a hundred million in projects. What’s his take on all that? He says, “But I've got a hundred million great experiences.”
Whether you’re hard-charging and ambitious, or you’re simply neglecting the pursuit of peace in your life, you’re damaging your spiritual health.
Finding spiritual harmony makes you a complete person. Anything short of that, you’re flying with a broken wing. Bottom line is, if you look at all the verses in the Bible that speak to being truly content, you’ll quickly understand that Christ is the answer.
Let’s pray,
Father, You’ve provided the only way to true peace and contentment, and we thank You for that. Help us to keep this in front of us every day as we seek to live life well and abundantly, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Jane was the last child to receive a handmade blanket from her great grandmother. Pink and blue, festooned with angels and sprinkled with stars that sparkled in the light, the much-loved blanket was the little girl’s constant companion.
This childhood treasure became even more important when Gramma Ann passed away—a reminder of her love for her family, and her faith in God.
Jane’s blanket kept her warm in sickness and in health, but the washing machine proved its eventual undoing. One day, the last remaining fragment of Gramma Ann’s very last blanket was lost.
Ephesians 2:8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
A few years after the remaining bit of Jane’s ‘Gramma Ann Blankie’ was lost to time (but not to memory), her mom stumbled across the best yard sale find of all time: the very same blanket, likely created from a quilting kit, in brand new condition. Jane and her mother cried together right there in a stranger’s driveway, certain that Gramma was smiling down on them from Heaven in that moment of discovery. It was the best two dollars the pair ever spent.
Grace can show up when we least expect it—even in the form of a long-lost family heirloom returned to us in the unlikeliest of ways.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your grace is a constant delight. You are faithful to us when we seek Your face, and Your gift of grace shows up in incredible ways. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Sandra was a single mom with little family support. Her ex was not exactly helping repair a tough situation. Her days slowed down only late at night when everyone else was asleep. That’s when fear got into bed with her…and wouldn’t budge.
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
Every human being in history is faced with trouble at some point. But how we handle the rough times is key. Fear has no place in our lives.
In the dark, when fear really wanted to rattle her, Sandra prayed to the Lord. She told Jesus that she was scared and needed His help. And guess what? Jesus showed up for her.
She really believes that the Bible is true, and that Scripture shows us the heart of God. It is His desire to love us through the pain and the uncertainty.
Trying to fear less is a good place to start. It’s not where we’re called—we’re called to NOT fear. But you can whittle it down a little at a time if you need to. Then one day, you’ll wake up and realize you aren’t afraid at all. You don’t have to fear evil, because God is with you!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are with us in every situation and your mercies never end. Thank you for loving us all the time, not just here and there. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Are you a woman blessed with the gift of a wonderful mother-in-law? We can hardly think of a more important relationship. Through the ages, this mentoring friendship has sealed families and nurtured them. Likewise, we easily see the pain inflicted when this relationship isn’t good.
In the Old Testament, we read of a really remarkable mother-in-law. She showed great kindness to a young woman at just the right moment.
After returning home to Bethlehem after a famine is over, Naomi wants the best for her young daughter-in-law Ruth, whose husband has died. Although she must have longed for security herself and companionship, Naomi encourages Ruth to marry Boaz. Eventually, Ruth has a son, Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David!
Ruth 1:22 says, “So Naomi returned from Moab accompanied by Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, arriving in Bethlehem as the barley harvest was beginning.”
Naomi’s unselfish act, her encouragement to the vulnerable Ruth, is the model for all such relationships. It’s intentionally about the other person. It’s the story of a woman mentoring and loving another she sees as a daughter.
So how will your mother-in-law's story be recorded? Have you ever thought about that? How will the women in your family remember you?
Let’s pray.
Lord, people are watching us, and they’re watching how we treat others. Nowhere is that more important than in our own homes, and in our own families. Help us think of others before we think of ourselves. In Jesus’ name, amen.
She’s not very well known, even though she’s in the Bible. But Jochebed…who’s heard of her? Go ahead—raise your hands. This great woman deserves a bigger story in our culture because she modeled what it means to act with bravery, and to value all life.
Exodus 2:3 says, “But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile.”
Jochebed, you see, was the mother of Moses. Knowing that Pharaoh had ordered all Hebrew baby boys to be killed, she hid her infant son in a basket among the reeds of the Nile. And when Pharaoh’s daughter found the boy, she felt sorry for him and took him in; the rest as they say, is history!
It’s been said that the love a mother has for her children is the strongest human bond. Long ago, a slave defied the empire and saved her son. He went on to change history.
Sometimes we just have to step out in faith and be intentional about courage.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this woman inspires us today. Thank you that the story of this sweet mother, Jochebed, was recorded for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Everyone loves the beauty of nature’s gems. The greens, blues, and reds of natural gemstones have set apart jewelry since the beginning of time. These precious jewels are relatively rare, and desired by people from all walks of life.
None more than the ruby.
The second hardest gemstone, rubies have always been striking for their deep reds that flash in the light. They have been used in the crowns of monarchs for centuries, and for the rings and necklaces we can find in jewelry stores today. Jewelers tell us the ruby is one of the most coveted stones.
Four times rubies are mentioned in the Bible, and each time the reference is to beauty or wisdom.
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
A godly woman is one who stands out for her internal beauty and wisdom. She is admired for all the right reasons as she walks in the light, revealing the kind of attributes only God can craft and provide.
In the famous Proverbs 31 chapter of the Bible, we read a fairly detailed account of this wonderful woman. Many of us count them as mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters—and they bless us.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the Proverbs 31 woman, like a fine ruby, is easy to spot. We value them for all the right reasons, and we thank you for the blessing of knowing and appreciating women such as these. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Welcome to the Kerusso Daily Devotional. Good morning…good afternoon…whatever time it is where you are. Where are you today? I don’t mean on the way to work or your kitchen or a doctor’s office. I mean, is your life stable? Are you on the right road?
Our topic this week is the perfect timing of God. You might be in an okay place, or you might be free-falling. As usual, God’s Word speaks to this.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Wow. That is a description of how your Creator is managing your life. You see it as a disaster. He sees you as beautiful. He is smoothing the path in front of you.
Can I give you some advice? If today is rainy and gloomy for you, quiet your mind for a few minutes, wherever you are. Meditate on our verse for today. If you can’t really see where your life is going, you’re not alone. All of us see through a glass darkly, as the apostle Paul said.
But God sees everything, and He sees it clearly. He knows where you’re going and just as important, He knows where you are now. God’s got this. Rest in that today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are deeply grateful that you are in charge and that you love us. We love you, too. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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You probably know whether you’re a morning or night person. Science has some good news for you early risers: Apparently, the early bird really does get the worm.
In a study of early risers versus night owls, researchers at the University of Birmingham discovered strong connections in the regions of the brain that can predict better performance and lower sleepiness; these areas were significantly stronger in study participants who identified themselves as early birds.
Whether you burn the midnight oil and sleep the day away or rise before the sun, there is power in beginning your day by connecting with God in prayer—whether that happens to be before dawn, or at the crack of noon.
Psalm 5:3 says, “In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.”
Any time is a great time to reach out to the Lord in prayer, and one of the best ways to build a consistent prayer habit is to schedule your prayer time.
Try setting your alarm a few minutes early to give yourself a spiritual head start on the day. Thank God for the people and circumstances you’re grateful for. Ask Him to bless the ones you love, and to guide your footsteps.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you God, for wiring us uniquely to be night owls, early birds, or something in between. Your timing is always right. Keep us in tune with you through regular prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever heard someone recall a tough time and be happy about it? Not very often, right?
We all go through stuff we’d rather forget. When tough times hit us without warning, it’s natural to just wish it could all be over— immediately! Humans are built to run from trouble. How do you grind through when it’s so bad you want to die?
Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
This is something that separates Christianity from other faiths. In the Bible, we see it all: good, bad, and everything in between. Faith isn’t handed to you like a plate of cookies.
Faith can be messy.
But it is a truism that anything worth having is worth fighting for, and waiting on. God’s timing is often very different from our own, and the story He has planned for us may follow a very narrow path. True faith is joy beyond our full understanding, and the Source of our Faith is always ready to carry us when we can’t make it. That is the essence of holding fast.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word tells us that you will always be with us, in the good times and the bad. God we believe you, we thank you, and we love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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In 1943, Winston Churchill wanted an invasion of Europe to defeat the Nazis, but the Americans weren’t ready. They were ready one year later. And when the Germans on the French beaches saw thousands of ships coming through the mist one morning, they knew Franklin Roosevelt, the American president, had been right to wait.
Now the allies were at full strength and aiming for victory. Timing saved civilization.
It’s like that in life sometimes, isn’t it? For all of us. How many times have we been sure that we needed something right now, but then had to wait?
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has set eternity in the hearts of men. Yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
God knows what you need, and when you need it. And the Bible says He’s known all of this since before He created the world. His timing wins every time. And that’s a good reminder.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know best, all of our needs. Thank you for delivering on your timing and not ours. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Science. It’s pretty cool.
Did you know what we think of as a day—how long it takes the Earth to rotate—isn’t actually 24 hours. According to NASA, it’s 23 hours, 56 minutes, and 4.2 seconds. A day on the planet Mercury—it's a whopping 58 Earth days, 15 hours and 30 minutes.
Can you imagine a Monday that lasts over 1400 hours? Our Creator God, in His infinite wisdom, gave us the perfect amount of daytime for work and play, and nighttime for rest. He gave us seven days for productivity, and most importantly, he gave us the Sabbath, a time to rest and to gather as believers to acknowledge His goodness.
Humans are busy creatures, and sometimes we wish we had more time to accomplish a task or extra hours in the day. When a situation is difficult, we wish it was over already and gnash our teeth and clench our fists and frustration.
It’s tempting to spend our lives watching the clock, trying to force our circumstances into our own ideal timelines, but there’s a better way. God’s plan is not our own plan, and it doesn’t run on the world’s timeline.
When you’re waiting for that big promotion. Remember, God will promote you when it’s time, when you’re patient and persistent in following Him. When you’re worrying over forthcoming test results. Remember, God is holding you in the palm of His hand. He will give you answers in His time.
Faith means letting life happen all in good time and all on God's timeline.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, help us to trust you and to follow in your path for us, even when we’re not sure what will happen next or when our next steps will be revealed. We know you love us, and your plans for us are good. Thank you for your love, your faithfulness, and your saving grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Since prayer is, by nature, personal, we often want to know how things are going to turn out, even before we start praying. We wonder if God will actually answer our prayer. Maybe not as dramatic as some stories, but still if we’re honest, we would like an answer to our prayer. Why else ask?
Luke 18:1 says, “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”
The fact is, of the 650 prayers in the Bible, 450 of them were answered, at least as the accounts were recorded. Others might have been answered later, but there are indications that, no, God does not always answer a prayer. And this is where our human perspectives can hamper our ability to see the full picture.
Isaiah 55:8 says, “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts. Neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord.”
From our limited perspective at this moment in time, we might not understand how or if God is answering our prayers. Remember Job and his friends prayed, and tried to figure out for some time just what God was up to in this suffering man’s life.
The most interesting takeaway from the Book of Job is that, in the end, when God addresses Job, He never once tells him why he suffered. He basically puts Job in his place by saying that He, God, knows and understands everything, and we obviously do not.
It’s worth noting that in Job’s case, God restored everything to him and more. As we read in Luke 18:1, part of our responsibility in praying is perseverance. We’re not supposed to act like children and throw a fit if we don’t get our way.
In those times when we think God is slow in answering us, it’s necessary for us to have some patience. Nowhere are we promised a quick answer or even an answer at all. Sometimes we just have to have faith that God will work everything out for us.
Let’s pray.
Father God, like Job, we want to trust you no matter what. Even if an answer to our prayer is slow, we love you anyway, and we thank you that you love us for eternity. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Truett burst through the front door with exciting news one afternoon, anxious to share his latest find. “Mom! I found a praying mantis. Can you believe it! They’re pretty rare around here.”
It was certainly one of the biggest bugs they’d seen in the fields around their home. The beautiful emerald green insect crawled from hand to hand, curious about its new environment.
Considered a symbol of peace, contemplation, and prayer, the word “mantis” in Greek literally means prophet or seer. The prayerful pose we recognize in these insects is not actual prayer or meditation of course, but a pose designed to help them capture prey. The “prayers” of this fascinating creature are actually part of an intricately designed plan for their survival.
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
There are many things in this life that distract us from seeking what matters most. Technology. Financial stress. Family discord. Health concerns. Sin. The miraculous thing is when we quiet our hearts and minds and seek God first, He helps us clear away the clutter of this world, and blesses us with the things we need to take the next right step. With God, we can not only survive, but thrive.
And you know what else? God will provide for all our needs. How poetic that a prayerful pose is a matter of survival for us as believers, too.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your incredible creation is filled with reminders to turn to you in all things. We thank you for that, and we love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Communism kept half of Europe locked up for much of the 20th century. For 75 years, the oppressive system took most freedoms away from its ordinary citizens. The political system, responsible for tens of millions of deaths, seemed almost indestructible.
Then, almost suddenly, the system built on restricting freedom just collapsed. The end came so quickly that all the most experienced analysts and diplomats were caught off guard.
How did that amazing turnaround happen?
It didn’t happen with guns and tanks and planes. Not a single missile silo was opened. Instead, it took the strategic efforts of a religious leader, a Polish labor union activist, and countless regular citizens in countries like Hungary and East Germany, among many others, to expose evil and demand a better way of life.
In a similar way, God defeats evil by showing us a strategy that might go unnoticed at first.
2 Corinthians 10:4 states, “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds.”
Only a reliance on God and continual prayer will win the day.
The battles you are fighting cannot depend on vengeance or worldly efforts. We’re fighting spiritual battles and conventional weapons just won’t work. As believers, we’re called to duty, called to minister to others, to tell others of His Word, His love for us, and His actions to help us overcome.
There are many examples in the Bible of people relying only on God for their victory. Not once did they lose. We won’t either if we lay aside our own perceived strength and trust completely in His divine power.
Let’s pray.
Father, help us see that our own plans are often wrong. We get into a battle and become blinded by our own strategies or a thirst for our own kind of victory. But the time to fight must come with a commitment to trust in your infinite power, to rely on the victory that only comes through Christ, and to tell others about our Lord and Savior. Bring this to our minds when the battle rages. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Jenna stopped in her tracks, sighing in frustration as she bent down to pick yet another rock out of her shoe. “Why on earth am I suddenly picking up rocks every time I walk the dog,” she wondered.
They finished their usual route, and at home, Jenna slipped off her shoes and discovered the problem: she’d worn down those old slip-ons for so long that she wore a hole right through the soles of both shoes!
Philippians 4:6 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Sometimes our prayer lives are like Jenna’s old shoes: we take them for granted, setting aside a daily prayer habit and coming back when it’s convenient—putting off prayer until we can find the time, or in a time of trouble or desperation, when we really need God to intervene.
But prayer isn’t meant to be a sometimes thing.
We cultivate a healthy prayer life when we communicate with God often—daily, or even more than once a day. When we let our communication with the Lord wear thin, we’re missing out on the blessings of His listening ear. He wants to hear from us: both our praises and our problems!
Don’t tuck your prayer life away for later, like an old pair of shoes in the back of the closet. Pray throughout the day whenever you have a quiet moment to reach out to God, and build regular prayer into your day to ensure there are no holes in your communication with your Heavenly Father.
So—why don’t we pray right now?
Lord, thank you for being available to us through prayer. God, we are so grateful for your love for us, and your desire to hear from us, your children. Remind us to keep the lines of communication open. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Humans were built for language and communication.
It’s one of the bits of creative genius God used when He formed His highest creation. And apart from regular communication, whether it’s the written word or verbal, we have a great gift from a loving God: prayer.
Prayer is an intensely personal way to communicate with our Creator, the One who knows everything about us.
Jeremiah 29:12 says, “Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me and I will listen to you.”
All through scripture, we see that God is available to us all the time. No regular hours or standing meetings. We can talk to Him anytime we want. There are 650 recorded prayers in the Bible, and we read about people praying while sitting, standing, kneeling, with faces to the ground or hands lifted up.
By the way, Amen means “let it be,” or “so be it.”
The word “prayer” appears for the first time in Numbers 5:22.
Since prayers are human communication with God, we see that the first prayers were way back in Genesis 3 and 4 when Adam and Eve, and later Cain, talked with God. In the second exchange, even though Cain was angry and had just killed his brother, he was having a conversation with God.
Jesus famously modeled prayer in Luke 11; and notice that He was talking to God the Father.
It can be a fine line when thinking about how prayer is initiated. Often, thoughts come to our minds, or we’re reminded to pray for someone. However, there’s an indication that God prompts us to talk with Him.
Galatians 4:6, that from our hearts we cry out, “Abba Father,” and that the indwelling spirit of the Lord prompts this in us. Of all the great gifts God has given us, prayer is one of the most special. It's how our spirits commune with the One who loves us with perfect love. And He’s always ready and waiting to hear from us.
Let’s pray.
Father God, we worship you for who you are. We love you, and thank you for loving us. Thank you for making a way for us to talk with you about the things that lie hidden in our hearts. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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In the book of Romans, Paul tells us the evidence for the existence of God is so numerous in nature that anyone can believe in God. Surely one of the most compelling examples is in our night sky. When we look up at the heavens, it takes our breath away. The twinkling lights are like our own personal message from God.
All those stars…
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
Astronomers tell us that each star is as unique as we are. We can see some burning dramatically, others are smaller but no less beautiful. All those infinite numbers dot the black backdrop, causing even the most cynical of us to marvel.
God has always intended for you to share your faith. Like a message written with stars, your story will resonate with people who wonder why you have joy in a crazy world. They will stop and consider what you have to say, because the light of Christ shines from the inside out.
That is a message worth sharing!
Let’s pray.
Lord, would you give us the courage to tell our stories, to share the Good News of what Christ has done for us! It’s in Jesus' name that we pray, amen.
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When we look at the amazing diversity all around us in nature, we see that no detail escaped God’s attention. He created all things to live in harmony.
That includes our individual physical bodies. He intends for us to be healthy and whole—mind, body, and soul.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
In order to fully serve God, we can’t neglect anything. So that we can be a faithful witness of His love and sacrifice, we gotta take care of ourselves, including our health.
You will not be able to effectively witness for Christ if you don’t take care of yourself. One of the easiest ways to do that is to take a walk each day. Make a real effort to walk in the fresh air, to strengthen your heart of love for a hurting world.
Get out there!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you direct our steps. Help us to be at the top of our game, including physically. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever spent time out in the country? If you’re used to the noise of city life—neighbors coming and going, traffic, dogs barking...then spending a few nights in the country can feel almost too quiet.
A brilliant sunrise without buildings to block the view, the most stars you’ve ever seen shining across the night sky, and a unique feeling of peace can all be found in the country, if you get the chance to enjoy these simple pleasures.
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Sometimes God’s blessings come in bold strokes, and sometimes He shows His love for us in sweet, simple ways...warm sunshine; a soft breeze; fragrant blooming flowers; quiet countryside views.
Every good thing in life comes from our Heavenly Father, and there are so many reasons to smile, and so much joy to be found, if we keep our eyes open to all the blessings God bestows.
Will you pray with me?
Lord, thank you for the quiet beauty you’ve created for us to enjoy in nature. God help us to seek you first, and to count our blessings. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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We live in an amazing world of rich diversity. In nature, we see almost countless stunning animal species. We linger on pictures of beautiful landscapes. And different cultures give us amazing experiences.
There are also many different religions. Some of them offer a measure of peace. Some have reflections that can help us be better people. Today we’re talking about salvation, and that is one thing only Jesus offers. That’s a harsh thing to say in this day and age, but if we are true to God’s Word, we affirm it.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Founders of other religions can’t save you. God tells us in Scripture that He alone saves, through the sacrifice on the cross by his Son, Jesus Christ. Maybe you’ve been offended by that seemingly exclusive offer, but what could it hurt, really, to reflect on it?
Choose to do that today. Privately, tell Jesus that you want to know Him.
He’ll answer.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your world is beautiful but flawed. The world to come that you’ve prepared for us will be perfect and without end. Thank you for that. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Have you ever talked to someone who doubted the existence of God? Someone who says God couldn’t have created everything in our world?
Watch that same someone stare in wonder at a mountain range like the Rockies, the delicate bloom of a flower, or a sunset on a beach in Greece. It’s pretty hard to deny God in such a moment.
In fact, all throughout scripture, we’re told that God’s majesty is seen in our natural surroundings. He made everything. Literally—all matter. He created the conditions for a waterfall, the light of the moon and the stars, and the horses that gallop across a prairie.
There’s infinite beauty in our world, and He made it.
Amos 4:13 says, “He who forms the mountains, who creates the wind, and who reveals his thoughts to mankind, who turns dawn to darkness and treads on the heights of the earth, the Lord God Almighty is his name.”
The Prophet Amos had seen the beauty of the land, from golden deserts to lush pastures. He’d also seen the power of God even in earthquakes and storms. He knew it was possible to worship God without limitations, and the splendor of nature He’d created.
We have the same opportunity. Just stand in a favorite spot and meditate on the power and majesty of the living God. Take a walk in the fresh air to revive your spirit. There’s something healing about connecting with your Creator in a spot that highlights just how much beauty is in our world.
The next time you hear someone question the existence of God, or if you encounter someone who’s feeling a bit down, get them out in nature. Take time to soak it all in. Reflect on His wondrous works. It’ll have a positive effect.
Let’s pray.
Father, thank you so much for creating a world that we can enjoy. We’re aware of you and know you made the lakes, and the valleys, and the mountains—all of it. You filled it with amazing animals and fresh air. We praise your name for all of this, Father. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Spring is the season of new life. As we finish up our series on the Psalms, we come to the most famous one of all.
Psalm 23:1–2 says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.”
This psalm contains some of the most famous words ever written. It has everything: beautiful language, a man’s raw honest heart for God, and a universal theme of love that God has for all people.
It echoes in the universe.
Think of the picture that God is painting here for us.
We are bone weary, but He has actually made a place for us to rest in a garden. We hear the flowing water. We are refreshed inside and out. And He is with us.
Do yourself a favor this spring. Memorize every line of the 23rd Psalm. Put it in your heart so that when you’re in that dark valley, you will remember that the one true God loves you absolutely and completely.
Goodness and mercy follow you. Close your eyes and sit in the cool grass. He is with you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the Great Shepherd who provides a sanctuary for us. Thank you, thank you for making a place of safety for us as we go through life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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One of the things that sets God apart from all others is His ability to tell us what is going to happen. We read about this in Isaiah 46, where He says only He knows the end from the beginning.
An amazing example of this is found in Psalm 22, and it’s almost surprising how many people are not aware of it.
Psalm 22:11 says, “Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.”
If you read the entire chapter carefully, you begin to realize that this is a conversation that Jesus had on the cross.
This psalm was written a thousand years before that world-changing event!
It describes a man being mocked on the cross. A man who is so thirsty his mouth feels like a piece of dry pottery. He even mentions that his tormentors are casting lots for His clothes. All these things are described in the New Testament, and even some of the language Jesus used on the cross is seen here in this psalm for the first time.
God is in charge of all things, all the time. And that includes your situation. He raised Jesus from the dead, and He will provide life eternal for you if you call on Him.
He knows the end from the beginning.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know all things. No one else does. That alone should give us confidence that you will be with us always. It’s in Jesus’ name that we pray, amen.
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From the time he was a young shepherd in the wilderness, David had deep relationship with God. He escaped enough dangerous situations to know that God was always with Him, and was his deliverer.
Psalm 91:1–2 says, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
This psalm is famous for its descriptive language. We can see a picture of this in our minds. And the specific things listed in this passage are very personal for each of us.
We are not to fear.
When we call on Him, He hears.
His angels watch over us.
One of the most beautiful images in the Bible is found in this psalm, as God, like a strong eagle, covers us with His wings so that we are protected.
Remember the words of Psalm 91 and call on Him day or night.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your protection for us is just one of the things that separates you from anyone or anything else. We are grateful for your wings that draw us near and cover us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Nothing is more basic to life than creation itself. The Bible tells us that God alone has the power to truly create, and the beauty of language in Psalm 139 explains this fully. Some believe the psalmist was writing in part about the creation of Adam.
Psalm 139:1–3 says, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”
The writer of the Psalms marvels at the ways in which God understands each of us intimately, and is present everywhere
Are you aware that God loves you with a supernatural love? He created you to be a singular presence in the world…what we call “unique.” You might feel sometimes that you are worthless, or that no one cares. But that’s not so.
The Creator of the Universe, in that vast space, took time to make only one of you. You are precious to Him and you should never forget it, even when things look depressing.
God sees you when you sit in that chair and when you get up. He knows what you’re thinking and what’s in your heart.
You are on His mind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s comforting knowing that you are with us in each moment of our day. Help us to live in that moment. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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One of the greatest gifts God has given us is the collection of songs and poetic works known as “Psalms,” originally written as music for worship— especially in the Temple in Jerusalem.
Today, we celebrate them as prayers for the most part, and they give us a beautiful picture of who God is.
Psalm 1:6 says, “For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.”
Traditional authorship is assigned mostly to King David, who loved to worship God with music and even dancing. His heart was open to God, and this inner life could be seen by anyone; this earthly king worshiped the King of kings.
In this introductory psalm, we read about the contrast between those who love God and those who don’t. And we are encouraged to meditate on His Word every day.
Our God is the great God, and loves each of us more than we can even imagine. And that love is a song we can carry in our hearts.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your love for us is eternal and we are so blessed to receive it, as David did, all the days of our lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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God chose Jesus, His Son, to make the greatest sacrifice mankind has ever known. The Son of God became a son of man, experiencing humanity in full as He was born, nurtured by Mary and Joseph, and ministered to and healed people He encountered.
The miraculous birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of our Christian faith. It is powerful to consider that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ shared our human experience.
Jesus was chosen by His Father to pay the ultimate price for the sins of all mankind, in order to save our souls for all eternity. None of us can fathom how it would feel to be in that position, but the Bible tells us in Hebrews that Jesus suffered anguish as He pondered God’s plan for Him.
Hebrews 5:7 says, “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.”
Jesus could have refused His calling, leaving us to bear the punishment for our sin, but instead, He obeyed His Father and gave His life in exchange for our redemption. What an incredible gift His grace is for us.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for giving your life in exchange for our sins. God called you to be born, live a human life, and die on the cross, and you obeyed your Father and gave your life for us. Thank you for loving us that much. In your name, amen.
Gideon was hiding from the Midianites in a winepress when an angel of the Lord came to him, saying, “Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!” And Gideon… just wasn’t buying it.
He questioned how the Lord could be with him when his community was under the thumb of the Midianites, and they had never experienced the wonders and miracles their ancestors spoke of in the past. He felt abandoned by God.
Then the Lord Himself spoke to Gideon, saying, “Go with the strength you have, and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you!”
And how did Gideon respond? Basically, he told God to prove it.
Judges 6:15–16 says, “‘Pardon me, my lord,’ Gideon replied, ‘but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.’ The Lord answered, ‘I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive.’”
Gideon asked for not one, not two, but three signs to prove it was really the Lord speaking to him. God accomplished His plans with Gideon’s participation, but his lack of self-confidence continually limited his potential.
From an outsider’s perspective, we may shake our heads at Gideon’s decision to question God again and again, but if we’re honest, most of us have had times in our own lives when our confidence as Christians was on shaky ground. That’s when the Lord requires us to seek firm footing in our faith.
Let’s pray.
God, when we are unsure of your calling and don’t fully understand your plans, please remind us you are our strength, and you will give us everything we need. We can do what you ask, because you say so. Thank you that we can depend on you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Isn’t it awesome to wake up on a Saturday morning with the whole day before you? Whether you decide to chip away at a big project, get your grocery shopping done, or enjoy a restful day around the house, your time is your own.
When the Lord chooses us for His purposes, the timing of His plans may surprise us, big time. But following Jesus means prayerfully obeying His call, even if it’s not part of our personal agenda.
Esther in the Bible was a hesitant leader, but eventually, she understood that God was blessing her with an opportunity to help her people in their time of need.
Esther won the heart of King Xerxes, but hid her Jewish heritage as she stepped into the role of queen. Haman, an advisor to the king, made a plan to exterminate the Jews. As a brand new queen, she was in a tough spot.
In Esther 4:14, Esther’s uncle Mordecai says to her, “For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
God’s timing is no accident. Esther took a risk and went before Xerxes, even though seeking an audience with her husband the king—without permission—could have cost her life. She was able to save her people, because she responded to the Lord’s call on His timeline.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your timing is not our timing. Give us ears to hear, eyes to see, and a mind open to your calling, whenever and wherever it happens. May your will be done, as you see fit. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When God chooses someone to be part of His work, sometimes it requires incredible courage to step up to what He is asking.
God had heartbreaking news in store for Israel: the nation would face military conquest, and the people would be exiled from their homeland for many years, because of their sins. The entire nation would become a wasteland. Imagine delivering life-altering news like that to an entire nation.
Isaiah 6:8 says, “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’”
God needed someone to deliver some of the toughest bad news imaginable…life was about to change in devastating ways for the people of Israel, and someone had to tell them what was coming.
Isaiah stepped up in a big way, and God empowered him to communicate with the people of Israel in a meaningful way. Through the Lord, we can do hard things—and if He chooses us, He can and will equip us for the task.
When we feel God’s calling on our hearts it can be a wonderful, exciting time, leaving us filled with joy. Sometimes, though, God chooses us for something painful or difficult, and we may not want to do what God is asking. It is then we must lean into our faith and ask for God’s encouragement.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, I ask for the strength and courage to say, “Here I am, Lord,” when you call my name. Give me what I need to answer and follow through with your wise plans, and to trust you fully. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Throughout the Bible, God chose men and women to serve as part of His plan. Some answered eagerly, with hearts and minds prepared for the Lord’s work. Some were reluctant—hiding from God, or even disobeying Him. They came from all different backgrounds and classes, showing us that God can choose anyone, even you and me, to serve.
Matthew worked as a publican, collecting taxes from his fellow Jews for the occupying Roman government; as you might guess, he was pretty unpopular in his community. Yet God chose Matthew as one of His disciples, helping to spread Jesus’ message throughout the Middle East and beyond.
Matthew 9:9 says, “As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he rose and followed him.”
Jesus begins everyone’s Christian calling with this essential step: “Follow me and be my disciple.” As you prepare your heart to hear the Lord’s call, ask yourself: Have you asked Jesus into your heart? Do you need to recommit yourself to faith at this point in your life? Spend time in God’s Word, the Bible, and in prayer, asking God to choose you, and to use your gifts as He sees fit.
If the desire of your heart is to be called by Jesus, you must begin with this step: follow Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, make me worthy to be chosen by you, to do your good work here on earth. Help me to follow you in mind, body, and spirit, so that I am prepared to answer when you call. In Jesus’ name, amen.
A really cool thing about God is that He has a solution for literally every situation. And that includes mental health.
We see this especially in the ministry of Jesus, who walked the land healing people of all sorts of terrible things. One day He encountered a man driven insane by demons.
Mark 5:15 says, “They came to Jesus and observed the man who had been demon-possessed sitting down, clothed and in his right mind, the very man who had had the ‘legion’; and they became frightened.”
The “Legion,” those who possessed this man’s mind, were no match for Jesus, who simply commanded them to leave the man in peace. And they did!
Now, not every mental health problem is related to possession. But—mental illness is so devastating to the patient, and family and friends, that it often feels like evil lives there.
Not so in the peaceful kingdom of our Lord.
If you or a loved one struggles with mental issues, ask God to help you. He has done it many times. That man with the peaceful face and clear mind all those years ago is proof of that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you own the universe and can solve any problem. Please especially today be with those afflicted by mental illness. Come to them and comfort them and heal them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
For some reason, people sometimes tell big lies when it comes to fishing. You know—what was really a small fry becomes a man-eating shark in the retelling of the story.
But that is nothing compared to a really incredible story in the Old Testament book of Jonah.
It seems the prophet didn’t want to preach in the pagan city of Nineveh, so he sailed away on a ship. He forgot that God controls the sea and everything in it, and Jonah found himself tossed overboard, and then swallowed by a huge fish.
Jonah 1:17 says, “Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.”
Let’s just say that Jonah learned his lesson, and God delivered him in a dramatic way.
This story is also a picture of Jesus, lying for three days in the tomb, only to be raised to life by the Father.
He will do the same for you, if you call on Him to rescue you!
Let’s pray.
Lord, when life swallows us up, you are there for us, never forgetting us. We praise you for your provision. In Jesus’ name, amen.
One of the extraordinary stories in the Bible involves a young woman named Rahab. This story beautifully expresses God’s love for all people.
Rahab lived in the Canaanite town of Jericho, which was near the border of the Promised Land God had promised to His people, who had been wandering for years in search of a home after slavery in Egypt.
Because the Canaanites were so powerful, Joshua sent a scouting party into the land to see what they were up against. The men sent ahead were hidden from harm by Rahab, because she had heard of the power that followed the Israelites.
When she talked with the men, she showed remarkable understanding that their God was in fact the true God, and she made a bargain with them.
Joshua 2:14 says, “So the men said to her, ‘Our life for yours if you do not tell this business of ours; and it shall come about when the Lord gives us the land that we will deal kindly and faithfully with you.’”
In the end, as the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land, Rahab’s family was spared death. In this way, we see how God’s inclusive love for all is worked out in practical ways that lead to life.
Remember Rahab when you think that you are beyond God’s protection!
Let’s pray.
Lord, what an example of faithfulness this woman displayed. Bless all those who look for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The Bible is full of stories of God doing amazing things for those He calls. One of the most famous seems too good to be true—but it is!
Daniel, God’s man in exile in Babylon, insisted on worshiping the Lord, and not a human king. This was against the law. When those who were jealous of him urged the king to punish Daniel, the prophet was thrown into a lion’s den overnight.
And that was that…or was it?
The next morning the king was so anxious about Daniel that he ran to the den and called out to him, to see if he was still alive.
Daniel 6:21–22 says, “Daniel answered, ‘May the king live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.’”
When life threatens to rip you up, remember that the Lord has you. God is on your side, knows where you are, and will hide you in the palm of His strong hand. Believe that He will.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this story inspires us to rely on you when times are really bad. Thank you for being our rescue. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever gotten so tired of life that you wished you could disappear and start over somewhere else? Ever wish that fantasy would just pull you out of your circumstances? They make movies about things like that, but it’s not real.
John 14:2–3 says, “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.”
How incredible that Jesus is actually going to do this for us someday. If you live long enough, the cares of life sort of wear you down and you need a good, long rest.
Good for us that our Lord cares enough for us that He has already gone ahead to prepare a place of peace, rest, and joy for each of us. And it will be a real place, not just a scouting location for a film. One day, in His perfect time, He will call you out of this groaning world, and take you to a spot that has literally been prepared with just you in mind!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are good to us in countless ways. We thank you so much for the home you have prepared for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Few of us enjoy chaos. It’s just too...chaotic, right?
The human mind needs order and peace, yet we live in this messy world. Stuff is flying by all the time, and we duck. Our relationships are a mess, and we have to schedule that root canal...while simultaneously making dinner and cleaning the house.
Is there a way out?
Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.”
It’s all perspective.
Yes, you might have a hundred things to do before 4 p.m. today, but remind yourself of this: sometimes we miss the best days of our lives because we don’t focus on the good. God brought order out of a vast chaos long ago…formless, empty—to create a world of beauty, and He did it because He loved us.
If He did that, can we handle our busy day of meetings and yes, even that root canal?
Let’s pray.
Lord, our lives get so busy we forget that you made order out of chaos. Help us to slow down our brains and hearts and learn to savor the moment. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Jill felt like she couldn’t keep up anymore. Four years out of college, she was doing well in her chosen career. But it had not only taken her far from home, it took her away from the values she had known her whole life. This new place she lived in pressed in on her mind and heart.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
Burdened by her stresses, Jill realized something had to change. But in that unique way He has, God showed her that she didn’t necessarily have to move home, or even change careers. What she needed to do was continually give her burdens to Jesus.
She did that and she continued to do it, and one day, months later, she realized with great joy that she had at some point come back to her place of peace. And her parents and loved ones were still several states away!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you so much for caring about us. For loving us. Teach us to rely on you as our only source of peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In the spring of 2014, Daniel and Colleen Jaquith, American missionaries to the Philippines, were awakened suddenly by the sounds of gunfire and shouts. Before they could react, a gunman appeared in their bedroom doorway, and he was holding a gun to the head of a pastor.
Demanding money, the intruder was distracted when that pastor suggested he look in another part of the room for money. This gave the pastor just enough time to overpower him.
This whole time, the Jaquiths were on their knees—praying.
Now, how many of us would’ve had the steadiness to do something like that, instead of diving for cover? This couple, full of faith and trusting in the strength of the Lord, had the discipline to pray while the pastor struggled with the intruder.
Incredibly, the intruder yelled at them to stop praying. The scene was surreal. And yet the spirit of the Lord was in the room that night. As the pastor began to overpower him, a wild shot hit Dan in the arm. This began another ordeal in the following hours, as they made their way by boat, a 16-hour trip, to a mainland hospital in Luzon.
While relaxing back in the U.S., Dan recalled the lessons they learned in the aftermath. Here’s what he said, “I share this testimony with deep gratefulness to be alive, and for the ability to give the Lord praise for His mighty deliverance during that desperate time of trouble.” His wife Colleen remembered what it was like helping her bleeding husband, aware that many more hours of praying were coming.
Little more than six months later, they returned home to Oregon for a visit, where they were able to enjoy seeing family and friends. Truly, they were so happy to be alive and thriving they forgot about the stress of their ordeal in the Philippines.
In this amazing story, we’re reminded in Luke 1:45 that God supernaturally takes away our stress when we believe in Him: “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her.”
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the path you’ve secured for us in a stressful world. Your kindness to us is almost too much to process, because you not only make a way for us to receive your promises, but you bless us, too. You’re a good God, and if we just claim the promises you’ve already provided, we can experience abundant life—even in a chaotic world. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When Richard Winters stood in the doorway of a huge glider in the pre-dawn over Normandy, France, he thought about a lot of things. The young army captain was preparing for the invasion of Europe, to free the continent from the Nazis.
He knew one thing first: he could not survive on his own skill.
Proverbs 3:5–6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
A disciplined soldier, Winters literally took these verses to heart. Each night after the invasion, he would pray and thank God for the good things in his life, and he only asked that he survive the next day. His prayer life and the calming effect of attending church in England during his training saw him through.
When battle came and chaos was all around him, Richard Winters stayed calm. Are you calm? Do the stresses of life’s battles overwhelm you?
Stop relying on your own ideas and your own wisdom! Some of it is good…but some of it’s not. God’s wisdom is only good—all the time. Ask Him for that wisdom in your life!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have to stay steady in this life. Please continue to remind us that you are in charge and that you will see us through. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Do you get tired of being alone or afraid? Have you had enough of feeling like you can’t take any more stress? If you’re honest with yourself, there are times when you think you’re just going to lose it.
The cares of this world can be like that. You stress about not having enough money each month just to pay your bills. You can’t sleep at night because your mind is racing, striving to create a workable plan for every possible scenario.
And no one can actually do that successfully. So what do you do?
Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.”
God—who has proven Himself billions of times, literally—tells us exactly what we need to do. It’s so simple.
Give your cares to God. You can’t take any more stress. Your body and mind can’t sustain it. Truthfully, that realization opens you up to a whole new way of looking at things.
Give your cares to God. Feel that stress dissipate. Have the best nights’ sleep tonight you’ve had in ages. He won’t let you fall.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercy and grace are so easy for us. We can cry out to you and give you our tired minds and hearts. Thank you for loving us no matter what. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Sharing our faith should be exciting to us. It is exciting. When we consider the free grace God gave us through His Son, telling others about Jesus should be on our priority list every day. For whatever reason, many find it very awkward to talk to others about Jesus. We can talk about just about anything else, though. That’s why it’s crucial that we look at sharing the Gospel as an intentional thing we do.
Intentionality is a great way to overcome our hesitancy, and let’s be honest, sometimes fear keeps us from sharing.
Truth is, each personality requires a customized approach to sharing about Jesus. Some are outgoing and others are shy. A blogger for God TV has written that he admired a friend who told every seatmate on every plane he’d been in about Jesus.
The blogger went on to write that, “Even if my fellow passengers desperately wanted to know Christ, they likely couldn’t even get my attention with a jackhammer drill or a pie in the face.” Kind of funny…and also kind of sad. Also very common.
Matthew 16:24 says, “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.’” So, if we’re looking for ways to overcome our mediocre Gospel sharing, what can we do?
Let’s look at a few tips.
The first is prayer. Get honest with God and tell Him you’re not so great at evangelism. I mean, He already knows, anyway. Ask Him specifically to give you both opportunities and an intentional plan for communicating the best news anyone will ever hear.
Two—plan, think ahead. Are you a person who’s good at conversation? Go over a mental checklist that provides you with enough scripture and short sentences to make your pitch when the time comes. However, if you’re not outgoing, maybe you’re a writer. Consider communicating with a card to let the person know you’re thinking about him or her. Play to your strengths, not your weaknesses.
Number three, listen before you talk. How many times do we jump into a conversation or meeting without taking a breath? Train yourself to be quiet for a bit until you hear where the other person is coming from. You’ll learn about your friend or acquaintance, and you can then think through the best way to approach them about the saving gift of Jesus. But also, don’t just wait for your turn to talk. Hear them. Meet them where they are, and listen to the Holy Spirit to see how you can speak Jesus into that person’s life.
Very few of us are Billy Graham. That doesn’t mean we can’t share the gospel. Somebody’s depending on it.
Let’s pray.
Father, whatever our personality and our experiences, give us a passion for loving unbelievers and caring about their well-being. The world is full of diversity. Help us embrace that. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Do you ever feel that you aren’t suited for sharing your faith in Christ? Maybe you’re not comfortable around people. Maybe you’ve encountered some who are hostile to faith.
If so, then we are speaking to you about sharing your light in a dark world.
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
Have you seen the movie, “The Ten Commandments?” It’s doubtful the real Moses looked and talked like Charlton Heston. And do we really think God looks for His witnesses among people who have that perfect British accent in a Jesus movie? Nope.
If we think we have to look or act a certain way, then we’re doing it wrong. God doesn’t ask our permission when giving us our marching orders for sharing the Gospel of Jesus. Instead, He approaches us as He did Job: Stand up and listen to what I have to tell you.
You are called to shine a light for Christ in a world full of dark things. You are equipped, just as you are. God has called you. Be bold in Christ.
He is the Star. We are just lights along the way.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the time is now. So many need you. God would you help us to shine for you every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Some of the greatest stories of believers down through time have involved those who really studied God’s Word. These people have gone before us to show us the way. From Charles Spurgeon to a missionary mother in China, daily study of the Word, and prayer, prepared them to mentor entire generations.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another.”
We also read in Romans 10 that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. We have to do it, so that others know how. Remember, there is no substitute for spending time in God’s Word.
In order to properly train an apprentice, you need to obviously be prepared and adept. Anything less leads to weak faith, or no faith at all.
This is what the Great Commission, sharing the Gospel, has always been about. Duplicating disciples. Grounding your own faith in the Bible, and then imparting that to others. That is the essence of true iron sharpening iron.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us about your work by daily reminding us to spend time with you in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The Bible’s book of Daniel tells us that one day knowledge and innovation will increase exponentially in our world. And it could be surmised that the prophet was looking ahead to our day, but maybe he was looking even further. The technological advances of the 21st century are no secret. In the ancient world, an ocean voyage could take months. Now, a person can have breakfast in New York City and dinner in Paris.
Communication is beyond anything our grandparents could have imagined. The number of mobile devices at this moment stands at 7.22 billion, a slightly bigger number than the human population of our planet. There are more than two billion personal computers around the globe. People in Asia can chat in real time with friends in Chicago or anywhere else. Such communication is instant and constant. Consider that as recently as World War II, whole armies could be on the move before the enemy was aware.
Travel is easier, too. There’s a wonderful story from our friends at Our Daily Bread, in which a teen on a mission trip shared the Gospel with an elderly man in Jamaica. He was disabled, but listened intently when she described new life in Jesus and the hope of a new body in heaven. He asked her, “Will you dance with me up there?” He accepted Christ.
Romans 1:16 says, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” We have almost limitless ways to get a Bible into someone’s hand. According to The Bible Society, between 1816 and 1975, 2.5 billion Bibles were printed. Many people, of course, still prefer to hold a book and read the printed word, and that method has been responsible for many millions of conversions over the years.
It’s exciting to think that, now, 100 million Bibles are being printed every year. Technology brings advancement here as well. That remarkable YouVersion Bible App has been installed on 300 million devices around the world.
Knowledge is increasing drastically. We have the greatest opportunity in all of history to share the Good News of Jesus with the world. God has given us the means to use technology, prayer, and one-on-one conversations to bring people to Jesus. What will you do with your finite amount of time? It’s up to you.
Let’s pray.
Father God, your provision for us is wonderful. You’ve made it possible for each believer to share their faith with close friends and family, as well as those around the world. Give us a sense of urgency. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Kerusso exists to tell people about the Good News of Jesus Christ, but somehow in our information-jacked world, culture has moved further away from understanding who the most famous person in history really is. Millions of books and articles have been written about a carpenter who lived in the Middle East 2000 years ago, and Jesus has been identified as anything from a desert mystic to God Himself.
Historically, He was born into a Jewish family in Judea at the time the Roman Empire controlled the area. Born in Bethlehem and raised in Nazareth, Jesus was 30 before He gained a reputation as a great teacher, but He was much more than that. The Bible tells us that He was sent into the world by God the Father, to stand in our place and take the penalty for our sin.
According to Genesis, man defied God’s template for living and because He is holy, God requires that someone is accountable for sin. Had Jesus not entered the world, we’d be left without a way to reconcile with God. Long story short, Jesus Christ is much more than just a wise teacher. He’s also the Son of God.
The Bible also tells us Jesus is one with the Father. Remember, when Moses encountered God in the burning bush he asked God how to identify Him to the people, and God replied, “I am who I am.” And that was in the Old Testament.
In John 8:58 in the New Testament, Jesus tells the people, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” Jesus Christ is a divine being. And John 1:29 says, “The next day, John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.’” This description of Him is not embraced by most people around the world.
The Bible tells us that man’s heart is wicked. It isn’t like billions are rushing to churches so that they can have their sins forgiven. The human mind and heart don't want to focus on the messier side of the Gospel.
We’re imperfect. We sin. And our sin is an offense to God. Who wants to hear that? We don’t want to be told that we’re not good. We want to be told we’re good, and worthy of God’s love. And the Good News, the Gospel in the person of Jesus Christ, is that we have the pathway to be like Him.
Romans 8 tells us that it is God’s desire that we become like Jesus. And that’s a goal worth reaching for.
Let’s pray.
Father, thank you for providing us with your Word that tells us exactly who Jesus is, and what His life means to us. You could have abandoned us to sin, but you didn’t. The praise and the glory belong to you alone. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Let’s think about something deep today: What is the end game?
In this context, we’re talking about what comes after this life we are living now. Believers of course look forward to an eternity with the Living God. And even unbelievers wonder about what comes next after you draw your last breath. As it says in Ecclesiastes, He has set eternity in our hearts.
It’s the most important element in our discussion this week.
Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
Like snowflakes and other beauty in nature, no two lives are alike. Each of us is unique. God made us that way. The Psalmist said that you are fearfully and wonderfully made!
And in your unique life, you face singular challenges. If you believe in Christ, you are well aware that in this life there is pain, and struggle, and obstacles.
But all through Scripture, the Lord lovingly reminds us that He is always with us and when we pass to the next life, He has prepared a wonderful future for us. One that will never end and will never be tainted by sin.
If you endure in your faith, that’s what is waiting for you. Think about that today!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word tells us that eternity is joy beyond our understanding now. All glory belongs to you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
A huge benefit of being a believer is the knowledge that we can help others after going through the valley ourselves.
It’s one thing to endure and overcome and find our joy, but it’s maybe even better when you see a friend emerge into the light because you were there for them.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
When you’re in the middle of something difficult, it’s hard to even think. Scripture tells us the way out, but it helps to have someone in your life who has been there, done that. Even having a friend gently remind you that it might take time to recover is a help. Being reminded to be faithful and consistent in prayer tips the balance.
As we learn to rejoice in hope, attaining that abundant life Jesus talked about, let us remember others who are in trouble.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always faithful. You never let us down. Thank you for the joy that comes from overcoming. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When you think of ships, whether you’re thinking of the Titanic, pirate ships of yore, or trading vessels crossing the vast ocean to bring goods and services from one country to another, you probably picture them with an anchor—a heavy metal hook designed to catch on the ocean floor and keep a boat or ship in place.
Wikipedia says this about anchors: There are two main types of anchors: temporary and permanent. A permanent anchor is called a mooring block and is not easily moved. A temporary anchor can be moved and is carried on the boat. When people talk about anchors, they are usually thinking about temporary anchors.
Hebrews 6:19 says, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. ”
When you think about your personal relationship with Jesus Christ, what kind of anchor binds you to your Lord and Savior? Is it a permanent anchor—not easily moved? Or is it a temporary anchor, dependent more on where you want to steer the ship, carried aboard your boat until you feel like a temporary stop?
God wants the hope we’ve found in Jesus to be a permanent fixture in our lives; our faith is meant to hold us steady and secure as we follow Him, being a constant source of reassurance in every circumstance—not a temporary stopping place.
So think about that anchor…is it permanent, or is it temporary?
Let’s pray.
Lord, whether we’re sailing calm seas or fighting to keep our heads above water in the midst of a storm, you are with us. You are truly the anchor for our souls. Help us to remember to moor ourselves to you, instead of following our pride and settling for a temporary anchor. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We all screw up. We all fail in some way. We fall short of goals, or get embarrassed in some kind of career implosion or other events. It’s easy then to feel like we’ll never win again.
That is not how God sees you.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Hope and a future. That’s what’s ahead, not depression and failure. The Bible is full of stories of people God would not allow to slip away. Peter denied Christ, and the Savior forgave him! Sarah mocked the idea that she would ever have a child, but God let her be a mother late in life!
This is the world God created. Not one of misery and losing. Does it make sense that He would create you in very specific ways, uniquely gifted as you are, and then just give up on you?
Don’t let that be your story.
Your part in it is refusing to believe the enemy when you hear that voice that tells you it’s all over.
God knows the plans He has for you! Remember that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you don’t let us sink out of sight. Thank you for setting us on our feet, and helping us move forward. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Our world needs many things. We have political concerns, environmental concerns, broken relationships, and disease that still stalks too many countries.
It’s also true that God doesn’t leave us in despair. He doesn’t allow our problems to overcome us, if we trust Him.
Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
This is our anchor, the blessing of hope. This week we’re talking about hope and joy, and these are given to us freely by our Loving Father.
Do you have hope? Are you anchored in anything? If not, tell God you need Him. You’ll find that He not only comes to you in need, but He will use you afterward to spread hope and joy.
It’s been said that people can’t live without hope, and that is so true.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us hope. Help us spread that message wherever we go. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In Christ, we experience peace that is so remarkable, it isn’t naturally part of this world. As we think about the power forgiveness has for us and others, let’s think about how forgiving someone lifts a huge burden off our minds.
Matthew 5:23–24 says, “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First, go and be reconciled to your brother, then come and offer your gift.”
Notice that God is aware how we think. This passage from Matthew describes a very interesting trait that is often overlooked. The person who has come to worship God cannot properly do that, because he remembers there’s trouble in his relationship with his friend. We just can’t let it go. God is telling us here to take care of this spirit of unforgiveness first, then come back for worship. Refusing to do things in this order only diminishes our time with God.
Jonathan Draper has written about this problem of holding onto grudges, and he specifically says that having a forgiving spirit allows us to grow closer to God. This is the number one benefit of forgiveness.
Tony Roberts is an Indiana pastor and relationship expert. In a conversation he had with a young woman impacted by a negative relationship, he asked for her top emotional health benefits that come from forgiving. She said, “It impacts emotional health, in that if you don’t take care of you, nobody will.”
Taking care of you is forgiving and forgetting that person for trespassing against you. Forgetting isn’t the most important part, but it’s definitely one of the most challenging. And if they don’t happen, you will lose yourself. Now, think about that. God has promised to walk with us through our trials, and those include cycles of unforgiveness. It’s critical to our emotional well-being that we forgive, so that we begin the process of looking after our own emotional health. Letting go of bitterness is an important first step.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you intended for us to live in harmony, so that our physical bodies and our emotional selves would be in sync. And when that doesn’t happen, we need your help to strike the right balance. Please walk with us in divine health. Let us come to a place where we embrace forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
How much can one person take, and still choose to offer kindness?
In Genesis Chapter 37, verses 12–36, 17-year-old Joseph is sent by his father to visit his brothers, who were tending the family’s flock of sheep in the countryside.
Rather than the friendly check-in he expected, Joseph’s brothers initially plotted to kill him out of jealousy, but instead sold him into slavery to a group of Ishmaelites heading for Egypt. Among the brothers, only Reuben wished to leave Joseph unharmed, attempting (but failing) to set up a situation where he could rescue his brother and return him to their father.
In Egypt, Joseph was falsely accused of a crime, thrown into prison, became an interpreter of dreams for Pharaoh, and eventually attained a seat of power over Egypt.
When famine hit the land where his brothers lived, they came to Egypt to buy grain. They didn’t know Joseph was not only alive, but was now the governor of Egypt. To their surprise, Joseph wasn’t angry at his brothers, but showed them compassion when he saw them again. Instead of taking revenge, he took them in and cared for them. Joseph knew everything that had happened was part of God’s plan, and what his brothers intended for harm, God intended for good.
Ephesians 4:2 says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
The story of Joseph teaches us that humility, patience, gentleness, and love are not just qualities to be saved up for those who we think deserve it; God asks us to approach others with love even if they have offended or caused us harm.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes the people in our lives are disappointing, frustrating, or downright hurtful. God, help us to love those who fall short and need our forgiveness the most, and to bear with each other with patience and with grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Is there someone in your life whose forgiveness you need?
Legendary cowboy actor Roy Rogers said something profound. He said that sometimes it hurts to do the right thing, but afterwards, you’ll feel better.
When it comes to forgiveness, this certainly applies to choosing to forgive someone who has wronged you. But have you considered that it can be even tougher to ask for someone’s forgiveness? Humans hate to fail, and most of us hate looking foolish. It hurts. Maybe you’ve hurt someone recently, or maybe the hurt happened a long time ago and it just festers.
Luke 6:37 says, “Do not judge and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven.”
Brenda Blakely knows all about this. The daughter of an alcoholic father, she resented both her parents for years. One day though, she realized that she had internalized her anger so much that it in turn targeted her mother. Brenda called her one day and began pouring out her heart, acknowledging that her bitterness had caused her to be difficult growing up. It was a painful revelation. Yet at the end of the call, her mother’s heart was moved. She said to Brenda, “I forgive you, and please forgive me.”
Choosing to ask for forgiveness might literally be the hardest thing you ever have to do. Maybe you’re not there yet, but keep your mind and your heart open. The end result will be well worth the wait, and think of the person whose forgiveness you’re asking. Remember the words of Corrie Ten Boom, who nearly died in a Nazi extermination camp. She said this, “To forgive is to set the prisoner free and to realize that the prisoner was me.”
Let’s pray.
Father, our sinful human nature rebels against humbling ourselves and asking for forgiveness, but give us this practical thing, Father, to be objective and really examine ourselves to see if we’ve hurt someone and never made amends. Help us move towards reconciliation. In Jesus’ name, amen.
One of the most corrosive elements in the human character is unforgiveness. Bitterness and fighting in relationships is really a drain. Physically and emotionally, we’re simply not wired to survive long-term problems in this area.
According to Dr. Michael Berry, 61% of cancer patients have forgiveness issues. And Dr. Karen Schwartz of the Johns Hopkins Hospital confirms that the hurt and disappointment associated with forgiveness issues can spike incidents of heart disease, depression, and diabetes. On the other hand, forgiveness calms stress levels, leading to improved health.
The Bible tells us that we can make the decision to forgive when someone wrongs us.
In Colossians 3:13 we read, “Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember the Lord forgave you so you must forgive others.” Did you notice that? We should basically cut each other some slack.
We all fail, but making a choice to let it go, especially with an individual, will benefit everyone. Your own stress will melt away. It's like a gift you can give yourself.
In a Focus on the Family article by Rose Sweet, we find this key piece of wisdom that can unlock our inability to forgive: “Forgiveness is returning to God the right to take care of justice. By refusing to transfer the right to exact punishment or revenge, we are telling God we don’t trust him to take care of those matters.”
So you see, it’s not really so much about the person who wronged you, it’s more about your refusal to let God handle it. By doing that, by letting God handle it, taking that critical step, we can step into the freedom that God had waiting for us the whole time. Your physical health will improve, but that pales in comparison to the improvement in your spiritual health.
Let’s pray.
God, an unforgiving spirit is so hard to carry. Help us see daily that we can choose to forgive just like you chose to forgive us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Even though most U.S. homes have at least one copy of the Bible, few know what’s in it.
There are all sorts of things: wisdom for living, history, spiritual food. It’s the Bible’s practical value that hooks most people who read it. The Bible says a lot about money, how to raise kids, and even how to strengthen your marriage.
It also tells us a lot about forgiveness. Forgiveness is mentioned dozens of times in the Bible.
In Genesis 33, Esau forgives his brother Jacob’s treachery in stealing his birthright. And the most famous example is the forgiveness Jesus chooses on the cross, as His accusers and executioners mock Him. Think about how hard that was! It gives some perspective on our own situations in life.
When you think about it, the entire theme of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation is one of forgiveness.
Man chose to bring sin into the world, and defy God’s perfect plan. Yet God didn’t leave us in that state. He made a way for our sins to be put away forever. Jesus Christ became the vessel through which forgiveness could be extended on an epic scale.
One of the most difficult passages in all the Bible is found in the New Testament. Matthew 5:43–45 says, “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and you hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.”
In the here and now, is there anything more difficult than forgiving a mocking enemy?
There are people in the world who delight in making others miserable their whole lives. But Jesus is telling us forgiveness is possible. The key is when we take the long view. We must mentally and emotionally take ourselves out of the pain we‘re experiencing right now. Think of the future. Begin imagining the most wonderful healing that can take place between enemies.
That’s what God did for us. The Bible tells us He is holy, and cannot look on sin. Yet in Genesis Chapter 3, God began the process of grace. In the Gospels, and in Paul’s letters, we see Him continuing to be patient with us. And then in Revelation, the long view: God takes our acts of forgiveness and makes a powerful, redemptive new world. And we can look forward to that.
Let’s pray.
Father, thank you for having mercy on us in every way. Sometimes we need to forgive someone, and sometimes the shoe is on the other foot. Help us to read your Word, and act on your commands to forgive. Especially when it hurts. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Does your love for God make your heart sing?
The psalms, many of them, were written as songs of worship. King David in particular, loved to sing praises to His Lord. Whether he was tending his flock under a night sky, or sitting in his palace in Jerusalem, David had a heart for the Lord.
Psalm 104:1 says, “Praise the Lord, my soul. Lord my God, you are very great; you are clothed with splendor and majesty.”
In this kind of worship, we feel especially close to God. It is then we focus on His majesty and His power. We feel close to Him, and we’re able to speak freely with Him.
This kind of intentional meditation on Higher Things also puts us in our place, and we mean that in the best sense of the phrase. Hierarchy in true religion is very important, and when we consider that the God we sing praises to loves us eternally, and always wants the best for us, well—it releases us to worship God with all of our being. And it is then we are free.
Take time today to praise the Lord for who He is, not forgetting the great things He has done for you. Because…He is very great!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are awesome in ways that we can barely understand. Even with those limitations—God we love you with abandon. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We all want to feel secure. We can look fine on the outside, but be something much less on the inside. And the first step to overcoming vulnerability is to feel okay with who we are.
Psalm 62:5–6 says, “Only God gives inward peace, and I depend on Him. God alone is the mighty rock that keeps me safe, and he is the fortress where I feel secure.”
The tension comes when we balance healthy self-esteem with our sin nature. Can we feel good about ourselves, while recognizing that we desperately need a Savior?
The answer is, yes we can.
In fact, Jesus flat-out loves us, and values us so much that He came to Earth to pay the penalty for our sin. Modern psychology might get it wrong sometimes, but recognizes that humans must overcome shame and self-doubt in order to thrive.
In other words, healthy self-esteem is an important part of overall good health. Jesus knew that all along. What does the Word say? “God gives us inward peace.” And that’s the essence of healthy self-esteem.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us not to get too full of ourselves. Help us to see ourselves the way you see us: worthy of your love for all time. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The big question for today is—how do you develop a prayer life? The answer to how we develop a healthy prayer life is really not that complicated. It’s all about choice. We can learn to pray first by reading scripture and taking notice of the hundreds of prayers offered by believers just like us. We can also talk with veterans of prayer in our own life, those who are older and deeper in their faith. But notice something about the prayers recorded in the Bible. They aren’t contrived or intellectual, oftentimes. Those things don’t impress God anyway, since He knows everything about us, we can’t fool Him or hide or fake our feelings.
In fact, the people in the Bible, and those in your life who talk to God all the time—just simply talk to Him. Some prayers are messy or sound selfish, such as Jabez’s plea for God to increase his influence. Others are said in desperate moments, but sound calming. Like David’s famous 23rd Psalm.
Psalm 145:18 says, “The Lord is near to all who call on him in truth.”
This tells us that we don’t have to do something in order to be worthy to speak with God. He simply is, and He very simply invites us to share with him, to unburden ourselves. And in Ephesians 6:18, we learn a lot about prayer. It says, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”
This is the prayer of someone who commits time each day to talk with God. This prayer warrior knows that he or she can talk to God about literally anything. Next, and just as important, this person prays for others. This is a far more powerful way to pray than many think, because history is full of stories of people who prayed and God acted in someone else’s life immediately.
The most important steps you can take in developing a prayer life are to understand that you don’t have to be a PhD in theology or have an IQ of 180. You simply talk to God in the most natural way. God warms to a sincere and searching heart. Next, you have to realize that your prayer life can take many forms, a quick moment during a busy day, in the still of the night with no one around, or in a designated area where you feel comfortable.
Once you get in the habit of praying, you’ll be amazed what a good change there is in your life. Faith is strengthened. You’re no longer alone. Throughout history, men and women and children have made the choice to talk with the one who made them and loves them, and it’s not any more complicated than that.
Let’s pray.
Father God, in your mercy, you invite us to tell you what’s on our minds. We know that communication is a two-way street; nudge us to listen to your voice, and take as much time as we need to pray. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Nikki couldn’t leave her apartment—sometimes for days, her anxiety about everything from health issues to the weather had hijacked her life. She needed help.
One morning after she had talked with a friend on the phone, she heard someone outside her door, and it was her friend. The woman simply announced herself and then pushed a piece of paper under Nikki’s door. And the only thing written on the paper was Psalm 94:19, which says, “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.”
The words just ran over Nikki, and she cried. She felt in that moment the very thing the verse promises, and within a couple of days, she was able to leave her home and begin the process of recovering from a lifetime of fear.
The Lord is like that. He’s always just outside our door, always ready to comfort us when life scares us to death. He also provides us with the ability to reason, and to look at our options. And if scripture is a healing place, we can also find help through counseling.
If you’re experiencing destabilizing fear in your life, there is absolutely nothing wrong with reaching out for help. Often the combination of prayer, really seeking God and getting honest with Him, and talking with another human is the key that unlocks that door and frees you from a dark room of fears, whether they be rational or irrational. If you can’t do anything at all in the moment, just take a breath and cry out to God, and then talk yourself into sharing with somebody else. You’ll be surprised in a good way, how healthy you’ll begin to feel.
Let’s pray.
Father God, often the days can seem as dark as the nights, but in your strength, we can rebuke fear and watch it leave us. Help us in those terrible moments to call on you, and to accept the safety only you can bring. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Even though the Bible is world famous, we sometimes hear people say that it was really written for ancient people and that it isn’t relevant for us today. And in a lot of cases, this is totally wrong. It’s true that ancient people compiled the Bible, but God intended it to be for all people in all times and places.
Psalm 102:18 says, “Let this be written for a future generation that a people not yet created may praise the Lord.” This is amazing! It means that God is inclusive and both His rules for how we should live, and His promises to us, are available to all people. And the good rules for living are wonderful and ahead of their time.
Ephesians 5:25 says, “Husbands love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” This is just as valid for us today as it was for an ancient Israelite.
The Bible is even up to speed on science. Psalm 8:8 talks about the paths of the sea—and now we know about ocean currents. Proverbs 16:24— “Gracious words are like a honeycomb,” and Proverbs 17:22, “A cheerful heart is good medicine,” describe the human psyche and good mental health. And these are also instructions for us on how to treat others.
Of course, the most relevant aspect of the Bible is the clear description of Jesus himself as our savior. This free gift of grace is available to all people everywhere, and the closer we stick to what the Bible has for us, the more harmony we will see in our lives.
It isn’t hard. Just pick it up and begin reading. You’ll be truly amazed by the Bible’s relevance for your life.
Let’s pray.
Father God, your words really are healing, and all of us need that. We’re grateful for that. We’re grateful that you have spoken for yourself and have shown us how powerful your word is for each of us, help us pass this knowledge on to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
You know, someone may have tried to convince you at some point in your life that we’re alone in the cold void of the universe, but that has never been true. It’s especially false for the believer who understands what God has done for all people everywhere. He, the Creator of the universe, formed us long ago, and His Word tells us clearly that He never takes a second off in His pursuit of us.
Consider this: If you’re stuck in a bad relationship, you won’t find your way into the light until you’re reconciled to God. That relationship is number one. It’s the one you cannot be without, even if others fail you. Resolve to work on that one, and the others will fall into place.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
That ‘friend’ is referring to Jesus Christ, who loved us enough to step into history and take the punishment meant for us. Understand that, and cultivate a relationship with Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we owe everything to you...literally everything. We worship you, and we praise your name as the One who sacrificed all for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
One of the richest gifts God has given us is healthy relationships: a marriage and balance, friends who mutually respect each other—and most of all a strong God connection—can be the ticket to a healthy whole life. The full life that Jesus spoke about.
Hebrews 10:24–25 says, “And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works. Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another, especially as you see the day approaching.”
With the fast pace of life, sometimes we forget to squeeze all the gratitude we can out of a great relationship. Remember to regularly tell the people in your life how much they mean to you, and to give thanks to God for sending these loved ones your way. Write them a note to tell them just what they mean to you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s not about the number of relationships we have, but the quality. Thank you for giving people who are loyal and love us in return. Encourage us to love others in Word, and in deed. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The Bible is famous for speaking in parables and metaphor. One of the most famous is found in one of Paul’s letters, in which he tells us the benefits of a life in Christ.
The “Fruit of the Spirit” is a list of nine attributes that a person filled with the Holy Spirit will model for the world. It’s probably no coincidence that Paul starts with…Love.
Galatians 5:22–23 says, “By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.”
Love defines what it means to be Christian. Jesus taught that we are to love others, even to pray for our enemies. John wrote that true love is obedience to Christ. This dimension of the Fruit of the Spirit causes people to turn from evil, husbands to cover their wives in love and protection, and many, many more benefits for the world.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Your Word tells us that healthy fruit is a benefit to everyone; inspire us to offer the fruit of love to all we come in contact with. In Jesus’ name, amen.
God created humans with a spirit, soul, and body, and in order for each aspect of our being to function in harmony, our relationships should also be in harmony.
From the beginning, God walked with Adam and Eve in the garden, talking with them and nurturing a personal relationship with them. In fact, throughout the scriptures, God built foundational relationships, whether it was with the reluctant leader Moses, or Hannah—the woman who wanted to be a mother more than anything.
Ephesians 4:2–3 says, “Be completely humble and gentle. Be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the spirit of unity through the bond of peace.”
Right relationships are foundational to life. The Bible is clear that if one of ours is suffering, letting it drift is not an option. Make living in harmony with other people a top priority every day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you gave everything for us, created us to have fellowship—to experience your love and to love you in return. Help us to always be mindful that life is short, but relationships can last for eternity. In Jesus’ name, amen.
What is true love? The question has been asked forever. Not everyone agrees. There’s a startling answer found in the Bible. The prophet Hosea marries a prostitute named Gomer. She’s predictably unfaithful to him, but God tells him something that’s strange to us. He told Hosea to take his wife back and restore her.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
How often does this world seem interested in redeeming anything? Rarely. And that’s why we need God to model perfect love for us, love that restores and heals. Hosea did not keep score—he only loved, and that’s a picture of how God deals with us, His chief creation. We reject Him and cause pain, but always He’s there waiting with open arms. I think we can do at least as much for someone in our lives.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you’re forgiving. God, thank you for loving us and our sin and our filth, you long to restore us and we love you for that. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Kyle hurt Jenny emotionally many times, and then he left her because he said he wanted to have more fun. His young wife could barely function at first, but as she got her bearings, she decided to wait before making a final decision about her marriage. And then the day came: a series of circumstances left Kyle broken in spirit and in body. He had burned so many bridges that no one was coming to help him—except Jenny.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Jenny made a choice to love her husband through his stupidity and poor choices. When he returned to their home, humiliated in his community, he came home to a warm place.
Today, through dedication and hard work, their marriage is a model for others to follow, and this husband has been transformed—all because his wife’s love didn’t give in to hard feelings.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we all mess up—sometimes horribly, but you always extend us grace. Help us to extend that same grace to those who hurt us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever congratulated someone for a huge win in life, and then silently envied them? We all do it, but the problem is that kind of thing can grow into a monster if we’re not careful. All of a sudden, we’re so focused on what the other person has, we lose sight of the wins in our own life.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Cain envied his brother’s relationship with God, and he killed him over it. That’s when that monster that covets was born, and we’ve been struggling with it ever since.
True love does not covet what our neighbor has. True love rejoices in grace showered on others. If this problem lives in you, meditate on these verses and decide today to change your thinking, and your heart will follow.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the enemy wants us to focus on what others have so that we lose sight of what you’ve given us. Christ is our standard. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We’ve all known kindness in our life. Think about someone who’s been kind to you; it might’ve been a Sunday school teacher, or maybe it was mom listening to our bad day. But how often do you actually think about the importance of kindness? Is it an active part of your day? If not, I think you’re missing the point.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient. Love is kind. It does not envy. It does not boast. It is not proud. It does not dishonor others. It is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Real love compels us to practice kindness, a daily routine, and for the right reason. And what is the right reason? God tells us to be kind. The choice doesn’t depend on what the other guy is doing.
Be that person who does a lot of kind things—and his only audience is God. Give it a shot. Try a random act of kindness and don’t let others see you do it. Then reflect on how good it makes you feel. That’s the best kind of kind.
Let’s pray.
Father God, your Word shows us that we're blessed with kindness from you in countless ways. Help us to start giving back to those around us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Having the patience of Job is a common saying, even if people don’t really know its origins. Job, of course, was the biblical character that suffered greatly before God restored him.
But if you read the Book of Job, it’s not at all clear that he really had much patience because patience is really, really hard.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
In 1 Corinthians, we have our blueprint for practicing perfect love, pure love. And when it comes to patience in this context, we are to train ourselves to be patient with those around us. That requires a willful choice to be patient with someone—as long as it takes—in an effort to project Christ’s love outward.
If a situation calls for you to be patient, just remember that someone in your life has had to be patient with you, too.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you call us to be patient and we want to obey, even though it’s against our natures. God, help us to follow you in this. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Jesus—the greatest teacher who ever lived—spent a lot of time sharing wisdom in the form of stories. Once, He told His disciples a story that illustrated the importance of understanding that God never quits us, and we should not quit Him.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
That story was about a woman who didn’t give up in her pursuit of justice. Jesus then said that God hears our pleas for what we need, and He acts accordingly. He doesn’t forget or lose interest. Ever.
Isn’t that one of the most comforting things you’ve ever heard? In all the messes of our lives, God does not give up on us—no matter where we are. He knows everything about us, and His infinite strength is far too much for evil to overcome. And His grace covers all of our brokenness.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for your willingness to stay with us in the worst of times. You are our strength now, and forever. In Jesus’ name, amen.
It seems that a positive in our culture today is that we can admit our shortcomings.
In the past, it was sort of taboo to tell the world you were not exactly all put together. Back in the day, a ‘hot mess’ usually referred to an overturned pot on the stove. But today, we know the phrase ‘hot mess’ has a whole new meaning—and our lives are often exactly that.
Thank goodness the outcome is not dependent on us.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Recognizing that you don’t quite have it together is a positive first step to moving beyond your circumstances. But the real key is internalizing the fact that God—and not you—saves the day.
All we can do is admit our shortcomings, and then rest in the knowledge that God has it from here. And that’s an attitude the Lord will bless.
God’s got you covered and blessed all at the same time!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are so good to us. And you have been so much more for us than we can even imagine. Thank you for blessing us and not leaving us where we were. In Jesus’ name, amen.
One of the things that mark a healthy society is the consistency between generations. In other words, adults who care about the future for their children will invest the time to make sure tomorrow is bright.
God the Father is the ultimate parent, and we would do well to model His love for us.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
Passing the torch, or training up the next generation, involves taking the time to do it properly. If you love your kids, you’ll make time for them. You won’t take the easy way out and settle for schools or the culture at large to raise them.
Teach them—yourself—that we all experience tough times in this life, but sticking to God’s plan for their lives is the key to winning. Living the abundant life Jesus taught about, and sharing His Good News is the ultimate win. But we don’t get there by quitting when the going gets tough.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you never leave us, and you never abandon the human community to evil. You are a great God, and we thank you for your commitment to us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Billy Joel says that his hit song, “Pressure” really is about the pressure of daily life: providing for your family, putting food on the table, and career obstacles.
Even the way he sings the song—with power and anger—makes the point. It’s quite a statement on life. And we’ve all felt it.
2 Corinthians 1:8 says, “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself.”
But as believers, we can take heart in the fact that Paul then writes that difficulties happen in life so that we will rely on God. The apostle reminds us that God has delivered us from desperate times, and will again.
What a powerful promise!
The pressures of life sometimes come suddenly, leaving us off-balance and fearful. When that happens, remind yourself of the promises of God’s Word. He knows where you are and where you’re going.
He’ll be waiting for you when you get there.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes we feel like we’re going to explode. We thank you that you never abandon us, and are always ready to protect us and preserve us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today, just stop and consider that we’re talking one-on-one. We’re just talking over coffee. Go with me here.
You seem like something is really getting to you. Are you about to give up on something important? If so, please listen, just for a couple of minutes.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
Let’s think boldly for a second. Whatever your problem is, God can fix it. He can. The Bible is full of these fixes. So is our present day, when story after story of miraculous rescues shows us clearly that God exists, and that He cares for you as a person.
Jesus knows your story, and more importantly, He knows the ending of your story.
Victory is waiting for you, but you must not give up. Don’t give in to that voice urging you to stop. Listen to the voice of love. Tell Jesus what you need—right now.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this thing hurts so much right now, but we aren’t going to give up, because you never give up on us. Thank you for that! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Think of what Jesus was asking of His followers.
He had just risen from the dead. That doesn’t happen every day.
His ministry had been destroyed, so they thought. He wasn’t coming back. But then He did. Only days after being killed on a brutal Roman cross, Jesus was standing in front of His friends, looking very much alive. And He was telling them their futures were dicey.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
Jerusalem at the time was under occupation by an unforgiving empire. The empire required all from each individual, and never gave anything back. Jesus was telling His disciples that if they would give up all for Him, He’d give it back and more. Forever.
This was the first great command to preach the Good News everywhere. The first marching orders for a spiritual army. And we’re called to be in that army, to give our all in order to shake things up for eternity.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us the chance to share your love with others, all over the world. We love you! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Many times over the centuries, earnest Christians have run out into the world to aggressively and passionately share Jesus, and the world doesn’t always want to hear it.
John 15:19 says, “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own and as it is you don’t belong to the world. But I have chosen you out of the world, and that is why the world hates you.”
And this is a hard truth. It’s discouraging to missionaries at home and in other countries who want nothing more than to see everyone saved. The Bible even tells us that God wants all people to be saved, and that’s the goal. Yet we know that’ll never be.
Jesus brought life-giving truth to the masses in His day. Some of them tried to kill Him, and of course, some were eager to see Him crucified. His reminder to us was that if we have the mind of Christ and the modern world, things might get dicey for us. It’s not like hoards of people are beating down the doors of churches so that they can hear and believe.
In this fallen and sinful state, man runs from the things of God. Both the Bible and history document this. In Roman times, the empire hunted Christians. They were even fed to wild animals for sport, and it’s been that way all through the modern era. Remember the photos in recent years of ISIS terrorists escorting captured Christians to their executions? Pagan mind fights against God.
Knowing these things, we must resolve to ask God for courage to speak when opportunities present themselves. We also must keep in mind that boldness for Christ will cost us something. Maybe everything.
God and His Word also assures us that some are being saved. Kingdom is being added to daily, and this reality is enough for us to continue to be salt and light in a dark world.
Let’s pray.
Father God, we ask you earnestly—send your spirit to people who need to hear Your Word. Help us to be willing to share Christ even when it’s dangerous or uncomfortable. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever had the pleasure of waking up in a cozy cabin…after you’ve let the fire go out from the night before? If you don’t get out of bed and put more wood in that furnace, the squirrels or raccoons aren’t going to do it for you!
Much more serious is the tendency to get lazy about the fire inside us to share the love of Christ. After so many years of being a Christian—especially living in a free country—sharing the Gospel can be put on the back burner.
Romans 12:11–12 says, “Never let the fire in your heart go out. Keep it alive. Serve the Lord. When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful.”
Do you see what God is urging us to do in Scripture? He says to never let the fire go out! Never doesn’t mean sometimes, when we’re tired or annoyed about something. This is too important to mess up. Remember—Jesus saved you; more than likely, through someone keeping their own inner fire going, they saw you through the eyes of compassion.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a passion for the souls of all people, at all times. And help us be ready to share Christ with them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
If you’ve ever wondered what the best way is to share your faith and defend it in the modern world, it might help to look at past examples:
In the Bible, the husband-and-wife team of Priscilla and Aquila shared Christ with Apollos, who would become a famous early evangelist.
In colonial England, the abolitionist, William Wilberforce, shamed his own government into freeing slaves.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
Today, more than ever, truly, it’s really important that Christians prepare to defend their faith. The world is hurting and dying. People the world over desperately need the love of Christ, and they’ll have questions. They might wonder about the divinity of Jesus, or ask you specifically how to be saved. Be ready to answer, and do so with a heart full of love and compassion. And don’t be afraid to be bold!
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a spirit of courage in this chaotic world. Help us to love as you love. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The Great Commission…have you heard that term before? Christianity is great at using terms the general public isn’t familiar with, and sometimes we use terms even we aren’t familiar with as believers.
A recent study shows that more than 50% of U.S. churchgoers don’t know what that term, ‘Great Commission,’ means. And when asked if they had heard of the Great Commission, half of U.S. churchgoers say they don’t know that term. Maybe our priorities need tweaking.
Matthew 28:19 says, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
Although the Great Commission is not a term used in the Bible, it does describe the command Jesus gave us to share the Good News of His sacrifice for our sins.
In this way, He provides a way for people to be reconciled to God, and this is the greatest news anyone will ever hear. Christians should be excited about this action plan. Matthew chapter seven indicates that the path leading to God is narrow, and that many are on the broad path that leads away from God. This truth should motivate us as Christians to fulfill Christ’s Great Commission.
The Bible tells us that this activity will have an endpoint. We should have a sense of urgency about that.
The gospel of Jesus Christ was literally born in the Middle East. Jesus’ disciples took his words to heart and began preaching and teaching about him in Israel, then to all the regions around the Mediterranean basin. From there, the gospel spread quickly into Europe and beyond.
Today, even with all our technology in hundreds of years of sending missionaries to remote parts of the world, not everyone has heard the good news about Jesus. We have our marching orders. It’s time to move.
Let’s pray.
Father, we know that no matter what—time is passing, we want all people to come to a saving faith in your Son, Jesus. Remind us daily that we should have a sense of urgency about sharing your good gift with everyone we come into contact with. In Jesus’ name, amen.
As humans, we compartmentalize, don’t we? By that we mean, it is in our nature to rank priorities, then even lose sight of some of them. This can often lead us to confusion about which direction we’re supposed to go.
This confusion even can extend to faith itself. We wonder, When am I supposed to pray, and when am I supposed to act on faith?
Psalm 34:1 says, “I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”
When we get the Word deep in our hearts, we always have a ready answer for our personal questions. This sweet psalm tells us that we are to always remember the great gifts Father God bestows on us. His greatness is ever before us and in this way, we can worship Him all the time, no matter what we are doing.
Learn to bless the Lord and praise Him as you do your job, as you fellowship with others, even as you engage with people who don’t believe as you do. They need to see the love of Christ shining through you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we bless you and praise you with our words. Thank you, Father, for never ever forgetting us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In all the world, there are almost countless ways people try to find God. Some are drawn to the mystical, while others chase after the practical. Does it work?
God knew we would all look to fill the void in our spirits, the one put there when man first sinned. He also already knew what our escape route would be, the path back to Him.
Romans 10:9–10 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”
The so-called “Roman Road” is in reality a face-to-face with the Living God. Jesus Christ Himself is our aim, and our benefactor. He loved us so much that He offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin. It’s very simple. God accepted the sacrifice and raised His precious Son from the dead. Now it is there, waiting for us to accept that great and priceless gift.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we complicate things sometimes, but your salvation is a simple choice, and it is free. Blessed be your name forever and forever! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Emma used her hand to brush her husband Edgar’s white hair from his forehead…he was near death.
Their marriage had been happy, and now she was saying goodbye. The nursing staff talked about the love between the two. Only three days after Edgar went into eternity, Emma joined him.
The Bible often uses marriage as a backdrop for what God has done for us. We know that in earthly marriages, it’s important to persevere. When we think of the Fruit of the Spirit, patience is very closely linked to faithfulness. It’s the act of sticking with someone or something, all the way to the end.
Proverbs 3:3 says, “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.”
Our loving Father has been with us every step of the way. The faithfulness of God is an awesome thing to see and experience, and we know His promises always come true.
He’s waiting for us at the end, with outstretched arms. In the tough times, think about that—imagine Him there. It makes the wait worth it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are faithful to your people all the time, in every circumstance. We’re grateful that you love us this much. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Because there’s so much easy access to information and ideas today, we can take in a huge amount of stuff. The downside is that much of it is just noise, and a lot of it simply isn’t true.
What we hear, even if it sounds good, is not always good for us, especially when we’re talking about spiritual doubt. There are many opinions floating around out there on the subject. For instance, some will say that doubt is really something to wrestle with continually never finding a satisfying answer; while at the other end of the spectrum, some will say that if you doubt, you are permanently cut off from God. Both of those extremes are not helpful at all.
The Bible is clear that God gives us a choice whether to believe in Him or not. John 1:12 says, “Yet, to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”
Within each person is a longing to understand our place in the world and to know if there is something or someone beyond this life. The Bible says that He has set eternity in our hearts; that curiosity is in all of us, and if you're wondering about God, then that curiosity is a good starting point.
A bedrock truth for Christians is that God sent Jesus in human form to atone for the sins of mankind. This is not an easy concept to grasp honestly, but it’s what is known as the Gospel—the foundation of our faith.
Christianity’s exclusive claims are too much for some seekers. In Mark chapter 10, the Bible describes a wealthy young man who asked Jesus what he had to do to be saved, and Jesus replied that besides following the 10 Commandments, he should give his money to the poor. The story ends with that man sadly walking away. It’s likely that Jesus was helping him to see that his heart was not yet ready to receive anything that would require any sacrifice on his part.
In Luke 9:23, Jesus says, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Believing in the true God is not a bed of roses, but if you can make the search for God your starting point, you’ll likely find what you’re looking for.
Let’s pray.
Father, you’ve given us the knowledge of saving faith in your Word. Thank you for giving us a free choice to decide our path in life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When you’re having a bad day, a run-in with an immensely cheerful person doesn’t always turn that frown upside down. Does it? Commiserating with someone else though—a word literally defined by two or more people wallowing in misery together—that can be a balm to an anxious and worried mind. Sometimes. The relief though, is temporary.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
The apostle Paul was talking about more than mere cheerfulness in his letter to the Christian believers of Rome. Nowhere in the Bible does the Lord command us, ‘Thou shalt always be chipper,’ but these wise words from Paul remind us to think—before we sink. No matter what hardships we face, our hope is found in Jesus Christ and this hope is an infinite well of joy we can turn to in times of trouble.
Paul also reminds believers to be patient no matter what befalls us. Paul was a respected missionary, even honored and admired by powerful officials of his day who didn’t share his Christian beliefs. Despite his good standing, for a period of two years he was in prison—literally chained and under constant guard. And from this depth of experience, he’s able to tell others to be patient in affliction. Whether our chains are literal or figurative in nature, the trials we face can mold our character and build our patience if we choose to let them.
The most important part of Paul’s message in this verse is the reminder to be faithful in prayer. God is worthy of all honor and praise, but He also knows us, understands our weaknesses, and loves us anyway. On the days life feels too difficult to approach the Lord with a smile on our faces and joy in our hearts, He still wants to hear from us. Prayer is not a sometimes thing; it’s an all the time practice that grows our faith, strengthens our relationship with God, and changes our lives.
So, be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the source of all our hope, the teacher of patience, and the one who listens to every prayer. Help us to choose joy over despair, patience over exasperation, and to pray faithfully. Sometimes fear and frustration threaten to overwhelm us, but you are near, and we pray you will turn our hearts to you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
There is a movement in our society for a return to simple living. We might not want to give up all our technology—much of it is wonderful and helpful. But it is true that we want to quiet our minds and find some peace. This week we are talking about the simplest, sweetest truth around: Jesus Saves.
With that knowledge in hand, we can all find peace that the Bible says is from another world.
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
It seems at times we are moving at near the speed of light through this amazing Information Age. Constant access to that much information can bring with it tired minds and weary hearts.
With that said, wouldn’t you like to be able to grab hold of the secret of life?
We just read it. God sent His Son, Jesus, to earth as a man to take on our sin and pay the penalty for those sins. When he was crucified, God raised Him from the dead three days later. It is what believers call the Good News.
Those of us who follow Jesus believe God has proven Himself many times over.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given all of us the hope of a joyful eternity. Your Son’s sacrifice has saved us, and we’re eternally grateful for that. It’s in Jesus’ name that we pray, amen.
Humans have limited understanding of our world and the world beyond; not that we’re unintelligent—far from it. The Bible makes it clear that God gave man a sound mind, and from the beginning, people were capable of accomplishing amazing things. The construction of the great pyramids, modern scientific advances, and our knowledge of the cosmos is a testament to how much humans can know and achieve. We’re even capable of presenting truth in various ways through art, teaching, and moral agendas, but man’s abilities are finite. There is One, though, that claims all truth: the person Jesus Christ.
John 1:17 says, “For the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”
In other words, man has been capable over time of building structure and order in society. Around the time of Moses and the 10 Commandments and the laws that govern the Israelites, other cultures were doing somewhat similar things. The Code of Hammurabi, a set of Babylonian laws, helped create a functioning society, and in 1254, the Magna Carta, a set of English laws that was the forerunner of the Declaration of Independence, brought England out of the Dark ages.
Yet the Bible is very clear that ultimate truth, the sum of all reality, is found only in Jesus Christ. It is in Him that we unlock the mystery of who we are as individuals. He knows each of us, and invites us into relationship with him.
People all over the world follow their own set of rules. It’s often said that truth is true if it’s true for you, meaning of course that each of us has the right to follow his or her own reasoning. For example, to a person who frees himself from moral constraints, love can mean many things.
In 2 John 1:6 we read, “And this is love, that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you’ve heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.”
Do you see the difference? We can tell ourselves anything; that love, for example, can have many definitions, but God tells us in His Word that true love is being obedient to our Creator.
In the end, the world is full of philosophies and opinions of men. Some see truth differently, but only in the Bible do we find true truth. For Jesus Christ is the ultimate truth.
Let’s pray.
Father God, the world can be a dangerous place. Help us to continue relying on you and as our ultimate source of truth so that we can make the best for us and our families. Your Word is our guide, Jesus’ name, amen.
Part of God’s unchanging nature is that He is sovereign and does things His way. In Isaiah 55, we read that God’s ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts. In other words, He’s infinitely more powerful than we are, especially when it comes to perspective.
We read in the Old Testament that sometimes other nations mocked the Israelites when they were exiled from their homeland. Really, they were mocking God because it was said that maybe He couldn’t keep His promises. After all this, after the Assyrians and Babylonians conquered Israel, neighboring pagan nations remembered that God had promised to give the land to the Israelites. But did that mean God had lied, and was in reality no more powerful than man? No, not at all.
Numbers 23:19 says, “God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?”
In fact, God tells us clearly that He does exactly what He wants, when He wants. We see this in Isaiah 46 when God led the Israelites out of Egypt, but they were then confronted at the Red Sea by Pharaoh’s army. Did that mean God had lied when He promised to lead them out of slavery? Of course not. In fact, it was then He performed one of history’s greatest miracles.
In Psalm 16:10, we read that God would not allow your holy one to rot in the grave, and this is a reference to Jesus. Yet, when Jesus died on the cross, many assumed that God had either lied or was powerless to stop Jesus from being entombed. We know how that story ended, and the triumph of life over death. God did raise Jesus from the dead. His body did not decay in the grave. So it’s a matter of perspective, then.
Humans, with their limited understanding, think from time to time that God cannot keep His promises, but He keeps them all the time. All promises fulfilled—100% of the time. He cannot lie.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you alone are powerful and you are our strength. You are perfect in all of your ways and have demonstrated that time after time. Help us let others see that—those who might doubt you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Tribes usually think a lot of themselves, exclusive groups are sometimes arrogant. Even whole nations can be this way. In the 19th century, several European countries felt they were the descendants of the first people in the world.
With religion, this can be infinitely worse with Christianity. Critics often say the exclusive nature of it is just unfair. They cite the Christian view that the only way to be reconciled to God is through Jesus Christ, and say that’s degrading to people of other faiths or those with no faith. Other worldviews claim to have truth and a few claim a superior view of the world, but none are quite like the Christian faith.
Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” all meaning all. That’s the meaning of the verse. And this is offensive to a lot of people. Christianity, though, doesn’t force itself on anyone, at least not in the modern world. It’s been said that the Holy Spirit is a gentleman, meaning he won’t force a person to yield to God. Instead, God offers grace to all who want it.
Paul made it clear in particular that in order to be born again, one must believe in Jesus Christ. And rather than see this as exclusive, maybe we should change our perspective just a little and see how inclusive it really is.
Many religions claim truth—but not absolute truth. Along with that, many believe all religions lead to God, but the totality of scripture tells us clearly that it is in Jesus that we find the truth, and satisfy the longing in our souls. In John 8:31–32, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. And then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.”
So you see, far from being a hateful, dominant view, the Christian faith shows people everywhere how to be free from sin. Not a workspace religion, but one that makes the very most of God’s grace. And that is true truth.
Let’s pray.
Father God, your Word is truth. In it, we discover who we are and what our relationship with you can be. Thank you that you haven’t left us in the dark about our world, and the world beyond. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Truth makes an appearance in the Bible right at the start, and it sets the stage for everything that comes after it.
The opening scene, if you will, takes place in the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve have been placed there in a perfect setting. No worries. Every need is taken care of. It’s hard to imagine that kind of harmony now, but it once existed. Briefly, we’re told that a once beautiful being, Lucifer, had become corrupted through his own pride. The angel had become jealous of God, and he held human beings in contempt. They would become a way for him to try and undermine the purpose of God.
He was there when Adam and Eve sinned by eating from the Tree of Knowledge of good and evil. God had warned them not to do that. Lucifer, sort of in costume as a serpent, came to Eve and asked a famous question, ‘Did God really say you couldn’t eat from any tree in the garden?’ You see, that’s not what God had told them. He told them they could eat from all trees except one. But Lucifer lied to Eve by twisting the truth. It led to sin entering the world. And from there, truth is a dominant theme. We see it come up when Nathan is brave enough to tell David that his sin with Bathsheba is unacceptable.
But the most famous conversation about truth came when Jesus was being tried before Pilate. The Roman governor, realizing the frenzy over Jesus was out of control, questioned his prisoner. At one point, he asked Jesus, “What is truth?” That question is echoed over time, and each person has to deal with it. Jesus had just said to Pilate, “In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” This is one of those exclusive claims that is a hallmark of the faith, and the Bible does not shy away from it.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you are truth. You are reality, and every good thing. We thank you that the Word reveals how we can know what is real and what isn’t. In Jesus’ name, amen.
It’s been said that in the Fruit of the Spirit list, all of them collectively practically define the nature of Christ.
Even David the shepherd knew his Messiah was coming. Remember what he said about his loving God? He said, “Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life.” We instinctively know what goodness is. It’s a kind touch, a gentle word, a gift that was unexpected.
Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, o man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God.”
And in life, we understand the distinction between good and evil—these two forces always warring with each other. The key thing to remember in this conflict is that God is good—and infinitely stronger than evil. That’s important to remember, as we see injustice.
What did Micah tell us? That goodness is wrapped up in the choices we make. Oppose injustice. Love what is kind. And be humble. The truth is, all of us have been given so much good by our good God, that it should be second nature to model that for those we meet in our journey.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for your sweet goodness. Sustain us with that goodness for the journey. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Do you ever worry you might not measure up?
Sam was a fourth grader with a big problem: he left his homework at school, and he was so worried he’d be in trouble with the teacher, he could hardly stand to go to school the next day.
In the car on the way to school, Sam’s mom explained the concept of grace, asking, “Sam, do you know about the idea of grace? Grace means even if we aren’t perfect, the people who care about us can choose to forgive us. I think your teacher will understand about your homework.”
Ephesians 2 verses 8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
The concerns on your mind today are probably bigger than a missed homework assignment. Maybe you’re struggling in your marriage, or experiencing financial distress. Maybe things aren’t going well at work, or you’re battling addiction, or wrestling with sin.
Whatever it is, when you begin to worry you are falling short, give it to the Lord. God sent Jesus as a living sacrifice for me and for you, so we could all experience His grace. Grace isn’t something we can earn, it’s a gift God gives to us, simply because He loves us. And that’s truly amazing!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we thank you for your grace. We thank you for loving us, and we thank you for who you are, and all you’ve done. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In the book of Romans, Paul tells us the evidence for the existence of God are so numerous in nature that anyone can believe in God. Surely one of the most compelling examples is in our night sky. When we look up at the heavens, it takes our breath away. The twinkling lights are like our own personal message from God.
All those stars…
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
Astronomers tell us that each star is as unique as we are. We can see some burning dramatically, others are smaller, but no less beautiful. All those infinite numbers dot the black backdrop, causing even the most cynical of us to marvel.
God has always intended for you to share your faith. Like a message written with stars, your story will resonate with people who wonder why you have joy in this crazy world. They will stop and consider what you have to say, because the light of Christ shines from the inside out.
That is a message worth sharing!
Let’s pray.
Lord, would you give us the courage to tell our stories, to share the Good News of what Christ has done for us! It’s in Jesus’ name that we pray, amen.
There’s something fresh about the love of Jesus. As we begin a new year, it’s your chance to start really new, not in the way we often make resolutions. It’s a tossup, whether those will see the end of the year or even the end of the month. But if you’re really tired of struggling, trying to make it on your own, commit yourself right now to knowing Jesus, who He is, why He came to earth, and most importantly, what He has outlined for your future.
The most famous Bible verse John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.”
Most people have at least heard that, but keep reading. In verse 17, we’re told that Christ did not come to condemn us, but to save us. He’s not about condemnation or rehashing every wrong thing you’ve done. He’s about new beginnings, done the right way, lasting and whole.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us the lasting determination to follow you from this moment forward. No more relying on ourselves or on shaky resolutions. Your way is the only way to true peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Happy New Year! New Year’s stuff is beneficial in several things. We make resolutions—and we might even stick to some of them, but it’s what God does that really matters. He’s in the renewal business, making broken things whole again, especially people.
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away and behold the new has come.” It’s great for us when this involves repaired relationships or even a career boost. Yet, this vital truth matters most in our relationships with Him. God fashions relationships that are sustainable over time and the gospel is the essence of this truth.
If you feel empty, call on Jesus who’s ready to make you clean, take away your guilt and shame. One day He will restore the whole creation to its original perfect state. But in the meantime, He will look at you with love, put His hand on your heart, and offer you eternity.
If you’re wondering what the new year has for you, set your sights higher, think bigger. Step into your future this year with a real sense of who you are in Christ. He is waiting for you to come to Him for the rest you’ve needed for a long time. The new has come.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the fresh start that only you can bring. Thank you for wiping off the dirt of the past and helping us see clearly a future that is always new. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Beryl Markham could have given up on her aviation dreams after crash-landing in Nova Scotia. But she didn’t.
Instead, this determined woman became the first person to fly from England to North America. She later said that in order to move forward, we can’t stay in the past. In fact, she said, “Leave it the fastest way you can!”
This pioneer knew that staying stuck was not inevitable—that we must choose to keep our eyes on what it is we are yet to accomplish in life.
Ephesians 4:31–32 says, “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
Maybe you’re letting some past hurts keep you from your destiny. Don’t waste another moment! Your future is waiting on you to turn your eyes to it, and stop staring at a past failure.
Leave those past hurts as fast as you can!
Let’s pray.
Father God, we are grateful that you make a way for us to forge ahead and not be limited by the things of the past. Walk with us, always, Father, and bless our efforts. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Are you like a lot of people when it comes to the instruction booklet with a new item? We stare at it and eventually just toss it, guessing we can just figure it out.
Yeah…that usually ends like dropping a carton of eggs.
The Bible is there for a reason. God’s Word is healing and light and a guide for each of us. That’s why it’s important to read it, and meditate on the words.
To the church at Philippi, Paul gave instruction from God, such as putting others before ourselves. Then the payoff:
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
God’s way is infinitely better. If we focus on the right things, our own needs are then met in ways too spectacular for us to imagine. Focus on others and sharing the Good News, and we stand out like stars in the night sky!
Do life the right way: Read the instructions.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you’ve shown us how to succeed in life and in the life to come. Help us share that with others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
God gives us good gifts all the time. All through the year, not just at Christmas.
One of the truly joyful gifts is the ability to be kind to others. It sounds simple and maybe to some even quaint, but there is power in choosing to be kind.
Choosing to be kind. That’s one of our themes this week.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 tells us to, “Always be joyful.” Paul uses this chapter to describe the heart of a Christian. We are also to ‘encourage the disheartened,’ and ‘be patient with everyone.’
Although there are studies that prove this, we don’t have to read a study to know that our decision to spread cheer in this world is really important. Honestly, it also just feels good. Doesn’t it? Have you done this lately?
Minnie Pearl was a fixture on the Grand Ole Opry. Her silly hat and goofy jokes helped make her famous, but the native of Tennessee is remembered for her joyful heart. People who knew her especially felt lifted up just by being around her.
It’s always the season to spread cheer, but especially so during this season of goodwill. Try it. You’ll help others lean into joy, and it will help you catch the spirit of joy, too.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the joy that we feel as believers is a good gift from our good Father. Thank you for giving us hope. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We’re all a little bit nicer at Christmastime, aren’t we? Admit it. Starting around December 1st, our steps are a bit lighter and we even greet people with a smile. But as night falls on Christmas night, for some weird reason some of us begin to turn back into a grumpy neighbor. In this, we’re missing a great opportunity.
Psalm 16:11 says, “You make known to me the path of life. You will fill me with joy in your presence with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”
God makes it clear He didn’t send Jesus so we would experience joy four or five days out of the year. This is then our job: carry Christmas forward into next year. Help people know Him. Share the love of Jesus with as many people as you possibly can. That is true Christmas.
If you’ve checked off your list for gift giving, get out another sheet of paper and resolve to be the face of Jesus to those you come in contact with. Christmas, the true meaning of it, lives in us if we are children of the King of Kings.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your love for us is eternal and continual. We worship you and we praise you for your mercies. In Jesus’ name, amen.
This is the day of days. While the exact day is unknown, what we do know is that 2000 years ago, Jesus Christ came to earth as a child to rescue us from sin.
Christmas is a date on the calendar that literally quickens our hearts. Everyone understands the significance of it. It’s why hateful people behave differently for at least 24 hours.
Isaiah 9:6 says, “For to us, a child is born. To us, a son is given. And the government will be on His shoulders, and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
This wonderful passage from Isaiah recorded 700 years before Jesus was born, speaks of course, of our Messiah—born there in a damp setting surrounded by farm animals, and a few people who began to understand that they were seeing something extraordinary.
Keep Christmas in your heart this year. Today, stop and think about the one who came bearing the gift of gifts just for you. Have a Merry Christmas.
Let’s pray.
Lord, today, we wake up with anticipation. A day unlike other days through the year, we love you for the greatest gift anyone could ever give. The gift of Jesus, the gift of eternal life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Celebrating Christmas with family and friends is a great time of the year, but do we know how all this started? This observance of the holiday?
We’re pretty sure Jesus wasn’t born on December 25th. There are clues in scripture that put the date more in the springtime.
In ancient times, the winter solstice occurred on December 25th. Sometime early in the 4th century, the church fathers set the date as the one we now celebrate.
Even factoring in the diverse cultures around the world, Christmas is celebrated on every continent close to the same time for everyone. It’s pretty much agreed that our present day celebrations have their origins in pre-Christian, Christian and secular festivals, and there’s some debate about what is and isn’t appropriate.
However, for the believing Christian, the season is truly all about the birth of our Savior. No matter where you live or how you choose to celebrate, the scarlet thread of Christ’s birth and sacrifice that runs through scripture is the tie that binds.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it has been said that we can keep Christmas in our hearts. We thank you for sending your Son as the ultimate gift to mankind. In Jesus’ name, amen.
O Holy Night is a well-known Christmas carol that began as a French poem celebrating the opening of a new church. The beloved song we know today was translated into English by John Sullivan Dwight, an American minister and abolitionist, in 1855.
This poignant carol reflects on the birth of Jesus as humanity’s redemption.
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining
It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
‘Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn
A thrill of hope...what a beautiful, moving way to describe the feeling in our hearts as we approach the date that we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Right now, you may be feeling a weariness that you haven’t felt before. Concerns about the health and well-being of your family, and worldly troubles beyond your control, may be weighing heavily on your heart this year.
We invite you to join us as we approach Christmas Day in rejoicing in the Lord. A new and glorious morning is on the way, and our hope is still, and always, in Jesus.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we confess this year has made us weary. God, we pine for your holy presence, and we rejoice in your gift of Jesus! Be present among us, Lord. Bring peace to the chaos of this world and renew our hope for the coming year. We ask these all of these things in Jesus’ name, amen.
Charles Wesley, an English Methodist leader in the 1700s, wrote more than 6,000 hymns—more than any other male writer.
His goal was to teach the poor and illiterate sound doctrine. God used the writing talents of Charles Wesley to bring the Good News to people in a memorable way; even those who couldn’t read, could hear and understand a beautiful song, and even sing along.
Think about the songs you hear on the radio during the month of December. So many of the songs Americans enjoy listening to and singing aloud this time of year are praise-filled anthems celebrating our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and His birth—and many people don’t even know it!
Hark! the herald angels sing
Glory to the new-born King!
Peace on earth and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled!
Joyful, all ye nations, rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With the angelic host proclaim
Christ is born in Bethlehem!
Hark! the herald angels sing
Glory to the new-born King!
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we give you the glory for reconciling our sin through the birth, death, and resurrection of your Son, Jesus. May our hearts join together in peace as we sing and shout with joy over the gift of your Son. It’s in His name that we pray, amen.
A remarkable prophecy in the little book of Micah predicted the Messiah's birth in great detail.
Micah 5:2 says, “But you oh, Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.”
Most of us know the basics. Jesus was born in humble surroundings. His parents were traveling to take part in the census, and Mary delivered in a tiny village south of Jerusalem. If the traditional site is accurate, Jesus was born in a grotto where animals were kept. Because of the business of the year there indeed was no room for the family in the modest inn.
Jesus was born in a dangerous time, but He came for us, to redeem us, and He came as the most vulnerable of all.
Let’s pray.
Lord, only you could bring Jesus into the world in such circumstances. His earthly parents watched over Him and He became the sacrifice for us all. Thank you for this gift. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Did you know that “Joy to the World” was not written as a Christmas carol? In its original form, it had nothing to do with Christmas. It wasn’t even written to be a song.
Isaac Watts was one of the great hymn writers in church history, and nothing shows that better than the fact that he wrote one of his most famous hymns entirely by accident. In 1719, Watts published a book of poems in which each poem was based on a psalm.
One of those poems was an adaptation of Psalm 98, which Watts interpreted as a celebration of Jesus’ role as King of both His church and the whole world. More than a century later, the second half of this poem was slightly adapted and set to music to give us what has become one of the most famous of all Christmas carols: Joy to the World.
Joy to the world, the Lord is come
Let earth receive her King
Let every heart prepare Him room
And Heaven and nature sing
Instead of celebrating the birth of Christ, like most hymns, this carol is all about the triumphant return of Christ. Ponder that as you sing along at home, in the car, or in the pew at church.
Christmas is so much more than Jesus’ birthday—it’s the recognition by believers that Jesus was born, died for our sins, rose again...and that He will return someday to make all things right!
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord Jesus, today we do celebrate your birth. We picture you with your earthly mother and father, Mary and Joseph, and we celebrate you coming into this world. Thank you for renewing our joy and reminding us that you are truly our King of Kings for all time, and you will return to make all things new. It’s in your holy name that we pray, amen.
Clive Staples Lewis was successful. A British writer and theologian, his work has become very famous. When Lewis wrote his classic “Surprised by Joy,” he was emphasizing the fact that true joy comes from a place we cannot create, but only claim and receive.
His story really brings a point to our weeklong series about asking the Lord for help when we are at the end of our rope.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
In ‘Surprised by Joy,’ Lewis compares joy to a signpost in a deep wood, pointing us to safety. Lewis was an intellectual and well known as an atheist, until he reached a point where life had no real meaning. He realized—not too late—that it isn’t weakness to reach out to God.
If you’re in a deep wood and can’t find your way out—if the sun is setting—stop and ask Jesus for the thing you need the most. Think about the implications of the psalm: He is telling you that you will receive what you asked for; it’s already done!
Lewis thought of himself as a “complete man” once he found the Lord. The same thing can happen for you.
Let’s pray.
Father God, life has ups and downs, and you know that. God, we need you to be there for us, with us, all the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We look for things and stuff to make us happy, don’t we? Especially in the United States, where we are blessed with abundance. People from all walks of life look for more and more.
That can bring us to an empty place. Spiritually and emotionally, we look in the wrong places. But as we’ve discussed this week, that spark of joy we look for can be found only in Jesus. Everything else is—yes—clutter.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
This plays out over and over every day. We see this in dramatic ways when a famous person turns from materialism and empty fame, and finds Jesus. Someone like that, who has experienced uncommon wealth, comes to a place where Jesus must be dealt with.
Are you tired of your empty pursuits? Has the excitement over a new career or a new car worn off? If you’re listening and nodding, or maybe you’re not even sure—do this today: tell Jesus what’s in your heart and what’s on your mind.
He said to ask.
Ask.
Receive His joy.
Then you’ll be complete.
You will be uncluttered.
He’s literally waiting for you to sit down and tell Him all about it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, refresh us and renew us. Clean our hearts and our minds. We know that you can and will. We receive that! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Part of the joy of being a believer is that we can share the Good News with literally anyone and everyone. And how we share that faith is often critical for the other person’s future.
Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
As we share this week about holding fast to faith, it should be obvious that we are greatly blessed to be able to show others the way. And in that, we can be an example that just because things don’t always go our way, Jesus is better than anything.
On a difficult day, or in the midst of life’s challenges, we can let doubt fester and complain to those around us…or we can turn to Jesus, and point to Him no matter our circumstances.
People are watching. Don’t doubt that. If you put yourself out there as a Christian, others will look to see how you handle yourself when the going gets tough. Some look for you to mess up, but many more genuinely are curious about what you have.
Show them that your faith isn’t dependent on every day being smooth. Your task is to walk in faith — up and down the hills.
No Grit, No Glory!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us the gift of sharing the Good News! In Jesus' name, amen.
Do you remember the last time you laughed? Do you remember the last time you laughed from sheer joy?
Many of us don’t. The weight of life presses down on us…it weakens us.
Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
Did you know that God means for you to be strong? He wants you to have dignity. You are a child of the King. You are a woman of faith. Or maybe you are a man who seeks God.
That beautiful proverb reminds us that it is God Himself who dresses us each day with the respect He has for us as His creation. Because of His favor and His blessing, you can meet today with boldness in who you are, not shaking with fear or worry.
So, today as you head to work or as you do whatever you’re about to do, take as your own promise that the all-powerful, true God made you to live this life not with fear of the future, but with strength and dignity — because you know what’s in store for you, in the next.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are better than what the enemy tells us we are. Thank you for clothing us in strength and in confidence each day. We get that strength only from you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Watching little kids perform on stage at school or at church is quite entertaining, isn’t it? There are always a couple of shy violets, but many of them sing their hearts out, fidgeting with excitement and performing actions to accompany the songs with gusto.
If Grammy awards were doled out based on sheer enthusiasm, kids in elementary and Sunday School programs would probably win every year. They simply can’t contain the feelings in their hearts when it’s time to make a joyful noise.
Psalm 111:1 says, “Praise the LORD. I will extol the LORD with all my heart…”
The word “extol,” not one we say often, means to praise enthusiastically; to go into raptures about, to rave about, to delight over, or to sing the praises of. Imagine if every time we thought about our great God, we fell into raptures of delight—the same way those boisterous kids do when they break into song. Now that would be something to see!
Let’s pray.
God, you are worthy of our gratitude, our admiration, and our praise. Thank you for every good thing in our lives, and remind us to bring every ounce of joy to our praise for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
If you’re like most people, the more chaotic life gets, the more you need a solution broken down in easy-to-understand concepts.
We’ve been discussing what happens when people move away from God, and the consequences that impact us.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Besides the soothing beauty of the language, notice that God gives us several elements to meditate on in Scripture, as we walk the road to peace.
We are clearly told here to hope in the Lord. He will then strengthen us. After this comes the fun part! Close your eyes and see yourself floating on the winds of peace, high above the chaos and troubles below. Finally, we are told that our strengths in the Lord will not wear out.
When God redeems, He does it completely—with no strings attached!
He loves us that much.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you actually make it easy for us to leave the chains that confine us. God, we praise You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Does your life feel out of control? Are you experiencing that common feeling of weaving down a busy highway, about to crash?
It’s a metaphor for life that a lot of folks internalize at some point. All of a sudden, what you were sure of isn’t there anymore. You might as well be behind the wheel of a fast car that’s heading into oncoming traffic.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
This isn’t some nice little bit of wisdom someone put on a greeting card. This is the very Word of God. It has sustained civilization for thousands of years. And it’s a proven method for getting your life under control.
It doesn’t work though, unless you can see Jesus taking the wheel. Let him get you to safety and peace. He’s ready and waiting to take all your worries and set you on a smooth and straight path.
Will you pray with me?
Lord, feeling out of control is not something we want anymore. Please take over and guide us, Lord, in your perfect ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.
There’s a movement in our society for a return to simple living. We might not want to give up all our technology—much of it is wonderful and helpful. But it is true we want to quiet our minds and find some peace. This week we’re talking about the simplest, sweetest truth around: Jesus saves.
With that knowledge in hand, we can all find peace that the Bible says is from another world.
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
It seems at times we are moving at near the speed of light through this amazing Information Age. Constant access to that much information can bring with it tired minds and weary hearts.
With that said, wouldn’t you like to be able to grab hold of the secret of life?
We just read it. God sent His Son, Jesus, to earth as a man, to take on our sin and pay the penalty for those sins. When he was crucified, God raised Him from the dead three days later. This is what believers call the Good News. You can believe it or not. Those of us who follow Jesus believe God has proven Himself many times over.
We love our Jesus.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given all of us the hope of a joyful eternity. Your Son’s sacrifice has saved us, and we are all eternally grateful for that. It’s in Jesus’ name that we pray, amen.
Few of us enjoy chaos. It’s just too...chaotic, right?
The human mind needs order and peace, yet we live in this messy world. Stuff is flying by all the time, and we duck.
Our relationships are a mess, and we have to schedule that root canal...while simultaneously making dinner and cleaning the house.
Is there a way out?
Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.”
It’s all perspective.
Yes, you might have a hundred things to do before 4 p.m. today, but remind yourself of this: sometimes we miss the best days of our lives because we don’t focus on the good. God brought order out of a vast chaos long ago…formless, empty—to create a world of beauty. And He did it because He loved us.
If He can handle that, can we handle our busy day of meetings and yes, even that root canal? I think we can.
Pray with me.
Lord, our lives get so busy we forget that you made order out of chaos. Help us to slow down our brains and hearts and learn to savor the moment. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Do you especially need the gift of peace right now? Is your life so busy, you can’t find time to take a breath? There is Good News for you: Jesus already knows.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
When Jesus ascended to heaven, He told the apostles, “My peace I leave with you.” Because He lives, we know for sure that this peace is available to us anytime, anywhere. Even in the busy part of your life, when you think you’re going crazy, you can call on Him and He will answer.
This is our theme for this week: that peace is attainable. It comes from God, first and last. You might need to get away for even five minutes and close your eyes and pray. Let Him know you are beaten down and tired. Remember the verse we just read: peace is not just something for the glorious future Jesus is preparing for us. It’s to us here and now.
Claim that for your busy life today!
Let’s pray.
Lord, when chaos seems to rule over us, you tell us otherwise. Thank you that we can simply ask and you will settle peace over us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
It’s kind of fun in those moments when the kids are in bed and the dishes are done, to think about the Big Questions. You know—The List.
Why am I here?
What is the meaning of life?
A question that people from ancient times to now have asked is, why in the world, literally, did God create people? We are a handful, as past generations used to say. We mess up. Sometimes we’re on our way to being smart, but then find ourselves flying down the Stupid Highway.
God must get tired of us, right?
1 Peter 2:9 says, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
In those terrible moments when you feel dirty and worthless, remember this verse. God says you are special to Him! You!
Begin praising Him for this incredible gift, and begin to understand that He made you to fellowship with Him, forever.
That’s pretty awesome.
Let’s pray.
Lord, all through your Word, You speak of us as the object of your love. Your incredible gesture of sending Jesus for us is proof of that. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever been in such a dark place that you wondered if God cares about you, or if He even exists? Maybe it’s all some cosmic joke, right?
We’ve all been there. Humans doubt. We doubt ourselves, we doubt product labels, we doubt our kids. We question everything.
But the worst one is trying to figure out where God is in the middle of life’s great difficulties. Sometimes the world is just flat-out mean, and it seems like it’s an entity that’s trying to break you in half.
That’s the very moment God’s ancient and eternal words come to us.
Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that! Jesus lives so that you will live forever. And in the interim, He will walk with you and carry you when necessary. He never fails and what’s more, His willingness to never leave us has been proven over and over again, in a billion different ways.
If you need Him right now, don’t doubt Him. Call out to Him. Your circumstances might seem impossible and impossibly unique…but don’t believe it. Believe Him instead.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you promised that you would never leave us. We know that’s true, but help us with our faith in our weak moments. God, make us believe. In Jesus’ name, amen.
As humans, we have a tendency to compartmentalize things. It’s in our nature to make lists, and rank priorities, and really box certain things in. We’ve got our work life over here, and our family life over there, and our faith somewhere else.
This can often lead us to confusion about what we’re supposed to do, and when, and where we’re supposed to go. And this confusion extends to our faith. We wonder: When am I supposed to pray, and when am I supposed to take action on my faith?
Psalm 34:1 says, “I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”
When we get the Word deep in our hearts, we can have an answer for our personal questions. This psalm tells us that we are to always remember the great gifts the Father God bestows on us. His greatness is ever before us and in this way, we can worship Him all the time, no matter what we’re doing.
Learn to bless the Lord and praise Him as you do your job, as you fellowship with others, and even as you engage with people who don’t believe what you believe. They need to see the love of Christ shining through you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we bless you and praise you with our words. Thank you, Father, for never ever forgetting us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Scores of people today, even many in our churches, walk around aimless. They work their jobs and take care of their families, but struggle to understand what it is that God wants them to do.
He’s told us in His word!
As with every other situation, His Word speaks directly to our circumstances.
Micah 6:8 says, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
The Lord requires of us that we have the mind of Christ. That we aim for showing justice and mercy to those we encounter. And notice: we are to love doing these things, not just going through the motions! Finally, we are to remember to be humble. There’s only One Who is perfect and that is the Father. In our present state, we are to emulate the qualities that caused His Son Jesus to turn the world upside down for good.
If you ever wonder what your purpose is, start with these awesome words from the prophet Micah!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to keep in front of us at all times the simplicity that is in Christ. He shows us the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever wondered what your place in this world is?
Of course, you have. That’s the human experience. Alone with our thoughts, we wonder who we even are, and what we’re meant to do. It’s a mysterious journey, but the fog lifts and the way becomes clear when we get to know King Jesus.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
You were made for something! You were made to do things for your Lord. The truly beautiful thing is, God created a custom plan just for you. If you aren’t a famous athlete like Tim Tebow, you can still share your faith in wonderful ways. Ways that are life-changing for those you encounter.
Think of that verse again. God made you for a purpose! Created to have the mind of Christ in making this world a better place and making disciples for Him. And God prepared it all long, long ago.
You are His child. That’s who you are.
Let’s pray.
Lord, when we begin to understand even a little bit of your love for us, it transforms us, and it renews our minds and hearts. Thank you so much for that! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Living life as though your cup is brimming over isn’t a matter of circumstance. It’s a matter of choice.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows.”
God promises bountiful blessings when we follow him, but what about when times are tough? Nowhere does the Bible suggest we should wallow in misery when things don’t go our way. Instead, we should slow down enough to count and savor every blessing, even when goodness is harder to find.
Kristi Nelson, executive director of gratefulness.org, says this about gratitude. “I think gratefulness is about understanding that in each and every moment that we notice we are alive, we are succeeding in creating a life that hovers vividly at the brim. Because, in the end, it is all about the glass, not what is in it.”
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the blessings you pour out on us. Not because we’ve earned your favor, but because you love us sacrificially. Give us an attitude of gratitude beyond our circumstances. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Psychologists and self-help gurus will all tell us that a grateful heart and a positive outlook will do wonders for health and relationships. A person with a heart of gratitude will be seen by others who will want to follow, and see what he has going for him.
Such a person is a magnet for sharing the Gospel, and the greatest source of wisdom has much to say on the subject. Dozens of times in the Bible, we read about the value of gratitude. Paul mentions it several times, including in the account of Elisha healing a woman’s sick son.
We read in 2 Kings 4:37, “She fell at his feet and bowed before him, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she took her son in her arms and carried him downstairs.”
To be overwhelmed with gratitude is an emotional reaction to kindness.
Lamentations 3:22–24 says, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in him.’”
This is especially interesting because to lament, means a person is sorrowful about something. In this case, it’s the prophet Jeremiah. But notice, even in his grief he focuses on God’s love and care for him. He is grateful in his circumstance. In modern language, Jeremiah was being intentional about his gratitude.
The Bible tells us there are many variations of gratitude. In Second Corinthians, Paul even expressed his deep gratefulness to God for allowing him to participate in sharing the Gospel. You see, a truly grateful heart transitions from selfishness, to concern for others. And we can do the same thing today. When we focus on others, gratitude follows.
In Philippians 4, Paul also passes along a profound life lesson. Here, he says that we can learn to be grateful in all circumstances. Think about that. Grateful—whether in distress, or good times. Abundance, or poverty.
A few years ago, a youth missions group was repairing homes damaged by storms in Louisiana. A girl entered a house that was missing part of its roof, and she found an elderly woman rocking in a chair in a bedroom. “Oh, I’m just so happy to have a dry place to sit,” the woman said. She literally had no other dry areas in her home to be until help could arrive. Yet she didn’t complain about her circumstances. Instead, she gave thanks to the Lord, and in so doing—inspired that 16-year-old girl.
Gratitude is a perpetual gift, to us, and to others.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you are good. You’re good to us every day, and we are thankful for that. We’re grateful that you didn’t leave us in our sins, but you sent Jesus. We’re grateful that you sustain us always, in body and in spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Humans tend to see the world from a me-me-me perspective: What can we get out of this situation? How can I benefit from this?
It’s the same with being thankful.
Not that we shouldn’t focus on all that God does for us. That’s important — even critical. But when you think about it, who should benefit most from our gratitude?
The answer is: others.
When we thank others and recognize the effort they took to do something for us, we should train ourselves to understand how it impacts them, not us. Thank them, and be specific: it takes a good heart and a values-driven person to help others.
The gratitude we express is a kind of glue that bonds us together, long after the ‘thank you’ has been delivered.
Ephesians 1:15–16 says, “For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.”
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us even in our gratitude to think of the other person first, and not so much about what we gain. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Do you ever feel like life is passing you by, or worse—running right over the top of you?
When we focus on unpleasant circumstances or people, life can really bring us down. And this perspective is a downward spiral—not a place you want to dwell.
Author John Kralik was there, once. A long hike one day led him to an emotional crossroads; and there, he decided to devote the rest of his life to being thankful.
His life changed dramatically.
John began to write thank you notes to everyone he could think of. Not emails or texts, either. Taking the time to send a handwritten note really connected with the other people. Pretty soon he was so aware of his blessings, that there was no room for depression anymore.
Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”
Consistently thanking others will enrich them, and it will enrich you. Try it!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word is a love letter to us, and our gratitude to you is our thank you note. Help us to spread your Good News to all we come in contact with. In Jesus’ name, amen.
If you’re just starting your day, on your way to work, think about something that will pay off for you down the road.
Are you thankful today?
All week, we’ll talk about what it means to be grateful and thankful for all God has given you and done for you.
Psalm 107:1 says, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
A lot of us are thankful from time to time. Then we get into a pattern of thinking mostly about what we don’t have.
That’s a trap. The enemy wants you to focus on what you don’t have, and ignore the amazing blessings God has already given you! God is good to us just because He wants to bless us. He is a good God. If you focus more on what He’s already done for you, you’ll draw closer to Him.
This, then, is the point: Start practicing gratitude. Every day. Multiple times a day. You’ll be shocked how much your attitude changes for the better.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are merciful to each of us every second of every day. Thank you for your faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever watched a war movie and realized that the actors didn’t know how the conflict would turn out? World War 2 movies are like that. When they filmed “Casablanca,” Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman weren’t sure whether the Germans would win or lose.
Life can be like that.
Matthew 28:20 says, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
In your own life, you might be facing some really serious stuff. And it’s not unusual to be staring at several problems at once. That’s when God’s Word is so valuable to us.
Jesus has promised us that He will stick right with us all the way through. Human friends often go a long way with us, but only Jesus is sure to never, ever leave us.
That’s the best way to beat the uncertainties of life. Tell Jesus you can’t make it without Him.
It’s then that the future no longer scares us at all.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we don’t know a fraction of what you do, including what our future looks like. But we do know that we can trust you, and we thank you for that. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever been fooled by someone? Doesn’t feel good, does it?
But the absolute worst is when we fool ourselves. We try to manage some problem on our own, or analyze a situation gone awry.
The Bible has a better way of thinking about it.
Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
We have to do two things here: give total control to God, and de-emphasize our own judgment. Sometimes our gut is wrong. Following our heart often ends in heartache.
God doesn’t mess up. He doesn’t get it wrong. And He really longs to make it better for you.
Do you remember a time when you put your life in God’s hands? Maybe it was a really important career choice. Or a relationship that needed healing. Maybe your body needed healing. Whatever it was, recall that situation today as you wrestle with a new problem.
Let’s pray.
Lord, every time we learn to trust you, it builds our faith a little more. You are a good God who always has our back. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The Bible is full of what many would call difficult stories. Some of them don’t make a lot of sense at first. Others seem contrary to what we think should happen.
One such story is breathtaking if we follow it through. It involves a father trusting God more than his own instincts.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, and not by sight.”
In Genesis, we read about Abraham being instructed by the Lord to offer his young son Isaac as a sacrifice.
As a sacrifice?! Nothing could be more repulsive! Telling a man to kill his son? Why?
We gain a different perspective when we trust God to the end of this story.
Climbing a high mountain, Abraham intends to obey God all the way. As he raises a knife over his son, God stops him.
God’s compassion hadn’t taken a vacation. He taught Abraham an important lesson about obeying Him no matter what. In fact, Abraham and Isaac would go on to become two of the greatest men of all time.
Learn to trust God—even if you don’t understand.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your ways can at times be mysterious to us, but you always want the best for us. God teach us to trust you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Of all the gifts God gives His children, joy is perhaps the one closest to heaven on earth.
Who isn’t aware just how wonderful it feels to experience true joy? It is as if the Lord has freed a prisoner.
When American POWs returned from captivity in Vietnam, the looks on their faces as they emerged from the planes carrying them to freedom…well, no one will ever forget that!
Psalm 16:9 says, “Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.”
Scripture tells us that we don’t escape trouble in this life, but that for the believer, eternal joy waits for us, and the Holy Spirit gives us joy in our daily walk in the here and now.
It’s also ours for the taking—to reach up and pick this fruit that feeds our souls. Sometimes simply making the choice to embrace a joyful spirit is the key to having a blessed day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you did not create us to be defeated or to be sad. Father, your Spirit brings joy in big and small moments, sustaining us for our journey. Thank you for joy. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When trouble is on the horizon, it can be hard to trust in God’s promises, and to believe He has a plan for us.
The book of Judges in the Old Testament gives us an awesome example of trusting God in the story of Gideon.
God called Gideon to lead Israel into battle with the Midianites, who had a sizable army of 135,000 men. Gideon gathered an army of 32,000 men to battle with the Midianites, but despite odds in favor of the enemy, God told Gideon there were too many men in his army. Through a selection process, God whittled the Israelite army down to just 300 men.
Though Gideon was afraid, he trusted God to fulfill His promise. And God told Gideon they needed a smaller army so people would know God won the battle, and not some large army.
The night of the battle, Gideon and his servant snuck into the camp of the enemy and overheard the telling of a dream. The two Midianites interpreted the dream to mean that Gideon’s small army would wipe out their larger army.
Reassured, Gideon returned to camp to begin the battle. The Midianites were so frightened, many of them began fighting and killing one another, thinking that Gideon’s army was all around them.
Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.”
Gideon trusted God’s plan, even when he didn’t understand. Because of his faith, God helped Gideon and the Israelites to conquer the Midianites with an army a fraction of the size of the enemy’s.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are mighty to save. Help us to trust you in every battle. We love you, and believe you have a plan for us. Give us courage to face the challenges in our lives, knowing you are here with us, and you have a good plan. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In an age of technology booms and information-sharing, it’s amazing how lonely we’ve become. Everything and everyone is connected, but does all that connection ever leave you feeling disconnected in real life? Do you feel alone?
If you do, you are listening at the right time this week as we are reminded that God’s timing is always perfect.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Did you catch that? Here God is talking about and to the individual. He is talking to you. And guess what? He has made you beautiful, a truly unique creation. God has also placed you at the right place in history, right where you are.
God made you in his image. His Son, Jesus, went to the cross for you. If you still feel alone after all that, go back and read our verse for today. Read it again and again.
Our God loves you so very much. His Word says so directly—all over the place. Let that be the backdrop for your day today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for loving each of us infinitely. Thank you for saving us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
This week we’ve been talking about loneliness. We've discussed the difference between being alone and feeling lonely, ideas for getting rid of the feelings of loneliness, and how even the greatest leaders in the Bible experienced loneliness.
You may be thinking, “Well, this is great, but I’m a bit of an introvert, I like to be alone. But why do I feel this lonely feeling sometimes? How can I be wired to want to be alone but also have this strange feeling inside?”
Emily Dickinson, one of the greatest of American poets, attended seminary for a while, and then she went back home to Amherst. For the rest of her life, she lived mostly in seclusion. It’s kind of weird, right? Maybe not.
You see, God made each of us with a distinct personality. Sometimes it’s actually unhealthy to try and fit a square peg into a round hole. It hurts. We get more stressed out. Emily Dickinson lived a full life. Her relationships were in correspondence, a whole lot of letters. And guess what? She wasn’t unhappy.
If your aloneness has gotten under your skin, don’t stress about it. If you’re fulfilled with limited relationships, that’s okay. Figure out what works for you. And remember what the Bible says in Proverbs 18:24, “There is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.”
Let’s pray.
Lord, You made us to have relationships with You first. So if we’re not the outgoing type, help us rest in that. Help us enjoy the life we have and be fulfilled by having right relationship with You as our priority. Thank You for never leaving us and for giving us the very best companionship. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When the Apostle Paul was under house arrest in Rome, he wrote to the church at Philippi, a wealthy city on an important trade route. The citizens there had little need of any outside help, but Paul’s wisdom alerted them that trouble comes to every life.
He had suffered many hardships as he preached the Gospel through the Roman Empire. Paul knew very well what poverty and loneliness were.
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
The bottom line is, God will meet us where we are and provide what we need. He’s proven that over and over again!
No doubt you can remember these times of provision in your own life. Someone in your life today might just need to hear they are not alone.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are so limited in what we can do for ourselves. You are our source for everything great and small. In Jesus’ name, amen.
It’s been said that being alone and being lonely are two different things.
Being alone is not necessarily bad, and can often be a blessing. The Bible says Jesus would withdraw to desolate places to pray from time to time. Feeling lonely, though, especially for extended periods of time, is usually not good. Not good for the soul.
To spot the difference, be intentional about self-awareness.
Ask yourself, do I feel like this all the time? If the answer is yes, you should take a look at your surroundings. Have you unconsciously isolated yourself? Are you letting pain and hurts from the past rob you of joy in the present? Being self-aware can be the beginning of a journey to bring balance to your life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you made us for relationships. Help us to recognize the happy balance between healthy solitude and engaging with others. Father, make us self-aware and allow us to pursue you with intention. In Jesus’ name, amen.
This week, we’re talking about loneliness.
That song, Are You Lonesome Tonight by Elvis was a mega hit. And it’s been around a long time. Why? Because it’s a universal story. Everyone gets lonely sometimes.
God knew we’d battle loneliness. He knew our world would present a crazy number of challenges, and that’s why He spends so much time in His Word reassuring us of His love and commitment to us.
The Psalms are largely about David’s loneliness and God’s provision for him in that season. Leaders get lonely too, as we see in the stories of Moses, Solomon, and of course, even Jesus Himself. The word lonely is only used twice in the New Testament, and both times, it refers to desolate places. But God never left any one of them where they were. Jesus’ final words to His apostles recounted in the book of Matthew were, “And behold, I am with you always to the end of the age.”
Let’s pray.
Lord, when we feel desolate, so alone that nothing seems good, You promise to stay with us and to comfort us. Your promises are true. Help us in those dark moments to call on You with simple, childlike faith and belief. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Are you the enviable sort of person who was born with an innate sense of direction?
Some of us know instinctively whether we are traveling North, South, East, or West. And some of us...would be lucky to find our way out of a paper bag, even with a map in hand.
If you’ve ever been lost on a country road at dusk, no road signs, no one to ask for help, and no idea which way to turn—you know how very useful it is to have directions.
You’re burning daylight, and you aren’t sure how to get back to civilization. Or maybe you’ve driven to a job interview in a new city. Unfamiliar cross streets, busy traffic, and the sound of blaring horns can be a distressing soundtrack when you’re trying to pinpoint one office building among many.
Romans 14:8 says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
When we’re living for the Lord, we have a North Star to guide us on our way. When you aren’t sure which road to take, or which choice to make, remember Who you live for. Ask the Lord to direct your path, to keep you safe from harm, and to be present every step of the way. Country roads, bustling city thoroughfares, and life itself are all so much more enjoyable when we navigate them with Jesus.
Let’s pray.
God, forgive us for those times we prove ourselves aimless on the road of life. Be our guide, and reveal your presence and direction to us on the journey. We are lost without you! In Jesus’ name, amen.
The story of the Prodigal Son is one we can all relate to. The Bible tells the story of a brash young man who leaves his home after asking for his inheritance. His loving father complies, and let’s just say the son learns some valuable lessons on his travels.
Eventually, he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family. It’s really a story of Jesus and us.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
We screw up sometimes. And maybe it’s so bad we can’t possibly see a way back.
That’s when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn’t as concerned with where we’ve been as He is where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real healing for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you’ve screwed up too much, or fallen too far—put that out of your mind, and simply tell Jesus you need Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your willingness to welcome us back is something to behold. We are so grateful for your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever been lost?
For the directionally challenged among us, being lost is terrible.
Imagine a time before Google Maps, before cell phones, and even before boxy little GPS devices for the car. Now imagine a time, way, way back—before every square inch of our world had been mapped. And those who journeyed far weren’t sure what they’d encounter, or whether they’d even make it home again.
Have you ever felt lost?
That’s when a life of faith makes a difference. When you’re feeling like you don’t belong. When you have doubts. When you need hope. Look for the signs of Jesus in your life: Love, hope, peace, and joy.
God provides guidance and direction to the lost. Trust God to safely guide your footsteps, and believe that whatever you encounter, He’ll be right there beside you. Faith is an open invitation to lose yourself entirely in God’s plan for your life.
So, yes. Get lost…in Jesus.
Psalm 32:8 says, “The Lord says, ‘I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.’”
Letting God lead takes guts. Courage. Trust. It takes steadfast faith, persistent prayer, and no small measure of redirection when we falter. But it’s worth it.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, all signs point to you, God. And we thank you for being the light that guides our way and the voice in the darkness that reassures us we’re on the right path. God, we’re sometimes stubborn and we’re sure we know the way to go, but we rest in the assurance that your way is always the best way. Please make your presence known in our lives, and lead us on the path of righteousness in Jesus’ name, amen.
Roaming, travel, wandering…all have been part of the human psyche since the beginning. Because we all have that God-shaped hole in us, needing to be filled with Him, we search.
Some find God, and some don’t.
The sense of aimlessness and lack of purpose haunts some. We think of the classic novel “On the Road,” which is the story of two characters traveling the country. At first, the lure of freedom is fun to think about, but the truth is, if people don’t fill that God-shaped hole with God, despair can set in.
We are left rootless in the worst possible way.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
Wherever you put down your physical roots, your spiritual roots are at least as important. In Christ, we are no longer wandering and discouraged. In Him, we live and move and have our being.
If you feel that you’re not anchored to anything, pour out your heart to Jesus. He will keep you close.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are always in fresh supply. We thank you that you plant us in good soil and hold fast to us even when we wander. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Where are you headed, friend?
Psalm 25:4 says, “Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.”
Whether you’ve lived in the same place your entire life, or you’ve been blessed to travel the world, each and every life is a journey. An opportunity to learn, grow, and impact others as we follow the path God has planned for us.
Moses and the Israelites must have been expert travelers by the time they finally reached the Promised Land, and their journey was no pleasure trip.
God sent 10 devastating plagues to the land of Egypt, causing Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage. And God’s people were promised a land where milk and honey flowed—the Promised Land—also known as Canaan. So Moses and the Israelites traveled to the borders of Canaan. For 40 days, a group of 12 chosen men secretly scouted out the land. Ten of the men reported that the people were well-armed, and just way too strong to overcome.
Despite God’s promise of victory, the Israelites were afraid, and were certain they could not overcome the people of Canaan. They doubted God’s promises. And in turn, he caused them to wander the desert for 40 years: one year for each of the 40 days they had explored the land.
Because of this, no one over the age of 20 would step foot into the Promised Land, including Moses, and an entire adult generation lost out on the blessings God had planned for them—all because they allowed their fear to be greater than their faith in God’s plan.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, how many times have you delivered us? Not because we’re deserving, but because you love us. Help us to keep the faith and stay on your path for us, every step of the journey. Your goodness is beyond question, and we’re grateful for your presence in our lives, and your boundless saving grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today friends, we conclude our series all about the Bible, covering things like what it is, who wrote it, and ultimately its relevance to us and to our time.
The Bible stands alone in historical literature. The internal evidence is that it’s really the Word of God run all through scripture. Here’s one. Out of the many kings who ruled various nations from 2000 to 400 BC, the Bible lists 40 of them in the correct time and place that they ruled. This means that the biblical writers had reliable knowledge of their contemporary records. No other ancient documents can claim such historical accuracy. Then there are the great Messianic prophecies in the Bible, more than a hundred specific ones that predict the coming of Jesus.
Zechariah 12:10 says, “They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child.” This was recorded by the Old Testament prophet 700 years before Christ was born, and this crucifixion reference is confirmed in Matthew 24, John 19, and Revelation 1 in the New Testament. So we know there are many reasons to believe the Bible has a divine origin, but the greatest proof is the witness of believers over 2000 years. The redemptive qualities of the Messiah, Jesus, are shown in Isaiah 61, and of course, the entire New Testament is about Him bringing physical and spiritual healing. The countless numbers of missionaries, ministries, and other individual believers who have brought Christ-like love to the suffering is a testimony to the power of God’s Word.
Would the Apostles have risked torture and death to make claims about a Jewish rabbi who had no real power? Doesn’t make sense that Christians being persecuted today all over the world would preach the Good News if it wasn’t true. The Bible contains what God wanted to communicate to people throughout time. We can be sure of its promises, especially to us as individuals as the product of an all-loving God who has the future secure, and waiting for those who love him.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you have brought understanding to our minds through your Word. It tells us who we are, why we’re here, and where we’re going. And Father, we thank you for that clarity and for your eternal love. In Jesus’ name, amen.
It’s part four in our series All About the Bible, covering things like what it is, who wrote it, and ultimately its relevance to us and our time.
Even though the Bible is world famous, we sometimes hear people say that it was really written for ancient people and that it isn’t relevant for us today. And in a lot of cases, this is totally wrong. It’s true that ancient people compiled the Bible, but God intended it to be for all people in all times and places. Psalm 102:18 says, “Let this be written for a future generation. That a people not yet created may praise the Lord.” And this is amazing. It means that God is inclusive in both his rules for how we should live, and His promises to us are available to all people. And the good rules for living are wonderful and ahead of their time.
Ephesians 5:25 says, “Husbands love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” Now, this is just as valid for us today as it was for an ancient Israelite. The Bible is even up to speed on science: Psalm 8:8 talks about the paths of the sea. And now we know about ocean currents. Proverbs 16:24, “Gracious words are like a honeycomb,” And Proverbs 17:22, “A cheerful heart is good medicine,” describe the human psyche and good mental health. And these are also instructions for us on how to treat others.
Of course, the most relevant aspect of the Bible is the clear description of Jesus himself as our savior. This free gift of grace is available to all people everywhere. And the closer we stick to what the Bible has for us, the more harmony we will see in our lives. It isn’t hard. Just pick it up and begin reading. You’ll be truly amazed by the Bible’s relevance for your life.
Let’s pray.
Father God, your words really are healing, and all of us need that. We’re grateful for that. We’re grateful that you have spoken for yourself and have shown us how powerful your Word is for each of us. Help us pass this knowledge on to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today we continue our series all about the Bible covering things like what it is, who wrote it, and ultimately its relevance to us and our time.
Some believe that the Bible was written and compiled over a very long period of time and was sometimes shared orally, but this would mean that the likelihood of mistakes and inconsistencies could be greater.
Exodus 34:27 says, “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Write down these words for in accordance with these words, I have made a covenant with you and with Israel.’” Now, it’s not unreasonable to believe that the Bible was written at or near the time the events recorded actually happened. This would mean that the patriarchs who were the heads of the families mentioned early in the Bible, wrote down their own histories. Moses, living not long after the patriarchs, compiled all these histories into one long account of early Earth history.
From there, the prophets largely wrote down what God wanted to communicate to the people, and this took place from the time of Moses until the time of Jesus who scholars believe was born in 4 BC. That would mean that the bulk of the Old Testament was formally written over a period of maybe 1500 years from Egypt to Judea, which is modern Israel. By the time the last letters and histories were written down in the New Testament times, the Jewish writers of the Bible were still under the control of the Roman Empire, which was at its height.
The Old Testament was originally written in Hebrew, the language of the Jewish people. The New Testament was written in Greek, one of the major powers in the times of Jesus. The first council of the church was held in 325 AD at Nicea, which is in modern Turkey. It was there that church leaders put into a final form the Bible that we have today. In this way, we have the same books that were available to Christians who actually knew Jesus. There are tens of thousands of manuscripts from the earliest church that match the Bibles we can buy in stores or get online today.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you are not a God of confusion. You’ve made our past, present, and future knowable. Thank you for making sure that history is accurate, including the future, when you will reign over your kingdom in glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We’re in a series all about the Bible covering things like what it is, who wrote it, and ultimately its relevance to us and our time.
One of the most interesting features of the Bible is that it wasn’t written or compiled by the most impressive people. If we think a person who recorded God’s Word had to be Shakespeare, we’re misunderstanding how God works through ordinary people. Many of those who compiled the books of the Bible were more ordinary than you can imagine.
1 Corinthians 1:27 says, “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” In fact, Moses, who’s considered to be the editor and compiler of the first five books of the Bible, wasn’t very good at communicating when God chose him to lead the Israelites to freedom out of Egypt.
In the early chapters of Genesis, the Bible’s first book, there are style elements identical to ancient clay tablets that show us how people recorded family histories. This is seen in such phrases as, “These are the generations of.” From this, we can see that the people involved in various Bible accounts wrote their own histories. This gives us even more confidence that the Bible is true.
Many of the Old Testament books were written by the prophets, people that God communicated with, so that people would have some idea of where history was going. Beginning with the New Testament, most of the books were written by the disciples who knew Jesus. The four gospels or accounts of the ministries of Jesus were written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Then we see many of the letters that the Apostle Paul wrote to various churches and individuals. The traditional view is that the New Testament was written in the first century AD. This would have included the time that Jesus was born until about 60 years after his resurrection.
The final books of the Bible were written by John, a young apostle of Jesus at the time of his earthly ministry. All in all, the Bible was recorded by men and women who were both blue-collar and white-collar types. God used all types of people, because the Bible is meant for everyone.
Hebrews 1:1 gives us an important clue about how God communicated with people. It says, “Long ago, God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets.” The fact is he used humans to communicate through human language, which is just one of the things that makes the Bible timeless.
Let’s pray.
Father God, we thank you for your recorded word. In it, we see how much you love us and care for us. We thank you for using people like us. We love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today, we begin a series all about the Bible, covering things like what it is, who wrote it, and ultimately its relevance to us and our time.
It seems that even today, even in the United States, a country some folks consider a traditionally Christian nation, there’s a severe lack of knowledge about the Bible. Now some would say otherwise, but the Bible is really a pretty straightforward account of how God has worked in the world from the beginning. In fact, in Genesis, which literally means beginnings, we see a rundown of God’s creative powers.
Compiled over time, the Bible is not a single book, but rather a collection of 66 books that trace human history from beginning to end. There’s disagreement as to exactly when the Bible was written and compiled. But we do know from archeology that writing had developed even before the time of Moses in Egypt. The conservative view is that the biblical accounts of history were written down at or near the time they occurred. In general, the 66 individual books of the Bible were at least written down over a period of 1,500 years by as many as 40 writers.
Jeremiah 2:4 says, “Hear the word of the Lord, you descendants of Jacob, all you clans of Israel.” This concept of people being able to hear and read God’s Word is all through the Bible. Luke 11:28 says, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”
Structurally, the Bible is made up of 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 in the New. From the original written accounts, some were broken into two books. The Old Testament, sometimes called the Hebrew or Jewish Scriptures, reveals history from the creation of the world until a few hundred years before Jesus Christ came into the world.
The New Testament is the account of the rise of the church. It begins with the family tree of Jesus and finishes with the Book of Revelation, a vision of the future into eternity. Overall, the Bible is the most famous book of all time. For believers, it is the very Word of God.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you’ve told us that your Word is available to all, that we can claim your promises for our lives. Thank you for communicating to us in this way. The Bible is our guide for life, and tells us how we can be reconciled to you and saved. In Jesus’ name, amen.
It’s all in how you see it.
The world we live in has plenty of problems, and they are huge. Don’t need to list them all here, but it’s fair to say we even suffer from some existential threats.
And yet, God’s Word tells us that this present life can have, and does have, peace. That’s our connection this week.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
Remember the story of Jim Elliot and his band of missionaries? They were killed in a jungle by the very people they were trying to reach with the Gospel. The God part of that story is that later, the dead men’s wives went back and reached that tribe for Christ! Peace settled on the creek-bed that had seen death, and there was goodwill among men that had once been at war with each other.
Peace is possible. It is possible in geopolitics, and in communities, and right there in your own heart.
Let’s pray.
Lord, no situation is too bad for you to redeem. Redeem us, Lord, so that we can redeem the time and reach others for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When the last artillery rounds were heard on the Western Front and World War I ended, good men of conscience tried to create a global body that would bring lasting peace to the earth. Their hearts were in the right place. History teaches us though that real peace is elusive and rare.
John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
We see in Christ that there is no fixing the human heart without Him. He is our peace. When the kids are driving you bonkers, Jesus is your peace. If your finances have collapsed, Jesus is your peace. If you are anxious or frustrated or depressed about anything, Jesus is your peace. And because the Bible tells us that He is truth, we can rely on Jesus’ promise to give us peace. Tell Him today that you need His peace. He hasn’t left you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, life can be stressful. It’s just part of the experience. Thank you that you are literally our peace that we can come to you at any time, night or day. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In our humanness, we struggle at times to achieve peace.
World War 1 ended 100 years ago, and all sides joined together as a League of Nations to make that conflict the “War to end all wars.”
Then World War 2 happened.
Our history is littered with noble attempts to make things right, but only God can bring peace to nations, and to individuals. He has promised both! One day, He will make everything new, forever. While we wait for that great day, He also grants us peace in our daily lives.
2 Thessalonians 3:16 says, “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.”
We only have to ask Him for it. Jesus, as He said in Matthew 11:28, gives us peace even in our greatest trials, and when we are exhausted. Then, peace comes to refresh us and give us all the strength we need.
If you don’t have peace in your life, simply ask God for it. He will provide.
Let’s pray.
Lord, let your peace wash over people everywhere in this hurting world. Make them aware of your spirit of peace. In Jesus' name, amen.
Identifying where our problems originate is one thing, but locating the Divine Healer is key in getting clear of obstacles in our lives.
At each mile marker in our life journeys, God is standing alongside the road, smiling at us, and holding out his strong hand to guide us. And from the indispensable wisdom of scripture to stories of human triumphs over tragedies, He is always there reminding us we’re never truly alone.
His grace and mercies begin to overshadow and overwhelm those forces that want to harm us, and it’s then that we see God for who He truly is.
1 Peter 5:10 says, “And after you’ve suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”
And that is Good News!
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s important to see who our enemy is, but it’s more important to look past that and concentrate our focus on you who brings us that peace that passes all understanding, the kind that gets down deep in us and calms us from the inside out. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When fear takes control, God just crushes it.
None of us are immune from feeling unsettled at times. Circumstances have a way of knocking us off balance. How we respond not only affects our lives, but those who are watching us.
In the film “The Patriot,” a Colonial militia leader sees the British kidnap his son. Taking the two younger sons with him, they wait in ambush in the forest. One of the sons is rattled and crying, so the father puts his hands on the boy’s shoulders, looks him in the eyes, and says, “Steady.” Fear drains from the boy’s face.
In that moment of terror for the whole family, the father’s example won the day, and their day ended well.
In 2 Timothy 1:7, we learn the source of calm. It says this: “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and a sound mind.”
God has given you a spirit of power, love, and a good mind. So don’t let fear, the enemy, or the world intimidate you when it comes to sharing your faith. Speak God’s truth with boldness, and love. Your moment will come one day, and by keeping in mind the truth of God’s word, courage will overcome fear.
Notice the qualities mentioned in 2 Timothy. God has actually given us courage, but also power, and a sound mind—also phrased as self-discipline. And discipline will help keep you steady in a crisis. That spirit of power actually does our fighting for us, and it is the enemy who is afraid.
Let’s pray.
Father, you are good to us. Just as Jesus modeled for us how to handle fear when he prayed in the garden, we know that you have our back, and we can be courageous. Thank you for a sound mind and a calm heart in times of trouble. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Life is a process. We know that if we’ve lived very long at all. And this week, we’re talking about the process of trusting God.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Could Jesus meet our needs by just giving us something instantly? Of course. He made everything! And sometimes He does that; the miracles he performed that are recorded in the New Testament tell us that He often instantly met a person’s need.
But He doesn’t always work that way. And that’s because Jesus loves to teach us.
In the book of John, He is telling us the steps necessary to trust Him for provision. First, we ask. Then we learn to receive His good gifts. Finally, we feel real joy, because we know exactly where it came from.
This process is designed to teach us faith, and then to be genuinely appreciative to the Lord for meeting our needs. All through the Bible, we are told that He delights in helping us, in loving us through tough times. The older we get, the more we are able to look back and see that He and He alone brought us through.
There is usually no other explanation.
And that is called a miracle.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are dependent on you for everything, and we are blessed that you are our Source. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Standing in the door of the plane, with a fierce wind whipping his whole body, Curtis wondered why he’d volunteered for the paratroopers.
It was glamorous, they said.
It’ll make a man out of you, they said.
Shutting his eyes, Curtis prayed the most honest prayer of his life. He stretched out his hands and took a step...
Lamentations 3:25–26 says, “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.”
Rolling on the ground wrapped in silk, Curtis realized he had followed his instructions to the letter. With his landing, he graded out the highest of anyone in his company.
That story is exactly how we are to interact with our Savior. When we let go, confident that Jesus has us, we have no more pressure on us. He is carrying us to safety.
We land in the right place every time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have so much gratitude for the countless ways you lead us through life. We love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
As a believer, have you noticed that it’s often easier to stay in God’s will when you’re at home? At work, it can get a little dicey.
It’s at work that people see us, and our decisions can have such impact. Not being in God’s will in that setting can be catastrophic.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Terry Looper is the CEO of a multi-billion-dollar company. Once, he was negotiating a sale and was at the finish line when he realized he hadn’t sought God’s will in the matter. He stopped, prayed, and read the Word for discernment.
He was shocked to find that he wasn’t supposed to sell at all!
Looper learned his lesson. Being in God’s will in every area of our lives is the key. It’s great to be godly and led by the Spirit sitting in your den with a Bible open. But it’s not less important to be led by the Spirit in the boardroom, or on the floor of the plant where you work.
People see you. They see what we do. If we want to be sure success finds us, we’d better make sure we’re looking in the right place.
There are no shortcuts to fully being in God’s will.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you bless us in every area of our lives. Thank you for being on our side, all the time. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art opened in 2011 in Arkansas, the vast sum of money spent on art caught some off-guard. One painting in particular, “Kindred Spirits,” was sold to Alice Walton for the museum for $35 million dollars!
It’s a beautiful painting, for sure. Two men are standing on a bluff, overlooking a scene of mountains and a river.
Some might have an issue with the price of the painting, but Walton felt the scene was priceless and wanted others to enjoy it.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
We are of infinite worth to our Savior! He came to rescue us from a life of terror and bleakness. He takes us to a place of beauty and calm.
We are no blank canvas to God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your creative powers are beyond our reach, but you let us enjoy it all! Thank you for your gifts, God, that show us just how much we mean to you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Would it surprise you to know that God has always been interested in you? Did you know He knew you before you were born? He has a vested interest in how your life turns out.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
He isn’t some remote deity. God doesn’t pay attention only most of the time. He doesn’t form His plans here and there. He is there for us all the time.
The question is, where are we?
Before you were born, it was God’s will that you would have a relationship with Him. He has always wanted your life to be successful. He wanted you to have joy hundreds of years before your parents were even born!
So God’s will for your life isn’t confined to now, or even now and going forward. He has always been with you, guiding you through your life. As you look back now, you can see that this is true?
Being in God’s will is all-encompassing. It is the beginning, middle, and end of our stories.
If you weren’t exactly in God’s will in the past, you can learn from that, and move forward with Him all the time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you hold us in your protection for the entirety of our lives. We thank you that you never get tired of that. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Sharing our faith should be exciting to us. It is exciting. When we consider the free grace God gave us through His Son, telling others about Jesus should be on our priority list every day. For whatever reason, many find it very awkward to talk to others about Jesus. We can talk about just about anything else, though. That’s why it’s crucial that we look at sharing the gospel as an intentional thing we do. Intentionality is a great way to overcome our hesitancy, and let’s be honest, sometimes fear keeps us from sharing.
Truth is, each personality requires a customized approach to sharing about Jesus. Some are outgoing and others are shy. A blogger for God TV has written that he admired a friend who told every seatmate on every plane he’d been in about Jesus.
The blogger went on to write that “Even if my fellow passengers desperately wanted to know Christ, they likely couldn’t even get my attention with a jackhammer drill or a pie in the face.” Kind of funny and also kind of sad, also very common.
Matthew 16:24 says, “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.’” So, if we’re looking for ways to overcome our mediocre gospel sharing, what can we do? Let’s look at a few tips.
The first is prayer. Get honest with God and tell Him you’re not so great at evangelism. I mean, He already knows, anyway. Ask Him specifically to give you both opportunities and an intentional plan for communicating the best news anyone will ever hear.
Two, plan, think ahead. Are you a person who’s good at conversation? Go over a mental checklist that provides you with enough scripture and short sentences to make your pitch when the time comes. However, if you’re not outgoing, maybe you’re a writer. Consider communicating with a card to let the person know you’re thinking about him or her. Play to your strengths, not your weaknesses.
Number three, listen before you talk. How many times do we jump into a conversation or meeting without taking a breath? Train yourself to be quiet for a bit until you hear where the other person is coming from. You’ll learn about your friend or acquaintance, and you can then think through the best way to approach them about the saving gift of Jesus. But also, don’t just wait for your turn to talk. Hear them. Meet them where they are, and listen to the Holy Spirit to see how you can speak Jesus into that person’s life. Very few of us are Billy Graham. That doesn’t mean we can’t share the gospel. Somebody’s depending on it.
Let’s pray.
Father, whatever our personality and our experiences, give us a passion for loving unbelievers and caring about their well-being. The world is full of diversity. Help us embrace that. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Keeping things simple is usually the best path forward. For Christians, that means following Christ’s lead in everything.
This includes sharing and standing up for our faith.
The Bible is full of examples of how Jesus did this. Occasionally he got mad, as when he threw out the moneychangers. Other times he just quietly sat and taught what His Father had shown Him.
This is our model. When you share Christ with someone and that person believes, you have been given the privilege of watching the most important moment in his or her life—ever. To get to this moment, it will require you to be knowledgeable about your faith, balanced enough to be gentle in sharing, and sometimes edgy enough to push back when someone mocks our Lord.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
God gave us a job to do, and one of his prophets, Jude, told us to be ready to defend the Gospel. This, we should be happy to do.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your wisdom is enough for us. We are always ready to defend the Good News. In Jesus' name. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Think of what Jesus was asking of His followers.
He had just risen from the dead. That doesn’t happen every day.
His ministry had been destroyed, so they thought. He wasn’t coming back. But then He did. Only days after being killed on a brutal Roman cross, Jesus was standing in front of His friends, looking very much alive. And He was telling them their futures were dicey.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”
Jerusalem at the time was under occupation by an unforgiving empire. The empire required all from each individual, and never gave anything back. Jesus was telling His disciples that if they would give up all for Him, He’d give it back and more—forever.
This was the first great command to preach the Good News everywhere. The first marching orders for a spiritual army.
We are called to be in that army, to give our all in order to shake things up for eternity.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us the chance to share your love with others, all over the world. We love you! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Table salt today is so common, it becomes another thing we take for granted. You go to the store, pick a cylinder or jar of salt off the shelf, and then go home. You don’t even think about it.
Now, consider that 1,000 and more years ago, if a person wanted to use salt on his dinner, this required some prior work. A lot of work! The Romans boiled seawater in huge, lead-lined pans. So valuable was salt in the Roman Empire, it was used as currency! Mainly, it was used as a critical food preservative.
Matthew 5 verses 13–16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
God is telling us that we are to be the instrument that preserves and makes known the Gospel, and salt is one of the analogies.
Let us say to our friends, loved ones, and even strangers: Taste, and see that the Lord’s promises are good!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to be salt and light for your Word in this world. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Do you ever feel that you aren’t suited for sharing your faith in Christ? Maybe you’re not comfortable around people. Maybe you’ve encountered some who are hostile to faith.
If so, then we are speaking to you about sharing your light in a dark world.
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
Have you seen the movie, “The Ten Commandments?” It’s doubtful the real Moses looked and talked like Charlton Heston. And do we really think God looks for His witnesses among people who have that perfect British accent in a Jesus movie? Nope.
If we think we have to look or act a certain way, then we’re doing it wrong. God doesn’t ask our permission when giving us our marching orders for sharing the Gospel of Jesus. Instead, He approaches us as He did Job: Stand up and listen to what I have to tell you.
You are called to shine a light for Christ in a world full of dark things. You are equipped, just as you are. God has called you. Be bold in Christ.
He is the Star. We are just lights along the way.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the time is now. So many need you. God would you help us to shine for you every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.
John MacArthur once wrote a book called “Our Sufficiency in Christ.” In it, he revealed the path to finding true peace and contentment. And he says, “There’s a single word that encompasses all the riches we find in Christ—grace.” What a magnificent word it is. It’s used more than 150 times in the New Testament to speak of divine favor, bestowed on undeserving people. It is the means by which we receive every physical and spiritual benefit.
People the world over search all their lives for peace. And who doesn’t want to be truly content? But we look for it everywhere but where it is. Chasing adventure or money or career success will leave you empty. Maybe you’ve been running hard for a long time so that you can advance in a career that you find meaningful. There’s nothing wrong with that. So long as there’s balance, and your life can remain focused on Jesus.
The Bible tells us very bluntly that anything else will leave us unsatisfied. And at the very least, you can start by finding even one or two minutes in your day before sun up or late in the evening, and just pray. Tell God that climbing the ladder at work is leaving you strangely empty.
The Bible isn’t some interesting old book. It’s not just some historical treasure. It is life itself. Why? Because from beginning to end, it points us to Jesus Christ, who made us. Resolve right now, even as you’re sitting at your desk, to begin getting to know Christ. And sooner, rather than later, you will feel your anxiety lessen, and your priorities shift. You’ll discover what many have looked for in the wrong places for centuries. You’ll find peace for your soul.
Writing in 2 Corinthians, Paul said of Christ’s message to all of us, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.”
Philippians 4:12–13 says, “I know what it is to be in need. And I know what it is to have plenty. I’ve learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
And realizing all this, your circumstances might not change, but you will change for the better, for all time.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you are sovereign, and that should make us calmer. Your power upholds everything in the universe, and you are good. You are not some impersonal being or one who is indifferent to our needs. Help us seek your Son Jesus at every turn. In Jesus’ name, amen.
As we continue in our series on finding contentment, today’s message is really about taking the long view.
The human attention span is short. Like really, really short. Between the World Wars, Winston Churchill warned Europe that Hitler was a threat to the continent at least. But people ignored him. And then when the Nazis turned violent, the people turned to Churchill as their prime minister.
Having led the country through another costly war to preserve freedom, Churchill was defeated for re-election in the last days of World War II. It’s like the people had forgotten his priceless contribution to world peace. He knew the war would take a long time and that it would be costly, and the people wanted to avoid thinking about it, and even later wanted it over quickly. And that’s rarely how life works.
