Devotionables: Recent Episodes
Ninth & O Baptist Church, Gabriel Hinerman
Devotionables are brief devotions for busy people released Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from Ninth & O Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky. www.naobc.org
The second four stanzas of Psalm 119 remind us that God is the source of all the blessings and life we have. God's Word should shape how we see the world and constantly lead us to praise him.Devotionables #851 - God's Word Brings LifePsalm 119:33-64The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, extolling the wonders and beauties of God's Word. Let us love God and his word!Devotionables #850 - Let Us Be In Our BiblesPsalm 119:1-32The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 118 concludes the Hallel Psalms, focusing on the steadfast love of the Lord, leading us to awe, glory, and praise God. Devotionables #849 - Praise the Lord, His Steadfast Love Endures Forever!Psalm 118The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 117 is only two verses. Yet the Psalmist packs a punch, extoling the faithful love of the Lord and a glorious hope for all the nations. Devotionables #848 - The Bible's Shortest ChapterPsalm 117The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 116 illuminates the reasons why the psalmist loves the Lord. Why do you love the Lord?Devotionables #845 - Why I Love the LordPsalm 116The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God is exalted and worthy of our praise. But God is also near to the lowly, especially in the midst of our need.Devotionables #844 - God of the Heavens Is NearPsalm 115The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 114 reminds us that God is always orchestrating mighty acts–parting seas, providing in the wilderness, and working in ways we often overlook. Every day gives us countless reasons to notice His goodness and respond with praise. Devotionables #845 - So Many ReasonsPsalm 114The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 113 reminds us that God is exalted and worthy of our praise. But God is also near to the lowly, especially in the midst of our need. Devotionables #844 - God is Exalted and NearPsalm 113The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 112 reminds us that we write our obituaries and eulogies by how we live our lives. The righteous fear the Lord and order their lives accordingly to bless others. They remain steadfast forever. Devotionables #843 - Fear God and Nothing ElsePsalm 112The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 111 is, from beginning to end, a call to praise the Lord. Join Derek as he discusses our praise for God because of his great works.Devotionables #842 - Praise the Lord!Psalm 111The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 110 is the most frequently quoted Psalm in the New Testament. Christ our Lord is the glorious and eternal King-Priest! Devotionables #841 - The Eternal King-PriestPsalm 110The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Mike leads us through one of the imprecatory psalms, reminding us that vengeance is the Lord's.Devotionables #840 - Let God RespondPsalm 109The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul Cook leads us through Psalm 108 and encourages us with the Scriptures that with God we shall do valiantly. Devotionables #839 - With God We Shall Do ValiantlyPsalm 108The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The love of God is steadfast. It never changes, whether your suffering is circumstantial or a consequence of sin, He delivers those who cry out to him, and He is worthy of praise. Join Nick Rubesha on today's Devotionable. Devotionables #838 - Consider the Steadfast Love of the LordPsalm 107The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 106 reviews the past sin and unfaithfulness of Israel while magnifying the steadfast love and faithfulness of Yahweh. Devotionables #837 - Greater SaviorPsalm 106The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 105 rehearses the faithful and steadfast work of the Lord on behalf of his people. Devotionables #836 - Tell Me AgainPsalm 105The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 104 is a powerful psalm that reminds us of who the Creator and Sustainer of all things is. This psalm is a firm foundation on which we can declare the glories of our God. Join Hunter Wesson on today's Devotionable. Devotionables #835 - Creation Declares the Glory of GodPsalm 104The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Whether you realize it or not, you talk to yourself... a lot: planning, reasoning, counseling, deciding & more. Psalm 103 calls us to urge our souls to bless the LORD for his wonderful grace. Join Zach Fischer on today's Devotionable.Devotionables #834 - Urge Your Soul to Bless the LordPsalm 103The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God uses the Psalms to bring comfort to those who are hurting. Devotionables #833- Everything Will Be AlrightPsalm 102The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Isaac leads us through the 101st Psalm, asking us to consider what motivates us.Devotionables #832- What Motivates You?Psalm 101The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Derek walks us through Psalm 100 and reminds us of how God uses the Psalms to tune our hearts to sing his glorious praise. Devotionables #831- Is Your Heart In Tune?Psalm 100The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In this psalm, we exalt the Lord for His reign as the righteous judge over all the earth and we praise Him for His holiness. Join Aaron on today's Devotionable. Devotionables #830- Our Holy Lord ReignsPsalm 99The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God’s steadfast love and faithfulness to bring salvation to His people gives us reason once again to sing His praise. Join with creation in giving Him what He’s due.Devotionables #829- Worthy of WorshipPsalm 98The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
While not so much a villainous world-destroyer as in a movie, God still is to be feared for His might and power in a similar way. Psalm 97 recognizes this and provides a recipe for how to respond to God, all while He simultaneously preserves His people.Devotionables #828- A Right ResponsePsalm 97The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Pastor Craig teaches Psalm 96 as he reflects upon the reasons why the LORD is worthy of worship. Devotionables #827- Sing A New SongPsalm 96The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Why do we worship God? Aaron Pickard leads us through Psalm 95 as we consider this question today. Devotionables #826 - Why Do We Worship?Psalm 95The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Some people brag about how they lie, cheat, and steal to get ahead. They laugh because they aren’t caught, and they seem to prosper and never have to pay for their actions. We may even wonder if God is paying attention at all. Join Mike Witt as he teaches on Psalm 94. Devotionables #825 - God, Did You See That? Don't You Hear What They Are Saying?Psalm 94The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 93 celebrates God as King, who deserves that praise. Believers honor the King by being a reflection of Him as they witness through words and actions.Devotionables #824 - The LORD Is KingPsalm 93The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Christians know that God is working for our future, but sometimes we can miss what he's doing around us today. Take heart! God is at work now. Devotionables #823 - God's At Work – Today!Psalm 92The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 91 is a conversation of sorts. The psalmist speaks, exhorting the hearer to take refuge in his refuge - The Almighty! Devotionables #822 - Make My Refuge Your RefugePsalm 91The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
When you find yourself frail, when you are weary, look to the Lord! Join Adam Howell as he reflects upon the truths found in Psalm 90. Devotionables #821 - Are You Thirsty?Psalm 90The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Mlu as he reflects upon God's covenant and promise to David in Part Two of Psalm 89. Devotionables #820 - Psalm 89 Part 2Psalm 89The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Pastor Philips as he teaches the first half of Psalm 89.Devotionables #819 - Psalm 89 Part 1Psalm 89The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
At some point, most of us will face the so-called “dark night of the soul” — that is, when life has pressed in so hard and yet it seems like the Lord has gone silent. When that happens, Psalm 88 reminds us that this experience is normal, that we should persist in prayer, lean into the church, and remember the gospel.Devotionables #818 - The Sound of SilencePsalm 88The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 87 is a glimpse of God's eternal city and citizens.Devotionables #816 - Birthright CitizenshipPsalm 87The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Luke Tackett as he teaches about Psalm 86. Devotionables #816 - All Things Great and SmallPsalm 86The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 85 reveals David's cry for revival. Believers should seek revival from the Lord and pray on behalf of our nation, our church, and individually as believers. Devotionables #815 - Revive Us, O GodPsalm 85The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God himself is the greatest blessing we can receive. Oh, to be with him and to dwell with him forever! We're marching to Zion!Devotionables #814 - The Blesser is the BlessingPsalm 84The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul Cooks helps us think with wisdom and discernment about the imprecatory psalms as we look at Psalm 83 today. Devotionables #813 - Can I Pray This Prayer?Psalm 83The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Hayden Jaco leads us through Psalm 82 and helps us consider the problem of evil.
Devotionables #812 - Where was Man? Where was God?
Psalm 82
The Psalms
Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church in Louisville, KY.
naobc.org
Psalm 81 reminds us of God's faithfulness and charges us to obey. Listening to Him is what brings joy and satisfaction. Join Nathan DeVoe on today's Devotionable.Devotionables #811 - Are You Listening?Psalm 81The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Israel cries out to the LORD for restoration. Psalm 80 offers us an example of how to seek restoration today. Join Ryan Whitley on today's Devotionable. Devotionables #810 - Restore Us, O GodPsalm 80The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Let's take a look at Psalm 79 with Derek Riley.Devotionables #809 - Psalm 79Psalm 79The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Bailey Marzan continues to teach us through Psalm 78 in part 2 on Devotionables.Devotionables #808 - Psalm 78 (Part 2)Psalm 78:37-72The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Baily Marzan as he teaches through Psalm 78 in a two-part episode on Devotionables.Devotionables #807 - Psalm 78 (Part 1)Psalm 78The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The psalmist has had a significantly hard day but remembers to praise God for His past faithfulness and trusts Him in his current predicament. Believers can trust God to meet their needs, even in difficult times. Devotionables #806 - The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad DayPsalm 77The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 76 proclaims God's victory as He rises to judge and save. He will surely save His people and destroy their enemies.Devotionables #805 - God Always Wins!Psalm 76The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Sometimes life is not fair. We see in Psalm 75 that believers can trust the Lord to deal fairly with each situation. Join Evan Parker on today's Devotionable.Devotionables #804 - God's Justice is BestPsalm 75The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 74 recounts the lament of those who are in a difficult situation. Tragic events and difficult circumstances occur frequently. It’s helpful to remember God’s past blessings in the midst of current difficulties. Join Greg Brewster in today's Devotionable. Devotionables #803 - Haven't We All Been There?Psalm 74The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
An honorable spiritual leader in Israel questions the point of being godly when the wicked have such an easy life. However, his story concludes with fervent and joyful intimacy with God. It’s a powerful testimony for believers today.Devotionables #802 - I (Almost) Kissed Godliness GoodbyePsalm 73The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 72 expresses a focus on what is eternal: our Messiah, Jesus, and the promise of his kingdom reign. Devotionables #801 - Focusing on the EternalPsalm 72The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Derek for the 800th Devotionable as we meditate on the Lord's faithfulness during every age of life.Devotionables #800 - Our Lord Through Every AgePsalm 71The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 70 recounts David asking God for help & recalls the love and joy God's people should display. Join Nick Braun on today's Devotionable. Devotionables #799 - David Asks for Help...AgainPsalm 70The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Walker Downs walks us through Psalm 69. Devotionables #798 - Psalm 69Psalm 69The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 68 declares praise for the victory God provided to the people of Israel. Believers today can find victory in Jesus as we trust him to meet us in our day to day. Devotionables #797 - Victory in JesusPsalm 68The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Missions exists becuase worship doesn't. - John PiperDevotionables #796 - Sing for Joy All the EarthThe PsalmsPsalm 67 Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Come and hear all you who fear God, and I will tell you what he has done for me. Devotionables #795 - God Saves and His People SingThe PsalmsPsalm 66 Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In a world that eagerly promotes discontentment, joyful gratitude to God is a rare commodity. Today, we look at Psalm 65 to see what a proper response to God’s provision should look like.Devotionables #794 - Singing with the SheavesThe PsalmsPsalm 65 Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 64 tells how David cries out to God for protection from his enemies. God will protect him, and he will protect the godly. Join Scott Hardy as he brings today's Devotionable. Devotionables #793 - God ProtectsPsalm 64The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
This Psalm depicts David in the Wilderness and his depravity and utter hopelessness, but his response is to look and remember God’s promises. How will you respond to your present circumstances when God does not appear to be responding to you?Devotionables #792 - A Righteous HungerPsalm 63The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Derek as he encourages us from Psalm 62 to wait on the Lord and find our refuge in him.Devotionables #791 – Wait for the LordPsalm 62The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Life can be overwhelming, and there is no way you can make it through. Psalm 61 reflects David's trust as he clings to God as a Rock. Mike Witt reminds us that protection is only a prayer away. Devotionables #790 - Clinging to the RockPsalm 61The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
