Van Life Devotions: Recent Episodes
David Moyes
When you see the news, it is depressing – war, tension, violence, injustice. When the world feels dark, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by fear, pain, or uncertainty. The Bible reminds us that in the darkness, there is also light.
Money pressures can feel overwhelming causing you to stay up through the night in worry. The Bible reminds us that God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
Doubting one's abilities through to doubting God's existence hits all. Doubting isn't wrong. There is hope in the midst of doubt.
Hello and welcome to Van Life Devotions. The pain of loneliness is real. It can feel like an ache that never fully goes away—a quiet emptiness that follows you into every room. In the Bible, King David, cried out in loneliness. He knew what it felt like to be surrounded by people yet still feel completely alone.
Loneliness hurts because we are created for connection—with God and with others. When that connection feels broken, our hearts long for something more. The enemy whispers lies in these moments, saying we’re forgotten, unlovable, or unwanted. But God speaks a different word: “I am with you. I will never leave you.”
Even in the deepest pain, God’s presence is constant. Loneliness doesn’t always go away immediately, but He promises to walk with us through it, turning our pain into a place where His love meets us most deeply. Loneliness may visit, but it doesn’t get the final word - God’s presence does.
David Moyes
When you feel defeated by life's burdens, remember that something new and glorious can come from being flattened.
There are many times when we are at a crossroads and struggle to know which way to go. God promises to guide followers of Jesus through life.
In this age of pluralism, Jesus made the exclusive claim that He is the only way to God the Father.
Whenever you see a lighthouse, remember: God sees you, He is guiding you, and His light is always shining - especially in the darkest moments.
Another reason to be a follower of Jesus is God gives you what you need to serve Him. You are not left to your own devices instead the Holy Spirit empowers you with what the Bible calls “Fruit of the Spirit” and “Spiritual Gifts”.
The Holy Spirit as Advocate comes alongside followers of Jesus and recalls bible teachings.
Just before Jesus was crucified, He promised His followers that they would not be left alone. God's Spirit will come and be their Advocate.
On this Easter Sunday, the day that God raised Jesus to life, we also recall our new life when God raised us.
One of the great reasons to follow Jesus Christ is to receive eternal life which is not only about living forever, but in a state of incredible happiness.
Having a purpose in life is important because it provides direction and meaning, and enhances motivation, resilience, and emotional well-being. One reason to be a follower of Jesus is that you are given a purpose for living.
What is one of the main reasons why follow Jesus? As I read my Bible, I believe it is because we need God's forgiveness.
The farmer left the 99 safe sheep to find the one who was lost. Series 4 of Van Life Devotions is about "one more for Jesus".
The lion has been a symbol for Israel for thousands of years and in the Last Day, it will continue to be a symbol.
In February and March 2024, I went on a spiritual pilgrimage in Turkey and Greece following the footsteps of the Apostle Paul and exploring the areas of the seven churches of Revelation. These are my observations.
The Church at Laodicea suffered from a disease called apathy. It is a disease that many Christians suffer from. Jesus tells His followers to be alive!
The church at Philadelphia in Revelation 3 was experiencing hardships. 2000-years later faithful churches still experience hardships. Pray for the persecuted.
In its history the city of Sardis in modern day Turkey was caught napping when it was overrun by the Persians. 600 years later, Jesus tells the church at Sardis that it also needed to wake up or else...
The church at Thyatira were compromising faith with the secular to be more relevant? It raises a question - can I have a hybrid faith?
Jesus declared that Satan lived and had his throne in Pergamum and yet the church remained faithful. What a lesson for the church of today.
The church at Ephesus lost their first love for the Lord Jesus. We are to restore our spiritual passion.
John the Apostle was given the greatest revelation and was told to send what he saw to seven churches. Today, thousands of churches are guided by this revelation.
Peter wrote a letter to Christians who fled the Roman Empire due to persecution. His letter gave hope.
The peace of God is hard to explain as it is a supernatural gift from God to those who seek Him.
Jesus commanded the church to go everywhere and baptise new believers. They did. In many ancient churches, baptisteries have been discovered. But what does baptism mean?
It is believed that Epaphras was a pastor at the churches in Colossae, Laodicea, and Hierapolis (Colossians 1:7) where he wrestled in prayer for them (Colossians 4:12-13). Who are you wrestling in prayer for?
We all have a past. Onesimus was a runaway slave. Paul believed in him and told his master and church at Colossae to treat him well. Traditions say that he became bishop at Ephesus. Believe in and encourage someone who has a past.
For the first 300 years the church met in homes. Today, many Christians still meet in homes. There's something special about homes.
The battle is intensifying and you are in the middle of it. Paul tells us how to overcome.
Paul knew that the believers in Ephesus will face storms of persecution. He wrote to them how to withstand such storms.
In 2016 Leisl and I visited a remarkable church just seven minutes walk from the Colosseum in Rome.
Whatever past you have experienced, whatever challenges you face, if you are in Christ, nothing can seperate you from God's love.
When all of his companions decided to sail from Troas to Assos, Paul decided to walk the 34 kilometre distance. Why? What can we learn?