Churchill returned as prime minister in the 1950s, but his experiences show that people mostly want short-term solutions. Working for the long goal is rarely popular.
Jeremiah 15:15 says, “Lord, you understand. Remember me, care for me. Avenge me on my persecutors. You are long-suffering. Do not take me away. Think of how I suffer reproach for your sake.”
Here God is reminding us that often, we're required to stay in it for the long haul. Nowhere is this more true than in the pursuits of peace and contentment. That kind of thing is not built quickly. And not surprisingly, too many people don’t stay with it and they stumble along, looking for solutions in the wrong places.
If you’re in a bad place today, you have to start with basic steps. Talk to Jesus and tell him you’re struggling. Maybe you have a vague sense of depression and just can’t locate the direct cause. Take the example of people who did understand the source of true happiness, and were committed to seeing it through, no matter how long it took.
Abraham knew the value of prayer and he waited for decades to have a son. Hannah was also unable to have children, but she prayed and stayed faithful. Eventually, God gave her a child and she felt fulfilled. Joseph spent years in exile and prison because of his brother’s actions, but his faith didn’t waver. He actually found his contentment in the middle of these trials, and eventually God restored his family, and all he had lost.
If you’re depressed or ground down from money worries, or facing some other huge challenge, go to God right now and tell him you need peace for your soul. Tell him you fully trust him, and will wait with as much patience and faith as you can. It’s then you start the clock ticking on your difficult circumstances. And while you wait, your heart will be at rest.
Let’s pray.
Father, thank you for the good gifts that we already have. Help us be grateful for those things that sustain life. We fully trust you to bring about our delivery from life’s circumstances precisely the moment you have chosen. Sustain our spirits on this journey, Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The big question for today is, can we find contentment in things? Have you ever listened to a very successful person complain about the fact that his wealth doesn’t make him happy, how the success of life has left him or her empty? Of course, you have. We've all heard stories like that. But, pay attention to that because it’s really important. Watch people roll their eyes when they hear those stories. Why do they do that? Because they’re thinking, “Yeah, just give me some of that emptiness. I’d like to live on that side of town for a while.” But that attitude misses the point that’s trying to be made.
From the past to now, there have been at least multiple millions of these stories, these laments from very successful people who would trade it all to be content, millions and millions of successful, but unhappy people. It’s when we’re confronted with numbers like that that we should say to ourselves, “Wait a second. I need to think that through. Maybe having things and fame and success really doesn’t satisfy.” It’s then we start walking the right road to contentment.
April Model is a writer in California who works with her husband in ministry. Recently, she made a fascinating point. She said, “About six months ago, my husband said he thought the Lord was trying to teach him to be content with mediocrity. Mediocrity? Never. We should always be striving for the best, I thought to myself. But in light of a few life lessons of my own, I think I now understand what my husband was saying. It's easy for us to want the best life has to offer, but sometimes the best is learning to be content with what we have.”
Hebrews 13:5 says, “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you. Never will I forsake you.’”
You don’t actually need to hear another story of unfulfillment from someone you’ve admired to know that stuff doesn’t ultimately satisfy. You have only to think about your own life and realize that what God has given you materially is not the ultimate prize. It’s only when you’re in harmony with Him that you begin to know a life of contentment.
Let’s pray.
Father, we know in our hearts that things don’t bring fulfillment. That fact is plain to us no matter how much we have. Help us be mindful that You alone would find the desires of our hearts. Remind us daily not to pin our hopes for the future on what we can acquire today. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today, our big question is, can we find contentment in relationships? How many times has this scene been repeated? A guy sees a girl he can’t live without. He thinks she will bring him happiness, and for a while, that’s how it plays out. But then one day he’s melancholy just like he used to be.
Or how about the woman who believes marriage will fulfill her heart’s desires, but then over time, her husband isn’t so perfect? You see the common denominator in these two scenarios. Partners aren’t the issue. The lack of contentment comes from the person seeking it. It comes from within. They’re looking in the wrong place.
Romans 12:2 says, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world. Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think, then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”
Author Rob Kuban sums up right relationships for those seeking contentment. He says, “The Bible calls us to allow our convictions, not our circumstances, to govern our sense of contentment.” If you aren't willing to do the work of changing from within, your desires will largely go unmet, and honestly, you will not be attractive as a potential friend or mate. Our first assignment is to find peace with God and then seek the one he has for us. You see, choosing to be content is the first step. It’s just that so many people want shortcuts.
Read Ecclesiastes sometime, it’s a leadership book, really, but it opens a window into Solomon’s mind and heart. Here we see his thoughts on what happens when a person looks in the wrong places for real happiness. Solomon was the richest man of his time, and he also had hundreds of wives. But as an old man, he was bent in body and spirit from too many years of pursuing everything but his creator. Learn from his example and fix your eyes on the ultimate relationship. People will then be able to see the contentment on your face.
Let’s pray.
Father God, our first priority should be a right relationship with you. Only you can bring peace to our hearts and minds long-term so that in turn we can bless others. Thank you Father, for making a way for us to be content. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The diversity of life on this planet is astonishing, good, bad, beautiful, painful. Our world is a place of blessing and it’s also a struggle for a lot of people. Each of us has a whole batch of issues to deal with every day, ranging from physical challenges to emotional needs. And a fascinating element in all this is how we see contentment.
What is it?
Where is it found?
Is it lasting?
Matthew 6:32–33 says, “For the pagans run after all these things and your Heavenly Father knows that you need them but seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Our old friend balance is so important. In every aspect of our lives, we should have a goal of keeping steady. Solomon spoke to this in Proverbs 30, when he asked God to give him not too much or too little. He reasoned that if he had great wealth, he might forget God. If he was in poverty, he might be inclined to steal. This effort to find balance is the heart of finding contentment. God is the ultimate source and He gives us the capacity to be content, using scripture as our guide. And as usual, God has a comprehensive plan for you, especially in the area of contentment.
Notice what Proverbs 14:30 says, “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.”
The actor Chris Tucker discovered all this after the huge success of “Rush Hour” and other projects. But he became a Christian, and now he’s selective in what he does, and he keeps it clean and real. It’s been estimated that since he turned to faith, Tucker has turned down a hundred million in projects. What’s his take on all that? He says, “But I've got a hundred million of great experiences.”
Whether you’re hard-charging and ambitious, or you’re simply neglecting the pursuit of peace in your life, you’re damaging your spiritual health.
Finding spiritual harmony makes you a complete person. Anything short of that, you’re flying with a broken wing. Bottom line is, if you look at all the verses in the Bible that speak to being truly content, you’ll quickly understand that Christ is the answer.
Let’s pray,
Father, You’ve provided the only way to true peace and contentment, and we thank You for that. Help us to keep this in front of us every day as we seek to live life well and abundantly, in Jesus’ name, amen.
You know, someone may have tried to convince you at some point in your life that we’re alone in the cold void of the universe, but that has never been true.
It’s especially false for the believer who understands what God has done for all people everywhere.
He, the Creator of the universe, formed us long ago, and His Word tells us clearly that He never takes a second off in His pursuit of us.
Consider this: If you’re stuck in a bad relationship, you won’t find your way into the light until you’re reconciled to God. That relationship is number one. It’s the one you cannot be without. Even if others fail you; resolve to work on that one, and the others will fall into place.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
That ‘friend’ is referring to Jesus Christ, who loved us enough to step into history and take the punishment meant for us. Understand that, and cultivate a relationship with Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we owe everything to you...literally everything. We worship you, and we praise your name as the One who sacrificed all for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today, we continue our series on healthy relationships, and we’re talking about managing difficult relationships.
There’s a wonderful scene in the classic film to kill a Mockingbird, when the attorney Atticus Finch is confronted by the father of a girl who has accused a black man of rape. The father, enraged, walks up to Finch—played perfectly by Gregory Peck. He spits in Finch’s face as the attorneys’ children watch.
You can see the anger in Finch’s face, but he slowly and calmly maintains his composure. He simply walks past the man, who now looks pretty small and everyone’s eyes.
God has given us the power over difficult people. It’s called not letting them set the rules.
1 Peter 3:9 says, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing because to this you were called, so that you may inherit a blessing.”
Not always easy, definitely, but we’re capable of it. Remember that. This life is very much about winning and losing. Determine that a difficult person in your life is not going to win by controlling you and getting under your skin. In wrestling terms, don’t let that person pin you.
Is that obnoxious person in your life really all that obnoxious, or are you a grouch, letting yourself get caught in what is really only a difference in personalities? Go home from work one evening and think about that. Make your mind up to start out the next day by being nice to that person. You’ll be surprised how that can change the equation. And that's what Colossians 4:6 is talking about when it says, “Let your speech be always with grace seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man.”
Or maybe you’re a man frustrated with the relationship between your wife and your mother. This is always a potentially difficult situation. Maybe you think your wife should be more adaptable, but have you forgotten what God told the man in Genesis 2:24? It says, “This is why a man leaves his father and mother, and is united to his wife. And they become one flesh.” Your responsibility in that situation is to your wife, not to making sure your parents’ feelings come first in all situations.
So you see, often that difficult person you’re dealing with is you, or at the very least a different perspective will help you see where the fault really lies.
Finally, in 1 Corinthians 5, we read that Paul advises for really difficult people, a cooling off period is legitimate. For example, the person who is causing real strife in a church should not be allowed to go on like that indefinitely; bad behavior sometimes must be confronted for the good of the community. And even for the good of the offended person, this is sound advice.
So if we stick to what the Lord has already told us, and our tried and true methods for dealing with difficult people, we can get to a better place.
Let’s pray.
Father God, a person who is angry or troublemaker creates chaos for everyone. Help us analyze each of these situations as unique so that we know how to handle them from Your Word. And most especially help us make it a habit to pray for those who are difficult, so that we might see their lives changed, and brought into harmony and unity. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
One of the richest gifts God has given us is healthy relationships.
A marriage in balance, friends who mutually respect each other, and most of all a strong “God connection” can be the ticket to a healthy, whole life. The full life that Jesus spoke about!
Hebrews 10:24–25 says, “And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works. Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another, especially as you see the Day approaching.”
With the fast pace of life, sometimes we forget to squeeze all the gratitude we can out of a great relationship. Remember to regularly tell the people in your life how much they mean to you, and to give thanks to God for sending these loved ones your way. Write them a note, even a text, to tell them just what they mean to you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s not about the number of relationships we have, but the quality. Thank you for giving people who are loyal, and love us in return. Encourage us to love others in word, and in deed. In Jesus’ name, amen.
God’s Word shares powerful wisdom for dealing with harmful relationships. A damaged marriage, child-parent relationship, or friendship gone bad can cause us to spiral downward. Everything is affected. Work, sleep, even our prayer life.
When a relationship sours, it’s important to remember we bear responsibility for doing everything possible to nurture healthy relationships. Our prayer life and resolve can go a long way toward repairing the damage.
When King David’s advisor, Nathan, saw what sin had done to David’s life, he confronted him. It must’ve been difficult for Nathan to be this honest with the king about his personal issues, but things got better.
Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” Commit yourself to healing in a bad relationship. With God’s help, it can be done.
Let’s pray.
Lord, there is so much hurt in this world, and none of us gets out without some trouble. If we’ve hurt someone, or if someone has hurt us, please put a burden on our hearts to go to that person in a spirit of love and peace, seeking to make things right. In Jesus’ name, amen.
God created humans with a spirit, soul, and body. And in order for each aspect of our being to function in harmony, our relationships should also be in harmony.
From the beginning, God walked with Adam and Eve in the garden, talking with them and nurturing a personal relationship with them. In fact, throughout the scriptures, God built foundational relationships, whether it was with the reluctant leader Moses or Hannah, the woman who wanted to be a mother more than anything.
Ephesians 4:2–3 says, “Be completely humble and gentle. Be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the spirit of unity through the bond of peace.”
Right relationships are foundational to life. The Bible is clear that if one of ours is suffering, letting it drift is not an option. Make living in harmony with other people a top priority every day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, You gave everything for us, created us to have fellowship, to experience Your love, and to love You in return. Help us to always be mindful that life is short, but relationships can last for eternity. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Bill was a very successful businessman for a lot of years. About 10 years ahead of retirement, he decided to entrust a lot of money to the investment wizardry of Bernie Madoff. And when Madoff’s Ponzi scheme imploded, Bill joined many others who now had to wonder where their money went. And he thought of suicide.
For fully two years, he struggled to get out of bed. He felt sapped of energy every waking moment. Then, on a park bench one afternoon, he met Mildred, who shared the Good News of Jesus with him. And Bill said later that during his walk home, he could feel blood flow back into his legs. And by the time he got home, he dusted off a Bible and began his journey to Christ. He says, “He saved me in every way. I no longer felt weak and helpless. Today, I look forward to my future.”
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” And Christ longs to give you the strength to live a full life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, our hope is in You and You alone. Thank You for loving us enough to want the very best for us. Thank You for strength for the journey. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Sandy was facing some really tough choices. Her daughter needed a life-saving treatment. The girl’s father was out of the picture, and she faced this moment without support. Even the doctors didn’t seem overly optimistic. So this embattled mom did what moms do. She prayed. She told God she didn’t have the strength to see this thing through.
No bright light appeared, and things didn’t get better instantly or even the next day, but God healed her little girl.
Philippians 4:13 says “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Sandy remembered what her own parents had taught her about faith. She remembered that the Apostle Paul, who suffered beatings and imprisonment for preaching the gospel, once said, “I know whom I have believed.”
Belief, that’s the key. When your strength is gone, you go to your prayer closet and you pour out your grief to God. And you remember that God’s Word tells us that all things are possible through Christ.
Let’s pray.
Father God, life just hurts sometimes. We feel weak and lethargic, and on our own, we’ll never be enough. We praise you for being our strength, all the time. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Quitting is something our culture really frowns upon. We’re all taught not to be a quitter, but honestly, it’s one of the easiest things in the short term any of us can do. Quitting is seductive, and taking the easy way out just feels right sometimes.
Well—fight that impulse. Too many outcomes are riding on your willingness to hang tough.
Luke 18:1 says, “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”
Few people remember Coretta Scott King and her refusal to give up after her husband was murdered for a cause. We all remember MLK. His widow, however, lived out the premise of Luke 18:1.
As a woman of faith, she stood strong and raised their children, adding to her family’s legacy and giving us an example of steadfast faith in the face of heartbreak. If she didn’t give up, neither should we.
Let’s pray.
Lord, giving up sometimes feels like taking a nap during a blizzard. We just want to go to sleep and hope it all goes away, but there can be danger in that. Father, help us to push on and to fulfill your calling on our lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Are you having a bad day? Feeling exhausted? Ready to throw in the towel? Have you considered telling God that?
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Sometimes all things means conquering a mountain, but sometimes it means putting one foot in front of the other when you just aren’t feeling it.
When Paul wrote those words 2,000 years ago, he was writing on the other side of a life filled with trials. This preacher had spent several years being hunted, persecuted, and hated for his faith in Christ. Through it all, Paul was filled with strength precisely because he understood where it came from. He’d been through too many tough situations to think he bailed himself out. No, he knew—he knew the risen Christ, and he leaned on Christ.
Even though Paul lived a long time ago in a much different world, not all that much has changed. What never changes is Christ’s love for us and his willingness to give us his strength.
Remember that today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us the perspective that Paul had. Give us a vision for what it means to be strong in today’s tough world. We are willing to obey you, Lord, in Jesus’ name, amen.
The prophet Isaiah lived during a difficult period for the ancient Israelites. Turning away from faith in God and under the control of corrupt kings, the nation entered a period of darkness. They needed hope more than anything.
In our discussion this week, we’re talking about this human condition. Today, we are really no different from people in ancient times: We all need a relationship with our Creator.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Don’t those words give a feeling of peace and calm? You can say them to yourself, with no one around, and begin to feel God’s strong arms wrapping you in love. He wants you to be free from all the strongholds that keep you from your destiny.
Wouldn’t you like to spend the rest of this week at rest emotionally and mentally? You can. This is the Lord’s will for you, as we heard in this famous passage from the book of Isaiah.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for your Word. God, thank you that your perfect love always comes through for us. Just as you didn’t abandon your people long ago, we know you will remember us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Early in the 2008 college football season, Florida was stunned at home by Ole Miss, losing 31 to 30. Tim Tebow, the Florida quarterback who had already had great success, was now faced with rising from the ashes. In a moment of weakness and humiliation, he told the world that his team would not lose again in that situation.
People sat up and took notice, mostly because Tim Tebow was an outspoken Christian. More than a few people rolled their eyes. Not many thought the promise would hold since Florida would have to roll through undefeated the rest of the way in the country’s toughest conference. They did roll though.
At the end of the year, facing Oklahoma’s history-making offense, the Florida Gators locked the Sooners down and won a national championship. As the confetti fell, Tim Tebow looked up and thanked the one who had really kept the promise.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Knowing the source of true strength is a comforting thought, and it gives us quiet confidence.
Let’s pray.
Lord, in adversity we find out who we really are. Our identity is in Christ, whose strength takes the burden off of us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Kelly had felt alone for years. Since childhood, in fact. At 26, she didn’t like it anymore and she decided to do something about it. Not a naturally outgoing person, Kelly began volunteering in a local women’s shelter. She learned quickly to listen to other people’s problems she had herself never experienced, and she found that helping someone else made her feel better—physically and emotionally.
Within a year, she decided to make a change, finish her degree, and become a counselor. She realized that sometimes even when we cry out to God in our loneliness, we’re also obligated to do something to move forward. With God’s help and daily prayer, Kelly left lonely behind, and you can, too.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we come to you now in a moment when being alone isn’t desirable anymore. We ask you to help us get out of our confinement and meet people. God, thank you that when we call on you, you are there. Together, we no longer feel alone, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Of all the human emotions, fear is perhaps the most paralyzing. And there are what we call internal and external fears. While many people stress about relationships, depression, and self-doubt, there are also big issues affecting the world: natural disasters, political upheaval, wars, are just a few of the things that create fear.
Sometimes it can feel like everything is unraveling, but our field guide for finding our way through life, the Bible, has much to say about fear. In fact, dozens of verses speak to it. One really helpful verse is 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
In scripture, God either speaks to us directly, or through the stories of men like Moses, who comforted the frightened Israelites at the Red Sea.
For us as individuals, there are wonderful reminders of God calming us when we’re afraid. In Philippians 4, God reminds us not to be anxious about anything. These are soothing words that reach us where we actually live. And as with every other area of our lives, God provides practical help in times of need.
Ashley Smith found that out in 2005 when an escaped killer held her hostage in her apartment. She remained calm, and asked him if she could read. He said yes. So she grabbed her Bible and a copy of The Purpose Driven Life. And over a period of hours, the man talked to Ashley and told her he felt dead inside. Later, she was able to escape and she said she felt that God brought that man to her so that he wouldn’t hurt anyone else.
God’s Word provides real, workable solutions for the many problems we face. Fear is just one of them, but it can be a big one. And it shrinks in the light of God’s protection.
Let’s pray.
Father God, we love you. We thank you for showing us the way when we’re too afraid to go on. Thank you for giving us a spirit of sound mind, and not a spirit of fear. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever talked to someone who doubted the existence of God? Someone who says God couldn’t have created everything in our world?
Watch that same someone stare in wonder at a mountain range like the Rockies, the delicate bloom of a flower, or a sunset on a beach in Greece. It’s pretty hard to deny God in such a moment. In fact, all throughout scripture, we’re told that God’s majesty is seen in our natural surroundings. He made everything. Literally, all matter. He created the conditions for a waterfall, the light of the moon and the stars, and the horses that gallop across a prairie.
There’s infinite beauty in our world, and He made it.
Amos 4:13 says, “He who forms the mountains, who creates the wind, and who reveals his thoughts to mankind, who turns dawn to darkness and treads on the heights of the earth, the Lord God Almighty is his name.”
The Prophet Amos had seen the beauty of the land, from golden deserts to lush pastures. He’d also seen the power of God even in earthquakes and storms. He knew it was possible to worship God without limitations, and the splendor of nature He’d created.
We have the same opportunity. Just stand in a favorite spot and meditate on the power and majesty of the living God. Take a walk in the fresh air to revive your spirit. There’s something healing about connecting with your creator in a spot that highlights just how much beauty is in our world.
The next time you hear someone question the existence of God, or if you encounter someone who’s feeling a bit down, get them out in nature. Take time to soak it all in. Reflect on His wondrous works. It’ll have a positive effect.
Let’s pray.
Father, thank you so much for creating a world that we can enjoy. We’re aware of you and know you made the lakes, and the valleys, and the mountains—all of it. You filled it with amazing animals and fresh air. We praise your name for all of this, Father. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In the Bible we read of family records that were the original genealogy sources. People knew where they came from, they knew their kin. The 12 tribes of Israel were first outlined in Genesis, and from these 12 came an entire nation.
Even Jesus came from somewhere!
One of the Bible’s patriarchs, Jacob, had a son named Judah. The father calls the son a lion’s cub, and blesses him. Judah is told he will have favor in his family.
1 Timothy 1:17 says, “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”
It is from this family of Judah that Jesus would come. There is even an interesting prophecy about this in Genesis 49; you should read it sometime.
In fact, Jesus was born into the tribe of Judah, and so symbolically, He becomes the ‘Lion of the Tribe of Judah,’ and will return one day to Earth as a conquering King, the greatest one of all time.
The very name, the Lion of Judah, carries with it power and majesty. How thankful we are that it is Jesus’ name.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we love you for many reasons. We love you and we thank you that the things you tell us will happen do in fact take place. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When Isaiah the prophet wrote, the birth of Jesus was still almost 800 years away. Yet there is good reason to believe key parts of the book of Isaiah are pointing to the coming Savior.
Near the end of the book, we see this clearly.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
It’s reasonable to believe that this has dual meanings. One, the prophecy speaks of the wise men from the East seeing the star in the sky. And then, traveled to see the baby Jesus in Bethlehem.
A second, longer view looks ahead far into the future, when Jesus will return to Earth and set up His Kingdom of righteousness.
As believers, we know what it feels like when the spirit of God dwells in us. It’s that glow God intends for us to share with others.
Jesus has come! Your challenge is to share that Good News with all those you meet.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Gospel is our mission. God, give us endurance for our race! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Diamonds.
The very word calls to mind something so beautiful and rare, people everywhere immediately form a sharp mental image. Many people dream of handfuls of these sparkling, valuable gemstones running through their hands.
Nothing speaks of high value more than a diamond solitaire. Such a piece of jewelry signals to the world that a couple considers their relationship to be both priceless and eternal.
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
This is it. A Proverbs 31 woman has literally been made by the Lord to be a clear and radiant light so that people can see Christ living in her. Honestly? What humans label as beauty often misses the mark.
Light comes from within, not from the surface.
A woman who knows her worth is in Christ Jesus, is that stunning girl turning heads, and engaging and inspiring hearts.
Not only is a woman who is an ambassador for Christ lovely, she is also durable. She is not smashed by the cares of life. When life presses in on her, she turns to her Lord and emerges as a thing that cuts the enemy to pieces.
She shines.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the beauty you create is not matched by human creativity. Thank you for the sparkling ‘diamonds’ that come into and enrich our lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.
As followers of Jesus, we are meant to be witnesses. And Christ’s majesty and power are meant to blanket our world. He is intimately aware of you and where you are in life.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
When we trust Christ—when we believe the Gospel—we’re called to get in the game. If you’ve been changed, and if you believe that, sitting on such Good News doesn’t make much sense, does it?
Are you guilty of failing to shine a light in a dark world? If you’re a friend of God, just as the Bible says Abraham was long ago, you are to invite others to live in his healing light.
The glory of the Lord rises on you each morning. Put your feet on the floor and share His glory with the people that you encounter.
God is so good! Walk in His light and see what He’ll do in countless lives!
Let’s pray.
Lord God, there are so many opportunities to share your love and your light with the world. Give us opportunities to do that, and give us the energy to seize them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Don’t you love the nuances and uniqueness God put into the world? He created harmony and balance everywhere, including our individual best time of the day to be creative and productive.
Some of us are ‘up with the chickens,’ as they used to say. Others burn a candle late into the night. Whatever time is your time to connect in positive ways, God made you to shine for His purposes.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
Embrace your uniqueness! Just because your eyes don’t focus until later in the morning—after cups, plural, of coffee—doesn’t mean you won’t hit the mark today.
You were built for this, to be a light to others and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. So, rise up, whenever that is for you, and make a promise to God that you will get everything out of today that you’re supposed to.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you made us to be a light in a world that is all too often dark. Thank you for the opportunities to make a difference for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
One of the best benefits about flying at night is to look out the window and see all those lights against the black backdrop. The lights signal that a city or town is down there—a place where families live.
Our spiritual lives are the same way. This world has its share of darkness, but God looks down and sees His lights. He sees the good that says, “Love lives here.”
Matthew 5:14 says, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
We are told in Scripture that as believers, we have indescribable joy. Jesus Christ lives within us, lighting us from the inside out.
With that gift comes responsibility: We don’t have the option of staying hidden. When Jesus told His followers they were “the light of the world,” they understood what He meant, sitting there on the mountainside above the Sea of Galilee.
Many of them took this to heart, shining a light in the spiritual darkness and sharing the Good News every chance they got.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to continually shine the light of your love and your Gospel in this world. In Jesus’ name, amen.
It’s been said that grace is simply favor from God, and we didn’t do anything to earn it. Often, grace comes when we need it the most.
The word grace is used about 170 times in the Bible. Most of those occur in the New Testament as the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ unfolds. His sacrifice for all of us, dying on the cross for our sins, was the backdrop for a lot of other moments in grace He gave to those He came in contact with.
Jesus perfectly understood that there’s a lot of suffering in the world. Those poignant moments when He stooped to heal a person in distress, or when He unlocked the emotional chains of people like Zacchaeus and Mary Magdalene—that is supernatural grace.
Grace is a moment in time when the living God intervenes in someone’s life. We often hear stories of people being surprised by grace. It arrives when they least expect it, but is really needed. James 4:6 says, “But he gives us more grace.” That is why scripture says, “God opposes the proud, but shows favor to the humble.”
What we learn about grace from the Bible is that although God is the originator, we are also capable of giving grace.
Is there someone in your life that you need to forgive? Maybe that person is badly in need of that forgiveness. Swallow your pride and give that grace. There are many more ways to give grace. That family in your church that is struggling financially. Can you find a way to discreetly help them out? That kind of grace can be just the boost people need to rise above their circumstances.
Some people are prideful, but the truth is all of us need God’s grace. We need it for the duration. So think about that the next time a grudge or stubborn pride is blocking you from being a blessing to others. One day you might just find yourself on the other end of that situation.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you are so good to us, all the time. If we stop and think about the unmerited favor you give us each day, amazing. Help us to keep this in mind as we find ways to pay it forward in our daily walk. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Jane was the last child to receive a handmade blanket from her great grandmother. Pink and blue, festooned with angels and sprinkled with stars that sparkled in the light, the much-loved blanket was the little girl’s constant companion.
This childhood treasure became even more important when Gramma Ann passed away — a reminder of her love for her family, and her faith in God.
Jane’s blanket kept her warm in sickness and in health, but the washing machine proved its eventual undoing. One day, the last remaining fragment of Gramma Ann’s very last blanket was lost.
Ephesians 2:8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
A few years after the remaining bit of Jane’s ‘Gramma Ann Blankie’ was lost to time (but not to memory), her mom stumbled across the best yard sale find of all time: the very same blanket, likely created from a quilting kit, in brand new condition. Jane and her mother cried together right there in a stranger’s driveway, certain that Gramma was smiling down on them from Heaven in that moment of discovery. It was the best two dollars the pair ever spent.
Grace can show up when we least expect it—even in the form of a long-lost family heirloom returned to us in the unlikeliest of ways.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your grace is a constant delight. You are faithful to us when we seek Your face, and Your gift of grace shows up in incredible ways. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Theresa Rosenthal had a rough start in life. She watched her father abuse her mother, and then when she was six, a family friend sexually abused her. Like so many that suffered at the hands of a predator, Theresa pushed the pain down into a secret place, and for decades, she battled with depression and substance abuse. Finally, one day she was sitting in front of her house and just blurted out to God, “What am I supposed to do?”
Within 24 hours, she had a Bible from a new friend who reached out to her, and even though some of Theresa’s bad choices would land her in jail, her friend and that Bible, were constant sources of healing. Today, she’s a member of a loving church, and she tells anyone who will listen about God's grace in her life.
Daniel 4:2 says, “I thought it good to declare the signs and wonders that the most high God has done for me.”
Too often we are too tribal. We think God only works in our circles, but the fact is, God has always been the definition of inclusive. The Bible makes it very clear that God’s grace is available to anyone in all times and places.
Matthew 5:45 is a very interesting verse that illustrates this. It says, “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”
That’s fascinating. What might seem unusual or even unjust to us is routine for God. Because God takes the long view. He knows that our lives on Earth are brief. So if he gives grace to a bad person, he’s thinking of that person’s eternal place. And let’s face it, there are plenty of times in our lives that we didn’t deserve grace. But he gave it anyway.
In God’s economy, a Babylonian brickmaker from 3,000 years ago is as valuable as you are. Theresa Rosenthal was warmed by that grace at a time when she was doing drugs and spiraling into depression, and she had no ability to improve her life. And that's the point of grace. God gives it to a variety of people and circumstances. And life would be unbearable without it.
Let’s pray.
Father God, your grace sustains us, in bad times and in good times, and we might take our focus off you. Sometimes that grace is almost unseen. We might not be aware of it until years later when looking back gives us insight. Thank you for giving us what we don’t deserve. In Jesus’ name, amen.
“Mom—I broke something! I’m so sorry!”
Benjamin had slipped on the wet bathroom floor and managed to take down the shower curtain and curtain rod in one fell swoop.
His mom’s concern wasn’t the state of the shower curtain, but whether the broken something was an arm or leg. Thankfully, her son wasn’t hurt, and fixing the curtain was a lot easier than mending a broken bone. A reassuring hug from Mom was all the boy needed to mend his hurt pride.
None of us are perfect, whether we’re 8 years old or 80. Slips and trips happen in life, and beyond accidental mishaps, we also slip up and sin, making choices that disappoint the Lord and send us on a detour from the path He has planned for us.
1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
God loves us dearly, and while our sin makes Him sad, He is ready and willing to forgive us; we only need to ask Him to. God’s love for us is so deep He sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins because He knew we’d need forgiveness. That’s amazing grace!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you love us even through our imperfections. God thank you for the incredible gift of your forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever thought much about grace? We hear the word, but the concept itself might be a little elusive. That might be because it’s hard for humans to understand and embrace.
Grace means simply that someone gives you something with no strings attached. Just for your good.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
The Bible tells a simple story, really. Mankind sinned and brought evil into the world. God made everything, so He has the right to set the rules. And in His system, sin cannot be tolerated. He made a way for us to be reconciled to Him, through His son, Jesus Christ.
Often, we try to do things to help life along. We plan, plot, and come up with programs and agendas... Our own ideas seem like the right thing to do.
But God’s way is always the right thing to do.
Setting aside our own ego is key to finding peace in Christ. We literally don’t have to do anything for it. We accept it in faith. That’s the gift of God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, in your love for us, you make our path simple. Not always easy, but simple. We thank you for the gift of eternal life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Debbie McDaniel is a writer, pastor’s wife, and mom. She knows something of how fear can derail a person’s entire life. You see, Debbie wrestled with fear and anxiety for years. And her recovery didn’t happen overnight, but she did come to think about it all in a different way.
She turned to the Lord, and He showed her practical things she could do to alleviate her fear.
Now, for one thing, she began to notice something. When she thought about her fear and she studied her own patterns related to being anxious, she realized that the majority of her fears didn’t actually happen. And this is where a journal can come in really handy. By keeping a log of your fears, and then after a certain period of time, say a month later, check back and see how many of those fears actually manifest themselves. And you’ll probably be shocked at how low the percentage really is.
Next, Debbie said that she began to read words of life, as she says, “Soaking them in over and over, praying them out loud.” And she makes the great point that there’s power in the Bible’s words because it is God’s Word. Isaiah 35:4 says, “Tell everyone who is discouraged, ‘Be strong and don’t be afraid! God is coming to your rescue, coming to punish your enemies.’”
Debbie also advocates what she calls guarding your heart. And this involves a daily concentrating power that reminds you of truth, even in the midst of confusion.
Again, this is where reading words of life is so critical. In this way, you’re making the peace in your own heart a top priority. And it’s okay to say that to yourself—as many times a day as you need. With just these few things, overcoming fear is within your reach.
Let’s pray.
Father God, how powerful your promises are to us. Your words of life bring harmony. Help us to be on the lookout for friends and family who are struggling so that we can remind them of the times you’ve delivered us from fear and anxiety. Help us to make guarding our own hearts a priority. In Jesus’ name, amen.
One of the extraordinary stories in the Bible involves a young woman named Rahab. This story beautifully expresses God’s love for all people.
Rahab lived in the Canaanite town of Jericho, which was near the border of the Promised Land God had promised to His people, who had been wandering for years in search of a home after slavery in Egypt.
Because the Canaanites were so powerful, Joshua sent a scouting party into the land to see what they were up against. The men sent ahead were hidden from harm by Rahab, because she had heard of the power that followed the Israelites.
When she talked with the men, she showed remarkable understanding that their God was in fact the true God, and she made a bargain with them.
Joshua 2:14 says, “So the men said to her, ‘Our life for yours if you do not tell this business of ours; and it shall come about when the Lord gives us the land that we will deal kindly and faithfully with you.’”
In the end, as the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land, Rahab’s family was spared death. In this way, we see how God’s inclusive love for all is worked out in practical ways that lead to life.
Remember Rahab when you think that you are beyond God’s protection!
Let’s pray.
Lord, what an example of faithfulness this woman displayed. Bless all those who look for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever gotten so tired of life that you wished you could disappear and start over somewhere else? Ever wish that fantasy would just pull you out of your circumstances? They make movies about things like that, but it’s not real.
John 14:2,3 says, “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.”
How incredible that Jesus is actually going to do this for us someday. If you live long enough, the cares of life sort of wear you down and you need a good, long rest.
Good for us that our Lord cares enough for us that He has already gone ahead to prepare a place of peace, rest, and joy for each of us. It will be a real place, not just a scouting location for a film.
One day, in His perfect time, He will call you out of this groaning world, and take you to a spot that has literally been prepared with just you in mind!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are good to us in countless ways. We thank you so much for the home you have prepared for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
God does things on a big scale, but He’s also in the details. He knows our thoughts, hopes, dreams, and every detail of our lives.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
In Ecclesiastes, God spends considerable time speaking to our innermost needs. Through the stories of Paul and the apostles, we see that He cares about our physical needs, and comforts us in times of danger.
The diversity of God’s intervention is awesome! Hannah couldn’t have children, but she prayed and the Lord answered her…blessing her with six children! Gideon was facing an army much larger than his own, but God told him everything would be okay—and it was!
Down through time and into the present, God speaks to us with words of comfort and courage. He is actively working in our lives now, and always.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, thank you for intervening in our lives, in ways big and small. We are grateful for your love, and blessed that you are standing by on our behalf. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever gotten tired of treading water?
Martha is a 20-something-old lifeguard in Los Angeles. Besides dealing with deck chairs purposely thrown into the water and parents asking her to babysit poolside, she’s noticed another aspect of the job that really tugs at your heart. “Kids pretend to drown in the pool so that I will pay attention to them.”
Wow. Think about that.
At a young age, humans need to be nurtured and cared for. They want to be loved. So a young lifeguard becomes their emotional lifeline. These kids were actually pretending to nearly die so that someone would pay attention. It’s pretty sad, but not that different from the rest of us. Everyone wants to belong, and sometimes life is like a raging storm, and problems can flood the soul.
In Matthew 14, we read the story of Jesus providing comfort to his disciples in a difficult situation. He had gone to pray on a mountain while they stayed behind in a boat on the Sea of Galilee. Normally, this is a very picturesque, calm lake, but this night, a storm came up. As the waves were about to capsize the boat, the men looked and saw a figure walking on the water. Peter cried out, and Jesus told him to get out of the boat and walk toward Him. Peter, known for his passionate faith, got out. But as he took his eyes off Jesus and began looking at the storm around him, he sank. Jesus, though, grabbed his arm and pulled him up. “Why did you doubt,” He asked Peter.
It’s a valid question—for anyone.
Jesus has proven Himself to us many times over. When you feel overwhelmed, remember to call out to Him, and He will lift your burden.
Let’s pray.
Father God, sometimes it feels like life is just pulling us under. We thank you so much that we have examples from scripture where you rescued drowning people. You’re indeed our lifeguard. Help us keep this in our hearts and our minds daily so that we can be reminded of your blessed assurance and to call out your name, the one who provides for all of our needs. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Geraldine Mock became the first woman to fly around the world in 1964. Landing for a short stop in Saudi Arabia, she watched as a man approached her plane. When he saw her, he shouted to his friends that this was no man.
They applauded!
Jerrie Mock’s steadiness at the wheel, and in her encounters on the ground, were the very picture of self-control. Her journey was wildly successful.
Titus 2:11–12 says, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly…”
In order to navigate this crazy world, we have to be steady, and the Fruit of the Spirit ends with a reminder to practice self-control in all we do. Be steady. As Scripture reminds us, don’t look right or left, but ahead. God sees real value in this trait, because He knows we cannot possibly succeed if we let our emotions rule us, or we run ahead on our own instincts.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to practice discipline and love doing good as we walk through life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Who likes to wait for what we need or want? Basically—nobody.
Of those nine elements that make up the Fruit of the Spirit, patience may be the hardest.
Romans 8:25 says, “But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.” And patience is learned, which makes it one of the sweetest fruits the Spirit gives us. Waiting for a payoff of some kind makes the end result that much more rewarding, and life teaches us that.
A childless Hannah endured mocking and ridicule, but the Bible tells us in First Samuel that she prayed, and she waited. Imagine how she felt when the date of her delivery drew near. She eventually had several children, but it was her patience in waiting on Samuel that made all the difference.
If you’re waiting for something very important, read and meditate on the Fruits of the Spirit, especially patience.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us the patience of Hannah when we’re frustrated by waiting, and teach us humility in the process in Jesus’ name, amen.
Fighting one day in the tough Iraqi city of Fallujah, a Marine sergeant decided to put himself at risk in order to get a frightened family to safety. He stepped into a courtyard and spoke quietly for a few minutes with the father. He took time to make sure the kids had water, and the toys his men gave them.
Then it was back to the war.
Gentleness can be misunderstood. Too often we think, for example, that a man is not masculine if he’s gentle.
Not true. This Fruit of the Spirit is a real strength, no matter one’s gender. But for men, it can be more than that; gentleness can be an asset.
Romans 15:7 says, “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
No matter where we are, we are to conduct ourselves with a gentle nature. In every encounter, we are to model the love of Christ, to show a damaged world that good is stronger than evil.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are so gentle with our tangled spirits! In our sin, you look at us with love. Thank you so much for that. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Giving kindness is healing for the soul.
A viral video made the national news: a police officer cut the hair of a prisoner being released so that he could go on a job interview. It was one of those inspiring “random acts of kindness” we love to hear about.
Proverbs 31:26 says, “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”
The thing that made Jesus stand out to people in Israel was His incredible kindness. He stopped to heal someone physically, or offered kindness to a person others looked down on.
What abundance could you share with a stranger in need? Could you go to a person who is discouraged, and in need of a simple kind word? Kindness is within your power. It’s within all of our power.
Stopping to be kind bears much good fruit, and Jesus gave the ultimate kindness in His sacrifice for our sin. Isn’t passing along a human kindness the least we can do?
Let’s pray.
Lord, there is so much need in this world! Humble us at every opportunity to bring light to someone in need. Thank you for doing that for each of us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
It's been said that in the Fruit of the Spirit list, all of them collectively practically define the nature of Christ. Even David the shepherd knew his Messiah was coming. Remember what he said about his loving God? He said, “Surely, goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life.”
We instinctively know what goodness is. It’s a kind touch, a gentle word, a gift that was unexpected. Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, oh man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God.”
And in life, we understand the distinction between good and evil. These two, always warring with each other. The key thing to remember in this conflict is that God is good, and infinitely stronger than evil. And that’s important to remember as we see injustice.
What did Micah tell us? That goodness is wrapped up in the choices we make. Oppose injustice, love what is kind and be humble. And the truth is, all of us have been given so much good by our good God, that it should be second nature to model that for those we meet in our journey.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for your sweet goodness. Sustain us with that goodness for the journey. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Of all the themes of the Bible, God's grace through His Son, Jesus Christ, is the greatest example. It's the most critical element in a person’s life, and the choice to receive it is ours.
The Bible tells us that before the world was created, God already had a plan to redeem mankind from sin. And because He knows all, He already knew what would take place in the Garden of Eden. Acts 15:11 says, “We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved just as they are.”
The greatest act of grace then was given at the cross, when Jesus willingly died in our place.
Because God is all-knowing and all-powerful, He decides what is best for human beings. And since He cannot tolerate sin, someone had to stand in as a substitute. Otherwise, each of us would be required to receive the punishment for sin, which is death. And Jesus took all of that away from us.
In Isaiah 50 and in Psalm 22, we read very graphic descriptions of the ways Jesus suffered during the crucifixion. He himself tells us what it was like.
In the Greek and Hebrew, the concept of grace is a picture of someone stooping to help another, and more specifically, it is a picture of a superior person freely offering to help a person in great need, and incapable of doing it for himself. 2 Timothy 1 gives us a clear picture of how God’s grace came into the world, emphasizing that we can do nothing to earn it, and this requires us to get rid of our pride. The passage also tells us that this grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time.
Although we think of the Old Testament as more about law, while the New Testament focuses on grace, there are examples in the Old Testament reminding us that God has never abandoned anyone in any era. Whether you have plenty and don’t feel you need any help from God or you’re in great need, won’t you consider accepting the free gift of salvation and forgiveness of sins that God is offering?
Let’s pray.
Father, just like the old hymn says, Jesus paid it all, and that reality fills us with joy. Our salvation promises that one day when you make all things new, we will be able to fully enjoy that grace for all eternity. You are the great God, and we praise you for your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever felt a surge of pride because you had it all together? As if your brains and talent and charm was just dazzling to the whole world?
It sounds funny, but let’s be honest. We’ve all at some point thought quite a lot of our own abilities. Pride—something God hates—trips us up. We are flying high…
And then the crash comes.
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Are you hurting today because you didn’t anticipate some obstacle? Were you a little smug in how you could handle challenges? Then tell God! Humble yourself, and ask Him to make you whole. You might not have it all together—it’s probably guaranteed that you don’t—but He does!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are a fortress of strength for each of us, especially when we mess up. God, you reveal our need for you through our own brokenness. Lord, we are grateful for your mercy, and your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The lack of gratitude in our world can be contagious. It’s kind of like a negative “pay it forward.”
How did we get to this place?
Are we too prideful to thank each other, or even to thank God? Too busy? Too self-absorbed, maybe?
As believers, we know life is a rich blessing from God. The clearest path to becoming a person of gratitude is to choose it. If we don’t choose gratitude, we choose ingratitude.
Psalm 107:1 says, “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”
Yes, we’re busy. Yes, life gets us down in legitimate ways. But research proves being intentional about gratitude on a consistent basis, can bring positive benefits to almost every area of our lives.
Realizing we’re too negative is a great first step, but keep going by actively counting and considering your blessings each day. Before long, you’ll be amazed how little you think about what you don’t have. You’ll be too busy enjoying what you do have!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you never leave us. And along the way, you bless us with big and small acts of kindness and mercy. Thank you for the grace in our lives! In Jesus’ name, amen.
As humans, we tend to have a problem asking for help. We can chalk that up to our proud hearts. Often, when we are really up against it, that’s when we resist seeking help.
The God of the universe does away with all that.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Ask yourself: is my pride keeping me from asking for help? If so, mull that over. And then, take a step toward the Lord and ask for what you need.
God opens doors when we ask Him to. Sometimes what we find on the other side isn’t what we expected. And when that happens, we choose patience, and we remain open to His good plans for us.
When you’ve asked God to help and your prayers are answered, share the Good News with the people you meet. Tell anyone who will listen that the Lord of the Universe cared about you, and delivered you from a problem no one else could solve.
And if the answer He gave was totally unexpected and sent you in a different direction—share that, too! Accepting God’s plan when it doesn’t match up with our own best laid plans is what faith is all about.
Let’s pray.
Lord, please give us a heart that seeks you. God, we want to be obedient. And we know that your blessings, whatever they look like, will follow. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
What would you think is one of the biggest stumbling blocks for us as we try to live our lives with integrity?
If you said “pride,” you win! The Bible tells us that the sin of pride can lead to a whole range of bad outcomes.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Walk humbly? Wow, that can be the most difficult part of living out this verse. We must constantly check our spirits to make sure our motives are pure and centered on God’s plan for us and those we encounter.
Micah is communicating to us that God actually requires certain things of us. Justice and love are critical, to be sure, but staying humble is no less important. It puts legs to the journey God has mapped out for us.
Lay down your pride and see what God will do!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are at war with ourselves at times. Our desire is to be the object of attention. Help us to lay this aside and live only for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever wondered what your place in this world is? Of course, you have. That’s the human experience.
Alone with our thoughts, we wonder who we even are, and what we are meant to do. It’s a mysterious journey, but the fog lifts and the way becomes clear when we get to know King Jesus.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
You were made for something! You were made to do things for your Lord. And the truly beautiful thing is, God created a custom plan just for you. If you aren’t a famous athlete like Tim Tebow, you can still share your faith in wonderful ways. Ways that are life-changing for those you encounter.
Think of that verse again. God made you for a purpose! Created to have the mind of Christ in making this world a better place and making disciples for Him. And God prepared it long, long ago.
You are His child. That’s who you are.
Let’s pray.
Lord, when we begin to understand even a little bit of your love for us, it transforms us and it renews our minds and our hearts. Thank you so much for that! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming. I think we can all agree about that. A huge wave of despair can seemingly come out of nowhere, and push us toward disaster.
Anita’s life was like that, growing up in Hong Kong where revolutionary movements brought violence and loss of hope. She couldn’t see how the pieces of her life could be put together. She would ask herself, “How do you make peace with a potential that is frustrated?”
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Over time, Anita saw that God had always been shaping her to find her calling in Christ. She did that, and today operates a ministry that helps women see that they are daughters of the Living God! Truly, Anita didn’t always have it together, but her life is living proof that God puts us back together for His purposes.
Let’s pray.
Lord, someone listening needs a dramatic move from you in their life. God, please bring your peace and comfort to them today. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever noticed how much we love ritual and form as part of religion? We become so good at it, so obsessed with it, that we lose sight of the essence of what it means to be a Christian.
To know God.
That is the primary purpose of our journey, and it will be the end of our journey. It is so foundational to who we are as humans that even the great Moses basically begged God to let him see Him. So close were they that according to Jewish tradition, when Moses died, God drew his spirit from him with a kiss.
Isaiah 5:19 says, “Let Him make speed, let Him hasten His work, that we may see it; And let the purpose of the Holy One of Israel draw near
And come to pass, that we may know it!”
The Bible is clear that we can know God. As individuals, we can have a personal relationship with Him, the very One who created all there is.
The splendor of that reality should drive us to read His Word and pray to Him every day. It should be the longing of our hearts. He knows, and He welcomes us into His presence.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercy in making yourself available to us is something we can’t even fully understand in this life. But we thank you for it, and love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci is widely looked upon as the most famous painting in the world.
By some historical estimates, the Mona Lisa took as many as 16 years to finish! Capturing Mona Lisa’s famous smile on a poplar plank was no hack job; Leonardo accepted a commission for the work in the year 1503, and completed his masterpiece supposedly around the time of his death in 1519. Clearly, this level of artistic achievement takes time.
When you hear the word “masterpiece,” what do you think of?
A famous painting? A beautiful building maybe? Your child’s latest artwork?
What about a giant sequoia tree? A symphony? A pink flamingo? The intricate, miraculous design of the human heart?
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Before you were even born, God knew you, and He had a plan for your life. He created you for a purpose, and He considers you one of his personal works of art. You are a living, breathing miracle capable of wonderful things—God’s own masterpiece.
Let’s pray.
God, we thank you and praise you that in all of creation, you have chosen to make us in your image, and to fashion us as a masterpiece—a work of art designed with care. Help us to be worthy of your effort. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Do you struggle to wonder what God’s will is for your life?
Many of us do.
Although it isn’t a quick answer, the best way to find God’s will for your life is to read His Word. The Bible will tell you the answer to that question.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Actually, finding God’s will isn’t the hardest part. Deciding to follow His will is where we get tripped up.
People need the skill and the discipline of being persistent. Too often the impulse is to give up and then, if we’re honest, pretend that God hasn’t revealed His will to us.
Good old Abe Lincoln had it right when he said that the only important response is to make sure we are on God’s side, not whether He’s on ours.
God has already told us that He’s on our side. He sent His Son, Jesus, to take the penalty for our sin. It doesn’t get any more “on our side” than that.
Change your thinking a bit. Don’t focus on what you think God is supposed to do. Resolve instead to follow God, and to do it every day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your will is the thing that drives us on, to find our purpose in this life. Thank you for sticking with us. Help us to stick with you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
It seems that a positive in our culture today is that we can admit our shortcomings.
In the past, it was sort of taboo to tell the world you were not exactly all put together. Back in the day, a hot mess usually referred to an overturned pot on the stove. But today we know the phrase ‘hot mess’ as a whole new meaning, and our lives are often exactly that.
Thank goodness that the outcome is not dependent on us.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace. You have been saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves. It is the gift of God.”
Recognizing that you don’t quite have it together is a positive first step to moving beyond your circumstances. But the real key is internalizing the fact that God, and not you, saves the day. All we can do is admit our shortcomings, and then rest in the knowledge that God has it from here, and that’s an attitude the Lord will bless. God’s got you covered and blessed all at the same time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are so good to us, and you have been so much more for us than we can even imagine. Thank you for blessing us, for not leaving us where we were. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The Bible tells us that King Solomon was a very wise man. He ruled over his kingdom from Jerusalem, and built the famous Temple there.
He was also very human.
This son of King David eventually let his wealth and power go to his head, and he began to follow other religions and almost seemed to enjoy sinning. And yet God loved him.
In his later years, Solomon realized how wrong he had been to rely on his own spiritual strength. And so scholars believe that’s where the book of Proverbs was born. They come from a man weary of the cares of this life. A man ashamed of the mistakes he had made.
Proverbs 3:5–6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Proverbs is packed with amazing wisdom into right living, after perhaps one has been focused on other kinds of living.
Solomon learned the hard lessons as he found his way back to a forgiving God whose mercies are eternal. That is a good lesson for us.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your patience with us is humbling, and it is so appreciated. We thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
A lot of us like action movies. And if they have a faith theme or element, even better. The iconic film “Raiders of the Lost Ark” comes to mind. In fact, the wild ride taken by Indiana Jones really typifies what we’re talking about this week: finding the grit to move beyond failure.
As he pursues the famous Ark of the Covenant, Jones chases and fights Nazis, and his own doubts. Along the way, his physical and mental stamina are challenged like never before.
Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
In a sense, Indiana was sorting out his faith, too, as he looked for the most famous relic of all time. For sure, in the end, he had enough evidence to believe in the God of the Bible.
That’s kind of the way faith is. We look at it with skepticism. Sometimes for years! But then something happens to us that we can’t explain. Then we turn a corner on the street and there He is: Jesus.
If you are wrestling with your faith, stop and go back to the source: think on who Jesus really is. Your Savior. Your path to glory will be worth it all!
Let’s pray. Lord, our journey to faith is not always smooth and straight. Thank you for sticking with us to the end. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever paused and thought about how rarely people see you for who you are? Have you ever done something that you feel is almost unforgivable? You need to know that is not the way God wants you to feel.
Psalm 51:10 says, “Create in me a pure heart, oh God, and renew a right spirit within me.”
Some of the most famous people in history were very unrighteous at times. King David, described as a man after God’s own heart—he was loved that much—did dreadful things. Guess what, though? His life ended well. God had cleaned him up on the inside.
Nothing you’ve done is fatal. It really isn’t.
Call on God to heal you on the inside and put a spirit of love, hope, and peace in you. He will and he’ll do it sooner rather than later, and you’ll be able to breathe again, guaranteed.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your desire to make us clean has been told for centuries. We believe it and we claim it. Thank you, Father God, for the work of renewal you do all day, every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We all screw up. We all fail in some way. We fall short of goals, or get embarrassed in some kind of career implosion or other event. It’s easy then to feel like we’ll never win again.
That is not how God sees you.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Hope and a future. That’s what’s ahead, not depression and failure.
The Bible is full of stories of people God would not allow to slip away. Peter denied Christ, and the Savior forgave him! Sarah mocked the idea that she would ever have a child, but God let her be a mother late in life!
This is the world God created. Not one of misery and losing. Does it make sense that He would create you in very specific ways, uniquely gifted as you are, and then just give up on you?
Don’t let that be your story. Your part in it is refusing to believe the enemy when you hear that voice that tells you it’s all over. God knows the plans He has for you! Remember that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you don’t let us sink out of sight. Thank you for setting us on our feet, and helping us move forward. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The most influential ruler of all time, the greatest king to ever walk the face of the earth, is also mankind’s greatest example of humility.
Jesus may have been born in a stable, but the Son of our Creator God was anything but ordinary. He lived a humble life, but performed miracles along the way, and showed us what it means to be a humble servant leader among men.
Jesus selflessly took human form, God incarnate, to become a living sacrifice for our sins. He did not profess His innocence and demand to be taken down from the cross; rather Philippians 2:8 says, “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
Jesus gave up His place on the throne where God rules the universe. He gave up His power to defend Himself, but willingly gave His life as a ransom for many. He loved us so much that He died for us. He endured shame, ridicule, torture, and an agonizing death on that cross.
What greater humility is there?
Philippians 2:3–4 says, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
A godly man is humble, and Jesus Christ is our ultimate example.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are humbled by your sacrifice. Jesus took our sin upon Himself when He took our place on the cross, and the gift of salvation is the result of His choice. We are so grateful for that love. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Picture what it would look like to lose everything in one fell swoop. Your house burns to the ground. The stock market plummets and all your money is gone. Worst of all, your children fall ill and die. Suddenly, you’ve lost not only your material possessions, but your family, too.
When people refer to someone as having “the patience of Job,” they say that for a reason.
Job was a man of immense wealth, the richest man in the region, and was the father of 7 sons and 3 daughters he loved dearly. He was also a faithful servant of the Lord, and grateful for every blessing.
In a terrible turn of events, Job lost his fortune in a single day. His crops, property, livestock, and servants…gone. Most devastating of all, Job lost his children. But Job didn’t blame God. He accepted that God had a plan for him, and was patient as he waited for the Lord to reveal that plan. He knew that sometimes bad things happen, and he continued to praise the Lord in the midst of trial.
Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
Job lost everything, but he didn’t take matters into his own hands to seek justice for what he had lost. He fell to his knees and worshiped the Lord, and then he was still. In the quiet of his soul, Job knew God had a plan, and in the end, God restored to Job twice as much as he had in the beginning.
A godly man is patient.
Let’s pray.
Lord, waiting is hard to do. Waiting for an answer. Waiting for resolution. Waiting for things to get better. Restore peace and patience as we grow in faith and learn to wait on you. We trust you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In Luke Chapter 7 verses 1–10, Jesus heals the servant of a centurion soldier at Capernaum. These verses illustrate the faith this soldier has that Jesus can heal his favorite servant.
We also learn in these verses that the Jewish people of the city knew of this particular centurion, and put in a good word for him with Jesus, because he had built the Jewish temple in Capernaum on their behalf.
Imagine that! A gentile, a man who was a soldier of some esteem in command of other soldiers in his city, built the local Jewish synagogue.
This brief window into the centurion’s character shows us that generosity can and should extend not just within our own family or our most familiar community, but to others who look, think, and act differently than we do.
This man’s willingness to complete such an act on behalf of the Jewish people in his community is an example for us today, that we should seek to be generous whenever God provides the opportunity to do so—even if the recipient is not who we expected it to be.
2 Corinthians 9:6 says, “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
A godly man is generous.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given us so much! Every good thing comes from you, and we are blessed to call you Father. Plant a seed of generosity in our hearts and help it grow, that we will share the gifts you’ve given freely, and at every opportunity. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever recorded minutes for a meeting? Whether you were taking notes at work or for a volunteer organization, such as the PTA at your child’s school, taking minutes and reporting on them at a follow-up meeting is an important responsibility.
What ideas were discussed?
How were those ideas followed up on?
Who, including yourself, agreed to complete certain tasks before the next meeting? And were those tasks completed on time, and correctly?
Recording minutes looks pretty mundane from the outside, but this person ultimately holds colleagues accountable to their responsibilities.
If someone was taking minutes on your life, what would those minutes say about you?
Romans 14:12 says, “So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.”
In this verse, Paul isn’t talking about salvation; when you’ve given your heart to the Lord, He offers forgiveness and salvation freely. We can’t earn or lose God’s promise of eternal life for us. Salvation is a gift.
Paul is talking about the judgment seat of Christ—a moment at the end of time when we will be accountable to Jesus for our actions. Did we create lasting value? Did we serve Him, and others, well? Were we ultimately responsible during our lifetime?
As believers, our goal should be to leave lasting value, to impact others for eternity, and ultimately to take responsibility for the legacy we are leaving in the name of Jesus.
A godly man is responsible.
Let’s pray.
Lord, along with the gift of salvation comes the incredible responsibility of sharing the Good News with others. Thank you for loving us enough to sacrifice yourself for us, and for the gift of salvation. Help us each to be responsible for sharing that gift with others. We love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Ancient Greek philosopher Socrates is credited with saying, “The unexamined life is not worth living.”
This line of thinking, developed nearly 2500 years ago, applies to our lives as Christian believers today. Let’s examine the question: What does it mean to be a godly man?”
There are many characteristics that come to mind when thinking about godliness, and living the kind of life the Lord wants for us. Today, we’re talking about honesty.
In our culture—even in our Christian culture sometimes—lying is often treated as harmless. In fact, many of us lie automatically, without a second thought. Much of the time we aren’t even aware we’re being dishonest.
We may exaggerate, change the facts “a little” so we look good, tell a police officer we didn’t know we were speeding, cheat on our income taxes, or make up stories about our past. Sometimes we lie by omission, leaving out important details to protect our pride or avoid accountability.
Proverbs 19:1 says, “Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity than one who is crooked in speech and is a fool.”
Crooked in speech...in this verse, God’s Word reveals just how well He knows our tendency toward sin, including dishonesty.
As men and women after God’s own heart, it is vital for us to examine our words, our deeds, and our actions to see that they fall in line with God’s instructions for living, in order to fulfill His good plans for our lives.
A godly man is honest.
Let’s pray.
Lord God, thank you for calling us to be honest in every facet of our lives. Your Word reveals powerful truth for our lives. Thank you for your instruction, and your forgiveness when we fall short. God help us to be honest in word, deed, and action. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Citizens of the United States of America have always acknowledged God. Sometimes though, our devotion to faith comes and goes. Sometimes we get too comfortable, and forget who keeps us upright every day.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
Whenever a person questions God’s goodness, or the path He has set for us, it’s good to go to the Bible. There, we find the answer to why we should honor our Lord.
It’s because He has loved us. He has been faithful to us.
He deserves our notice. He is the One we should be all-in for, all the time.
Remember the timeless Walt Whitman poem, in which he referred to the beloved President Lincoln as “O Captain, my Captain!” Whitman was honoring the man who saved the Union. The President rightly was seen as an important figure; after all, he gave his life for his country.
But the Lord Jesus Christ is our real Captain, our General, for all time. He gave His life for each of us the world over.
Glory to God! Let’s honor Him every way we can.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have many examples from history of people who sacrificed and deserve our respect. To You, we give our full allegiance, now and forever! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever thought about the fact that you have an obligation to defend our nation’s freedoms? You live in the Land of the Free, after all; your contributions are needed. We all have a role.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Sure, maybe you’re not a Navy SEAL. Maybe you don’t fly supersonic jets in combat. You’ve never served in the military. Most citizens haven’t, and won’t. But that doesn’t mean we can sit on our hands and not participate.
Your gift and contribution might be instilling values in your children. Or you might be in the medical field, helping keep folks healthy. Maybe you’ve been entrusted by the Lord to be a pastor, protecting your congregation from spiritual dangers.
Many things have joined forces to make America a place millions want to come, to improve their lives. It takes a lot of effort and a lot of moving parts.
Many of our ancestors moved through New York Harbor and shielded their eyes from the sun so they could see the Statue of Liberty. Each of them made the choice to be a piece of a large quilt that makes up our nation.
It is up to us to be courageous and continue the tradition. Our freedom depends on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we acknowledge those who came before us. We want to take up our own responsibility to do our part. Thank you for blessing us with this nation. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be one of the original settlers in America? As a person leaving the safety of England to come to the New World and start over?
Those people came here for religious freedom and risked it all. When they landed in New England, they literally put down roots as they built and planted the beginnings of an amazing experiment that is still ongoing.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
Our ancestors were definitely strengthened in their faith as they faced challenges and danger. But the payoff was worth it.
Maybe you’re going through something similar. You’ve moved to a new place. New job. New social circle. And you want to find a church! Just tell Jesus you need help with all these things, and He’ll be right by your side.
Let’s pray.
Lord, forever you have walked with us and forever you will keep us close, making us strong in the faith. God, thank you for your faithfulness to your mission. In Jesus’ name, amen.
From earliest times, God has commanded His people to see their national home through His holy eyes. In other words, countries around the world are to follow the Lord. Of course, many don’t.
Jeremiah 30:22 says, “So you will be my people, and I will be your God.”
Many great civilizations have risen, but few last beyond a couple hundred years. Although history is debated, the foundations of America see a people who wanted to live holy unto the Lord. Modern America is still an ongoing experiment, but our Pledge of Allegiance, adopted in 1942, used the phrase “Under God.”
Lincoln used it for the first time during his Gettysburg Address, when he told the people that from that point on, we would be one people, united under the Living God.
This is something to celebrate, and we should! Our nation is always stretching to do better, and fulfill an ideal that is more than just some slogan. It’s our calling to be this way…under God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that Christ is proclaimed in freedom in our nation! Help us continue this sacred calling. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Do you ever stop and think about the routine things you do every day? Buying detergent so that you can wash your family’s clothes. Fixing a couple of boards on your deck. We even grind through staff meetings at work. All this of course mixed with life, laughter, and love.
But do you think about why you can do these things in our country?
Primarily it’s because of the sacrifices of our fallen soldiers—those men and women who have defended the homeland since Colonial times.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
We are privileged to live in a land of the free precisely because fellow citizens took a different road. They walk a path of danger so that we can have the freedom to live as we choose. So many of them fight with the faith they’ve lived with all their lives, and it’s our duty to thank them, and be thankful for them.
Remember them when you want to complain about those daily chores…which were made possible by their sacrifice.
Let’s pray.
Lord, would you keep our warriors safe, and keep them in your loving arms. We ask you this as we reflect on Independence Day. We thank you for our soldiers, and we thank you for Jesus. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Identifying where our problems originate is one thing, but locating the Divine Healer is key in getting clear of obstacles in our lives.
At each mile marker in our life journeys, God is standing alongside the road, smiling at us, and holding out his strong hand to guide us. And from the indispensable wisdom of scripture to stories of human triumphs over tragedies, He is always there reminding us we're never truly alone.
His grace and mercies begin to overshadow and overwhelm those forces that want to harm us, and it's then that we see God for who He truly is.
1 Peter 5:10 says, “And after you've suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”
And that is Good News!
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s important to see who our enemy is, but it’s more important to look past that and concentrate our focus on you who brings us that peace that passes all understanding, the kind that gets down deep in us and calms us from the inside out. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When fear takes control, God just crushes it.
None of us are immune from feeling unsettled at times. Circumstances have a way of knocking us off balance. How we respond not only affects our lives, but those who are watching us.
In the film “The Patriot,” a Colonial militia leader sees the British kidnap his son. Taking the two younger sons with him, they wait in ambush in the forest. One of the sons is rattled and crying, so the father puts his hands on the boy’s shoulders, looks him in the eyes, and says, “Steady.” Fear drains from the boy’s face.
In that moment of terror for the whole family, the father’s example won the day, and their day ended well.
In 2 Timothy 1:7, we learn the source of calm. It says this: “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and a sound mind.”
God has given you a spirit of power, love, and a good mind. So don’t let fear, the enemy, or the world intimidate you when it comes to sharing your faith. Speak God’s truth with boldness, and love. Your moment will come one day, and by keeping in mind the truth of God’s word, courage will overcome fear.
Notice the qualities mentioned in Second Timothy. God has actually given us courage, but also power, and a sound mind—also phrased as self-discipline. And discipline will help keep you steady in a crisis. That spirit of power actually does our fighting for us, and it is the enemy who is afraid.
Let’s pray.
Father, you are good to us. Just as Jesus modeled for us how to handle fear when he prayed in the garden, we know that you have our back, and we can be courageous. Thank you for a sound mind and a calm heart in times of trouble. In Jesus’ name, amen.
No one is truly alone. Some people have many relatives and friends, others just a few. Occasionally, someone will have no real friends or family, but all of us interact with humans, and that over time has proven to be dicey.
The health of our relationships is one of the biggest factors in how we function each day.
Turmoil and chaos at home or work, or both, puts us in emotional quicksand. On the other hand, healthy relationships in our lives improve our overall health and make us more productive.
In Genesis, God modeled right relationships for humans, and this model continues through the Bible right to the end in Revelation. From this, we see that our first priority in relationships is to be in fellowship with our Creator. Get that one right and everything else flows. Following close behind is finding harmony in our human relationships, and getting this right is crucial to finding peace.
Ephesians 4:2–3 says, “Be completely humble and gentle. Be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Most people are familiar with the well-known Bible verses that deal with relationships, such as Paul’s wisdom from Ephesians, but Scripture is loaded with helpful and healing relationship commands. We hesitate to call it advice because God doesn’t really give advice. He tells us what is good for us and what may be harmful. For example, a fairly obscure passage in Job speaks to mean in any era having healthy relationships with women.
In Job 31:1 the suffering man says, “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look with lust at a young woman.”
Wow. So simple, yet very important and profound.
That chapter goes on to say that God sees all that we do. He’s watching how we treat people. Job made it clear that a man can decide he’s going to treat women with respect. It isn’t complicated or beyond our reach.
So often, simply deciding to be a decent human being leads to waves of healing and peace of mind for everyone. Lots of books have been written about relationships, from marriage to raising children, but the best book of all has the best wisdom, and if you check that out, your relationships will thank you.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you've given us the gift of interacting with other people. Each is unique and created special. We ask that you send the Holy Spirit to guide our relationships so that they’re pleasing to you and to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
A really cool thing about God is that He has a solution for literally every situation, and that includes mental health.
We see this especially in the ministry of Jesus, who walked the land healing people of all sorts of terrible things. One day He encountered a man driven insane by demons.
Mark 5:15 says, “They came to Jesus and observed the man who had been demon-possessed sitting down, clothed and in his right mind, the very man who had the ‘legion’; and they became frightened.”
The “Legion,” those who possessed this man’s mind, were no match for Jesus, who simply commanded them to leave the man in peace. And they did!
Now, not every mental health problem is related to possession. But mental illness is so devastating to the patient, and family and friends, that it often feels like evil lives there.
Not so in the peaceful kingdom of our Lord. If you or a loved one struggles with mental issues, ask the Lord to help you. He has done it many times. That man with the peaceful face and clear mind all those years ago is proof of that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you own the universe and can solve any problem. Please especially today be with those afflicted by mental illness. Come to them and comfort them and heal them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Usually, when we’re looking for some kind of emotional lifeline to get us through the day, we only want to know what God can do for us.
How do we get that peace of mind we desperately need?
One component is simple obedience. At first, this sounds like a test that’s too hard. We need relief right now!
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Wow, that sounds like real peace of mind. It requires that we concentrate on ejecting all the junk in our heads and replacing it with God’s Word. Learning obedience is key, because it reveals the Father’s perfect will for our lives.
In this way, we almost back-into the peace we were already looking for. This brings us into harmony with our Creator.
A renewed, fresh and clean mind is also a mind that is at rest.
Let’s pray.
Lord, teach us your ways. Help us uncover the peace of mind that those without God don’t have. Then help us show them the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.
No one is immune from burnout. It comes in our jobs, friendships, and even our church life. Sometimes even our hobbies become dry and tedious! But in Scripture, God gives us hope for the future.
John 7:38 — “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
Jesus is telling us that in Him alone is true life. He is always pointing us to the future, to a time when that dry creek bed will be filled forever.
In Revelation 22, He showed John a river flowing with the water of life, crystal-clear and coming from the very throne of God.
The whole picture is one of healing and new life. He promises us that this scene will be very real and very permanent! The key is what we read in John 7:38…we must choose to believe! If you long for a new start and a bright future, you’ll find everything you need and want in the person of Jesus Christ.
The living water that He offers is perfect, and the supply is limitless.
Jesus is the well that never runs dry.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are calling each of us to follow You and let You lead us to a place of perfect paradise. We eagerly look forward to joining you in Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Jesus has great compassion for everyone. Especially for those society considers unlovable or worth nothing.
One day he stopped by a well and had a conversation with a woman who had been married five times. When He spoke to her, He knew she was now living with another man. Yet Jesus spoke to her in a way that let her know He valued her as a person.
He told her that people could drink the water from that well, but again they would eventually be thirsty. He said to her that the water He gives is a spring welling up inside them, pointing to eternal life.
John 7:38 — “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
Do you believe that? Have you had your encounter with Jesus? If you’re thirsty for a new life, reach out to Him and listen to what Jesus has to say. He will meet you right where you are.
Your life will no longer be dry and lifeless. New life will flow out of you so that others will notice and want what you have!
Let’s pray.
Lord, much of what the world offers doesn’t satisfy us. We need the living water only you can provide. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever gone fishing and felt a little awkward casting your line the first few times? It’s especially true when someone else is watching. It can be kind of an intimidating thing, and this in life is often how we lose our focus. We worry too much about what others think of us. In reality, we’re casting our line only for an audience of one.
John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
Peter the fiery fisherman once famously wrote that if you cast your cares on Jesus, He can handle it. Keep your eyes only on Him and He will see you through.
If you’re in the middle of a raging stream, stop and focus on staying calm. Talk to Jesus and tell him you’re afraid and unsure. He’ll be there in the water with you to steady you and help you accomplish your purpose.
We’ve heard the phrase ‘it’s sink or swim,’ but with Jesus by your side, there’s no such thing as sinking.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we believe in you. We believe what you tell us in your Word. God, your mercies flow over us every day and we’re grateful. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Researchers have long known that even when exploring new worlds, water is the key to life. Without it, nothing can live.
Water is also an image used often in Scripture.
When Jesus emerged from the River Jordan having been baptized by His cousin John, He used the imagery of water to help people understand that by trusting in Him, they would live forever.
John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
Did you catch that? You must believe that Jesus is Who the Bible says that He is, the very Son of God. In Him is life, and rivers of living water. It’s a refreshing experience that has no end, because when we drink water now, we know that eventually we’ll get thirsty again. But Jesus has told us in John 4 that whoever drinks from the water He gives—spiritually—will never thirst.
What He is talking about is eternal life: always new and forever clean and clear. He is inviting you, and He stands at the water’s edge and waits.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word uses powerful imagery to help us see the wonderful things that you have for us. Thank you for satisfying our thirst for fellowship with you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
It’s no accident that Jesus chose as some of His apostles a group of fishermen from Galilee. These were men who could understand Him when Jesus told them He would make them “fishers of men.” He meant, of course, that they would share the Good News about Him with everyone they came in contact with.
And that’s exactly what each of them did, for the rest of their lives!
John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
Fishing requires patience, and a feel for your surroundings. The men Jesus picked were steady, and used to adapting to shifting opportunities. They were perfect for the work that He gave them to do.
Just as Jesus knew what his disciples were suited for in order to build His Kingdom, He also knows exactly the purpose He has for you. You are invited to flow into the River of Life He has created, in order to see the Kingdom grow.
Others will see the life flowing from within you, if you’re willing to follow God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you invite us to participate in the beautiful future you’ve planned for people everywhere. Help us be willing to look for those fishing opportunities. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today, we have a special Father's Day episode for you. The week leading up to Father’s Day is traditionally the time to give dads and granddads in your life an extra thumbs-up, and we've created a list of specific ways for you to pray for dads, any time.
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Pray for a loving nature. John 13:34–35 says, “A new command I give you. Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. And by this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
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Pray for wisdom. Philippians 1:9 says, “And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment.”
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Pray for patience. Ephesians 4:2 says, “Be always humble, gentle, and patient. Show your love by being tolerant with one another.”
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Pray for perseverance. Romans 5:3–4 says, “We exalt in our tribulations knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance, and perseverance proven character, and proven character, hope.”
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Pray for servant leadership. Philippians 2:3 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, rather in humility, value others above yourselves.”
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Pray for support. Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 says, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow, but woe to him who is alone when he falls, and doesn't have anyone to lift him up.
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Pray for strength. Isaiah 40:31 says, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like Eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not be faint.”
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Pray for courage. First Corinthians 16:13 says, “Be on your guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage, be strong.”
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Pray for peace. Second Corinthians 1:2 says, “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
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Pray for rest. Exodus 33:14 says, “And he said, ‘My presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest.’”
Let's pray.
Heavenly Father, we ask you to bless every dad in the world. You've gifted these men with children, and have asked them to train those children in the way they should go. Prepare their hearts daily for this task, and bless them with the strength of character and sustaining faith they need, to be the father that you intend for them to be. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Joseph was a hardworking tradesman who God hand-picked from all the men in the world to be the earthly father of His own Son, Jesus Christ. What an honor! And in some ways, what an incredibly challenging task.
Joseph wasn’t a king, a politician, or a recognized leader of any kind when he was betrothed to a young woman named Mary. A simple carpenter, he was also a man of compassion. When he learned Mary was pregnant and knew the child could not be his, he intended to divorce her quietly and send her back to her family—but God had other plans.
Matthew 1:20–21 says, “An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’”
Joseph worked diligently to protect his wife Mary and their baby, then saw to Jesus’ education and needs as he was growing up. In a time when blended families were not the norm, Joseph embraced Jesus, providing for him, loving him, and teaching him the valuable skills of the carpentry trade.
There was no parenting guidebook for raising God’s Son—so together, Joseph and Mary leaned into prayer, and did everything they could to raise Jesus well, and with love.
The Bible calls Joseph a righteous man, and Jesus must have loved his guardian for his quiet strength, honesty, and kindness. How God’s heart must have broken to send His Son into a fallen world, and how carefully he must have chosen the man who would raise him here on earth.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Just as Joseph was loyal to His Son, we have an opportunity to be loyal to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, too. Joseph’s obedience in the face of unexpected circumstances is an example of what it means to truly trust and follow God—even when the path takes a turn.
From Joseph, Jesus’ father here on earth, we learn that...
God honors men of integrity and rewards them with his trust.
Mercy always wins.
We may face humiliation in this life when we seek to obey God, but we can gain a close relationship with Him.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, every family’s story is unique. Thank you for the blessing of families as unique as a fingerprint, and for calling strong men to the task of providing for and leading them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
One of the things that mark a healthy society is the consistency between generations. In other words, adults who care about the future for their children will invest the time to make sure tomorrow is bright.
God the Father is the ultimate parent, and we would do well to model His love for us.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
Passing the torch, or training up the next generation, involves taking the time to do it properly. If you love your kids, you’ll make time for them. You won’t take the easy way out and settle for schools or the culture at large to raise them.
Teach them—yourself—that we all experience tough times in this life, but sticking to God’s plan for their lives is the key to winning. Living the abundant life Jesus taught about, and sharing His Good News is the ultimate win. But we don’t get there by quitting when the going gets tough.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you never leave us, and you never abandon the human community to evil. You are a great God, and we thank you for your commitment to us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Moses was the father of two sons, Gershom and Eliezer, and he also served as a father figure to the entire Hebrew people as they escaped from slavery in Egypt.
He loved his people, and helped discipline and provide for them on their 40-year journey to the Promised Land. Imagine leading a frustrated, tired, hungry group of travelers through the desert—without air conditioning or handheld electronics—for four decades!
So many aspects of Moses’ life story seem larger-than-life, and he was indeed a hero of his time—but he was also merely a man. Moses’ perseverance in the face of incredible challenges over the course of his life shows today's fathers that overwhelming tasks can be achieved when we stay close to God.
Exodus 16:11–12 says, “The Lord said to Moses, ‘I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, ‘At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.’”
The Israelites were afraid they would starve in the barren desert after fleeing Egypt, and complained to Moses that it would have been better if they had died by the Lord’s hand in Egypt, where they had enough to eat— rather than to wander the desert without provisions.
Imagine how frustrated Moses must have been! The Lord had miraculously saved the Israelites from slavery, and now they worried God wouldn’t provide what they needed to survive.
Through God’s faithful guidance, Moses was able to shepherd the Israelites through 40 years of wilderness living. They quarreled with Moses. They accused him of leading them to disaster and ruin. They complained frequently—even after they had seen God’s promises fulfilled. Yet still, Moses carried on. He brought every concern to the Lord, and with God’s blessing and guidance, he was able to keep going.
Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Moses teaches fathers that with God, all things are possible. God answers prayer and desires intimate fellowship with every believer. No one can follow God's laws perfectly. We all need a Savior.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, sometimes parenting is exhausting! Thank you for the blessing of children, and we ask you to bless dads with patience to spare, and to make your presence known to tired dads in the trenches who need your wisdom, and your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Adam, a first time father, looked down at his newborn son with love. Adam and his wife had made mistakes in the past and suffered greatly for it, but this child, their firstborn, was a chance to start fresh. The new family didn’t have the support of friends or relatives, but they did their best, and figured it out as they went along.
When the family was blessed with another son a few years later, they were so grateful to the Lord, and excited to watch their boys grow and play together. The family of four worked hard, loved God, and they were in it together.
Sometimes, though, the sins of our past have a way of catching up with us.
When Adam and Eve disobeyed God and were banished from the Garden of Eden, they plunged the world into sin. They couldn’t have known at the time just how far-reaching the consequences of this event would be for their family—that their son Cain would one day grow jealous of his brother Abel’s favor in the eyes of the Lord, and commit the very first murder.
Adam, the first man, and very first human father, has much to teach today's fathers about the consequences of our actions and the absolute necessity of obeying God.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Lessons we can learn from Adam include:
Obedience:
God wants us to freely obey Him, to trust Him, and to submit to his love. A man who follows and obeys the Lord can be a child’s first example of obedience.
Integrity:
Fathers with integrity know that nothing is hidden from God's sight. Even when no one is around, God sees our actions; men with integrity act accordingly.
Responsibility:
Godly fathers take responsibility for their own failures and shortcomings, rather than blaming others for their mistakes. The ability to accept responsibility is not a show of weakness, but a sign of strength.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, Adam, the first human father, had no blueprint for fatherhood. Thank you for the wisdom and knowledge we can glean from fathers before us in your Holy Word, the Bible. Uphold fathers, Lord, and open their eyes to your love, and your good plan for their family. Give them the support they need to follow you, and to humbly obey your commands. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Welcome back. Today, we are wrapping up our series on forgiveness. In the final chapter, we're talking about the emotional benefits of forgiveness.
In Christ, we experience peace that is so remarkable, it isn't naturally part of this world. As we think about the power forgiveness has for us and others, let's think about how forgiving someone lifts a huge burden off our minds.
Matthew 5:23–24 says, “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First, go and be reconciled to your brother, then come and offer your gift.”
Notice that God is aware how we think. This passage from Matthew describes a very interesting trait that is often overlooked. The person who has come to worship God cannot properly do that, because he remembers there's trouble in his relationship with his friend. We just can't let it go. God is telling us here to take care of this spirit of unforgiveness first, then come back for worship. Refusing to do things in this order only diminishes our time with God.
Jonathan Draper has written about this problem of holding onto grudges, and he specifically says that having a forgiving spirit allows us to grow closer to God. This is the number one benefit of forgiveness.
Tony Roberts is an Indiana pastor and relationship expert. In a conversation he had with a young woman impacted by a negative relationship, he asked for her top emotional health benefits that come from forgiving. She said, “It impacts emotional health, in that if you don't take care of you, nobody will.”
Taking care of you is forgiving and forgetting that person for trespassing against you. Forgetting isn't the most important part, but it's definitely one of the most challenging. And if they don't happen, you will lose yourself. Now, think about that. God has promised to walk with us through our trials, and those include cycles of unforgiveness. It's critical to our emotional well-being that we forgive, so that we begin the process of looking after our own emotional health. Letting go of bitterness is an important first step.
Let's pray.
Father God, you intended for us to live in harmony, so that our physical bodies and our emotional selves would be in sync. And when that doesn't happen, we need your help to strike the right balance. Please walk with us in divine health. Let us come to a place where we embrace forgiveness. In Jesus' name, amen.
Welcome back to our series on forgiveness. Today, we're talking about the physical benefits of forgiveness.
There are several stories in the Bible that tell us when God's people obey Him, they are in better physical and emotional shape. Remember, Daniel and his friends refused to eat the rich food sent by the king. After several weeks of their own diet, they emerged healthier than other young men in the Babylonian kingdom. So too do we learn that an attitude of forgiveness leads to peace.
In Matthew 18:21–22, we read, “‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but 77 times.’” When Peter asked this, Jesus was thinking not only of the person who was to be forgiven, but also about the well-being of Peter. We know from scripture that the hot-tempered Peter learned to temper his temper over time.
Notice that the exchange between Peter and Jesus about forgiveness is an ongoing process. It isn't a one-time deal. Being intentional about the art of practicing forgiveness ensures that we don't fall back into bad habits. A Journal of Behavioral Medicine study tells us that forgiving someone can reduce feelings of tension, anger, depression, and fatigue. This leads to much better sleep patterns. Another study provides evidence that forgiveness can lower blood pressure significantly, especially among spouses. An article in the Journal of Health Psychology provides a link between much lower stress levels and people who forgive.
God knows us in every way. He created us. In Philippians 4:7 we read, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This comes in the form of a person who is willing to make a conscious choice to forgive and let grudges go.
The enemy of our souls wants us to hang on to bitterness. The God who created us and loves us wants to see us well, along with those who have hurt us. Healing replicates itself and it starts with us.
Let's pray.
Father, it's painful to watch someone who's locked down by unforgiveness. Help us model what it looks like to be healthy and whole when we forgive. In Jesus' name, amen.
The story of the Prodigal Son is one we can all relate to.
The Bible tells the story of a brash young man who leaves his home after asking for his inheritance. His loving father complies, and let’s just say the son learns some valuable lessons on his travels.
Eventually, he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family.
It’s really a story of Jesus and us.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
We screw up sometimes. And maybe it’s so bad that we can’t possibly see a way back.
That’s when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn’t as concerned with where we’ve been as He is where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real healing for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you’ve screwed up too much, put that out of your mind and simply tell Jesus you need Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your willingness to welcome us back to fellowship is something to behold. We are so grateful for your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
One of the most corrosive elements in the human character is unforgiveness. Bitterness and fighting in relationships is really a drain. Physically and emotionally, we’re simply not wired to survive long-term problems in this area.
According to Dr. Michael Berry, 61% of cancer patients have forgiveness issues. And Dr. Karen Schwartz of the Johns Hopkins Hospital confirms that the hurt and disappointment associated with forgiveness issues can spike incidents of heart disease, depression, and diabetes. On the other hand, forgiveness calmed stress levels, leading to improved health.
The Bible tells us that we can make the decision to forgive when someone wrongs us. And Colossians 3:13 we read, “Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember the Lord forgave you so you must forgive others.” Did you notice that? We should basically cut each other some slack.
We all fail, but making a choice to let it go, especially with an individual, will benefit everyone. Your own stress will melt away. It's like a gift you can give yourself.
In a Focus on the Family article by Rose Sweet, we find this key piece of wisdom that can unlock our inability to forgive: “Forgiveness is returning to God the right to take care of justice. By refusing to transfer the right to exact punishment or revenge, we are telling God we don't trust him to take care of those matters.”
So you see, it's not really so much about the person who wronged you, it's more about your refusal to let God handle it. By doing that, by letting God handle it, taking that critical step, we can step into the freedom that God had waiting for us the whole time. Your physical health will improve, but that pales in comparison to the improvement in your spiritual health.
Let's pray.
God, an unforgiving spirit is so hard to carry. Help us see daily that we can choose to forgive just like you chose to forgive us. In Jesus' name, amen.
Welcome to the Kerusso Daily Devotional. Today, we're kicking off a series on a topic all of us probably need a reminder about from time to time: forgiveness.
Even though most US homes have at least one copy of the Bible, few know what's in it. There are all sorts of things: wisdom for living, history, spiritual food. It's the Bible's practical value that hooks most people who read it. The Bible says a lot about money, how to raise kids, and even how to strengthen your marriage.
It also tells us a lot about forgiveness.
Forgiveness is mentioned dozens of times in the Bible. In Genesis 33, Esau forgives his brother Isaac's treachery in stealing his birthright. And the most famous example is the forgiveness Jesus chooses on the cross as his accusers and executioners mock him. Think about how hard that was. It gives some perspective on our own situations in life.
When you think about it, the entire theme of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation is one of forgiveness. Man chose to bring sin into the world and defy God's perfect plan. Yet, God didn't leave us in that state. He made a way for our sins to be put away forever. Jesus Christ became the vessel through which forgiveness could be extended on an epic scale.
One of the most difficult passages in all the Bible is found in the New Testament. Matthew 5:43–45 says, “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor and you hate your enemy.’ But I say, love your enemies. Pray for those who persecute you. In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.”
Now, in the here and now, is there anything more difficult than forgiving a mocking enemy? There are people in the world who delight in making others miserable their whole lives, but Jesus is telling us that is possible. The key is when we take the long view. We must mentally and emotionally take ourselves out of the pain we are experiencing right now. Think of the future. Begin imagining the most wonderful healing that can take place between enemies.
And that's what God did for us. The Bible tells us He's holy, and cannot look on sin. Yet, in Genesis chapter 3, God began the process of grace. In the gospels and in Paul's letters, we see him continuing to be patient with us. And then in Revelation, the long view: God takes our acts of forgiveness and makes a powerful redemptive new world, and we can look forward to that.
Let's pray.
Father, thank you for having mercy on us in every way. Sometimes we need to forgive someone, and sometimes the shoe is on the other foot. Help us to read Your Word and act on your commands to forgive, especially when it hurts. In Jesus' name, amen.
Scores of people today, even in many of our churches, walk around aimless. They work their jobs and take care of their families, but they struggle to understand what it is that God wants them to do.
He’s told us in His Word!
As with every other situation, His Word speaks directly to our circumstances.
Micah 6:8 says, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
The Lord requires of us that we have the mind of Christ. That we aim for showing justice and mercy to those we encounter. And notice: we are to love doing these things, not just go through the motions! Finally, we are to remember to be humble.
There’s only One Who is perfect, and that is the Father. In our present state, we are to emulate the qualities that caused His Son Jesus to turn the world upside down for good.
If you ever wonder what your purpose is, start with these awesome words from the prophet Micah!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to keep in front of us at all times the simplicity that is in Christ. He shows us the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Jill felt like she couldn’t keep up anymore. Four years out of college, she was doing well in her chosen career. But it had not only taken her far from home, it took her away from the values she had known her whole life.
This new place she lived in pressed in on her mind and heart.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
Burdened by her stresses, Jill realized something had to change. But in that unique way He has, God showed her that she didn’t necessarily have to move home, or even change careers. What she needed to do was continually give her burdens to Jesus.
She did that and she continued to do it, and one day, months later, she realized with great joy that she had at some point come back to her place of peace. And her parents and loved ones were still several states away!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you so much for caring about us. For loving us. Teach us to rely on You as our only source of peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Carl loved working on his farm. He loved the solitude and sense of accomplishment. One day though, working alone, he was injured severely. In fact, if he didn’t get to the hospital, he would likely die.
So, he banged the door of his old pickup shut and took off. He pulled into the hospital parking lot and lost what little consciousness he had.
Waking up 24 hours later after surgery, he realized he remembered nothing of his injury or even getting to the hospital.
In effect, the God he loved and trusted had driven him to town.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
We can never save ourselves. It’s then that God proves Himself to us and carries us to safety.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for taking over when we can’t. We’re so eager to pull ourselves up by the bootstraps in the midst of trouble. But the truth is, we’re bound to arrive safely at our destination when we let you take the wheel. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Does your life feel out of control? Are you experiencing that common feeling of weaving down a busy highway, about to crash?
It’s a metaphor for life that many of us internalize at some point. All of a sudden, what you were sure of isn’t there anymore. You might as well be behind the wheel of a fast car that’s heading into oncoming traffic.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
This isn’t some nice little bit of wisdom someone put on a greeting card. This is the very Word of God. It has sustained civilization for thousands of years. It’s a proven method for getting your life back under control.
It doesn’t work though, unless you can see Jesus taking the wheel. Let him get you to safety and peace.
He’s ready and waiting to take all your worries and set you on a smooth and straight path.
Will you pray with me?
Lord, feeling out of control is not something we want to have anymore. Please take over and guide us in your perfect ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Most of us feel a deep respect in our hearts for those who have sacrificed so that we can remain free. Loving those who have paid the ultimate price is just something we do as people. We pause to remember each year.
Isaiah 56:5 says, “To them I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever.”
God instituted the concept of maintaining memorials. He remembers, and so do we.
Maybe you’ve had a brother or mother or cousin or uncle that never came home from war.
Even before the American Civil War, our citizens were placing flowers at the graves of veterans. It’s one way we can keep their sacrifices front-and-center, so that we don’t forget and become complacent.
This year on Memorial Day, stop to take time and pause. Do something tangible, like visit a cemetery. Ask an older relative to give you some insight into a family member who never came home. Then thank the Lord for that sacrifice.
Let’s pray.
Oh Lord, We remember those who had paid with their lives. It’s the least we can do, but we want to do more by keeping their memories alive in our hearts. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today we're in part five of five, the final chapter of our series on doubt.
If you're working your way toward belief and away from doubt, by now you must assume that God exists. 2 Peter 3:9 says, “The Lord does not delay and is not tardy or slow about what He promises, according to some people's conception of slowness, but He is long-suffering or extraordinarily patient toward you, not desiring that any should perish, but that all should turn to repentance.” The cornerstone of the Christian faith is a belief that scripture is God's Word. Psalm 138:2 tells us that God has elevated the Word above His own name.
So we have the opportunity to tell God that we accept His promises. Luke 1:77 tells us that He's raised up Jesus “to give His people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins.” At some point, faith is just believing God. Some critics say that this is making an idol out of the Bible, it's called bibliolatry. But in fact, we learn who Jesus is and what He has done for us in scripture. It is a conscious decision to embrace what God has told us.
Acts 4:12 says, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” It really requires you to at least open your mind to the possibility that it's true. God's plan to reconcile people to Himself after sin entered the world, is a start. Decide to be bold. Lay aside your fears and doubts and find that rest you've been looking for.
Matthew 11:28 says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” One of the great metaphors of the Bible is the strong hand or the strong arm of God that rescues us from danger. John 10:28 says, “I give them eternal life. They'll never be lost, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.” No one is saying that you will never have a shred of doubt again, but what we can know is that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God, as outlined in the Book of Romans. Jesus Christ is waiting for you, and you can be sure of that.
Let's pray.
Father, there are so many lonely people in the world, and they want to believe. You've put that in our hearts, God. Help them and help us, by your spirit, know that they are loved and that they can have an encounter with you. In Jesus' name, amen.
Today we're continuing our series on doubt. We're in part four of five.
A political science major at a major university was having coffee with a campus pastor. The pastor knew that the student was wrestling with doubt about the existence of God and said to him, “John, you know all of us wonder at some point if it's all real or not. For example, there are quite a few stories in the Bible that are just hard to believe. Jonah and the whale and all that.” John smiled and said, “No, that's not my problem. What I wonder about is how God could care about me. I've done some really bad things and have had some really bad things done to me. I just can't understand the concept of forgiveness.”
There you have it. Doubts about the faith come from all directions. While one person cannot bring herself to believe in miracles, another cannot forgive himself for the wrong things he's done, and can't fathom how God could.
Thomas Jefferson actually cut out the miraculous sections of the Bible. He couldn't believe in what some would call the God of the Bible. Francis Crick, the co-discoverer of DNA, thought that Christianity was just a collection of mythical stories. And what about those who want to see the proof, they like evidence and feel a need to make an intellectual case for our faith.
The New Testament writer, Luke, was like that. He wrote in Acts and the Gospel of Luke about the importance of eyewitness sightings of Jesus and His miracles. Lots of people debate whether evolution and religion are compatible or not. And this is a big stumbling block to believe for many. We all believe something, but our minds can struggle at times to grasp the big stuff, the infinite universe. While for others who doubt, the struggle is more internal, they're so grieved by their own sin, they can't accept that God could love them.
Maybe the most famous verse in the Bible is John 3:16, which says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” However, few quote the next verse which says, “For God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” It isn't God's wish to condemn you. Instead, he loves you and wants to give you assurance that life is more than struggle and molecules.
Whether you're looking for evidence to believe the Bible or you just need to know that God loves you, try not to focus too much on your objections. Own them, but just tell God as a child would, that you're struggling to understand it all.
Will you pray with me?
Father, your grace saves us from a life of struggle with sin and we are accepted by you. Thank you for putting up with our up-and-down faith. In Jesus' name, amen.
Today we're continuing our series on doubt. We're in part three of five.
Because there's so much easy access to information and ideas today, we can take in a huge amount of stuff. The downside is that much of it is just noise, and a lot of it simply isn't true. What we hear, even if it sounds good, is not always good for us, especially when we're talking about spiritual doubt.
There are many opinions floating around out there on the subject. For instance, some will say that doubt is really something to wrestle with continually, never finding a satisfying answer. While at the other end of the spectrum, some will say that if you doubt, you are permanently cut off from God. Both of those extremes are not helpful at all.
The Bible is clear that God gives us a choice whether to believe in Him or not. John 1:12 says, “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” Within each person is a longing to understand our place in the world and to know if there is something or someone beyond this life. The Bible says that, “He has set eternity in our hearts,” that, “curiosity is in all of us.” And if you're wondering about God, then your curiosity is a good starting point.
A bedrock truth for Christians is that God sent Jesus in human form to atone for the sins of mankind. This is not an easy concept to grasp honestly, but it's what is known as the Gospel, the foundation of our faith.
Christianity's exclusive claims are too much for some seekers. In Mark chapter 10, the Bible describes a wealthy young man who asked Jesus what he had to do to be saved, and Jesus replied that besides following the 10 Commandments, he should give his money to the poor, and the story ends with that man sadly walking away. It's likely that Jesus was helping him to see that his heart was not yet ready to receive anything that would require any sacrifice on his part.
In Luke 9:23, Jesus says, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Believing in the true God is not a bed of roses, but if you can make the search for God your starting point, you'll likely find what you're looking for.
Let's pray.
Father, you've given us the knowledge of saving faith in your word. Thank you for giving us a free choice to decide our path in life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever wondered about how convinced well-known Christians are of their faith? We all know they never doubt, right? Wrong. Today, we're continuing our series on doubt, we are in part two of five. We're talking about doubt all week.
A well-known preacher, Charles Spurgeon once said of doubt, “I think when a man says, ‘I never doubt,’ it is quite time for us to doubt him.” Doubt is a fact of life for many of us, although most don't like to admit it. In fact, doubt's mentioned often in the Bible. The Bible's full of great faith stories, but it's interesting to notice that there are plenty of doubters, too. Sarah simply didn't believe God's promise that she and Abraham would have a child. Peter's bravado evaporated when he realized it was dangerous to be known as one of Christ's followers. Job's wife told him he should curse God and die because of his misfortune, and Job wished he'd never been born.
Humans can be quirky. Imagine seeing Jesus with your own eyes and watching Him perform miracles. In the Book of Matthew, we read about the apostles with Jesus on a mountain in the Galilee after His resurrection. You can't get more miraculous than that, but it says some doubted. Mark 9:24 says, “Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, “I do believe. Help me overcome my unbelief.’” This is the story of a father who sought Jesus to heal his son, and he seemed to believe and to struggle with belief at the same time. Amazing, but not so unusual.
As we are learning, doubting is not the worst thing. Keeping silent about it is worse. Seeking God and trusting a friend or friends to talk it through is healthy. God doesn't punish you for doubting.
Andrea Lucado, who has been around churches and preachers all her life understands the struggle. She says, “Most of us at some time or another ask the question, ‘Why do I believe what I believe?’” Those of us who identify as lifelong Christians sometimes have the most doubt. We've grown up in church, memorized scripture, and volunteered at VBS, but that thought, “Why do I believe what I believe,” sometimes hits us in a moment we least expect. There are plenty of resources and plenty of believing friends who have gone through the same thing to see you through this. So when you're in a season of doubt, remember one thing: you are not alone.
Let's pray.
Father, doubt comes to us all at some point and it's then that we need each other the most. We need your spirit to bring us comfort and calm. We thank you that you don't leave us in our time of doubt, but you long to help us through the valley. In Jesus' name, amen.
Some of the most important conversations we have can be the most uncomfortable, and when it comes to faith, doubt is near the top of that list. Today, we're launching a five-part series on the topic of doubt. Many Christians wrestle with doubt, but who wants to admit that their foundational beliefs are not so firm? Not long ago, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, openly admitted that he's questioned if God is real. When the head of the Church of England says something like that, it makes news.
But something interesting came from Welby's honesty. He revealed his humanity. It turns out that the Archbishop lost a baby girl in a car accident many years ago, and when he was a teenager, he had to take care of his alcoholic father. He's human with human difficulties. We are human, and we struggle sometimes.
Can we be honest? While a lifetime of doubt is dangerous, periods of doubt simply mark one as being human, but faith can help us overcome doubt.
In the Bible, we read in Hebrews 11:1, “Now, faith is the subject of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11 continues with many examples of faith in action, and at its core, the Christian faith means we believe God sent Jesus Christ to pay the penalty for our sins on the cross, and that God raised Him from the dead. While mountaintop faith is exciting, and it makes us feel good, no one experiences that all the time. Sometimes it's difficult to believe certain things in the Bible. Sometimes we don't feel faith in our lives.
In this first part of our week-long look at doubt, it's important to remember that simply expressing doubt can lead to healing and a more faithful future. If you're a struggling believer or a questioning skeptic, this subject is one of the most important you'll ever wrestle with. Stay tuned.
Let's pray.
Father God, often we push down thoughts that are painful or uncomfortable. We don't have to do that with you, Lord. Even doubts about our faith are conversations that we can start with you, and we're grateful for that. In Jesus' name, amen.
Roaming, travel, wandering…all have been part of the human psyche since the beginning. Because we all have that God-shaped hole in us, needing to be filled with Him, we search.
Some find God, and some don’t.
The sense of aimlessness and lack of purpose haunts some. We think of the classic novel by Jack Kerouac, On the Road, which is the story of two characters traveling the country. At first, the lure of freedom is fun to think about, but the truth is, if people don’t fill that God-shaped hole with God, despair can set in.
We’re left rootless in the worst possible way.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
Wherever you put down your physical roots, your spiritual roots are at least as important. In Christ, we are no longer wandering and discouraged. In Him, we live and move and have our being.
If you feel that you’re not anchored to anything, pour out your heart to Jesus. He will keep you close.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are always in fresh supply. We thank You that You plant us in good soil and hold fast to us even when we wander. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Part of the joy of being a believer is that we can share the Good News with literally anyone and everyone. And how we share that faith is often critical for the other person’s future.
Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
As we share this week about holding fast to faith, it should be obvious that we are greatly blessed to be able to show others the way. And in that, we can be an example that just because things don’t always go our way, Jesus is better than anything.
On a difficult day, or in the midst of life’s challenges, we can let doubt fester and complain to those around us…or we can turn to Jesus, and point to Him no matter our circumstances.
People are watching. Don’t doubt that. If you put yourself out there as a Christian, others will look to see how you handle yourself when the going gets tough. Some look for you to mess up, but many more genuinely are curious about what you have.
Show them that your faith isn’t dependent on every day being smooth. Your task is to walk in faith—up and down the hills.
No Grit, No Glory!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us the gift of sharing the Good News! Let us be an example to those around us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Our world needs many things. We have political concerns, environmental concerns, broken relationships, and disease that still stalks too many countries.
It’s also true that God doesn’t leave us in despair. He doesn’t allow our problems to overcome us, if we trust Him.
Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
This is our anchor, the blessing of hope. This week we’re talking about hope and joy, and these are given to us freely by our Loving Father.
Do you have hope? Are you anchored in anything? If not, tell God you need Him. You’ll find that He not only comes to you in need, but He will use you afterward to spread hope and joy.
It’s been said that people can’t live without hope, and that is so true.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us hope. Help us spread that message wherever we go. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We all screw up. We all fail in some way. We fall short of goals, or get embarrassed in some kind of career implosion or other event. It’s easy then to feel like we’ll never win again.
That is not how God sees you.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Hope and a future. That’s what’s ahead, not depression and failure. The Bible is full of stories of people God would not allow to slip away. Peter denied Christ, and the Savior forgave him! Sarah mocked the idea that she would ever have a child, but God let her be a mother late in life!
This is the world God created. Not one of misery and losing. Does it make sense that He would create you in very specific ways, uniquely gifted as you are, and then just give up on you?
Don’t let that be your story.
Your part in it is refusing to believe the enemy when you hear that voice that tells you it’s all over.
God knows the plans He has for you! Remember that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you don’t let us sink out of sight. Thank you for setting us on our feet, and helping us move forward. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When you think of ships, whether you’re thinking of the Titanic, pirate ships, or trading vessels crossing the vast ocean to bring goods and services from one country to another, you probably picture them with an anchor—a heavy metal hook designed to catch on the ocean floor and keep a boat or ship in place.
Wikipedia says this about anchors:
There are two main types of anchors: temporary and permanent. A permanent anchor is called a mooring block and is not easily moved. A temporary anchor can be moved and is carried on the boat. When people talk about anchors, they’re usually thinking about the temporary kind.
Hebrews 6:19 says, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”
When you think about your personal relationship with Jesus, what kind of anchor binds you to your Lord and Savior? Is it a permanent anchor—not easily moved? Or is it a temporary anchor, dependent more on where you want to steer the ship, carried aboard your boat until you feel like a temporary stop?
God wants the hope we’ve found in Jesus to be a permanent fixture in our lives; our faith is meant to hold us steady and secure as we follow Him, being a constant source of reassurance in every circumstance—not just a temporary stopping place.
So think about that anchor…is it permanent, or is it temporary?
Let’s pray.
Lord, whether we’re sailing calm seas or fighting to keep our heads above water in the midst of a storm, you are with us. You are truly the anchor for our souls. Help us to remember to moor ourselves to you, instead of following our pride and settling for a temporary anchor. We love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Hers is the greatest motherhood story of all time. You know who she is.
Magnificent Mary!
Her story has been told many times, but how grateful we are that it’s recorded in Scripture. Whatever God’s reasons for choosing this particular woman to give birth to Jesus, we know that she must have loved the Lord with all her heart.
And just think how her head and heart must have been spinning when the angel visited her and told her the special job God was going to give her!
Luke 1:46–48 says, “And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.’”
We know little about her beyond that, although we are given some fascinating details: she socialized with her Son, as we see at the wedding in Cana. And of course, she was with Him at His death. No mother should have to endure that, but Mary was very strong. Her toughness and love ring like a bell through time. We remember her way of finding patience and faith.
Maybe the most amazing thing about her is that God trusted Mary with an initial secret that would have floored most people! She handled it, though. The mother of Jesus was ready when her time came.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the mother of Jesus shows us an eternal love. It is also a mystery of sorts for us, but we know that this amazing mother is experiencing supernatural joy, forever! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be close to Jesus when He was on the earth? It would have been amazing to be in His inner circle.
We know of a remarkable woman, a family member, who would have been able to be around to watch that most amazing life unfold.
Her name was Elizabeth. She was the aunt of Jesus, and she was also a mother.
We read in Luke that everyone thought that the time for Elizabeth to become a mother was past. In those days people thought sin prevented pregnancy, so this godly woman went through great sorrow.
But Gabriel, an angel, told her priest husband that she would conceive. She did, and later, when visiting her cousin Mary, felt her own son jump in her womb. Even he knew the significance of such a woman!
Luke 1:13 says, “But the angel said to him: ‘Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.’”
Elizabeth’s son would be named John, and he would be given the privilege of introducing the world to the Man, Jesus. Both mothers would endure great tragedy in their lives, but would enjoy fellowship forever with them in glory.
Elizabeth knew how to be steady during momentous times. A great lesson for all of us.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes you surprise us with great tasks. Help us to always be ready to stand when you call on us to do something great. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Are you a woman blessed with the gift of a wonderful mother-in-law? We can hardly think of a more important relationship. Through the ages, this mentoring friendship has sealed families and nurtured them. Likewise, we easily see the pain inflicted when this relationship isn’t good.
In the Old Testament, we read of a really remarkable mother-in-law. She showed great kindness to a young woman at just the right moment.
After returning home to Bethlehem after a famine is over, Naomi wants the best for her young daughter-in-law, Ruth, whose husband has died. Although she must have longed for security herself and companionship, Naomi encourages Ruth to marry Boaz. Eventually, Ruth has a son, Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David!
Ruth 1:22 says, “So Naomi returned from Moab accompanied by Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, arriving in Bethlehem as the barley harvest was beginning.”
Naomi’s unselfish act, her encouragement to the vulnerable Ruth, is the model for all such relationships. It’s intentionally about the other person. It’s the story of a woman mentoring and loving another she sees as a daughter.
So how will your mother-in-law's story be recorded? Have you ever thought about that? How will the women in your family remember you?
Let’s pray.
Lord, people are watching us, and they’re watching how we treat others. Nowhere is that more important than in our own homes, and in our own families. Help us think of others before we think of ourselves. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We don’t even know her name, but we know what she did.
Let’s just say there was great strength in her household!
Known only as the wife of Manoah, from the Israelite tribe of Dan, this godly woman was unable to have children. But then, in a kind of foreshadowing of another, more famous visit by an angel hundreds of years later, she was told by the Angel of the Lord that she would become pregnant and have a son.
Samson!
Judges 13:24 says, “The woman gave birth to a boy and named him Samson. He grew and the Lord blessed him.”
The last of the judges of Israel, Samson, was his people’s deliverer from the Philistines, who prospered along the coastline. Samson’s mother followed the angel’s instructions from the Lord to the letter, never cutting her son’s hair. It was in this that his tremendous strength was found.
And, just like Mary centuries later, she would see her son die a horrible death. But it came as he saved his people.
A mother’s love is strong. So strong that not even evil can tear it away.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know her name, this mother of Samson. You spoke to her and guided her in life. Thank you for her example—a mother who believed the Lord when told she would have a child. That is strong faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.
She’s not very well known, even though she’s in the Bible.
But Jochebed…who’s heard of her? Raise your hands.
This great woman deserves a bigger story in our culture, because she modeled what it means to act with bravery, and to value all life.
Exodus 2:3 says, “But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile.”
Jochebed, you see, was the mother of Moses. Knowing that Pharaoh had ordered all Hebrew baby boys to be killed, she hid her infant son in a basket among the reeds of the Nile. When Pharaoh’s daughter found the boy, she felt sorry for him and took him in; the rest as they say, is history!
It’s been said that the love a mother has for her children is the strongest human bond. Long ago, a slave defied the empire and saved her son. He went on to change history.
Sometimes we just have to step out in faith and be intentional about courage.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this woman inspires us today. Thank you that the story of this sweet mother, Jochebed, was recorded for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Communism kept half of Europe locked up for much of the 20th century. For 75 years, the oppressive system took most freedoms away from its ordinary citizens. The political system responsible for tens of millions of deaths seemed almost indestructible. Then, almost suddenly, the system built on restricting freedom just collapsed. The end came so quickly that all the most experienced analysts and diplomats were caught off guard.
How did that amazing turnaround happen? It didn't happen with guns and tanks and planes. Not a single missile silo was opened. Instead, it took the strategic efforts of a religious leader, a Polish labor union activist, and countless regular citizens in countries like Hungary and East Germany, among many others, to expose evil and demand a better way of life.
In a similar way, God defeats evil by showing us a strategy that might go unnoticed at first.
2 Corinthians 10:4 states, “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds.” Only a reliance on God and continual prayer will win the day. The battles you are fighting cannot depend on vengeance or worldly efforts. We're fighting spiritual battles and conventional weapons just won't work.
As believers, we're called to duty, called to minister to others, to tell others of His Word, His love for us, and His actions to help us overcome. There are many examples in the Bible of people relying only on God for their victory. Not once did they lose. We won't either, if we lay aside our own perceived strength and trust completely in His divine power.
Let's pray.
Father, help us see that our own plans are often wrong. We get into a battle and become blinded by our own strategies or a thirst for our own kind of victory. But the time to fight must come with a commitment to trust in your infinite power, to rely on the victory that only comes through Christ, and to tell others about our Lord and Savior. Bring this to our mind when the battle rages. In Jesus' name, amen.
Today we conclude our four-part series on prayer, Prayer 101. The big question for today is, "Does God always answer prayer?"
Since prayer is, by nature, personal, we often want to know how things are going to turn out, even before we start praying. We wonder if God will actually answer our prayer. Maybe not as dramatic as some stories, but still if we're honest, we would like an answer to our prayer. Why else ask?
Luke 18:1 says, “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”
The fact is, of the 650 prayers in the Bible, 450 of them were answered, at least as the accounts were recorded. Others might have been answered later, but there are indications that, no, God does not always answer a prayer. And this is where our human perspectives can hamper our ability to see the full picture.
Isaiah 55:8 says, “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts. Neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord.”
From our limited perspective at this moment in time, we might not understand how or if God is answering our prayers. Remember Job and his friends prayed and tried to figure out for some time just what God was up to in this suffering man's life. The most interesting takeaway from the Book of Job is that, in the end, when God addresses Job, he never once tells him why he suffered.
He basically puts Job in his place by saying that He, God, knows and understands everything, and we obviously do not. It's worth noting that in Job's case, God restored everything to him and more. As we read in Luke 18:1, part of our responsibility in praying is perseverance. We're not supposed to act like children and throw a fit if we don't get our way.
In those times when we think God is slow in answering us, it's necessary for us to have some patience. Nowhere are we promised a quick answer or even an answer at all. Sometimes we just have to have faith that God will work everything out for us.
Let's pray.
Father God, like Job, we want to trust you no matter what. Even if an answer to our prayer is slow, we love you anyway and we thank you that you love us for eternity. In Jesus' name, amen.
Welcome back to Prayer 101. Today's big question is, “Should I pray to Jesus or to God?”
Most people at one time or another wonder who they should address when starting a prayer. The Christian concept of the Trinity has caused people to hesitate to pray. It's like, “Who do I pray to?”
Luke 6:12 says, “One of those days, Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.”
Interestingly, when Jesus prayed, as recorded in the Bible, He prayed to His Father. This is a difficult concept for many to embrace. How can someone be God but pray to Himself? In some sense, this is a matter of faith. We can't know and understand everything about the mysteries of God. But we can accept by faith that God the Father was manifest in earthly ministry as Jesus. So He models for us how to pray to the one true God.
In Matthew 6:9–13, we read, “Pray like this, Our Father in Heaven, Your name is holy. May Your holy nation come. What You want done, may it be done on Earth as it is in Heaven. Give us the bread we need today. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.” And that's from the New Life version, Matthew 6:9–13. And this is the famous Lord's Prayer. It's when Jesus tells His disciples how to communicate with God. Immediately before the prayer itself He tells them to go find a quiet place and God will see the sincerity of the heart offering a prayer.
He also says something else amazing. God knows what we need even before we ask Him. Confusion over who we are praying to is one of the most commonly asked questions, yet God is not waiting to turn away or shut the door on us if we fail to use some formal greeting. There are plenty of examples in scripture of prayers to God the Father, of course. God exists as God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. And the point is, this is not a trick that is set up so that you can fail. The triune God wants to hear from us, and a sincere heart wishing to talk to God will get through just fine.
Let's pray.
Father God, there are some things that are hard for us to process. We can have assurance that talking with You anytime is available to us and we don't have to be perfect. Thank You for that Lord. In Jesus' name, amen.
Welcome to prayer 101. The big question for today is: How do you develop a prayer life?
The answer to how we develop a healthy prayer life is really not that complicated. It's all about choice. We can learn to pray first by reading scripture and taking notice of the hundreds of prayers offered by believers just like us. We can also talk with veterans of prayer in our own life, those who are older and deeper in their faith.
Notice something about the prayers recorded in the Bible: they aren't contrived or intellectual oftentimes. Those things don't impress God anyway, since He knows everything about us. We can't fool Him or hide or fake our feelings. In fact, the people in the Bible and those in your life who talk to God all the time just simply talk to Him. Some prayers are messy or sound selfish, such as Jabez's plea for God to increase his influence. Others are said in desperate moments, but sound calming, like David's famous 23rd Psalm.
Psalm 145:18 says, “The Lord is near to all who call on Him in truth.” This tells us that we don't have to do something in order to be worthy to speak with God. He simply is, and He very simply invites us to share with him—to unburden ourselves.
In Ephesians 6:18, we learn a lot about prayer; it says, “Pray in the spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests, with this in mind be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.” This is the prayer of someone who commits time each day to talk with God. This prayer warrior knows that he or she can talk to God about literally anything.
Next and just as important this person prays for others. This is a far more powerful way to pray than many think, because history is full of stories of people who prayed and God acted in someone else's life immediately.
The most important steps you can take in developing a prayer life are to understand that you don't have to be a PhD in Theology or have an IQ of 180. You simply talk to God in the most natural way. God warms to a sincere and searching heart.
Next, you have to realize that your prayer life can take many forms, a quick moment during a busy day, in the still of the night with no one around, or in a designated area where you feel comfortable. Once you get in the habit of praying, you'll be amazed what a good change there is in your life. Faith is strengthened. You're no longer alone. Throughout history men and women and children have made the choice to talk with the One who made them and loves them. It's not any more complicated than that.
Let's pray.
Father God, in your mercy you invite us to tell you what's on our minds. We know that communication is a two-way street. Nudge us to listen to your voice, and take as much time as we need to pray. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Humans were built for language and communication.
It's one of the bits of creative genius God used when He formed His highest creation. And apart from regular communication, whether it's the written word or verbal, we have a great gift from a loving God: prayer.
Prayer is an intensely personal way to communicate with our Creator, the One who knows everything about us.
Jeremiah 29:12 says, “Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me and I will listen to you.”
All through scripture, we see that God is available to us all the time. No regular hours or standing meetings. We can talk to Him anytime we want. There are 650 recorded prayers in the Bible, and we read about people praying while sitting, standing, kneeling, with faces to the ground or hands lifted up.
By the way, Amen means “let it be,” or “so be it.”
The word “prayer” appears for the first time in Numbers 5:22.
Since prayers are human communication with God, we see that the first prayers were way back in Genesis 3 and 4 when Adam and Eve, and later Cain, talked with God. In the second exchange, even though Cain was angry and had just killed his brother, he was having a conversation with God.
Jesus famously modeled prayer in Luke 11; and notice that He was talking to God, the Father.
It can be a fine line when thinking about how prayer is initiated. Often, thoughts come to our minds or we're reminded to pray for someone. However, there's an indication that God prompts us to talk with Him.
Galatians 4:6, that from our hearts we cry out, “Abba Father,” and that the indwelling spirit of the Lord prompts this in us. Of all the great gifts God has given us, Prayer is one of the most special. It's how our spirits commune with the One who loves us with perfect love. And He's always ready and waiting to hear from us.
Let's pray.
Father God, we worship you for who you are. We love you, and thank you for loving us. Thank you for making a way for us to talk with you about the things that lie hidden in our hearts in Jesus’ name, amen.
Do you need a miracle? If we're honest and open to the truth, miracles have always been a part of our world. In the beginning, God made a dazzling world full of diversity, beautiful animals, gorgeous sunsets, streams of water. He also made us to enjoy it all, and to keep it for Him. But just like the entrance of sin into our world, which marred the original beauty, we sometimes get weighed down with worry and cares of life. We look up one day and the drudgery of our days overwhelms us. The supernatural seems far away, and that's the very moment God will act. He has always been with us, and one of His greatest promises is that He will be with us to the end, to the moment He ushers in an eternity too wonderful to fully know now.
Revelation 22:1–3 says, “Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing 12 crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse.”
In the meantime, maybe you're really going through a challenge in your life. You need a miracle. Do you know that you can simply ask Jesus for this? He's answered too many people, too many times not to be real. And if we're honest, the presence and regularity of miracles today are staggering. They're everywhere.
So why not you?
1 Corinthians 1:1–2 says, “To those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be his holy people, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours, grace and peace to you from God, our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.” There's such peace in this. Put aside your doubts and your fears. Just ask Him to help you, and He can. He will. In fact, He will bless you so much, you won't be able to stay quiet about it. You will have to tell people. You are a miracle.
Let's pray.
Father God, you rescue us all the time in ways big and small. Your faithfulness in helping us is worthy of our worship. Thank you for making miracles part of everyday life. In Jesus' name, amen.
Only a person who is wilfully blind could deny that miracles happen today. They didn’t end at the shore of the Red Sea. Malachi 3:6 says, “I the Lord do not change.” From this, we can logically see that the Bible’s powerful and majestic miracles didn’t stop in the first century. They’re still happening. God didn’t suspend the love he dispenses in the form of miracles.
Taylor McCaffrey was an alcoholic as a teenager. He was also a preacher’s kid, and these combined to weigh him down with guilt. From the age of 16, he drank heavily, but God didn’t leave him there. He says, “On my 21st birthday, I’d been drinking about eight hours straight and simply heard the voice of the Holy Spirit inside me say, ‘Either do what I’ve called you to or I will not continue wrestling you.’”
It sounded so stern. However, so loving, “I was instantly sober.” And that was several years ago. Today, Taylor is still sober. There are also countless examples of what we might call ‘corporate’ miracles—those that bless whole communities. At Christmas time of 2004, a group of 400 believers wanted to hold a Christmas service. The local authorities, though, told them that they could not do that in the city of Meulaboh in North Sumatra. The 400 decided to hold their service in a remote mountain region, and they stayed overnight. Early the next morning, an earthquake and resulting tsunami flattened their city, but they were safe in the higher elevations. Had they opted not to worship Jesus during their holiday, they would have perished.
The fact is our world is miracle heavy. They happen all the time. Miracles happen to ordinary people and to whole nations every day. This is one of the clearest evidences of the power and the majesty of the living God. We can choose to be witnesses for Him by pointing out to everyone we come in contact with that though our world has problems, God is still working in a mighty way.
Let’s pray.
Father God, thank you. The example of miracles. They give us strength in our faith and a boost to our days. We’re forever grateful to you for routinely doing things that some say cannot happen. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Charles Darwin and some of his friends saw a certain beauty and order in evolution, believing that random processes can bring about living systems. That anyone survived what a poet has described as ‘nature, red in tooth and claw,’ is a miracle for naturalists. Others believe miracles, if you can call them that, happen because some impersonal cosmic force allows them.
There's not much comfort in that though.
Remember the account of ancient people who longed to see a miracle from their God? The Egyptians developed a complex system of gods that operated on a whim, but when the God of Moses showed up, they very clearly understood the true source of miracles. And that was the point of the 10 plagues: to show them that the Creator God was infinitely powerful and capable of producing miracles.
We've been given a reasonable source that tells us where miracles come from: The Bible. Deuteronomy 29:2–3 says, “Moses summoned all the Israelites and said to them, ‘Your eyes have seen all that the Lord did in Egypt to Pharaoh, to all his officials and to all his land. With your own eyes, you saw those great trials, those signs, and great wonders.’”
Here we see clearly that the source of any and all miracles is God Himself, not a force in the universe. Not a spirit guide. Miracles are from God alone, and He wants you to experience miracles in your life. He wants you to live an abundant life, not one of defeat and misery and oppression. His limitless power was seen by the ancients and today, people on every continent see that miracle-working power. There's a beautiful description of this in Isaiah 43:13, which says, “Yes, and from ancient days I am He. No one can deliver out of my hand. When I act, who can reverse it?” And this is the truth we can expect from the One who really does want to help you, and help you today.
Let's pray.
Father God, You have put within each of us the knowledge that tells us You are the source, all miracle-working power. And this is part of the good news of Jesus that we get to tell others about. Thank You for the miracle of Jesus. Thank You for all of Your miracles. In Jesus' name, amen.
The late writer Christopher Hitchens was a skeptic who claimed that miracles are born from nightmarish ignorance, and that they often are simply 10th-hand reports from illiterate peasants. Wow. The flaw in his argument, of course, is that it isn't really an argument. It's simply a rant against God, and the fact is unexplainable miracles happen every day in our world, but Hitchen's views are shared widely by certain influential people in our time and their claims that miracles are impossible do tend to have an effect on how others think of miracles.
Another reason some have trouble really believing in miracles is because when one is needed, doubt and fear crowd out our belief. Remember, even the ancient Israelites who saw historic miracles almost on a daily basis sometimes complained that God had left them to die in the desert.
Man, our attention span’s short.
Maybe the most famous example of doubting a miracle is seen in the New Testament when one of the disciples of Jesus, Thomas, refuses to believe reports of his resurrection. John 20:25 says, “But he said to them, unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” The 18th-century philosopher David Hume thought that miracles violated the laws of nature. In fact, his views and others like him influenced many people in Europe and America in the next two centuries. So they believed that reason cannot believe in miracles.
Notice that doesn't mean they don't exist. The opinions of men too often influence people who haven't really thought this through. As the Christian writer Timothy McGrew has said, “Science properly understood will tell us the limits of nature, but it will never tell us that nothing lies beyond those limits.” In the case of Thomas, we could say that he didn't have enough information. Once he saw the risen Lord with his own eyes, he could believe.
For others, it's a matter of the heart. Perhaps you've been wounded and you're shutting God out. This can cause you not to see what's right in front of your face. So do this. Allow yourself one day to be open to the possibility of miracles. Scan the news. Listen to friends. Scroll through social media. It would be a miracle if you don't find a miracle.
Let's pray.
Father God, you are good to us in big ways and in small ways. You make miracles happen in our lives. From healing to repaired relationships, we know that we can ask you for your good gifts and you will give them. Help us to be ambassadors for your miracle-working power. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We're starting a series today on miracles. They're one of the most popular subjects in culture. We're fascinated by them. We want them to happen, and we love it when they happen to us. But what is a miracle? Do they happen in our world today? Lots of questions.
Skeptics claim that miracles are impossible.
Chad and Mandy Stacy saw one of them when their son, Ethan, was born with leukemia, and over a period of three weeks, he developed tumors all over his body. He couldn't eat. His heartbroken parents began to make his funeral arrangements and took him home. But one night at his lowest, he began taking nourishment, and over the next week he improved so much that his doctors were not able to find evidence of the killer disease in his body. One doctor said it was just remarkable to witness it.
One scholar has a thought that skeptics might consider: “To say that miracles are scientifically impossible is one thing, but to say that they can't happen is another thing. We might even define a miracle as an event which is scientifically impossible, but which happens anyway.” Well, there you have it.
The Bible, in fact, has much to say about miracles, and because Scripture also tells us that our God does not change, we can reasonably believe He gives us miracles. We might say that the very first miracle was the creation of everything out of nothing. A marvelous world that still retains great beauty. The moon is just the right distance from earth to allow perfect tides that clean our oceans. The sun is just the right distance so that we have heat, but not too much. Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”
One of the first of what we might call personal miracles is recorded in Exodus 3, the burning bush. Moses is allowed to talk with God up close as the Lord's presence was in a bush nearby that wouldn't burn up. Another use of fire we see in 1 Kings 18 when Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to sort of a dual, each is to call on his God to answer. And Elijah says, “The true God will answer by fire.” And He does, as fire comes down from heaven and consumes the altar they've built.
An especially heartfelt miracle occurs in the New Testament in John 4, when Jesus heals a nobleman's son. Jesus doesn't force Himself on anybody. But as we will see, He's in the miracle business. If you need one, tell Him that. Tell Him your friend or relative or a stranger needs a miracle. He's the God who answers by fire.
Let's pray.
Father God, you have proven yourself to us so many times that we don't need to doubt anything in Your Word. We believe that You grant miracles in different times and places, and no one is beyond Your miracle-giving gifts. Thank you for that. And help us to carry them in our hearts and our minds so that we can be witnesses for you. In Jesus' name, amen.
It was once said that the sun never set on the British Empire. The island nation had expanded its reach around the world for hundreds of years, and the Union Jack flew over many countries. But as happens with earthly kingdoms, the sun did set. Today, the British are back to being basically just that island nation.
The Bible talks about a kingdom that will have no end. What do we mean when we talk about that Kingdom? The Kingdom of God. The concept is found in the New Testament and refers to the entrance of God into the world again, through His Son, Jesus. They will be fully established at the end of history when God reconciles all things to Himself, and opens a glorious eternity for believers. Christians are invited to participate in making sure the Kingdom of God is heavily populated. We do this not in our own strength, but through the power of the Holy Spirit.
For 300 years, the Roman Empire tried to kill Christianity, but by the end of the first century, there were 500,000 Christians throughout the empire. By the Middle Ages with all its terrors and plagues and wars, the Kingdom of God had increased to 50 million. And today, even in oppressed areas like China, Christianity is experiencing explosive growth. Worldwide there are 2.2 billion Christians.
When times are tough, people turn to the living God. And as we've discussed, God invites us to participate in building His kingdom. We have daily opportunities to talk freely about what Jesus Christ has done for us.
Talk about a purpose-driven life, making your life count for something eternal. Share the Good News so much that when eternity comes, you'll have no regrets.
Revelation 21:23 says, “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it. For the glory of God gives it light and the Lamb is its lamp,” and that is a kingdom that will never sit in twilight.
Let's pray.
Father, you are always adding to your kingdom, drawing people to you. Thank you that we can participate with you by sharing our faith in all the diversity of our days. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Sharing our faith should be exciting to us. It is exciting. When we consider the free grace God gave us through His Son, telling others about Jesus should be on our priority list every day. For whatever reason, many find it very awkward to talk to others about Jesus. We can talk about just about anything else, though. That's why it's crucial that we look at sharing the gospel as an intentional thing we do. Intentionality is a great way to overcome our hesitancy. And let's be honest, sometimes fear keeps us from sharing.
Truth is each personality requires a customized approach to sharing about Jesus. Some are outgoing and others are shy. A blogger for God TV has written that he admired a friend who told every seatmate on every plane he'd been in about Jesus. The blogger went on to write that, “Even if my fellow passengers desperately wanted to know Christ, they likely couldn't even get my attention with a jackhammer drill or a pie in the face.” Kind of funny and also kind of sad, also very common.
Matthew 16:24 says, “Then Jesus said to his disciples, whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
So if we're looking for ways to overcome our mediocre gospel sharing, what can we do? Let's look at a few tips. The first is prayer. Get honest with God and tell Him you're not so great at evangelism. I mean, He already knows anyway. Ask him specifically to give you both opportunities and an intentional plan for communicating the best news anyone will ever hear.
Two, plan—think ahead. Are you a person who's good at conversation? Go over a mental checklist that provides you with enough scripture and short sentences to make your pitch when the time comes. However, if you're not outgoing, maybe you're a writer. Consider communicating with a card to let the person know you're thinking about him or her. Play to your strengths, not your weaknesses.
Number three, listen before you talk. How many times do we jump into a conversation or meeting without taking a breath? Train yourself to be quiet for a bit until you hear where the other person is coming from. You’ll learn about your friend or acquaintance, and you can then think through the best way to approach them about the saving gift of Jesus. But also, don't just wait for your turn to talk. Hear them, meet them where they are, and listen to the Holy Spirit to see how you can speak Jesus into that person's life.
Very few of us are Billy Graham. That doesn't mean we can't share the gospel. Somebody's depending on it.
Let's pray.
Father, whatever our personality and our experiences, give us a passion for loving unbelievers and caring about their wellbeing. The world is full of diversity. Help us embrace that. In Jesus' name, amen.
The Bible's book of Daniel tells us that one day knowledge and innovation will increase exponentially in our world. And it could be surmised that the prophet was looking ahead to our day, but maybe he was looking even further. The technological advances of the 21st century are no secret. In the ancient world, an ocean voyage could take months. Now, a person can have breakfast in New York City and dinner in Paris.
Communication is beyond anything our grandparents could have imagined. The number of mobile devices at this moment stands at 7.22 billion, a slightly bigger number than the human population of our planet. There are more than two billion personal computers around the globe. People in Asia can chat in real-time with friends in Chicago or anywhere else. Such communication is instant and constant. Consider that as recently as World War II, whole armies could be on the move before the enemy was aware.
Travel is easier, too. There's a wonderful story from our friends at Our Daily Bread, in which a teen on a mission trip shared the Gospel with an elderly man in Jamaica. He was disabled, but listened intently when she described new life in Jesus and the hope of a new body in heaven. He asked her, “Will you dance with me up there?” He accepted Christ.
Romans 1:16 says, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” We have almost limitless ways to get a Bible into someone's hand. According to The Bible Society, between 1816 and 1975, 2.5 billion Bibles were printed. Many people, of course, still prefer to hold a book and read the printed word, and that method has been responsible for many millions of conversions over the years.
It's exciting to think that, now, 100 million Bibles are being printed every year. Technology brings advancement here as well. That remarkable YouVersion Bible App has been installed on 300 million devices around the world.
Knowledge is increasing drastically. We have the greatest opportunity in all of history to share the Good News of Jesus with the world. God has given us the means to use technology, prayer, and one-on-one conversations to bring people to Jesus. What will you do with your finite amount of time? It's up to you.
Let's pray.
Father God, your provision for us is wonderful. You've made it possible for each believer to share their faith with close friends and family, as well as those around the world. Give us a sense of urgency. In Jesus' name, amen.
Today we're continuing our series on sharing the gospel, and what we're covering today is about the Great Commission. Have you heard that term before? Christianity's great at using terms the general public isn't familiar with, and sometimes we use terms even we aren't familiar with as believers. A recent study shows that more than 50% of us churchgoers don't know what that term Great Commission means. And when asked if they had heard of the Great Commission, half of US churchgoers say they don't know that term. Maybe our priorities need tweaking.
Matthew 28:19 says, “Go and make disciples of all nations. Baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” And though the Great Commission is not a term used in the Bible, it does describe the command Jesus gave us to share the Good News of His sacrifice for our sins.
In this way, He provides a way for people to be reconciled to God, and this is the greatest news anyone will ever hear. Christians should be excited about this action plan. Matthew chapter seven indicates that the path leading to God is narrow, and that many are on the broad path that leads away from God. This truth should motivate us as Christians to fulfill Christ's Great Commission. And the Bible tells us that this activity will have an end point. We should have a sense of urgency about that. The gospel of Jesus Christ was literally born in the Middle East. Jesus' disciples took his words to heart and began preaching and teaching about him in Israel, then to all the regions around the Mediterranean basin. From there, the gospel spread quickly into Europe and beyond.
Today, even with all our technology and hundreds of years of sending missionaries to remote parts of the world, not everyone has heard the Good News about Jesus. We have our marching orders. It's time to move.
Let's pray.
Father, we know that no matter what time is passing. We want all people to come to a saving faith in your Son Jesus. Remind us daily then we should have a sense of urgency about sharing your good gift with everyone we come into contact with. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today we're kicking off a five-part series on sharing the gospel. And this will run the gamut from what the gospel is, to how to do it and what that means, and how to put that into practice. And so as we begin, we really need to understand what is the gospel, and more importantly, who is Jesus Christ.
Sometimes the best place to start is at the beginning. That might sound funny, but what we're talking about is no joke. Kerusso exists to tell people about the Good News of Jesus Christ, but somehow in our information-jacked world, culture has moved further away from understanding who the most famous person in history really is.
Millions of books and articles have been written about a carpenter who lived in the Middle East 2000 years ago, and Jesus has been identified as anything from a desert mystic to God Himself.
Historically, He was born into a Jewish family in Judea at the time the Roman Empire controlled the area. Born in Bethlehem and raised in Nazareth, Jesus was 30 before He gained a reputation as a great teacher. But He was much more than that. The Bible tells us that He was sent into the world by God the Father, to stand in our place and take the penalty for our sin.
According to Genesis, man defied God’s template for living and because He is holy, God requires that someone is accountable for sin. Had Jesus not entered the world, we’d be left without a way to reconcile with God. Long story short, Jesus Christ is much more than just a wise teacher. He’s also the Son of God.
The Bible also tells us Jesus is one with the Father. Remember, when Moses encountered God in the burning bush, he asked God how to identify Him to the people. And God replied, “I am who I am.”
And that was in the Old Testament. In John 8:58, in the New Testament, Jesus tells the people, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” Jesus Christ is a divine being. And John 1:29 says, “The next day, John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.’” This description of Him is not embraced by most people around the world. The Bible tells us that man’s heart is wicked. It isn’t like billions are rushing to churches so that they can have their sins forgiven. The human mind and heart don’t want to focus on the messier side of the gospel. We’re imperfect. We sin. And our sin is an offense to God. Who wants to hear that? We don’t want to be told that we’re not good. We want to be told we’re good and worthy of God’s love.
And the Good News, the gospel in the person of Jesus Christ, is that we have the pathway to be like Him. Romans Chapter Eight tells us that it is God’s desire that we become like Jesus, and that’s a goal worth reaching for.
Let’s pray.
Father, thank You for providing us with your word, that tells us exactly who Jesus is and what His life means to us. You could have abandoned us to sin, but You didn’t. The praise and the glory belong to You alone. In Jesus’ name, amen.
When Hurricane Katrina rolled through, the spinning white satellite image on TV screens actually looked evil. For residents of New Orleans waiting for that hurricane, that's exactly what it felt like. Thousands of people were affected by the brutal storm that poured in from the Gulf. In many ways, the city still hasn't recovered. But in the chaos, God was there.
For more than 20 years, water pump operator Rufus Burkhalter and Bobby Brown had worked at pumping station number 6 along the 17th Street Canal. When they realized how bad it was going to be, the pair did an amazing thing. They stayed at their posts. They kept working even after the levees broke. One of the world's largest pumping stations was still being operated by two good men who risked their lives for others. When it was all said and done both lost their homes due to storm damage. The seawater and raging winds devastated their lives and yet they chose to help others. That kind of love for one's fellow man is rooted in the love of Christ.
Psalm 93:4 says “Mightier than the thunder of the great waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea. The Lord on high is mighty.”
God is infinitely stronger than the storms in your life. He's there guiding you and he is there caring for you through it all, all the time. In the horrifying days of Katrina and through the aftermath many people displayed a reliance on the Lord who stood up to the evil that invaded their community. When we lean on God in every situation, especially during the storms in our lives it builds our faith and places us on solid ground.
Let's pray.
Father, Almighty One, nothing is scarier than the dark deep waters that overwhelm us sometimes. We know though that your word is our anchor established and true. We can rely on it every single time. Thank you for guiding, protecting, and loving us always, in all of your ways in Jesus' name, amen.
Do you like scary movies? Is an evening spent looking through your fingers appealing to you?
It is to a lot of people. Some of us really like to be scared!
But hopefully, that doesn’t translate to real life. Screaming in a dark theater can actually be fun, but you don’t want to live a life of fear.
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
To be blunt about it, God made us to be fearless. Single mom? A leader under siege? Maybe your situation is something else entirely. But whatever environment you find yourself in, know that God is not about His children being afraid. He gave us a choice, as Psalm 23 tells us.
For thousands of years, people have recited that verse while in a tough spot. David wrote it when his life was in serious danger. The words fit all situations and lifestyles and times in history. You are not alone.
God will come through for you. Tell Him today that you need His strength.
Don’t be afraid to do that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us from fear. Keep us focused on your eternal strength and safety. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever been in such a dark place that you wondered if God cares about you, or if He even exists? Maybe it’s all some cosmic joke, right?
We’ve all been there. Humans doubt. We doubt ourselves, we doubt product labels, we doubt our kids. We question everything.
But the worst one is trying to figure out where God is in the middle of life’s great difficulties. Sometimes the world is just flat-out mean, and it seems like it’s an entity that’s trying to break you in half.
That is the very moment God’s ancient and eternal words come to us.
Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that! Jesus lives so that you will live forever. And in the interim, He will walk with you and carry you when necessary. He never fails and what’s more, His willingness to never leave us has been proven over and over again, in a billion different ways.
If you need Him right now, don’t doubt. Call out to Him. Your circumstances might seem impossible and impossibly unique. But don’t believe it. Believe Him instead.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you promised you would never leave us. We know that’s true, but help us with our faith in our weak moments. God, make us believe. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The giant redwoods of the American Pacific Northwest are among nature’s most beautiful scenes. As tall as skyscrapers, and big enough to drive a truck through.
It is said that the redwoods are so powerful and strong in part because even these plants have a sense of community. Separated, or as a single tree, the root system is much more vulnerable. But planted with partners all around, the picture changes completely.
The redwoods become tall and strong.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
In Christ, we’re part of a strong community. Scripture refers to Jesus as the Vine which provides nourishment to the rest. In Him we are confident, safe, and rooted.
If you’re feeling vulnerable and without friends, start with the best friend you could ever have. Tell Jesus today that you need Him and His community. It’s a lush Kingdom that will never die.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are so grateful for your love and your provision. Help us stand strong together and do the work of your Father. In Jesus’ name, amen.
At an address in Columbus Ohio in 1900, former slave Booker T. Washington kept the room spellbound. This man, who had built Tuskegee Institute to lift blacks out of economic bondage, was revered around the world.
But he said something that surprised more than a few in the audience. He said that one of his main priorities for the Institute was hiring more Bible teachers!
Washington, who had been forced to work in an evil system, once felt powerless. Yes, an American president legally freed the slaves. But Washington’s faith in Christ was the real key in lifting him up.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Are you down and out right now? Are you chained to problems too big for you to overcome? Take Paul’s letter to heart and realize that all things are possible for your future, through faith in Christ. He has perfect strength, all you’ll ever need.
Tell him that today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your perfect will is more than enough to help us escape a terrible past and future. Our future is what you have told us it will be. Thank you for that blessing. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Good Friday is the day on which Christian believers commemorate the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ.
Good Friday may seem like a somber and difficult day as we remember the suffering Jesus endured on the cross, but it is also a day of hope and redemption. Through His sacrifice, Jesus showed us the depth of God's love for us, and offered us the gift of salvation.
One of the most powerful messages of Good Friday is the idea of self-sacrifice. In John 15:13, Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.” Jesus’ willingness to give His life for us is the ultimate example of love and selflessness.
As we reflect on Good Friday, let’s ask ourselves how we can follow in Jesus’ footsteps. How can we show love and compassion to those around us? How can we put the needs of others before our own?
Let’s pray.
Gracious God, as we remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us on this Good Friday, we are humbled and grateful. We ask for the strength and courage to follow in His footsteps, to love and serve others as He did. Help us to embody the selflessness and compassion that He showed us, and to live our lives in a way that honors His sacrifice. In Jesus’ holy name, amen.
Maundy Thursday is the Christian holy day that commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his apostles before His crucifixion. It is a day of reflection and humility, as we remember Jesus washing the feet of His disciples as a symbol of service and love.
One of the most powerful lessons we can take from Maundy Thursday is the idea of selflessness. Jesus’ act of washing his disciples’ feet was a profound example of humility and love. He didn’t seek power or recognition; instead, our Savior served His followers with grace and compassion.
In John 13:34–35, Jesus commands His disciples to love one another: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
This message of love and service is just as relevant today as it was two thousand years ago. We live in a world that often values power and wealth over kindness and compassion. But we can all learn from Jesus’ example, and strive to serve others with love and humility.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, as we reflect on the events of Maundy Thursday, we ask for your guidance and strength. Help us to be selfless in our interactions with others, and to love one another as Jesus loved us. May we always remember the lessons of this holy day, and strive to live out your teachings in our daily lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you been saved by Jesus?
Salvation is the deliverance from sin and death that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus overcame sin and death, and gave us the opportunity to have eternal life.
Revelation 1:18 says, “I am the Living One. I was dead, but look, I am alive forever. I have power over death and hell.”
As believers, we can have confidence that our salvation is secure in Jesus Christ. No matter what happens during our temporary earthly lives, we can be sure of our eternal destiny. This knowledge gives us lasting peace, and hope that transcends our present circumstances.
The power of salvation also gives us, through God’s grace, the ability to overcome sin and withstand temptation. And by obedience to the Holy Spirit, we can daily try to live a life more like Jesus, and grow in our faith.
If you haven’t yet received the salvation that Jesus offers, we invite you to do so today. Simply believe in Him, ask forgiveness for your sins, and ask Him to be the Lord of your life. A personal relationship with Jesus is a gift that lasts for all eternity.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord Jesus, we thank You for the power of salvation that comes through faith in You. Help us to live a life that is pleasing to You, and to share this message of hope with others. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.
Today we’re unpacking a powerful message in Scripture that reminds us of the unparalleled authority and majesty of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 2:9–11 says, “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
This verse tells us God exalted Jesus to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name. This is a testament to Jesus’ divine nature, and His unparalleled power and authority. No matter what challenges we face, there is strength and hope in the knowledge that Jesus is with us, and He has the power to overcome any obstacle.
God’s Word tells us that at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord. This is a powerful call to action for all of us. It's an invitation to submit ourselves to the will of God, and to embrace the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ.
We often find ourselves caught up in the daily grind, and we forget to take time to reflect on the deeper meaning of our existence. These verses remind us there is a greater purpose to our lives, and our ultimate goal is to glorify God in all that we do.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus. We praise your holy name, and pray that we glorify you with every breath we take, and every choice we make. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today we’re talking about the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Revelation 1:18 says, “I am the Living One. I was dead, but look, I am alive forever. I have power over death and hell.” Jesus died on the cross and rose again three days later; even death could not overpower Him. The miracle of His resurrection is life-changing for believers now, and forever.
In John 11:25–26, Jesus said to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” This means that through faith in Jesus, we too can have eternal life—even after physical death.
As believers, we have access to this resurrection power. This power is not only for the future, but also for the present. It gives us the ability to overcome any challenge or difficulty we face in life. We can have hope even in the midst of trials, because we know that Jesus has overcome death and has the power to give us victory. Nothing we experience in this life is truly the end—because our souls are eternal.
Whatever you face, remember that Jesus has the power to bring you out of it. Call on His name and believe in His resurrection power. Jesus is alive forever, and He brings life to any dead situation.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the resurrection power of Jesus Christ. Help us to always remember that we have access to this power and that through it, we can overcome any obstacle. Strengthen our faith and give us hope in every situation. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.
Spring is the season of new life. As we finish up our series on the Psalms, we come to the most famous one of all.
Psalm 23:1–2 says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.”
This psalm contains some of the most famous words ever written. It has everything: beautiful language, a man’s raw honest heart for God, and a universal theme of love that God has for all people.
It echoes in the universe.
Think of the picture that God is painting here for us.
We are bone weary, but He has actually made a place for us to rest in a garden. We hear the flowing water. We are refreshed inside and out.
And He is with us.
Do yourself a favor this spring. Memorize every line of the 23rd Psalm. Put it in your heart so that when you are in that dark valley, you will remember that the one true God loves you absolutely and completely.
Goodness and mercy follow you. Close your eyes and sit in the cool grass.
He is with you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the Great Shepherd who provides a sanctuary for us. Thank you, thank you for making a place of safety for us as we go through life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
One of the things that sets God apart from all others is His ability to tell us what is going to happen. We read about this in Isaiah 46, where He says only He knows the end from the beginning.
An amazing example of this is found in Psalm 22, and it’s almost surprising how many people are not aware of it.
Psalm 22:11 says, “Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.”
If you read the entire chapter carefully, you begin to realize that this is a conversation that Jesus has on the cross.
This psalm was written a thousand years before that world-changing event!
It describes a man being mocked on the cross. A man who is so thirsty his mouth feels like a piece of dry pottery. He even mentions that his tormentors are casting lots for his clothes. All these things are described in the New Testament, and even some of the language Jesus used on the cross is seen here for the first time.
God is in charge of all things, all the time. Including your situation. He raised Jesus from the dead, and He will provide life eternal for you if you call on Him.
He knows the end from the beginning.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know all things. No one else does. That alone should give us confidence that you will be with us always. In Jesus’ name, amen.
From the time he was a young shepherd in the wilderness, David had deep relationship with God. He escaped enough dangerous situations to know that God was always with Him and was his deliverer.
Psalm 91:1–2 says, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
This psalm is famous for its descriptive language. We can see a picture of this in our minds. And the specific things listed in this passage are very personal for each of us.
We are not to fear.
When we call on Him, He hears.
His angels watch over us.
One of the most beautiful images in the Bible is found in this psalm, as God, like a strong eagle, covers us with his wings so that we are protected.
Remember the words of Psalm 91 and call on Him day or night.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your protection for us is just one of the things that separates you from anyone or anything else. We are grateful for your wings that draw us near and cover us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Nothing is more basic to life than creation itself. The Bible tells us that God alone has the power to truly create, and the beauty of language in Psalm 139 explains this fully. Some believe the psalmist was writing in part about the creation of Adam.
Psalm 139:1–3 says, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”
The writer marvels at the ways in which God understands each of us intimately, and is present everywhere
Are you aware that God loves you with a supernatural love? He created you to be a singular presence in the world…what we call “unique.” You might feel sometimes that you are worthless, or that no one cares.
Not so.
The Creator of the Universe, in that vast space, took time to make only one of you. You are precious to Him and you should never forget it, even when things look depressing.
God sees you when you sit in that chair and when you get up. He knows what you’re thinking and what’s in your heart.
You are on His mind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s comforting knowing that you’re with us in each moment of our day. Help us to live in that moment. In Jesus’ name, amen.
One of the greatest gifts God has given us is the collection of songs known as “Psalms,” originally written as music for worship, especially in the Temple in Jerusalem.
Today we celebrate them as prayers for the most part, and they give us a beautiful picture of who God is.
Psalm 1:6 says, “For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.”
Traditional authorship is assigned mostly to King David, who loved to worship God with music and even dancing. His heart was open to God, and this inner life could be seen by anyone; this earthly king worshiped the King of kings.
In this introductory psalm, we read about the contrast between those who love God and those who don’t. And we are encouraged to “meditate” on His Word every day.
Our God is the great God, and loves each of us more than we can even imagine.
That love is a song in your heart.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your love for us is eternal and we are so blessed to receive it, as David did, all the days of our lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.
As Christians, we are called to live a life that reflects the love and grace of our Lord and Savior. Living for Jesus means putting aside our own desires and ambitions and seeking to live in a way that honors Him.
The Bible says in Colossians 3:17, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” This means that every action we take, every word we speak, should be done with the intention of honoring Jesus.
It's not always easy to live for Jesus. We live in a world that often goes against His teachings, and we may face opposition from those around us. But Jesus promises that when we live for Him, we will experience true joy and peace.
How do we live for Jesus? It starts with putting Him first in our lives. When we spend time in prayer and studying the Bible, we learn more about His teachings and how we can apply them to our lives. We are also called to love others as He loves us, showing compassion and grace to those around us.
Living for Jesus isn't always easy, but it’s worth it. When we choose to follow Him, we are choosing a life of purpose and meaning. So today, let’s commit to living for Jesus in everything we do, honor Him with our words, actions, and attitudes.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, thank you for the privilege of knowing, loving, and following you. Help us to live for you in all we do. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Ananias is a disciple who is mentioned only briefly in the Bible, but God called on him to play an important role in the life of Saul of Tarsus, who went on to become the apostle Paul.
Saul of Tarsus was a terrible human being—an enemy of Christians who sought to punish and imprison men and women who professed to believe in Jesus, but his life was turned around. Known worldwide as one of the greatest Christian missionaries, Paul’s story of transformation from a cruel persecutor of Christians, to a devoted follower of the teachings of Jesus, provides proof that God can change hearts and minds.
On the road to Damascus with his henchmen, Saul encountered God and was blinded by a bright light that surrounded him. This experience left him blind for three days.
Acts 9:10–12 shares how God used Ananias to help change Saul’s life: “Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, ‘Ananias.’ And he said, ‘Here I am, Lord.’ So the Lord said to him, ‘Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.’’’
Despite Saul’s fearsome reputation among Christians, Ananias expressed readiness to execute the Lord’s instructions, and God used him to restore Saul’s sight, at which point the man came to faith and began preaching about what God had done in his life. No longer a persecutor of Christians, Saul became the apostle Paul, and his life was forever changed. Ananias was ready when God called on him, and many, many lives were changed because he said, “Here I am, Lord.”
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord Jesus, the Bible is filled with examples of men and women who lived for you. Open our eyes to opportunities to serve you, so when you call on us, we too can say, “Here I am, Lord.” In Jesus’ name, amen.
Judson Van DeVenter was an art teacher and artist when he became a layman in the Episcopal-Methodist Church. He was passionate about his work, but also actively devoted to the evangelistic meetings held at his church.
Seeing his abilities, Judson’s friends urged him to quit his job and become an evangelist. For five years, he wavered between the ministry and seeking recognition as an artist. He felt God’s call on his heart, but it was a difficult choice to set aside his career and artistic talent.
Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
One of the most challenging things we can do as humans is to surrender our lives to God. We want to control our lives and make our own decisions, but true freedom comes when we surrender to Christ.
Judson Van DeVenter, or “JW” as his friends called him, finally surrendered his life completely to Christ, and traveled extensively throughout the United States, England, and Scotland as an evangelist, visiting art museums and studying painting as he shared the Good News about Jesus. Along the way he wrote the beloved hymn “I Surrender All,” among other songs, and was credited later in life as being a positive influence on the work of Billy Graham, who counted him as a friend and enjoyed time in his home for fellowship and singing.
When we surrender to Christ, we allow Him to take control of our lives. We become more focused on following His will, and less concerned about our own desires. We become more dependent on Him and less dependent on ourselves.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord Jesus, today I surrender all to you. Let me lean more on you, and less on my own desires. I give you my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever been the new kid at school, or the latest hire at work? Maybe you’ve been first time visitors at church after a big move, or the newest neighbors on the block. Being the new guy or gal may be a little nerve-wracking, but it’s also an opportunity to reinvent yourself. It’s a chance to cultivate new habits, and build a great reputation without the baggage of your old life weighing you down.
When we accept Jesus into our heart, we receive a new life. It's a life that's filled with hope, purpose, and joy. But embracing this new life also means letting go of our old ways and the things that held us back before we met the Lord.
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
It's not always easy to change our habits and let go of the things that once defined us. But when we surrender to Christ, we receive a new identity in Him. We become new creations, free from the chains of our past.
As believers, we are called to embrace the new life Christ offers us. God asks us to let go of our old ways, in order to be the person He created us to be. Following Him is both a gift, and a choice we make again and again.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of new life! We don’t have to be tied down by our old ways, or burdened by our former sins, because you have made us new. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Who, or what, are you living for? It’s a big question. You might be considering your spouse or children. Maybe your career is a high priority. If you are an artist, writer, or musician, you might feel you live for the pursuit of creativity.
Today, we want to remind you of the beautiful message in 2 Corinthians 5:15, which tells us that Christ died for everyone so that those who receive new life through Him will no longer live for themselves, but for the Lord.
It's easy to get caught up in our own lives and forget the bigger picture. We often focus on our own desires, wants, and needs, forgetting that we were created to glorify God. When we choose to make Christ the center of our lives, we find true purpose and fulfillment.
2 Corinthians 5:15 says, “Christ died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.”
Living for Christ means putting Him first in all areas of our lives. It means making Him the priority in our relationships, career, finances, and even our thoughts. When we shift focus in this way, we become less concerned with our own desires and more concerned with following His will.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are bought and paid for by your blood, shed on the cross to purchase our salvation. Help us to focus not on our own desires, but on your good plan for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today, we'll be discussing the famous Bible verse John 19:30, which reads, “When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” This verse teaches us the power of perseverance, which is crucial in achieving the mission God has set before us in this life.
Jesus’ journey to the cross was not an easy one, and He faced numerous challenges and obstacles along the way. However, He remained steadfast in His mission, and persevered until the very end.
In the same way, we should adopt a persevering spirit in our lives, even when things get tough. We should remain determined to press on and never give up, no matter the challenges we may face.
Perseverance is not an easy feat, but it is necessary for success. It requires resilience, patience, and a willingness to keep pushing forward, even in the face of adversity. Let us learn from Jesus’ example and adopt the power of perseverance in our lives.
When it feels like you've hit a dead end, keep going—because it’s not over until it’s over.
Let’s pray.
Lord, make us steadfast in our mission to follow you, and help us to stay the path. Sometimes it’s easier to give up, but your holy example reminds us of the importance of perseverance. Thank you for that. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In John 19:30, we read about Jesus’ final moments on the cross, where He surrendered His spirit to God: “When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”
Jesus’ surrender teaches us the importance of surrendering our will to God—even when it’s difficult or painful.
In life, we often struggle to control every aspect of our lives, but this can be exhausting and overwhelming. When we surrender our will to God, we allow Him to take control and guide us toward His perfect plan for our lives. This choice requires trust on our part, and this is where the rubber meets the road in terms of our personal faith journey.
When you surrender your will to God, you open yourself up to His perfect plan for your life. God’s plans don’t always align with our own, but He’s got the full picture, and He is with us for the long haul. It’s amazing what can transpire, when we surrender our lives to the Lord and let Him work on our behalf.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we surrender all to you. There are times we want so badly for a certain outcome, or a big win, but we trust your plan for our lives. Please be present every moment, and guide our footsteps. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In John 19:30, we read about Jesus’ final words on the cross, “It is finished.” These final words before death signify the completion of His work on earth, but this isn’t the end of His story. Three days later, Jesus rose from the dead, triumphing over death and sin.
As believers, we too, have the assurance of victory over death and sin through the resurrection of Jesus. We can boldly face the challenges of life—even the most impossible-seeming situations—knowing that we have victory in Christ Jesus.
What can you do today to live in the victory of our Savior’s resurrection?
Try adding weekly Bible reading to your schedule; meditating on God's Word, prayer, fellowship with other believers, and sharing the Good News with others, are all activities that bring us closer to the Lord.
And remember, through the resurrection of Jesus, we have the power to overcome any obstacle that comes our way. Praise the Lord!
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for your sacrifice on the cross. Because of you, we can live in victory, and not in fear. We’re so grateful for what you’ve done for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In John 19:30, we read about Jesus’ final moments on the cross, where He let go of His spirit, “When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”
Jesus’ sacrifice reminds us of the importance of letting go of things that hinder us from fulfilling our purpose.
In life, we often hold on to past hurts, failures, and negative thoughts, which hold us back from moving forward. However, Jesus teaches us to let go of all our burdens and cast them onto Him. He tells us in Matthew 11:28–29, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Are you holding on to past hurts—hindering your spiritual growth, or preventing you from forming more meaningful relationships?
Letting go might mean choosing to offer forgiveness, engaging in better self-care, or seeking help from a professional. Remember, as you let go of your burdens, you create space for God's peace and blessings to flow into your life.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, the story of your life makes it clear that we are not meant to carry the heavy burdens that tie us down, but to let them go. Help us to hand our burdens over to you, that we might move on from them to fulfill your purpose for our lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In John 19:30, Jesus uttered three powerful words, “It is finished.” These words signify the completion of His work on earth, the ultimate sacrifice for humanity's sins as He gave up His life for us on the cross.
What can we learn from Jesus’ willingness to complete His earthly mission on our behalf, despite the personal cost?
Often we start projects, tasks, or even relationships and never see them through. But Jesus showed us the power of seeing something through to the end. He remained faithful, even unto death. This is the kind of dedication we must aspire to, to see the mission God has given us through to the end, no matter how tough the journey may be.
Don’t let fear, frustration, or other obstacles stop you from completing the tasks the Lord has set before you. Run the race set before you, and look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord, you are the ultimate example of finishing what you started, and our lives are changed for all eternity because of you. Help us to follow your lead and see our own work through to completion. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We are inspired by epic war stories. Great battles over time become so epic, they almost seem a part of myth. We put warriors on a pedestal and usually, rightly so. They make it possible for the rest of us to live in peace and freedom.
Have you ever considered there is only one perfect warrior? His name is Jesus.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
From King Leonidas to Oliver Cromwell to George Washington, warriors have led their people to freedom. All were epic, all pivotal people in history.
And none hold a candle to our King Jesus. He is the ultimate warrior, the One that came to this world to rescue all of it. His sacrifice on the cross waged war on the enemy of our souls, and He won the final victory.
He has charged us as believers with the task of telling others about Him. Our Ultimate Warrior is calling us to make disciples in His name. If you want to be inspired by someone, be inspired by the Warrior that has no peer.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Your Son Jesus did battle for us long ago. Thank you for His victory! In Jesus’ name, amen.
In May 1962, an intimidating figure delivered a final public speech at West Point Military Academy.
Douglas MacArthur, who led America to victory in the Pacific during World War 2, addressed cadets. He told them simple truths, ones that define honor and glory.
The hall was completely still as the old general spoke in hushed tones. Everyone heard him speak of the honorable soldier who must rely on “those divine attributes which his Maker gave when He created man in His own image.”
Here was perhaps the most legendary military man in the country in the 20th century, and despite his personal awards and recognition, he humbled himself to acknowledge the One who deserves all our honor and glory.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
The name of Christ is the one that leads us to final victory. MacArthur spoke to those cadets of the American tradition of seeing things through to complete and decisive victory.
The Bible tells us we are soldiers in Christ’s army. We are standing on the most important battlefield in all of history. Our mandate is to share the Good News of Jesus, so that individuals live for eternity with their Creator.
Let us glory in that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are our deliverer and the victor. We honor you with our worship, and with our eternal thanks. In Jesus’ name, amen.
A common theme today is that people are just tired of chaos, both public and private. It’s exhausting sometimes dealing with bad relationships. Global problems are with us every day. And we wonder when it will end.
There is Good News for you, though. Literally Good News.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
This is a message to us that we don’t have to win the war ourselves. We don’t have to win a battle. Don’t have to take part even in a skirmish. Jesus has overcome it all. If you wonder how this can play out in practical terms, do this:
Read this verse several times: 1 John 5:4. Make the choice to believe it’s true. Then literally sit back, close your eyes for a couple of minutes, and rest in the truth of God’s Word.
He is telling us that our faith overcomes all setbacks and difficulties. Our faith. Scripture tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for. We might not be able to see the end, but we trust God that He will be standing there.
Choose to be a warrior for Christ, and then let Him lead. That is what will make the difference.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you, for winning the war already. We worship you, and you alone. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today we're talking about grit and determination, which go a long way in helping find success in life. And they're contagious.
Winston Churchill was almost 70 when his country needed him most, when he stared down Hitler's war machine. The British Prime Minister's signature line was, “We shall fight on the beaches,” but the essence of his message came with these words, “We shall go on to the end.”
Luke 18:1 says, “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” And it is a partnership because God keeps his word. Philippians 1:6, “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”
There's a great practical application in scripture. These old words that are always new were not meant to be just some nice thing to say. God does what he says he will do. If you feel like you have no way out of your troubles today, tell God that. Remember the scriptural promises and remind yourself that countless people have done the same and come out okay on the other side. Don't give up, and see what the Lord will do.
Let's pray.
Lord, we give you our fear and our uncertainty. We can't cope with the situation we're in alone, but we trust you to give us strength not to quit. We believe for the victory over these circumstances, and God we find rest in your mercies. In Jesus’ name, amen.