David had been defeated in battle, and was crying out to God to save his people from the enemy. Success happened through God! Join Ryan in today's Devotionable. Devotionables #789 - Lament and God's ProvisionPsalm 60The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Trapped by Saul's assassins in Psalm 59, David turns panic into praise as he discovers that God's steadfast love goes before him. Believers can find an anchor in Jesus when troubles close in on every side. Devotionables #788 - Surrounded, Secured, and ShelteredPsalm 59The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Abe Kuruvilla as he shares today's Devotionable on Psalm 58. Devotionables #787 - Psalm 58Psalm 58The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
David is on the run from Saul, fearing for his life. Despite the situation, David continues to praise the Lord and has faith in His faithfulness. Devotionables #786 - Faith in the Face of FearPsalm 57The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
David is surrounded again by men who desire to harm him. He's afraid, but he knows the Lord will deliver him; he feels the Lord's concern for him; therefore, he trusts in the Lord and thanks him. Devotionables #785 - In the Day of My FearPsalm 56The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Rob Patterson as he shares today's Devotionable on Psalm 55. Devotionables #784 - Psalm 55Psalm 55The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
David cries out to the Lord for salvation and is so confident that the Lord hears him that he begins to make plans following his deliverance. Devotionables #783 - Save Me, O God, By Your NamePsalm 54The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Noah as he shares from Psalm 53. Believers find blessing as they are faithful to God. Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Psalm 52, we see a comparison between the wicked, who love evil and trust in their wealth, and the righteous, who trust in the steadfast love of God. The wicked will be uprooted while the righteous, like a green olive tree, will flourish.Devotionables #781 - The Steadfast Love of GodPsalm 52The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Most Christians know Psalm 51 as David's great prayer of repentance. Consider how David describes our sinful state, our need for God, God's faithful character, and the right responses to receiving forgiveness. Jeff DeWalt shares today's Devotionable. Devotionables #780 - Psalm 51 – Not Only A PrayerPsalm 51The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 50 explains that God owns everything, yet he still desires his people. Join Hayden Jaco as he shares today's Devotionable. Devotionables #779 - The Great ExchangePsalm 50The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 49, a wisdom psalm, helps believers to know how to deal with money by observing the lives of those who treasure wealth over trusting God. Join Brandon as he teaches on today's Devotionable.Devotionables #778 - Money Today, Gone TomorrowPsalm 49The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Many times we feel a battle raging around and against us. But for those in Christ, we are able to have peace in the midst of trouble. Psalm 48 reminds us that God is our unassailable, unfailing, undefeatable stronghold.Devotionables #777 - God is our StrongholdPsalm 48The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The Lord reigns! He is exalted all over the earth, victorious, and people worldwide will sing and shout!Devotionables #776 - The Conquering HeroPsalm 47The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join us as we look at Psalm 46 and study how God is our strength and a very present help in times of trouble.Devotionables #775 - God: Our Refuge and StrengthPsalm 46The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Isaac Buckner walks us through Psalm 45, our righteous King, and his relationship with his people. Devotionables #774 - The Royal WeddingPsalm 45The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Derek Riley helps us work through the various themes of Psalm 44 - medicine for desperate souls. Devotionables #773 - Medicine for Desperate SoulsPsalm 44The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Cole McCollum walks us through Psalms 43 in part two of longing for God in the wilderness of life. Devotionables #772 - Longing for God in the Wilderness, Part 2 Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Do you find yourself in the wilderness of life? Cole McCollum walks us through Psalms 42-43 as the psalmist discusses how to handle the unexpected. Devotionables #771 - Longing for God in the Wilderness, Part 1Psalm 42The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Those who lean on God's grace and walk with Christ will be received in perfect health and walk with him at the resurrection. The devil will tell us what we deserve and seek to steal our lives, but in grace, we have the promise of salvation and can confidently believe we will be raised to walk with him forever. Join Nick Rubesha as he teaches Psalm 41 today. Devotionables #770 - God Delivers Us from Sin and Our EnemiesPsalm 41The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Are you waiting patiently for an answer that should have been here long ago? You are not alone. David knows how to wait and celebrate. Join Mike Witt as he teaches Psalm 40.Devotionables #769 - The Answer is Here...AlmostPsalm 40The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Pastor Philip walks us through Psalm 39.Devotionables #768 - Psalm 39Psalm 39The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Derek Jones encourages us from Psalm 38.Devotionables #767 - Psalm 38Psalm 38The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Psalm 37, David teaches us how to resist the temptation to worry about the prosperity of those who do not trust or obey God. Devotionables #766 - The Fleeting Prosperity of the WickedPsalm 37The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The psalmist contrasts the wicked's self-focused character with the loving God's glory and goodness. Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Daustin helps us understand why context matters when reading Scripture talking about enemies. Devotionables #764 - On The Run: An Imprecatory PsalmPsalm 35The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 34 reminds us that the Lord is near to the broken hearted. Join Tim as he teaches today's Devotionable. Devotionables #763 - DeliverancePsalm 34The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 33 praises God for his attributes, Word, and involvement in our lives. Join Brandon today as he helps us understand the truths of Psalm 33. Devotionables #762 - Praise Him!Psalm 33The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Chad Padgett teaches Psalm 32, which centers on David's dealing with personal sin. Believers must acknowledge sin and confess it to the Lord for forgiveness. Devotionables #761 - David's SinPsalm 32The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
David expresses his refuge in God as he writes Psalm 31. Clayton Graham helps us understand the importance of believers finding true refuge in God alone. Devotionables #760 - Finding Refuge in GodPsalm 31The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 30 is a beautiful picture of the joy we have in Christ, a joy that we can trust in, even when it seems far away.Devotionables #759 - Joy Comes in the MorningPsalm 30The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 29 is a call to worship the Lord as we reflect on His glory and splendor, particularly seen in His voice. Join Pastor Adam in today's Devotionable.Devotionables #758 - The Glory of the Voice of the LordPsalm 29The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In times of deep distress, we have all prayed intensely for the Lord to deliver us. Psalm 28 helps us to see four things to keep in mind as we seek God's help. Devotionables #757 - A Prayer for the DesperatePsalm 28The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
If you found yourself standing before the LORD and able to ask of him anything, what would you ask of him? David's heart and confidence come through in Psalm 27 as he declares that the one thing he wants is God himself!Devotionables #756 - What Would You Ask of the Lord?Psalm 27The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Today's world is filled with things that distract us and compete for our attention. David teaches us that we can walk in integrity when we keep God's love before our eyes and worship Him.Devotionables #755 - Keep Your Eyes on the Steadfast Love of GodPsalm 26The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
PSALM 25 Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 24 celebrates the King of Glory as David worships the King. Believers should prepare their hearts to worship the King. Devotionables #753 - A Psalm Fit for a KingPsalm 24The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 23 is the most well-known and beloved Psalm in the Psalter. David, the shepherd boy turned King, sings of the sweet blessings of having God as his shepherd. Can you say with David, "The Lord is My Shepherd."?Devotionables #752 - The Shepherd's ShepherdPsalm 23The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 22 reminds us that God will deliver his people from their afflictions. Join Scott Hardy as he teaches today's Devotionable. Devotionables #751 - Forsaken to Be DeliveredPsalm 22The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 21 describes God's blessing upon those who trust him and flourish in his lovingkindness. It also describes God's bane upon those who do not fear him but are against God and his people. Join Abe as he teaches Psalm 21 today. Translation Link (Phone) - https://qrco.de/bfkjdpTranslation Link (Tablet) - https://qrco.de/bfkjW6Devotionables #750 - Psalm 21Psalm 21The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
As the Israelites prepared for battle, they reminded themselves that their trust was not in chariots or horses but in the LORD, who gives salvation. Devotionables #749 - Battle CryPsalm 20The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The skies speak of God's glory, but the Scriptures reveal God's glory to us even more as he draws near to us through His Word. Devotionables - Glory GazingPsalm 19The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
David praises God, who is His Rock. Believers can cling to Jesus, the Rock, as they endure the trials of life. Devotionables #747 - The RockPsalm 18The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
David often received harsh words and false accusations. Psalm 17 helps us learn how to respond when we face the same challenges.Devotionables #746 - What to do When Falsely AccusedPsalm 17The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
David again finds himself in the middle of a problem, and as is his modus operandi, he takes his troubles to the LORD in prayer. His prayer quickly turns to praise and a future hope that God will never abandon the righteous, not even in death. Devotionables #745 - Resurrection PsalmPsalm 16The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Chad Padgett discusses Psalm 15 in today's Devotionable.Psalm 15The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul Cook leads us through Psalm 14. Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
How Long, O Lord? This question of David resonates in all of our hearts at some point. Join Bailey Marzan as we walk through Psalm 13 together. Devotionables #742 - How Long, O Lord?Psalm 13The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Brandon today as he teaches from Psalm 12. David finds trust in God to face a wicked world by trusting God's Word. Believers have peace from Christ when facing uncertain days. Devotionables #741 - Wickedness, World Peace, and the Word of GodPsalm 12The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In despair or trouble, there is a temptation to fly from God to false security. By faith, we embrace the truth about God & take refuge in Him. Join Zach Fischer as he shares today's Devotionable.Devotionables #740 - Faith or FlightPsalm 11The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Hayden Jaco explains in Psalm 10 that God is near to His children when they are hurting. God will never forsake us. Devotionables #739 - God is NearPsalm 10The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The troubles of each day are plentiful. Those who trust in the name of the LORD do so because He never forsakes those who seek Him. Join Deacon Timothy Babatunde as he shares insights from Psalm 9.Devotionables #738 - Trust the LordPsalm 9The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Hunter Wesson teaches on the majesty and glory of our God from Psalm 8. Devotionables #737 - Majesty and Glory Psalm 8The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Brandon Pisacrita takes us through this song of David in Psalm 7.Devotionables #736 - Psalm 7Psalm 7The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
David is a man of persistent prayer. Persistent prayer is fueled by anchoring God's promises and faithfulness deep in our hearts with the Word of God. Devotionables #735 - Anchor DownPsalm 6The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 5 continues to contrast the righteous and the wicked. David asks the Lord to lead him in righteousness. Devotionables #734 - Lead Me in RighteousnessPsalm 5The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
An evening hymn written by a king who knew what it was like to be afraid. David took his fears in prayer to the Lord. No matter what we face, Psalm 4 teaches us that true peace and joy come from the LORD, who is in control and loves us very much. Devotionables #733 - Psalm 4: Peace and WarPsalm 4The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Who do you call when you are in trouble? The Bible encourages disciples to pray to the Lord. No matter our situation, the Lord hears our prayers and answers us when we call. He is our refuge, and salvation belongs to him.*PS - the Spurgeon quote butchered in the podcast is supposed to be, "Prayer is an open door which none can shut. Devils may surround you on all sides, but the way upward is always open." — Charles SpurgeonDevotionables #732 - Who You Gonna Call?Psalm 3The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalms 1 & 2 are the entryway into the Psalms and provide a lens with which we should read the Psalms. Psalm 1 begins with a blessing, and Psalm 2 ends with a blessing. Blessed are all who take refuge in him!Devotionables #731 - King's RefugePsalm 2The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
A new season of Devotionables starts today! This year, we will journey through the Psalms. Pastor Blakes gets us started in Psalm 1, exhorting us to keep God at the center of our lives by delighting, meditating, and standing firm on the Word of God.Devotionables #730 - Psalm 1Psalm 1The Psalms Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