In Acts 20 we read that the Early Church met for worship on a Sunday. It got me thinking, who and why was the Sabbath changed from Saturday to Sunday? Did God change His mind?
It is one of the great theatres of the Greek/Roman Empires seating over 25,000 spectators and yet the Early Church did their best to avoid the Great Theatre of Ephesus.
The Ephesian Church had some incredible pastors. Does this make this church the most blessed ever?
One of the last words Paul told the elders at Ephesus was to shepherd the believers. Today, we need shepherds in our lives.
People like Paul and the Apostle were major players of the New Testament. Then there are people like Apollos who had a minor role and yet God gifted him to have a significant impact.
In his two letters to the church in Thessalonica, every chapter has a reference to the Lord Jesus' return. Are you hopeful?
He came to Corinth in fear and trepidation and yet St Paul planted a church with many new believers in the midst of a troubled city.
They were a husband and wife team that supported St Paul and helped build the kingdom of God in those first years.
When Paul was in Thessalonica preaching the gospel, many became followers of Jesus, including "prominent women". Women played an important part in growing the new church which the New Testament recognises.
Paul arrives in Athens and as he wanders the streets he became troubles by all the idols. From Mars Hill in front of the court of judges. Paul's delivers the gospel.
Paul's time in Berea is met with enthusiasm as together Jews and Gentiles studied and examined what Paul was teaching resulting in many coming to faith in Jesus. What a model they are to us today.
David and Leisl in March 2024 visited Gallipoli which was very moving. For Leisl, it was personal. Listen as she shares about her great uncle.
Famous leadership author Dale Carnegie once wrote: “The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing”. The Galatian churches were influenced away from the main thing. Listen to how Paul got them back on the main thing. And what a lesson for us today!
For the Apostle Paul and Silas things were going well in Philippi with conversions to Christ and healings. But then things got a whole lot tougher for them. What happens when things don't go smoothly?
In Acts 16, God says no to Paul preaching in Asia. Did God have a better plan? Recorded in Ancient Philippi.
Unlike many ancients gods that are dead, Jesus is alive as He was raised back to life! What incredible hope Christians have.
The amazing Beatitudes are part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount - described by scholars as “a Christian Manifesto of the Kingdom” and the “essence of the teaching of Jesus”. Join with me as we explore each Beatitude.
The amazing Beatitudes are part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount - described by scholars as “a Christian Manifesto of the Kingdom” and the “essence of the teaching of Jesus”. Join with me as we explore each Beatitude.
The amazing Beatitudes are part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount - described by scholars as “a Christian Manifesto of the Kingdom” and the “essence of the teaching of Jesus”. Join with me as we explore each Beatitude.
The amazing Beatitudes are part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount - described by scholars as “a Christian Manifesto of the Kingdom” and the “essence of the teaching of Jesus”. Join with me as we explore each Beatitude.
The amazing Beatitudes are part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount - described by scholars as “a Christian Manifesto of the Kingdom” and the “essence of the teaching of Jesus”. Join with me as we explore each Beatitude.
The amazing Beatitudes are part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount - described by scholars as “a Christian Manifesto of the Kingdom” and the “essence of the teaching of Jesus”. Join with me as we explore each Beatitude.
The amazing Beatitudes are part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount - described by scholars as “a Christian Manifesto of the Kingdom” and the “essence of the teaching of Jesus”. Join with me as we explore each Beatitude.
The amazing Beatitudes are part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount - described by scholars as “a Christian Manifesto of the Kingdom” and the “essence of the teaching of Jesus”. Join with me as we explore each Beatitude.
The amazing Beatitudes are part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount - described by scholars as “a Christian Manifesto of the Kingdom” and the “essence of the teaching of Jesus”. Join with me as we explore each Beatitude.
Norman Banks had a vision of bringing lonely people together on Christmas Eve. His idea became a worldwide event each Christmas.
In an age when alcohol abuse was the norm and influential men argued against woman's voting rights, Margaret McLean spoke up.
Nick was born without limbs. Can anyone be successful despite such disabilities? Nick's story is inspiring.
It is one of Australia's most iconic brands, owned and run by four generations of the same family. Stephen Keir I ran Akubra according to his Christian principles.
From the age of five, Graeme Clark wanted to fix ears. After years of research, technical difficulties, and cynicism God gave Graeme an idea that would help many profoundly deaf people. Yet it took much prayer.
Norman had just finished being in the 1st XV Rugby team for his school when he signed up. 19 months later he was dead fighting for his country. Today is Remembrance Day.
Graham and Gladys Staines were persecuted for their faith in Christ. They are examples of many millions who are persecuted each week.
The events in and around the Holy Land are horrific. What's next? Are we in the Last Days? Is there hope?
From 14 years of abuse to helping rescue people from slavery this is one remarkable person. #Christine Caine.
In 2007 an idea came. Years later thousands of homeless are very grateful. #tonyandlisaclark
A young woman who left her home comforts to serve a group of people and did so for 70 years.
From checking out various religious "isms" Ken Duncan now accepts the simple message of the gospel of Jesus Christ and is recognised for capturing God's creation.