You want to be a winner, right? You want to be part of a winning team. That’s what we all want. The question is, how do you do it?
We just finished another Super Bowl. Hundreds of pro players who want to win it all practice hard every year with that goal in mind. The truth is though, at the beginning of the season, none of them know which team to join to win a Super Bowl.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
Unlike human endeavors, we can know which ultimate victory can be ours. As Christians, that means accepting the Good News of Christ’s victory over sin. Forever! 1 John 5:4 tells us exactly how to win for eternity. To be born again means we tell others that we believe God sent Jesus as a human, that He took our place for sin, and was resurrected from the dead.
As a believer, you are on the winning team, and that has implications for the next life, too. Jesus won the victory 2,000 years ago, and that makes you the ultimate winner.
Believe it, and tell others about it today!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for overcoming this amazing but flawed world. We believe your claims. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Usually, when we’re looking for some kind of emotional lifeline to get us through the day, we only want to know what God can do for us.
How do we get that peace of mind that we desperately need?
One component is obedience. At first, this sounds like a test that’s too hard. We need relief right now!
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
That sounds like real peace of mind.
It requires that we concentrate on ejecting all the junk in our heads, and replacing it with God’s Word. Learning obedience is key, because it reveals the Father’s perfect will for our lives.
In this way, we almost back-into the peace that we were already looking for. This brings us into harmony with our Creator.
A renewed, fresh and clean mind…it’s also a mind that is at rest.
Let’s pray.
Lord, teach us your ways. Help us uncover the peace of mind that those without You don’t have. Then help us show them the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.
A huge benefit of being a believer is the knowledge that we can help others after going through the valley ourselves.
It’s one thing to endure and overcome and find our joy, but it’s maybe even better when you see a friend emerge into the light because you were there for them.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
When you’re in the middle of something difficult, it’s hard to even think. Scripture tells us the way out, but it helps to have someone in your life who has been there, done that. Even having a friend gently remind you that it might take time to recover is a help. Being reminded to be faithful and consistent in prayer tips the balance.
As we learn to rejoice in hope, attaining that abundant life Jesus talked about, let us remember others who are in trouble.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always faithful. You never let us down. Thank you for the joy that comes from overcoming. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Whenever we have to overcome an obstacle in our lives, we’re thinking about a million different things. Our minds race. We might even be aware that our Creator is there to help.
But have you ever considered that even when life gets tough, you can still have joy?
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Sheila Walsh has said that what got her through a bout of depression was the knowledge that God the Father loved her and wanted the best for her.
Today, one of her missions in life is to help others recover their joy, by pointing them to the Lord. The truth is, this life sometimes beats us up, but those circumstances don’t have to win. It isn’t inevitable.
It’s when we learn to rejoice while clinging to hope that true joy comes.
Let’s pray.
Lord, in our lowest moments, we cling to you and your promises. Thank you for that joy. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever felt without hope? It’s a pretty desperate place to be. It’s been said that hope is the one thing a human being can’t be without.
Beth was once accused of some pretty terrible things. She wasn’t guilty of any of them, but it took two years and serious legal hurdles to clear her name. Her future was uncertain.
In the end, she told reporters that her best ally was the Lord. Her story was itself a great witness.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Truthfully, God isn’t obligated to do anything for us. He does it because He loves us. That’s it. But within each difficult night and day, it is important that we take the scripture to heart. Keep your joy, be patient, and pray.
If you’re in a dark place, pray to the Lord for help. Even if you’re emotionally exhausted, take the time to simply talk to Him.
He’s promised that He’ll be listening.
Let’s pray.
Oh Lord, may we never be hopeless! May we never be without your love. Remind us daily that You will never leave us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Billy Joel says that his hit song, “Pressure” really is about the pressures of daily life: providing for your family, putting food on the table, and career obstacles.
Even the way he sings the song, with power and anger, makes the point. It’s quite a statement on life.
And we’ve all felt it.
2 Corinthians 1:8 says, “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself.”
But as believers, we can take heart in the fact that Paul then writes that difficulties happen in life so that we will rely only on God. The apostle reminds us that God has delivered us from desperate times, and will again.
What a powerful promise!
The pressures of life sometimes come suddenly, leaving us off-balance and fearful. When that happens, remind yourself of the promises of God’s Word. He knows where you are and where you’re going.
He’ll be waiting for you when you get there.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes we feel like we’re going to explode. We thank you that you never abandon us, and are always ready to protect us and preserve us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
What is true love? The question has been asked forever. Not everyone agrees. There's a startling answer found in the Bible. The prophet Hosea marries a prostitute named Gomer. She's predictably unfaithful to him, but God tells him something that's strange to us. He told Hosea to take his wife back and restore her.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It doesn't envy, it doesn't boast, it's not proud. It doesn't dishonor others, it's not self-seeking, it's not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs.”
How often does this world seem interested in redeeming anything? Rarely. That's why we need God to model perfect love for us, love that restores and heals. Hosea did not keep score. He only loved, and that's a picture of how God deals with us, his chief creation. We reject him, cause pain, but always he's there waiting with open arms. I think we can do at least as much for someone in our lives.
Let's pray.
Lord, you're a forgiving God. Thank you for loving us in our sin, in our filth. You long to restore us and we love you for that, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Kyle hurt Jenny emotionally many times, and then he left her because he said he wanted to have fun in life. His young wife could barely function at first, but as she got her bearings, she decided to wait before making a final decision about her marriage.
Then the day came. A series of circumstances left Kyle broken in spirit, and in body. He had burned so many bridges, no one was coming to help him.
Except Jenny.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Jenny made a choice to love her husband through his stupidity and poor choices. When he returned to their home, humiliated in his community, he came home to a warm place.
Today, through dedication and hard work, their marriage is a model for others to follow, and this husband has been transformed.
All because his wife’s love didn’t give in to hard feelings.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we all mess up, sometimes horribly. But you always extend us grace. Help us extend that same grace to those who hurt us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Have you ever congratulated someone for a huge win in life, and then silently envied them? We all do it. But the problem is that kind of thing can grow into a monster if we're not careful. All of a sudden, we're so focused on what the other person has we lose sight of the wins in our own life.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient. Love is kind. It does not envy, doesn't boast, it's not proud. It doesn't dishonor others. It's not self-seeking, it's not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Cain envied his brother's relationship with God, and he killed him over it. That's when that monster that covets was born. We've been struggling with it ever since. True love does not covet what our neighbor has. True love rejoices in grace showered on others.
And if this problem lives in you, meditate on these verses and decide today to change your thinking, and your heart will follow.
Let's pray.
Lord, the enemy wants us to focus on what others have so that we lose sight of what you've given us. Christ is our standard. In Jesus' name. Amen.
We’ve all known kindness. It might have been a Sunday school teacher, or maybe it was Mom listening to our bad day.
But how often do you actually think about the importance of kindness? Is it an active part of your day? If not, you’re missing the point.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Real love compels us to practice kindness. A daily routine, and for the right reason. What is the right reason?
God tells us to be kind. This choice doesn’t depend on what the other guy
is doing. Be that person who does a lot of kind things, and his only audience is God. Try it. Try a random act of kindness, don’t let others see you do it, then reflect on how good it makes you feel.
That’s the best kind of kind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word shows us that we are blessed with kindness from you in countless ways. Help us start to give back to those around us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Having the “patience of Job” is a common saying, even if people don’t really know its origins. Job of course was the biblical character that suffered greatly before God restored him.
But if you read the book of Job, it’s not at all clear that he really had much patience!
Because being patient is really, really hard.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
In 1 Corinthians, we have our blueprint for practicing perfect love. Pure love. And when it comes to patience in this context, we are to train ourselves to be patient with those around us.
It requires a willful choice to be patient with someone—as long as it takes—in an effort to project Christ’s love outward. If a situation calls for you to be patient, just remember that someone in your life has had to be patient with you, too.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you call us to be patient and we want to obey, even though it’s against our natures. But we will follow you in this. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
We “love” all sorts of things. We love a friend’s new hairdo. We love pistachio ice cream and travel to exotic places.
Many times, the word itself loses all real meaning. It’s like homemade chicken soup without the chicken, and without the soup.
1 John 3:16–18 “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.”
The Divine Word helps us yet again. Here we learn that true love means doing for others. Get involved. Don’t just say you love your community. Show the community your love.
Cleanup projects, running errands for a shut-in, taking your niece to the movies because her mother is working two jobs…you know what to do. You know the opportunities.
Think you love those around you? Show them.
Let’s pray.
Lord, there is so much good to do in this world! Please show us opportunities every day, so that we can put action to our words. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
You know, someone may have tried to convince you at some point in your life that we're alone in the cold void of the universe, but that has never been true.
It's especially false for the believer who understands what God has done for all people everywhere.
He, the Creator of the universe, formed us long ago, and His Word tells us clearly that He never takes a second off in His pursuit of us.
Consider this: If you're stuck in a bad relationship, you won't find your way into the light until you're reconciled to God. That relationship is number one. It's the one you cannot be without. Even if others fail you; resolve to work on that one, and the others will fall into place.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
That ‘friend’ is referring to Jesus Christ, who loved us enough to step into history and take the punishment meant for us. Understand that, and cultivate a relationship with Him.
Let's pray.
Lord, we owe everything to you...literally everything. We worship you, and we praise your name as the One who sacrificed all for us. In Jesus' name. Amen.
The Bible is famous for speaking in parables and metaphor. One of the most famous is found in one of Paul’s letters, in which he tells us the benefits of a life in Christ.
The “Fruit of the Spirit” is a list of nine attributes that a person filled with the Holy Spirit will model for the world. It’s probably no coincidence that Paul starts with…Love.
Galatians 5:22–23 says, “By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.”
Love defines what it means to be Christian. Jesus taught that we are to love others, even to pray for our enemies. John wrote that true love is obedience to Christ. This dimension of the Fruit of the Spirit causes people to turn from evil, husbands to cover their wives in love and protection, and many, many more benefits for the world.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Your Word tells us that healthy fruit is a benefit to everyone; inspire us to offer the fruit of love to all we come in contact with. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
One of the richest gifts God has given us is healthy relationships.
A marriage in balance, friends who mutually respect each other, and most of all a strong “God connection” can be the ticket to a healthy, whole life. The full life that Jesus spoke about!
Hebrews 10:24–25 says, “And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works. Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another, especially as you see the Day approaching.”
With the fast pace of life, sometimes we forget to squeeze all the gratitude we can out of a great relationship. Remember to regularly tell the people in your life how much they mean to you, and to give thanks to God for sending these loved ones your way. Write them a note, even a text, to tell them just what they mean to you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s not about the number of relationships we have, but the quality. Thank you for giving people who are loyal, and love us in return. Encourage us to love others in word, and in deed. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Love is the essence of God. We know that.
At the same time, we can say that there are different kinds of love; we’re talking about that this week. Love for family. Love for our fellow humans. Love for nature.
But we can think of what is called Agape Love as “Big-Tent Love.” Agape is an ancient Greek word meaning “Love of God for people, and of people for God.”
1 Corinthians 13:1–3 says, “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.”
Get out of your bitterness toward someone. Stop looking at others as less than you are.
Our world is a great big old tent.
Your neighbor is you, and you are your neighbor.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for making us diverse. Help us love all people, all the time. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Our world has rich diversity. In nature, we see almost countless stunning animal species. We linger on pictures of beautiful landscapes. Even different cultures give us amazing experiences.
There are also many different religions. Some of them offer a measure of peace. Some have reflections that can help us be better people. Today we’re talking about salvation, and that is one thing only Jesus offers. That is a harsh thing to say to some people, but if we are true to God’s Word, we affirm it.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Founders of other religions can’t save you. God tells us in Scripture that He alone saves, through the sacrifice on the Cross by his Son, Jesus Christ. Maybe you’ve been offended by that seemingly exclusive offer, but what could it hurt to really reflect on it?
Choose to do that today. Privately, tell Jesus that you want to know Him.
He’ll answer.
He has a gift for that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your world is beautiful but flawed. The world to come that you’ve prepared for us will be perfect and without end. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Let’s think about something deep today:
What is the end game?
In this context, we’re talking about what comes after this life we are living now. Believers of course look forward to an eternity with the Living God. And even unbelievers wonder about what comes next after you draw your last breath.
It’s the most important element in our discussion this week.
Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
Like snowflakes and other beauty in nature, no two lives are alike. Each of us is unique. God made us that way. The Psalmist said that you are fearfully and wonderfully made!
And in your unique life, you face singular challenges. If you believe in Christ, you are well aware that in this life there is pain, and struggle, and obstacles.
But all through Scripture, the Lord lovingly reminds us that He is always with us and when we pass to the next life, He has prepared a wonderful future for us. One that will never end and will never be tainted by sin.
If you endure in your faith, that is what is waiting for you. Think about that today!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word tells us that eternity is joy beyond our understanding now. All glory belongs to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
A farmer, perhaps more than most, knows something about faith.
Harvest time captures much of our attention and all the good press, but the farmer’s careful planning, toil, and belief in the outcome are all necessary to reach that moment of glory.
First, the farmer must decide what to plant in his fields. What do history and the Farmer’s Almanac say about likely weather patterns in a given year? What will various seeds cost right now? Is it a cyclical year for grasshoppers, or other pests?
Soil is carefully prepared and shaped for seeds, which must be planted under appropriate conditions. And then, the waiting. New shoots finally begin to show, followed by prayerful weeks and months: for moisture — not too much, not too little. For an ideal mix of sunshine and shadow and temperature that will grow a robust crop worthy of bringing to market. For favorable conditions for sale, once the crop comes in.
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Farm life is a tug-of-war between blessed abundance, and faith that the toil in the fields will yield results: praying for sun or rain, watching corn or wheat or sunflowers grow green and tall, or waiting for trees to bear fruit again this year.
Like the faithful farmer, if we seek God first, turning to Him in prayer and giving every aspect of the growth, health, and harvest in our lives to Him, the Lord will be faithful to bless us and lay out a good plan for our lives.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we are so grateful you watch over the fields of our lives, giving us rain or sunshine in turn, sometimes teaching us through harsh conditions, and blessing us with a fruitful harvest at the right time. Help us to be patient in our faith, like the farmer watching over his fields. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Of the many gods throughout world history, almost none of them seem to care about individuals. They might alter the weather so that crops can’t grow. Or cause some global upheaval.
But only one claims to care about you.
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Isn’t that amazing? The story is that Jesus left His place of royalty in heaven to come to Earth as an innocent baby, then grow into a man ready to carry our sins for us. He came to find you! You! God sent Him on a search-and-rescue mission.
As we continue our look this week into the Good News—or, the True Story of Jesus—we begin to see that He is powerful: so powerful He can concentrate fully on each of us. That is astonishing. And comforting.
We can say that we choose Christ, but it is more accurate to say that He looked for us and found us. He sees the heart. He spends time healing your heart and your life. It’s why the imagery of a shepherd tending to his sheep is used so often in Scripture.
Our great God stands alone as the champion of the individual. Praise God!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your love for us has no limits. We are given your grace and mercy every day. Thank you so much for that! In Jesus’ name. Amen.
It's that time of year, snowstorms slam the country from west to east. And hey, we love snow, but it can get old. But are we thinking about it the right way? In fact, it's another way for us to see and enjoy God's creation and reflect on just how majestic He is.
Job 38:22 says, “Have you entered the storehouses of the snow?”
What a beautiful picture. In this section of Job, God tells the suffering man about the incredible design and beauty He placed in creation, and that includes each unique snowflake.
Think about it. There are storehouses of snow, an infinite number of artistic flakes of ice, and God made it part of the variety of our lives for our enjoyment.
So yeah, shoveling snow or skidding to the store for milk before the big storm hits might not be strictly fun. But if we see those things only that way, we're missing beauty that is truly indescribable. God created storehouses of wonder just for you.
Let's pray. Lord, thank you for snow and for reminding us that you created a delightful world for us to live in. In Jesus' name. Amen.
When Hurricane Katrina destroyed the church and home where E.J. Scott had pastored for 20 years, he and his wife found themselves living a bit like refugees in Dallas, Texas.
After years of being strong for his flock, Pastor Scott needed something to strengthen his own faith. He was devastated.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
When we walk with God through a storm, we are told to hold onto Him with everything we have. In this way, we are exercising our faith. We are putting our trust in Him, because honestly, no one else can help us.
Pastor Scott says today that he learned to focus on how God would raise him up, rather than the terrible circumstances he was in. His faith was strengthened, and hope sustained him.
We all need to exercise our faith, so that we can stand in times of crisis. God is our refuge from the storms.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you stand for us in times of trouble. While the enemy wants us to focus on terror, your Word teaches us to focus on your provision. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
When we walk with God, we want to see that our relationships are healthy. It’s part of the command to love one another.
Few things are more heartbreaking than damaged relationships. When those linger, the Body of Christ is weakened. Churches split because of it. Families suffer for it.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
Notice that we are to walk in all His ways. And what did the Lord do in every situation in the Bible that involved relationships? He provided the very best.
That’s our mandate. Do excellence in your relationships. Has someone wronged you, or do they mock you? Take your eyes off their smug expressions and “walk in all His ways.” You’ll be surprised how some people will react, in a good way!
Just as we read that spouses can choose to pray for an unbelieving spouse in the hopes they come to repentance and wholeness, so too can we simply choose to want the best in all our relationships.
Let’s pray.
Lord, relationships are difficult! But how blessed we are by You, that You created them for us. Most of all our relationship with You, our Creator. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
How many times do we make a plan to boost our health and we’re sailing along for a while…and then everything crashes?
Athletes train year-round. That way, there’s no letdown or drop-off from peak performance.
As believers, we have to have the same mindset. A champion figure skater doesn’t skate for six weeks, then take a few months off. NFL cornerbacks don’t stop watching film and keeping their bodies in peak shape after the season is over.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
It’s all about habits. Good habits. Good habits that are continuous and disciplined. The result will be a much, much better you for the race God has called you to run.
Get in the habit of healthy eating, exercise, and mental health. You’ll be glad that you did, and the Lord will be pleased.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us our bodies, Father. They need our careful attention year-round, and we’re committed to doing that. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Janet remembered how alive she had felt when she was disciplined in her prayer life and Bible study. She surprised herself one day when she blurted out, “I could think clearer, before I got mentally lazy!”
Just saying it out loud kicked her out of the that fog she’d been in since forever.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
The enemy wants to distract us from our God-given mission. He wants to cloud our thinking so much that we can’t do anything for the Lord effectively.
Committing yourself to healthy thoughts and desires helps create a fully developed you. The Bible tells us to make a captive of every thought we have, so as to be a better witness for Christ.
Don’t neglect this important part of your health this year! Spend time in study of God’s Word, and ask Him to bless you with a clear head to stay focused on the plans He has for you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the more we meditate on your truths, the better we feel, especially mentally. Thank you for giving us the ability to think! In Jesus’ name. Amen.
When we look at the amazing diversity all around us in nature, we see that no detail escaped God’s attention. He created all things to live in harmony.
That includes our individual physical bodies. He intends for us to be healthy and whole—mind, body, and soul.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
In order to fully serve God, we can’t neglect anything. So that we can be a faithful witness of His love and sacrifice, we must take care of ourselves, including our health.
You will not be able to effectively witness for Christ if you don’t take care of yourself. One of the easiest ways to do that is to simply walk some each day. Make a real effort to walk in the fresh air, to strengthen your heart of love for a hurting world.
Get out there!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you direct our steps. Help us to be at the top of our game, including physically. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Picture what it would look like to lose everything in one fell swoop. Your house burns to the ground. The stock market plummets and all your money is gone. Worst of all, your children fall ill and die. Suddenly, you’ve lost not only your material possessions, but your family, too.
When people refer to someone as having “the patience of Job,” they say that for a reason.
Job was a man of immense wealth, the richest man in the region, and was the father of 7 sons and 3 daughters he loved dearly. He was also a faithful servant of the Lord, and grateful for every blessing.
In a terrible turn of events, Job lost his fortune in a single day. His crops, property, livestock, and servants were gone. Most devastating of all, Job lost his children. But Job didn’t blame God. He accepted that God had a plan for him, and was patient as he waited for the Lord to reveal that plan. He knew that sometimes bad things happen, and he continued to praise the Lord in the midst of trial.
Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
Job lost everything, but he didn’t take matters into his own hands to seek justice for what he had lost. He fell to his knees and worshiped the Lord, and then he was still. In the quiet of his soul, Job knew God had a plan, and in the end, God restored to Job twice as much as he had in the beginning.
A godly man is patient.
Let’s pray.
Lord, waiting is so hard to do. Waiting for an answer. Waiting for resolution. Waiting for things to get better. God restore peace and patience as we grow in faith, and learn to wait on you. We trust you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Carissa was having one of those days. Instead of hitting the snooze button on her alarm clock, she had turned it off. Now the kids were late for school, she was late for work, and the tone for the day was one mad rush — emphasis on the mad.
As the day wore on, she thought about her impatience and frustration with her children as everyone got dressed and grabbed a granola bar on the way out the door. It wasn’t their fault the family was running behind, and she regretted sending them to school with tension, instead of hugs and kisses.
Ephesians 4:2 says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
Of all the lessons we teach our children, kindness stands out. We have an opportunity to show patience, humility, and God’s love to colleagues, classmates, neighbors, and friends — and the people in our lives learn more from watching how we behave, than they do from just being told what to do.
We have a choice in how we treat others, and God asks us to approach the people around us with love. When Carissa arrived home from work, the first thing she did was apologize to the kids for the cranky way their day began, and let them know kindness matters morning, noon, and night — even when we’re running late.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the wisdom the Bible teaches us about kindness. Help us to be patient when we’re short on time, and to be an example of your love in every situation — even when circumstances fall short of perfect. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
When you're having a bad day, a run-in with an immensely cheerful person doesn't always turn that frown upside down, does it? Commiserating with someone else though, a word literally defined by two or more people wallowing in misery together, that can be a balm to an anxious and worried mind, sometimes. The relief though is temporary.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
The Apostle Paul was talking about more than mere cheerfulness in his letter to the Christian believers of Rome. Nowhere in the Bible does the Lord command us thou shalt always be chipper. But these wise words from Paul remind us to think before we sink. No matter what hardships we face, our hope is found in Jesus Christ. And this hope is an infinite well of joy we can turn to in times of trouble.
Paul also reminds believers to be patient no matter what befalls us. Paul was a respected missionary, even honored and admired by powerful officials of his day who didn't share his Christian beliefs. Despite his good standing, for a period of two years he was in prison, literally chained and under constant guard. And from this depth of experience, he's able to tell others to be patient in affliction.
Whether our chains are literal or figurative in nature, the trials we face can mold our character and build our patience if we choose to let them.
The most important part of Paul's message in this verse is the reminder to be faithful in prayer. God is worthy of all honor and praise, but He also knows us, understands our weaknesses, and loves us anyway.
On the days life feels too difficult to approach the Lord with a smile on our faces and joy in our hearts, he still wants to hear from us. Prayer's not a sometimes thing. It's an all-the-time practice that grows our faith, strengthens our relationship with God, and changes our lives. So be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.
Let's pray.
Lord, you are the source of all our hope, the teacher of patience, and the one who listens to every prayer. Help us to choose joy over despair, patience over exasperation, and to pray faithfully. Sometimes fear and frustration threaten to overwhelm us, but you are near. And we pray you will turn our hearts to you. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Tim closed his laptop and wondered what to do next.
He had a degree. Great job experience. Enthusiasm and passion for his work… But the job market was tough in his new hometown, and his savings was running out fast.
“Lord,” he prayed, “please help me find a job. You know my talents, and what I need to help support my family. Please provide.”
He’d been praying this same prayer daily, but no job had come along. Tim knew God’s promises were real, but the disappointment of unanswered prayer was weighing on his mind.
Luke 18:1 says, “And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.”
God’s timing is not our timing — even when we are frustrated, even when money is tight and circumstances are strained.
The Bible promises when we obey the Lord, we can ask for what we need in prayer and God will provide.
God’s answer doesn’t always come immediately. Sometimes it’s completely different than what we expect. The answer might even be a resounding, “No,” and we have to trust God’s plan, even though it doesn’t meet our hopes or expectations.
In Tim’s case, an ideal job in his field was advertised a couple of weeks later. His new work offered exciting challenges, the opportunity to network in his new community, and a Christian leadership team at work. God came through for Tim, big time!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for loving us through our impatience. Your plans for us are good, and your timing is always right. Thank you for hearing our prayers. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Who likes to wait for what we need or want? Basically — nobody.
Of those nine elements that make up the Fruit of the Spirit, patience may be the hardest.
Romans 8:25 says, “But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.” And patience is learned, which makes it one of the sweetest fruits the Spirit gives us. Waiting for a payoff of some kind makes the end result that much more rewarding, and life teaches us that.
A childless Hannah endured mocking and ridicule, but the Bible tells us in First Samuel that she prayed, and she waited. Imagine how she felt when the date of her delivery drew near. She eventually had several children, but it was her patience in waiting on Samuel that made all the difference.
If you're waiting for something very important, read and meditate on the Fruits of the Spirit, especially patience.
Let's pray.
Lord, give us the patience of Hannah when we're frustrated by waiting, and teach us humility in the process in Jesus’ name. Amen.
1 Peter 5:6–7 says, “Humble yourselves, then, under God’s mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.”
These two short verses tell us several things: One — if we submit to God’s power by acknowledging we can’t solve our problems, He is strong enough to intervene and bring about the outcome we really want.
Second, He does this in His own time, on His own timetable.
Third, we are to leave our problems at His feet. There is nothing wrong with getting an image in your mind where you actually do this and then walk away, your burden lifted.
Key in getting on track is recognizing that you might have trust problem. If you’ve been deeply hurt by, say, a family member, you might subconsciously be failing to trust God himself.
And this is a first step in getting free of fear for good.
Know that an unburdened mind is not usually gained quickly, or without what we would call maintenance. The only thing predictable about our world is that it’s unpredictable. If you think you’re going to have one great afternoon and then every day after that is carefree, you’re deluding yourself.
We’ve already established that a daily time of prayer, reading your Bible, and focusing on God’s love for you is a combination that our enemy can’t overcome. Choosing to believe God’s Word is practical, and it works. That can’t be emphasized enough!
Jesus said in John 16:33 that we will absolutely have trouble in our lives, but that He has already overcome the world. This fact will help to keep you on that straight path that will ultimately one day lead to paradise with the One that created you, sustains you, and loves you forever.
Let’s pray.
Lord, having the discipline to daily rely on you is something we often lack. When we focus and concentrate our minds and our hearts on your good gifts, fear leaves, and can be replaced with courage and peace. Thank you for providing for all of our needs, all the time. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
I’m not sure where you’re at today. You might be angry at God. Something happened, maybe in your life, that has damaged your faith. If we live in the world long enough, it can happen to any of us.
How you respond is really important. If you’ve listened previously, you know we are talking about how to live by faith.
Having perseverance when we’re miserable is really, really hard. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you’re the only one.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, and not by sight.”
Really listen to the words: “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
That’s how we’re supposed to live. Not for a few hours or a day or even a season. For life. It’s how we’re supposed to live. And we don’t always cling to what we can see in the short term.
Strong faith is built over time. Think back over your life to those times when God met your needs. Big needs! Those were the moments He gave you to prove that His strength is not limited.
That’s how we walk by faith!
Let’s pray.
Lord, life is a marathon, it’s not a quick sprint. God help us to walk by faith, from beginning to end. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Even during times of calm and security, the honest truth is, there are very few examples of really strong and steady leaders.
It’s a given then that when times are scary, brave leaders that reassure us are really needed…but really rare!
The Bible speaks of one such person.
Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua was an especially passionate and courageous leader. A born leader. God used him during a time the Israelites were ‘going all wobbly,’ as a political leader once said.
The Israelites had seen it all. A plague in Egypt. An army bearing down on them. Mass hunger. Homelessness for years.
But Joshua played it all with a chip on his shoulder. An edge of anger really that caused him to never be afraid. In his community, he was boss—and everyone knew it. God made him that way.
In your own community—your family at home, your church family, a group of scared coworkers—be a Joshua. Be strong and courageous. Set your feet so that your legs don’t go wobbly, and then tell your people that God has this.
He is with you, wherever this situation goes.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Joshua is our human example of courage. Help us keep others safe and calm in the midst of crisis. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were three young men from Judah who found themselves in a heated situation.
They were brought into the court of King Nebuchadnezzar II, and ordered to bow before the king’s golden image. The alternative was a one-way ticket to the fiery furnace.
The king’s command would have been easy for these guys to follow, but their own King of Kings had already commanded them to place no other gods before Him, and to stay away from the evil of graven images. They may have been wary of the king’s wrath, but their faith in God was stronger.
They replied in Daniel 3:16–18, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter...Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”
Rather than violate their commitment to obey God, these men put their lives in His hands. They didn’t know whether God would intervene to save them. They knew God could, but they didn't know that He would. Regardless of the outcome, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego chose to live for the Lord, and if necessary, they were willing to die in obedience to the Lord.
Romans 14:8 says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
As an example of His power, God intervened to spare their lives. Even though He allowed them to be tied up and thrown into the furnace, the blazing heat didn't affect them at all. They walked out unharmed.
In the midst of our own challenges, we know God can and does show up for us. He asks us to trust Him with the obstacles we face every day, and even with our very lives.
Let’s pray.
Jesus, it’s unlikely anyone will threaten to throw us into a fiery furnace, but sometimes it sure feels like our feet are put to the fire. Remind us to trust you...with every dilemma, every shortcoming, and every situation. We give you our challenges, and our lives. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Are you the kind of person everyone looks at and assumes you are strong and together?
You too, huh? Many of us look fine on the outside, but the human condition is often much different on the inside.
Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
But the thing is, God did not make us to have a spirit of fear. He never planned for us to suffer from depression or anxiety.
Look, life happens. Sometimes we just are rocked by circumstances. But God’s Word says that we don’t stay there. We keep our eyes on Him and He is our strength. It’s not even our job to find the strength to breathe and go about our day!
The person who endures a cancer diagnosis isn’t doing it on her own. When Christ dwells in you, He takes the burdens and promises that in the end, we will be healed.
If you look like a confident statue on the outside, but you’re about to lose it on the inside, take time to tell that to Jesus. Give Him your fears and doubts.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are not in this alone. Your grace is sufficient for all our needs, every day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Today we're talking about the emotional benefits of forgiveness.
In Christ we experience peace that is so remarkable, it isn't naturally part of this world. As we think about the power forgiveness has for us and others, let's think about how forgiving someone lifts a huge burden off our minds.
Matthew 5:23–24 says, “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there, remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother, then come and offer your gift.”
Notice that God is aware of how we think. This passage from Matthew describes a very interesting trait that is often overlooked. The person who has come to worship God cannot properly do that, because he remembers that there's trouble in his relationship with his friend. We just can't let it go. God is telling us here to take care of this spirit of unforgiveness first, then come back for worship. Refusing to do things in this order, only diminishes our time with God.
Jonathan Draper has written about this problem of holding onto grudges, and he specifically says that having a forgiving spirit allows us to grow closer to God. This is the number one benefit of forgiveness.
Tony Roberts is an Indiana pastor and relationship expert. In a conversation he had with a young woman impacted by a negative relationship, he asked for her top emotional-health benefits that comes from forgiving.
She said it impacts emotional health in that if you don't take care of you, nobody will. Taking care of you means forgiving and forgetting that person for trespassing against you. Forgetting isn't the most important part, but it's definitely one of the most challenging, and if they don't happen, you will lose yourself. Now, think about that. God has promised to walk with us through our trials, and those include cycles of unforgiveness. It's critical to our emotional well-being that we forgive, so that we begin the process of looking after our own emotional health. Letting go of bitterness is an important first step.
Let's pray.
Father God, You intended for us to live in harmony, so that our physical bodies and our emotional selves would be in sync, and when that doesn't happen, we need your help to strike the right balance. Please walk with us in Divine health. Let us come to a place where we embrace forgiveness. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Today, we're talking about the physical benefits of forgiveness. There are several stories in the Bible that tell us when God's people obey Him, they are in better physical and emotional shape. Remember, Daniel and his friends refuse to eat the rich food sent by the king. After several weeks of their own diet, they emerged healthier than other young men in the Babylonian kingdom. So, too, do we learn that an attitude of forgiveness leads to peace.
In Matthew 18:21–22, we read, “‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but 77 times.’”
When Peter asked this, Jesus was thinking not only of the person who was to be forgiven, but also about the well-being of Peter. We know from scripture that the hot-tempered Peter learned to temper his temper over time.
Notice that the exchange between Peter and Jesus about forgiveness is an ongoing process. It isn't a one-time deal. Being intentional about the art of practicing forgiveness ensures that we don't fall back into bad habits.
A Journal of Behavioral Medicine study tells us that forgiving someone can reduce feelings of tension, anger, depression, and fatigue. This leads to much better sleep patterns. Another study provides evidence that forgiveness can lower blood pressure significantly, especially among spouses. An article in the Journal of Health Psychology provides a link between much lower stress levels and people who forgive.
God knows us in every way. He created us. In Philippians 4:7 we read, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This comes in the form of a person who is willing to make a conscious choice to forgive, and let grudges go.
The enemy of our souls wants us to hang on to bitterness. The God who created us and loves us wants to see us well, along with those who have hurt us. Healing replicates itself, and it starts with us.
Let's pray.
Father, it's painful to watch someone who's locked down by unforgiveness. Help us model what it looks like to be healthy and whole when we forgive. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Is there someone in your life whose forgiveness you need?
Legendary cowboy actor Roy Rogers said something profound. He said that sometimes it hurts to do the right thing, but afterwards, you'll feel better.
When it comes to forgiveness, this certainly applies to choosing to forgive someone who has wronged you. But have you considered that it can be even tougher to ask for someone's forgiveness? Humans hate to fail, and most of us hate looking foolish. It hurts. Maybe you've hurt someone recently, or maybe the hurt happened a long time ago and it just festers.
Luke 6:37 says, “Do not judge and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven.”
Brenda Blakely knows all about this. The daughter of an alcoholic father, she resented both her parents for years. One day though, she realized that she had internalized her anger so much that it in turn targeted her mother. Brenda called her one day and began pouring out her heart, acknowledging that her bitterness had caused her to be difficult growing up. It was a painful revelation. Yet at the end of the call, her mother's heart was moved. She said to Brenda, “I forgive you, and please forgive me.”
Choosing to ask for forgiveness might literally be the hardest thing you ever have to do. Maybe you're not there yet, but keep your mind and your heart open. The end result will be well worth the wait, and think of the person whose forgiveness you're asking. Remember the words of Corrie Ten Boom, who nearly died in a Nazi extermination camp. She said this, “To forgive is to set the prisoner free and to realize that the prisoner was me.”
Let's pray.
Father, our sinful human nature rebels against humbling ourselves and asking for forgiveness, but give us this practical thing, Father, to be objective and really examine ourselves to see if we've hurt someone and never made amends. Help us move towards reconciliation. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Is there someone in your life that you need to forgive? No matter what your worldview is, it's obvious to all that the world just hurts. And for the Christian, the knowledge that we live in a fallen world is an explanation, but that doesn't soothe the pain.
Matt Swatzell was driving home one morning after a shift as a firefighter in EMS. He'd only slept 30 minutes in the previous 24 hours. Suddenly, he was aware of a crash. He realized he'd fallen asleep, and hit a pregnant woman driving with her young daughter. The woman was killed. Her family's devastation was beginning. And Matt Swatzell was plunged into his own hell. What could he possibly say to that woman's husband?
One of the outcomes of living in a less-than-perfect world is that we have to deal with emotional and physical pain. It's a fact of life. Sometimes the emotional side of it is worse than the physical side.
Mark 11:25 says, “And when you stand praying if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”
Wrestling with forgiveness is a tough one. Sometimes we wrong someone. Other times it's us on the receiving end of something terrible. The Bible actually has quite a bit to say about forgiveness, and the bottom line is this: it's a choice. Each one of us can choose to forgive so that the long process of healing can take place.
Matt Swatzel knows this very well. At his sentencing, he found that the victim's husband was a pastor, Eric Fitzgerald. Incredibly, Fitzgerald asked for leniency for Swatzel, and he got it. Later, the two met by chance in a store, and Fitzgerald was ready to forgive. He said, “You forgive as you've been forgiven. It wasn't an option. If you've been forgiven, then you need to extend that forgiveness.” Their video story has been viewed millions of times in the last few years, and it proves one thing. You can choose to forgive the most vicious wrong, and that's up to you.
Let's pray.
Father God, sometimes the hurt is too much to bear. Choosing to forgive is one of the hardest things we can do, but help us to choose this path so that healing on all sides can begin. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Even though most U.S. homes have at least one copy of the Bible, if you know what's in it, there are all sorts of things. Wisdom for living, history, spiritual food. It's the Bible's practical value that hooks most people who read it. The Bible says a lot about money, how to raise kids, and even how to strengthen your marriage. It also tells us a lot about forgiveness.
Forgiveness is mentioned dozens of times in the Bible. The most famous example is the forgiveness Jesus chooses on the cross as His accusers and executioners mock Him. Think about how hard that was. It gives some perspective on our own situations in life.
When you think about it, the entire theme of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation is one of forgiveness. Man chose to bring sin into the world and defy God's perfect plan. Yet God didn't leave us in that state. He made a way for our sins to be put away forever. Jesus Christ became the vessel through which forgiveness could be extended on an epic scale.
One of the most difficult passages in all the Bible is found in the New Testament. Matthew 5:43–45 says, “You have heard the law that says love your neighbor and you hate your enemy, but I say love your enemies. Pray for those who persecute you. In that way, you will be acting as true children of your father in heaven.”
Now, in the here and now, is there anything more difficult than forgiving a mocking enemy? There are people in the world who delight in making others miserable their whole lives, but Jesus is telling us that is possible. The key is when we take the long view. We must mentally and emotionally take ourselves out of the pain we are experiencing right now. Think of the future. Begin imagining the most wonderful healing that can take place between enemies and that's what God did for us. The Bible tells us He's holy and cannot look on sin. Yet in Genesis 3, God began the process of grace.
In the Gospels and in Paul's letters, we see him continuing to be patient with us. Then in Revelation, the long long view. God takes our acts of forgiveness and makes a powerful redemptive new world and we can look forward to that.
Let's pray.
Father, thank you for having mercy on us in every way. Sometimes we need to forgive someone and sometimes the shoe's on the other foot. Help us to read your word and act on your commands to forgive, especially when it hurts. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Even though most U.S. homes have at least one copy of the Bible, if you know what's in it, there are all sorts of things. Wisdom for living, history, spiritual food. It's the Bible's practical value that hooks most people who read it. The Bible says a lot about money, how to raise kids, and even how to strengthen your marriage. It also tells us a lot about forgiveness.
Forgiveness is mentioned dozens of times in the Bible. In Genesis 33, Esau forgives his brother Isaac's treachery in stealing his birthright. The most famous example is the forgiveness Jesus chooses on the cross as His accusers and executioners mock Him. Think about how hard that was. It gives some perspective on our own situations in life.
When you think about it, the entire theme of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation is one of forgiveness. Man chose to bring sin into the world and defy God's perfect plan. Yet God didn't leave us in that state. He made a way for our sins to be put away forever. Jesus Christ became the vessel through which forgiveness could be extended on an epic scale.
One of the most difficult passages in all the Bible is found in the New Testament. Matthew 5:43–45 says, “You have heard the law that says love your neighbor and you hate your enemy, but I say love your enemies. Pray for those who persecute you. In that way, you will be acting as true children of your father in heaven.”
Now, in the here and now, is there anything more difficult than forgiving a mocking enemy? There are people in the world who delight in making others miserable their whole lives, but Jesus is telling us that is possible. The key is when we take the long view. We must mentally and emotionally take ourselves out of the pain we are experiencing right now. Think of the future. Begin imagining the most wonderful healing that can take place between enemies and that's what God did for us. The Bible tells us He's holy and cannot look on sin. Yet in Genesis 3, God began the process of grace.
In the Gospels and in Paul's letters, we see him continuing to be patient with us. Then in Revelation, the long long view. God takes our acts of forgiveness and makes a powerful redemptive new world and we can look forward to that.
Let's pray.
Father, thank you for having mercy on us in every way. Sometimes we need to forgive someone and sometimes the shoe's on the other foot. Help us to read your word and act on your commands to forgive, especially when it hurts. In Jesus' name, amen.
David, the giant-slaying boy who would eventually become king of Israel, is mentioned over 1,000 times in the Bible. The youngest of eight children, David grew to become a powerful king, and some say he was also the original pop star, penning most of the 150 psalms included in the Bible. These songs were the hymnbook for Old Testament Jews, and continue to inspire well-known musical works today, including Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.”
The 62nd Psalm was written by King David with a goal of reminding himself and others of the Lord's steadfast love. A man of immense power and influence, David wanted to encourage people to continue seeking the Lord, and to trust Him with all their endeavors.
Psalm 62:5 says, “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.”
Some scholars see Psalm 62 as a warning: each of us possesses a certain amount of power over our own choices and circumstances, but we should not let our personal authority get in the way of our trust in God.
King David had wise and experienced advisors at his side, and he commanded armies that did his bidding at home and abroad. Upon his orders, men could be rewarded or condemned. He certainly wielded a significant amount of power, yet he put his faith and his trust in God.
Whether you sit at the helm of a large corporation, you lead a military regiment, or maybe you are the king or queen of your family’s castle, let power rest not upon your own shoulders but ultimately with the Lord.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, like King David, we are mere mortals blessed with opportunities, gifted in unique ways, and called to follow you. Let us turn to you with full trust in your plan, and remember the source of all power is you, and not ourselves. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Who is the most loyal person you’ve ever known? A parent? Spouse? Friend?
Truthfully, we all crave loyalty. It gives us a sense of safety. We feel that if there is some loyalty in our world, it’s like a warm blanket on a cold night. Life seems less scary.
As we discuss the role of Jesus in our personal stories, it is good to remind ourselves often of ultimate loyalty. In turn, it encourages us to be loyal to that One person we can always count on.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Jesus gives us loyalty that cannot be broken. Are we willing to stay true to Him, as well? In other words, if life’s road gets rough, do we stay on the path He has set for us? Like Peter, we tend to think nothing could pry us from Jesus, but our choices can do that. Then we regret being disloyal to Christ.
Resolve to never let that happen to you. Keep His sacrifice for you in your mind and heart. That will help you stay true to Him when life isn’t so great.
He promised to never leave you. Tell Jesus that you love Him for that, and keep your eyes looking ahead to the eternity He has made for you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, make us strong in our loyalty to our Savior. Then let that light shine for those who see us. In Jesus' name. Amen.
What would you think is one of the biggest stumbling blocks for us as we try to live our lives with integrity?
If you said “pride,” you win! The Bible tells us that the sin of pride can lead to a whole range of bad outcomes.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Walk humbly? Wow, that can be the most difficult part of living out this verse. We must constantly check our spirits to make sure our motives are pure and centered on God’s plan for us and those we encounter.
Micah is communicating to us that God actually requires certain things of us. Justice and love are critical, to be sure, but staying humble is no less important. It puts legs to the journey God has mapped out for you.
Lay down your pride and see what God will do!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we war with our own flesh at times, our desires to be the object of attention. Help us lay this aside and live only for you. Amen.
Jesus is always our standard.
Moments after He picked the 12 disciples, Jesus was standing at the base of a mountain, teaching the people. He told them many things, but one thing really stands out: He told them how to treat each other.
Jesus had a way with stories. Narrative was the way He told people what He wanted them to remember. And it was then that Jesus used an image of the good gifts God gives to those that love Him.
The book of Luke tells the story. Jesus looked at His followers and said, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.”
Almost a thousand years before, David wrote a similar thing.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
When you make a choice to believe God, He gives you so much in return — it just pours out! Now this is not a message about the prosperity gospel…hear it clearly: the blessings that we find in Christ when we place our identity in Him are so abundant, it’s almost too much to take in.
This is the God we serve. The One waiting for each of us who is hungry and thirsty.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the abundance you give us in every way. We remember it and are grateful, always. Amen.
Would it surprise you to know that God has always been interested in you? Did you know He knew you before you were born? He has a vested interest in how your life turns out.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
He isn’t some remote deity. God doesn’t pay attention only most of the time. He doesn’t form His plans here and there. He is there for us all the time.
The question is, where are we?
Before you were born, it was God’s will that you would have a relationship with Him. He has always wanted your life to be successful. He wanted you to have joy hundreds of years before your parents were even born!
So God’s will for your life isn’t confined to now, or even now, and going forward. He has always been with you, guiding you through your life. As you look back now, you can see that this is true.
Being in God’s will is all-encompassing. It is the beginning, middle, and end of our stories.
If you weren’t exactly in God’s will in the past, learn from that and move forward with Him all the time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you hold us in your protection for the entirety of our lives. We thank you that you never get tired of that. Amen.
One of the things that set God apart from all others is His ability to tell us what is going to happen. We read about this in Isaiah 46, where He says only He knows the end from the beginning.
An amazing example of this is found in Psalm 22, and it’s almost surprising how many people are not aware of it.
Psalm 22:11 says, “Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.”
If you read the entire chapter carefully, you begin to realize that this is a conversation that Jesus has on the cross.
This psalm was written a thousand years before that world-changing event!
It describes a man being mocked on the cross. A man who is so thirsty his mouth feels like a piece of dry pottery. He even mentions that his tormentors are casting lots for his clothes. All these things are described in the New Testament, and even some of the language Jesus used on the cross is seen here for the first time.
God is in charge of all things, all the time. Including your situation. He raised Jesus from the dead, and He will provide life eternal for you if you call on Him.
He knows the end from the beginning.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know all things. No one else does. That alone should give us confidence that you will be with us always. Amen.
In a world full of manmade gods and goddesses, the Creator God stands alone. He is a King of the first order, and everything was made by Him. His majesty and power are awesome.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Usually, when people are in the presence of royalty, they get nervous. Kings and queens make us uneasy, and we obsess about how we approach them.
Not so with our great God. Yes, He is all-powerful, and the Bible does describe Him sometimes as fiery, but He also loves us with true love and compassion. It is a privilege to worship Him, and acknowledge Him for who He truly is.
Not all people and nations recognize God, of course. But the day is coming when they will. On that day, He will remember His people.
All hail our King!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you alone are worthy of praise, and we do praise your Holy Name. Amen.
Are you like a lot of people when it comes to the instruction booklet with a new item? We stare at it and eventually toss it, guessing we can just figure it out.
Yeah…that usually ends like dropping a carton of eggs.
The Bible is there for a reason. God’s Word is healing and light and a guide for each of us. That’s why it’s important to read it, and meditate on the words.
To the church at Philippi, Paul gave instruction from God, such as putting others before ourselves. Then the payoff:
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
God’s way is infinitely better. If we focus on the right things, our own needs are then met in ways too spectacular for us to imagine. Focus on others and sharing the Good News, and we stand out like stars in the night sky!
Do life the right way: Read the instructions.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you’ve shown us how to succeed in life and in the life to come. Help us share that with others. Amen.
We're all a little bit nicer at Christmas time, aren't we? Admit it. Starting around December 1st, our steps are a bit lighter and we even greet people with a smile. But as night falls on Christmas night, for some weird reason, some of us begin to turn back into a grumpy neighbor. In this, we're missing a great opportunity.
Psalm 16:11 says, “You make known to me the path of life. You will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”
God makes it clear He didn't send Jesus so we would experience joy four or five days out of the year. This is then our job. Carry Christmas forward into next year. Help people know Him. Share the love of Jesus with as many people as you possibly can. That is true Christmas.
If you've checked off your list for gift giving, get out another sheet of paper and resolve to be the face of Jesus to those you come in contact with. Christmas, the true meaning of it, lives in us if we are children of the King of Kings.
Let's pray.
Lord, your love for us is eternal and continual. We worship you and we praise you for your mercies. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Well, the gifts have been opened, the wrapping paper taken to the landfill. Leftovers are in the fridge, and maybe you're feeling a little blue, a little depressed. Christmas is over, or is it?
2 Corinthians 9:15 says, “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” In the West, we tend to have a letdown when the excitement and rush of Christmas is over, as if at midnight on December 25th, we’re ready to go into emotional hibernation.
But it doesn't have to be that way. Whether it's something as simple as leaving your decorations up for a few extra days, or having a long talk with yourself, you have permission to enjoy Christmas into the foreseeable future. Why not? Whose schedule are we trying to meet when it comes to Christmas?
As believers, we have every expectation that the great gift of Jesus Christ is something to celebrate and be grateful for always. If you have this change of attitude, it'll be noticed by everyone. Go ahead, keep Christmas going as long as you want.
Let's pray.
Lord, we celebrate this season, the birth of your son. We worship him as our great savior who brought the greatest gift of all. He's changed us, and we thank you in Jesus' name. Amen.
Joseph Accepts Jesus as His Son as told in Matthew Chapter 1, Verses 18–25
“This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.
Because Joseph, her husband, was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.
But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’
All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, (which means ‘God with us.’)
When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.”
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to be grateful for the miracle you delivered to us through Mary in a humble stable in Bethlehem. You sent your Son to live among us in the form of the most perfect gift possible, and we are grateful for how much you love us, that you would give your own Son to purchase our forgiveness. Amen.
Over 200 years ago, “Silent Night” was first heard by villagers attending Christmas Eve mass in St. Nicholas Church in Oberndorf, Austria. Joseph Mohr, the young priest who wrote the lyrics, played the guitar and sang along with Franz Gruber, the choir director who had written the melody.
How did this simple tune, with its quiet words of comfort, become a beloved hymn of peace throughout the world?
An organ builder and repairman working at the church took a copy of the six-verse song to his home village. There, it was picked up and spread by two families of traveling folk singers, who performed around northern Europe.
The composition evolved and was eventually translated into over 300 languages. It was sung in churches, in town squares, even on the battlefield during World War I. During a temporary truce on Christmas Eve, soldiers sang carols from home, including "Silent Night." Known around the world by the wartime Christmas of 1914, the song was sung simultaneously across the trenches in French, German, and English.
Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight!
Glories stream from heaven afar;
Heavenly hosts sing Al-le-lu-ia!
Christ the Savior is born!
Christ the Savior is born!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for inspiring us to share the Gospel of peace with our neighbors across the street, and around the world. The miracle of Jesus’ birth is a story worth telling again and again, and we ask you to give us the opportunity, and the words, to share the Good News. Amen.
God gives us good gifts all the time. All through the year, not just at Christmas.
One of the truly joyful gifts is the ability to be kind to others. It sounds simple and maybe to some even quaint, but there is power in choosing to be kind.
Choosing to be kind. That’s one of our themes this week.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 tells us to, “Always be joyful.” Paul uses this chapter to describe the heart of a Christian. We are also to “encourage the disheartened,” and “be patient with everyone.”
Although there are studies that prove this, we don’t have to read a study to know that our decision to spread cheer in this world is really important.
Honestly, it also just feels good. Doesn’t it? Have you done this lately?
Minnie Pearl was a fixture on the Grand Ole Opry. Her silly hat and goofy jokes helped make her famous, but the native of Tennessee is remembered for her joyful heart. People who knew her especially felt lifted up just by being around her.
It’s always the season to spread cheer, but especially so during this season of goodwill.
Try it. You’ll help others lean into joy, and it will help you catch the spirit of joy, too.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the joy we feel as believers is a good, good gift from our Good Father. Thank you for giving us hope. Amen.
Jerry wasn’t very good at a lot of things. He was shy and his grades weren’t stellar. He was bullied at school.
Then he was given a part in the Christmas play at church. No one ever gave Jerry a part, but his Sunday school teacher took God’s Word to heart and knew that if she could help this shy boy, it could change his life. She knew that Jerry was good with mechanical things, so she put him in charge of raising and spotlighting the famous Star of Bethlehem. The result of that defines our discussion this week of letting your light shine bright.
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
When the time came in the play for the Star to be raised, the gleaming silver took everyone’s breath away. There in the shadows of the stage, where no one was looking at him, Jerry did his part. He shined that night, and afterward pats on the back replaced the taunts.
Think of someone you can help shine today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are all weak vessels, yet you use us to tell others about Jesus. Thank you for that. Amen.
Phillips Brooks was the minister of Holy Trinity Church in Philadelphia and visited Bethlehem in December of 1865.
When Pastor Brooks traveled to the Holy Land, the journey included a horseback ride from Jerusalem to Bethlehem on Christmas Eve. Back then, it truly was a small village, far removed from the bustling city it would later become. By nightfall, he was in the field where, according to tradition, the shepherds heard the angelic announcement. Then he attended the Christmas Eve service at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem.
Years later, the pastor recalled that first visit to the place of Jesus’ birth. “I remember especially on Christmas Eve, when I was standing in the old church in Bethlehem, close to the spot where Jesus was born, when the whole church was ringing hour after hour with the splendid hymns of praise to God, how again and again it seemed as if I could hear voices I knew well, telling each other of the ‘wonderful night’ of the Savior’s birth.”
He wrote a poem about his experience, asking the church organist to set it to music for the children’s choir to sing at Christmas time.
O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting Light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord, what a gift we were given long ago in the form of baby Jesus. The birth of our Savior in a small town stable changed everything, and we are so grateful for His legacy of hope. Help us to focus on the true reason for this season of celebration. Amen.
Identifying where our problems originate is one thing, but locating the Divine Healer is key in getting clear of obstacles in our lives.
At each mile marker in our life journeys, God is standing alongside the road, smiling at us, and holding out his strong hand to guide us. And from the indispensable wisdom of scripture to stories of human triumphs over tragedies, He is always there reminding us we're never truly alone. His grace and mercies begin to overshadow and overwhelm those forces that want to harm us, and it's then that we see God for who He truly is.
1 Peter 5:10 says, “And after you've suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”
And that is good news!
Let's pray.
Lord, it's important to see who our enemy is, but it's more important to look past that and concentrate our focus on you who brings us that peace that passes all understanding, the kind that gets down deep in us and calms us from the inside out. In Jesus' name. Amen.
In our humanness, we struggle at times to achieve peace.
World War 1 ended 100 years ago, and all sides joined together as a League of Nations to make that conflict the “War to end all wars.”
Then World War 2 happened.
Our history is littered with noble attempts to make things right, but only God can bring peace to nations, and to individuals. He has promised both! One day, He will make everything new, forever. While we wait for that great day, He also grants us peace in our daily lives.
2 Thessalonians 3:16 says, “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.”
We only have to ask Him for it. Jesus, as He said in Matthew 11:28, gives us peace even in our greatest trials, and when we are exhausted. Then, peace comes to refresh us and give us all the strength we need.
If you don’t have peace in your life, simply ask God for it. He will provide.
Let’s pray.
Lord, let your peace wash over people everywhere in this hurting world. Make them aware of your spirit of peace. Amen.
The diversity of life on this planet is astonishing, good, bad, beautiful, painful. Our world is a place of blessing and it's also a struggle for a lot of people. Each of us has a whole batch of issues to deal with every day, ranging from physical challenges to emotional needs. And a fascinating element in all this is how we see contentment. What is it? Where's it found? Is it lasting?
Matthew 6:32–33 says, “For the pagans run after all these things and your Heavenly Father knows that you need them but seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Our old friend balance is so important. In every aspect of our lives, we should have a goal of keeping steady. Solomon spoke to this in Proverbs 30, when he asked God to give him not too much or too little. He reasoned that if he had great wealth, he might forget God. If he was in poverty, he might be inclined to steal. This effort to find balance is the heart of finding contentment. God is the ultimate source and He gives us the capacity to be content, using scripture as our guide. And as usual, God is a comprehensive plan for you, especially in the area of contentment.
Notice what Proverbs 14:30 says, “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.”
The actor Chris Tucker discovered all this after the huge success of “Rush Hour” and other projects. But he became a Christian, and now he's selective in what he does, and he keeps it clean and real. It's been estimated that since he turned to faith, Tucker has turned down a hundred million in projects. What's his take on all that? He says, “But I've got a hundred million great experiences.”
Whether you're hard-charging and ambitious, or you're simply neglecting the pursuit of peace in your life, you're damaging your spiritual health.
Finding spiritual harmony makes you a complete person. Anything short of that, you're flying with a broken wing. Bottom line is, if you look at all the verses in the Bible that speak to being truly content, you'll quickly understand that Christ is the answer.
Let's pray,
Father, You've provided the only way to true peace and contentment and we thank You for that. Help us to keep this in front of us every day as we seek to live life well and abundantly, in Jesus' name. Amen.
No one is truly alone. Some people have many relatives and friends, others just a few. Occasionally, someone will have no real friends or family, but all of us interact with humans, and that over time has proven to be dicey. The health of our relationships is one of the biggest factors in how we function each day.
Turmoil and chaos at home or work or both puts us in emotional quicksand. On the other hand, healthy relationships in our lives improve our overall health and make us more productive.
In Genesis, God modeled right relationships for humans, and this model continues through the Bible right to the end in Revelation. From this, we see that our first priority in relationships is to be in fellowship with our creator. Get that one right and everything else flows. Following close behind is finding harmony in our human relationships, and getting this right is crucial to finding peace.
Ephesians 4:2–3 says, “Be completely humble and gentle. Be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Most people are familiar with the well-known Bible verses that deal with relationships, such as Paul's wisdom from Ephesians, but Scripture is loaded with helpful and healing relationship commands. We hesitate to call it advice because God doesn't really give advice. He tells us what is good for us and what may be harmful. For example, a fairly obscure passage in Job speaks to mean in any era having healthy relationships with women. In
Job 31:1 the suffering man says, “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look with lust at a young woman.” Wow, so simple, yet very important and profound.
That chapter goes on to say that God sees all that we do. He's watching how we treat people. Job made it clear that a man can decide he's going to treat women with respect. It isn't complicated or beyond our reach. So often, simply deciding to be a decent human being leads to waves of healing and peace of mind for everyone. Lots of books have been written about relationships, from marriage to raising children, but the best book of all has the best wisdom, and if you check that out, your relationships will thank you.
Let's pray.
Father God, you've given us the gift of interacting with other people. Each is unique and created special. We ask that you send the Holy Spirit to guide our relationships so that they're pleasing to you and to others. In Jesus' name. Amen.
It’s all in how you see it.
The world we live in has plenty of problems, and they are huge. Don’t need to list them here, but it’s fair to say we even suffer from some existential threats.
And yet, God’s Word tells us that this present life can have, and does have, peace. That’s our connection this week.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
Remember the story of Jim Elliot and his band of missionaries? They were killed in a jungle by the very people they were trying to reach with the Gospel. The God part of that story is that later, the dead men’s wives went back and reached that tribe for Christ! Peace settled on the creek-bed that had seen death, and there was goodwill among men that had once been at war with each other.
Peace is possible. It is possible in geopolitics, and in communities, and right there in your own heart.
Let’s pray.
Lord, no situation is too bad for you to redeem. Redeem us, Lord, so that we can redeem the time and reach others for you. Amen.
Have you ever known someone who inherited something of great value from an obscure relative? It happens.
The will is read by an attorney and all of a sudden, the beneficiary goes from struggling to pay the rent to needing a financial planner. It can be an exciting time, even disorienting.
The only downside to receiving a large inheritance is the knowledge that someday it will run out, or you die and can’t take it with you. That’s why the Bible’s revelations about eternal riches are so much more important.
Genesis 31:14 says, “Rachel and Leah said to him, ‘Do we still have any portion or inheritance in our father’s house?’”
Let’s think of this as a parable. A man took the place of another and was executed.
He was no ordinary man, though. Only a few days after His death, the will was read.
He left it all to you!
Jesus Christ died for our sins and took the penalty for them so that we don’t have to. That is what the Gospel is, the Good News that we have riches in Christ, and they last forever.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your precious gift for each of us is something we did nothing to earn. You simply decided to put us in your will. We thank you forever for your grace and mercy. Amen.
In thinking about different kinds of love, it’s a beautiful thing to realize that God has placed certain people in our lives for specific reasons.
Friendship is one of His great gifts to us, all-time.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Do you have someone in your life that is not blood-related, but it sure feels like it? In fact, often it feels like a closer relation than biological family!
Notice what the writer of Proverbs tells us: A friend does two things, loves us no matter what, and God set a time for them to stick with us when we need it the very most.
Think about that! That guy you met in third grade will impact the rest of your life. The girl who brought you a coffee on your first day n a new job was meant to do that.
As we think about all this and marvel at God’s plans, don’t forget to turn it around and think about how we can be that brother or sister to someone in your life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you so much for the friends you bring to us. Help us be worthy of such special love. Amen.
It seems that a positive in our culture today is that we can admit our shortcomings.
In the past, it was sort of taboo to tell the world you were not exactly all put together. Back in the day, a hot mess usually referred to an overturned pot on the stove. But today we know the phrase ‘hot mess’ as a whole new meaning, and our lives are often exactly that.
Thank goodness that the outcome is not dependent on us.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace. You have been saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves. It is the gift of God.”
Recognizing that you don't quite have it together is a positive first step to moving beyond your circumstances. But the real key is internalizing the fact that God, and not you, saves the day. All we can do is admit our shortcomings, and then rest in the knowledge that God has it from here, and that's an attitude the Lord will bless. God's got you covered and blessed all at the same time.
Let's pray.
Lord, you are so good to us, and you have been so much more for us than we can even imagine. Thank you for blessing us, for not leaving us where we were. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Beryl Markham could have given up her aviation dreams after crash-landing in Nova Scotia.
But she didn’t.
Instead, this determined woman became the first person to fly from England to North America. She later said that in order to move forward, we can’t stay in the past. In fact, she said, “Leave it the fastest way you can!”
This pioneer knew that staying stuck was not inevitable, that we must choose to keep our eyes on what it is we are yet to accomplish in life.
Ephesians 4:31–32 says, “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
Maybe you are letting some past hurt keep you from your destiny. Don’t waste another moment! Your future is waiting on you to turn your eyes to it, and stop staring at a past failure.
Leave your past hurts as fast as you can!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are grateful that you make a way for us to forge ahead and not be limited by the things of the past. Walk with us, always, Lord, and bless our efforts. Amen.
Have you ever paused and thought about how rarely people see you for who you are? Have you ever done something that you feel is almost unforgivable? You need to know that that is not the way God wants you to feel.
Psalm 51:10 says, "Create in me a pure heart, oh God, and renew a right spirit within me."
Some of the most famous people in history were very unrighteous at times. King David, described as a man after God's own heart, he was loved that much, did dreadful things. Guess what, though? His life ended well. God had cleaned him up on the inside.
Nothing you've done is fatal. It really isn't.
Call on God to heal you on the inside and put a spirit of love, hope, and peace in you. He will and he'll do it sooner rather than later, and you'll be able to breathe again, guaranteed.
Let's pray.
Lord, your desire to make us clean has been told for centuries. We believe it and we claim it. Thank you, father God, for the work of renewal you do all day, every day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Keeping things simple is usually the best path forward. For Christians, that means following Christ’s lead in everything.
This includes sharing and standing for our faith.
The Bible is full of examples of how Jesus did this. Occasionally he got mad, as when he threw out the moneychangers. Other times he just quietly sat and taught what His Father had shown Him.
This is our model. When you share Christ with someone and that person believes, you have been given the privilege of watching the most important moment in his or her life. Ever. To get to this moment, it will require you to be knowledgeable about your faith, balanced enough to be gentle in sharing, and sometimes edgy enough to pushback when someone mocks our Lord.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
God gave us a job to do, and one of his prophets, Jude, told us to be ready to defend the Gospel. This we are happy to do.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your wisdom is enough for us. We are always ready to defend the Good News.
Are you a person that has walked away from your faith? Maybe you believed once, very much, but it faded over time. Maybe you accepted the promises of God for a little while but then something else caught your eye.
That’s not uncommon. Starting out on fire for God and then becoming weary is something many of us have dealt with. To use a flying analogy for our talk today, sometimes your flight of faith becomes grounded.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
This famous verse, now on millions of framed prints, coffee mugs, and yes, T-shirts(!) has given hope to countless people. There are critics of the Bible, or those who claim not to believe in God, but too many people have taken it to heart and found out that the words are true. God does lift us up from our burdens, and puts us to flight. Just like a bird leaving the safe hands of its master.
If you are tired today, tell God. If you’re hiding it from family and friends, don’t try to hide it from the Lord. He knows already, anyway.
If you trust Him, freedom will follow.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies endure forever. Help us be ready to tell others about you. Amen.
One of the biggest criticisms of those who follow Jesus Christ is that such a model is very exclusive. In other words, it seems on the surface that Jesus leaves some people out of the salvation plan, because He says that He is the only way to God.
But what is He really telling us?
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Jesus is actually showing us the way. He gives us the path to being reconciled with God the Father. Sin separated us from Him long ago, but in His mercy, we can find eternal peace. In that way, we are able to fill the “God-shaped” hole in us. Solomon wrote about that.
When it comes to loyalty, we see that Jesus is in fact totally inclusive. He offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin for all men, women, and children in every era of history. What could be more open and loving than that?
If you’ve rejected Christ because you heard His love isn’t inclusive enough, we hope you’ll realize the opposite is true. He loves everyone equally.
Especially you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word shows us the expansive love that you have for all people. Help us share that Good News with everyone we come in contact with. Amen.
In the last century, a 4'10" woman from England answered the call of God to become a missionary in China. Her accomplishments there, especially in saving orphaned children during war and conflict, have made her sort of a legend.
Near the end of her life, Gladys Aylward gave an interview in which she said the most amazing thing — something that could only have come from the heart of a truly humble servant:
I wasn’t God’s first choice for what I’ve done for China. There was somebody else…I don’t know who it was—God’s first choice. It must have been a man—a wonderful man. A well-educated man. I don’t know what happened. Perhaps he died. Perhaps he wasn’t willing…And God looked down…and saw Gladys Aylward.
Ephesians 4:1–3 says, “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
If you remember who you are in Christ, and remember that only through His strength can you accomplish anything worthy of leaving a legacy, you’ll find contentment that most only dream of.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a humble heart in everything we do. Amen.
Have you ever tried to follow God in a half-hearted way? You know what that means. You like the idea of God, but His perfect will for our lives also can feel restrictive.
That’s the moment you are walking along the highway of life completely alone.
Proverbs 3:5–6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Notice the precise language in these beautiful verses. We are to trust Him with all of our heart. Don’t take your eyes off Him and follow your own choices. Be upfront that He is your peace. It’s then He picks you up, protects you, and carries you home.
Today is the day you’re thinking about all this. You’ve messed up. You’ve messed up in the most spectacular and disheartening way.
And it is exactly at this moment that God is ready to do the greatest miracle in your life. Tell him you’ve screwed up and have no idea where to turn.
There—you’re learning to completely trust Him. Commit your life to Him, and be consistent about it from now on.
Remember today: the turning point to an awesome future!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to reject our own flawed wisdom and rely totally on yours. Amen.
It's amazing how important the right perspective is in helping us maintain a healthy balance in every area of life. Alphonse Karr has said, “Some people grumble that roses have thorns. I'm grateful that thorns have roses.” Isn't that amazing? It's so common to gripe and complain about negatives, yet we don't see the great things right in front of our faces.
Derek Carpenter has written, “The benefits of practicing gratitude are nearly endless. People who regularly practice gratitude by taking time to notice and reflect upon the things they're thankful for experience more positive emotions, feel more alive, sleep better, express more compassion and kindness, and even have stronger immune systems.” Just one of those benefits would be worth the effort, but in fact, there are tons more.
Research tells us that you can improve your business by genuinely thanking employees. In turn, they develop more self-worth and confidence. This filters down through the company as workers help each other and their bosses. Remember the genuinely part. Most people can spot fake praise. Make it real.
Showing gratitude toward the one you love also boosts the relationship and has been proven to build trust. Ephesians 1:16 says, “I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.”
One more. Have you ever been depressed? In 2005, a positive psychology study found that a single act of kindness lessened depression by 35%. The effect lasted for several weeks. Next time you're blue, do something nice for someone else, and track your own mood.
Consider keeping a brief log of your daily blessings. You might put these in your phone or a small notebook. Wherever you record them, track how your moods and physical health may improve.
Getting into a habit of being grateful can change your life and the lives of others. One more tangible benefit to be thankful for.
Let's pray.
Father God, we get in a rut, stuck in our own problems and bad moods. Help us to see that a heart of gratitude can bring positive changes to our lives and to the lives of those we encounter on a daily basis. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
John Kralik was in a bad place. The LA attorney was generally miserable…divorced again, broke, and living in a dingy apartment with no air conditioning. He was also struggling to pay his employees because clients wouldn't pay him. Not exactly glamorous, but then John did an amazing thing. He decided he would concentrate on things to be grateful for, and follow that up with writing a thank you note every day for an entire year.
Over time, and not too slowly actually, John's life began to improve. Life looked good again. One of the greatest outcomes has been the influence he's had on others. His book, “A Simple Act of Gratitude: How Learning To Say Thank You Changed My Life” sold like crazy. He said that the year-long thank you notes helped him prioritize good things, and helped him focus on that.
John also has noticed a really interesting thing. A person's natural tendency is to focus on nine things that go wrong. Yet what would happen if we focused instead on even a single good thing? He understands that we all can help each other. Rising tide lifts all boats, as they say. Just as we can help others form the discipline of gratitude, they can be our accountability in a very real way.
Every day we can text, email, call, or otherwise communicate to friends and family things that we're grateful for. In turn, we can receive their good reports.
Colossians 3:15 says, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts to which indeed you were called in one body and be thankful.”
Whether it's a community of believers or simply the wider culture, we can help each other every single day by passing along what we're grateful for. There's power in telling another what they mean to you, or passing along thanks for something as simple as a shared meal. Such a choice doesn't cost anything, but it piles up spiritual treasure for us. Pretty soon you'll be grateful just for being grateful.
Let's pray.
Father God, your blessings to us are endless. From the perfect distance from the sun for proper warmth and light to the love that you placed in our hearts for family and friends, you're a good God and you're deserving of our praise. We look forward to a glorious future with you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
From the Bible, we know that a consistent heart of gratitude keeps us in harmony in our relationship with God, but in a practical sense, how do we maintain it and how can we be intentional?
A first clue is the example of Paul. Philippians 4:12–13 says, “I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I've learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
Notice that the famous preacher trained his mind and heart to be always grateful. This meant a conscious, daily, hourly focus on the good things God has brought him. And sometimes we're down to basics on this. Life, food to eat, clothes to wear, shelter. That's all many people have, and it's easy — living in the US especially — to forget that our basic needs are met. But choosing gratitude is key.
The actor Will Arnett does this. He says, “I'm happy because I'm grateful, and I choose to be grateful. That gratitude allows me to be happy.” Another way to maintain a grateful heart is being very mindful every day of what God has gifted us with. Music icon Willie Nelson understands the value of such an attitude. He says, “When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.” Take stock every day and actually list the things you're grateful for. Soon enough, it'll be part of your daily routine.
A third way to maintain a grateful heart is to choose to focus on the positive. There's enough junk in the world. What you choose to focus on will in large part define you. It's sort of like a natural law. If you do an act of kindness for someone, or sit for 20 minutes watching a gorgeous sunset instead of scrolling through the news on your phone, you'll find that joy and a grateful heart become your reality. God loves you. Start your journey toward gratitude with that.
Let's pray.
Father God, no one can stop us from thanking you for your love and grace. That's our first step toward having a grateful heart. From breathing clean air to enjoying a holiday with family and friends, we commit ourselves to a life of gratitude. In Jesus' name. Amen.
New York Times writer Arthur Brooks once cooked a Thanksgiving dinner for his in-laws in Spain. Over dinner, a couple of questions were asked. The first, “What does this beast eat to be so filled with bread?”, and then, “Should you celebrate this holiday even if you don't feel grateful?”
The first question is just funny. The second should give us all pause. Being grateful is a state of mind. It's intentional. Too many times, we get caught up in what we don't have, and let's be honest, as Americans, we have a lot.
In Psalm 97:12, we read, “Be glad in the Lord, you righteous ones, and give thanks to his holy name.”
Robert Emmons, a professor of psychology at the University of California Davis says, “There's a magnetic appeal to gratitude,” and that it speaks to a need that's deeply entrenched.
In the Bible, there are powerful examples of people who were grateful for everything God had given them.
In First Samuel, we read about Hannah, who was childless until her sustained prayer moved God's heart. When she gave birth to Samuel, she was so grateful that she took him to the temple and dedicated his life to service to the Lord. In the gospels of Matthew and Luke, a Roman centurion asked Jesus to heal his servant who was deathly ill. Though Jesus offered to go to his house, the centurion was so appreciative, his faith compelled him to say that he knew Jesus could heal the servant without traveling to the home, and Jesus rewarded this gratitude by healing the servant in just that way.
Gratitude multiplies itself. Once you become intentional about practicing gratitude, you practice it more and more, and in turn, your faith grows so much that others notice, and in becoming this kind of example, you'll never have to ask if you should be grateful, even if you don't feel like it. You'll feel like it all the time.
Let's pray.
Father, we want to practice daily gratitude for all you've graciously given us. Praising you with our prayers, and being intentional with our gratitude honors you and settles our hearts. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Psychologists and self-help gurus will all tell us that a grateful heart and a positive outlook will do wonders for health and relationships. A person with a heart of gratitude will be seen by others who will want to follow, and see what he has going for him.
Such a person is a magnet for sharing the Gospel, and the greatest source of wisdom has much to say on the subject. Dozens of times in the Bible, we read about the value of gratitude. Paul mentions it several times, including in the account of Elisha healing a woman’s sick son.
We read in 2 Kings 4:37, “She fell at his feet and bowed before him, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she took her son in her arms and carried him downstairs.”
To be overwhelmed with gratitude, is an emotional reaction to kindness.
Lamentations 3:22–24 says, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in him.’”
This is especially interesting because to lament means a person is sorrowful about something. In this case, it’s the prophet, Jeremiah. But notice, even in his grief he focuses on God’s love and care for him. He is grateful in his circumstances. In modern language, Jeremiah was being intentional about his gratitude.
The Bible tells us there are many variations of gratitude. In Second Corinthians, Paul even expressed his deep gratefulness to God for allowing him to participate in sharing the Gospel. You see, a truly grateful heart transitions from selfishness, to concern for others. And we can do the same thing today. When we focus on others, gratitude follows.
In Philippians 4, Paul also passes along a profound life lesson. Here, he says that we can learn to be grateful in all circumstances. Think about that. Grateful — whether in distress, or good times. Abundance, or poverty.
A few years ago, a youth missions group was repairing homes damaged by storms in Louisiana. A girl entered a house that was missing part of its roof, and she found an elderly woman rocking in a chair in a bedroom. “Oh, I’m just so happy to have a dry place to sit,” the woman said. She literally had no other dry areas in her home to be until help could arrive. Yet she didn’t complain about her circumstances. Instead, she gave thanks to the Lord, and in so doing — inspired that 16-year-old girl.
Gratitude is a perpetual gift, to us, and to others.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you are good. You’re good to us every day, and we are thankful for that. We’re grateful that you didn’t leave us in our sins, but you sent Jesus. We’re grateful that you sustain us always, in body and in spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Clive Staples Lewis was successful. A British writer and theologian, his work has become very famous. When Lewis wrote his classic Surprised by Joy, he was emphasizing the fact that true joy comes from a place we cannot create, but only claim and receive.
His story really brings a point to our weeklong series about asking the Lord for help when we are at the end of our rope.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
In Surprised by Joy, Lewis compares joy to a signpost in a deep wood, pointing us to safety. Lewis was an intellectual and well-known as an atheist, until he reached a point where life had no real meaning. He realized—not too late—that it isn’t weakness to reach out to God.
If you’re in a deep wood and can’t find your way out—if the sun is setting—stop and ask Jesus for the thing you need the most. Think about the implications of the psalm: He is telling you that you will receive what you asked for; it’s already done!
Lewis thought of himself as a “complete man” once he found the Lord.
The same thing can happen for you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, life has ups and downs. We need you to be there for us, with us, all the way. Amen.
We look for things and stuff to make us happy, don’t we? Especially in America, where we are blessed with abundance, people from all walks of life look for more and more.
That can bring us to an empty place. Spiritually and emotionally, we look in the wrong places.
But as we’ve discussed this week, that spark of joy we look for can be found only in Jesus. Everything else is, yes, clutter.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
This plays out over and over every day. We see this in dramatic ways when a famous person turns from materialism and empty fame, and finds Jesus. Someone like that, who has experienced uncommon wealth, comes to a place where Jesus must be dealt with.
Are you tired of your empty pursuits? Has the excitement over a new career or expensive car worn off? If you’re listening and nodding, do this today: tell Jesus what’s in your heart and head. He said to ask.
Ask.
Receive His joy. Then you’ll be complete. You will be uncluttered.
He’s literally waiting for you to sit down and tell Him all about it.
Let’s pray. Lord, refresh us and renew us. Clean our hearts and minds. We know you can and will. We receive that! Amen.
Solomon was one of the most amazing men in all of history. The King of Israel, the son of the famous David, was so rich he got bored. In fact, some believe he was the wealthiest man of all time. In terms of money, he was the Jeff Bezos of his time.
But the Bible tells us his story, and doesn’t spare any truth in doing it. Solomon accomplished great things, but at great spiritual cost.
After awhile, he discovered the secret to real success, and that is what we’re talking about today and all week: finding our Source.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Solomon, you see, had wealth, power, fame, and relationships. But he saw that nothing really satisfied except knowing God. In fact, he asked God for wisdom!
Think about that. The king of an ancient empire could have had anything. Imagine a powerful being grants you three wishes. Most people in Solomon’s place would have asked for the usual.
Yet Solomon asked God first for wisdom. And the rest, as they say, was history. God gave him that wisdom, then added riches beyond measure.
Do you see? We are to ask for the right things, then other good things will find their way to us.
Let’s pray. Lord, your wisdom is the well we draw from. Thank you for not leaving us to our own solutions. Amen.
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Life is a process. We know that if we’ve lived very long at all. And this week, we’re talking about the process of trusting God.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Could Jesus meet our needs by just giving us something instantly? Of course. He made everything! And sometimes He does that; the miracles he performed that are recorded in the New Testament tell us that he often instantly met a person’s need.
But He doesn’t always work that way. That’s because Jesus loves to teach us.
In the book of John, He is telling us the steps necessary to trust Him for provision. First, we ask. Then we learn to receive His good gifts. Finally, we feel real joy, because we know exactly where it came from.
This process is designed to teach us faith, and then to be genuinely appreciative to the Lord for meeting our needs. All through the Bible, we are told that He delights in helping us, in loving us through tough times. The older we get, the more we are able to look back and see that He and He alone brought us through.
There is usually no other explanation.
And that is called a miracle.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are dependent on you for everything, and we are blessed that you are our Source. Amen.
Isn’t it funny how we come to certain conclusions in life fairly late? In other words, sometimes the obvious things aren’t obvious until we’ve stumbled around on our own, trying to find a solution.
Take the simple act of asking for help. It isn’t uncommon for a person to be reluctant to ask for help. Then he finds he wasted a lot of time!
That’s what we’re talking about this week.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Jesus makes it simple. Here He is telling us that we don’t have what we need because we haven’t asked. That’s an amazing concept, but one He has proved many times.
Are you in a serious situation right now? Do you have a big need? Are you depressed because of a relationship, struggling at work, or overwhelmed by a health or financial situation?
Why don’t you try just telling Jesus what your problem is? Yes, He already knows, but you participate in the solution by entering into a relationship with Him. Talk to him, and take comfort in the fact that He knows everything about you. He isn’t judging you when you ask. He just listens.
And if you think all this is childish…be a kid today! Ask Jesus to help you, He’ll answer, and your faith will surge.
Let’s pray.
Lord, forgive us for not trusting you. You are a good God, and your love is appreciated. Amen.
Have you ever seen the film, “Saving Private Ryan?” If not, it’s about a group of American soldiers sent into enemy territory during World War 2 to find one lost soldier. The order comes from top leadership.
This small group has single focus the whole mission. Eventually—at great cost—they locate him and return him to his loved ones. Much of it is difficult to watch, as we see the incredible sacrifice the many make to find the one.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Long ago, Jesus did the same thing for all of us. God sent His Only Son to find those that are lost.
If you feel totally lost, call on the Lord. Just tell Jesus you really need Him. Then you’ll have your own memorable story to share! Jesus loves you and will find you if you call on Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you forever for the sacrifice Your Son made for us, to take our sin. We love you for it. Amen.
Of all the themes of the Bible, God's grace through His Son, Jesus Christ, is the greatest example. It's the most critical element in a person's life, and the choice to receive it is ours.
The Bible tells us that before the world was created, God already had a plan to redeem mankind from sin. And because He knows all, He already knew what would take place in the Garden of Eden. Acts 15:11 says, “We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved just as they are.” The greatest act of grace then was given at the cross, when Jesus willingly died in our place.
Because God is all-knowing and all-powerful, He decides what is best for human beings. And since He cannot tolerate sin, someone had to stand in as a substitute. Otherwise, each of us would be required to receive the punishment for sin, which is death. And Jesus took all of that away from us. In Isaiah 50 and in Psalm 22, we read very graphic descriptions of the ways Jesus suffered during the crucifixion. He himself tells us what it was like.
In the Greek and Hebrew, the concept of grace is a picture of someone stooping to help another, and more specifically, it is a picture of a superior person freely offering to help a person in great need, and incapable of doing it for himself. 2 Timothy 1 gives us a clear picture of how God's grace came into the world, emphasizing that we can do nothing to earn it, and this requires us to get rid of our pride. The passage also tells us that this grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time.
Although we think of the Old Testament as more about law, while the New Testament focuses on grace, there are examples in the Old Testament reminding us that God has never abandoned anyone in any era. Whether you have plenty and don't feel you need any help from God or you're in great need, won't you consider accepting the free gift of salvation and forgiveness of sins that God is offering?
Let's pray.
Father, just like the old hymn says, Jesus paid it all, and that reality fills us with joy. Our salvation promises that one day when you make all things new, we will be able to fully enjoy that grace for all eternity. You are the great God, and we praise you for your grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Corrie ten Boom made a decision at the height of World War II. She would hide Jews from the Nazis in her Dutch home, and she was found out. Surviving the war, she told people for the rest of her life about God's grace. Though her sister, Betsy, died at the notorious camp called Ravensbrück, Corrie survived.
One night two years after the war, she found out just how meaningful grace really is. After she had spoken to a group of Germans, a man approached her. She then realized that he had been a guard at Ravensbrück. He told her that her talk was very meaningful to him, and that since the war he had become a Christian. He put his hand out and asked her for forgiveness.
Not so easy to acknowledge, Corrie realized. For an eternity of seconds, she couldn't make her hand move, but when she did and reached for his hand, she said it was like an electric current running through her arm. She told the former guard that she did forgive him, and that single act made all the difference.
Ephesians 4:7 says, “But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of the gift of Christ.”
In our lives we want grace, but we struggle when God gives that same grace to people we feel don't deserve it. But that's the point of grace as we've already discussed. God's grace is favor given that is not deserved. We can't do anything to receive it. The Lord offers it for free.
Maybe you haven't done anything in life as bad as that Nazi guard, but the Bible says that God hates sin, and sin comes in many forms and we're all sinners. It was Alexander Solzhenitsyn that said, “The line dividing good and evil cuts through the heart of every human being.”
In a sense, underneath it all, we're all that camp guard. His horrific sin was out in the open and the pain of that time still affects people, but a woman he persecuted decided to model the love of Christ in forgiveness and that was a moment of divine grace. The Bible is full of stories of God giving his grace freely to people who are broken in one way or another. Our loving Father gave it to them free of charge, the same way he gives it to you.
Let's pray.
Father God, sometimes we just don't understand. Injustice bothers us. Please help us to see that you look on all of us—everyone—with compassion. You gave your son to pay the penalty for the sins of people the world over. Help us to see others, God, the way that you see them. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Theresa Rosenthal had a rough start in life. She watched her father abuse her mother, and then when she was six, a family friend sexually abused her. Like so many that suffered at the hands of a predator, Theresa pushed the pain down into a secret place, and for decades, she battled with depression and substance abuse. Finally, one day she was sitting in front of her house and just blurted out to God, “What am I supposed to do?”
Within 24 hours, she had a Bible from a new friend who reached out to her, and even though some of Theresa's bad choices would land her in jail, her friend and that Bible were constant sources of healing. Today, she's a member of a loving church, and she tells anyone who will listen about God's grace in her life.
Daniel 4:2 says, “I thought it good to declare the signs and wonders that the most high God has done for me.”
Too often we are too tribal. We think God only works in our circles, but the fact is, God has always been the definition of inclusive. The Bible makes it very clear that God's grace is available to anyone in all times and places.
Matthew 5:45 is a very interesting verse that illustrates this. It says, “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”
That's fascinating. What might seem unusual or even unjust to us is routine for God. Because God takes the long view. He knows that our lives on Earth are brief. So if he gives grace to a bad person, he's thinking of that person's eternal place. And let's face it, there are plenty of times in our lives that we didn't deserve grace. But he gave it anyway.
In God's economy, a Babylonian brickmaker from 3,000 years ago is as valuable as you are. Theresa Rosenthal was warmed by that grace at a time when she was doing drugs and spiraling into depression, and she had no ability to improve her life. And that's the point of grace. God gives it to a variety of people and circumstances. And life would be unbearable without it.
Let's pray.
Father God, your grace sustains us, in bad times and in good times, and we might take our focus off you. Sometimes that grace is almost unseen. We might not be aware of it until years later when looking back gives us insight. Thank you for giving us what we don't deserve. In Jesus' name. Amen.
It's been said that grace is simply favor from God, and we didn't do anything to earn it. Often, grace comes when we need it the most.
The word grace is used about 170 times in the Bible. Most of those occur in the New Testament as the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ unfolds. His sacrifice for all of us, dying on the cross for our sins, was the backdrop for a lot of other moments in grace He gave to those He came in contact with.
Jesus perfectly understood that there's a lot of suffering in the world. Those poignant moments when He stooped to heal a person in distress or when He unlocked the emotional chains of people like Zacchaeus and Mary Magdalene. That is supernatural grace. Grace is a moment in time when the living God intervenes in someone's life. We often hear stories of people being surprised by grace. It arrives when they least expect it, but is really needed. James 4:6 says, “But he gives us more grace.” That is why scripture says, “God opposes the proud, but shows favor to the humble.”
What we learn about grace from the Bible is that although God is the originator, we are also capable of giving grace.
Is there someone in your life that you need to forgive? Maybe that person is badly in need of that forgiveness. Swallow your pride and give that grace. There are many more ways to give grace. That family in your church that is struggling financially. Can you find a way to discreetly help them out? That kind of grace can be just the boost people need to rise above their circumstances. Some people are prideful, but the truth is all of us need God's grace. We need it for the duration. So think about that the next time a grudge or stubborn pride is blocking you from being a blessing to others. One day you might just find yourself on the other end of that situation.
Let's pray.
Father God, you are so good to us, all the time. If we stop and think about the unmerited favor you give us each day, amazing. Help us to keep this in mind as we find ways to pay it forward in our daily walk. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Few of us enjoy chaos. It's just too…chaotic, right? The human mind needs order and peace, yet we live in this messy world. Stuff is flying by all the time and we duck. Our relationships are a mess and we have to schedule that root canal while simultaneously making dinner and cleaning the house.
Is there a way out?
Genesis 1:1 says, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and empty. Darkness was over the surface of the deep and the spirit of God was hovering over the waters."
It's all perspective.
Yes, you might have 100 things to do before 4:00 PM today, but remind yourself of this: Sometimes we miss the best days of our lives because we don't focus on the good.
God brought order out of a vast chaos long ago, formless…empty—to create a world of beauty. And He did it because He loved us. If He can handle that, can we handle our busy day of meetings and yes, even that root canal? I think we can.
Pray with me.
Lord, our lives get so busy we forget you made order out of chaos. Help us to slow down our brains and our hearts and learn to savor the moment. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Have you ever tried to follow God in a half-hearted way? You know what that means. You like the idea of God, but His perfect will for our lives can also feel very…restrictive.
That’s the moment we walk along the highway of life completely alone.
Proverbs 3:5–6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Notice the precise language in these verses. We are to trust Him with all of our heart. Don’t take your eyes off Him and follow your own choices. Be upfront that He is your peace. It’s then He picks you up, protects you, and carries you home.
Today is the day you’re thinking about all this. You’ve messed up. You’ve messed up in the most spectacular and disheartening way.
And it’s exactly at this moment that God is ready to do the greatest miracle in your life. Tell him you’ve messed up, and have no idea where to turn.
There—you’re learning to completely trust Him. Commit your life to Him, and be consistent about it.
Remember: the turning point to an awesome future begins with reliance on God. Commit your ways to Him, and He will direct your paths.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to reject our own flawed wisdom, and rely totally on yours. Amen.
Do you remember the last time you laughed? Do you remember the last time you laughed from sheer joy?
Many of us don’t. The weight of life presses down on us…it weakens us.
Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
Did you know that God means for you to be strong? He wants you to have dignity. You are a child of the King. You are a woman of faith. Or maybe you are a man who seeks God.
That beautiful proverb reminds us that it is God Himself who dresses us each day with the respect He has for us as His creation. Because of His favor and His blessing, you can meet today with boldness in who you are, not shaking with fear or worry.
So, today as you head to work or as you do whatever you’re about to do, take as your own promise that the all-powerful, true God made you to live this life not with fear of the future, but with strength and dignity — because you know what’s in store for you, in the next.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are better than what the enemy tells us we are. Thank you for clothing us in strength and in confidence each day. We get that strength only from you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Colossians is a very informative book. Originally, it was a letter written by Paul and Timothy to believers in a small city. Chapter One tells us that Jesus made everything we see (and plenty we don’t see!). The universe was brought into being by Him.
That’s kind of a comforting thought! This great source of Love also made it all and He sustains it all.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Many people, maybe rightly so, worry about the planet. Certainly, there are lots of issues that are problematic.
But what if we focused on the fact that everything Jesus has told us is 100 percent true? That would mean that He sustains our beautiful planet, so designed for human life to thrive.
It also means He sees into your heart and mind and knows just what you need.
He holds you together.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your sustaining work keeps evil at bay in our world. We are grateful for your promises for the future. Amen.
Are you struggling right now? Are you listening to this while gripping the steering wheel, wondering how you’re going to go on? You have so many burdens!
1 Thessalonians 5:23 says, “May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit, soul, and body—and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ.”
He has a purpose for you; He really does. God wants to use you for things no one else can do. And He wants you to do it while at peace. Maybe your biggest dream died a really spectacular death, like, one that everyone saw and still talks about.
That doesn’t matter now. The only thing that matters is that you call on Jesus to comfort you and show you the way. Ask Him to do that right now, right where you are.
He wants you to be whole and healthy. And if you ask Him also to help you live a holy life, you will clean, really clean inside and out.
This is very personal. You might feel that you don’t have anyone to turn to. That’s a lie from the enemy. Your savior and your champion says otherwise.
Turn to Him right now.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for making us complete people, capable of sharing the Good News with everyone we come in contact with. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Since before the world was created, God has had a master plan to deliver people from evil. He cared for us so much that he was willing to endure pain to redeem us. In Acts 14:20, we read about Jesus and the disciples preaching in a city called Derbe. It says that Jesus then was busy, strengthening the souls of his disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations, we must enter the kingdom of God.
God wants us to know that the journey we are on ends with a destination. And along the journey, we must be prepared to endure hardship for his sake. His compassion for the whole world is summed in maybe the most famous verse in all scripture, John 3:16. It says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only son that whosoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” And that's it. That's the whole point of living this Christian life. It isn't complicated in terms of understanding. But it can be hard to live out.
There are currently 7.4 billion people on the planet, and most have not received Christ. Many have not even heard of Him yet, hard as that is to believe. There is still a lot of work to be done.
700 years before Jesus, the prophet Isaiah saw God's throne in a vision. And the Lord said there, “Who can we send? Who will go for us?” Isaiah eagerly said, “Here I am. Send me.” This is the willing heart God is looking for. We live in this world, with all its misery and beauty and chaos and harmony. We are to share the Good News of Jesus. If we do that from a willing heart, God is faithful to use our efforts to advance his kingdom, and that is our purpose.
Would you pray with me?
Father God, your great plan from the beginning is right on schedule. It's always on schedule. We love you. Nothing and no one stops you from accomplishing your will. See us through to the end, Lord, that we can accomplish your will for our lives. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Many times over the centuries, earnest Christians have run out into the world to aggressively and passionately share Jesus, and the world doesn't always want to hear it.
John 15:19 says, “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own and as it is you don't belong to the world. But I have chosen you out of the world, and that is why the world hates you.” And this is a hard truth. It's discouraging to missionaries at home and in other countries who want nothing more than to see everyone saved. The Bible even tells us that God wants all people to be saved, and that's the goal. Yet we know that'll never be.
Jesus brought life-giving truth to the masses in His day. Some of them tried to kill Him, and of course, some were eager to see Him crucified. His reminder to us is that if we have the mind of Christ in the modern world, things might get dicey for us. It's not like hoards of people are beating down the doors of churches so that they can hear and believe. In this fallen and sinful state, man runs from the things of God; both the Bible and history document this. In Roman times, the empire hunted Christians. They were even fed to wild animals for sport. It's been that way all through the modern era. Remember the photos in recent years of ISIS terrorists escorting captured Christians to their executions? Pagan minds fight against God.
Knowing these things, we must resolve to ask God for courage to speak when opportunities present themselves. We also must keep in mind that boldness for Christ will cost us something…maybe everything. God in His Word also assures us that some are being saved, kingdom is being added to daily, and this reality is enough for us to continue to be salt and light in a dark world.
Let's pray.
Father God, we ask you earnestly, send your spirit to people who need to hear your Word. Help us to be willing to share Christ, even when it's dangerous or uncomfortable. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Charles Templeton was surging ahead in ministry. Converted at 21, by 1946, the Canadian evangelist founded Youth For Christ. Billy Graham was hired as the organization's first full-time evangelist, and he and Templeton toured Europe together.
A decade later, after a turn at Princeton Theological Seminary and after wrestling with doubt, Templeton began to identify as agnostic, and his world would never be the same. Colossians 2:8 says, “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world and not according to Christ.”
Sometimes for various reasons, people walk away from their faith. In the strictest definition of this, one becomes an apostate. Sometimes a person goes on quietly about his or her life. Other times the effects are far-reaching. Joseph Stalin once studied for the priesthood, then he read Karl Marx. It's often true that the people who are most passionate about sharing Christ can also sort of burn out. They run hot for a long time, and then the bottom falls out.
We've all seen celebrities that claim to know God. Some even identify as Christian, but their lives are anything but, and this calls to mind the famous passage in Matthew 13:20–22, in which the parable is given of seed being thrown onto various kinds of soil. Some of the seed, which represents the gospel, finds its way onto rocky ground or among weeds. Those hearing the Word at first are taken with it, but later abandon the faith. In the Old Testament, some good life lessons were given to the Israelites who struggled living among pagan nations. Jeremiah 10:2 says, “Thus says the Lord, learn not the way of the nations, nor be dismayed at the signs of the heavens because the nations are dismayed at them.” The idea was to maintain spiritual purity so that the storms of life would not take away a person's faith.
We're the same way today. If we aren't careful, the world can look too good, and before long we're looking in the rearview mirror at a faith that we once had.
Let's pray.
Father God, help us to always keep in mind the gift that Jesus gave us on the cross. Help us daily to meditate on your grace and the mercy for our lives so that we can stay spiritually healthy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
There are different schools of thought about just how Christians should share their worldview in a world often at odds with God's best.
Some feel it's best to jump into the deep end of the pool and look just like the world. Others view it very much the other way. Second Corinthians 6:17 says, “‘Come out from them and be separate,’ says the Lord.” Whole denominations have used this verse to encourage believers to stay as much out of the world as possible. And this might include physically removing yourself to a remote location, giving up television, or providing an education in the home.
Now, we should note that there's nothing wrong or unhealthy with resisting the world's temptations. That should probably be tempered, though, with a common sense approach. If it's impossible to physically remove yourself from the culture, what do you do? Balanced biblical approach should be the ideal.
In 1 Peter 2:1, we are told to put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy, and all slander. In other words, don't do the things that unbelievers do. They don't know God, and so they don't have rules to live by. That kind of life is ultimately destructive.
Rather, we should be Christ-like in our approach to people. And at the same time, we have to make sure that we look after our own spiritual condition and constantly do an assessment. Proverbs 4:23 tells us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” It's true that some people are won to Christ by believers who look like the world.
There's nothing wrong with that. And again, a Christian as passionate as Paul said, “Sometimes he was all things to all people.” But it's also true that some are won to Christ because the Christian they're watching is so different from the world. Philippians 2:14–15 says, “Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent children of God without blemish, in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation among whom you shine as lights in the world.”
By remembering that we're citizens of God's kingdom at the same time we live in this fallen world, we strike the proper balance and can then be that example Christ commanded us to be.
Let's pray.
Lord, help us to remember who we are in Christ. Give us a desire and a passion to witness to those who need to hear it, and at the same time, to guard our own hearts, that we don't stray from the things that you've taught us. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Sweat was pouring off Peter as he moved to protect Jesus. As Roman soldiers held the one who had been labeled a heretic, Peter drew a sword and cut off a soldier's ear. And he was stunned when Jesus told him to put the sword away. You see, Jesus knew infinitely more than Peter or anyone else, He knew the end from the beginning, and He knew He had an agenda to see through to the end, and Peter couldn't see that. And impulsively He moved to change the facts on the ground.
And that's so typical of us as humans. The authentic Christian wants to do something to fix things or change the world. The theologian, Francis Schaeffer, wrote a whole book titled, How Should We Then Live, on the role of a Christian in the modern world. And there are arguments over whether America is still a Christian nation or whether postmodernism has won the day.
But what does the Bible say about being a witness in the world? Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Notice it doesn't say engage. We're in fact told not to become like the world in all its anti-God stuff. Yet we also know one of the last things Jesus said to his disciples before he ascended into heaven was that we should go into all the world and make disciples. The Apostle Paul made an interesting observation in 1 Corinthians 9. He said that he was free from conformity to the world. It had nothing he coveted. But that he chose to be a servant to all, so that his example might win some to Christ.
In Hebrews 13, we're told to practice hospitality. And this echoes many Old Testament passages, too. The idea is a believer is to be an example of what life with God looks like in hopes it will draw unbelievers. And this must be done with sincerity, though, especially in our jaded modern culture. 1 Corinthians 10 tells us, whatever we do, do it for the glory of God alone.
To sum up, the Bible tells us to absolutely live in this world and be appealing to people. But to do all this while holding onto our convictions. Balancing being a gospel witness, while also being seen as personable is the approach for our modern world. Let's pray.
Father God, you've given us direction for all that we do. Help us to continually have a burden for the lost and to always remember we're to be salt and light for a hurting world. It's in Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
America has always acknowledged God. Sometimes though, our devotion to faith comes and goes. Sometimes we get too comfortable, and forget who keeps us upright every day.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
Whenever a person questions God’s goodness, or the path He has set for us, it’s good to go to the Bible. There, we find the answer to why we should honor our Lord.
It’s because He has loved us. He has been faithful to us.
He deserves our notice. He is the One we should be all-in for, all the time.
Remember the timeless Walt Whitman poem, in which he referred to the beloved President Lincoln as “O Captain, my Captain!” Whitman was honoring the man who saved the Union. The President rightly was seen as an important figure; after all, he gave his life for his country.
But the Lord Jesus Christ is our real Captain, our General, for all time. He gave His life for each of us the world over.
Glory to God! Let’s honor Him every way we can.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have many examples from history of people who sacrificed and deserve our respect. To you, we give our full allegiance, now and forever! Amen.
Have you ever had a power outage and pulled out your favorite flashlight, only to discover the batteries are dead? Bummer, am I right?
How about light bulbs? For some reason, they all seem to go at the same time, leaving you in the shadows and looking for that flashlight—you know, the one with the dead batteries!
Light bulbs burn out, tires go flat, umbrellas turn inside out on a windy day, and batteries die. Many of the things we use on a frequent basis are designed to be temporary — and sometimes they let us down when we need them the most.
Lamentations 3:22–23 says, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfulness.”
God’s Holy Word, the Bible, promises that His compassion never fails. Each day is a new opportunity to experience God’s love and benefit from His grace, and His faithfulness to us will never end. Not because we’ve earned the Lord’s favor—simply because He loves us.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, your mercy is new every morning, and your steadfast love for us is amazing. Thank you for loving us so much, and thank you that we can depend on you, always. Amen.
Ever have the pleasure of waking up in a cozy cabin…after you’ve let the fire go out from the night before? If you don’t get out of bed and put more wood in, the squirrels or raccoons aren’t going to do it for you!
Much more serious is the tendency to get lazy about the fire inside us to share the love of Christ. After so many years of being a Christian—especially living in a free country—sharing the Gospel can be put on the back burner.
Romans 12:11–12 says, “Never let the fire in your heart go out. Keep it alive. Serve the Lord. When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful.”
Do you see what God is urging us to do in Scripture? He says to never let the fire go out! Never doesn’t mean sometimes, when we’re tired or annoyed about something. This is too important to mess up. Remember that Jesus saved you. More than likely, someone keeping their own inner fire going saw you through the eyes of compassion.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a passion for the souls of all people, at all times. And help us be ready to share Christ with them. Amen.
Emma used her hand to brush her husband’s white hair from his forehead…Edgar was near death.
Their marriage had been happy, and now she was saying goodbye. The nursing staff talked about the love between the two. Only three days after Edgar went into eternity, Emma joined him.
The Bible often uses marriage as a backdrop for what God has done for us. We know that in earthly marriages, it’s important to persevere. When we think of the Fruit of the Spirit, patience is very closely linked to faithfulness. It is the act of sticking with someone or something, all the way to the end.
Proverbs 3:3 says, “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.”
Our loving Father has been with us every step of the way. The faithfulness of God is an awesome thing to see and experience, and we know His promises always come true.
He is waiting for us at the end, with outstretched arms. In the tough times, think about that—imagine Him there. It makes the wait worth it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are faithful to your people all the time, in every circumstance. We are grateful that you love us this much. Amen.
Joshua was called by God to lead the 12 tribes of Israel after the death of Moses. Those were pretty big shoes to fill, and the Lord chose Joshua because he was faithful.
Joshua knew when he called on God in times of trouble, He would answer.
In one powerful example, Joshua asked God to cause the moon and the sun to stand still so that he and his army could continue fighting a difficult battle by daylight.
Joshua 10:12–13 says, “On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel: ‘O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon.’ So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the nation avenged itself on its enemies, as it is written in the Book of Jashar. The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day.”
Joshua went on to lead the fight in many other battles, eventually conquering Canaan and dividing its lands among the 12 tribes.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray continually.”
As darkness began to fall, Joshua didn’t give up the fight, and he didn’t turn inward for a solution — he turned to God!
Let’s pray.
God, you led the Israelites to victory against their enemies on behalf of your faithful servant Joshua, and you hear our prayers today. Thank you for the miracles we read about in the Bible, and for those we experience in our own lives. Amen.
Today, my friends, we conclude our series all about the Bible, covering things like what it is, who wrote it, and ultimately its relevance to us and to our time.
The Bible stands alone in historical literature. The internal evidence is that it's really the Word of God run all through scripture. Here's one. Out of the many kings who ruled various nations from 2000 to 400 BC, the Bible lists 40 of them in the correct time and place that they ruled. This means that the biblical writers had reliable knowledge of their contemporary records. No other ancient documents can claim such historical accuracy. Then there are the great Messianic prophecies in the Bible, more than a hundred specific ones that predict the coming of Jesus.
Zechariah 12:10 says, “They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child.” This was recorded by the Old Testament prophet 700 years before Christ was born, and this crucifixion reference is confirmed in Matthew 24, John 19, and Revelation 1 in the New Testament. So we know there are many reasons to believe the Bible has a divine origin, but the greatest proof is the witness of believers over 2000 years. The redemptive qualities of the Messiah, Jesus, are shown in Isaiah 61, and of course, the entire New Testament is about Him bringing physical and spiritual healing. The countless numbers of missionaries, ministries, and other individual believers who have brought Christ-like love to the suffering is a testimony to the power of God's Word.
Would the Apostles have risked torture and death to make claims about a Jewish rabbi who had no real power? Doesn't make sense that Christians being persecuted today all over the world would preach the Good News if it wasn't true. The Bible contains what God wanted to communicate to people throughout time. We can be sure of its promises, especially to us as individuals as the product of an all-loving God who has the future secure, and waiting for those who love him.
Let's pray.
Father God, you have brought understanding to our minds through your Word. It tells us who we are, why we're here, and where we're going. And Father, we thank you for that clarity and for your eternal love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
It's part four in our series, All About the Bible, covering things like what it is, who wrote it, and ultimately its relevance to us and our time.
Even though the Bible is world famous, we sometimes hear people say that it was really written for ancient people and that it isn't relevant for us today. And in a lot of cases, this is totally wrong. It's true that ancient people compiled the Bible, but God intended it to be for all people in all times and places. Psalm 102:18 says, “Let this be written for a future generation. That a people not yet created may praise the Lord.” And this is amazing. It means that God is inclusive in both his rules for how we should live, and His promises to us are available to all people. And the good rules for living are wonderful and ahead of their time.
Ephesians 5:25 says, “Husbands love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” Now, this is just as valid for us today as it was for an ancient Israelite. The Bible is even up to speed on science: Psalm 8:8 talks about the paths of the sea. And now we know about ocean currents. Proverbs 16:24, “Gracious words are like a honeycomb,” And Proverbs 17:22, “A cheerful heart is good medicine,” describe the human psyche and good mental health. And these are also instructions for us on how to treat others.
Of course, the most relevant aspect of the Bible is the clear description of Jesus himself as our savior. This free gift of grace is available to all people everywhere. And the closer we stick to what the Bible has for us, the more harmony we will see in our lives. It isn't hard. Just pick it up and begin reading. You'll be truly amazed by the Bible's relevance for your life.
Let's pray.
Father God, your words really are healing, and all of us need that. We're grateful for that. We're grateful that you have spoken for yourself and have shown us how powerful your Word is for each of us. Help us pass this knowledge on to others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Today we continue our series all about the Bible covering things like what it is, who wrote it, and ultimately its relevance to us and our time.
Some believe that the Bible was written and compiled over a very long period of time and was sometimes shared orally, but this would mean that the likelihood of mistakes and inconsistencies could be greater.
Exodus 34:27 says, “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Write down these words for in accordance with these words, I have made a covenant with you and with Israel.’” Now, it's not unreasonable to believe that the Bible was written at or near the time the events recorded actually happened. This would mean that the patriarchs who were the heads of the families mentioned early in the Bible, wrote down their own histories. Moses, living not long after the patriarchs, compiled all these histories into one long account of early earth history.
From there, the prophets largely wrote down what God wanted to communicate to the people, and this took place from the time of Moses until the time of Jesus who scholars believe was born in 4 BC. That would mean that the bulk of the Old Testament was formally written over a period of maybe 1500 years from Egypt to Judea, which is modern Israel. By the time the last letters and histories were written down in the New Testament times, the Jewish writers of the Bible were still under the control of the Roman Empire, which was at its height.
The Old Testament was originally written in Hebrew, the language of the Jewish people. The New Testament was written in Greek, one of the major powers in the times of Jesus. The first council of the church was held in 325 AD at Nicea, which is in modern Turkey. It was there that church leaders put into a final form the Bible that we have today. In this way, we have the same books that were available to Christians who actually knew Jesus. There are tens of thousands of manuscripts from the earliest church that match the Bibles we can buy in stores or get online today.
Let's pray.
Father God, you are not a God of confusion. You've made our past, present, and future knowable. Thank you for making sure that history is accurate, including the future, when you will reign over your kingdom in glory. In Jesus' name. Amen.
We're in a series all about the Bible covering things like what it is, who wrote it, and ultimately its relevance to us and our time.
One of the most interesting features of the Bible is that it wasn't written or compiled by the most impressive people. If we think a person who recorded God's Word had to be Shakespeare, we're misunderstanding how God works through ordinary people. Many of those who compiled the books of the Bible were more ordinary than you can imagine.
1 Corinthians 1:27 says, “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” In fact, Moses, who's considered to be the editor, compiler of the first five books of the Bible, wasn't very good at communicating when God chose him to lead the Israelites to freedom out of Egypt.
In the early chapters of Genesis, the Bible's first book, there are style elements identical to ancient clay tablets that show us how people recorded family histories. This is seen in such phrases as, “These are the generations of.” From this, we can see that the people involved in various Bible accounts wrote their own histories. This gives us even more confidence that the Bible is true.
Many of the Old Testament books were written by the prophets, people that God communicated with, so that people would have some idea of where history was going. Beginning with the New Testament, most of the books were written by the disciples who knew Jesus. The four gospels or accounts of the ministries of Jesus were written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Then we see many of the letters that the Apostle Paul wrote to various churches and individuals. The traditional view is that the New Testament was written in the first century AD. This would have included the time that Jesus was born until about 60 years after his resurrection.
The final books of the Bible were written by John, a young apostle of Jesus at the time of his earthly ministry. All in all, the Bible was recorded by men and women who were both blue-collar and white-collar types. God used all types of people, because the Bible is meant for everyone.
Hebrews 1:1 gives us an important clue about how God communicated with people. It says, “Long ago, God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets.” The fact is he used humans to communicate through human language, which is just one of the things that makes the Bible timeless.
Let's pray.
Father God, we thank you for your recorded word. In it, we see how much you love us and care for us. We thank you for using people like us. We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Today, we begin a series all about the Bible, covering things like what it is, who wrote it, and ultimately its relevance to us and our time.
It seems that even today, even in the United States, a country some folks consider a traditionally Christian nation, there's a severe lack of knowledge about the Bible. Now some would say otherwise, but the Bible is really a pretty straightforward account about how God has worked in the world from the beginning. In fact, in Genesis, which literally means beginnings, we see a rundown of God's creative powers.
Compiled over time, the Bible is not a single book, but rather a collection of 66 books that trace human history from beginning to end. There's disagreement as to exactly when the Bible was written and compiled. But we do know from archeology that writing had developed even before the time of Moses in Egypt. The conservative view is that the biblical accounts of history were written down at or near the time they occurred. In general, the 66 individual books of the Bible were at least written down over a period of 1,500 years by as many as 40 writers.
Jeremiah 2:4 says, “Hear the word of the Lord, you descendants of Jacob, all you clans of Israel.” This concept of people being able to hear and read God's Word is all through the Bible. Luke 11:28 says, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”
Structurally, the Bible is made up of 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 in the New. From the original written accounts, some were broken into two books. The Old Testament, sometimes called the Hebrew or Jewish Scriptures, reveals history from the creation of the world until a few hundred years before Jesus Christ came into the world.
The New Testament is the account of the rise of the church. It begins with the family tree of Jesus and finishes with the Book of Revelation, a vision of the future into eternity. Overall, the Bible is the most famous book of all time. For believers, it is the very Word of God.
Let's pray.
Father God, you've told us that your Word is available to all, that we can claim your promises for our lives. Thank you for communicating to us in this way. The Bible is our guide for life, and tells us how we can be reconciled to you and saved. In Jesus' name. Amen.
If you're working your way toward belief and away from doubt, by now you must assume that God exists. Second Peter 3:9 says, “The Lord does not delay and is not tardy or slow about what he promises, according to some people's conception of slowness, but he is long suffering or extraordinarily patient toward you, not desiring that any should perish, but that all should turn to repentance.”
A cornerstone of the Christian faith is a belief that scripture is God's word. Psalm 138:2 tells us that God has elevated the Word above His own name.
So we have the opportunity to tell God that we accept His promises. Luke 1:77 tells us that He has raised up Jesus to give His people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins. At some point, faith is just believing God. Some critics will say that this is making an idol out of the Bible. It's called bibliolatry, but in fact, we learn who Jesus is and what He has done for us in scripture. It is a conscious decision to embrace what God has told us. Act 4:12 says, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” It really requires you to at least open your mind to the possibility that it's true.
God's plan to reconcile people to himself after sin entered the world is a start. Decide to be bold. Lay aside your fears and doubts and find that rest you've been looking for. Matthew 11:28 says, “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” One of the great metaphors of the Bible is the strong hand or the strong arm of God that rescues us from danger. John 10:28 says, “I give them eternal life. They'll never be lost, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
No one is saying that you will never have a shred of doubt again, but what we can know is that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God as outlined in the book of Romans. Jesus Christ is waiting for you, and you can be sure of that.
Let's pray.
Father, there are so many lonely people in the world and they want to believe. You've put that in our hearts, God. Help them and help us by your spirit know that they are loved and that they can have an encounter with you. In Jesus' name. Amen.
A political science major at a major university was having coffee with a campus pastor. The pastor knew that the student was wrestling with doubt about the existence of God, and said to him, “John, you know, all of us wonder at some point if it's all real or not. For example, there are quite a few stories in the Bible that are just hard to believe. Jonah and the whale and all that.” John smiled and said, “No, that's not my problem. What I wonder about is how God could care about me. I've done some really bad things, and have had some really bad things done to me. I just can't understand the concept of forgiveness.”
There you have it. Doubts about the faith come from all directions. While one person cannot bring herself to believe in miracles, another cannot forgive himself for the wrong things he's done, and can't fathom how God could.
Thomas Jefferson actually cut out the miraculous sections of the Bible. He couldn't believe in what some would call the God of the Bible. Francis Crick, the co-discoverer of DNA, thought that Christianity was just a collection of mythical stories. And what about those who want to see the proof? They lack evidence and feel a need to make an intellectual case for our faith. The New Testament writer, Luke, was like that. He wrote in Acts and the Gospel of Luke about the importance of eyewitness sightings of Jesus and His miracles. Lots of people debate whether evolution and religion are compatible or not, and this is a big stumbling block to belief for many.
We all believe something, but our minds can struggle at times to grasp the big stuff—the infinite universe. While for others who doubt, the struggle was more internal: they're so grieved by their own sin, they can't accept that God could love them.
Maybe the most famous verse in the Bible is John 3:16, which says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” However, few quote the next verse which says, “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.”
It isn't God's wish to condemn you. Instead, he loves you and wants to give you assurance that life is more than struggle and molecules. Whether you're looking for evidence to believe the Bible, or you just need to know that God loves you, try not to focus too much on your objections, own them, but just tell God as a child would that you're struggling to understand it all.
Will you pray with me?
Father, your grace saves us from a life of struggle with sin, and we are accepted by you. Thank you for putting up with our up and down faith. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Because there's so much easy access to information and ideas today, we can take in a huge amount of stuff. The downside is that much of it is just noise, and a lot of it simply isn't true. What we hear, even if it sounds good, is not always good for us, especially when we're talking about spiritual doubt.
There are many opinions floating around out there on the subject. For instance, some will say that doubt is really something to wrestle with continually, never finding a satisfying answer. While at the other end of the spectrum, some will say that if you doubt, you are permanently cut off from God. Both of those extremes are not helpful at all. The Bible is clear that God gives us a choice whether to believe in him or not.
John 1:12 says, "Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." Within each person is longing to understand our place in the world and to know if there is something or someone beyond this life.
The Bible says that he has set eternity in our hearts, that curiosity is in all of us. And if you're wondering about God, then your curiosity is a good starting point. A bedrock truth for Christians is that God sent Jesus in human form to atone for the sins of mankind. This is not an easy concept to grasp honestly, but it's what is known as the gospel, the foundation of our faith. Christianity's exclusive claims are too much for some seekers. In Mark chapter 10, the Bible describes a wealthy young man who asked Jesus what he had to do to be saved, and Jesus replied that besides following the 10 commandments, he should give his money to the poor, and the story ends with that man sadly walking away.
It's likely that Jesus was helping him to see that his heart was not yet ready to receive anything that would require any sacrifice on his part. In Luke 9:23, Jesus says, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow me." Believing in the true God is not a bed of roses. But if you can make the search for God your starting point, you'll likely find what you're looking for.
Let's pray.
Father, you've given us the knowledge of saving faith in your word. Thank you for giving us a free choice to decide our path in life. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Have you ever wondered about how convinced well-known Christians are of their faith? We all know they never doubt, right? Wrong.
A well-known preacher, Charles Spurgeon, once said of doubt, “I think when a man says, ‘I never doubt,’ it is quite time for us to doubt him.” That is a fact of life for many of us, although most don't like to admit it. In fact, doubt is mentioned often in the Bible. The Bible is full of great faith stories, but it's interesting to notice that there are plenty of doubters, too.
Sarah simply didn't believe God's promise that she and Abraham would have a child. Peter's bravado evaporated when he realized it was dangerous to be known as one of Christ's followers. Job's wife told him he should curse God and die because of his misfortunes, and Job wished he'd never been born.
Humans can be quirky. Imagine seeing Jesus with your own eyes and watching Him perform miracles. In the book of Matthew, we read about the apostles with Jesus on a mountain in Galilee after His resurrection. You can't get more miraculous than that, but it says some still doubted.
Mark 9:24 says, “Immediately, the boy's father exclaimed, ‘I do believe. Help me overcome my unbelief.’” This is the story of a father who sought Jesus to heal his son, and he seemed to believe, and to struggle with belief, at the same time. Amazing, but not so unusual.
As we're learning, doubting is not the worst thing. Keeping silent about it is worse. Seeking God and trusting a friend or friends to talk it through is healthy. God doesn't punish us for doubting.
Andrea Lucado, who has been around churches and preachers all her life, understands the struggle. She says, “Most of us at some time or another ask the question, why do I believe what I believe?” Those of us who identify as lifelong Christians sometimes have the most doubt. We've grown up in church, memorized scripture, and volunteered at VBS, but that thought: why do I believe what I believe, sometimes hits us in a moment we'd least expect. There are plenty of resources and plenty of believing friends who have gone through the same thing to see you through this. So when you're in a season of doubt, remember one thing: you're not alone.
Let's pray.
Father, doubt comes to us all at some point, and it's then that we need each other the most. We need your spirit to bring us comfort and calm. We thank you. You don't leave us in our time of doubt, but you long to help us through the valley. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Some of the most important conversations we have can be the most uncomfortable. And when it comes to faith, doubt is near the top of that list.
Today, we're launching a five-part series on the topic of doubt. Many Christians wrestle with doubt, but who wants to admit that their foundational beliefs are not so firm? Not long ago, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, openly admitted that he's questioned if God is real. When the head of the Church of England says something like that, it makes news. But something interesting came from Welby's honesty. He revealed his humanity.
It turns out that the archbishop lost a baby girl in a car accident many years ago. And when he was a teenager, he had to take care of his alcoholic father. He's human, with human difficulties. We are human, and we struggle sometimes.
Can we be honest?
While a lifetime of doubt is dangerous, periods of doubt simply mark one as being human, but faith can help us overcome doubt. In the Bible, we read in Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is the subject of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11 continues with many examples of faith in action. And at its core, the Christian faith means we believe God sent Jesus Christ to pay the penalty for our sins on the cross, and that God raised him from the dead.
While mountaintop faith is exciting and it makes us feel good, no one experiences that all the time. Sometimes it's difficult to believe certain things in the Bible. Sometimes we don't feel faith in our lives. In this first part of our week-long look at doubt, it's important to remember that simply expressing doubt can lead to healing and a more faithful future.
If you're a struggling believer or a questioning skeptic, this subject is one of the most important you'll ever wrestle with. Stay tuned.
Let's pray.
Father God, often we push down thoughts that are painful or uncomfortable. We don't have to do that with you, Lord. Even doubts about our faith, or our conversations that we can start with you, we're grateful for that. In Jesus' name. Amen.
As we wrap up our series on overcoming fear, we bring it all to a close by discussing finding freedom from fear.
In episode one of this series, we looked at some Bible verses that tell us what God says about fear. And there are dozens that speak to our specific needs, but one in particular stands out as comprehensive. First Peter 5:6–7 says, “Humble yourselves then under God's mighty hand so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him because he cares for you.” These two short verses tell us several things. One, if we submit to God's power by acknowledging we can't solve our problems, He is strong enough to intervene and bring about the outcome we really want. Second, He does this in His own time, on His own timetable. Third, we are to leave our problems at His feet. There's nothing wrong with getting an image in your mind where you actually do this and then walk away, your burden lifted.
Key in getting on track is recognizing that you might have a trust problem. If you've been deeply hurt by, say, a family member, you might subconsciously be failing to trust God Himself. When this is a first step in getting free of fear for good, know that an unburdened mind is not usually gained quickly, or without what we would call maintenance. The only thing predictable about our world is that it's unpredictable. If you think you're going to have one great afternoon and every day after that is carefree, you're deluding yourself.
We've already established that a daily time of prayer, reading your Bible, and focus on God's love for you is a combination that our enemy can't overcome. Choosing to believe God's Word is practical, and it works. That can't be emphasized enough. Jesus said in John 16:33 that we will absolutely have trouble in our lives, but that He has already overcome the world. This fact will help to keep you on that straight path. It will, ultimately, one day lead to paradise with the One that created you, sustains you, and loves you forever.
Let's pray.
Lord, having the discipline to daily rely on you is something we often lack. And when we focus and concentrate our minds and our hearts on your good gifts, fear leaves, and it can be replaced with courage and peace. Thank you for providing for all of our needs all the time. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Today we're continuing our series on overcoming fear. And as we get started, ask yourself a question: Is your fear real or imagined?
Dr. James Dobson has decades of experience coaching people to overcome fear and doubt, and put their trust in Christ. He relates a fascinating experience he once had when he learned that sometimes our fear is all in our head.
It seems that he was preparing to graduate from Southern Cal with a PhD in psychology, and as he got ready at home that day, anticipating the happy drive with his family, a cold fear just came over him. He says now that he felt a growing dread, seemingly out of nowhere, that he would be killed in a car accident on the way. Honestly, this sounds crazy, and it kind of is. Even Dobson admits that. He says today that he realized this fear of death and tragedy that gripped him was obviously not from God, and the obvious source is that of our enemy. In some weird way, he can influence our thoughts.
Maybe this happens when we're exhausted or distracted. Maybe these thoughts of failure and terror come from stress. Whatever the circumstances though, they're evil. They have no place in our hearts and minds. James Dobson said that day, he simply got in his car and he led his family to the USC campus where he received his hard-earned degree. Afterward, they had a lovely lunch, and the day remains a great memory for the Dobson family.
Mark 5:36 says, “Jesus told him, ‘Don't be afraid. Just believe.’” For Dr. Dobson, this also remains a powerful lesson. Oftentimes our greatest fears are not even real. They don't even come to pass. Learn to recognize the real from the imagined.
And of course, there are times where our fears are very real. Maybe it's a scary diagnosis from a doctor, or a wayward child just digs himself deeper holes in life. In those times, remembering the source of our fears is really important. When real dangers do crop up, literally speak to the Lord and tell Him you are giving him this giant problem. Tell Him you can't solve it, but you know He can.
Another thing to remember if you determine your fear is legitimate, is seek the care of a good friend. Likewise, if you see someone weighed down with fear, you be that shoulder to lean on. We can determine to help each other. Proverbs 12:25 tells us, “An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.”
One day God will permanently remove our fears. And until then, learn to recognize the difference in real and imagined problems in your life.
Let's pray.
Father God, your Word tells us that in this world we will have trouble. Problems will challenge us, but you have overcome the world, and that is our ultimate safety net, where evil can't hurt us. In Jesus' name. Amen.
As we continue our series on fear, today we wanted to give you some practical tips for overcoming the fear in your life.
Debbie McDaniel is a writer, pastor's wife, and mom. She knows something of how fear can derail a person's entire life. You see, Debbie wrestled with fear and anxiety for years. And her recovery didn't happen overnight, but she did come to think about it all in a different way. She turned to the Lord, and He showed her practical things she could do to alleviate her fear.
Now, for one thing, she began to notice something. When she thought about her fear and she studied her own patterns related to being anxious, she realized that the majority of her fears didn't actually happen. And this is where a journal can come in really handy. By keeping a log of your fears, and then after a certain period of time, say a month later, check back and see how many of those fears actually manifest themselves. And you'll probably be shocked at how low the percentage really is.
Next, Debbie said that she began to read words of life, as she says, “Soaking them in over and over, praying them out loud.” And she makes the great point that there's power in the Bible's words because it is God's Word. Isaiah 35:4 says, “Tell everyone who is discouraged, ‘Be strong and don't be afraid! God is coming to your rescue, coming to punish your enemies.’” Debbie also advocates what she calls guarding your heart. And this involves a daily concentrating power that reminds you of truth, even in the midst of confusion.
Again, this is where reading words of life is so critical. In this way, you're making the peace in your own heart a top priority. And it's okay to say that to yourself as many times a day as you need. With just these few things, overcoming fear is within your reach.
Let's pray.
Father God, how powerful your promises are to us. Your words of life bring harmony. Help us to be on the lookout for friends and family who are struggling so that we can remind them of the times you've delivered us from fear and anxiety. Help us to make guarding our own hearts a priority. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Today we're continuing our series on overcoming fear. Nikki couldn't leave her apartment, sometimes for days, her anxiety about everything from health issues to the weather had hijacked her life. She needed help.
One morning after she had talked with a friend on the phone, she heard someone outside her door, and it was her friend. The woman simply announced herself and then pushed a piece of paper under Nikki's door. And the only thing written on the paper was Psalm 94:19, which says, “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.”
The words just ran over Nikki and she cried. She felt in that moment the very thing the verse promises, and within a couple of days, she was able to leave her home and begin the process of recovering from a lifetime of fear.
The Lord is like that. He's always just outside our door, always ready to comfort us when life scares us to death. He also provides us with the ability to reason, and to look at our options. And if scripture is a healing place, we can also find help through counseling.
If you're experiencing destabilizing fear in your life, there is absolutely nothing wrong with reaching out for help. Often the combination of prayer, really seeking God and getting honest with Him, and talking with another human is the key that unlocks that door and frees you from a dark room of fears, whether they be rational or irrational. If you can't do anything at all in the moment, just take a breath and cry out to God, and then talk yourself into sharing with somebody else. You'll be surprised in a good way, how healthy you'll begin to feel.
Let's pray.
Father God, often the days can seem as dark as the nights, but in your strength, we can rebuke fear and watch it leave us. Help us in those terrible moments to call on you, and to accept the safety only you can bring. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
This week, we are focused on overcoming fear. And of all the human emotions, fear is perhaps the most paralyzing. And there are what we call internal and external fears. While many people stress about relationships, depression, and self-doubt, there are also big issues affecting the world: natural disasters, political upheaval, wars, are just a few of the things that create fear.
Sometimes it can feel like everything is unraveling, but our field guide for finding our way through life, the Bible, has much to say about fear. In fact, dozens of verses speak to it. One really helpful verse is 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” In scripture, God either speaks to us directly, or through the stories of men like Moses, who comforted the frightened Israelites at the Red Sea.
For us as individuals, there are wonderful reminders of God calming us when we're afraid. In Philippians 4, God reminds us not to be anxious about anything. These are soothing words that reach us where we actually live. And as with every other area of our lives, God provides practical help in times of need.
Ashley Smith found that out in 2005 when an escaped killer held her hostage in her apartment. She remained calm, and asked him if she could read. He said yes. So she grabbed her Bible and a copy of The Purpose Driven Life. And over a period of hours, the man talked to Ashley and told her he felt dead inside. Later, she was able to escape and she said she felt that God brought that man to her so that he wouldn't hurt anyone else.
God's word provides real, workable solutions for the many problems we face. Fear's just one of them, but it can be a big one. And it shrinks in the light of God's protection.
Let's pray.
Father, God, we love you. We thank you for showing us the way when we’re too afraid to go on. Thank you for giving us a spirit of sound mind, and not a spirit of fear. In Jesus' name. Amen.
We think of her as a genteel Southern lady, and she was that, for sure.
But Ruth Bell Graham was so much more. While her husband was away so much, preaching to the masses, she was preaching to her own little flock. The result was children who became adults, and in turn, shared the Good News of Jesus with others.
Anne Graham Lotz and Franklin Graham didn’t just fall out of the sky!
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
In their little home in the mountains of North Carolina, while daddy was in Brussels, New York, and Sydney, Mother Ruth was faithful for years on end to impart godly wisdom to their children. Much iron was sharpened on cold winter nights and long summer days.
Theirs was a home that didn’t always have both parents available, but they thrived.
Use that as an example of how to bring up your own children. You’ll be happy forever that you did.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Your Word is good, and it shines a light on our path. Give us the strength to mentor our own children in your ways. Amen.
Some of the greatest stories of believers down through time have involved those who really studied God’s Word. These people have gone before us to show us the way. From Charles Spurgeon to a missionary mother in China, daily study of the Word, and prayer, prepared them to mentor entire generations.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
We also read in Romans 10 that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. We have to do it, so that others know how. Remember, there is no substitute for spending time in God’s Word.
In order to properly train an apprentice, you need to obviously be prepared and adept. Anything less leads to weak faith, or no faith at all.
This is what the Great Commission, sharing the Gospel, has always been about. Duplicating disciples. Grounding your own faith in the Bible, then imparting that to others. That is the essence of true iron sharpening iron.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us about your work by daily reminding us to spend time with you in Your Word. Amen.
Have you had an experience in your life that has prepared you for helping others? Has life dealt you circumstances that speak to a situation in a younger person’s life?
If so, you might be ready to help in such a way that will bring honor and glory to God.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
The apostle Paul suffered much for his faith in Christ. Beyond a dramatic shipwreck, prison, beatings, and hunger were part of his daily routine.
Then, God set Timothy in his path.
The younger man needed encouragement and instruction as the early Church grew. Paul stepped in to mentor him. He not only helped Timothy with practical church matters, but he encouraged him to stay strong in the Word, and to rely on God solely.
More than likely, you have a Timothy heading your way. Or maybe a Tina! Whoever it is, resolve in your heart to be everything they need you to be, and to model iron sharpening iron for them.
Stay sharp in the Word, so that your counsel is sound.
Keep on the lookout; Timothy is about to cross your path!
Let’s pray.
Lord, prepare me to be the person my own Timothy needs me to be, for as long as he (or she) needs. Amen.
Do you struggle with being humble, and yielding to God’s will? Most of us do. This extends to accepting an iron-sharpening-iron relationship He has set in our path.
Yet the benefits are so good for us.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
Make no mistake, God sets people in our path for a reason. That Bible teacher in your church might have words of wisdom for you from her rich and varied life. Be open to that.
If you are in fellowship with a mature, older believer, let him or her walk with you on your journey. Learn from them. Ask questions. Learn to be vulnerable.
The benefits and outcomes will be richer than you can imagine. This is especially true when someone points out areas you can do better in. Not fun, but that is the essence of iron sharpening iron.
And it’s good for you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us be open to the leading of your Holy Spirit when encountering someone who could mentor us. Amen.
The Bible is full of wonderful analogies. One of the best is found in Proverbs, which paints a picture of godly mentoring and accountability.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
The idea is that as pieces of iron are drawn against the other, each piece becomes sharper. A further application is made in Hebrews 4:12, which talks about Scripture as being a double-edged sword, and it is with His Word that we are to sharpen each other.
The goal is mutual accountability and imparting wisdom for living.
As author Michelle Lazurek has written: “As the body of Christ, we forget that part of our job is to sharpen other brothers and sisters in Christ so that the flame in their hearts, put there by the Holy Spirit, continues to burn.”
Although the “iron sharpens iron” analogy is often used to describe the relationship between men, the application is relevant for everyone who believes. Even at this moment, there are millions of women mentoring girls, sharpening their wisdom in the Lord!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given us wonderful relationships that help us grow. We thank you for this great gift. Amen.
Jesus spent a lot of time giving out wisdom in the form of stories. Once, he told His disciples a story that illustrated the importance of understanding that God never quits us, and we should not quit Him.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
The story was about a woman who didn’t give up in her pursuit of justice. Jesus then said that God hears our pleas for what we need, and He acts accordingly. He doesn’t forget, or lose interest.
Ever.
Isn’t that one of the most comforting things you’ve ever heard? In all the messes of our lives, God does not give up on us, no matter where we are. He knows everything about us, and his infinite strength is far too much for evil to overcome.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for your willingness to stay with us in the worst of times. You are our strength, now and forever. Amen.
Life stories are full of redemption. Usually after the worst sins have been committed.
When he wrote a book about his past rebellions, Franklin Graham became known as the Rebel With a Cause. His story is about a prodigal that chased after the world and his own desires, but the son of Billy Graham is a modern parable.
He was lost, then he was found.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Graham’s experiences are so common, actually. He felt so burdened by his own sin that he wondered if he could come back. But the beginning of that return to the Lord is about God’s willingness to open his arms to us as we stagger back home.
Today, Franklin Graham leads a ministry that gives the proverbial cup of cold water to the world’s poorest people. Samaritan’s Purse is global in reach because the ministry founder looked in the mirror one day and realized his own wisdom was bankrupt.
Such a familiar story. Have you thought about your own bad choices as you look for a way back to God? Look up and look to the horizon.
He’s waiting there for you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are all prodigals at one time or another. Thank you so much for your grace! Amen.
The Bible is full of stories of God doing amazing things for those He calls. One of the most famous seems to be good to be true, but it is!
Daniel, God’s man in exile in Babylon, insisted on worshipping the Lord, and not a human king. This was against the law. When those who were jealous of him urged the king to punish Daniel, the prophet was thrown into a lion’s den overnight.
And that was that. Or was it?
Next morning, the king was so anxious about Daniel, that he ran to the den and called out to him, to see if he was still alive.
Daniel 6:21–22 says, “Daniel answered, ‘May the king live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.’”
When life threatens to rip you up, remember that the Lord has you. God is on your side, knows where you are, and will hide you in the palm of his strong hand.
Believe that He will.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this story inspires us to rely on you when times are really bad for us. Thank you for being our rescue. Amen.
Today, just stop and consider that we are talking one-on-one. We’re just talking over coffee.
You seem like something is really getting to you. Are you about to give up on something important? If so, please listen, just for a couple of minutes.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
Let’s think boldly for a second. Whatever your problem is, God can fix it. He can. The Bible is full of these fixes. So is our present day, when story after story of miraculous rescues shows us clearly that God exists and that He cares for you as a person.
Jesus knows your story, and more importantly, He knows the end of your story.
Victory is waiting for you, but you must not give up. Don’t give in to that evil voice urging you to stop. Listen to the voice of Love.
Tell Jesus what you need. Right now.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this thing hurts so much right now, but we aren’t going to up, because you never give up on us. Thank you for that! Amen.
Would it surprise you to know that God has always been interested in you? Did you know He knew you before you were born? He has a vested interest in how your life turns out.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
He isn’t some remote deity. God doesn’t pay attention only most of the time. He doesn’t form His plans here and there. He is there for us all the time.
The question is, where are we?
Before you were born, it was God’s will that you would have a relationship with Him. He has always wanted your life to be successful. He wanted you to have joy hundreds of years before your parents were even born!
So God’s will for your life isn’t confined to now, or even now, and going forward. He has always been with you, guiding you through your life. As you look back now, you can see that this is true.
Being in God’s will is all-encompassing. It is the beginning, middle, and end of our stories.
If you weren’t exactly in God’s will in the past, learn from that and move forward with Him all the time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you hold us in your protection for the entirety of our lives. We thank you that you never get tired of that. Amen.
What is true love? The question has been asked forever. Not everyone agrees. There's a startling answer found in the Bible. The prophet Hosea marries a prostitute named Gomer. She's predictably unfaithful to him, but God tells him something that's strange to us. He told Hosea to take his wife back and restore her.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, "Love is patient, love is kind. It doesn't envy, it doesn't boast, it's not proud. It doesn't dishonor others, it's not self-seeking, it's not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs."
How often does this world seem interested in redeeming anything? Rarely. That's why we need God to model perfect love for us, love that restores and heals. Hosea did not keep score. He only loved, and that's a picture of how God deals with us, his chief creation. We reject him, cause pain, but always he's there waiting with open arms. I think we can do at least as much for someone in our lives. Let's pray.
Lord, you're a forgiving God. Thank you for loving us in our sin, in our filth. You long to restore us and we love you for that, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Kyle hurt Jenny emotionally many times, and then he left her because he said he wanted to have fun in life. His young wife could barely function at first, but as she got her bearings, she decided to wait before making a final decision about her marriage.
Then the day came. A series of circumstances left Kyle broken in spirit, and in body. He had burned so many bridges, no one was coming to help him.
Except Jenny.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
Jenny made a choice to love her husband through his stupidity and poor choices. When he returned to their home, humiliated in his community, he came home to a warm place.
Today, through dedication and hard work, their marriage is a model for others to follow, and this husband has been transformed.
All because his wife’s love didn’t give in to hard feelings.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we all mess up, sometimes horribly. But you always extend us grace. Help us extend that same grace to those who hurt us. Amen.
Have you ever congratulated someone for a huge win in life, and then silently envied them? We all do it. But the problem is that kind of thing can grow into a monster if we're not careful. All of a sudden, we're so focused on what the other person has we lose sight of the wins in our own life.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, "Love is patient. Love is kind. It does not envy, doesn't boast, it's not proud. It doesn't dishonor others. It's not self-seeking, it's not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs."
Cain envied his brother's relationship with God, and he killed him over it. That's when that monster that covets was born. We've been struggling with it ever since. True love does not covet what our neighbor has. True love rejoices in grace showered on others.
And if this problem lives in you, meditate on these verses and decide today to change your thinking, and your heart will follow.
Let's pray.
Lord, the enemy wants us to focus on what others have so that we lose sight of what you've given us. Christ is our standard. In Jesus' name. Amen.
We’ve all known kindness. It might have been a Sunday school teacher, or
maybe it was Mom listening to our bad day.
But how often do you actually think about the importance of kindness? Is it
an active part of your day? If not, you’re missing the point.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it
does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-
seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Real love compels us to practice kindness. A daily routine, and for the right
reason. What is the right reason?
God tells us to be kind. This choice doesn’t depend on what the other guy
is doing. Be that person who does a lot of kind things, and his only audience is God. Try it. Try a random act of kindness, don’t let others see
you do it, then reflect on how good it makes you feel.
That’s the best kind of kind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word shows us that we are blessed with kindness from you in
countless ways. Help us start to give back to those around us. Amen.
Having the “patience of Job” is a common saying, even if people don’t really know its origins. Job of course was the biblical character that suffered greatly before God restored him.
But if you read the book of Job, it’s not at all clear that he really had much patience!
Because being patient is really, really hard.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
In 1 Corinthians, we have our blueprint for practicing perfect love. Pure love. And when it comes to patience in this context, we are to train ourselves to be patient with those around us.
It requires a willful choice to be patient with someone—as long as it takes—in an effort to project Christ’s love outward. If a situation calls for you to be patient, just remember that someone in your life has had to be patient with you, too.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you call us to be patient and we want to obey, even though it’s against our natures. But we will follow you in this. Amen.
Welcome to prayer 101, the big question for today is: How do you develop a prayer life?
The answer to how we develop a healthy prayer life is really not that complicated. It's all about choice. We can learn to pray first by reading scripture and taking notice of the hundreds of prayers offered by believers just like us. We can also talk with veterans of prayer in our own life, those who are older and deeper in their faith. But notice something about the prayers recorded in the Bible, they aren't contrived or intellectual oftentimes. Those things don't impress God anyway since He knows everything about us. We can't fool Him or hide or fake our feelings. In fact, the people in the Bible and those in your life who talk to God all the time just simply talk to Him. Some prayers are messy or sound selfish such as Jabez's plea for God to increase his influence. Others are said in desperate moments, but sound calming like David's famous 23rd Psalm.
Psalm 145:18 says, “The Lord is near to all who call on Him in truth.” This tells us that we don't have to do something in order to be worthy to speak with God. He simply is and He very simply invites us to share with him to unburden ourselves.
In Ephesians 6:18, we learn a lot about prayer, it says, “Pray in the spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests, with this in mind be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.” This is the prayer of someone who commits time each day to talk with God. This prayer warrior knows that he or she can talk to God about literally anything. Next and just as important this person prays for others. This is a far more powerful way to pray than many think because history is full of stories of people who prayed and God acted in someone else's life immediately.
The most important steps you can take in developing a prayer life are to understand that you don't have to be a PhD in Theology or have an IQ of 180. You simply talk to God in the most natural way. God warms to a sincere and searching heart. Next, you have to realize that your prayer life can take many forms, the quick moment during a busy day, in the still of the night with no one around, or in a designated area where you feel comfortable. Once you get in the habit of praying, you'll be amazed what a good change there is in your life. Faith is strengthened. You're no longer alone. Throughout history men and women and children have made the choice to talk with the one who made them and loves them. It's not any more complicated than that.
Let's pray.
Father God, in your mercy you invite us to tell you what's on our minds. We know that communication is a two-way street. Nudge us to listen to your voice. Take as much time as we need to pray. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Jenna stopped in her tracks, sighing in frustration as she bent down to pick yet another rock out of her shoe.
“Why on earth am I suddenly picking up rocks every time I walk the dog,” she wondered.
They finished their usual route, and at home, Jenna slipped off her shoes and discovered the problem: she’d worn those old slip-ons for so long that she wore a hole right through the soles of both shoes!
Philippians 4:6 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Sometimes our prayer lives are like Jenna’s old shoes: we take them for granted, setting aside a daily prayer habit and coming back when it’s convenient — putting off prayer until we can find the time, or in a time of trouble or desperation, when we really need God to intervene.
But prayer isn’t meant to be a sometimes thing.
We cultivate a healthy prayer life when we communicate with God often — daily, or even more than once a day. When we let our communication with the Lord wear thin, we are missing out on the blessing of His listening ear. He wants to hear from us: both our praises and our problems!
Don’t tuck your prayer life away for later, like an old pair of shoes in the back of the closet. Pray throughout the day whenever you have a quiet moment to reach out to God, and build regular prayer into your day to ensure there are no holes in your communication with your Heavenly Father.
In fact, why don’t we pray right now?
Lord, thank you for being available to us through prayer. We’re so grateful for your love for us, and your desire to hear from us, your children. Remind us to keep the lines of communication open. Amen.
Communism kept half of Europe locked up for much of the 20th century. For 75 years, the oppressive system took most freedoms away from its ordinary citizens. The political system, responsible for tens of millions of deaths, seemed almost indestructible.
Then, almost suddenly, the system built on restricting freedom just collapsed. The end came so quickly, that all the most experienced analysts and diplomats were caught off guard.
How did that amazing turnaround happen?
It didn't happen with guns and tanks and planes. Not a single missile silo was opened. Instead, it took the strategic efforts of a religious leader, a Polish labor union activist, and countless regular citizens in countries like Hungary and East Germany, among many others, to expose evil and demand a better way of life.
In a similar way, God defeats evil by showing us a strategy that might go unnoticed at first.
2 Corinthians 10:4 states, “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds.” Only a reliance on God and continual prayer will win the day. The battles you are fighting cannot depend on vengeance or worldly efforts. We're fighting spiritual battles, and conventional weapons just won't work.
As believers, we're called to duty. Called to minister to others, to tell others of His Word, His love for us and His actions to help us overcome. There are many examples in the Bible of people relying only on God for their victory. Not once did they lose. We won't either if we lay aside our own perceived strength, and trust completely in His divine power.
Let's pray.
Father, help us see that our own plans are often wrong. We get into a battle and become blinded by our own strategies, or a thirst for our own kind of victory. But the time to fight must come with a commitment to trust in Your infinite power, to rely on the victory that only comes through Christ, and to tell others about our Lord and Savior. Bring this to our minds when the battle rages. In Jesus name. Amen.
When you're having a bad day, a run-in with an immensely cheerful person doesn't always turn that frown upside down, does it? Commiserating with someone else though, a word literally defined by two or more people wallowing in misery together, that can be a balm to an anxious and worried mind, sometimes. The relief though is temporary.
Romans 12:12 says, "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
The Apostle Paul was talking about more than mere cheerfulness in his letter to the Christian believers of Rome. Nowhere in the Bible does the Lord command us thou shalt always be chipper. But these wise words from Paul remind us to think before we sink. No matter what hardships we face, our hope is found in Jesus Christ. And this hope is an infinite well of joy we can turn to in times of trouble.
Paul also reminds believers to be patient no matter what befalls us. Paul was a respected missionary, even honored and admired by powerful officials of his day who didn't share his Christian beliefs. Despite his good standing, for a period of two years he was in prison, literally chained and under constant guard. And from this depth of experience, he's able to tell others to be patient in affliction.
Whether our chains are literal or figurative in nature, the trials we face can mold our character and build our patience if we choose to let them.
The most important part of Paul's message in this verse is the reminder to be faithful in prayer. God is worthy of all honor and praise, but He also knows us, understands our weaknesses, and loves us anyway.
On the days life feels too difficult to approach the Lord with a smile on our faces and joy in our hearts, he still wants to hear from us. Prayer's not a sometimes thing. It's an all-the-time practice that grows our faith, strengthens our relationship with God, and changes our lives. So be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.
Let's pray.
Lord, you are the source of all our hope, the teacher of patience, and the one who listens to every prayer. Help us to choose joy over despair, patience over exasperation, and to pray faithfully. Sometimes fear and frustration threaten to overwhelm us, but you are near. And we pray you will turn our hearts to you. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Have you ever felt like you’ve just plain run out of juice? The book you’ve been reading seems pointless halfway through. That new sofa or lawnmower or set of wheels was pretty exciting last month, but now you’re not sure what the big deal was. Even your relationships feel lackluster.
Human beings aren’t like cell phones or toy robots. We can’t rev up with a fresh set of batteries...we need other, more meaningful fuel to refill our tanks, and the energy we seek can’t be found at any store.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray continually.”
One of the shortest verses in God’s Word, the Bible, this pithy reminder was written by the Apostle Paul to believers in Thessalonica, an ancient city in what is now Northern Greece. These new converts to Christianity faced persecution, but Paul’s colleague Timothy reported that they were persevering in the face of challenges.
Paul’s letter, recorded as the biblical book of First Thessalonians, is written to inspire renewed energy in these early followers of Jesus. They were looked down upon, their motives and actions were questioned, they sometimes struggled with doubt about the outcome of their faith — and Paul wisely encouraged them to keep on praying, just as the Lord wants us to do today.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, sometimes we feel exhausted by our struggles, and sometimes we feel alone. Remind us that the greatest power in the universe — You, our Creator God, are just a prayer away. Amen.
Many modern phrases have their origins in the Bible. A couple that come to mind are, “She’s worth her salt,” or, “He is the salt of the earth.” They remind us of what Scripture says when using salt as an analogy.
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
Tasting our favorite salty foods is a great sensory experience. Think of French fries, pretzels, or popcorn. Foods that are plain jane without salt are out of this world with a dash of our favorite seasoning. Too much salt can be unhealthy, but even here the biblical analogy helps us.
We are to share Christ with the world in such a way that the story of His plan for us becomes something that people want to know more about. Likewise, we don’t have to lay it on so thick it is overwhelming. Over-using our messaging just turns people off, and can feel like manipulation instead of an open invitation.
We are to do as Christ Himself instructed us: take His story to the ends of the earth.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for that salty story of Jesus! Help us to use it as spiritual food that builds your eternal Kingdom. Amen.
If a product or idea is worth promoting, it must be seen by the “end-user,” to borrow a marketing term. There is so much competition in business today…it is pointless to have a store unless people know you’re open for business.
Thousands of businesses open and close every year. It’s a shame, but too often practical planning isn’t a big enough part of the picture. The Lord understands the importance of planning, and the need to plan ahead applies to how we share Him with others, too.
Matthew 5 verses 13–16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
You have the greatest story ever told right in the palm of your hand! God has provided it to you, and the only thing He requires of us is that we share it. But you can’t do that if fear, lack of planning, or hesitancy keep it from public view. Resolve now, today, to make your story of redemption and salvation available to others.
Lives are depending on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a boldness and focus when sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with a hurting world. Amen.
During the Civil War, Southern states relied on salt perhaps even more than their Northern counterparts. The commodity preserved various foods—such as fish—and allowed more people to eat and even keep food supplied for a rainy day.
As the Union troops began capturing Confederate saltworks, the food supplies there literally began drying up. It was one of the things that led to the end of the war, as food supplies literally not only lost their taste, but their preservative qualities. Things got so bad in the last 18 months of the war that some people were reduced to eating tree roots and other non-food vegetation. Not exactly an appetizing meal!
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
As ambassadors for Christ, we must make sure that our salt does not lose its effectiveness. We must stay alert, so the enemy doesn’t steal the zest which makes our boldness in sharing Christ effective. Doing so requires vigilance and much prayer, consistently.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we must be on guard against the enemy, who wants to keep us from sharing your Good News. Help us stay alert at all times, so that our witness endures. Amen.
The Dead Sea, bordering the countries of Israel and Jordan, is also located at the lowest point on Earth. The landscape is so barren, it looks like a moonscape. Not exactly a place for a vacation or rest stop.
And yet…did you know that one of the valuable things from that area is the vast amount of salt that rings this body of water? Besides the salt content, the minerals in the Dead Sea are valuable for everything from medicines to cosmetics. What initially looks like a terrible place is actually quite rich! In fact, resorts have popped up in the area.
Additionally, this salty sea is one body of water that won’t let you sink! Kind of like a Savior we know.
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
Sometimes people think the Gospel is difficult to present. It can be thought of as unattractive or cumbersome; the Bible tells us as much.
And yet, it has infinite value to us, and preserves life! Remember that the next time you hesitate to share Christ with someone.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us change our perspective when it comes to the great privilege we have in sharing the Good News about Jesus. Amen.
Table salt today is so common, it becomes another thing we take for granted. You go to the store, pick a cylinder or jar of salt off the shelf, then go home. You don’t even think about it.
Now, consider that 1,000 and more years ago, if a person wanted to use salt on his dinner, this required some prior work. A lot of work! The Romans boiled seawater in huge, lead-lined pans. So valuable was salt in the Roman Empire, it was used as currency! Mainly, it was used as a critical food preservative.
Matthew 5 verses 13–16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
God tells us we are to be the instrument that preserves and makes known the Gospel, and salt is the analogy.
Let us say to our friends, loved ones, and even strangers: Taste, and see that the Lord’s promises are good!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to be salt and light for your Word in this world. Amen.
How many different colors can you name?
There are seven colors in the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. As it turns out, the human eye is capable of discerning color to an incredible degree. According to laboratory tests, humans are capable of detecting a total of 10 million colors. That's a pretty big box of crayons.
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago."
Imagine the most colorful painting or photograph you've seen in an art gallery, or come across in your Facebook feed. Our Creator God has every color in the universe to work with, the knowledge of a master craftsman, and the most significant artistic talent in existence. And he calls us, you and me, his masterpiece.
When you look in the mirror and wish you were taller, better looking, or somehow measured up to your ideal, remember — we are created in God's image. When you envy someone else's position or title at work or wish you were better at math, cooking, or public speaking, remember, we are God's masterpiece. And he has a good plan for each of our lives. He has 10 million colors and countless personality traits and unique skills with which to create each of us, and the palette of colors and mix of materials he used to make you is one of a kind.
Let's pray.
Heavenly Father, thank you for making us who you did. We're your children and one-of-a-kind creations. You're so good, and we have so many things to be thankful for. Help us to use our unique skill sets and talents you've blessed us with, to do your work. In Jesus' name. Amen.
As a believer, have you noticed that it’s often easier to stay in God’s will when you’re at home? At work, it gets a little dicey.
It’s at work that people see us, and our decisions can have such impact. Not being in God’s will in that setting can be catastrophic.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Terry Looper is the CEO of a multi-billion-dollar company. Once, he was negotiating a sale and was at the finish line when he realized he hadn’t sought God’s will in the matter. He stopped, prayed and read the Word for discernment.
He was shocked to find that he wasn’t supposed to sell at all!
Looper learned his lesson. Being in God’s will in every area of our lives is the key. It’s great to be godly and led by the Spirit sitting in your den with a Bible open. But it’s not less important to be led by the Spirit in the boardroom, or on the floor of the plant where you work.
People see you. They see what we do. If we want to be sure success finds us, we’d better make sure we’re looking in the right place.
There are no shortcuts to fully being in God’s will.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you bless us in every area of our lives. Thank you for being on our side, all the time. Amen.
In every generation, it falls to believers to spend some time in defending our worldview as Christians. Honestly, it’s not the nicest part of the gig, but it’s necessary.
Usually, it involves simply explaining what your faith is all about. Followers of other religions do the same thing, but for us, we are sharing the person of Christ with those who don’t know Him. That makes it a big deal.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
It’s exciting that God has entrusted this to us. It’s a privilege. Even if you find yourself in an adversarial conversation, remember the main thing: you get to share your faith, and see someone else find freedom in Christ!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for allowing us to tell others about you. Help us always be ready to give an answer when asked about our faith. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
It's been said that in the Fruit of the Spirit list, all of them collectively practically define the nature of Christ. Even David the shepherd knew his Messiah was coming. Remember what he said about his loving God? He said, "Surely, goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life."
We instinctively know what goodness is. It's a kind touch, a gentle word, a gift that was unexpected. Micah 6:8 says, "He has told you, oh man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God."
And in life, we understand the distinction between good and evil. These two, always warring with each other. The key thing to remember in this conflict is that God is good, and infinitely stronger than evil. And that's important to remember as we see injustice.
What did Micah tell us? That goodness is wrapped up in the choices we make. Oppose injustice, love what is kind and be humble. And the truth is, all of us have been given so much good by our good God, that it should be second nature to model that for those we meet in our journey.
Let's pray. Lord, thank you for your sweet goodness. Sustain us with that goodness for the journey. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Have you ever wondered what your place in this world is?
Of course, you have. That’s the human experience. Alone with our thoughts, we wonder who we even are, and what we are meant to do. It’s a mysterious journey, but the fog lifts and the way becomes clear when we get to know King Jesus.
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
You were made for something! You were made to do things for your Lord. The truly beautiful thing is, God created a custom plan just for you. If you aren’t a famous athlete like Tim Tebow, you can still share your faith in wonderful ways. Ways that are life-changing for those you encounter.
Think of that verse again. God made you for a purpose! Created to have the mind of Christ in making this world a better place and making disciples for Him. And God prepared it all long, long ago. You are His child.
That’s who you are.
Let’s pray.
Lord, when we begin to understand even a little bit of your love for us, it transforms us and renews our minds and hearts. Thank you so much for that! Amen.
At an address in Columbus Ohio in 1900, former slave Booker T. Washington kept the room spellbound. This man, who had built Tuskegee Institute to lift blacks out of economic bondage, was revered around the world.
But he said something that surprised more than a few in the audience. He said that one of his main priorities for the Institute was hiring more Bible teachers!
Washington, who had been forced to work in an evil system, once felt powerless. Yes, an American president legally freed the slaves. But Washington’s faith in Christ was the real key in lifting him up.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Are you down and out right now? Are you chained to problems too big for you to overcome? Take Paul’s letter to heart and realize that all things are possible for your future, through faith in Christ. He has perfect strength, all you’ll ever need.
Tell him that today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your perfect will is more than enough to help us escape a terrible past and future. Our future is what you have told us it will be. Thank you for that blessing. Amen.
If you’re like most people, the more chaotic life gets, the more you need a solution broken down in easy-to-understand concepts.
We’ve been discussing what happens when people move away from God, and the consequences that impact us.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Besides the soothing beauty of the language, notice that God gives us several elements to meditate on, as we walk the road to peace.
We are clearly told here to hope in the Lord. He will then strengthen us. After this comes the fun part! Close your eyes and see yourself floating on the winds of peace, high above the chaos and troubles below. Finally, we are told that our strengths in the Lord will not wear out.
When God redeems, He does it completely — and with no strings attached!
He loves you that much.
Let’s pray. Lord, you actually make it easy for us to leave the chains that confine us. We praise Your Name. Amen
Sandy was facing some really tough choices. Her daughter needed a life-saving treatment. The girl's father was out of the picture, and she faced this moment without support. Even the doctors didn't seem overly optimistic. So this embattled mom did what moms do. She prayed. She told God she didn't have the strength to see this thing through.
No bright light appeared, and things didn't get better instantly or even the next day, but God healed her little girl.
Philippians 4:13 says "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."
Sandy remembered what her own parents had taught her about faith. She remembered that the Apostle Paul, who suffered beatings and imprisonment for preaching the gospel, once said, "I know whom I have believed."
Belief, that's the key. When your strength is gone, you go to your prayer closet and you pour out your grief to God. And you remember that God's Word tells us that all things are possible through Christ.
Let's pray.
Father God, life just hurts sometimes. We feel weak and lethargic, and on our own we’ll never be enough. We praise you for being our strength, all the time. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Have you ever been in such a dark place that you wondered if God cares about you, or even exists? Maybe it’s all some cosmic joke, right?
We’ve all been there. Humans doubt. We doubt ourselves, we doubt product labels, we doubt our kids. We question everything.
But the worst one is trying to figure out where God is in the middle of great difficulties. Sometimes the world is just flat-out mean, and it seems like it’s an entity that’s trying to break you in half.
That is the very moment God’s ancient and eternal words come to us.
Isaiah 41:10 says, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that! Jesus lives so that you will live forever. And in the interim, He will walk with you and carry you when necessary. He never fails and what’s more, His willingness to never leave us has been proven over and over again, in a billion different ways.
If you need Him right now, don’t doubt Him. Call out to Him. Your circumstances might seem impossible and impossibly unique. Don’t believe it. Believe Him instead.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you promised you would never leave us. We know that’s true, but help us with our faith in our weak moments. Amen.
It's almost universally believed that tech guru, Steve Jobs, floated into mega success with Apple, the company he co-founded with Steve Wozniak.
Job’s first go around with Apple didn't end well — in 1985, he was forced out. His next effort wasn't a home run either, yet Job puts his head down like a fullback and plowed ahead. Next up for him was founding Pixar and finally, more than a decade after his humiliating exit from Apple, Jobs returned there as CEO and revolutionized the way people interacted with computers.
Writing about him after his death, Jason Demur said that, “Steve Jobs is lasting evidence that you should never count somebody out – even yourself.” In other words, even if someone pushes you back, you have to keep moving forward. Believe it or not a fellow tech icon, Bill Gates, also had to learn the hard way. His first venture with business partner Paul Allen was a complete failure, but Gates said many times in the years since that learning from failures leads to success, and Microsoft is proof of that.
Christian Ministry leader, Jo Walls, has some interesting things to say to Christians who have perhaps grown too comfortable in their faith, and she addresses herself first. She says, “God’s been talking to me lately about being too comfortable. He's challenging me in some ways that I'm not real thrilled about. He's pushing me to grow and in fact, He's telling me ‘cheer up buttercup – life can be a grind,’ and that's when we need to push through.”
Even though it can sometimes sting when someone tells us to chin up, it's ultimately for our good. And let's face it – most of us know it feels good to overcome something really difficult.
Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” When your life is spent following Jesus, fear disappears in the light of God's reassuring love. He has a plan for you, and you don't have to walk in the shadows when God’s got your back. Every moment of every day is brighter knowing our Heavenly Father watches over us.
The unknown doesn’t have to be cause for worry. It’s an opportunity for God to work on your behalf. Hand the details over to Him and wait patiently and faithfully for His good plan to come to flourish. The joy of knowing we can always depend on God is a message worth sharing.
Let’s Pray.
Lord, we need your strength every single day. We know that some things just don’t come easy. Thank you for bringing us along the way you do. We pray and believe. It feels good to emerge from difficulty and realize that the strength you gave us pull us out of despair. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
As we wrap up our series on precious jewels, it is kind of fun to spotlight one last gemstone. One that isn’t immediately beautiful or desired.
But it is the rarest!