As our Bible reading plan ends, join Brandon as we discuss the final chapter. Come, Lord Jesus!Devotionables #729 - That's A WrapRevelation 22Blue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Revelation 3, Jesus gives three promises to those who conquer by persevering in faithfulness to the end. These promises serve as both an encouragement and an exhortation to us today.Devotionables #728 - Promises for the FaithfulRevelation 3Blue Letter Bible Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Deacon Octavio Castano as he teaches the importance of Christian fellowship from 1 John. Devotionables #727 - What A Fellowship1 John 1Blue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Hebrews 13 and 2 Timothy, we see two very different books written by different authors for various audiences. At the same time, both books point us to the one eternal hope we have in Jesus Christ.Devotionables #726 - Hope in the Eternal CovenantHebrews 13 & 2 TimothyBlue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Matthew Walden exhorts us with the words from Hebrews to approach God's throne of grace with confidence. We have a great High Priest, Jesus, who is able to sympathize with our weaknesses.Devotionables #725 - Boldness Before GodHebrews 4:14-16Blue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul warns Timothy of two traps to avoid. Pastor Adam Cole helps us consider these warnings in today's Devotionable.Devotionables #724 - Two Traps Christians Should Avoid1 Timothy 6Blue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Brandon encourages us to Stand Firm in today's Devotionable from Ephesians. Devotionables #723 - Stand FirmEphesians 6Blue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul is marching to Rome in chains as he must appear before Ceasar to testify about Jesus Christ. His journey has been dangerous and laborious, but God has brought him there safely. This story reminds us that we are to trust in God alone and not the idols of our age while taking courage with the strength he supplies daily. Devotionables #722 - Trust in God and Take CourageActs 28Blue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In today's Devotionable, deacon Gregg Oneal brings truth from Acts 22-24 about Paul and Ananias and their example of being prepared and ready for God to use them. Believers are to be ready and prepared for God to use us. Devotionables #721 - Be Prepared, Be ReadyActs 22-24Blue Letter Bible Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Brodie leads us in today's Devotionable from Romans 14. Devotionables #720 - Unity in DisagreementRomans 14Blue Letter Bible Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Chapters 3-5 of Paul’s letter to the Romans are some of the most beautiful and profound chapters in the whole Bible. Today, Isaac briefly walks us through the most important highlights.Devotionables #719 - A Quick TourRomans 3-5Blue Letter Bible Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In 2 Corinthians 9, Paul walks us through how to give generously by pointing to the example of the Church in Corinth. Peter Holmes shares today's Devotionable. Devotionables #718 - The Generous Giver2 Corinthians 9Blue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul begins 2 Corinthians with encouraging words for those experiencing suffering and affliction. God is faithful and brings us comfort. We should comfort others with the comfort we have received from God. Devotionables #717 - Comfort Needed, Received, and Offered2 Corinthians 1Blue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
It is easy in today's world to talk about how wicked the culture is, but how often do we stop to examine ourselves? Join Ethan Hinkson as he teaches from 1 Corinthians 6 on how to respond to indwelling sin. Devotionables #716 - Be Who You Are, Not Who You Were1 Corinthians 6Blue Letter Bible Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
What do you do when you face uncertainty? Join Chris Roberts as he teaches how 2 Thessalonians 2 encourages us when the future is troubling or uncertain.Devotionables #715 - Stand Firm2 Thessalonians 2Blue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Christ came to set us free from the bondage of sin and the law. Christians must drop the “checklist” and live in the freedom of the gospel of grace.Devotionables #714 - Freedom from the ChecklistGalatiansBlue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
A faith at work allows and displays the process of sanctification. Join Jesse Rodriguez as he shares today's Devotionable from the book of James. Devotionables #713 - A Faith at WorkJamesBlue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
When a Roman centurion's prayers reached heaven, God was about to change the course of religious history forever. Acts 10 includes the revolutionary story of Cornelius, whose encounter with Peter would break down centuries-old barriers and show that God's grace extends to all people.Devotionables #712 - From Outsider to Family: The Revolutionary StoryActs 10Blue Letter Bible Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Like the early church, God gives us opportunities & support to demonstrate courage in the face of opposition. Join Derek Jones as he shares from Acts 5. Devotionables #711 - God's Sovereignty and CourageActs 5:27-42Blue Letter Bible Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jesus had died. A glorious realization replaced the disciple's confusion and doubt. Join Seth as he shares insights from John 20. Devotionables #710 - From Fear to FaithJohn 20Blue Letter Bible Plan Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The death of Jesus is the darkest moment in human history. Who is responsible for his death? Why would anyone want to kill him? Why did Jesus have to die? Thankfully, the Bible provides answers to these questions. Devotionables #709 - Who Killed Jesus?Mark 15:37Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
When we pray in Jesus' name, we can expect God to hear us and answer our prayers for His glory.Devotionables #708 - In My NameJohn 14-16Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Do not be alarmed regarding the events of the Lord's return; instead, be alert. Our King is coming soon!Devotionables #707 - Has Jesus Already Returned?Matthew 25Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jesus instructs his followers that their words and actions should be aligned, unlike the hypocritical lives of the Pharisees and scribes. Devotionables #706 - Whitewashed TombsMatthew 23Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Today, we're looking at Luke 19 as Jesus explains why He came to earth and for all He's about to do in Jerusalem. Devotionables #705 - Lost and FoundLuke 19:1-10Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join us today as we consider how the raising of Lazarus gives us present hope and points us to future glory. Devotionables #704 - Four Days Late Yet Right on TimeJohn 11Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Life in a fallen world can often lead us to ask, "Why do bad things happen to good people?" This question is not new to our generation. Jesus addresses the same thinking in Luke 13.Devotionables #703 - Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?Luke 13Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd, and as redeemed people, we are His sheep. One aspect of this beautiful relationship is that the Shepherd knows his sheep, and the sheep know and listen only to the voice of the Shepherd. Devotionables #702 - Knowledge of Shepherd and SheepJohn 10Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Matthew 16, Jesus asks his disciples who they say he is. How we answer this question is the most important thing about us and sets the direction of our entire lives. Devotionables #701 - Who Do You Say That I Am?Matthew 16Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Luke 9:51 marks a pivot point in Jesus's life and ministry. Luke records this shift and focus of Jesus as he begins his journey to the cross to do the will of his Father and die for his sheep. So, with an eagle-eyed determination, Jesus sets his face toward Jerusalem. Devotionables #700 - Eagle-Eyed DeterminationLuke 9:51Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Hear as Derek shares with us from Mark chapter 5 about our only hope in life and death - Jesus Christ our Savior.Devotionables #699 - It Happened on the Way to Jairus' HouseMark 5Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The Lord is fully engaged in His ministry. However, as we can see over time, that level of engagement is not always common among people. Join Greg as he discusses today's Scripture reading. Devotionables #698 - DriftingDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Luke chapter 6, Jesus asks a sharp question: "Why do you call me Lord but don't do the things I say?" Christ calls for a personal faith that leads to personal obedience. Join Hayden as he breaks down this question posed by Jesus.Devotionables #697 - Saved by Association?Luke 6Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Ryan as he teaches from Matthew 8. Jesus is bigger than all we face. Devotionables #696 - Jesus is BiggerMatthew 8Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God is at work even when we are unaware; he often does his most outstanding work amid the darkness around us. Jesus came at a dark time and for dark hearts. He comes not only to die for our sins but to live a perfect, obedient life unto God so that he might give his people his righteousness.Devotionables #695 - John the Baptist, Jesus, and YouLuke 3Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
John 1 opens with a declaration of Jesus' deity. The chapter develops as the first few disciples follow Jesus and record a recent convert sharing about Jesus. Believers should know Jesus, follow Him, and tell others about Him. Devotionables #694 - Know HimJohn 1Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The people of Israel are back in the promised land, but they are not yet pure or holy. Jesus is the way to holiness and purity for believers. Devotionables #693 - In the Land, But Not Yet PureNehemiah 12 & 13Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Nehemiah 4 records just one account of opposition to God's work through Nehemiah's rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. Believers should expect to face opposition but can rest assured in trusting God to move for His glory. Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Today's Devotionable features Pastor Philip sharing insights from the book of Ezra.Devotionables #691 - EzraEzraBlue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God's people are to be courageous. Esther is a remarkable example of what it looks like to follow God with courage and faith. We can become more courageous by fearing God more than man, recalling God's faithfulness, and trusting him with our future. Devotionables #690 - The Cowardice EpidemicEstherBlue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Derek Riley spends some time with us in the book of Zechariah. Devotionables #689 - ZechariahZechariahBlue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The prophet Haggai urges the remnant of Israel to consider their ways and motivates them to begin rebuilding the temple. By being faithful to the Lord, believers can be sure that obedience leads to blessings.Devotionables #688 - Consider Your WaysHaggai 1-2Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God is always on time. He's the one who pencils in all of life's events on the calendar. Everything happens according to his will and in his time. Devotionables #687 - In His TimeEzra 1-2Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Daniel 5 and 6, we see the 80-year-old Daniel living faithfully for God despite hard choices, great blessings, and intense persecution. His story challenges us to live faithfully for God until the end, no matter life’s changing circumstances. Devotionables #686 - Living Faithfully Until the EndDaniel 5 - 6Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The book of Daniel reveals God’s sovereignty from beginning to end. Listen in to learn more about the six aspects of God’s sovereignty and the establishment of His kingdom. Devotionables #685 - Six Aspects of God's SovereigntyDaniel 1-2Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Brandon as we understand the final chapters of Ezekiel. God is in the details of our lives. Devotionables #684 - The God of DetailEzekiel 40-48Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God is the God of history. He is in control, and he writes the script. He acts with all wisdom, power, and goodness so that all the earth might know that he is the true God, the judge, and the redeemer. Devotionables #683 - That You Might KnowEzekiel 39Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In the OT, God's people constantly turned from Him. In Ezekiel 35-36, the Lord declares that He will intervene, changing the hearts of His people for His glory. As New Testament believers, we see the fulfillment of this prophetic promise in the Spirit's presence in every believer. Devotionables #682 - Able or NotEzekiel 35-36Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Ezekiel 30-32, we read five of the seven oracles concerning Egypt & see God's plan played out throughout the world. Devotionables #681 - The Cedar FallsEzekiel 30-32 Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Through Ezekiel, the Lord speaks to Israel concerning judgment for their unrepentant sins. Looking forward to Jesus, believers can find regular repentance and forgiveness. Devotionables #680 - Great Consequences for IsraelEzekiel 22-23Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Daustin as he helps bring understanding to personal responsibility regarding faith. Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Believers must be careful who they listen to and ensure the messages they hear align with what God says through Scripture. Happy talk, which conveniently leaves out a warning of coming judgment, is full of deceit.Devotionables #678 - Do You Hear What I Hear? False Prophets of Don't Worry, Be HappyEzekiel 13-15Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Ezekiel 3-5, God calls Ezekiel to proclaim judgment on Israel. His actions might seem strange to us, but they reveal a life submitted to God's call and God's commitment to his covenant.Devotionables #677 - Unclean Bread and Shaved HeadEzekiel 3-5Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Lamentations 3 is a lament in which the author is lamenting the fall of Jerusalem. Yet there is a pivot point in the middle of the lament, at which he musters up his mercy recall. Even in light of all the circumstances, he realizes that the Lord's mercies are inexhaustible. Devotionables #676 - Mercy, Mercy, MercyLamentations 3Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jeremiah portrays the Lord as the righteous, just, and sovereign judge over all the earth. Devotionables #675 - The JudgeJeremiah 51Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jeremiah is prophesying the destruction of the nations of Egypt, Philistia, and Moab. Despite their destruction, he promises to leave a remnant of them and to redeem them in the later days.Devotionables #674 - Redemption Amidst the DestructionJeremiah 45-48Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