An incredible story of how helping a deaf child lead to a world wide movement of caring for those who battle with deafness.
He arrived fifty years after the new colony was discovered by European to be its new Governor. Most didn't like his reforms.
In the late 1800s a family came to Australia from England looking for a better life. What they found left a lasting legacy for generations to come.
One of Australia's most successful athlete discovered something more precious than gold.
Two pioneering women who commenced mobile medical and spiritual care to those in the outback.
When two major disasters hit a young business owner, there was only one option to do - rebuild.
An amazing story of a women called by God at a young age to help the poor through education, but it came at an incredible cost.
He may have been young, but he had a vision beyond his years that help give birth to an amazing service to those in the outback.
An amazing story of a man overcoming disabilities to growing one of the largest clothing manufacturers in the world.
A wonderful couple who selflessly give of themselves to serve the disadvantage in their community.
During the years when there were no Christian Radio Stations in Australia, one man in faith persistently sought for a Radio Licence. After 23 years, one was granted. Today there are many Christian Radio Stations throughout Australia.
An amazing story of a person who refused to be defined by his past nor wanting those in poverty to be defined by their past.
A wonderful story of a woman born in Newcastle, NSW and who became the world leader of the Salvation Army.
An inspiring story of a successful business through faith, hard work, grief, and persistence.
He once declared that if he verbalised his opinions he would be sued. So he expressed his opinion through art.
He was a well loved minister in country Victoria, yet he enlisted to serve those who left our shores. The way in which is served earned the affection of many.
Easter Sunday is the day that Christians around the world celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter means H.O.P.E.
On Palm Sunday Jesus rode into Jerusalem knowing what was about to happen to Him. How resolute are we in following Jesus?
This past week our daughter got married. It was beautiful day. Marriage in the Bible is full of symbolism.
It was a beautiful day and the ocean temperature was perfect. We were snorkelling and then something happened to me. The lessons I learnt were powerful.
This week I fell off my ladder as I was clearing my gutters. God was about to teach me tow important lessons.
Psalm 23 by David is one of the well known passages in the Bible Yet verse 6 in the Hebrew has a somewhat different tone than our English translations.
Within a day of Jesus being killed, He shared the key to living a purposeful and fruitful life.
Just a few hundred metres from Australia's Parliament House In Canberra is a huge 25 metre steel cross which faces Parliament House. Which other similar government places around the world have such crosses facing them? Its a reminder that our Members of Parliament need something.
While the church is far from perfect, I am grateful to God for the many untold, unselfish stories of God's people caring for many every single day of the year.
Do you sometimes feel like your life lacks power to live the life God has called you to live? The Apostle Paul shares what's possibly missing.
Since the days of the divide between Samaritans and Jews as to where to worship, Christians have also debated which denomination is right. Jesus, though, had other thoughts.
Happy Christmas! It's been a few years of interruptions. Sometimes good comes from mess.
On that first Christmas Jesus left the glories of heaven and moved into our messy neighbourhood.
The Feast of Tabernacles has and still is celebrated by the Jews over thousands of years. It was at this festival that Jesus made some big claims about Himself.
In the month of October, many Jews celebrate the ancient festival The Feast of Tabernacles. John chapters 7 and 8 records Jesus teaching during this festival and what He said about Himself.
When you return from holidays back to reality, create margin in your life for rest. Its biblical!
I know what it is like when such storms hit. Even if you are not religious, you frantically want to wake up Jesus by praying a desperate prayer. Why is it that we turn to Jesus when storms hit? Maybe there is something inside of us that believes or wants to believe that Jesus does have power over our issues and as such can restore calmness back into our life?
The Apostle John has written that God has lavished His love on us. One famous person described experiencing "waves of liquid love" when he cried out to God. Do you desire similar experiences?
Changing the way that you look at these issues just may help. Not all storms come to disrupt your life; some come to clear your path. Sometimes, another perspective helps.
We can learn from David of the Bible. When he questioned his worth, he looked up to the stars and knew that He was created with purpose.
Rev John Flynn's vision for the world renowned Royal Flying Doctor Service was about going to the needs in the outback. Jesus also taught us to go to the needs instead of waiting for the needs to come to you.
There's much tension in our world and community. Sometimes we need to slow down, smell the roses, and gain strength.
Jesus Christ has been described as the Great High Priest. What this means is wonderful news for you who have a lot going on right now.
King David encourages us to "Taste and see the Lord's goodness" in Psalm 34. This is an invitation to experience the goodness of God.
Jesus sees in you what no one else sees. Who do you think Jesus sees within you? Yep, He sees your imperfections, but He also sees the person you can become.
I've learnt some lesson's on having faith as small as a Mustard Seed. My learning may encourage you.
Our visit to the Murray River inspired my reflection on another River in the Bible that gives life.
In this changing and challenging world, God our Rock gives hope of strength and stability.
Jesus was raised back to life, however, He always remembers His sacrificial death. Here's how. An Easter Sunday reflection.
Reflection on the nails that were hammered into Jesus onto the cross. A Good Friday devotion.