Discovered in east Asia by British mineralogist Arthur Pain, the so-called “Painite” gemstone can be found in several colors, and the various hues seen as light hits them give an uncommon view.
Incredibly, only 25 such stones exist today, and the value per gram works out to $9,000! Despite the fact that many people have never heard of it, Painite is the rarest of rare jewels. For the longest time, only two had been found the world over.
That kind of rarity stands out in a crowd.
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
Think of how rare and precious a true Proverbs 31 woman is. She is a woman remembered vividly, even with emotion, long after she goes to be with her Lord.
Are you a mother beloved by your children? Do they think of you fondly? Does your husband honor you for your uncommon strength and love? Will friends seek you out when they can’t turn to anyone else? If so, you are that rare gem.
And you are loved indeed.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us be that rarest of jewels, one that points others to the light and majesty of Christ, forevermore. Amen.
In its natural state, the jaw-dropping gem known as emerald often resembles an ancient barrel-shaped decree from a king. It tells us things nothing else can.
Today, the glittering green stone stops an onlooker. It takes our breath away. When set against a backdrop of shimmering gold, it is something that transfixes us.
The calming color of an emerald actually gives the eyes a rest after working for a while. In fact, some think looking at emeralds relieves eye strain, a sparkling, homeopathic remedy for the overworked.
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
Among the most sought-after gemstones, an emerald speaks of a royal court. A monarch. One who is destined to lead people to greatness.
Like humans, an emerald without blemish is very, very rare. Perfection is not common. So too is perfection in humans, since only Christ is perfect. His example is our ideal and goal, and He shapes us throughout our lives, refining us into rare and beautiful examples of His love.
A Proverbs 31 woman has been set apart by the Lord Himself. He sets her in a throne of gold, so that those she comes in contact with will stop and listen to her.
God asks the Proverbs 31 woman to wear her beauty well. Not for her own glory, but for the glory of the Lord.
Let’s pray.
Lord, out of kindness and care for us you provided a glorious rainbow of color in your world. Thank you for such beauty, and for what it can mean to us. Amen.
We don’t have direct evidence, of course. The Bible doesn’t tell us this exactly…
But tradition says that the Ten Commandments were carved from a solid slab of sapphire.
It’s a beautiful thought, isn’t it? The rich blue of the sapphire gemstone reminds us of royalty, and the regal King Jesus. It fits!
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
When a woman admires a sapphire necklace, or turns her hand in order to catch the light on that beautiful blue sapphire ring, she is presenting a picture of what it means to be a Proverbs 31 woman. The ring of a ruler, one that loves all people and values them, the sapphire can be seen from a very long distance. There is no mistaking that this is a treasure that draws the best kind of admiration from everyone who comes in contact.
If you want to stand out from the crowd in the best sense of the term, remind yourself that your King is the royal regent who has set you apart to be His ambassador here on Earth. See yourself the way He sees you: a precious and priceless gem.
Let’s pray.
Lord, like the sapphire, we desire to stand out from the crowd for the right reasons: to point the way to King Jesus. Help us to shine for you! Amen.
Diamonds.
The very word calls to mind something so beautiful and rare, people everywhere immediately form a sharp mental image. Who hasn’t dreamed of handfuls of these sparkling, valuable gemstones running through their hands?
Nothing speaks of high value more than a diamond solitaire. Such a piece of jewelry signals to the world that a couple considers their relationship to be both priceless and eternal.
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
Yes, this is it. A Proverbs 31 woman has literally been made by the Lord to be a clear, radiant light so that people can see Christ living in her. Honestly? What humans label as beauty often misses the mark. Light comes from within, not from the surface.
A woman who knows her worth in Christ Jesus is that stunning girl turning heads, and engaging and inspiring hearts.
Not only is a woman who is an ambassador for Christ lovely, she is also durable. She is not smashed by the cares of life. When life presses in on her, she turns to her Lord and emerges as a thing that cuts the enemy to pieces.
She shines for all time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the beauty you create is not matched by human creativity. Thank you for the sparkling ‘diamonds’ that come into and enrich our lives. Amen.
Everyone loves the beauty of nature’s gems. The greens, blues, and reds of natural gemstones have set apart jewelry since the beginning of time. These precious jewels are relatively rare, and desired by people from all walks of life.
None more than the ruby.
The second hardest gemstone, rubies have always been striking for their deep reds that flash in the light. They have been used in the crowns of monarchs for centuries, and for the rings and necklaces we can find in jewelry stores today. Jewelers tell us the ruby is one of the most coveted stones.
Four times rubies are mentioned in the Bible, and each time the reference is to beauty or wisdom.
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
A godly woman is one who stands out for her internal beauty and wisdom. She is admired for all the right reasons as she walks in the light, revealing the kind of attributes only God can craft and provide.
In the famous “Proverbs 31” chapter of the Bible, we read a fairly detailed account of this wonderful woman. Many of us count them as mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters.
How they bless us!
Let’s pray.
Lord, the Proverbs 31 woman, like a fine ruby, is easy to spot. We value them for all the right reasons. Thank you for the blessing of knowing and appreciating women such as these. Amen.
If we're honest and open to the truth, miracles have always been a part of our world. In the beginning, God made a dazzling world full of diversity—beautiful animals, gorgeous sunsets, streams of water. He also made us to enjoy it all, and to keep it for Him.
But just like the entrance of sin into our world, which marred the original beauty, we sometimes get weighed down with worry and cares of life. We look up one day and the drudgery of our days overwhelms us. The supernatural seems far away. And that's the very moment God will act. He has always been with us and one of his greatest promises is that He will be with us to the end, to the moment He ushers in an eternity too wonderful to fully know now.
Revelation 22: 1–3 says, "Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river, stood the tree of life, bearing 12 crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse."
In the meantime, maybe you're really going through a challenge in your life. You need a miracle. Do you know that you can simply ask Jesus for this? He's answered too many people, too many times not to be real. And if we're honest, the presence and regularity of miracles today are staggering. They're everywhere. So, why not you?
1 Corinthians 1: 1–2 says, "To those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be his holy people, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours, grace and peace to you from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ."
There's such peace in this. Put aside your doubts and your fears. Just ask Him to help you. And He can. He will. In fact, He will bless you so much, you won't be able to stay quiet about it. You have to tell people. You are a miracle.
Let's pray.
Father God, you rescue us all the time, in ways, big and small. Your faithfulness in helping us is worthy of our worship. Thank you for making miracles part of everyday life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
When Hurricane Katrina rolled through, the spinning white satellite image on TV screens actually looked evil. For residents of New Orleans, waiting for that hurricane that's exactly what it felt like. Thousands of people were affected by the brutal storm that poured in from the Gulf. In many ways, the city still hasn't recovered. But in the chaos, God was there.
For more than 20 years, water pump operator Rufus Burkhalter and Bobby Brown had worked at pumping station number 6 along the 17th Street Canal. When they realized how bad it was going to be, the pair did an amazing thing. They stayed at their posts. They kept working even after the levees broke. One of the world's largest pumping stations was still being operated by two good men who risked their lives for others. When it was all said and done both lost their homes due to storm damage. The seawater and raging winds devastated their lives and yet they chose to help others. That kind of love for one's fellow man is rooted in the love of Christ.
Psalm 93:4 says "Mightier than the thunder of the great waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea. The Lord on high is mighty."
God is infinitely stronger than the storms in your life. He's there guiding you and he is there caring for you through it all, all the time. In the horrifying days of Katrina and through the aftermath many people displayed a reliance on the Lord who stood up to the evil that invaded their community. When we lean on God in every situation, especially during the storms in our lives it builds our faith and places us on solid ground.
Let's pray.
Father, Almighty One, nothing is scarier than the dark deep waters that overwhelm us sometimes. We know though that your word is our anchor established and true. We can rely on it every single time. Thank you for guiding, protecting, and loving us always, in all of your ways in Jesus' name. Amen.
In the Tom Hanks film “Castaway,” the main character, “Chuck,” finds himself in the ultimate terrifying situation. Chuck’s plane goes down in the ocean, and he finds himself stranded on a very deserted island.
Years pass.
Chuck’s family and friends long ago gave up on him, and why not? No one could have known he was sitting on a remote pile of sand in the Pacific Ocean.
He learns to survive, but then reflects on the future. What happens if he gets sick? What happens if he’s injured?
Staying put isn’t an option.
SPOILER ALERT Next thing you know, he’s pushing away from the island on a homemade raft. This risky adventure eventually puts him right in the path of a ship.
When He went to be with His Father in heaven, Jesus left his disciples with a simple but big adventure idea: Go tell people about me. It won’t be safe, and you might even be in danger, but life depends on it.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”
Jesus called us to ride the ultimate wave.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes life intimidates us. But we have you as our lifeboat, and we thank you for not letting us drift away. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Hurricane Dorian caused a lot of anxiety and destruction. Many of us worried about the East coast of our own country, but the Bahamas were hit really hard, with the storm basically stationary for many hours.
Residents there hunkered down and sought higher ground, wondering when the onslaught would end, and the storm would pass. The physical damage left by the lengthy storm was devastating.
When the winds of life blow fiercely, rain pours down, and the water rises, it is tempting to give in to panic. In the midst of the storm, sometimes we let the noise and chaos of our present circumstances become louder than the voice of our Lord and Savior. The still small voice in our hearts may only be a whisper, but the power behind that presence outranks any circumstance of this life.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus was not only with the people of the Bahamas, He is with you in every storm you face. He isn’t simply the fleeting ‘eye of the hurricane,’ either. His presence and power and love for us is greater than any storm life can hit us with.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for being our steadfast shelter, our provider, and peace-giver in every situation. It’s who you are. No storm can shake us when we build on a foundation of faith. Amen.
Have you ever gotten tired of treading water?
Martha is a 20-something-old lifeguard in Los Angeles. Besides dealing with deck chairs purposely thrown into the water and parents asking her to babysit poolside, she's noticed another aspect of the job that really tugs at your heart. "Kids pretend to drown in the pool so that I will pay attention to them." Wow. Think about that.
At a young age, humans need to be nurtured and cared for. They want to be loved. So a young lifeguard becomes their emotional lifeline. These kids were actually pretending to nearly die so that someone would pay attention. It's pretty sad, but not that different from the rest of us. Everyone wants to belong, and sometimes life is like a raging storm, and problems can flood the soul.
In Matthew 14, we read the story of Jesus providing comfort to his disciples in a difficult situation. He had gone to pray on a mountain while they stayed behind in a boat on the Sea of Galilee. Normally, this is a very picturesque, calm lake, but this night, a storm came up. As the waves were about to capsize the boat, the men looked and saw a figure walking on the water. Peter cried out, and Jesus told him to get out of the boat and walk toward him. Peter, known for his passionate faith, got out. But as he took his eyes off Jesus and began looking at the storm around him, he sank. Jesus, though, grabbed his arm and pulled him up. "Why did you doubt?" He asked Peter. It's a valid question for anyone.
Jesus has proven himself to us many times over. When you feel overwhelmed, remember to call out to him, and he will lift your burden. Let's pray.
Father God, sometimes it feels like life is just pulling us under. We thank you so much that we have examples from scripture where you rescued drowning people. You're indeed our lifeguard. Help us keep this in our hearts and our minds daily so that we can be reminded of your blessed assurance and to call out your name, the one who provides for all of our needs. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Isn’t it fascinating that a secular definition of the word blessed is “made holy; consecrated.” It seems the whole world really knows, even deep down, that blessings are from God.
Psalm 107:1 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
The psalm tells us several things at once. Meditate on each one.
We are to give thanks.
He is good.
His love for us is eternal.
That’s quite a good God.
Whatever our Creator blesses us with is holy. Unblemished. Our blessings come from a pure heart that wants what is good for us. This is really important to remember all the time, especially when life is difficult.
If you are in that season, stop what you’re doing—even for two minutes—and really think about all the ways you are blessed. If you are in financial difficulties, do you have enough to eat? If your health isn’t the greatest, do you have medicine, and doctors to help?
There are dozens of blessings staring us in the face every single day.
Think about that.
Let’s pray. Lord, you shower us with blessings; help us to remember to give thanks to you, our Source. Thank you! In Jesus’ name. Amen.
How would you feel, if you suddenly lost the gifts so many of us take for granted, such as vision, hearing, or the ability to walk?
Fanny Crosby was struck blind at just 6 weeks of age, but God had a plan for her. She was raised by her mother and grandmother after her father’s death when she was about 6 months old, and although she grew up poor, she was blessed to attend an excellent school for the blind in New York state, near where the family lived.
Fanny enrolled at the New York Institution for the Blind in 1835, just before her 15th birthday. She was a student of the school for 11 years, eventually joining the faculty as a teacher for another 12 years. During her time at the school, she learned to play the piano, organ, harp, and guitar, and became a good soprano singer. After graduation, she joined a group of lobbyists in Washington, D.C. arguing for support of education for the blind. Fanny was the first woman to speak in the United States Senate when she read a poem on the Senate floor encouraging funding for state schools for the blind.
Fanny befriended 17-year-old Grover Cleveland, future President of the United States, while she was a teacher, and in fact she knew each of the presidents who served during her lifetime through her work as a celebrated poet and songwriter.
She later stated: “It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank him for the dispensation. If perfect earthly sight were offered me tomorrow I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things about me.”
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to set aside every distraction and focus on your plan for us. We often take for granted the gifts you’ve given us. Remind us to be grateful, and to use our gifts for your glory. Amen.
This may be hard to visualize as we’re right in the middle of Summer, but during Christmas of 1944, American soldiers were dug in against the Germans. The dark, frozen Belgian forest added to the bleak atmosphere. Morale was low, ammo was low, and food supplies were low.
But just when things looked the worst, General Patton’s Third Army showed up almost out of nowhere. The men who fought in the Battle of the Bulge and survived remembered many things about that strangest of Christmas holidays.
Mostly they remembered the first hot food they’d had in six weeks! The steaming coffee overflowed. The bounty and some rest prepared them to win that battle, and then win the war.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
That’s the way life often works. Your back is to the wall, and then God shows up. The reinforcements appear suddenly. The Holy Spirit lifts you up — mind, body, and soul. He feeds us with spiritual nourishment so that we can fight back against evil and prevail.
If you’re in a war, don’t give up. God is coming.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always with us and that is just one thing that makes you unique. We can’t live without you. In you, we thrive. Amen.
In the spring of 2014 Daniel and Colleen Jaquith, American missionaries to the Philippines, were awakened suddenly by the sounds of gunfire and shouts. Before they could react a gunman appeared in their bedroom doorway, and he was holding a gun to the head of their pastor.
Demanding money, the intruder was distracted when their pastor suggested he look in another part of the room for money. This gave the pastor just enough time to overpower him.
This whole time, the Jaquiths were on their knees praying.
Now, how many of us would've had the steadiness to do something like that instead of diving for cover? This couple, full of faith and trusting in the strength of the Lord, had the discipline to pray while their pastor struggled with the intruder.
Incredibly, the intruder yelled at them to stop praying. The scene was surreal. And yet the spirit of the Lord was in the room that night. As the pastor began to overpower him, a wild shot hit Dan in the arm. This began another ordeal in the following hours, as they made their way by boat, a 16-hour trip, to a mainland hospital on Luzon.
While relaxing back in the US, Dan recalled the lessons they learned in the aftermath. Here's what he said, "I share this testimony with deep gratefulness to be alive, and for the ability to give the Lord praise for His mighty deliverance during that desperate time of trouble.” His wife Colleen remembered what it was like helping her bleeding husband, aware that many more hours of praying were coming.
Little more than six months later, they had returned home to Oregon for a visit, where they were able to enjoy seeing family and friends. Truly, they were so happy to be alive and thriving they forgot about the stress of their ordeal in the Philippines.
In this amazing story, we're reminded in Luke 1:45 that God supernaturally takes away our stress when we believe in Him: “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her.”
Let's pray.
Lord, thank you for the path You've secured for us in a stressful world. Your kindness to us is almost too much to process, because You not only make a way for us to receive your promises, but You bless us too. You're a good God and if we just claim the promises you've already provided, we can experience abundant life, even in a chaotic world. In Jesus' name. Amen.
The area surrounding Ein Gedi, near the Dead Sea, is bleak. Desert scenes and HOT temps! It isn’t a place you’d go just for fun.
It really wasn’t fun when David was hiding from King Saul. The guy who whipped a rock at Goliath’s head was already a legend among the people. Saul couldn’t stand that, and so he did what power-hungry leaders do: he decided to eliminate the competition. David hid from the King’s henchmen for a long time, eventually settling south of Jerusalem, in a bleak place.
Sitting there looking up at the stars in the night sky, he wrote some of the most famous words of all time, words that comfort us to this day.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
Ein Gedi is an oasis in the desert. Cool water flows from the cliffs into deep pools, and green plants hang from the rocks. It was here that David first understood just how far God’s mercy and grace go. It was here he felt the presence of the Lord in a powerful way. He fed David there, in the wilderness, even as the King’s men hunted him all around.
God treats us the same way. He loves us through the terror, and provides for us in our own times of hardship.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies follow us everywhere. We thank you for your provision, all the time. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Honestly, sometimes as Christians, we think things are going to be easy. After all, when Jesus saves you, it doesn’t get any better than that! The joy we feel is genuine, and lasting.
But that doesn’t mean we escape this world. Bad things can and do happen. This week we’re talking about having enough grit to get to the glory.
Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
Part of our Christian walk is developing a personal faith that lasts. As Paul tells us in Romans, leaning-in and learning to last is the key to it all. Listen, if you are walking through a really dark valley right now, you are not alone! Many, many people have and are going through exactly what you’re going through now.
If you bought into the idea that being a Christian means your life becomes easy, go ahead and let that one go. True faith requires us to look to the Lord when things go wrong.
Stand up on your feet, Christian, and let Jesus steady you.
Hold Fast!
Let’s pray. Lord, your strength sustains us. We love you for that, and so many more things. Amen.
Standing in the door of the plane, with a fierce wind whipping his whole body, Curtis wondered why he’d volunteered for the paratroopers. It was glamorous, they said.
It’ll make a man out of you, they said.
Shutting his eyes, Curtis prayed the most honest prayer of his life. He stretched out his hands and took a step…
Lamentations 3:25–26: "The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord."
Rolling on the ground wrapped in silk, Curtis realized he had followed his instructions to the letter. With his landing, he graded out the highest of anyone in his company.
That story is exactly how we are to interact with our Savior. When we let go, confident that Jesus has us, we have no more pressure on us. He is carrying us to safety.
We land in the right place every time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have so much gratitude for the countless ways you lead us through life. We love you. Amen.
Whenever we have to overcome an obstacle in our lives, we are thinking about a million different things. Our minds race. We might even be aware that our Creator is there to help.
But have you ever considered that even when life gets tough, you can still have joy?
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Sheila Walsh has said that what got her through a bout of depression was the knowledge that God the Father loved her and wanted the best for her.
Today, one of her missions in life is to help others recover their joy, by pointing them to the Lord. The truth is, this life sometimes beats us up, but those circumstances don’t have to win. It isn’t inevitable.
It’s when we learn to rejoice while clinging to hope that true joy comes.
Let’s pray. Lord, in our lowest moments, we cling to you and your promises. Thank you for that joy.
We all screw up. We all fail in some way. We fall short of goals, or get embarrassed in some kind of career implosion or other events. It’s easy then to feel like we’ll never win again.
That is not how God sees you.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Hope and a future. That’s what’s ahead, not depression and failure. The Bible is full of stories of people God would not allow to slip away. Peter denied Christ, and the Savior forgave him! Sarah mocked the idea that she would ever have a child, but God let her be a mother late in life!
This is the world God created. Not one of misery and losing. Does it make sense that He would create you in very specific ways, uniquely gifted as you are, and then just give up on you?
Don’t let that be your story.
Your part in it is refusing to believe the enemy when you hear that voice that tells you it’s all over.
God knows the plans He has for you! Remember that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you don’t let us sink out of sight. Thank you for setting us on our feet, and helping us move forward. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Our world needs many things. We have environmental concerns, broken relationships, and disease that still stalks too many countries.
It is also true that God doesn’t leave us in despair. He doesn’t allow our problems to overcome us, if we trust Him.
Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
This is our anchor, the blessing of hope. This week we’re talking about hope and joy, and these are given to us freely by our Loving Father.
Do you have hope? Are you anchored in anything? If not, tell God that you need Him. You’ll find that He not only comes to you in need, but He will use you afterward to spread hope and joy.
It has been said that people can’t live without hope, and that is so true.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us hope. Help us spread that message wherever we go. Amen.
Have you ever thought about the fact that you have an obligation to defend our nation’s freedoms? You live in the Land of the Free; your contributions are needed. We all have a role.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Sure, maybe you’re not a Navy SEAL. Maybe you don’t fly supersonic jets in combat. You never served in the military. Most citizens haven’t, and won’t.
But that doesn’t mean we can sit on our hands and not participate.
Your gift and contribution might be instilling values in your children. Or you might be in the medical field, helping keep folks healthy. Maybe you’ve been entrusted by the Lord to be a pastor, protecting your congregation from spiritual dangers.
Many things have joined forces to make America a place millions want to come, to improve their lives. It takes a lot of effort and many moving parts.
Many of our ancestors moved through New York Harbor and shielded their eyes from the sun so they could see the Statue of Liberty. Each of them made the choice to be a piece of a large quilt that makes up our nation.
It is up to us to be courageous and continue the tradition. Our freedom depends on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we acknowledge those who came before us. We take up our own responsibility to do our part. Amen.
Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be one of the original settlers in America? As a person leaving the safety of England to come to the New World and start over?
Those people came here for religious freedom and risked it all. And when they landed in New England, they literally put down roots as they built and planted the beginnings of an amazing experiment that is still ongoing.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Our ancestors were definitely strengthened in their faith as they faced challenges and danger.
But the payoff was worth it.
Maybe you’re going through something similar. You’ve moved to a new place. New job. New social circle. And you want to find a church! Just tell Jesus you need help with all these things and He’ll be right by your side.
Let’s pray.
Lord, forever you have walked with us and forever you will keep us close, making us strong in the faith. Thank you for your faithfulness to your mission. Amen.
From earliest times, God has commanded His people to see their national home through His holy eyes. In other words, countries around the world are to follow the Lord. Of course, many don’t.
Jeremiah 30:22 says, “So you will be my people, and I will be your God.”
Many great civilizations have risen, but few last beyond a couple hundred years. Although history is debated, the foundations of America see a people who wanted to live holy unto the Lord. Modern America is still an ongoing experiment, but our Pledge of Allegiance, adopted in 1942, used the phrase “Under God.”
Lincoln used it for the first time during his Gettysburg Address, when he told the people that from that point on, we would be one people, united under the Living God.
This is something to celebrate, and we should! Our nation is always stretching to do better, and fulfill an ideal that is more than just some slogan. It is our calling to be this way.
Under God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that Christ has been proclaimed in freedom in our nation! Help us continue this sacred calling. Amen.
Today in America, two million men and women serve in our armed forces. More than 200,000 of them are deployed to various points around the world.
Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
The Lord has told us directly not to be afraid. We aren’t even to be discouraged! He’s told us through His promises that He’ll be with us every step of the way.
If we stop and think about the amazing history of this country, we can see that God has literally been with us every minute of every hour. He was at Yorktown. He dropped a last-minute winning strategy into Chamberlain’s mind at Gettysburg. God went with our invasion forces in the Pacific and in Europe during World War 2, because people were enslaved and in need of rescue.
He has been with us since the terrible moments of 9/11.
Be strong and of good courage in the Land of the Free!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your provision for us in all times and places is wonderful. Thank you for never leaving us. Amen.
Most countries relish their histories…famous eras and the glory of battle and all that. Americans love this beautiful land, as well.
But the Bible tells us the true source of our blessings. It points us to the One who made all things possible.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
We are incredibly blessed in America for a lot of reasons. From sufficient food to freedom to make our own choices, we have so much. But do we always acknowledge the source of our blessings?
Our forefathers did.
George Washington’s tomb at Mt. Vernon has Scripture etched into the stones. The Father of our country knew his heavenly Father!
The Bible tells us that we should glory first in our great God. He is the one we owe our lives to. Every breath we take. We owe our Savior Jesus our eternal lives.
It is to Him that all honor and glory belongs. As proud Americans, we stand on our faith. Of our almost limitless blessings, that is number one.
To God be the glory!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are available to us each day. As we get ready for a new day, help us to remember that You are our source. Amen.
A huge benefit of being a believer is the knowledge that we can help others after going through the valley ourselves.
It’s one thing to endure and overcome and find your joy, but it’s maybe even better when you see a friend emerge into the light because you were there for them.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
When you’re in the middle of something difficult, it’s hard to even think. Scripture tells us the way out, but it helps to have someone in your life who has been there, done that. Even having a friend gently remind you that it might take time to recover is a help. Being reminded to be faithful and consistent in prayer tips the balance.
As we learn to rejoice in hope, attaining that abundant life Jesus talked about, let us remember others who are in trouble.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always faithful. You never let us down. Thank you for the joy that comes from overcoming. Amen.
Some of the greatest stories of believers down through time have involved those who really studied God’s Word. These people have gone before us to show us the way. From Charles Spurgeon to a missionary mother in China, daily study of the Word, and prayer, prepared them to mentor entire generations.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
We also read in Romans 10 that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. We have to do it, so that others know how. Remember, there is no substitute for spending time in God’s Word.
In order to properly train an apprentice, you need to obviously be prepared and adept. Anything less leads to weak faith, or no faith at all.
This is what the Great Commission, sharing the Gospel, has always been about. Duplicating disciples. Grounding your own faith in the Bible, then imparting that to others. That is the essence of true iron sharpening iron.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us about your work by daily reminding us to spend time with you in Your Word. Amen.
Who likes to wait for what we need or want? Basically — nobody.
Of those nine elements that make up the Fruit of the Spirit, patience may be the hardest.
Romans 8:25 says, “But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.” And patience is learned, which makes it one of the sweetest fruits the Spirit gives us. Waiting for a payoff of some kind makes the end result that much more rewarding, and life teaches us that.
A childless Hannah endured mocking and ridicule, but the Bible tells us in First Samuel that she prayed, and she waited. Imagine how she felt when the date of her delivery drew near. She eventually had several children, but it was her patience in waiting on Samuel that made all the difference.
If you're waiting for something very important, read and meditate on the Fruits of the Spirit, especially patience.
Let's pray. Lord, give us the patience of Hannah when we're frustrated by waiting, and teach us humility in the process in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Tribes usually think a lot of themselves. Exclusive groups are sometimes arrogant. Even whole nations can be this way. In the 19th century, several European countries felt they were the descendants of the first people in the world.
With religion, this can be infinitely worse. With Christianity, critics often say the exclusive nature of it is just unfair. They cite the Christian view that the only way to be reconciled to God is through Jesus Christ, and say that's degrading to people of other faiths, or those with no faith. Other worldviews claim to have truth and a few claim a superior view of the world, but none are quite like the Christian faith.
Romans 3:23 says "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." All meaning all. That's the meaning of the verse, and this is offensive to a lot of people. Christianity though, doesn't force itself on anyone, at least not in the modern world. It's been said that the holy spirit is a gentleman, meaning he won't force a person to yield to God. Instead, God offers grace to all who want it.
Paul made it clear in particular that in order to be born again, one must believe in Jesus Christ. Rather than see this as exclusive, maybe we should change our perspective just a little and see how inclusive it really is. Many religions claim truth, but not absolute truth. Along with that, many believe all religions lead to God, but the totality of scripture tells us clearly that it is in Jesus that we find the truth, and satisfy the longing in our souls.
In John 8:31–32, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples and then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free." So you see, far from being a hateful dominant view, the Christian faith shows people everywhere how to be free from sin. Not a work-spaced religion, but one that makes the very most of God's grace and that is true truth.
Let's pray. Father God, your Word is truth. In it, we discover who we are and what our relationship with you can be. Thank you that you haven't left us in the dark about our world and the world beyond. In Jesus' name. Amen.
In all the world, there are almost countless ways people try to find God. Some people are drawn to the mystical, while others chase after the practical. Does it work?
God knew we would all look to fill the void in our spirits, the one put there when man first sinned. He also already knew what our escape route would be, the path back to Him.
Romans 10:9–10 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”
The so-called “Roman Road” is in reality a face-to-face with the Living God. Jesus Christ Himself is our aim, and our benefactor. He loved us so much that He offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin. It’s very simple really. God accepted the sacrifice and raised His precious Son from the dead. Now it is there waiting for us to accept that great and priceless gift.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we complicate things sometimes, but your salvation is a simple choice, and it is free. Blessed be your name forever and forever! Amen.
God’s Word is a collection of individual books about the history of the world, poetry, worship songs, letters, and the beginnings of the Church.
But it’s also all about Jesus!
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Jesus, who came to our world as God in the flesh, is actually the Creator of everything that exists. Most amazing, He is alive today. He was crucified and laid in a tomb 2,000 years ago, but rose again and lives to be the King of our lives.
As the Word, He is aware of literally everything, including our thoughts. He hears the cries of your heart. He knows when you are depressed. He knows your thoughts and how you feel about things.
If He does all that, why not talk to Him today? Tell Jesus how you feel. His story isn’t just words on a page. He is the Living Word.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercy and grace for us are incredible! We are grateful that you sent Jesus to defeat evil and death. And it’s in Jesus’ name that we pray. Amen.
Did you know God’s Word is indestructible?
Many ancient books have been lost to history. Others sit still buried under the sands of the Middle East. But after thousands of years, the Bible is more widely read than ever.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
There’s an interesting story in the Old Testament book of Jeremiah. We are told that the wicked king of Judah didn’t like the Word given by God to the prophet, so he threw it in the fire! But God simply had Jeremiah do it again, and today we have the story recorded in our Bibles.
Whenever men decide they want to get rid of the Bible, whether in Nazi Germany or today in countries where dictators hurt their own people, God’s Word survives, and it finds its way into the hands of even more people.
A God who can do that is the true God, and the only One worthy of worship!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word is something that we can’t get away from, even when we are rebellious. Thank you for preserving your Word so that we all have access to it. In Jesus' name. Amen.
The world is full of interesting ancient books. The Indian Vedas, the Egyptian Book of the Dead, even ancient clay tablets from Sumeria.
In the Bible though, we read that God’s Word is alive, not dead.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Notice that word, ‘active.’
That’s a very interesting way to describe a book. It sits on a shelf, or stares back at us from our phones. The writer of Hebrews says that the Word of God is for all people in all times and all places. And while we might not like the idea that it can see into our hearts and minds, it is part of God’s plan for our benefit. It brings freedom and peace.
Do you need either of those today? Freedom, and peace? Then try reading the Living Word!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you made us and you know literally everything about us. Nothing is hidden from you, just as your Word tells us. Thank you for loving us, and for that ultimate intimate relationship you have provided. We love you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
People have different views on just what God’s Word actually is. Some think it’s an ancient book of wisdom. Others think it’s just kind of an interesting piece of historical literature.
But the Word itself tells us that it has amazing benefits for those who read it and believe it.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
It’s not a dead book!
Notice that the Bible is “alive and active.” That means that even though we might let it gather dust on a shelf, it doesn’t gather dust in our hearts. God’s Word tells us exactly who we are, and who God is. It establishes that relationship.
And it’s very important to remember that as you read it, you’ll see that Jesus Christ is seen all through the Bible. The Word of God reveals the Word, which is what John chapter 1 calls Jesus. It’s an amazing book within the Bible and is a good place to start to discover who Jesus is.
He is the Living Word!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are good to us all the time. You don’t leave us in our sin, but give us a way out, through Jesus Christ, the Living Word. It’s in His name that we pray. Amen.
The Bible.
Audaciously, it’s been called the foundation of our civilization, a sacred book, even our guide for life.
And actually, it’s more than that.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
From ancient times, God decided that He would communicate with humans through language, the written Word. He wanted us to have our history and His instructions for living in a form that we couldn’t forget or lose.
In effect, the Bible is like a mirror we can hold up and look into. Do we see a reflection of Christ? Have we spent time with God today? Are we helping share the Gospel in our daily walk?
The Word of God is eternal. We can hold it in our hands and read it and apply it to our lives.
Do yourself a favor and read some of it today! We’re doing some of that together right now, but go spend some time in the Word today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us your thoughts, and for helping us know you better through your Word. It’s in Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Today, we have a special Father's Day episode for you. The week leading up to Father’s Day is traditionally the time to give dads and granddads in your life an extra thumbs-up, and we've created a list of specific ways for you to pray for dads, any time.
Number one, pray for a loving nature. John 13:34–35 says, “A new command I give you. Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. And by this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Number two, pray for wisdom. Philippians 1:9 says, “And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment.”
Number three, pray for patience. Ephesians 4:2 says, “Be always humble, gentle, and patient. Show your love by being tolerant with one another.”
Number four, pray for perseverance. Romans 5:3–4 says, “We exalt in our tribulations knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance, and perseverance proven character, and proven character, hope.”
Number five, pray for servant leadership. Philippians 2:3 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, rather in humility, value others above yourselves.”
Six, pray for support. Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 says, “Two or better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow, but woe to him who is alone when he falls, and doesn't have anyone to lift him up.
Number seven, pray for strength. Isaiah 40:31 says, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like Eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not be faint.”
Number eight, pray for courage. First Corinthians 16:13 says, “Be on your guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage, be strong.”
Number nine, pray for peace. Second Corinthians 1:2 says, “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Number ten, pray for rest. Exodus 33:14 says, “And he said, ‘My presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest.’”
Let's pray.
Heavenly Father, we ask you to bless every dad in the world. You've gifted these men with children, and have asked them to train those children in the way they should go. Prepare their hearts daily for this task, and bless them with the strength of character and sustaining faith they need, to be the father that you intend for them to be. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Noah was far from perfect, but he was a humble man, and protective of his family. He stands out among fathers in the Bible as a man who remained loyal to God, in spite of the wickedness of the world around him.
Doesn’t that sound a lot like life today? Fathers who choose to follow a life of faith are surrounded by temptation and downright evil in this world, but God is pleased by our devotion, and He has a plan for each of us — even when circumstances are frustrating or difficult.
Genesis 6 verses 5–8 says, “The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. So the Lord said, ‘I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.’ But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.”
The Bible tells us Noah, father of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, was a righteous man and walked faithfully with God. For this reason, God chose Noah to build an incredible boat – the ark – that would save not only mankind, but every variety of living creature on the earth — from peril.
Sometimes fathers feel like their job is a thankless one. They tackle the honey-do list on weekends, help with dinner, keep the kids in line, and help to wrangle them at bedtime...and they don’t hear “thank you,” or “great job,” often enough. But God knows everything you do for your family, from breadwinning to caretaking and everything in between, and He takes delight in your devotion to your family, and to Him.
Deuteronomy 30:2–3 says, “And when you and your children return to the Lord your God and obey him with all your heart and with all your soul according to everything I command you today, then the Lord your God will restore your fortunes and have compassion on you and gather you again from all the nations where he scattered you.”
Modern-day fathers can learn valuable lessons from Noah:
God promises to bless and protect those who faithfully follow and obey him. A man who obeys the Lord will inspire faith in his children as well.
Obedience is not a sprint but a marathon; It means a lifetime of faithful devotion, even (and especially!) when the going gets tough.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, Thank you for calling out Noah’s faithful obedience to you so many years ago, and for providing for the safety and provision of his entire family when the world had gone astray. Bless every father who hears this message, Lord, that they might grow closer in their walk with you, and inspire their children to follow in their footsteps. Amen.
Moses was the father of two sons, Gershom and Eliezer, and he also served as a father figure to the entire Hebrew people as they escaped from slavery in Egypt.
He loved his people, and helped discipline and provide for them on their 40-year journey to the Promised Land. Imagine leading a frustrated, tired, hungry group of travelers through the desert — without air conditioning or handheld electronics — for four decades!
So many aspects of Moses’s life story seem larger-than-life, and he was indeed a hero of his time — but he was also merely a man. Moses’ perseverance in the face of incredible challenges over the course of his life shows today's fathers that overwhelming tasks can be achieved when we stay close to God.
Exodus 16:11–12 says, “The Lord said to Moses, ‘I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, ‘At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.’”
The Israelites were afraid they would starve in the barren desert after fleeing Egypt and complained to Moses that it would have been better if they had died by the Lord’s hand in Egypt, where they had enough to eat than to wander the desert without provisions. Imagine how frustrated Moses must have been! The Lord had miraculously saved the Israelites from slavery, and now they worried God wouldn’t provide what they needed to survive.
Through God’s faithful guidance, Moses was able to shepherd the Israelites through 40 years of wilderness living. They quarreled with Moses. They accused him of leading them to disaster and ruin. They complained frequently — even after they had seen God’s promises fulfilled. Yet still, Moses carried on. He brought every concern to the Lord, and with God’s blessing and guidance, he was able to keep going.
Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Moses teaches fathers that with God, all things are possible.
God answers prayer and desires intimate fellowship with every believer.
No one can follow God's laws perfectly. We all need a Savior.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, sometimes parenting is exhausting! Thank you for the blessing of children, and we ask you to bless dads with patience to spare and to make your presence known to tired dads in the trenches who need your wisdom, and your grace. Amen.
One of the things that mark a healthy society is the consistency between generations. In other words, adults who care about the future for their children will invest the time to make sure tomorrow is bright.
God the Father is the ultimate parent, and we would do well to model His love for us.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
Passing the torch, or training up the next generation, involves taking the time to do it properly. If you love your kids, you will make time for them. You won’t take the easy way out and settle for schools or the culture at large to raise them.
Teach them that we all experience tough times in this life, but sticking to God’s plan for their lives is the key to winning. Living the abundant life Jesus taught about, and sharing His Good News is the ultimate win.
But we don’t get there by quitting when the going gets tough.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you never leave us, and you never abandon the human community to evil. You are a great God, and we thank you for your commitment to us. Amen.
Adam, a first time father, looked down at his newborn son with love. Adam and his wife had made mistakes in the past and suffered greatly for it, but this child, their firstborn, was a chance to start fresh. The new family didn’t have the support of friends or relatives, but they did their best, and figured it out as they went along.
When the family was blessed with another son a few years later, they were so grateful to the Lord, and excited to watch their boys grow and play together. The family of four worked hard, loved God, and they were in it together.
Sometimes, though, the sins of our past have a way of catching up with us.
When Adam and Eve disobeyed God and were banished from the Garden of Eden, they plunged the world into sin. They couldn’t have known at the time just how far-reaching the consequences of this event would be for their family — that their son Cain would one day grow jealous of his brother Abel’s favor in the eyes of the Lord, and commit the very first murder.
Adam, the first man, and very first human father, has much to teach today's fathers about the consequences of our actions and the absolute necessity of obeying God.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Lessons we can learn from Adam include:
Obedience:
God wants us to freely obey Him, to trust Him, and to submit to his love. A man who follows and obeys the Lord can be a child’s first example of obedience.
Integrity:
Fathers with integrity know that nothing is hidden from God's sight. Even when no one is around, God sees our actions; men with integrity act accordingly.
Responsibility:
Godly fathers take responsibility for their own failures and shortcomings, rather than blaming others for their mistakes. The ability to accept responsibility is not a show of weakness, but a sign of strength.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, Adam, the first human father, had no blueprint for fatherhood. Thank you for the wisdom and knowledge we can glean from fathers before us in your Holy Word, the Bible. Uphold fathers, Lord, and open their eyes to your love, and your good plan for their family. Give them the support they need to follow you, and to humbly obey your commands. Amen.
Where are you headed, friend?
Psalm 25:4 says, “Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.”
Whether you've lived in the same place your entire life, or you've been blessed to travel the world, each and every life is a journey. An opportunity to learn, grow, and impact others as we follow the path God has planned for us.
Moses and the Israelites must have been expert travelers by the time they finally reached the Promised Land, and their journey was no pleasure trip.
God sent 10 devastating plagues to the land of Egypt, causing Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage. And God's people were promised a land where milk and honey flowed—the Promised Land—also known as Canaan. So Moses and the Israelites traveled to the borders of Canaan. For 40 days, a group of 12 chosen men secretly scouted out the land. Ten of the men reported that the people were well-armed, and just way too strong to overcome.
Despite God's promise of victory, the Israelites were afraid, and were certain they could not overcome the people of Canaan. They doubted God's promises. And in turn, he caused them to wander the desert for 40 years: one year for each of the 40 days they had explored the land.
Because of this, no one over the age of 20 would step foot into the Promised Land, including Moses, and an entire adult generation lost out on the blessings God had planned for them—all because they allowed their fear to be greater than their faith in God's plan.
Let's pray.
Heavenly Father, how many times have you delivered us? Not because we're deserving, but because you love us. Help us to keep the faith and stay on your path for us, every step of the journey. Your goodness is beyond question, and we're grateful for your presence in our lives, and your boundless saving grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
When God asks us to love our neighbor as ourselves, what exactly does He mean?
In Luke 10 verses 25–37, Jesus shares the Parable of the Good Samaritan to illustrate what it means to love our neighbors the way Jesus loves us.
“A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead.
A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side.
So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side.
But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’”
The Lord asks us not to dole out kindness sparingly, but to generously pour love and compassion over the hurting people we meet...even complete strangers we encounter on the road of life.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, give us eyes to see, ears to hear, and hands to help the broken and bruised people in our midst every day. There are lost and wounded souls in every corner of this world, and we ask for the courage to reach out to them with love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
As followers of Jesus we are meant to be witnesses, and Christ’s majesty and power are meant to blanket our world. He is also intimately aware of you, and where you are in life.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
When we trust Christ—when we believe the Gospel—we’re called to get in the game. If you’ve been changed, and if you believe that—sitting on such good news doesn’t make a whole lot of sense, does it?
Are you guilty of failing to shine a light in a dark world?
If you’re a friend of God just as the Bible says Abraham was long ago, you are to invite others to live in his healing light.
The glory of the Lord rises on you each morning. Put your feet on the floor, and share His glory with the people that you encounter.
God is so good! Walk in His light and see what He’ll do in countless lives!
Let’s pray.
Lord, there are so many opportunities for us to share your love and your light with the world. God, give us opportunities to do that, and give us the energy to seize them. Amen.
The story of the Prodigal Son is one we can all relate to.
The Bible tells the story of a brash young man who leaves his home after asking for his inheritance. His loving father complies and let’s just say the son learns some valuable lessons on his travels.
Eventually, he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family.
It’s really a story of Jesus and us.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
We screw up sometimes. And maybe it’s so bad that we can’t possibly see a way back.
That’s when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn’t as concerned with where we’ve been as He is where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real healing for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you’ve screwed up too much, put that out of your mind and simply tell Jesus you need Him.
Let’s pray. Lord, your willingness to welcome us back to fellowship is something to behold. We are grateful for your grace. Amen.
Have you ever been lost?
For the directionally challenged among us, being lost is terrible.
Imagine a time before Google Maps, before cell phones, and even before boxy little GPS devices for the car. Now imagine a time, way, way back — before every square inch of our world had been mapped. And those who journeyed far weren't sure what they'd encounter, or whether they'd even make it home again.
Have you ever felt lost?
That's when a life of faith makes a difference. When you're feeling like you don't belong. When you have doubts. When you need hope. Look for the signs of Jesus in your life: Love, hope, peace, and joy.
God provides guidance and direction to the lost. Trust God to safely guide your footsteps, and believe that whatever you encounter, He'll be right there beside you. Faith is an open invitation to lose yourself entirely in God's plan for your life.
So, yes. Get lost…in Jesus.
Psalm 32:8 says, “The Lord says, ‘I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.’”
Letting God lead takes guts. Courage. Trust. It takes steadfast faith, persistent prayer, and no small measure of redirection when we falter. But it's worth it.
Let's pray.
Heavenly Father, all signs point to you, God. And we thank you for being the light that guides our way and the voice in the darkness that reassures us we're on the right path. God, we're sometimes stubborn and we're sure we know the way to go, but we rest in the assurance that your way is always the best way. Please make your presence known in our lives, and lead us on the path of righteousness in Jesus’ name. Amen.
The USA does celebration very well. As a rich and varied nation, we have the resources frankly to host great celebrations. Our veterans are honored, which they very much deserve.
We glory in our past and look forward to the future. Flags fly and flap in the breeze that sweeps across the land. The recent Memorial Day recalled our nation’s fallen, those who willingly went into the danger zone and gave the ultimate sacrifice.
It’s interesting that as our nation grew up, we as a people came to a more realistic view of war and sacrifice. When the Civil War began, citizens actually camped out above the battlefields, hosting picnics as they watched the armies do battle.
When World War 1 broke out, parades were held in every city and town as our soldiers boarded ships for Europe.
But then the blood and tragedy of war hit us in the face. We began to turn to the only One that can save us.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
Human efforts can only go so far. We can’t save ourselves. But our Creator wants to do that, and it is to Him we owe our honor and glory.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your sacrifice was the one that will one day end all wars and strife in our world. We thank you for Jesus, and we give you the honor and glory you deserve. Amen.
America has always acknowledged God. Sometimes though, our devotion to faith comes and goes. Sometimes we get too comfortable, and forget who keeps us upright every day.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
Whenever a person questions God’s goodness, or the path He has set for us, it’s good to go to the Bible. There, we find the answer to why we should honor our Lord.
It’s because He has loved us. He has been faithful to us.
He deserves our notice. He is the One we should be all-in for, all the time.
Remember the timeless Walt Whitman poem, in which he referred to the beloved President Lincoln as “O Captain, my Captain!” Whitman was honoring the man who saved the Union. The President rightly was seen as an important figure; after all, he gave his life for his country.
But the Lord Jesus Christ is our real Captain, our General, for all time. He gave His life for each of us the world over.
Glory to God! Let’s honor Him every way we can.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have many examples from history of people who sacrificed and deserve our respect. To you we give our full allegiance, now and forever! Amen.
We are often inspired by epic war stories. Great battles over time become so epic, they almost seem a part of myth. We put warriors on a pedestal and usually, rightly so. They make it possible for the rest of us to live in peace and freedom.
Have you ever considered there is only one perfect warrior? His name is Jesus, and He forms the backdrop of our talks this week spotlighting warriors.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
From King Leonidas to Oliver Cromwell to George Washington, warriors have led their people to freedom. All were epic, all pivotal people in history.
And none hold a candle to our King Jesus. He is the ultimate warrior, the One that came to this world to rescue all of it. His sacrifice on the cross waged war on the enemy of our souls, and He won the final victory then.
He has charged us as believers with the task of telling others about Him. Our Ultimate Warrior is calling us to make disciples in His name. If you want to be inspired by someone, be inspired by the Warrior that has no peer.
Let’s pray. Lord, Your Son, Jesus, did battle for us long ago. Thank you for His victory! Amen.
Do you ever stop and think about the routine things you do every day? Buying detergent so that you can wash your family’s clothes. Fixing a couple of boards on your deck. We even grind through staff meetings at work. All this of course mixed with life, laughter, and love.
But do you think about why you can do these things in our country?
Primarily it’s because of the sacrifices of our fallen soldiers—those men and women who have defended the homeland since Colonial times.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
We are privileged to live in a land of the free precisely because fellow citizens took a different road. They walk a path of danger so that we can have the freedom to live as we choose. So many of them fight with the faith they’ve lived with all their lives, and it is our duty to thank them, and be thankful for them.
Remember them when you want to complain about daily chores made possible by their sacrifice.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep our warriors safe, keep them in your loving arms. Amen.
Most of us feel a deep respect in our hearts for those who have sacrificed so that we can remain free. Loving those who have paid the ultimate price is just something we do as a people. We pause to remember each year.
Isaiah 56:5 says, “To them I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever.”
God instituted the concept of maintaining memorials. He remembers, and so do we.
Maybe you’ve had a brother or mother or cousin or uncle that never came home from war.
Even before the American Civil War, our citizens were placing flowers at the graves of veterans. It is one way we can keep their sacrifices front-and-center, so that we don’t forget and become complacent.
This year, stop to take time and pause. Do something tangible, like visit a cemetery. Ask an older relative to give you some insight into a family member who never came home. Then thank the Lord for that sacrifice.
Let’s pray.
Lord, We remember those who had paid with their lives. It’s very obviously the least we can do, but we want to do more by keeping their memories alive in our hearts. Amen.
Games and sports aren’t real life, but they often give a pretty accurate picture of how we can choose to face life.
Some people love Tom Brady, some don’t. What we have to admit though is that the guy is at his best when the pressure is the most intense.
Imagine that your profession is on a national stage. You have the ball with less than two minutes to go, and your team is behind. Standing behind center and looking out at the defense, how many of us could even think? Then, imagine throwing the ball with any kind of accuracy, knowing you have to win the game.
Most of us would be scared to death!
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
When we believe in something greater than ourselves—whether a close-knit team or better yet, the God of the universe—fear tends to leave. Just leave. Get away from me!
If you are feeling terrible pressure right now and don’t know what to do, stop what you’re doing and get by yourself. Pray to the Lord that He will help you and show you the way.
That’s the true path to victory, and the best way to assure the win.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we can’t do it by ourselves. We need your Spirit in us and your strength every second of every day. Thank you for never leaving us. Amen.
Few of us enjoy chaos. It’s just too...chaotic, right?
The human mind needs order and peace, yet we live in this messy world. Stuff is flying by all the time, and we duck.
Our relationships are a mess, and we have to schedule that root canal...while simultaneously making dinner and cleaning the house.
Is there a way out?
Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.”
It’s all perspective, my friend.
Yes, you might have a hundred things to do before 4 p.m. today, but remind yourself of this: sometimes we miss the best days of our lives because we don’t focus on the good. God brought order out of a vast chaos long ago, to create a world of beauty, and He did it because He loved us.
If He can handle that, can we handle our busy day of meetings and yes, even that root canal?
Let’s pray.
Lord, our lives get so busy we forget that you made order out of chaos. Help us to slow down our brains and hearts and learn to savor the moment. Amen.
Have you ever watched a war movie and realized that the actors didn’t know how the conflict would turn out? World War 2 movies are like that. When they filmed “Casablanca,” Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman weren’t sure whether the Germans would win or lose.
Life can be like that.
Matthew 28:20 says, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
In your own life, you might be facing some really serious stuff. And it’s not unusual to be staring at several problems all at once.
That’s when the Word is so valuable to us. Jesus has promised us that He will stick right with us all the way through. Human friends often go a long way with us, but only Jesus is sure to never, ever leave us.
That’s the best way to beat the uncertainties of life. Tell Jesus you can’t make it without Him.
It’s then that the future no longer scares us at all.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we don’t know a fraction of what you know, including what our future looks like. We do know that we can trust you, though. Thank you for that. Amen.
Jill felt like she couldn’t keep up anymore. Four years out of college, she was doing well in her chosen career.
But it had not only taken her far from home, it took her away from the values she had known.
This new place she lived in pressed-in on her mind and heart.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
Burdened by her stresses, Jill realized something had to change. But in that unique way He has, God showed her that she didn’t necessarily have to move home, or even change careers. What she needed to do was continually give her burdens to Jesus.
She did that and one day, months later, she realized with great joy that she had at some point come back to her place of peace. And her parents and loved ones were still several states away!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you so much for caring about us. For loving us. Teach us to rely on You as our only source of peace. Amen.
Billy Joel says that his hit song, “Pressure” really is about the pressures of daily life: providing for your family, putting food on the table, and career obstacles.
Even the way he sings the song, with power and anger, makes the point. It’s quite a statement on life.
And we’ve all felt it.
2 Corinthians 1:8 says, “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself.”
But as believers, we can take heart in the fact that Paul then writes that difficulties happen in life so that we will rely only on God. The apostle reminds us that God has delivered us from desperate times, and will again.
What a powerful promise!
The pressures of life sometimes come suddenly, leaving us off-balance and fearful. When that happens, remind yourself of the promises of God’s Word. He knows where you are and where you’re going.
He’ll be waiting for you when you get there.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes we feel like we’re going to explode. We thank you that you never abandon us, and are always ready to protect us and preserve us. Amen.
A really cool thing about God is that He has a solution for literally every situation.
That includes mental health. We see this especially in the ministry of Jesus, who walked the land healing people of all sorts of terrible things. One day He encountered a man driven insane by demons.
Mark 5:15 says, “They came to Jesus and observed the man who had been demon-possessed sitting down, clothed and in his right mind, the very man who had had the ‘legion’; and they became frightened.”
The “Legion,” those who possessed this man’s mind, were no match for Jesus, who simply commanded them to leave the man in peace. They did!
Now, not every mental health problem is related to possession. But mental illness is so devastating to the patient, and family and friends, that it often feels like evil lives here.
Not so in the peaceful kingdom of our Lord. If you or a loved one struggles with mental issues, ask the Lord to help you. He has done it many times. That man with the peaceful face and clear mind all those years ago is proof of that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you own the universe and can solve any problem. Please especially today be with those afflicted by mental illness. Come to them and comfort them and heal them. Amen.
For some reason, people sometimes tell big lies when it comes to fishing. You know, what was really a small fry becomes a man-eating shark in the re-telling of the story.
But that’s nothing compared to a really incredible story in the Old Testament book of Jonah.
It seems the prophet didn’t want to preach in the pagan city of Nineveh, so he sailed away on a ship. He forgot that God controls the sea and everything in it, and Jonah found himself overboard and then swallowed by a huge fish.
Jonah 1:17 says, “Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.”
Let’s just say that Jonah learned his lesson and God delivered him in a dramatic way.
The story, though, is really a picture of Jesus lying for three days in the tomb, only to be raised to life by the Father.
He will do the same for you, if only you’ll call on Him to rescue you!
Let’s pray.
Lord, when life swallows us up, you are there for us, never forgetting us. We praise you for your provision. Amen.
One of the extraordinary stories in the Bible involves a young woman named Rahab. This story beautifully expresses God’s love for all people.
Rahab lived in the Canaanite town of Jericho, which was near the border of the Promised land God had promised to His people, who had been wandering for years in search of a home after slavery in Egypt.
Because the Canaanites were powerful, Joshua sent a scouting party into the land, to see what they were up against. Then men sent ahead were hidden from harm by Rahab, because she had heard of the power that followed the Israelites.
When she talked with the men, she showed remarkable understanding that their God was in fact the true God. She made a bargain with them.
Joshua 2:14 says, “So the men said to her, “Our life for yours if you do not tell this business of ours; and it shall come about when the Lord gives us the land that we will deal kindly and faithfully with you.”
In the end, as the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land, Rahab’s family was spared death. In this way, we see how God’s inclusive love for all is worked out in practical ways that lead to life.
Remember Rahab when you think you are beyond God’s protection!
Let’s pray.
Lord, what an example of faithfulness this woman displayed. Bless all those who look for you. Amen.
The Bible is full of stories of God doing amazing things for those He calls. One of the most famous seems to be too good to be true, but it is!
Daniel, God’s man in exile in Babylon, insisted on worshiping the Lord, and not a human king. This was against the law. When those who were jealous of him urged the king to punish Daniel, the prophet was thrown into a lion’s den overnight.
And that was that. Or was it?
Next morning, the king was so anxious about Daniel, that he ran to the den and called out to him, to see if he was still alive.
Daniel 6:21–22 says, “Daniel answered, “May the king live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.”
When life threatens to rip you up, remember that the Lord has you. God is on your side, knows where you are, and will hide you in the palm of his strong hand.
Believe that He will.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this story inspires us to rely on you when times are really bad for us. Thank you for being our rescue. Amen.
Have you ever gotten so tired of life that you wish you could disappear and start over somewhere else? Ever wish that fantasy would just pull you out of your circumstances? They make movies about things like that, but it’s not real.
John 14:2–3 says, “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.”
How incredible that Jesus is actually going to do this for us someday. If you live long enough, the cares of life sort of wear you down and you need a good, long rest.
Good for us that our Lord cares enough for us that He has already gone ahead to prepare a place of peace, rest, and joy for each of us. It will be a real place, not just scouting a location for a film.
One day, in His perfect time, He will call you out of this groaning world. He will take you to a spot that has literally been prepared with just you in mind!
You’ll be home.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are good to us in countless ways. We thank you so much for the heavenly home you have prepared for us. Amen.
How much can one person take, and still choose to offer kindness?
In Genesis Chapter 37, verses 12–36, 17-year-old Joseph is sent by his father to visit his brothers, who were tending the family’s flock of sheep in the countryside.
Rather than the friendly check-in he expected, Joseph’s brothers initially plotted to kill him out of jealousy, but instead sold him into slavery to a group of Ishmaelites heading for Egypt. Among the brothers, only Reuben wished to leave Joseph unharmed, attempting (but failing) to set up a situation where he could rescue his brother and return him to their father.
In Egypt, Joseph was falsely accused of a crime, thrown into prison, became an interpreter of dreams for Pharaoh, and eventually attained a seat of power over Egypt.
When famine hit the land where his brothers lived, they came to Egypt to buy grain. They didn’t know Joseph was not only alive, but was now the governor of Egypt. To their surprise, Joseph wasn’t angry at his brothers, but showed them compassion when he saw them again. Instead of taking revenge, he took them in and cared for them. Joseph knew everything that had happened was part of God’s plan, and what his brothers intended for harm, God intended for good.
Ephesians 4:2 says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
The story of Joseph teaches us that humility, patience, gentleness, and love are not just qualities to be saved up for those who deserve it; God asks us to approach others with love even if they have offended or caused us harm.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes the people in our lives are disappointing, frustrating, or downright hurtful. Help us to love those who fall short and need our forgiveness the most, and to bear with each other with patience, and with grace. Amen.
Donna and Betty were sisters, but in mid-life they were both tired of the fighting and mistrust and hurt. Each had their grievances. Both were stubborn.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
At one particular time of the year, Betty heard this verse spoken in a service. And here’s an ironic thing: of the two sisters, most people would agree she was definitely the most stubborn!
But that day she did an amazing thing. She went home and called Donna. Betty made a choice to forgive and forget, and did so through a lot of tears. Donna was shocked but grateful. And she owned up to her own mistakes.
God can bring about good will between anyone, including sisters who really love each other.
Do you need to be a catalyst for peace this week?
Let’s pray. Lord, your mercies are ever new. Your love heals old wounds, and we need that, Lord. Amen.
Family is a wonderful thing, and these relationships do so much to enrich our lives, but family makes a lousy god.
People sometimes think...if only my relationship was better with my dad, or if only I found a husband or wife, or if only we had kids — then life would be complete. A picture-perfect family is a blessing, indeed, but this is not where God wants us to seek meaning in our lives.
Family relationships are complicated, and since we’re talking about people – not God – we are sure to be disappointed when a parent, sibling, spouse, or child lets us down. Like us, each of these beloved people in our lives are marked by imperfection.
We love our families (or the dream of a future family) dearly, but this isn’t where we should ultimately place our hope.
Joshua 24:15 says, “Choose this day whom you will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
The Bible tells us in order to be a disciple, we must be willing to give up everything for Jesus. Following Jesus requires commitment and faithfulness, even if our parents or spouse choose not to follow the Lord. If and when we are faced with the painful choice of loyalty to family versus loyalty to Jesus, we must choose Jesus.
Luke 14:26 says, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.”
Even if our family members disown us—or worse—for being Christians, we must follow Christ. Jesus’s command to “hate his own father and mother” isn’t a suggestion about how to treat our loved ones. The Lord requires us to prioritize our relationship with Him over our relationships with parents, siblings, a spouse, children, and even ourselves. We must choose to place our hope in God, above all other relationships.
Let’s pray.
God, you alone make life worth living. No earthly relationship, by birth or bond, takes priority over our relationship with you. Thank you for being the one true God we can follow, and rely on. Amen.
In thinking about different kinds of love, it’s a beautiful thing to realize that God has placed certain people in our lives for specific reasons.
Friendship is one of His great gifts to us, all-time.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Do you have someone in your life that is not blood-related, but it sure feels like it? In fact, often it feels like a closer relation than biological family!
Notice what the writer of Proverbs tells us: A friend does two things, loves us no matter what, and God set a time for them to stick with us when we need it the very most.
Think about that! That guy you met in third grade will impact the rest of your life. The girl who brought you a coffee your first day on a new job was meant to do that.
As we think about all this and marvel at God’s plans, don’t forget to turn it around and think about how we can be that brother or sister to someone in your life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you so much for the friends you bring to us. Help us be worthy of such special love. Amen.
The Bible has a lot to say about how we are to treat each other on our life’s journey. One story in particular in Genesis shows us how to resist peer pressure, especially when someone’s life is in danger. In fact, this story really captures the essence of what we’re talking about this week.
John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
Jacob had sons, but one was his favorite. Joseph was younger than his brothers and for various reasons, most of them became jealous of him. Not much different than the brother of the Prodigal’s son.
One day, the brothers were working and saw Joseph approaching them. He’d been sent by his father to check on them. It sounds crazy, but they decided to kill him! Throwing him in a well, they left him for dead.
But not all his brothers hated him. Reuben went back to rescue him, but…well, the story is long and you should read it for yourself! But just know that Reuben risked his own life to save his younger brother.
Would we do the same?
Most of us will lead fairly safe lives, especially if we are Americans. We are crazy blessed. But the day might come when you have to step up for someone in trouble. Make sure you’re ready. Make sure you act like Reuben.
Let’s pray. Lord, you strengthen even the weakest of us. Help us to do the right thing when given the chance. Amen.
Hers is the greatest motherhood story of all time. You know who she is.
Magnificent Mary!
Her story has been told many times, but how grateful we are that it’s recorded in Scripture. Whatever God’s reasons for choosing this particular woman to give birth to Jesus, we know that she must have loved the Lord with all her heart.
And just think how her head and heart must have been spinning when the angel visited her and told her the special job God was going to give her!
Luke 1:46–48 says, “And Mary said: “‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.’”
We know little about her beyond that, although we are given some fascinating details: she socialized with her Son, as we see at the wedding in Cana.
And of course, she was with Him at His death. No mother should have to endure that, but Mary was very strong. Her toughness and love ring like a bell through time. We remember her way of finding patience and faith.
Maybe the most amazing thing about her is that God trusted Mary with an initial secret that would have floored most people!
She handled it, though. The mother of our Lord was ready when her time came.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the mother of Jesus shows us an eternal love. It is also a mystery of sorts for us, but we know that this amazing mother is experiencing supernatural joy, forever! Amen.
Are you a woman blessed with the gift of a wonderful mother-in-law? We can hardly think of a more important relationship. Through the ages, this mentoring friendship has sealed families and nurtured them. Likewise, we easily see the pain inflicted when this relationship isn’t good.
In the Old Testament, we read of a really remarkable mother-in-law. She showed great kindness to a young woman at just the right moment.
After returning home to Bethlehem after a famine is over, Naomi wants the best for her young daughter-in-law, Ruth, whose husband has died. Although she must have longed for security herself and companionship, Naomi encourages Ruth to marry Boaz. Eventually, Ruth has a son, Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David!
Ruth 1:22 says, “So Naomi returned from Moab accompanied by Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, arriving in Bethlehem as the barley harvest was beginning.”
Naomi’s unselfish act, her encouragement to the vulnerable Ruth, is the model for all such relationships. It is intentionally about the other person. It is the story of a woman mentoring and loving another she sees as her daughter.
So how will your mother-in-law story be recorded? Have you thought about that?
How will the women in your family remember you?
Let’s pray.
Lord, people are watching us, in how we treat others. Nowhere is that more important than in our own homes. Help us think of others before we think of ourselves. Amen.
Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be close to Jesus when He was on the earth? It would have been amazing to be in His inner circle.
We know of a remarkable woman, a family member, who would have been able to be around to watch the most amazing life unfold.
Her name was Elizabeth. An aunt of Jesus.
We read in Luke that everyone thought that the time for Elizabeth to become a mother was passed. In those days people thought sin prevented pregnancy, so this godly woman went through great sorrow.
Luke 1:13 says, “But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.”
But Gabriel, an angel, told her priest husband that she would conceive. She did, and later, when visiting her cousin Mary, felt her own son jump in her womb! Even he knew the significance of such a woman!
Elizabeth’s son would be named John, and he would be given the privilege of introducing the world to the Man, Jesus. Both mothers would endure great tragedy in their lives, but would enjoy fellowship forever with them in glory.
Elizabeth knew how to be steady during momentous times. A great lesson for all of us.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes you surprise us with great tasks. Help us to always be ready to stand when you call on us to do something great. Amen.
We think of her as a genteel Southern lady, and she was that, for sure.
But Ruth Bell Graham was so much more. While her husband was away so much, preaching to the masses, she was preaching to her own little flock. The result was children who became adults, and in turn shared the Good News of Jesus with others.
Anne Graham Lotz and Franklin Graham didn’t just fall out of the sky!
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
In their little home in the mountains of North Carolina, while daddy was in Brussels, New York, and Sydney, Mother Ruth was faithful for years on end to impart godly wisdom to their children. Much iron was sharpened on cold winter nights and long summer days.
Theirs was a home that didn’t always have both parents available, but they thrived.
Use that as an example of how to bring up your own children. You’ll be happy forever that you did.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Your Word is good, and it shines a light on our path. Give us the strength to mentor our own children in your ways. Amen.
If you’ve been fortunate to hold a newborn, you know what it’s like to be thunderstruck by the delicate features. Everything in miniature.
And then the eyes open. You’re in love.
Jeremiah 1:5 says, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.”
A baby is a blessing and gift from the Lord. All life is precious; it doesn’t matter if the parents are famous or completely obscure. In that warm bundle is a whole lifetime waiting to unfold. Will he be adventurous? Will she run the country?
Man is capable of much, but creating life as God creates will always remain outside the borders. Only a great and all-powerful God could give us such a beautiful life, and He makes each one of us truly unique.
It is an inescapable fact that a human being, separate from everyone else in terms of physicality and emotions, becomes fully formed in its mother’s womb. This is perhaps the greatest miracle in all the universe, and one deserving of our awe and respect.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you form us in the womb, and walk with us each step of the way through life. Thank you for your mercies and grace that you freely give each of us. Amen.
Today, we wrap up our series on finding contentment by discussing the source of true peace and happiness.
John MacArthur once wrote a book called “Our Sufficiency in Christ.” In it, he revealed the path to finding true peace and contentment. And he says, "There's a single word that encompasses all the riches we find in Christ — grace." What a magnificent word it is. It's used more than 150 times in the New Testament to speak of divine favor, bestowed on undeserving people. It is the means by which we receive every physical and spiritual benefit.
People the world over search all their lives for peace. And who doesn't want to be truly content? But we look for it everywhere but where it is. Chasing adventure or money or career success will leave you empty. Maybe you've been running hard for a long time so that you can advance in a career that you find meaningful. There's nothing wrong with that. So long as there's balance, and your life can remain focused on Jesus.
The Bible tells us very bluntly that anything else will leave us unsatisfied. And at the very least, you can start by finding even one or two minutes in your day before sun up or late in the evening, and just pray. Tell God that climbing the ladder at work is leaving you strangely empty.
The Bible isn't some interesting old book. It's not just some historical treasure. It is life itself. Why? Because from beginning to end, it points us to Jesus Christ, who made us. Resolve right now, even as you're sitting at your desk, to begin getting to know Christ. And sooner, rather than later, you will feel your anxiety lessen, and your priorities shift. You'll discover what many have looked for in the wrong places for centuries. You'll find peace for your soul.
Writing in 2 Corinthians, Paul said of Christ's message to all of us, "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness."
Philippians 4:12–13 says, "I know what it is to be in need. And I know what it is to have plenty. I've learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength."
And realizing all this, your circumstances might not change, but you will change for the better, for all time.
Let's pray.
Father God, you are sovereign, and that should make us calmer. Your power upholds everything in the universe, and you are good. You are not some impersonal being or one who is indifferent to our needs. Help us seek your son Jesus at every turn In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Solomon was king after his famous father, David, in ancient Israel. He also became insanely wealthy. According to the world’s standard, he had everything.
Everything except peace later in life. In this way he was like a modern person, because truthfully, people’s natures never really change over time. It’s one of the things we have talked about this week.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Solomon came to some conclusions later in life, after he became bored with bad relationships, money, and fame. It was only then that he figured some things out.
The book of Ecclesiastes contains this wisdom that King Solomon found in his later years, and he tells us clearly that God is infinitely smarter than we are, and knows what is best for each of us.
So, if you’ve been trying to figure things out for yourself—and failing miserably—listen to the ways Solomon describes God. You’ll find that the One that made you knows just what is best for you all your life.
Doesn’t that take some pressure off?
Let’s pray. Lord, please take our burdens and fix the problems we have created for ourselves. We love you for that. Amen.
As we continue in our series on finding contentment, today's message is really about taking the long view.
The human attention span is short. Like really, really short. Between the World Wars, Winston Churchill warned Europe that Hitler was a threat to the continent at least. But people ignored him. And then when the Nazis turned violent, the people turned to Churchill as their prime minister.
Having led the country through another costly war to preserve freedom, Churchill was defeated for re-election in the last days of World War II. It's like the people had forgotten his priceless contribution to world peace. He knew the war would take a long time and that it would be costly, and the people wanted to avoid thinking about it, and even later wanted it over quickly. And that's rarely how life works.
Churchill returned as prime minister in the 1950s, but his experiences show that people mostly want short-term solutions. Working for the long goal is rarely popular.
Jeremiah 15:15 says, "Lord, you understand. Remember me, care for me. Avenge me on my persecutors. You are long-suffering. Do not take me away. Think of how I suffer reproach for your sake."
Here God is reminding us that often, we're required to stay in it for the long haul. Nowhere is this more true than in the pursuits of peace and contentment. That kind of thing is not built quickly. And not surprisingly, too many people don't stay with it and they stumble along, looking for solutions in the wrong places.
If you're in a bad place today, you have to start with basic steps. Talk to Jesus and tell him you're struggling. Maybe you have a vague sense of depression and just can't locate the direct cause. Take the example of people who did understand the source of true happiness, and were committed to seeing it through, no matter how long it took.
Abraham knew the value of prayer and he waited for decades to have a son. Hannah was also unable to have children, but she prayed and stayed faithful. Eventually, God gave her a child and she felt fulfilled. Joseph spent years in exile and prison because of his brother's actions, but his faith didn't waver. He actually found his contentment in the middle of these trials, and eventually God restored his family and all he had lost.
If you're depressed or ground down from money worries, or facing some other huge challenge, go to God right now and tell him you need peace for your soul. Tell him you fully trust him, and will wait with as much patience and faith as you can. It's then you start the clock ticking on your difficult circumstances. And while you wait, your heart will be at rest.
Let's pray.
Father, thank you for the good gifts that we already have. Help us be grateful for those things that sustain life. We fully trust you to bring about our delivery from life's circumstances precisely the moment you have chosen. Sustain our spirits on this journey, Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.
When someone asks how you’re doing, what is your typical response? Many of us give a quick, “I’m fine, thank you,” or, “Doing great!” Even if we’re actually struggling. It’s easier not to dive into a verbal rundown of our discontent if we aren’t really fine, and things aren’t so great, after all.
As followers of Jesus, we are called to curate contentment in our lives. That doesn’t mean we have to pretend everything is awesome if life feels like it’s falling apart, but it does mean our trust in the Lord is so strong, no temporary circumstance can throw us off balance.
Psalm 62:5 says, “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.”
The world around us is chaotic, riddled with trouble, and often disappointing. And yet — we don’t have to fall into despair! Our hope comes from the Lord, and with His unfailing love, and the hope of a future alongside Him in Heaven, we can live in tranquility. God is so good — and when we are still and reach out to Him in prayer, He is faithful to meet us there.
No matter the hour, the day, or our life circumstances, we can say it is well with our souls, because of the saving grace of Jesus Christ. The challenges we face ebb and flow, but God’s goodness never changes, and this is Good News!
Let’s pray.
Lord, the circumstances of our lives don’t always play out the way we want them to, but you are steadfast, and our hope comes from you. Let all things be well with us in your name. Amen.
Modern society lives in a constant state of discontentment, and the messaging we hear on a daily basis constantly entices us to buy into that state of being.
Our home or mobile phone or television is too small, too basic, too old.
Our hair is the wrong color, cut, or texture, our faces are too plain, and the shape of our bodies...imperfect, obviously.
We don’t drive the right car, wear the right designer labels, or attend the right schools.
But what if the best way to be “right,” has nothing to do with these external aspects of our being?
1 Timothy 6:6–12 says, “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.
People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction.
For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”
The only lasting source of contentment is Jesus Christ. We’ll never be satisfied with the people, things, or circumstances we surround ourselves with in this life, but the hope we find in the Lord will quench our thirsty souls for all eternity.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the only source for the peace our weary souls seek. Draw us nearer to you, and keep our gaze on higher things. Amen.
Have you ever visited a construction site, or lived near one?
A construction site is a unique kind of mess. Dirt and mud mingle with piles of wood, shingles, and other building materials. Utility flags poke up from the ground like man-made weeds. Trampled grass and dirty sidewalks give further evidence of the work at hand.
Eventually, what began as an empty field will grow into something more: a business, a medical facility, or a home.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Sometimes, in the midst of building our lives, we look around and see only chaos: Our relationships aren’t as blissful as we hoped. Our career isn’t following the upward path we planned. Our health or finances or life circumstances are a mess, and we wonder why our best laid plans didn’t result in the stable, structured life we wanted.
God does some of his very best work in the midst of our biggest messes, if we invite him in, and step back to let him work in our lives.
Let’s pray.
Lord, what we see as unworthy, undesirable, and impossible — you see as beautiful, loveable, and filled with potential. We invite you to be the master architect for our lives, and to bring a sense of order to our days, and our circumstances. Amen.
The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci is widely looked upon as the most famous painting in the world.
By some historical estimates, the Mona Lisa took as many as 16 years to finish! Capturing Mona Lisa’s famous smile on a poplar plank was no hack job; Leonardo accepted a commission for the work in the year 1503, and completed his masterpiece around the time of his death in 1519. Clearly, this level of artistic achievement takes time.
When you hear the word “masterpiece,” what do you think of?
A famous painting? A beautiful building? Your child’s latest artwork?
What about a giant sequoia tree? A symphony? A pink flamingo? The intricate, miraculous design of the human heart?
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Before you were even born, God knew you, and had a plan for your life. He created you for a purpose, and He considers you one of his personal works of art. You are a living, breathing miracle capable of wonderful things — God’s own masterpiece.
Let’s pray.
God, we thank you and praise you that in all of creation, you have chosen to make us in your image, and to fashion us as a masterpiece — a work of art designed with care. Help us to be worthy of your effort. Amen.
Nothing is more basic to life than creation itself. The Bible tells us that God alone has the power to truly create, and the beauty of language in Psalm 139 explains this fully. Some believe the psalmist was writing in part about the creation of Adam.
Psalm 139:1–3 says, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”
The writer marvels at the ways in which God understands each of us intimately, and is present everywhere.
Are you aware that God loves you with a supernatural love? He created you to be a singular presence in the world…what we call “unique.” You might feel sometimes that you are worthless, or that no one cares.
Not so.
The Creator of the Universe, in that vast space, took time to make only one of you. You are precious to Him and you should never forget it, even when things look depressing.
God sees you when you sit in that chair and when you get up. He knows what you’re thinking and what’s in your heart.
You are on His mind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s comforting knowing that you are with us in each moment of our day. Help us to live in that moment. Amen.
Are you eager to share Christ? If so, good for you! Your boldness is seen by God our Father, and it pleases him.
Often though, we get a little frustrated, if we’re honest. It seems like not enough people are getting it. We want to see everyone find new life in Jesus!
When we think about sharing the Good News, it’s important to remember that God is responsible for the harvest. We just have to be willing to be sent as his ambassadors.
John 8:12 says, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”
When Jesus spoke those words, some people believed in Him right away. Others were angry with Him. Others argued.
If you feel pressure to lead others to Christ, relax. You are only responsible for fulfilling Jesus’s command to go make disciples for Him. He will take care of “the numbers.” This allows you to simply share His simple message.
He will light your path if you let him.
Let’s pray. Lord, there are so many people that need you. Help us with opportunities; we leave the results to you alone. Amen.
Think of what Jesus was asking of His followers.
He had just risen from the dead. That doesn’t happen every day.
His ministry had been destroyed, so they thought. He wasn’t coming back. But then He did. Only days after being killed on a brutal Roman cross, Jesus was standing in front of his friends, looking very much alive. And He was telling them their futures were dicey.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
Jerusalem at the time was under occupation by an unforgiving empire. The empire required all from each individual, and never gave anything back. Jesus was telling His disciples that if they would give up all for Him, He’d give it back and more.
Forever.
This was the first great command to preach the Good News everywhere. The first marching orders for a spiritual army.
We are called to be in that army, to give our all in order to shake things up for eternity.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us the chance to share your love with others, all over the world. We love you! Amen.
The Office’s Michael Scott once famously said that there’s such a thing as good grief, and it’s a funny line. But could there be some truth behind it?
Christians today celebrate “Good Friday” every year, but what does it really mean?
The date marks the day 2,000 years ago that Jesus Christ willingly died on a gruesome Roman cross for our sins.
Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
The truth is, Jesus died after suffering sustained torture. His followers were devastated. It looked as if His ministry would be as brief as any other holy man that had wandered onto the stage for a brief performance.
And then it happened.
Three days later, He came back from the dead! God the Father, as He had promised, raised Jesus to life. This was a clear message to any who would follow the Savior that there is blessed, eternal life after this one. In our sins, Jesus came to us because He loved us.
It’s as simple as that, really. What was originally raw grief became a very good day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Son’s gift to us is beyond words. We simply thank you and are grateful that He didn’t leave us where we were. Amen.
It’s not pretty watching the whole world lose its collective mind.
A crisis is like that.
As believers though, we have a duty to be different. We are supposed to stand out for Christ.
John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
This is one of the most beautiful verses in all of Scripture. It was meant for a time just like this.
Jesus is telling us straight up that He has already won the victory. What that does is take the burden off us to save everyone. We don’t have to solve the world’s problems. We don’t have to fold up and be scared to death in a crisis.
And remember this: many believers have gone on before us. They have already won their races and finished their assignments. They paved the way.
Jesus built that road through His sacrifice on the Cross. If you are dealing with family and friends losing it over our present circumstances, meditate on this astonishing promise from Jesus:
He has overcome the world!
Let’s pray. Lord, please give us strength each day to meet what comes. You are our Savior, in this life and the next. Amen.
The most influential ruler of all time, the greatest king to ever walk the face of the earth, is also mankind’s greatest example of humility.
Jesus may have been born in a stable, but the Son of our Creator God was anything but ordinary. He lived a humble life, but performed miracles along the way, and showed us what it means to be a humble servant leader among men.
Jesus selflessly took human form, God incarnate, to become a living sacrifice for our sins. He did not profess His innocence and demand to be taken down from the cross; rather Philippians 2:8 says, “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
Jesus gave up His place on the throne where God rules the universe. He gave up His power to defend Himself, but willingly gave His life as a ransom for many. He loved us so much that He died for us. He endured shame, ridicule, torture, and an agonizing death on a cross.
What greater humility is there?
Philippians 2:3–4 says, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
A godly man is humble, and Jesus Christ is our ultimate example.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are humbled by your sacrifice. Jesus took our sin upon Himself when he took our place on the cross, and the gift of salvation is the result of Your Son’s choice. We are so grateful for your love. Amen.
One reason people use for rejecting the claims of Christ is that there somehow isn’t enough evidence to prove that the events in the New Testament actually happened. In other words, some say the Bible isn’t true.
We’re talking about the life of Jesus this week. So what is the true story?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
There are more than 25,000 ancient copies of the books of the New Testament, in various languages. There are only a handful of accounts of Hannibal crossing the Alps 200 years before Christ was born. Yet no one doubts that it happened.
There are plenty of reasons to believe the biblical accounts of history are true. The apostles gave up their lives claiming that Jesus lived, and was resurrected from the dead. That narrative says salvation comes through Jesus, and He is the path to being reconciled to God and eternal life.
But only one thing matters: What do you believe?
Let’s pray. Lord, your Word promises us that Jesus saves us from our sins. We thank you that you provided a way of escape from judgment for us. Amen.
Do you know Who Jesus is? Do you really understand His identity?
We know from the Bible that He is many things: a child, a carpenter, a leader of men. We know that He is our Savior, the One who went to the cross to take on our sin.
He is also our King.
1 Timothy 1:17, “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”
In this letter to his young friend, Paul emphasized to Timothy that Jesus has dominion over everything and everyone. That’s because Jesus knows exactly what needs to be done in every situation.
While His earthly characteristics and roles give us some picture of Him, it is the picture of Him as King that best describes Him. God the Father has made Jesus Lord overall, and in Him, we find true peace.
Have you ever felt safe because you knew your dad or mom was in charge and would do everything right?
We have that confidence in Jesus times infinity! He is our great and good King, forevermore.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have set Jesus aside as unlike anyone else, ever. You have placed kingly robes and a special crown on His head. Thank you for sending your Son for our sake. Amen.
Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be an original settler in America? As a person leaving the safety of England to come to the New World and start over?
Those people came here for religious freedom and risked it all. When they landed in New England, they literally put down roots as they built and planted the beginnings of an amazing experiment that is still ongoing.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Our ancestors were definitely strengthened in their faith as they faced challenges and danger.
But the payoff was worth it.
Maybe you’re going through something similar. You’ve moved to a new place. New job. New social circle. And you want to find a church! Just tell Jesus you need help with all these things and He’ll be right by your side.
Receive His love today!
Let’s pray.
Lord, forever you have walked with us and forever you will keep us close, making us strong in the faith. Thank you for your faithfulness to your Mission. Amen.
Humans often get things backwards, to the point of being comical.
Case in point, the little story in the book of Jonah, about the plant God provided for the prophet’s shade.
You’ve heard about Jonah and the great fish, of course. As a prophet and evangelist, God had sent him there to preach and when the people repented…Jonah was mad!
He sat looking over the city after God had spared it and because it was hot, God provided a plant that grew up to provide relief from the sun for Jonah. But then the plant withered and died and the heat was so intense, Jonah wished himself dead.
But in that, God had a lesson for him. And for us.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
We don’t always have the compassion for people that we should. Our bitterness takes root. We should learn instead to plant healthy roots of love and compassion for all people.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are too often like Jonah. Help us to always remember that you have been merciful to us, and so we pray your mercies for everyone else. Amen.
Roaming, travel, wandering…all have been part of the human psyche since the beginning. Because we all have that God-shaped hole in us, needing to be filled with Him, we search.
Some find God, some don’t.
The sense of aimlessness and lack of purpose haunts some. We think of the classic novel by Jack Kerouac, On the Road, which is the story of two characters traveling the country. At first the lure of freedom is fun to think about, but the truth is, if people don’t fill that God-shaped hole with God, despair can set in.
We are left rootless in the worst possible way.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Wherever you put down your physical roots, your spiritual roots are at least as important. In Christ, we are no longer wandering and discouraged. In Him we live and move and have our being.
If you feel that you’re not anchored to anything, pour out your heart to Jesus. He will keep you close.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are always in fresh supply. We thank you that you plant us in good soil and hold fast to us even when we wander. Amen.
The giant redwoods of the American Pacific Northwest are among nature’s most beautiful scenes. As tall as skyscrapers, and big enough to drive a truck through.
It is said that the redwoods are so powerful and strong in part because even these plants have a sense of community. Separated, or as a single tree, the root system is more vulnerable. But planted with partners all around, the picture changes completely.
The redwood becomes tall and strong.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
In Christ, we are part of a strong community. Scripture refers to Jesus as the Vine which provides nourishment to the rest. In Him we are confident, safe, and rooted.
If you are feeling vulnerable and without friends, start with the best friend you could ever have. Tell Jesus today that you need Him and His community. It is a lush Kingdom that will never die.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are so grateful for your love and provision. Help us stand strong together and do the work of your Father. Amen.
You may have heard someone say before that they’ve put down deep roots, right? Usually, they’re not talking about gardening, but about the roots of their lives. Family. Friends. A career. A church home.
We all want to belong. We want to be planted deep in the soil of community.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
If you are searching right now, wondering where you should be, consider this verse. In it, we find that Christ our great Savior has a deep desire to keep us growing in good soil. Spiritually, we are to put down deep roots where He has planted us.
If you find yourself far from family, either geographically or because of hurt and conflict, turn to Jesus and tell Him how you feel.
His strong hands will carry you to the place He has waiting just for you, where you will belong. He will plant you deeply.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for caring about us as individuals, and knowing exactly what we need and when. Amen.
Spring is the season of new life. As we finish up our series on the Psalms, we come to the most famous one of all.
Psalm 23:1,2 says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.”
This psalm contains some of the most famous words ever written. It has everything: beautiful language, a man’s raw honest heart for God, and a universal theme of love that God has for all people.
It echoes in the universe.
Think of the picture that God is painting here for us.
We are bone-weary, but He has actually made a place for us to rest in a garden. We hear the flowing water. We are refreshed inside and out.
And He is with us.
Do yourself a favor this spring. Memorize every line of the 23rd Psalm. Put it in your heart so that when you are in that dark valley, you will remember that the one true God loves you absolutely and completely.
Goodness and mercy follow you. Close your eyes and sit in the cool grass.
He is with you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the Great Shepherd who provides a sanctuary for us. Thank you, thank you for making a place of safety for us as we go through life. Amen.
One of the things that sets God apart from all others is His ability to tell us what is going to happen. We read about this in Isaiah 46, where He says only He knows the end from the beginning.
An amazing example of this is found in Psalm 22, and it’s almost surprising how many people are not aware of it.
Psalm 22:11 says, “Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.”
If you read the entire chapter carefully, you begin to realize that this is a conversation that Jesus had on the cross.
This psalm was written a thousand years before that world-changing event!
It describes a man being mocked on the cross. A man who is so thirsty his mouth feels like a piece of dry pottery. He even mentions that his tormentors are casting lots for his clothes. All these things are described in the New Testament, and even some of the language Jesus used on the cross is seen here for the first time.
God is in charge of all things, all the time. Including your situation. He raised Jesus from the dead, and He will provide life eternal for you if you call on Him.
He knows the end from the beginning.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know all things. No one else does. That alone should give us confidence that you will be with us always. Amen.
From the time he was a young shepherd in the wilderness, David had deep relationship with God. He escaped enough dangerous situations to know that God was always with Him and was his deliverer.
Psalm 91:1,2 says, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
This psalm is famous for its descriptive language. We can see a picture of this in our minds. And the specific things listed in this passage are very personal for each of us.
We are not to fear.
When we call on Him, He hears.
His angels watch over us.
One of the most beautiful images in the Bible is found in this psalm, as God, like a strong eagle, covers us with his wings so that we are protected.
Remember the words of Psalm 91 and call on Him day or night.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your protection for us is just one of the things that separates you from anyone or anything else. We are grateful for your wings that draw us near and cover us. Amen.
Nothing is more basic to life than creation itself. The Bible tells us that God alone has the power to truly create, and the beauty of language in Psalm 139 explains this fully. Some believe the psalmist was writing in part about the creation of Adam.
Psalm 139:1–3 says, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”
The writer marvels at the ways in which God understands each of us intimately, and is present everywhere
Are you aware that God loves you with a supernatural love? He created you to be a singular presence in the world…what we call “unique.” You might feel sometimes that you are worthless, or that no one cares.
Not so.
The Creator of the Universe, in that vast space, took time to make only one of you. You are precious to Him and you should never forget it, even when things look depressing.
God sees you when you sit in that chair and when you get up. He knows what you’re thinking and what’s in your heart.
You are on His mind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s comforting knowing that you are with us in each moment of our day. Help us to live in that moment. Amen.
One of the greatest gifts God has given us is the collection of songs known as “Psalms,” originally written as music for worship, especially in the Temple in Jerusalem.
Today we celebrate them as prayers for the most part, and they give us a beautiful picture of who God is.
Psalm 1:6 says, “For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.”
Traditional authorship is assigned mostly to King David, who loved to worship God with music and even dancing. His heart was open to God, and this inner life could be seen by anyone; this earthly king worshiped the King of Kings.
In this introductory psalm, we read about the contrast between those who love God and those who don’t. And we are encouraged to “meditate” on His Word every day.
Our God is the great God, and loves each of us more than we can even imagine.
That love is a song in your heart.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your love for us is eternal and we are so blessed to receive it, as David did, all the days of our lives. Amen.
No matter who you are, there has probably been some time in your life that loneliness closed you in like dark curtains in a cold house.
Being alone can be healing, and it can be depressing. If you are experiencing the latter right now, we have good news for you. Your ‘alone’ feeling is an illusion.
Psalm 139:7–8 says, “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there.”
God’s Word tells us that there is no place in the universe that is without His presence. That includes the terrible news you just got today. It also includes the severed relationships and any other depressing thing that can dog us.
He is with you, everywhere, and at all times. Best of all, you can call on Jesus to take away your feelings of being alone.
All day, and all night.
Let’s pray.
Lord, without you we are literally nothing. There is never a time you don’t hear us as individuals, and step in with your healing. Thank you for loving us! Amen.
No one is immune from burnout. It comes in our jobs, friendships, and even our church life. Sometimes our hobbies become dry and tedious!
But in Scripture, God gives us hope for the future.
John 7:38 says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them."
Jesus is telling us that in Him alone is true life. He is always pointing us to the future, to a time when that dry creek bed will be filled forever.
In Revelation 22, He showed John a river flowing with the water of life, crystal-clear and coming from the very throne of God.
The whole picture is one of healing and new life. He promises us that this scene will be very real and very permanent! The key is what we read in John 7:38…we must choose to believe! If you long for a new start and a bright future, you will find everything you need and want in the person of Jesus Christ.
The living water He offers is perfect, and the supply is limitless.
Jesus is the well that never runs dry.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are calling to each of us to follow You and let you lead us to a place of perfect paradise. We eagerly look forward to joining you in Your Kingdom. Amen.
Jesus has great compassion for everyone. Especially for those society considers unlovable or worth nothing.
One day he stopped by a well and had a conversation with a woman who had been married five times. When He spoke to her, He knew she was now living with another man. Yet Jesus spoke to her in a way that let her know He valued her as a person.
He told her that people could drink the water from that well, but again they would eventually be thirsty. He said to her that the water He gives is a spring welling up inside them, pointing to eternal life.
John 7:38 says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"
Do you believe in Him? Have you had your encounter with Jesus? If you are thirsty for a new life, reach out to Him and listen to what Jesus has to say.
Your life will no longer be dry and lifeless.
New life will flow out of you so that others will notice and want what you have!
Let’s pray.
Lord, much of what the world offers doesn’t satisfy us. We need the living water only you can provide. Amen.
Researchers have long known that even when exploring new worlds, water is the key to life. Without it, nothing can live.
Water is an image used often in Scripture.
When Jesus emerged from the River Jordan having been baptized by his cousin, John, He used the imagery to help people understand that by trusting in Him, they would live forever.
John 7:38 says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"
Did you catch that? You must believe that Jesus is Who the Bible says that He is, the very Son of God. In Him is life, rivers of living water. It is a refreshing experience that has no end, because when we drink water now, we know that eventually, we’ll get thirsty again.
But Jesus has told us in John 4 that whoever drinks from the water He gives them—spiritually—will never thirst.
He is talking about eternal life, always new and forever clean and clear.
He is inviting you. He stands at the water’s edge and waits.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word uses powerful imagery to help us see the wonderful things you have for us. Thank you for satisfying the thirst we have for fellowship with you. Amen.
It’s no accident that Jesus chose as some of His apostles a group of fishermen from Galilee. These were men who could understand Him when Jesus told them He would make them “fishers of men.” He meant, of course, that they would share the Good News about Him with everyone they came in contact with.
That’s exactly what each of them did, for the rest of their lives!
John 7:38 says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"
Fishing requires patience, and a feel for your surroundings. The men Jesus picked were steady, and used to adapting to shifting opportunities. They were perfect for the work He gave them to do.
Just as Jesus knew what his disciples were suited for in order to build His Kingdom, He also knows exactly the purposes He has for you. You are invited to flow into the River of Life He has created, in order to see the Kingdom grow.
Others will see the life flowing from within you, if you’re willing to follow God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you invite us to participate in the beautiful future you’ve planned for people everywhere. Help us be willing to look for those fishing opportunities. Amen.
Have you ever pondered what it means to be ‘born again’ as a Christian believer?
When we give our hearts to the Lord, asking Him to forgive our sins and guide our lives, we are making God a promise: we no longer claim the right to follow our own paths, or to focus on our own agendas.
We are redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ, shed on the cross on our behalf so that we can be forgiven and live with the Lord for all eternity, when our temporary earthly lives are over.
In Romans 14:8, the Apostle Paul says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
When we profess our faith as Christian believers, we are saying we will live for the Lord, and we will die for Him as well. Living or dead, our souls belong to the Savior.
As believers living for the Lord, this means we will make choices that honor Him, and ultimately serve His goals and plans. We will ever and always belong to the Lord. Understanding that should impact how we view every choice we make, and how we tackle every challenge.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord, we give you everything. Our choices, our actions, and our reactions. We ask for clarity in the decisions we make, and that you make us ever dependent on your wisdom and your perfect plan. Amen.
Are you the enviable sort of person who was born with an innate sense of direction?
Some of us know instinctively whether we are traveling North, South, East, or West. And some of us...would be lucky to find our way out of a paper bag, even with a map in hand.
If you’ve ever been lost on a country road at dusk, no road signs, no one to ask for help, and no idea which way to turn — you know how very useful it is to have directions. You’re burning daylight, and you aren’t sure how to get back to civilization.
Or maybe you’ve driven to a job interview in a new city. Unfamiliar cross streets, busy traffic, and the sound of blaring horns can be a distressing soundtrack when you’re trying to pinpoint one office building among many.
Romans 14:8 says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
When we’re living for the Lord, we have a North Star to guide us on our way. When you aren’t sure which road to take, or which choice to make, remember Who you live for. Ask the Lord to direct your path, to keep you safe from harm, and to be present every step of the way. Country roads, bustling city thoroughfares, and life itself are all so much more enjoyable when we navigate them with Jesus.
Let’s pray.
God, forgive us for those times we prove ourselves aimless on the road of life. Be our guide, and reveal your presence and direction to us on the journey. We are lost without you! Amen.
A political science major at a major university was having coffee with a campus pastor. The pastor knew that the student was wrestling with doubt about the existence of God and said to him, “John, you know all of us wonder at some point if it's all real, or not. For example, there are quite a few stories in the Bible that are just hard to believe — Jonah and the whale and all that.”
John smiled and said, “No, that's not my problem. What I wonder about is how God could care about me. I've done some really bad things and have had some really bad things done to me. I just can't understand the concept of forgiveness.”
There you have it. Doubts about the faith come from all directions. While one person cannot bring herself to believe in miracles, another cannot forgive himself for the wrong things he's done — and can't fathom how God could.
Thomas Jefferson actually cut out the miraculous sections of the Bible. He couldn't believe in what some would call the God of the Bible. Francis Crick, the co-discoverer of DNA, thought that Christianity was just a collection of mythical stories. And what about those who want to see the proof? They like evidence and feel a need to make an intellectual case for our faith.
The New Testament writer, Luke was like that. He wrote in Acts and the gospel of Luke about the importance of eyewitness sightings of Jesus and His miracles. Lots of people debate whether evolution and religion are compatible or not. And this is a big stumbling block to believe for many.
We all believe something, but our minds can struggle at times to grasp the big stuff, the infinite universe, while for others who doubt, the struggle is more internal. They're so grieved by their own sin they can't accept that God could love them.
Maybe the most famous verse in the Bible is John 3:16, which says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”
However, few quote the next verse, which says, “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” It isn't God's wish to condemn you. Instead, He loves you and wants to give you assurance that life is more than struggle and molecules.
Whether you're looking for evidence to believe the Bible, or you just need to know that God loves you, try not to focus too much on your objections. Own them, but just tell God — as a child would, that you're struggling to understand it all.
Will you pray with us?
Father, your grace saves us from a life of struggle with sin, and we are accepted by you. Thank you for putting up with our up and down faith. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
God does things on a big scale, but he’s also in the details. He knows our thoughts, hopes, dreams, and every detail of our lives.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
In Ecclesiastes, God spends considerable time speaking to our innermost needs. Through the stories of Paul and the apostles, we see that he cares about our physical needs, and comforts us in times of danger.
The diversity of God’s intervention is awesome! Hannah couldn’t have children, but she prayed and the Lord answered her…blessing her with six children! Gideon was facing an army much larger than his own, but God told him everything would be okay — and it was!
Down through time and into the present, God speaks to us with words of comfort and courage. He is actively working in our lives now, and always.
The Bible is full of stories of God doing amazing things for those He calls. One of the most famous seems to be good to be true, but it is!
Daniel, God’s man in exile in Babylon, insisted on worshipping the Lord, and not a human king. This was against the law. When those who were jealous of him urged the king to punish Daniel, the prophet was thrown into a lion’s den overnight.
And that was that. Or was it?
Next morning, the king was so anxious about Daniel, that he ran to the den and called out to him, to see if he was still alive.
Daniel 6:21–22 says, “Daniel answered, “May the king live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.”
When life threatens to rip you up, remember that the Lord has you. God is on your side, knows where you are, and will hide you in the palm of his strong hand.
Believe that He will.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this story inspires us to rely on you when times are really bad for us. Thank you for being our rescue. Amen.
Someone has said that the entire Bible is really all about just one person.
Jesus.
We learn in the New Testament that He has eternal mercy and love for each of us. In the Old Testament, He is on every page. Remember the mysterious man seen in the fiery furnace with Daniel’s three friends?
Jesus is everywhere, all the time. He is with you on the mountain when you feel awesome. He is also there with you in the dark valley, when you think you won’t live to see daylight. He is the true definition of this week’s series, “Friend.”
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
Life can be a bumpy ride. Turbulence on a plane isn’t fun. Turbulence in life is worse, because sometimes it feels like it will never end.
Enter your best friend.
Jesus tells us over and over in Scripture that He won’t leave us. Sometimes it is a direct phrase. Other times He tells us in the stories recalling His love and passion for helping people live abundant lives.
If you are really in need of a friend that will be there in the toughest time, like right now as you listen, tell Jesus that very thing.
The weight will lift off your shoulders.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are our good, good Father. Your promises never fail. We are filled with gratitude to you, our ultimate Friend. Amen.
Paul was a stubborn man. He was completely committed to his job. The very definition of a zealot. More than anything, he hated religious people. In fact, he worked every day to make their lives miserable.
You’re probably aware of who we are talking about. Yes, this is the famous Apostle Paul, whose pen dominates much of the New Testament. Paul, or Saul as he was known when he was persecuting Christians, didn’t need anyone. He didn’t have friends.
But then he found himself right in the middle of the theme of our series this week, “Friend.”
On his way out of town, Paul was knocked off his horse by a blinding flash of light. A commanding voice spoke to him.
It was the voice of Jesus.
Jesus, in an instant, gave Paul a new mission in life, as He revealed Himself to the angry young man.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
Jesus showed Paul a better way. No more would he terrorize people. For the rest of his life, this new man in the spirit re-directed his zeal to bring people into God’s Kingdom.
Do you need to work on your attitude and let Jesus show you a better way?
Let’s pray.
Lord, only you can change hearts. We all need it at some time. Thank you for being a merciful friend to us! Amen.
Rebecca knew just what Craig needed when he lost his job. She knew he felt ashamed that his job performance was a major contributing factor. In other words, he had flat-out failed. In front of people.
The hurried goodbyes and awkward pats on the back actually sort of made Craig feel worse. He threw the small box with his personal belongings in the backseat and drove as fast as he could away from the scene.
Giving him some space for a day or so, Rebecca called to check on her friend; she was a living example of our series this week, “Friend.” She had that wonderful quality of not being overbearing, but also sticking with it.
After a couple of weeks, the cloud began to lift, and Craig found not only a new job, but a new resolve to do his very best and succeed. Rebecca’s example of friendship had been a catalyst in Craig’s decision to move on in a positive way.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
A lot of people will love you when you’re winning. Everyone loves a winner. It’s fun and honestly, a little self-serving. We can often live vicariously through a friend who’s riding high.
But a true friend offers encouragement and love no matter what.
Are you that kind of friend?
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are our example. We seek to do your will for our lives and contribute to the lives of those we come in contact with. Amen.
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Bullying is a thing today. A big thing. With social media making such a surge in our culture, it has mushroomed in ways no one could have foreseen. The Bible tells us that at some point, love among people can grow cold. It’s then that humans display some of their worst traits.
We can’t often fight bullies alone. And a bully can take many forms: a person, like a coworker. Maybe a job itself. A financial speed-bump. Or your own sense that you are just worthless. That last one is a real killer.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
Our series this week, “Friend,” speaks to the absolute necessity of having that one friend you can count on no matter what.
Friend, have you considered the claims of Jesus? He promises big things, including the fact that He will literally never leave you. Have you ever known anyone like that? He has promised that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
And when the Bible tells us that a friend is born for adversity, it’s really telling us that Jesus comes into your life at precisely the right time, ready for any issue you are facing.
Let’s pray.
Lord, if we think about it, we can’t come up with a time when you abandoned us. Thank you for being the Ultimate Friend.
Do you ever feel like life is a 24/7 chore? That it’s just hard work and very little joy, to the point that you can’t go on?
Unfortunately, that’s a common theme for many — but as we explore our series this week, “Friend,” here’s a suggestion:
Seek out a person who knows you and loves you. Someone you’ve clicked with, and you have the memories to prove it.
In other words, a true friend.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
Notice from Scripture that the traits a friend possesses are to love no matter the circumstances, and that he or she is made for walking you through a trial.
Now, you might say, ‘I don’t have even one friend.’ Okay, maybe that’s technically true, and you struggle to name or think of one person you can turn to. It’s actually at that point you are on your way to a solution.
Jesus is the foundation of Proverbs 17:17. It is Jesus Christ who reaches out to you all the time, and is always waiting to calm you. Honestly? He is much, much stronger than even our best friends. Infinitely so.
Tell Jesus today that you’re going through a tough time, and you need Him for the long haul. Rely on Him. Pray. Pour out your heart.
That’s when you’ll learn that living life doesn’t have to be hard work with no break.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for bringing us comfort and rest when we see Jesus for who He is. Amen.
Do you especially need the gift of peace right now? Is your life so busy, you can’t find time to take a breath? There is Good News for you: Jesus already knows.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
When Jesus ascended to heaven, he told the apostles, “My peace I leave with you.” Because He lives, we know for sure that this peace is available to us anytime, anywhere. Even in the busy part of your life, when you think you’re going crazy, you can call on Him and He will answer.
This is our theme this week: that peace is attainable. It comes from God, first and last. You might need to get away for even five minutes and close your eyes to call on Jesus. Let Him know you are beaten down and tired. Remember the verse we just read: peace is not just something for the glorious future Jesus is preparing for us. It is for the here and now.
Claim that for your busy life today!
Let’s pray. Lord, when chaos seems to rule over us, you tell us different. Thank you that we can simply ask and you will settle peace over us. Amen.
Does your life feel out of control? Are you experiencing that common feeling of weaving down a busy highway, about to crash?
It’s a metaphor for life that most internalize at some point. All of a sudden, what you were sure of isn’t there anymore. You might as well be behind the wheel of a fast car that’s heading into oncoming traffic.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
This isn’t some nice little bit of wisdom someone put on a greeting card. This is the very Word of God. It has sustained civilization for thousands of years. It’s a proven method for getting your life back under control.
It doesn’t work though unless you can see Jesus taking the wheel. Let him get you to safety and peace.
He’s ready and waiting to take all your worries and set you on a smooth and straight path.
Let’s pray.
Lord, feeling out of control is not something we want to have anymore. Please take over and guide us in your perfect ways. Amen.
Life can be overwhelming sometimes, right? A huge wave of despair can come out of nowhere and push us toward disaster.
Anita’s life was like that, growing up in Hong Kong where revolutionary movements brought violence and loss of hope. She couldn’t see how the pieces of her life could be put together. She would ask herself, “How do you make peace with a potential that is frustrated?
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Over time, Anita saw that God had always been shaping her to find her calling in Christ. She did that, and today operates a ministry that helps women see that they are daughters of the Living God! Truly, Anita didn’t always have it together, but her life is living proof that God puts us back together for His purposes!
Let’s pray.
Lord, someone listening today needs a dramatic move from you in their life. Please bring your peace and comfort to them today. Amen.
How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request.
1 Peter 5:6–7 says, “Humble yourselves, then, under God’s mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.”
These two short verses tell us several things: One - if we submit to God’s power by acknowledging we can’t solve our problems, He is strong enough to intervene and bring about the outcome we really want.
Second, He does this in his own time, on His own timetable.
Third, we are to leave our problems at His feet. There is nothing wrong with getting an image in your mind where you actually do this and then walk away, your burden lifted.
Key in getting on track is recognizing that you might have trust a problem. If you’ve been deeply hurt by, say, a family member, you might subconsciously be failing to trust God himself.
And this is a first step in getting free of fear for good.
Know that an unburdened mind is not usually gained quickly, or without what we would call maintenance. The only thing predictable about our world is that it’s unpredictable. If you think you’re going to have one great afternoon and then every day after that is carefree, you’re deluding yourself.
We’ve already established that a daily time of prayer, reading your Bible, and focusing on God’s love for you is a combination that our enemy can’t overcome. Choosing to believe God’s Word is practical, and it works. That can’t be emphasized enough!
Jesus said in John 16:33 that we will absolutely have trouble in our lives, but that he has already overcome the world. This fact will help to keep you on that straight path that will ultimately one day lead to paradise with the One that created you, sustains you, and loves you forever.
Let’s pray.
Lord, having the discipline to daily rely on you is something we often lack. When we focus and concentrate our minds and our hearts on your good gifts, fear leaves, and can be replaced with courage and peace. Thank you for providing for all of our needs, all the time. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
The prophet, Isaiah, lived during a difficult period for the ancient Israelites. Turning away from faith in God and under the control of corrupt kings, the nation entered a period of darkness. They needed hope more than anything.
In our discussion this week, we will talk about this human condition. Today, we are really no different from people in ancient times: We all need a relationship with our Creator.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Don’t those words give you a feeling of peace and calm? You can say them to yourself, with no one around, and begin to feel God’s strong arms wrapping you in love. He wants you to be free from all the strongholds that keep you from your destiny.
Wouldn’t you like to spend the rest of this week at rest emotionally and mentally? You can. This is the Lord’s will for you, as we heard in this famous passage from the book of Isaiah
Let’s pray. Lord, your perfect love always comes through for us. Just as you didn’t abandon your people long ago, we know you will remember us. Amen.
The book of Revelation scares some of us, and it’s a source of confusion and debate for others.
But if we block out all the noise and read it for ourselves, we see it is nothing more or less than a beautiful description of our Jesus. It is an unveiling of the Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. He created the world we live in, He knew us long before we were born, and He is preparing an indescribable world for us to go to one day.
Revelation 19:16 says, “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
We celebrate life this week in our series, “He Lives,” and when we let the words of this ancient book soak into our senses, we learn that Jesus is active and working today, building a future Kingdom to welcome people from all languages and backgrounds.
In the time that Jesus walked the earth, Jewish religious men wore robes with knotted fringe, reminding the wearer of God’s commandments. They are deeply personal for the wearer.
In the case of Jesus Himself, the garments He will wear for eternity set Him apart as our Ultimate Leader, the One who has loved us all along. His name is unique in all of history.
And he loves you with an everlasting love!
Let’s pray.
Lord, our world is sometimes chaotic, but in Jesus we have serenity and peace. Thank you for sending Him to our world. We love you! Amen.
It was March 30, 1981. In our nation’s capital, a new president smiled and waved. In the next instant, Secret Service agents are shoving him into a waiting car. Several shots have rung through the spring air. President Ronald Reagan had just stepped out from a hotel where he had spoken.
No one knew whether the President would live or die.
News anchors began the evening news with the uncertain details, but eventually, the word came down: the President had survived.
Reagan, already 70 by the time he was elected, had miraculously been saved from an assassin’s bullet that led to serious internal injuries.
He lived!
Revelation 19:16 says, “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
This story is a perfect illustration of our series this week, “He Lives.” Vulnerable and wounded, Ronald Reagan was left relying totally on God, and the surgeons who had been placed in this moment in history. Two weeks later he left the hospital and lived through another term.
Jesus is our King of Kings. His name is the greatest in all the world, and He is always, always ready to rescue both the famous and the unknown. He loves all of us, no matter who we are or where we are.
He wants to rescue you today, right where you are.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the author of life, and your Word tells us the very breath in our bodies comes from you. Thank you for giving us life, and for rescuing us again and again! Amen.
Steve had everything to live for. His wife was the ultimate companion and mother. His kids brought him joy. A satisfying career added to the richness of his life.
Then a devastating diagnosis hit him like a baseball bat: cancer. The rarity of it added to the grim news. His doctor looked at him for a few seconds, then mentioned treatment options.
Steve didn’t hear him.
In our series this week, “He Lives,” the takeaway is that our great God has cleared a path for us.
Revelation 19:16 says, “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
Jesus is a king and leader unmatched anywhere. He is our source. He is life itself.
Steve knows that today. More than 10 years after he had the life scared out of him in a cold and sterile doctor’s office, Steve is healthy and whole, enjoying his family and choices in life like never before.
Maybe you are sitting here today after hearing your own terrible news. You feel life is shattered.
It isn’t. Jesus is Lord of Lords, and the Author of Life. Tell him right now that you need Him like never before. Whisper your fears to Him in private and believe that He will hear you and act.
Let’s pray.
Lord, life sometimes just scares us to death. But you are all about living in victory. Thank you for intervening just when we need You the most! Amen.
No one can ever say that life in this world isn’t rich and varied. We take the good with the bad because honestly, we have to. Sometimes we win and sometimes we lose. But through it all, we keep going because our King is up ahead encouraging us.
On a dark day long ago, Jesus didn’t look like a King. His life was ebbing away on the cross. His followers were distraught as they looked on. Their whole world literally passing away. But thank God we know what happened soon after. There is darkness in this world, but we can look ahead to the light waiting for us in eternity.
Revelation 19:16 says, “On his robe and on his thigh, he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is history’s greatest moment. Thousands of years of amazing events all bow to that moment in a cool garden. Because Jesus came to earth as a human being and then overcame death. We know that we, too, will live forever with Him.
“He lives!” is the greatest word we’ll ever receive and it gives us, like His disciples, hope for the future.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for sending your Son to rescue us from a dark future. That is the gospel itself, and we are forever grateful for it. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
In the frigid Italian winter of 2017, the unthinkable happened for guests at a mountain hotel. An avalanche buried everyone under tons of snow, ice, and rock. The terror of those moments stretched into the hours following, when rescue efforts took on the ultimate sense of urgency.
Amazingly, working through the night, rescuers began to hear voices under the rubble. In one spot, six people were shivering in an air pocket. Among them were a mother and her young son. One of the officials that raced to the scene and helped in the rescue summed it up:
"Their faces said it all, it was like they had been reborn."
Revelation 19:16 says, “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
In our series “He Lives”, we’re exploring examples of people who feel buried under the rubble of life. Sometimes literally, sometimes figuratively.
Do you ever feel like life has collapsed in on you? Are you wondering where God is?
If you feel this way, remember that Jesus has been there before, experiencing the great challenges that come with being human. In one terrible moment on the cross, He even felt He had been totally abandoned by God.
But shortly after, His Father came to raise Jesus to life.
He will do the same for you, no matter your circumstances. You will feel reborn!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your provision for us amazes us, and we love you for your faithfulness! Amen.
We hope this week is a great one for you in your relationships. Like many people, you have a special someone in your life and you’ve gotten a gift from someone who loves you. At least a last-minute one!
But part of truly loving and being healthy emotionally is looking at what God intends for human love. That provides an opportunity for you to share the love of Christ in a very real way.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Be honest with yourself. Have you been good to your boyfriend, girlfriend, wife or husband? Have you? Maybe you’ve done pretty well, but if you think about it for at least a couple minutes, you might feel a twinge that alerts you to some ways you haven’t honored the other person. Have you been patient, kind, honoring?
Nope, don’t start arguing about what is “wrong” with the other person. Take some time for self-reflection. If you can do better, do. Make that your real gift this Valentine week.
Let’s pray. Lord, sometimes we don’t see our own flaws. Guide us in the ways you want us to love others. Amen.
In an age of technology booms and information-sharing, it’s amazing how lonely we have become. Everything and everyone is connected, but does all that online connection ever leave you feeling disconnected in real life? Do you feel alone?
If you do, you are listening at the right time this week as we are reminded that God’s timing is always perfect.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Did you catch that? Here God is talking about and to the individual. He is talking to you. And guess what? He has made you beautiful, a truly unique creation. God has also placed you at the right place in history, right where you are.
God made you in his image. His Son, Jesus, went to the cross for you. If you still feel alone after all that, go back and read our verse for today. Read it again and again.
Our God loves you so very much. His Word says so directly, again and again. Let that be the backdrop for your day today. Can I get an amen?
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for loving each of us infinitely. Thank you for saving us. Amen.
One of the richest gifts God has given us is healthy relationships.
A marriage in balance, friends who mutually respect each other, and most of all a strong “God connection” can be the ticket to a healthy, whole life. The full life Jesus spoke about!
Hebrews 10:24–25 says, “And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works. Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another, especially as you see the Day approaching.”
With the fast pace of life, sometimes we forget to squeeze all the gratitude we can out of a great relationship. Remember to regularly tell the people in your life how much they mean to you, and to give thanks to God for sending these loved ones your way. Write them a note, even a text, to tell them what they mean to you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s not about the number of relationships we have, but the quality. Thank you for giving people who are loyal, and love us in return. Encourage us to love others in word, and in deed. Amen.
Have you ever been hurt in a relationship? If you’ve been alive very long at all, the answer is an obvious “Yes!” Reality has shown us that love can be the most wonderful feeling ever…or it can be ugly and brutal. It can feel like your heart has been run over by a truck.
We’re talking about Loving Like Jesus, and as usual, His Word unlocks the secrets of our hearts, and shows us the way to healing.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Frankly, each of us supposed to love like this. But just briefly, let’s focus on you. Why? Because it’s okay to do that if you understand that Jesus loves you and wants all the best for you.
Has someone hurt you in a relationship? Is marriage or romance a challenging topic for you? Then please mediate on Scripture and realize that Jesus wants a partner for you who is patient, kind, and honors you. Oh — and he or she doesn’t take frustrations out on you, either.
Use that as your starting point over whether to stay in a relationship or open your heart to new opportunities.
Let’s pray. Lord, help us to be mindful of your desires for us in the area of relationships. Amen.
When it comes to love, the secular world has plenty to say. Turn on the television, radio, or explore the internet, and you’ll find advice on every type of relationship, from friendships to getting along with your parents, and of course – advice on romantic relationships. People are clamoring to figure love out…but what does the Bible say about love?
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Love isn’t about control, or about protecting our own interests. It’s not about winning, because true love doesn’t keep score. God’s Word gives us a beautiful picture of what love can be when we seek to follow the Lord: patient, kind, selfless, humble, and forgiving. That’s the kind of love we should strive to build with family, friends, and a potential mate.
If we want to take Paul’s wisdom in Corinthians to heart, we must first think about what the other person needs in our relationships. And you know, if you practice this model, you’ll find that soon enough, your own needs will be met, too! Pure love has a ripple effect.
Let it wash over you!
Let’s pray. Lord, your relationship to us is perfect. Help us love as you love. Amen
In 1943, Winston Churchill wanted an invasion of Europe to defeat the Nazis, but the Americans weren't ready. They were ready one year later. And when the Germans on the French beaches saw thousands of ships coming through the mist one morning, they knew Franklin Roosevelt, the American president, had been right to wait.
Now the allies were at full strength and aiming for victory. Timing saved civilization.
It's like that in life sometimes, isn't it? For all of us. How many times have we been sure that we needed something right now, but then had to wait.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has set eternity in the hearts of men. Yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
God knows what you need, and when you need it. And the Bible says he's known all of this since before He created the world. His timing wins every time. And that's a good reminder.
Let's pray.
Lord, you know best, all of our needs. Thank you for delivering on your timing and not ours. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
A farmer, perhaps more than most, knows something about faith.
Harvest time captures much of our attention and all the good press, but the farmer’s careful planning, toil, and belief in the outcome are all necessary to reach that moment of glory.
First, the farmer must decide what to plant in his fields. What do history and the Farmer’s Almanac say about likely weather patterns in a given year? What will various seeds cost right now? Is it a cyclical year for grasshoppers, or other pests?
Soil is carefully prepared and shaped for seeds, which must be planted under appropriate conditions. And then, the waiting. New shoots finally begin to show, followed by prayerful weeks and months: for moisture — not too much, not too little. For an ideal mix of sunshine and shadow and temperature that will grow a robust crop worthy of bringing to market. For favorable conditions for sale, once the crop comes in.
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Farm life is a tug-of-war between blessed abundance, and faith that the toil in the fields will yield results: praying for sun or rain, watching corn or wheat or sunflowers grow green and tall, or waiting for trees to bear fruit again this year.
Like the faithful farmer, if we seek God first, turning to Him in prayer and giving every aspect of the growth, health, and harvest in our lives to Him, the Lord will be faithful to bless us and lay out a good plan for our lives.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we are so grateful you watch over the fields of our lives, giving us rain or sunshine in turn, sometimes teaching us through harsh conditions, and blessing us with a fruitful harvest at the right time. Help us to be patient in our faith, like the farmer watching over his fields. Amen.
Gwen closed her eyes and didn’t dare to even breathe. Japanese troops were right outside her house, looking for her and other missionaries.
It was World War 2, and American forces in the Philippines were nearby. Just when Gwen and her friends thought someone would throw open the trapdoor to their basement hiding place, loud voices began getting dimmer.
The enemy troops were distracted, and left in a hurry!
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”
God always shows up at the right time. If we can remember that, and commit ourselves to prayer and reading Scripture, we will not let fear overtake us.
There are times we need to just be still, and wait on the Lord.
He always knows just where we are, and what we need.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to be calm when we want to run. By waiting on You, we also practice obedience. Amen.
Picture what it would be like to lose everything in one fell swoop. Your house burns to the ground. The stock market plummets and all your money is gone. Worst of all, your children fall ill and die. Suddenly, you’ve lost not only your material possessions, but your family, too.
When people refer to someone as having “the patience of Job,” they say that for a reason.
Job was a man of immense wealth, the richest man in the region, and was the father of 7 sons and 3 daughters he loved dearly. He was also a faithful servant of the Lord, and grateful for every blessing.
In a terrible turn of events, Job lost his fortune in a single day. His crops, property, livestock, and servants were gone. Most devastating of all, Job lost his children. But Job didn’t blame God. He accepted that God had a plan for him, and was patient as he waited for the Lord to reveal that plan. He knew that sometimes bad things happen to good people, and he continued to praise the Lord in the midst of trial.
Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."
Job lost everything, but he didn’t take matters into his own hands to seek justice for what he had lost. He fell to his knees and worshipped the Lord, and then he was still. In the quiet of his soul, Job knew God had a plan, and in the end, God restored to Job twice as much as he had in the beginning.
A godly man is patient.
Let’s pray.
Lord, waiting is hard to do. Waiting for an answer. Waiting for resolution. Waiting for things to get better. Restore peace and patience as we grow in faith and learn to wait on you. We trust you. Amen.
Who likes to wait for what we need or want? Basically, nobody.
Of those nine elements that make up the Fruit of the Spirit, patience may be the hardest to find.
Romans 8:25 says, “But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.”
And patience is learned. Which makes it one of the sweetest fruits the Spirit gives us. Waiting for a “payoff” of some kind makes the end result that much more rewarding. Life teaches us that.
A childless Hannah endured mocking and ridicule, but the Bible tells us in First Samuel that she prayed and waited. Imagine how she felt when the date of her delivery drew near! She eventually had several children, but it was her patience in waiting on Samuel that made all the difference.
If you are waiting for something very important, read and meditate on the Fruits of the Spirit, especially patience.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us the patience of Hannah when we are frustrated by the waiting game. Teach us humility in the process. Amen.
David, the giant-slaying boy who would eventually become king of Israel, is mentioned over 1,000 times in the Bible. The youngest of eight children, David grew to become a powerful king, and some say he was also the original pop star, penning most of the 150 psalms included in the Bible. These songs were the hymnbook for Old Testament Jews, and continue to inspire well-known musical works today, including Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.”
The 62nd Psalm was written by King David with a goal of reminding himself and others of the Lord's steadfast love. A man of immense power and influence, David wanted to encourage people to continue seeking the Lord, and to trust Him with all their endeavors.
Psalm 62:5 says, “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.”
Some scholars see Psalm 62 as a warning: each of us possesses a certain amount of power over our own choices and circumstances, but we should not let our personal authority get in the way of our trust in God.
King David had wise and experienced advisors at his side, and he commanded armies that did his bidding at home and abroad. Upon his orders, men could be rewarded or condemned. He certainly wielded a significant amount of power, yet he put his faith and his trust in God.
Whether you sit at the helm of a large corporation, you lead a military regiment, or maybe you are the king or queen of your family’s castle, let power rest not upon your own shoulders but ultimately with the Lord.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, like King David, we are mere mortals blessed with opportunities, gifted in unique ways, and called to follow you. Let us turn to you with full trust in your plan, and remember the source of all power is you, and not ourselves. Amen.
Since before the world was created, God has had a master plan to deliver people from evil. He cared for us so much that He was willing to endure pain to redeem us.
In Acts 14:20, we read about Jesus and the disciples preaching in a city called Derbe. It says that, “Jesus then was busy strengthening the souls of his disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations, we must enter the kingdom of God.”
God wants us to know that the journey we are on ends with a destination and along the journey, we must be prepared to endure hardship for his sake.
His compassion for the whole world is summed in maybe the most famous verse in all Scripture, John 3:16, which says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.” And that's it. That's the whole point of living this Christian life. It isn't complicated in terms of understanding, but it can be hard to live out.
There are currently 7.4 billion people on the planet and most have not received Christ. Many have not even heard him yet, hard as that is to believe. There's still a lot of work to be done.
700 years before Jesus, the prophet Isaiah saw God's throne in a vision. and the Lord said there, “Who can we send? Who will go for us?” Isaiah eagerly said, “Here I am. Send me.”
This is the willing heart God is looking for. We live in this world with all its misery and beauty, chaos and harmony. We are to share the Good News of Jesus. And if we do that from a willing heart, God is faithful to use our efforts to advance His kingdom. And that is our purpose.
Would you pray with me?
Father God, your great plan from the beginning is right on schedule. It's always on schedule. We love you. Nothing, and no one, stops you from accomplishing your will. See us through to the end Lord, that we can accomplish your will for our lives. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Who are you, exactly, that God should know your name, or care to know your story? Have you ever wondered about the answer to that big question?
In the great scheme of things, we sometimes feel like ants in an anthill: nameless drones, fetching and carrying, an unremarkable face among the masses.
We are so much more than that to the Lord.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 says simply, “Pray continually.” Written as a letter to early Christians by the Apostle Paul, this encouraging note doesn’t specify that the holiest, worthiest, or only the best among believers should pray without ceasing. God’s Word encourages everyone to pray, pray again, then keep on praying.
We all sin and fall short of God’s glory, but even in our unworthiness, God does not hold us at arm’s length; He loves us, and wants us to know Him, and to be known by Him.
Prayer is a powerful means of communication that deepens our relationship with the Lord.
Who are you, then? Of the 7.9 billion or so people who call this planet home, you are someone God wants to hear from. Imagine that. The head honcho Himself, the Creator of all heaven and earth, the King above all Kings, has invited you to call Him any time, anywhere.
The Lord is only a prayer away, and He is waiting to hear from you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, how incredible to imagine you know my name. Thank you for your presence, your faithfulness, and for the gift of prayer. Amen.
Have you ever known someone who inherited something of great value from an obscure relative? It happens.
The will is read by an attorney and all of a sudden, the beneficiary goes from struggling to pay the rent to needing a financial planner. It can be an exciting time, even disorienting.
The only downside to receiving a large inheritance is the knowledge that someday it will run out, or you die and can’t take it with you. That’s why the Bible’s revelations about eternal riches are so much more important.
Genesis 31:14 says, “Rachel and Leah said to him, ‘Do we still have any portion or inheritance in our father’s house?’”
Let’s think of this as a parable. A man took the place of another and was executed.
He was no ordinary man, though. Only a few days after His death, the will was read.
He left it all to you!
Jesus Christ died for our sins and took the penalty for them so that we don’t have to. That is what the Gospel is, the Good News that we have riches in Christ, and they last forever.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your precious gift for each of us is something we did nothing to earn. You simply decided to put us in your will. We thank you forever for your grace and mercy. Amen.
Do you struggle to wonder what God’s will is for your life?
Many of us do.
Although it isn’t a quick answer, the best way to find God’s will for your life is to read His Word. The Bible will tell you the answer to that question.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Actually, finding God’s will isn’t the hardest part. Deciding to follow His will is where we get tripped up.
People need the skill and discipline of being persistent. Too often the impulse is to give up and then, if we’re honest, pretend that God hasn’t revealed His will to us.
Good old Abe Lincoln had it right when he said that the only important response is to make sure we are on God’s side, not whether He’s on ours.
God has already told us that He’s on our side. He sent His Son, Jesus, to take the penalty for our sin. It doesn’t get any more “on our side” than that.
Change your thinking a bit. Don’t focus on what you think God is supposed to do.
Resolve instead to follow God, and do it every day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your will is the thing that drives us on, to find our purpose in life. Thank you for sticking with us. Help us to stick with you. Amen.
The Bible is full of what we can call difficult stories. Some of them don’t make a lot of sense at first. Others seem contrary to what we think should happen.
As we finish up our time this week by talking about Walking By Faith, one such story is breathtaking if we follow it through.
It involves a father trusting God more than his own instincts.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
In Genesis, we read about Abraham being instructed by the Lord to offer his young son Isaac as a sacrifice.
What?!! Nothing could be more repulsive! Telling a man to kill his son? Why?
Well, we gain a different perspective when we trust God to the end of this story.
Climbing a high mountain, Abraham intends to obey God all the way. As he raises a knife over Isaac, God stops him.
God’s compassion hadn’t taken a vacation. He taught Abraham an important lesson about obeying Him no matter what. In fact, Abraham and Isaac would go on to become two of the greatest men of all time.
Learn to trust God — even if you don’t understand.
Let’s pray. Lord, your ways are mysterious to us, but you always want the best for us. Teach us always to trust you. Amen.
How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request.
Are you angry at God today? Has something happened that has damaged your faith? If we live in the world long enough, it can happen to any of us.
How you respond is really important. If you’ve listened previously, you know we are talking about how to live by faith.
Having perseverance when we’re miserable is really, really hard. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you’re the only one.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
Listen to the words again: “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
That’s how we are supposed to live. Not for a few hours or a day or even a season. It’s a lifelong thing. And we don’t always cling to what we can see in the short term.
Strong faith is built over time. Think back over your life to those times when God met your needs. Big needs! Those were moments He gave to you to prove His strength is not limited.
This is how we walk by faith!
Let’s pray. Lord, life is a marathon, not a quick sprint. Help us to walk by faith, from beginning to end. Amen.
There is a famous story in the book of John and it involves an act of amazing grace by Jesus. It changed one man’s life forever.
As we discuss Walking By Faith this week, make sure these stories find their way deep into your memory.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
In our story, Jesus meets a man blind from birth. He tells His disciples that, incredibly, the man will be the catalyst for God’s glory to be displayed to all who know him. Jesus then puts mud on his eyes and tells him to go wash in a nearby pool of water.
When he does, for the first time in his life, he can see! Simple faith released a miracle that lives through the ages.
Notice that the man listened to the instructions of Jesus, then made the decision to believe Him. By doing so, a whole new world opened to him.
Your darkness can disappear in the light, too.
Let’s pray. Lord, you teach us always to believe you in simple faith. When we do, good things happen! Amen.
The Bible contains a huge amount of wisdom for us. It’s the Word of God, after all.
Usually, that wisdom is most valuable to us when we are living through tragedy. Those days and nights can be among the hardest we’ll ever have, because the pain seems to be too strong.
Have you ever felt like that?
Our topic this week has to do with walking by faith.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
What does this mean? Well, Scripture tells us that true faith in God is “the evidence of things not seen.” It gives us a picture of waiting for a promise from God; we haven’t yet arrived.
If you are in that place today, make a choice to believe God. He won’t fail you, not even for a second!
Let’s pray. Lord, your timing is perfect, even if we can’t see the end of the journey. Give us strength for that journey. Amen.
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The metaphor of life as a road is a common one, and with good reason. We are in essence walking a path in life, from beginning to end.
For each person, the journey is at different times joyous, grueling, and full of wonder.
Second Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
This week we’re talking about Walking By Faith, something that humans find difficult to do when times get tough. Yet that is exactly the moment God uses to ignite our faith, and show us things we couldn’t have seen before!
In the Bible, there are many stories of people on journeys. Abraham, Hannah, Moses, and many more. If you’ve read any of those stories, you’ve noticed that God is with them every step. And sometimes the journey takes many years.
If you find yourself on a really hard road right now, remember that others have gone before you. They learned to trust God in tough times.
Let’s pray. Lord, you are so good to us! You walk with us and carry us when necessary. We are grateful that you are our God. Amen.
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The Bible is famous for speaking in parables and metaphor. One of the most famous is found in one of Paul’s letters, in which he tells us the benefits of a life in Christ.
The “Fruit of the Spirit” is a list of nine attributes that a person filled with the Holy Spirit will model for the world. It’s probably no coincidence that Paul starts with…Love.
Galatians 5:22–23 says, “By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.”
Love defines what it means to be Christian. Jesus taught that we are to love others, even to pray for our enemies. John wrote that true love is obedience to Christ. This dimension of the Fruit of the Spirit causes people to turn from evil, husbands to cover their wives in love and protection, and many, many more benefits for the world.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Your Word tells us that healthy fruit is a benefit to everyone; inspire us to offer the fruit of love to all we come in contact with. Amen.
We “love” all sorts of things. We love a friend’s new hairdo. We love pistachio ice cream and travel to exotic places.
Many times, the word itself loses all real meaning. It’s like homemade chicken soup without the chicken and without the soup.
1 John 3:16–18 “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.”
The Divine Word helps us yet again. Here we learn that true love means doing for others. Get involved. Don’t just say you love your community. Show the community your love.
Cleanup projects, running errands for a shut-in, taking your niece to the movies because her mother is working two jobs…you know what to do. You know the opportunities.
Think you love those around you? Show them.
Let’s pray.
Lord, there is so much good to do in the world! Please show us opportunities every day, so that we put action to our words. Amen.
Having the “patience of Job” is a common saying, even if people don’t really know its origins. Job of course was the biblical character that suffered greatly before God restored him.
But if you read the book of Job, it’s not at all clear that he really had much patience!
Because being patient is really, really hard.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
In 1 Corinthians, we have our blueprint for practicing perfect love. Pure love. And when it comes to patience in this context, we are to train ourselves to be patient with those around us.
It requires a willful choice to be patient with someone—as long as it takes—in an effort to project Christ’s love outward. If a situation calls for you to be patient, just remember that someone in your life has had to be patient with you, too.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you call us to be patient and we want to obey, even though it’s against our natures. But we will follow you in this. Amen.
We’ve all known kindness. It might have been a Sunday school teacher, or maybe it was Mom listening to our bad day.
But how often do you actually think about the importance of kindness? Is it an active part of your day? If not, you’re missing the point.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Real love compels us to practice kindness. A daily routine, and for the right reason. What is the right reason?
God tells us to be kind. This choice doesn’t depend on what the other guy is doing. Be that person who does a lot of kind things, and his only audience is God. Try it. Try a random act of kindness, don’t let others see you do it, then reflect on how good it makes you feel.
That’s the best kind of kind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word shows us that we are blessed with kindness from you in countless ways. Help us start to give back to those around us. Amen.
During the summer in Oklahoma, the heat can be oppressive.
When Martin Luther King, Jr. walked into Calvary Baptist Church in Oklahoma City in 1953, few knew who he was. The congregants just fanned themselves and tried not to think about sweating.
The 24-year-old seminary grad preached and then left. He had been looking for a job, honestly, but no offer came.
Years later, a deacon was asked how in the world they let MLK get away. He said, “He didn’t have enough gravy.”
In other words, the future icon wasn’t old enough. Didn’t have enough experience.
1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young…”
MLK had enough gravy to know that Christ’s commandment to love one another was desperately needed in the world.
The best part of his life’s work is that you don’t have to be an icon to do that. Each of us can model this Christ-like love to everyone we come in contact with.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we thank you for those who went before us. Help us to pick up their mantle and keep marching forward. Amen.
A positive in our culture today is that we can admit our shortcomings.
In the past, it was sort of taboo to tell the world you were not exactly all together. Back in the day, a “hot mess” usually referred to an overturned pot on the stove.
But today, the phrase “hot mess” has a whole new meaning. Our lives are often just a mess.
Thank goodness the outcome is not dependent on us.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Recognizing that you don’t quite have it together is a positive first step to moving beyond your circumstances. But the real key is internalizing the fact that God—not you—saves the day.
All we can do is admit our shortcomings, and then rest in the knowledge that God has it from here. That’s an attitude the Lord will bless.
God’s got you covered and blessed all at the same time!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are so good to us. And you have so much more for us than we can even imagine. Thank you for blessing us and not leaving us where we were. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
By some estimates, the beloved hymn “Amazing Grace” is performed over 10 million times a year around the world. Imagine not being able to hear this sweet song!
Losing the ability to hear, or being born deaf, is unimaginable for many of us who have never experienced hearing loss, but there are some surprising upsides to being differently-abled in this way.
Deaf people develop keener senses of observation, touch, taste, and smell to compensate for their loss of hearing. What the hearing world may view as a loss, can lead to Sensory Superpowers for members of the deaf community.
ASL, or American Sign Language, is an incredibly rich language, and it’s the 6th most common language in the United States
Statistics show deaf people are safer drivers due to their ability to focus on the visual aspects of driving, and actually live longer than hearing people.
Ephesians 2:8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Sometimes when we lose out on something, God’s grace sweeps in to fill up that space with other beautiful blessings in amazing ways.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, sometimes we see differences as stumbling blocks, but your grace tells us otherwise. Help us to be noticers of where your grace shines a light in the lives of those around us, and to embrace the differences we encounter. Amen.
Have you ever been really angry at someone, and had a tough time letting it go?
Maybe a work colleague let you down, or got you in trouble with the boss.
Maybe family drama is dragging you down, and there are unresolved hurt feelings.
Maybe your spouse betrayed you, and you aren’t sure how to move past it.
Unforgiveness in our lives is painful, and as believers, it can affect our prayer life, and even our relationship with the Lord.
Mark 11:25 says, “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”
God’s amazing grace is one of the most beautiful aspects of Christian belief. He sent His Own Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross in exchange for our sins. We are forgiven because of the sacrifice Jesus made, and have eternity in heaven to look forward to because of that forgiveness.
The truth about unforgiveness is it does the most damage not to the party we hold a grudge against — but to ourselves. You can’t see it on the outside, but an unhealed wound on our hearts is like a cancer, spreading and growing, and preventing us from experiencing joy to the full.
God wants better for us. If you are struggling to forgive someone, give it to God today, and ask Him to help you let it go.
Let’s pray.
Lord, I have a person or situation to forgive that is weighing heavily on my heart, and I need your help. Please give me the strength to forgive, and renew my sense of peace. I give you every aspect of this situation. Amen.
Do you ever worry you might not measure up?
Sam was a fourth grader with a big problem: he left his homework at school, and he was so worried he’d be in trouble with the teacher, he could hardly stand to go to school the next day.
In the car on the way to school, Sam’s mom explained the concept of grace, asking, “Sam, do you know about the idea of grace? Grace means even if we aren’t perfect, the people who care about us can choose to forgive us. I think your teacher will understand about your homework.”
Ephesians 2 verses 8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
The concerns on your mind today are probably bigger than a missed homework assignment. Maybe you’re struggling in your marriage, or experiencing financial distress. Maybe things aren’t going well at work, or you are battling addiction, or wrestling with sin.
When you begin to worry you are falling short, give it to the Lord. God sent Jesus as a living sacrifice for me and for you, so we could all experience His grace. Grace isn’t something we can earn, it’s a gift God gifts to us, simply because He loves us. And that’s truly amazing!
“Mom — I broke something! I’m so sorry!”
Benjamin had slipped on the wet bathroom floor and managed to take down the shower curtain and the curtain rod, in one fell swoop.
His mom’s concern wasn’t the state of the shower curtain, but whether the broken something was an arm or leg. Thankfully, her son wasn’t hurt, and fixing the curtain was a lot easier than mending a broken bone. A reassuring hug from mom was all the boy needed to mend his hurt pride.
None of us are perfect, whether we’re 8 years old or 80. Slips and trips happen in life, and beyond accidental mishaps, we also slip up and sin, making choices that disappoint the Lord, and send us on a detour from the path He has planned for us.
1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
God loves us dearly, and while our sin makes Him sad, He is ready and willing to forgive us; we only need to ask Him to. God’s love for us is so deep He sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins because He knew we’d need forgiveness. That’s amazing grace!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you love us through our imperfections. Thank you for the incredible gift of your forgiveness. Amen.
If you wonder what is the best way to share your faith and defend it in the modern world, it might help to look at past examples.
In the Bible, the husband-and-wife team of Priscilla and Aquila shared Christ with Apollos, who would become a famous early evangelist. In colonial England, the abolitionist, William Wilberforce, shamed his own government into freeing slaves.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
Today more than ever, truly, it is really important that Christians prepare to defend our faith. The world is hurting and dying. People the world over desperately need the love of Christ, and they will have questions. They might wonder about the divinity of Jesus, or ask you specifically how to be saved.
Be ready to answer, and do so with a heart full of love and compassion. And don’t be afraid to be bold!
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a spirit of courage in this chaotic world. Help us to love as you love. Amen.
We think of a “defender” as a muscular guy wearing a suit of armor. He raises his sword and takes swings at the enemy.
A defender can be that guy. No question. But a defender of the faith is simply a person who loves Christ enough to share Him with others, and answer questions along the way. The truth is, a defender of the faith can be a serene grandmother, or a mild-mannered accountant. It could even be you!
Our Defender of the Faith series focuses on what it means to stand up for your Christian faith.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
The reality is, we live in a fallen world, and not everyone has kind things to say about our King. Some people are skeptics. Others really challenge our faith, and because others are watching us, it is necessary for us to be alert and watchful.
Don’t feel inferior if you don’t regularly wear armor and do battle for real. Christ made you the way you are, especially for the time and place you live. When it comes time to defend the faith, you’ll be ready.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us stay engaged in the fight to share your Gospel with a hurting world. Amen.
Keeping things simple is usually the best path forward. For Christians, that means following Christ’s lead in everything.
This includes sharing and standing for our faith.
The Bible is full of examples of how Jesus did this. Occasionally he got mad, as when he threw out the moneychangers. Other times he just quietly sat and taught what His Father had shown Him.
This is our model. When you share Christ with someone and that person believes, you have been given the privilege of watching the most important moment in his or her life. Ever. To get to this moment, it will require you to be knowledgeable about your faith, balanced enough to be gentle in sharing, and sometimes edgy enough to pushback when someone mocks our Lord.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
God gave us a job to do, and one of his prophets, Jude, told us to be ready to defend the Gospel. This we are happy to do.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your wisdom is enough for us. We are always ready to defend the Good News.
Defending the faith can sometimes be a subjective thing. As examples of extremes, we have seen the Crusades, and the modern form is perhaps an aggressive “pitch” to someone who isn’t a believer.
The thing is, it’s great to be zealous for our faith, but let’s also be disciplined. We don’t want to alienate a person who might otherwise listen. To put it simply: an angry Christian is usually a lonely Christian.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
We can defend our faith in a strong way. We can be bold in what we believe, sure of our eternity with Jesus Christ. But our messaging is all-important. It could be that having a conversation with someone is the right approach. Don’t feel pressure. Don’t press. Jesus has the job of saving; we just have to be available to share about Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, please always remind us to share the Gospel with love. Amen.
In every generation, it falls to believers to spend some time in defending our worldview as Christians. Honestly, it’s not the nicest part of the gig, but it’s necessary.
Usually, it involves simply explaining what your faith is all about. Followers of other religions do the same thing, but for us, we are sharing the person of Christ with those who don’t know Him. That makes it a big deal.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
It’s exciting that God has entrusted this to us. It’s a privilege. Even if you find yourself in an adversarial conversation, (and — they’re not all adversarial), but if it is, remember the main thing: you get to share your faith and see someone else find freedom in Christ!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for allowing us to tell others about you. Help us always be ready to give an answer when asked about our faith. Amen.
In a world full of manmade gods and goddesses, the Creator God stands alone. He is a King of the first order, and everything was made by Him. His majesty and power are awesome.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Usually when people are in the presence of royalty, they get nervous. Kings and queens make us uneasy, and we obsess about how we approach them.
Not so with our great God. Yes, He is all-powerful, and the Bible does describe Him sometimes as fiery, but He also loves us with true love and compassion. It is a privilege to worship Him, and acknowledge Him for who He truly is.
Not all people and nations recognize God, of course. But the day is coming when they will. On that day, He will remember His people.
All hail our King!
Let’s pray. Lord, you alone are worthy of praise, and we do praise your Holy Name. Amen.
Where are you today? I don’t mean on the way to work or your kitchen or a doctor’s office. I mean, is your life stable? Are you on the right road? Our topic this week is the perfect timing of God. You might be in an okay place, or you might be free falling. As usual, God’s Word speaks to this.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Wow. That is a description of how your Creator is managing your life. You see it as a disaster. He sees you as beautiful. He is smoothing the path in front of you.
Can I give you some advice? If today is rainy and gloomy for you, quiet your mind for a few minutes. Meditate on our verse for today. If you can’t really see where your life is going, you’re not alone. All of us see through a glass darkly, as the apostle Paul said.
But God sees everything, and He sees it clearly. He knows where you are going and just as important, He knows where you are now. God’s got this.
Rest in that today.
Let’s pray. Lord, we are deeply grateful that you are in charge and that you love us. We love you, too. Amen.
When you think of ships, whether you’re thinking of the Titanic, pirate ships of yore, or trading vessels crossing the vast ocean to bring goods and services from one country to another, you probably picture them with an anchor — a heavy metal hook designed to catch on the ocean floor and keep a boat or ship in place.
Wikipedia says this about anchors:
There are two main types of anchors: temporary and permanent. A permanent anchor is called a mooring block and is not easily moved. A temporary anchor can be moved and is carried on the boat. When people talk about anchors, they’re usually thinking about the temporary kind.
Hebrews 6:19 says, "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”
When you think about your personal relationship with Jesus Christ, what kind of anchor binds you to your Lord and Savior? Is it a permanent anchor — not easily moved? Or is it a temporary anchor, dependent more on where you want to steer the ship, carried aboard your boat until you feel like a temporary stop?
God wants the hope we’ve found in Jesus to be a permanent fixture in our lives; our faith is meant to hold us steady and secure as we follow Him, being a constant source of reassurance in every circumstance — not a temporary stopping place.
Let’s pray.
Lord, whether we’re sailing calm seas or fighting to keep our heads above water in the midst of a storm, you are with us. You are truly the anchor for our souls. Help us to remember to moor ourselves to you, instead of following our pride and settling for a temporary anchor. Amen.
Solomon was one of the most amazing men in all of history. The King of Israel, the son of the famous David, was so rich he got bored. In fact, some believe he was the wealthiest man of all time. In terms of money, he was the Jeff Bezos of his time.
But the Bible tells us his story, and doesn’t spare any truth in doing it. Solomon accomplished great things, but at great spiritual cost.
After a while, he discovered the secret to real success, and that is what we’re talking about today and all week: finding our Source.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Solomon, you see, had wealth, power, fame, and relationships. But he saw that nothing really satisfied except knowing God. In fact, he asked God for wisdom!
Think about that. The king of an ancient empire could have had anything. Imagine a powerful being grants you three wishes. Most people in Solomon’s place would have asked for the usual.
Yet Solomon asked God first for wisdom. And the rest, as they say, was history. God gave him that wisdom, then added riches beyond measure.
Do you see? We are to ask for the right things, then other good things will find their way to us.
Let’s pray. Lord, your wisdom is the well we draw from. Thank you for not leaving us to our own solutions. Amen.
From the time he was a young shepherd in the wilderness, David had a deep relationship with God. He escaped enough dangerous situations to know that God was always with Him, and was his deliverer.
Psalm 91:1–2 says, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
This psalm is famous for its descriptive language. We can see a picture of this in our minds. And the specific things listed in this passage are very personal for each of us.
We are not to fear.
When we call on God, He hears us.
His angels watch over us.
One of the most beautiful images in the Bible is found in this psalm, as God, like a strong eagle, covers us with his wings so that we are protected.
Remember the words of Psalm 91 and call on Him day or night.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your protection for us is just one of the things that separate you from anyone or anything else. We are grateful for your wings that draw us near and cover us. Amen.
The Birth of Jesus as told in the book of Luke, Chapter 2, Verses 1–20.
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while[a] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register.
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, the greatest gift ever given arrived not with ribbons or wrapped in fancy paper, but in the form of your Son, baby Jesus. Thank you for loving us so much you sent Jesus to save us. Amen.
Over 200 years ago, “Silent Night” was first heard by villagers attending Christmas Eve mass in St. Nicholas Church in Oberndorf, Austria. Joseph Mohr, the young priest who wrote the lyrics, played the guitar and sang along with Franz Gruber, the choir director who had written the melody.
How did this simple tune, with its quiet words of comfort, become a beloved hymn of peace throughout the world?
An organ builder and repairman working at the church took a copy of the six-verse song to his home village. There, it was picked up and spread by two families of traveling folk singers, who performed around northern Europe.
The composition evolved and was eventually translated into over 300 languages. It was sung in churches, in town squares, even on the battlefield during World War I. During a temporary truce on Christmas Eve, soldiers sang carols from home, including "Silent Night." Known around the world by the wartime Christmas of 1914, the song was sung simultaneously across the trenches in French, German, and English.
Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight!
Glories stream from heaven afar;
Heavenly hosts sing Al-le-lu-ia!
Christ the Savior is born!
Christ the Savior is born!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for inspiring us to share the Gospel of peace with our neighbors across the street, and around the world. The miracle of Jesus’ birth is a story worth telling again and again, and we ask you to give us the opportunity, and the words, to share the Good News. Amen.
God gives us good gifts all the time. All through the year, not just at Christmas.
One of the truly joyful gifts is the ability to be kind to others. It sounds simple and maybe to some even quaint, but there is power in choosing to be kind.
Choosing to be kind. That’s one of our themes this week.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 tells us to, “Always be joyful.” Paul uses this chapter to describe the heart of a Christian. We are also to “encourage the disheartened,” and “be patient with everyone.”
Although there are studies that prove this, we don’t have to read a study to know that our decision to spread cheer in this world is really important.
Honestly, it also just feels good. Doesn’t it? Have you done this lately?
Minnie Pearl was a fixture on the Grand Ole Opry. Her silly hat and goofy jokes helped make her famous, but the native of Tennessee is remembered for her joyful heart. People who knew her especially felt lifted up just by being around her.
It’s always the season to spread cheer, but especially so during this season of goodwill.
Try it. You’ll help others lean into joy, and it will help you catch the spirit of joy, too.
Let’s pray. Lord, the joy we feel as believers is a good, good gift from our Good Father. Thank you for giving us hope. Amen.
Phillips Brooks was the minister of Holy Trinity Church in Philadelphia and visited Bethlehem in December of 1865.
When Pastor Brooks traveled to the Holy Land, the journey included a horseback ride from Jerusalem to Bethlehem on Christmas Eve. Back then, it truly was a small village, far removed from the bustling city it would later become. By nightfall, he was in the field where, according to tradition, the shepherds heard the angelic announcement. Then he attended the Christmas Eve service at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem.
Years later, the pastor recalled that first visit to the place of Jesus’ birth. “I remember especially on Christmas Eve, when I was standing in the old church in Bethlehem, close to the spot where Jesus was born, when the whole church was ringing hour after hour with the splendid hymns of praise to God, how again and again it seemed as if I could hear voices I knew well, telling each other of the ‘wonderful night’ of the Savior’s birth.”
He wrote a poem about his experience, asking the church organist to set it to music for the children’s choir to sing at Christmas time.
O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting Light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord, what a gift we were given long ago in the form of baby Jesus. The birth of our Savior in a small town stable changed everything, and we are so grateful for His legacy of hope. Help us to focus on the true reason for this season of celebration. Amen.
Jerry wasn’t very good at a lot of things. He was shy and his grades weren’t stellar. He was bullied at school.
Then he was given a part in the Christmas play at church. No one ever gave Jerry a part, but his Sunday school teacher took God’s Word to heart and knew that if she could help this shy boy, it could change his life. She knew that Jerry was good with mechanical things, so she put him in charge of raising and spotlighting the famous Star of Bethlehem. The result of that defines our discussion this week of letting your light shine bright.
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
When the time came in the play for the Star to be raised, the gleaming silver took everyone’s breath away. There in the shadows of the stage, where no one was looking at him, Jerry did his part. He shined that night, and afterward pats on the back replaced the taunts.
Think of someone you can help shine today.
Let’s pray. Lord, we are all weak vessels, yet you use us to tell others about Jesus. Thank you for that. Amen.
If you’re like most people, the more chaotic life gets, the more you need a solution broken down in easy-to-understand concepts.
We’ve been discussing what happens when people move away from God, and the consequences that impact us.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Besides the soothing beauty of the language, notice that God gives us several elements to meditate on, as we walk the road to peace.
We are clearly told here to hope in the Lord. He will then strengthen us. After this comes the fun part! Close your eyes and see yourself floating on the winds of peace, high above the chaos and troubles below. Finally, we are told that our strengths in the Lord will not wear out.
When God redeems, He does it completely — and with no strings attached!
He loves you that much.
Let’s pray. Lord, you actually make it easy for us to leave the chains that confine us. We praise Your Name. Amen.
If you’ve ever been to a trade show, you know that products for the Christmas season are presented and pre-sold in July! Sort of like the Laurel & Hardy film in which they sold Christmas trees in summer!
Hopefully, we have better marketing than the comedy duo, but there is one superb gift we can make people aware of year-round.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
If you’ve found faith in Jesus Christ, you know how good that feels. How peaceful. You naturally want to share this with everyone you meet. This free gift from Jesus is available to anyone, no matter their circumstances.
Now that you’ve been on the receiving end, you truly will understand that it’s not exactly better to give than receive—this is eternal life, after all—but the joy you’ll feel in sharing Christ is a feeling that cannot be matched.
So get out there and share the Good News year-round, not just during the Christmas season!
Let’s pray. Lord, Jesus gave us His all, and we are eternally thankful for that. Please give us many opportunities to share Him with others. Amen.
Solomon was king after his famous father, David, in ancient Israel. He also became insanely wealthy. According to the world’s standard, he had everything.
Everything except peace later in life. In this way, he was like a modern person, because truthfully, people’s natures never really change over time. It’s one of the things we have talked about this week.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Solomon came to some conclusions later in life, after he became bored with bad relationships, money, and fame. It was only then that he figured some things out.
The book of Ecclesiastes contains this wisdom that King Solomon found in his later years, and he tells us clearly that God is infinitely smarter than we are, and knows what is best for each of us.
So, if you’ve been trying to figure things out for yourself—and failing miserably—listen to the ways Solomon describes God. You’ll find that the One that made you knows just what is best for you all your life.
Doesn’t that take some pressure off?
Let’s pray. Lord, please take our burdens and fix the problems we have created for ourselves. We love you for that. Amen.
We live in a broken world, and humanity is the most broken and imperfect of all God’s creation.
The world has a permanent OUT OF ORDER sign on it, and as a result, most of us are looking for answers to our questions, and solutions to our problems, in all the wrong places.
We place our trust in ourselves, in shallow standards of beauty, in money, and in our relationships with other people, hoping for meaning and completion we will never find in these sources.
We are lost people, following false gods, hoping for the elusive spiritual peace that only God can give us.
Our deliverance won’t come in the form of a blank check, a beauty treatment, self-empowerment, or even the most fulfilling relationship with a parent, spouse, or child; the fulfillment we seek will come to us only when we choose God, and put Him first.
Joshua 24:15 says, “Choose this day whom you will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
For thousands of years, worldly things have called to humanity, offering false promises, and failing to deliver. From the very beginning, and before this world was even created, the one true God was. He is. He always will be. And when we choose Him, He promises to give us lasting hope, peace, and love for all eternity.
Nothing in a jar, box, or bank account can come close, and no relationship means more.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we choose you. Only you are worthy above every false god, above every temptation, above our relationships with people, money, or things. We choose you, and ask you to guide us in putting you first, in all things. Amen.
We all want to feel secure. We can look fine on the outside, but be something much less on the inside.
And the first step to overcoming vulnerability is to feel okay with who we are.
Psalm 62:5–6 says, “Only God gives inward peace, and I depend on Him. God alone is the mighty rock that keeps me safe, and he is the fortress where I feel secure.”
The tension comes when we balance healthy self-esteem with our sin-nature. Can we feel good about ourselves while recognizing the need for a Savior?
The answer is, yes, we can. In fact, Jesus flat-out loves us, and values us so much that He came to Earth to pay the penalty for our sin. Modern psychology might get it wrong sometimes, but recognizes that humans must overcome shame and self-doubt in order to thrive.
Jesus knew that all along. What does the Word say? “God gives us inward peace.”
That is the essence of healthy self-esteem.
Let’s pray.
Lord, I don’t want to get too full of myself. I also know that I can see me the way you see me, worthy of your love for all time. Amen.
We all screw up. We all fail in some way. We fall short of goals, or get embarrassed in some kind of career implosion or other event. It’s easy then to feel like we’ll never win again.
That is not how God sees you.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Hope and a future. That’s what’s ahead, not depression and failure. The Bible is full of stories of people God would not allow to slip away. Peter denied Christ, and the Savior forgave him! Sarah mocked the idea that she would ever have a child, but God let her be a mother late in life!
This is the world God created. Not one of misery and losing. Does it make sense that He would create you in very specific ways, uniquely gifted as you are, and then just give up on you?
Don’t let that be your story.
Your part in it is refusing to believe the enemy when you hear that voice that tells you it’s all over.
God knows the plans He has for you! Remember that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you don’t let us sink out of sight. Thank you for setting us on our feet, and helping us move forward. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Let’s think about something deep today:
What is the end game?
In this context, we’re talking about what comes after this life we are living now. Believers of course look forward to an eternity with the Living God. And even unbelievers wonder about what comes next after you draw your last breath.
It’s the most important element in our discussion this week.
Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
Like snowflakes and other beauty in nature, no two lives are alike. Each of us is unique. God made us that way. The Psalmist said that you are fearfully and wonderfully made!
And in your unique life, you face singular challenges. If you believe in Christ, you are well aware that in this life there is pain, and struggle, and obstacles.
But all through Scripture, the Lord lovingly reminds us that He is always with us and when we pass to the next life, He has prepared a wonderful future for us. One that will never end and will never be tainted by sin.
If you endure in your faith, that is what is waiting for you. Think about that today!
Let’s pray. Lord, your Word tells us that eternity is joy beyond our understanding now. All glory belongs to you. Amen.
There’s a reason the Bible uses so many metaphors. The wisdom God has for us lends itself well to short narratives, and we learn much from stories.
A famous passage from Isaiah we’ve been discussing this week uses a powerful mental image to convey deep truths from God.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
The sight of a majestic eagle, flying high above the ground…well, it can just make us feel good. It inspires. Gliding on the wind, the eagle dominates the place we’d like to be.
This gorgeous creature is exactly where God wants it to be. Free and sure of its place in the world, the eagle uses its extraordinary eyesight to see the big picture.
This is the place God wants you to be, and why He uses this verse in Isaiah to let us know our aspirations are not limited to the ground, not dependent on gravity.
Like the majestic eagle, let God free you to fly in every area of your life.
Let’s pray. Lord, your beautiful creation inspires us. Put us to flight so that we go to the place you have prepared for us. Amen.
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Whenever we have to overcome an obstacle in our lives, we are thinking about a million different things. Our minds race. We might even be aware that our Creator is there to help.
But have you ever considered that even when life gets tough, you can still have joy?
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Sheila Walsh has said that what got her through a bout of depression was the knowledge that God the Father loved her and wanted the best for her.
Today, one of her missions in life is to help others recover their joy, by pointing them to the Lord. The truth is, this life sometimes beats us up, but those circumstances don’t have to win. It isn’t inevitable.
It’s when we learn to rejoice while clinging to hope that true joy comes.
Let’s pray. Lord, in our lowest moments, we cling to you and your promises. Thank you for that joy.
O Holy Night is a well-known Christmas carol that began as a French poem celebrating the opening of a new church. The beloved song we know today was translated into English by John Sullivan Dwight, an American minister and abolitionist, in 1855.
This poignant carol reflects on the birth of Jesus as humanity's redemption.
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining
It is the night of our dear Savior's birth
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
'Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn
A thrill of hope...what a poignant, moving way to describe the feeling in our hearts as we approach the date we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Right now, you may be feeling a weariness you haven’t experienced before. Concerns about the health and well-being of your family, and worldly troubles beyond your control, maybe weighing heavily on your heart this year.
We invite you to join us as we approach Christmas Day in rejoicing in the Lord. A new and glorious morning is on the way, and our hope is still, and always, in Jesus.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we confess this year has made us weary. We pine for your holy presence, and we rejoice in your gift of Jesus! Be present among us, Lord. Bring peace to the chaos of this world and renew our hope for the coming year. We ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.
There’s a movement in our society for a return to simple living. We might not want to give up all of our technology—much of it is wonderful and helpful. But it is true we want to quiet our minds and find some peace. This week we are talking about the simplest, sweetest truth around: Jesus saves.
With that knowledge in hand, we can all find peace that the Bible says is from another world.
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
It seems at times we are moving at near the speed of light through this amazing Information Age. Constant access to that much information can bring with it tired minds and weary hearts.
With that said, wouldn’t you like to be able to grab hold of the secret of life?
We just read it. God sent His Son, Jesus, to earth as a man, to take on our sin and pay the penalty for those sins. When he was crucified, God raised Him from the dead three days later. This is what believers call the Good News. You can believe it or not. Those of us who follow Jesus believe God has proven Himself many times over.
We love our Jesus.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given all of us the hope of a joyful eternity. Your Son’s sacrifice has saved us, and we are all eternally grateful for that. It’s in Jesus’ name that we pray. Amen.
When we as Christians talk about the saving power of Jesus, what exactly do we mean?
In our discussion this week of this all-important topic, are we clear about who Jesus is?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
The facts are that Adam and Eve broke their faith in God by disobeying Him. Some dispute that this even happened in history, or some are just upset that God would demand complete obedience. But if we believe He is the Creator, we understand that He set the rules.
Because of that original sin, it became necessary for someone to pay the penalty for sin. God hates sin, and so He sent Jesus to earth as a human to save mankind. Eventually, He would be crucified and in this way, paid the blood penalty that God demands. As we read in Romans 10:9–10, Jesus is the path back to God.
He longs to save us.
Let’s pray. Lord, there are competing views in this world, but you have set Jesus as the standard. Help us pass on this knowledge. Amen.
Of the many gods throughout world history, almost none of them seem to care about individuals. They might alter the weather so that crops can’t grow. Or cause some global upheaval.
But only one claims to care about you.
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Isn’t that amazing? The story is that Jesus left His place of royalty in heaven to come to Earth as an innocent baby, then grow into a man ready to carry our sins for us. He came to find you! You! God sent Him on a search-and-rescue mission.