As we come to 2 Chronicles 36, we read about the fall of the kingdom of Judah. Join Derek as he shows us that even the failure of these kings of Judah serves to point us to King Jesus.Devotionables #673 - A Failing Kingdom and the Promises of God2 Chronicles 36Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jeremiah 37-38 tells the story of a faithful prophet who shares a message of impending doom for a nation and finds himself persecuted. As believers, we are called to share the message of salvation and faithfully endure. Devotionables #672 - A Message Fit for A KingJeremiah 37-38Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Cole McCollum walks us through Jeremiah 30-31, bringing our attention to the prophet's shift in message – a word of hope.Devotionables #671 - A Word of HopeJeremiah 30-31Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
What happens when a wicked people receive bad news? Today, as we look at Jeremiah 25 and 26, we will examine what happens to the prophet Jeremiah when he gives a message of bad news from God to the people of Judah.Devotionables #670 - Bad News for Wicked PeopleJeremiah 25-26Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God warns the people of Judah through Jeremiah using a potter's perspective. The Lord's grace was extended to those who would repent and trust. Join Brandon as we discuss allowing the Potter to shape us for His glory. Devotionables #669 - Shaped by the PotterJeremiah 18:1-12Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The heart of rebellion is a lack of knowledge of the steadfast love, justice, and righteousness of God.Devotionables #668 - The Heart of RebellionJeremiah 9Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Reading the can be difficult at times, so Derek encourages us to see the gospel written in Big Letters across the book of Jeremiah.Devotionables #667 - From the Least of Them to the Greatest of ThemJeremiah 4-6Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God has intentionally placed you where you are to accomplish His work. The good news is that He doesn't leave you there alone; He is with you always.Devotionables #666 - Planted for A PurposeJeremiah 1Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Have you ever faced hardship at the hands of an enemy? Join Brandon today as he discusses the book of Nahum and describes how God deals with the enemies of his chosen people.Devotionables #665 - Dodgeball, Nahum, and the Sovereign of GodNahumBlue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God seeks after us even if we aren't looking for Him. He is always seeking to restore us to Him.Devotionables #664 - Here Am IIsaiah 64-66 Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God promised a redeemer for all nations through the Prophet Isaiah, and God’s promise has been fulfilled. Join Hayden Jaco as he shares in today's Devotionable. Devotionables #663 - God's Word Does Not Come Back VoidIsaiah 55Blue Letter Bible PlanBlue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Isaiah 47 - 48 reminds us that God is sovereign over all kingdoms, that he disciplines those he loves, that the judgment of the wicked is certain, and that peace with God can only be found in God. Devotionables #662 - Time's UpIsaiah 47-48Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Jerry Adamson as he discusses truths from the book of Isaiah 41-43. Devotionables #661 - The Lord's Chosen ServantIsaiah 42-43Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
It is easy for us to get caught up in the details of life and be unaware of the spiritual war all around us. Isaiah 36-37 shows how this plays out in Israel’s conflict with Assyria.Devotionables #660 - The War We Cannot SeeIsaiah 36-37Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Chad Padgett walks us through Hosea 11. Devotionables #659 - God is FaithfulHosea 11Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Jon Beougher as he shares from Hosea. Judgment is inevitable, yet for us, in Christ, we are reconciled completely. Devotionables #658 - A Glimpse of ReconciliationHosea 1Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Death is often uncomfortable to think about, but the Bible teaches us we have nothing to fear. Isaiah gives us three pictures of the hope we have in Christ, even in the face of death.Devotionables #657 - Joy in the House of MourningIsaiah 25:6-9Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Greg Brewster as he shares a summary of 2 Kings 17. Greg helps us understand an evil king's actions that brought consequences for a whole nation. Devotionables #656 - Actions Have Consequences2 Kings 17Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
A specific promise from the prophet Micah gives hope to Christians today. As foretold long ago, Jesus came to be our promised Messiah. Devotionables #655 - The Promise of the MessiahMicah 5:2-4Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
How do you handle the unexpected? Join Brandon today as he teaches us about the coming Christ child Isaiah describes as the Prince of Peace. Jesus offers peace to us as we deal with life's unexpected turns. Devotionables #654 - Peace in the Hustle and Bustle of LifeIsaiah 9Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In the Vineyard Song, we read a poignant poem about the Lord's care for his vineyard, Israel. Instead of producing grapes, Israel wasted the Lord's work by producing rotten fruit, which incurred the Lord's righteous judgment. Devotionables #653 - What Kind of Vineyard Will You Be?Isaiah 5:1-7Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
A great fish providentially swallows up the prophet Jonah. That, however, is not the most jaw-dropping event of this book. Devotionables #652 - Salvation Belongs to the LordJonahBlue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In the midst of leadership succession in Israel, we see three kings and a queen, which only enhances our desire for our true King Jesus to come and reign!Devotionables #651 - Kings, Queen, and The King to Come2 Kings 11-12Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Isaac Reff as he helps us understand 2 Kings 5: a prophet, a leper, and a river. Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
One of the most repeated commands in Scripture is, "Do NOT be afraid." The people of God are to be courageous because God is on our side and will deliver us from all of our foes. Devotionables #649 - Call to Courage2 Chronicles 20Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Scott Hardy leads us through 2 Kings 1-2 in today's devotional, reminding us to heed Jesus' words, turn from our sins, and cling to Jesus for life. Devotionables #648 - Cling to Jesus for Life2 Kings 1-2Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Elijah used a dramatic contest on Mount Carmel to challenge the king, Ahab, and the people of Israel to choose between the True God, the Lord & the false god, Baal. When they turned their hearts back to God, He ended the drought by sending a significant rain after withholding it for 3.5 years.Devotionables #647 - Only Worship the True God1 Kings 18Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In a day when evil appears to be running amuck, Christians must have the courage to stand firm in the truths of Scripture. Pastor Blake helps us consider the third king of Judah, King Asa, & the bravery he demonstrated when facing a nation in spiritual ruin. Devotionables #646 - Good Men Doing Nothing Isn't an Option2 Chronicles 13-15Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The cycle of brokenness continues in Scripture's storyline while God's people continue to await the promised one who will fix it once and for all. Devotionables #645 - Fix It, Daddy!1 Kings 11-13Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Consider for a moment all the the Lord has gifted and entrusted to you. Are you stewarding these things well? Are they drawing you closer to the Lord? Heed the warning from Solomon's life. Devotionables #644 - The Dangerous Draw of Deceptive SuccessLife & Writings of SolomonBlue Letter PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Join Brandon as he gives a brief overview of the first few chapters of Ecclesiastes. Devotionables #643 - Wisdom From EcclesiastesEcclesiastesBlue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
We are called to honor God in all areas of our lives. Josh Obeng shares thoughts from Proverbs 25, which show us how to steward our relationships with others and the blessings God has given us. Devotionables #642 - Living A Life Pleasing to the LORDProverbs 25Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul Cook talks about the dedication of the temple. Devotionables #641 - Temple Dedication1 Kings 8Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
As we look at Solomon's construction, Derek Jones helps us consider some points of application for our own work. Devotionables #640 - Build Together: God's Generational Faithfulness1 Kings 5 - 6Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Our words can bring blessing or curse. Brandon walks us through select verses from Proverbs 16-19 to help us consider using wisdom when using our words.Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Robby Skaggs speaks to us today about pursuing wisdom and the gospel. Please give a listen as we learn to protect our families against sin. Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 72 is David's last prayer in the Bible. Solomon recorded this prayer that his father prayed for him before taking the throne. While David's prayers come to an end, the Lord Jesus' prayers never end, as he lives forever making intercession for us. In light of that, we should pray big, focused, promise-backed prayers to God, who alone does wonderful things. Devotionables #637 - The Prayers of Jesus Never EndPsalm 72Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The strength of youth is lost in the strength of age. Kory Zakeri helps us deal with the words of Psalm 71. Devotionables #636 - Now That I'm OldPsalm 71Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 127 encourages us to rely on God in all things and find rest in him. As we learn to trust the Lord, he blesses our closest relationships: our family. Devotionables #635 - Reliance and RestPsalm 127Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Psalm 143, we see that petitions made to God should be rooted in God's righteousness & character, not our own apart from Him. Our prayers must be accompanied by action on our part! Pray as though everything depends on God & work as if everything depends on you.Devotionables #634 - How to Pray Prayers God AnswersPsalm 143Blue Letter Bible Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Psalm 30, David praises God for saving his life again. Through the highs & lows, David remembered that God was in control. Tough days will come, but joy comes in the morning. Devotionables #633 - Joy Comes in the MorningPsalm 30Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
2 Samuel 24 includes the story of King David counting his army. This displeased the Lord, and David was convicted in his heart. He sought the Lord for mercy. Though there was discipline and consequences, the Lord was more merciful than any other alternative. We should seek the Lord for help and mercy. Devotionables #632 - Prayers in My Pocket2 Samuel 24Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The Psalms are the Bible's prayer book, but some seem less relatable than others. How can we, like David, plead our innocence before the LORD?Devotionables #631 - Is David Actually Innocent?Psalm 26Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
2 Samuel 11 records some of David's most heinous sins. Chapter 12 shows God graciously leading the prophet Nathan to confront him. David confesses his sins and receives forgiveness from the deep fountain of God's mercy. So much has been written and preached about in these chapters. Today, we'll look at a couple of practical matters regarding confronting others in love and responding well when we are confronted. Devotionables #630 - The Confrontation2 Samuel 11-12, Psalm 51Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
When the waters of life are crashing overhead, and there appears to be no end to the season, how do we move from desperation to praise and thanksgiving? Hunter Jenks helps us observe David's heart change in Psalm 69.Devotionables #629 - Walking with David from Despair to PraisePsalm 69Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Psalm 33, the Psalmist urges God’s people to shout praises and make music to the Lord because He is infinitely worthy of praise.Devotionables #628 - Praise Befits the UprightPsalm 33Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 89 is a song about the steadfast love of the LORD. It reminds us of his faithfulness no matter what happens in our lives or the world around us. God remains faithful. His covenant is sure becuase he is reliable. He never changes. He will bring about all his promises.Devotionables #627 - Singing of His Steadfast LovePsalm 89:34Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 106 is a poetic reflection on Israel’s repeated rebellion against God throughout their history and His faithful forgiveness of His people. The Psalmist calls on God to act the same way towards him and the current Israelites and forgive them. Devotionables #626 - What's Your Story Song?Psalm 106Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Psalm 103, the psalmist praises the Lord for His work in his life. Believers should regularly bless the Lord for all the good He does in our lives. Devotionables #625 - Bless the Lord!Psalm 103Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Sometimes, our pain is deep, and God seems silent. Psalm 88 gives us language for this experience and encouragement to press into God. Devotionables #624 - Learning to LamentPsalm 88Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In a hopeless situation? The Psalmist reveals how hope in God brings exceeding joy even amid great difficulties.Devotionables #623 - Finding Joy in Hopeless CircumstancesPsalm 43Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The Lord of all Creation cares & provides for us. Even as flawed beings, God cares for us more than we ever know or see. Join Seth Penny as he teaches Psalm 8. Devotionables #622 - God's Incomprehensible MajestyPsalm 8Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 121 is a song of ascent that encourages the reader to praise the LORD. In this psalm, the author praises God for keeping him and loving him unconditionally.Devotionables #621 - The LORD is Our KeeperPsalm 121Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
David's situation seems bleak. He is fleeing for his life from King Saul. David's trust in God is an example to believers today. Believers should offer their situation to God in faith and allow Him time to work the situation for our good and His glory. Devotionables #619 - Worried? Why Wait?1 SamuelBlue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