As we continue our look this week into the Good News—or, the True Story of Jesus—we begin to see that He is powerful: so powerful He can concentrate fully on each of us. That is astonishing. And comforting.
We can say that we choose Christ, but it is more accurate to say that He looked for us and found us. He sees the heart. He spends time healing your heart and your life. It’s why the imagery of a shepherd tending to his sheep is used so often in Scripture.
Our great God stands alone as the champion of the individual. Praise God!
Let’s pray. Lord, your love for us has no limits. We are given your grace and mercy every day. Thank you so much for that! Amen.
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As we talk through the Good News of Jesus this week, we must always make it personal. In other words, deciding to believe in Christ is a very personal thing.
We all come from different backgrounds and belief systems. In the end, though, what will you do with the story of Jesus? Do you believe it is true?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Over and over in the New Testament, Jesus talks to the individual. He knew us before we were born, and knows all the things that keep us up at night, or burden us.
In Matthew chapter 11, Jesus tells us that if we are tired and just beaten down by life, we can tell Him that, and He will hear our cry. Have you tried that before?
Have you ever said to yourself, “I have nothing to lose??” This could be the most exciting and important day of your life, depending on what you choose to believe about Christ as savior. If the claims of Christ are true, then your story just got way more interesting!
Let’s pray. Lord, you care so much about us as individuals. Thank you for loving us this much! Amen.
One reason people use for rejecting the claims of Christ is that there somehow isn’t enough evidence to prove that the events in the New Testament actually happened. In other words, some say the Bible isn’t true.
We’re talking about the life of Jesus this week. So what is the true story?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
There are more than 25,000 ancient copies of the books of the New Testament, in various languages. There are only a handful of accounts of Hannibal crossing the Alps 200 years before Christ was born. Yet no one doubts that it happened.
There are plenty of reasons to believe the biblical accounts of history are true. The apostles gave up their lives claiming that Jesus lived, and was resurrected from the dead. That narrative says salvation comes through Jesus, and He is the path to being reconciled to God and eternal life.
But only one thing matters: What do you believe?
Let’s pray. Lord, your Word promises us that Jesus saves us from our sins. We thank you that you provided a way of escape from judgment for us. Amen.
Psychologists and self-help gurus will all tell us that a grateful heart and a positive outlook will do wonders for health and relationships. A person with a heart of gratitude will be seen by others who will want to follow, and see what he has going for him.
Such a person is a magnet for sharing the Gospel, and the greatest source of wisdom has much to say on the subject. Dozens of times in the Bible, we read about the value of gratitude. Paul mentions it several times, including in the account of Elisha healing a woman’s sick son.
We read in 2 Kings 4:37, “She fell at his feet and bowed before him, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she took her son in her arms and carried him downstairs.”
To be overwhelmed with gratitude, is an emotional reaction to kindness.
Lamentations 3:22–24 says, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in him.’”
This is especially interesting because to lament means a person is sorrowful about something. In this case, it’s the prophet, Jeremiah. But notice, even in his grief he focuses on God’s love and care for him. He is grateful in his circumstance. In modern language, Jeremiah was being intentional about his gratitude.
The Bible tells us there are many variations of gratitude. In Second Corinthians, Paul even expressed his deep gratefulness to God for allowing him to participate in sharing the Gospel. You see, a truly grateful heart transitions from selfishness, to concern for others. And we can do the same thing today. When we focus on others, gratitude follows.
In Philippians 4, Paul also passes along a profound life lesson. Here, he says that we can learn to be grateful in all circumstances. Think about that. Grateful — whether in distress, or good times. Abundance, or poverty.
A few years ago, a youth missions group was repairing homes damaged by storms in Louisiana. A girl entered a house that was missing part of its roof, and she found an elderly woman rocking in a chair in a bedroom. “Oh, I’m just so happy to have a dry place to sit,” the woman said. She literally had no other dry areas in her home to be until help could arrive. Yet she didn’t complain about her circumstances. Instead, she gave thanks to the Lord, and in so doing — inspired that 16-year-old girl.
Gratitude is a perpetual gift, to us, and to others.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you are good. You’re good to us every day, and we are thankful for that. We’re grateful that you didn’t leave us in our sins, but you sent Jesus. We’re grateful that you sustain us always, in body and in spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday — it’s an attitude we can choose to fill our hearts with every day.
The Bible shares many examples of gratitude in the midst of challenging circumstances.
Imagine Mary, a young Galilean girl given the news that she was to be the mother of the Messiah. She didn’t panic or protest. Instead, she embraced the news and nurtured the One who would bring healing to the whole world.
The story in Luke 17 tells us that of the 10 lepers who were healed, only one returned to thank Jesus.
Luke 17:15–16 says, “One of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned with a loud voice glorifying God, and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks.”
Whether He was blessing food given to thousands by a miracle, or giving thanks at the Last Supper, Jesus modeled an attitude of gratitude for us; knowing His death was imminent, Jesus still thanked His Heavenly Father.
What can you find in your own life to be thankful for this week?
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the marvelous gifts you give us on a daily basis. Help us be mindful of this always. Amen.
The lack of gratitude in our world can be contagious. It’s kind of like a negative “pay it forward.”
How did we get to this place?
Are we too prideful to thank each other, or even to thank God? Too busy? Too self-absorbed, maybe?
As believers, we know life is a rich blessing from God. The clearest path to becoming a person of gratitude is to choose it. If we don’t choose gratitude, we choose ingratitude.
Psalm 107:1 says, “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”
Yes, we’re busy. Yes, life gets us down in legitimate ways. But research proves being intentional about gratitude on a consistent basis, can bring positive benefits to almost every area of our lives.
Realizing we’re too negative is a great first step, but keep going by actively counting and considering your blessings each day. Before long, you’ll be amazed how little you think about what you don’t have. You’ll be too busy enjoying what you do have!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you never leave us. And along the way, you bless us with big and small acts of kindness and mercy. Thank you for the grace in our lives! Amen.
Do you ever feel like life is passing you by, or worse — running right over the top of you?
When we focus on unpleasant circumstances or people, life can really bring us down. And this perspective is a downward spiral — not a place we want to dwell.
Author John Kralik was there, once. A long hike one day led him to an emotional crossroads; there he decided to devote the rest of his life to being thankful.
His life changed dramatically.
John began to write thank you notes to everyone he could think of. Not emails or texts, either. Taking the time to send a hand-written note really connected with the other people. Pretty soon he was so aware of his blessings, that there was no room for depression anymore.
Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”
Consistently thanking others will enrich them, and it will enrich you. Try it!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word is a love letter to us, and our gratitude to you is our thank you note. Help us to spread your Good News to all we come in contact with. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
You’ve heard that every good thing comes from God, right? It’s true. He is our example, both of how to live and how to react to others. This week we’re talking about practicing gratitude, and as usual, God shows us the way.
Psalm 107:1 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
Often, we can become disappointed if we don’t get everything we think we should have. But that’s a dead-end when it comes to true happiness and peace. And those are things that we all really, deep down, crave.
The ultimate gratitude comes from the Lord Himself. We learn in Psalm 149 that “the Lord delights in His people.” He first loved us, and that love flows down and through us. Truly, believers should be the most grateful people on the planet, because we know that God has given to us His Son, Jesus Christ.
Honestly, the Christian should go through each day so happy he or she can barely stand it. God has given us what we need, much of what we want, and He has already created a future for us that is so wonderful, humans can’t even perceive it!
Remember, God is the source of gratitude. He shows us how it’s done because He knows us completely. Remember as we go along with this topic that practicing gratitude is a huge key to finding peace.
Let’s pray. Lord, your goodness overwhelms us. Thank you for giving to us just because. We love you. Amen.
Humans have a problem asking for help. We can probably chalk it up to our proud hearts.
Often, when we are really up against it, that’s when we resist seeking help.
Jesus does away with all that.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Ask yourself: is my pride keeping me from asking for help? If so, mull that over. And then, take a step toward the Lord and ask for what you need.
God opens doors when we ask Him to. And sometimes what we find on the other side isn’t what we expected. When that happens, we choose patience, and we remain open to His good plans for us.
When you’ve asked God to help and your prayers are answered, share the Good News with people you meet. Tell anyone who will listen that the Lord of the Universe cared about you and delivered you from a problem no one else could solve.
And if the answer He gave was totally unexpected and sent you in a different direction — share that, too. Accepting God’s plan when it doesn’t match up with our own best-laid plans is what faith is all about.
Let’s pray. Lord, please give us a heart that seeks you. God, we want to be obedient, and we know that your blessings, whatever they look like, will follow. Thank you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
You’ve heard of heat-seeking missiles. They are weapons so sophisticated that they appear to have a mind of their own. The missile is launched and finds its target and destruction happens.
What if a heat-seeking missile could be used for good? What if one has been launched…in your direction?
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
If you open your heart to God—even if you aren’t a believer—then it’s as if Jesus is now the missile launched and He is coming toward your still-beating heart. The heart that has been wounded. He finds you and connects in such a powerful way, but the connection is for life, and not for destruction.
The Word tells us to simply ask Him and He will find us.
Let’s pray. Lord, your unwavering promises to stay with us during trials is unique in history. Thank you for loving us that much. Amen.
The story of the Prodigal Son is one we can all relate to. The Bible tells the story of a brash young man who leaves his home after asking for his inheritance. His loving father complies and let’s just say the son learns some valuable lessons on his travels.
Eventually, he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family.
It is really a story of Jesus and us.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
We screw up sometimes. Maybe it’s so bad we can’t see a way back.
That’s when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn’t as concerned with where we’ve been as He is where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real ointment for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you’ve screwed up too much, put that out of your mind and simply tell Jesus you need Him.
Let’s pray. Lord, your willingness to welcome us back to fellowship is something to behold. We are grateful for your grace. Amen.
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a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request.
Have you ever seen the film, “Saving Private Ryan?” If not, it’s about a group of American soldiers sent into enemy territory during World War 2 to find one lost soldier. The order comes from top leadership.
This small group has single focus the whole mission. Eventually—at great cost—they locate him and return him to his loved ones. Much of it is difficult to watch, as we see the incredible sacrifice the many make to find the one.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Long ago, Jesus did the same thing for all of us. God sent His Only Son to find those that are lost.
If you feel totally lost, call on the Lord. Just tell Jesus you really need Him.
Then you’ll have your own memorable story to share! Jesus loves you and will find you if you call on Him.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you forever for the sacrifice Your Son made for us, to take our sin. We love you for it. Amen.
Have you ever hunted and hunted for something, maybe your car keys, and you finally find them? The old saying goes (it’s very unhelpful!) that you find them in the last place you looked. There’s a lot of truth to that, though.
It also is very relevant to our walk with Jesus. Often we work really hard to solve our own problems, then we finally give in and ask Jesus for help.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
As with every other promise in the Bible, the really cool thing about this is, it is true. The promises Jesus has made are literally true. So, for example, if you’re looking for a solution to an impossible situation, ask Him.
It works!
Let’s pray. Lord, forgive us for not placing our trust in you all the time. You are our sustainer. We need to remember that. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
On a recent Summer morning, 75 years after he landed in France to help the Allies liberate Europe from Nazi control, Russell Pickett stood at attention as the President spoke.
A private in 1944, Pickett was now receiving the adulation of a grateful nation. He knew firsthand the reality that there is very little glory in war death. Yet here his country was honoring his service in that memorable conflict. The President even hugged him!
He stood with several of his comrades, men now in their 90s, and they shook hands with heads-of-state and the famous milled around. But a little-reported story is that many of the veterans spoke of their reliance on the Almighty. They knew their Source of victory.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
There have been many brave men and women in our nation’s history. Many of them fight today in places we’ll never know about. But we have only one General, only one true Commander-in-Chief. The Lord of History is the only One truly deserving of our adulation.
One day, when we achieve our final victory, it is Him we will see face-to-face.
What glory that will be.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always on the battlefield with us, never leaving us. Your kindness to us is eternal. Glory belongs to you alone. Amen.
When we think of bravery and self-sacrifice, we usually think of heroic acts during war. We focus on famous battles and epic outcomes. As we consider what it means to sacrifice for others, it’s fitting that we spotlight a woman who gave up much to save many.
John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
Florence Nightingale was born into a rich family and lived in Tuscany. Not exactly a training ground for self-sacrifice!
Florence, though, made a decision to dedicate her life to helping others. By making this choice, she gave up her own personal dreams.
During the Crimean War, she made the rounds at night to check on wounded soldiers. Later, she used her writing skills to build support for better nursing techniques and hospital facilities. Today she is known for her innovative ideas that saved countless lives.
In this way, the girl born into wealth and a life of ease became a symbol of self-sacrifice. While traveling in Egypt once, she wrote to her sister that she felt “Called to God.”
It was the perfect description of a woman who thought of others first, and last.
Let’s pray. Lord, please give us a heart for people like Florence Nightingale! Help us love others more than we love ourselves. Amen.
How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request.
We are inspired by epic war stories. Great battles over time become so epic, they almost seem a part of myth. We put warriors on a pedestal and usually, rightly so. They make it possible for the rest of us to live in peace and freedom.
Have you ever considered there is only one perfect warrior? His name is Jesus.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
From King Leonidas to Oliver Cromwell to George Washington, warriors have led their people to freedom. All were epic, all pivotal people in history.
And none hold a candle to our King Jesus. He is the ultimate warrior, the One that came to this world to rescue all of it. His sacrifice on the cross waged war on the enemy of our souls, and He won the final victory then.
He has charged us as believers with the task of telling others about Him. Our Ultimate Warrior is calling us to make disciples in His name. If you want to be inspired by someone, be inspired by the Warrior that has no peer.
Let’s pray. Lord, Your Son Jesus did battle for us long ago. Thank you for His victory! Amen.
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When Richard Winters stood in the doorway of a huge glider in the pre-dawn over Normandy, France, he thought about a lot of things. The young Army captain was preparing for the invasion of Europe, to free the continent from the Nazis.
He knew one thing first: he couldn’t survive on his own skill.
Proverbs 3:5–6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
A disciplined soldier, Winters literally took these verses to heart. Each night after the invasion, he would pray and thank God for the good things in his life, and he only asked that he survive the next day. His prayer life and the calming effect of attending church in England during his training saw him through.
When battle came and chaos was all around him, Richard Winters stayed calm.
Are you calm? Do the stresses of life’s battles overwhelm you?
Stop relying on your own ideas and wisdom! Some of it is good and some of it is just plain bad.
God’s wisdom is only good — all the time. Ask Him for that wisdom in your life!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have to stay steady in this life. Please continue to remind us that you are in charge and that you will see us through. Amen.
Joshua was called by God to lead the 12 tribes of Israel after the death of Moses. Those were pretty big shoes to fill, and the Lord chose Joshua because he was faithful.
Joshua knew when he called on God in times of trouble, He would answer.
In one powerful example, Joshua asked God to cause the moon and the sun to stand still so that he and his army could continue fighting a difficult battle by daylight.
Joshua 10:12–13 says, “On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel: ‘O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon.’
So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the nation avenged itself on its enemies, as it is written in the Book of Jashar. The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day.”
Joshua went on to lead the fight in many other battles, eventually conquering Canaan and dividing its lands among the 12 tribes.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray continually.”
As darkness began to fall, Joshua didn’t give up the fight, and he didn’t turn inward for a solution — he turned to God!
Let’s pray.
God, you led the Israelites to victory against their enemies on behalf of your faithful servant Joshua, and you hear our prayers today. Thank you for the miracles we read about in the Bible, and for those we experience in our own lives. Amen.
You know, someone may have tried to convince you at some point in your life that we're alone in the cold void of the universe, but that has never been true.
It's especially false for the believer who understands what God has done for all people everywhere.
He, the Creator of the universe, formed us long ago, and His Word tells us clearly that He never takes a second off in His pursuit of us.
Consider this: If you're stuck in a bad relationship, you won't find your way into the light until you're reconciled to God. That relationship is number one. It's the one you cannot be without. Even if others fail you; resolve to work on that one, and the others will fall into place.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
That ‘friend’ is referring to Jesus Christ, who loved us enough to step into history and take the punishment meant for us. Understand that, and cultivate a relationship with Him.
Let's pray.
Lord, we owe everything to you...literally everything. We worship you, and we praise your name as the One who sacrificed all for us. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Today, we continue our series on healthy relationships, and we're talking about managing difficult relationships.
There's a wonderful scene in the classic film to kill a Mockingbird, when the attorney Atticus Finch is confronted by the father of a girl who has accused a black man of rape, the father, enraged walks up to Finch, played perfectly by Gregory Peck. He spits in Finch’s face as the attorneys' children watch.
You can see the anger in Finch’s face, but he slowly and calmly maintains his composure. He simply walks past the man, who now looks pretty small and everyone's eyes.
God has given us the power over difficult people. It's called not letting them set the rules.
1 Peter 3:9 says, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing because to this you were called, so that you may inherit a blessing.”
Not always easy, definitely, but we're capable of it. Remember that. This life is very much about winning and losing. Determine that a difficult person in your life is not going to win by controlling you and getting under your skin. In wrestling terms, don't let that person pin you.
Is that obnoxious person in your life really all that obnoxious, or are you a grouch, letting yourself get caught in what is really only a difference in personalities? Go home from work one evening and think about that. Make your mind up to start out the next day by being nice to that person. You'll be surprised how that can change the equation. And that's what Colossians 4:6 is talking about when it says, “Let your speech be always with grace seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man.”
Or maybe you're a man frustrated with the relationship between your wife and your mother. This is always a potentially difficult situation. Maybe you think your wife should be more adaptable, but you've forgotten what God told the man in Genesis 2:24. It says, “This is why a man leaves his father and mother, and is united to his wife. And they become one flesh.” Your responsibility in that situation is to your wife, not to making sure your parents' feelings come first in all situations.
So you see, often that difficult person you're dealing with is you, or at the very least a different perspective will help you see where the fault really lies.
Finally, in 1 Corinthians 5, we read that Paul advises for really difficult people, a cooling off period is legitimate. For example, the person who is causing real strife in a church should not be allowed to go on like that indefinitely; bad behavior sometimes must be confronted for the good of the community. And even for the good of the offended person, this is sound advice.
So if we stick to what the Lord has already told us, and our tried and true methods for dealing with difficult people, we can get to a better place.
Let’s pray.
Father God, a person who is angry or troublemaker creates chaos for everyone. Help us analyze each of these situations as unique so that we know how to handle them from your Word. And most especially help us make it a habit to pray for those who are difficult so that we might see their lives changed, and brought into harmony and unity. In Jesus' name. Amen.
You’ve heard the joke about family gatherings, haven’t you?
If you weren’t related to these people, you’d never see them.
What a horrible punchline, really.
1 Corinthians 13:7 says, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
God’s world has purpose in everything. Everything.
He gave you a specific family for specific reasons. It’s super easy to be nice to people we aren’t around very much. Short-term “love” is pretty common. It’s when we get in close quarters with long-term relationships that our character really comes out.
Sure, some family members are not nice people. There are still ways to manage that, taking our cues from Scripture.
Love, especially family style, is for the long haul. That beautifully worded verse from 1 Corinthians says it all. We bear one another’s burdens, and we hope for the best.
And we endure any obstacle that blocks us from truly loving the family God gifted us with.
No joke.
Let’s pray.
Lord, remind us daily of the unique gift our families are for us. Help us look for ways to enhance these special communities you’ve placed us in. Amen.
When we walk with God, we want to see that our relationships are healthy. It’s part of the command to love one another.
Few things are more heartbreaking than damaged relationships. When those linger, the Body of Christ is weakened. Churches split because of it. Families suffer for it.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
Notice that we are to walk in all His ways. And what did the Lord do in every situation in the Bible that involved relationships? He provided the very best.
That’s our mandate. Do excellence in your relationships. Has someone wronged you, or do they mock you? Take your eyes off their smug expressions and “walk in all His ways.” You’ll be surprised how some people will react, in a good way!
Just as we read that spouses can choose to pray for an unbelieving spouse in the hopes they come to repentance and wholeness, so too can we simply choose to want the best in all our relationships.
Let’s pray.
Lord, relationships are difficult! But how blessed we are by You, that You created them for us. Most of all our relationship with You, our Creator. Amen.
When it comes to love, the secular world has plenty to say. Turn on the television, radio, or explore the internet, and you’ll find advice on every type of relationship, from friendships to getting along with your parents, and of course — advice on romantic relationships. People are clamoring to figure love out…but what does the Bible say about love?
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Love isn’t about control, or about protecting our own interests. It’s not about winning, because true love doesn’t keep score. God’s Word gives us a beautiful picture of what love can be when we seek to follow the Lord: patient, kind, selfless, humble, and forgiving. That’s the kind of love we should strive to build with family, friends, and a potential mate.
If we want to take Paul’s wisdom in Corinthians to heart, we must first think about what the other person needs in our relationships. And you know, if you practice this model, you’ll find that soon enough, your own needs will be met, too! Pure love has a ripple effect.
Let it wash over you!
Let’s pray. Lord, your relationship to us is perfect. Help us love as you love. Amen.
Jenna stopped in her tracks, sighing in frustration as she bent down to pick yet another rock out of her shoe.
“Why on earth am I suddenly picking up rocks every time I walk the dog,” she wondered.
They finished their usual route, and at home, Jenna slipped off her shoes and discovered the problem: she’d worn those old slip-ons for so long that she wore a hole right through the soles of both shoes!
Philippians 4:6 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Sometimes our prayer lives are like Jenna’s old shoes: we take them for granted, setting aside a daily prayer habit and coming back when it’s convenient — putting off prayer until we can find the time, or in a time of trouble or desperation, when we really need God to intervene.
But prayer isn’t meant to be a sometimes thing.
We cultivate a healthy prayer life when we communicate with God often — daily, or even more than once a day. When we let our communication with the Lord wear thin, we are missing out on the blessing of His listening ear. He wants to hear from us: both our praises and our problems!
Don’t tuck your prayer life away for later, like an old pair of shoes in the back of the closet. Pray throughout the day whenever you have a quiet moment to reach out to God, and build regular prayer into your day to ensure there are no holes in your communication with your Heavenly Father.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for being available to us through prayer. We’re so grateful for your love for us, and your desire to hear from us, your children. Remind us to keep the lines of communication open. Amen.
Truett burst through the front door with exciting news one afternoon, anxious to share his latest find. “Mom! I found a praying mantis. Can you believe it! They’re pretty rare around here.”
It was certainly one of the biggest bugs they’d seen in the fields around their home. The beautiful emerald green insect crawled from hand to hand, curious about its new environment.
Considered a symbol of peace, contemplation, and prayer, the word “mantis” in Greek literally means prophet or seer. The prayerful pose we recognize in these insects is not actual prayer or meditation of course, but a pose designed to help them capture prey. The “prayers” of this fascinating creature are actually part of an intricately designed plan for their survival.
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
There are many things in this life that distract us from seeking what matters most. Technology. Financial stress. Family discord. Health concerns. Sin. The miraculous thing is when we quiet our hearts and minds and seek God first, He helps us clear away the clutter of this world, and blesses us with the things we need to take the next right step. With God, we can not only survive but thrive.
How poetic that a prayerful pose is a matter of survival for us as believers, too.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your incredible creation is filled with reminders to turn to you in all things. Thank you for that. Amen.
Humans were built for language and communication.
It's one of the bits of creative genius God used when He formed His highest creation. And apart from regular communication, whether it's the written word or verbal, we have a great gift from a loving God: prayer. And that's what we're talking about this week in a series we're calling, Prayer 101.
Prayer is an intensely personal way to communicate with our Creator, the One who knows everything about us.
Jeremiah 29:12 says, “Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me and I will listen to you.”
All through scripture we see that God is available to us all the time. No regular hours or standing meetings. We can talk to Him anytime we want. There are 650 recorded prayers in the Bible, and we read about people praying while sitting, standing, kneeling with faces to the ground, or hands lifted up.
By the way, Amen means “let it be,” or “so be it.”
The word “prayer” appears for the first time in Numbers 5:22.
Since prayers are human communication with God, we see that the first prayers were way back in Genesis 3 and 4 when Adam and Eve, and later Cain, talked with God. In the second exchange, even though Cain was angry and had just killed his brother, he was having a conversation with God.
Jesus famously modeled prayer in Luke 11 and noticed that He was talking to God, the Father.
It can be a fine line when thinking about how prayer is initiated. Often, thoughts come to our minds or we're reminded to pray for someone. However, there's an indication that God prompts us to talk with Him.
In Galatians 4:6, that from our hearts we cry out, “Abba Father,” and that the indwelling spirit of the Lord prompts this in us. Of all the great gifts God has given us, Prayer is one of the most special. It's how our spirits commune with the One who loves us with perfect love. And He's always ready and waiting to hear from us.
Let's pray.
Father, God, we worship you for who you are. We love you. Thank you for loving us. Thank you for making a way for us to talk with you. The things that lie hidden in our hearts in Jesus’ name. Amen.
1 Peter 5:6–7 says, “Humble yourselves, then, under God’s mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.”
These two short verses tell us several things: One - if we submit to God’s power by acknowledging we can’t solve our problems, He is strong enough to intervene and bring about the outcome we really want.
Second, He does this in his own time, on His own timetable.
Third, we are to leave our problems at His feet. There is nothing wrong with getting an image in your mind where you actually do this and then walk away, your burden lifted.
Key in getting on track is recognizing that you might have trust a problem. If you’ve been deeply hurt by, say, a family member, you might subconsciously be failing to trust God himself.
And this is a first step in getting free of fear for good.
Know that an unburdened mind is not usually gained quickly, or without what we would call maintenance. The only thing predictable about our world is that it’s unpredictable. If you think you’re going to have one great afternoon and then every day after that is carefree, you’re deluding yourself.
We’ve already established that a daily time of prayer, reading your Bible, and focusing on God’s love for you is a combination that our enemy can’t overcome. Choosing to believe God’s Word is practical, and it works. That can’t be emphasized enough!
Jesus said in John 16:33 that we will absolutely have trouble in our lives, but that he has already overcome the world. This fact will help to keep you on that straight path that will ultimately one day lead to paradise with the One that created you, sustains you, and loves you forever.
Let’s pray.
Lord, having the discipline to daily rely on you is something we often lack. When we focus and concentrate our minds and our hearts on your good gifts, fear leaves, and can be replaced with courage and peace. Thank you for providing for all of our needs, all the time. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Welcome to prayer 101, the big question for today is how do you develop a prayer life?
The answer to how we develop a healthy prayer life is really not that complicated. It's all about choice. We can learn to pray first by reading scripture and taking notice of the hundreds of prayers offered by believers just like us. We can also talk with veterans of prayer in our own life, those who are older and deeper in their faith. But notice something about the prayers recorded in the Bible, they aren't contrived or intellectual oftentimes. Those things don't impress God anyway since He knows everything about us. We can't fool Him or hide or fake our feelings. In fact, the people in the Bible and those in your life who talk to God all the time just simply talk to Him. Some prayers are messy or sound selfish such as Jabez's plea for God to increase his influence. Others are said in desperate moments, but sound calming like David's famous 23rd Psalm.
Psalm 145:18 says, “The Lord is near to all who call on Him in truth.” This tells us that we don't have to do something in order to be worthy to speak with God. He simply is and He very simply invites us to share with him to unburden ourselves.
In Ephesians 6:18, we learn a lot about prayer, it says, “Pray in the spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests, with this in mind be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.” This is the prayer of someone who commits time each day to talk with God. This prayer warrior knows that he or she can talk to God about literally anything. Next and just as important this person prays for others. This is a far more powerful way to pray than many think because history is full of stories of people who prayed and God acted in someone else's life immediately.
The most important steps you can take in developing a prayer life are to understand that you don't have to be a PhD in Theology or have an IQ of 180. You simply talk to God in the most natural way. God warms to a sincere and searching heart. Next, you have to realize that your prayer life can take many forms, the quick moment during a busy day, in the still of the night with no one around, or in a designated area where you feel comfortable. Once you get in the habit of praying, you'll be amazed what a good change there is in your life. Faith is strengthened. You're no longer alone. Throughout history men and women and children have made the choice to talk with the one who made them and loves them. It's not any more complicated than that.
Let's pray.
Father God, in your mercy you invite us to tell you what's on our minds. We know that communication is two-way street. Nudge us to listen to your voice. Take as much time as we need to pray. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Our greatest example of kindness and compassion is our Heavenly Father.
God’s Word, the Bible, is filled with examples of His loving-kindness, His grace, His mercy, His faithfulness...the Lord’s love for us is infinite and eternal, and His example is what we should strive to embody as we interact and react to the people around us.
Lamentations 3:22–23 says, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
Our almighty God, Creator of the Universe, is all-powerful, capable of mighty wrath, yet He deals with us with patience and compassion.
Psalm 86:15 says, "But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness."
Jesus Christ was the living embodiment of compassion during His ministry on earth.
Over and over, our Lord Jesus Christ had compassion for people, offering healing and comfort at every opportunity. He saw lost and hurting people as sheep without a shepherd, and He came to give them purpose and to be their ultimate shelter.
As God’s Son, Jesus possessed more power than we can ever imagine. Yet He chose to give up everything, selflessly sacrificing Himself for us so we can be forgiven our sins and have eternal life. In that sacrifice, we see the greatest example of kindness in the Bible — a level of compassion beyond anything the world has ever known.
Let’s pray.
Dear Jesus, your compassion never fails. We are so grateful for your love, and for the gift of salvation, you freely gave to us through your death on the cross. Inspire us to share the Good News about you with others, that we can be messengers of hope in your name. Amen.
How many of us would feed a hungry stranger with the last crust of bread left in the house?
The prophet Elijah received a prophecy that the land would suffer a years-long drought, and this message from God had come to pass. The Lord sent him to a ravine east of the Jordan River where He sent ravens with bread and meat in the morning and in the evening, and Elijah could drink from a brook, but eventually, the brook ran dry because there was no rain in the land.
The Lord commanded Elijah, “Go at once to Zarephath in the region of Sidon and stay there. I have directed a widow there to supply you with food.”
When the prophet came upon the widow, she told him she had just enough flour and oil left for a last meal for herself and her son, and she expected they would die of starvation after this final meal.
Elijah instructed her not to be afraid, and asked her to make a small loaf of bread for him, then to do the same for herself and her son.
1 Kings 17:15–16 says, “She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah.”
Because of the kindness she paid to the Lord’s servant, the unnamed widow was blessed with enough to continue sharing with Elijah, and enough for her family to eat until the rains returned.
Let’s pray.
God, you are our steadfast provider. When we have an opportunity to give to those in need, remind us that you bless us with enough to share. Help us to give unselfishly from the abundance you provide for us. Amen.
When God asks us to love our neighbor as ourselves, what exactly does He mean?
In Luke 10 verses 25–37, Jesus shares the Parable of the Good Samaritan to illustrate what it means to love our neighbors the way Jesus loves us.
“A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’”
The Lord asks us not to dole out kindness sparingly, but to generously pour love and compassion over the hurting people we meet...even complete strangers we encounter on the road of life.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, give us eyes to see, ears to hear, and hands to help the broken and bruised people in our midst every day. There are lost and wounded souls in every corner of this world, and we ask for the courage to reach out to them with love. Amen.
How much can one person take, and still choose to offer kindness?
In Genesis Chapter 37, verses 12–36, 17-year-old Joseph is sent by his father to visit his brothers, who were tending the family’s flock of sheep in the countryside.
Rather than the friendly check-in he expected, Joseph’s brothers initially plotted to kill him out of jealousy, but instead sold him into slavery to a group of Ishmaelites heading for Egypt. Among the brothers, only Reuben wished to leave Joseph unharmed, attempting (but failing) to set up a situation where he could rescue his brother and return him to their father.
In Egypt, Joseph was falsely accused of a crime, thrown into prison, became an interpreter of dreams for Pharaoh, and eventually attained a seat of power over Egypt.
When famine hit the land where his brothers lived, they came to Egypt to buy grain. They didn’t know Joseph was not only alive, but was now the governor of Egypt. To their surprise, Joseph wasn’t angry at his brothers, but showed them compassion when he saw them again. Instead of taking revenge, he took them in and cared for them. Joseph knew everything that had happened was part of God’s plan, and what his brothers intended for harm, God intended for good.
Ephesians 4:2 says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
The story of Joseph teaches us that humility, patience, gentleness, and love are not just qualities to be saved up for those who deserve it; God asks us to approach others with love even if they have offended or caused us harm.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes the people in our lives are disappointing, frustrating, or downright hurtful. Help us to love those who fall short and need our forgiveness the most, and to bear with each other with patience, and with grace. Amen.
Carissa was having one of those days. Instead of hitting the snooze button on her alarm clock, she had turned it off. Now the kids were late for school, she was late for work, and the tone for the day was one mad rush — emphasis on the mad.
As the day wore on, she thought about her impatience and frustration with her children as everyone got dressed and grabbed a granola bar on the way out the door. It wasn’t their fault the family was running behind, and she regretted sending them to school with tension, instead of hugs and kisses.
Ephesians 4:2 says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
Of all the lessons we teach our children, kindness stands out. We have an opportunity to show patience, humility, and God’s love to colleagues, classmates, neighbors, and friends — and the people in our lives learn more from watching how we behave, than they do from just being told what to do.
We have a choice in how we treat others, and God asks us to approach the people around us with love. When Carissa arrived home from work, the first thing she did was apologize to the kids for the cranky way their day began, and let them know kindness matters morning, noon, and night — even when we’re running late.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the wisdom the Bible teaches us about kindness. Help us to be patient when we’re short on time, and to be an example of your love in every situation — even when circumstances fall short of perfect. Amen.
You’ve probably heard of the Ingalls family, or even met some of the clan through the Little House on the Prairie television series, or the beloved children’s books about pioneer life in the 1860s by author Laura Ingalls Wilder.
The story of the Ingalls family is inspiring, whether you watch it or read it. The fun and camaraderie shared by Charles, Caroline, Mary, Laura, and little Carrie is heartwarming, and makes many of us yearn for simpler times, before technology and the hurried expectations of modern life.
In reality, the story portrayed in both the novels and television show isn’t the whole story. The conditions of pioneer life were often harsh, and the situations families faced were dangerous. Starvation, violence, and death were all part of the history of the pioneers as well, and the darker themes of the Ingalls’ life on the prairie were left out of the telling, in part to protect the children the books were intended for, and in part to preserve the memory of Laura Ingalls Wilders’ parents, in whose memory she lovingly wrote her books.
James 1:2–4 says, "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
What sustained the Ingalls family in books and television, and in life, was their shared faith in God. The legacy of Little House on the Prairie shows us when we invest our hope in the Lord, no floods or winds, grasshoppers or blizzards, poverty, or scorching prairie fires can knock us from the path, or separate us from His love.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for believers who came before us. Help us to place our faith firmly in you, and to find strength and courage there. Amen.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were three young men from Judah who found themselves in a heated situation.
They were brought into the court of King Nebuchadnezzar II, and ordered to bow before the king’s golden image. The alternative was a one-way ticket to the fiery furnace.
The king’s command would have been easy for these guys to follow, but their own King of Kings had already commanded them to place no other gods before Him and to stay away from the evil of graven images. They may have been wary of the king’s wrath, but their faith in God was stronger.
They replied in Daniel 3:16–18, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter...Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”
Rather than violate their commitment to obey God, these men put their lives in His hands. They didn’t know whether God would intervene to save them. They knew God could, but they didn't know that He would. Regardless of the outcome, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego chose to live for the Lord, and if necessary, they were willing to die in obedience to the Lord.
Romans 14:8 says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
As an example of His power, God intervened to spare their lives. Even though He allowed them to be tied up and thrown into the furnace, the blazing heat didn't affect them at all. They walked out unharmed.
In the midst of our own challenges, we know God can and does show up for us. He asks us to trust Him with the obstacles we face every day, and with our very lives.
Let’s pray.
Jesus, it’s unlikely anyone will threaten to throw us into a fiery furnace, but it sure feels like our feet are put to the fire at times. Remind us to trust you...with every dilemma, every shortcoming, and every situation. We give you our challenges, and our lives. Amen.
Are you a person that has walked away from your faith? Maybe you believed once, very much, but it faded over time. Maybe you accepted the promises of God for a little while, but then something else caught your eye.
That’s not uncommon. Starting out on fire for God and then becoming weary is something many of us have dealt with. To use a flying analogy for our talk today, sometimes your flight of faith becomes grounded.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
This famous verse, now on millions of framed prints, coffee mugs and yes, T-shirts(!) has given hope to countless people. There are critics of the Bible, or those who claim not to believe in God, but too many people have taken it to heart and found out that the words are true. God does lift us up from our burdens, and puts us to flight. Just like a bird leaving the safe hands of its master.
If you are tired today, tell God. If you’re hiding it from family and friends, don’t try to hide it from the Lord. He knows already, anyway.
If you trust Him, freedom will follow.
Let’s pray. Lord, your mercies endure forever. Help us be ready to tell others about you. Amen.
Did you know God’s Word is indestructible?
Many ancient books have been lost to history. Others sit still buried under the sands of the Middle East. But after thousands of years, the Bible is more widely read than ever.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
There’s an interesting story in the Old Testament book of Jeremiah. We are told that the wicked king of Judah didn’t like the Word given by God to the prophet, so he threw it in the fire! But God simply had Jeremiah do it again, and today we have the story recorded in our Bibles.
Whenever men decide they want to get rid of the Bible, whether in Nazi Germany or today in countries where dictators hurt their own people, God’s Word survives, and finds its way into the hands of more people.
A God who can do that is the true God, and the only One worthy of worship!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word is something we can’t get away from, even when we are rebellious. Thank you for preserving your Word so that we all have access to it. Amen.
Have you ever had the pleasure of waking up in a cozy cabin…after you’ve let the fire go out from the night before? If you don’t get out of bed and put more wood in that furnace, the squirrels or raccoons aren’t going to do it for you!
Much more serious is the tendency to get lazy about the fire inside us to share the love of Christ. After so many years of being a Christian—especially living in a free country—sharing the Gospel can be put on the backburner.
Romans 12:11–12 says, “Never let the fire in your heart go out. Keep it alive. Serve the Lord. When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful.”
Do you see what God is urging us to do in Scripture? He says to never let the fire go out! Never doesn’t mean sometimes, when we’re tired or annoyed about something. This is too important to mess up. Remember that Jesus saved you. And more than likely, through someone keeping their own inner fire going, they saw you through the eyes of compassion.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a passion for the souls of all people, at all times. And help us to be ready to share Christ with them. Amen.
Celebrated songwriter Fanny Crosby wrote over 9,000 hymns in her lifetime, often writing as many as 6 or 7 songs a day. Despite being blind from infancy, she also played harp, piano, guitar, and other instruments, as well as singing soprano. She wrote the lyrics to many well-known hymns and while she did compose music to accompany a few of her songs, she partnered with many talented composers to write the music that accompanied her words.
She used as many as 200 pseudonyms to publish her work, with a goal of maintaining humility. The author was admired for both her poetry and her music during her lifetime, but she wasn’t motivated by personal fame.
Fanny Crosby was so well known in her day, that musicians often came to her for lyrics. One day, musician William Doane dropped by for a surprise visit, begging her to put words to a tune he had recently written and was set to perform at an upcoming Sunday School convention. The only problem was that his train to the convention was leaving in 35 minutes. He sat at the piano and played the tune.
“Your music says, ‘Safe in the Arms of Jesus,’’’ Fanny said, scribbling out the hymn's words immediately. “Read it on the train and hurry. You don't want to be late!” The hymn became one of Crosby's most famous.
Fanny Crosby could write very complex hymns and compose music with a more classical structure, but she preferred to write sweet, simple verses that could be used for evangelism. She sought to share Jesus at every turn, and to use her talents for God’s glory.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord, thank you for the beautiful gift of music. We are so grateful for your love, and for the opportunity to praise your name through song. Amen.
How would you feel, if you suddenly lost the gifts so many of us take for granted, such as vision, hearing, or the ability to walk?
Fanny Crosby was struck blind at just 6 weeks of age, but God had a plan for her. She was raised by her mother and grandmother after her father’s death when she was about 6 months old, and although she grew up poor, she was blessed to attend an excellent school for the blind in New York state, near where the family lived.
Fanny enrolled at the New York Institution for the Blind in 1835, just before her 15th birthday. She was a student of the school for 11 years, eventually joining the faculty as a teacher for another 12 years. During her time at the school, she learned to play the piano, organ, harp, and guitar, and became a good soprano singer. After graduation she joined a group of lobbyists in Washington, D.C. arguing for support of education for the blind. Fanny was the first woman to speak in the United States Senate when she read a poem on the Senate floor encouraging funding for state schools for the blind.
Fanny befriended 17-year-old Grover Cleveland, future President of the United States, while she was a teacher, and in fact she knew each of the presidents who served during her lifetime through her work as a celebrated poet and songwriter.
She later stated: “It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank him for the dispensation. If perfect earthly sight were offered me tomorrow I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things about me.”
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to set aside every distraction and focus on your plan for us. We often take for granted the gifts you’ve given us. Remind us to be grateful, and to use our gifts for your glory. Amen.
Fanny Crosby was a prolific songwriter and poet born in 1820, and she overcame challenges including blindness and poverty from an early age — but she didn’t allow her disability, or her circumstances, to hold her back.
As a Christian, Fanny understood the importance of looking forward. When a preacher once remarked that it was a pity Fanny could not see because she had been given so many other gifts, she responded:
“Do you know that if at birth I had been able to make one petition, it would have been that I was born blind? Because when I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Savior.”
Philippians 3:12–14 says, “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Fanny Crosby was struck blind as an infant, lost her father before the age of one and was raised by a working single mother and her grandmother at a time when this was not at all common — but she never gave up. She allowed the Lord to shape her story, and used her talents to praise Him, and inspire others to do the same.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord Jesus, we ask you to be present in our current circumstances. Help us to look forward and keep our eyes on you, rather than dwelling on the past. You have a plan, and you are present in our lives. Thank you for that. Amen.
Francis was just 6 weeks old when she became ill in the spring of 1820. The family doctor was out of town, and a charlatan pretending to be a doctor prescribed a treatment that rendered the baby completely blind, although she recovered from the initial illness. A few months later, her father died, and her mother went to work as a maid to support the family. She was raised by her grandmother, a devoted Christian who taught her granddaughter from the Bible.
At the age of 8, the little girl wrote this poem,
“Oh, what a happy soul I am,
Although I cannot see!
I am resolved that in this world
Contented I will be.”
The little girl was encouraged to work to the best of her abilities, and not to view herself as limited by blindness. She carried that resourceful attitude throughout her 94 years of living, and during her lifetime penned over 9,000 hymns.
You may not have heard of Fanny Crosby, but if you’ve ever sung or listened to favorite hymns in church, chances are you’ve heard her music.
She poured out her heart writing hymns, many of which are still sung today, nearly 200 years after her birth. Songs such as “Blessed Assurance” and “To God be the Glory” are treasured classics in many denominations.
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.
Fanny Crosby was struck blind as an infant, but she allowed the Lord to shape her story, and used her talents to praise Him, and inspire others to do the same.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the story of Fanny Crosby is an encouraging reminder to rely on you, no matter our circumstances. You had a plan for her life from the very beginning, and the songs you wrote on her heart continue to inspire us today as we worship Your Holy Name. Thank you for writing Fanny’s story so beautifully. Amen.
Who is the author of your story? Is it your parents, or maybe a grandparent or special mentor who had a hand in raising you? Maybe your best friend gets some of the credit, sharing in adventures the two of you recall with laughter every time you’re together. Or perhaps your spouse is a co-author of your personal story, as you make decisions together that honor your partnership, or help your family grow and thrive.
Psalm 102:18 says, “Let this be recorded for a generation to come, so that a people yet to be created may praise the Lord.”
The Lord asks us to invite Him to be the author of our story, and it’s a choice that makes an incredible difference in our lives today, changes the lives of future generations, and can define your story for all eternity. Accepting Jesus into your heart, and giving your life to Him, means trusting Him every moment, and leaning into His plan for each of us. Growing in faith means handing editorial control of your story over to God, even as the world tells us to seize control of our own destiny.
So what is your story, friend? And how has that story been changed, because you know Jesus? God has a plan for your life, and a beautiful story is unfolding every day. Even in the midst of tough times, God knows your name. He has a plan, and the ending — eternity alongside the Lord, is the very best part!
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us enough to not only create us, but to want to be part of our individual stories. We love you, we trust you, and we ask you to be present every moment of every day as our lives unfold. Amen.
One of the richest gifts God has given us is healthy relationships.
A marriage in balance, friends who mutually respect each other, and most of all a strong “God connection” can be the ticket to a healthy, whole life. The full life Jesus spoke about!
Hebrews 10:24–25 says, “And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works. Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another, especially as you see the Day approaching.”
With the fast pace of life, sometimes we forget to squeeze all the gratitude we can out of a great relationship. Remember to regularly tell the people in your life how much they mean to you, and to give thanks to God for sending these loved ones your way. Write them a note, even a text, to tell them what they mean to you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s not about the number of relationships we have, but the quality. Thank you for giving people who are loyal, and love us in return. Encourage us to love others in word, and in deed. Amen.
Geraldine Mock became the first woman to fly around the world in 1964. Landing for a short stop in Saudi Arabia, she watched as a man approached her plane. When he saw her, he shouted to his friends that this was no man.
They applauded!
Jerrie Mock’s steadiness at the wheel, and in her encounters on the ground, were the very picture of self-control. Her journey was wildly successful.
Titus 2:11–12 says, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly…”
In order to navigate this crazy world, we have to be steady, and the Fruit of the Spirit ends with a reminder to practice self-control in all we do. Be steady. As Scripture reminds us, don’t look right or left, but ahead. God sees real value in this trait, because He knows we cannot possibly succeed if we let our emotions rule us, or we run ahead on our own instincts.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us practice discipline and love doing good as we walk through life. Amen.
Fighting one day in the tough Iraqi city of Fallujah, a Marine sergeant decided to put himself at risk in order to get a frightened family to safety. He stepped into a courtyard and spoke quietly for a few minutes with the father. He took time to make sure the kids had water, and the toys his men gave them.
Then it was back to the war.
Gentleness can be misunderstood. Too often we think, for example, that a man is not masculine if he’s gentle.
Not true. This Fruit of the Spirit is a real strength, no matter one’s gender. But for men, it can be more than that; gentleness can be an asset.
Romans 15:7 says, “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
No matter where we are, we are to conduct ourselves with a gentle nature. In every encounter, we are to model the love of Christ, to show a damaged world that good is stronger than evil.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are so gentle with our tangled spirits! In our sin, you look at us with love. Thank you so much for that. Amen.
Emma used her hand to brush her husband’s white hair from his forehead…Edgar was near death.
Their marriage had been happy, and now she was saying goodbye. The nursing staff talked about the love between the two. Only three days after Edgar went into eternity, Emma joined him.
The Bible often uses marriage as a backdrop for what God has done for us. We know that in earthly marriages, it’s important to persevere. When we think of the Fruit of the Spirit, patience is very closely linked to faithfulness. It is the act of sticking with someone or something, all the way to the end.
Proverbs 3:3 says, “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.”
Our loving Father has been with us every step of the way. The faithfulness of God is an awesome thing to see and experience, and we know His promises always come true.
He is waiting for us at the end, with outstretched arms. In the tough times, think about that—imagine Him there. It makes the wait worth it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are faithful to your people all the time, in every circumstance. We are grateful that you love us this much. Amen.
It has been said that in the Fruit of the Spirit list, all of them collectively practically define the nature of Christ. Even David the shepherd knew his Messiah was coming. Remember what he said about following his loving God? “Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life!”
We instinctively know what goodness is. It is a kind touch, a gentle word, a gift that was unexpected.
Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
And in life, we understand the distinction between good and evil. These two always warring with each other. The key thing to remember in this conflict is that God is good and infinitely stronger than evil. That’s important to remember as we watch injustice unfold.
What did Micah tell us? That goodness is wrapped up in the choices we make: oppose injustice, love what is kind, and be humble. The truth is, all of us have been given so much good by our good God that it should be second nature to model that for those we meet in our journeys.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for your sweet goodness. Sustain us with that goodness for the journey. Amen.
Giving kindness is healing for the soul.
A viral video made the national news: a police officer cut the hair of a prisoner being released so he could go on a job interview. It was one of those inspiring “random acts of kindness” we love to hear about.
Proverbs 31:26 says, “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”
The thing that made Jesus stand out to people in Israel was His incredible kindness. He stopped to heal someone physically, or offered kindness to a person others looked down on.
What abundance could you share with a stranger in need? Can you go to a person who is discouraged and in need of a simple kind word? Kindness is within your power.
Stopping to be kind bears much good fruit. Jesus gave the ultimate kindness in His sacrifice for our sin. Isn’t passing along a human kindness the least we can do for Him?
Let’s pray.
Lord, there is so much need in this world! Humble us at every opportunity to bring light to someone in need. Thank you for doing that for each of us. Amen.
Who likes to wait for what we need or want? Basically, nobody.
Of those nine elements that make up the Fruit of the Spirit, patience may be the hardest to find.
Romans 8:25 says, “But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.”
And patience is learned. Which makes it one of the sweetest fruits the Spirit gives us. Waiting for a “payoff” of some kind makes the end result that much more rewarding. Life teaches us that.
A childless Hannah endured mocking and ridicule, but the Bible tells us in First Samuel that she prayed and waited. Imagine how she felt when the date of her delivery drew near! She eventually had several children, but it was her patience in waiting on Samuel that made all the difference!
If you are waiting for something very important, read and meditate on the Fruits of the Spirit, especially patience.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us the patience of Hannah when we are frustrated by the waiting game. Teach us humility in the process. Amen.
In our humanness, we struggle at times to achieve peace.
World War 1 ended 100 years ago, and all sides joined together as a League of Nations to make that conflict the “War to end all wars.”
Then World War 2 happened.
Our history is littered with noble attempts to make things right, but only God can bring peace to nations, and to individuals. He has promised both! One day, He will make everything new, forever. While we wait for that great day, He also grants us peace in our daily lives.
2 Thessalonians 3:16 says, “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.”
We only have to ask Him for it. Jesus, as He said in Matthew 11:28, gives us peace even in our greatest trials, and when we are exhausted. Then, peace comes to refresh us and give us all the strength we need.
If you don’t have peace in your life, simply ask God for it. He will provide.
Let’s pray.
Lord, let your peace wash over people everywhere in this hurting world. Make them aware of your spirit of peace. Amen.
Of all the gifts God gives His children, joy is perhaps the one closest to heaven on earth.
Who isn’t aware just how wonderful it feels to experience true joy? It is as if the Lord has freed a prisoner.
When American POWs returned from captivity in Vietnam, the looks on their faces as they emerged from the planes carrying them to freedom…well, no one will ever forget that!
Psalm 16:9 says, “Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.
Scripture tells us that we don’t escape trouble in this life, but that for the believer, eternal joy waits for us, and the Holy Spirit gives us joy in our daily walk in the here and now.
It is also ours for the taking, to reach up and pick this fruit that feeds our souls. Sometimes simply making the choice to embrace a joyful spirit is the key to having a blessed day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you did not create us to be defeated or sad. Your Spirit brings joy in big and small moments, sustaining us for our journey. Thank you for joy. Amen.
The Bible is famous for speaking in parables and metaphor. One of the most famous is found in one of Paul’s letters, in which he tells us the benefits of a life in Christ.
The “Fruit of the Spirit” is a list of nine attributes that a person filled with the Holy Spirit will model for the world. It’s probably no coincidence that Paul starts with…Love.
Galatians 5:22–23 says, “By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.”
Love defines what it means to be Christian. Jesus taught that we are to love others, even to pray for our enemies. John wrote that true love is obedience to Christ. This dimension of the Fruit of the Spirit causes people to turn from evil, husbands to cover their wives in love and protection, and many, many more benefits for the world.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Your Word tells us that healthy fruit is a benefit to everyone; inspire us to offer the fruit of love to all we come in contact with. Amen.
From earliest times, God has commanded His people to see their national home through His holy eyes. In other words, countries around the world are to follow the Lord. Of course, many don’t.
Jeremiah 30:22 says, “So you will be my people, and I will be your God.”
Many great civilizations have risen, but few last beyond a couple hundred years. Although history is debated, the foundations of America see a people who wanted to live holy unto the Lord. Modern America is still an ongoing experiment, but our Pledge of Allegiance, adopted in 1942, used the phrase “Under God.”
Lincoln used it for the first time during his Gettysburg Address, when he told the people that from that point on, we would be one people, united under the Living God.
This is something to celebrate, and we should! Our nation is always stretching to do better, and fulfill an ideal that is more than just some slogan. It is our calling to be this way.
Under God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that Christ has been proclaimed in freedom in our nation! Help us continue this sacred calling. Amen.
Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be one of the original settlers in America? As a person leaving the safety of England to come to the New World and start over?
Those people came here for religious freedom and risked it all. And when they landed in New England, they literally put down roots as they built and planted the beginnings of an amazing experiment that is still ongoing.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Our ancestors were definitely strengthened in their faith as they faced challenges and danger.
But the payoff was worth it.
Maybe you’re going through something similar. You’ve moved to a new place. New job. New social circle. And you want to find a church! Just tell Jesus you need help with all these things and He’ll be right by your side.
Let’s pray.
Lord, forever you have walked with us and forever you will keep us close, making us strong in the faith. Thank you for your faithfulness to your mission. Amen.
Do you sometimes feel your job is just too much for one person to handle?
Then let me introduce you to Franklin Roosevelt.
“FDR” was the 32nd president of the United States. By a quirk of history, he found himself leading the free world during a crippling economic meltdown…and a world war! His story is important, as we explore faith in God and country this week.
No one understood more than Roosevelt the sacrifice needed to defeat evil on the battlefield. He said, “Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget, in time, that men have died to win them.”
He had to send young men and women into harm’s way, all over the world.
John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
More than 400,000 Americans died in World War 2. From the South Pacific to Europe, soldiers looked after each other, and in many cases died so that others could live.
We should never forget that.
Let’s pray. Lord, we thank you for those who protect us. We will never forget them. Amen.
We as Americans relish our history…famous eras and the glory of battle and all that. Americans love the beautiful land that we’ve been blessed with, as well.
But the Bible tells us the true source of our blessings. It points us to the One who made all things possible.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
We are incredibly blessed in America for a lot of reasons. From sufficient food to freedom to make our own choices, we have so much. But do we always acknowledge the source of our blessings?
Our forefathers did.
George Washington’s tomb at Mt. Vernon has Scripture etched into the stones. The Father of our country knew his heavenly Father!
The Bible tells us that we should glory first in our great God. He is the one we owe our lives to. Every breath we take. We owe our Savior Jesus our eternal lives.
It is to Him that all honor and glory belongs. As proud Americans, we stand on our faith. Of our almost limitless blessings, that is number one.
To God be the glory!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are available to us each day. As we get ready for a new day, help us to remember that You are our source. Amen.
Do you ever stop and think about the routine things you do every day?
Buying detergent so that you can wash your family’s clothes. Fixing a couple of boards on your deck. We even grind through staff meetings at work. All this of course mixed with life, laughter, and love.
But do you think about why you can do these things in our country?
Primarily it’s because of the sacrifices of our fallen soldiers—those men and women who have defended the homeland since Colonial times.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
We are privileged to live in a land of the free precisely because fellow citizens took a different road. They walk a path of danger so that we can have the freedom to live as we choose. So many of them fight with the faith they’ve lived with all their lives, and it is our duty to thank them, and be thankful for them.
Remember them when you want to complain about daily chores made possible by their sacrifice.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep our warriors safe, keep them in your loving arms. Amen.
Who do you put your faith in?
In the 1930s, as war approached in Europe, the British loved their monarchs. The royal family has been beloved for generations, and King Edward the 8th was ready to take his place on the throne after the death of his father.
The people loved the dashing young king, and he seemed to enjoy his role.
Then he fell in love.
Falling in love isn’t a bad thing, even for kings, but Edward loved an American woman who was divorced. In royal society, that just wasn’t done. So in an amazing decision, Edward abdicated! He left the throne less than a year after assuming power.
1 Timothy 1:17 - All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.
Earthly kings come and go, but Jesus Christ will never abdicate. He will never abandon his duties. In fact, His famous sacrifice on the cross would not have been offered by any earthly king.
It was too costly.
Put your faith in the eternal King, today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have confidence in you that you will never abandon us. Thank you for your eternal love and that of your Son, Jesus. Amen.
If Genesis describes the beginnings of the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the book of Revelation finishes the story.
Revelation 19 tells us that a descendent of Judah, Jacob’s son, will one day come and rule the whole world. And He will be unlike any other king in history.
1 Timothy 1:17 - All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.
This verse tells us that the role of the greatest of all kings belongs to Christ alone. The image of a lion, with its sleek coat, fierceness and strength, best describes Jesus as ruler over all.
He will preside over an eternal kingdom, one that has no end and no boundaries. This picture of our great King is one we can hold fast to and believe in. One day, King Jesus, that strong lion, will even put away all dangers that threaten you.
That is an amazing thing to look forward to. And it has been promised to us.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your lion is coming to defeat evil and put away death and suffering forever, and we greatly look forward to that. Thank you for keeping your promises. Amen.
In the Bible, we read of family records that were the original genealogy sources! People knew where they came from, knew their kin. The 12 tribes of Israel were first outlined in Genesis, and from these 12 came an entire nation.
Even Jesus came from somewhere!
One of the Bible’s patriarchs, Jacob, had a son named Judah. The father calls the son a lion’s cub, and blesses him. Judah is told he will have favor in the family.
1 Timothy 1:17 - All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.
It is from this family of Judah that Jesus would come. There is even an interesting prophecy about this in Genesis 49; you should read it sometime.
In fact, Jesus was born into the tribe of Judah, and so symbolically, He becomes the “Lion of the Tribe of Judah,” and will return one day to Earth as a conquering King, the greatest one of all time.
The very name, the Lion of Judah, carries with it power and mystery. How thankful we are that it is Jesus’s name.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we love you for many reasons. We love you and thank you that the things you tell us will happen do in fact take place. Amen.
Have you ever heard of the legendary English king, Arthur? An iconic figure in history, he led a defense of his country against Saxon invaders around 1,500 years ago. He has also been immortalized in literature.
Only one problem: We don’t know if he actually existed.
We certainly don’t know where he’s buried.
And it’s a sure thing that King Arthur, if he lived, wasn’t history’s greatest ruler.
1 Timothy 1:17 - “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”
The Bible tells us that the Creator God is the ruler overall. He is the great King, seen on Earth as Jesus Christ, who will come again one day as a conquering King.
Although other kings achieved legendary status, Jesus is no myth. The most documented figure in history, He waits for the right time to restore righteousness and perfection to our world.
We long to see Him!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are indeed our great King, righteous and perfect in all your ways. Amen.
Do you know Who Jesus is? Do you really understand His identity?
We know from the Bible that He is many things: a child, a carpenter, a leader of men. We know that He is our Savior, the One who went to the cross to take on our sin.
He is also our King.
1 Timothy 1:17 - “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”
In this letter to his young friend, Paul emphasized to Timothy that Jesus has dominion over everything and everyone. That’s because Jesus knows exactly what needs to be done in every situation.
While His earthly characteristics and roles give us some picture of Him, it is the picture of Him as King that best describes Him. God the Father has made Jesus Lord overall, and in Him we find true peace.
Have you ever felt safe because you knew your dad or mom was in charge and would do everything right?
We have that confidence in Jesus times infinity! He is our great and good King, forevermore.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have set Jesus aside as unlike anyone else, ever. You have placed kingly robes and a special crown on His head. Thank you for sending your Son for our sake. Amen.
Have you ever had a power outage and pulled out your favorite flashlight, only to discover the batteries are dead? Bummer, am I right?
How about light bulbs? For some reason, they all seem to go at the same time, leaving you in the shadows and looking for that flashlight — you know, the one with the dead batteries!
Light bulbs burn out, tires go flat, umbrellas turn inside out on a windy day, and batteries die. Many of the things we use on a frequent basis are designed to be temporary — and sometimes they let us down when we need them the most.
Lamentations Chapter 3 Verses 22–23 says, "Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfulness."
God’s Holy Word, the Bible, promises that His compassion never fails. Each day is a new opportunity to experience God’s love and benefit from His grace, and His faithfulness to us will never end. Not because we’ve earned the Lord’s favor — simply because He loves us.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, your mercy is new every morning, and your steadfast love for us is amazing. Thank you for loving us so much, and thank you that we can depend on you, always. Amen.
Noah was far from perfect, but he was a humble man, and protective of his family. He stands out among fathers in the Bible as a man who remained loyal to God, in spite of the wickedness of the world around him.
Doesn’t that sound a lot like life today? Fathers who choose to follow a life of faith are surrounded by temptation and downright evil in this world, but God is pleased by our devotion, and He has a plan for each of us — even when circumstances are frustrating or difficult.
Genesis 6 verses 5–8 says, “The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. So the Lord said, ‘I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.’ But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.”
The Bible tells us Noah, father of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, was a righteous man, and walked faithfully with God. For this reason, God chose Noah to build an incredible boat – the ark – that would save not only mankind, but every variety of living creature on the earth — from peril.
Sometimes fathers feel like their job is a thankless one. They tackle the honey-do list on weekends, help with dinner, keep the kids in line, and help to wrangle them at bedtime...and they don’t hear “thank you,” or “great job,” often enough. But God knows everything you do for your family, from breadwinning to caretaking and everything in between, and He takes delight in your devotion to your family, and to Him.
Deuteronomy 30:2–3 says, “And when you and your children return to the Lord your God and obey him with all your heart and with all your soul according to everything I command you today, then the Lord your God will restore your fortunes and have compassion on you and gather you again from all the nations where he scattered you.”
Modern-day fathers can learn valuable lessons from Noah:
God promises to bless and protect those who faithfully follow and obey him. A man who obeys the Lord, will inspire faith in his children as well.
Obedience is not a sprint but a marathon; It means a lifetime of faithful devotion, even (and especially!) when the going gets tough.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, Thank you for calling out Noah’s faithful obedience to you so many years ago, and for providing for the safety and provision of his entire family when the world had gone astray. Bless every father who hears this message, Lord, that they might grow closer in their walk with you, and inspire their children to follow in their footsteps. Amen.
One of the biggest criticisms of those who follow Jesus Christ is that such a model is very exclusive. In other words, it seems on the surface that Jesus leaves some people out of the salvation plan, because He says that He is the only way to God.
But what is He really telling us?
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Jesus is actually showing us the way. He gives us the path to being reconciled with God the Father. Sin separated us from Him long ago, but in His mercy, we can find eternal peace. In that way, we are able to fill the “God-shaped” hole in us. Solomon wrote about that.
When it comes to loyalty, we see that Jesus is in fact totally inclusive. He offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin for all men, women, and children in every era of history. What could be more open and loving than that?
If you’ve rejected Christ because you heard His love isn’t inclusive enough, we hope you’ll realize the opposite is true. He loves everyone equally.
Especially you.
Let’s pray. Lord, your Word shows us the expansive love that you have for all people. Help us share that Good News with everyone we come in contact with. Amen.
Who is the most loyal person you’ve ever known? A parent? Spouse? Friend?
Truthfully, we all crave loyalty. It gives us a sense of safety. We feel that if there is some loyalty in our world, it’s like a warm blanket on a cold night. Life seems less scary.
As we discuss the role of Jesus in our personal stories, it is good to remind ourselves often of ultimate loyalty. In turn, it encourages us to be loyal to that One person we can always count on.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Jesus gives us loyalty that cannot be broken. Are we willing to stay true to Him, as well? In other words, if life’s road gets rough, do we stay on the path He has set for us? Like Peter, we tend to think nothing could pry us from Jesus, but our choices can do that. Then we regret being disloyal to Christ.
Resolve to never let that happen to you. Keep His sacrifice for you in your mind and heart. That will help you stay true to Him when life isn’t so great.
He promised to never leave you. Tell Jesus that you love Him for that, and keep your eyes looking ahead to the eternity He has made for you.
Let’s pray. Lord, make us strong in our loyalty to our Savior. Then let that light shine for those who see us. Amen.
Do you tend to be a fair-weather friend? Do you stay strong when times are good, but run away if things are difficult? Nothing will ruin a relationship more than that.
Let’s be honest here: There is someone in your life who needs your help and strength. Maybe you need to step it up in that area.
Jesus is a perfect example of loyalty to others; by following His lead, we can learn what genuine loyalty looks like.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Jesus stuck to you like glue when He experienced the most danger to Him personally. His death on the cross was frankly so much bigger than anything you’re facing…we don’t have an excuse to let down anyone in our life.
Jesus held out His hand and told you that He would lead you home. Practicing that type of loyalty in our daily lives will serve as a remarkable example to those who need to see some loyalty.
Let’s pray. Lord, your love inspires us every day. Thank you most of all for what Jesus has done for us. Amen.
Modern society lives in a constant state of discontentment, and the messaging we hear on a daily basis constantly entices us to buy into that state of being.
Our home or mobile phone or television is too small, too basic, too old.
Our hair is the wrong color, cut, or texture, our faces are too plain, and the shape of our bodies...imperfect, obviously.
We don’t drive the right car, wear the right designer labels, or attend the right schools.
But what if the best way to be “right,” has nothing to do with these external aspects of our being?
1 Timothy 6:6–12 says, “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”
The only lasting source of contentment is Jesus Christ. We’ll never be satisfied with the people, things, or circumstances we surround ourselves with in this life, but the hope we find in the Lord will quench our thirsty souls for all eternity.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the only source for the peace our weary souls seek. Draw us nearer to you, and keep our gaze on higher things. Amen.
Abby was in a funk. She was on the outs with her two best friends, her part-time job at a local restaurant needed her for way more hours than she wanted to give, and her beloved childhood dog was on his last summer, according to the vet.
When she headed back home after her freshman year of college, Abby was looking forward to reconnecting with friends from high school and taking it easy, but it turned out adulting was a little more complicated than she bargained for.
She had a list of complaints from miniscule to major, and it was turning out to be a frustrating season.
Abby sent a text to her youth pastor and planned a coffee date, ready for whatever wisdom her spiritual mentor had to dispense. She just wanted to fix this mess and keep moving forward.
Hannah listened to Abby’s troubles, then pulled up Psalm 62:5 on her phone — one of her favorite verses: “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.”
She explained that God isn’t a life-repair-guy, but He does want peace for us. Prayer is a powerful resource, and asking God for peace and contentment in the midst of struggle is a good place to start.
Abby’s summer didn’t turn out the way she had hoped, but connecting with God, and seeking contentment in Jesus’ name, made all the difference in her attitude and her ability to be at peace before she headed back to school.
Let’s pray.
Father God, thank you for every circumstance that brings us closer to you. Our imperfect lives can be disappointing and frustrating, but we find rest and contentment in your presence. Thank you for that. Amen.
Have you ever been downright stuck in a difficult situation? Maybe you’ve held a job with a colleague or supervisor you didn’t see eye to eye with, and other career opportunities were scarce. Maybe you’ve been halfway through the semester and realized you’re headed for a poor grade, but it’s too late to drop the class. Maybe you’ve struggled in a relationship with a spouse or close family member, and you are wading through heartbreak with every interaction.
When the Apostle Paul wrote to the people at Philippi, he was in a tough spot. He wrote this letter from prison in Rome — an uncomfortable place to be sure. He was in prison not for what we would consider a crime, but for his faith in Jesus Christ. But Paul had a secret.
Philippians 4:11 says, “I have learned, in whatever circumstances I am, to be content.”
From the moment Paul received the Lord as his Savior, he began to love and experience Christ in a meaningful way. Chapter after chapter, the book of Philippians reveals that experiencing Christ was Paul’s secret to contentment. Paul preached contentment through faith in Jesus from behind bars and reached out to his brothers and sisters in Christ to encourage them to choose contentment in the Lord. Paul’s example inspired his friends at Philippi, and continues to inspire believers today.
Let’s pray.
Lord Jesus, we won’t achieve perfection this side of heaven, but we know your plan for us is for peace in our hearts, and contentment in our lives. Let us live by the Apostle Paul’s example, choosing contentment in all circumstances in your name. Amen.
David, the giant-slaying boy who would eventually become king of Israel, is mentioned over 1,000 times in the Bible. The youngest of eight children, David grew to become a powerful king, and some say he was also the original pop star, penning most of the 150 psalms included in the Bible. These songs were the hymnbook for Old Testament Jews, and continue to inspire well-known musical works today, including Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.”
The 62nd Psalm was written by King David with a goal of reminding himself and others of the Lord's steadfast love. A man of immense power and influence, David wanted to encourage people to continue seeking the Lord, and to trust Him with all their endeavors.
Psalm 62:5 says, “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.”
Some scholars see Psalm 62 as a warning: each of us possesses a certain amount of power over our own choices and circumstances, but we should not let our personal authority get in the way of our trust in God.
King David had wise and experienced advisors at his side, and he commanded armies that did his bidding at home and abroad. Upon his orders, men could be rewarded or condemned. He certainly wielded a significant amount of power, yet he put his faith and his trust in God.
Whether you sit at the helm of a large corporation, you lead a military regiment, or maybe you are the king or queen of your family’s castle, let power rest not upon your own shoulders but ultimately with the Lord.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, like King David, we are mere mortals blessed with opportunities, gifted in unique ways, and called to follow you. Let us turn to you with full trust in your plan, and remember the source of all power is you, and not ourselves. Amen.
When someone asks how you’re doing, what is your typical response? Many of us give a quick, “I’m fine, thank you,” or, “Doing great!” Even if we’re actually struggling. It’s easier not to dive into a verbal rundown of our discontent if we aren’t really fine, and things aren’t so great, after all.
As followers of Jesus, we are called to curate contentment in our lives. That doesn’t mean we have to pretend everything is awesome if life feels like it’s falling apart, but it does mean our trust in the Lord is so strong, no temporary circumstance can throw us off balance.
Psalm 62:5 says, “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.” The world around us is chaotic, riddled with trouble, and often disappointing. And yet — we don’t have to fall into despair! Our hope comes from the Lord, and with His unfailing love, and the hope of a future alongside Him in Heaven, we can live in tranquility. God is so good — and when we are still and reach out to Him in prayer, He is faithful to meet us there.
No matter the hour, the day, or our life circumstances, we can say it is well with our souls, because of the saving grace of Jesus Christ. The challenges we face ebb and flow, but God’s goodness never changes, and this is Good News!
Let’s pray.
Lord, the circumstances of our lives don’t always play out the way we want them to, but you are steadfast, and our hope comes from you. Let all things be well with us in your name. Amen.
Have you ever known someone who inherited something of great value from an obscure relative? It happens.
The will is read by an attorney and all of a sudden, the beneficiary goes from struggling to pay the rent to needing a financial planner. It can be an exciting time, even disorienting.
The only downside to receiving a large inheritance is the knowledge that someday it will run out, or you die and can’t take it with you. That’s why the Bible’s revelations about eternal riches are so much more important.
Genesis 31:14 says, “Rachel and Leah said to him, ‘Do we still have any portion or inheritance in our father’s house?’”
Let’s think of this as a parable. A man took the place of another and was executed.
He was no ordinary man, though. Only a few days after His death, the will was read.
He left it all to you!
Jesus Christ died for our sins and took the penalty for them so that we don’t have to. That is what the Gospel is, the Good News that we have riches in Christ, and they last forever.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your precious gift for each of us is something we did nothing to earn. You simply decided to put us in your will. We thank you forever for your grace and mercy. Amen.
No one is immune from burnout. It comes in our jobs, friendships, and even our church life. Sometimes our hobbies become dry and tedious!
But in Scripture, God gives us hope for the future.
John 7:38 says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them."
Jesus is telling us that in Him alone is true life. He is always pointing us to the future, to a time when that dry creek bed will be filled forever.
In Revelation 22, He showed John a river flowing with the water of life, crystal-clear and coming from the very throne of God.
The whole picture is one of healing and new life. He promises us that this scene will be very real and very permanent! The key is what we read in John 7:38…we must choose to believe! If you long for a new start and a bright future, you will find everything you need and want in the person of Jesus Christ.
The living water He offers is perfect, and the supply is limitless.
Jesus is the well that never runs dry.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are calling to each of us to follow You and let you lead us to a place of perfect paradise. We eagerly look forward to joining you in Your Kingdom. Amen.
Jesus has great compassion for everyone. Especially for those society considers unlovable or worth nothing.
One day he stopped by a well and had a conversation with a woman who had been married five times. When He spoke to her, He knew she was now living with another man. Yet Jesus spoke to her in a way that let her know He valued her as a person.
He told her that people could drink the water from that well, but again they would eventually be thirsty. He said to her that the water He gives is a spring welling up inside them, pointing to eternal life.
John 7:38 says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"
Do you believe in Him? Have you had your encounter with Jesus? If you are thirsty for a new life, reach out to Him and listen to what Jesus has to say.
Your life will no longer be dry and lifeless.
New life will flow out of you so that others will notice and want what you have!
Let’s pray.
Lord, much of what the world offers doesn’t satisfy us. We need the living water only you can provide. Amen.
Researchers have long known that even when exploring new worlds, water is the key to life. Without it, nothing can live.
Water is an image used often in Scripture.
When Jesus emerged from the River Jordan having been baptized by his cousin, John, He used the imagery to help people understand that by trusting in Him, they would live forever.
John 7:38 says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"
Did you catch that? You must believe that Jesus is Who the Bible says that He is, the very Son of God. In Him is life, rivers of living water. It is a refreshing experience that has no end, because when we drink water now, we know that eventually we’ll get thirsty again.
But Jesus has told us in John 4 that whoever drinks from the water He gives them—spiritually—will never thirst.
He is talking about eternal life, always new and forever clean and clear.
He is inviting you. He stands at the water’s edge and waits.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word uses powerful imagery to help us see the wonderful things you have for us. Thank you for satisfying the thirst we have for fellowship with you. Amen.
It’s no accident that Jesus chose as some of His apostles a group of fishermen from Galilee. These were men who could understand Him when Jesus told them He would make them “fishers of men.” He meant, of course, that they would share the Good News about Him with everyone they came in contact with.
That’s exactly what each of them did, for the rest of their lives!
John 7:38 says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"
Fishing requires patience, and a feel for your surroundings. The men Jesus picked were steady, and used to adapting to shifting opportunities. They were perfect for the work He gave them to do.
Just as Jesus knew what his disciples were suited for in order to build His Kingdom, He also knows exactly the purposes He has for you. You are invited to flow into the River of Life He has created, in order to see the Kingdom grow.
Others will see the life flowing from within you, if you’re willing to follow God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you invite us to participate in the beautiful future you’ve planned for people everywhere. Help us be willing to look for those fishing opportunities. Amen.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were three young men from Judah who found themselves in a heated situation.
They were brought into the court of King Nebuchadnezzar II, and ordered to bow before the king’s golden image. The alternative was a one-way ticket to the fiery furnace.
The king’s command would have been easy for these guys to follow, but their own King of Kings had already commanded them to place no other gods before Him and to stay away from the evil of graven images. They may have been wary of the king’s wrath, but their faith in God was stronger.
They replied in Daniel 3:16–18, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter...Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”
Rather than violate their commitment to obey God, these men put their lives in His hands. They didn’t know whether God would intervene to save them. They knew God could, but they didn't know that He would. Regardless of the outcome, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego chose to live for the Lord, and if necessary, they were willing to die in obedience to the Lord.
Romans 14:8 says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
As an example of His power, God intervened to spare their lives. Even though He allowed them to be tied up and thrown into the furnace, the blazing heat didn't affect them at all. They walked out unharmed.
In the midst of our own challenges, we know God can and does show up for us. He asks us to trust Him with the obstacles we face every day, and with our very lives.
Let’s pray.
Jesus, it’s unlikely anyone will threaten to throw us into a fiery furnace, but it sure feels like our feet are put to the fire at times. Remind us to trust you...with every dilemma, every shortcoming, and every situation. We give you our challenges, and our lives. Amen.
Have you ever pondered what it means to be ‘born again’ as a Christian believer?
When we give our hearts to the Lord, asking Him to forgive our sins and guide our lives, we are making God a promise: we no longer claim the right to follow our own paths, or to focus on our own agendas.
We are redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ, shed on the cross on our behalf so that we can be forgiven and live with the Lord for all eternity, when our temporary earthly lives are over.
In Romans 14:8, the Apostle Paul says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
When we profess our faith as Christian believers, we are saying we will live for the Lord, and we will die for Him as well. Living or dead, our souls belong to the Savior.
As believers living for the Lord, this means we will make choices that honor Him, and ultimately serve His goals and plans. We will ever and always belong to the Lord. Understanding that should impact how we view every choice we make, and how we tackle every challenge.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord, we give you everything. Our choices, our actions, and our reactions. We ask for clarity in the decisions we make, and that you make us ever dependent on your wisdom and your perfect plan. Amen.
Are you the enviable sort of person who was born with an innate sense of direction?
Some of us know instinctively whether we are traveling North, South, East, or West. And some of us...would be lucky to find our way out of a paper bag, even with a map in hand.
If you’ve ever been lost on a country road at dusk, no road signs, no one to ask for help, and no idea which way to turn — you know how very useful it is to have directions. You’re burning daylight, and you aren’t sure how to get back to civilization.
Or maybe you’ve driven to a job interview in a new city. Unfamiliar cross streets, busy traffic, and the sound of blaring horns can be a distressing soundtrack when you’re trying to pinpoint one office building among many.
Romans 14:8 says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
When we’re living for the Lord, we have a North Star to guide us on our way. When you aren’t sure which road to take, or which choice to make, remember Who you live for. Ask the Lord to direct your path, to keep you safe from harm, and to be present every step of the way. Country roads, bustling city thoroughfares, and life itself are all so much more enjoyable when we navigate them with Jesus.
Let’s pray.
God, forgive us for those times we prove ourselves aimless on the road of life. Be our guide, and reveal your presence and direction to us on the journey. We are lost without you! Amen.
It was late at night and Kelly’s family was on the way to visit family out of state. It was raining, and they had just entered a construction zone. Narrow two-lane traffic became even narrower as they entered a bridge.
Suddenly, a deer materialized in the headlights. Orange cones and flashing lights indicated there was nowhere to go other than right off the side of the bridge, and at 55 miles per hour, they were headed right for the animal.
Romans 14:8 says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
Time slowed down, and Kelly prayed aloud for her family’s safety in that frightening moment. “Lord, help us!” They bumped loudly over the top of the deer, jarring everyone in the car in the process. Their vehicle suffered damage, but the occupants were safe.
On the road of life, you may get pulled over for speeding. You may hit an icy patch, slipping and sliding to a stop. You may even crash and burn. Faith in God doesn’t guarantee an easy journey, but following Jesus means we live knowing God has a plan for our lives and a place with him in eternity at the end of the road.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, be present with us in calm and in crisis. We pray you lead us down a path that reminds us continually to live for you. Amen.
Ann was in her late eighties when her adult granddaughter asked, “Grandma, what was the very best time in your life?
Ann was one of 10 kids born to Norwegian immigrants who arrived at Ellis Island and settled on the North Dakota prairie. She came from tough stock, and was raised in the kind of circumstances where you either made do — or you did without.
She and her husband briefly moved to Seattle during World War 2. At that time, Ann was a real-life Rosie the Riveter, working as a riveter in a big city factory to support the war.
She was also a cook for cowboys on the open range on a large ranch. Her husband Olaf helped manage the ranch, and Ann hauled water and cooked hearty meals over an open fire with a baby on her hip.
Not one to stay home and bake cookies, Ann was an office manager in their small hometown when they returned to raise their daughters — an astonishing feat for a woman and mother in the 1950’s.
Romans 14:8 says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
And as for the very best time in Ann’s life?
“Well,” Ann replied, “I think the very best time in my life was my early 40s, when I learned I could have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.”
Travel. Adventure. Daring feats on the dusty prairie and the factory floor. Ann was a woman who had truly lived — and her best adventure of all was taking her relationship with the Lord to the next level.
Live as if living for the Lord, and whether you live or die, you’ll know you have eternity in heaven to look forward to by God’s grace. That’s living in a Jesus state of mind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for men and women who inspire us to live our lives for you. May we grow and thrive in their light — reaching for you as we learn by their example. Amen.
Congregations of faith all around the world use the word amen. Although many people use it in the right context, not everyone knows what this word means.
“Amen” is an ancient Hebrew word, and Scripture uses this word in three primary ways:
- At the beginning of a sermon or important statement, the word “amen” often means “verily,” or “truly.”
- The Old Testament uses the word “amen” to describe God’s character as true and faithful.
- The most common placement of “amen” is at the end of a prayer, sermon, or statement, and is used to show agreement. It could then be translated as ‘so be it,’ ‘so it is,’ or ‘may it be fulfilled.’
In fact, the very last word in the Bible is amen!
That last verse in the New Testament, Revelation 22:20–21 says, “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.”
Consider then, the powerful history of this simple word as an ending to our prayers. We speak directly with our Heavenly Father, praising His name, sharing our gratitude and our concerns, and we often end with amen...so be it. So it is. May it be fulfilled.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 reminds us to, “Pray continually.” Can we get an amen for this encouraging reminder to keep the lines of communication with the Lord open on a daily basis?
Let’s pray.
Father God, your Word, the Bible shares powerful truths for living from beginning to end. Thank you for teaching us when, and how, to pray. Amen.
Joshua was called by God to lead the 12 tribes of Israel after the death of Moses. Those were pretty big shoes to fill, and the Lord chose Joshua because he was faithful.
Joshua knew when he called on God in times of trouble, He would answer.
In one powerful example, Joshua asked God to cause the moon and the sun to stand still so that he and his army could continue fighting a difficult battle by daylight.
Joshua 10:12–13 says, “On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel: ‘O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon.’
So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the nation avenged itself on its enemies, as it is written in the Book of Jashar. The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day.”
Joshua went on to lead the fight in many other battles, eventually conquering Canaan and dividing its lands among the 12 tribes.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray continually.”
As darkness began to fall, Joshua didn’t give up the fight, and he didn’t turn inward for a solution — he turned to God!
Let’s pray.
God, you led the Israelites to victory against their enemies on behalf of your faithful servant Joshua, and you hear our prayers today. Thank you for the miracles we read about in the Bible, and for those we experience in our own lives. Amen.
Hannah, one of the two wives of Elkanah, was unable to have children. A woman in Old Testament times who could not bear children was viewed as cursed by God. Not only was infertility heartbreaking for her as a woman and wife, but Hannah would have been looked down upon by her community for her inability to bear a child.
Many of us can sympathize with Hannah. She longed to be a mother, and she was a daily witness to the children of her husband’s other wife.
But Hannah didn’t give in to despair. She prayed — without ceasing! She shared her heart’s desire with the Lord, and asked Him to bless her with a child.
Hannah prayed for a son, promising to dedicate him to God. Her prayers were answered, and she brought her child, Samuel, to Shiloh for religious training.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 encourages us to, “Pray continually.”
When we pray without ceasing and God answers hopes that once seemed impossible — we don’t hold anything back!
Hannah was a true prayer warrior, and she kept at it until God answered; because of her faithfulness to the Lord, He blessed her with even more children than the one she gave back.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord, thank you for Hannah’s example of faithful, fervent prayer. Help us to turn to you first, and often, with our praises and concerns. Amen.
Who are you, exactly, that God should know your name, or care to know your story? Have you ever wondered about the answer to that big question?
In the great scheme of things, we sometimes feel like ants in an anthill: nameless drones, fetching and carrying, an unremarkable face among the masses.
We are so much more than that to the Lord.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 says simply, “Pray continually.” Written as a letter to early Christians by the Apostle Paul, this encouraging note doesn’t specify that the holiest, worthiest, or only the best among believers should pray without ceasing. God’s Word encourages everyone to pray, pray again, then keep on praying.
We all sin and fall short of God’s glory, but even in our unworthiness, God does not hold us at arm’s length; He loves us, and wants us to know Him, and to be known by Him.
Prayer is a powerful means of communication that deepens our relationship with the Lord.
Who are you, then? Of the 7.9 billion or so people who call this planet home, you are someone God wants to hear from. Imagine that. The head honcho Himself, the Creator of all heaven and earth, the King above all Kings, has invited you to call Him any time, anywhere.
The Lord is only a prayer away, and He is waiting to hear from you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, how incredible to imagine you know my name. Thank you for your presence, your faithfulness, and for the gift of prayer. Amen.
Have you ever felt like you’ve just plain run out of juice? The book you’ve been reading seems pointless halfway through. That new sofa or lawnmower or set of wheels was pretty exciting last month, but now you’re not sure what the big deal was. Even your relationships feel lackluster.
Human beings aren’t like cell phones or toy robots. We can’t rev up with a fresh set of batteries...we need other, more meaningful fuel to refill our tanks, and the energy we seek can’t be found at any store.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray continually.”
One of the shortest verses in God’s Word, the Bible, this pithy reminder was written by the Apostle Paul to believers in Thessalonica, an ancient city in what is now Northern Greece. These new converts to Christianity faced persecution, but Paul’s colleague Timothy reported that they were persevering in the face of challenges.
Paul’s letter, recorded as the biblical book of First Thessalonians, is written to inspire renewed energy in these early followers of Jesus. They were looked down upon, their motives and actions were questioned, they sometimes struggled with doubt about the outcome of their faith — and Paul wisely encouraged them to keep on praying, just as the Lord wants us to do today.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, sometimes we feel exhausted by our struggles, and sometimes we feel alone. Remind us that the greatest power in the universe — You, our Creator God, are just a prayer away. Amen.
It’s harder to visualize during the hot summer months, but during Christmas of 1944, American soldiers were dug in against the Germans. The dark, frozen Belgian forest added to the bleak atmosphere. Morale was low, ammo was low, and food supplies were low.
But just when things looked the worst, General Patton’s Third Army showed up almost out of nowhere. The men who fought in the Battle of the Bulge and survived remembered many things about that strangest of Christmas holidays.
Mostly they remembered the first hot food they’d had in six weeks! The steaming coffee overflowed. The bounty and some rest prepared them to win that battle, and then win the war.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
That’s the way life often works. Your back is to the wall, and God shows up. The reinforcements appear suddenly. The Holy Spirit lifts you up — mind, body, and soul. He feeds us with spiritual nourishment so that we can fight back against evil and prevail.
If you’re in a war, don’t give up. God is coming.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always with us and that is just one thing that makes you unique. We can’t live without you. In you, we thrive. Amen.
You probably know whether you’re a morning or night person. Science has some good news for you early risers: Apparently, the early bird really does get the worm.
In a study of early risers versus night owls, researchers at the University of Birmingham discovered strong connections in the regions of the brain that can predict better performance and lower sleepiness; these areas were significantly stronger in study participants who identified themselves as early birds.
Whether you burn the midnight oil and sleep the day away or rise before the sun, there is power in beginning your day by connecting with God in prayer — whether that happens before dawn or at the crack of noon.
Psalm 5:3 says, “In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.”
Any time is a great time to reach out to the Lord in prayer, and one of the best ways to build a consistent prayer habit is to schedule your prayer time.
Try setting your alarm a few minutes early to give yourself a spiritual head start on the day. Thank God for the people and circumstances you’re grateful for, ask Him to bless the ones you love, and to guide your footsteps.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for wiring us uniquely to be night owls, early birds, or something in between. Your timing is always right. Keep us in tune with you through regular prayer. Amen.
Few of us enjoy chaos. It’s just too...chaotic, right?
The human mind needs order and peace, yet we live in this messy world. Stuff is flying by all the time, and we duck.
Our relationships are a mess, and we have to schedule that root canal...while simultaneously making dinner and cleaning the house.
Is there a way out?
Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.”
It’s all perspective, my friend.
Yes, you might have a hundred things to do before 4 p.m. today, but remind yourself of this: sometimes we miss the best days of our lives because we don’t focus on the good. God brought order out of a vast chaos long ago, to create a world of beauty, and He did it because He loved us.
If He can handle that, can we handle our busy day of meetings and yes, even that root canal?
Let’s pray.
Lord, our lives get so busy we forget that you made order out of chaos. Help us to slow down our brains and hearts and learn to savor the moment. Amen.
Most of us assume that if Jesus had a driver’s license, his listed name would be “Jesus Christ.”
That’s kind of funny, but as usual, our puny human perceptions can’t define Him and box Him in. The Bible tells us in fact that Jesus has many names, each a shining facet of Who He is.
He is called the Alpha and Omega—the beginning and the end. Elsewhere He is referred to as the Prince of Peace.
Romans 10:13 says, “For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’”
His names are a reminder to us that the Lord is everywhere, aware of everything, and equipped to handle any situation or challenge in our lives. From the image of a warrior king, to a counselor who listens to us, Jesus is able to meet all our needs.
Won’t you call on Him today?
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are wonderful to us, the perfect landing place for our souls. Thank you for that. Amen.
It’s kind of fun in those moments when the kids are in bed and the dishes are done, to think about the Big Questions. You know the list.
Why am I here?
What is the meaning of life?
A question that people from ancient times to now have asked is, why in the world, literally, did God create people? We are a handful, as past generations used to say. We mess up. Sometimes we’re on our way to being smart then find ourselves flying down the Stupid Highway.
God must get tired of us, right?
1 Peter 2:9 says, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."
In those terrible moments when you feel dirty and worthless, remember this verse. God says you are special to Him! You!
Begin praising Him for this incredible gift, and begin to understand that He made you to fellowship with Him, forever.
That’s pretty awesome.
Let’s pray.
Lord, all through your Word, You speak of us as the object of your love. Your incredible gesture of sending Jesus for us is proof of that. Thank you. Amen.
Nikki couldn’t leave her apartment...sometimes for days. Her anxiety about everything from health issues, to the weather, had hijacked her life. She needed help.
One morning after she had talked with a friend on the phone, she heard someone outside her door, and it was her friend. The woman simply announced herself, and then pushed a piece of paper under the door.
The only thing written on the paper was Psalm 94:19, which says, “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.”
The words just ran over Nikki, and she cried. She felt in that moment the very thing the verse promises. Within a couple of days, she was able to leave her home, and begin the process of recovering from a lifetime of fear.
The Lord is like that, He’s always just outside our door, always ready to comfort us, when life scares us to death. He also provides us with the ability to reason, and to look at our options.
If Scripture is a healing place, we can also find help through counseling. If you’re experiencing destabilizing fear in your life, there is absolutely nothing wrong with reaching out for help. Often the combination of prayer — really seeking God and getting honest with Him, and talking with another human, is the key that unlocks that door and frees you from a dark room of fears, whether rational or irrational.
If you can’t do anything at all in the moment, just take a breath, and cry out to God. And then talk yourself into sharing with somebody else.
You’ll be surprised — in a good way — how healthy you’ll begin to feel.
Let’s pray.
Father God, often the days can seem as dark as the nights, but in your strength, we can rebuke fear, and watch it leave us. Help us in those terrible moments to call on you, and accept the safety only you can bring. Amen.
We all want to feel secure. We can look fine on the outside, but be something much less on the inside.
And the first step to overcoming vulnerability is to feel okay with who we are.
Psalm 62:5–6 says, “Only God gives inward peace, and I depend on Him. God alone is the mighty rock that keeps me safe, and he is the fortress where I feel secure.”
The tension comes when we balance healthy self-esteem with our sin-nature. Can we feel good about ourselves while recognizing the need for a Savior?
The answer is, yes, we can. In fact, Jesus flat-out loves us, and values us so much that He came to Earth to pay the penalty for our sin. Modern psychology might get it wrong sometimes, but recognizes that humans must overcome shame and self-doubt in order to thrive.
Jesus knew that all along. What does the Word say? “God gives us inward peace.”
That is the essence of healthy self-esteem.
Let’s pray.
Lord, I don’t want to get too full of myself. I also know that I can see me the way you see me, worthy of your love for all time. Amen.
When fear takes control, God just crushes it.
None of us are immune from feeling unsettled at times. Circumstances have a way of knocking us off balance. How we respond not only affects our lives, but those who are watching us.
In the film “The Patriot,” a Colonial militia leader sees the British kidnap his son. Taking the two younger sons with him, they wait in ambush in the forest. One of the sons is rattled and crying, so the father puts his hands on the boy’s shoulders, looks him in the eyes, and says, “Steady.” Fear drains from the boy’s face.
In that moment of terror for the whole family, the father’s example won the day, and their day ended well.
In 2 Timothy 1:7, we learn the source of calm. It says this, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and a sound mind.”
God has given you a spirit of power, love, and a good mind. So don’t let fear, the enemy, or the world intimidate you when it comes to sharing your faith. Speak God’s truth with boldness, and love. Your moment will come one day, and by keeping in mind the truth of God’s word, courage will overcome fear.
Notice the qualities mentioned in Second Timothy. God has actually given us courage, but also power, and a sound mind — also phrased as self-discipline. And discipline will help keep you steady in a crisis. That spirit of power actually does our fighting for us, and it is the enemy who is afraid.
Let’s pray.
Father, you are good to us. Just as Jesus modeled for us how to handle fear when he prayed in the garden, we know that you have our back, and we can be courageous. Thank you for a sound mind and a calm heart in times of trouble. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Whenever we have to overcome an obstacle in our lives, we are thinking about a million different things. Our minds race. We might even be aware that our Creator is there to help.
But have you ever considered that even when life gets tough, you can still have joy?
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Sheila Walsh has said that what got her through a bout of depression was the knowledge that God the Father loved her and wanted the best for her.
Today, one of her missions in life is to help others recover their joy, by pointing them to the Lord. The truth is, this life sometimes beats us up, but those circumstances don’t have to win. It isn’t inevitable.
It’s when we learn to rejoice while clinging to hope that true joy comes.
Let’s pray. Lord, in our lowest moments, we cling to you and your promises. Thank you for that joy.
A common theme today is that people are just bone-tired of chaos, both public and private. It’s exhausting sometimes dealing with bad relationships. Global problems are with us every day. We wonder when it will end.
There is Good News for you, though. Literally Good News.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
This is a message to us that we don’t have to win the war ourselves. We don’t have to win a battle. Don’t have to take part even in a skirmish. Jesus has overcome it all. If you wonder how this can play out in practical terms, do this:
Read this verse several times. Make the choice to believe it’s true. Then just literally sit back and close your eyes for a little while and rest in the truth of God’s Word.
He is telling us that our faith overcomes all setbacks and difficulties. Our faith. Scripture tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for. We might not be able to see the end, but we trust God that He will be standing there.
Choose to be a warrior for Christ, and let Him lead. That is what will make the difference.
Let’s pray. Thank you, Lord, for winning the war already. We worship you alone. Amen.
We live in a broken world, and humanity is the most broken and imperfect of all God’s creation.
The world has a permanent OUT OF ORDER sign on it, and as a result, most of us are looking for answers to our questions, and solutions to our problems, in all the wrong places.
We place our trust in ourselves, in shallow standards of beauty, in money, and in our relationships with other people, hoping for meaning and completion we will never find in these sources.
We are lost people, following false gods, hoping for the elusive spiritual peace that only God can give us.
Our deliverance won’t come in the form of a blank check, a beauty treatment, self-empowerment, or even the most fulfilling relationship with a parent, spouse, or child; the fulfillment we seek will come to us only when we choose God, and put Him first.
Joshua 24:15 says, “Choose this day whom you will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
For thousands of years, worldly things have called to humanity, offering false promises, and failing to deliver. From the very beginning, and before this world was even created, the one true God was. He is. He always will be. And when we choose Him, He promises to give us lasting hope, peace, and love for all eternity.
Nothing in a jar, box, or bank account can come close, and no relationship means more.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we choose you. Only you are worthy above every false god, above every temptation, above our relationships with people, money, or things. We choose you, and ask you to guide us in putting you first, in all things. Amen.
Family is a wonderful thing, and these relationships do so much to enrich our lives, but family makes a lousy god.
People sometimes think...if only my relationship was better with my dad, or if only I found a husband or wife, or if only we had kids — then life would be complete. A picture-perfect family is a blessing, indeed, but this is not where God wants us to seek meaning in our lives.
Family relationships are complicated, and since we’re talking about people – not God – we are sure to be disappointed when a parent, sibling, spouse, or child lets us down. Like us, each of these beloved people in our lives are marked by imperfection.
We love our families (or the dream of a future family) dearly, but this isn’t where we should ultimately place our hope.
Joshua 24:15 says, “Choose this day whom you will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
The Bible tells us in order to be a disciple, we must be willing to give up everything for Jesus. Following Jesus requires commitment and faithfulness, even if our parents or spouse choose not to follow the Lord. If and when we are faced with the painful choice of loyalty to family versus loyalty to Jesus, we must choose Jesus.
Luke 14:26 says, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.”
Even if our family members disown us—or worse—for being Christians, we must follow Christ. Jesus’s command to “hate his own father and mother” isn’t a suggestion about how to treat our loved ones. The Lord requires us to prioritize our relationship with Him over our relationships with parents, siblings, a spouse, children, and even ourselves. We must choose to place our hope in God, above all other relationships.
Let’s pray.
God, you alone make life worth living. No earthly relationship, by birth or bond, takes priority over our relationship with you. Thank you for being the one true God we can follow, and rely on. Amen.
What are you worth? This is an ugly question you’d never ask in polite company, although you may be curious about the answer.
“The real measure of your wealth is how much you'd be worth if you lost all your money.” This anonymous quote serves us well in our discussion of what happens when we choose to follow dollar bills, instead of the Lord.
When we judge each other, and ourselves, by the value of our bank accounts, the size of our homes, or the luxury of the things we accumulate, we are choosing material wealth over our faith in God.
Joshua 24:15 says, “Choose this day whom you will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
The Bible is clear about the danger of worshipping money in 1 Timothy 6:10, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
Money is one of our culture’s greatest gods, and people will do just about anything if it means they can make money off of it. We are willing to compromise our integrity for the sake of profit, and nowhere is corruption more rampant than when money is at stake.
Money is a necessary part of modern life; we no longer trade furs for a box of candles, or a basket of eggs for cloth to make a new shirt. While little green pieces of paper allow commerce to take place, the desire for money should never be the dominant influence in our decision-making.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your word tells us no one can serve two masters. You are our provider, and the pursuit of material wealth cannot bring us closer to you. Be present in every decision, and inspire every desire of our hearts to honor you. Amen.
Annual cosmetic industry sales in the United States are about $89.5 billion dollars. That’s nearly 90 billion, with a B, spent on makeup and personal care items including skincare, haircare, perfumes, toiletries and deodorants, and oral cosmetics.
For perspective, of 148 nations tracked in 2019 by TheGlobalEconomy.com, 126 of them had annual national expenditures of less than 90 billion dollars, including Israel, Switzerland, and South Africa.
We spend more in this country on lotions, potions, and creams to make ourselves look better, than the entire annual budget of most countries. That’s even more eye-opening than the latest greatest mascara!
Joshua 24:15 says, “Choose this day whom you will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
For women and men both, the search for meaning can easily become entangled with the world’s obsession with outer beauty and perfection in our faces and bodies.
We seek to control and improve the impression others have of us with hairstyles and cosmetics, hours spent at the gym achieving the perfect body, and teeth whitening services that guarantee a gleaming smile. We may achieve worldly admiration by these vain pursuits, but temporary glamour won’t bring us closer to God.
1 Peter 3:3–4 says, “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
Let’s pray.
Lord, make us beautiful in your sight. Remind us to follow you, rather than traipsing down the rabbit trails of fleeting outer beauty the world offers. Let us serve you first, and always. Amen.
Baal. Molech. Ashtoreth. Chemosh. Artemis.
These names may not ring a bell for you, but back in biblical times, these false gods and others were known as competitors for devotion alongside our one true God — the God of Israel.
If you aren’t a modern-day Bible scholar or a student of ancient history, these false gods may not be familiar, but make no mistake — just because we don’t use these same names for false gods today, doesn’t mean our culture doesn’t have any. We definitely do!
Joshua 24:15 says, “Choose this day whom you will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
A “false god” is someone or something that is highly revered, followed devoutly, sacrificed for, and looked to for meaning in life and deliverance from problems.
Would it surprise you to know that one of the most powerful ‘false gods’ we can be ensnared by, is found in the mirror? People are inherently self-centered and self-focused. Although we are capable of being selfless at times, when push comes to shove, we often demonstrate who we really are.
We live in a fallen world, and in our efforts to rise above our circumstances and achieve the things we desire, we all are inclined to put ourselves first. If we can do something that benefits us, even at the expense of someone else, and if we know we can get away with it, we do it almost every time.
God asks us to choose Him, not ourselves. Whether we’re making the small everyday choices that define our character over time, or tackling the big decisions that stand out as milestones in our lives, let us turn to the Lord for guidance, and seek His glory rather than our own.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we choose you. Remind us daily that you are sovereign, and you are the one true God. Be present in our hearts and minds and lead us in your ways, not our own. Amen.
Are you eager to share Christ? If so, good for you! Your boldness is seen by God our Father, and it pleases him.
Often though, we get a little frustrated, if we’re honest. It seems like not enough people are getting it. We want to see everyone find new life in Jesus!
When we think about sharing the Good News, it’s important to remember that God is responsible for the harvest. We just have to be willing to be sent as his ambassadors.
John 8:12 says, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”
When Jesus spoke those words, some people believed in Him right away. Others were angry with Him. Others argued.
If you feel pressure to lead others to Christ, relax. You are only responsible for fulfilling Jesus’s command to go make disciples for Him. He will take care of “the numbers.” This allows you to simply share His simple message.
He will light your path if you let him.
Let’s pray. Lord, there are so many people that need you. Help us with opportunities; we leave the results to you alone. Amen.
We’ve all known kindness. It might have been a Sunday school teacher, or maybe it was Mom listening to our bad day.
But how often do you actually think about the importance of kindness? Is it an active part of your day? If not, you’re missing the point.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
Real love compels us to practice kindness. A daily routine, and for the right reason. What is the right reason?
God tells us to be kind. This choice doesn’t depend on what the other guy is doing. Be that person who does a lot of kind things, and his only audience is God. Try it. Try a random act of kindness, don’t let others see you do it, then reflect on how good it makes you feel.
That’s the best kind of kind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word shows us that we are blessed with kindness from you in countless ways. Help us start to give back to those around us. Amen.
Jesus is always our standard.
Moments after He picked the 12 disciples, Jesus was standing at the base of a mountain, teaching the people. He told them many things, but one thing really stands out: He told them how to treat each other.
Jesus had a way with stories. Narrative was the way He told people what He wanted them to remember. And it was then that Jesus used an image of the good gifts God gives to those that love Him.
The book of Luke tells the story. Jesus looked at His followers and said, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.”
Almost a thousand years before, David wrote a similar thing.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
When you make a choice to believe God, He gives you so much in return — it just pours out! The blessings are so abundant, it’s almost too much to take in.
This is the God we serve. The One waiting for each of us who is hungry and thirsty.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the abundance you give us in every way. We remember it and are grateful, always. Amen.
Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be an original settler in America? As a person leaving the safety of England to come to the New World and start over?
Those people came here for religious freedom and risked it all. When they landed in New England, they literally put down roots as they built and planted the beginnings of an amazing experiment that is still ongoing.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Our ancestors were definitely strengthened in their faith as they faced challenges and danger.
But the payoff was worth it.
Maybe you’re going through something similar. You’ve moved to a new place. New job. New social circle. And you want to find a church! Just tell Jesus you need help with all these things and He’ll be right by your side.
Receive His love today!
Let’s pray.
Lord, forever you have walked with us and forever you will keep us close, making us strong in the faith. Thank you for your faithfulness to your Mission. Amen.
Have you ever thought about the fact that you have an obligation to defend our nation’s freedoms? You live in the Land of the Free; your contributions are needed. We all have a role.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Sure, maybe you’re not a Navy SEAL. Maybe you don’t fly supersonic jets in combat. You never served in the military. Most citizens haven’t, and won’t.
But that doesn’t mean we can sit on our hands and not participate.
Your gift and contribution might be instilling values in your children. Or you might be in the medical field, helping keep folks healthy. Maybe you’ve been entrusted by the Lord to be a pastor, protecting your congregation from spiritual dangers.
Many things have joined forces to make America a place millions want to come, to improve their lives. It takes a lot of effort and many moving parts.
Many of our ancestors moved through New York Harbor and shielded their eyes from the sun so they could see the Statue of Liberty. Each of them made the choice to be a piece of a large quilt that makes up our nation.
It is up to us to be courageous and continue the tradition. Our freedom depends on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we acknowledge those who came before us. We take up our own responsibility to do our part. Amen.
Joseph was a hardworking tradesman who God hand-picked from all the men in the world to be the earthly father of His own Son, Jesus Christ. What an honor! And in some ways, what an incredibly challenging task.
Joseph wasn’t a king, a politician, or a recognized leader of any kind when he was betrothed to a young woman named Mary. A simple carpenter, he was also a man of compassion. When he learned Mary was pregnant and knew the child could not be his, he intended to divorce her quietly and send her back to her family — but God had other plans.
Matthew 1:20–21 says, “An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’”
Joseph worked diligently to protect his wife Mary and their baby, then saw Jesus' education and needs as he was growing up. In a time when blended families were not the norm, Joseph embraced Jesus, providing for him, loving him, and teaching him the valuable skills of the carpentry trade. There was no parenting guidebook for raising God’s Son — so together, Joseph and Mary leaned into prayer, and did everything they could to raise Jesus well, and with love.
The Bible calls Joseph a righteous man, and Jesus must have loved his guardian for his quiet strength, honesty, and kindness. How God’s heart must have broken to send His Son into a fallen world, and how carefully he must have chosen the man who would raise him here on earth.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Just as Joseph was loyal to His Son, we have an opportunity to be loyal to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, too.
Joseph’s obedience in the face of unexpected circumstances is an example of what it means to truly trust and follow God — even when the path takes a turn.
From Joseph, Jesus’ father here on earth, we learn that...
God honors men of integrity and rewards them with his trust.
Mercy always wins.
We may face humiliation in this life when we seek to obey God, but we can gain a close relationship with Him.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, every family’s story is unique. Thank you for the blessing of families as unique as a fingerprint, and for calling strong men to the task of providing for and leading them. Amen.
The story of the Prodigal Son is one we can all relate to. The Bible tells the story of a brash young man who leaves his home after asking for his inheritance. His loving father complies and let’s just say the son learns some valuable lessons on his travels.
Eventually he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family.
It is really a story of Jesus and us.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
We screw up sometimes. Maybe it’s so bad we can’t see a way back.
That’s when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn’t as concerned with where we’ve been as He is where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real ointment for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you’ve screwed up too much, or fallen too far, put that out of your mind and simply tell Jesus you need Him.
Let’s pray. Lord, your willingness to welcome us back to fellowship is something to behold. We are grateful for your grace. Amen.
Even though most U.S. homes have at least one copy of the Bible, few know what’s in it.
There are all sorts of things: wisdom for living, history, spiritual food. It’s the Bible’s practical value that hooks most people who read it. The Bible says a lot about money, how to raise kids, and even how to strengthen your marriage.
It also says a lot about forgiveness. Forgiveness is mentioned dozens of times in the Bible. In Genesis 33, Esau forgives his brother Isaac’s treachery in stealing his birthright. And the most famous example is the forgiveness Jesus chooses us on the cross, as his accusers and executioners mock him. Think about how hard that was! It gives some perspective on our own situations in life.
When you think about it, the entire theme of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation is one of forgiveness. Man chose to bring sin into the world, and defy God’s perfect plan. Yet God didn’t leave us in that state. He made a way for our sins to be put away – forever.
Jesus Christ became the vessel through which forgiveness could be extended on an epic scale.
One of the most difficult passages in all the Bible is found in the New Testament. Matthew 5:43–45 says, “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and you hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.”
In the here and now, is there anything more difficult than forgiving a mocking enemy?
There are people in the world who delight in making others miserable their whole lives. But Jesus is telling us forgiveness is possible. The key is when we take the long view. We must mentally and emotionally take ourselves out of the pain we‘re experiencing right now.
Think of the future. Begin imagining the most wonderful healing that can take place between enemies.
That’s what God did for us. The Bible tells us He is holy, and cannot look on sin. Yet in Genesis Chapter 3, God began the process of grace. In the Gospels, and in Paul’s letters, we see Him continuing to be patient with us. And then in Revelation, the long view: God takes our acts of forgiveness and makes a powerful, redemptive new world. And we can look forward to that.
Let’s pray.
Father, thank you for having mercy on us in every way. Sometimes we need to forgive someone, and sometimes the shoe is on the other foot. Help us to read your Word, and act on your commands to forgive. Especially when it hurts. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Many modern phrases have their origins in the Bible. A couple that come to mind are, “She’s worth her salt,” or, “He is the salt of the earth.” They remind us of what Scripture says when using salt as an analogy.
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
Tasting our favorite salty foods is a great sensory experience. Think of French fries, pretzels, or popcorn. Foods that are plain jane without salt are out of this world with a dash of our favorite seasoning. Too much salt can be unhealthy, but even here the biblical analogy helps us.
We are to share Christ with the world in such a way that the story of His plan for us becomes something that people want to know more about. Likewise, we don’t have to lay it on so thick it is overwhelming. Over-using our messaging just turns people off, and can feel like manipulation instead of an open invitation.
We are to do as Christ Himself instructed us: take His story to the ends of the earth.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for that salty story of Jesus! Help us to use it as spiritual food that builds your eternal Kingdom. Amen.
A farmer, perhaps more than most, knows something about faith.
Harvest time captures much of our attention and all the good press, but the farmer’s careful planning, toil, and belief in the outcome are all necessary to reach that moment of glory.
First, the farmer must decide what to plant in his fields. What do history and the Farmer’s Almanac say about likely weather patterns in a given year? What will various seeds cost right now? Is it a cyclical year for grasshoppers, or other pests?
Soil is carefully prepared and shaped for seeds, which must be planted under appropriate conditions. And then, the waiting. New shoots finally begin to show, followed by prayerful weeks and months: for moisture — not too much, not too little. For an ideal mix of sunshine and shadow and temperature that will grow a robust crop worthy of bringing to market. For favorable conditions for sale, once the crop comes in.
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Farm life is a tug-of-war between blessed abundance, and faith that the toil in the fields will yield results: praying for sun or rain, watching corn or wheat or sunflowers grow green and tall, or waiting for trees to bear fruit again this year.
Like the faithful farmer, if we seek God first, turning to Him in prayer and giving every aspect of the growth, health, and harvest in our lives to Him, the Lord will be faithful to bless us and layout a good plan for our lives.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we are so grateful you watch over the fields of our lives, giving us rain or sunshine in turn, sometimes teaching us through harsh conditions, and blessing us with a fruitful harvest at the right time. Help us to be patient in our faith, like the farmer watching over his fields. Amen.
Solomon was king after his famous father, David, in ancient Israel. He also became insanely wealthy. According to the world’s standard, he had everything.
Everything except peace later in life. In this way he was like a modern person, because truthfully, people’s natures never really change over time. It’s one of the things we have talked about this week.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Solomon came to some conclusions later in life, after he became bored with bad relationships, money, and fame. It was only then that he figured some things out.
The book of Ecclesiastes contains this wisdom that King Solomon found in his later years, and he tells us clearly that God is infinitely smarter than we are, and knows what is best for each of us.
So if you’ve been trying to figure things out for yourself—and failing miserably—listen to the ways Solomon describes God. You’ll find that the One that made you knows just what is best for you all your life.
Doesn’t that take some pressure off?
Let’s pray. Lord, please take our burdens and fix the problems we have created for ourselves. We love you for that. Amen.
History tells us that God exists. Really, it does. And even if you aren’t interested in history, you might be interested in a few quick examples.
At the battle of Gettysburg, when the United States was about to be ripped apart by civil war, General Lee’s attack plans were lost by an officer and found by Union soldiers. This helped turn the tide of the battle, and led to victory and reconciliation of the country later.
For centuries, disease threatened all of Europe. The Black Death wiped out millions. In 1838, a lazy student named Louis Pasteur ran away to Paris, but he became homesick and decided to finish school after all. Later, his breakthroughs in discovery were pasteurization and vaccination, both of which have saved many millions of lives since.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Do we really believe in coincidences in history? Do we really believe Someone all-powerful isn’t watching over us to protect us?
Ecclesiastes tells us that God knows all, and even knows the end from the beginning. You might deny it, but in your heart you know He lives. And because He does, so do you.
Let’s pray. Lord, your provision for us is amazing! We acknowledge you and love you. Amen.
Since the beginning of time, millions of people have denied the existence of God. They are called different names: unbelievers, atheists, maybe agnostic. Many of them have quite a bit to say about it, and have even become famous doing so.
God also has something to say about it. A fascinating verse in the Bible speaks directly to this question of the existence of God, and it also speaks to our discussion this week.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Notice the second sentence. We are actually told that God has “set eternity” in each human heart. What does that mean?
Well, King Solomon was telling us that each of us has that ‘God-shaped hole’ in us that you’ve probably heard about it. That is a metaphor for that sometimes-odd, uncomfortable feeling we get, and it does seem to come from the heart. We’re sailing along and then all of a sudden we stop and feel odd. An empty feeling. Or maybe a longing.
That is eternity calling to us from somewhere up ahead. It is proof that God is real, and has caused each of us to want to know Him, if we’re honest.
Do you ever feel like that? Like, maybe today?
Let’s pray. Lord, we know you are there. It’s obvious. Help us share the Good News with others who have the same feelings. Amen.
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In an age of technology booms and information-sharing, it’s amazing how lonely we have become. Everything and everyone is connected, but does all that online connection ever leave you feeling disconnected in real life? Do you feel alone?
If you do, you are listening at the right time this week as we are reminded that God’s timing is always perfect.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Did you catch that? Here God is talking about and to the individual. He is talking to you. And guess what? He has made you beautiful, a truly unique creation. God has also placed you at the right place in history, right where you are.
God made you in his image. His Son, Jesus, went to the cross for you. If you still feel alone after all that, go back and read our verse for today. Read it again and again.
Our God loves you so very much. His Word says so directly, again and again. Let that be the backdrop for your day today. Can I get an amen?
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for loving each of us infinitely. Thank you for saving us. Amen.
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Where are you at today? I don’t mean the freeway or your kitchen or a doctor’s office. I mean, is your life stable? Are you on the right road? Our topic this week is the perfect timing of God. You might be in an okay place, or you might be free falling. As usual, God’s Word speaks to this.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Wow. That is a description of how your Creator is managing your life. You see it as a disaster. He sees you as beautiful. He is smoothing the path in front of you.
Can I give you some advice? If today is rainy and gloomy for you, quiet your mind for a few minutes. Meditate on our verse for today. If you can’t really see where your life is going, you’re not alone. All of us see through a glass darkly, as the apostle Paul said.
But God sees everything, and He sees it clearly. He knows where you are going and just as important, He knows where you are now. God’s got this.
Rest in that today.
Let’s pray. Lord, we are deeply grateful that you are in charge and that you love us. We love you, too. Amen.
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We often hear that it’s harder to raise kids today than ever before. That isn’t true, of course. All eras down through history have been challenging. We live in a world scarred by sin, after all, and children grow up among all sorts of temptations.
That’s why the role of a parent is something to take seriously, as a sacred duty.
We’ve been discussing the best practical guide for living: the Bible. Nowhere is this truer than in its practical wisdom for raising successful children.
Although we all have the freedom to make our own choices, and your kids certainly will make their own decisions, they benefit greatly from a loving father or mother who also loves the Lord.
Proverbs 22:6 says, “Start children off in the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
This isn’t the kind of thing you hope for — this is scripture, the Word of God, and can be relied on to bring about the promise made. The Lord will honor your commitment to raising children who love their Creator.
One way to do that is to be bold in your discussions with your children, who likely hear anti-God stuff from school, and entertainment. For example, talk with them as if you believe the Bible is really true. Then point out that the book of Exodus commands all of us to value our parents.
Exodus 20:12 says, “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God has given you.”
It doesn’t hurt to point out the bonus: long life.
Make sure you also share with your children the wonderful practical tips from the Bible. Much of it will save them a broken heart down the road.
For example, Proverbs 18:24 says, “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
This is repeated in the New Testament in 1 Corinthians 15:33, which says, “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.”
God’s Word promises us a sound mind. This state of being will help your children in everything they do from completing school assignments to caring for elderly relatives. A child who knows the Lord, and prays consistently, will become a human being you can be proud of.
Let’s pray.
Father God, children are a gift from you. They are a sacred treasure — entrusted to us for a little while. Remind us daily of our role in shaping their lives, so that they are healthy, and content, in the world that you made for them. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
If you’ve been fortunate to hold a newborn, you know what it’s like to be thunderstruck by the delicate features. Everything in miniature.
And then the eyes open. You’re in love.
Jeremiah 1:5 says, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.”
A baby is a blessing and gift from the Lord. All life is precious; it doesn’t matter if the parents are famous or completely obscure. In that warm bundle is a whole lifetime waiting to unfold. Will he be adventurous? Will she run the country?
Man is capable of much, but creating life as God creates will always remain outside the borders. Only a great and all-powerful God could give us such a beautiful life, and He makes each one of us truly unique.
It is an inescapable fact that a human being, separate from everyone else in terms of physicality and emotions, becomes fully formed in its mother’s womb. This is perhaps the greatest miracle in all the universe, and one deserving of our awe and respect.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you form us in the womb, and walk with us each step of the way through life. Thank you for your mercies and grace that you freely give each of us. Amen.
Picture what it would be like to lose everything in one fell swoop. Your house burns to the ground. The stock market plummets and all your money is gone. Worst of all, your children fall ill and die. Suddenly, you’ve lost not only your material possessions, but your family, too.
When people refer to someone as having “the patience of Job,” they say that for a reason.
Job was a man of immense wealth, the richest man in the region, and was the father of 7 sons and 3 daughters he loved dearly. He was also a faithful servant of the Lord, and grateful for every blessing.
In a terrible turn of events, Job lost his fortune in a single day. His crops, property, livestock, and servants were gone. Most devastating of all, Job lost his children. But Job didn’t blame God. He accepted that God had a plan for him, and was patient as he waited for the Lord to reveal that plan. He knew that sometimes bad things happen to good people, and he continued to praise the Lord in the midst of trial.
Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."
Job lost everything, but he didn’t take matters into his own hands to seek justice for what he had lost. He fell to his knees and worshipped the Lord, and then he was still. In the quiet of his soul, Job knew God had a plan, and in the end, God restored to Job twice as much as he had in the beginning.
A godly man is patient.
Let’s pray.
Lord, waiting is hard to do. Waiting for an answer. Waiting for resolution. Waiting for things to get better. Restore peace and patience as we grow in faith and learn to wait on you. We trust you. Amen.
One of the things that mark a healthy society is the consistency between generations. In other words, adults who care about the future of their children will invest the time to make sure tomorrow is bright.
God the Father is the ultimate parent, and we would do well to model His love for us.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
Passing the torch, or training up the next generation involves taking the time to do it properly. If you love your kids, you will make time for them. You won’t take the easy way out and settle for schools or the culture at large to raise them.
Teach them that we all experience tough times in this life, but sticking to God’s plan for their lives is the key to winning. Living the abundant life Jesus taught about, and sharing His Good News is the ultimate win.
But we don’t get there by quitting when the going gets tough.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you never leave us, and you never abandon the human community to evil. You are a great God, and we thank you for your commitment to us. Amen.
Moses was the father of two sons, Gershom and Eliezer, and he also served as a father figure to the entire Hebrew people as they escaped from slavery in Egypt.
He loved his people, and helped discipline and provide for them on their 40-year journey to the Promised Land. Imagine leading a frustrated, tired, hungry group of travelers through the desert — without air conditioning or handheld electronics — for four decades!
So many aspects of Moses’s life story seem larger-than-life, and he was indeed a hero of his time — but he was also merely a man. Moses’ perseverance in the face of incredible challenges over the course of his life shows today's fathers that overwhelming tasks can be achieved when we stay close to God.
Exodus 16:11–12 says, “The Lord said to Moses, ‘I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, ‘At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.’”
The Israelites were afraid they would starve in the barren desert after fleeing Egypt, and complained to Moses that it would have been better if they had died by the Lord’s hand in Egypt, where they had enough to eat, than to wander the desert without provisions. Imagine how frustrated Moses must have been! The Lord had miraculously saved the Israelites from slavery, and now they worried God wouldn’t provide what they needed to survive.
Through God’s faithful guidance, Moses was able to shepherd the Israelites through 40 years of wilderness living. They quarreled with Moses. They accused him of leading them to disaster and ruin. They complained frequently — even after they had seen God’s promises fulfilled. Yet still, Moses carried on. He brought every concern to the Lord, and with God’s blessing and guidance, he was able to keep going.
Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Moses teaches fathers that with God, all things are possible.
God answers prayer, and desires intimate fellowship with every believer.
No one can follow God's laws perfectly. We all need a Savior.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, sometimes parenting is exhausting! Thank you for the blessing of children, and we ask you to bless dads with patience to spare and to make your presence known to tired dads in the trenches who need your wisdom, and your grace. Amen.
If you’ve ever been to a trade show, you know that products for the Christmas season are presented and pre-sold in July! Sort of like the Laurel & Hardy film in which they sold Christmas trees in summer!
Hopefully, we have better marketing than the comedy duo, but there is one superb gift we can make people aware of year-round.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
If you’ve found faith in Jesus Christ, you know how good that feels. How peaceful. You naturally want to share this with everyone you meet. This free gift from Jesus is available to anyone, no matter their circumstances.
Now that you’ve been on the receiving end, you truly will understand that it’s not exactly better to give than receive—this is eternal life, after all—but the joy you’ll feel in sharing Christ is a feeling that cannot be matched.
So get out there and share the Good News year-round, not just during the Christmas season!
Let’s pray. Lord, Jesus gave us His all, and we are eternally thankful for that. Please give us many opportunities to share Him with others. Amen.
Have you ever thought much about grace? We hear the word, but the concept itself might be a little elusive. That might be because it’s hard for humans to understand and embrace.
Grace means simply that someone gives you something with no strings attached. Just for your good.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
The Bible tells a simple story, really. Mankind sinned and brought evil into the world. God made everything, so He has the right to set the rules. And in His system, sin cannot be tolerated. So He made a way for us to be reconciled to Him, through His son, Jesus Christ.
Often, we try to do things to help life along. We plan, plot, and come up with programs. Our own ideas seem like the right thing to do.
But God’s way is always the right thing to do. Setting aside our own ego is key to finding peace in Christ. We literally don’t have to do anything for it.
We accept it in faith.
That is the gift of God.
Let’s pray. Lord, in your love for us, you make our path simple. Not always easy, but simple. Thank you for the gift of eternal life. Amen.
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Our world has rich diversity. In nature, we see almost countless stunning animal species. We linger on pictures of beautiful landscapes. Even different cultures give us amazing experiences.
There are also many different religions. Some of them offer a measure of peace. Some have reflections that can help us be better people. Today we’re talking about salvation, and that is one thing only Jesus offers. That is a harsh thing to say to some people, but if we are true to God’s Word, we affirm it.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Founders of other religions can’t save you. God tells us in Scripture that He alone saves, through the sacrifice on the Cross by his Son, Jesus Christ. Maybe you’ve been offended by that seemingly exclusive offer, but what could it hurt to really reflect on it?
Choose to do that today. Privately, tell Jesus that you want to know Him.
He’ll answer.
He has a gift for that.
Let’s pray. Lord, your world is beautiful but flawed. The world to come that you’ve prepared for us will be perfect and without end. Amen.
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Have you heard the name Sydney Carton? This character in Charles Dickens’s acclaimed novel “A Tale of Two Cities” has everything to do with sacrificial grace.
Carton is a man during the French Revolution who has a chance to stand-in for a condemned man. In this way, the man will be free to go on and live his life. Carton takes the other man’s place, and is executed.
It was common for Charles Dickens to write novels that reflect the Christian faith. Does Carton remind you of anyone?
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Jesus is Carton, in a sense. Though the Messiah is infinitely more than a mere man. His sacrifice at the place of execution—the Cross—is an eternal reminder that there is One who loves us perfectly and without end.
Sydney Carton did not have to do what he did. No one forced him. It was a choice. He saved one man.
Jesus saved mankind. If you would like to meet Him, pray that God will give you discernment to accept the free gift of salvation from Jesus.
Let’s pray. Lord, Jesus is our Carton, for all time. And He is real, not fiction. Thank you that you show us true reality. Amen.
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People are goal-oriented. Even if you think you’re not, you really are. Maybe you don’t have a burning ambition to work in finance on Wall St., or you aren’t going to be a pro athlete any time soon. But you do want to earn a living for your family. Hey, you even want to get your chores finished before your favorite show comes on TV.
Sometimes, this love of goals can trip us up when it comes to eternal matters. We think we can make our own way. It’s just hardwired in us to set goals and meet them in order to reach our reward.
The Bible says otherwise.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Eternal life with God, being reconciled to Him in spite of our sin, is a gift we cannot win for ourselves. In fact, we can’t do anything to get it other than simply receive. This is what God’s Word says. Salvation through Christ does not depend on our talent or initiative or drive. It depends entirely on the choice of Christ long ago to stand in our place as punishment for sin.
Once you wrap your mind around that, you’ll be ready to receive it with joy and anticipation for a future so good, we can’t even imagine it!
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you so much for your free gift of salvation. Jesus alone is our Savior. Amen.
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Ah...wanderlust.
There is nothing quite like ambling along in your car, on a bicycle, or on foot along an unfamiliar country lane. No agenda, no rush to arrive anywhere on time, just letting your wheels spin and enjoying the scenery.
What are we really searching for, when we set off on a sunny day with no particular destination in mind? What are we hoping to find, when we leave behind maps and clocks and venture forth into the great wide open?
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
The inclination to wander, search, and seek are not an accident. Our natural curiosity, and our desire to go further to find out what’s at the end of an enticing stretch of road in the countryside (and in life), are gifts from our Creator.
God, in His infinite wisdom, designed us to yearn for more. Sometimes that search leads us down sunny country lanes, and sometimes our paths take a darker turn, but His Word, the Bible, instructs us to seek first His kingdom and His righteousness — and when we do, He promises to give us everything we need.
God will take care of us along the journey.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for creating in me a divine curiosity. Help me use this desire to know more in a way that honors you, and furthers your kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
From the time he was a young shepherd in the wilderness, David had deep relationship with God. He escaped enough dangerous situations to know that God was always with Him and was his deliverer.
Psalm 91:1,2 says, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
This psalm is famous for its descriptive language. We can see a picture of this in our minds. And the specific things listed in this passage are very personal for each of us.
We are not to fear.
When we call on Him, He hears.
His angels watch over us.
One of the most beautiful images in the Bible is found in this psalm, as God, like a strong eagle, covers us with his wings so that we are protected.
Remember the words of Psalm 91 and call on Him day or night.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your protection for us is just one of the things that separates you from anyone or anything else. We are grateful for your wings that draw us near and cover us. Amen.
Trust issues. Lots and lots of people have trust issues. Someone has hurt you in the past. Maybe it’s been multiple times. This world can be a dangerous place.
But stop and think about how much your damaged trust affects your relationships now. Is there a way out of this long, dark tunnel?
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
People who hurt others tend to continue their hurtful ways. Bottom line: that person might not stop targeting you. Why not rely on Jesus to be your shield? He promises us so much more than protection in this life, though He does that, too. But in putting your trust in Him, you’ll begin to shift your thinking to the long view that Jesus will keep you safe from the effects of sin, forever.
If you find yourself in the difficult position of being a target of a bad person, tell all that to Jesus. Tell Him you need His help. He’ll provide it and soothe your stress. In Him you will find the One person you can trust anytime, all the time. He doesn’t take days off. He doesn’t take His eyes off you.
Give Him your situation. Rest in the assurance His Word gives you, that everything will be alright.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for never letting us down, and never letting evil overcome us. Amen.
Humans tend to see the world from a me-me-me perspective:
What can we get out of this situation? How can I benefit from this?
It’s the same with being thankful.
Not that we shouldn’t focus on all that God does for us. That’s important — even critical. But when you think about it, who should benefit most from our gratitude?
The answer is: others.
When we thank others and recognize the effort they took to do something for us, we should train ourselves to understand how it impacts them, not us. Thank them, and be specific: it takes a good heart and a values-driven person to help others.
The gratitude we express is a kind of glue that bonds us together, long after the “thank you” has been delivered.
Ephesians 1:15–16 says, “For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.”
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us even in our gratitude to think of the other person first, and not so much what we gain. Amen.
Most of us feel a deep respect in our hearts for those who have sacrificed so that we can remain free. Loving those who have paid the ultimate price is just something we do as people. We pause to remember each year.
Isaiah 56:5 says, “To them I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever.”
God instituted the concept of maintaining memorials. He remembers, and so do we.
Maybe you’ve had a brother or mother or cousin or uncle that never came home from war.
Even before the American Civil War, our citizens were placing flowers at the graves of veterans. It is one way we can keep their sacrifices front-and-center, so that we don’t forget and become complacent.
This year, stop to take time and pause. Do something tangible, like visit a cemetery. Ask an older relative to give you some insight into a family member who never came home. Then thank the Lord for that sacrifice.
Let’s pray.
Lord, We remember those who had paid with their lives. It’s very obviously the least we can do, but we want to do more by keeping their memories alive in our hearts. Amen.
From the very beginning, women around the world have served their countries on the front lines of war. In America, we know that the Land of the Free has hundreds of thousands of women manning their stations at home while Daddy fights a long way from home. In fact, winning World War 2 would have been dicey had we not had millions of women manning factories and offices.
But many of us are unaware that women serve in front-line units. As of last year, 800 served in combat. By the fall of 2018, 18 had graduated from Ranger School.
We salute them for being willing to defend the country.
Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Within each heart is the beat of choices. Our brave hearts serving in the military deserve our continual praise and thanks. We appreciate the women who have chosen to go to hard places, and protect us from danger.
Whether it’s jump school, tank training, or artillery units, the women of America are willing to lay it all on the line, too.
Thank you for our freedom!
Let’s pray.
Lord, protect all of these wonderful hearts that serve us in the ultimate ways. Comfort their families at home, and bring them back home safely. Amen.
In May 1962, an intimidating figure delivered a final public speech at West Point Military Academy.
Douglas MacArthur, who led America to victory in the Pacific during World War 2, addressed cadets. He told them simple truths, ones that define honor and glory.
The hall was completely still as the old general spoke in hushed tones. Everyone heard him speak of the honorable soldier who must rely on “those divine attributes which his Maker gave when He created man in His own image.”
Here was perhaps the most legendary military man in this country in the 20th century, and despite his personal awards and recognition, he humbled himself to acknowledge the One who deserves all our honor and glory.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
The name of Christ is the one that leads us to final victory. MacArthur spoke to those cadets of the American tradition of seeing things through to complete and decisive victory.
The Bible tells us we are soldiers in Christ’s army. We are standing on the most important battlefield in all of history. Our mandate is to share the Good News of Jesus Christ, so that individuals live for eternity with their Creator.
Let us glory in that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are our deliverer and the Victor. We honor you with our worship, and with our eternal thanks. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Most countries relish their histories…famous eras and the glory of battle and all that. Americans love this beautiful land, as well.
But the Bible tells us the true source of our blessings. It points us to the One who made all things possible.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
We are incredibly blessed in America for a lot of reasons. From sufficient food to freedom to make our own choices, we have so much. But do we always acknowledge the source of our blessings?
Our forefathers did.
George Washington’s tomb at Mt. Vernon has Scripture etched into the stones. The Father of our country knew his heavenly Father!
The Bible tells us that we should glory first in our great God. He is the one we owe our lives to. Every breath we take. We owe our Savior Jesus our eternal lives.
It is to Him that all honor and glory belongs. Not to us. As proud Americans, we stand on our faith. Of our almost limitless blessings, that is number one.
To God be the glory!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are available to us each day. As we get ready for a new day, help us to remember that You are our source, and You deserve the glory. Amen.
One movie image is so powerful, if you’ve seen it you’ll never forget it. A pair of army boots leaves the ground as a helicopter takes the wearer airborne, away from the field of battle.
This is a scene from “We Were Soldiers,” a film about America’s first battle of the Vietnam War. This happened in 1965, and tells the story of Col. Hal Moore and his men.
Moore was the clear leader, and he had also served in Korea. He promised his men and their families before they left for that far-away country that his boots would be the last ones off the battlefield, and that he would bring his men back.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
Hal Moore kept his promise. His boots left the grass blowing wildly from the blades of his aircraft. The battle had been brutal and bloody. But he won.
As inspiring as this story is—and it is—it stands in the shadow of the greatest battle ever won. Jesus won that on a Roman cross and by doing it, He made a way of escape for all of us, to be taken home for all time.
Won’t you choose to believe in Him today?
Let’s pray. Lord, Your Son has overcome the world. You tell us that in Scripture, and we are beyond grateful for it! Amen.
We owe them so much.
Do you ever stop and think about the routine things you do every day? Buying detergent so that you can wash your family’s clothes. Fixing a couple of boards on your deck. We even grind through staff meetings at work. All this of course mixed with life, laughter, and love.
But do you think about why you can do these things in a great and strong country?
Primarily it’s because of the sacrifices of our fallen soldiers—those men and women who have defended the homeland since Colonial times.
Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
We are privileged to live in a land of the free precisely because fellow citizens took a different road. They walk a path of danger so that we can have the freedom to live as we choose. So many of them fight with the faith they’ve lived with all their lives, and it is our duty to thank them, and be thankful for them.
Remember them when you want to complain about daily chores made possible by their sacrifice.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep our warriors safe, keep them in your loving arms. Amen.
An eagle screams near the summit at Masada, near the Dead Sea. Once Herod’s summer palace, it was later the scene of a terrible incident in which Jews chose suicide rather than enslavement to Rome. When Roman soldiers breached the defenses at the top, they were met by silence, the wind, and perhaps a lone eagle, watching.
We are talking this week about your place on the winds of history. Where do you stand with God? Why are you here?
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
God wants you to succeed. He wants you to live with joy, to sleep well at night, and to enjoy your family. God wants you to be fulfilled in your career.
Do you really think He wants you to fail and to be miserable? Stop and take a few minutes to get quiet and still. Ask God to put wind under your wings so that you can reach the heights He wants you to reach.
Ask Him, and then watch Him work in your life!
Let’s pray. Lord, your will for us is perfect and sure. We love you for your strength in our lives. Amen.
Are you a person that has walked away from your faith? Maybe you believed once, very much, but it faded over time. Maybe you accepted the promises of God for a little while, but then something else caught your eye.
That’s not uncommon. Starting out on fire for God and then becoming weary is something many of us have dealt with. To use a flying analogy for our talk today, sometimes your flight of faith becomes grounded.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
This famous verse, now on millions of framed prints, coffee mugs and yes, T-shirts(!) has given hope to countless people. There are critics of the Bible, or those who claim not to believe in God, but too many people have taken it to heart and found out that the words are true. God does lift us up from our burdens, and puts us to flight. Just like a bird leaving the safe hands of its master.
If you are tired today, tell God. If you’re hiding it from family and friends, don’t try to hide it from the Lord. He knows already, anyway.
If you trust Him, freedom will follow.
Let’s pray. Lord, your mercies endure forever. Help us be ready to tell others about you. Amen.
There’s a reason the Bible uses so many metaphors. The wisdom God has for us lends itself well to short narratives, and we learn much from stories.
A famous passage from Isaiah we’ve been discussing this week uses a powerful mental image to convey deep truths from God.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
The sight of a majestic eagle, flying high above the ground…well, it can just make us feel good. It inspires. Gliding on the wind, the eagle dominates the place we’d like to be.
This gorgeous creature is exactly where God wants it to be. Free and sure of its place in the world, the eagle uses its extraordinary eyesight to see the big picture.
This is the place God wants you to be, and why He uses this verse in Isaiah to let us know our aspirations are not limited to the ground, not dependent on gravity.
Like the majestic eagle, let God free you to fly, in every area of your life.
Let’s pray. Lord, your beautiful creation inspires us. Put us to flight, so that we go to the place you have prepared for us. Amen.
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If you’re like most people, the more chaotic life gets, the more you need a solution broken down in easy-to-understand concepts.
We’ve been discussing what happens when people move away from God, and the consequences that impact us.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Besides the soothing beauty of the language, notice that God gives us several elements to meditate on, as we walk the road to peace.
We are clearly told here to hope in the Lord. He will then strengthen us. After this comes the fun part! Close your eyes and see yourself floating on the winds of peace, high above the chaos and troubles below. Finally, we are told that our strengths in the Lord will not wear out.
When God redeems, He does it completely — and with no strings attached!
He loves you that much.
Let’s pray. Lord, you actually make it easy for us to leave the chains that confine us. We praise Your Name. Amen.
The prophet, Isaiah, lived during a difficult period for the ancient Israelites. Turning away from faith in God and under the control of corrupt kings, the nation entered a period of darkness. They needed hope more than anything.
In our discussion this week, we will talk about this human condition. Today, we are really no different from people in ancient times: We all need a relationship with our Creator.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Don’t those words give you a feeling of peace and calm? You can say them to yourself, with no one around, and begin to feel God’s strong arms wrapping you in love. He wants you to be free from all the strongholds that keep you from your destiny.
Wouldn’t you like to spend the rest of this week at rest emotionally and mentally? You can. This is the Lord’s will for you, as we heard in this famous passage from the book of Isaiah
Let’s pray. Lord, your perfect love always comes through for us. Just as you didn’t abandon your people long ago, we know you will remember us. Amen.
One reason people use for rejecting the claims of Christ is that there somehow isn’t enough evidence to prove that the events in the New Testament actually happened. In other words, some say the Bible isn’t true.
We’re talking about the life of Jesus this week. So what is the true story?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
There are more than 25,000 ancient copies of the books of the New Testament, in various languages. There are only a handful of accounts of Hannibal crossing the Alps 200 years before Christ was born. Yet no one doubts that it happened.
There are plenty of reasons to believe the biblical accounts of history are true. The apostles gave up their lives claiming that Jesus lived, and was resurrected from the dead. That narrative says salvation comes through Jesus, and He is the path to being reconciled to God and eternal life.
But only one thing matters: What do you believe?
Let’s pray. Lord, your Word promises us that Jesus saves us from our sins. We thank you that you provided a way of escape from judgment for us. Amen.
Of the many gods throughout world history, almost none of them seem to care about individuals. They might alter the weather so that crops can’t grow. Or cause some global upheaval.
But only one claims to care about you.
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Isn’t that amazing? The story is that Jesus left His place of royalty in heaven to come to Earth as an innocent baby, then grow into a man ready to carry our sins for us. He came to find you! You! God sent Him on a search-and-rescue mission.
As we continue our look this week into the Good News—or, the True Story of Jesus—we begin to see that He is powerful: so powerful He can concentrate fully on each of us. That is astonishing. And comforting.
We can say that we choose Christ, but it is more accurate to say that He looked for us and found us. He sees the heart. He spends time healing your heart and your life. It’s why the imagery of a shepherd tending to his sheep is used so often in Scripture.
Our great God stands alone as the champion of the individual. Praise God!
Let’s pray. Lord, your love for us has no limits. We are given your grace and mercy every day. Thank you so much for that! Amen.
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As we talk through the Good News of Jesus this week, we must always make it personal. In other words, deciding to believe in Christ is a very personal thing.
We all come from different backgrounds and belief systems. In the end, though, what will you do with the story of Jesus? Do you believe it is true?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Over and over in the New Testament, Jesus talks to the individual. He knew us before we were born, and knows all the things that keep us up at night, or burden us.
In Matthew chapter 11, Jesus tells us that if we are tired and just beaten down by life, we can tell Him that, and He will hear our cry. Have you tried that before?
Have you ever said to yourself, “I have nothing to lose?? This could be the most exciting and important day of your life, depending on what you choose to believe about Christ as savior. If the claims of Christ are true, then your story just got way more interesting!
Let’s pray. Lord, you care so much about us as individuals. Thank you for loving us this much! Amen.
When we as Christians talk about the saving power of Jesus, what exactly do we mean?
In our discussion this week of this all-important topic, are we clear about who Jesus is?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
The facts are that Adam and Eve broke their faith in God by disobeying Him. Some dispute that this even happened in history, or some are just upset that God would demand complete obedience. But if we believe He is the Creator, we understand that He set the rules.
Because of that original sin, it became necessary for someone to pay the penalty for sin. God hates sin, and so He sent Jesus to earth as a human to save mankind. Eventually, He would be crucified and in this way, paid the blood penalty that God demands. As we read in Romans 10:9–10, Jesus is the path back to God.
He longs to save us.
Let’s pray. Lord, there are competing views in this world, but you have set Jesus as the standard. Help us pass on this knowledge. Amen.
There is a move in our society for a return to simple living. We might not want to give up all of our technology—much of it is wonderful and helpful. But it is true we want to quiet our minds and find some peace. This week we are talking about the simplest, sweetest truth around: Jesus Saves.
With that knowledge in hand, we can all find peace that the Bible says is from another world.
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
It seems we are moving at near the speed of light through this amazing Information Age. Constant access to that much information can bring with it tired minds and weary hearts, at times.
With that said, wouldn’t you like to be able to grab hold of the secret of life?
We just read it. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth as a man, to take on our sin and pay the penalty for those sins. When he was crucified, God raised Him from the dead three days later. It is what believers call the Good News. You can believe it or not. Those of us who follow Jesus believe God has proven Himself many times over.
We love our Jesus.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given all of us the hope of a joyful eternity. Your Son’s sacrifice has saved us, and we are eternally grateful for that. Amen.
Hers is the greatest motherhood story of all time. You know who she is.
Magnificent Mary!
Her story has been told many times, but how grateful we are that it’s recorded in Scripture. Whatever God’s reasons for choosing this particular woman to give birth to Jesus, we know that she must have loved the Lord with all her heart.
And just think how her head and heart must have been spinning when the angel visited her and told her the special job God was going to give her!
We know little about her beyond that, although we are given some fascinating details: she socialized with her Son, as we see at the wedding in Cana.
And of course she was with Him at His death. No mother should have to endure that, but Mary was very strong. Her toughness and love ring like a bell through time. We remember her way of finding patience and faith.
Maybe the most amazing thing about her is that God trusted Mary with an initial secret that would have floored most people!
She handled it, though. The mother of our Lord was ready when her time came.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the mother of Jesus shows us an eternal love. It is also a mystery of sorts for us, but we know that this amazing mother is experiencing supernatural joy, forever! Amen.
Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be close to Jesus when He was on the earth? It would have been amazing to be in His inner circle.
We know of a remarkable woman, a family member, who would have been able to be around to watch the most amazing life unfold.
Her name was Elizabeth. An aunt of Jesus.
We read in Luke that everyone thought that the time for Elizabeth to become a mother was passed. In those days people thought sin prevented pregnancy, so this godly woman went through great sorrow.
But Gabriel, an angel, told her priest husband that she would conceive. She did, and later, when visiting her cousin Mary, felt her own son jump in her womb! Even he knew the significance of such a woman!
Elizabeth’s son would be named John, and he would be given the privilege of introducing the world to the Man, Jesus. Both mothers would endure great tragedy in their lives, but would enjoy fellowship forever with them in glory.
Elizabeth knew how to be steady during momentous times. A great lesson for all of us.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes you surprise us with great tasks. Help us to always be ready to stand when you call on us to do something great. Amen.
Are you a woman blessed with the gift of a wonderful mother-in-law? We can hardly think of a more important relationship. Through the ages, this mentoring friendship has sealed families and nurtured them. Likewise, we easily see the pain inflicted when this relationship isn’t good.
In the Old Testament, we read of a really remarkable mother-in-law. She showed great kindness to a young woman at just the right moment.
After returning home to Bethlehem after a famine is over, Naomi wants the best for her young daughter-in-law, Ruth, whose husband has died. Although she must have longed for security herself and companionship, Naomi encourages Ruth to marry Boaz. Eventually, Ruth has a son, Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David!
Naomi’s unselfish act, her encouragement to the vulnerable Ruth, is the model for all such relationships. It is intentionally about the other person. It is the story of a woman mentoring and loving another she sees as her daughter.
So how will your mother-in-law story be recorded? Have you thought about that?
How will the women in your family remember you?
Let’s pray.
Lord, people are watching us, in how we treat others. Nowhere is that more important than in our own homes. Help us think of others before we think of ourselves. Amen.
We don’t even know her name, but we know what she did.
Let’s just say there was great strength in her household!
Known only as the wife of Manoah, from the Israelite tribe of Dan, this godly woman was unable to have children. But then, in a kind of foreshadowing of another, more famous visit by an angel hundreds of years later, she was told by the Angel of the Lord that she would become pregnant and have a son.
Samson!
The last of the judges of Israel, Samson was his people’s deliverer from the Philistines, who prospered along the coastline. Samson’s mother followed the angel’s instructions from the Lord to the letter, never cutting her son’s hair. It was in this that his tremendous strength was found.
And, just like Mary centuries later, she would see her son die a horrible death. But it came as he saved his people.
A mother’s love is strong. So strong that not even evil can tear it away.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know her name, this mother of Samson. You spoke to her and guided her in life. Thank you for her example—a mother who believed the Lord when told she would have a child. That is strong faith. Amen.
She’s not well known even though she’s, you know, in the Bible.
But Jochebed…who’s heard of her? Raise your hands.
This great woman deserves a bigger story in our culture, because she modeled what it means to act with bravery, and to value all life.
Exodus 2:3 says, “But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile.”
Jochebed, you see, was the mother of Moses. Knowing that Pharaoh had ordered all Hebrew baby boys to be killed, she hid her infant son in a basket among the reeds of the Nile. When Pharaoh’s daughter found the boy, she felt sorry for him and took him in; the rest as they say, is history!
It’s been said that the love a mother has for her children is the strongest human bond. Long ago, a slave defied the empire and saved her son. He went on to change history.
Sometimes we just have to step out in faith and be intentional about courage.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this woman inspires us today. Thank you that the story of this sweet mother, Jochebed, was recorded for us. Amen.
Of all the gifts God gives His children, joy is perhaps the one closest to heaven on earth.
Who isn’t aware just how wonderful it feels to experience true joy? It is as if the Lord has freed a prisoner.
When American POWs returned from captivity in Vietnam, the looks on their faces as they emerged from the planes carrying them to freedom…well, no one will ever forget that!
Psalm 16:9 says, “Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.
Scripture tells us that we don’t escape trouble in this life, but that for the believer, eternal joy waits for us, and the Holy Spirit gives us joy in our daily walk in the here and now.
It is also ours for the taking, to reach up and pick this fruit that feeds our souls. Sometimes simply making the choice to embrace a joyful spirit is the key to having a blessed day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you did not create us to be defeated or sad. Your Spirit brings joy in big and small moments, sustaining us for our journey. Thank you for joy. Amen.
Have you ever been fooled by someone? Doesn’t feel good, does it?
But the absolute worst is when we fool ourselves. We try to manage some problem on our own, or analyze why our boss is so mean.
But the Bible has a better way of thinking about it.
Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
We have to do two things here: give total control to God, and de-emphasize our own judgment. Sometimes our gut is wrong. “Following our heart” often ends in heartache.
God doesn’t mess up. He doesn’t get it wrong. And he really longs to make it better for you.
Do you remember a time when you put your life in God’s hands? Maybe it was a really important career choice. Or a relationship needed healing. Maybe your body needed healing. Whatever it was, recall that situation today as you wrestle with a new problem.
Let’s pray.
Lord, every time we learn to trust you, it builds our faith a little more. You are a good God who always has our back. Thank you for that. Amen.
Gwen closed her eyes and didn’t dare to even breathe. Japanese troops were right outside her house, looking for her and other missionaries.
It was World War 2, and American forces in the Philippines were nearby. Just when Gwen and her friends thought someone would throw open the trapdoor to their basement hiding place, loud voices began getting dimmer.
The enemy troops were distracted, and left in a hurry!
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”
God always shows up at the right time. If we can remember that, and commit ourselves to prayer and reading Scripture, we will not let fear overtake us.
There are times we need to just be still, and wait on the Lord.
He always knows just where we are, and what we need.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to be calm when we want to run. By waiting on You, we also practice obedience. Amen.
When trouble is on the horizon, it can be hard to trust in God’s promises, and to believe He has a plan for us.
The book of Judges in the Old Testament gives us an awesome example of trusting God in the story of Gideon.
God called Gideon to lead Israel into battle with the Midianites, who had a sizable army of 135,000 men. Gideon gathered an army of 32,000 men to battle with the Midianites, but despite odds in favor of the enemy, God told Gideon there were too many men in his army. Through a selection process, God whittled the Israelite army down to just 300 men.
Though Gideon was afraid, he trusted God to fulfill His promise. And God told Gideon they needed a smaller army so people would know God won the battle, and not some large army.
The night of the battle, Gideon and his servant snuck into the camp of the enemy and overheard the telling of a dream. The two Midianites interpreted the dream to mean that Gideon’s small army would wipe out their larger army.
Reassured, Gideon returned to camp to begin the battle. The Midianites were so frightened, many of them began fighting and killing one another, thinking that Gideon’s army was all around them.
Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.”
Gideon trusted God’s plan, even when he didn’t understand. Because of his faith, God helped Gideon and the Israelites to conquer the Midianites with an army a fraction of the size of the enemy’s.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are mighty to save. Help us to trust you in every battle. We love you, and believe you have a plan for us. Give us courage to face the challenge in our lives, knowing you are here with us, and you have a good plan. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Life is a process. We know that if we’ve lived very long at all. And this week, we’re talking about the process of trusting God.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Could Jesus meet our needs by just giving us something instantly? Of course. He made everything! And sometimes He does that; the miracles he performed that are recorded in the New Testament tell us that he often instantly met a person’s need.
But He doesn’t always work that way. That’s because Jesus loves to teach us.
In the book of John, He is telling us the steps necessary to trust Him for provision. First, we ask. Then we learn to receive his good gifts. Finally, we feel real joy, because we know exactly where it came from.
This process is designed to teach us faith, and then to be genuinely appreciative to the Lord for meeting our needs. All through the Bible, we are told that He delights in helping us, in loving us through tough times. The older we get, the more we are able to look back and see that He and He alone brought us through.
There is usually no other explanation.
And that is called a miracle.
Let’s pray. Lord, we are dependent on you for everything, and we are blessed that you are our Source. Amen.
1 Peter 5:6–7 says, “Humble yourselves, then, under God’s mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.”
These two short verses tell us several things: One - if we submit to God’s power by acknowledging we can’t solve our problems, He is strong enough to intervene and bring about the outcome we really want.
Second, He does this in his own time, on His own timetable.
Third, we are to leave our problems at His feet. There is nothing wrong with getting an image in your mind where you actually do this and then walk away, your burden lifted.
Key in getting on track is recognizing that you might have trust a problem. If you’ve been deeply hurt by, say, a family member, you might subconsciously be failing to trust God himself.
And this is a first step in getting free of fear for good.
Know that an unburdened mind is not usually gained quickly, or without what we would call maintenance. The only thing predictable about our world is that it’s unpredictable. If you think you’re going to have one great afternoon and then every day after that is carefree, you’re deluding yourself.
We’ve already established that a daily time of prayer, reading your Bible, and focusing on God’s love for you is a combination that our enemy can’t overcome. Choosing to believe God’s Word is practical, and it works. That can’t be emphasized enough!
Jesus said in John 16:33 that we will absolutely have trouble in our lives, but that he has already overcome the world. This fact will help to keep you on that straight path that will ultimately one day lead to paradise with the One that created you, sustains you, and loves you forever.
Let’s pray.
Lord, having the discipline to daily rely on you is something we often lack. When we focus and concentrate our minds and our hearts on your good gifts, fear leaves, and can be replaced with courage and peace. Thank you for providing for all of our needs, all the time. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Do you get tired of being alone or afraid? Have you had enough of feeling like you can’t take any more stress? If you’re honest with yourself, there are times when you think you’re just going to lose it.
The cares of this world can be like that. You stress about not having enough money each month just to pay your bills. You can’t sleep at night because your mind is racing, striving to create a workable plan for every possible scenario.
And no one can actually do that successfully.
So what do you do?
Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.”
God—who has proven Himself billions of times, literally—tells us exactly what we need to do. It’s so simple.
Give your cares to God. You can’t take any more stress. Your body and mind can’t sustain it. Truthfully, that realization opens you up to a whole new way of looking at things.
Give your cares to God. Feel that stress dissipate. Have the best nights’ sleep tonight you’ve had in ages.
He won’t let you fall.
Let’s pray. Lord, your mercy and grace are so easy for us. We can cry out to you and give you our tired minds and hearts. Thank you for loving us no matter what. Amen.
Standing in the door of the plane, with a fierce wind whipping his whole body, Curtis wondered why he’d volunteered for the paratroopers.
It was glamorous, they said.
It’ll make a man out of you, they said.
Shutting his eyes, Curtis prayed the most honest prayer of his life. He stretched out his hands and took a step…
Lamentations 3:25–26 says, “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of
the Lord.”
Rolling on the ground wrapped in silk, Curtis realized he had followed his instructions to the letter. With his landing, he graded out the highest of anyone in his company.
That story is exactly how we are to interact with our Savior. When we let go, confident that Jesus has us, we have no more pressure on us. He is carrying us to safety.
We land in the right place every time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have so much gratitude for the countless ways you lead us through life. We love you. Thank you for every safe landing, and for holding us safe in the palm of your mighty hand, always. Amen.
Carl loved working on his farm. He loved the solitude and sense of accomplishment.
One day though, working alone, he was injured severely. In fact, if he didn’t get to the hospital, he would likely die.
So, he banged the door of his old pickup shut and took off. He pulled into the hospital parking lot and lost what little consciousness he had.
Waking up 24 hours later after surgery, he realized he remembered nothing of his injury or even getting to the hospital.
In effect, the God he loved and trusted had driven him to town.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
We can never save ourselves. It’s then that God proves Himself to us and carries us to safety.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for taking over when we can’t. Amen.
Do you like scary movies? Is an evening spent looking through your fingers appealing to you?
It is to a lot of people. Some of us really like to be scared!
But hopefully, that doesn’t translate to real life. Screaming in a dark theatre can actually be fun, but you don’t want to live a life of fear.
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
To be blunt about it, God made us to be fearless. Single mom? A leader under siege? Maybe your situation is something else entirely. But whatever environment you find yourself in, know that God is not about His children being afraid. He gave us a choice in that, as Psalm 23 tells us.
For thousands of years, people have recited that verse while in a tough spot. David wrote it when his life was in serious danger. The words fit all situations and lifestyles and times in history. You are not alone.
God will come through for you. Tell Him today that you need His strength.
Don’t be afraid to do that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us from fear. Keep us focused on your eternal strength and safety. Thank you. Amen.
Have you ever had the pleasure of waking up in a cozy cabin…after you’ve let the fire go out from the night before? If you don’t get out of bed and put more wood in that furnace, the squirrels or raccoons aren’t going to do it for you!
Much more serious is the tendency to get lazy about the fire inside us to share the love of Christ. After so many years of being a Christian—especially living in a free country—sharing the Gospel can be put on the backburner.
Romans 12:11–12 says, “Never let the fire in your heart go out. Keep it alive. Serve the Lord. When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful.”
Do you see what God is urging us to do in Scripture? He says to never let the fire go out! Never doesn’t mean sometimes, when we’re tired or annoyed about something. This is too important to mess up. Remember that Jesus saved you. And more than likely, through someone keeping their own inner fire going, they saw you through the eyes of compassion.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a passion for the souls of all people, at all times. And help us to be ready to share Christ with them. Amen.
As followers of Jesus, we are meant to be witnesses. And Christ’s majesty and power are meant to blanket our world.
He is intimately aware of you, and where you are in life.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
When we trust Christ—when we believe the simple Gospel—we are called to get in the game. Sitting on such good news doesn’t make much sense, does it? Are you guilty of failing to shine a light in a dark world?
It’s not too late, friend! If you’re a friend of God, just as the Bible says Abraham was long ago, you are to invite others to live in his healing light.
The glory of the Lord rises on you each morning, it really does. Put your feet on the floor and share His glory with friends, family, and people who travel your path only briefly.
God is so good! Walk in His light and see what He’ll do in countless lives!
Let’s pray. Lord, there are so many opportunities to share your light. Give us opportunities to do that daily, and give us the energy to seize them. Amen.
Think of what Jesus was asking of His followers.
He had just risen from the dead. That doesn’t happen every day.
His ministry had been destroyed, so they thought. He wasn’t coming back. But then He did. Only days after being killed on a brutal Roman cross, Jesus was standing in front of his friends, looking very much alive. And He was telling them their futures were dicey.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
Jerusalem at the time was under occupation by an unforgiving empire. The empire required all from each individual, and never gave anything back. Jesus was telling His disciples that if they would give up all for Him, He’d give it back and more.
Forever.
This was the first great command to preach the Good News everywhere. The first marching orders for a spiritual army.
We are called to be in that army, to give our all in order to shake things up for eternity.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us the chance to share your love with others, all over the world. We love you! Amen.
Table salt today is so common, it becomes another thing we take for granted. You go to the store, pick a cylinder or jar of salt off the shelf, then go home. You don’t even think about it.
Now, consider that 1,000 and more years ago, if a person wanted to use salt on his dinner, this required some prior work. A lot of work! The Romans boiled seawater in huge, lead-lined pans. So valuable was salt in the Roman Empire, it was used as currency! Mainly, it was used as a critical food preservative.
Matthew 5 verses 13–16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
God tells us we are to be the instrument that preserves and makes known the Gospel, and salt is the analogy.
Let us say to our friends, loved ones, and even strangers: Taste, and see that the Lord’s promises are good!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to be salt and light for your Word in this world. Amen.
Defending the faith can sometimes be a subjective thing. As examples of extremes, we have seen the Crusades, and the modern form is perhaps an aggressive “pitch” to someone who isn’t a believer.
The thing is, it’s great to be zealous for our faith, but let’s also be disciplined. We don’t want to alienate a person who might otherwise listen. To put it simply: an angry Christian is usually a lonely Christian.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
We can defend our faith in a strong way. We can be bold in what we believe, sure of our eternity with Jesus Christ. But our messaging is all-important. It could be that having a conversation with someone is the right approach. Don’t feel pressure. Don’t press. Jesus has the job of saving; we just have to be available to share about Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, please always remind us to share the Gospel with love. Amen.
Are you the kind of person everyone looks at and assumes you are strong, and you have it all together?
You too, huh?
Many of us look fine on the outside, but the human condition is often much different on the inside.
Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
As believers, we can laugh in the midst of struggle because God did not make us to have a spirit of fear. He never planned for us to suffer from depression or anxiety, but to rely on Him for all our needs.
Look, life happens. Sometimes (many times), we are rocked by our circumstances. But God’s Word says that we don’t stay there. We keep our eyes on Him and He is our strength. It’s not even our job to find the strength to breathe and go about our day — it’s our reliance on God. That is our job.
The person who endures a cancer diagnosis isn’t doing it on her own. The man or woman experiencing sudden job loss doesn’t stand tall by him or herself. When Christ dwells in you, He takes the burdens and promises that in the end, we will be healed. And He will provide.
That’s not a guarantee that the things of this life will work out in a positive and favorable way, but our reliance on Christ is the answer.
If you look like a confident statue on the outside, but you’re about to lose it on the inside, take time to tell that to Jesus. Give Him your fears and your doubts.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are not in this alone. Your grace is sufficient for all our needs, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Do you remember the last time you laughed? Do you remember the last time you laughed from sheer joy?
Many of us don’t. The weight of life presses down on us…it weakens us.
Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
Did you know that God means for you to be strong? He wants you to have dignity. You are a child of the King. You are a woman of faith. Or maybe you are a man who seeks God.
That beautiful proverb reminds us that it is God Himself who dresses us each day with the respect He has for us as His creation. Because of His favor and His blessing, you can meet today with boldness in who you are, not shaking with fear or worry.
So, today as you head to work or as you do whatever you’re about to do, take as your own promise that the all-powerful, true God made you to live this life not with fear of the future, but with strength and dignity — because you know what’s in store for you, in the next.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are better than what the enemy tells us we are. Thank you for clothing us in strength and in confidence each day. We get that strength only from you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Human kindness is healing for the soul.
A viral video made the national news: a police officer cut the hair of a prisoner being released so that he could go on a job interview. It was one of those inspiring random acts of kindness that we love to hear about.
Proverbs 31:26 says, “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”
The thing that made Jesus stand out to people in Israel was his incredible kindness. He stopped to heal someone physically, or offered kindness to a person others looked down on.
What abundance could you share with a stranger in need? Could you go to a person who is discouraged — in need of a simple kind word? Kindness is within your power, it’s within all of our power. Stopping to be kind bears much good fruit, and Jesus gave the ultimate kindness in his sacrifice for our sin.
Isn’t passing along a human kindness the least we can do?
Let’s pray.
Lord, there is so much need in this world. Humble us at every opportunity to bring light to someone in need. Thank you for doing that for each of us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
China in the 19th century was as remote and mysterious a place as has ever existed. Its countless villages, mountains, and hidden places were a challenge for inhabitants.
Imagine what it was like for a small Christian woman from Virginia!
Charlotte Moon, who went by the name that would become famous, “Lottie,” was a missionary to the Asian country for 40 years.
Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
Walking here and there to share the love of Christ with people, and to meet their physical needs, she encountered outlaws, wild animals, and hostility to her faith.
She never once backed down.
Incredibly, by the time she died in 1912, Lottie Moon weighed 50 pounds. She had given most of her own money and food to those in need.
In reality, she was a very strong woman!
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a heart like Lottie Moon’s. Make us determined to live only for you, for your glory. Amen.
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Some scholars have believed that the suffering Job of the Bible was sort of a primate thinker who didn’t really understand much about the life beyond this one.
But that isn’t true.
Job 33:25–26 says, “Let their flesh be renewed like a child’s; let them be restored as in the days of their youth’—then that person can pray to God and find favor with him, they will see God’s face and shout for joy; he will restore them to full well-being.”
The Bible tells us elsewhere in Hebrews that God spoke to ancient man in a variety of ways. We know that Job did in fact know much about the life to come. And since he must have felt during his suffering period that every day was like Monday, he learned to trust God. He learned that God would see him through no matter his circumstances, and that Resurrection is coming. Just as Job had some understanding that the Messiah was coming, we know that Jesus did in fact defeat death.
His victory over our greatest enemy is a wonderful promise of things to come!
Let’s pray.
Lord, the terrible crucifixion of Jesus ended in the most spectacular way possible, with you raising Him to life. Thank you that we also share in that great gift. Amen.
The Office’s Michael Scott once famously said that there’s such a thing as good grief, and it’s a funny line. But could there be some truth behind it?
Christians today celebrate “Good Friday” every year, but what does it really mean?
The date marks the day 2,000 years ago that Jesus Christ willingly died on a gruesome Roman cross for our sins.
Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
The truth is, Jesus died after suffering sustained torture. His followers were devastated. It looked as if His ministry would be as brief as any other holy man that had wandered onto the stage for a brief performance.
And then it happened.
Three days later, He came back from the dead! God the Father, as He had promised, raised Jesus to life. This was a clear message to any who would follow the Savior that there is blessed, eternal life after this one. In our sins, Jesus came to us because He loved us.
It’s as simple as that, really. What was originally raw grief became a very good day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Son’s gift to us is beyond words. We simply thank you and are grateful that He didn’t leave us where we were. Amen.
Have you ever thought much about grace? We hear the word, but the concept itself might be a little elusive. That might be because it’s hard for humans to understand and embrace.
Grace means simply that someone gives you something with no strings attached. Just for your good.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
The Bible tells a simple story, really. Mankind sinned and brought evil into the world. God made everything, so He has the right to set the rules. And in His system, sin cannot be tolerated. So He made a way for us to be reconciled to Him, through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Often, we try to do things to help life along. We plan, plot, and come up with programs. Our own ideas seem like the right thing to do.
But God’s way is always the right thing to do. Setting aside our own ego is key to finding peace in Christ. We literally don’t have to do anything for it.
We accept it in faith.
That is the gift of God.
Let’s pray. Lord, in your love for us, you make our path simple. Not always easy, but simple. Thank you for the gift of eternal life. Amen.
How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request.
Do you ever worry you might not measure up?
Sam was a fourth grader with a big problem: he left his homework at school, and he was so worried he’d be in trouble with the teacher, he could hardly stand to go to school the next day.
In the car on the way to school, Sam’s mom explained the concept of grace, asking, “Sam, do you know about the idea of grace? Grace means even if we aren’t perfect, the people who care about us can choose to forgive us. I think your teacher will understand about your homework.”
Ephesians 2 verses 8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
The concerns on your mind today are probably bigger than a missed homework assignment. Maybe you’re struggling in your marriage, or experiencing financial distress. Maybe things aren’t going well at work, or you are battling addiction, or wrestling with sin.
When you begin to worry you are falling short, give it to the Lord. God sent Jesus as a living sacrifice for me and for you, so we could all experience His grace. Grace isn’t something we can earn, it’s a gift God gifts to us, simply because He loves us. And that’s truly amazing!
One of the extraordinary stories in the Bible involves a young woman named Rahab. This story beautifully expresses God’s love for all people.
Rahab lived in the Canaanite town of Jericho, which was near the border of the Promised land God had promised to His people, who had been wandering for years in search of a home after slavery in Egypt.
Because the Canaanites were powerful, Joshua sent a scouting party into the land, to see what they were up against. Then men sent ahead were hidden from harm by Rahab, because she had heard of the power that followed the Israelites.
When she talked with the men, she showed remarkable understanding that their God was in fact the true God. She made a bargain with them.
Joshua 2:14 says, “So the men said to her, “Our life for yours if you do not tell this business of ours; and it shall come about when the Lord gives us the land that we will deal kindly and faithfully with you.”
In the end, as the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land, Rahab’s family was spared death. In this way, we see how God’s inclusive love for all is worked out in practical ways that lead to life.
Remember Rahab when you think you are beyond God’s protection!
Let’s pray.
Lord, what an example of faithfulness this woman displayed. Bless all those who look for you. Amen.
As 2020 began, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit eastern Turkey, killing 34 people. Over 1,500 buildings were damaged, and 76 had collapsed.
It was in one of these collapsed buildings that a young mother waited with her baby daughter.
A rescuer heard her cries and said, “Can you hear me? We are coming. We will save you.”
John 8:12 says, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”
Those Turkish rescuers did indeed bring the mother and daughter out of the rubble and darkness. They survived.
Do you feel today that your life is dark? Has your world collapsed?
Cry out to Jesus. I’m serious. Cry out to him in your own way and believe that He is your Rescuer and He will save you.
He is coming.
Let’s pray. Lord, we are so thankful that you sent Your Son, Jesus, to rescue us through his sacrifice on the Cross. Amen.
Spring is the season of new life. As we finish up our series on the Psalms, we come to the most famous one of all.
Psalm 23:1–2 says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.”
This psalm contains some of the most famous words ever written. It has everything: beautiful language, a man’s raw honest heart for God, and a universal theme of love that God has for all people.
It echoes in the universe.
Think of the picture that God is painting here for us.
We are bone-weary, but He has actually made a place for us to rest in a garden. We hear the flowing water. We are refreshed inside and out.
And He is with us.
Do yourself a favor this spring. Memorize every line of the 23rd Psalm. Put it in your heart so that when you are in that dark valley, you will remember that the one true God loves you absolutely and completely.
Goodness and mercy follow you. Close your eyes and sit in the cool grass.
He is with you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the Great Shepherd who provides a sanctuary for us. Thank you, thank you for making a place of safety for us as we go through life. Amen.
One of the things that sets God apart from all others is His ability to tell us what is going to happen. We read about this in Isaiah 46, where He says only He knows the end from the beginning.
An amazing example of this is found in Psalm 22, and it’s almost surprising how many people are not aware of it.
Psalm 22:11 says, “Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.
If you read the entire chapter carefully, you begin to realize that this is a conversation that Jesus has on the cross.
This psalm was written a thousand years before that world-changing event!
It describes a man being mocked on the cross. A man who is so thirsty his mouth feels like a piece of dry pottery. He even mentions that his tormentors are casting lots for his clothes. All these things are described in the New Testament, and even some of the language Jesus used on the cross is seen here for the first time.
God is in charge of all things, all the time. Including your situation. He raised Jesus from the dead, and He will provide life eternal for you if you call on Him.
He knows the end from the beginning.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know all things. No one else does. That alone should give us confidence that you will be with us always. Amen.
From the time he was a young shepherd in the wilderness, David had a deep relationship with God. He escaped enough dangerous situations to know that God was always with Him, and was his deliverer.
Psalm 91:1–2 says, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
This psalm is famous for its descriptive language. We can see a picture of this in our minds. And the specific things listed in this passage are very personal for each of us.
We are not to fear.
When we call on God, He hears us.
His angels watch over us.
One of the most beautiful images in the Bible is found in this psalm, as God, like a strong eagle, covers us with his wings so that we are protected.
Remember the words of Psalm 91 and call on Him day or night.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your protection for us is just one of the things that separate you from anyone or anything else. We are grateful for your wings that draw us near and cover us. Amen.
Nothing is more basic to life than creation itself. The Bible tells us that God alone has the power to truly create, and the beauty of language in Psalm 139 explains this fully. Some believe the psalmist was writing in part about the creation of Adam.
Psalm 139:1–3 says, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”
The writer marvels at the ways in which God understands each of us intimately, and is present everywhere.
Are you aware that God loves you with a supernatural love? He created you to be a singular presence in the world…what we call “unique.” You might feel sometimes that you are worthless, or that no one cares.
Not so.
The Creator of the Universe, in that vast space, took time to make only one of you. You are precious to Him and you should never forget it, even when things look depressing.
God sees you when you sit in that chair and when you get up. He knows what you’re thinking and what’s in your heart.
You are on His mind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s comforting knowing that you are with us in each moment of our day. Help us to live in that moment. Amen.
One of the greatest gifts God has given us is the collection of songs known as “Psalms,” originally written as music for worship, especially in the Temple in Jerusalem.
Today we celebrate them as prayers for the most part, and they give us a beautiful picture of who God is.
Psalm 1:6 says, “For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.”
Traditional authorship is assigned mostly to King David, who loved to worship God with music and even dancing. His heart was open to God, and this inner life could be seen by anyone; this earthly king worshipped the King of kings.
In this introductory psalm, we read about the contrast between those who love God and those who don’t. And we are encouraged to “meditate” on His Word every day.
Our God is the great God, and loves each of us more than we can even imagine.
That love is a song in your heart.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your love for us is eternal and we are so blessed to receive it, as David did, all the days of our lives. Amen.
Humans were built for language and communication.
It's one of the bits of creative genius God used when He formed His highest creation. And apart from regular communication, whether it's the written word or verbal, we have a great gift from a loving God: prayer. And that's what we're talking about this week in a series we're calling, Prayer 101.
Prayer is an intensely personal way to communicate with our Creator, the One who knows everything about us.
Jeremiah 29:12 says, “Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me and I will listen to you.”
All through scripture we see that God is available to us all the time. No regular hours or standing meetings. We can talk to Him anytime we want. There are 650 recorded prayers in the Bible, and we read about people praying while sitting, standing, kneeling with faces to the ground, or hands lifted up.
By the way, Amen means “let it be,” or “so be it.”
The word “prayer” appears for the first time in Numbers 5:22.
Since prayers are human communication with God, we see that the first prayers were way back in Genesis 3 and 4 when Adam and Eve, and later Cain, talked with God. In the second exchange, even though Cain was angry and had just killed his brother, he was having a conversation with God.
Jesus famously modeled prayer in Luke 11 and noticed that He was talking to God, the Father.
It can be a fine line when thinking about how prayer is initiated. Often, thoughts come to our minds or we're reminded to pray for someone. However, there's an indication that God prompts us to talk with Him.
In Galatians 4:6, that from our hearts we cry out, “Abba Father,” and that the indwelling spirit of the Lord prompts this in us. Of all the great gifts God has given us, Prayer is one of the most special. It's how our spirits commune with the One who loves us with perfect love. And He's always ready and waiting to hear from us.
Let's pray.
Father, God, we worship you for who you are. We love you. Thank you for loving us. Thank you for making a way for us to talk with you. The things that lie hidden in our hearts in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Today, just stop and consider that we are talking one-on-one. We’re just talking over coffee.
You seem like something is really getting to you. Are you about to give up on something important? If so, please listen, just for a couple minutes.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
Let’s think boldly for a second. Whatever your problem is, God can fix it. He can. The Bible is full of these fixes. So is our present day, when story after story of miraculous rescues show us clearly that God exists and that He cares for you as a person.
Jesus knows your story, and more importantly, He knows the end of your story.
Victory is waiting for you, but you must not give up. Don’t give in to that evil voice urging you to stop. Listen to the voice of Love.
Tell Jesus what you need. Right now.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this thing hurts so much right now, but we aren’t going to up, because you never give up on us. Thank you for that! Amen.
Humans have a problem asking for help. Chalk it up to our proud hearts.
Often, when we are really up against it, that’s when we resist seeking help.
Jesus does away with all that.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Ask yourself: is my pride keeping me from a huge blessing? If so, mull that over. Take as long as you need. Then take one step toward Jesus and tell Him you need to ask for something.
The door will swing open wide.
Once you have your miracle, keep it close and share it with everyone you meet. Tell anyone who will listen that the Lord of the Universe cared about you and delivered you from a problem no one else could solve.
Let’s pray. Lord, please give us a heart that seeks you with all our hearts. We want to be obedient, and blessings will follow. Thank you.
In a world full of manmade gods and goddesses, the Creator God stands alone. He is a King of the first order, and everything was made by Him. His majesty and power are awesome.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Usually, when people are in the presence of royalty, they get nervous. Kings and queens make us uneasy, and we obsess about how we approach them.
Not so with our great God. Yes, He is all-powerful, and the Bible does describe Him sometimes as fiery, but He also loves us with true love and compassion. It is a privilege to worship Him, and acknowledge Him for who He truly is.
Not all people and nations recognize God, of course. But the day is coming when they will. In that day, He will remember His people.
All hail our King!
Let’s pray. Lord, you alone are worthy of praise, and we do praise your Holy Name. Amen.
Isn’t it funny how we come to certain conclusions in life fairly late? In other words, sometimes the obvious things aren’t obvious until we’ve stumbled around on our own, trying to find a solution.
Take the simple act of asking for help. It isn’t uncommon for a person to be reluctant to ask for help. Then he finds he wasted a lot of time!
That’s what we’re talking about this week.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Jesus makes it simple. Here He is telling us that we don’t have what we need because we haven’t asked. That’s an amazing concept, but one He has proved many times.
Are you in a serious situation right now? Do you have a big need? Are you depressed because of a relationship, struggling at work, or overwhelmed by a health or financial situation?
Why don’t you try just telling Jesus what your problem is? Yes, He already knows, but you participate in the solution by entering into a relationship with Him. Talk to him, and take comfort in the fact that He knows everything about you. He isn’t judging you when you ask. He just listens.
And if you think all this is childish…be a kid today! Ask Jesus to help you, He’ll answer, and your faith will surge.
Let’s pray. Lord, forgive us for not trusting you. You are a good God, and your love is appreciated. Amen.
Do you feel like you’re falling apart today? It’s okay to say yes.
Life is life, and we all have obstacles to overcome. Maybe your issue is ongoing, or maybe it’s a sudden thing. But please think of it this way: Jesus is alive and He knows who you are and He cares about your problems.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus is not caught off-guard by problems in your life and most importantly, He truly cares for you and is able to help. Remember what the Bible says: Jesus holds everything together! That includes the whole you.
If you’re really struggling, tell Jesus. Then drink from the living water He provides. He was here at the beginning, He is present now, and He will be standing at the end of your road to welcome you home one day.
Count on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have all our stuff well in hand. Help us remember that every day. Amen.
From beginning to end, the Bible tells the story of our Savior, Jesus Christ. His coming is predicted in Genesis, and His glory is revealed in Revelation. It is in Him and Him alone that we are each made whole.
As we wrap-up our time this week, looking at the subject of “All Together,” it is frankly exciting to know that Jesus has our back, even when no one else does.
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Maybe you’re driving to work and hating every passing mile. Maybe your family is a mess. Life can feel fractured.
It is exactly in those moments that we need to get away to a quiet place and tell God exactly what we need. Put everything out of your mind except the willingness to be transparent with the One who knows you completely. He also loves you eternally and wants to help. Best of all, He is able to meet every single need.
The glory of the Lord is His love for us in Christ Jesus. Lean on Him now, and watch Him provide miracle after miracle.
Let’s pray. Lord, you are joy unspeakable! Your love for us and ability to meet our needs is unmatched. Thank you for that. Amen.
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Life can be overwhelming sometimes, right? A huge wave of despair can come out of nowhere and push us toward disaster.
Anita’s life was like that, growing up in Hong Kong where revolutionary movements brought violence and loss of hope. She couldn’t see how the pieces of her life could be put together. She would ask herself, “How do you make peace with a potential that is frustrated?
That happens to be our theme this week, having it “All Together.”
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Over time, Anita saw that God had always been shaping her to find her calling in Christ. She did that, and today operates a ministry that helps women see that they are daughters of the Living God! Truly, Anita didn’t always have it together, but her life is living proof that God puts us back together for His purposes!
Let’s pray. Lord, someone listening needs a dramatic move from you in her life. Please bring your peace and comfort today. Amen.
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Have you ever felt a surge of pride because you had it all together? You know, your brain and talent and charm was just dazzling to the whole world?
It sounds funny, but let’s be honest. We’ve all at some point thought quite a lot of our own abilities. Pride—something God hates—trips us up. We are flying high.
Then the crash comes.
Our theme this week is “All Together,” and we explore what Scripture tells us about the Source of our lives.
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Are you hurting today because you didn’t anticipate some obstacle? Were you a little smug in how you could handle challenges? Then tell God! Just humble yourself and ask Him to make you whole. You might not have it all together, but He does!
Let’s pray. Lord, you are a fortress of strength for each of us, especially when we mess up. We are grateful for your mercy and grace. Amen.
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When the Apostle Paul was under house arrest in Rome, he wrote to the church at Philippi, a wealthy city on an important trade route. The citizens there had little need of any outside help, but Paul’s wisdom alerted them that trouble comes to every life.
He had suffered many hardships as he preached the Gospel through the Roman Empire. Paul knew very well what poverty and loneliness were.
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Our theme this week is “All Together,” and we want to talk about common needs we all have. Bottom line is, God will meet us where we are and provide what we need. He’s proven that over and over again!
No doubt you can remember these times of provision in your own life. Someone in your life today might just need to hear they are not alone.
Let’s pray. Lord, we are so limited in what we can do for ourselves. You are our source for everything great and small. Amen.
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Have you ever spent time in the country? If you’re used to the noise of city life — neighbors coming and going, traffic, dogs barking...then spending a few nights in the country can feel almost too quiet.
A brilliant sunrise without buildings to block the view, the most stars you’ve ever seen shining across the night sky, and a unique feeling of peace can all be found in the country, if you get the chance to enjoy these simple pleasures.
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Sometimes God’s blessings come in bold strokes, and sometimes He shows His love for us in sweet, simple ways...warm sunshine; a soft breeze; fragrant blooming flowers; quiet countryside views.
Every good thing in life comes from our Heavenly Father, and there are so many reasons to smile, and so much joy to be found, if we keep our eyes open to all the blessings God bestows.
Will you pray with me?
Lord, thank you for the quiet beauty you’ve created for us to enjoy in nature. Help us to seek you first, and to count our blessings. Amen.
Don’t you just love the nuances and uniqueness God put into the world? He created harmony and balance everywhere, including our individual “best time of the day” to be creative and productive.
Some of us are “up with the chickens,” as they used to say. Others burn a candle late into the night. Whatever time is your time to connect in positive ways, God made you to shine for His purposes.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
Embrace your uniqueness! Just because your eyes don’t focus until later in the morning—after cups, plural, of coffee—doesn’t mean you won’t hit the mark today.
You were built for this, to be a light to others and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. So, rise up, whenever that is for you, and make a promise to God that you will get everything out of today that you’re supposed to. Rise and shine!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you made us to be a light in a world that is all too often dark. Thank you for the opportunities to make a difference for you. Amen.
Jane was the last child to receive a handmade blanket from her great grandmother. Pink and blue, festooned with angels and sprinkled with stars that sparkled in the light, the much-loved blanket was the little girl’s constant companion.
This childhood treasure became even more important when Gramma Ann passed away — a reminder of her love for her family, and her faith in God.
Jane’s blanket kept her warm in sickness and in health, but the washing machine proved its eventual undoing. One day, the last remaining fragment of Gramma Ann’s very last blanket was lost.
Ephesians 2:8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
A few years after the remaining bit of Jane’s ‘Gramma Ann Blankie’ was lost to time (but not to memory), her mom stumbled across the best yard sale find of all time: the very same blanket, likely created from a quilting kit, in brand new condition. Jane and her mother cried together right there in a stranger’s driveway, certain that Gramma was smiling down on them from Heaven in that moment of discovery. It was the best two dollars the pair ever spent.
Grace can show up when we least expect it — even in the form of a long-lost family heirloom returned to us in the unlikeliest of ways.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your grace is a constant delight. You are faithful to us when we seek Your face, and your gift of grace shows up in incredible ways. Thank you, and amen.
Are you like a lot of people when it comes to the instruction booklet with a new item? We stare at it and eventually toss it, guessing we can just figure it out.
Yeah…that usually ends like dropping a carton of eggs.
The Bible is there for a reason. God’s Word is healing and light and a guide for each of us. That’s why it’s important to read it, and meditate on the words.
To the church at Philippi, Paul gave instruction from God, such as putting others before ourselves. Then the payoff.
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
God’s way is infinitely better. If we focus on the right things, our own needs are then met in ways too spectacular for us to imagine. Focus on others and sharing the Good News, and we stand out like stars in the night sky!
Do life the right way: Read the instructions.
Let’s pray. Lord, you’ve shown us how to succeed in life and in the life to come. Help us share that with others. Amen.
In the book of Romans, Paul tells us the evidences for the existence of God are so numerous in nature that anyone can believe in God. Surely one of the most compelling examples is in our night sky. When we look up at the heavens, it takes our breath away. The twinkling lights are like our own personal message from God.
All those stars…
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
Astronomers tell us that each star is as unique as we are. We can see some burning dramatically, others are smaller-but-no-less-beautiful. All those infinite numbers dot the black backdrop, causing even the most cynical of us to marvel.
God has always intended for you to share your faith. Like a message written with stars, your story will resonate with people who wonder why you have joy in a crazy world. They will stop and consider what you have to say, because the light of Christ shines from the inside out.
That is a message worth telling!
Let’s pray. Lord, give us the courage to tell our stories, to share the Good News of what Christ has done for us! Amen.
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What does the Bible say about gratitude?
Psychologists and self-help gurus will all tell us that a grateful heart and a positive outlook will do wonders for health and relationships. A person with a heart of gratitude will be seen by others who will want to follow, and see what he has going for him.
Such a person is a magnet for sharing the Gospel, and the greatest source of wisdom has much to say on the subject. Dozens of times in the Bible, we read about the value of gratitude. Paul mentions it several times, including in the account of Elisha healing a woman’s sick son.
We read in 2 Kings 4:37, “She fell at his feet and bowed before him, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she took her son in her arms and carried him downstairs.”
To be overwhelmed with gratitude, is an emotional reaction to kindness.
Lamentations 3:22–24 says, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in him.’”
This is especially interesting because to lament, means a person is sorrowful about something. In this case it’s the prophet Jeremiah. But notice, even in his grief he focuses on God’s love and care for him. He is grateful in his circumstance. In modern language, Jeremiah was being intentional about his gratitude.
The Bible tells us there are many variations of gratitude. In Second Corinthians, Paul even expressed his deep gratefulness to God for allowing him to participate in sharing the Gospel. You see, a truly grateful heart transitions from selfishness, to concern for others. And we can do the same thing today. When we focus on others, gratitude follows.
In Philippians 4, Paul also passes along a profound life lesson. Here, he says that we can learn to be grateful in all circumstances. Think about that. Grateful — whether in distress, or good times. Abundance, or poverty.
A few years ago, a youth missions group was repairing homes damaged by storms in Louisiana. A girl entered a house that was missing part of its roof, and she found an elderly woman rocking in a chair in a bedroom. “Oh, I’m just so happy to have a dry place to sit,” the woman said. She literally had no other dry areas in her home to be until help could arrive. Yet she didn’t complain about her circumstances. Instead, she gave thanks to the Lord, and in so doing — inspired that 16-year-old girl.
Gratitude is a perpetual gift, to us, and to others.
Let’s pray.
Father God, you are good. You’re good to us every day, and we are thankful for that. We’re grateful that you didn’t leave us in our sins, but you sent Jesus. We’re grateful that you sustain us always, in body and in spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Solomon was one of the most amazing men in all of history. The King of Israel, the son of the famous David, was so rich he got bored. In fact, some believe he was the wealthiest man of all time. In terms of money, he was the Jeff Bezos of his time.
But the Bible tells us his story, and doesn’t spare any truth in doing it. Solomon accomplished great things, but at great spiritual cost.
After a while, he discovered the secret to real success, and that is what we’re talking about today and all week: finding our Source.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Solomon, you see, had wealth, power, fame, and relationships. But he saw that nothing really satisfied except knowing God. In fact, he asked God for wisdom!
Think about that. The king of an ancient empire could have had anything. Imagine a powerful being grants you three wishes. Most people in Solomon’s place would have asked for the usual.
Yet Solomon asked God first for wisdom. And the rest, as they say, was history. God gave him that wisdom, then added riches beyond measure.
Do you see? We are to ask for the right things, then other good things will find their way to us.
Let’s pray. Lord, your wisdom is the well we draw from. Thank you for not leaving us to our own solutions. Amen.
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The Bible contains a huge amount of wisdom for us. It’s the Word of God, after all.
Usually, that wisdom is most valuable to us when we are living through tragedy. Those days and nights can be among the hardest we’ll ever have, because the pain seems to be too strong.
Have you ever felt like that?
Our topic this week has to do with Walking By Faith.
Second Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
What does this mean? Well, Scripture tells us that true faith in God is “the evidence of things not seen.” It gives us a picture of waiting for a promise from God; we haven’t yet arrived.
If you are in that place today, make a choice to believe God. He won’t fail you, not even for a second!
Let’s pray. Lord, your timing is perfect, even if we can’t see the end of the journey. Give us strength for that journey. Amen.
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People have different views on just what God’s Word actually is. Some think it’s an ancient book of wisdom. Others think it’s just kind of an interesting piece of historical literature.
But the Word itself tells us that it has amazing benefits for those who read it and believe it.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
It’s not a dead book!
Notice that the Bible is “alive and active.” That means that even though we might let it gather dust on a shelf, it doesn’t gather dust in our hearts. God’s Word tells us exactly who we are, and who God is. It establishes that relationship.
And it’s very important to remember that as you read it, you’ll see that Jesus Christ is seen all through the Bible. The Word of God reveals the Word, which is what John chapter 1 calls Jesus. It’s an amazing book within the Bible and is a good place to start to discover who Jesus is.
He is the Living Word!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are good to us all the time. You don’t leave us in our sin, but give us a way out, through Jesus Christ, the Living Word. Thank you for your Son! Amen.
Since the beginning of time, millions of people have denied the existence of God. They are called different names: unbelievers, atheists, maybe agnostic. Many of them have quite a bit to say about it, and have even become famous doing so.
God also has something to say about it. A fascinating verse in the Bible speaks directly to this question of the existence of God, and it also speaks to our discussion this week.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Notice the second sentence. We are actually told that God has “set eternity” in each human heart. What does that mean?
Well, King Solomon was telling us that each of us has that ‘God-shaped hole’ in us that you’ve probably heard about it. That is a metaphor for that sometimes-odd, uncomfortable feeling we get, and it does seem to come from the heart. We’re sailing along and then all of a sudden we stop and feel odd. An empty feeling. Or maybe a longing.
That is eternity calling to us from somewhere up ahead. It is proof that God is real, and has caused each of us to want to know Him, if we’re honest.
Do you ever feel like that? Like, maybe today?
Let’s pray. Lord, we know you are there. It’s obvious. Help us share the Good News with others who have the same feelings. Amen.
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From earliest times, God has commanded His people to see their national home through His holy eyes. In other words, countries around the world are to follow the Lord. Of course, many don’t.
Jeremiah 30:22 says, “So you will be my people, and I will be your God.”
Many great civilizations have risen, but few last beyond a couple hundred years. Although history is debated, the foundations of America see a people who wanted to live holy unto the Lord. Modern America is still an ongoing experiment, but our Pledge of Allegiance, adopted in 1942, used the phrase “Under God.”
Lincoln used it for the first time during his Gettysburg Address, when he told the people that from that point on, we would be one people, united under the Living God.
This is something to celebrate, and we should! Our nation is always stretching to do better, and fulfill an ideal that is more than just some slogan. It is our calling to be this way.
Under God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that Christ has been proclaimed in freedom in our nation! Help us continue this sacred calling. Amen.
The Bible has a lot to say about how we are to treat each other on our life’s journey. One story in particular in Genesis shows us how to resist peer pressure, especially when someone’s life is in danger. In fact, this story really captures the essence of what we’re talking about this week.
John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
Jacob had sons, but one was his favorite. Joseph was younger than his brothers and for various reasons, most of them became jealous of him. Not much different than the brother of the Prodigal’s son!
One day, the brothers were working and saw Joseph approaching them. He’d been sent by his father to check on them. It sounds crazy, but they decided to kill him! Throwing him in a well, they left him for dead.
But not all his brothers hated him. Reuben went back to rescue him, but…well, the story is long and you should read it for yourself! But just know that Reuben risked his own life to save his younger brother.
Would we do the same?
Most of us will lead fairly safe lives, especially if we are Americans. We are crazy blessed. But the day might come when you have to step up for someone in trouble. Make sure you’re ready. Make sure you act like Reuben.
Let’s pray. Lord, you strengthen even the weakest of us. Help us to do the right thing when given the chance. Amen.
Charles McGee is one of those improbable heroes. Part of the reason is because he started life with obstacles to overcome — just because of the color of his skin. He is now the last surviving member of the famous Tuskegee Airmen. This was an incredible group of pilots made up of African Americans during World War 2.
He pushed to achieve great things, and God was with him every step. Today, Retired General Charles McGee is 100 and thriving.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
The dapper, Charles McGee, flew an incredible 400 missions during his service in three wars. Today he inspires his grandson, whose goal is to be part of the newly created Space Force.
Heroes and warriors don’t always ‘look the part.’ In fact, some of the bravest don’t stand out in any particular way. They just walk the path God has set before them. The rest of us are the beneficiaries of this kind of valor. No doubt you know people like this. Men and women, boys and girls can all play this part God sets before them.
Let’s pray. Lord, help us to be willing to step through the doors you open for us, and to be warriors for you. Amen.
Honestly, sometimes as Christians we think things are going to be easy. After all, when Jesus saves you, it doesn’t get any better than that! The joy we feel is genuine, and lasting.
But that doesn’t mean we escape this world. Bad things can and do happen. This week we’re talking about having enough grit to get to the glory.
Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
Part of our Christian walk is developing a personal faith that lasts. As Paul tells us in Romans, leaning-in, and learning to last is the key to it all. Listen, if you are walking through a really dark valley right now, you are not alone! Many, many people have and are going through exactly what you’re going through now.
If you bought into the idea that being a Christian means your life becomes easy, go ahead and let that one go. True faith requires us to look to the Lord when things go wrong.
Stand up on your feet, Christian, and let Jesus steady you.
Hold Fast!
Let’s pray. Lord, your strength sustains us. We love you for that, and so many more things. Amen.
It’s interesting watching the outcomes of people who refuse to give in to fear.
Many years ago, while America was going through a severe economic depression and a world war, President Roosevelt told Americans that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.
Those listening over the radio said later that they felt a great sense of relief just from his words!
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
Our country emerged from a very scary time to become a people determined to embrace the future. Those who survived those dark days were known as The Greatest Generation. They were because they decided giving in to fear was not an option. It was a simple choice, honestly. They gritted their teeth and went to work.
And prayed like never before.
As individuals, we face our own depression, and our own wars. Any of us can be overwhelmed by the life-altering decisions we must make. Doing all of that living in fear can’t be sustained.
The Psalmist clearly understood that God would rescue him; the words he wrote about it were words of life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are great, the greatest, and your love for us is the only thing that should overwhelm us. Amen.
We “love” all sorts of things. We love a friend’s new hairdo. We love pistachio ice cream and travel to exotic places.
Many times, the word itself loses all real meaning. It’s like homemade chicken soup without the chicken and without the soup.
1 John 3:16–18 “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.”
The Divine Word helps us yet again. Here we learn that true love means doing for others. Get involved. Don’t just say you love your community. Show the community your love.
Cleanup projects, running errands for a shut-in, taking your niece to the movies because her mother is working two jobs…you know what to do. You know the opportunities.
Think you love those around you? Show them.
Let’s pray.
Lord, there is so much good to do in the world! Please show us opportunities every day, so that we put action to our words. Amen.
Love is in the air, as they say, and that is our topic this week. Love can be a broad term, but we want to refine it for our time together—at the same time, we are preoccupied with cards, gifts, and candy hearts.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
If we’re honest, that definition—God’s definition, really—is pretty different from much of how the world sees love. In real life, it can be complicated, stressful, even brutal. Broken relationships devastate lives.
But those of us who know Jesus know that our mission is to love like Him. Loving like Jesus takes the complications out of relationships.
If you are sorting through what love means to you, would you consider for the next few days what it means to love with the pure love of Christ? Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians require something of us, and that is a key we will continue to explore.
Make someone else the priority this week, and not yourself.
Let’s pray. Lord, your perfect love has sustained us always. We love you in return! Amen.
Have you ever been hurt in a relationship? If you’ve been alive very long at all, the answer is an obvious “Yes!” Reality has shown us that love can be the most wonderful feeling ever…or it can be ugly and brutal. It can feel like your heart has been run over by a truck.
We’re talking about Loving Like Jesus, and as usual, His Word unlocks the secrets of our hearts, and shows us the way to healing.
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Frankly, each of us supposed to love like this. But just briefly, let’s focus on you. Why? Because it’s okay to do that if you understand that Jesus loves you and wants all the best for you.
Has someone hurt you in a relationship? Is marriage or romance a challenging topic for you? Then please meditate on Scripture and realize that Jesus wants a partner for you who is patient, kind, and honors you. Oh — and he or she doesn’t take frustrations out on you, either.
Use that as your starting point over whether to stay in a relationship or open your heart to new opportunities.
Let’s pray. Lord, help us to be mindful of your desires for us in the area of relationships. Amen.
When it comes to love, the secular world has plenty to say. Turn on the television, radio, or explore the internet, and you’ll find advice on every type of relationship, from friendships to getting along with your parents, and of course — advice on romantic relationships. People are clamoring to figure love out…but what does the Bible say about love?
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Love isn’t about control, or about protecting our own interests. It’s not about winning, because true love doesn’t keep score. God’s Word gives us a beautiful picture of what love can be when we seek to follow the Lord: patient, kind, selfless, humble, and forgiving. That’s the kind of love we should strive to build with family, friends, and a potential mate.
If we want to take Paul’s wisdom in Corinthians to heart, we must first think about what the other person needs in our relationships. And you know, if you practice this model, you’ll find that soon enough, your own needs will be met, too! Pure love has a ripple effect.
Let it wash over you!
Let’s pray. Lord, your relationship to us is perfect. Help us love as you love. Amen.
In an age of technology booms and information-sharing, it’s amazing how lonely we have become. Everything and everyone is connected, but does all that online connection ever leave you feeling disconnected in real life? Do you feel alone?
If you do, you are listening at the right time this week as we are reminded that God’s timing is always perfect.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Did you catch that? Here God is talking about and to the individual. He is talking to you. And guess what? He has made you beautiful, a truly unique creation. God has also placed you at the right place in history, right where you are.
God made you in his image. His Son, Jesus, went to the cross for you. If you still feel alone after all that, go back and read our verse for today. Read it again and again.
Our God loves you so very much. His Word says so directly, again and again. Let that be the backdrop for your day today. Can I get an amen?
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for loving each of us infinitely. Thank you for saving us. Amen.
How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit kerusso.com/pray to submit a request.
We’ve heard of heat-seeking missiles. They are weapons so sophisticated that they appear to have a mind of their own. The missile is launched and finds its target and destruction happens.
Well, what if a heat-seeking missile could be used for good? What if one has been launched…in your direction?
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
If you open your heart to God—even if you aren’t a believer—then it’s as if Jesus is now the missile launched and He is coming toward your still-beating heart. The heart that has been wounded. He finds you and connects in such a powerful way, but the connection is for life, and not for destruction.
The Word tells us to simply ask Him and He will find us.
Let’s pray. Lord, your unwavering promises to stay with us during trials is unique in history. Thank you for loving us that much. Amen.
At an address in Columbus Ohio in 1900, former slave Booker T. Washington kept the room spellbound. This man, who had built Tuskegee Institute to lift blacks out of economic bondage, was revered around the world.
But he said something that surprised more than a few in the audience. He said that one of his main priorities for the Institute was hiring more Bible teachers!
Washington, who had been forced to work in an evil system, once felt powerless. Yes, an American president legally freed the slaves. But Washington’s faith in Christ was the real key in lifting him up.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Are you down and out right now? Are you chained to problems too big for you to overcome? Take Paul’s letter to heart and realize that all things are possible for your future, through faith in Christ. He has perfect strength, all you’ll ever need.
Tell him that today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your perfect will is more than enough to help us escape a terrible past and future. Our future is what you have told us it will be. Thank you for that blessing. Amen.
Do you find it hard to trust some people? Do you find it hard to trust...anyone? Our society is full to the brim of people who have been hurt, wounded, devastated. It puts up a wall and we live behind it in silence and fear.
After the fall of Saddam Hussein in Iraq, the people of that captive country were free for the first time to tell their stories. One woman said that she had been driven nearly insane by the dictator’s torture chambers, but when he was gone, someone shared the love of Christ with her. Her mind and spirit were restored.
She said that for the first time in her life, she could now trust. It opened her heart to beauty and friendships and love. Most of all, she now loves her Savior with her whole healed heart.
Psalm 91:2 says, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
Your situation might not be as extreme as our Iraqi sister, but if you have trust issues, take them to Jesus and tell Him with your whole hurting heart that You need Him. He will meet you where you are!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your love heals all kinds of pain. We thank you that your mercies endure forever. Amen.
Everyone loves the beauty of nature’s gems. The greens, blues, and reds of natural gemstones have set apart jewelry since the beginning of time. These precious jewels are relatively rare, and desired by people from all walks of life.
None more than the ruby.
The second-hardest gemstone, rubies have always been striking for their deep reds that flash in the light. They have been used in the crowns of monarchs for centuries, and for the rings and necklaces we can find in jewelry stores today. Jewelers tell us the ruby is one of the most coveted stones.
Four times rubies are mentioned in the Bible, and each time the reference is to beauty or wisdom.
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
A godly woman is one who stands out for her internal beauty and wisdom. She is admired for all the right reasons as she walks in the light, revealing the kind of attributes only God can craft and provide.
In the famous “Proverbs 31” chapter of the Bible, we read a fairly detailed account of this wonderful woman. Many of us count them as mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters.
How they bless us!
Let’s pray.
Lord, the Proverbs 31 woman, like a fine ruby, is easy to spot. We value them for all the right reasons. Thank you for the blessing of knowing and appreciating women such as these. Amen.
Have you ever had a power outage and pulled out your favorite flashlight, only to discover the batteries are dead? Bummer, am I right?
How about light bulbs? For some reason, they all seem to go at the same time, leaving you in the shadows and looking for that flashlight — you know, the one with the dead batteries!
Light bulbs burn out, tires go flat, umbrellas turn inside out on a windy day, and batteries die. Many of the things we use on a frequent basis are designed to be temporary — and sometimes they let us down when we need them the most.
Lamentations Chapter 3 Verses 22-23 says, "Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfulness."
God’s Holy Word, the Bible, promises that His compassion never fails. Each day is a new opportunity to experience God’s love and benefit from His grace, and His faithfulness to us will never end. Not because we’ve earned the Lord’s favor — simply because He loves us.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, your mercy is new every morning, and your steadfast love for us is amazing. Thank you for loving us so much, and thank you that we can depend on you, always. Amen.
Sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ means that we don’t just sit in our houses and shut away the world.
Scripture is an action item.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
If the Bible is true—if God’s story intersects with our story—then a hurting world is in need of a Savior. The pain many are enduring will have no end until they meet the God-Man, Jesus. He is our healer and His glory fills the earth.
We all have different personalities and various methods of engaging with others. But whatever personality God has given us, we are tasked with sharing the life-giving news of Jesus and His sacrifice.
Get in the game and do that very thing! God has called you to share His salvation with anyone and everyone. Darkness can be oppressive.
The Light has come!
Let’s pray. Lord, you showed up in our world at precisely the moment we needed you most. Help us tell others that eternal story. Amen.
Do you want to inspire others with messages of faith, hope, and freedom in Christ? Share Jesus on a T-shirt! We call that T-shirt evangelism, and you can learn more about our products at Kerusso.com. That’s K-E-R-U-S-S-O dot com.
Are you eager to share Christ? If so, good for you! Your boldness is seen by God our Father, and it pleases him.
Often though, we get a little frustrated, if we’re honest. It seems like not enough people are getting it. We want to see everyone find new life in Jesus!
When we think about sharing the Good News, it’s important to remember that God is responsible for the harvest. We just have to be willing to be sent as his ambassadors.
John 8:12 says, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”
When Jesus spoke those words, some people believed in Him right away. Others were angry with Him. Others argued.
If you feel pressure to lead others to Christ, relax. You are only responsible for fulfilling Jesus’s command to go make disciples for Him. He will take care of “the numbers.” This allows you to simply share His simple message.
He will light your path if you let him.
Let’s pray. Lord, there are so many people that need you. Help us with opportunities; we leave the results to you alone. Amen.
How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit kerusso.com/pray to submit a request.
Do you ever feel that you aren’t suited for sharing your faith in Christ? Maybe you’re not comfortable around people. Maybe you’ve encountered some who are hostile to faith.
If so, then we are speaking to you this week as we talk about sharing your light in a dark world.
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
Have you seen the movie, “The Ten Commandments?” It’s doubtful the real Moses looked and talked like Charlton Heston. And do we really think God looks for His witnesses among people who have that perfect British accent in a Jesus movie?
Nope. If we think we have to look or act a certain way, then we’re doing it wrong. God doesn’t ask our permission when giving us our marching orders for sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Instead, He approaches us as He did Job: Stand up and listen to what I have to tell you.
You are called to shine a light for Christ in a world full of dark things. You are equipped, just as you are. God has called you. Be bold in Christ.
He is the Star. We are lights along the way.
Let’s pray. Lord, the time is now. So many need you. Help us shine for you every day. Amen.
Are you comfortable in your life? This is a little different than asking if you are always happy, or living in some sort of paradise. Comfortable just means you are relatively peaceful and content with your situation. There’s nothing wrong with that, but it can be dangerous in a spiritual sense.
Jesus calls us to something more.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
Of the 200 or so nations in the world today, a good portion of them have citizens who have never heard the Gospel. They’ve never had someone explain to them who Jesus was, is, and will be. Millions have not heard of the eternal sacrifice Jesus made for us on the Cross, to pay the penalty for our sins.
Do we even have the right to stay in our comfortable place?
Are you called to more?
Can you justify not taking a stand for Christ?
Your situation is unique, and Jesus knows all of it. If He isn’t calling you to a remote place on the globe, maybe it’s working with kids in your church. Whatever opportunity God is giving you to change the world…take it!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we ask you to put more people in our path. Give us more chances to change our world for you. Amen.
What’s your story? We love to hear stories about people sharing Jesus with the help of a Christian T-shirt, or inspiring testimonies of faith. Share your story with us at kerusso.com/story.
In the Christian life, there is a necessity to be a witness. We are to be witnesses for Christ. His majesty and power are meant to blanket our world.
He is also intimately aware of you and where you are in life.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
When we trust Christ – when we believe the simple Gospel – we are called to get in the game. Sitting on such good news doesn’t make much sense, does it? Are you guilty of failing to shine a light in a dark world?
It’s not too late, friend! If you’re a friend of God, just as the Bible says Abraham was long ago, you are to invite others to live in his healing light.
The glory of the Lord rises on you each morning, it really does. Put your feet on the floor and share His glory with friends, family, and people who travel your path only briefly.
God is so good! Walk in His light and see what He’ll do in countless lives!
Let’s pray. Lord, there are so many opportunities to share your light. Give us opportunities to do that daily, and give us the energy to seize them. Amen.
Do you tend to be a fair-weather friend? Do you stay strong when times are good, but run away if things are difficult? Nothing will ruin a relationship more than that.
Let’s be honest here: There is someone in your life who needs your help and strength. Maybe you need to step it up in that area.
Jesus is a perfect example of loyalty to others; by following His lead, we can learn what genuine loyalty looks like.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Jesus stuck to you like glue when He experienced the most danger to Him personally. His death on the cross was frankly so much bigger than anything you’re facing…we don’t have an excuse to let down anyone in our life.
Jesus held out His hand and told you that He would lead you home. Practicing that type of loyalty in our daily lives will serve as a remarkable example to those who need to see some loyalty.
Let’s pray. Lord, your love inspires us every day. Thank you most of all for what Jesus has done for us. Amen.
It’s been said that in the Fruit of the Spirit list, all of them collectively practically define the nature of Christ.
Even David the shepherd knew his Messiah was coming. Remember what he said about his loving God? He said, “Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life.” We instinctively know what goodness is. It’s a kind touch, a gentle word, a gift that was unexpected.
Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, o man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
And in life, we understand the distinction between good and evil – these two forces always warring with each other. The key thing to remember in this conflict, is that God is good – and infinitely stronger than evil. That’s important to remember, as we see injustice.
What did Micah tell us? That goodness is wrapped up in the choices we make. Oppose injustice. Love what is kind. And be humble. The truth is, all of us have been given so much good by our good God, that it should be second nature to model that for those we meet in our journey.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for your sweet goodness. Sustain us with that goodness for the journey. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
You may have heard someone say before that they’ve put down deep roots, right? Usually, they’re not talking about gardening, but about the roots of their lives. Family. Friends. A career. A church home.
We all want to belong. We want to be planted deep in the soil of community.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
If you are searching right now, wondering where you should be, consider this verse. In it, we find that Christ our great Savior has a deep desire to keep us growing in good soil. Spiritually, we are to put down deep roots where He has planted us.
If you find yourself far from family, either geographically or because of hurt and conflict, turn to Jesus and tell Him how you feel.
His strong hands will carry you to the place He has waiting just for you, where you will belong. He will plant you deeply.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for caring about us as individuals, and knowing exactly what we need and when. Amen.
Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be one of the original settlers in America? As a person leaving the safety of England to come to the New World and start over?
Those people came here for religious freedom and risked it all. When they landed in New England, they literally put down roots as they built and planted the beginnings of an amazing experiment that is still ongoing.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Our ancestors were definitely strengthened in their faith as they faced challenges and danger.
But the payoff was worth it.
Maybe you’re going through something similar. You’ve moved to a new place. New job. New social circle. And you want to find a church! Just tell Jesus you need help with all these things and He’ll be right by your side.
Let’s pray.
Lord, forever you have walked with us and forever you will keep us close, making us strong in the faith. Thank you for your faithfulness to your Mission. Amen.
During the summer in Oklahoma, the heat can be oppressive.
When Martin Luther King, Jr. walked into Calvary Baptist Church in Oklahoma City in 1953, few knew who he was. The congregants just fanned themselves and tried not to think about sweating.
The 24-year-old seminary grad preached and then left. He had been looking for a job, honestly, but no offer came.
Years later, a deacon was asked how in the world they let MLK getaway. He said, “He didn’t have enough gravy.”
In other words, the future icon wasn’t old enough. Didn’t have enough experience.
1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young…”
MLK had enough gravy to know that Christ’s commandment to love one another was desperately needed in the world.
The best part of his life’s work is that you don’t have to be an icon to do that. Each of us can model this Christ-like love to everyone we come in contact with.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we thank you for those who went before us. Help us to pick up their mantle and keep marching forward. Amen.
The giant redwoods of the American Pacific Northwest are among nature’s most beautiful scenes. As tall as skyscrapers, and big enough to drive a truck through.
It is said that the redwoods are so powerful and strong in part because even these plants have a sense of community. Separated, or as a single tree, the root system is more vulnerable. But planted with partners all around, the picture changes completely.
The redwood becomes tall and strong.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
In Christ, we are part of a strong community. Scripture refers to Jesus as the Vine which provides nourishment to the rest. In Him, we are confident, safe, and rooted.
If you are feeling vulnerable and without friends, start with the best friend you could ever have. Tell Jesus today that you need Him and His community. It is a lush Kingdom that will never die.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are so grateful for your love and provision. Help us stand strong together and do the work of your Father. Amen.
One of the things that mark a healthy society is the consistency between generations. In other words, adults who care about the future of their children will invest the time to make sure tomorrow is bright.
God the Father is the ultimate parent, and we would do well to model His love for us.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
Passing the torch, or training up the next generation involves taking the time to do it properly. If you love your kids, you will make time for them. You won’t take the easy way out and settle for schools or the culture at large to raise them.
Teach them that we all experience tough times in this life, but sticking to God’s plan for their lives is the key to winning. Living the abundant life Jesus taught about, and sharing His Good News is the ultimate win.
But we don’t get there by quitting when the going gets tough.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you never leave us, and you never abandon the human community to evil. You are a great God, and we thank you for your commitment to us. Amen.
A huge benefit of being a believer is the knowledge that we can help others after going through the valley ourselves.
It’s one thing to endure and overcome and find your joy, but it’s maybe even better when you see a friend emerge into the light because you were there for them.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
When you’re in the middle of something difficult, it’s hard to even think. Scripture tells us the way out, but it helps to have someone in your life who has been there, done that. Even having a friend gently remind you that it might take time to recover is a help. Being reminded to be faithful and consistent in prayer tips the balance.
As we learn to rejoice in hope, attaining that abundant life Jesus talked about, let us remember others who are in trouble.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always faithful. You never let us down. Thank you for the joy that comes from overcoming. Amen.
Even though most U.S. homes have at least one copy of the Bible, few know what’s in it.
There are all sorts of things: wisdom for living, history, spiritual food. It’s the Bible’s practical value that hooks most people who read it. The Bible says a lot about money, how to raise kids, and even how to strengthen your marriage.
It also says a lot about forgiveness. Forgiveness is mentioned dozens of times in the Bible. In Genesis 33, Esau forgives his brother Isaac’s treachery in stealing his birthright. And the most famous example is the forgiveness Jesus chooses us on the cross, as his accusers and executioners mock him. Think about how hard that was! It gives some perspective on our own situations in life.
When you think about it, the entire theme of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation is one of forgiveness. Man chose to bring sin into the world, and defy God’s perfect plan. Yet God didn’t leave us in that state. He made a way for our sins to be put away – forever.
Jesus Christ became the vessel through which forgiveness could be extended on an epic scale.
One of the most difficult passages in all the Bible is found in the New Testament. Matthew 5:43–45 says, “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and you hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.”
In the here and now, is there anything more difficult than forgiving a mocking enemy?
There are people in the world who delight in making others miserable their whole lives. But Jesus is telling us forgiveness is possible. The key is when we take the long view. We must mentally and emotionally take ourselves out of the pain we‘re experiencing right now.
Think of the future. Begin imagining the most wonderful healing that can take place between enemies.
That’s what God did for us. The Bible tells us He is holy, and cannot look on sin. Yet in Genesis Chapter 3, God began the process of grace. In the Gospels, and in Paul’s letters, we see Him continuing to be patient with us. And then in Revelation, the long view: God takes our acts of forgiveness and makes a powerful, redemptive new world. And we can look forward to that.
Let’s pray.
Father, thank you for having mercy on us in every way. Sometimes we need to forgive someone, and sometimes the shoe is on the other foot. Help us to read your Word, and act on your commands to forgive. Especially when it hurts. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan found in Luke Chapter 10, verses 25-37 exemplifies what it means to be the kind of neighbor Jesus wants us to be:
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On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
“What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”
He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
“You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.”
But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead.
A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side.
So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side.
But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him.
He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him.
The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’
“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”
The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.”
Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”
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God’s Holy Word, the Bible, gives us a clear example of how to be the kind of neighbor we all want to have, and the kind of neighbor the Lord calls us to be, as we face this pandemic together, and as we return to a new normal going forward.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord, Thank you for neighbors across our community who care for those around them by delivering meals, shopping for people at risk, using their skills to sew masks, donating to worthy causes, and showing up where they are needed. Give each of us the opportunity to be a neighborhood hero to someone in need. Amen.
Sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ means that we don’t just sit in our houses and shut away the world.
Scripture is an action item.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
If the Bible is true—if God’s story intersects with our story—then a hurting world is in need of a Savior. The pain many are enduring will have no end until they meet the God-Man, Jesus. He is our healer and His glory fills the earth.
We all have different personalities and various methods of engaging with others. But whatever personality God has given us, we are tasked with sharing the life-giving news of Jesus and His sacrifice.
Get in the game and do that very thing! God has called you to share His salvation with anyone and everyone. Darkness can be oppressive.
The Light has come!
Let’s pray. Lord, you showed up in our world at precisely the moment we needed you most. Help us tell others that eternal story. Amen.
Of all the gifts God gives His children, joy is perhaps the one closest to heaven on earth.
Who isn’t aware just how wonderful it feels to experience true joy? It is as if the Lord has freed a prisoner.
When American POWs returned from captivity in Vietnam, the looks on their faces as they emerged from the planes carrying them to freedom…well, no one will ever forget that!
Psalm 16:9 says, “Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.”
Scripture tells us that we don’t escape trouble in this life, but that for the believer, eternal joy waits for us, and the Holy Spirit gives us joy in our daily walk in the here and now.
It is also ours for the taking, to reach up and pick this fruit that feeds our souls. Sometimes simply making the choice to embrace a joyful spirit is the key to having a blessed day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you did not create us to be defeated or sad. Your Spirit brings joy in big and small moments, sustaining us for our journey. Thank you for joy. Amen.
As humans, we have a tendency to compartmentalize things.
It’s in our nature to make lists, and rank priorities, and really box certain things in. We’ve got our work-life over here, and our family life over there, and our faith...somewhere else. And this can often lead us to confusion about what we’re supposed to do, and when, and which direction we’re supposed to go.
This confusion even extends to our faith. We wonder: When am I supposed to pray, and when am I supposed to take action on my faith?
Psalm 34:1 says, "I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth."
When we get the Word deep in our hearts, we can have an answer to our personal questions. This sweet psalm tells us that we are to always remember the great gifts the Father God bestows on us. His greatness is ever before us and in this way, we can worship Him all the time, no matter what we’re doing.
Learn to bless the Lord and praise Him as you do your job, as you fellowship with others, and even as you engage with people who don’t believe what you believe. They need to see the love of Christ shining through you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we bless you and praise you with our words. Thank you, Father, for never ever forgetting us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Have you ever thought much about grace? We hear the word, but the concept itself might be a little elusive. That might be because it’s hard for humans to understand and embrace.
Grace means simply that someone gives you something with no strings attached. Just for your good.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
The Bible tells a simple story, really. Mankind sinned and brought evil into the world. God made everything, so He has the right to set the rules. And in His system, sin cannot be tolerated. So He made a way for us to be reconciled to Him, through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Often, we try to do things to help life along. We plan, plot, and come up with programs. Our own ideas seem like the right thing to do.
But God’s way is always the right thing to do. Setting aside our own ego is key to finding peace in Christ. We literally don’t have to do anything for it.
We accept it in faith.
That is the gift of God.
Let’s pray. Lord, in your love for us, you make our path simple. Not always easy, but simple. Thank you for the gift of eternal life. Amen.
How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request.
Roaming, travel, wandering…all have been part of the human psyche since the beginning. Because we all have that God-shaped hole in us, needing to be filled with Him, we search.
Some find God, some don’t.
The sense of aimlessness and lack of purpose haunts some. We think of the classic novel by Jack Kerouac, On the Road, which is the story of two characters traveling the country. At first the lure of freedom is fun to think about, but the truth is, if people don’t fill that God-shaped hole with God, despair can set in.
We are left rootless in the worst possible way.
Colossians 2:6–7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Wherever you put down your physical roots, your spiritual roots are at least as important. In Christ, we are no longer wandering and discouraged. In Him, we live and move and have our being.
If you feel that you’re not anchored to anything, pour out your heart to Jesus. He will keep you close.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are always in fresh supply. We thank you that you plant us in good soil and hold fast to us even when we wander. Amen.
Spring is the season of new life. As we finish up our series on the Psalms, we come to the most famous one of all.
Psalm 23:1–2 says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.”
This psalm contains some of the most famous words ever written. It has everything: beautiful language, a man’s raw honest heart for God, and a universal theme of love that God has for all people.
It echoes in the universe.
Think of the picture that God is painting here for us.
We are bone-weary, but He has actually made a place for us to rest in a garden. We hear the flowing water. We are refreshed inside and out.
And He is with us.
Do yourself a favor this spring. Memorize every line of the 23rd Psalm. Put it in your heart so that when you are in that dark valley, you will remember that the one true God loves you absolutely and completely.
Goodness and mercy follow you. Close your eyes and sit in the cool grass.
He is with you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the Great Shepherd who provides a sanctuary for us. Thank you, thank you for making a place of safety for us as we go through life. Amen.
One of the things that set God apart from all others is His ability to tell us what is going to happen. We read about this in Isaiah 46, where He says only He knows the end from the beginning.
An amazing example of this is found in Psalm 22, and it’s almost surprising how many people are not aware of it.
Psalm 22:11 says, “Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.”
If you read the entire chapter carefully, you begin to realize that this is a conversation that Jesus has on the cross.
This psalm was written a thousand years before that world-changing event!
It describes a man being mocked on the cross. A man who is so thirsty his mouth feels like a piece of dry pottery. He even mentions that his tormentors are casting lots for his clothes. All these things are described in the New Testament, and even some of the language Jesus used on the cross is seen here for the first time.
God is in charge of all things, all the time. Including your situation. He raised Jesus from the dead, and He will provide life eternal for you if you call on Him.
He knows the end from the beginning.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know all things. No one else does. That alone should give us confidence that you will be with us always. Amen.
From the time he was a young shepherd in the wilderness, David had a deep relationship with God. He escaped enough dangerous situations to know that God was always with Him, and was his deliverer.
Psalm 91:1–2 says, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
This psalm is famous for its descriptive language. We can see a picture of this in our minds. And the specific things listed in this passage are very personal for each of us.
We are not to fear.
When we call on God, He hears us.
His angels watch over us.
One of the most beautiful images in the Bible is found in this psalm, as God, like a strong eagle, covers us with his wings so that we are protected.
Remember the words of Psalm 91 and call on Him day or night.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your protection for us is just one of the things that separate you from anyone or anything else. We are grateful for your wings that draw us near and cover us. Amen.
Nothing is more basic to life than creation itself. The Bible tells us that God alone has the power to truly create, and the beauty of language in Psalm 139 explains this fully. Some believe the psalmist was writing in part about the creation of Adam.
Psalm 139:1–3 says, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”
The writer marvels at the ways in which God understands each of us intimately, and is present everywhere
Are you aware that God loves you with a supernatural love? He created you to be a singular presence in the world…what we call “unique.” You might feel sometimes that you are worthless, or that no one cares.
Not so.
The Creator of the Universe, in that vast space, took time to make only one of you. You are precious to Him and you should never forget it, even when things look depressing.
God sees you when you sit in that chair and when you get up. He knows what you’re thinking and what’s in your heart.
You are on His mind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s comforting knowing that you are with us in each moment of our day. Help us to live in that moment. Amen.
One of the greatest gifts God has given us is the collection of poetic works and songs known as “Psalms,” originally written as music for worship, especially in the Temple in Jerusalem.
Today we celebrate them as prayers for the most part, and they give us a beautiful picture of who God is.
Psalm 1:6 says, “For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.”
Traditional authorship is assigned mostly to King David, who loved to worship God with music and even dancing. His heart was open to God, and this inner life could be seen by anyone; this earthly king worshipped the King of kings.
In this introductory psalm, we read about the contrast between those who love God and those who don’t. And we are encouraged to “meditate” on His Word every day.
Our God is the great God, and loves each of us more than we can even imagine.
That love is a song in your heart.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your love for us is eternal and we are so blessed to receive it, as David did, all the days of our lives. Amen.
Did you know that “Joy to the World” was not written as a Christmas carol? In its original form, it had nothing to do with Christmas. It wasn’t even written to be a song.
Isaac Watts was one of the great hymn writers in church history, and nothing shows that better than the fact that he wrote one of his most famous hymns entirely by accident. In 1719, Watts published a book of poems in which each poem was based on a psalm.
One of those poems was an adaptation of Psalm 98, which Watts interpreted as a celebration of Jesus’ role as King of both His church and the whole world. More than a century later, the second half of this poem was slightly adapted and set to music to give us what has become one of the most famous of all Christmas carols:
Joy to the world, the Lord is come
Let earth receive her King
Let every heart prepare Him room
And Heaven and nature sing
Instead of celebrating the birth of Christ, like most hymns, this carol is all about the triumphant return of Christ. Ponder that as you sing along at home, in the car, or the pew at church.
Christmas is so much more than Jesus’ birthday — it’s the recognition by believers that Jesus was born, died on the cross for our sins, rose again...and He will return someday to take us home to Heaven!
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord Jesus, today we celebrate your birthday! We picture you with your earthly mother and father, Mary and Joseph, and celebrate your birth. Thank you for renewing our joy and reminding us you are truly our King of Kings for all time, and you will return to take us home with you. Amen.
202 years ago, “Silent Night” was first heard by villagers attending Christmas Eve mass in St. Nicholas Church in Oberndorf, Austria. Joseph Mohr, the young priest who wrote the lyrics, played the guitar and sang along with Franz Gruber, the choir director who had written the melody.
How did this simple tune, with its quiet words of comfort, become a beloved hymn of peace throughout the world?
An organ builder and repairman working at the church took a copy of the six-verse song to his home village. There, it was picked up and spread by two families of traveling folk singers, who performed around northern Europe.
The composition evolved and was eventually translated into over 300 languages. It was sung in churches, in town squares, even on the battlefield during World War I. During a temporary truce on Christmas Eve, soldiers sang carols from home, including "Silent Night." Known around the world by the wartime Christmas of 1914, the song was sung simultaneously across the trenches in French, German, and English.
Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight!
Glories stream from heaven afar;
Heavenly hosts sing Al-le-lu-ia!
Christ the Savior is born!
Christ the Savior is born!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for inspiring us to share the Gospel of peace with our neighbors across the street, and around the world. The miracle of Jesus’ birth is a story worth telling again and again, and we ask you to give us the opportunity, and the words, to share the Good News. Amen.
Charles Wesley, an English Methodist leader in the 1700s, wrote more than 6,000 hymns – more than any other male writer.
His goal was to teach the poor and illiterate sound doctrine. God used the writing talents of Charles Wesley to bring the Good News to people in a memorable way; even those who couldn’t read, could hear and understand a beautiful song, and even sing along.
Think about the songs you hear on the radio or online during the month of December. So many of the songs Americans enjoy listening to and singing aloud this time of year are praise-filled anthems celebrating our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ — and they may not even know it!
Hark! the herald angels sing
Glory to the new-born King!
Peace on earth and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled!
Joyful, all ye nations, rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With the angelic host proclaim
Christ is born in Bethlehem!
Hark! the herald angels sing
Glory to the new-born King!
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we give you the glory for reconciling our sin through the birth, death on the cross, and resurrection of your son, Jesus. May our hearts join together in peace as we sing and shout with joy over the gift of your son. Amen.
Phillips Brooks was the minister of Holy Trinity Church in Philadelphia and visited Bethlehem in December of 1865.
When Pastor Brooks traveled to the Holy Land, the journey included a horseback ride from Jerusalem to Bethlehem on Christmas Eve. Back then, it truly was a small village, far removed from the bustling city it would later become. By nightfall he was in the field where, according to tradition, the shepherds heard the angelic announcement. Then he attended the Christmas Eve service at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem.
Years later, the pastor recalled that first visit to the place of Jesus’ birth. “I remember especially on Christmas Eve, when I was standing in the old church in Bethlehem, close to the spot where Jesus was born, when the whole church was ringing hour after hour with the splendid hymns of praise to God, how again and again it seemed as if I could hear voices I knew well, telling each other of the ‘wonderful night’ of the Savior’s birth.”
He wrote a poem about his experience, asking the church organist to set it to music for the children’s choir to sing at Christmas time.
O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting Light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord, what a gift we were given long ago in the form of baby Jesus. The birth of our Savior in a small town stable changed everything, and we are so grateful for His legacy of hope. Help us to focus on the true reason for this season of celebration. Amen.
O Holy Night is a well-known Christmas carol that began as a French poem celebrating the opening of a new church. The beloved song we know today was translated into English by John Sullivan Dwight, an American minister and abolitionist, in 1855.
This poignant carol reflects on the birth of Jesus as humanity's redemption.
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining
It is the night of our dear Savior's birth
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
'Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn
A thrill of hope...what a poignant, moving way to describe the feeling in our hearts as we approach the date we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Right now, you may be feeling a weariness you haven’t experienced before. Concerns about the health and well-being of your family, and worldly troubles beyond your control, maybe weighing heavily on your heart this year.
We invite you to join us as we approach Christmas Day in rejoicing in the Lord. A new and glorious morning is on the way, and our hope is still, and always, in Jesus.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we confess this year has made us weary. We pine for your holy presence, and we rejoice in your gift of Jesus! Be present among us, Lord. Bring peace to the chaos of this world and renew our hope for the coming year. We ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.
In a world full of man-made gods and goddesses, the Creator God stands alone. He is a King of the first order, and everything was made by Him. His majesty and power are awesome.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Usually, when people are in the presence of royalty, they get nervous. Kings and queens make us uneasy, and we obsess about how we approach them.
Not so with our great God. Yes, He is all-powerful, and the Bible does describe Him sometimes as fiery, but He also loves us with true love and compassion. It is a privilege to worship Him, and acknowledge Him for who He truly is.
Not all people and nations recognize God, of course. But the day is coming when they will. On that day, He will remember His people.
All hail our King!
Let’s pray. Lord, you alone are worthy of praise, and we do praise your Holy Name. Amen.
Joseph was a hardworking tradesman who God hand-picked from all the men in the world to be the earthly father of His own Son, Jesus Christ. What an honor! And in some ways, what an incredibly challenging task.
Joseph wasn’t a king, a politician, or a recognized leader of any kind when he was betrothed to a young woman named Mary. A simple carpenter, he was also a man of compassion. When he learned Mary was pregnant and knew the child could not be his, he intended to divorce her quietly and send her back to her family — but God had other plans.
Matthew 1:20-21 says, “An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’”
Joseph worked diligently to protect his wife Mary and their baby, then saw Jesus' education and needs as he was growing up. In a time when blended families were not the norm, Joseph embraced Jesus, providing for him, loving him, and teaching him the valuable skills of the carpentry trade. There was no parenting guidebook for raising God’s Son — so together, Joseph and Mary leaned into prayer, and did everything they could to raise Jesus well, and with love.
The Bible calls Joseph a righteous man, and Jesus must have loved his guardian for his quiet strength, honesty, and kindness. How God’s heart must have broken to send His Son into a fallen world, and how carefully he must have chosen the man who would raise him here on earth.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Just as Joseph was loyal to His Son, we have an opportunity to be loyal to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, too.
Joseph’s obedience in the face of unexpected circumstances is an example of what it means to truly trust and follow God — even when the path takes a turn.
From Joseph, Jesus’ father here on earth, we learn that...
God honors men of integrity and rewards them with his trust.
Mercy always wins.
We may face humiliation in this life when we seek to obey God, but we can gain a close relationship with Him.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, every family’s story is unique. Thank you for the blessing of families as unique as a fingerprint, and for calling strong men to the task of providing for and leading them. Amen.
The story of the Prodigal Son is one we can all relate to. The Bible tells the story of a brash young man who leaves his home after asking for his inheritance. His loving father complies and let’s just say the son learns some valuable lessons on his travels.
Eventually he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family.
It is really a story of Jesus and us.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
We screw up sometimes. Maybe it’s so bad we can’t see a way back.
That’s when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn’t as concerned with where we’ve been as He is where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real ointment for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you’ve screwed up too much, or fallen too far, put that out of your mind and simply tell Jesus you need Him.
Let’s pray. Lord, your willingness to welcome us back to fellowship is something to behold. We are grateful for your grace. Amen.
How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request.
In thinking about different kinds of love, it’s a beautiful thing to realize that God has placed certain people in our lives for specific reasons.
Friendship is one of His great gifts to us, all-time.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Do you have someone in your life that is not blood-related, but it sure feels like it? In fact, often it feels like a closer relation than biological family!
Notice what the writer of Proverbs tells us: A friend does two things, loves us no matter what, and God set a time for them to stick with us when we need it the very most.
Think about that! That guy you met in third grade will impact the rest of your life. The girl who brought you a coffee your first day on a new job was meant to do that.
As we think about all this and marvel at God’s plans, don’t forget to turn it around and think about how we can be that brother or sister to someone in your life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you so much for the friends you bring to us. Help us be worthy of such special love. Amen.
We “love” all sorts of things. We love a friend’s new hairdo. We love pistachio ice cream and travel to exotic places.
Many times, the word itself loses all real meaning. It’s like homemade chicken soup without the chicken and without the soup.
1 John 3:16–18 “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.”
The Divine Word helps us yet again. Here we learn that true love means doing for others. Get involved. Don’t just say you love your community. Show the community your love.
Cleanup projects, running errands for a shut-in, taking your niece to the movies because her mother is working two jobs…you know what to do. You know the opportunities.
Think you love those around you? Show them.
Let’s pray.
Lord, there is so much good to do in the world! Please show us opportunities every day, so that we put action to our words. Amen.
God’s Word is a collection of individual books about the history of the world including poetry, worship songs, letters, and the beginnings of the Church.
But it’s also all about Jesus!
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Jesus, who came to our world as God in the flesh, is actually the Creator of everything that exists. Most amazing, He is today alive. He was crucified and laid in a tomb 2,000 years ago, but rose again and lives to be the King of our lives.
As the Word, He is aware of literally everything, including our thoughts. He hears the cry of your heart. He knows when you are depressed. He knows your thoughts and how you feel about things.
If He does all that, why not talk to Him today? Tell Jesus how you feel. His story isn’t just words on a page. He is the Living Word.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercy and grace for us are incredible! We are grateful that you sent Jesus to defeat evil and death. Amen.
The world is full of interesting ancient books. The Indian Vedas, the Egyptian Book of the Dead, even ancient clay tablets from Sumeria.
In the Bible though, we read that God’s Word is alive, not dead.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Active.
That’s a very interesting way to describe a book. It sits on a shelf, or stares back at us from our phones. The writer of Hebrews says that the Word of God is for all people in all times and places. And while we might not like the idea that it can see into our hearts and minds, it is part of God’s plan for our benefit. It brings freedom and peace.
Do you need those today? Then try reading the Living Word!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you made us and know everything about us. Nothing is hidden from you, just as your Word tells us. Thank you for loving us, for that ultimate intimate relationship. Amen.
Did you know God’s Word is indestructible?
Many ancient books have been lost to history. Others sit still buried under the sands of the Middle East. But after thousands of years, the Bible is more widely read than ever.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
There’s an interesting story in the Old Testament book of Jeremiah. We are told that the wicked king of Judah didn’t like the Word given by God to the prophet, so he threw it in the fire! But God simply had Jeremiah do it again, and today we have the story recorded in our Bibles.
Whenever men decide they want to get rid of the Bible, whether in Nazi Germany or today in countries where dictators hurt their own people, God’s Word survives, and finds its way into the hands of more people.
A God who can do that is the true God, and the only One worthy of worship!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word is something we can’t get away from, even when we are rebellious. Thank you for preserving your Word so that we all have access to it. Amen.
The Bible.
Audaciously, it’s been called the foundation of our civilization, a sacred book, even our guide for life.
And actually, it’s more than that.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
From ancient times, God decided that He would communicate with humans through language, the written word. He wanted us to have our history and His instructions for living in a form that we wouldn’t forget or lose.
In effect, the Bible is like a mirror we can hold up and look into. Do we see a reflection of Christ? Have we spent time with God in prayer today? Are we helping share the Gospel in our daily walk?
The Word of God is eternal. We can hold it in our hands, and read it and apply it to our lives.
Do yourself a favor and read some of it today! We’re doing some of that together right now, but go spend some time in the Word today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us your thoughts, and for helping us know you better through your Word.
It’s in Jesus’ name we pray, amen.
God’s Word is a collection of individual books about the history of the world including poetry, worship songs, letters, and the beginnings of the Church.
But it’s also all about Jesus!
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Jesus, who came to our world as God in the flesh, is actually the Creator of everything that exists. Most amazing, He is today alive. He was crucified and laid in a tomb 2,000 years ago, but rose again and lives to be the King of our lives.
As the Word, He is aware of literally everything, including our thoughts. He hears the cry of your heart. He knows when you are depressed. He knows your thoughts and how you feel about things.
If He does all that, why not talk to Him today? Tell Jesus how you feel. His story isn’t just words on a page. He is the Living Word.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercy and grace for us are incredible! We are grateful that you sent Jesus to defeat evil and death. Amen.
Many modern phrases have their origins in the Bible. A couple that come to mind are, “She’s worth her salt,” or, “He is the salt of the earth.” They remind us of what Scripture says when using salt as an analogy.
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
Tasting our favorite salty foods is a great sensory experience. Think of French fries, pretzels, or popcorn. Foods that are plain jane without salt are out of this world with a dash of our favorite seasoning. Too much salt can be unhealthy, but even here the biblical analogy helps us.
We are to share Christ with the world in such a way that the story of His plan for us becomes something that people want to know more about. Likewise, we don’t have to lay it on so thick it is overwhelming. Over-using our messaging just turns people off, and can feel like manipulation instead of an open invitation.
We are to do as Christ Himself instructed us: take His story to the ends of the earth.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for that salty story of Jesus! Help us to use it as spiritual food that builds your eternal Kingdom. Amen.
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If a product or idea is worth promoting, it must be seen by the “end-user,” to borrow a marketing term. There is so much competition in business today…it is pointless to have a store unless people know you’re open for business.
Thousands of businesses open and close every year. It’s a shame, but too often practical planning isn’t a big enough part of the picture. The Lord understands the importance of planning, and the need to plan ahead applies to how we share Him with others, too.
Matthew 5 verses 13-16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
You have the greatest story ever told right in the palm of your hand! God has provided it to you, and the only thing He requires of us is that we share it. But you can’t do that if fear, lack of planning, or hesitancy keep it from public view. Resolve now, today, to make your story of redemption and salvation available to others.
Lives are depending on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a boldness and focus when sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with a hurting world. Amen.
Do you want to be salt and light and inspire others with messages of faith, hope, and freedom in Christ? Share Jesus on a T-shirt! We call that T-shirt evangelism, and you can learn more about our products at Kerusso.com. That’s K-E-R-U-S-S-O dot com.
During the Civil War, Southern states relied on salt perhaps even more than their Northern counterparts. The commodity preserved various foods—such as fish—and allowed more people to eat and even keep food supplied for a rainy day.
As the Union troops began capturing Confederate saltworks, the food supplies there literally began drying up. It was one of the things that led to the end of the war, as food supplies literally not only lost their taste, but their preservative qualities. Things got so bad in the last 18 months of the war that some people were reduced to eating tree roots and other non-food vegetation. Not exactly an appetizing meal!
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
As ambassadors for Christ, we must make sure that our salt does not lose its effectiveness. We must stay alert, so the enemy doesn’t steal the zest which makes our boldness in sharing Christ effective. Doing so requires vigilance and much prayer, consistently.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we must be on guard against the enemy, who wants to keep us from sharing your Good News. Help us stay alert at all times, so that our witness endures. Amen.
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Table salt today is so common, it becomes another thing we take for granted. You go to the store, pick a cylinder or jar of salt off the shelf, then go home. You don’t even think about it.
Now, consider that 1,000 and more years ago, if a person wanted to use salt on his dinner, this required some prior work. A lot of work! The Romans boiled seawater in huge, lead-lined pans. So valuable was salt in the Roman Empire, it was used as currency! Mainly, it was used as a critical food preservative.
Matthew 5 verses 13-16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
God tells us we are to be the instrument that preserves and makes known the Gospel, and salt is the analogy.
Let us say to our friends, loved ones, and even strangers: Taste, and see that the Lord’s promises are good!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to be salt and light for your Word in this world. Amen.
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The Dead Sea, bordering the countries of Israel and Jordan, is also located at the lowest point on Earth. The landscape is so barren, it looks like a moonscape. Not exactly a place for a vacation or rest stop.
And yet…did you know that one of the valuable things from that area is the vast amount of salt that rings this body of water? Besides the salt content, the minerals in the Dead Sea are valuable for everything from medicines to cosmetics. What initially looks like a terrible place is actually quite rich! In fact, resorts have popped up in the area.
Additionally, this salty sea is one body of water that won’t let you sink! Kind of like a Savior we know.
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
Sometimes people think the Gospel is difficult to present. It can be thought of as unattractive or cumbersome; the Bible tells us as much.
And yet, it has infinite value to us, and preserves life! Remember that the next time you hesitate to share Christ with someone.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us change our perspective when it comes to the great privilege we have in sharing the Good News about Jesus. Amen.
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Does your life feel out of control? Are you experiencing that common feeling of weaving down a busy highway, about to crash?
It’s a metaphor for life that most internalize at some point. All of a sudden, what you were sure of isn’t there anymore. You might as well be behind the wheel of a fast car that’s heading into oncoming traffic.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
This isn’t some nice little bit of wisdom someone put on a greeting card. This is the very Word of God. It has sustained civilization for thousands of years. It’s a proven method for getting your life back under control.
It doesn’t work though unless you can see Jesus taking the wheel. Let him get you to safety and peace.
He’s ready and waiting to take all your worries and set you on a smooth and straight path.
Let’s pray.
Lord, feeling out of control is not something we want to have anymore. Please take over and guide us in your perfect ways. Amen.
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You’ve heard that every good thing comes from God, right? Of course, it’s true. He is our example, both of how to live and how to react to others. This week we’re talking about practicing gratitude, and as usual, God shows us the way.
Psalm 107:1 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
Often, we can become disappointed if we don’t get everything, we think we should have. But that’s a dead-end when it comes to true happiness and peace. And those are things we all really crave.
The ultimate gratitude comes from the Lord Himself. We learn in Psalm 149 that “the Lord delights in His people.” He first loved us, and that love flows down and through us. Truly, believers should be the most grateful people on the planet, because we know what God has given to us through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Honestly, the Christian should go through each day so happy he or she can barely stand it. God has given us what we need, much of what we want, and He has already created a future for us that is so wonderful, humans can’t even imagine it!
Remember, God is the source of gratitude. He shows us how it’s done because He knows us completely. Remember as we go along with this topic that practicing gratitude is a huge key to finding peace.
Let’s pray. Lord, your goodness overwhelms us. Thank you for giving to us just because. We love you. Amen.
The lack of gratitude in society can be contagious. Kind of like a negative “Pay it forward.”
How did we get to this place? Are we too prideful to thank each other, or even to thank God? Too busy? Too self-absorbed?
As believers, we know life is a rich blessing from God.
The clearest path to becoming a person of gratitude is to choose it. If we don’t choose gratitude, we choose ingratitude.
Psalm 107:1 says, “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”
Yes, we are busy. Yes, life gets us down in legitimate ways. But research proves being intentional about gratitude on a consistent basis, can bring positive benefits to almost every area of our lives.
Realizing we’re too negative is a great first step. Keep going by actively counting and considering your blessings each day. Before long, you’ll be amazed how little you think about what you don’t have. You’ll be too busy enjoying what you have!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you never leave us. And along the way, you bless us with big and small acts of kindness and mercy. Thank you for the grace in our lives! Amen.
Do you ever feel like life is passing you by, or worse – running right over the top of you?
When we focus on unpleasant circumstances or people, life can really bring us down. This perspective is a downward spiral, and not a place we want to dwell.
Author John Kralik was there, once. A long hike one day led him to an emotional crossroads; there he decided to devote the rest of his life to being thankful.
His life changed dramatically.
John began to write thank you notes to everyone he could think of. Not emails or texts, either. Taking the time to send a hand-written note really connected with the people. Pretty soon he was so aware of his blessings, there was no room for depression.
Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”
Consistently thanking others will enrich them, and you. Try it and see!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word is a love letter to us, and our gratitude to you is our thank you note. Help us to spread your Good News to all we come in contact with. Amen.
Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday – it’s an attitude we can choose to fill our hearts with every day.
The Bible shares many examples of gratitude in the midst of challenging circumstances.
Imagine Mary, a young Galilean girl given the news that she was to be the mother of the Messiah? She didn’t panic or protest. Instead, she embraced the news and nurtured the One who would bring healing to the whole world.
The story in Luke 17 tells us that of the 10 lepers who were healed, only one returned to thank Jesus.
Luke 17:15–16 says, “One of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned with a loud voice glorifying God, and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks.”
Whether He was blessing food given to thousands by a miracle, or giving thanks at the Last Supper, Jesus modeled an attitude of gratitude for us; knowing His death was imminent, Jesus still thanked His Heavenly Father.
What can you find in your own life to be thankful for this week?
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the marvelous gifts you give us on a daily basis. Help us be mindful of this always. Amen.
Keeping things simple is usually the best path forward. For Christians, that means following Christ’s lead in everything.
This includes sharing and standing for our faith.
The Bible is full of examples of how Jesus did this. Occasionally he got mad, as when he threw out the moneychangers. Other times he just quietly sat and taught what His Father had shown Him.
This is our model. When you share Christ with someone and that person believes, you have been given the privilege of watching the most important moment in his or her life. Ever. To get to this moment, it will require you to be knowledgeable about your faith, balanced enough to be gentle in sharing, and sometimes edgy enough to pushback when someone mocks our Lord.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
God gave us a job to do, and one of his prophets, Jude, told us to be ready to defend the Gospel. This we are happy to do.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your wisdom is enough for us. We are always ready to defend the Good News.
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Have you ever tried to follow God in a half-hearted way? You know what that means. You like the idea of God, but His perfect will for our lives also can feel restrictive.
That’s the moment you are walking along the highway of life completely alone.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Notice the precise language in these beautiful verses. We are to trust Him with all of our heart. Don’t take your eyes off Him and follow your own choices. Be upfront that He is your peace. It’s then He picks you up, protects you, and carries you home.
Today is the day you’re thinking about all this. You’ve messed up. You’ve messed up in the most spectacular and disheartening way.
And it is exactly at this moment that God is ready to do the greatest miracle in your life. Tell him you’ve screwed up and have no idea where to turn.
There—you’re learning to completely trust Him. Commit your life to Him, and be consistent about it from now on.
Remember today: the turning point to an awesome future!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to reject our own flawed wisdom and rely totally on yours. Amen.
The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci is widely looked upon as the most famous painting in the world.
By some historical estimates, the Mona Lisa took as many as 16 years to finish! Capturing Mona Lisa’s famous smile on a poplar plank was no hack job; Leonardo accepted a commission for the work in the year 1503, and completed his masterpiece around the time of his death in 1519. Clearly, this level of artistic achievement takes time.
When you hear the word “masterpiece,” what do you think of?
A famous painting? A beautiful building? Your child’s latest artwork?
What about a giant sequoia tree? A symphony? A pink flamingo? The intricate, miraculous design of the human heart?
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Before you were even born, God knew you, and had a plan for your life. He created you for a purpose, and He considers you one of his personal works of art. You are a living, breathing miracle capable of wonderful things — God’s own masterpiece.
Let’s pray.
God, we thank you and praise you that in all of creation, you have chosen to make us in your image, and to fashion us as a masterpiece — a work of art designed with care. Help us to be worthy of your effort. Amen.
Life can be overwhelming sometimes, right? A huge wave of despair can come out of nowhere and push us toward disaster.
Anita’s life was like that, growing up in Hong Kong where revolutionary movements brought violence and loss of hope. She couldn’t see how the pieces of her life could be put together. She would ask herself, “How do you make peace with a potential that is frustrated?
That happens to be our theme this week, having it “All Together.”
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Over time, Anita saw that God had always been shaping her to find her calling in Christ. She did that, and today operates a ministry that helps women see that they are daughters of the Living God! Truly, Anita didn’t always have it together, but her life is living proof that God puts us back together for His purposes!
Let’s pray. Lord, someone listening needs a dramatic move from you in her life. Please bring your peace and comfort today. Amen.
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Micah had a tough job. The prophet that lived in the time of Isaiah warned the people in the land at the time that God was not pleased with their behavior.
He was not exactly a popular guy! He told them that the rituals they performed did not bring them closer to God.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
In Micah’s time, foreign enemies did a lot of damage, but the message the prophet brought was that the Savior was coming one day. It was a message that resonates in our own day.
Tough times are not fun. Sometimes it feels like life is crushing us.
But Jesus is coming! He is with you in this life and the life to come. The prophets were sure of it. We can be, too!
Let’s pray. Lord, your will is where we want to be. Help us stay in line with your best outcomes for us. Amen.
Do you get tired of being alone or afraid? Have you had enough of feeling like you can’t take any more stress? If you’re honest with yourself, there are times when you think you’re just going to lose it.
The cares of this world can be like that. You stress about not having enough money each month just to pay your bills. You can’t sleep at night because your mind is racing, striving to create a workable plan for every possible scenario.
And no one can actually do that successfully.
So what do you do?
Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.”
God—who has proven Himself billions of times, literally—tells us exactly what we need to do. It’s so simple.
Give your cares to God. You can’t take any more stress. Your body and mind can’t sustain it. Truthfully, that realization opens you up to a whole new way of looking at things.
Give your cares to God. Feel that stress dissipate. Have the best nights’ sleep tonight you’ve had in ages.
He won’t let you fall.
Let’s pray. Lord, your mercy and grace are so easy for us. We can cry out to you and give you our tired minds and hearts. Thank you for loving us no matter what. Amen.
In a world so filled with war and suffering and human conflict, it’s pretty hard to focus on just what can be done. And sadly, we can fall into a bad habit of just looking for revenge. This revenge can almost seem good, since we want bad characters brought to justice.
But God has a better way.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Do you get it? In Scripture we are taught that revenge belongs to God.
Our task is to keep our focus on what He has called us to do. According to Micah the prophet, we are to do justice in all situations, love people who are not easy to love, and then maintain a quiet spirit.
In this way, anger and rage at systems doesn’t consume us! Jesus, our Captain in life, is always there to walk along the way with us. He is our focus.
This is all He requires of us.
Let’s pray. Lord, help us know what we need to focus on, and leave the rest to You. You are our rest! Amen.
Are you struggling right now? Are you listening to this while gripping the steering wheel, wondering how you’re going to go on? You have so many burdens!
First Thessalonians 5:23 says, “May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit, soul, and body—and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ.”
He has a purpose for you; He really does. God wants to use you for things no one else can do. And He wants you to do it while at peace. Maybe your biggest dream died a really spectacular death, like, one that everyone saw and still talks about.
That doesn’t matter now. The only thing that matters is that you call on Jesus to comfort you and show you the way. Ask Him to do that right now, right where you are.
He wants you to be whole and healthy. And if you ask Him also to help you live a holy life, He will cleanse your spirit, leaving you squeaky clean inside and out.
This is very personal. You might feel that you don’t have anyone to turn to. That’s a lie from the enemy. Your savior and your champion says otherwise.
Turn to Him right now.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for making us completely whole, complete people, capable of sharing the Good News with everyone we come into contact with. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Humans often get things backwards, to the point of being comical.
Case in point, the little story in the book of Jonah, about the plant God provided for the prophet’s shade.
You’ve heard about Jonah and the great fish, of course. As a prophet and evangelist, God had sent him there to preach and when the people repented…Jonah was mad!
He sat looking over the city after God had spared it and because it was hot, God provided a plant that grew up to provide relief from the sun for Jonah. But then the plant withered and died and the heat was so intense, Jonah wished himself dead.
But in that, God had a lesson for him. And for us.
Colossians 2:6-7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
We don’t always have the compassion for people that we should. Our bitterness takes root. We should learn instead to plant healthy roots of love and compassion for all people.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are too often like Jonah. Help us to always remember that you have been merciful to us, and so we pray your mercies for everyone else. Amen.
You’ve heard the joke about family gatherings, haven’t you?
If you weren’t related to these people, you’d never see them.
What a horrible punchline, really.
1 Corinthians 13:7 says, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
God’s world has purpose in everything. Everything.
He gave you a specific family for specific reasons. It’s super easy to be nice to people we aren’t around very much. Short-term “love” is pretty common. It’s when we get in close quarters with long-term relationships that our character really comes out.
Sure, some family members are not nice people. There are still ways to manage that, taking our cues from Scripture.
Love, especially family style, is for the long haul. That beautifully worded verse from 1 Corinthians says it all. We bear one another’s burdens, and we hope for the best.
And we endure any obstacle that blocks us from truly loving the family God gifted us with.
No joke.
Let’s pray.
Lord, remind us daily of the unique gift our families are for us. Help us look for ways to enhance these special communities you’ve placed us in. Amen.
One of the things that sets God apart from all others is His ability to tell us what is going to happen. We read about this in Isaiah 46, where He says only He knows the end from the beginning.
An amazing example of this is found in Psalm 22, and it’s almost surprising how many people are not aware of it.
Psalm 22:11 says, “Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.”
If you read the entire chapter carefully, you begin to realize that this is a conversation that Jesus has on the cross.
But this psalm was written a thousand years before that world-changing event!
It describes a man being mocked on the cross. A man who is so thirsty his mouth feels like a piece of dry pottery. He even mentions that his tormentors are casting lots for his clothes. All these things are described in the New Testament, and even some of the language Jesus used on the cross is seen here for the first time.
God is in charge of all things, all the time. Including your situation. He raised Jesus from the dead, and He will provide life eternal for you if you call on Him.
He knows the end from the beginning.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know all things. No one else does. That alone should give us confidence that you will be with us always. Amen.
As humans, we compartmentalize, don’t we? By that we mean, it is in our nature to rank priorities, then even lose sight of some of them. This can often lead us to confusion about which direction we’re supposed to go.
This confusion even can extend to faith itself. We wonder, When am I supposed to pray, and when am I supposed to act on faith?
Psalm 34:1 says, "I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth."
When we get the Word deep in our hearts, we always have a ready answer for our personal questions. This sweet psalm tells us that we are to always remember the great gifts Father God bestows on us. His greatness is ever before us and in this way, we can worship Him all the time, no matter what we are doing.
Learn to bless the Lord and praise Him as you do your job, as you fellowship with others, even as you engage with people who don’t believe as you do. They need to see the love of Christ shining through you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we bless you and praise you with our words. Thank you, Father, for never ever forgetting us. Amen.
Life is a process. We know that if we’ve lived very long at all. And this week, we’re talking about the process of trusting God.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Could Jesus meet our needs by just giving us something instantly? Of course. He made everything! And sometimes He does that; the miracles he performed that are recorded in the New Testament tell us that he often instantly met a person’s need.
But He doesn’t always work that way. That’s because Jesus loves to teach us.
In the book of John, He is telling us the steps necessary to trust Him for provision. First, we ask. Then we learn to receive his good gifts. Finally, we feel real joy, because we know exactly where it came from.
This process is designed to teach us faith, and then to be genuinely appreciative to the Lord for meeting our needs. All through the Bible, we are told that He delights in helping us, in loving us through tough times. The older we get, the more we are able to look back and see that He and He alone brought us through.
There is usually no other explanation.
And that is called a miracle.
Let’s pray. Lord, we are dependent on you for everything, and we are blessed that you are our Source. Amen.
Even during times of calm and security, the honest truth is, there are very few examples of really strong and steady leaders.
It’s a given then that when times are scary, brave leaders that reassure us are really rare!
The Bible speaks of one such person.
Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua was an especially passionate and courageous leader. A born leader. God used him during a time the Israelites were ‘going all wobbly,’ as a political leader once said.
The Israelites had seen it all. A plague in Egypt. An army bearing down on them. Mass hunger. Homelessness for years.
But Joshua played it all with a chip on his shoulder. An edge of anger really that caused him to never be afraid. In his community, he was boss -- and everyone knew it. God made him that way.
You have a responsibility right now, in the face of a global pandemic without a predictable end date.
In your own community—your family at home, your church family, a group of scared co-workers—be a Joshua. Be strong and courageous. Set your feet so that your legs don’t go wobbly, and then tell your people that God has this.
He is with you, wherever this situation goes.
Let’s pray. Lord, Joshua is our human example of courage. Help us keep others safe and calm in the midst of crisis. Amen.
When Richard Winters stood in the doorway of a huge glider in the pre-dawn over Normandy, France, he thought about a lot of things. The young Army captain was preparing for the invasion of Europe, to free the continent from the Nazis.
He knew one thing first: he couldn’t survive on his own skill.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
A very disciplined soldier, Winters literally took these verses to heart. Each night after the invasion, he would pray and thank God for the good things in his life, and he only asked that he survive the next day. His prayer life and the calming effect of attending church in England during his training saw him through.
When battle came and chaos was all around him, Richard Winters stayed calm.
Are you calm? Do the stresses of life’s battles overwhelm you?
Stop relying on your own ideas and wisdom! Some of it is good and some of it is bad.
God’s wisdom is only good all the time. Ask Him for that wisdom in your life!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have to stay steady in this life. Please continue to remind us that you are in charge and that you will see us through. Amen.
We think of her as a genteel Southern lady, and she was that, for sure.
But Ruth Bell Graham was so much more. While her husband was away so much, preaching to the masses, she was preaching to her own little flock. The result was children who became adults, and in turn shared the Good News of Jesus with others.
Anne Graham Lotz and Franklin Graham didn’t just fall out of the sky!
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
In their little home in the mountains of North Carolina, while daddy was in Brussels, New York, and Sydney, Mother Ruth was faithful for years on end to impart godly wisdom to their children. Much iron was sharpened on cold winter nights and long summer days.
Theirs was a home that didn’t always have both parents available, but they thrived.
Use that as an example of how to bring up your own children. You’ll be happy forever that you did.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Your Word is good, and it shines a light on our path. Give us the strength to mentor our own children in your ways. Amen.
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Some of the greatest stories of believers down through time have involved those who really studied God’s Word. These people have gone before us to show us the way. From Charles Spurgeon to a missionary mother in China, daily study of the Word, and prayer, prepared them to mentor entire generations.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
We also read in Romans 10 that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. We have to do it, so that others know how. Remember, there is no substitute for spending time in God’s Word.
In order to properly train an apprentice, you need to obviously be prepared and adept. Anything less leads to weak faith, or no faith at all.
This is what the Great Commission, sharing the Gospel, has always been about. Duplicating disciples. Grounding your own faith in the Bible, then imparting that to others. That is the essence of true iron sharpening iron.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us about your work by daily reminding us to spend time with you in Your Word. Amen.
Have you had an experience in your life that has prepared you for helping others? Has life dealt you circumstances that speak to a situation in a younger person’s life?
If so, you might be ready to help in such a way that will bring honor and glory to God.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
The apostle Paul suffered much for his faith in Christ. Beyond a dramatic shipwreck, prison, beatings, and hunger were part of his daily routine.
Then, God sent Timothy in his path.
The younger man needed encouragement and instruction as the early Church grew. Paul stepped in to mentor him. He not only helped Timothy with practical church matters, but he encouraged him to stay strong in the Word, and to rely on God solely.
More than likely, you have a Timothy heading your way. Or maybe a Tina! Whoever it is, resolve in your heart to be everything they need you to be, and to model iron sharpening iron for them.
Stay sharp in the Word, so that your counsel is sound.
Keep on the lookout; Timothy is about to cross your path!
Let’s pray.
Lord, prepare me to be the person my own Timothy needs me to be, for as long as he (or she) needs. Amen.
Do you struggle with being humble, and yielding to God’s will? Most of us do. This extends to accepting an iron-sharpening-iron relationship He has set in our path.
Yet the benefits are so good for us.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
Make no mistake, God sets people in our path for a reason. That Bible teacher in your church might have words of wisdom for you from her rich and varied life. Be open to that.
If you are in fellowship with a mature, older believer, let him or her walk with you on your journey. Learn from them. Ask questions. Learn to be vulnerable.
The benefits and outcomes will be richer than you can imagine. This is especially true when someone points out areas you can do better in. Not fun, but that is the essence of iron sharpening iron.
And it’s good for you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us be open to the leading of your Holy Spirit when encountering someone who could mentor us. Amen.
The Bible is full of wonderful analogies. One of the best is found in Proverbs, which paints a picture of godly mentoring and accountability.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
The idea is that as pieces of iron are drawn against the other, each piece becomes sharper. A further application is made in Hebrews 4:12, which talks about Scripture as being a double-edged sword, and it is with His Word that we are to sharpen each other.
The goal is mutual accountability and imparting wisdom for living.
As author Michelle Lazurek has written: “As the body of Christ, we forget that part of our job is to sharpen other brothers and sisters in Christ so that the flame in their hearts, put there by the Holy Spirit, continues to burn.”
Although the “iron sharpens iron” analogy is often used to describe the relationship between men, the application is relevant for everyone who believes. Even at this moment, there are millions of women mentoring girls, sharpening their wisdom in the Lord!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given us wonderful relationships that help us grow. We thank you for this great gift. Amen.
The area surrounding Ein Gedi, near the Dead Sea, is bleak. Desert scenes and HOT temps! It isn’t a place you’d go just for fun.
It really wasn’t fun when David was hiding from King Saul. The guy who whipped a rock at Goliath’s head was already a legend among the people. Saul couldn’t stand that, and so he did what power-hungry leaders do: he decided to eliminate the competition. David hid from the King’s henchmen for a long time, eventually settling south of Jerusalem, in a bleak place.
Sitting there looking up at the stars in the night sky, he wrote some of the most famous words of all time, words that comfort us to this day.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
Ein Gedi is an oasis in the desert. Cool water flows from the cliffs into deep pools, and green plants hang from the rocks. It was here that David first understood just how far God’s mercy and grace go. It was here he felt the presence of the Lord in a powerful way. He fed David there, in the wilderness, even as the King’s men hunted him all around.
God treats us the same way. He loves us through the terror, and provides for us in times of hardship.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies follow us everywhere. We thank you for your provision, all the time. Amen.
In thinking about different kinds of love, it’s a beautiful thing to realize that God has placed certain people in our lives for specific reasons.
Friendship is one of His great gifts to us, all-time.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Do you have someone in your life that is not blood-related, but it sure feels like it? In fact, often it feels like a closer relation than biological family!
Notice what the writer of Proverbs tells us: A friend does two things, loves us no matter what, and God set a time for them to stick with us when we need it the very most.
Think about that! That guy you met in third grade will impact the rest of your life. The girl who brought you a coffee your first day on a new job was meant to do that.
As we think about all this and marvel at God’s plans, don’t forget to turn it around and think about how we can be that brother or sister to someone in your life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you so much for the friends you bring to us. Help us be worthy of such special love. Amen.
Watching little kids perform on stage at school or at church is the best, isn’t it? There are always a couple of shy violets, but many of them sing their hearts out, fidgeting with excitement and performing actions to accompany the songs with gusto.
If Grammy awards were doled out based on sheer enthusiasm, kids in elementary and Sunday School programs would win every year. They simply can’t contain the feelings in their hearts when it’s time to make a joyful noise.
Psalm 111:1 says, "Praise the LORD. I will extol the LORD with all my heart…”
The word “extol” means to praise enthusiastically; to go into raptures about, to rave about, to delight over, or to sing the praises of. Imagine if every time we thought about our great God, we fell into raptures of delight — the same way those boisterous kids do when they break into song. Now that would be something to see!
Let’s pray.
God, you are worthy of our gratitude, our admiration, and our praise. Thank you for every good thing in our lives, and remind us to bring every ounce of joy to our praise for you. Amen.
Most of us assume that if Jesus had a driver’s license, his listed name would be “Jesus Christ.”
That’s kind of funny, but as usual, our puny human perceptions can’t define Him and box Him in. The Bible tells us in fact that Jesus has many names, each a shining facet of Who He is.
He is called the Alpha and Omega—the beginning and the end. Elsewhere He is referred to as the Prince of Peace.
Romans 10:13 says, “For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’”
His names are a reminder to us that the Lord is everywhere, aware of everything, and equipped to handle any situation or challenge in our lives. From the image of a warrior king, to a counselor who listens to us, Jesus is able to meet all our needs.
Won’t you call on Him today?
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are wonderful to us, the perfect landing place for our souls. Thank you for that. Amen.
Few of us enjoy chaos. It’s just too...chaotic, right?
The human mind needs order and peace, yet we live in this messy world. Stuff is flying by all the time, and we duck.
Our relationships are a mess, and we have to schedule that root canal...while simultaneously making dinner and cleaning the house.
Is there a way out?
Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.”
It’s all perspective, my friend.
Yes, you might have a hundred things to do before 4 p.m. today, but remind yourself of this: sometimes we miss the best days of our lives because we don’t focus on the good. God brought order out of a vast chaos long ago, to create a world of beauty, and He did it because He loved us.
If He can handle that, can we handle our busy day of meetings and yes, even that root canal?
Let’s pray.
Lord, our lives get so busy we forget that you made order out of chaos. Help us to slow down our brains and hearts and learn to savor the moment. Amen.
Who is the most loyal person you’ve ever known? A parent? Spouse? Friend?
Truthfully, we all crave loyalty. It gives us a sense of safety. We feel that if there is some loyalty in our world, it’s like a warm blanket on a cold night. Life seems less scary.
As we discuss the role of Jesus in our personal stories, it is good to remind ourselves often of ultimate loyalty. In turn, it encourages us to be loyal to that One person we can always count on.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Jesus gives us loyalty that cannot be broken. Are we willing to stay true to Him, as well? In other words, if life’s road gets rough, do we stay on the path He has set for us? Like Peter, we tend to think nothing could pry us from Jesus, but our choices can do that. Then we regret being disloyal to Christ.
Resolve to never let that happen to you. Keep His sacrifice for you in your mind and heart. That will help you stay true to Him when life isn’t so great.
He promised to never leave you. Tell Jesus that you love Him for that, and keep your eyes looking ahead to the eternity He has made for you.
Let’s pray. Lord, make us strong in our loyalty to our Savior. Then let that light shine for those who see us. Amen.
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Have you ever noticed how much we love ritual and form as part of religion? We become so good at it, so obsessed with it, that we lose sight of the essence of what it means to be a Christian.
To know God.
That is the purpose of our journey, and it will be the end of our journey.
It is so foundational to who we are as humans that even the great Moses basically begged God to let him see Him. So close were they that according to Jewish tradition, when Moses died, God drew his spirit from him with a kiss.
Isaiah 5:19 says, “Who say, ‘Let Him make speed, let Him hasten His work, that we may see it; And let the purpose of the Holy One of Israel draw near And come to pass, that we may know it!’”
The Bible is very clear that we can know God. As individuals, we can have relationship with Him, even the one Who created all there is.
The splendor of that reality should drive us to read His word and pray to Him, every day in our quiet time. It should be the longing of our hearts.
He knows.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercy in making yourself available to us is something we cannot fully understand in this life. But we thank you for it, and love you. Amen.
When the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art opened in 2011 in Arkansas, the vast sum of money spent on art caught some off-guard. One painting in particular, “Kindred Spirits,” was sold to Alice Walton for the museum for $35 million dollars!
It’s a beautiful painting, for sure. Two men are standing on a bluff, overlooking a scene of mountains and a river.
Some might have an issue with the price of the painting, but Walton felt the scene was priceless and wanted others to enjoy it.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
We are of infinite worth to our Savior! He came to rescue us from a life of terror and bleakness. He takes us to a place of beauty and calm.
We are no blank canvas to God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your creative powers are beyond our reach, but you let us enjoy it all! Thank you for your gifts, that show us just how much we mean to you. Amen.
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It’s kind of fun in those moments when the kids are in bed and the dishes are done, to think about the Big Questions. You know the list.
Why am I here?
What is the meaning of life?
A question that people from ancient times to now have asked is, why in the world, literally, did God create people? We are a handful, as past generations used to say. We mess up. Sometimes we’re on our way to being smart then find ourselves flying down the Stupid Highway.
God must get tired of us, right?
1 Peter 2:9 says, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."
In those terrible moments when you feel dirty and worthless, remember this verse. God says you are special to Him! You!
Begin praising Him for this incredible gift, and begin to understand that He made you to fellowship with Him, forever.
That’s pretty awesome.
Let’s pray.
Lord, all through your Word, You speak of us as the object of your love. Your incredible gesture of sending Jesus for us is proof of that. Thank you. Amen.
Of the many gods throughout world history, almost none of them seem to care about individuals. They might alter the weather so that crops can’t grow. Or cause some global upheaval.
But only one claims to care about you.
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Isn’t that amazing? The story is that Jesus left His place of royalty in heaven to come to Earth as an innocent baby, then grow into a man ready to carry our sins for us. He came to find you! You! God sent Him on a search-and-rescue mission.
As we continue our look this week into the Good News—or, the True Story of Jesus—we begin to see that He is powerful: so powerful He can concentrate fully on each of us. That is astonishing. And comforting.
We can say that we choose Christ, but it is more accurate to say that He looked for us and found us. He sees the heart. He spends time healing your heart and your life. It’s why the imagery of a shepherd tending to his sheep is used so often in Scripture.
Our great God stands alone as the champion of the individual. Praise God!
Let’s pray. Lord, your love for us has no limits. We are given your grace and mercy every day. Thank you so much for that! Amen.
In Autumn 2019, Hurricane Dorian became the most intense tropical cyclone on record to strike the Bahamas. In fact, this single storm is regarded as the worst natural disaster in the country's history. Many of us worried about the east coast of our own country, but the Bahamas were hit especially hard, with the storm basically stationary for many hours. Residents there hunkered down and sought higher ground, wondering when the onslaught would end, and the storm would pass. The physical damage left by the lengthy storm was devastating.
When the winds of life blow fiercely, rain pours down, and the water rises, it is tempting to give in to panic. In the midst of the storm, sometimes we let the noise and chaos of our present circumstances become louder than the voice of our Lord and Savior. The still small voice in our hearts may only be a whisper, but the power behind that presence outranks any circumstance of this life.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus was not only with the people of the Bahamas, He is with you in every storm you face. He isn’t simply the fleeting ‘eye of the hurricane,’ either. His presence and power and love for us is greater than any storm life can hit us with.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you being our steadfast shelter, our provider and peace-giver in every situation. It’s who you are. No storm can shake us when we build on a foundation of faith. Amen.
Colossians is a very informative book. Originally, it was a letter written by Paul and Timothy to believers in a small city. Chapter One tells us that Jesus made everything we see (and plenty we don’t see!). The universe was brought into being by Him.
That’s kind of a comforting thought! This great source of Love also made it all and He sustains it all.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Many people, maybe rightly so, worry about the planet. Certainly, there are lots of issues that are problematic.
But what if we focused on the fact that everything Jesus has told us is 100 percent true? That would mean that He sustains our beautiful planet, so designed for human life to thrive.
It also means He sees into your heart and mind and knows just what you need.
He holds you together.
Let’s pray. Lord, your sustaining work keeps evil at bay in our world. We are grateful for your promises for the future. Amen.
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Does the future scare you? If it does, that’s understandable, from a human standpoint. After all, so much is unknown.
And yet, God gave us His Word as a guidebook. The Bible tells us certain specific things that bring great comfort.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
For the most part, we know the past. We are navigating through the present. But the Word tells us that Jesus is standing there at the end, bringing all things to their proper conclusion. In Isaiah and Revelation, we have virtually identical verses that promise Jesus will make all things new one day. There will be no more tears, pain, or suffering. He won’t allow it!
If the future scares you, focus on the truth of Scripture. Jesus isn’t intimidated, or moved, or unsure about anything, and that includes what is to come.
Whatever your future holds, make sure Jesus is at the center of it!
Let’s pray. Lord, you stand above time. You know everything that’s happened and what is to happen. We can rest in that, thank you. Amen.
Carol had really messed up in her personal life. The career wasn’t going so well, either. But it was one particular relationship that kept her up at night, and she felt like things were coming apart.
Instead of going to lunch with co-workers one day though, she ducked into a coffee shop and found an empty seat in the back. There she pulled out her phone and fed her soul by looking up Scripture.
She met Jesus that day in the coffee shop.
Carol looked out a window at the busy street outside and thought about the Bible’s claim that Jesus created everything in the beginning. The enormity of that really spoke to her, but so did His love for her as an individual.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus sees all and works everything out for those who love Him.
Tell Him that you need Him today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we need you all the time. You sustain us and do it just because of your pure love for us. Thank you for that. Amen.
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Do you feel like you’re falling apart today? It’s okay to say yes.
Life is life, and we all have obstacles to overcome. Maybe your issue is ongoing, or maybe it’s a sudden thing. But please think of it this way: Jesus is alive and He knows who you are and He cares about your problems.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus is not caught off-guard by problems in your life and most importantly, He truly cares for you and is able to help. Remember what the Bible says: Jesus holds everything together! That includes the whole you.
If you’re really struggling, tell Jesus. Then drink from the living water He provides. He was here at the beginning, He is present now, and He will be standing at the end of your road to welcome you home one day.
Count on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have all our stuff well in hand. Help us remember that every day. Amen.
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“Mom — I broke something! I’m so sorry!”
Benjamin had slipped on the wet bathroom floor and managed to take down the shower curtain and the curtain rod, in one fell swoop.
His mom’s concern wasn’t the state of the shower curtain, but whether the broken something was an arm or leg. Thankfully, her son wasn’t hurt, and fixing the curtain was a lot easier than mending a broken bone. A reassuring hug from mom was all the boy needed to mend his hurt pride.
None of us are perfect, whether we’re 8 years old or 80. Slips and trips happen in life, and beyond accidental mishaps, we also slip up and sin, making choices that disappoint the Lord, and send us on a detour from the path He has planned for us.
1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
God loves us dearly, and while our sin makes Him sad, He is ready and willing to forgive us; we only need to ask Him to. God’s love for us is so deep He sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins because He knew we’d need forgiveness. That’s amazing grace!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you love us through our imperfections. Thank you for the incredible gift of your forgiveness. Amen.
A loaf of bread, a container of milk, and a stick of butter. What’s on your shopping list this week?
It’s been an interesting few months in our country, and chances are you’ve gone to the store for the items on your list sometime this year, only to find the shelf empty of your favorite cleaning product, food staple, or toilet paper.
These shortages have been temporary, thank goodness. Those empty shelves are also a reminder to count our blessings. We have so much here in America, and sometimes we take for granted that the items we want will be there when we want and need them.
Philippians 4:19 says, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
Unlike the local supermarket, we serve a God whose supply never runs short. The Lord is faithful to meet all our needs, when we seek to follow Him. Sometimes we confuse a “want” with a “need,” and our expectations are a bit out of whack, but our Heavenly Father always knows what we need, and He is faithful to provide.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for providing what we need, right when we need it. We know we can rely on your faithfulness. Amen.
Have you ever played Hide-and-Go-Seek in the dark? What about flashlight tag? Or the grownup version of these childhood games: trying to find candles or flashlights in the midst of a sudden power outage.
Sight begins when light enters the eye. This light triggers light-sensitive cells in the retina at the back of the eye. As a result, signals zoom along the optic nerve to the brain. The brain then makes sense of the signals, giving us the experience of seeing.
When you’re fumbling for the light switch in the middle of the night, you have to rely on senses other than sight; without light to help our eyes do the work they’re meant to do, we can’t see a thing.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Imagine blindly seeking the things we need in life, in the dark and without the benefit of sight. God’s Word tells us we don’t have to stumble in the dark - we simply need to ask for help, to seek what we need, and to knock on the door. God’s loving guidance is freely available to us - if only we reach out to him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we stumble in the darkness without your light. Lead us to the cross, and remind us continually to turn to you for answers and direction. Amen.
You probably know whether you’re a morning or night person. Science has some good news for you early risers: Apparently, the early bird really does get the worm.
In a study of early risers versus night owls, researchers at the University of Birmingham discovered strong connections in the regions of the brain that can predict better performance and lower sleepiness; these areas were significantly stronger in study participants who identified themselves as early birds.
Whether you burn the midnight oil and sleep the day away or rise before the sun, there is power in beginning your day by connecting with God in prayer — whether that happens before dawn or at the crack of noon.
Psalm 5:3 says, “In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.”
Any time is a great time to reach out to the Lord in prayer, and one of the best ways to build a consistent prayer habit is to schedule your prayer time.
Try setting your alarm a few minutes early to give yourself a spiritual head start on the day. Thank God for the people and circumstances you’re grateful for, ask Him to bless the ones you love and to guide your footsteps.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for wiring us uniquely to be night owls, early birds, or something in between. Your timing is always right. Keep us in tune with your through regular prayer. Amen.
Kerrie sat down at the optometrist’s office and admitted sheepishly that this was her first eye exam in a few years.
“I think I’m doing okay though, doc. I don’t have any trouble reading, but I guess it is a little harder than it used to be to see the tv screen, and sometimes when I’m driving at night, things look a little fuzzy…”
The doctor nodded, asking questions as he ran through a series of lenses. “And how do you see now, Kerrie?”
“Oh, this is just terrible! Clearly, I don’t need glasses, if this is how I’d see with them on.”
“This is your vision without any help at all. You definitely need glasses, and you probably have for a while,” the doctor patiently explained. “I’m glad you came in for a checkup today.”
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
A life without faith is a lot like poor vision; we can be too busy to notice when things begin to get a little fuzzy around the edges.
Faith in Jesus brings the important stuff into focus. When we read God’s Word, the Bible, seek fellowship with other Christians, and communicate with God in prayer, we are effectively holding a holy lens up to our eyes, helping us to make decisions and take action with spiritual clarity.
We don’t need 2020 vision to take the next right step...we just need faith!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for loving us enough to guide our footsteps. We ask for clarity and wisdom in life, and that you will surround us with positive influences that encourage our walk with You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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There is a movement in our society for a return to simple living. We might not want to give up all of our technology—much of it is wonderful and helpful. But it is true we want to quiet our minds and find some peace. This week we are talking about the simplest, sweetest truth around: Jesus Saves.
With that knowledge in hand, we can all find peace that the Bible says is from another world.
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
It seems we are moving at near the speed of light through this amazing Information Age. Constant access to that much information can bring with it tired minds and weary hearts, at times.
With that said, wouldn’t you like to be able to grab hold of the secret of life?
We just read it. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth as a man, to take on our sin and pay the penalty for those sins. When he was crucified, God raised Him from the dead three days later. It is what believers call the Good News. You can believe it or not. Those of us who follow Jesus believe God has proven Himself many times over.
We love our Jesus.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given all of us the hope of a joyful eternity. Your Son’s sacrifice has saved us, and we are eternally grateful for that. Amen.
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Whenever we have to overcome an obstacle in our lives, we are thinking about a million different things. Our minds race. We might even be aware that our Creator is there to help.
But have you ever considered that even when life gets tough, you can still have joy?
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Sheila Walsh has said that what got her through a bout of depression was the knowledge that God the Father loved her, and wanted the best for her.
Today, one of her missions in life is to help others recover their joy, by pointing them to the Lord. The truth is, this life sometimes beats us up, but those circumstances don’t have to win. It isn’t inevitable.
It’s when we learn to rejoice while clinging to hope that true join comes.
Let’s pray.
Lord, in our lowest moments, we cling to you and your promises. Thank you for that joy.
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Beryl Markham could have given up her aviation dreams after crash-landing in Nova Scotia.
But she didn’t.
Instead, this determined woman became the first person to fly from England to North America. She later said that in order to move forward, we can’t stay in the past. In fact, she said, “Leave it the fastest way you can!”
This pioneer knew that staying stuck was not inevitable, that we must choose to keep our eyes on what it is we are yet to accomplish in life.
Ephesians 4:31-32 says, "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Maybe you are letting some past hurt keep you from your destiny. Don’t waste another moment! Your future is waiting on you to turn your eyes to it, and stop staring at a past failure.
Leave your past hurts as fast as you can!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are grateful that you make a way for us to forge ahead and not be limited by the things of the past. Walk with us, always, Lord, and bless our efforts. Amen.
As we talk through the Good News of Jesus this week, we must always make it personal. In other words, deciding to believe in Christ is a very personal thing.
We all come from different backgrounds and belief systems. In the end, though, what will you do with the story of Jesus? Do you believe it is true?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Over and over in the New Testament, Jesus talks to the individual. He knew us before we were born, and knows all the things that keep us up at night, or burden us.
In Matthew chapter 11, Jesus tells us that if we are tired and just beaten down by life, we can tell Him that, and He will hear our cry. Have you tried that before?
Have you ever said to yourself, “I have nothing to lose?? This could be the most exciting and important day of your life, depending on what you choose to believe about Christ as savior. If the claims of Christ are true, then your story just got way more interesting!
Let’s pray. Lord, you care so much about us as individuals. Thank you for loving us this much! Amen.
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Have you ever wondered what your place in this world is?
Of course, you have. That’s the human experience. Alone with our thoughts, we wonder who we even are, and what we are meant to do. It’s a mysterious journey, but the fog lifts, and the way becomes clear when we get to know King Jesus.
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
You were made for something! You were made to do things for your Lord. The truly beautiful thing is, God created a custom plan just for you. If you aren’t a famous athlete like Tim Tebow, you can still share your faith in wonderful ways. Ways that are life-changing for those you encounter.
Think of that verse again. God made you for a purpose! Created to have the mind of Christ in making this world a better place and making disciples for Him. And God prepared it all long, long ago.
You are His child.
That’s who you are.
Let’s pray.
Lord, when we begin to understand even a little bit of your love for us, it transforms us and renews our minds and hearts. Thank you so much for that! Amen.
It's almost universally believed that tech guru, Steve Jobs, floated into mega success with Apple, the company he co-founded with Steve Wozniak.
Job’s first go around with Apple didn't end well — in 1985, he was forced out. His next effort wasn't a home run either, yet Job puts his head down like a fullback and plowed ahead. Next up for him was founding Pixar and finally, more than a decade after his humiliating exit from Apple, Jobs returned there as CEO and revolutionized the way people interacted with computers.
Writing about him after his death, Jason Demur said that, “Steve Jobs is lasting evidence that you should never count somebody out – even yourself.” In other words, even if someone pushes you back, you have to keep moving forward. Believe it or not a fellow tech icon, Bill Gates, also had to learn the hard way. His first venture with business partner Paul Allen was a complete failure, but Gates said many times in the years since that learning from failures leads to success, and Microsoft is proof of that.
Christian Ministry leader, Jo Walls, has some interesting things to say to Christians who have perhaps grown too comfortable in their faith, and she addresses herself first. She says, “God’s been talking to me lately about being too comfortable. He's challenging me in some ways that I'm not real thrilled about. He's pushing me to grow and in fact, He's telling me ‘cheer up buttercup – life can be a grind,’ and that's when we need to push through.”
Even though it can sometimes sting when someone tells us to chin up, it's ultimately for our good. And let's face it – most of us know it feels good to overcome something really difficult.
Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” When your life is spent following Jesus, fear disappears in the light of God's reassuring love. He has a plan for you, and you don't have to walk in the shadows when God’s got your back. Every moment of every day is brighter knowing our Heavenly Father watches over us.
The unknown doesn’t have to be cause for worry. It’s an opportunity for God to work on your behalf. Hand the details over to Him and wait patiently and faithfully for His good plan to come to flourish. The joy of knowing we can always depend on God is a message worth sharing.
Let’s Pray.
Lord, we need your strength every single day. We know that some things just don’t come easy. Thank you for bringing us along the way you do. We pray and believe. It feels good to emerge from difficulty and realize that the strength you gave us pull us out of despair. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Do you struggle to wonder what God’s will is for your life?
Many of us do.
Although it isn’t a quick answer, the best way to find God’s will for your life is to read His Word. The Bible will tell you the answer to that question.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Actually, finding God’s will isn’t the hardest part. Deciding to follow His will is where we get tripped up.
People need the skill and discipline of being persistent. Too often the impulse is to give up and then, if we’re honest, pretend that God hasn’t revealed His will to us.
Good old Abe Lincoln had it right when he said that the only important response is to make sure we are on God’s side, not whether He’s on ours.
God has already told us that He’s on our side. He sent His Son, Jesus, to take the penalty for our sin. It doesn’t get any more “on our side” than that.
Change your thinking a bit. Don’t focus on what you think God is supposed to do.
Resolve instead to follow God, and do it every day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your will is the thing that drives us on, to find our purpose in life. Thank you for sticking with us. Help us to stick with you. Amen.
In thinking about different kinds of love, it’s a beautiful thing to realize that God has placed certain people in our lives for specific reasons.
Friendship is one of His greatest gifts to us, all-time.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Do you have someone in your life that’s not blood-related, but it sure feels like it? In fact, beautiful friendships often feel like a closer relation than biological family!
Notice what the writer of Proverbs tells us: A friend does two things: first, they love us no matter what. And second, God set a time for them to stick with us, when we need it the very most.
Think about that! That guy you met in third grade will impact the rest of your life. The girl who brought you a coffee on your first day on a new job was meant to do that.
As we think about all this and marvel at God’s plans, don’t forget to turn it around and think about how we can be that brother or sister to someone in your life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you so much for the friends you bring to us. Help us be worthy of such special love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
History tells us that God exists. Really, it does. And even if you aren’t interested in history, you might be interested in a few quick examples.
At the battle of Gettysburg, when the United States was about to be ripped apart by civil war, General Lee’s attack plans were lost by an officer and found by Union soldiers. This helped turn the tide of the battle, and led to victory and reconciliation of the country later.
For centuries, disease threatened all of Europe. The Black Death wiped out millions. In 1838, a lazy student named Louis Pasteur ran away to Paris, but he became homesick and decided to finish school after all. Later, his breakthroughs in discovery were pasteurization and vaccination, both of which have saved many millions of lives since.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Do we really believe in coincidences in history? Do we really believe Someone all-powerful isn’t watching over us to protect us?
Ecclesiastes tells us that God knows all, and even knows the end from the beginning. You might deny it, but in your heart you know He lives. And because He does, so do you.
Let’s pray. Lord, your provision for us is amazing! We acknowledge you and love you. Amen.
Have you ever heard someone recall a tough time and be happy about it? Not often, right?!
We all go through stuff we’d rather forget. When tough times hit us without warning, it’s natural to just wish it could all be over — immediately! Humans are built to run from trouble, and that’s actually our theme this week: How do you grind through when it’s so bad you want to die?
Romans 5:3-4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
This is something that separates Christianity from other faiths. In the Bible, we see it all: good, bad, and everything in between. Faith isn’t handed to you like a plate of cookies.
Faith can be messy.
But it is a truism that anything worth having is worth fighting for, and waiting on. God’s timing is often very different from our own, and the story He has planned for us may follow a very narrow path. True faith is joy beyond our full understanding, and the Source of our Faith is always ready to carry us when we can’t make it.
That is the essence of holding fast.
Let’s pray. Lord, your Word tells us that You will always be with us. We believe you, and love you. Amen.
Have you seen the movie “Napoleon Dynamite”? The character of Kip is one of the offbeat people in an Idaho town. But he is also one of the neediest in terms of peace in his life. Kip sort of defines our theme of peace this week.
At one point, he changes his persona and his signature line is, “Peace out!” It’s hilarious, but also poignant because the peace he found came about because someone chose to be kind to him.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
Often, we’re not kind enough to people, especially those who are easy to miss or dismiss. The so-called “outcasts.” But aren’t we all outcasts? We are -- until the kindness of Jesus brings us peace that can’t be explained in merely human terms. He comes to us, then we become ambassadors for Him.
Peace in, peace out.
Let’s pray. Lord, all of us are outcasts, but you love us and offer your true peace if we ask. Give us the courage to ask. Amen.
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Do you especially need the gift of peace right now? Is your life so busy, you can’t find time to take a breath? There is Good News for you: Jesus already knows.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
When Jesus ascended to heaven, he told the apostles, “My peace I leave with you.” Because He lives, we know for sure that this peace is available to us anytime, anywhere. Even in the busy part of your life, when you think you’re going crazy, you can call on Him and He will answer.
This is our theme this week: that peace is attainable. It comes from God, first and last. You might need to get away for even five minutes and close your eyes to call on Jesus. Let Him know you are beaten down and tired. Remember the verse we just read: peace is not just something for the glorious future Jesus is preparing for us. It is for the here and now.
Claim that for your busy life today!
Let’s pray. Lord, when chaos seems to rule over us, you tell us different. Thank you that we can simply ask and you will settle peace over us. Amen.
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Have you ever thought of yourself as a catalyst for peace? It’s something to think about as we continue our discussion this week about peace.
Donna and Betty were sisters, but in mid-life they were both tired of the fighting and mistrust and hurt. Each had their grievances. Both were stubborn.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
At one particular time of the year, Betty heard this verse spoken in a service. And here’s an ironic thing: of the two sisters, most people would agree she was definitely the most stubborn!
But that day she did an amazing thing. She went home and called Donna. Betty made a choice to forgive and forget, and did so through a lot of tears. Donna was shocked but grateful. And she owned up to her own mistakes.
God can bring about good will between anyone, including sisters who really love each other.
Do you need to be a catalyst for peace this week?
Let’s pray. Lord, your mercies are ever new. Your love heals old wounds, and we need that, Lord. Amen.
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Being positive really is a mindset. As we talk about “pockets of peace” around the world this week, we will notice some amazing examples.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
God pulls wins out of the most difficult challenges, and one of the toughest was the ongoing conflict between Egypt and Israel. Both nations are mentioned for blessing in Scripture, but until 1981, the modern era was almost as bad as the ancient era. Two full-blown wars in the previous few years staggered both countries.
Then President Carter brought Egypt’s Anwar Sadat together with Israel’s Menachem Begin at Camp David. They settled decades of conflict and today, 40 years on, there is still a peace agreement in place. Tensions come and go, but a manageable peace endures. Today, these ancient enemies cooperate in ways unthinkable a couple of generations ago.
God is good all the time!
Let’s pray. Lord, you hold history in your hands, and we know you desire peace among the nations. Thank you for your grace. Amen.
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It’s all in how you see it.
The world we live in has plenty of problems, and they are huge. Don’t need to list them all here, but it’s fair to say we even suffer from some existential threats.
And yet, God’s Word tells us that this present life can have, and does have, peace. That’s our connection this week.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
Remember the story of Jim Elliot and his band of missionaries? They were killed in a jungle by the very people they were trying to reach with the Gospel. The God part of that story is that later, the dead men’s wives went back and reached that tribe for Christ! Peace settled on the creek-bed that had seen death, and there was good will among men that had once been at war with each other.
Peace is possible. It is possible in geo-politics, and in communities, and right there in your own heart.
Let’s pray. Lord, no situation is too bad for you to redeem. Redeem us, Lord, so that we can redeem the time and reach others for you. Amen.
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Ah, wanderlust.
There is nothing quite like ambling along in your car, on a bicycle, or on foot along an unfamiliar country lane. No agenda, no rush to arrive anywhere on time, just letting your wheels spin and enjoying the scenery.
What are we really searching for, when we set off on a sunny day with no particular destination in mind? What are we hoping to find, when we leave behind maps and clocks and venture forth into the great wide open?
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
The inclination to wander, search, and seek are not an accident. Our natural curiosity, and our desire to go further to find out what’s at the end of an enticing stretch of road in the countryside (and in life), are gifts from our Creator.
God, in His infinite wisdom, designed us to yearn for more. Sometimes that search leads us down sunny country lanes, and sometimes our paths take a darker turn, but His Word, the Bible, instructs us to seek first His kingdom and His righteousness — and when we do, He promises to give us everything we need.
God will take care of us along the journey.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for creating in me a divine curiosity. Help me use this desire to know more in a way that honors you, and furthers your kingdom. Amen.
Truett burst through the front door with exciting news one afternoon, anxious to share his latest find. “Mom! I found a praying mantis. Can you believe it! They’re pretty rare around here.”
It was certainly one of the biggest bugs they’d seen in the fields around their home. The beautiful emerald green insect crawled from hand to hand, curious about its new environment.
Considered a symbol of peace, contemplation, and prayer, the word “mantis” in Greek literally means prophet or seer. The prayerful pose we recognize in these insects is not actual prayer or meditation of course, but a pose designed to help them capture prey. The “prayers” of this fascinating creature are actually part of an intricately designed plan for their survival.
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
There are many things in this life that distract us from seeking what matters most. Technology. Financial stress. Family discord. Health concerns. Sin. The miraculous thing is when we quiet our hearts and minds and seek God first, He helps us clear away the clutter of this world, and blesses us with the things we need to take the next right step. With God, we can not only survive but thrive.
How poetic that a prayerful pose is a matter of survival for us as believers, too.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your incredible creation is filled with reminders to turn to you in all things. Thank you for that. Amen.
You’ve probably heard of the Ingalls family, or even met some of the clan through the Little House on the Prairie television series, or the beloved children’s books about pioneer life in the 1860s by author Laura Ingalls Wilder.
The story of the Ingalls family is inspiring, whether you watch it or read it. The fun and camaraderie shared by Charles, Caroline, Mary, Laura, and little Carrie is heartwarming, and makes many of us yearn for simpler times, before technology and the hurried expectations of modern life.
In reality, the story portrayed in both the novels and television show isn’t the whole story. The conditions of pioneer life were often harsh, and the situations families faced were dangerous. Starvation, violence, and death were all part of the history of the pioneers as well, and the darker themes of the Ingalls’ life on the prairie were left out of the telling, in part to protect the children the books were intended for, and in part to preserve the memory of Laura Ingalls Wilders’ parents, in whose memory she lovingly wrote her books.
What sustained the Ingalls family in books and television, and in life, was their shared faith in God. The legacy of Little House on the Prairie shows us when we invest our hope in the Lord, no floods or winds, grasshoppers or blizzards, poverty or scorching prairie fires can knock us from the path, or separate us from His love.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for believers who came before us. Help us to place our faith firmly in you, and to find strength and courage there. Amen.
A farmer, perhaps more than most, knows something about faith.
Harvest time captures much of our attention and all the good press, but the farmer’s careful planning, toil, and belief in the outcome are all necessary to reach that moment of glory.
First, the farmer must decide what to plant in his fields. What do history and the Farmer’s Almanac say about likely weather patterns in a given year? What will various seeds cost right now? Is it a cyclical year for grasshoppers, or other pests?
Soil is carefully prepared and shaped for seeds, which must be planted under appropriate conditions. And then, the waiting. New shoots finally begin to show, followed by prayerful weeks and months: for moisture — not too much, not too little. For an ideal mix of sunshine and shadow and temperature that will grow a robust crop worthy of bringing to market. For favorable conditions for sale, once the crop comes in.
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Farm life is a tug-of-war between blessed abundance, and faith that the toil in the fields will yield results: praying for sun or rain, watching corn or wheat or sunflowers grow green and tall, or waiting for trees to bear fruit again this year.
Like the faithful farmer, if we seek God first, turning to Him in prayer and giving every aspect of the growth, health, and harvest in our lives to Him, the Lord will be faithful to bless us and layout a good plan for our lives.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we are so grateful you watch over the fields of our lives, giving us rain or sunshine in turn, sometimes teaching us through harsh conditions, and blessing us with a fruitful harvest at the right time. Help us to be patient in our faith, like the farmer watching over his fields. Amen.
Have you ever spent time in the country? If you’re used to the noise of city life — neighbors coming and going, traffic, dogs barking...then spending a few nights in the country can feel almost too quiet.
A brilliant sunrise without buildings to block the view, the most stars you’ve ever seen shining across the night sky, and a unique feeling of peace can all be found in the country, if you get the chance to enjoy these simple pleasures.
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Sometimes God’s blessings come in bold strokes, and sometimes He shows His love for us in sweet, simple ways...warm sunshine; a soft breeze; fragrant blooming flowers; quiet countryside views.
Every good thing in life comes from our Heavenly Father, and there are so many reasons to smile, and so much joy to be found, if we keep our eyes open to all the blessings God bestows.
Will you pray with me?
Lord, thank you for the quiet beauty you’ve created for us to enjoy in nature. Help us to seek you first, and to count our blessings. Amen.
The metaphor of life as a road is a common one, and with good reason. We are in essence walking a path in life, from beginning to end.
For each person, the journey is at different times joyous, grueling, and full of wonder.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
This week we’re talking about Walking by Faith, something that humans find difficult to do when times get tough. Yet that is exactly the moment God uses to ignite our faith, and show us things we couldn’t have seen before!
In the Bible, there are many stories of people on journeys. Abraham, Hannah, Moses, and many more. If you’ve read any of those stories, you’ve noticed that God is with them every step. And sometimes the journey takes many years.
If you find yourself on a really hard road right now, remember that others have gone before you. They learned to trust God in tough times.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are so good to us! You walk with us and carry us when necessary. We are grateful that you are our God. Amen.
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Have you ever been fooled by someone? Doesn’t feel good, does it?
But the absolute worst is when we fool ourselves. We try to manage some problem on our own, or analyze why our boss is so mean.
But the Bible has a better way of thinking about it.
Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
We have to do two things here: give total control to God, and de-emphasize our own judgment. Sometimes our gut is wrong. “Following our heart” often ends in heartache.
God doesn’t mess up. He doesn’t get it wrong. And he really longs to make it better for you.
Do you remember a time when you put your life in God’s hands? Maybe it was a really important career choice. Or a relationship needed healing. Maybe your body needed healing. Whatever it was, recall that situation today as you wrestle with a new problem.
Let’s pray.
Lord, every time we learn to trust you, it builds our faith a little more. You are a good God who always has our back. Thank you for that. Amen.
For some reason, people sometimes tell big lies when it comes to fishing. You know -- what was really a small fry becomes a man-eating shark in the re-telling of the story.
But that’s nothing compared to a really incredible story in the Old Testament book of Jonah.
It seems the prophet didn’t want to preach in the pagan city of Nineveh, so he sailed away on a ship. He forgot that God controls the sea and everything in it, and Jonah found himself tossed overboard, and then swallowed by a huge fish.
Jonah 1:17 says, “Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.”
Let’s just say that Jonah learned his lesson, and God delivered him in a dramatic way.
The story, though, is really a picture of Jesus lying for three days in the tomb, only to be raised to life by the Father.
He will do the same for you, if only you’ll call on Him to rescue you!
Let’s pray.
Lord, when life swallows us up, you are there for us, never forgetting us. We praise you for your provision. Amen.
Geraldine Mock became the first woman to fly around the world in 1964. Landing for a short stop in Saudi Arabia, she watched as a man approached her plane. When he saw her, he shouted to his friends that this was no man.
They applauded!
Jerrie Mock’s steadiness at the wheel, and in her encounters on the ground, were the very picture of self-control. Her journey was wildly successful.
Titus 2:11-12 says, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly…”
In order to navigate this crazy world, we have to be steady, and the Fruit of the Spirit ends with a reminder to practice self-control in all we do. Be steady. As Scripture reminds us, don’t look right or left, but ahead. God sees real value in this trait, because He knows we cannot possibly succeed if we let our emotions rule us, or we run ahead on our own instincts.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us practice discipline and love doing good as we walk through life. Amen.
Does your life feel out of control? Are you experiencing that common feeling of weaving down a busy highway, about to crash?
It’s a metaphor for life that most internalize at some point. All of a sudden, what you were sure of isn’t there anymore. You might as well be behind the wheel of a fast car that’s heading straight into oncoming traffic.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
This isn’t some nice little bit of wisdom someone put on a greeting card. This is the very Word of God. It has sustained civilization for thousands of years. It’s a proven method for getting your life back under control.
It doesn’t work though, unless you can see Jesus taking the wheel. Let him get you to safety and peace.
He’s ready and waiting to take all your worries and set you on a smooth and straight path.
Let’s pray.
Lord, feeling out of control is not something we want anymore. Please take over and guide us in your perfect ways. Amen.
When Hurricane Katrina destroyed the church and home where E.J. Scott had pastored for 20 years, he and his wife found themselves living a bit like refugees in Dallas, Texas.
After years of being strong for his flock, Pastor Scott needed something to strengthen his own faith. He was devastated.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
When we walk with God through a storm, we are told to hold onto Him with everything we have. In this way, we are exercising our faith. We are putting our trust in Him, because honestly, no one else can help us.
Pastor Scott says today that he learned to focus on how God would raise him up, rather than the terrible circumstances he was in. His faith was strengthened, and hope sustained him.
We all need to exercise our faith, so that we can stand in times of crisis. God is our refuge from the storms.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you stand for us in times of trouble. While the enemy wants us to focus on terror, your Word teaches us to focus on your provision. Amen.
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When we walk with God, we want to see that our relationships are healthy. It’s part of the command to love one another.
Few things are more heartbreaking than damaged relationships. When those linger, the Body of Christ is weakened. Churches split because of it. Families suffer for it.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
Notice that we are to walk in all His ways. And what did the Lord do in every situation in the Bible that involved relationships? He provided the very best.
That’s our mandate. Do excellence in your relationships. Has someone wronged you, or do they mock you? Take your eyes off their smug expressions and “walk in all His ways.” You’ll be surprised how some people will react, in a good way!
Just as we read that spouses can choose to pray for an unbelieving spouse in the hopes they come to repentance and wholeness, so too can we simply choose to want the best in all our relationships.
Let’s pray.
Lord, relationships are difficult! But how blessed we are by You, that You created them for us. Most of all our relationship with You, our Creator. Amen.
How many times do we make a plan to boost our health and we’re sailing along for a while…then everything crashes?
Athletes train year-round. That way, there’s no letdown or drop-off from peak performance.
As believers, we have to have the same mindset. A champion figure skater doesn’t skate for six weeks, then take a few months off. NFL cornerbacks don’t stop watching films and keeping their bodies in peak shape after the season is over.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
It’s all about habits. Good habits. Good habits that are continuous and disciplined. The result will be a much, much better you for the race God has called you to run.
Get in the habit of healthy eating, exercise, and mental health. You’ll be glad you did, and the Lord will be pleased.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us wonderfully complex bodies. They need our careful attention year-round. We are committed to doing just that. Amen.
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Janet remembered how alive she had felt when she was disciplined in her prayer life and Bible study. She surprised herself one day when she blurted out, “I could think clearer, before I got mentally lazy!”
Just saying it out loud kicked her out of the fog she’d been in since forever.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
The enemy wants to distract us from our God-given mission. He wants to cloud our thinking so much that we can’t do anything for the Lord effectively.
Committing yourself to healthy thoughts and desires helps create a fully developed you. The Bible tells us to make a captive of every thought we have, so as to be a better witness for Christ.
Don’t neglect this important part of your health this year! Spend time in study of God’s Holy Word, the Bible, and ask Him to bless you with a clear head to stay focused on His good plans for you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the more we meditate on your truths, the better we feel, especially mentally. Thank you for giving us the ability to think! Amen.
When we look at the amazing diversity all around us in nature, we see that no detail escaped God’s attention. He created all things to live in harmony.
That includes our individual physical bodies. He intends for us to be healthy and whole—mind, body, and soul.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
In order to fully serve God, we can’t neglect anything. So that we can be a faithful witness of His love and sacrifice, we must take care of ourselves, including our health.
You will not be able to effectively witness for Christ if you don’t take care of yourself. One of the easiest ways to do that is to simply walk some each day. Make a real effort to walk in the fresh air, to strengthen your heart of love for a hurting world.
Get out there!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you direct our steps. Help us to be at the top of our game, including physically. Amen.
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Have you ever hunted and hunted for something, maybe your car keys, and you finally find them? The old saying goes that you found them in the last place you looked.
There’s a lot of truth to that.
It also is very relevant to our walk with Jesus. Often, we work really hard to solve our own problems, then we give in and ask Jesus for help.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
As with every other promise in the Bible, the really cool thing about this is, it is literally true. The promises that Jesus has made to you are literally true. So, for example, if you are looking for a solution to an impossible situation, ask Him.
It works!
Let’s pray.
Lord, forgive us for not placing our trust in you all the time. You are our sustainer. Amen.
Are you angry at God today? Has something happened that has damaged your faith? If we live in the world long enough, it can happen to any of us.
How you respond is really important. If you’ve listened previously, you know we are talking about how to live by faith.
Having perseverance when we’re miserable is really, really hard. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you’re the only one.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
Listen to the words again: “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
That’s how we are supposed to live. Not for a few hours or a day or even a season. It’s a lifelong thing. And we don’t always cling to what we can see in the short-term.
Strong faith is built over time. Think back over your life to those times when God met your needs. Big needs! Those were moments He gave to you to prove His strength is not limited.
This is how we walk by faith!
Let’s pray.
Lord, life is a marathon, not a quick sprint. Help us to walk by faith, from beginning to end. Amen.
Isn’t it funny how we come to certain conclusions in life fairly late? In other words, sometimes the obvious things aren’t obvious until we’ve stumbled around on our own, trying to find a solution.
Take the simple act of asking for help. It isn’t uncommon for a person to be reluctant to ask for help. Then he finds he wasted a lot of time!
That’s what we’re talking about this week.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Jesus makes it simple. Here He is telling us that we don’t have what we need because we haven’t asked. That’s an amazing concept, but one He has proved many times.
Are you in a serious situation right now? Do you have a big need? Are you depressed because of a relationship, struggling at work, or overwhelmed by a health or financial situation?
Why don’t you try just telling Jesus what your problem is? Yes, He already knows, but you participate in the solution by entering into a relationship with Him. Talk to him, and take comfort in the fact that He knows everything about you. He isn’t judging you when you ask. He just listens.
And if you think all this is childish…be a kid today! Ask Jesus to help you, He’ll answer, and your faith will surge.
Let’s pray. Lord, forgive us for not trusting you. You are a good God, and your love is appreciated. Amen.
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Have you ever wondered what your place in this world is?
Of course, you have. That’s the human experience. Alone with our thoughts, we wonder who we even are, and what we are meant to do. It’s a mysterious journey, but the fog lifts and the way becomes clear when we get to know King Jesus.
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
You were made for something! You were made to do things for your Lord. The truly beautiful thing is, God created a custom plan just for you. If you aren’t a famous athlete like Tim Tebow, you can still share your faith in wonderful ways. Ways that are life-changing for those you encounter.
Think of that verse again. God made you for a purpose! Created to have the mind of Christ in making this world a better place and making disciples for Him. And God prepared it all long, long ago.
You are His child.
That’s who you are.
Let’s pray.
Lord, when we begin to understand even a little bit of your love for us, it transforms us and renews our minds and hearts. Thank you so much for that! Amen.
As humans, we compartmentalize things. It’s in our nature to make lists, and rank priorities, and really box certain things in. We’ve got our work-life over here, and our family life over there, and our faith...somewhere else. And this can often lead us to confusion about which direction we’re supposed to go.
This confusion even extends to our faith. We wonder: When am I supposed to pray, and when am I supposed to take action on my faith?
Psalm 34:1 says, "I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth."
When we get the Word deep in our hearts, we can have an answer to our personal questions. This sweet psalm tells us that we are to always remember the great gifts Father God bestows on us. His greatness is ever before us and in this way, we can worship Him all the time, no matter what we are doing.
Learn to bless the Lord and praise Him as you do your job, as you fellowship with others, and even as you engage with people who don’t believe what you believe. They need to see the love of Christ shining through you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we bless you and praise you with our words. Thank you, Father, for never ever forgetting us. Amen.
Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday – it’s an attitude we can choose to fill our hearts with every day.
The Bible shares many examples of gratitude in the midst of challenging circumstances.
Imagine Mary, a young Galilean girl given the news that she was to be the mother of the Messiah? She didn’t panic or protest. Instead, she embraced the news and nurtured the One who would bring healing to the whole world.
The story in Luke 17 tells us that of the 10 lepers who were healed, only one returned to thank Jesus.
Luke 17:15-16 says, “One of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned with a loud voice glorifying God, and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks.”
Whether He was blessing food given to thousands by a miracle, or giving thanks at the Last Supper, Jesus modeled an attitude gratitude for us; knowing His death was imminent, Jesus still thanked His Heavenly Father.
What can you find in your own life to be thankful for this week?
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the marvelous gifts you give us on a daily basis. Help us be mindful of this always. Amen.
The lack of gratitude in society can be contagious. Kind of like a negative “Pay it forward.”
How did we get to this place? Are we too prideful to thank each other, or even to thank God? Too busy? Too self-absorbed?
As believers, we know life is a rich blessing from God.
The clearest path to becoming a person of gratitude is to choose it.
If we don’t choose gratitude, we choose ingratitude.
Psalm 107:1 says, “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”
Yes, we are busy. Yes, life gets us down in legitimate ways. But research proves being intentional about gratitude on a consistent basis, can bring positive benefits to almost every area of our lives.
Realizing we’re too negative is a great first step. Keep going by actively counting and considering your blessings each day. Before long, you’ll be amazed how little you think about what you don’t have. You’ll be too busy enjoying what you have!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you never leave us. And along the way, you bless us with big and small acts of kindness and mercy. Thank you for the grace in our lives! Amen.
You’ve heard that every good thing comes from God, right? Of course it’s true. He is our example, both of how to live and how to react to others. This week we’re talking about practicing gratitude, and as usual, God shows us the way.
Psalm 107:1 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
Often we can become disappointed if we don’t get everything we think we should have. But that’s a dead end when it comes to true happiness and peace. And those are things we all really crave.
The ultimate gratitude comes from the Lord Himself. We learn in Psalm 149 that “the Lord delights in His people.” He first loves us, and that love flows down and through us. Truly, believers should be the most grateful people on the planet, because we know what God has given to us through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Honestly, the Christian should go through each day so happy he or she can barely stand it. God has given us what we need, much of what we want, and He has already created a future for us that is so wonderful, humans can’t even imagine it!
Remember, God is the source of gratitude. He shows us how it’s done, because He knows us completely. Remember as we go along with this topic that practicing gratitude is a huge key to finding peace.
Let’s pray. Lord, your goodness overwhelms us. Thank you for giving to us just because. We love you. Amen.
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If you’re just starting your day, on your way to work, think about something that will pay off for you down the road.
Are you thankful today?
All week, we’ll talk about what it means to be grateful and thankful for all God has given you and done for you.
Psalm 107:1 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
A lot of us are thankful from time to time. Then we get into a pattern of thinking mostly about what we don’t have.
That’s a trap. The enemy wants you to focus on what you don’t have, and ignore the amazing blessings God has already given you! God is good to us just because He wants to bless us. He is a good God. If you focus more on what He’s already done for you, you’ll draw closer to Him.
This, then, is the point: Start practicing gratitude. Every day. Multiple times a day. You’ll be shocked how much your attitude changes for the better.
Let’s pray. Lord, you are merciful to each of us every second of every day. Thank you for our faithfulness. Amen.
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Do you ever feel like life is passing you by, or worse – running right over the top of you?
When we focus on unpleasant circumstances or people, life can really bring us down. This perspective is a downward spiral, and not a place we want to dwell.
Author John Kralik was there, once. A long hike one day led him to an emotional crossroads; there he decided to devote the rest of his life to being thankful.
His life changed dramatically.
John began to write thank you notes to everyone he could think of. Not emails or texts, either. Taking the time to send a hand-written note really connected with the people. Pretty soon he was so aware of his blessings, there was no room for depression.
Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”
Consistently thanking others will enrich them, and you. Try it and see!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word is a love letter to us, and our gratitude to you is our thank you note. Help us to spread your Good News to all we come in contact with. Amen.
When you think of ships, whether you’re thinking of the Titanic, pirate ships of yore, or trading vessels crossing the vast ocean to bring goods and services from one country to another, you probably picture them with an anchor — a heavy metal hook designed to catch on the ocean floor and keep a boat or ship in place.
Wikipedia says this about anchors:
There are two main types of anchors: temporary and permanent. A permanent anchor is called a mooring block and is not easily moved. A temporary anchor can be moved and is carried on the boat. When people talk about anchors, they’re usually thinking about the temporary kind.
Hebrews 6:19 says, "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”
When you think about your personal relationship with Jesus Christ, what kind of anchor binds you to your Lord and Savior? Is it a permanent anchor — not easily moved? Or is it a temporary anchor, dependent more on where you want to steer the ship, carried aboard your boat until you feel like a temporary stop?
God wants the hope we’ve found in Jesus to be a permanent fixture in our lives; our faith is meant to hold us steady and secure as we follow Him, being a constant source of reassurance in every circumstance — not a temporary stopping place.
Let’s pray.
Lord, whether we’re sailing calm seas or fighting to keep our heads above water in the midst of a storm, you are with us. You are truly the anchor for our souls. Help us to remember to moor ourselves to you, instead of following our pride and settling for a temporary anchor. Amen.
Do you remember the last time you laughed? Do you remember the last time you laughed from sheer joy?
Many of us don’t. The weight of life presses down on us. It weakens us.
Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
Did you know that God means for you to be strong? He wants you to have dignity. You are a child of the King. You are a woman of faith. You are a man who seeks Him.
That beautiful proverb reminds us that it is God Himself who dresses us each day with the respect He has for us as His creation. You can meet today with boldness in who you are, not shaking with fear or worry.
Today, as you head to work, take as your own promise that the all-powerful, true God made you to succeed and live life to its fullest. When the enemy tells you otherwise, laugh in his face.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are better than what the enemy tells us we are. Thank you for clothing us in strength and confidence each day. Amen.
No one is immune from burnout. It comes in our jobs, friendships, and even our church life. Sometimes our hobbies become dry and tedious!
But in Scripture, God gives us hope for the future.
John 7:38 — "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"
Jesus is telling us that in Him alone is true life. He is always pointing us to the future, to a time when that dry creek bed will be filled forever.
In Revelation 22, He showed John a river flowing with the water of life, crystal-clear, and coming from the very throne of God.
The whole picture is one of healing and new life. He promises us that this scene will be very real and very permanent! The key is what we read in John 7:38…we must choose to believe! If you long for a new start and a bright future, you will find everything you need and want in the person of Jesus Christ.
The living water He offers is perfect, and the supply is limitless.
Jesus is the well that never runs dry.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are calling to each of us to follow You and let you lead us to a place of perfect paradise. We eagerly look forward to joining you in Your Kingdom. Amen.
Sandra was a single mom with little family support. Her ex was not exactly helping repair a tough situation.
Her days slowed down only late at night when everyone else was asleep. That’s when fear got into bed with her and wouldn’t budge.
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
Every human being in history is faced with trouble at some point. But how we handle the rough times is key. Fear has no place in our lives.
In the dark, when fear really wanted to rattle her, Sandra prayed to the Lord. She told Jesus that she was scared and needed His help.
Guess what? Jesus showed up for her.
She really believes that the Bible is true, and that Scripture shows us the heart of God. It is His desire to love us through the pain and uncertainty.
Fear-less is a good place to start. Whittle it down a little at a time if you need to. Then one day, you’ll wake up and realize you aren’t afraid at all. You don’t have to fear evil, because God is with you!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are with us in every situation and your mercies never end. Thank you for loving us all the time, not just here and there. Amen.
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As we talk through the Good News of Jesus this week, we must always make it personal. In other words, deciding to believe in Christ is a very personal thing.
We all come from different backgrounds and belief systems. In the end, though, what will you do with the story of Jesus? Do you believe it is true?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Over and over in the New Testament, Jesus talks to the individual. He knew us before we were born, and knows all the things that keep us up at night, or burden us.
In Matthew chapter 11, Jesus tells us that if we are tired and just beaten down by life, we can tell Him that, and He will hear our cry. Have you tried that before?
Have you ever said to yourself, “I have nothing to lose?? This could be the most exciting and important day of your life, depending on what you choose to believe about Christ as savior. If the claims of Christ are true, then your story just got way more interesting!
Let’s pray. Lord, you care so much about us as individuals. Thank you for loving us this much! Amen.
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The most influential ruler of all time, the greatest king to ever walk the face of the earth, is also mankind’s greatest example of humility.
Jesus may have been born in a stable, but the Son of our Creator God was anything but ordinary. He lived a humble life, but performed miracles along the way, and showed us what it means to be a humble servant leader among men.
Jesus selflessly took human form, God incarnate, to become a living sacrifice for our sins. He did not profess His innocence and demand to be taken down from the cross; rather Philippians 2:8 says, “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
Jesus gave up His place on the throne where God rules the universe. He gave up His power to defend Himself, but willingly gave His life as a ransom for many. He loved us so much that He died for us. He endured shame, ridicule, torture, and an agonizing death on a cross.
What greater humility is there?
Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
A godly man is humble, and Jesus Christ is our ultimate example.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are humbled by your sacrifice. Jesus took our sin upon Himself when he took our place on the cross, and the gift of salvation is the result of Your Son’s choice. We are so grateful for your love. Amen.
Picture what it would be like to lose everything in one fell swoop. Your house burns to the ground. The stock market plummets and all your money is gone. Worst of all, your children fall ill and die. Suddenly, you’ve lost not only your material possessions, but your family, too.
When people refer to someone as having “the patience of Job,” they say that for a reason.
Job was a man of immense wealth, the richest man in the region, and was the father of 7 sons and 3 daughters he loved dearly. He was also a faithful servant of the Lord, and grateful for every blessing.
In a terrible turn of events, Job lost his fortune in a single day. His crops, property, livestock, and servants were gone. Most devastating of all, Job lost his children. But Job didn’t blame God. He accepted that God had a plan for him, and was patient as he waited for the Lord to reveal that plan. He knew that sometimes bad things happen to good people, and he continued to praise the Lord in the midst of trial.
Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."
Job lost everything, but he didn’t take matters into his own hands to seek justice for what he had lost. He fell to his knees and worshipped the Lord, and then he was still. In the quiet of his soul, Job knew God had a plan, and in the end, God restored to Job twice as much as he had in the beginning.
A godly man is patient.
Let’s pray.
Lord, waiting is hard to do. Waiting for an answer. Waiting for resolution. Waiting for things to get better. Restore peace and patience as we grow in faith and learn to wait on you. We trust you. Amen.
In Luke Chapter 7 verses 1-10, Jesus heals the servant of a centurion soldier at Capernaum. These verses illustrate the faith this soldier has that Jesus can heal his favorite servant.
We also learn in these verses that the Jewish people of the city knew of this particular centurion, and put in a good word for him with Jesus, because he had built the Jewish temple in Capernaum on their behalf.
Imagine that! A gentile, a man who was a soldier of some esteem in command of other soldiers in his city, built the local Jewish synagogue.
This brief window into the centurion’s character shows us that generosity can and should extend not just within our own family or our most familiar community, but to others who look, think, and act differently than we do.
This man’s willingness to complete such an act on behalf of the Jewish people in his community is an example for us today, that we should seek to be generous whenever God provides the opportunity to do so — even if the recipient is not who we expected it to be.
2 Corinthians 9:6 says, “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
A godly man is generous.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given us so much! Every good thing comes from you, and we are blessed to call you Father. Plant a seed of generosity in our hearts and help it grow, that we will share the gifts you’ve given freely, and at every opportunity. Amen.
Have you ever recorded minutes for a meeting? Whether you were taking notes at work or for a volunteer organization, such as the PTA at your child’s school, taking minutes and reporting on them at a follow-up meeting is an important responsibility.
What ideas were discussed?
How were those ideas followed up on?
Who, including yourself, agreed to complete certain tasks before the next meeting? And were those tasks completed on time, and correctly?
Recording minutes looks pretty mundane from the outside, but this person ultimately holds colleagues accountable to their responsibilities.
If someone was taking minutes on your life, what would those minutes say about you, in the end?
Romans 14:12 says, “So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.”
In this verse, Paul isn’t talking about salvation; when you’ve given your heart to the Lord, He offers forgiveness and salvation freely. We can’t earn or lose God’s promise of eternal life for us. Salvation is a gift.
Paul is talking about the judgment seat of Christ — a moment at the end of time when we will be accountable to Jesus for our actions in life. Did we create lasting value? Did we serve Him, and others, well? Were we ultimately responsible during our lifetime?
As believers, our goal should be to leave lasting value, to impact others for eternity, and ultimately to take responsibility for the legacy we are leaving in the name of Jesus.
A godly man is responsible.
Let’s pray.
Lord, along with the gift of salvation comes the incredible responsibility of sharing the Good News with others. Thank you for loving us enough to sacrifice yourself for us, and for the gift of salvation. Help us each to be responsible for sharing that gift with others. Amen.
Ancient Greek philosopher Socrates is credited with saying, “The unexamined life is not worth living.”
This line of thinking, developed nearly 2500 years ago, applies to our lives as Christian believers today. Let’s examine the question: What does it mean to be a godly man?”
There are many characteristics that come to mind when thinking about godliness and living the kind of life the Lord wants for us. Today, we’re talking about honesty.
In our culture—even in our Christian culture—lying is often treated as harmless. In fact, many of us lie automatically, without a second thought. Much of the time we aren’t even aware we’re being dishonest.
We may exaggerate, change the facts “a little” so we look good, tell a police officer we didn’t know we were speeding, cheat on our income taxes, or make up stories about our past. Sometimes we lie by omission, leaving out important details to protect our pride or avoid accountability.
Proverbs 19:1 says, “Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity than one who is crooked in speech and is a fool.”
Crooked in speech...in this verse, God’s Word reveals just how well He knows our tendency toward sin, including dishonesty.
As men and women after God’s own heart, it is vital for us to examine our words, our deeds, and our actions to see that they fall in line with God’s instructions for living, in order to fulfill His good plans for our lives.
A godly man is honest.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for calling us to be honest in every facet of our lives. Your Word reveals powerful truth for our lives. Thank you for your instruction, and your forgiveness when we fall short. Help us to be honest in word, deed, and action. Amen
Welcome back to prayer 101, the big question for today is how do you develop a prayer life?
The answer to how we develop a healthy prayer life is really not that complicated. It's all about choice. We can learn to pray first by reading scripture and taking notice of the hundreds of prayers offered by believers just like us. We can also talk with veterans of prayer in our own life, those who are older and deeper in their faith. But notice something about the prayers recorded in the Bible, they aren't contrived or intellectual oftentimes. Those things don't impress God anyway since He knows everything about us. We can't fool Him or hide or fake our feelings. In fact, the people in the Bible and those in your life who talk to God all the time just simply talk to Him. Some prayers are messy or sound selfish such as Jabez's plea for God to increase his influence. Others are said in desperate moments, but sound calming like David's famous 23rd Psalm.
Psalm 145:18 says, “The Lord is near to all who call on Him in truth.” This tells us that we don't have to do something in order to be worthy to speak with God. He simply is and He very simply invites us to share with him to unburden ourselves.
In Ephesians 6:18, we learn a lot about prayer, it says, “Pray in the spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests, with this in mind be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.” This is the prayer of someone who commits time each day to talk with God. This prayer warrior knows that he or she can talk to God about literally anything. Next and just as important this person prays for others. This is a far more powerful way to pray than many think because history is full of stories of people who prayed and God acted in someone else's life immediately.