David is on the run yet obedient to God. Saul is pursuing David, not realizing he is truly pursuing his own selfish desires while feigning faithfulness to God.Devotionables #618 - One Samuel, Two Kings1 SamuelBlue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The LORD fights for His people, who have confidence in him. The LORD fights to uphold the glory of his name so that all nations may know Him. Devotionables #618 - The LORD of Host is with Us1 Samuel Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Saul becoming the first king of Israel should be a joyous occasion, yet it is evident in 1 Samuel 10-12 that by making Saul king, Israel is rejecting Yahweh. Israel is in danger of forgetting her roots, a fear of the Lord. Without roots, Israel's end will be the same as cut flowers: while they may appear okay for a while, eventually, they wither & decay.Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
When God's people forget what He has done, the Lord often employs disaster and defeat to lovingly break our earthly schemes and lead us to repentance and humble trust in Him.Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
A brief overview of the Book of Ruth shows that Ruth was faithful in everyday life. God regularly moves through the mundane parts of life to bless His people as they are faithful to Him.Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Judges 16 chronicles a war tactic from the evil Philistines against Samson; deception causes Samson to lose his strength. Believers, beware of the consequences of our choices.Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
While Israel's failures mounted, they turned to a deliverer with significant flaws. This action pointed to what was Israel's greatest problem and the need for a better deliverer.Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The Lord provides triumphant victory for Israel. Sadly, the cycle continues, and tragedy ensues. Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God still needs leaders who will call us to worship God with all our hearts and souls and obey His word.Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God always gives His people what they need. Too often, His people forget how well He cares for them. Devotionables #610 - The Perfect AmountJoshuaBlue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Joshua and the people of Israel finally conquer the promised land and defeat an old enemy. God is faithful even when we are not. Devotionables #609 - God Wins All BattlesJoshua 11Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Joshua 5 accounts for the renewal of God's people's faithfulness as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. God is faithful to His promises, and we can trust that what He has promised will come to pass. Devotionables #608 - A Call for Renewed FaithfulnessJoshua 5Blue Letter Reading PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
As Deuteronomy and the Books of Moses come to a close, Moses gives a song to the people to encourage and keep them. And because it is a song rooted in the goodness and faithfulness of God, it's a song that echoes into eternity. Devotionable #607 - The Song of MosesDeuteronomy Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
A significant portion of Moses' farewell address calls the Israelites to listen to and obey the law of the Lord. The Lord promises certain blessings for obedience and sure judgments for disobedience. Brandon Pisacrita helps us consider these blessings and curses in today's devotionable.Devotionables #606 - God's Blessing vs. God's CurseDeuteronomy 28Blue Letter Reading PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Anyone convicted of capital punishment and hanged on a tree is cursed by God. We are convicted against the Almighty, but His Son was hung on the tree and accursed in our place; how should we respond but with complete devotion to the One who redeemed us!?!Devotionables #605 - The God Accursed OneDeuteronomy 21 The Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
So many things in this world seek to lure us away from Christ, but they are not new. Thankfully, the Israelites' instruction in Deuteronomy 13 teaches us how to hold fast to our Lord.Devotionables #604 - Enduring Prophets, People, and PoliticsDeuteronomy 13Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Deuteronomy 4:44–11:32, Moses expounds on the greatest commandment and shows us how loving the Lord with all results in God-centered obedience in every corner of our lives. Devotionables #603 - Expouding the Greatest CommandmentDeuteronomy 4-11Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God has graciously provided His people with His law to convict of sin, restrain evil, and reveal how we may please Him in our lives. Deuteronomy expounds & applies His law. God does not intend for us to live "every man for himself." When God grants us victory and blessing in our spiritual walk, look to your brother or sister who's still in the fight. Devotionables #602 - The Three Uses of the LawDeuteronomy 1 & 2Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God does not intend for us to live "every man for himself." When God grants us victory & blessing in our spiritual walk, look to your brother or sister who's still in the fight. Devotionables #601 - My Brother's Battles Are MineNumbers 32-33Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
A new day comes when God appoints a new leader for the Israelites. Moses comes to terms with only glancing at the Promised Land while a new leader, Joshua, rises to leadership. Devotionables #600 - A New DayNumbers 27Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Moses & Aaron prayed to God to provide water for His people, but Moses didn't listen to God's instructions about bringing water from the rock. The people of Israel get their water, but Moses loses out on getting into the Promised Land because of his pride & unbelief. Devotionables #599 - Who Gets the Glory?Numbers 20Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Psalm 90 records a prayer of Moses. The psalm reminds its readers that since time is fleeting for man, we should order our days with God's wisdom so that our lives reflect His glory. Devotionables #598 - A Timely MatterPsalm 90Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God knows exactly what we need, and He provides it. We should be mindful of God's provision and not desire satisfaction for our physical & emotional appetites. Devotionables #597 - Be Careful What You Wish ForNumbers 11Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Numbers 3 & 4, God demonstrates the importance of His presence to His people and the demands of His holiness. Through the Levite census, He gracefully provides a way for people to worship Him.Devotionables #596 - The Census and God's Presence with His PeopleNumbers 3-4Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Leviticus 26-27, God explains the two routes of life: blessing for the faithful & destruction for the wicked. God adds that if you do fall away, He will always be there to accept a repentant heart. Devotionables #595 - God Blesses the ObedientLeviticus 26-27Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Holiness is one of the central themes of the book of Leviticus. Join Derek as he looks at Leviticus 22 to learn more about what the book of Leviticus has to say about God's holiness and the holiness of his people.Devotionables #594 - Holiness from GodLeviticus 22Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Why is the Day of Atonement the center of the Pentateuch? The answer is because the Day of Atonement dramatizes the I hope that God will reverse the fall of Genesis 3 by means of substitutionary atonement.Devotionables #593 - The Drama of RedemptionLeviticus 16Blue Letter Bible PlanDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Leviticus 11 can be a puzzling passage for Christians today. What do New Covenant believers do with passages that don't seem to apply to them anymore? Join Josh Headrick as we discuss!Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Adam Howell sheds light on Leviticus 6-7. From the Old Testament and New Testament, Jesus was our way to cover our sins & guilt. Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Chad Padgett puts a bow on Exodus for us.Devotionables #590 - End of ExodusDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Exodus 32 takes us to the Israelites and their creation of the golden calf for worship. We will see how we are not much different than the Israelites. Devotionables #589 - I Know Better Than YouExodus 32Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God instructed Israel to build a place for him to dwell with his people. The Ark of the Covenant is where God meets with Moses. Devotionables #588 - Between the CheribumExodus 25Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Brandon talks about the Ten Commandments.Devotionables #587 - The Ten CommandmentsExodus 19-20Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
We can learn a lot about a person's character through how they act. In Exodus 14, the LORD reveals His character to Israel & the Egyptians through crossing the Red Sea. Devotionables #586 - They Shall Know that I Am the LordExodus 14Blue Letter BibleDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Exodus 8 & 9 takes us to a familiar narrative of the ten plagues of Egypt, but what are all these plagues about? Let's see how this series of events points us to the Lord, our God, who is unmatched in power and grace. Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
With their father Jacob gone, Joseph's brothers fear the consequences of their past sin. Instead, Joseph displays godly forgiveness & teaches us an essential lesson about the Lord. Devotionables #584 - Godly Forgiveness from a Humble ManGenesis 49-50Blue Letter Bible Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
In Genesis 45, Joseph reveals himself to his brothers, and with the tables of power turned, Joseph teaches them what God has taught him through the school of suffering. Nothing, not even the sinful choices of others, can ultimately thwart our Sovereign Lord—who continually does good and is good.Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
At first glance, Moses has forgotten which story he was telling when we get to Genesis 38. Why did he structure the story this way? Devotionables #582 - Interrupting CowGenesis 38-39Blue Letter Bible 2024Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jacob returns to his homeland, fearing the encounter he may have with Esau. Through great faith and humility, Jacob calls on God for deliverance, and Jacob encounters God uniquely and powerfully. Devotionables #581 - God FightsGenesis 32Blue Letter Bible 2024Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Family struggles and strife are as old as Genesis 3. When we get to Genesis 27, a lot is going on regarding a family and the promises of God. Paul Cook helps us unravel the complexities of this fascinating chapter. Devotionables #580 - Unraveling the Complexities of Genesis 27Genesis 27Blue Letter Bible 2024Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Our Bible plan brings us to Abraham's willing obedience & sacrifice and how God provides in this striking passage. We look at Genesis 22 in this episode of Devotionables.Devotionables #579 - Obedience & SacrificeGenesis 22Blue Better Bible 2024Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Today, we consider some final lessons from the book Job.Devotionables #578 - Final Lessons from JobJob 40-42Blue Letter Bible 2024Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Hard times are going to come in this life. We may never know why we suffer at times. Job's story helps us learn how to walk through these times and walk with others through their days of pain.Devotionables #577 - Walking Through SufferingJob 32-35Blue Letter Bible 2024Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Amid terrible suffering, Job still speaks with confidence in the Lord. His remarkable faith is on display in Job 19. Devotionables #576 - Job KnowsJob 19:25-27Blue Letter Bible 2024Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Job is an epic story that admittedly can be an uncomfortable read. We don't like to think about suffering. Thankfully, God knows what we need and graciously reveals more of himself to us in the story of Job. God is with us when we suffer, and we can trust that he works all things for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose. Devotionables #575 - JobJob 1-2Blue Letter Bible 2024Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Mankind's rebellion against God continues through the early pages of Scripture, even after the flood. The fascinating story of the tower of Babel continues to reveal things about God and ourselves. Devotionables #574 - Glory BuildingGenesis 11:1-9Blue Letter Bible 2024Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God reveals himself to us through the Bible, creation, an inner sense, and through others. The Bible begins with God telling us that he is the Creator and that he is eternal. Devotionables #573 - God is Our CreatorGenesis 1:1Blue Letter Bible 2024Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God is perfect, and his story is perfect. The ending provides great hope and longing for his people. Amen. Come quickly, Lord Jesus!Devotionables #572 - Surely I Am Coming SoonRevelation 20-22F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The curtain is pulled back in Revelations 4 & 5 into the throne room of God. It's a striking scene as God's power, authority, and glory reign supreme. He rules all of history and brings it to its rightful conclusion through the Lamb, who alone is worthy to take and open the scroll from the one seated on the throne. Weep no more! The Lion from the tribe of Judah has conquered and reigns! Devotionables #571 - Jesus Reigns!Revelation 4&5F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Merry Christmas! God is with us! John reminds us that the Lord Jesus is with us and knows us. He knows where we are and what we are facing. What great encouragement this Christmas Day!Devotionables #570 - Merry Christmas, God is with Us!Revelation 2 & 3F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Revelation can be intimidating to read for many Christians. John uses pictures to speak, and it can be challenging to understand. It may elicit fear of things to come. But as we read, we should pray, asking for the Spirit's help in understanding what Jesus is revealing to his church–namely, that God reigns! A better understanding will help us endure, trust, worship, and evangelize with greater zeal and faithfulness. Devotionables #569 - God Reigns!Revelation 1:1-3F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
John wrote five books of the New Testament. In his first epistle, the primary focus is telling his readers who God is and who the people of God are. There are key characteristics of God's children. John writes these things to us so that we will know God and know who belongs to God and who does not. Devotionables #568 - By This You Will Know1 John 4:20-5:5F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Knowing the genuine and authentic piece is the best way to spot a counterfeit. So it is with the truth. Peter and Jude, among other New Testament authors, tell us to beware of false teaching and teachers. To do so, we must know our Bibles. Devotionables #567 - Beware of False Teaching2 Peter & JudeF260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Peter writes to believers in dispersion facing much suffering to be holy. How does this exhortation, this command, mesh with the Christmas season? Devotionables #566 - Be Holy1 PeterF260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul writes to Timothy, encouraging his young pupil to fight the good fight of faith. Devotionables #565 - Fight the Good Fight of Faith1 Timothy 6F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