The most important steps you can take in developing a prayer life are to understand that you don't have to be a PhD in Theology or have an IQ of 180. You simply talk to God in the most natural way. God warms to a sincere and searching heart. Next, you have to realize that your prayer life can take many forms, the quick moment during a busy day, in the still of the night with no one around or in a designated area where you feel comfortable. Once you get in the habit of praying, you'll be amazed what a good change there is in your life. Faith is strengthened. You're no longer alone. Throughout history men and women and children have made the choice to talk with the one who made them and loves them. It's not any more complicated than that.
Let's pray.
Father God, in your mercy you invite us to tell you what's on our minds. We know that communication is two-way street. Nudge us to listen to your voice. Take as much time as we need to pray. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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Have you ever been really angry at someone, and had a tough time letting it go?
Maybe a work colleague let you down, or got you in trouble with the boss.
Maybe family drama is dragging you down, and there are unresolved hurt feelings.
Maybe your spouse betrayed you, and you aren’t sure how to move past it.
Unforgiveness in our lives is painful, and as believers, it can affect our prayer life, and even our relationship with the Lord.
Mark 11:25 says, “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”
God’s amazing grace is one of the most beautiful aspects of Christian belief. He sent His Own Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross in exchange for our sins. We are forgiven because of the sacrifice Jesus made, and have eternity in heaven to look forward to because of that forgiveness.
The truth about unforgiveness is it does the most damage not to the party we hold a grudge against — but to ourselves. You can’t see it on the outside, but an unhealed wound on our hearts is like a cancer, spreading and growing, and preventing us from experiencing joy to the full.
God wants better for us. If you are struggling to forgive someone, give it to God today, and ask Him to help you let it go.
Let’s pray.
Lord, I have a person or situation to forgive that is weighing heavily on my heart, and I need your help. Please give me the strength to forgive, and renew my sense of peace. I give you every aspect of this situation. Amen.
Tim closed his laptop and wondered what to do next.
He had a degree. Great job experience. Enthusiasm and passion for his work… But the job market was tough in his new hometown, and his savings was running out fast.
“Lord,” he prayed, “please help me find a job. You know my talents, and what I need to help support my family. Please provide.”
He’d been praying this same prayer daily, but no job had come along. Tim knew God’s promises were real, but the disappointment of unanswered prayer was weighing on his mind.
Luke 18:1 says, “And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.”
God’s timing is not our timing — even when we are frustrated, even when money is tight and circumstances are strained.
The Bible promises when we obey the Lord, we can ask for what we need in prayer and God will provide.
God’s answer doesn’t always come immediately. Sometimes it’s completely different than what we expect. The answer might even be a resounding, “No,” and we have to trust God’s plan, even though it doesn’t meet our hopes or expectations.
In Tim’s case, an ideal job in his field was advertised a couple of weeks later. His new work offered exciting challenges, the opportunity to network in his new community, and a Christian leadership team at work. God came through for Tim, big time!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for loving us through our impatience. Your plans for us are good, and your timing is always right. Thank you for hearing our prayers. Amen.
Jenna stopped in her tracks, sighing in frustration as she bent down to pick yet another rock out of her shoe.
“Why on earth am I suddenly picking up rocks every time I walk the dog,” she wondered.
They finished their usual route, and at home, Jenna slipped off her shoes and discovered the problem: she’d worn those old slip-ons for so long that she wore a hole right through the soles of both shoes!
Philippians 4:6 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Sometimes our prayer lives are like Jenna’s old shoes: we take them for granted, setting aside a daily prayer habit and coming back when it’s convenient — putting off prayer until we can find the time, or in a time of trouble or desperation, when we really need God to intervene.
But prayer isn’t meant to be a sometimes thing.
We cultivate a healthy prayer life when we communicate with God often — daily, or even more than once a day. When we let our communication with the Lord wear thin, we are missing out on the blessing of His listening ear. He wants to hear from us: both our praises and our problems!
Don’t tuck your prayer life away for later, like an old pair of shoes in the back of the closet. Pray throughout the day whenever you have a quiet moment to reach out to God, and build regular prayer into your day to ensure there are no holes in your communication with your Heavenly Father.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for being available to us through prayer. We’re so grateful for your love for us, and your desire to hear from us, your children. Remind us to keep the lines of communication open. Amen.
Humans were built for language and communication. It's one of the bits of creative genius God used when He formed His highest creation. And apart from regular communication, whether it's the written word or verbal, we have a great gift from a loving God: prayer. And that's what we're talking about this week in a series we're calling, Prayer 101. Prayer is an intensely personal way to communicate with our Creator, the One who knows everything about us. Jeremiah 29:12 says, “Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me and I will listen to you.” All through scripture we see that God is available to us all the time. No regular hours or standing meetings. We can talk to Him anytime we want. There are 650 recorded prayers in the Bible, and we read about people praying while sitting, standing, kneeling with faces to the ground, or hands lifted up. By the way, Amen means “let it be,” or “so be it.” The word “prayer” appears for the first time in Numbers 5:22. Since prayers are human communication with God, we see that the first prayers were way back in Genesis 3 and 4 when Adam and Eve, and later Cain, talked with God. In the second exchange, even though Cain was angry and had just killed his brother, he was having a conversation with God. Jesus famously model prayer in Luke 11 and noticed that He was talking to God, the Father. It can be a fine line when thinking about how prayer is initiated. Often, thoughts come to our minds or we're reminded to pray for someone. However, there's an indication that God prompts us to talk with Him. In Galatians 4:6, that from our hearts we cry out, “Abba Father,” and that the indwelling spirit of the Lord prompts this in us. Of all the great gifts God has given us, Prayer is one of the most special. It's how our spirits commune with the One who loves us with perfect love. And He's always ready and waiting to hear from us. Let's pray. Father, God, we worship you for who you are. We love you. Thank you for loving us. Thank you for making a way for us to talk with you. The things that lie hidden in our hearts in Jesus’ name. Amen. Did you know many of the messages featured on the Kerusso Daily Devotional are available on a T-shirt? Kerusso creates original T-shirts, apparel, and gifts with inspirational messages that share the good news of Jesus. Learn more at Kerusso.com. That's K-E-R-U-S-S-O dot com.
One of the best benefits about flying at night is to look out the window and see millions of lights against the black backdrop. The lights signal that a city or town is down there — a place where families live.
Our spiritual lives are the same way. This world has its share of darkness, but God looks down and sees His lights. He sees the good that says, “Love lives here.”
Matthew 5:14 says, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
We are told in Scripture that as believers, we have indescribable joy. Jesus Christ lives within us, lighting us from the inside out.
With that gift comes responsibility: We don’t have the option of staying hidden. When Jesus told His followers they were “the light of the world,” they understood what He meant, sitting there on the mountainside above the Sea of Galilee.
Many of them took this to heart, shining a light in the spiritual darkness and sharing the Good News every chance they got.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to continually shine the light of your love and your Gospel in our world. Amen.
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Sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ means that we don’t just sit in our houses and shut away the world.
Scripture is an action item.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
If the Bible is true—if God’s story intersects with our story—then a hurting world is in need of a Savior. The pain many are enduring will have no end until they meet the God-Man, Jesus. He is our healer and His glory fills the earth.
We all have different personalities and various methods of engaging with others. But whatever personality God has given us, we are tasked with sharing the life-giving news of Jesus and His sacrifice.
Get in the game and do that very thing! God has called you to share His salvation with anyone and everyone. Darkness can be oppressive.
The Light has come!
Let’s pray. Lord, you showed up in our world at precisely the moment we needed you most. Help us tell others that eternal story. Amen.
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Nothing is more basic to life than creation itself. The Bible tells us that God alone has the power to truly create, and the beauty of language in Psalm 139 explains this fully. Some believe the psalmist was writing in part about the creation of Adam.
Psalm 139:1-3 says, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”
The writer marvels at the ways in which God understands each of us intimately, and is present everywhere
Are you aware that God loves you with a supernatural love? He created you to be a singular presence in the world…what we call “unique.” You might feel sometimes that you are worthless, or that no one cares.
Not so.
The Creator of the Universe, in that vast space, took time to make only one of you. You are precious to Him and you should never forget it, even when things look depressing.
God sees you when you sit in that chair and when you get up. He knows what you’re thinking and what’s in your heart.
You are on His mind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s comforting knowing that you are with us in each moment of our day. Help us to live in that moment. Amen.
Think of what Jesus was asking of His followers.
He had just risen from the dead. That doesn’t happen every day.
His ministry had been destroyed, so they thought. He wasn’t coming back. But then He did. Only days after being killed on a brutal Roman cross, Jesus was standing in front of his friends, looking very much alive. And He was telling them their futures were dicey.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
Jerusalem at the time was under occupation by an unforgiving empire. The empire required all from each individual, and never gave anything back. Jesus was telling His disciples that if they would give up all for Him, He’d give it back and more.
Forever.
This was the first great command to preach the Good News everywhere. The first marching orders for a spiritual army.
We are called to be in that army, to give our all in order to shake things up for eternity.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us the chance to share your love with others, all over the world. We love you! Amen.
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Don’t you just love the diversity God put into the world? He created harmony and balance everywhere, including our individual “best time of the day” to be creative and productive.
Some of us are “up with the chickens,” as they used to say. Others burn a candle late into the night. Whatever time is your time to connect in positive ways, God made you to shine for His purposes.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
Embrace your uniqueness! Just because your eyes don’t focus until later in the morning—after cups, plural, of coffee—doesn’t mean you won’t hit the mark today.
You were built for this, to be a light to others and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. So, rise up, whenever that is for you, and make a promise to God that you will get everything out of today that you’re supposed to. Rise and shine!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you made us to be a light in a world that is all too often dark. Thank you for the opportunities to make a difference for you. Amen.
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Have you ever thought about the fact that you have an obligation to defend our nation’s freedoms? You live in the Land of the Free; your contributions are needed. We all have a role.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Sure, maybe you’re not a Navy SEAL. Maybe you don’t fly supersonic jets in combat. You never served in the military. Most citizens haven’t, and won’t.
But that doesn’t mean we can sit on our hands and not participate.
Your gift and contribution might be instilling values in your children. Or you might be in the medical field, helping keep folks healthy. Maybe you’ve been entrusted by the Lord to be a pastor, protecting your congregation from spiritual dangers.
Many things have joined forces to make America a place millions want to come, to improve their lives. It takes a lot of effort and many moving parts.
Many of our ancestors moved through New York Harbor and shielded their eyes from the sun so they could see the Statue of Liberty. Each of them made the choice to be a piece of a large quilt that makes up our nation.
It is up to us to be courageous and continue the tradition. Our freedom depends on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we acknowledge those who came before us. We take up our own responsibility to do our part. Amen.
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From the very beginning, women around the world have served their countries on the front lines of war. In America, we know that the Land of the Free has hundreds of thousands of women manning their stations at home while Daddy fights a long way from home. In fact, winning World War 2 would have been dicey had we not had millions of women manning factories and offices.
But many of us are unaware that women serve in front-line units. As of last year, 800 served in combat. By the fall of 2018, 18 had graduated from Ranger School.
We salute them for being willing to defend the country.
Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Within each heart is the beat of choices. Our bravehearts serving in the military deserve our continual praise and thanks. We appreciate the women who have chosen to go to hard places, and protect us from danger.
Whether it’s jump school, tank training, or artillery units, the women of America are willing to lay it all on the line, too.
Thank you for our freedom!
Let’s pray.
Lord, protect all of these wonderful hearts that serve us in the ultimate ways. Comfort their families at home, and bring them back home safely. Amen.
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Today in America, two million men and women serve in our armed forces. More than 200,000 of them are deployed to various points around the world.
Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
The Lord has told us directly not to be afraid. We aren’t even to be discouraged! He’s told us through His promises that He’ll be with us every step of the way.
If we stop and think about the amazing history of this country, we can see that God has literally been with us every minute of every hour. He was at Yorktown. He dropped a last-minute winning strategy into Chamberlain’s mind at Gettysburg. God went with our invasion forces in the Pacific and in Europe during World War 2, because people were enslaved and in need of rescue.
He has been with us since the terrible moments of 9/11.
Be strong and of good courage in the Land of the Free!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your provision for us in all times and places is wonderful. Thank you for never leaving us. Amen.
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Matt Axelson was a smiling, sandy-haired native of California. In 2000, he entered the Army and became a Navy SEAL.
Then 9/11 happened.
In the sweltering summer heat of Afghanistan in 2005, Axelson’s team was told to capture a senior member of the Taliban. Unfortunately, the team was betrayed by locals sympathetic to the Taliban, and the SEALs found themselves surrounded by upwards of 100 enemy fighters.
During a fierce firefight, Axelson was hit in the head and chest, but continued fighting until the end. He died, along with two of his team. Matt’s last words were, “Tell Cindy I love her.”
He was thinking of his wife. Of his family. He was there in a tough place, far from the green, green grass of home.
Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
The price for living in a wonderful country is high. It’s very, very high.
No matter our politics—because none of that really matters when we stop and think about heroes like Matt—we can honor them. We appreciate our heroes more than we can say.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we thank you that one day you will wipe all tears from our eyes and death will be no more. Amen.
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We owe them so much.
Do you ever stop and think about the routine things you do every day? Buying detergent so that you can wash your family’s clothes. Fixing a couple of boards on your deck. We even grind through staff meetings at work. All this of course mixed with life, laughter, and love.
But do you think about why you can do these things in a great and strong country?
Primarily it’s because of the sacrifices of our fallen soldiers—those men and women who have defended the homeland since Colonial times.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
We are privileged to live in a land of the free precisely because fellow citizens took a different road. They walk a path of danger so that we can have the freedom to live as we choose. So many of them fight with the faith they’ve lived with all their lives, and it is our duty to thank them, and be thankful for them.
Remember them when you want to complain about daily chores made possible by their sacrifice.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep our warriors safe, keep them in your loving arms. Amen.
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When Hurricane Katrina rolled through the spinning white satellite image on TV screens actually looked evil. For residents of New Orleans, waiting for that hurricane that's exactly what it felt like. Thousands of people were affected by the brutal storm that poured in from the Gulf. In many ways, the city still hasn't recovered. But in the chaos, God was there.
For more than 20 years, water pump operator Rufus Burkhalter and Bobby Brown had worked at pumping station number 6 along the 17th Street Canal. When they realized how bad it was going to be, the pair did an amazing thing. They stayed at their posts. They kept working even after the levees broke. One of the world's largest pumping stations was still being operated by two good men who risked their lives for others. When it was all said and done both lost their homes due to storm damage. The seawater and raging winds devastated their lives and yet they chose to help others. That kind of love for one's fellow man is rooted in the love of Christ.
Psalm 93:4 says "Mightier than the thunder of the great waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea. The Lord on high is mighty."
God is infinitely stronger than the storms in your life. He's there guiding you and he is there caring for you through it all, all the time. In the horrifying days of Katrina and through the aftermath many people displayed a reliance on the Lord who stood up to the evil that invaded their community. When we lean on God in every situation, especially during the storms in our lives it builds our faith and places us on solid ground.
Let's pray.
Father, Almighty One, nothing is scarier than the dark deep waters that overwhelm us sometimes. We know though that your word is our anchor established and true. We can rely on it every single time. Thank you for guiding protecting and loving us always, in all of your ways in Jesus' name. Amen.
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Would it surprise you to know that God has always been interested in you? Did you know He knew you before you were born? He has a vested interest in how your life turns out.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
He isn’t some remote deity. God doesn’t pay attention only most of the time. He doesn’t form His plans here and there. He is there for us all the time.
The question is, where are we?
Before you were born, it was God’s will that you would have a relationship with Him. He has always wanted your life to be successful. He wanted you to have joy hundreds of years before your parents were even born!
So God’s will for your life isn’t confined to now, or even now and going forward. He has always been with you, guiding you through your life. As you look back now, you can see that this is true.
Being in God’s will is all encompassing. It is the beginning, middle, and end of our stories.
If you weren’t exactly in God’s will in the past, learn from that and move forward with Him all the time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you hold us in your protection for the entirety of our lives. We thank you that you never get tired of that. Amen.
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It’s interesting watching the outcomes of people who refuse to give in to fear.
Many years ago, while America was going through a severe economic depression and a world war, President Roosevelt told Americans that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.
Those listening over the radio said later that they felt a great sense of relief just from his words!
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
Our country emerged from a very scary time to become a people determined to embrace the future. Those who survived those dark days were known as The Greatest Generation. They were because they decided giving in to fear was not an option. It was a simple choice, honestly. They gritted their teeth and went to work.
And prayed like never before.
As individuals, we face their own depression, and our own wars. Any of us can be overwhelmed by the life-altering decisions we must make. Doing all of that living in fear can’t be sustained.
The Psalmist clearly understood that God would rescue him; the words he wrote about it were words of life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are great, the greatest, and your love for us is the only thing that should overwhelm us. Amen.
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Even during times of calm and security, the honest truth is, there are very few examples of really strong and steady leaders.
It’s a given then that when times are scary, brave leaders that reassure us are really rare!
The Bible speaks of one such person.
Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua was an especially passionate and courageous leader. A born leader. God used him during a time the Israelites were ‘going all wobbly,’ as a political leader once said.
The Israelites had seen it all. A plague in Egypt. An army bearing down on them. Mass hunger. Homelessness for years.
But Joshua played it all with a chip on his shoulder. An edge of anger really that caused him to never be afraid. In his community, he was boss -- and everyone knew it. God made him that way.
You have a responsibility right now, in the face of a global pandemic without a predictable end date.
In your own community—your family at home, your church family, a group of scared co-workers—be a Joshua. Be strong and courageous. Set your feet so that your legs don’t go wobbly, and then tell your people that God has this.
He is with you, wherever this situation goes.
Let’s pray. Lord, Joshua is our human example of courage. Help us keep others safe and calm in the midst of crisis. Amen.
The worst of times brings out the best in some people. As we think about sacrificing for others this week, we find some extraordinary stories.
One such story from 70 years ago spotlights a very brave woman.
John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
During World War 2, Romanian Princess Catherine Caradja defied her government’s alliance with the Nazis. When Allied bombers flew over, targeting oilfields, several planes were shot down. The ever-smiling Princess Catherine made sure the crews were taken to hospitals to be treated.
She then made sure they escaped through Italy, and back home! In all, she saved over 1,000 men. The terrible conditions brought out the best in the Romanian princess.
Such examples show us very clearly that courage can be found when necessary. Who knows, maybe you will be called on one day to sacrifice all for someone in danger. Just know that the Lord has always known your destiny, and He knows you will stand strong that day.
Let’s pray. Lord, Jesus is our ultimate example of a friend that lays down His life for His friends. Thank you for His ultimate sacrifice. Amen.
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What is your relationship with your father like?
That’s a very personal question, right? And for some people, it may be a topic they don’t enjoy discussing.
Sometimes people who don’t have a meaningful relationship with a father or father figure, struggle to grasp just how much God, our creator and provider, loves us. It can be challenging to develop a personal relationship with your heavenly father, if you’ve missed out on a positive bond with your father here on earth.
Psalm 90:2 says, “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”
God always was, and He always will be. He is everlasting, the creator of everything, including you, and He has a good plan for your life. If you’ve been hurt, disappointed, or abandoned by your father, or you struggle to find common ground in that relationship, bring it to God. Unrequited love and family strife don’t have to define your relationship with the Lord; He knows the burdens you carry, and He wants to set you free from them, and to empower you to follow Him with a light heart and a renewed sense of joy.
Every human being is a son or daughter of God, the constant source of strength, wisdom, and hope to Christians everywhere.
1 John 3:1 says, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”
Whether you were blessed with a loving, present father or your origin story is more complicated than that, you are a beloved child of God — and He has a plan for your life.
God the Father sees us, knows us, and loves us — and He wants us to know Him, too.
God is constant; He never changes. We can depend on Him.
God is faithful.
Our Heavenly Father is an example for earthly fathers to follow.
Ultimately, God is love.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, how blessed are we to be called your children. Help us to seek you, to listen for your voice, and to follow your commands. Your love and faithfulness gives us hope. Amen.
Joseph was a hardworking tradesman who God hand-picked from all the men in the world to be the earthly father of His own Son, Jesus Christ. What an honor! And in some ways, what an incredibly challenging task.
Joseph wasn’t a king, a politician, or a recognized leader of any kind when he was betrothed to a young woman named Mary. A simple carpenter, he was also a man of compassion. When he learned Mary was pregnant and knew the child could not be his, he intended to divorce her quietly and send her back to her family — but God had other plans.
Matthew 1:20-21 says, “An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’”
Joseph worked diligently to protect his wife Mary and their baby, then saw Jesus' education and needs as he was growing up. In a time when blended families were not the norm, Joseph embraced Jesus, providing for him, loving him, and teaching him the valuable skills of the carpentry trade. There was no parenting guidebook for raising God’s Son — so together, Joseph and Mary leaned into prayer, and did everything they could to raise Jesus well, and with love.
The Bible calls Joseph a righteous man, and Jesus must have loved his guardian for his quiet strength, honesty, and kindness. How God’s heart must have broken to send His Son into a fallen world, and how carefully he must have chosen the man who would raise him here on earth.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Just as Joseph was loyal to His Son, we have an opportunity to be loyal to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, too.
Joseph’s obedience in the face of unexpected circumstances are an example of what it means to truly trust and follow God — even when the path takes a turn.
From Joseph, Jesus’ father here on earth, we learn that...
God honors men of integrity, and rewards them with his trust.
Mercy always wins.
We may face humiliation in this life when we seek to obey God, but we can gain a close relationship with Him.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, every family’s story is unique. Thank you for the blessing of families as unique as a fingerprint, and for calling strong men to the task of providing for and leading them. Amen.
Moses was the father of two sons, Gershom and Eliezer, and he also served as a father figure to the entire Hebrew people as they escaped from slavery in Egypt.
He loved his people, and helped discipline and provide for them on their 40-year journey to the Promised Land. Imagine leading a frustrated, tired, hungry group of travelers through the desert — without air conditioning or handheld electronics — for four decades!
So many aspects of Moses’s life story seem larger-than-life, and he was indeed a hero of his time — but he was also merely a man. Moses’ perseverance in the face of incredible challenges over the course of his life shows today's fathers that overwhelming tasks can be achieved when we stay close to God.
Exodus 16:11-12 says, “The Lord said to Moses, ‘I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, ‘At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.’”
The Israelites were afraid they would starve in the barren desert after fleeing Egypt, and complained to Moses that it would have been better if they had died by the Lord’s hand in Egypt, where they had enough to eat, than to wander the desert without provisions. Imagine how frustrated Moses must have been! The Lord had miraculously saved the Israelites from slavery, and now they worried God wouldn’t provide what they needed to survive.
Through God’s faithful guidance, Moses was able to shepherd the Israelites through 40 years of wilderness living. They quarreled with Moses. They accused him of leading them to disaster and ruin. They complained frequently — even after they had seen God’s promises fulfilled. Yet still, Moses carried on. He brought every concern to the Lord, and with God’s blessing and guidance, he was able to keep going.
Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Moses teaches fathers that with God, all things are possible.
God answers prayer, and desires intimate fellowship with every believer.
No one can follow God's laws perfectly. We all need a Savior.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, sometimes parenting is exhausting! Thank you for the blessing of children, and we ask you to bless dads with patience to spare, and to make your presence known to tired dads in the trenches who need your wisdom, and your grace. Amen.
Noah was far from perfect, but he was a humble man, and protective of his family. He stands out among fathers in the Bible as a man who remained loyal to God, in spite of the wickedness of the world around him.
Doesn’t that sound a lot like life today? Fathers who choose to follow a life of faith are surrounded by temptation and downright evil in this world, but God is pleased by our devotion, and He has a plan for each of us — even when circumstances are frustrating or difficult.
Genesis 6 verses 5-8 says, “The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. So the Lord said, ‘I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.’ But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.”
The Bible tells us Noah, father of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, was a righteous man, and walked faithfully with God. For this reason, God chose Noah to build an incredible boat – the ark – that would save not only mankind, but every variety of living creature on the earth — from peril.
Sometimes fathers feel like their job is a thankless one. They tackle the honey-do list on weekends, help with dinner, keep the kids in line, and help to wrangle them at bedtime...and they don’t hear “thank you,” or “great job,” often enough. But God knows everything you do for your family, from breadwinning to caretaking and everything in between, and He takes delight in your devotion to your family, and to Him.
Deuteronomy 30:2-3 says, “And when you and your children return to the Lord your God and obey him with all your heart and with all your soul according to everything I command you today, then the Lord your God will restore your fortunes and have compassion on you and gather you again from all the nations where he scattered you.”
Modern day fathers can learn valuable lessons from Noah:
God promises to bless and protect those who faithfully follow and obey him. A man who obeys the Lord, will inspire faith in his children as well.
Obedience is not a sprint but a marathon; It means a lifetime of faithful devotion, even (and especially!) when the going gets tough.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, Thank you for calling out Noah’s faithful obedience to you so many years ago, and for providing for the safety and provision of his entire family when the world had gone astray. Bless every father who hears this message, Lord, that they might grow closer in their walk with you, and inspire their children to follow in their footsteps. Amen.
Adam, a first time father, looked down at his newborn son with love. Adam and his wife had made mistakes in the past and suffered greatly for it, but this child, their firstborn, was a chance to start fresh. The new family didn’t have the support of friends or relatives, but they did their best, and figured it out as they went along.
When the family was blessed with another son a few years later, they were so grateful to the Lord, and excited to watch their boys grow and play together. The family of four worked hard, loved God, and they were in it together.
Sometimes, though, the sins of our past have a way of catching up with us.
When Adam and Eve disobeyed God and were banished from the Garden of Eden, they plunged the world into sin. They couldn’t have known at the time just how far-reaching the consequences of this event would be for their family — that their son Cain would one day grow jealous of his brother Abel’s favor in the eyes of the Lord, and commit the very first murder.
Adam, the first man, and very first human father, has much to teach today's fathers about the consequences of our actions and the absolute necessity of obeying God.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Lessons we can learn from Adam include:
Obedience:
God wants us to freely obey Him, to trust Him, and to submit to his love. A man who follows and obeys the Lord can be a child’s first example of obedience.
Integrity:
Fathers with integrity know that nothing is hidden from God's sight. Even when no one is around, God sees our actions; men with integrity act accordingly.
Responsibility:
Godly fathers take responsibility for their own failures and shortcomings, rather than blaming others for their mistakes. The ability to accept responsibility is not a show of weakness, but a sign of strength.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, Adam, the first human father, had no blueprint for fatherhood. Thank you for the wisdom and knowledge we can glean from fathers before us in your Holy Word, the Bible. Uphold fathers, Lord, and open their eyes to your love, and your good plan for their family. Give them the support they need to follow you, and to humbly obey your commands. Amen.
California church goes to Supreme Court on in-person restrictions.
Church must be ready to deal with post-COVID ‘apocalyptic’ scenarios.
Morning Briefing: Is Going to Church Worth the Risk?
Congregations of every stripe are in the news lately as communities adjust to a shared new normal in the midst of this pandemic. It’s tempting to think churches across the land are flouting CDC restrictions and defying local social distancing orders, but most congregations — probably your home church, too — are continuing to hold online services, parking lot services, pre-recorded services...all kinds of creative methods of doing church together, while we’re staying 6 feet apart.
God equips and calls incredible men and women to shepherd His flock as pastors, and these servants of the Lord are facing challenging times, and tough decisions, as we all continue to deal with the big consequences of a microscopic virus.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 says, "Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other."
Pastors care for all of us, and they are doing their best to make decisions about funerals and weddings, Vacation Bible School and summer camp, and when it will be safe to resume typical church services.
Now is a great time to reach out to your pastor on the phone, in email, or on Facebook to offer encouragement, ask how you can help or support them, and let them know you are praying for their health and wellbeing, their family, and for God to bless their important work.
Here are a few of those church news headlines you might have missed:
Oklahoma Church Members Find Musical Inspiration in Their Kitchens
Charlottesville church puts on parade to celebrate member’s 100th birthday
Albert Lea Church Hosts Drive-Thru Food Drive
Let’s pray.
God, thank you for the pastor, associate pastor, youth pastor, lay pastor, and other members of the ministry and administrative team that lead and shepherd my church. Bless them with good health, courage, discernment, and grace for themselves, the ministry team, and the congregation. Thank you for your loving presence as they continue their good work. Amen.
Parenting requires a ninja-level set of skills in order to keep kids healthy, happy, and safe. The biblical fruits of the Spirit cover many of them: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Add to the list energy, creativity, and multitasking, and you’re ready to raise a kid.
Parenting doesn’t come with an instruction manual, and the list of preferred qualifications, alongside an endless to-do list, can be exhausting for busy moms and dads. Add a global pandemic to the list, and the life of modern families really starts to heat up.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 says, "Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other."
Who do you know at work, at church, or across the street who is trying to keep it together during the pandemic, and has suddenly been thrust into the role of homeschool teacher and short order cook for the weekday lunch crowd? The usual demands of parenting have increased significantly for many families as Mom and Dad attempt to work under unusual circumstances, while teaching Sally and Sam “new math” and completing art projects and practicing spelling from home.
You’ve probably witnessed a grinning youngster join Mom or Dad for a ZOOM meeting, contributing their two cents and doing their best to capture their parent’s attention while you attempt to plan Q3 marketing efforts, or examine last month’s production numbers.
This is a new level of excitement and disruption none of us planned for.
So, how can you support heroic parents trying to do it all during the pandemic? Social distancing is keeping us apart, so you may not be able to keep Junior or Jane for an afternoon, but you could: bake a batch of cookies and drop them on the front porch; Send them a board game or outdoor items like chalk, bubbles, and jump ropes; Call or text to ask how they’re doing; Offer to cook them a meal, or pick up kid-friendly fast food; Pray for them - and let them know you are praying.
If you or someone you love are doing the best you can to raise children in the midst of these strange circumstances, God bless you. This too shall pass!
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, you know the concerns, frustrations, joys and praises in the heart of every mom and dad. We thank you for the blessings you rain down on us, even in the midst of chaos. Give parents extra energy, patience, and creativity while we sort out the details of our new normal, and bless our children with a sense of calm and cooperation. Amen.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan found in Luke Chapter 10, verses 25-37 exemplifies what it means to be the kind of neighbor Jesus wants us to be:
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On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
“What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”
He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
“You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.”
But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead.
A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side.
So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side.
But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him.
He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him.
The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’
“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”
The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.”
Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”
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God’s Holy Word, the Bible, gives us a clear example of how to be the kind of neighbor we all want to have, and kind of neighbor the Lord calls us to be, as we face this pandemic together, and as we return to a new normal going forward.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord, Thank you for neighbors across our community who care for those around them by delivering meals, shopping for people at risk, using their skills to sew masks, donating to worthy causes, and showing up where they are needed. Give each of us the opportunity to be a neighborhood hero to someone in need. Amen.
Ask most adults about their favorite teacher, and they’ll tell you Mrs. Wilson in fourth grade helped them believe in themselves, or Mr. Lincoln in 10th grade history developed their skills as a writer, which led to a fulfilling career later in life.
This year, teachers have had to think outside the classroom in ways they couldn’t have imagined when the school year began. The last few months of school looked very different than what any of us expected, thanks to the coronavirus.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 says, "Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other."
These last few months, teachers have hosted online learning sessions for kids as young as Kindergarten, walked parents and students through endless web-based learning platforms, held neighborhood parades and checked in via text, email, and drive-by visits with weary parents and anxious children.
They’ve stepped up in ways big and small, and done their best to teach fractions and comfort fears, to deliver school lunches to families in need, and kids and parents keep going during uncertain times.
God bless our teachers. We already knew we loved them, but perhaps we didn’t realize just how much we needed them!
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we are so grateful for the talented teachers and other school professionals who mold and shape the minds of children and young adults in this country. They have risen to meet the challenge of students learning from home, and they are a blessing to families, and entire communities. Keep them safe, and help them to know how very loved they are by you, and by the people whose lives they touch. Amen.
The men and women fighting for our nation on the frontlines of hospitals, clinics, and testing stations are worthy of our admiration. Doctors, nurses, CNAs, and medical technicians are showing up every day in the face of danger to wage battle against a common enemy — a virus smaller than the human eye can detect, that is disrupting lives and putting the most vulnerable members of our community at risk.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 says, "Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other."
How do we thank people whose names we may never know, and whose faces we may never see, for selflessly showing up to work each day to protect us from this pandemic? Many of us quite literally owe them our lives, and we are so grateful for their efforts to extend love and grace to families who won’t have the chance to welcome their loved one home.
Pray for our medical community:
For physical and mental well-being as they work long hours and endure a tremendous amount of stress.
For health and peace for their families at home.
For wisdom for hospital administrators and managers, and the support they need to do the next right thing.
May God bless each and every person working to test, treat, and care for our friends, neighbors, and loved ones at this time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, in the midst of a daunting situation, you have blessed our nation with men and women willing to risk their lives to serve others in the cause of health and healing. Bless the work of their hands, comfort their hearts, and protect them in the midst of this crisis. Give them respite when they are weary and bless their loved ones as they carry out this vital work. Amen.
Have you ever been fooled by someone? Doesn’t feel good, does it?
But the absolute worst is when we fool ourselves. We try to manage some problem on our own, or analyze why our boss is so mean.
But the Bible has a better way of thinking about it.
Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
We have to do two things here: give total control to God, and de-emphasize our own judgment. Sometimes our gut is wrong. “Following our heart” often ends in heartache.
God doesn’t mess up. He doesn’t get it wrong. And he really longs to make it better for you.
Do you remember a time when you put your life in God’s hands? Maybe it was a really important career choice. Or a relationship needed healing. Maybe your body needed healing. Whatever it was, recall that situation today as you wrestle with a new problem.
Let’s pray.
Lord, every time we learn to trust you, it builds our faith a little more. You are a good God who always has our back. Thank you for that. Amen.
Are you angry at God today? Has something happened that has damaged your faith? If we live in the world long enough, it can happen to any of us.
How you respond is really important. If you’ve listened previously, you know we are talking about how to live by faith.
Having perseverance when we’re miserable is really, really hard. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you’re the only one.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
Listen to the words again: “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
That’s how we are supposed to live. Not for a few hours or a day or even a season. It’s a lifelong thing. And we don’t always cling to what we can see in the short-term.
Strong faith is built over time. Think back over your life to those times when God met your needs. Big needs! Those were moments He gave to you to prove His strength is not limited.
This is how we walk by faith!
Let’s pray. Lord, life is a marathon, not a quick sprint. Help us to walk by faith, from beginning to end. Amen.
When Richard Winters stood in the doorway of a huge glider in the pre-dawn over Normandy, France, he thought about a lot of things. The young Army captain was preparing for the invasion of Europe, to free the continent from the Nazis.
He knew one thing first: he couldn’t survive on his own skill.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
A very disciplined soldier, Winters literally took these verses to heart. Each night after the invasion, he would pray and thank God for the good things in his life, and he only asked that he survive the next day. His prayer life and the calming effect of attending church in England during his training saw him through.
When battle came and chaos was all around him, Richard Winters stayed calm.
Are you calm? Do the stresses of life’s battles overwhelm you?
Stop relying on your own ideas and wisdom! Some of it is good and some of it is bad.
God’s wisdom is good all the time. Ask Him for that wisdom in your life!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have to stay steady in this life. Please continue to remind us that you are in charge, and you will see us through. Amen.
The Bible contains a huge amount of wisdom for us. It’s the Word of God, after all.
Usually, that wisdom is most valuable to us when we are living through tragedy. Those days and nights can be among the hardest we’ll ever have, because the pain seems to be too strong.
Have you ever felt like that?
Our topic this week has to do with Walking By Faith.
2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
What does this mean? Well, Scripture tells us that true faith in God is “the evidence of things not seen.” It gives us a picture of waiting for a promise from God; we haven’t yet arrived.
If you are in that place today, make a choice to believe God. He won’t fail you, not even for a second!
Let’s pray. Lord, your timing is perfect, even if we can’t see the end of the journey. Give us strength for that journey. Amen.
Have you ever tried to follow God in a half-hearted way? You know what that means. You like the idea of God, but His perfect will for our lives also can feel restrictive.
That’s the moment you are walking along the highway of life completely alone.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Notice the precise language in these beautiful verses. We are to trust Him with all of our hearts. Don’t take your eyes off Him and follow your own choices. Be upfront that He is your peace. It’s then He picks you up, protects you, and carries you home.
Today is the day you’re thinking about all this. You’ve messed up. You’ve messed up in the most spectacular and disheartening way.
And it is exactly at this moment that God is ready to do the greatest miracle in your life. Tell him you’ve screwed up and have no idea where to turn.
There—you’re learning to completely trust Him. Commit your life to Him, and be consistent about it from now on.
Remember today: the turning point to an awesome future!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to reject our own flawed wisdom and rely totally on yours. Amen.
The Kingdom of God is simply the worldwide community of believers throughout history, looking forward to an eternity in which God will make everything new.
Revelation 21:23 says, “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.”
When we take part in fulfilling the Great Commission by sharing our faith, we help add to that great future gathering of believers worshipping our God.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the various stumbling blocks people have to accepting Jesus Christ.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
From various philosophies and theories, to internal struggles with sin, people stumble over obstacles that keep them from robust faith.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about what the faith is in the context of the Gospel.
Luke 9:23—"And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
In an increasingly post-Christian culture, many people simply do not understand what the Christian faith actually is. It is rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how common doubt is; most of us have these thoughts at some point.
Mark 9:24 says, "Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, 'I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!'"
As with other issues, sometimes we feel like we’re the only one dealing with a particular thing. But, if we’re human, we’ve probably struggled with doubt.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how healthy it is to talk about doubts.
Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
It is vital that believers and unbelievers alike have a place that they can talk about their fears and concerns about spiritual life. Talking openly is the first step.
In May 1962, an intimidating figure delivered a final public speech at West Point Military Academy.
Douglas MacArthur, who led America to victory in the Pacific during World War 2, addressed cadets. He told them simple truths, ones that define honor and glory.
The hall was completely still as the old general spoke in hushed tones. Everyone heard him speak of the honorable soldier who must rely on “those divine attributes which his Maker gave when He created man in His own image.”
Here was perhaps the most legendary military man in this country in the 20th century, and despite his personal awards and recognition, he humbled himself to acknowledge the One who deserves all our honor and glory.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
The name of Christ is the one that leads us to final victory. MacArthur spoke to those cadets of the American tradition of seeing things through to complete and decisive victory.
The Bible tells us we are soldiers in Christ’s army. We are standing on the most important battlefield in all of history. Our mandate is to share the Good News of Jesus Christ, so that individuals live for eternity with their Creator.
Let us glory in that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are our deliverer and the Victor. We honor you with our worship, and with our eternal thanks. Amen.
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Do you know Who Jesus is? Do you really understand His identity?
We know from the Bible that He is many things: a child, a carpenter, a leader of men. We know that He is our Savior, the One who went to the cross to take on our sin.
He is also our King.
1 Timothy 1:17 - All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.
In this letter to his young friend, Paul emphasized to Timothy that Jesus has dominion over everything and everyone. That’s because Jesus knows exactly what needs to be done in every situation.
While His earthly characteristics and roles give us some picture of Him, it is the picture of Him as King that best describes Him. God the Father has made Jesus Lord over all, and in Him we find true peace.
Have you ever felt safe because you knew your dad or mom was in charge and would do everything right?
We have that confidence in Jesus times infinity! He is our great and good King, forevermore.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have set Jesus aside as unlike anyone else, ever. You have placed kingly robes and a special crown on His head. Thank you for sending your Son for our sake. Amen.
Keanon Lowe was walking to a classroom to meet with a student. Not an unusual task for the security guard & football coach at an Oregon high school.
As he made his way down the hallway, Mr. Lowe spotted a student standing alone and realized something was amiss; the young man was armed with a shotgun, hand on the trigger.
What would you do, in a fight-or-flight moment like that?
Lowe made a split second decision that changed this young man’s life. He lunged for the gun, grabbed it with both hands, and quickly moved it out of reach.
In the midst of the fear and shock of this adrenaline-packed moment, what Keanon Lowe did next may surprise you. He reached for the student and embraced him, holding the crying boy who only moments before was willing to shoot him.
Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so
that no one can boast.”
The most valiant heroes don’t always move mountains...sometimes they simply choose to offer grace under fire.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us the courage to offer the gift of grace to those around us. Even when it’s tough, help us to remember your amazing grace for us, and to pass it on.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about remaining cool under fire when life is a battle.
Psalm 27:3 says, “Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.”
In both literal and figurative combat, our confidence comes from faith in the Lord’s promises to go before us.
Like today’s message? We love it so much, we made a T-shirt! You can get it here.
Have you ever thought about the fact that you have an obligation to defend our nation’s freedoms? You live in the Land of the Free; your contributions are needed. We all have a role.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Sure, maybe you’re not a Navy SEAL. Maybe you don’t fly supersonic jets in combat. You never served in the military. Most citizens haven’t, and won’t.
But that doesn’t mean we can sit on our hands and not participate.
Your gift and contribution might be instilling values in your children. Or you might be in the medical field, helping keep folks healthy. Maybe you’ve been entrusted by the Lord to be a pastor, protecting your congregation from spiritual dangers.
Many things have joined forces to make America a place millions want to come, to improve their lives. It takes a lot of effort and many moving parts.
Many of our ancestors moved through New York Harbor and shielded their eyes from the sun so they could see the Statue of Liberty. Each of them made the choice to be a piece of a large quilt that makes up our nation.
It is up to us to be courageous and continue the tradition. Our freedom depends on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we acknowledge those who came before us. We take up our own responsibility to do our part. Amen.
As we talk through the Good News of Jesus this week, we must always make it personal. In other words, deciding to believe in Christ is a very personal thing.
We all come from different backgrounds and belief systems. In the end, though, what will you do with the story of Jesus? Do you believe it is true?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Over and over in the New Testament, Jesus talks to the individual. He knew us before we were born, and knows all the things that keep us up at night, or burden us.
In Matthew chapter 11, Jesus tells us that if we are tired and just beaten down by life, we can tell Him that, and He will hear our cry. Have you tried that before?
Have you ever said to yourself, “I have nothing to lose?? This could be the most exciting and important day of your life, depending on what you choose to believe about Christ as savior. If the claims of Christ are true, then your story just got way more interesting!
Let’s pray. Lord, you care so much about us as individuals. Thank you for loving us this much! Amen.
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Whenever we have to overcome an obstacle in our lives, we are thinking about a million different things. Our minds race. We might even be aware that our Creator is there to help.
But have you ever considered that even when life gets tough, you can still have joy?
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Sheila Walsh has said that what got her through a bout of depression was the knowledge that God the Father loved her and wanted the best for her.
Today, one of her missions in life is to help others recover their joy, by pointing them to the Lord. The truth is, this life sometimes beats us up, but those circumstances don’t have to win. It isn’t inevitable.
It’s when we learn to rejoice while clinging to hope that true joy comes.
Let’s pray. Lord, in our lowest moments, we cling to you and your promises. Thank you for that joy.
When you think of ships, whether you’re thinking of the Titanic, pirate ships of yore, or trading vessels crossing the vast ocean to bring goods and services from one country to another, you probably picture them with an anchor — a heavy metal hook designed to catch on the ocean floor and keep a boat or ship in place.
Wikipedia says this about anchors:
There are two main types of anchors: temporary and permanent. A permanent anchor is called a mooring block and is not easily moved. A temporary anchor can be moved and is carried on the boat. When people talk about anchors, they are usually thinking about temporary anchors.
Hebrews 6:19 says, "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. ”
When you think about your personal relationship with Jesus Christ, what kind of anchor binds you to your Lord and Savior? Is the a permanent anchor — not easily moved? Or is it a temporary anchor, dependent more on where you want to steer the ship, carried aboard your boat until you feel like a temporary stop?
God wants the hope we’ve found in Jesus to be a permanent fixture in our lives; our faith is meant to hold us steady and secure as we follow Him, being a constant source of reassurance in every circumstance — not a temporary stopping place.
Let’s pray.
Lord, whether we’re sailing calm seas or fighting to keep our heads above water in the midst of a storm, you are with us. You are truly the anchor for our souls. Help us to remember to moor ourselves to you, instead of following our pride and settling for a temporary anchor. Amen
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the resilience that comes from belief in Jesus Christ.
Romans 12:12 says, "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."
The Apostle Paul spent two years in chains and under constant guard, and from this place of experience he shared a meaningful message of hope, patience, and a faithful prayer life -- no matter what circumstances we are in. The wisdom he shared with Christian believers in Rome thousands of years ago, still resonates today.
Like today’s message? We love it so much, we made a T-shirt! You can get it here.
When the winds of life blow fiercely, rain pours down, and the water rises, it is tempting to give in to panic. In the midst of the storm, sometimes we let the noise and chaos of our present circumstances become louder than the voice of our Lord and Savior. The still small voice in our hearts may only be a whisper, but the power behind that presence outranks any circumstance of this life.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus was not only with the people of the Bahamas, He is with you in every storm you face. He isn’t simply the fleeting ‘eye of the hurricane,’ either. His presence and power and love for us is greater than any storm life can hit us with.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you being our steadfast shelter, our provider and peace-giver in every situation. It’s who you are. No storm can shake us when we build on a foundation of faith. Amen.
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Colossians is a very informative book. Originally, it was a letter written by Paul and Timothy to believers in a small city. Chapter One tells us that Jesus made everything we see (and plenty we don’t see!). The universe was brought into being by Him.
That’s kind of a comforting thought! This great source of Love also made it all and He sustains it all.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Many people, maybe rightly so, worry about the planet. Certainly there are lots of issues that are problematic.
But what if we focused on the fact that everything Jesus has told us is 100 percent true? That would mean that He sustains our beautiful planet, so designed for human life to thrive.
It also means He sees into your heart and mind and knows just what you need.
He holds you together.
Let’s pray. Lord, your sustaining work keeps evil at bay in our world. We are grateful for your promises for the future. Amen.
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Does the future scare you? If it does, that’s understandable, from a human standpoint. After all, so much is unknown.
And yet, God gave us His Word as a guidebook. The Bible tells us certain specific things that bring great comfort.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
For the most part, we know the past. We are navigating through the present. But the Word tells us that Jesus is standing there at the end, bringing all things to their proper conclusion. In Isaiah and Revelation, we have virtually identical verses that promise Jesus will make all things new one day. There will be no more tears, pain, or suffering. He won’t allow it!
If the future scares you, focus on the truth of Scripture. Jesus isn’t intimidated, or moved, or unsure about anything, and that includes what is to come.
Whatever your future holds, make sure Jesus is at the center of it!
Let’s pray. Lord, you stand above time. You know everything that’s happened and what is to happen. We can rest in that, thank you. Amen.
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Carol had really messed up in her personal life. The career wasn’t going so well, either. But it was one particular relationship that kept her up at night, and she felt like things were coming apart.
Instead of going to lunch with co-workers one day though, she ducked into a coffee shop and found an empty seat in the back. There she pulled out her phone and fed her soul by looking up Scripture.
She met Jesus that day in the coffee shop.
Carol looked out a window at the busy street outside and thought about the Bible’s claim that Jesus created everything in the beginning. The enormity of that really spoke to her, but so did His love for her as an individual.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus sees all and works everything out for those who love Him.
Tell Him that you need Him today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we need you all the time. You sustain us and do it just because of your pure love for us. Thank you for that. Amen.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the fact that Jesus holds your life together, even as you think you’re falling apart.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Nothing is too difficult for Jesus; He has proven this over and over. Trust Him today!
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The Bible contains a huge amount of wisdom for us. It’s the Word of God, after all.
Usually, that wisdom is most valuable to us when we are living through tragedy. Those days and nights can be among the hardest we’ll ever have, because the pain seems to be too strong.
Have you ever felt like that?
Our topic this week has to do with Walking By Faith.
Second Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
What does this mean? Well, Scripture tells us that true faith in God is “the evidence of things not seen.” It gives us a picture of waiting for a promise from God; we haven’t yet arrived.
If you are in that place today, make a choice to believe God. He won’t fail you, not even for a second!
Let’s pray. Lord, your timing is perfect, even if we can’t see the end of the journey. Give us strength for that journey. Amen.
Standing in the door of the plane, with a fierce wind whipping his whole body, Curtis wondered why he’d volunteered for the paratroopers.
It was glamorous, they said.
It’ll make a man out of you, they said.
Shutting his eyes, Curtis prayed the most honest prayer of his life. He stretched out his hands and took a step…
Lamentations 3:25-26 says, “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of
the Lord.”
Rolling on the ground wrapped in silk, Curtis realized he had followed his instructions to the letter. With his landing, he graded out the highest of anyone in his company.
That story is exactly how we are to interact with our Savior. When we let go, confident that Jesus has us, we have no more pressure on us. He is carrying us to safety.
We land in the right place every time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have so much gratitude for the countless ways you lead us through life. We love you. Thank you for every safe landing, and for holding us safe in the palm of your mighty hand, always. Amen.
Under Construction
Have you ever visited a construction site, or lived near one?
A construction site is a unique kind of mess. Dirt and mud mingle with piles of wood, shingles, and other building materials. Utility flags poke up from the ground like man-made weeds. Trampled grass and dirty sidewalks give further evidence of the work at hand.
Eventually, what began as an empty field will grow into something more: a business, a medical facility, or a home.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Sometimes, in the midst of building our lives, we look around and see only chaos: Our relationships aren’t as blissful as we hoped. Our career isn’t following the upward path we planned. Our health or finances or life circumstances are a mess, and we wonder why our best laid plans didn’t result in the stable, structured life we wanted.
God does some of his very best work in the midst of our biggest messes, if we invite him in, and step back to let him work in our lives.
Let’s pray.
Lord, what we see as unworthy, undesirable, and impossible — you see as beautiful, loveable, and filled with potential. We invite you to be the master architect for our lives, and to bring a sense of order to our days, and our circumstances. Amen
Who likes to wait for what we need or want? Basically, nobody.
Of those nine elements that make up the Fruit of the Spirit, patience may be the hardest to find.
Romans 8:25 says, “But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.”
And patience is learned. Which makes it one of the sweetest fruits the Spirit gives us. Waiting for a “payoff” of some kind makes the end result that much more rewarding. Life teaches us that.
A childless Hannah endured mocking and ridicule, but the Bible tells us in First Samuel that she prayed and waited. Imagine how she felt when the date of her delivery drew near! She eventually had several children, but it was her patience in waiting on Samuel that made all the difference!
If you are waiting for something very important, read and meditate on the Fruits of the Spirit, especially patience.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us the patience of Hannah when we are frustrated by the waiting game. Teach us humility in the process. Amen.
We all screw up. Fail in some way. We fall short of goals or get embarrassed in some kind of career implosion. It’s easy then to feel like we’ll never win again.
That’s not how God sees you.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Hope and a future. That’s what’s ahead, not depression and failure.
The Bible is full of stories of people God would not allow to slip away. Peter denied Christ, and the Savior forgave him! Sarah mocked the idea that she would ever have a child, but God let her be a mother late in life!
This is the world God created. Not one of misery and losing. Does it make sense that He would create you in very specific ways, uniquely gifted as you are, and then give up on you?
Don’t let that be your story. Your part in it is refusing to believe the enemy when you hear that voice that tells you it’s all over. He knows the plans He has for you!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you don’t let us sink out of sight. Thank you for setting us on our feet, and helping us move forward. Amen.
Do you like scary movies? Is an evening spent looking through your fingers appealing to you?
It is to a lot of people. Some of us really like to be scared!
But hopefully that doesn’t translate to real life. Screaming in a dark theatre can actually be fun, but you don’t want to live a life of fear.
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
To be blunt about it, God made us to be fearless. Single mom? A leader under siege? Maybe your situation is something else entirely. But whatever environment you find yourself in, know that God is not about His children being afraid. He gave us a choice in that, as Psalm 23 tells us.
For thousands of years, people have recited that verse while in a tough spot. David wrote it when his life was in serious danger. The words fit all situations and lifestyles and times in history. You are not alone.
God will come through for you. Tell Him today that you need His strength.
Don’t be afraid to do that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us from fear. Keep us focused on your eternal strength and safety. Thank you. Amen.
Have you ever been in such a dark place that you wondered if God cares about you, or even exists? Maybe it’s all some cosmic joke, right?
We’ve all been there. Humans doubt. We doubt ourselves, we doubt product labels, we doubt our kids. We question everything.
But that worst one is trying to figure out where God is in the middle of great difficulties. Sometimes the world is just flat-out mean and it seems like it’s an entity that’s trying to break you in half.
That is the very moment God’s ancient and eternal words come to us.
Isaiah 41:10 says, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that! Jesus lives so that you will live forever. And in the interim, He will walk with you and carry you when necessary. He never fails and what’s more, His willingness to never leave us has been proven over and over again, in a billion different ways.
If you need Him right now, don’t doubt Him. Call out to Him. Your circumstances might seem impossible and impossibly unique. Don’t believe it.
Believe Him instead.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you promised you would never leave us. We know that’s true, but help us with our faith in our weak moments. Amen.
The giant redwoods of the American Pacific Northwest are among nature’s most beautiful scenes. As tall as skyscrapers, and big enough to drive a truck through.
It is said that the redwoods are so powerful and strong in part because even these plants have a sense of community. Separated, or as a single tree, the root system is more vulnerable. But planted with partners all around, the picture changes completely.
The redwood becomes tall and strong.
Colossians 2:6-7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
In Christ, we are part of a strong community. Scripture refers to Jesus as the Vine which provides nourishment to the rest. In Him we are confident, safe, and rooted.
If you are feeling vulnerable and without friends, start with the best friend you could ever have. Tell Jesus today that you need Him and His community. It is a lush Kingdom that will never die.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are so grateful for your love and provision. Help us stand strong together and do the work of your Father. Amen.
At an address in Columbus Ohio in 1900, former slave Booker T. Washington kept the room spellbound. This man, who had built Tuskegee Institute to lift blacks out of economic bondage, was revered around the world.
But he said something that surprised more than a few in the audience. He said that one of his main priorities for the Institute was hiring more Bible teachers!
Washington, who had been forced to work in an evil system, once felt powerless. Yes, an American president legally freed the slaves. But Washington’s faith in Christ was the real key in lifting him up.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Are you down and out right now? Are you chained to problems too big for you to overcome? Take Paul’s letter to heart and realize that all things are possible for your future, through faith in Christ. He has perfect strength, all you’ll ever need.
Tell him that today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your perfect will is more than enough to help us escape a terrible past and future. Our future is what you have told us it will be. Thank you for that blessing. Amen.
If you’ve ever been to a trade show, you know that products for the Christmas season are presented and pre-sold in July! Sort of like the Laurel & Hardy film in which they sold Christmas trees in summer!
Hopefully we have better marketing than the comedy duo, but there is one superb gift we can make people aware of year-round.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
If you’ve found faith in Jesus Christ, you know how good that feels. How peaceful. You naturally want to share this with everyone you meet. This free gift from Jesus is available to anyone, no matter their circumstances.
Now that you’ve been on the receiving end, you truly will understand that it’s not exactly better to give than receive—this is eternal life, after all—but the joy you’ll feel in sharing Christ is a feeling that cannot be matched.
So get out there and share the Good News year-round, not just during the Christmas season!
Let’s pray. Lord, Jesus gave us His all, and we are eternally thankful for that. Please give us many opportunities to share Him with others. Amen.
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Have you ever thought much about grace? We hear the word, but the concept itself might be a little elusive. That might be because it’s hard for humans to understand and embrace.
Grace means simply that someone gives you something with no strings attached. Just for your good.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
The Bible tells a simple story, really. Mankind sinned and brought evil into the world. God made everything, so He has the right to set the rules. And in His system, sin cannot be tolerated. So He made a way for us to be reconciled to Him, through His son, Jesus Christ.
Often, we try to do things to help life along. We plan, plot, and come up with programs. Our own ideas seem like the right thing to do.
But God’s way is always the right thing to do. Setting aside our own ego is key to finding peace in Christ. We literally don’t have to do anything for it.
We accept it in faith.
That is the gift of God.
Let’s pray. Lord, in your love for us, you make our path simple. Not always easy, but simple. Thank you for the gift of eternal life. Amen.
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Our world has rich diversity. In nature, we see almost countless stunning animal species. We linger on pictures of beautiful landscapes. Even different cultures give us amazing experiences.
There are also many different religions. Some of them offer a measure of peace. Some have reflections that can help us be better people. Today we’re talking about salvation, and that is one thing only Jesus offers. That is a harsh thing to say to some people, but if we are true to God’s Word, we affirm it.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Founders of other religions can’t save you. God tells us in Scripture that He alone saves, through the sacrifice on the Cross by his Son, Jesus Christ. Maybe you’ve been offended by that seemingly exclusive offer, but what could it hurt to really reflect on it?
Choose to do that today. Privately, tell Jesus that you want to know Him.
He’ll answer.
He has a gift for that.
Let’s pray. Lord, your world is beautiful but flawed. The world to come that you’ve prepared for us will be perfect and without end. Amen.
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Have you heard the name Sydney Carton? This character in Charles Dickens’s acclaimed novel “A Tale of Two Cities” has everything to do with sacrificial grace.
Carton is a man during the French Revolution who has a chance to stand-in for a condemned man. In this way, the man will be free to go on and live his life. Carton takes the other man’s place, and is executed.
It was common for Charles Dickens to write novels that reflect the Christian faith. Does Carton remind you of anyone?
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Jesus is Carton, in a sense. Though the Messiah is infinitely more than a mere man. His sacrifice at the place of execution—the Cross—is an eternal reminder that there is One who loves us perfectly and without end.
Sydney Carton did not have to do what he did. No one forced him. It was a choice. He saved one man.
Jesus saved mankind. If you would like to meet Him, pray that God will give you discernment to accept the free gift of salvation from Jesus.
Let’s pray. Lord, Jesus is our Carton, for all time. And He is real, not fiction. Thank you that you show us true reality. Amen.
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People are goal-oriented. Even if you think you’re not, you really are. Maybe you don’t have a burning ambition to work in finance on Wall St., or you aren’t going to be a pro athlete any time soon. But you do want to earn a living for your family. Hey, you even want to get your chores finished before your favorite show comes on TV.
Sometimes, this love of goals can trip us up when it comes to eternal matters. We think we can make our own way. It’s just hardwired in us to set goals and meet them in order to reach our reward.
The Bible says otherwise.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Eternal life with God, being reconciled to Him in spite of our sin, is a gift we cannot win for ourselves. In fact, we can’t do anything to get it other than simply receive. This is what God’s Word says. Salvation through Christ does not depend on our talent or initiative or drive. It depends entirely on the choice of Christ long ago to stand in our place as punishment for sin.
Once you wrap your mind around that, you’ll be ready to receive it with joy and anticipation for a future so good, we can’t even imagine it!
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you so much for your free gift of salvation. Jesus alone is our Savior. Amen.
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Are you eager to share Christ? If so, good for you! Your boldness is seen by God our Father, and it pleases him.
Often though, we get a little frustrated, if we’re honest. It seems like not enough people are getting it. We want to see everyone find new life in Jesus!
When we think about sharing the Good News, it’s important to remember that God is responsible for the harvest. We just have to be willing to be sent as his ambassadors.
John 8:12 says, "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”
When Jesus spoke those words, some people believed in Him right away. Others were angry with Him. Others argued.
If you feel pressure to lead others to Christ, relax. You are only responsible for fulfilling Jesus’s command to go make disciples for Him. He will take care of “the numbers.” This allows you to simply share His simple message.
He will light your path if you let him.
Let’s pray. Lord, there are so many people that need you. Help us with opportunities; we leave the results to you alone. Amen.
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As 2020 began, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit eastern Turkey, killing 34 people. Over 1,500 buildings were damaged, and 76 had collapsed.
It was in one of these collapsed buildings that a young mother waited with her baby daughter.
A rescuer heard her cries and said, “Can you hear me? We are coming. We will save you.”
John 8:12 says, "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”
Those Turkish rescuers did indeed bring the mother and daughter out of the rubble and darkness. They survived.
Do you feel today that your life is dark? Has your world collapsed?
Cry out to Jesus. I’m serious. Cry out to him in your own way and believe that He is your Rescuer and He will save you.
He is coming.
Let’s pray. Lord, we are so thankful that you sent Your Son, Jesus, to rescue us through his sacrifice on the Cross. Amen.
It sounds like the beginning of a Stanley Kubrick movie.
A mass of matter—rock, dust, water—is swirling all around. Everything is mixed up. And nothing can really be seen because there is darkness everywhere!
This of course is the beginning of the Bible, in Genesis. The creation of the world is being described. It all begins with chaos.
But, the Spirit of God is hovering over the water.
John 8:12 says, "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”
We are told elsewhere in Scripture that God the Father gave Jesus the task of actually creating everything. It’s no wonder then that it was His light that suddenly appeared, taking away the darkness and chaos. In time, order was brought and the beauty of a new world shined like an emerald.
Is your world dark and chaotic today? If it is, stop what you’re doing and get to a quiet place. Tell Jesus the darkness is consuming you. As God’s Word tells us, He will come to you where you are.
He will throw open the windows in your life and let in the light!
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for the beautiful world you made for us! Help us share your Light in a dark world. Amen.
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The Bible uses light as a symbol and metaphor for various things. Christ Himself is the light of the world. He illuminates the darkness and the corners and hiding places we all find ourselves in.
This is where it starts in our story. Jesus loves the individual. When we fall into depression or our behavior causes us and others problems, He is there with His warm light.
John 8:12 says, "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”
If you feel you are in darkness, that life is just too difficult, consider that Jesus tells you that He is the source of peace and light. If this is too complex for you to understand, ask Jesus in a prayer to help you understand, and to come to you in your need.
He will.
In John 8, Jesus begins by telling a group of people that He is the light of the world. He is telling them that He was sent by His Father to rescue all of us from darkness.
You might consider today that He is telling you this, and that you are His audience of one.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for sending Your Son as light into our dark world. We are eternally grateful. Amen.
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It’s not pretty watching the whole world lose its collective mind.
A crisis is like that.
As believers though, we have a duty to be different. We are supposed to stand out for Christ.
John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
This is one of the most beautiful verses in all of Scripture. It was meant for a time just like this.
Jesus is telling us straight up that He has already won the victory. What that does is take the burden off us to save everyone. We don’t have to solve the world’s problems. We don’t have to fold up and be scared to death in a crisis.
And remember this: many believers have gone on before us. They have already won their races and finished their assignments. They paved the way.
Jesus built that road through His sacrifice on the Cross. If you are dealing with family and friends losing it over our present circumstances, meditate on this astonishing promise from Jesus:
He has overcome the world!
Let’s pray. Lord, please give us strength each day to meet what comes. You are our Savior, in this life and the next. Amen.
Do you get tired of being alone or afraid? Have you had enough of feeling like you can’t take any more stress? If you’re honest with yourself, there are times when you think you’re just going to lose it.
The cares of this world can be like that. You stress about not having enough money each month just to pay your bills. You can’t sleep at night because your mind is racing, striving to create a workable plan for every possible scenario.
And no one can actually do that successfully.
So what do you do?
Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.”
God—who has proven Himself billions of times, literally—tells us exactly what we need to do. It’s so simple.
Give your cares to God. You can’t take any more stress. Your body and mind can’t sustain it. Truthfully, that realization opens you up to a whole new way of looking at things.
Give your cares to God. Feel that stress dissipate. Have the best nights’ sleep tonight you’ve had in ages.
He won’t let you fall.
Let’s pray. Lord, your mercy and grace are so easy for us. We can cry out to you and give you our tired minds and hearts. Thank you for loving us no matter what. Amen.
Even during times of calm and security, the honest truth is, there are very few examples of really strong and steady leaders.
It’s a given then that when times are scary, brave leaders that reassure us are really rare!
The Bible speaks of one such person.
Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua was an especially passionate and courageous leader. A born leader. God used him during a time the Israelites were ‘going all wobbly,’ as a political leader once said.
The Israelites had seen it all. A plague in Egypt. An army bearing down on them. Mass hunger. Homelessness for years.
But Joshua played it all with a chip on his shoulder. An edge of anger really that caused him to never be afraid. In his community, he was boss -- and everyone knew it. God made him that way.
You have a responsibility right now, in the face of a global pandemic without a predictable end date.
In your own community—your family at home, your church family, a group of scared co-workers—be a Joshua. Be strong and courageous. Set your feet so that your legs don’t go wobbly, and then tell your people that God has this.
He is with you, wherever this situation goes.
Let’s pray. Lord, Joshua is our human example of courage. Help us keep others safe and calm in the midst of crisis. Amen.
For some of us, nothing is scarier than the thought of being vulnerable on the open ocean. Bobbing around on a raft or lifeboat, if you’re not used to sailing, would be frightening.
Our current dilemma with the Coronavirus seems a little like that. In the 1944 film, Lifeboat, a group of people tried not to let fear overtake them in a small lifeboat after their ship was torpedoed.
God knew what our fears would be long before we were born.
Isaiah 43:1 says, “But now, this is what the Lord says…Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.”
Alfred Hitchcock, the Master of Terror Films, knew how to get audiences to react to his onscreen images. He knew how to stoke fear and string you along.
Not God. He is the Master Director, and His People do not react with fear when threatened. Isaiah said it perfectly: God says to each of us: You Are Mine.
Think on that for a minute. Sixty Seconds. Believe what God told us in His Word.
At the end of Lifeboat, the survivors are rescued, but not before their survival was in doubt the entire time fear climbed up their backs.
No such scenario for those who lean on God. As we wait for the outcome of this global sickness, just concentrate on one thing all the time:
You are His.
Let’s pray. Lord, you do not leave us alone on the open ocean of life. You are always with us, and we are so grateful for that. We love you! Amen.
Let’s just get to it. For the first time in any of our lifetimes, the whole world is facing a common enemy. One that threatens our way of life. But it’s not a dangerous person, or a hostile nation.
It’s a virus.
Literally overnight, we might be faced with disruptions in our lives that no one has experienced before. It all seems to have come from nowhere.
Fear is cropping up everywhere. It matters a lot how each of us faces that fear.
2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
Such a beautiful verse. Did you notice that…God has given us a sound mind? A sound mind. Even the words are comforting, those three words.
During tough times, God made you to stand. You can’t control a lot, but you can be calm and a help to others. Think about people from the past that stood calmly during incredibly difficult moments. They learned from life that scary things can be overcome and you can go on to thrive, not just survive.
In this time of uncertainty, you can be certain that God’s Word is true. It always has been, for past generations, a thousand times over.
Believe what God told you. Trade your fear for fierceness in the face of an enemy.
Let’s pray. Lord, our world gives us moments of decision. We will keep our eyes focused on you, no matter what! Amen.
Do you tend to be a fair-weather friend? Do you stay strong when times are good, but run away if things are difficult? Nothing will ruin a relationship more than that.
Let’s be honest here: There is someone in your life who needs your help and strength. Maybe you need to step it up in that area.
Jesus is a perfect example of loyalty to others; by following His lead, we can learn what genuine loyalty looks like.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Jesus stuck to you like glue when He experienced the most danger to Him personally. His death on the cross was frankly so much bigger than anything you’re facing…we don’t have an excuse to let down anyone in our life.
Jesus held out His hand and told you that He would lead you home. Practicing that type of loyalty in our daily lives will serve as a remarkable example to those who need to see some loyalty.
Let’s pray. Lord, your love inspires us every day. Thank you most of all for what Jesus has done for us. Amen.
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Who is the most loyal person you’ve ever known? A parent? Spouse? Friend?
Truthfully, we all crave loyalty. It gives us a sense of safety. We feel that if there is some loyalty in our world, it’s like a warm blanket on a cold night. Life seems less scary.
As we discuss the role of Jesus in our personal stories, it is good to remind ourselves often of ultimate loyalty. In turn, it encourages us to be loyal to that One person we can always count on.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Jesus gives us loyalty that cannot be broken. Are we willing to stay true to Him, as well? In other words, if life’s road gets rough, do we stay on the path He has set for us? Like Peter, we tend to think nothing could pry us from Jesus, but our choices can do that. Then we regret being disloyal to Christ.
Resolve to never let that happen to you. Keep His sacrifice for you in your mind and heart. That will help you stay true to Him when life isn’t so great.
He promised to never leave you. Tell Jesus that you love Him for that, and keep your eyes looking ahead to the eternity He has made for you.
Let’s pray. Lord, make us strong in our loyalty to our Savior. Then let that light shine for those who see us. Amen.
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One of the biggest criticisms of those who follow Jesus Christ is that such a model is very exclusive. In other words, it seems on the surface that Jesus leaves some people out of the salvation plan, because He says that He is the only way to God.
But what is He really telling us?
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Jesus is actually showing us the way. He gives us the path to being reconciled with God the Father. Sin separated us from Him long ago, but in His mercy, we can find eternal peace. In that way, we are able to fill the “God-shaped” hole in us. Solomon wrote about that.
When it comes to loyalty, we see that Jesus is in fact totally inclusive. He offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin for all men, women, and children in every era of history. What could be more open and loving than that?
If you’ve rejected Christ because you heard His love isn’t inclusive enough, we hope you’ll realize the opposite is true. He loves everyone equally.
Especially you.
Let’s pray. Lord, your Word shows us the expansive love that you have for all people. Help us share that Good News with everyone we come in contact with. Amen.
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Rakeem Boyd is a special football player. A star high school running back from Houston, Boyd now plays for the University of Arkansas. In 2019, he had more than a thousand yards rushing. Because of rules changes in the last several years, he was eligible to declare for the NFL draft. Such a player can be set for life financially, signing a multi-million-dollar contract.
On Christmas Eve last year, Boyd announced he was returning to Arkansas. His decision stunned the team. Most juniors eligible to turn pro do so without hesitating.
One of the reasons he gave for returning was to help the team win.
You see, Rakeem Boyd is loyal. He put the needs of his team above a great personal opportunity.
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Loyalty here on Earth among humans is a great thing. The loyalty an athlete has for his teammates is admirable, even inspiring.
But it doesn’t compare to the loyalty Jesus Christ has for each of us. He could have stayed with the Father, but instead chose to come to us and stand in our place because of sin. His victory on the cross was the ultimate loyal play. And that loyalty is worth far more to us than riches in this life.
Have you chosen Jesus to take your place in the game of life? He will, and it will be the best decision you will ever make.
Let’s pray. Lord, your Son’s sacrifice for us stands for all time and shows us that His love is eternal. Amen.
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Trust issues. Lots and lots of people have trust issues. Someone has hurt you in the past. Maybe it’s been multiple times. This world can be a dangerous place.
But stop and think about how much your damaged trust affects your relationships now. Is there a way out of this long, dark tunnel?
John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
People who hurt others tend to continue their hurtful ways. Bottom line: that person might not stop targeting you. Why not rely on Jesus to be your shield? He promises us so much more than protection in this life, though He does that, too. But in putting your trust in Him, you’ll begin to shift your thinking to the long view that Jesus will keep you safe from the effects of sin, forever.
If you find yourself in the difficult position of being a target of a bad person, tell all that to Jesus. Tell Him you need His help. He’ll provide it and soothe your stress. In Him you will find the One person you can trust anytime, all the time. He doesn’t take days off. He doesn’t take His eyes off you.
Give Him your situation. Rest in the assurance His Word gives you, that everything will be all right.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for never letting us down, and never letting evil overcome us. Amen.
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An eagle screams near the summit at Masada, near the Dead Sea. Once Herod’s summer palace, it was later the scene of a terrible incident in which Jews chose suicide rather than enslavement to Rome. When Roman soldiers breached the defenses at the top, they were met by silence, the wind, and perhaps a lone eagle, watching.
We are talking this week about your place on the winds of history. Where do you stand with God? Why are you here?
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
God wants you to succeed. He wants you to live with joy, to sleep well at night and to enjoy your family. God wants you to be fulfilled in your career.
Do you really think He wants you to fail and to be miserable? Stop and take a few minutes to get quiet and still. Ask God to put wind under your wings so that you can reach the heights He wants you to reach.
Ask Him, and then watch Him work in your life!
Let’s pray. Lord, your will for us is perfect and sure. We love you for your strength in our lives. Amen.
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There’s a reason the Bible uses so many metaphors. The wisdom God has for us lends itself well to short narratives, and we learn much from stories.
A famous passage from Isaiah we’ve been discussing this week uses a powerful mental image to convey deep truths from God.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
The sight of a majestic eagle, flying high above the ground…well, it can just make us feel good. It inspires. Gliding on the wind, the eagle dominates the place we’d like to be.
This gorgeous creature is exactly where God wants it to be. Free and sure of its place in the world, the eagle uses its extraordinary eyesight to see the big picture.
This is the place God wants you to be, and why He uses this verse in Isaiah to let us know our aspirations are not limited to the ground, not dependent on gravity.
Like the majestic eagle, let God free you to fly, in every area of your life.
Let’s pray. Lord, your beautiful creation inspires us. Put us to flight, so that we go the place you have prepared for us. Amen.
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Are you a person that has walked away from your faith? Maybe you believed once, very much, but it faded over time. Maybe you accepted the promises of God for a little, while but then something else caught your eye.
That’s not uncommon. Starting out on fire for God and then becoming weary is something many of us have dealt with. To use a flying analogy for our talk today, sometimes your flight of faith becomes grounded.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
This famous verse, now on millions of framed prints, coffee mugs and yes, T-shirts(!) has given hope to countless people. There are critics of the Bible, or those who claim not to believe in God, but too many people have taken it to heart and found out that the words are true. God does lift us up from our burdens, and puts us to flight. Just like a bird leaving the safe hands of its master.
If you are tired today, tell God. If you’re hiding it from family and friends, don’t try to hide it from the Lord. He knows already, anyway.
If you trust Him, freedom will follow.
Let’s pray. Lord, your mercies endure forever. Help us be ready to tell others about you. Amen.
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If you’re like most people, the more chaotic life gets, the more you need a solution broken down in easy-to-understand concepts.
We’ve been discussing what happens when people move away from God, and the consequences that impact us.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Besides the soothing beauty of the language, notice that God gives us several elements to meditate on, as we walk the road to peace.
We are clearly told here to hope in the Lord. He will then strengthen us. After this comes the fun part! Close your eyes and see yourself floating on the winds of peace, high above the chaos and troubles below. Finally, we are told that our strengths in the Lord will not wear out.
When God redeems, He does it completely — and with no strings attached!
He loves you that much.
Let’s pray. Lord, you actually make it easy for us to leave the chains that confine us. We praise Your Name. Amen.
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The prophet, Isaiah, lived during a difficult period for the ancient Israelites. Turning away from faith in God and under the control of corrupt kings, the nation entered a period of darkness. They needed hope more than anything.
In our discussion this week, we will talk about this human condition. Today, we are really no different from people in ancient times: We all need a relationship with our Creator.
Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Don’t those words give you a feeling of peace and calm? You can say them to yourself, with no one around, and begin to feel God’s strong arms wrapping you in love. He wants you to be free from all the strongholds that keep you from your destiny.
Wouldn’t you like to spend the rest of this week at rest emotionally and mentally? You can. This is the Lord’s will for you, as we heard in this famous passage from the book of Isaiah
Let’s pray. Lord, your perfect love always comes through for us. Just as you didn’t abandon your people long ago, we know you will remember us. Amen.
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Solomon was king after his famous father, David, in ancient Israel. He also became insanely wealthy. According to the world’s standard, he had everything.
Everything except peace later in life. In this way he was like a modern person, because truthfully, people’s natures never really change over time. It’s one of the things we have talked about this week.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Solomon came to some conclusions later in life, after he became bored with bad relationships, money, and fame. It was only then that he figured some things out.
The book of Ecclesiastes contains this wisdom that King Solomon found in his later years, and he tells us clearly that God is infinitely smarter than we are, and knows what is best for each of us.
So if you’ve been trying to figure things out for yourself—and failing miserably—listen to the ways Solomon describes God. You’ll find that the One that made you knows just what is best for you all your life.
Doesn’t that take some pressure off?
Let’s pray. Lord, please take our burdens and fix the problems we have created for ourselves. We love you for that. Amen.
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History tells us that God exists. Really, it does. And even if you aren’t interested in history, you might be interested in a few quick examples.
At the battle of Gettysburg, when the United States was about to be ripped apart by civil war, General Lee’s attack plans were lost by an officer and found by Union soldiers. This helped turn the tide of the battle, and led to victory and reconciliation of the country later.
For centuries, disease threatened all of Europe. The Black Death wiped out millions. In 1838, a lazy student named Louis Pasteur ran away to Paris, but he became homesick and decided to finish school after all. Later, his breakthroughs in discovery were pasteurization and vaccination, both of which have saved many millions of lives since.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Do we really believe in coincidences in history? Do we really believe Someone all-powerful isn’t watching over us to protect us?
Ecclesiastes tells us that God knows all, and even knows the end from the beginning. You might deny it, but in your heart you know He lives. And because He does, so do you.
Let’s pray. Lord, your provision for us is amazing! We acknowledge you and love you. Amen.
Since the beginning of time, millions of people have denied the existence of God. They are called different names: unbelievers, atheists, maybe agnostic. Many of them have quite a bit to say about it, and have even become famous doing so.
God also has something to say about it. A fascinating verse in the Bible speaks directly to this question of the existence of God, and it also speaks to our discussion this week.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Notice the second sentence. We are actually told that God has “set eternity” in each human heart. What does that mean?
Well, King Solomon was telling us that each of us has that ‘God-shaped hole’ in us that you’ve probably heard about it. That is a metaphor for that sometimes-odd, uncomfortable feeling we get, and it does seem to come from the heart. We’re sailing along and then all of a sudden we stop and feel odd. An empty feeling. Or maybe a longing.
That is eternity calling to us from somewhere up ahead. It is proof that God is real, and has caused each of us to want to know Him, if we’re honest.
Do you ever feel like that? Like, maybe today?
Let’s pray. Lord, we know you are there. It’s obvious. Help us share the Good News with others who have the same feelings. Amen.
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In an age of technology booms and information-sharing, it’s amazing how lonely we have become. Everything and everyone is connected, but does all that online connection ever leave you feeling disconnected in real life? Do you feel alone?
If you do, you are listening at the right time this week as we are reminded that God’s timing is always perfect.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Did you catch that? Here God is talking about and to the individual. He is talking to you. And guess what? He has made you beautiful, a truly unique creation. God has also placed you at the right place in history, right where you are.
God made you in his image. His Son, Jesus, went to the cross for you. If you still feel alone after all that, go back and read our verse for today. Read it again and again.
Our God loves you so very much. His Word says so directly, again and again. Let that be the backdrop for your day today. Can I get an amen? Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for loving each of us infinitely. Thank you for saving us. Amen.
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Where are you at today? I don’t mean the freeway or your kitchen or a doctor’s office. I mean, is your life stable? Are you on the right road? Our topic this week is the perfect timing of God. You might be in an okay place, or you might be free falling. As usual, God’s Word speaks to this.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Wow. That is a description of how your Creator is managing your life. You see it as a disaster. He sees you as beautiful. He is smoothing the path in front of you.
Can I give you some advice? If today is rainy and gloomy for you, quiet your mind for a few minutes. Meditate on our verse for today. If you can’t really see where your life is going, you’re not alone. All of us see through a glass darkly, as the apostle Paul said.
But God sees everything, and He sees it clearly. He knows where you are going and just as important, He knows where you are now. God’s got this.
Rest in that today.
Let’s pray. Lord, we are deeply grateful that you are in charge and that you love us. We love you, too. Amen.
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One movie image is so powerful, if you’ve seen it you’ll never forget it. A pair of army boots leaves the ground as a helicopter takes the wearer airborne, away from the field of battle.
This is a scene from “We Were Soldiers,” a film about America’s first battle of the Vietnam War. This happened in 1965, and tells the story of Col. Hal Moore and his men.
Moore was the clear leader, and he had also served in Korea. He promised his men and their families before they left for that far-away country that his boots would be the last ones off the battlefield, and that he would bring his men back.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
Hal Moore kept his promise. His boots left the grass blowing wildly from the blades of his aircraft. The battle had been brutal and bloody. But he won.
As inspiring as this story is—and it is—it stands in the shadow of the greatest battle ever won. Jesus won that on a Roman cross and by doing it, He made a way of escape for all of us, to be taken home for all time.
Won’t you choose to believe in Him today?
Let’s pray. Lord, Your Son has overcome the world. You tell us that in Scripture, and we are beyond grateful for it! Amen.
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You want to be a winner, right? You want to be part of a winning team. That’s obvious. It’s what we all want. The question is, how do you do it?
We just finished another Super Bowl. Hundreds of pro players who want to win it all practice hard every year with that goal in mind. The truth is though, at the beginning of the season, none of them know which team to join to win a Super Bowl.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
Unlike human endeavors, we can know which ultimate victory can be ours. As Christians, that means accepting the Good News of Christ’s victory over sin. Forever! 1 John 5:4 tells us exactly how to win for eternity. To be born again means we tell others that we believe God sent Jesus as a human, that He took our place for sin, and was resurrected from the dead.
As a believer, you are on the winning team, and that has implications for the next life too, of course. Jesus won the victory 2,000 years ago, and that makes you the ultimate winner.
Believe it, and tell others about it today!
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for overcoming this amazing but flawed world. We believe your claims. Amen.
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A common theme today is that people are just bone-tired of chaos, both public and private. It’s exhausting sometimes dealing with bad relationships. Global problems are with us every day. We wonder when it will end.
There is Good News for you, though. Literally Good News.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
This is a message to us that we don’t have to win the war ourselves. We don’t have to win a battle. Don’t have to take part even in a skirmish. Jesus has overcome it all. If you wonder how this can play out in practical terms, do this:
Read this verse several times. Make the choice to believe it’s true. Then just literally sit back and close your eyes for a little while and rest in the truth of God’s Word.
He is telling us that our faith overcomes all setbacks and difficulties. Our faith. Scripture tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for. We might not be able to see the end, but we trust God that He will be standing there.
Choose to be a warrior for Christ, and let Him lead. That is what will make the difference.
Let’s pray. Thank you, Lord, for winning the war already. We worship you alone. Amen.
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We are inspired by epic war stories. Great battles over time become so epic, they almost seem a part of myth. We put warriors on a pedestal and usually, rightly so. They make it possible for the rest of us to live in peace and freedom.
Have you ever considered there is only one perfect warrior? His name is Jesus, and He forms the backdrop of our talks this week spotlighting warriors.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
From King Leonidas to Oliver Cromwell to George Washington, warriors have led their people to freedom. All were epic, all pivotal people in history.
And none hold a candle to our King Jesus. He is the ultimate warrior, the One that came to this world to rescue all of it. His sacrifice on the cross waged war on the enemy of our souls, and He won the final victory then.
He has charged us as believers with the task of telling others about Him. Our Ultimate Warrior is calling us to make disciples in His name. If you want to be inspired by someone, be inspired by the Warrior that has no peer.
Let’s pray. Lord, Your Son Jesus did battle for us long ago. Thank you for His victory! Amen.
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Charles McGee is one of those improbable heroes. Part of the reason is because he started life with obstacles to overcome — just because of the color of his skin. He is now the last surviving member of the famous Tuskegee Airmen. This was an incredible group of pilots made up of African Americans during World War 2.
He pushed to achieve great things, and God was with him every step. Today, Retired General Charles McGee is 100 and thriving.
1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
The dapper, Charles McGee, flew an incredible 400 missions during his service in three wars. Today he inspires his grandson, whose goal is to be part of the newly created Space Force.
Heroes and warriors don’t always ‘look the part.’ In fact, some of the bravest don’t stand out in any particular way. They just walk the path God has set before them. The rest of us are the beneficiaries of this kind of valor. No doubt you know people like this. Men and women, boys and girls can all play this part God sets before them.
Let’s pray. Lord, help us to be willing to step through the doors you open for us, and to be warriors for you. Amen.
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God’s Word is a collection of individual books about the history of the world including poetry, worship songs, letters, and the beginnings of the Church.
But it’s also all about Jesus!
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Jesus, who came to our world as God in the flesh, is actually the Creator of everything that exists. Most amazing, He is today alive. He was crucified and laid in a tomb 2,000 years ago, but rose again and lives to be the King of our lives.
As the Word, He is aware of literally everything, including our thoughts. He hears the cry of your heart. He knows when you are depressed. He knows your thoughts and how you feel about things.
If He does all that, why not talk to Him today? Tell Jesus how you feel. His story isn’t just words on a page. He is the Living Word.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercy and grace for us are incredible! We are grateful that you sent Jesus to defeat evil and death. Amen.
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Did you know God’s Word is indestructible?
Many ancient books have been lost to history. Others sit still buried under the sands of the Middle East. But after thousands of years, the Bible is more widely read than ever.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
There’s an interesting story in the Old Testament book of Jeremiah. We are told that the wicked king of Judah didn’t like the Word given by God to the prophet, so he threw it in the fire! But God simply had Jeremiah do it again, and today we have the story recorded in our Bibles.
Whenever men decide they want to get rid of the Bible, whether in Nazi Germany or today in countries where dictators hurt their own people, God’s Word survives, and finds its way into the hands of more people.
A God who can do that is the true God, and the only One worthy of worship!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word is something we can’t get away from, even when we are rebellious. Thank you for preserving your Word so that we all have access to it. Amen.
The world is full of interesting ancient books. The Indian Vedas, the Egyptian Book of the Dead, even ancient clay tablets from Sumeria.
In the Bible though, we read that God’s Word is alive, not dead.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Active.
That’s a very interesting way to describe a book. It sits on a shelf, or stares back at us from our phones. The writer of Hebrews says that the Word of God is for all people in all times and places. And while we might not like the idea that it can see into our hearts and minds, it is part of God’s plan for our benefit. It brings freedom and peace.
Do you need those today? Then try reading the Living Word!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you made us and know everything about us. Nothing is hidden from you, just as your Word tells us. Thank you for loving us, for that ultimate intimate relationship. Amen.
People have different views on just what God’s Word actually is. Some think it’s an ancient book of wisdom. Others think it’s just kind of an interesting piece of historical literature.
But the Word itself tells us that it has amazing benefits for those who read it and believe it.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
It’s not a dead book!
Notice that the Bible is “alive and active.” That means that even though we might let it gather dust on a shelf, it doesn’t gather dust in our hearts. God’s Word tells us exactly who we are, and who God is. It establishes that relationship.
And it’s very important to remember that as you read it, you’ll see that Jesus Christ is seen all through the Bible. The Word of God reveals the Word, which is what John chapter 1 calls Jesus. It’s an amazing book within the Bible and is a good place to start to discover who Jesus is.
He is the Living Word!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are good to us all the time. You don’t leave us in our sin, but give us a way out, through Jesus Christ, the Living Word. Thank you for your Son! Amen.
The Bible.
It’s been called the foundation of our civilization, a sacred book, even our guide for life.
Actually, it’s more than that.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
From ancient times, God decided that He would communicate with humans through language, the written word. He wanted us to have our history and His instructions for living in a form that we wouldn’t forget or lose.
In effect, the Bible is like a mirror we can hold up and look into. Do we see a reflection of Christ? Have we spent time with God in prayer today? Are we helping share the Gospel in our daily walk?
The Word of God is eternal. We can hold it in our hands, and read it and apply it to our lives.
Do yourself a favor and read some of it today!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us your thoughts, and helping us know you better through your Word. Amen.
The story of the Prodigal Son is one we can all relate to. The Bible tells the story of a brash young man who leaves his home after asking for his inheritance. His loving father complies and let’s just say the son learns some valuable lessons on his travels.
Eventually he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family.
It is really a story of Jesus and us.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
We screw up sometimes. Maybe it’s so bad we can’t see a way back.
That’s when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn’t as concerned with where we’ve been as He is where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real ointment for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you’ve screwed up too much, or fallen too far, put that out of your mind and simply tell Jesus you need Him.
Let’s pray. Lord, your willingness to welcome us back to fellowship is something to behold. We are grateful for your grace. Amen.
How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request.
Hurricane Dorian recently caused a lot of anxiety and destruction. Many of us worried about the east coast of our own country, but the Bahamas got hit really hard, with the storm basically stationary for many hours.
Chella Phillips, from Nassau, thought of the least of these. She opened her home to 97 terrified, homeless dogs!
Sending a message to the outside world, she said:
"97 dogs are inside my house and 79 of them are inside my master bedroom. We have barricaded the refuge and nobody is outside, the music is playing in all directions of the house and the AC is blowing for them."
Whether she knew it or not, Chella modeled the love of Jesus for creatures He cares about.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus was not only with the people of the Bahamas, He loved those animals, as well. Why? Because no one is too far away from Him, and all matter.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for caring about anyone and everyone. It’s who you are. Thank you for loving all of us through life’s storms. Amen.
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Colossians is a very informative book. Originally, it was a letter written by Paul and Timothy to believers in a small city. Chapter One tells us that Jesus made everything we see (and plenty we don’t see!). The universe was brought into being by Him.
That’s kind of a comforting thought! This great source of Love also made it all and He sustains it all.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Many people, maybe rightly so, worry about the planet. Certainly there are lots of issues that are problematic.
But what if we focused on the fact that everything Jesus has told us is 100 percent true? That would mean that He sustains our beautiful planet, so designed for human life to thrive.
It also means He sees into your heart and mind and knows just what you need.
He holds you together.
Let’s pray. Lord, your sustaining work keeps evil at bay in our world. We are grateful for your promises for the future. Amen.
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Carol had really messed up in her personal life. The career wasn’t going so well, either. But it was one particular relationship that kept her up at night, and she felt like things were coming apart.
Instead of going to lunch with co-workers one day though, she ducked into a coffee shop and found an empty seat in the back. There she pulled out her phone and fed her soul by looking up Scripture.
She met Jesus that day in the coffee shop.
Carol looked out a window at the busy street outside and thought about the Bible’s claim that Jesus created everything in the beginning. The enormity of that really spoke to her, but so did His love for her as an individual.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus sees all and works everything out for those who love Him.
Tell Him that you need Him today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we need you all the time. You sustain us and do it just because of your pure love for us. Thank you for that. Amen.
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Do you feel like you’re falling apart today? It’s okay to say yes.
Life is life, and we all have obstacles to overcome. Maybe your issue is ongoing, or maybe it’s a sudden thing. But please think of it this way: Jesus is alive and He knows who you are and He cares about your problems.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus is not caught off-guard by problems in your life and most importantly, He truly cares for you and is able to help. Remember what the Bible says: Jesus holds everything together! That includes the whole you.
If you’re really struggling, tell Jesus. Then drink from the living water He provides. He was here at the beginning, He is present now, and He will be standing at the end of your road to welcome you home one day.
Count on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have all our stuff well in hand. Help us remember that every day. Amen.
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We are wrapping-up a weeklong discussion of love. Beyond deep questions like Candy? Flowers? or BOTH? We’ve decided to focus on what God says about true love. And in that realization, a very great gift is waiting for each of us!
1 Corinthians 13:4-5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
We get so caught up in our human relationships that we can forget about the most important relationship any of us will ever have. Scripture tells us that Jesus literally created each of us. The Psalmist told us that we are wonderfully made, and that God knows each of us, and did so even before we were born!
That is the starting point for finding true love. It is foundational. Focus first on your relationship with Jesus Christ. Talk to him freely, alone. Just open up. Tell Him your hurts and frustrations. You will soon feel His warm embrace, and the love He has for you. He is the ultimate provider of patience and kindness.
It is then you will begin to find real love. True love. Lasting love – in the form of our Heavenly Father who loves us dearly.
Let’s pray. Lord, your Son Jesus has loved us so perfectly, we are overwhelmed with gratitude. Thank you for loving us! Amen
We hope this week is a great one for you in your relationships. Like many people, you have a special someone in your life and you’ve gotten a gift from someone who loves you. At least a last-minute one!
But part of truly loving and being healthy emotionally is looking at what God intends for human love. That provides an opportunity for you to share the love of Christ in a very real way.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Be honest with yourself. Have you been good to your boyfriend, girlfriend, wife or husband? Have you? Maybe you’ve done pretty well, but if you think about it for at least a couple minutes, you might feel a twinge that alerts you to some ways you haven’t honored the other person. Have you been patient, kind, honoring?
Nope, don’t start arguing about what is “wrong” with the other person. Take some time for self-reflection. If you can do better, do. Make that your real gift this Valentine’s week.
Let’s pray. Lord, sometimes we don’t see our own flaws. Guide us in the ways you want us to love others. Amen.
Have you ever been hurt in a relationship? If you’ve been alive very long at all, the answer is an obvious “Yes!” Reality has shown us that love can be the most wonderful feeling ever…or it can be ugly and brutal. It can feel like your heart has been run over by a truck.
We’re talking about Loving Like Jesus, and as usual, His Word unlocks the secrets of our hearts, and shows us the way to healing.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Frankly, each of us supposed to love like this. But just briefly, let’s focus on you. Why? Because it’s okay to do that if you understand that Jesus loves you and wants all the best for you.
Has someone hurt you in a relationship? Is marriage or romance a challenging topic for you? Then please mediate on Scripture and realize that Jesus wants a partner for you who is patient, kind, and honors you. Oh -- and he or she doesn’t take frustrations out on you, either.
Use that as your starting point over whether to stay in a relationship or open your heart to new opportunities.
Let’s pray. Lord, help us to be mindful of your desires for us in the area of relationships. Amen
When it comes to love, the secular world has plenty to say. Turn on the television, radio, or explore the internet, and you’ll find advice on every type of relationship, from friendships to getting along with your parents, and of course – advice on romantic relationships. People are clamoring to figure love out…but what does the Bible say about love?
1 Corinthians 13:4-5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Love isn’t about control, or about protecting our own interests. It’s not about winning, because true love doesn’t keep score. God’s Word gives us a beautiful picture of what love can be when we seek to follow the Lord: patient, kind, selfless, humble, and forgiving. That’s the kind of love we should strive to build with family, friends, and a potential mate.
If we want to take Paul’s wisdom in Corinthians to heart, we must first think about what the other person needs in our relationships. And you know, if you practice this model, you’ll find that soon enough, your own needs will be met, too! Pure love has a ripple effect.
Let it wash over you!
Let’s pray. Lord, your relationship to us is perfect. Help us love as you love. Amen
Love is in the air, as they say, and that is our topic this week. Love can be a broad term, but we want to refine it for our time together—at the same time we are preoccupied with cards, gifts, and candy hearts.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
If we’re honest, that definition—God’s definition, really—is pretty different from much of how the world sees love. In real life, it can be complicated, stressful, even brutal. Broken relationships devastate lives.
But those of us who know Jesus know that our mission is to love like Him. Loving like Jesus takes the complications out of relationships.
If you are sorting through what love means to you, would you consider for the next few days what it means to love with the pure love of Christ? Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians require something of us, and that is a key we will continue to explore.
Make someone else the priority this week, and not yourself.
Let’s pray. Lord, your perfect love has sustained us always. We love you in return! Amen
Let’s think about something deep today:
What is the end game?
In this context, we are talking about what comes after this life we are living now. Believers of course look forward to an eternity with the Living God. And even unbelievers wonder about what comes next after you draw your last breath.
It’s the most important element in our discussion this week.
Romans 5:3-4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
Like snowflakes and other beauty in nature, no two lives are alike. Each of us is unique. God made us that way. The Psalmist said that you are fearfully and wonderfully made!
And in your unique life, you face singular challenges. If you believe in Christ, you are well aware that in this life there is pain, and struggle, and obstacles.
But all through Scripture, the Lord lovingly reminds us that He is always with us and when we pass to the next life, and He has prepared a wonderful future for us. One that will never end and will never be tainted by sin.
If you endure in your faith, that is what is waiting for you. Think on that today!
Let’s pray. Lord, your Word tells us that eternity is joy beyond our understanding now. All glory belongs to you. Amen.
Part of the joy of being a believer is that we can share the Good News with literally anyone and everyone. And how we share that faith is often critical for the other person’s future.
Romans 5:3-4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
As we share this week about holding fast to faith, it should be obvious that we are greatly blessed to be able to show others the way. And in that, we can be an example that just because things don’t always go our way, Jesus is better than anything.
On a difficult day, or in the midst of life’s challenges, we can let doubt fester and complain to those around us…or we can turn to Jesus, and point to Him no matter our circumstances.
People are watching. Don’t doubt that. If you put yourself out there as a Christian, others will look to see how you handle yourself when the going gets tough. Some look for you to mess up, but many more genuinely are curious about what you have.
Show them that your faith isn’t dependent on every day being smooth. Your task is to walk in faith -- up and down the hills.
No Grit, No Glory!
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for giving us the gift of sharing the Good News! Amen.
Have you ever heard someone recall a tough time and be happy about it? Not often, right?!
We all go through stuff we’d rather forget. When tough times hit us without warning, it’s natural to just wish it could all be over -- immediately! Humans are built to run from trouble, and that’s actually our theme this week: How do you grind through when it’s so bad you want to die?
Romans 5:3-4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
This is something that separates Christianity from other faiths. In the Bible, we see it all: good, bad, and everything in between. Faith isn’t handed to you like a plate of cookies.
Faith can be messy.
But it is a truism that anything worth having is worth fighting for, and waiting on. God’s timing is often very different from our own, and the story He has planned for us may follow a very narrow path. True faith is joy beyond our full understanding, and the Source of our Faith is always ready to carry us when we can’t make it.
That is the essence of holding fast.
Let’s pray. Lord, your Word tells us that You will always be with us. We believe you, and love you. Amen.
A lot of us like action movies. If they have a faith theme, even better. The iconic film “Raiders of the Lost Ark” comes to mind. In fact, the wild ride taken by Indiana Jones really typifies what we’re talking about this week: finding the grit to move beyond failure.
As he pursues the famous Ark of the Covenant, Jones chases and fights Nazis, and his own doubts. Along the way, his physical and mental stamina are challenged like never before.
Romans 5:3-4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
In a sense, Indiana was sorting out his faith, too, as he looked for the most famous relic of all time. For sure, in the end he had enough evidence to believe in the God of the Bible.
That’s kind of the way faith is. We look at it with skepticism. Sometimes for years! But then something happens to us that we can’t explain. Then we turn a corner on the street and there He is: Jesus.
If you are wrestling with your faith, stop and go back to the source: think on who Jesus really is. Your Savior. Your path to glory will be worth it all!
Let’s pray. Lord, our journey to faith is not always smooth and straight. Thank you for sticking with us to the end. Amen.
If we’re honest, sometimes as Christians we think things are going to be easy. After all, when Jesus saves you, it doesn’t get any better than that! The joy we feel is genuine, and lasting.
But that doesn’t mean we escape this world. Bad things can and do happen. This week we’re talking about having enough grit to get to the glory.
Romans 5:3-4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
Part of our Christian walk is developing a personal faith that lasts. As Paul tells us in Romans, leaning-in and learning to last is the key to it all. Listen, if you are walking through a really dark valley right now, you are not alone! Many, many people have and are going through exactly what you’re going through now.
If you bought into the idea that being a Christian means your life becomes easy, go ahead and let that one go. True faith requires us to look to the Lord when things go wrong.
Stand up on your feet, Christian, and let Jesus steady you.
Hold Fast!
Let’s pray. Lord, your strength sustains us. We love you for that, and so many more things. Amen.
Jane was the last child to receive a handmade blanket from her great grandmother. Pink and blue, festooned with angels and sprinkled with stars that sparkled in the light, the much-loved blanket was the little girl’s constant companion.
This childhood treasure became even more important when Gramma Ann passed away — a reminder of her love for her family, and her faith in God.
Jane’s blanket kept her warm in sickness and in health, but the washing machine proved its eventual undoing. One day, the last remaining fragment of Gramma Ann’s very last blanket was lost.
Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
A few years after the remaining bit of Jane’s ‘Gramma Ann Blankie’ was lost to time (but not to memory), her mom stumbled across the best yard sale find of all time: the very same blanket, likely created from a quilting kit, in brand new condition. Jane and her mother cried together right there in a stranger’s driveway, certain that Gramma was smiling down on them from Heaven in that moment of discovery. It was the best two dollars the pair ever spent.
Grace can show up when we least expect it — even in the form of a long-lost family heirloom returned to us in the unlikeliest of ways.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your grace is a constant delight. You are faithful to us when we seek Your face, and your gift of grace shows up in incredible ways. Thank you, and amen.
By some estimates, the beloved hymn “Amazing Grace” is performed over 10 million times a year around the world. Imagine not being able to hear this sweet song!
Losing the ability to hear, or being born deaf, is unimaginable for many of us who have never experienced hearing loss, but there are some surprising upsides to being differently-abled in this way.
Deaf people develop keener senses of observation, touch, taste and smell to compensate for their loss of hearing. What the hearing world may view as a loss, can lead to Sensory Superpowers for members of the deaf community.
ASL, or American Sign Language, is an incredibly rich language, and it’s the 6th most common language in the United States
Statistics show deaf people are safer drivers due to their ability to focus on the visual aspects of driving, and actually live longer than hearing people.
Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Sometimes when we lose out on something, God’s grace sweeps in to fill up that space with other beautiful blessings in amazing ways.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, sometimes we see differences as stumbling blocks, but your grace tells us otherwise. Help us to be noticers of where your grace shines a light in the lives of those around us, and to embrace the differences we encounter. Amen
"Amazing Grace" is one of the most recognizable hymns in the English-speaking world.
Written almost two and a half centuries ago in 1772, the words for "Amazing Grace" were borne from the heart, mind and experiences of the Englishman John Newton.
As a member of the Royal Navy, Newton faced many perils on the open sea. In the midst of a terrifying storm that almost sank the vessel he was on, he cried out to God.
The vessel was spared, but Newton’s change of heart was short lived. He went on to become a slave ship master, bringing many enslaved Africans to Europe for several years, and often treating them terribly.
I once was lost,
but now am found,
Was blind
but now I see.
In 1754, John Newton left the slave trade and seafaring altogether. He was ordained as an Anglican priest, and later fought to abolish the slave trade, publishing a pamphlet uncovering the horrors of slavery.
Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so
that no one can boast.”
God’s grace isn’t a one time offer! When we turn to God in faith, His amazing grace is waiting for us — time and time again.
Let’s pray.
Lord, let your grace be a song of praise on our lips and in our hearts. Remind us to follow your ways, and to seek forgiveness when we go astray. Amen
Keanon Lowe was walking to a classroom to meet with a student. Not an unusual task for the security guard & football coach at an Oregon high school.
As he made his way down the hallway, Mr. Lowe spotted a student standing alone and realized something was amiss; the young man was armed with a shotgun, hand on the trigger.
What would you do, in a fight-or-flight moment like that?
Lowe made a split second decision that changed this young man’s life. He lunged for the gun, grabbed it with both hands, and quickly moved it out of reach.
In the midst of the fear and shock of this adrenaline-packed moment, what Keanon Lowe did next may surprise you. He reached for the student and embraced him, holding the crying boy who only moments before was willing to shoot him.
Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so
that no one can boast.”
The most valiant heroes don’t always move mountains...sometimes they simply choose to offer grace under fire.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us the courage to offer the gift of grace to those around us. Even when it’s tough, help us to remember your amazing grace for us, and to pass it on.
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Do you ever worry you might not measure up?
Sam was a 4th grader with a big problem: he left his homework at school, and he was so worried he’d be in trouble with the teacher, he could hardly stand to go to school the next day.
In the car on the way to school, Sam’s mom explained the concept of grace, asking, “Sam, do you know about the idea of grace? Grace means even if we aren’t perfect, the people who care about us can choose to forgive us. I think your teacher will understand about your homework.”
Ephesians 2 verses 8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
The concerns on your mind today are probably bigger than a missed homework assignment. Maybe you’re struggling in your marriage, or experiencing financial distress. Maybe things aren’t going well at work, or you are battling addiction, or wrestling with sin.
When you begin to worry you are falling short, give it to the Lord. God sent Jesus as a living sacrifice for me and for you, so we could all experience His grace. Grace isn’t something we can earn, it’s a gift God gifts to us, simply because He loves us. And that’s truly amazing!
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In the last century, a 4’10” woman from England answered the call of God to become a missionary in China. Her accomplishments there, especially in saving orphaned children during war and conflict, have made her sort of a legend.
Near the end of her life, Gladys Aylward gave an interview in which she said the most amazing thing -- something that could only have come from the heart of a truly humble servant:
I wasn’t God’s first choice for what I’ve done for China. There was somebody else…I don’t know who it was—God’s first choice. It must have been a man—a wonderful man. A well-educated man. I don’t know what happened. Perhaps he died. Perhaps he wasn’t willing…And God looked down…and saw Gladys Aylward.
Ephesians 4: verses 1-3 says, “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
If you remember who you are in Christ, and remember that only through His strength can you accomplish anything worthy of leaving a legacy, you’ll find contentment that most only dream of.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a humble heart in everything we do. Amen.
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Tripping Over Pride
Have you ever felt a surge of pride because you had it all together? You know, your brain and talent and charm was just dazzling to the whole world?
It sounds funny, but let’s be honest. We’ve all at some point thought quite a lot of our own abilities. Pride—something God hates—trips us up. We are flying high.
Then the crash comes.
Our theme this week is “All Together,” and we explore what Scripture tells us about the Source of our lives.
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Are you hurting today because you didn’t anticipate some obstacle? Were you a little smug in how you could handle challenges? Then tell God! Just humble yourself and ask Him to make you whole. You might not have it all together, but He does!
Let’s pray. Lord, you are a fortress of strength for each of us, especially when we mess up. We are grateful for your mercy and grace. Amen.
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The story of the Prodigal Son is one we can all relate to. The Bible tells the story of a brash young man who leaves his home after asking for his inheritance. His loving father complies and let’s just say the son learns some valuable lessons on his travels.
Eventually he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family.
It is really a story of Jesus and us.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
We screw up sometimes. Maybe it’s so bad we can’t see a way back.
That’s when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn’t as concerned with where we’ve been as He is where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real ointment for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you’ve screwed up too much, or fallen too far, put that out of your mind and simply tell Jesus you need Him.
Let’s pray. Lord, your willingness to welcome us back to fellowship is something to behold. We are grateful for your grace. Amen.
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We all screw up. Fail in some way. We fall short of goals or get embarrassed in some kind of career implosion. It’s easy then to feel like we’ll never win again.
That’s not how God sees you.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Hope and a future. That’s what’s ahead, not depression and failure. The Bible is full of stories of people God would not allow to slip away. Peter denied Christ, and the Savior forgave him! Sarah mocked the idea that she would ever have a child, but God let her be a mother late in life!
This is the world God created. Not one of misery and losing. Does it make sense that He would create you in very specific ways, uniquely gifted as you are, and then give up on you?
Don’t let that be your story. Your part in it is refusing to believe the enemy when you hear that voice that tells you it’s all over.
He knows the plans He has for you!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you don’t let us sink out of sight. Thank you for setting us on our feet, and helping us move forward. Amen.
Under Construction
Have you ever visited a construction site, or lived near one?
A construction site is a unique kind of mess. Dirt and mud mingle with piles of wood, shingles, and other building materials. Utility flags poke up from the ground like man-made weeds. Trampled grass and dirty sidewalks give further evidence of the work at hand.
Eventually, what began as an empty field will grow into something more: a business, a medical facility, or a home.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Sometimes, in the midst of building our lives, we look around and see only chaos: Our relationships aren’t as blissful as we hoped. Our career isn’t following the upward path we planned. Our health or finances or life circumstances are a mess, and we wonder why our best laid plans didn’t result in the stable, structured life we wanted.
God does some of his very best work in the midst of our biggest messes, if we invite him in, and step back to let him work in our lives.
Let’s pray.
Lord, what we see as unworthy, undesirable, and impossible — you see as beautiful, loveable, and filled with potential. We invite you to be the master architect for our lives, and to bring a sense of order to our days, and our circumstances. Amen
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It’s interesting watching the outcomes of people who refuse to give in to fear.
Many years ago, while America was going through a severe economic Depression and a world war, President Roosevelt told Americans that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.
Those listening over the radio said later that they felt a great sense of relief just from his words!
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
Our country emerged from a very scary time to become a people determined to embrace the future. Those who survived those dark days were known as The Greatest Generation. They were because they decided giving in to fear was not an option. It was a simple choice, honestly. They gritted their teeth and went to work.
And prayed like never before.
As individuals we face their own depression, and our own wars. Any of us can be overwhelmed by the life-altering decisions we must make. Doing all of that living in fear can’t be sustained.
The Psalmist clearly understood that God would rescue him; the words he wrote about it were words of life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are great, the greatest, and your love for us is the only thing that should overwhelm us. Amen.
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In every generation, it falls to believers to spend time in defending our worldview as Christians. Honestly, it’s not the nicest part of the gig, but it’s necessary. Usually, it involves simply explaining what your faith is all about.
Followers of other religions do the same thing, but for us, we are sharing the person of Christ with those who don’t know Him. That makes it a big deal.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
It’s exciting that God has entrusted this to us. It’s a privilege. Even if you find yourself in an adversarial conversation, remember the main thing: you get to share your faith and see someone else find freedom in Christ!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you allow us to tell others about you. Help us always be ready to give an answer when asked about our faith. Amen.
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Our nation’s leaders have always acknowledged God, even if some of them haven’t always been model Christians. For one thing, no one can occupy the Oval Office and not lay aside some pride.
And if our nation’s spiritual health has sometimes been less-than-desired, there is a unity that we all enjoy. This community spirit has made America a very interesting experiment.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
We are now more than 200 years into our story. Even the harshest critics would be hard-pressed to prove that God hasn’t blessed this country. Wars and economic upheavals and scandals have not phased God in His ability to keep us upright.
History tells us nations that acknowledge God enjoy blessings that others don’t. In His mercy, God has been for us -- especially when it counted most.
And do you know the best part? A success story like that couldn’t have been possible without thousands of individuals who wanted nothing more than to be in God’s will.
They make up our family, and together we look to the future. Being in God’s will for the generations to come.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you hold our future in Your hands. The ancients understood that You are the Creator and the shaper of everything that is good. Help us remember that in our time. Amen.
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America does celebration very well. As a rich and varied nation, we have the resources frankly to host great celebrations. Our veterans are honored, which they very much deserve.
We glory in our past and look forward to the future. Flags fly and flap in the breeze that sweeps across the land. The recent Memorial Day recalled our nation’s fallen, those who willingly went into the danger zone and gave the ultimate sacrifice.
It’s interesting that as our nation grew up, we as a people came to a more realistic view of war and sacrifice. When the Civil War began, citizens actually camped out above the battlefields, hosting picnics as they watched the armies do battle.
When World War 1 broke out, parades were held in every city and town as our soldiers boarded ships for Europe.
But then the blood and tragedy of war hit us in the face. We began to turn to the only One that can save us.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
Human efforts can only go so far. We can’t save ourselves. But our Creator wants to do that, and it is to Him we owe our honor and glory.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your sacrifice was the one that will one day end all wars and strife in our world. We thank you for Jesus, and we give you the honor and glory you deserve. Amen.
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Have you ever thought about the fact that you have an obligation to defend our nation’s freedoms? You live in the Land of the Free; your contributions are needed. We all have a role.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Sure, maybe you’re not a Navy SEAL. Maybe you don’t fly supersonic jets in combat. You never served in the military. Most citizens haven’t, and won’t.
But that doesn’t mean we can sit on our hands and not participate.
Your gift and contribution might be instilling values in your children. Or you might be in the medical field, helping keep folks healthy. Maybe you’ve been entrusted by the Lord to be a pastor, protecting your congregation from spiritual dangers.
Many things have joined forces to make America a place millions want to come, to improve their lives. It takes a lot of effort and many moving parts.
Many of our ancestors moved through New York Harbor and shielded their eyes from the sun so they could see the Statue of Liberty. Each of them made the choice to be a piece of a large quilt that makes up our nation.
It is up to us to be courageous and continue the tradition. Our freedom depends on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we acknowledge those who came before us. We take up our own responsibility to do our part. Amen.
What Do You Believe
One reason people use for rejecting the claims of Christ is that there somehow isn’t enough evidence to prove that the events in the New Testament actually happened. In other words, some say the Bible isn’t true.
We’re talking about the life of Jesus this week. So what is the true story?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
There are more than 25,000 ancient copies of the books of the New Testament, in various languages. There are only a handful of accounts of Hannibal crossing the Alps 200 years before Christ was born. Yet no one doubts that it happened.
There are plenty of reasons to believe the biblical accounts of history are true. The apostles gave up their lives claiming that Jesus lived, and was resurrected from the dead. That narrative says salvation comes through Jesus, and He is the path to being reconciled to God and eternal life.
But only one thing matters: What do you believe?
Let’s pray. Lord, your Word promises us that Jesus saves us from our sins. We thank you that you provided a way of escape from judgment for us. Amen.
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Search & Rescue Mission
Of the many gods throughout world history, almost none of them seem to care about individuals. They might alter the weather so that crops can’t grow. Or cause some global upheaval.
But only one claims to care about you.
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Isn’t that amazing? The story is that Jesus left His place of royalty in heaven to come to Earth as an innocent baby, then grow into a man ready to carry our sins for us. He came to find you! You! God sent Him on a search-and-rescue mission.
As we continue our look this week into the Good News—or, the True Story of Jesus—we begin to see that He is powerful: so powerful He can concentrate fully on each of us. That is astonishing. And comforting.
We can say that we choose Christ, but it is more accurate to say that He looked for us and found us. He sees the heart. He spends time healing your heart and your life. It’s why the imagery of a shepherd tending to his sheep is used so often in Scripture.
Our great God stands alone as the champion of the individual. Praise God!
Let’s pray. Lord, your love for us has no limits. We are given your grace and mercy every day. Thank you so much for that! Amen.
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Getting Personal with God
As we talk through the Good News of Jesus this week, we must always make it personal. In other words, deciding to believe in Christ is a very personal thing.
We all come from different backgrounds and belief systems. In the end, though, what will you do with the story of Jesus? Do you believe it is true?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Over and over in the New Testament, Jesus talks to the individual. He knew us before we were born, and knows all the things that keep us up at night, or burden us.
In Matthew chapter 11, Jesus tells us that if we are tired and just beaten down by life, we can tell Him that, and He will hear our cry. Have you tried that before?
Have you ever said to yourself, “I have nothing to lose?? This could be the most exciting and important day of your life, depending on what you choose to believe about Christ as savior. If the claims of Christ are true, then your story just got way more interesting!
Let’s pray. Lord, you care so much about us as individuals. Thank you for loving us this much! Amen.
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The Saving Power of Jesus
When we as Christians talk about the saving power of Jesus, what exactly do we mean?
In our discussion this week of this all-important topic, are we clear about who Jesus is?
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
The facts are that Adam and Eve broke their faith in God by disobeying Him. Some dispute that this even happened in history, or some are just upset that God would demand complete obedience. But if we believe He is the Creator, we understand that He set the rules.
Because of that original sin, it became necessary for someone to pay the penalty for sin. God hates sin, and so He sent Jesus to earth as a human to save mankind. Eventually, He would be crucified and in this way, paid the blood penalty that God demands. As we read in Romans 10:9-10, Jesus is the path back to God.
He longs to save us.
Let’s pray. Lord, there are competing views in this world, but you have set Jesus as the standard. Help us pass on this knowledge. Amen.
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The Sweetest Truth
There is a move in our society for a return to simple living. We might not want to give up all of our technology—much of it is wonderful and helpful. But it is true we want to quiet our minds and find some peace. This week we are talking about the simplest, sweetest truth around: Jesus Saves.
With that knowledge in hand, we can all find peace that the Bible says is from another world.
Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
It seems we are moving at near the speed of light through this amazing Information Age. Constant access to that much information can bring with it tired minds and weary hearts, at times.
With that said, wouldn’t you like to be able to grab hold of the secret of life?
We just read it. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth as a man, to take on our sin and pay the penalty for those sins. When he was crucified, God raised Him from the dead three days later. It is what believers call the Good News. You can believe it or not. Those of us who follow Jesus believe God has proven Himself many times over.
We love our Jesus.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given all of us the hope of a joyful eternity. Your Son’s sacrifice has saved us, and we are eternally grateful for that. Amen.
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Do you ever feel that you aren’t suited for sharing your faith in Christ? Maybe you’re not comfortable around people. Maybe you’ve encountered some who are hostile to faith.
If so, then we are speaking to you this week as we conclude our talk about sharing your light in a dark world.
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
Have you seen the movie, “The Ten Commandments?” It’s doubtful the real Moses looked and talked like Charlton Heston. And do we really think God looks for His witnesses among people who have that perfect British accent in a Jesus movie?
Nope. If we think we have to look or act a certain way, then we’re doing it wrong. God doesn’t ask our permission when giving us our marching orders for sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Instead, He approaches us as He did Job: Stand up and listen to what I have to tell you.
You are called to shine a light for Christ in a world full of dark things. You are equipped, just as you are. God has called you. Be bold in Christ.
He is the Star. We are lights along the way.
Let’s pray. Lord, the time is now. So many need you. Help us shine for you every day. Amen.
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Helen Amelia Thompson was gifted, and her parents knew it. Later, everyone knew it as she married a fiery young evangelist named Billy Sunday.
What a name for this Gospel power couple!
What God brought out in Helen is a perfect example of our “Star week” topic found in Philippians.
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
Billy was naturally shy and not great at organization. Guess what? Helen was great at it, and a lot of other things. In fact, she was so good at running an evangelistic organization that she became quite an evangelist in her own right! She wrote a nationally syndicated column and advocated for opportunities for women. Her memorable line was that the “doors to the dollhouse have been opened!”
Helen Sunday shined bright all through her life and remains a great example for us all.
Let’s pray. Lord, use us mightily to tell others about Christ. Help us leave this world one day with no regrets! Amen.
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In the book of Romans, Paul tells us the evidences for the existence of God are so numerous in nature that anyone can believe in God. Surely one of the most compelling examples is in our night sky. When we look up at the heavens, it takes our breath away. The twinkling lights are like our own personal message from God.
All those stars…
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
Astronomers tell us that each star is as unique as we are. We can see some burning dramatically, others are smaller-but-no-less-beautiful. All those infinite numbers dot the black backdrop, causing even the most cynical of us to marvel.
God has always intended for you to share your faith. Like a message written with stars, your story will resonate with people who wonder why you have joy in a crazy world. They will stop and consider what you have to say, because the light of Christ shines from the inside out.
That is a message worth telling!
Let’s pray. Lord, give us the courage to tell our stories, to share the Good News of what Christ has done for us! Amen.
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Jerry wasn’t very good at a lot of things. He was shy and his grades weren’t stellar. He was bullied at school.
Then he was given a part in the Christmas play at church. No one ever gave Jerry a part, but his Sunday school teacher took God’s Word to heart and knew that if she could help this shy boy, it could change his life. She knew that Jerry was good with mechanical things, so she put him in charge of raising and spotlighting the famous Star of Bethlehem. The result of that defines our discussion this week of letting your light shine bright.
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
When the time came in the play for the Star to be raised, the gleaming silver took everyone’s breath away. There in the shadows of the stage, where no one was looking at him, Jerry did his part. He shined that night, and afterward pats on the back replaced the taunts.
Think of someone you can help shine today.
Let’s pray. Lord, we are all weak vessels, yet you use us to tell others about Jesus. Thank you for that. Amen.
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Are you like a lot of people when it comes to the instruction booklet with a new item? We stare at it and eventually toss it, guessing we can just figure it out.
Yeah…that usually ends like dropping a carton of eggs.
The Bible is there for a reason. God’s Word is healing and light and a guide for each of us. That’s why it’s important to read it, and meditate on the words.
To the church at Philippi, Paul gave instruction from God, such as putting others before ourselves. Then the payoff:
Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”
God’s way is infinitely better. If we focus on the right things, our own needs are then met in ways too spectacular for us to imagine. Focus on others and sharing the Good News, and we stand out like stars in the night sky!
Do life the right way: Read the instructions.
Let’s pray. Lord, you’ve shown us how to succeed in life and in the life to come. Help us share that with others. Amen.
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God gives us good gifts all the time. All through the year, not just at Christmas.
One of the truly joyful gifts is the ability to be kind to others. It sounds simple and maybe to some even quaint, but there is power in choosing to be kind.
Choosing to be kind. That’s one of our themes this week.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 tells us to, “Always be joyful.” Paul uses this chapter to describe the heart of a Christian. We are also to “encourage the disheartened,” and “be patient with everyone.”
Although there are studies that prove this, we don’t have to read a study to know that our decision to spread cheer in this world is really important.
Honestly, it also just feels good. Doesn’t it? Have you done this lately?
Minnie Pearl was a fixture on the Grand Ole Opry. Her silly hat and goofy jokes helped make her famous, but the native of Tennessee is remembered for her joyful heart. People who knew her especially felt lifted up just by being around her.
It’s always the season to spread cheer, but especially so during this season of goodwill.
Try it. You’ll help others lean into joy, and it will help you catch the spirit of joy, too.
Let’s pray. Lord, the joy we feel as believers is a good, good gift from our Good Father. Thank you for giving us hope. Amen.
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Our world needs many things. We have environmental concerns, broken relationships, and disease that still stalks too many countries.
It is also true that God doesn’t leave us in despair. He doesn’t allow our problems to overcome us, if we trust Him.
Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
This is our anchor, the blessing of hope. This week we’re talking about hope and joy, and these are given to us freely by our Loving Father.
Do you have hope? Are you anchored in anything? If not, tell God that you need Him. You’ll find that He not only comes to you in need, but He will use you afterward to spread hope and joy.
Opportunities to share God’s love don’t end with the Christmas season; these precious gifts don’t cost you any money, but will be remembered long after wrapping paper is put into the trash. God does this, in a way that no one else could.
It has been said that people can’t live without hope. That is so true.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for giving us hope. Help us spread that message wherever we go. Amen.
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The Birth of Jesus as told in the book of Luke, Chapter 2, Verses 1-20.
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while[a] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register.
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, the greatest gift ever given arrived not with ribbons or wrapped in fancy paper, but in the form of your Son, baby Jesus. Thank you for loving us so much you sent Jesus to save us. Amen
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Joseph Accepts Jesus as His Son as told in Matthew Chapter 1, Verses 18-25
This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.
Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.
But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).
When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
Let’s pray.
Lord, on the eve of the day we celebrate the birth of your Son Jesus, help us to be grateful for the miracle you delivered to us through Mary in a humble stable in Bethlehem. You sent your Son to live among us in the form of the most perfect gift possible, and we are grateful for how much you love us, that you would give your own Son to purchase our forgiveness. Amen
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In a world full of manmade gods and goddesses, the Creator God stands alone. He is a King of the first order, and everything was made by Him. His majesty and power are awesome.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Usually when people are in the presence of royalty, they get nervous. Kings and queens make us uneasy, and we obsess about how we approach them.
Not so with our great God. Yes, He is all-powerful, and the Bible does describe Him sometimes as fiery, but He also loves us with true love and compassion. It is a privilege to worship Him, and acknowledge Him for who He truly is.
Not all people and nations recognize God, of course. But the day is coming when they will. In that day, He will remember His people.
All hail our King!
Let’s pray. Lord, you alone are worthy of praise, and we do praise your Holy Name. Amen.
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Have you seen the movie “Napoleon Dynamite”? The character of Kip is one of the offbeat people in an Idaho town. But he is also one of the neediest in terms of peace in his life. Kip sort of defines our theme of peace this week.
At one point, he changes his persona and his signature line is, “Peace out!” It’s hilarious, but also poignant because the peace he found came about because someone chose to be kind to him.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
Often, we’re not kind enough to people, especially those who are easy to miss or dismiss. The so-called “outcasts.” But aren’t we all outcasts? We are -- until the kindness of Jesus brings us peace that can’t be explained in merely human terms. He comes to us, then we become ambassadors for Him.
Peace in, peace out.
Let’s pray. Lord, all of us are outcasts, but you love us and offer your true peace if we ask. Give us the courage to ask. Amen.
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Do you especially need the gift of peace right now? Is your life so busy, you can’t find time to take a breath? There is Good News for you: Jesus already knows.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
When Jesus ascended to heaven, he told the apostles, “My peace I leave with you.” Because He lives, we know for sure that this peace is available to us anytime, anywhere. Even in the busy part of your life, when you think you’re going crazy, you can call on Him and He will answer.
This is our theme this week: that peace is attainable. It comes from God, first and last. You might need to get away for even five minutes and close your eyes to call on Jesus. Let Him know you are beaten down and tired. Remember the verse we just read: peace is not just something for the glorious future Jesus is preparing for us. It is for the here and now.
Claim that for your busy life today!
Let’s pray. Lord, when chaos seems to rule over us, you tell us different. Thank you that we can simply ask and you will settle peace over us. Amen.
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Have you ever thought of yourself as a catalyst for peace? It’s something to think about as we continue our discussion this week about peace.
Donna and Betty were sisters, but in mid-life they were both tired of the fighting and mistrust and hurt. Each had their grievances. Both were stubborn.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
At one particular time of the year, Betty heard this verse spoken in a service. And here’s an ironic thing: of the two sisters, most people would agree she was definitely the most stubborn!
But that day she did an amazing thing. She went home and called Donna. Betty made a choice to forgive and forget, and did so through a lot of tears. Donna was shocked but grateful. And she owned up to her own mistakes.
God can bring about good will between anyone, including sisters who really love each other.
Do you need to be a catalyst for peace this week?
Let’s pray. Lord, your mercies are ever new. Your love heals old wounds, and we need that, Lord. Amen.
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Being positive really is a mindset. As we talk about “pockets of peace” around the world this week, we will notice some amazing examples.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
God pulls wins out of the most difficult challenges, and one of the toughest was the ongoing conflict between Egypt and Israel. Both nations are mentioned for blessing in Scripture, but until 1981, the modern era was almost as bad as the ancient era. Two full-blown wars in the previous few years staggered both countries.
Then President Carter brought Egypt’s Anwar Sadat together with Israel’s Menachem Begin at Camp David. They settled decades of conflict and today, 40 years on, there is still a peace agreement in place. Tensions come and go, but a manageable peace endures. Today, these ancient enemies cooperate in ways unthinkable a couple of generations ago.
God is good all the time!
Let’s pray. Lord, you hold history in your hands, and we know you desire peace among the nations. Thank you for your grace. Amen.
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It’s all in how you see it.
The world we live in has plenty of problems, and they are huge. Don’t need to list them here, but it’s fair to say we even suffer from some existential threats.
And yet, God’s Word tells us that this present life can have, and does have, peace. That’s our connection this week.
Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”
Remember the story of Jim Elliot and his band of missionaries? They were killed in a jungle by the very people they were trying to reach with the Gospel. The God part of that story is that later, the dead men’s wives went back and reached that tribe for Christ! Peace settled on the creek-bed that had seen death, and there was good will among men that had once been at war with each other.
Peace is possible. It is possible in geo-politics, and in communities, and right there in your own heart.
Let’s pray. Lord, no situation is too bad for you to redeem. Redeem us, Lord, so that we can redeem the time and reach others for you. Amen.
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It’s kind of fun in those moments when the kids are in bed and the dishes are done, to think about the Big Questions. You know the list.
Why am I here?
What is the meaning of life?
A question that people from ancient times to now have asked is, why in the world, literally, did God create people? We are a handful, as past generations used to say. We mess up. Sometimes we’re on our way to being smart then find ourselves flying down the Stupid Highway.
God must get tired of us, right?
1 Peter 2:9 says, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."
In those terrible moments when you feel dirty and worthless, remember this verse. God says you are special to Him! You!
Begin praising Him for this incredible gift, and begin to understand that He made you to fellowship with Him, forever.
Pretty awesome. And pretty loving.
Let’s pray.
Lord, all through your Word, You speak of us as the object of your love. Your incredible gesture of sending Jesus for us is proof of that. Thank you. Amen.
Have you ever been in such a dark place that you wondered if God cares about you, or even exists? Maybe it’s all some cosmic joke, right?
We’ve all been there. Humans doubt. We doubt ourselves, we doubt product labels, we doubt our kids. We question everything.
But that worst one is trying to figure out where God is in the middle of great difficulties. Sometimes the world is just flat-out mean and it seems like it’s an entity that’s trying to break you in half.
That is the very moment God’s ancient and eternal words come to us.
Isaiah 41:10 says, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that! Jesus lives so that you will live forever. And in the interim, He will walk with you and carry you when necessary. He never fails and what’s more, His willingness to never leave us has been proven over and over again, in a billion different way.
If you need Him right now, don’t doubt Him. Call out to Him. Your circumstances might seem impossible and impossibly unique. Don’t believe it.
Believe Him instead.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you promised you would never leave us. We know that’s true, but help us with our faith in our weak moments. Amen.
As humans, we compartmentalize, don’t we? By that we mean, it is in our nature to rank priorities, then even lose sight of some of them. This can often lead us to confusion about which direction we’re supposed to go.
This confusion even can extend to faith itself. We wonder, When am I supposed to pray, and when am I supposed to act on faith?
Psalm 34:1 says, "I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth."
When we get the Word deep in our hearts, we always have a ready answer for our personal questions. This sweet psalm tells us that we are to always remember the great gifts Father God bestows on us. His greatness is ever before us and in this way, we can worship Him all the time, no matter what we are doing.
Learn to bless the Lord and praise Him as you do your job, as you fellowship with others, even as you engage with people who don’t believe as you do. They need to see the love of Christ shining through you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we bless you and praise you with our words. Thank you, Father, for never ever forgetting us. Amen.
Scores of people today, even many in our churches, walk around aimless. They work their jobs and take care of their families, but struggle to understand what it is that God wants them to do.
He’s told us in His word!
As with every other situation, His Word speaks directly to our circumstances.
Micah 6:8 says, "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
The Lord requires of us that we have the mind of Christ. That we aim for showing justice and mercy to those we encounter. And notice: we are to love doing these things, not just going through the motions! Finally, we are to remember to be humble. There’s only One Who is perfect and that is the Father. In our present state, we are to emulate the qualities that caused His Son Jesus to turn the world upside down for good.
If you ever wonder what your purpose is, start with these awesome words from the prophet Micah!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to keep in front of us at all times the simplicity that is in Christ. He shows us the way. Amen.
Have you ever wondered what your place in this world is?
Of course you have. That’s the human experience. Alone with our thoughts, we wonder who we even are, and what we are meant to do. It’s a mysterious journey, but the fog lifts and the way becomes clear when we get to know King Jesus.
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
You were made for something! You were made to do things for your Lord. The truly beautiful thing is, God created a custom plan just for you. If you aren’t a famous athlete like Tim Tebow, you can still share your faith in wonderful ways. Ways that are life-changing for those you encounter.
Think of that verse again. God made you for a purpose! Created to have the mind of Christ in making this world a better place and making disciples for Him. And God prepared it all long, long ago.
You are His child.
That’s who you are.
Let’s pray.
Lord, when we begin to understand even a little bit of your love for us, it transforms us and renews our minds and hearts. Thank you so much for that! Amen.
Many modern phrases have their origins in the Bible. A couple that come to mind are, “She’s worth her salt,” or, “He is the salt of the earth.” They remind us of what Scripture says when using salt as an analogy.
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
Tasting our favorite salty foods is a great sensory experience. Think of French fries, pretzels, or popcorn. Foods that are plain jane without salt are out of this world with a dash of our favorite seasoning. Too much salt can be unhealthy, but even here the biblical analogy helps us.
We are to share Christ with the world in such a way that the story of His plan for us becomes something that people want to know more about. Likewise, we don’t have to lay it on so thick it is overwhelming. Over-using our messaging just turns people off, and can feel like manipulation instead of an open invitation.
We are to do as Christ Himself instructed us: take His story to the ends of the earth.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for that salty story of Jesus! Help us to use it as spiritual food that builds your eternal Kingdom. Amen.
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If a product or idea is worth promoting, it must be seen by the “end-user,” to borrow a marketing term. There is so much competition in business today…it is pointless to have a store unless people know you’re open for business.
Thousands of businesses open and close every year. It’s a shame, but too often practical planning isn’t a big enough part of the picture. The Lord understands the importance of planning, and the need to plan ahead applies to how we share Him with others, too.
Matthew 5 verses 13-16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
You have the greatest story ever told right in the palm of your hand! God has provided it to you, and the only thing He requires of us is that we share it. But you can’t do that if fear, lack of planning, or hesitancy keep it from public view. Resolve now, today, to make your story of redemption and salvation available to others.
Lives are depending on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a boldness and focus when sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with a hurting world. Amen.
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During the Civil War, Southern states relied on salt perhaps even more than their Northern counterparts. The commodity preserved various foods—such as fish—and allowed more people to eat and even keep food supplied for a rainy day.
As the Union troops began capturing Confederate saltworks, the food supplies there literally began drying up. It was one of the things that led to the end of the war, as food supplies literally not only lost their taste, but their preservative qualities. Things got so bad in the last 18 months of the war that some people were reduced to eating tree roots and other non-food vegetation. Not exactly an appetizing meal!
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
As ambassadors for Christ, we must make sure that our salt does not lose its effectiveness. We must stay alert, so the enemy doesn’t steal the zest which makes our boldness in sharing Christ effective. Doing so requires vigilance and much prayer, consistently.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we must be on guard against the enemy, who wants to keep us from sharing your Good News. Help us stay alert at all times, so that our witness endures. Amen.
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The Dead Sea, bordering the countries of Israel and Jordan, is also located at the lowest point on Earth. The landscape is so barren, it looks like a moonscape. Not exactly a place for a vacation or rest stop.
And yet…did you know that one of the valuable things from that area is the vast amount of salt that rings this body of water? Besides the salt content, the minerals in the Dead Sea are valuable for everything from medicines to cosmetics. What initially looks like a terrible place is actually quite rich! In fact, resorts have popped up in the area.
Additionally, this salty sea is one body of water that won’t let you sink! Kind of like a Savior we know.
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
Sometimes people think the Gospel is difficult to present. It can be thought of as unattractive or cumbersome; the Bible tells us as much.
And yet, it has infinite value to us, and preserves life! Remember that the next time you hesitate to share Christ with someone.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us change our perspective when it comes to the great privilege we have in sharing the Good News about Jesus. Amen.
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Table salt today is so common, it becomes another thing we take for granted. You go to the store, pick a cylinder or jar of salt off the shelf, then go home. You don’t even think about it.
Now, consider that 1,000 and more years ago, if a person wanted to use salt on his dinner, this required some prior work. A lot of work! The Romans boiled seawater in huge, lead-lined pans. So valuable was salt in the Roman Empire, it was used as currency! Mainly, it was used as a critical food preservative.
Matthew 5 verses 13-16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
God tells us we are to be the instrument that preserves and makes known the Gospel, and salt is the analogy.
Let us say to our friends, loved ones, and even strangers: Taste, and see that the Lord’s promises are good!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to be salt and light for your Word in this world. Amen.
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We have come to the end of the week and our discussion of gratitude -- of being thankful to the Lord.
But that doesn’t mean our thankfulness has come to an end! In fact, it’s just beginning.
Psalm 107:1 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
If you’re like many people, you are just starting your journey of discovering what it means to be truly grateful. That’s okay; we all have to start somewhere.
What is critical, though, is that you maintain this spirit of being grateful for the long term. Frankly, we owe that to our Lord. And He wants us to continue to receive His blessings and abundance.
In the last chapters of the Book of Revelation, the end of the Bible, we find John just relishing the good things God is providing for His children. A renewed Eden. A beautiful city lit by the love of God. Wonderful reunions, and a promise that Jesus will give grace to His people.
God is good, and the future is good. Thank God for it!
Let’s pray. Lord, life is hard sometimes, but your mercy and grace are always with us. Thank you, thank you for your grace. Amen.
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During this season of Thanksgiving, it might be a good thing to think about just how good we have it. Let’s do that by remembering the persecuted Christians who left England in 1620 aboard the Mayflower.
Just a few facts from this famous story will make you happy to thank the Lord for what you have. Even if the family turkey is a little dry this year!
Psalm 107:1 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
Delays kept the Pilgrims from sailing from England until September. That meant an Atlantic crossing at the beginning of winter. Picture more than 100 people crammed into a 100 ft. long ship. It would be November 27 before a group explored Cape Cod. The cold, the unknown, and lack of supplies made it hard to survive that first winter.
And they spent that winter on the ship in the harbor! The Pilgrims did not disembark from the Mayflower until March of 1621!
All you have to do this Thanksgiving is find a good place to take a nap!
The point is—and we know this from the historical record—the Pilgrims endured, and then counted their blessings. After all, they’d made an almost impossible voyage and then put down roots in the New World.
They succeeded because God was with them, and they knew it.
Do you know God is with you? Do you thank him every day?
Maybe it’s time you start doing that.
Let’s pray. Lord, our ancestors knew the source of their blessings. Help us remember that as we consider our own gratitude. Amen.
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Isn’t it fascinating that a secular definition of the word blessed is “made holy; consecrated.” It seems the whole world really knows, even deep down, that blessings are from God.
Psalm 107:1 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
As we focus on thankfulness and blessing this week, in this season of Thanksgiving, we are instructed to actually thank God for the ways in which He has blessed us. There are too many to count!
The psalm tells us several things at once. Mediate on each one.
We are to give thanks.
He is good.
His love for us is eternal.
That’s quite a good God.
Whatever our Creator blesses us with is holy. Unblemished. Our blessings come from a pure heart that wants what is good for us. This is really important to remember all the time, especially when life is difficult.
If you are in that season, stop what you’re doing—even for two minutes—and really think about all the ways you are blessed. If you are in financial difficulties, do you have enough to eat? If your health isn’t the greatest, do you have medicine, and doctors to help?
There are dozens of blessings staring us in the face every single day.
Think about that.
Let’s pray. Lord, you shower us with blessing; help us to remember to give thanks to you, our Source. Thank you! Amen.
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You’ve heard that every good thing comes from God, right? Of course it’s true. He is our example, both of how to live and how to react to others. This week we’re talking about practicing gratitude, and as usual, God shows us the way.
Psalm 107:1 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
Often we can become disappointed if we don’t get everything we think we should have. But that’s a dead end when it comes to true happiness and peace. And those are things we all really crave.
The ultimate gratitude comes from the Lord Himself. We learn in Psalm 149 that “the Lord delights in His people.” He first loves us, and that love flows down and through us. Truly, believers should be the most grateful people on the planet, because we know what God has given to us through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Honestly, the Christian should go through each day so happy he or she can barely stand it. God has given us what we need, much of what we want, and He has already created a future for us that is so wonderful, humans can’t even imagine it!
Remember, God is the source of gratitude. He shows us how it’s done, because He knows us completely. Remember as we go along with this topic that practicing gratitude is a huge key to finding peace.
Let’s pray. Lord, your goodness overwhelms us. Thank you for giving to us just because. We love you. Amen.
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If you’re just starting your day, on your way to work, think about something that will pay off for you down the road.
Are you thankful today?
All week, we’ll talk about what it means to be grateful and thankful for all God has given you and done for you.
Psalm 107:1 says, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
A lot of us are thankful from time to time. Then we get into a pattern of thinking mostly about what we don’t have.
That’s a trap. The enemy wants you to focus on what you don’t have, and ignore the amazing blessings God has already given you! God is good to us just because He wants to bless us. He is a good God. If you focus more on what He’s already done for you, you’ll draw closer to Him.
This, then, is the point: Start practicing gratitude. Every day. Multiple times a day. You’ll be shocked how much your attitude changes for the better.
Let’s pray. Lord, you are merciful to each of us every second of every day. Thank you for our faithfulness. Amen.
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Clive Staples Lewis was successful. A British writer and theologian, his work has become very famous. When Lewis wrote his classic Surprised by Joy, he was emphasizing the fact that true joy comes from a place we cannot create, but only claim and receive.
His story really brings a point to our weeklong series about asking the Lord for help when we are at the end of our rope.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
In Surprised by Joy, Lewis compares joy to a signpost in a deep wood, pointing us to safety. Lewis was an intellectual and well known as an atheist, until he reached a point where life had no real meaning. He realized—not too late—that it isn’t weakness to reach out to God.
If you’re in a deep wood and can’t find your way out—if the sun is setting—stop and ask Jesus for the thing you need the most. Think about the implications of the psalm: He is telling you that you will receive what you asked for; it’s already done!
Lewis thought of himself as a “complete man” once he found the Lord.
The same thing can happen for you.
Let’s pray. Lord, life has ups and downs. We need you to be there for us, with us, all the way. Amen.
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We look for things and stuff to make us happy, don’t we? Especially in America, where we are blessed with abundance, people from all walks of life look for more and more.
That can bring us to an empty place. Spiritually and emotionally, we look in the wrong places.
But as we’ve discussed this week, that spark of joy we look for can be found only in Jesus. Everything else is, yes, clutter.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
This plays out over and over every day. We see this in dramatic ways when a famous person turns from materialism and empty fame, and finds Jesus. Someone like that, who has experienced uncommon wealth, comes to a place where Jesus must be dealt with.
Are you tired of your empty pursuits? Has the excitement over a new career or expensive car worn off? If you’re listening and nodding, do this today: tell Jesus what’s in your heart and head. He said to ask.
Ask.
Receive His joy. Then you’ll be complete. You will be uncluttered.
He’s literally waiting for you to sit down and tell Him all about it.
Let’s pray. Lord, refresh us and renew us. Clean our hearts and minds. We know you can and will. We receive that! Amen.
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Solomon was the one of the most amazing men in all of history. The King of Israel, the son of the famous David, was so rich he got bored. In fact, some believe he was the wealthiest man of all time. In terms of money, he was the Jeff Bezos of his time.
But the Bible tells us his story, and doesn’t spare any truth in doing it. Solomon accomplished great things, but at great spiritual cost.
After awhile, he discovered the secret to real success, and that is what we’re talking about today and all week: finding our Source.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Solomon, you see, had wealth, power, fame, and relationships. But he saw that nothing really satisfied except knowing God. In fact, he asked God for wisdom!
Think about that. The king of an ancient empire could have had anything. Imagine a powerful being grants you three wishes. Most people in Solomon’s place would have asked for the usual.
Yet Solomon asked God first for wisdom. And the rest, as they say, was history. God gave him that wisdom, then added riches beyond measure.
Do you see? We are to ask for the right things, then other good things will find their way to us.
Let’s pray. Lord, your wisdom is the well we draw from. Thank you for not leaving us to our own solutions. Amen.
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Life is a process. We know that if we’ve lived very long at all. And this week, we’re talking about the process of trusting God.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Could Jesus meet our needs by just giving us something instantly? Of course. He made everything! And sometimes He does that; the miracles he performed that are recorded in the New Testament tell us that he often instantly met a person’s need.
But He doesn’t always work that way. That’s because Jesus loves to teach us.
In the book of John, He is telling us the steps necessary to trust Him for provision. First, we ask. Then we learn to receive his good gifts. Finally, we feel real joy, because we know exactly where it came from.
This process is designed to teach us faith, and then to be genuinely appreciative to the Lord for meeting our needs. All through the Bible, we are told that He delights in helping us, in loving us through tough times. The older we get, the more we are able to look back and see that He and He alone brought us through.
There is usually no other explanation.
And that is called a miracle.
Let’s pray. Lord, we are dependent on you for everything, and we are blessed that you are our Source. Amen.
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Isn’t it funny how we come to certain conclusions in life fairly late? In other words, sometimes the obvious things aren’t obvious until we’ve stumbled around on our own, trying to find a solution.
Take the simple act of asking for help. It isn’t uncommon for a person to be reluctant to ask for help. Then he finds he wasted a lot of time!
That’s what we’re talking about this week.
John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
Jesus makes it simple. Here He is telling us that we don’t have what we need because we haven’t asked. That’s an amazing concept, but one He has proved many times.
Are you in a serious situation right now? Do you have a big need? Are you depressed because of a relationship, struggling at work, or overwhelmed by a health or financial situation?
Why don’t you try just telling Jesus what your problem is? Yes, He already knows, but you participate in the solution by entering into a relationship with Him. Talk to him, and take comfort in the fact that He knows everything about you. He isn’t judging you when you ask. He just listens.
And if you think all this is childish…be a kid today! Ask Jesus to help you, He’ll answer, and your faith will surge.
Let’s pray. Lord, forgive us for not trusting you. You are a good God, and your love is appreciated. Amen.
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When we think of bravery and self-sacrifice, we usually think of heroic acts during war. We focus on famous battles and epic outcomes. As we close out our week by talking about sacrifice, it’s fitting that we spotlight a woman who gave up much to save many.
John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
Florence Nightingale was born into a rich family and lived in Tuscany. Not exactly training ground for self-sacrifice!
Florence, though, made a decision to dedicate her life to helping others. By making this choice, she gave up her own personal dreams.
During the Crimean War, she made the rounds at night to check on wounded soldiers. Later, she used her writing skills to build support for better nursing techniques and hospital facilities. Today she is known for her innovative ideas that saved countless lives.
In this way, the girl born into wealth and a life of ease became a symbol of self-sacrifice. While traveling in Egypt once, she wrote to her sister that she felt “Called to God.”
It was the perfect description of a woman who thought of others first, and last.
Let’s pray. Lord, please give us a heart for people like Florence Nightingale! Help us love others more than we love ourselves. Amen.
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The Bible has a lot to say about how we are to treat each other on our life’s journey. One story in particular in Genesis shows us how to resist peer pressure, especially when someone’s life is in danger. In fact, this story really captures the essence of what we’re talking about this week.
John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
Jacob had sons, but one was his favorite. Joseph was younger than his brothers and for various reasons, most of them became jealous of him. Not much different than the brother of the Prodigal’s son!
One day, the brothers were working and saw Joseph approaching them. He’d been sent by his father to check on them. It sounds crazy, but they decided to kill him! Throwing him in a well, they left him for dead.
But not all his brothers hated him. Reuben went back to rescue him, but…well, the story is long and you should read it for yourself! But just know that Reuben risked his own life to save his younger brother.
Would we do the same?
Most of us will lead fairly safe lives, especially if we are Americans. We are crazy blessed. But the day might come when you have to step up for someone in trouble. Make sure you’re ready. Make sure you act like Reuben.
Let’s pray. Lord, you strengthen even the weakest of us. Help us to do the right thing when given the chance. Amen.
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Some think the concept of “the brotherhood of man” is just a quaint saying. A nice thing to dream about, but without much practical truth. Our series this week presents real-life examples of just such a reality.
John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
One Chinese diplomat stationed in Austria in 1938 proves that decency is still found all over the world.
Feng Shan-Ho was able to help more than 2,000 Jews flee the Nazis, because he provided them with visas. These literally became priceless, because everyone was being watched carefully.
For two years, the unassuming Shan-Ho helped persecuted people make their way to Shanghai, and freedom. And it’s really cool to realize he was named “Righteous Among the Nations” for helping Jews survive the Holocaust in Europe.
Feng Shan-Ho put himself in harm’s way by defying a government that enjoyed murdering innocent people. It was terror on a grand scale. But God has His men and women placed in important places, at just the right time.
There is no greater love than putting someone else’s needs above your own. It’s something to think about.
Let’s pray. Lord, make us available when others need help. Give us courage to see it through. Amen.
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The worst of times brings out the best in some people. As we think about sacrificing for others this week, we find some extraordinary stories.
One such story from 70 years ago spotlights a very brave woman.
John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
During World War 2, Romanian Princess Catherine Caradja defied her government’s alliance with the Nazis. When Allied bombers flew over, targeting oilfields, several planes were shot down. The ever-smiling Princess Catherine made sure the crews were taken to hospitals to be treated.
She then made sure they escaped through Italy, and back home! In all she saved over 1,000 men. The terrible conditions brought out the best in the Romanian princess.
Such examples show us very clearly that courage can be found when necessary. Who knows, maybe you will be called on one day to sacrifice all for someone in danger. Just know that the Lord has always known your destiny, and He knows you will stand strong that day.
Let’s pray. Lord, Jesus is our ultimate example of a friend that lays down His life for His friends. Thank you for His ultimate sacrifice. Amen.
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Do you sometimes feel your job is just too much for one person to handle
Then let me introduce you to Franklin Roosevelt.
“FDR” was the 32nd president of the United States. By a quirk of history, he found himself leading the free world during a crippling economic meltdown…and a world war! His story is important, as we talk about sacrifice this week.
No one understood more than Roosevelt the sacrifice needed to defeat evil on the battlefield. He said, “Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget, in time, that men have died to win them.”
He had to send young men and women into harm’s way, all over the world.
John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
More than 400,000 Americans died in World War 2. From the South Pacific to Europe, soldiers looked after each other, and in many cases died so that others could live.
We should never forget that.
Let’s pray. Lord, we thank you for those who protect us. We will never forget them. Amen.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the astonishing faith of Abraham.
Second Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
When’s God’s commands don’t seem to make sense, that’s the time we should trust Him the most.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about repairing damaged faith.
Second Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
Perseverance strengthens our faith and in that, we find faith restored.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about overcoming spiritual blindness.
Second Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
Just as Jesus healed a blind man, so too can He heal our physical and mental needs, as we learn to trust Him.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about living through pain as we learn to trust the Lord.
Second Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
The Bible tells us that sometimes we have to believe in an outcome we cannot yet see. God helps us do that.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about walking by faith.
Second Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
When life is uncertain and we can’t see very far in front of us, that’s when God calls us to trust Him and learn the essence of faith.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the fact that Jesus always has our backs.
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Life with Jesus is rich in meaning and believers know full well He is our Source of strength!
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about God’s perfect timing in our personal narratives.
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
When we look at the past, we see that God has made provision for us each step of the way, giving us hope for the future.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the pitfalls of pride.
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Life teaches us that God is with us, even when we think we don’t need Him.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the importance of courage.
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Life is often uncertain and we can be unsure. But God walks with us and supplies all the courage we need for navigating through life.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about a common theme: loneliness.
Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Although many people are lonely, we sometimes feel we are alone even in that! God says otherwise.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how true leadership is cultivated.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
In the most extreme circumstances, when we keep our focus on Jesus, we discover that He is the one walking ahead of us, directing us to safety.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about never taking our eyes off Jesus.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
When we realize that our only job is to focus on the power of God in our lives, it takes away the stress of trying to get ourselves out of trouble and difficulties.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how a rebel finds redemption.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Franklin Graham’s journey back to God is unique, but hardly uncommon. God was patiently waiting to bring this prodigal back, and He is doing the same for you.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the hard lessons learned by King Solomon.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Rich in terms of material wealth, Solomon still lost himself through his own selfish pursuits. But he finished well, and trusted in God to receive his reward in the eternity to come.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about God’s way
being the best way for us to live.
Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own
understanding.”
Often, we spend too much time trying to fix our own problems, which only adds to
our problems. Learn to rely solely on the Lord, and you will begin to heal.
Micah had a tough job. The prophet that lived in the time of Isaiah warned the people in the land at the time that God was not pleased with their behavior.
Not exactly a popular guy! He told them that the rituals they performed did not bring them closer to God.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
In Micah’s time, foreign enemies did a lot of damage, but the message the prophet brought was that the Savior was coming one day. It was a message that resonates in our own day.
Tough times are not fun. Sometimes it feels like life is crushing us.
But Jesus is coming! He is with you in this life and the life to come. The prophets were sure of it. We can be, too!
Let’s pray. Lord, you will is where we want to be. Help us stay in line with your best outcomes for us. Amen.
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In a world so filled with war and suffering and human conflict, it’s pretty hard to focus on just what can be done. And sadly, we can fall into a bad habit of just looking for revenge. This revenge can almost seem good, since we want bad characters brought to justice.
But God has a better way.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Do you get it? In Scripture we are taught that revenge belongs to God.
Our task is to keep our focus on what He has called us to do. According to Micah the prophet, we are to do justice in all situations, love people who are not easy to love, and then maintain a quiet spirit.
In this way, anger and rage at systems doesn’t consume us! Jesus, our Captain in life, is always there to walk along the way with us. He is our focus.
This is all He requires of us.
Let’s pray. Lord, help us know what we need to focus on, and leave the rest to You. You are our rest! Amen.
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What would you think is one of the biggest stumbling blocks for us as we try to live our lives with integrity?
If you said “pride,” you win! The Bible tells us that the sin of pride can lead to a whole range of bad outcomes.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Walk humbly? Wow, that can be the most difficult part of living out this verse. We must constantly check our spirits to make sure our motives are pure and centered on God’s plan for us and those we encounter.
Micah is communicating to us that God actually requires certain things of us. Justice and love are critical, to be sure, but staying humble is no less important. It puts legs to the journey God has mapped out for you.
Lay down your pride and see what God will do!
Let’s pray. Lord, we war with our own flesh at times, our desires to be the object of attention. Help us lay this aside and live only for you. Amen.
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Have you ever run ahead of God? You know what we mean. In our zeal to do great things, we might not wait on Him. We don’t have all the information or revelation we need for the path we are to walk.
That can get you in a lot of trouble!
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
It’s the human condition to want to stand out and achieve great things. Our politicians do it, many religious leaders do it.
And we do it as well.
God calls us to do simple things that have great impact. We are to love people, genuinely. Our call is to share the love of Christ with a hurting world.
Nothing flashy, really. Nothing that will get us noticed, probably.
But it’s the work God has called us to. Embrace it, and embrace your destiny in this world!
Let’s pray. Lord, there is so much pain in this world. We want to be just and merciful, as you called us to do. Amen.
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Have you ever run ahead of God? You know what we mean. In our zeal to do great things, we might not wait on Him. We don’t have all the information or revelation we need for the path we are to walk.
That can get you in a lot of trouble!
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
It’s the human condition to want to stand out and achieve great things. Our politicians do it, many religious leaders do it.
And we do it as well.
God calls us to do simple things that have great impact. We are to love people, genuinely. Our call is to share the love of Christ with a hurting world.
Nothing flashy, really. Nothing that will get us noticed, probably.
But it’s the work God has called us to. Embrace it, and embrace your destiny in this world!
Let’s pray. Lord, there is so much pain in this world. We want to be just and merciful, as you called us to do. Amen.
Do you want to inspire others – or maybe even inspire yourself? Explore our entire collection of faith-based apparel, accessories, and gifts designed to shine a light for Jesus at Kerusso.com. That’s K-E-R-U-S-S-O dot com.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the absolute importance of modeling justice in our world.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Being fair and kind to the creation is not optional, according to Scripture. Just as Jesus loves us, so we are to love others.
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In the Christian life, there is a necessity to be a witness. We are to be witnesses for Christ. His majesty and power are meant to blanket our world.
He is also intimately aware of you and where you are in life.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
When we trust Christ—when we believe the simple Gospel—we are called to get in the game. Sitting on such good news doesn’t make much sense, does it? Are you guilty of failing to shine a light in a dark world?
It’s not too late, friend! If you’re a friend of God, just as the Bible says Abraham was long ago, you are to invite others to live in his healing light.
The glory of the Lord rises on you each morning, it really does. Put your feet on the floor and share His glory with friends, family and people who travel your path only briefly.
God is so good! Walk in His light and see what He’ll do in countless lives!
Let’s pray. Lord, there are so many opportunities to share your light. Give us opportunities to do that daily, and give us the energy to seize them. Amen.
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Depression is a real thing. Millions deal with it. And, to put it a certain way, depression is no respecter of persons. It afflicts the famous, the unknown, and the bad and the good. Money won’t insulate us from it, and ignoring its destructive nature is not helpful, either.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
If you’re dealing with depression today, you know the reasons why. You are living in it and more than likely you’re aware of your circumstances.
What you can’t quite figure out is what to do about it.
The Bible tells us in plain language that God cares about us deeply as individuals. He is aware you are depressed, and His Son lived as a human on this earth.
Tell God all this, right now. Pour out your heart to him and hold nothing back. Then feel His light warm you. Let it lift your darkness.
He has come for you.
Let’s pray. Lord, give all those living in emotional darkness peace and rest today, right now. Thank you, Lord. Amen.
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Sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ means that we don’t just sit in our houses and shut away the world.
Scripture is an action item.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
If the Bible is true—if God’s story intersects with our story—then a hurting world is in need of a Savior. The pain many are enduring will have no end until they meet the God-Man, Jesus. He is our healer and His glory fills the earth.
We all have different personalities and various methods of engaging with others. But whatever personality God has given us, we are tasked with sharing the life-giving news of Jesus and His sacrifice.
Get in the game and do that very thing! God has called you to share His salvation with anyone and everyone. Darkness can be oppressive.
The Light has come!
Let’s pray. Lord, you showed up in our world at precisely the moment we needed you most. Help us tell others that eternal story. Amen.
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When Isaiah the prophet wrote, the birth of Jesus was still almost 800 years away. Yet there is good reason to believe key parts of the book of Isaiah are pointing to the coming Savior.
Near the end of the book, we see this clearly.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
It is reasonable to believe that this has dual meanings. One, the prophecy speaks of the wise men from the East seeing the star in the sky. They then traveled to see the baby Jesus in Bethlehem.
A longer view looks ahead far into the future, when Jesus will return to Earth and set up His Kingdom of righteousness.
As believers, we know what it feels like when the spirit of God dwells in us. It is that glow God intends for us to share with others.
Jesus has come! Share that Good News with all those you meet.
Let’s pray. Lord, your Gospel is our mission. Give us endurance for our race! Amen.
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a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request. That’s K-E-R-U-S-S-O dot com.
Don’t you just love the diversity God put into the world? He created harmony and balance everywhere, including our individual “best time of the day” to be creative and productive.
Some are “up with the chickens,” as they used to say. Others burn a candle late into the night. Whatever time is your time to connect in positive ways, God made you to shine for His purposes.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
And we are to embrace our uniqueness. Just because your eyes don’t focus until later in the morning—after cups, plural, of coffee—that doesn’t mean you won’t hit the mark today. You were built for this, to be a light to others and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
So rise up, whenever that is for you, and make a promise to God that you will get everything out of today that you’re supposed to.
Rise and shine!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you made us to be a light in a world that is dark too often. Thank you for the opportunities to make a difference for you. Amen.
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Humans have a problem asking for help. Chalk it up to our proud hearts.
Often, when we are really up against it, that’s when we resist seeking help.
Jesus does away with all that.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Ask yourself: is my pride keeping me from a huge blessing? If so, mull that over. Take as long as you need. Then take one step toward Jesus and tell Him you need to ask for something.
The door will swing open wide.
Once you have your miracle, keep it close and share it with everyone you meet. Tell anyone who will listen that the Lord of the Universe cared about you and delivered you from a problem no one else could solve.
Let’s pray. Lord, please give us a heart that seeks you with all our hearts. We want to be obedient, and blessings will follow. Thank you.
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You’ve heard of heat-seeking missiles. They are weapons so sophisticated that they appear to have a mind of their own. The missile is launched and finds its target and destruction happens.
What if a heat-seeking missile could be used for good? What if one has been launched…in your direction?
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
If you open your heart to God—even if you aren’t a believer—then it’s as if Jesus is now the missile launched and He is coming toward your still-beating heart. The heart that has been wounded. He finds you and connects in such a powerful way, but the connection is for life, and not for destruction.
The Word tells us to simply ask Him and He will find us.
Let’s pray. Lord, your unwavering promises to stay with us during trials is unique in history. Thank you for loving us that much. Amen.
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freedom in Christ? Share Jesus on a T-shirt! We call that T-shirt
evangelism, and you can learn more about our products at
Kerusso.com. That’s K-E-R-U-S-S-O dot com.
The story of the Prodigal’s Son is one we can all relate to. The Bible tells the story of a brash young man who leaves his home after asking for his inheritance. His loving father complies and let’s just say the son learns some valuable lessons on his travels.
Eventually he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family.
It is really a story of Jesus and us.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
We screw up sometimes. Maybe it’s so bad we can’t see a way back.
That’s when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn’t as concerned with where we’ve been as He is where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real ointment for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you’ve screwed up too much, put that out of your mind and simply tell Jesus you need Him.
Let’s pray. Lord, your willingness to welcome us back to fellowship is something to behold. We are grateful for your grace. Amen.
How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on
a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request. That’s K-E-R-U-S-S-O dot com.
Have you seen the film, “Saving Private Ryan?” If not, it’s about a group of American soldiers sent into enemy territory during World War 2 to find one lost soldier. The order comes from the top leadership.
This small group has single focus the whole mission. Eventually—at great cost—they locate him and return him to his loved ones. Much of it is difficult to watch, as we see the incredible sacrifice the many make to find the one.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Long ago, Jesus did the same thing for all of us. God sent His Only Son to find those that are lost.
If you feel totally lost, call on the Lord. Just tell Jesus you really need Him.
Then you’ll have your own memorable story to share! Jesus loves you and will find you if you call on Him.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you forever for the sacrifice Your Son made for us, to take our sin. We love you for it. Amen.
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Have you ever hunted and hunted for something, maybe your car keys, and you finally find them? The old saying goes that you found them in the last place you looked.
There’s a lot of truth to that.
It also is very relevant to our walk with Jesus. Often we work really hard to solve our own problems, then we give in and ask Jesus for help.
Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
As with every other promise in the Bible, the really cool thing about this is, it is literally true. The promises that Jesus has made to you are literally true. So, for example, if you are looking for a solution to an impossible situation, ask Him.
It works!
Let’s pray. Lord, forgive us for not placing our trust in you all the time. You are our sustainer. Amen.
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Hurricane Dorian recently caused a lot of anxiety and destruction. Many of us worried about the east coast of our own country, but the Bahamas were hit really hard, with the storm basically stationary for many hours. Residents there hunkered down and sought higher ground, wondering when the onslaught would end, and the storm would pass. The physical damage left by the lengthy storm was devastating.
When the winds of life blow fiercely, rain pours down, and the water rises, it is tempting to give in to panic. In the midst of the storm, sometimes we let the noise and chaos of our present circumstances become louder than the voice of our Lord and Savior. The still small voice in our hearts may only be a whisper, but the power behind that presence outranks any circumstance of this life.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus was not only with the people of the Bahamas, He is with you in every storm you face. He isn’t simply the fleeting ‘eye of the hurricane,’ either. His presence and power and love for us is greater than any storm life can hit us with.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you being our steadfast shelter, our provider and peace-giver in every situation. It’s who you are. No storm can shake us when we build on a foundation of faith. Amen.
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Colossians is a very informative book. Originally, it was a letter written by Paul and Timothy to believers in a small city. Chapter One tells us that Jesus made everything we see (and plenty we don’t see!). The universe was brought into being by Him.
That’s kind of a comforting thought! This great source of Love also made it all and He sustains it all.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Many people, maybe rightly so, worry about the planet. Certainly there are lots of issues that are problematic.
But what if we focused on the fact that everything Jesus has told us is 100 percent true? That would mean that He sustains our beautiful planet, so designed for human life to thrive.
It also means He sees into your heart and mind and knows just what you need.
He holds you together.
Let’s pray. Lord, your sustaining work keeps evil at bay in our world. We are grateful for your promises for the future. Amen.
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Does the future scare you? If it does, that’s understandable, from a human standpoint. After all, so much is unknown.
And yet, God gave us His Word as a guidebook. The Bible tells us certain specific things that bring great comfort.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
For the most part, we know the past. We are navigating through the present. But the Word tells us that Jesus is standing there at the end, bringing all things to their proper conclusion. In Isaiah and Revelation, we have virtually identical verses that promise Jesus will make all things new one day. There will be no more tears, pain, or suffering. He won’t allow it!
If the future scares you, focus on the truth of Scripture. Jesus isn’t intimidated, or moved, or unsure about anything, and that includes what is to come.
Whatever your future holds, make sure Jesus is at the center of it!
Let’s pray. Lord, you stand above time. You know everything that’s happened and what is to happen. We can rest in that, thank you. Amen.
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Carol had really messed up in her personal life. The career wasn’t going so well, either. But it was one particular relationship that kept her up at night, and she felt like things were coming apart.
Instead of going to lunch with co-workers one day though, she ducked into a coffee shop and found an empty seat in the back. There she pulled out her phone and fed her soul by looking up Scripture.
She met Jesus that day in the coffee shop.
Carol looked out a window at the busy street outside and thought about the Bible’s claim that Jesus created everything in the beginning. The enormity of that really spoke to her, but so did His love for her as an individual.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Jesus sees all and works everything out for those who love Him.
Tell Him that you need Him today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we need you all the time. You sustain us and do it just because of your pure love for us. Thank you for that. Amen.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the fact that Jesus holds your life together, even as you think you’re falling apart.
Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
Nothing is too difficult for Jesus; He has proven this over and over. Trust Him today!
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We think of her as a genteel Southern lady, and she was that, for sure.
But Ruth Bell Graham was so much more. While her husband was away so much, preaching to the masses, she was preaching to her own little flock. The result was children who became adults, and in turn shared the Good News of Jesus with others.
Anne Graham Lotz and Franklin Graham didn’t just fall out of the sky!
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
In their little home in the mountains of North Carolina, while daddy was in Brussels, New York, and Sydney, Mother Ruth was faithful for years on end to impart godly wisdom to their children. Much iron was sharpened on cold winter nights and long summer days.
Theirs was a home that didn’t always have both parents available, but they thrived.
Use that as an example of how to bring up your own children. You’ll be happy forever that you did.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Your Word is good, and it shines a light on our path. Give us the strength to mentor our own children in your ways. Amen.
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Some of the greatest stories of believers down through time have involved those who really studied God’s Word. These people have gone before us to show us the way. From Charles Spurgeon to a missionary mother in China, daily study of the Word, and prayer, prepared them to mentor entire generations.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
We also read in Romans 10 that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. We have to do it, so that others know how. Remember, there is no substitute for spending time in God’s Word.
In order to properly train an apprentice, you need to obviously be prepared and adept. Anything less leads to weak faith, or no faith at all.
This is what the Great Commission, sharing the Gospel, has always been about. Duplicating disciples. Grounding your own faith in the Bible, then imparting that to others. That is the essence of true iron sharpening iron.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us about your work by daily reminding us to spend time with you in Your Word. Amen.
Have you had an experience in your life that has prepared you for helping others? Has life dealt you circumstances that speak to a situation in a younger person’s life?
If so, you might be ready to help in such a way that will bring honor and glory to God.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
The apostle Paul suffered much for his faith in Christ. Beyond a dramatic shipwreck, prison, beatings, and hunger were part of his daily routine.
Then, God set Timothy in his path.
The younger man needed encouragement and instruction as the early Church grew. Paul stepped in to mentor him. He not only helped Timothy with practical church matters, but he encouraged him to stay strong in the Word, and to rely on God solely.
More than likely, you have a Timothy heading your way. Or maybe a Tina! Whoever it is, resolve in your heart to be everything they need you to be, and to model iron sharpening iron for them.
Stay sharp in the Word, so that your counsel is sound.
Keep on the lookout; Timothy is about to cross your path!
Let’s pray.
Lord, prepare me to be the person my own Timothy needs me to be, for as long as he (or she) needs. Amen.
Do you struggle with being humble, and yielding to God’s will? Most of us do. This extends to accepting an iron-sharpening-iron relationship He has set in our path.
Yet the benefits are so good for us.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
Make no mistake, God sets people in our path for a reason. That Bible teacher in your church might have words of wisdom for you from her rich and varied life. Be open to that.
If you are in fellowship with a mature, older believer, let him or her walk with you on your journey. Learn from them. Ask questions. Learn to be vulnerable.
The benefits and outcomes will be richer than you can imagine. This is especially true when someone points out areas you can do better in. Not fun, but that is the essence of iron sharpening iron.
And it’s good for you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us be open to the leading of your Holy Spirit when encountering someone who could mentor us. Amen.
The Bible is full of wonderful analogies. One of the best is found in Proverbs, which paints a picture of godly mentoring and accountability.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
The idea is that as pieces of iron are drawn against the other, each piece becomes sharper. A further application is made in Hebrews 4:12, which talks about Scripture as being a double-edged sword, and it is with His Word that we are to sharpen each other.
The goal is mutual accountability and imparting wisdom for living.
As author Michelle Lazurek has written: “As the body of Christ, we forget that part of our job is to sharpen other brothers and sisters in Christ so that the flame in their hearts, put there by the Holy Spirit, continues to burn.”
Although the “iron sharpens iron” analogy is often used to describe the relationship between men, the application is relevant for everyone who believes. Even at this moment, there are millions of women mentoring girls, sharpening their wisdom in the Lord!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given us wonderful relationships that help us grow. We thank you for this great gift. Amen.
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Keeping things simple is usually the best path forward. For Christians, that means following Christ’s lead in everything.
This includes sharing and standing for our faith.
The Bible is full of examples of how Jesus did this. Occasionally he got mad, as when he threw out the moneychangers. Other times he just quietly sat and taught what His Father had shown Him.
This is our model. When you share Christ with someone and that person believes, you have been given the privilege of watching the most important moment in his or her life. Ever. To get to this moment, it will require you to be knowledgeable about your faith, balanced enough to be gentle in sharing, and sometimes edgy enough to pushback when someone mocks our Lord.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
God gave us a job to do, and one of his prophets, Jude, told us to be ready to defend the Gospel. This we are happy to do.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your wisdom is enough for us. We are always ready to defend the Good News.
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We think of a “defender” as a muscular guy wearing a suit of armor. He raises his sword and takes swings at the enemy.
A defender can be that guy. No question. But a defender of the faith is simply a person who loves Christ enough to share Him with others, and answer questions along the way. The truth is, a defender of the faith can be a serene grandmother, or a mild-mannered accountant. It could even be you!
Our Defender of the Faith series focuses on what it means to stand up for your Christian faith.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
The reality is, we live in a fallen world, and not everyone has kind things to say about our King. Some people are skeptics. Others really challenge our faith, and because others are watching us, it is necessary for us to be alert and watchful.
Don’t feel inferior if you don’t regularly wear armor and do battle for real. Christ made you the way you are, especially for the time and place you live. When it comes time to defend the faith, you’ll be ready.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us stay engaged in the fight to share your Gospel with a hurting world. Amen.
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We think of a “defender” as a muscular guy wearing a suit of armor. He raises his sword and takes swings at the enemy.
A defender can be that guy. No question. But a defender of the faith is simply a person who loves Christ enough to share Him with others, and answer questions along the way. The truth is, a defender of the faith can be a serene grandmother, or a mild-mannered accountant. It could even be you!
Our Defender of the Faith series focuses on what it means to stand up for your Christian faith.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
The reality is, we live in a fallen world, and not everyone has kind things to say about our King. Some people are skeptics. Others really challenge our faith, and because others are watching us, it is necessary for us to be alert and watchful.
Don’t feel inferior if you don’t regularly wear armor and do battle for real. Christ made you the way you are, especially for the time and place you live. When it comes time to defend the faith, you’ll be ready.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us stay engaged in the fight to share your Gospel with a hurting world. Amen.
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Defending the faith can sometimes be a subjective thing. As examples of
extremes, we have seen the Crusades, and the other end of the spectrum is perhaps an aggressive “pitch” to someone who isn’t a believer.
The thing is, it’s great to be zealous for our faith, but let’s also be disciplined. We don’t want to alienate a person who might otherwise listen.
To put it simply: an angry Christian is usually a lonely Christian.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
We can defend our faith in a strong way. We can be bold in what we believe, sure of our eternity with Jesus Christ. But our messaging is all-important.
It could be that having a conversation with someone is the right approach. Don’t feel pressure. Don’t press. Jesus has the job of saving; we just have to be available to share about Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, please always remind us to share the Gospel with love. Amen.
In every generation, it falls to believers to spend time in defending our worldview as Christians. Honestly, it’s not the nicest part of the gig, but it’s necessary. Usually, it involves simply explaining what your faith is all about.
Followers of other religions do the same thing, but for us, we are sharing the person of Christ with those who don’t know Him. That makes it a big deal.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
It’s exciting that God has entrusted this to us. It’s a privilege. Even if you find yourself in an adversarial conversation, remember the main thing: you get to share your faith and see someone else find freedom in Christ!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you allow us to tell others about you. Help us always be ready to give an answer when asked about our faith. Amen.
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Paul was a stubborn man. He was completely committed to his job. The very definition of a zealot. More than anything, he hated religious people. In fact, he worked every day to make their lives miserable.
You’re probably aware of who we are talking about. Yes, this is the famous Apostle Paul, whose pen dominates much of the New Testament. Paul, or Saul as he was known when he was persecuting Christians, didn’t need anyone. He didn’t have friends.
But then he found himself right in the middle of the theme of our series this week, “Friend.”
On his way out of town, Paul was knocked off his horse by a blinding flash of light. A commanding voice spoke to him.
It was the voice of Jesus.
Jesus, in an instant, gave Paul a new mission in life, as He revealed Himself to the angry young man.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
Jesus showed Paul a better way. No more would he terrorize people. For the rest of his life, this new man in the spirit re-directed his zeal to bring people into God’s Kingdom.
Do you need to work on your attitude and let Jesus show you a better way?
Let’s pray.
Lord, only you can change hearts. We all need it at some time. Thank you for being a merciful friend to us! Amen.
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Rebecca knew just what Craig needed when he lost his job. She knew he felt ashamed that his job performance was a major contributing factor. In other words, he had flat-out failed. In front of people.
The hurried goodbyes and awkward pats on the back actually sort of made Craig feel worse. He threw the small box with his personal belongings in the backseat and drove as fast as he could away from the scene.
Giving him some space for a day or so, Rebecca called to check on her friend; she was a living example of our series this week, “Friend.” She had that wonderful quality of not being overbearing, but also sticking with it.
After a couple weeks, the cloud began to lift, and Craig found not only a new job, but new resolve to do his very best and succeed. Rebecca’s example of friendship had been a catalyst in Craig’s decision to move on in a positive way.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
A lot of people will love you when you’re winning. Everyone loves a winner. It’s fun and honestly, a little self-serving. We can often live vicariously through a friend who’s riding high.
But a true friend offers encouragement and love no matter what.
Are you that kind of friend?
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are our example. We seek to do your will for our lives and contribute to the lives of those we come in contact with. Amen.
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Bullying is a thing today. A big thing. With social media making such a surge in our culture, it has mushroomed in ways no one could have foreseen. The Bible tells us that at some point, love among people can grow cold. It’s then that humans display some of their worst traits.
We can’t often fight bullies alone. And a bully can take many forms: a person, like a co-worker. Maybe a job itself. A financial speed-bump. Or your own sense that you are just worthless. That last one is a real killer.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
Our series this week, “Friend,” speaks to the absolute necessity of having that one friend you can count on no matter what.
Friend, have you considered the claims of Jesus? He promises big things, including the fact that He will literally never leave you. Have you ever known anyone like that? He has promised that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
And when the Bible tells us that a friend is born for adversity, it’s really telling us that Jesus comes into your life at precisely the right time, ready for any issue you are facing.
Let’s pray.
Lord, if we think about it, we can’t come up with a time when you abandoned us. Thank you for being the Ultimate Friend.
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Do you ever feel like life is a 24/7 chore? That it’s just hard work and very little joy, to the point that you can’t go on? Unfortunately, that’s a common theme for many — but as we explore our series this week, “Friend,” here’s a suggestion:
Seek out a person who knows you and loves you. Someone you’ve clicked with, and you have the memories to prove it.
In other words, a true friend.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
Notice from Scripture that the traits a friend possesses are to love no matter the circumstances, and that he or she is made for walking you through a trial.
Now, you might say, ‘I don’t have even one friend.’ Okay, maybe that’s technically true, and you struggle to name or think of one person you can turn to. It’s actually at that point you are on your way to a solution.
Jesus is the foundation of Proverbs 17:17. It is Jesus Christ who reaches out to you all the time, and is always waiting to calm you. Honestly? He is much, much stronger than even our best friends. Infinitely so.
Tell Jesus today that you’re going through a tough time, and you need Him for the long haul. Rely on Him. Pray. Pour out your heart.
That’s when you’ll learn that living life doesn’t have to be hard work with no break.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for bringing us comfort and rest when we see Jesus for who He is. Amen.
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It was March 30, 1981. In our nation’s capital, a new president smiled and waved. In the next instant, Secret Service agents are shoving him into a waiting car. Several shots have rung through the spring air. President Ronald Reagan had just stepped out from a hotel where he had spoken.
No one knew whether the President would live or die.
News anchors began the evening news with the uncertain details, but eventually, the word came down: the President had survived.
Reagan, already 70 by the time he was elected, had miraculously been saved from an assassin’s bullet that led to serious internal injuries.
He lived!
Revelation 19:16 says, “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
This story is a perfect illustration of our series this week, “He Lives.” Vulnerable and wounded, Ronald Reagan was left relying totally on God, and the surgeons who had been placed in this moment in history. Two weeks later he left the hospital and lived through another term.
Jesus is our King of Kings. His name is the greatest in all the world, and He is always, always ready to rescue both the famous and the unknown. He loves all of us, no matter who we are or where we are.
He wants to rescue you today, right where you are.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the author of life, and your Word tells us the very breath in our bodies comes from you. Thank you for giving us life, and for rescuing us again and again! Amen.
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Steve had everything to live for. His wife was the ultimate companion and mother. His kids brought him joy. A satisfying career added to the richness of his life.
Then a devastating diagnosis hit him like a baseball bat: cancer. The rarity of it added to the grim news. His doctor looked at him for a few seconds, then mentioned treatment options.
Steve didn’t hear him.
In our series this week, “He Lives,” the takeaway is that our great God has cleared a path for us.
Revelation 19:16 says, “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
Jesus is a king and leader unmatched anywhere. He is our source. He is life itself.
Steve knows that today. More than 10 years after he had the life scared out of him in a cold and sterile doctor’s office, Steve is healthy and whole, enjoying his family and choices in life like never before.
Maybe you are sitting here today after hearing your own terrible news. You feel life is shattered.
It isn’t. Jesus is Lord of Lords, and the Author of Life. Tell him right now that you need Him like never before. Whisper your fears to Him in private and believe that He will hear you and act.
Let’s pray.
Lord, life sometimes just scares us to death. But you are all about living in victory. Thank you for intervening just when we need You the most! Amen.
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In the frigid Italian winter of 2017, the unthinkable happened for guests at a mountain hotel. An avalanche buried everyone under tons of snow, ice, and rock. The terror of those moments stretched into the hours following, when rescue efforts took on the ultimate sense of urgency.
Amazingly, working through the night, rescuers began to hear voices under the rubble. In one spot, six people were shivering in an air pocket. Among them were a mother and her young son. One of the officials that raced to the scene and helped in the rescue summed it up:
"Their faces said it all, it was like they had been reborn."
Revelation 19:16 says, “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
In our series “He Lives”, we’re exploring examples of people who feel buried under the rubble of life. Sometimes literally, sometimes figuratively.
Do you ever feel like life has collapsed in on you? Are you wondering where God is?
If you feel this way, remember that Jesus has been there before, experiencing the great challenges that come with being human. In one terrible moment on the cross, He even felt He had been totally abandoned by God.
But shortly after, His Father came to raise Jesus to life.
He will do the same for you, no matter your circumstances. You will feel reborn!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your provision for us amazes us, and we love you for your faithfulness! Amen.
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Many modern phrases have their origins in the Bible. A couple that come to mind are, “She’s worth her salt,” or, “He is the salt of the earth.” They remind us of what Scripture says when using salt as an analogy.
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
Tasting our favorite salty foods is a great sensory experience. Think of French fries, pretzels, or popcorn. Foods that are plain jane without salt are out of this world with a dash of our favorite seasoning. Too much salt can be unhealthy, but even here the biblical analogy helps us.
We are to share Christ with the world in such a way that the story of His plan for us becomes something that people want to know more about. Likewise, we don’t have to lay it on so thick it is overwhelming. Over-using our messaging just turns people off, and can feel like manipulation instead of an open invitation.
We are to do as Christ Himself instructed us: take His story to the ends of the earth.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for that salty story of Jesus! Help us to use it as spiritual food that builds your eternal Kingdom. Amen.
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If a product or idea is worth promoting, it must be seen by the “end-user,” to borrow a marketing term. There is so much competition in business today…it is pointless to have a store unless people know you’re open for business.
Thousands of businesses open and close every year. It’s a shame, but too often practical planning isn’t a big enough part of the picture. The Lord understands the importance of planning, and the need to plan ahead applies to how we share Him with others, too.
Matthew 5 verses 13-16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
You have the greatest story ever told right in the palm of your hand! God has provided it to you, and the only thing He requires of us is that we share it. But you can’t do that if fear, lack of planning, or hesitancy keep it from public view. Resolve now, today, to make your story of redemption and salvation available to others.
Lives are depending on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a boldness and focus when sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with a hurting world. Amen.
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During the Civil War, Southern states relied on salt perhaps even more than their Northern counterparts. The commodity preserved various foods—such as fish—and allowed more people to eat and even keep food supplied for a rainy day.
As the Union troops began capturing Confederate saltworks, the food supplies there literally began drying up. It was one of the things that led to the end of the war, as food supplies literally not only lost their taste, but their preservative qualities. Things got so bad in the last 18 months of the war that some people were reduced to eating tree roots and other non-food vegetation. Not exactly an appetizing meal!
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
As ambassadors for Christ, we must make sure that our salt does not lose its effectiveness. We must stay alert, so the enemy doesn’t steal the zest which makes our boldness in sharing Christ effective. Doing so requires vigilance and much prayer, consistently.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we must be on guard against the enemy, who wants to keep us from sharing your Good News. Help us stay alert at all times, so that our witness endures. Amen.
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The Dead Sea, bordering the countries of Israel and Jordan, is also located at the lowest point on Earth. The landscape is so barren, it looks like a moonscape. Not exactly a place for a vacation or rest stop.
And yet…did you know that one of the valuable things from that area is the vast amount of salt that rings this body of water? Besides the salt content, the minerals in the Dead Sea are valuable for everything from medicines to cosmetics. What initially looks like a terrible place is actually quite rich! In fact, resorts have popped up in the area.
Additionally, this salty sea is one body of water that won’t let you sink! Kind of like a Savior we know.
Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
Sometimes people think the Gospel is difficult to present. It can be thought of as unattractive or cumbersome; the Bible tells us as much.
And yet, it has infinite value to us, and preserves life! Remember that the next time you hesitate to share Christ with someone.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us change our perspective when it comes to the great privilege we have in sharing the Good News about Jesus. Amen.
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Table salt today is so common, it becomes another thing we take for granted. You go to the store, pick a cylinder or jar of salt off the shelf, then go home. You don’t even think about it.
Now, consider that 1,000 and more years ago, if a person wanted to use salt on his dinner, this required some prior work. A lot of work! The Romans boiled seawater in huge, lead-lined pans. So valuable was salt in the Roman Empire, it was used as currency! Mainly, it was used as a critical food preservative.
Matthew 5 verses 13-16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
God tells us we are to be the instrument that preserves and makes known the Gospel, and salt is the analogy.
Let us say to our friends, loved ones, and even strangers: Taste, and see that the Lord’s promises are good!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to be salt and light for your Word in this world. Amen.
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As we wrap up our series on precious jewels, it is kind of fun to spotlight one last gemstone. One that isn’t immediately beautiful or desired.
But it is the rarest!
Discovered in east Asia by British mineralogist Arthur Pain, the so-called “Painite” gemstone can be found several colors, and the various hues seen as light hits them give an uncommon view.
Incredibly, only 25 such stones exist today, and the value per gram works out to $9,000! Despite the fact that many people have never heard of it, Painite is that rarest of rare jewels. For the longest time, only two had been found the world over.
That kind of rarity stands out in a crowd.
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
Think of how rare and precious a true Proverbs 31 woman is. She is a woman remembered vividly, even with emotion, long after she goes to be with her Lord.
Are you a mother beloved by your children? Do they think of you fondly? Does your husband honor you for your uncommon strength and love? Will friends seek you out when they can’t turn to anyone else? If so, you are that rare gem.
And you are loved indeed.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us be that rarest of jewels, one that points others to the light and majesty of Christ, forevermore. Amen.
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In its natural state, the jaw-dropping gem known as emerald often resembles an ancient barrel-shaped decree from a king. It tells us things nothing else can.
Today, the glittering green stone stops an onlooker. It takes our breath away. When set against a backdrop of shimmering gold, it is something that transfixes us.
The calming color of an emerald actually give the eyes a rest after working for awhile. In fact, some think looking at emeralds relieves eyestrain, a sparkling, homeopathic remedy for the overworked.
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
Among the most sought after gemstones, an emerald speaks of a royal court. A monarch. One who is destined to lead people to greatness.
Like humans, an emerald without blemish is very, very rare. Perfection is not common. So too is perfection in humans, since only Christ is perfect. His example is our ideal and goal, and He shapes us throughout our lives, refining us into rare and beautiful examples of His love.
A Proverbs 31 woman has been set apart by the Lord Himself. He sets her in a throne of gold, so that those she comes in contact with will stop and listen to her.
God asks the Proverbs 31 woman to wear her beauty well. Not for her own glory, but for the glory of the Lord.
Let’s pray.
Lord, out of kindness and care for us you provided a glorious rainbow of color in your world. Thank you for such beauty, and for what it can mean to us. Amen.
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We don’t have direct evidence, of course. The Bible doesn’t tell us this exactly…
But tradition says that the Ten Commandments were carved from a solid slab of sapphire.
It’s a beautiful thought, isn’t it? The rich blue of the sapphire gemstone reminds us of royalty, and the regal King Jesus. It fits!
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
When a woman admires a sapphire necklace, or turns her hand in order to catch the light on that beautiful blue sapphire ring, she is presenting a picture of what it means to be a Proverbs 31 woman. The ring of a ruler, one that loves all people and values them, the sapphire can be seen from a very long distance. There is no mistaking that this is a treasure that draws the best kind of admiration from everyone who comes in contact.
If you want to stand out from the crowd in the best sense of the term, remind yourself that your King is the royal regent who has set you apart to be His ambassador here on Earth. See yourself the way He sees you: a precious and priceless gem.
Let’s pray.
Lord, like the sapphire, we desire to stand out from the crowd for the right reasons: to point the way to King Jesus. Help us to shine for you! Amen.
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Diamonds.
The very word calls to mind something so beautiful and rare, people everywhere immediately form a sharp mental image. Who hasn’t dreamed of handfuls of these sparkling, valuable gemstones running through their hands?
Nothings speaks of high value more than a diamond solitaire. Such a piece of jewelry signals to the world that a couple considers their relationship to be both priceless and eternal.
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
Yes, this is it. A Proverbs 31 woman has literally been made by the Lord to be a clear, radiant light so that people can see Christ living in her. Honestly? What humans label as beauty often misses the mark. Light comes from within, not from the surface.
A woman who knows her worth in Christ Jesus is that stunning girl turning heads, and engaging and inspiring hearts.
Not only is a woman who is an ambassador for Christ lovely, she is also durable. She is not smashed by the cares of life. When life presses in on her, she turns to her Lord and emerges as a thing that cuts the enemy to pieces.
She shines for all time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the beauty you create is not matched by human creativity. Thank you for the sparkling ‘diamonds’ that come into and enrich our lives. Amen.
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Everyone loves the beauty of nature’s gems. The greens, blues, and reds of natural gemstones have set apart jewelry since the beginning of time. These precious jewels are relatively rare, and desired by people from all walks of life.
None more than the ruby.
The second-hardest gemstone, rubies have always been striking for their deep reds that flash in the light. They have been used in the crowns of monarchs for centuries, and for the rings and necklaces we can find in jewelry stores today. Jewelers tell us the ruby is one of the most coveted stones.
Four times rubies are mentioned in the Bible, and each time the reference is to beauty or wisdom.
Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”
A godly woman is one who stand out for her internal beauty and wisdom. She is admired for all the right reasons as she walks in the light, revealing the kind of attributes only God can craft and provide.
In the famous “Proverbs 31” chapter of the Bible, we read a fairly detailed account of this wonderful women. Many of us count them as mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters.
How they bless us!
Let’s pray.
Lord, the Proverbs 31 woman, like a fine ruby, is easy to spot. We value them for all the right reasons. Thank you for the blessing of knowing and appreciating women such as these. Amen.
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Have you ever noticed how good chicken soup tastes when you’re sick? Usually we don’t want much to eat, but the hot broth soothes us inside and out. The natural elements do in fact help heal our bodies, and we can lie down to rest feeling nourished and content.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
God knows what we need and how much we need, and He’s never wrong. The One that created galaxies and distant stars and tiny blades of grass knows exactly what you need.
If you’re sick in spirit, call on the Lord. Just as Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, we can come to Him with our needs. He protects us, anoints us, and gives us the spiritual food we need. Just as the Psalmist wrote.
Maybe today, you are facing that thing you’ve dreaded. Just remember to call on Jesus and let Him feed your spirit. Tell Him your fears and concerns, and then close your eyes and rest.
Let His love overflow, over and around you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for remembering us as individuals, with all the needs this world has. We love you and appreciate you. Amen.
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Jesus is always our standard.
Moments after He picked the 12 disciples, Jesus was standing at the base of a mountain, teaching the people. He told them many things, but one thing really stands out: He told them how to treat each other.
Jesus had a way with stories. Narrative was the way He told people what He wanted them to remember. And it was then that Jesus used an image of the good gifts God gives to those that love Him.
The book of Luke tells the story. Jesus looked at His followers and said, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.”
Almost a thousand years before, David wrote a similar thing.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
When you make a choice to believe God, He gives you so much in return -- it just pours out! The blessings are so abundant, it’s almost too much to take in.
This is the God we serve. The One waiting for each of us who is hungry and thirsty.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for the abundance you give us in every way. We remember it and are grateful, always. Amen.
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It’s harder to visualize during the hot summer months, but during Christmas of 1944, American soldiers were dug in against the Germans. The dark, frozen Belgian forest added to the bleak atmosphere. Morale was low, ammo was low, and food supplies were low.
But just when things looked the worst, General Patton’s Third Army showed up almost out of nowhere. The men who fought in the Battle of the Bulge and survived remembered many things about that strangest of Christmas holidays.
Mostly they remembered the first hot food they’d had in six weeks! The steaming coffee overflowed. The bounty and some rest prepared them to win that battle, and then win the war.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
That’s the way life often works. Your back is to the wall, and God shows up. The reinforcements appear suddenly. The Holy Spirit lifts you up -- mind, body, and soul. He feeds us with spiritual nourishment so that we can fight back against evil and prevail.
If you’re in a war, don’t give up. God is coming.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always with us and that is just one thing that makes you unique. We can’t live without you. In you we thrive. Amen.
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Do you ever just feel really low? Like…God has abandoned me, my friends don’t love me anymore. That kind of feeling?
We all do at some point. But not only has God not abandoned you, He has great things in store for you.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
In ancient Israel, when God selected a new king for His people, a priest anointed the person with oil, then prayed. Oil from a clay pitcher would be poured over the chosen one’s head. A new king!
David the shepherd boy was dissed by the people, even by his whole family. They thought a young guy was no match for the Philistine army, but as usual, God saw the real person. That’s how it works, you know.
David had the last laugh. He saved his people from an army of giants. He visited the camp, saw what was happening, and decided he could kill the enemy. His legend began that day.
Others mock you, but they only see the surface. God sees the heart. He sees what you were, are, and what you will become.
The world treats you like dirt? God treats you like a king.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we face giant problems every day. Without your help, we’d sink. Thank you for holding us up. Amen.
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The area surrounding Ein Gedi, near the Dead Sea, is bleak. Desert scenes and HOT temps! It isn’t a place you’d go just for fun.
It really wasn’t fun when David was hiding from King Saul. The guy who whipped a rock at Goliath’s head was already a legend among the people. Saul couldn’t stand that, and so he did what power-hungry leaders do: he decided to eliminate the competition. David hid from the King’s henchmen for a long time, eventually settling south of Jerusalem, in a bleak place.
Sitting there looking up at the stars in the night sky, he wrote some of the most famous words of all time, words that comfort us to this day.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
Ein Gedi is an oasis in the desert. Cool water flows from the cliffs into deep pools, and green plants hang from the rocks. It was here that David first understood just how far God’s mercy and grace go. It was here he felt the presence of the Lord in a powerful way. He fed David there, in the wilderness, even as the King’s men hunted him all around.
God treats us the same way. He loves us through the terror, and provides for us in times of hardship.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies follow us everywhere. We thank you for your provision, all the time. Amen.
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PRODUCT LI
Think of what Jesus was asking of His followers.
He had just risen from the dead. That doesn’t happen every day.
His ministry had been destroyed, so they thought. He wasn’t coming back. But then He did. Only days after being killed on a brutal Roman cross, Jesus was standing in front of his friends, looking very much alive. And He was telling them their futures were dicey.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
Jerusalem at the time was under occupation by an unforgiving empire. The empire required all from each individual, and never gave anything back. Jesus was telling His disciples that if they would give up all for Him, He’d give it back and more.
Forever.
This was the first great command to preach the Good News everywhere. The first marching orders for a spiritual army.
We are called to be in that army, to give our all in order to shake things up for eternity.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for giving us the chance to share your love with others, all over the world. We love you! Amen.
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Are you comfortable in your life? This is a little different than asking if you are always happy, or living in some sort of paradise. Comfortable just means you are relatively peaceful and content with your situation. There’s nothing wrong with that, but it can be dangerous in a spiritual sense.
Jesus calls us to something more.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
Of the 200 or so nations in the world today, a good portion of them have citizens who have never heard the Gospel. They’ve never had someone explain to them who Jesus was, is, and will be. Millions have not heard of the eternal sacrifice Jesus made for us on the Cross, to pay the penalty for our sins.
Do we even have the right to stay in our comfortable place?
Are you called to more?
Can you justify not taking a stand for Christ?
Your situation is unique, and Jesus knows all of it. If He isn’t calling you to a remote place on the globe, maybe it’s working with kids in your church. Whatever opportunity God is giving you to change the world…take it!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we ask you to put more people in our path. Give us more chances to change our world for you. Amen.
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In the dark days of mid-20th century Europe, a lone German decided to make political waves. His choices put his own life in grave danger.
Oskar Schindler was a businessman with factories in countries occupied by the Nazis. Jews everywhere were being shipped like cattle to extermination camps. Some of Schindler’s employees were in danger.
What did he do? He saved over a thousand of them by keeping their names on a list of employees necessary to conduct business. By war’s end, he had spent his entire fortune bribing officials to look the other way while his workers remained in their jobs.
Oskar Schindler took that road less traveled that we’ve heard about.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
In another life-and-death matter, for much higher stakes, Jesus has called us who love Him to share the Good News of His sacrifice with others. Sometimes this will place us in danger. Sometimes we will lose friends and alienate family.
None of that matters. All that matters is that lost people who have no other hope for escape will rely on what we tell them about our King.
Jesus has His own list.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross has given us eternal life. Please keep giving us opportunities to reach others with this Good News. Amen
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In the Tom Hanks film “Castaway,” the main character, “Chuck,” finds himself in the ultimate terrifying situation. Chuck’s plane goes down in the ocean, and he finds himself stranded on a very deserted island.
Years pass.
Chuck’s family and friends long ago gave up on him, and why not? No one could have known he was sitting on a remote pile of sand in the Pacific Ocean.
He learns to survive, but then reflects on the future. What happens if he gets sick? What happens if he’s injured?
Staying put isn’t an option.
SPOILER ALERT Next thing you know, he’s pushing away from the island on a homemade raft. This risky adventure eventually puts him right in the path of a ship.
Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
When He went to be with His Father in heaven, Jesus left his disciples with a simple but big adventure idea: Go tell people about me. It won’t be safe, and you might even be in peril, but life depends on it.
He called us to ride the ultimate wave.
Let’s pray.
Lord, life sometimes intimidates us. But we have you as our lifeboat, and we thank you for not letting us drift away. Amen.
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Our nation’s leaders have always acknowledged God, even if some of them haven’t always been model Christians. For one thing, no one can occupy the Oval Office and not lay aside some pride.
And if our nation’s spiritual health has sometimes been less-than-desired, there is a unity that we all enjoy. This community spirit has made America a very interesting experiment.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
We are now more than 200 years into our story. Even the harshest critics would be hard-pressed to prove that God hasn’t blessed this country. Wars and economic upheavals and scandals have not phased God in His ability to keep us upright.
History tells us nations that acknowledge God enjoy blessings that others don’t. In His mercy, God has been for us -- especially when it counted most.
And do you know the best part? A success story like that couldn’t have been possible without thousands of individuals who wanted nothing more than to be in God’s will.
They make up our family, and together we look to the future. Being in God’s will for the generations to come.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you hold our future in Your hands. The ancients understood that You are the Creator and the shaper of everything that is good. Help us remember that in our time. Amen.
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Games and sports aren’t real life, but they often give a pretty accurate picture of how we can choose to face life.
Some people love Tom Brady, some don’t. What we have to admit though is that the guy is at his best when the pressure is the most intense.
Imagine that your profession is on a national stage. You have the ball with less than two minutes to go, and your team is behind. Standing behind center and looking out at the defense, how many of us could even think? Then, imagine throwing the ball with any kind of accuracy, knowing you have to win the game.
Most of us would be scared to death!
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
When we believe in something greater than ourselves—whether a close-knit team or better yet, the God of the universe—fear tends to leave. Just leave. Get away from me!
If you are feeling terrible pressure right now and don’t know what to do, stop what you’re doing and get by yourself. Pray to the Lord that He will help you and show you the way.
That’s the true path to victory, and the best way to assure the win.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we can’t do it by ourselves. We need your Spirit in us and your strength every second of every day. Thank you for never leaving us. Amen.
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It’s interesting watching the outcomes of people who refuse to give in to fear.
Many years ago, while America was going through a severe economic Depression and a world war, President Roosevelt told Americans that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.
Those listening over the radio said later that they felt a great sense of relief just from his words!
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
Our country emerged from a very scary time to become a people determined to embrace the future. Those who survived those dark days were known as The Greatest Generation. They were because they decided giving in to fear was not an option. It was a simple choice, honestly. They gritted their teeth and went to work.
And prayed like never before.
As individuals we face their own depression, and our own wars. Any of us can be overwhelmed by the life-altering decisions we must make. Doing all of that living in fear can’t be sustained.
The Psalmist clearly understood that God would rescue him; the words he wrote about it were words of life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are great, the greatest, and your love for us is the only thing that should overwhelm us. Amen.
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Sandra was a single mom with little family support. Her ex was not exactly helping repair a tough situation.
Her days slowed down only late at night when everyone else was asleep. That’s when fear got into bed with her and wouldn’t budge.
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
Every human being in history is faced with trouble at some point. But how we handle the rough times is key. Fear has no place in our lives.
In the dark, when fear really wanted to rattle her, Sandra prayed to the Lord. She told Jesus that she was scared and needed His help.
Guess what? Jesus showed up for her.
She really believes that the Bible is true, and that Scripture shows us the heart of God. It is His desire to love us through the pain and uncertainty.
Fear-less is a good place to start. Whittle it down a little at a time if you need to. Then one day, you’ll wake up and realize you aren’t afraid at all. You don’t have to fear evil, because God is with you!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are with us in every situation and your mercies never end. Thank you for loving us all the time, not just here and there. Amen.
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Do you like scary movies? Is an evening spent looking through your fingers appealing to you?
It is to a lot of people. Some of us really like to be scared!
But hopefully that doesn’t translate to real life. Screaming in a dark theatre can actually be fun, but you don’t want to live a life of fear.
Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
To be blunt about it, God made us to be fearless. Single mom? A leader under siege? Maybe your situation is something else entirely. But whatever environment you find yourself in, know that God is not about His children being afraid. He gave us a choice in that, as Psalm 23 tells us.
For thousands of years, people have recited that verse while in a tough spot. David wrote it when his life was in serious danger. The words fit all situations and lifestyles and times in history. You are not alone.
God will come through for you. Tell Him today that you need His strength.
Don’t be afraid to do that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us from fear. Keep us focused on your eternal strength and safety. Thank you. Amen.
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Our nation’s leaders have always acknowledged God, even if some of them haven’t always been model Christians. For one thing, no one can occupy the Oval Office and not lay aside some pride.
And if our nation’s spiritual health has sometimes been less-than-desired, there is a unity that we all enjoy. This community spirit has made America a very interesting experiment.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
We are now more than 200 years into our story. Even the harshest critics would be hard-pressed to prove that God hasn’t blessed this country. Wars and economic upheavals and scandals have not phased God in His ability to keep us upright.
History tells us nations that acknowledge God enjoy blessings that others don’t. In His mercy, God has been for us -- especially when it counted most.
And do you know the best part? A success story like that couldn’t have been possible without thousands of individuals who wanted nothing more than to be in God’s will.
They make up our family, and together we look to the future. Being in God’s will for the generations to come.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you hold our future in Your hands. The ancients understood that You are the Creator and the shaper of everything that is good. Help us remember that in our time. Amen.
Do you want to inspire others – or maybe even inspire yourself? Explore our entire collection of faith-based apparel, accessories, and gifts designed to shine a light for Jesus at Kerusso.com. That’s K-E-R-U-S-S-O dot com.
Would it surprise you to know that God has always been interested in you? Did you know He knew you before you were born? He has a vested interest in how your life turns out.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
He isn’t some remote deity. God doesn’t pay attention only most of the time. He doesn’t form His plans here and there. He is there for us all the time.
The question is, where are we?
Before you were born, it was God’s will that you would have a relationship with Him. He has always wanted your life to be successful. He wanted you to have joy hundreds of years before your parents were even born!
So God’s will for your life isn’t confined to now, or even now and going forward. He has always been with you, guiding you through your life. As you look back now, you can see that this is true.
Being in God’s will is all encompassing. It is the beginning, middle, and end of our stories.
If you weren’t exactly in God’s will in the past, learn from that and move forward with Him all the time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you hold us in your protection for the entirety of our lives. We thank you that you never get tired of that. Amen.
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As a believer, have you noticed that it’s often easier to stay in God’s will when you’re at home? At work, it gets a little dicey.
It’s at work that people see us, and our decisions can have such impact. Not being in God’s will in that setting can be catastrophic.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Terry Looper is the CEO of a multi-billion-dollar company. Once, he was negotiating a sale and was at the finish line when he realized he hadn’t sought God’s will in the matter. He stopped, prayed and read the Word for discernment.
He was shocked to find that he wasn’t supposed to sell at all!
Looper learned his lesson. Being in God’s will in every area of our lives is the key. It’s great to be godly and led by the Spirit sitting in your den with a Bible open. But it’s not less important to be led by the Spirit in the boardroom, or on the floor of the plant where you work.
People see you. They see what we do. If we want to be sure success finds us, we’d better make sure we’re looking in the right place.
There are no shortcuts to fully being in God’s will.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you bless us in every area of our lives. Thank you for being on our side, all the time. Amen.
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Billy Graham had many admirable qualities. He deserved the accolades he got in life. He also once said that one day people would hear that he had died, but in fact that was wrong; he was going to see Jesus, and so would more alive than he’d ever been.
What explains that kind of conviction?
Could it be that the so-called secret to his success was that Billy Graham sought to be in God’s will every day, for decades? He did have an advantage that his work life was also his ministry. But the point is, he kept after it.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Graham understood this. It got down in his bones. Preaching around the world for 60 years caused him to trust God even more.
He also had another interesting advantage that enabled him to stay in God’s will at home and at work:
Ruth Graham.
This wonderful woman made sure her husband had a home base that wasn’t chaotic. She too knew God’s will for her life, and so the ministry they did together had an incredible, lasting impact.
Being in God’s will is not something you can compartmentalize, it is a whole-life exercise.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your ways are wonderful, and you are so good to us. Help us live in your will in all aspects of our lives. Amen.
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Do you struggle to wonder what God’s will is for your life?
Many of us do.
Although it isn’t a quick answer, the best way to find God’s will for your life is to read His Word. The Bible will tell you the answer to that question.
Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Actually, finding God’s will isn’t the hardest part. Deciding to follow His will is where we get tripped up.
People need the skill and discipline of being persistent. Too often the impulse is to give up and then, if we’re honest, pretend that God hasn’t revealed His will to us.
Good old Abe Lincoln had it right when he said that the only important response is to make sure we are on God’s side, not whether He’s on ours.
God has already told us that He’s on our side. He sent His Son, Jesus, to take the penalty for our sin. It doesn’t get any more “on our side” than that.
Change your thinking a bit. Don’t focus on what you think God is supposed to do.
Resolve instead to follow God, and do it every day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your will is the thing that drives us on, to find our purpose in life. Thank you for sticking with us. Help us to stick with you. Amen.
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America has always acknowledged God. Sometimes though, our devotion to faith comes and goes. Sometimes we get too comfortable, and forget who keeps us upright every day.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
Whenever a person questions God’s goodness, or the path He has set for us, it’s good to go to the Bible. There, we find the answer to why we should honor our Lord.
It’s because He has loved us. He has been faithful to us.
He deserves our notice. He is the One we should be all-in for, all the time.
Remember the timeless Walt Whitman poem, in which he referred to the beloved President Lincoln as “O Captain, my Captain!” Whitman was honoring the man who saved the Union. The President rightly was seen as an important figure; after all, he gave his life for his country.
But the Lord Jesus Christ is our real Captain, our General, for all time. He gave His life for each of us the world over.
Glory to God! Let’s honor Him every way we can.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have many examples from history of people who sacrificed and deserve our respect. To you we give our full allegiance, now and forever! Amen.
CTA
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This summer, 75 years after he landed in France to help the Allies liberate Europe from Nazi control, Russell Pickett stood at attention as the President spoke.
A private in 1944, Pickett was now receiving the adulation of a grateful nation. He knew firsthand the reality that there is very little glory in war death. Yet here his country was honoring his service in that memorable conflict. The President even hugged him!
He stood with several of his comrades, men now in their 90s, and they shook hands with heads-of-state and the famous milled around. But a little-reported story is that many of the veterans spoke of their reliance on the Almighty. They knew their Source of victory.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
There have been many brave men and women in our nation’s history. Many of them fight today in places we’ll never know about. But we have only one General, only one true Commander-in-Chief. The Lord of History is the only One truly deserving of our adulation.
One day, when we achieve our final victory, it is Him we will see face-to-face.
What glory that will be.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always on the battlefield with us, never leaving us. Your kindness to us is eternal. Glory belongs to you alone. Amen.
CTA
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America does celebration very well. As a rich and varied nation, we have the resources frankly to host great celebrations. Our veterans are honored, which they very much deserve.
We glory in our past and look forward to the future. Flags fly and flap in the breeze that sweeps across the land. The recent Memorial Day recalled our nation’s fallen, those who willingly went into the danger zone and gave the ultimate sacrifice.
It’s interesting that as our nation grew up, we as a people came to a more realistic view of war and sacrifice. When the Civil War began, citizens actually camped out above the battlefields, hosting picnics as they watched the armies do battle.
When World War 1 broke out, parades were held in every city and town as our soldiers boarded ships for Europe.
But then the blood and tragedy of war hit us in the face. We began to turn to the only One that can save us.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
Human efforts can only go so far. We can’t save ourselves. But our Creator wants to do that, and it is to Him we owe our honor and glory.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your sacrifice was the one that will one day end all wars and strife in our world. We thank you for Jesus, and we give you the honor and glory you deserve. Amen.
CTA
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In May 1962, an intimidating figure delivered a final public speech at West Point Military Academy.
Douglas MacArthur, who led America to victory in the Pacific during World War 2, addressed cadets. He told them simple truths, ones that define honor and glory.
The hall was completely still as the old general spoke in hushed tones. Everyone heard him speak of the honorable soldier who must rely on “those divine attributes which his Maker gave when He created man in His own image.”
Here was perhaps the most legendary military man in this country in the 20th century, and despite his personal awards and recognition, he humbled himself to acknowledge the One who deserves all our honor and glory.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
The name of Christ is the one that leads us to final victory. MacArthur spoke to those cadets of the American tradition of seeing things through to complete and decisive victory.
The Bible tells us we are soldiers in Christ’s army. We are standing on the most important battlefield in all of history. Our mandate is to share the Good News of Jesus Christ, so that individuals live for eternity with their Creator.
Let us glory in that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are our deliverer and the Victor. We honor you with our worship, and with our eternal thanks. Amen.
CTA
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Most countries relish their histories…famous eras and the glory of battle and all that. Americans love this beautiful land, as well.
But the Bible tells us the true source of our blessings. It points us to the One who made all things possible.
Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”
We are incredibly blessed in America for a lot of reasons. From sufficient food to freedom to make our own choices, we have so much. But do we always acknowledge the source of our blessings?
Our forefathers did.
George Washington’s tomb at Mt. Vernon has Scripture etched into the stones. The Father of our country knew his heavenly Father!
The Bible tells us that we should glory first in our great God. He is the one we owe our lives to. Every breath we take. We owe our Savior Jesus our eternal lives.
It is to Him that all honor and glory belongs. As proud Americans, we stand on our faith. Of our almost limitless blessings, that is number one.
To God be the glory!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are available to us each day. As we get ready for a new day, help us to remember that You are our source. Amen.
CTA
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Have you ever thought about the fact that you have an obligation to defend our nation’s freedoms? You live in the Land of the Free; your contributions are needed. We all have a role.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Sure, maybe you’re not a Navy SEAL. Maybe you don’t fly supersonic jets in combat. You never served in the military. Most citizens haven’t, and won’t.
But that doesn’t mean we can sit on our hands and not participate.
Your gift and contribution might be instilling values in your children. Or you might be in the medical field, helping keep folks healthy. Maybe you’ve been entrusted by the Lord to be a pastor, protecting your congregation from spiritual dangers.
Many things have joined forces to make America a place millions want to come, to improve their lives. It takes a lot of effort and many moving parts.
Many of our ancestors moved through New York Harbor and shielded their eyes from the sun so they could see the Statue of Liberty. Each of them made the choice to be a piece of a large quilt that makes up our nation.
It is up to us to be courageous and continue the tradition. Our freedom depends on it.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we acknowledge those who came before us. We take up our own responsibility to do our part. Amen.
CTA
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From the very beginning, women around the world have served their countries on the front lines of war. In America, we know that the Land of the Free has hundreds of thousands of women manning their stations at home while Daddy fights a long way from home. In fact, winning World War 2 would have been dicey had we not had millions of women manning factories and offices.
But many of us are unaware that women serve in front-line units. As of last year, 800 served in combat. By the fall of 2018, 18 had graduated from Ranger School.
We salute them for being willing to defend the country.
Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Within each heart is the beat of choices. Our bravehearts serving in the military deserve our continual praise and thanks. We appreciate the women who have chosen to go to hard places, and protect us from danger.
Whether it’s jump school, tank training, or artillery units, the women of America are willing to lay it all on the line, too.
Thank you for our freedom!
Let’s pray.
Lord, protect all of these wonderful hearts that serve us in the ultimate ways. Comfort their families at home, and bring them back home safely. Amen.
CTA
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Today in America, two million men and women serve in our armed forces. More than 200,000 of them are deployed to various points around the world.
Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
The Lord has told us directly not to be afraid. We aren’t even to be discouraged! He’s told us through His promises that He’ll be with us every step of the way.
If we stop and think about the amazing history of this country, we can see that God has literally been with us every minute of every hour. He was at Yorktown. He dropped a last-minute winning strategy into Chamberlain’s mind at Gettysburg. God went with our invasion forces in the Pacific and in Europe during World War 2, because people were enslaved and in need of rescue.
He has been with us since the terrible moments of 9/11.
Be strong and of good courage in the Land of the Free!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your provision for us in all times and places is wonderful. Thank you for never leaving us. Amen.
CTA
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Matt Axelson was a smiling, sandy-haired native of California. In 2000, he entered the Army and became a Navy SEAL.
Then 9/11 happened.
In the sweltering summer heat of Afghanistan in 2005, Axelson’s team was told to capture a senior member of the Taliban. Unfortunately, the team was betrayed by locals sympathetic to the Taliban, and the SEALs found themselves surrounded by upwards of 100 enemy fighters.
During a fierce firefight, Axelson was hit in the head and chest, but continued fighting until the end. He died, along with two of his team. Matt’s last words were, “Tell Cindy I love her.”
He was thinking of his wife. Of his family. He was there in a tough place, far from the green, green grass of home.
Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
The price for living in a wonderful country is high. It’s very, very high.
No matter our politics—because none of that really matters when we stop and think about heroes like Matt—we can honor them. We appreciate our heroes more than we can say.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we thank you that one day you will wipe all tears from our eyes and death will be no more. Amen.
CTA
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the importance of remembering why our nation is the Land of the Free.
Joshua 1:9 commands us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Our daily blessings can be taken for granted. Let’s never forget just why America is a beacon of freedom and hope in a harsh world.
God’s Word is a collection of individual books about the history of the world, poetry, worship songs, letters, and the beginnings of the Church.
But is also all about Jesus!
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Jesus, who came to our world as God in the flesh, is actually the Creator of everything that exists. Most amazing, He is today alive. He was crucified and laid in a tomb 2,000 years ago, but rose again and lives to be the King of our lives.
As the Word, He is aware of literally everything, including our thoughts. He hears the cry of your heart. He knows when you are depressed. He knows your thoughts and how you feel about things.
If He does all that, why not talk to Him today? Tell Jesus how you feel. His story isn’t just words on a page. He is the Living Word.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercy and grace for us are incredible! We are grateful that you sent Jesus to defeat evil and death. Amen.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the durability of God’s Word.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Through history, men have tried to destroy the Living Word, but God always preserves it!
The world is full of interesting ancient books. The Indian Vedas, the Egyptian Book of the Dead, even ancient clay tablets from Sumeria.
In the Bible though, we read that God’s Word is alive, not dead.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Active.
That’s a very interesting way to describe a book. It sits on a shelf, or stares back at us from our phones. The writer of Hebrews says that the Word of God is for all people in all times and places. And while we might not like the idea that it can see into our hearts and minds, it is part of God’s plan for our benefit. It brings freedom and peace.
Do you need those today? Then try reading the Living Word!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you made us and know everything about us. Nothing is hidden from you, just as your Word tells us. Thank you for loving us, for that ultimate intimate relationship. Amen.
People have different views on just what God’s Word actually is. Some think it’s an ancient book of wisdom. Others think it’s just kind of an interesting piece of historical literature.
But the Word itself tells us that it has amazing benefits for those who read it and believe it.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
It’s not a dead book!
Notice that the Bible is “alive and active.” That means that even though we might let it gather dust on a shelf, it doesn’t gather dust in our hearts. God’s Word tells us exactly who we are, and who God is. It establishes that relationship.
And it’s very important to remember that as you read it, you’ll see that Jesus Christ is seen all through the Bible. The Word of God reveals the Word, which is what John chapter 1 calls Jesus. It’s an amazing book within the Bible and is a good place to start to discover who Jesus is.
He is the Living Word!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are good to us all the time. You don’t leave us in our sin, but give us a way out, through Jesus Christ, the Living Word. Thank you for your Son! Amen.
No one is immune from burnout. It comes in our jobs, friendships, and even our church life. Sometimes our hobbies become dry and tedious!
But in Scripture, God gives us hope for the future.
John 7:38 -- "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"
Jesus is telling us that in Him alone is true life. He is always pointing us to the future, to a time when that dry creek bed will be filled forever.
In Revelation 22, He showed John a river flowing with the water of life, crystal-clear and coming from the very throne of God.
The whole picture is one of healing and new life. He promises us that this scene will be very real and very permanent! The key is what we read in John 7:38… we must choose to believe! If you long for a new start and a bright future, you will find everything you need and want in the person of Jesus Christ.
The living water He offers is perfect, and the supply is limitless.
Jesus is the well that never runs dry.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are calling to each of us to follow You and let you lead us to a place of perfect paradise. We eagerly look forward to joining you in Your Kingdom. Amen.
Jesus has great compassion for everyone. Especially for those society considers unlovable or worth nothing.
One day he stopped by a well and had a conversation with a woman who had been married five times. When He spoke to her, He knew she was now living with another man. Yet Jesus spoke to her in a way that let her know He valued her as a person.
He told her that people could drink the water from that well, but again they would eventually be thirsty. He said to her that the water He gives is a spring welling up inside them, pointing to eternal life.
John 7:38 -- "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"
Do you believe in Him? Have you had your encounter with Jesus? If you are thirsty for a new life, reach out to Him and listen to what Jesus has to say.
Your life will no longer be dry and lifeless.
New life will flow out of you so that others will notice and want what you have!
Let’s pray.
Lord, much of what the world offers doesn’t satisfy us. We need the living water only you can provide. Amen.
Researchers have long known that even when exploring new worlds, water is the key to life. Without it, nothing can live.
Water is an image used often in Scripture.
When Jesus emerged from the River Jordan having been baptized by his cousin, John, He used the imagery to help people understand that by trusting in Him, they would live forever.
John 7:38 says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"
Did you catch that? You must believe that Jesus is Who the Bible says that He is, the very Son of God. In Him is life, rivers of living water. It is a refreshing experience that has no end, because when we drink water now, we know that eventually we’ll get thirsty again.
But Jesus has told us in John 4 that whoever drinks from the water He gives them—spiritually—will never thirst.
He is talking about eternal life, always new and forever clean and clear.
He is inviting you. He stands at the water’s edge and waits.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Word uses powerful imagery to help us see the wonderful things you have for us. Thank you for satisfying the thirst we have for fellowship with you. Amen.
It’s no accident that Jesus chose as some of His apostles a group of fishermen from Galilee. These were men who could understand Him when Jesus told them He would make them “fishers of men.” He meant, of course, that they would share the Good News about Him with everyone they came in contact with.
That’s exactly what each of them did, for the rest of their lives!
John 7:38 says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"
Fishing requires patience, and a feel for your surroundings. The men Jesus picked were steady, and used to adapting to shifting opportunities. They were perfect for the work He gave them to do.
Just as Jesus knew what his disciples were suited for in order to build His Kingdom, He also knows exactly the purposes He has for you. You are invited to flow into the River of Life He has created, in order to see the Kingdom grow.
Others will see the life flowing from within you, if you’re willing to follow God.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you invite us to participate in the beautiful future you’ve planned for people everywhere. Help us be willing to look for those fishing opportunities. Amen.
Who do you put your faith in?
In the 1930s, as war approached in Europe, the British loved their monarchs. The royal family has been beloved for generations, and King Edward the 8th was ready to take his place on the throne after the death of his father.
The people loved the dashing young king, and he seemed to enjoy his role.
Then he fell in love.
Falling in love isn’t a bad thing, even for kings, but Edward loved an American woman who was divorced. In royal society, that just wasn’t done. So in an amazing decision, Edward abdicated! He left the throne less than a year after assuming power.
1 Timothy 1:17 - All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.
Earthly kings come and go, but Jesus Christ will never abdicate. He will never abandon his duties. In fact, His famous sacrifice on the cross would not have been offered by any earthly king.
It was too costly.
Put your faith in the eternal King, today.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have confidence in you that you will never abandon us. Thank you for your eternal love and that of your Son, Jesus. Amen.
If Genesis describes the beginnings of the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the book of Revelation finishes the story.
Revelation 19 tells us that a descendent of Judah, Jacob’s son, will one day come and rule the whole world. And He will be unlike any other king in history.
1 Timothy 1:17 - All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.
This verse tells us that the role of the greatest of all kings belongs to Christ alone. The image of a lion, with its sleek coat, fierceness and strength, best describes Jesus as ruler over all.
He will preside over an eternal kingdom, one that has no end and no boundaries. This picture of our great King is one we can hold fast to and believe in. One day, King Jesus, that strong lion, will even put away all dangers that threaten you.
That is an amazing thing to look forward to. And it has been promised to us.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your lion is coming to defeat evil and put away death and suffering forever, and we greatly look forward to that. Thank you for keeping your promises. Amen.
In the Bible, we read of family records that were the original genealogy sources! People knew where they came from, knew their kin. The 12 tribes of Israel were first outlined in Genesis, and from these 12 came an entire nation.
Even Jesus came from somewhere!
One of the Bible’s patriarchs, Jacob, had a son named Judah. The father calls the son a lion’s cub, and blesses him. Judah is told he will have favor in the family.
1 Timothy 1:17 - All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.
It is from this family of Judah that Jesus would come. There is even an interesting prophecy about this in Genesis 49; you should read it sometime.
In fact, Jesus was born into the tribe of Judah, and so symbolically, He becomes the “Lion of the Tribe of Judah,” and will return one day to Earth as a conquering King, the greatest one of all time.
The very name, the Lion of Judah, carries with it power and mystery. How thankful we are that it is Jesus’s name.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we love you for many reasons. We love you and thank you that the things you tell us will happen do in fact take place. Amen.
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Have you ever heard of the legendary English king, Arthur? An iconic figure in history, he led a defense of his country against Saxon invaders around 1,500 years ago. He has also been immortalized in literature.
Only one problem: We don’t know if he actually existed.
We certainly don’t know where he’s buried.
And it’s a sure thing that King Arthur, if he lived, wasn’t history’s greatest ruler.
1 Timothy 1:17 - All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.
The Bible tells us that the Creator God is the ruler over all. He is the great King, seen on Earth as Jesus Christ, who will come again one day as a conquering King.
Although other kings achieved legend status, Jesus is no myth. The most documented figure in history, He waits for the right time to restore righteousness and perfection to our world.
We long to see Him!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are indeed our great King, righteous and perfect in all your ways. Amen.
Do you know Who Jesus is? Do you really understand His identity?
We know from the Bible that He is many things: a child, a carpenter, a leader of men. We know that He is our Savior, the One who went to the cross to take on our sin.
He is also our King.
1 Timothy 1:17 - All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.
In this letter to his young friend, Paul emphasized to Timothy that Jesus has dominion over everything and everyone. That’s because Jesus knows exactly what needs to be done in every situation.
While His earthly characteristics and roles give us some picture of Him, it is the picture of Him as King that best describes Him. God the Father has made Jesus Lord over all, and in Him we find true peace.
Have you ever felt safe because you knew your dad or mom was in charge and would do everything right?
We have that confidence in Jesus times infinity! He is our great and good King, forevermore.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have set Jesus aside as unlike anyone else, ever. You have placed kingly robes and a special crown on His head. Thank you for sending your Son for our sake. Amen.
You’ve heard people say that they’ve put down deep roots, right? Usually, they’re not talking about gardening, but about the roots of their lives. Family. Friends. A career. A church home.
We all want to belong. We want to be planted deep in the soil of community.
Colossians 2:6-7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
If you are searching right now, wondering where you should be, consider this verse. In it, we find that Christ our great Savior has a deep desire to keep us growing in good soil. Spiritually, we are to put down deep roots where He has planted us.
If you find yourself far from family, either geographically or because of hurt and conflict, turn to Jesus and tell Him how you feel.
His strong hands will carry you to the place He has waiting just for you, where you will belong. He will plant you deep.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for caring about us as individuals, and knowing exactly what we need and when. Amen.
Humans often get things backwards, to the point of being comical.
Case in point, the little story in the book of Jonah, about the plant God provided for the prophet’s shade.
You’ve heard about Jonah and the great fish, of course. As a prophet and evangelist, God had sent him there to preach and when the people repented…Jonah was mad!
He sat looking over the city after God had spared it and because it was hot, God provided a plant that grew up to provide relief from the sun for Jonah. But then the plant withered and died and the heat was so intense, Jonah wished himself dead.
But in that, God had a lesson for him. And for us.
Colossians 2:6-7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
We don’t always have the compassion for people that we should. Our bitterness takes root. We should learn instead to plant healthy roots of love and compassion for all people.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are too often like Jonah. Help us to always remember that you have been merciful to us, and so we pray your mercies for everyone else. Amen.
Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be an original settler in America? As a person leaving the safety of England to come to the New World and start over?
Those people came here for religious freedom and risked it all. When they landed in New England, they literally put down roots as they built and planted the beginnings of an amazing experiment that is still ongoing.
Colossians 2:6-7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Our ancestors were definitely strengthened in their faith as they faced challenges and danger.
But the payoff was worth it.
Maybe you’re going through something similar. You’ve moved to a new place. New job. New social circle. And you want to find a church! Just tell Jesus you need help with all these things and He’ll be right by your side.
Receive His love today!
Let’s pray.
Lord, forever you have walked with us and forever you will keep us close, making us strong in the faith. Thank you for your faithfulness to your Mission. Amen.
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The giant redwoods of the American Pacific Northwest are among nature’s most beautiful scenes. As tall as skyscrapers, and big enough to drive a truck through.
It is said that the redwoods are so powerful and strong in part because even these plants have a sense of community. Separated, or as a single tree, the root system is more vulnerable. But planted with partners all around, the picture changes completely.
The redwood becomes tall and strong.
Colossians 2:6-7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
In Christ, we are part of a strong community. Scripture refers to Jesus as the Vine which provides nourishment to the rest. In Him we are confident, safe, and rooted.
If you are feeling vulnerable and without friends, start with the best friend you could ever have. Tell Jesus today that you need Him and His community. It is a lush Kingdom that will never die.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are so grateful for your love and provision. Help us stand strong together and do the work of your Father. Amen.
Roaming, travel, wandering…all have been part of the human psyche since the beginning. Because we all have that God-shaped hole in us, needing to be filled with Him, we search.
Some find God, some don’t.
The sense of aimlessness and lack of purpose haunts some. We think of the classic novel by Jack Kerouac, On the Road, which is the story of two characters traveling the country. At first the lure of freedom is fun to think about, but the truth is, if people don’t fill that God-shaped hole with God, despair can set in.
We are left rootless in the worst possible way.
Colossians 2:6-7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Wherever you put down your physical roots, your spiritual roots are at least as important. In Christ, we are no longer wandering and discouraged. In Him we live and move and have our being.
If you feel that you’re not anchored to anything, pour out your heart to Jesus. He will keep you close.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercies are always in fresh supply. We thank you that you plant us in good soil and hold fast to us even when we wander. Amen.
Does your love for God make your heart sing?
The psalms, many of them, were written as songs of worship. King David, in particular, loved to sing praises to His Lord. Whether he was tending his flock under a night sky, or sitting in his palace in Jerusalem, David had a heart for the Lord.
Psalm 104:1 says, “Praise the Lord, my soul. Lord my God, you are very great; you are clothed with splendor and majesty.”
In this kind of worship, we feel especially close to God. It is then we focus on His majesty and power. We feel close to Him, and are able to speak freely to Him.
This kind of intentional meditation on Higher Things also puts us in our place, and we mean that in the best sense of the phrase. Hierarchy in true religion is very important, and when we consider that the God we sing praises to loves us eternally, and always wants the best for us, well, it releases us to worship God with all our being.
It is then we are free.
Take time today to praise the Lord for Who He is, not forgetting the great things He has done for you.
He is very great!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are awesome in ways we can barely understand. Even with those limitations, we love you with abandon. Amen.
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Are you struggling right now? Are you listening to this while gripping the steering wheel, wondering how you’re going to go on? You have so many burdens!
First Thessalonians 5:23 says, “May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit, soul, and body—and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ.”
He has a purpose for you; He really does. God wants to use you for things no one else can do. And He wants you to do it while at peace. Maybe your biggest dream died a really spectacular death, like, one that everyone saw and still talks about.
That doesn’t matter now. The only thing that matters is that you call on Jesus to comfort you and show you the way. Ask Him to do that right now, right where you are.
He wants you to be whole and healthy. And if you ask Him also to help you live a holy life, you will clean, really clean inside and out.
This is very personal. You might feel that you don’t have anyone to turn to. That’s a lie from the enemy. Your savior and your champion says otherwise.
Turn to Him right now.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for making us complete people, capable of sharing the Good News with everyone we come in contact with. Amen.
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In the last century, a 4’10” woman from England answered the call of God to become a missionary in China. Her accomplishments there, especially in saving orphaned children during war and conflict, have made her sort of a legend.
Near the end of her life, Gladys Aylward gave an interview in which she said the most amazing thing, something that could only have come from the heart of a truly humble servant:
I wasn’t God’s first choice for what I’ve done for China. There was somebody else…I don’t know who it was—God’s first choice. It must have been a man—a wonderful man. A well-educated man. I don’t know what happened. Perhaps he died. Perhaps he wasn’t willing…And God looked down…and saw Gladys Aylward
Ephesians 4:1-3 says, “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
If you remember who you are in Christ, and remember that only through His strength you can accomplish anything worthy of legacy, you’ll find contentment that most only dream of.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a humble heart in everything we do. Amen.
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If you’ve been fortunate to hold a newborn, you know what it’s like to be thunderstruck by the delicate features. Everything in miniature.
And then the eyes open. You’re in love.
Jeremiah 1:5 says, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.”
A baby is a blessing and gift from the Lord. All life is precious; it doesn’t matter if the parents are famous or completely obscure. In that warm bundle is a whole lifetime waiting to unfold. Will he be adventurous? Will she run the country?
Man is capable of much, but creating life as God creates will always remain outside the borders. Only a great and all-powerful God could give us such a beautiful life, and He makes each one of us truly unique.
It is an inescapable fact that a human being, separate from everyone else in terms of physicality and emotions, becomes fully formed in its mother’s womb. This is perhaps the greatest miracle in all the universe, and one deserving of our awe and respect.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you form us in the womb, and walk with us each step of the way through life. Thank you for your mercies and grace that you freely give each of us. Amen.
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Most of us feel a deep respect in our hearts for those who have sacrificed so that we can remain free. Loving those who have paid the ultimate price is just something we do as a people. We pause to remember each year.
Isaiah 56:5 says, “To them I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever.”
God instituted the concept of maintaining memorials. He remembers, and so do we.
Maybe you’ve had a brother or mother or cousin or uncle that never came home from war.
Even before the American Civil War, our citizens were placing flowers at the graves of veterans. It is one way we can keep their sacrifices front-and-center, so that we don’t forget and become complacent.
This year, stop to take time and pause. Do something tangible, like visit a cemetery. Ask an older relative to give you some insight into a family member who never came home. Then thank the Lord for that sacrifice.
Let’s pray.
Lord, We remember those who had paid with their lives. It’s very obviously the least we can do, but we want to do more by keeping their memories alive in our hearts. Amen.
The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci is widely looked upon as the most famous painting in the world.
By some historical estimates, the Mona Lisa took as many as 16 years to finish! Capturing Mona Lisa’s famous smile on a poplar plank was no hack job; Leonardo accepted a commission for the work in the year 1503, and completed his masterpiece around the time of his death in 1519. Clearly, this level of artistic achievement takes time.
When you hear the word “masterpiece,” what do you think of?
A famous painting? A beautiful building? Your child’s latest artwork?
What about a giant sequoia tree? A symphony? A pink flamingo? The intricate, miraculous design of the human heart?
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Before you were even born, God knew you, and had a plan for your life. He created you for a purpose, and He considers you one of his personal works of art. You are a living, breathing miracle capable of wonderful things — God’s own masterpiece.
Let’s pray.
God, we thank you and praise you that in all of creation, you have chosen to make us in your image, and to fashion us as a masterpiece — a work of art designed with care. Help us to be worthy of your effort. Amen
When you think of ships, whether you’re thinking of the Titanic, pirate ships of yore, or trading vessels crossing the vast ocean to bring goods and services from one country to another, you probably picture them with an anchor — a heavy metal hook designed to catch on the ocean floor and keep a boat or ship in place.
Wikipedia says this about anchors:
There are two main types of anchors: temporary and permanent. A permanent anchor is called a mooring block and is not easily moved. A temporary anchor can be moved and is carried on the boat. When people talk about anchors, they are usually thinking about temporary anchors.
Hebrews 6:19 says, "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. ”
When you think about your personal relationship with Jesus Christ, what kind of anchor binds you to your Lord and Savior? Is the a permanent anchor — not easily moved? Or is it a temporary anchor, dependent more on where you want to steer the ship, carried aboard your boat until you feel like a temporary stop?
God wants the hope we’ve found in Jesus to be a permanent fixture in our lives; our faith is meant to hold us steady and secure as we follow Him, being a constant source of reassurance in every circumstance — not a temporary stopping place.
Let’s pray.
Lord, whether we’re sailing calm seas or fighting to keep our heads above water in the midst of a storm, you are with us. You are truly the anchor for our souls. Help us to remember to moor ourselves to you, instead of following our pride and settling for a temporary anchor. Amen
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Watching little kids perform on stage at school or at church is the best, isn’t it? There are always a couple of shy violets, but many of them sing their hearts out, fidgeting with excitement and performing actions to accompany the songs with gusto.
If Grammy awards were doled out based on sheer enthusiasm, kids in elementary and Sunday School programs would win every year. They simply can’t contain the feelings in their hearts when it’s time to make a joyful noise.
Psalm 111:1 says, "Praise the LORD. I will extol the LORD with all my heart…”
The word “extol” means to praise enthusiastically; to go into raptures about, to rave about, to delight over, or to sing the praises of. Imagine if every time we thought about our great God, we fell into raptures of delight — the same way those boisterous kids do when they break into song. Now that would be something to see!
Let’s pray.
God, you are worthy of our gratitude, our admiration, and our praise. Thank you for every good thing in our lives, and remind us to bring every ounce of joy to our praise for you. Amen
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Have you ever had a power outage and pulled out your favorite flashlight, only to discover the batteries are dead? Bummer, am I right?
How about light bulbs? For some reason, they all seem to go at the same time, leaving you in the shadows and looking for that flashlight — you know, the one with the dead batteries!
Light bulbs burn out, tires go flat, umbrellas turn inside out on a windy day, and batteries die. Many of the things we use on a frequent basis are designed to be temporary — and sometimes they let us down when we need them the most.
Lamentations Chapter 3 Verses 22-23 says, "Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfulness."
God’s Holy Word, the Bible, promises that His compassion never fails. Each day is a new opportunity to experience God’s love and benefit from His grace, and His faithfulness to us will never end. Not because we’ve earned the Lord’s favor — simply because He loves us.
Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, your mercy is new every morning, and your steadfast love for us is amazing. Thank you for loving us so much, and thank you that we can depend on you, always. Amen
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Have you ever visited a construction site, or lived near one?
A construction site is a unique kind of mess. Dirt and mud mingle with piles of wood, shingles, and other building materials. Utility flags poke up from the ground like man-made weeds. Trampled grass and dirty sidewalks give further evidence of the work at hand.
Eventually, what began as an empty field will grow into something more: a business, a medical facility, or a home.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Sometimes, in the midst of building our lives, we look around and see only chaos: Our relationships aren’t as blissful as we hoped. Our career isn’t following the upward path we planned. Our health or finances or life circumstances are a mess, and we wonder why our best laid plans didn’t result in the stable, structured life we wanted.
God does some of his very best work in the midst of our biggest messes, if we invite him in, and step back to let him work in our lives.
Let’s pray.
Lord, what we see as unworthy, undesirable, and impossible — you see as beautiful, loveable, and filled with potential. We invite you to be the master architect for our lives, and to bring a sense of order to our days, and our circumstances. Amen
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Spring is the season of new life. As we finish up our series on the Psalms, we come to the most famous one of all.
Psalm 23:1,2 says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.”
This psalm contains some of the most famous words ever written. It has everything: beautiful language, a man’s raw honest heart for God, and a universal theme of love that God has for all people.
It echoes in the universe.
Think of the picture that God is painting here for us.
We are bone weary, but He has actually made a place for us to rest in a garden. We hear the flowing water. We are refreshed inside and out.
And He is with us.
Do yourself a favor this spring. Memorize every line of the 23rd Psalm. Put it in your heart so that when you are in that dark valley, you will remember that the one true God loves you absolutely and completely.
Goodness and mercy follow you. Close your eyes and sit in the cool grass.
He is with you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are the Great Shepherd who provides a sanctuary for us. Thank you, thank you for making a place of safety for us as we go through life. Amen.
One of the things that sets God apart from all others is His ability to tell us what is going to happen. We read about this in Isaiah 46, where He says only He knows the end from the beginning.
An amazing example of this is found in Psalm 22, and it’s almost surprising how many people are not aware of it.
Psalm 22:11 says, “Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.
If you read the entire chapter carefully, you begin to realize that this is a conversation that Jesus has on the cross.
This psalm was written a thousand years before that world-changing event!
It describes a man being mocked on the cross. A man who is so thirsty his mouth feels like a piece of dry pottery. He even mentions that his tormentors are casting lots for his clothes. All these things are described in the New Testament, and even some of the language Jesus used on the cross is seen here for the first time.
God is in charge of all things, all the time. Including your situation. He raised Jesus from the dead, and He will provide life eternal for you if you call on Him.
He knows the end from the beginning.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know all things. No one else does. That alone should give us confidence that you will be with us always. Amen.
From the time he was a young shepherd in the wilderness, David had deep relationship with God. He escaped enough dangerous situations to know that God was always with Him and was his deliverer.
Psalm 91:1,2 says, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
This psalm is famous for its descriptive language. We can see a picture of this in our minds. And the specific things listed in this passage are very personal for each of us.
We are not to fear.
When we call on Him, He hears.
His angels watch over us.
One of the most beautiful images in the Bible is found in this psalm, as God, like a strong eagle, covers us with his wings so that we are protected.
Remember the words of Psalm 91 and call on Him day or night.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your protection for us is just one of the things that separates you from anyone or anything else. We are grateful for your wings that draw us near and cover us. Amen.
Nothing is more basic to life than creation itself. The Bible tells us that God alone has the power to truly create, and the beauty of language in Psalm 139 explains this fully. Some believe the psalmist was writing in part about the creation of Adam.
Psalm 139:1-3 says, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”
The writer marvels at the ways in which God understands each of us intimately, and is present everywhere
Are you aware that God loves you with a supernatural love? He created you to be a singular presence in the world…what we call “unique.” You might feel sometimes that you are worthless, or that no one cares.
Not so.
The Creator of the Universe, in that vast space, took time to make only one of you. You are precious to Him and you should never forget it, even when things look depressing.
God sees you when you sit in that chair and when you get up. He knows what you’re thinking and what’s in your heart.
You are on His mind.
Let’s pray.
Lord, it’s comforting knowing that you are with us in each moment of our day. Help us to live in that moment. Amen.
One of the greatest gifts God has given us is the collection of songs known as “Psalms,” originally written as music for worship, especially in the Temple in Jerusalem.
Today we celebrate them as prayers for the most part, and they give us a beautiful picture of who God is.
Psalm 1:6 says, “For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.”
Traditional authorship is assigned mostly to King David, who loved to worship God with music and even dancing. His heart was open to God, and this inner life could be seen by anyone; this earthly king worshipped the King of kings.
In this introductory psalm, we read about the contrast between those who love God and those who don’t. And we are encouraged to “meditate” on His Word every day.
Our God is the great God, and loves each of us more than we can even imagine.
That love is a song in your heart.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your love for us is eternal and we are so blessed to receive it, as David did, all the days of our lives. Amen.
Hers is the greatest motherhood story of all time. You know who she is.
Magnificent Mary!
Her story has been told many times, but how grateful we are that it’s recorded in Scripture. Whatever God’s reasons for choosing this particular woman to give birth to Jesus, we know that she must have loved the Lord with all her heart.
And just think how her head and heart must have been spinning when the angel visited her and told her the special job God was going to give her!
Luke 1:46-48 says, “And Mary said: “’My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.’”
We know little about her beyond that, although we are given some fascinating details: she socialized with her Son, as we see at the wedding in Cana.
And of course she was with Him at His death. No mother should have to endure that, but Mary was very strong. Her toughness and love ring like a bell through time. We remember her way of finding patience and faith.
Maybe the most amazing thing about her is that God trusted Mary with an initial secret that would have floored most people!
She handled it, though. The mother of our Lord was ready when her time came.
Let’s pray.
Lord, the mother of Jesus shows us an eternal love. It is also a mystery of sorts for us, but we know that this amazing mother is experiencing supernatural joy, forever! Amen.
Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be close to Jesus when He was on the earth? It would have been amazing to be in His inner circle.
We know of a remarkable woman, a family member, who would have been able to be around to watch the most amazing life unfold.
Her name was Elizabeth. An aunt of Jesus.
We read in Luke that everyone thought that the time for Elizabeth to become a mother was passed. In those days people thought sin prevented pregnancy, so this godly woman went through great sorrow.
Luke 1:13 says, “But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.”
But Gabriel, an angel, told her priest husband that she would conceive. She did, and later, when visiting her cousin Mary, felt her own son jump in her womb! Even he knew the significance of such a woman!
Elizabeth’s son would be named John, and he would be given the privilege of introducing the world to the Man, Jesus. Both mothers would endure great tragedy in their lives, but would enjoy fellowship forever with them in glory.
Elizabeth knew how to be steady during momentous times. A great lesson for all of us.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes you surprise us with great tasks. Help us to always be ready to stand when you call on us to do something great. Amen.
Are you a woman blessed with the gift of a wonderful mother-in-law? We can hardly think of a more important relationship. Through the ages, this mentoring friendship has sealed families and nurtured them. Likewise, we easily see the pain inflicted when this relationship isn’t good.
In the Old Testament, we read of a really remarkable mother-in-law. She showed great kindness to a young woman at just the right moment.
After returning home to Bethlehem after a famine is over, Naomi wants the best for her young daughter-in-law, Ruth, whose husband has died. Although she must have longed for security herself and companionship, Naomi encourages Ruth to marry Boaz. Eventually, Ruth has a son, Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David!
Ruth 1:22 says, “So Naomi returned from Moab accompanied by Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, arriving in Bethlehem as the barley harvest was beginning.”
Naomi’s unselfish act, her encouragement to the vulnerable Ruth, is the model for all such relationships. It is intentionally about the other person. It is the story of a woman mentoring and loving another she sees as her daughter.
So how will your mother-in-law story be recorded? Have you thought about that?
How will the women in your family remember you?
Let’s pray.
Lord, people are watching us, in how we treat others. Nowhere is that more important than in our own homes. Help us think of others before we think of ourselves. Amen.
We don’t even know her name, but we know what she did.
Let’s just say there was great strength in her household!
Known only as the wife of Manoah, from the Israelite tribe of Dan, this godly woman was unable to have children. But then, in a kind of foreshadowing of another, more famous visit by an angel hundreds of years later, she was told by the Angel of the Lord that she would become pregnant and have a son.
Samson!
Judges 13:24 says, “The woman gave birth to a boy and named him Samson. He grew and the Lord blessed him.”
The last of the judges of Israel, Samson was his people’s deliverer from the Philistines, who prospered along the coastline. Samson’s mother followed the angel’s instructions from the Lord to the letter, never cutting her son’s hair. It was in this that his tremendous strength was found.
And, just like Mary centuries later, she would see her son die a horrible death. But it came as he saved his people.
A mother’s love is strong. So strong that not even evil can tear it away.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you know her name, this mother of Samson. You spoke to her and guided her in life. Thank you for her example—a mother who believed the Lord when told she would have a child. That is strong faith. Amen.
She’s not well known even though she’s, you know, in the Bible.
But Jochebed…who’s heard of her? Raise your hands.
This great woman deserves a bigger story in our culture, because she modeled what it means to act with bravery, and to value all life.
Exodus 2:3 says, “But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile.”
Jochebed, you see, was the mother of Moses. Knowing that Pharaoh had ordered all Hebrew baby boys to be killed, she hid her infant son in a basket among the reeds of the Nile. When Pharaoh’s daughter found the boy, she felt sorry for him and took him in; the rest as they say, is history!
It’s been said that the love a mother has for her children is the strongest human bond. Long ago, a slave defied the empire and saved her son. He went on to change history.
Sometimes we just have to step out in faith and be intentional about courage.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this woman inspires us today. Thank you that the story of this sweet mother, Jochebed, was recorded for us. Amen.
It’s kind of fun in those moments when the kids are in bed and the dishes are done, to think about the Big Questions. You know the list.
Why am I here?
What is the meaning of life?
A question that people from ancient times to now have asked is, why in the world, literally, did God create people? We are a handful, as past generations used to say. We mess up. Sometimes we’re on our way to being smart then find ourselves flying down the Stupid Highway.
God must get tired of us, right?
1 Peter 2:9 says, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."
In those terrible moments when you feel dirty and worthless, remember this verse. God says you are special to Him! You!
Begin praising Him for this incredible gift, and begin to understand that He made you to fellowship with Him, forever.
Pretty awesome. And pretty loving.
Let’s pray.
Lord, all through your Word, You speak of us as the object of your love. Your incredible gesture of sending Jesus for us is proof of that. Thank you. Amen.
Have you ever been in such a dark place that you wondered if God cares about you, or even exists? Maybe it’s all some cosmic joke, right?
We’ve all been there. Humans doubt. We doubt ourselves, we doubt product labels, we doubt our kids. We question everything.
But that worst one is trying to figure out where God is in the middle of great difficulties. Sometimes the world is just flat-out mean and it seems like it’s an entity that’s trying to break you in half.
That is the very moment God’s ancient and eternal words come to us.
Isaiah 41:10 says, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that! Jesus lives so that you will live forever. And in the interim, He will walk with you and carry you when necessary. He never fails and what’s more, His willingness to never leave us has been proven over and over again, in a billion different way.
If you need Him right now, don’t doubt Him. Call out to Him. Your circumstances might seem impossible and impossibly unique. Don’t believe it.
Believe Him instead.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you promised you would never leave us. We know that’s true, but help us with our faith in our weak moments. Amen.
As humans, we compartmentalize, don’t we? By that we mean, it is in our nature to rank priorities, then even lose sight of some of them. This can often lead us to confusion about which direction we’re supposed to go.
This confusion even can extend to faith itself. We wonder, When am I supposed to pray, and when am I supposed to act on faith?
Psalm 34:1 says, "I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth."
When we get the Word deep in our hearts, we always have a ready answer for our personal questions. This sweet psalm tells us that we are to always remember the great gifts Father God bestows on us. His greatness is ever before us and in this way, we can worship Him all the time, no matter what we are doing.
Learn to bless the Lord and praise Him as you do your job, as you fellowship with others, even as you engage with people who don’t believe as you do. They need to see the love of Christ shining through you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we bless you and praise you with our words. Thank you, Father, for never ever forgetting us. Amen.
Scores of people today, even many in our churches, walk around aimless. They work their jobs and take care of their families, but struggle to understand what it is that God wants them to do.
He’s told us in His word!
As with every other situation, His Word speaks directly to our circumstances.
Micah 6:8 says, "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
The Lord requires of us that we have the mind of Christ. That we aim for showing justice and mercy to those we encounter. And notice: we are to love doing these things, not just going through the motions! Finally, we are to remember to be humble. There’s only One Who is perfect and that is the Father. In our present state, we are to emulate the qualities that caused His Son Jesus to turn the world upside down for good.
If you ever wonder what your purpose is, start with these awesome words from the prophet Micah!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to keep in front of us at all times the simplicity that is in Christ. He shows us the way. Amen.
Have you ever wondered what your place in this world is?
Of course you have. That’s the human experience. Alone with our thoughts, we wonder who we even are, and what we are meant to do. It’s a mysterious journey, but the fog lifts and the way becomes clear when we get to know King Jesus.
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
You were made for something! You were made to do things for your Lord. The truly beautiful thing is, God created a custom plan just for you. If you aren’t a famous athlete like Tim Tebow, you can still share your faith in wonderful ways. Ways that are life-changing for those you encounter.
Think of that verse again. God made you for a purpose! Created to have the mind of Christ in making this world a better place and making disciples for Him. And God prepared it all long, long ago. You are His child.
That’s who you are.
Let’s pray.
Lord, when we begin to understand even a little bit of your love for us, it transforms us and renews our minds and hearts. Thank you so much for that! Amen.
Do you find it hard to trust someone? Anyone? Our society is full to the brim of people who have been hurt, wounded, devastated. It puts up a wall and we live behind it in silence and fear.
After the fall of Saddam Hussein in Iraq, the people of that captive country were free for the first time to tell their stories. One woman said that she had been driven nearly insane by the dictator’s torture chambers, but when he was gone, someone shared the love of Christ with her. Her mind and spirit were restored.
She said that for the first time in her life, she could now trust. It opened her heart to beauty and friendships and love. Most of all, she now loves her Savior with her whole healed heart.
Psalm 91:2 says, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
Your situation might not be as extreme as our Iraqi sister, but if you have trust issues, take them to Jesus and tell Him with your whole hurting heart that You need Him. He will meet you where you are!
Let’s pray.
Lord, your love heals all kinds of pain. We thank you that your mercies endure forever. Amen.
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In all the world, there are almost countless ways people try to find God. Some people are drawn to the mystical, while others chase after the practical. Does it work?
God knew we would all look to fill the void in our spirits, the one put there when man first sinned. He also already knew what our escape route would be, the path back to Him.
Romans 10:9-10 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”
The so-called “Roman Road” is in reality a face-to-face with the Living God. Jesus Christ Himself is our aim, and our benefactor. He loved us so much that He offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin. It’s very simple really. God accepted the sacrifice and raised His precious Son from the dead. Now it is there waiting for us to accept that great and priceless gift.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we complicate things sometimes, but your salvation is a simple choice, and it is free. Blessed be your name forever and forever! Amen.
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Most of us assume that if Jesus had a driver’s license, his listed name would be “Jesus Christ.”
That’s kind of funny, but as usual, our puny human perceptions can’t define Him and box Him in. The Bible tells us in fact that Jesus has many names, each a shining facet of Who He is.
He is called the Alpha and Omega—the beginning and the end. Elsewhere He is referred to as the Prince of Peace.
Romans 10:13 says, “For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’”
His names are a reminder to us that the Lord is everywhere, aware of everything, and equipped to handle any situation or challenge in our lives. From the image of a warrior king, to a counselor who listens to us, Jesus is able to meet all our needs.
Won’t you call on Him today?
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are wonderful to us, the perfect landing place for our souls. Thank you for that. Amen.
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Humans have a fair amount of self-awareness. And if we’re honest, we all know our weak points. Those places where character is lacking a bit.
One of our biggest weaknesses is that we just want stuff. Bigger house, more expensive car—that kind of thing. In those moments, we are missing out on the biggest prize. Our focus is wrong.
Matthew 6:33 says, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
The Bible—the Word itself—shows us exactly what our priorities should be. God knows us far better than we could ever know ourselves, and He tells us that we have it exactly backwards. We look for the stuff, then tack on God stuff for later. In fact, turn that around and that’s how we should be doing life. Look for God first, find Him, then later He’ll give us the desires of our heart. Because our hearts will then be aligned with His perfect will for our lives.
Try this approach and see if it works for you. What you’ll also find as a bonus is peace that the world can’t give. When you seek first a relationship with your Creator, you find that material possessions are no substitute for knowing Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for relationship. Thank you for loving us through our sin. Amen.
Some scholars have believed that the suffering Job of the Bible was sort of a primate thinker who didn’t really understand much about the life beyond this one.
But that isn’t true.
Job 33:25,26 says, “Let their flesh be renewed like a child’s;
let them be restored as in the days of their youth’—then that
person can pray to God and find favor with him, they will see
God’s face and shout for joy; he will restore them to full well-being.”
The Bible tells us elsewhere in Hebrews that God spoke to ancient man in a variety of ways. We know that Job did in fact know much about the life to come. And since he must have felt during his suffering period that every day was like Monday, he learned to trust God. He learned that God would see him through no matter his circumstances, and that Resurrection is coming. Just as Job had some understanding that the Messiah was coming, we know that Jesus did in fact defeat death.
His victory over our greatest enemy is a wonderful promise of things to come!
Let’s pray.
Lord, the terrible crucifixion of Jesus ended in the most spectacular way possible, with you raising Him to life. Thank you that we also share in that great gift. Amen.
Michael Scott once famously said that there’s such a thing as good grief, and it’s a funny line. But could there be some truth behind it?
Christians today celebrate “Good Friday” every year, but what does it mean?
The date marks the day 2,000 years ago that Jesus Christ willingly died on a gruesome Roman cross for our sins.
Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
The truth is, Jesus died after suffering sustained torture. His followers were devastated. It looked as if His ministry would be as brief as any other holy man that had wandered onto the stage for a brief performance.
Then it happened.
Three days later, He came back from the dead! God the Father, as He had promised, raised Jesus to life. This was a clear message to any who would follow the Savior that there is blessed, eternal life after this one. In our sins, Jesus came to us because He loved us.
It’s as simple as that, really. What was originally raw grief became a very good day.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your Son’s gift to us is beyond words. We simply thank you and are grateful that He didn’t leave us where we were. Amen.
A really cool thing about God is that He has a solution for literally every situation.
That includes mental health. We see this especially in the ministry of Jesus, who walked the land healing people of all sorts of terrible things. One day He encountered a man driven insane by demons.
Mark 5:15 says, “They came to Jesus and observed the man who had been demon-possessed sitting down, clothed and in his right mind, the very man who had had the ‘legion’; and they became frightened.”
The “Legion,” those who possessed this man’s mind, were no match for Jesus, who simply commanded them to leave the man in peace. They did!
Now, not every mental health problem is related to possession. But mental illness is so devastating to the patient, and family and friends, that it often feels like evil lives here.
Not so in the peaceful kingdom of our Lord. If you or a loved one struggles with mental issues, ask the Lord to help you. He has done it many times. Than man with the peaceful face and clear mind all those years ago is proof of that.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you own the universe and can solve any problem. Please especially today be with those afflicted by mental illness. Come to them and comfort them and heal them. Amen.
For some reason, people sometimes tell big lies when it comes to fishing. You know, what was really a small fry becomes a man-eating shark in the re-telling of the story.
But that’s nothing compared to a really incredible story in the Old Testament book of Jonah.
It seems the prophet didn’t want to preach in the pagan city of Nineveh, so he sailed away on a ship. He forgot that God controls the sea and everything in it, and Jonah found himself overboard and then swallowed by a huge fish.
Jonah 1:17 says, “Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.”
Let’s just say that Jonah learned his lesson and God delivered him in a dramatic way.
The story though is really a picture of Jesus lying for three days in the tomb, only to be raised to life by the Father.
He will do the same for you, if only you’ll call on Him to rescue you!
Let’s pray.
Lord, when life swallows us up, you are there for us, never forgetting us. We praise you for your provision. Amen.
One of the extraordinary stories in the Bible involves a young woman named Rahab. This story beautifully expresses God’s love for all people.
Rahab lived in the Canaanite town of Jericho, which was near the border of the Promised land God had promised to His people, who had been wandering for years in search of a home after slavery in Egypt.
Because the Canaanites were powerful, Joshua sent a scouting party into the land, to see what they were up against. Then men sent ahead were hidden from harm by Rahab, because she had heard of the power that followed the Israelites.
When she talked with the men, she showed remarkable understanding that their God was in fact the true God. She made a bargain with them.
Joshua 2:14 says, “So the men said to her, “Our life for yours if you do not tell this business of ours; and it shall come about when the Lord gives us the land that we will deal kindly and faithfully with you.”
In the end, as the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land, Rahab’s family was spared death. In this way, we see how God’s inclusive love for all is worked out in practical ways that lead to life.
Remember Rahab when you think you are beyond God’s protection!
Let’s pray.
Lord, what an example of faithfulness this woman displayed. Bless all those who look for you. Amen.
The Bible is full of stories of God doing amazing things for those He calls. One of the most famous seems to be good to be true, but it is!
Daniel, God’s man in exile in Babylon, insisted on worshipping the Lord, and not a human king. This was against the law. When those who were jealous of him urged the king to punish Daniel, the prophet was thrown into a lion’s den overnight.
And that was that. Or was it?
Next morning, the king was so anxious about Daniel, that he ran to the den and called out to him, to see if he was still alive.
Daniel 6:21-22 says, “Daniel answered, “May the king live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.”
When life threatens to rip you up, remember that the Lord has you. God is on your side, knows where you are, and will hide you in the palm of his strong hand.
Believe that He will.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this story inspires us to rely on you when times are really bad for us. Thank you for being our rescue. Amen.
Have you ever gotten so tired of life that you wished you could disappear and start over somewhere else? Ever wish that fantasy would just pull you out of your circumstances? They make movies about things like that, but it’s not real.
John 14:2,3 says, “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.”
How incredible that Jesus is actually going to do this for us someday. If you live long enough, the cares of life sort of wear you down and you need a good, long rest.
Good for us that our Lord cares enough for us that He has already gone ahead to prepare a place of peace, rest, and joy for each of us. It will be a real place, not just scouting a location for a film.
One day, in His perfect time, He will call you out of this groaning world. He will take you to a spot that has literally been prepared with just you in mind!
You’ll be home.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are good to us in countless ways. We thank you so much for the heavenly home you have prepared for us. Amen.
When Richard Winters stood in the doorway of a huge glider in the pre-dawn over Normandy, France, he thought about a lot of things. The young Army captain was preparing for the invasion of Europe, to free the continent from the Nazis.
He know one thing first: he couldn’t survive on his own skill.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
A very disciplined soldier, Winters literally took these verses to heart. Each night after the invasion, he would pray and thank God for the good things in his life, and he only asked that he survive the next day. His prayer life and the calming effect of attending church in England during his training saw him through.
When battle came and chaos was all around him, Richard Winters stayed calm.
Are you calm? Do the stresses of life’s battles overwhelm you?
Stop relying on your own ideas and wisdom! Some of it is good and some of it is bad.
God’s wisdom is only good all the time. Ask Him for that wisdom in your life!
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have to stay steady in this life. Please continue to remind us that you are in charge and that you will see us through. Amen.
Have you ever tried to follow God in a half-hearted way? You know what that means. You like the idea of God, but His perfect will for our lives also can feel restrictive.
That’s the moment you are walking along the highway of life completely alone.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Notice the precise language in these beautiful verses. We are to trust Him with all of our heart. Don’t take your eyes off Him and follow your own choices. Be upfront that He is your peace. It’s then He picks you up, protects you, and carries you home.
Today is the day you’re thinking about all this. You’ve messed up. You’ve messed up in the most spectacular and disgusting way.
And it is exactly at this moment that God is ready to do the greatest miracle in your life. Tell him you’ve screwed up and have no idea where to turn.
There—you’re learning to completely trust Him. Commit your life to Him, and be consistent about it from now on.
Remember today: the turning point to an awesome future!
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us to reject our own flawed wisdom and rely totally on yours. Amen.
Life stories are full of redemption. Usually after the worst sins have been committed.
When he wrote a book about his past rebellions, Franklin Graham became known as the Rebel With a Cause. His story is about a prodigal that chased after the world and his own desires, but the son of Billy Graham is a modern parable.
He was lost, then he was found.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Graham’s experiences are so common, actually. He felt so burdened by his own sin that he wondered if he could come back. But the beginning of that return to the Lord is about God’s willingness to open his arms to us as we stagger back home.
Today, Franklin Graham leads a ministry that gives the proverbial cup of cold water to the world’s poorest people. Samaritan’s Purse is global in reach because the ministry founder looked in the mirror one day and realized his own wisdom was bankrupt.
Such a familiar story. Have you thought about your own bad choices as you look for a way back to God? Look up and look to the horizon.
He’s waiting there for you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are all prodigals at one time or another. Thank you so much for your grace! Amen.
The Bible tells us that King Solomon was a very wise man. He ruled over his kingdom from Jerusalem, and built the famous Temple there.
He was also very human.
This son of King David eventually let his wealth and power go to his head, and he began to follow other religions and almost seemed to enjoy sinning.
Yet God loved him. In his later years, Solomon realized how wrong he had been to rely on his own spiritual strength. And so what we have today as the Book of Proverbs was born. They come from a man weary of the cares of this life. A man ashamed of the mistakes he has made.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Proverbs is packed with amazing insight into being a good person…after one has been a bad person.
Solomon learned the hard lessons as he found his way back to a forgiving God. His mercies are eternal.
And that is a good lesson for us.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your patience with us is humbling, and appreciated. Amen.
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Have you ever known someone who inherited something of great value from an obscure relative? It happens.
The will is read by an attorney and all of a sudden, the beneficiary goes from struggling to pay the rent to needing a financial planner. It can be an exciting time, even disorienting.
The only downside to receiving a large inheritance is the knowledge that someday it will run out, or you die and can’t take it with you. That’s why the Bible’s revelations about eternal riches are so much more important.
Genesis 31:14 says, “Rachel and Leah said to him, ‘Do we still have any portion or inheritance in our father’s house?’”
Let’s think of this as a parable. A man took the place of another and was executed.
He was no ordinary man, though. Only a few days after His death, the will was read.
He left it all to you!
Jesus Christ died for our sins and took the penalty for them so that we don’t have to. That is what the Gospel is, the Good News that we have riches in Christ, and they last forever.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your precious gift for each of us is something we did nothing to earn. You simply decided to put us in your will. We thank you forever for your grace and mercy. Amen.
Are you the kind of person everyone looks at and assumes you are strong and together?
You too, huh? Many of us look fine on the outside, but the human condition is often much different on the inside.
Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
But the thing is, God did not make us to have a spirit of fear. He never planned for us to suffer from depression or anxiety.
Look, life happens. Sometimes we just are rocked by circumstances. But God’s Word says that we don’t stay there. We keep our eyes on Him and He is our strength. It’s not even our job to find the strength to breathe and go about our day!
The person who endures a cancer diagnosis isn’t doing it on her own. When Christ dwells in you, He takes the burdens and promises that in the end, we will be healed.
If you look like a confident statue on the outside, but you’re about to lose it on the inside, take time to tell that to Jesus. Give Him your fears and doubts.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are not in this alone. Your grace is sufficient for all our needs, every day. Amen.
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China in the 19th century was as remote and mysterious a place as has ever existed. Its countless villages, mountains, and hidden places were a challenge for inhabitants.
Imagine what it was like for a small Christian woman from Virginia!
Charlotte Moon, who went by the name that would become famous, “Lottie,” was a missionary to the Asian country for 40 years.
Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
Walking here and there to share the love of Christ with people, and to meet their physical needs, she encountered outlaws, wild animals, and hostility to her faith.
She never once backed down.
Incredibly, by the time she died in 1912, Lottie Moon weighed 50 pounds. She had given most of her own money and food to those in need.
In reality, she was a very strong woman!
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a heart like Lottie Moon’s. Make us determined to live only for you, for your glory. Amen.
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Do you remember the last time you laughed? Do you remember the last time you laughed from sheer joy?
Many of us don’t. The weight of life presses down on us. It weakens us.
Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
Did you know that God means for you to be strong? He wants you to have dignity. You are a child of the King. You are a woman of faith. You are a man who seeks Him.
That beautiful proverb reminds us that it is God Himself who dresses us each day with the respect He has for us as His creation. You can meet today with boldness in who you are, not shaking with fear or worry.
Today, as you head to work, take as your own promise that the all-powerful, true God made you to succeed and live life to its fullest. When the enemy tells you otherwise, laugh in his face.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we are better than what the enemy tells us we are. Thank you for clothing us in strength and confidence each day. Amen.
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With the tech boom has come concerns that we are being surveilled. That’s not conspiracy; it’s actually fact.
But no one in this world knows everything about us. There is still some privacy, some place we can go away from prying eyes.
Except.
Psalm 69:5 says, "O God, you know my folly; the wrongs I have done are not hidden from you."
We know that we serve the one true God, the One that made everything we see. Part of His infinite knowledge is every single thing about each person. That’s a mind-bender and actually scary, but ultimately it’s for our own good. If we mess up, He is there to restore us and heal our shame.
While others gather data on us that could be embarrassing, God wants only what’s best for us. He holds us up to the light of His righteousness, and that reality should be all the motivation we need to live holy lives.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we can feel very, very foolish in your eyes. But we thank you for the accountability you give us, for our own good. Amen.
Have you ever noticed how much we love ritual and form in religion? We become so good at it, so obsessed with it, that we lose sight of the essence of what it means to be a Christian.
To know God.
That is the purpose of our journey, and it will be the end of our journey. It is so foundational to who we are as humans that even the great Moses basically begged God to let him see Him. So close were they that according to Jewish tradition, when Moses died, God drew his spirit from him with a kiss.
Isaiah 5:19 says, “Who say, ‘Let Him make speed, let Him hasten His work, that we may see it; And let the purpose of the Holy One of Israel draw near
And come to pass, that we may know it!’”
The Bible is very clear that we can know God. As individuals, we can have relationship with Him, even the one Who created all there is.
The splendor of that reality should drive us to read His word and pray to Him , every day in our quiet time. It should be the longing of our hearts.
He knows.
Let’s pray.
Lord, your mercy in making yourself available to us is something we cannot fully understand in this life. But we thank you for it, and love you. Amen.
If you wonder what is the best way to share your faith and defend it in the modern world, it might help to look at past examples.
In the Bible, the husband-and-wife team of Priscilla and Aquila shared Christ with Apollos, who would become a famous early evangelist. In colonial England, the abolitionist William Wilberforce shamed his own government into freeing slaves.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
Today more than ever, truly, it is really important that Christians prepare to defend our faith. The world is hurting and dying. People the world over desperately need the love of Christ, and they will have questions. They might wonder about the divinity of Jesus, or ask you specifically how to be saved.
Be ready to answer, and do so with a heart full of love and compassion. And don’t be afraid to be bold!
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a spirit of courage in this chaotic world. Help us to love as you love. Amen.
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Defending the faith can sometimes be a subjective thing. As examples of extremes, we have seen the Crusades, and the modern form is perhaps an aggressive “pitch” to someone who isn’t a believer.
The thing is, it’s great to be zealous for our faith, but let’s also be disciplined. We don’t want to alienate a person who might otherwise listen. To put it simply: an angry Christian is usually a lonely Christian.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
We can defend our faith in a strong way. We can be bold in what we believe, sure of our eternity with Jesus Christ. But our messaging is all-important. It could be that having a conversation with someone is the right approach. Don’t feel pressure. Don’t press. Jesus has the job of saving; we just have to be available to share about Him.
Let’s pray.
Lord, please always remind us to share the Gospel with love. Amen.
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In every generation, it falls to believers to spend some time in defending our worldview as Christians. Honestly, it’s not the nicest part of the gig, but it’s necessary.
Usually, it involves simply explaining what your faith is all about. Followers of other religions do the same thing, but for us, we are sharing the person of Christ with those who don’t know Him. That makes it a big deal.
Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”
It’s exciting that God has entrusted this to us. It’s a privilege. Even if you find yourself in an adversarial conversation, remember the main thing: you get to share your faith and see someone else find freedom in Christ!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you that you allow us to tell others about you. Help us always be ready to give an answer when asked about our faith. Amen.
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Ever have the pleasure of waking up in a cozy cabin…after you’ve let the fire go out from the night before? If you don’t get out of bed and put more wood in, the squirrels or raccoons aren’t going to do it for you!
Much more serious is the tendency to get lazy about the fire inside us to share the love of Christ. After so many years of being a Christian—especially living in a free country—sharing the Gospel can be put on the backburner.
Romans 12:11-12 says, "Never let the fire in your heart go out. Keep it alive. Serve the Lord. When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful."
Do you see what God is urging us to do in Scripture? He says to never let the fire go out! Never doesn’t mean sometimes, when we’re tired or annoyed about something. This is too important to mess up. Remember that Jesus saved you. More than likely, through someone keeping their own inner fire going saw you through the eyes of compassion.
Let’s pray.
Lord, give us a passion for the souls of all people, at all times. And help us be ready to share Christ with them. Amen.
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Don’t you just love the diversity God put into the world? He created harmony and balance everywhere, including our individual “best time of the day” to be creative and productive.
Some are “up with the chickens,” as they used to say. Others burn a candle late into the night. Whatever time is your time to connect in positive ways, God made you to shine for His purposes.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
And we are to embrace our uniqueness. Just because your eyes don’t focus until later in the morning—after cups, plural, of coffee—that doesn’t mean you won’t hit the mark today. You were built for this, to be a light to others and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
So rise up, whenever that is for you, and make a promise to God that you will get everything out of today that you’re supposed to.
Rise and shine!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you made us to be a light in a world that is dark too often. Thank you for the opportunities to make a difference for you. Amen.
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No matter who you are, there has been some time in your life that loneliness closed you in like dark curtains in a cold house.
Being alone can be healing, and it can be depressing. If you are experiencing the latter right now, we have good news for you. Your “alone” feeling is an illusion.
Psalm 139:7-8 says, “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there.”
God’s Word tells us that there is no place in the universe that is without His presence. That includes the terrible news you just got today. It also includes the severed relationships and any other depressing thing that can dog us.
He is with you, everywhere, and at all times. Best of all, you can call on Jesus to take away your feelings of being alone.
All day, and all night.
Let’s pray.
Lord, without you we are literally nothing. There is never a time you don’t hear us as individuals, and step in with your healing. Thank you for loving us! Amen.
Jesus spent a lot of time giving out wisdom in the form of stories. Once, he told His disciples a story that illustrated the importance of understanding that God never quits us, and we should not quit Him.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
The story was about a woman who didn’t give up in her pursuit of justice. Jesus then said that God hears our pleas for what we need, and He acts accordingly. He doesn’t forget, or lose interest.
Ever.
Isn’t that one of the most comforting things you’ve ever heard? In all the messes of our lives, God does not give up on us, no matter where we are. He knows everything about us, and his infinite strength is far too much for evil to overcome.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for your willingness to stay with us in the worst of times. You are our strength, now and forever. Amen.
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One of the things that mark a healthy society is the consistency between generations. In other words, adults who care about the future for their children will invest the time to make sure tomorrow is bright.
God the Father is the ultimate parent, and we would do well to model His love for us.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
Passing the torch, or training up the next generation, involves taking the time to do it properly. If you love your kids, you will make time for them. You won’t take the easy way out and settle for schools or the culture at large to raise them.
Teach them that we all experience tough times in this life, but sticking to God’s plan for their lives is the key to winning. Living the abundant life Jesus taught about, and sharing His Good News is the ultimate win.
But we don’t get there by quitting when the going gets tough.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you never leave us, and you never abandon the human community to evil. You are a great God, and we thank you for your commitment to us. Amen.
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Today, just stop and consider that we are talking one-on-one. We’re just talking over coffee.
You seem like something is really getting to you. Are you about to give up on something important? If so, please listen, just for a couple minutes.
Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
Let’s think boldly for a second. Whatever your problem is, God can fix it. He can. The Bible is full of these fixes. So is our present day, when story after story of miraculous rescues show us clearly that God exists and that He cares for you as a person.
Jesus knows your story, and more importantly, He knows the end of your story.
Victory is waiting for you, but you must not give up. Don’t give in to that evil voice urging you to stop. Listen to the voice of Love.
Tell Jesus what you need. Right now.
Let’s pray.
Lord, this thing hurts so much right now, but we aren’t going to up, because you never give up on us. Thank you for that! Amen.
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Usually, when we’re looking for some kind of emotional lifeline to get us through the day, we only want to know what God can do for us.
How do we get that peace of mind we desperately need?
One component is simple obedience. At first, this sounds like a test that’s too hard. We need relief right now!
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Wow, that sounds like real peace of mind. It requires that we concentrate on ejecting all the junk in our heads and replacing it with God’s Word. Learning obedience is key, because it reveals the Father’s perfect will for our lives.
In this way, we almost back-into the peace we were already looking for. This brings us into harmony with our Creator.
A renewed, fresh and clean mind is also a mind that is at rest.
Let’s pray.
Lord, teach us your ways. Help us uncover the peace of mind that those without God don’t have. Then help us show them the way. Amen.
Jill felt like she couldn’t keep up anymore. Four years out of college, she was doing well in her chosen career.
But it had not only taken her far from home, it took her away from the values she had known.
This new place she lived in pressed-in on her mind and heart.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
Burdened by her stresses, Jill realized something had to change. But in that unique way He has, God showed her that she didn’t necessarily have to move home, or even change careers. What she needed to do was continually give her burdens to Jesus.
She did that and one day, months later, she realized with great joy that she had at some point come back to her place of peace. And her parents and loved ones were still several states away!
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you so much for caring about us. For loving us. Teach us to rely on You as our only source of peace. Amen.
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Carl loved working on his farm. He loved the solitude and sense of accomplishment.
One day though, working alone, he was injured severely. In fact, if he didn’t get to the hospital, he would likely die.
So he banged the door of his old pickup shut and took off. He pulled into the hospital parking lot and lost what little consciousness he had.
Waking up 24 hours later after surgery, he realized he remembered nothing of his injury or even getting to the hospital.
In effect, the God he loved and trusted had driven him to town.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
We can never save ourselves. It’s then that God proves Himself to us and carries us to safety.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for taking over when we can’t. Amen.
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Does your life feel out of control? Are you experiencing that common feeling of weaving down a busy highway, about to crash?
It’s a metaphor for life that most internalize at some point. All of a sudden, what you were sure of isn’t there anymore. You might as well be behind the wheel of a fast car that’s heading into oncoming traffic.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
This isn’t some nice little bit of wisdom someone put on a greeting card. This is the very Word of God. It has sustained civilization for thousands of years. It’s a proven method for getting your life back under control.
It doesn’t work though unless you can see Jesus taking the wheel. Let him get you to safety and peace.
He’s ready and waiting to take all your worries and set you on a smooth and straight path.
Let’s pray.
Lord, feeling out of control is not something we want have anymore. Please take over and guide us in your perfect ways. Amen.
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Standing in the door of the plane, with a fierce wind whipping his whole body, Curtis wondered why he’d volunteered for the paratroopers. It was glamorous, they said.
It’ll make a man out of you, they said.
Shutting his eyes, Curtis prayed the most honest prayer of his life. He stretched out his hands and took a step…
Lamentations 3:25-26: "The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord."
Rolling on the ground wrapped in silk, Curtis realized he had followed his instructions to the letter. With his landing, he graded out the highest of anyone in his company.
That story is exactly how we are to interact with our Savior. When we let go, confident that Jesus has us, we have no more pressure on us. He is carrying us to safety.
We land in the right place every time.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we have so much gratitude for the countless ways you lead us through life. We love you. Amen.
Billy Joel says that his hit song, “Pressure” really is about the pressures of daily life: providing for your family, putting food on the table, and career obstacles.
Even the way he sings the song, with power and anger, makes the point. It’s quite a statement on life.
And we’ve all felt it.
2 Corinthians 1:8 says, “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself.”
But as believers, we can take heart in the fact that Paul then writes that difficulties happen in life so that we will rely only on God. The apostle reminds us that God has delivered us from desperate times, and will again.
What a powerful promise!
The pressures of life sometimes come suddenly, leaving us off-balance and fearful. When that happens, remind yourself of the promises of God’s Word. He knows where you are and where you’re going.
He’ll be waiting for you when you get there.
Let’s pray.
Lord, sometimes we feel like we’re going to explode. We thank you that you never abandon us, and are always ready to protect us and preserve us. Amen.
A huge benefit of being a believer is the knowledge that we can help others after going through the valley ourselves.
It’s one thing to endure and overcome and find your joy, but it’s maybe even better when you see a friend emerge into the light because you were there for them.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
When you’re in the middle of something difficult, it’s hard to even think. Scripture tells us the way out, but it helps to have someone in your life who has been there, done that. Even having a friend gently remind you that it might take time to recover is a help. Being reminded to be faithful and consistent in prayer tips the balance.
As we learn to rejoice in hope, attaining that abundant life Jesus talked about, let us remember others who are in trouble.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always faithful. You never let us down. Thank you for the joy that comes from overcoming. Amen.
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Whenever we have to overcome an obstacle in our lives, we are thinking about a million different things. Our minds race. We might even be aware that our Creator is there to help.
But have you ever considered that even when life gets tough, you can still have joy?
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Sheila Walsh has said that what got her through a bout of depression was the knowledge that God the Father loved her and wanted the best for her.
Today, one of her missions in life is to help others recover their joy, by pointing them to the Lord. The truth is, this life sometimes beats us up, but those circumstances don’t have to win. It isn’t inevitable.
It’s when we learn to rejoice while clinging to hope that true join comes.
Let’s pray. Lord, in our lowest moments, we cling to you and your promises. Thank you for that joy.
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Have you ever felt without hope? It’s a pretty desperate place to be. It’s been said that hope is the one thing a human being can’t be without.
Beth was once accused of some pretty terrible things. She hadn’t been guilty of any of them. But it took two years and serious legal hurdles to clear her name. Her future was uncertain.
In the end, she told reporters that her best ally was the Lord. Her story was itself a great witness.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Truthfully, God isn’t obligated to do anything for us. He does it because He loves us. That’s it. But within each difficult night and day, it is important that we take the scripture to heart. Keep your joy, be patient, and pray.
If you’re in a dark place, pray to the Lord for help. Even if you’re emotionally exhausted, take the time to simply talk to Him.
He’s promised He’ll be listening.
Let’s pray.
Lord, may we never be hopeless! May we never be without your love. Remind us daily that You will never leave us. Amen.
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Have you ever watched a war movie and realized that the actors didn’t know how the conflict would turn out? World War 2 movies are like that. When they filmed “Casablanca,” Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman weren’t sure if the Germans would win or lose.
Life can be like that.
Matthew 28:20 says, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
In your own life, you might be facing some really serious stuff. And it’s not unusual to be staring at several problems all at once.
That’s when the Word is so valuable to us. Jesus has promised us that He will stick right with us all the way through. Human friends often go a long way with us, but only Jesus is sure to never, ever leave us.
That’s the best way to beat the uncertainties of life. Tell Jesus you can’t make it without Him.
It’s then that the future no longer scares us at all.
Let’s pray.
Lord, we don’t know a fraction of what you know, including what our future looks like. We do know that we can trust you, though. Thank you for that. Amen.
We think of her as a genteel Southern lady, and she was that, for sure.
But Ruth Bell Graham was so much more. While her husband was away so much preaching to the masses, she was preaching to her own little flock. The result was children who became adults and in turn shared the Good News of Jesus with others.
Anne Graham Lotz and Franklin Graham didn’t just fall out of the sky!
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
In their little home in the mountains of North Carolina, while daddy was in Brussels, New York, and Sydney, Mother Ruth was faithful for years on end to impart godly wisdom to their children. Much iron was sharpened on cold winter nights and long summer days.
Theirs was a home that didn’t always have both parents available, but they thrived.
Use that as an example of how to bring up your own children. You’ll be happy forever that you did.
Let’s pray.
Lord, Your Word is good, and it shines a light on our path. Give us the strength to mentor our own children in your ways. Amen.
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Some of the greatest stories of believers down through time have involved those who really studied God’s Word. These people have gone before us to show us the way. From Charles Spurgeon to a missionary mother in China, daily study of the Word and prayer prepared them to mentor entire generations.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
We also read in Romans 10 that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. We have to do it, so that others know how. Remember, there is no substitute for spending time in God’s Word.
In order to properly train an apprentice, you need to obviously be prepared and adept. Anything less leads to weak faith, or no faith at all.
This is what the Great Commission, sharing the Gospel, has always been about. Duplicating disciples. Grounding your own faith in the Bible, then imparting that to others. That is the essence of true iron sharpening iron.
Let’s pray.
Lord, keep us about your work by daily reminding us to spend time with you in Your Word. Amen.
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A huge benefit of being a believer is the knowledge that we can help others after going through the valley ourselves.
It’s one thing to endure and overcome and find your joy, but it’s maybe even better when you see a friend emerge into the light because you were there for them.
Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
When you’re in the middle of something difficult, it’s hard to even think. Scripture tells us the way out, but it helps to have someone in your life who has been there, done that. Even having a friend gently remind you that it might take time to recover is a help. Being reminded to be faithful and consistent in prayer tips the balance.
As we learn to rejoice in hope, attaining that abundant life Jesus talked about, let us remember others who are in trouble.
Let’s pray.
Lord, you are always faithful. You never let us down. Thank you for the joy that comes from overcoming. Amen.
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Do you struggle with being humble, and yielding to God’s will? Most of us do. This extends to accepting an iron-sharpening-iron relationship He has set in our path.
Yet the benefits are so good for us.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
Make no mistake, God sets people in our path for a reason. That Bible teacher in your church might have words of wisdom for you from her rich and varied life. Be open to that.
If you are in fellowship with a mature, older believer, let him or her walk with you on your journey. Learn from them. Ask questions. Learn to be vulnerable.
The benefits and outcomes will be richer than you can imagine. This is especially true when someone points out areas you can do better in. Not fun, but that is the essence of iron sharpening iron.
And it’s good for you.
Let’s pray.
Lord, help us be open to the leading of your Holy Spirit when encountering someone who could mentor us. Amen.
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The Bible is full of wonderful analogies. One of the best is found in Proverbs, which paints a picture of godly mentoring and accountability.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
The idea is that as pieces of iron are drawn against the other, each piece becomes sharper. A further application is made in Hebrews 4:12, which talks about Scripture as being a double-edged sword, and it is with His Word that we are to sharpen each other.
The goal is mutual accountability and imparting wisdom for living.
As Michelle Lazurek has written: “As the body of Christ, we forget that part of our job is to sharpen other brothers and sisters in Christ so that the flame in their hearts, put there by the Holy Spirit, continues to burn.”
Although the “iron sharpens iron” analogy is often used to describe the relationship between men, the application is at least relevant for everyone else. Even at this moment, there are millions of women mentoring girls, sharpening their wisdom in the Lord!
Let’s pray.
Lord, you have given us wonderful relationships that help us grow. We thank you for this great gift. Amen.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how you are more than you might think you are.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
Jesus made us unique, and equipped to do the work in discipling others.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about weathering periods of stress in our lives.
Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.”
If the kids are driving your crazy, stop and think just for a minute about the incredible gift they are from God. Your attitude can change if you want it to change.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about Jesus being our compass point.
Matthew 7:24-25 says, “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.”
Jesus endured unimaginable suffering on the cross, and can defeat any enemy that comes our way!
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about changing our perspective when we become negative.
Job 38:22 says, "Have you entered the storehouses of the snow…?”
In this weather season of uncertain storms and heavy snows, when possible, look on it all as the beauty God created for us to enjoy.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about God’s strength that we can draw from in times of crisis.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”
The Lord is our Supreme Authority, and demonstrates regularly that we can trust Him completely.
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We all want to feel secure. We can look fine on the outside, but be something much less on the inside.
And the first step to overcoming vulnerability is to feel okay with who we are.
Psalm 62:5-6 says, “Only God gives inward peace, and I depend on Him. God alone is the mighty rock that keeps me safe, and he is the fortress where I feel secure.”
The tension comes when we balance healthy self-esteem with our sin-nature. Can we feel good about ourselves while recognizing the need for a Savior?
The answer is, yes we can. In fact, Jesus flat-out loves us, and values us so much that He came to Earth to pay the penalty for our sin. Modern psychology might get it wrong sometimes, but recognizes that humans must overcome shame and self-doubt in order to thrive.
Jesus knew that all along. What does the Word say? “God gives us inward peace.”
That is the essence of healthy self-esteem.
Let’s pray.
Lord, I don’t want to get too full of myself. I also know that I can see me they way you see me, worthy of your love for all time. Amen.
Love is the essence of God. We know that.
At the same time, we can say that there are different kinds of love; we’re talking about that this week. Love for family. Love for our fellow humans. Love for nature.
But we can think of what is called Agape Love as “Big-Tent Love.” Agape is an ancient Greek word meaning “Love of God for people, and of people for God.”
1 Corinthians 13:1-3 says, “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.”
Get out of your bitterness toward someone. Stop looking at others as less than you are.
Our world is a great big old tent.
Your neighbor is you, and you are your neighbor.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you for making us diverse. Help us love all people, all the time. Amen.
We “love” all sorts of things. We love someone we just met. We love pistachio ice cream and travel to exotic places.
Many times, the word itself loses all real meaning. It’s like homemade chicken soup without the chicken and without the soup.
1 John 3:16-18 “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.”
The Divine Word helps us yet again. Here we learn that true love means doing for others. Get involved. Don’t just say you love your community. Show the community your love.
Cleanup projects, running errands for a shut-in, taking your niece to the movies because her mother is working two jobs…you know what to do. You know the opportunities.
Think you love those around you? Show them.
Let’s pray.
Lord, there is so much good to do in the world! Please show us opportunities every day, so that we put action to our words. Amen.
You’ve heard the joke about family gatherings, haven’t you?
If you weren’t related to these people, you’d never see them.
What a horrible punchline, really.
1 Corinthians 13:7 says, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
God’s world has purpose in everything. Everything.
He gave you a specific family for specific reasons. It’s super easy to be nice to people we aren’t around very much. Short-term “love” is pretty common. It’s when we get in close quarters with long-term relationships that our character really comes out.
Sure, some family members are not nice people. There are still ways to manage that, taking our cues from Scripture.
Love, especially family style, is for the long haul. That beautifully worded verse from 1 Corinthians says it all. We bear one another’s burdens, and we hope for the best.
And we endure any obstacle that blocks us from truly loving the family God gifted us with.
No joke.
Let’s pray.
Lord, remind us daily of the unique gift our families are for us. Help us look for ways to enhance these special communities you’ve placed us in. Amen.
In thinking about different kinds of love, it’s a beautiful thing to realize that God has placed certain people in our lives for specific reasons.
Friendship is one of His great gifts to us, all-time.
Proverbs17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Do you have someone in your life that is not blood-related, but it sure feels like it? In fact, often it feels like a closer relation than biological family!
Notice what the writer of Proverbs tells us: A friend does two things, loves us no matter what, and God set a time for them to stick with us when we need it the very most.
Think about that! That guy you met in third grade will impact the rest of your life. The girl who brought you a coffee your first day on a new job was meant to do that.
As we think about all this and marvel at God’s plans, don’t forget to turn it around and think about how we can be that brother or sister to someone in your life.
Let’s pray.
Lord, thank you so much for the friends you bring to us. Help us be worthy of such special love. Amen.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the need for spiritual “amnesia,” so that we don’t hold past hurts against someone.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
We can choose to forgive and move on. The benefits are eternal.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about a form of genuine love that takes the focus off self.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
Many people do nice things if others are looking. God prefers so much more to see us choose to love for all the right reasons.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about refusing to let envy take root in our hearts.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
Focusing on the blessings God has given to us, rather than what someone else has, is a key to wholesome relationships.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the wondrous impact that a simple act of kindness can have.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
It can be overlooked, but looking for moments to be kind is one of the most important parts of our days.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about long-term “hard stuff,” namely, enduring with patience.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
Us choosing to be patient is often something only God sees, but that’s our most important audience. The benefits to our own health are significant.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about exercising our faith.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
When life hits us hard, learn to take the focus off what you don’t have, and look at what God has actually already done for you. Such a perspective will help you through.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about being committed to the health of our relationships.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
Using the metaphor of a training athlete, keeping relationships in harmony requires work and more work. But the payoff is eternal.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about enduring through the use of healthy habits.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
Maintaining well-rounded health takes discipline, for the long haul. Without it, we hit a wall.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the benefits of a healthy mind.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
The Bible tells us that we are to continually renew our minds in the Word, which will lead to clarity of thought in our daily lives.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about maintaining good physical health, for our overall health.
Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”
It’s easy to let ourselves go, but when we do, we damage our witness long-term, and rob ourselves of the abundant life.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about keeping on when everything is urging us to give in.
Luke 18:1 says, “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”
God never leaves us. Know that will give us the strength to press on in the most difficult of circmustances.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the need to shine a spiritual light on all we come in contact with.
Matthew 5:14 says, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
The world is to know we are believers in Christ because of the light that radiates from within.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the legitimate love of one’s own country.
Jeremiah 30:22 says, “So you will be my people, and I will be your God.”
God has blessed America from the beginning. America’s founders acknowledged Him during the difficult process of building a nation. Today, we celebrate that.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the pursuit of real peace.
John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
The Bible—and life—teaches us that Jesus Christ is the only true source of peace for individuals and nations.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about remembering the roots of Martin Luther King Jr. and what made him great.
1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young…”
Destiny changed for the Civil Rights movement, all because of a misconception of just who a young preacher really was.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about a specific moment in history when the power of God lifted an individual out of slavery.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Booker T. Washington overcame the chains of slavery to model Christ’s strength for new generations.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about literally telling Jesus our troubles, especially when our backs are to the wall.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
What more does God have to do to prove Himself to us? Billions of times, He has reached out to lift someone out of misery and despair. He can and will do the same for you today.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about learning from others who have gone before us in embracing Christ’s strength.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Sometimes the best solution is to look at the lives of others who have accepted the love and power of Jesus. In turn, we model this approach for others.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about accepting Christ’s power for our lives when we face our most daunting challenges.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
We are super-charged with supernatural strength when we stop relying only on ourselves when obstacles threaten to overtake us.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about learning to call on the Lord in our darkest moments.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Scripture tells us that when we rely on the Lord’s strength, things begin to move in our lives and we aren’t dependent on flawed methods for dealing with pain.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how life really begins the moment we believe the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.”
There’s a reason Scripture refers to life in Christ as being reborn. It is the freshest of starts, and is lasting!
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about God’s way being the best way for us to live.
Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
Often, we spend too much time trying to fix our own problems, which adds to our problems. Learn to rely solely on the Lord, and you will begin to heal.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about God turning our messes into beauty for all to see.
Ephesians 2:8 says, For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.
To be truly brave means that we humble ourselves in handing over our mistakes and brokenness to God, who will clean it to perfection.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the glorious miracle of Christ’s resurrection.
Revelation 19:16 say, “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
In the midst of despair after his cruel death on the cross, Christ’s disciples saw Him alive again! This is proof that God is in complete control, and love is stronger than death.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the absolute importance of modeling justice in our world.
Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Being fair and kind to the creation is not optional, according to Scripture. Just as Jesus loves us, so we are to love others.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about choosing gratitude — even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Psalm 23 verse 5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
Embracing joy feels natural when we’re winning at life, but God wants us to express our gratitude for His blessings no matter what life hands us. There is always something to be grateful for, if we can slow down long enough to see it.
Gratitude is contagious! Share this message with a friend
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about waiting on God’s perfect timing.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Often, we get impatient waiting for an opportunity. But the Lord has made a way for us to rely on His knowledge of what’s best for us.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the bright future God has for you in Christ.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Because He knows the end from the beginning, God shines a light on our path to show us that we don’t stay behind obstacles.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the chance we all have to wipe the slate clean for the New Year.
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. Behold, the new has come!”
A new year is about renewal and fresh starts. Take advantage of this reality and don’t stay bogged-down in failures in your immediate past.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the fact that being stuck in the pursuit of your dreams is not inevitable.
2 Corinthians 9:15 says, “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.”
Focusing on a joyful future leaves no time for lamenting the struggles that are already in our past. Those struggles don’t define us.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the gift God gives us when He doesn’t leave us where we are.
Psalm 51:10 says, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”
Everyone sins. We all make mistakes. But the good news is, we don’t have to stay there. With God’s help, we move on from failure to embrace the abundant life in Christ.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about why it’s okay to continue celebrating Christmas, even after December 25th.
2 Corinthians 9:15 says, “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.”
Too many of us feel a letdown after the excitement of Christmas Day passes. The anticipation is wonderful, then it’s here and gone. But by focusing on the true meaning and spirit of Christmas, we can avoid that trap of depression.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about our opportunities to continue with the Christmas spirit through the year.
Psalm 16:11 says, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”
Our cheerful attitudes toward our fellow man don’t have to end on December 25th. It’s up to us to share Christ’s love all the time.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the extraordinary day we all anticipate each year.
Isaiah 9:6 says, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Christmas Day is about a lot of good things, but the best is remembering the birth of our marvelous Savior
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about in a world full of stories, the Greatest Story Ever Told occurred 2,000 years ago in an obscure Judean village.
Luke Chapter 2:4-20 recounts the birth of Christ in Bethlehem.
There, the Savior of the World was born to humble human parents. God came to Earth as a baby, setting the stage for a glorious future for people everywhere.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the wonderful diversity in Christmas celebrations around the world.
Luke 2:4,5 says: “So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.”
From Norway to Mexico, people the world over honor the meaning of the season by putting their own touch on the celebration of Christ’s birth.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about some fun trivia centered around a beloved hymn.
Psalm 96:11,12 says:
Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice;
let the sea roar, and all that fills it;
let the field exult, and everything in it!
Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy
Most people believe “Joy to the World” refers to the birth of Jesus. But it doesn’t! Isaac Watts wrote the song about Christ’s Second Advent, yet the hymn is the most popular at Christmastime in America.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how the date for Christmas was selected.
Matthew 2:2 says, “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”
Despite the diversity in cultures around the world, Christmas is celebrated in very similar ways and almost always on December 25 each year.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the biblical account of the birth of Christ.
Micah 5:2 says, “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.”
God chose to come to Earth as a baby, vulnerable but full of power and glory, in order to redeem human beings the world over.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how important commitment and follow-through are for our New Year’s Resolutions.
Matthew 5:37 says, “Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.”
Too many times, we set a goal, but without true commitment and discipline. These things come from the Lord, and He rewards those who run their race well!
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about our reasons for giving to those in need.
2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
Scripture tells us that God sees what we do, and He is pleased when we give out a sincere desire to help someone…and not to do it so that people will compliment us and flatter us. With giving, it’s not about you!
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about a rare trait people exhibit: self-control.
Titus 2:11-12 says, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly…”
We hurt our witness for Christ if we neglect the fruit of self-control. Maintaining a steady personality, not given to immature responses to life’s challenges, produces a Christian life others want to emulate.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how we are to treat people we encounter, as Christ did during his time on Earth.
Romans 15:7 says, “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
Contrary to popular opinion, gentleness is not equal to weakness. In fact, Scripture often describes how our powerful God treats His creation tenderly. We are to be gentle as He is gentle.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about what makes a faithful Christian.
Proverbs 3:3 says, “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.”
Faithfulness is all about the long view; it is the spirit of a journey toward wholeness in Christ. This particular fruit of the spirit requires diligence on the part of the believer.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the fruit that is planted and harvested so that the world will recognize the essence of God.
Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
Since the fall, good and evil are contrasted. When Christians are about doing their Father’s work, His goodness is seen in countless ways.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about a fruit of the spirit that especially blesses others.
Proverbs 31:26 says, “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”
The Fruit of the Spirit will give the believer hope and personal blessing, but the main priority is to model Christ for a hurting world. Kindness goes a very, very long way in doing that.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about patience, a learned state that is developed over the life of a believer.
Romans 8:25 says, “But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.”
Humans tend to want to run ahead, but waiting on God’s best blessing for us produces a mature Christian.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about peace, that place where calm prevails while storms rage.
2 Thessalonians 3:16 says, “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.”
Jesus said that He was the source of peace that passes all human understanding, and this fruit is particularly helpful during life’s trials.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about true joy and how the Lord wants us to attain it.
Psalm 16:9 says, “Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.
No life avoids troubles from time to time, but deep trust in God promotes joy consistently—the kind given by the Holy Spirit for those who are in Christ.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the collective traits that produce a well-rounded Christian.
Galatians 5:22-23 says, “By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.”
In Paul’s letter to the Galatians, he emphasized the “fruit of the spirit,” manifested in nine positive virtues. These are a field guide of sorts for Christians to bring out the best in their witness.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about God’s Word, and how it reflects a note from God to us.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
In the Bible, God provided one message for all people, in all times and places. He showed us how much He loves us by sending His Son, Jesus, to rescue us from pain and suffering.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about when we let our hearts open to God, we discover that joy is to be found in a whole relationship, one that grows and endures through the years.
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Start with a right relationship with Jesus Christ, and you’ll find that other healthy relationships will flow from that.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the joy we experience with healthy relationships, and our desire to let the other person know what he or she means to us.
Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works. Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another, especially as you see the Day approaching.”
Celebrating wonderful relationships causes this type of grace to spread exponentially, and we see the fruits of such love in every area of our lives.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about our own responsibilities in unhealthy or damaged relationships. We have some say through our godly choices.
Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
Certainly the other person in a bad relationship should be accountable, but we can greatly affect the outcome by being an example of love and reconciliation. Grudges hurt everyone.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the Bible’s instructions for cultivating and maintaining healthy relationships.
Ephesians 4:2-3 says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the spirit of unity through the bond of peace.”
Only in a harmonious setting can we hope to enjoy what God meant relationships to be for us, and His examples from Scripture will guide us.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about choosing gratitude — even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Psalm 23 verse 5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
Embracing joy feels natural when we’re winning at life, but God wants us to express our gratitude for His blessings no matter what life hands us. There is always something to be grateful for, if we can slow down long enough to see it.
Gratitude is contagious! Share this message with a friend >>
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the fact that even Jesus and those who knew Him expressed deep thanks to the Father for all He had done for them.
Luke 17:15-16 says, “One of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned with a loud voice glorifying God, and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks.”
When we make a conscious choice to love and be thankful like Jesus, we bring healing to our part of the world.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how even in our gratitude, we should think of others first.
Ephesians 1:15-16 says, “For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.”
Sometimes we tend to focus on the benefits of something we’ve received, rather than the one who gave those to us.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how intentional gratitude is a daily effort to thank those who help us.
Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”
By focusing on those who have extended kindness and grace to you, you forget quickly about your own problems and focus on the joy of serving others.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how our negative choices can block us from having peace through a grateful heart.
Psalm 107:1 says, “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”
By laying down pride, or busyness, or some other obstacle, we can see a clear path to a life of joy in being grateful for the daily things God gives us out of His mercy and grace.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about God's greatest masterpiece, according to the Artist.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
God created us anew through the blood of His Son Jesus, and He has a good plan for each of our lives. When we see ourselves through His eyes, the image in the mirror, and the value of our lives and our potential, take on beautiful meaning.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about discerning what is right for us in the area of being alone.
We can over-think and over-correct issues that others see as problems. But are we in fact obligated to fit ourselves into a new reality?
It could be that there’s nothing wrong with us if we are not naturally outgoing. Being alone is not always a negative, and recognizing the healthy balance will go a long way to relieving your stress about “how you should act.”
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the power we have over our own circumstances.
It’s easy to forget that our mindset is important in getting past hurdles in life. We don’t have to settle for conditions that are not good and healthy.
God provides paths for us to emerge into the light, but it is also important that once we discern His will for us, we become active in achieving His purposes for us, especially in the area of balancing loneliness with alone time.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how to begin the journey out of loneliness…after so many years of it.
Are we allowing the pain of past relationships to affect where we are now? Do we isolate ourselves for fear of being hurt all over again?
Simply having awareness of what causes our loneliness is the first key step in overcoming it.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about what the Bible tells us about overcoming loneliness.
God anticipated all the issues we would deal with in life, and He also left us with examples from Scripture of people who overcame the challenge of being lonely.
He made us for relationships, and the healthiest ones begin with an understanding of God’s purpose in this area of our lives.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the options we have in Christ when life is too much to bear. Psalm 34:19 says, “The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.”
Do your successes still leave you empty? Settle your spirit with certainty by embracing Jesus Christ your Savior.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the One who is good and true, and who wants to help you with difficulties.
We can try a variety of things to help us through painful challenges, and some of them work at least temporarily, but if we’ll give God a chance, He will take our burdens and do a miraculous healing.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how depression and confused thinking can affect our moods and decision-making.
Many times, identifying whether our problems are related to our physical or mental health, or the Enemy of our souls, is the key to moving forward with a workable action plan for returning to good health.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how to cope when we feel alone and abandoned.
God’s biblical promise is that He will never leave us, but if the Bible is not accurate in other areas, how can we have confidence in this promise?
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about what the Bible has to say about bumps in the road of life.
Is God unaware of all our challenges, or is He incapable of meeting our needs in certain situations. Some believe He is limited, but is that in fact true?
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about God’s desire for us to be humble.
Ephesians 4:1-3 says, “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
God’s word teaches us being a peacekeeper, is more important than winning an argument.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the various philosophies that claim truth.
John 1:17 says, “For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”
People the world over search every day for meaning and purpose. They try different religions, self-help programs, and alcohol and drugs. But there is One Source of all truth, and He is not hiding from us.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about whether God’s Word is open to question in terms of keeping His promises.
Numbers 23:19 says, “God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?”
Some have claimed that God has sometimes gone back on His Word, or has been unable to keep His promises. In reality, the problem is our finite human understanding of reality.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the tension some feel over the claims of Christianity, which is at once inclusive and exclusive.
Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
Christianity offers a savior that doesn’t share the spotlight with history’s other religious figures, and He tells us exactly who He is (John 14:6), even as He stands with his arms open wide.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the Bible’s claim to absolute truth.
Genesis 3:1 says, “Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?”
In today’s world, most reject absolute truth, because that is God’s truth. Yet the God of the Bible is presented as the Source of all Truth, and He stands ready to receive anyone that accepts His Son.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about John Newton, the author of “Amazing Grace.”
Amazing Grace, How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now am found
T'was blind but now I see
John Newton the Anglican priest penned 280 thoughtful hymns to accompany his sermons, but before he became a minister, he was an active participant in the slave trade — even after he became a Christian believer. Talk about needing God’s grace!
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the highest ideal of grace, Jesus Christ.
Acts 15:11 says, “We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.”
All through Scripture, we see evidence of the work of our Redeemer, King Jesus. It is his grace and the cross that makes possible our reconciliation with God. He is gracious to us in various ways in this life, but salvation is an eternal gift.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the difficulties posed when terrible people are granted mercy, and how that impacts those looking on.
Ephesians 4:7 says, “But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of the gift of Christ.”
Our perspective is different from God’s. While we sometimes nurse thoughts of revenge, He is about giving each person every chance to accept His gift of grace. In eternity, we will share space with those we might have despised in this life, all due to the goodness of God.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the inclusive nature of God’s grace, which isn’t limited by our human perspectives.
Daniel 4:2 says, “I thought it good to declare the signs and wonders that the Most High God has done for me.”
Although the Bible talks about “the chosen” and Christians are secure in their faith, God stands ready to receive anyone that believes on His Son, Jesus Christ. Since ancient times, He has made His special grace available to all people, in all nations.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about what grace is, according to the Bible.
James 4:6 says, “But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.’”
We can talk about graceful people, and “giving some grace” here and there, but what does the Bible say about grace, and how that translates to our life beyond this one.
"On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about remaining steady when the storms of life rage around us. People notice such spiritual courage.
Psalm 93:4 says, ""Mightier than the thunder of the great waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea — the Lord on high is mighty.""
No one escapes trouble in this life, but some stand out for the way they openly rely on God during times of great trouble. Handling trouble with grace is a powerful witness in a difficult world.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the confusion some have over who we are addressing when praying.
Luke 6:12 says, “One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.”
This aspect of prayer trips up many people, who hesitate to even start praying because they are confused about who they should address. Understanding the Trinity is key to unlocking this confusion.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the confusion some have over who we are addressing when praying.
Luke 6:12 says, “One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.”
This aspect of prayer trips up many people, who hesitate to even start praying because they are confused about who they should address. Understanding the Trinity is key to unlocking this confusion.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the most important elements of building and maintaining a healthy prayer life.
Psalm 145:18 says, “The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
Most people want to pray, but find it challenging to find a daily time to do so. While there are tips for getting started, there is one overall critical component to staying on track when it comes to regular prayer.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the Bible’s instruction about prayer and the importance of staying in communication with God.
Jeremiah 29:12 says, “Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.”
Jesus Himself made prayer a priority and regularly got alone to talk with the Father. He is our example in this vital priority all believers should have, and his model prayer is known the world over.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the fact that God’s fingerprints are all over Scripture.
Zechariah 12:10 says, “They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child…”
The Bible stands alone among ancient sacred texts, and proof of its divine authorship is all through the Bible. From messianic prophecies, to its precise history, the scriptures are from a supernatural source.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how the Bible relates to our lives, especially in the modern world.
Psalm 102:18 says, “Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the LORD.”
The Bible contains not only history, but marvelous instruction for daily living. It tells us how to relate to each other and to God, and hundreds of bits of wisdom are contained in its pages.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the timeline for the authorship of the Bible.
Exodus 34:27 says, “Then the LORD said to Moses, "Write down these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel."
In ancient times, the Bible was written in what is today’s Middle East, from Egypt to Israel. Moses compiled the early texts, around 3,700 B.C., and the final manuscripts of the New Testament were written in the last years of the first century A.D.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about who authored the Bible’s Old and New Testaments.
1 Corinthians 1:27 says, “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.”
The human writers who recorded God’s Word came from a variety of backgrounds. Their compilations spanned 1,500 years and changed history. The Bible has been preserved remarkably accurately since it was first written down.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about what the Bible is, and how it impacts our lives.
Jeremiah 2:4 says, “Hear the word of the LORD, you descendants of Jacob, all you clans of Israel.” This concept of people being able to hear and read God’s Word is all through the Bible. Luke 11:28 says, “"Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
The Bible, a collection of 66 individual books, is the account of God creating the world, and working in it. It has been the foundation of Western Civilization for 2000 years.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about finding harmony in the work the Lord has given us to do.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world,[a] that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
God created us for fellowship, and with the long-range goal of building His Kingdom. We are healthy and balanced when we keep our focus on those things, and not becoming distracted by the things of the world.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the challenges we face in sharing the Gospel.
John 15:19 says, “If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.”
Although it is inclusive, the Gospel is a hard truth for many to embrace. Since it requires laying aside our own selfish ambitions and sin, few embrace it. Yet we are to persevere and keep our eyes on the goal of fulfilling the Great Commission.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the dangers in being too deep in the culture, in ways that could harm us spiritually.
Colossians 2:8 says, “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.”
Whether it’s philosophical musings, or carnality, the wider culture is ready to compromise the faith of those who stray too far from prayer and Scripture reading.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the differing views on whether Christians should immerse themselves in the culture, or not.
2 Corinthians 6:17 says, “Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord.”
The fact is, people are won to Christ in different ways. Some come to faith through preaching, some through performance art, or even…a t-shirt message. As Paul suggested, we should be ready to win some in various ways.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the differing views on whether Christians should immerse themselves in the culture, or not.
2 Corinthians 6:17 says, “Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord.”
The fact is, people are won to Christ in different ways. Some come to faith through preaching, some through performance art, or even…a t-shirt message. As Paul suggested, we should be ready to win some in various ways.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the tension that exists when Christians live in the world, but are not supposed to be of the world.
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Individuals often differ on the best approach for sharing the Gospel in a culture increasingly hostile to faith. But the Bible gives us the perfect recipe.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the Ultimate Safe Place from our fears, the safety found in Jesus Christ.
1 Peter 5:6-7 says, “Humble yourselves, then, under God’s mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.”
Jesus told us we would encounter difficulties in this life, but that He has already won our victory. Since He has proven Himself time and again in other areas, we can be confident He will help us defeat our fears, as well.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how our perspectives can sometimes fool us, especially when fear grips our minds.
Mark 5:36 says, “Jesus told him, ‘Don’t be afraid; just believe.’”
There are times when fears we anticipate or are in the midst of are very real. However, it’s important to stop and take stock, to see if we are simply imagining a terrible thing that will never come to pass.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how others overcome fear, and the tried-and-true methods for dealing with this problem.
Isaiah 35:4 says, ““Tell everyone who is discouraged, Be strong and don’t be afraid! God is coming to your rescue…”
Whether it be a walk in the fresh air, or getting into a Bible-based counseling program, we can win over fear.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how we cope when overpowering fear engulfs us.
Psalm 94:19 says, “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.”
God has provided a variety of ways for us to overcome our fears, starting with meditating on His Word, praying, and relying on family and friends to see us through.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how the Bible defines fear, and what Scripture says about it.
2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
God knows every aspect of our lives, including the moments of fear we have. He is totally capable and willing to help us move beyond a spirit of fear, so that we have a sound mind and calm heart.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the nature of Christ as it relates to our whole being.
Philippians 4:12-13 says, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Scores of stories relate how people spend years looking for fulfillment, only to find it when they finally turn to the Lord. Jesus never changes, and He has always been and will always be. A personal relationship with him is the key to being content, no matter your circumstances.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the need to persevere when seeking contentment. It isn’t usually a quick proposition.
Jeremiah 15:15 says, “Lord, you understand; remember me and care for me. Avenge me on my persecutors. You are long-suffering—do not take me away; think of how I suffer reproach for your sake.”
Contentment isn’t something we stumble on and then don’t think about again. It must be sought from God, appreciated daily, then nurtured from a relationship with Christ. If you expect to find fulfillment quickly, you’re doing it wrong.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the emptiness that comes from chasing after wealth and fame in this life. Hebrews 13:5 says, “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” No one has ever been truly content by chasing after money and fame and power. The Bible tells us to pursue God first, then the desires of our heart will be given to us. It’s very much about right priorities.ac
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the folly of expecting a human relationship to bring us the happiness we crave.
Romans 12:2 says, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”
Men look for women to make them happy and vice versa, but this always fails. Until we change from within, and are reconciled to God through Jesus Christ, our search for meaning and fulfillment will end in frustration. Right priorities, headed by a pursuit of God, will bring us the desires of our heart.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the core concept of contentment, as outlined by Scripture.
Matthew 6:32-33 says, “For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
We often look for peace in every place other than where God is. The Bible has much wisdom about the pursuit of contentment and we would do well to look their first.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about our need to rely on God, especially during difficult moments no one else can solve.
Revelation 22:1-3 says, “Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse.”
At some point in our lives, each of us needs a miracle. Usually a dramatic miracle! The presence of these supernatural happenings proves beyond a shadow of doubt that God is alive and active in our world, and that He cares for each of us.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the presence of miracles and the supernatural in our world today.
Malachi 3:6 says, “I the Lord do not change.”
Some of history’s most spectacular miracles occurred in the ancient past. But that doesn’t mean God is through working! In fact, in such a complex world, He is making miracles happen every second of every day.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the Source of miracles, the only One capable of doing such things.
Deuteronomy 29:2-3 says, “Moses summoned all the Israelites and said to them: Your eyes have seen all that the Lord did in Egypt to Pharaoh, to all his officials and to all his land. With your own eyes you saw those great trials, those signs and great wonders.”
From the opening pages of the Bible, we see that the great Creator God is the sole source of miracles, both in nature and in individual lives. He delights in giving us miracles, and in so doing, helps us be His ambassadors with our stories.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the reasons people don’t believe in miracles, both mental and emotional reasons.
John 20:25 says, “But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”
Skeptics have tried for years to disprove miracles, but no one has. Science cannot. But sometimes, emotional hurts prevent people from believing for their own miracles. A small step of faith can change that.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about examples of miracles from Scripture.
Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”
Miracles and the supernatural make the Bible unique among sacred documents. Only the Bible records so many varied and marvelous miracles, both for individuals and nations. Jesus is the Source and all we have to do is ask!
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the relationship most important to us: loving fellowship with our Creator.
Jeremiah 23:23 says, "Am I a God who is near," declares the LORD, "And not a God far off?"
Unless our relationship with Jesus Christ is strong and healthy, we won’t find contentment in our human relationships. God has much to say about this in His Word.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about that common problem in the human community: navigating the difficult people we encounter.
1 Peter 3:9 says, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
Jesus modeled how we are to deal with those who are spiteful and manipulative. And sometimes we learn the person that needs the most work is the one in the mirror.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about avoiding the pitfalls of society where our children are concerned.
Proverbs 22:6 says, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
God’s Word is truth, and the promises He makes to us as parents are foundational to having a healthy, happy family. The Bible tells us that children are a gift from the Lord.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the unique roles God intends for men and women, and how fulfilling relationships are the ideal.
Ephesians 5:25 says, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
We tend to want control in our relationships, especially in marriage, but God points to a better way that involves mutual honor, and making the other your priority.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about what God has to say about building and maintaining healthy relationships.
Ephesians 4:2-3 says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Avoiding strife in relationships is very much a give-and-take. Both parties must be committed to mutual respect and unity, where possible. The Bible tells us clearly that if it is humanly possible, we are to live in peace with everyone. This is God’s will for us to live in community.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the sense of security we have in a community of believers, each reminding the other of God’s provision.
Hebrews 12:28 says, “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe.”
Our number one blessing is the promise of a place in God’s Kingdom, a kingdom that cannot be shaken or destroyed. In turn, we are to remind others of this marvelous reality by sharing the precious Gospel of Jesus Christ.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the practical benefits of practicing gratitude in our lives.
Ephesians 1:16 says, “I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.”
There are physical and emotional benefits associated with having a grateful attitude. Appreciating the blessings of life can bring your emotional and physical health into balance.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about examples from our own lives that model a life of gratitude.
Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”
Some of the most dramatic stories of healing come when a person changes course mentally and chooses to let everyone know how he or she is blessed. This causes a chain reaction that lifts others out of their depression.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the apostle Paul’s life lesson in which he reminds us that a grateful heart is a choice, no matter what we’re going through.
Philippians 4:12-13 says, “I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
Making a conscious effort to daily remember the good things in life—the blessings of basic needs, the love of a family, and a job, to name a few—helps us get in the routine of being grateful.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the dozens of passages in Scripture that speak to the benefit of a grateful heart.
2 Kings 4:37 says, “She fell at his feet and bowed before him, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she took her son in her arms and carried him downstairs.”
The Bible speaks of different kinds of gratitude, from thankfulness for God’s blessings, to appreciating our human relationships. A key element of finding contentment in this life comes from cultivating harmonious relationships.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about unburdening our minds and hearts over the issue of forgiveness.
Matthew 5:23-24 says, “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.”
When we are in harmony with others, we also enjoy the maximum peace in our relationship with God, who promises to notice when we forgive others. This leads to a healthy outlook in all areas of life.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the practical, beneficial outcomes from a spirit of forgiveness.
Matthew 18:21-22 says, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times."
Scores of studies tell us that if we hold onto bitterness and anger toward a person, we are the ones that are chained by depression, stress, and high blood pressure. It doesn’t have to be that way.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about unloading the burden of guilt we feel for hurting someone.
Luke 6:37 says, “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”
There is no favoritism in the Kingdom of God, and our ownership of past hurts aimed at a friend or family member poison relationships sometimes for generations. We are usually anxious to let our own bitterness go over a wrong, but it’s just as important that we acknowledge our own sins against a brother or sister.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the importance of choosing to forgive a wrong done to us.
Mark 11:25 says, “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”
By changing our focus from bitterness at an enemy, to a conscious decision to forgive, we begin the process of healing. The end result is your own peace of mind, and the potential for reconciliation.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about what the Bible has to save about forgiveness. Matthew 5:43-45 says, “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.” Although it can be difficult and painful, God has made it clear in His Word that we are to forgive, so that we can be forgiven. While we can’t control others’ behavior, we can let go of bitterness. It’s a choice.
The Kingdom of God is simply the worldwide community of believers throughout history, looking forward to an eternity in which God will make everything new.
Revelation 21:23 says, “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.”
When we take part in fulfilling the Great Commission by sharing our faith, we help add to that great future gathering of believers worshiping our God.
Many Christians are unsure of how to engage others in conversations about Jesus. This is a problem that can be overcome!
Matthew 16:24 says, “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.’”
God made many different personality types, and each of us can find the right template for sharing the Gospel with unbelievers.
Today’s technology and ease of communication globally makes it possible for us to share the Gospel with anyone, anywhere.
Romans 1:16 says, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.”
There are now 2.2 billion Christians in the world, but the overall population is 7.6 billion! There is much work to do.
In the New Testament, we learn our most important task from Jesus, which is sharing the Good News of what He’s done for us.
Matthew 28:19 says, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
We get to participate in God’s great plan for the world when we share the Gospel and in turn make more disciples for Jesus.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about knowing who Jesus Christ is from Scripture.
John 1:29 says, “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
There are many descriptions of Jesus in the world, and many different views, but the most important is that He came to Earth to pay God’s penalty for our sins. That truth leads to ultimate freedom for each person that accepts His gift of grace.
The Kingdom of God is simply the worldwide community of believers throughout history, looking forward to an eternity in which God will make everything new.
Revelation 21:23 says, “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.”
When we take part in fulfilling the Great Commission by sharing our faith, we help add to that great future gathering of believers worshipping our God.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the various stumbling blocks people have to accepting Jesus Christ.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
From various philosophies and theories, to internal struggles with sin, people stumble over obstacles that keep them from robust faith.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about what the faith is in the context of the Gospel.
Luke 9:23—"And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
In an increasingly post-Christian culture, many people simply do not understand what the Christian faith actually is. It is rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how common doubt is; most of us have these thoughts at some point.
Mark 9:24 says, "Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, 'I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!'"
As with other issues, sometimes we feel like we’re the only one dealing with a particular thing. But, if we’re human, we’ve probably struggled with doubt.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about how healthy it is to talk about doubts.
Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
It is vital that believers and unbelievers alike have a place that they can talk about their fears and concerns about spiritual life. Talking openly is the first step.
On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the opportunities we all have to draw people to Jesus Christ.
Matthew 4:19 says, “And [Jesus] said unto them, ‘Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.’”
An outcome of being a Christian is sharing faith with others and seeing them come to Christ.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about learning who our Rescuer is when life threatens to swamp us.
Matthew 14:29 says, “’Come,’ he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.”
In one of those perfect metaphors the Bible is known for, we know that God rescues us from troubles that flood in; Jesus pulled Peter from the waves when he began to sink. But Peter learned to keep his eyes on Jesus, and that is a lesson for all of us.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about laying down our conventional weapons in order to pick up the spiritual weapons God has provided for us.
2 Corinthians 10:4 states, "For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds."
The battles we face daily can only be won by relying on God through prayer, and believing His sure promises that He goes with us into each conflict.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the majesty of God reveals His existence to us in marvelous ways.
Amos 4:13 says, “He who forms the mountains, who creates the wind, and who reveals his thoughts to mankind, who turns dawn to darkness, and treads on the heights of the earth—the LORD God Almighty is his name.”
From the mountaintop to the valley, the Creator has provided us with splendor and beauty, and that provides us with the opportunity to tell others about Him.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about humbling ourselves before the Lord.
Philippians 2:9 says, “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth…”
It goes against our nature to bow to anyone; we don’t like someone being superior to us. A submissive stance is not the first thing most people practice. Yet when we acknowledge Jesus for Who He is, we find the peace that so many long for.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the freedom that comes from being forgiven in Christ.
1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
Whether we admit it or not, all of us have a deep need to be forgiven when we wrong someone. Jesus shows us how to do this by laying down our pride, then feeling our burden lifted.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk
about how to overcome obstacles in life that cause us to be afraid.
In 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For the Spirit God gave us does not
make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
When we encounter a mountain-sized problem in our lives, that’s
no reason to stop and give in. God has told us in His word that He has not
given us a spirit of fear, but of peace. In this way, we not only find our path
clear, but we can help others along the way.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about the resilience that comes from belief in Jesus Christ.
Romans 12:12 says, "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."
The Apostle Paul spent two years in chains and under constant guard, and from this place of experience he shared a meaningful message of hope, patience, and a faithful prayer life -- no matter what circumstances we are in. The wisdom he shared with Christian believers in Rome thousands of years ago, still resonates today.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about God watching over us no matter our circumstances.
Psalm 32:8 says, “The LORD says, ‘I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.’”
Traveling life without a map not only wastes time, it might prevent us from getting to the proper destination. God’s will for your life is the best roadmap.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about God's greatest masterpiece, according to the Artist.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
God created us anew through the blood of His Son Jesus, and He has a good plan for each of our lives. When we see ourselves through His eyes, the image in the mirror, and the value of our lives and our potential, take on beautiful meaning.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk
about picking ourselves up after failure.
Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an
ever-present help in trouble.”
It is a good feeling to persevere after a mistake. And each
time, we grow stronger in the knowledge that God will never leave us where we
are in a difficult spot. He is our example for getting up and continuing on.
The ability to push through is God-given, and waiting for you to act on it.
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On Today’s episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about remaining cool under fire when life is a battle.
Psalm 27:3 says, “Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.”
In both literal and figurative combat, our confidence comes from faith in the Lord’s promises to go before us.
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With God, you can do all things -- and He doesn't expect perfection!
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On Today's episode of the Kerusso Daily Devotional, we talk about having an attitude to win. Pressing on toward a goal makes the victory even sweeter, and Jesus Himself urges us to have that mindset. Luke 18:1 says, "Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and never give up." In the middle of a tough project, leadership is developed when we see it through. This in turn inspires others around us, whether our family or work team. Knowing others have faced this lets us know we're not alone. Like today's message? We love it so much, we made a T-shirt! You can get it here.
God is faithful to fulfill His promises. Trust in the Lord!
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