As Paul's ministry is coming to a close, he instructs Timothy to take a stand against false teachers.Devotionables #564 - Take a Stand on Sound Doctrine1 Timothy 1F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jesus is better. God is faithful. Hold on. He will not fail. Devotionables #563Hebrews 10:19-25F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God has liberated us from sin's punishment, and Jesus takes the yoke of being our perfect covenant head. Praise God!Devotionables #562 - The Perfect ChristHebrews 8-9F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jesus is better. He is our great high priest. Holy. Blameless. Undefiled. Jesus offered the perfect sacrifice once and for all. Therefore, we can put our trust in him forever!Devotionables #561 - Forever Our High PriestHebrews 6-7F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
We are busy people. We run from A to B to C to back to A. Today, on Devotionables, we talk about rest. Jesus is better, and he gives us rest. Strive to enter that rest. Devotionables #560 - Strive to RestHebrews 4:9-11F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The book of Hebrews has an anonymous author. Though we don't know who wrote it, the main point is obvious: the superiority of Jesus. Jesus is greater. Jesus is better. Hold on to Jesus!Devotionables #559 - Jesus is BetterHebrews 1:1-4F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul encourages the Philippians by reminding them of the promise that God would complete the work he started in them. Devotionables #558 - God Always Finishes What He StartsPhilippians 1:6F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul discusses the glorious riches of God's grace in our salvation. We are not only saved from sin, but we are saved to participate in good works. We are being made new and are called to walk in a new way, in step with the Spirit and honoring to God. Devotionables #557 - Walk in Newness of LifeEphesians 4-6F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
We could all use peace. Good news! We can have peace with God and others through Jesus Christ. Devotionables #556 - PeaceEphesians 2:11-22F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Intercessory prayer is powerful. God uses our prayers to accomplish his purposes. Paul's prayer in Colossians 1 is an excellent resource for us to use in our prayers for others. Devotionables #555 - I Thank God for YouColossians 1F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
We've reached the end of Acts in our bible reading plan. The disciples have borne witness to the ends of the earth, the church is growing, and God has worked mightily and faithfully. Paul has reached Rome. Here are his final words in this book. Devotionables #554 - Paul's Final Words in ActsActs 28F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Take heart! God is faithful. The final pages of Acts remind us of his unyielding commitment to his promises and his people. Take heart today. Devotionables #553 - Take HeartActs 27F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Basil Manly Jr. wrote this line in a hymn, "We meet to part and part to meet. When earthly labors are complete,To join in yet more blest employ,In an eternal world of joy."Paul and the Ephesian elders knew all too well the blessings of a hard goodbye. Devotionables #552 - The Blessings of Hard GoodbyesActs 20F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
How should Christians view their government? Paul addresses this in his letter to the Romans. Devotionables #551 - God & GovernmentRomans 13F260 Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
This majestic letter to the Romans builds to a crescendo of praise at the end of chapter eleven after we are reminded of all God has done for us. In chapter twelve, Paul begins laying out instructions for how to live in light of these God-exulting truths he has expressed earlier to the church in Rome. Devotionables #550 - A Living SacrificeRomans 12F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul reminds the believers in Rome that if they are in Christ, there remains no condemnation for them. Their debt has been settled in Christ. If God is for us, who can be against us? Devotionables #549 - No More CondemnationRomans 8F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The introductory paragraph to Romans 5 is essential for Christians. These truths provide tremendous hope and assure us of Christ's saving work on our behalf. Devotionables #548 - The Assurance of SalvationRomans 5:1-5F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Romans is a powerful display of Paul's theology. Paul's heart and doctrine are articulately communicated to the church in Rome. The gospel is the power of God unto salvation for all who believe!Devotionables #547 - Unashamed: Martin Luther, Larry Greene, Nan, and the GospelRomans 1:16-17F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The generosity of the early church is undeniable. God has given generously to us, and as faithful stewards, we cheerfully serve as conduits of God's blessing toward others. Devotionables #546 - Generous Giving2 Corinthians 9F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
We've been reconciled with God through faith in Jesus Christ! God has now entrusted us with that message and mission to implore others to be reconciled to him. Devotionables #545 - Today's the Day!2 Corinthians 5F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God is the God of all comfort and the Father of all mercies. He comforts us in our suffering and affliction and enables us to comfort others when they are afflicted. Devotionables #544 - Affliction, Comfort, and The Faithfulness of God2 Corinthians 1F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The resurrection of Jesus Christ changes everything. It's the primary focus of Paul's ministry. Today, we'll consider its lasting implications on believers as well. Devotionables #543 - The Resurrection1 Corinthians 15F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Acts 18 is a beautiful story of how God uses ordinary people's faithfulness to bear fruit with eternal impact. Devotionables #542 - Faithfulness, Fruitfulness, and Eternal ImpactActs 18F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul's treatise on love from 1 Corinthians is a familiar passage heard at weddings and other prominent settings. Pastor Philip helps us consider this famous passage in its proper context. Devotionables #541 - What's Love God to Do with It? Part 21 Corinthians 13F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul writes to the Galatians to keep them from deserting the God and gospel they have put their trust in. Whatever the error or false gospels we encounter, we must firmly reject them and cling to Christ–our only hope. Devotionables #540 - True God, True GospelGalatians 1:6-10F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul encourages the church of Thessalonica regarding the coming of the Lord, and the truth is encouraging for us today, too! We will always be with the Lord!Devotionables #539 - The Coming of the Lord Jesus1 Thessalonians 4 & 5F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The disciples continue their journey through the known world to the ends of the earth as witnesses to Jesus and his resurrection. They are turning the world upside down! What's the secret sauce?Devotionables #538 - Turn the World Upside DownActs 17:6F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul gives the Corinthian church instructions regarding the Lord's Supper. It had delved into selfish feasting. He corrects them and reminds them that the meal should remind them of the Lord's sacrifice and our call to serve others. Devotionables #537 - More Jesus, Less Self1 Corinthians 11F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
The church in Corinth was filled with problems. The Apostle Paul lovingly seeks to correct their errors through a series of letters. One mistake they were making was being overly tolerant of perverse sin. Paul tells them to change their ways and gives them directions for the proper way forward. Devotionables #536 - More Tolerant than Jesus?1 Corinthians 5F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
God is turning the world right side up. What culture considers foolish, God says, is wise. Where do you seek wisdom? Come to the Lord for wisdom. Devotionables #535 - True Wisdom1 Corinthians 1:18-31F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
We sometimes find ourselves in places and situations we don't want to be in. The same was true for the Apostle Paul, who knew that wherever he was, the good and sovereign hand of the Lord had placed him there–even in a jail cell. He never wasted those times, and the Lord used him to spread the gospel to more people. Devotionables #534 - God Has Us Where He Wants UsActs 16F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Our faith is not wasted when it is in the Lord. When we meet trials of various kinds, we know that God will use them in the end for his glory and our good. Devotionables #533 - Consider It All JoyJames 1F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Peter is arrested again, and once more, the Lord miraculously delivers him through the prayers of his people. Devotionables #532 - BreakoutActs 12:6-19F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Peter is let into what God is doing globally by a crazy dream. God is moving to save Gentiles!Devotionables #531 - BBQ SandwichesActs 10F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Paul has a remarkable conversion from persecutor to evangelist and church planter. The transformation is nearly unbelievable. God's grace and mercy extend to the hardest of hearts. If God can save Paul, God can save anybody!Devotionables #530 - A Transformed LifeActs 9F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jesus has ascended, the Spirit has come, and the apostles are busy proclaiming the name of Jesus. Like Jesus, they encounter opposition, and that conflict comes to a head in Acts 7. Stephen is stoned after preaching a phenomenal sermon rehearsing God's faithfulness through the generations. Devotionables #529 - Stephen is Killed, but the Gospel Moves ForwardActs 7F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jesus promised to send a Helper, the Holy Spirit, after he ascended. The disciples were not alone. The church is being built. The Spirit arrives at Pentecost just as Jesus promised. His work is immediate and continues today. Christian, you have the Spirit-Praise God!Devotionables #528 - Another Promise DeliveredActs 2F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jesus last recorded words in the gospel account of Matthew give final instructions for his followers. These commands are for every Christian at all times. And the good news is that Jesus is with us! So let's get to work!Devotionables #527 - Last WordsMatthew 28:19-20F260Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church inLouisville, KY. naobc.org
Jesus is alive, and a handful of post-resurrection accounts exist in the Scriptures. One account focuses on Peter's restoration over a charcoal fire—a fascinating and encouraging story in John 21.
Devotionables #526 - Let's Go Fishing John 21 F260
The resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate game-changer.
Devotionables #525 - He Is Not Here Luke 24:1-6 F260
At first glance, the crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth may appear just as another criminal to be sentenced to death by the brutal Roman empire. But for believers, for those familiar with the Scriptures, we know that this moment, that this event has been coming for thousands of years. There have been glimpses, promises, and sacred texts prophesying about this very event. Jesus has been trying to tell his followers that this is indeed why he has come, but they don't grasp it. As Jesus languishes on the cross, he cries, "It is finished!" What is finished? Praise God, much. Very much. Devotionables #524 - What is Finished? John 19F260
We again find Jesus praying on the night he was betrayed. Josh Headrick encourages us and provides insight from Matthew's account of Jesus' prayer in the garden of Gethsemane. Devotionables #523 - Garden PrayingMatthew 26:36-56F260
Jesus serves us in a myriad of ways. One way is that Jesus is our great high priest. In John 17, we are given a behind-the-scenes look into the night he is betrayed and arrested. What do we find Jesus doing? He is praying. Jesus is a man of prayer. This chapter is known as Jesus' high priestly prayer. It's a magnificent prayer and is the focal point of today's devotionable. Devotionables #522 - Jesus Prays for YouJohn 17F260
The Upper Room Discourse in John 13-16 is chalked full of essential teachings of Jesus to his disciples. One of the topics Jesus discusses is the coming of the Holy Spirit. Today's devotionable will focus on the person and work of the Holy Spirit. Devotionables #521 - The Holy SpiritJohn 14-16F260
Jesus commands his disciples to love one another. It's not a difficult commandment to understand, but it has its challenges putting it into practice. Pastor Philip discusses why it's important to heed this command and shares some practical suggestions for loving one another.
Devotionables #520 - What's Love Got to Do with It? John 13 F260
Devotionables #520 - What's Love Got to Do with It? John 13 F260
God is always up to something, even when you can't see the whole picture. Jesus' love for Lazarus and his family is evident, and John stresses that fact in chapter 11. So that makes the beginning of the chapter very odd when Jesus hears of Lazarus' illness but chooses to stay for a couple of days before traveling to him. Jesus always had God's greater glory and Lazarus, Mary, and Martha's greater good in mind for what he would do and teach.
Devotionables #519 - Jesus Wept John 11 F260
Our yearly Bible Reading plan has us in Mark 10. Brandon Pisacrita walks us through Jesus' encounter with the rich young ruler. The exchange is of utmost importance for the young ruler and us as they discuss entering the Kingdom of God.
Devotionables #518 - All Things Are Possible with God Matthew 10:17-31 F260
God takes great delight in saving sinners! Derek Riley walks us through the three parables highlighting God's loving pursuit of the lost and the ensuing joy.
Devotionables #517 - Prodigal God Luke 15 F260
One of the Bible's most potent and precious verses is in John 6. Jesus gives a lengthy teaching after feeding the multitude. He tells them that he is the bread of life. The Father has sent him, and the Father is giving people to him. All that come to Jesus, he will NEVER cast out!
Devotionables #516 - Never Cast Out John 6:37 F260
We don't always know how God is working in someone's life, but we may be able to change their life by sharing the powerful message of the gospel with them.
Devotionables #515 - God's Love John 3:16 F260
Jesus' compassion and power frequently are on display together in the gospels. Mark 9 tells a story of a family Satan oppressed for some time. Seeking help, the father asks the disciples to help them, but they prove unable. He then asks Jesus for mere pity. The Lord calls him to trust, and the father responds, saying, "I believe; help my unbelief!"
Devotionables #514 - Lord, I Believe, Help My Unbelief Mark 9 F260
Luke 9:51 begins a long section in Luke's gospel recording Jesus' journey to Jerusalem. At a glance, it may appear as just a scene-shifting verse, but it is a monumental verse in the gospel and redemptive history.
Devotionables #513 - Jesus' Mission Luke 9:51 F260
Timothy Babatunde walks us through Matthew 8, encouraging us to increase our knowledge and faith in God.
Devotionables #512 - Faith Grounded in Knowledge Matthew 8 F260
Derek Riley walks us through the Sermon on the Mount.
Devotionables #511 - Sermon on the Mount Matthew 5-7 F260
Jesus takes the fight to Satan in the wilderness. He is victorious over all the devil's temptations. Jesus stands in as our substitute and serves as our example.
Devotionables #510 - Jesus' Battle with Satan Matthew 4 F260
Waiting is hard. It requires faith. Previously to the events recorded for us in Luke 1 and 2, Isreal has been waiting for God for some four hundred years. Among the characters that Luke introduces us to in these introductory chapters, we look at four to see what we can learn about waiting with faith.
Devotionables #509 - Recipe for Godly Waiting Luke 1-2 F260
The Prologue of John's gospel is a beautiful theology and a high Christological treatise. It pushes us to have an appropriately bigger view of Jesus. David Christensen seeks to help us answer four questions as he walks us through the intro to the Fourth Gospel.
Devotionables #508 - The First Word John 1:1-18 F260
Four hundred years have passed since Israel has had a prophetic word from the Lord. Has the Lord abandoned his people? What about his covenant promises? The gospels begin with a resounding word that God has not forgotten his people or his promises. The time for fulfillment is at hand. God is here. God is with us!
Devotionables #507 - God is with Us Matthew 1:23 F260
Malachi ends with a word about the Day of the Lord.
Devotionables #506 - The Day of the Lord Malachi 4 F260
The prophet Malachi records several exchanges between the LORD and the people of Isreal regarding their unfaithfulness to him. The last of such encounters includes a charge of Isreal against God and them questioning if following God is worth it. It's a question that each of us has to answer. Thankfully, God gives us an answer, and by his grace, our hearts will believe it and live accordingly. YES!
Devotionables #505 - Is Following God Worth It? Malachi 3:15-19 F260
Malachi 1 tells us of the spurning of the Lord. The people of Isreal despised the things given to them as a grace and pointed them to the Lord. Instead of telling others to the Lord, they turned people away from God.
Devotionables #504 Malachi 1 F260
Nehemiah 13 reads like an inspector's checklist or some matters of minutia. But this chapter reminds us that God's work isn't yet done. His purposes are still ongoing when the exiles return to the land. All of God's promises haven't been fulfilled yet because it is in Christ that all his promises are yes and amen! So, we seek to be faithful in the small things as we away the complete fulfillment of God's good and precious promises.
Devotionables #503 Nehemiah 13 Christian Faithfulness
The central theme of Nehemiah 9 is repentance. The people recount their story and extol the excellent mercies of the LORD and confess their sins before him. Matthew Walden helps us consider why we must confess our sins when he already knows everything.
Devotionables #502 - Why Do We Need to Confess Sin? Nehemiah 9 F260
Nehemiah leads the people to pray and work. The walls are rebuilt, but the city is still empty. The people began to fill their towns and gathered at the water gate. There Ezra reads the law, and the people reinstitute the feast of trumpets (their new year!) Those one cast away are brought back and now feast at the Lord's table with joy.
Devotionables #501 - The Joy of the Lord is My Strength Nehemiah 8 F260
Nehemiah is leading the returned exiles to rebuild Jerusalem's city walls and gates. As has become their custom, the Jews face opposition from wicked opponents. Nehemiah leads the people to pray, take courage in the Lord, and work. The believer can take much from their example.
Devotionables #500 - Prayer, Work, and Courage Nehemiah 4 F260
The Christian takes great confidence in Scripture's teaching that God is involved in our lives. Because he is concerned, we can proceed with life knowing that wherever we are, God has placed us and is working in us and through us. So go forth with courage and hope that God is at work.
Devotionables #499 - God at Work Esther 3-4 F260
Mordecai is one of the prominent characters in the Book of Esther. He's Esther's uncle, and the author paints a picture of Mordecai's faithfulness to the LORD. One example is his refusal to bow to tyrannical edicts, even though it may cost him his life. God sees fit in his providence to work through the life of Mordecai and Esther to save his people.
Devotionables #498 - Mordecai Refuses to Bow Esther 3 F260
We have an extraordinary God who uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things as they trust him and live faithfully.
Devotionables #497 - Average Esthers, Mordecais, and Joes Esther 2 F260
Esther is a fascinating story. It reads like a dramatic fairytale but is a genuine account of God's chosen people in the Old Testament. God is never mentioned, but his fingerprints are unmistakably all over the events that occur throughout the drama. God was at work then and is speaking to us through those same events.
Devotionables #496 - Esther, God, and You Esther 1-2 F260
The temple work is completed and rebuilt. Ezra gathers the people for a joyful dedication. The Lord gives his people joy.
Devotionables #495 - Joy from the LORD Ezra 6 F260
The period of exile is ending as the people begin to return to the land of Israel. Ezra leads them in returning them to Jerusalem, and they begin to rebuild the temple.
Devotionables #494 - We're Back! Ezra 1 F260
Daniel's faithfulness puts him in the heart of the lion's den. As popular as this story and as well as we might know it, it's always good to reread it and consider what the Spirit would teach us today afresh. Derek Jones does a phenomenal job leading us through Daniel 6 today.
Devotionables #493 - Shut the Mouth of Lions Daniel 6 F260
Historically speaking, since the church's inauguration, it hasn't been a matter of when the people of God will suffer. The well-known story of Daniel's three friends' refusal to bow down to Nebuchadnezzar's statue in Daniel 3 helps us prepare for inevitable persecution. We need to expect it, do not fear, be brave, and rejoice that we are counted as worthy to share in Christ's sufferings.
Devotionables #492 - Fiery Furnace Daniel 3 F260
Judah is finally taken into exile. In the first wave, Daniel is taken to serve in the courts of the king. In Daniel 1, we are reminded of God's faithfulness and the call for us to faithfully live for him wherever he places us for however long he has us there.
Devotionables #491 - Life in Babylon Daniel 1 F260
God's message to Jeremiah for the people of Judah tells them why they are going to exile. The king is dethroned, the temple is destroyed, and the people are deported. It's easy to miss God's goodness and faithfulness in these acts of judgment, but Derek Riley helps us to capture the bigger picture of what God was doing in the big picture of redemptive history.
Devotionables #490 - The Prophet Weeps Jeremiah 52 F260
Devotionables #489 - Remember God's Steadfast Love The book of Jeremiah records many of the prophet's sermons. He warns the people of God's impending judgment. It's not all gloom for Judah. Jeremiah calls them to amend their ways and remember to trust in the faithful, steadfast love of the LORD.
Jeremiah 31-33 F260
Josiah is a young king cut deeply to repentance after the Book of the Law is found. He leads Judah into repentance and reforms. They make a covenant with God to walk in his ways.
After a string of wicked kings propagating evil, Judah finally has a ruler who does what is right in the eyes of the Lord. King Hezekiah reigns righteously, faithful unto the LORD. He goes all out for God.
Devotionables #487 - All Out for the LORD 2 Kings 18 F260
The nation of Isreal persists in their rebellion and sin against the Lord. Finally, God judges them for their sin, and they are sent into exile.
Devotionables #486 - Exile 2 Kings 17 F260
Are we going to remember things in heaven? Is there death in heaven? Kory Zakeri addresses these questions from Isaiah 65.
Devotionables #485 - Isaiah Sees a Blessed Future Isaiah 65:17-25 F260
Isaiah is given a picture of the suffering servant Jesus. It's a powerful announcement of God's redemptive work and our gospel hope. Philip is able to lead an Ethiopian eunuch to faith after reading a verse from this powerful chapter.
Devotionables #484 - The Gospel of Isaiah Isaiah 53 F260
Isaiah is given a glimpse into the throne room of heaven and sees the Lord! David Christensen walks us through Isaiah 6.
When is the last time you read the book of Joel? Well, if you are reading the F260 Bible reading plan with us, you've just read it or are about to finish it. Daustin Kratzer takes us through an exciting recap of this book which bears the name of the minor prophet. Devotionables #482 - No More CicadasJoelF260
Jonah: a story of salvation, obedience, and more! Dive into this book with us on today's devotionable.Devotionables #481 - All Creatures Great and SmallJonahF260
Who said the Bible is boring? 2 Kings is a fascinating story about God's work through his prophets, reminding us he's in control and he provides. Devotionables #480 - Chariots of Fire2 Kings 2F260
God is gracious and merciful. He draws near to us in our suffering. We can take much comfort from God's interaction with Elijah in 1 Kings 19. Devotionables #479 - From the Mountain to the Valley1 Kings 19F260
The prophet Elijah exhibits great faith and courage in 1 Kings 18. King Ahab ruled faithlessly and surpassed all previous kings in his wickedness, and the people's hearts were untrue to Yahweh. It all comes to a head in this chapter, for which the prophet is most well known. Devotionables #478 - The Confrontation on Mt. Carmel1 Kings 18F260
The prophet Elijah was a man of God. As we read about his life and ministry, we can learn about discipleship and what it means to follow God. Pastor Philip walks us through a couple of stories involving the prophet from 1 Kings 17. Devotionables #477 - Following God with Faith and Obedience1 Kings 17F260
The book of Proverbs tells us how we can get wisdom and live by wisdom. It's a beautiful book through and through. Jason Dierking walks us through some of the Proverbs of Solomon from chapter 16. Devotionables #476 - Live WiselyProverbs 16F260
The Lord has given us all that we need for life and godliness. We need just ask him for wisdom. Let us not be wise in our own eyes but seek him and his word.Devotionables #475 - Wise Not in Our Own EyesProverbs 3F260
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Devotionables #474 - Fear the LordProverbs 1F260
The glory of the Lord fills the temple, and Solomon prays a prayer of dedication. We are reminded that God is with us. Devotionables #473 - Solomon's Prayer1 Kings 8&9F260
1 Kings 6 is known as the chapter where Solomon builds the temple. It's beautiful and majestic. But more than a chapter about a building program, we are reminded that God is, per usual, doing something so much greater and more significant than merely meets the eye. Devotionables #472 - God Builds1 Kings 6F260
Solomon succeeds David upon Israel's throne, and the Lord allows him to ask for something to help him as king. Solomon asks God for wisdom. Devotionables #471 - Solomon's Wise Request1 Kings 3F260
Six times David writes "Bless the Lord" in Psalm 103. Another time he says, "Bless his name." The rest of the psalm explains why David tells us to praise the Lord, focusing primarily on his steadfast love and mercy.Devotiaonbles #470 - Bless the LORDPsalm 103F260
Psalm 1 paints a picture of the blessing one receives who treasures the LORD by treasuring his word. In contrast, the wicked will perish. Devotiaonbles #469 - Psalm 1Psalm 1F260
Psalm 51 is a beautiful psalm and prayer of confession. David cries for God's forgiveness, cleansing, and a new heart after his sin with Bathsheba. Let us be quick to confess our sins to him, who is faithful to forgive us and cleanse all unrighteousness. Devotiaonbles #468 - Wash Me, LordPsalm 51F260
God's promises and covenants are sure. He is faithful! He makes exceptional promises to David in 2 Samuel 7. Jesus is the fulfillment, and we are beneficiaries of the eternal covenant of the immortal King whose kingdom knows no end. Devotionables #467 - FOR-EV-ER2 Samuel 7F260
David is made king over Judah in Hebron, but the rest of Israel follows Saul's son, Ishbosheth. David remains faithful to the Lord in the time of the already not yet. Devotionables #465 - Already, Not Yet2 Samuel 2F260
Psalm 22 is written by King David, but you can't help but think about King Jesus and his being forsaken and suffering on the cross. Yet, his cries don't remain unheard. God delivered him and raised him up. And by his grace, we share in his victory. Devotionables #464 - Psalm of the CrossPsalm 22F260
1 Samuel ends with the death of Saul and his three sons killed at the hands of the Philistines. What could have been? Valiant men from Jabesh retrieve their bodies, and David laments their passing. Devotionables #463 - How the Mighty Have Fallen!1 Samuel 31F260
David has been anointed king of Israel as God's chosen one, but Saul remains on the throne. Saul pursues David to kill him, and yet it is David who has an opportunity to rid himself of his pursuer. What do David's actions teach us? Devotionables #462 - The Right Thing at the Right Time1 Samuel 24F260
God granted Isreal their request for a king. Saul was anointed king, but his reign was short-lived. After disobeying the Lord's command, he is rejected. Now God will get a king after his own heart, the shepherd boy, the son of Jesse. Devotionables #461 - One Door Shuts Another Opens1 Samuel 16F260
Give us a king! It's the desire and demand of Israel in 1 Samuel 8. Who will be king?Devotionables #460 - Give Us A King!1 Samuel 8F260
We enter into 1&2 Samuel today by looking at the prayer of Hannah. Hannah's powerful, God-honoring prayer informs how we should read the entirety of Samuel. Devotionables #459 - Hannah's Prayer1 Samuel 1-2F260
Ruth is a beautiful story. The author puts it together compellingly, and it is a literary masterpiece. The story becomes even sweeter when read against the backdrop of the cross. King Jesus redeems his people. Devotionables #458 - The Book of Ruth and the Cross of ChristRuthF260
Paul Cook does a flyover through the book of Judges. A fascinating tragedy that shows the downward spiral of Israel away from God, showing the reader that Israel needs not just a king but the true King, Jesus Christ. We all need Christ. Devotionables #457 - We Need Christ as KingJoshua 24F260
Joshua ends the book admonishing Israel to wholly follow the Lord. There are only two ways to live in the land: trusting, loving, obeying the Lord, or living as you see what is right. Each day we must decide to live for the Lord. Devotionables #456 - My HouseJoshua 24F260
As Joshua prepares for battle against Jericho, he's met by the Commander of the Army of the LORD and is given a most unusual battle plan. The people of God can take much away from this story, and Ryan Whitley helps us consider one of the most famous passages in the Bible. Devotionables #455 - Battle PlansJoshua 5:13-6F260
God's plan carries on as he is dependent on no one. Moses is dead, and Joshua is commissioned to lead the people into the Promised Land. He and the people are commanded to be strong and courageous. As God's people today, we should trust Jesus and live as he has taught us. Devotionables #454 - Be Strong and CourageousJoshua 1F260
The death of Moses. A sad and somehow sweet moment is recorded for us at the end of Deuteronomy. Derek Riley walks us through this passage today. Devotionables #453 - The Death of MosesDeuteronomy 34F260
A significant portion of Moses' farewell address is a call for the Israelites to obey the law of the Lord. The Lord promises certain blessings for obedience and sure judgments for disobedience. Brandon Pisacrita helps us consider these blessings and curses in today's devotionable. Devotionables #452 - Blessings & CursesDeuteronomyF260
Pastor Ryan talks about the gift and responsibility of passing your faith to the next generation. Devotionables #451 - Next GenerationDeuteronomy 6F260
Sometimes as we read through the Old Testament, it feels like deja vu. Isreal repeats the same old mistakes time and time again. The same may be true of our own lives. Yet, Yahweh remains faithful. Devotionables #450 - Deja VuDeuteronomy 1F260
Numbers 6 ends with a well-known blessing frequently used in benedictions and prayers. Moses tells Aaron that this blessing is a way for the priests to put the name of Yahweh upon his people, and it's a thread that we can follow throughout the Bible, what it means to belong to the LORD.Devotionables #449 - The BlessingNumbers 6:22-27F260
God is perfectly holy. That seems redundant, but we are trying to stress God's holiness in a way that Leviticus does. God's people are called to be holy, but it doesn't take long to see that they and we fail woefully short of this standard of righteousness and holiness. Bailey Marzan helps us to see God's plan for fixing this gap between his holiness and our sinfulness. Thankfully, he makes a way for us. Devotionables #448 - LeviticusLeviticusF260
Exodus ends dramatically as God's presence fills the now-completed tabernacle. He led and protected Israel during all their journeys, and this story foreshadows what he would do for his people in the Lord Jesus Christ. Devotionables #447 - God's Indwelling PresenceExodus 40F260
Exodus 32 is a sad story. It reveals the human heart and condition. Pastor Adam walks us through this chapter in our F260 Bible Reading Plan. Devotionables #446 - The Golden CalfExodus 32F260
It's remarkable how much Exodus deals with the instructions and details regarding the construction of the Tabernacle. The length given in the text is significant in several ways. One is that it tells us God cares about creativity and beauty. He is a creative God, and we, as those made in his image, are also to be creative. He told Moses, "for beauty and glory." Devotionables #445 - Creativity UExodus 31F260
Chad Padgett discusses the Ten Commandments God gave Israel after bringing them out of Egypt.Devotionables #444 - The Ten CommandmentsExodus 20F260
In two accounts after the exodus, the people grumble and complain, and the Lord provides. He gives Israel bread and water. He tells them it is so that they know that He is the LORD and that he alone is God. Fast forward to the Gospel of John, and Jesus says some staggering things about himself that take our minds back to these events in Exodus. Devotionables #443 - God ProvidesExodus 16-17F260
The Lord miraculously saves Israel with a strong arm. The first thing his people do is sing a song unto Yahweh. They give God glory. Their worship sets a pattern for the redeemed. Do you give God the glory?Devotionables #442 - Did You Give God Glory?Exodus 15F260
God delivers his people out of bondage and oppression from tyrannical Egypt. He leads his people out by a pillar of fire by night and a cloud by day. The LORD ultimately secures victory for his people and destroys Pharaoh and his army in the sea. This historical triumph also pictures what Christ has done for his people. Devotionables #441 - Exodus: The Flight from EgyptExodus 12:40-42F260
God is always on time, and his timing is perfect, precise, purposeful, and planned. Trust his timing. Devotionables #440 - Right on TimeExodus 12:40-42F260
Passover is this unbelievable moment where God rescues and redeems his people from slavery and bondage. We remember the slaughtered lambs and blood on the doorposts. However, we must not forget that this is a moment of judgment. God judges the Egyptians and their "gods."Devotionables #439- Passover: Redemption & JudgmentExodus 12F260
Moses begins to give the LORD reasons why he should be excused from the call of God to lead the people out of Israel from Egypt. God reminds him that he will prepare and equip all he calls. Devotionables #438- God Prepares and Equips the CalledExodus 4:1-17F260
Moses asks God for his name. God replies, "I Am Who I Am...tell them, "I AM, has sent me to you." Devotionables #4367- What's In A Name?Exodus 3:13-15F260
The hardship and oppression of the Israelites do not escape the notice of the Lord. Moses stresses the Lord's awareness and compassion for his people, which stirs him to act on their behalf. Friend, be encouraged today that the Lord knows, sees, hears, and remembers you. Devotionables #436 - God RemembersExodus 2:23-25F260
The book of Exodus starts with a new Pharaoh but an old problem. Humans are prone to forget God and what he has done. The new king of Egypt was no exception. When we fail to remember God, all sorts of problems arise. Devotionables #435 - Pharaoh ForgetsExodus 1:8-14F260
We repeatedly hear a refrain in the Scriptures, "Do NOT be afraid." Now, this is not just in general don't be scared, for there are many things that do and should bring us great fear. But when you consider what is paired with it–the promise of God to be with his people–then the admonishment to not be afraid makes more sense. And this promise that God will be with you and will be with his people begins back in the very first book of the Bible. So we end our time in Genesis with this encouragement, Don't be afraid, for God is with you. Devotionables #434 - God Be with YouGenesis 50:25F260
As we finish Genesis and the story of Joseph, we are reminded that the Bible is a story, first and foremost about God. The story reminds us of God's goodness and sovereignty. This story teaches us to trust and brings us comfort that God indeed uses all things in our lives for his glory and our good. Devotionables #433 - The Goodness and Sovereignty of GodGenesis 50:20F260
We revisit a Devotionable Pastor Adam Cole did on Genesis 49:10. It's an amazing prophecy concerning our Lord Jesus Christ from the tribe of Judah. Devotionables #432 - King Jesus in Genesis (redux)Genesis 49:10F260
It's helpful to put on our SPECS when reading the Bible. Is there a sin to avoid? A promise to claim? An example to follow? A command to obey? Do you see the Savior? In today's passage, we see Jesus as our brother who allows us to approach the King. Devotionables #431 - I See My Brother Jesus in Genesis 43Genesis 43:1-5F260
For the second time, Joseph finds himself in the pit. It would have been easy for him to be bitter, give up, or blame others when sitting in this Egyptian prison. But Joseph seems to have a different heart now. Devotionables #430 - Life in the PitsGenesis 40:15F260
The narrator of Genesis now turns his attention to Joseph. Nearly all of the rest of Genesis is written with the spotlight fixed on him. But as we read through this portion of the book, we'll see that, per usual, it is God who is the main character. He is behind the scenes working to protect this family, to protect his promise, to bless them and the entire world through them. Devotionables #429 - JosephGenesis 37F260
God is working in and through even some of our messiest situations. He blesses us in unexpected ways at different times. He is faithful despite our unfaithfulness. Devotionables #428 - Two BrothersGenesis 27F260
Isaac and Rebekah have twins! In a plot twist, God tells Rebekah that Jacob, the youngest of the two, will be the one whom the promises of God will be bestowed and, through him, be a blessing to the world. Esau, for his part, despises his birthright. Devotionables #427 - Price of LunchGenesis 25:34F260
The Lord providentially leads and provides. He answers prayers. In these situations, we often continue through life without stopping to worship or give thanks. In today's devotionable, we are encouraged by the worship of Abraham's servant, who glorifies the Lord for his faithfulness. Devotionables #426 - A Lesson in GratitudeGenesis 24:26-27F260
The Bible is God's story. In these early pages of Genesis, we learn much about God and the world he has made. We are learning about God's character. He is good, wise, loving, and strong. Everything he does is for his glory and our ultimate good. We can trust him even in the hard times. Devotionables #425 - Trusting God with Hard ThingsGenesis 18:16-25F260
God's promises sometimes appear too good to be true because God specializes in the impossible. One example in the Bible is when he gives a son to Abraham and Sarah. Their son's name is Isaac, which means he laughs. Abraham and Sarah both laughed, but God has the last word and fulfills his word always, for nothing is too hard for the Lord.Devotionables #424 - He Who Laughs Last Laughs BestGenesis 18:14, Luke 1:37F260
In God's economy, faith is that which is rewarded with righteousness. There is no amount of good work that you and I can do to be in the right standing before God. How can we be righteous before God? The answer is faith. The poster person for this theological truth is Abraham. We learn that God credited it to him as righteousness because of his faith. The Apostle Paul teaches us in Galatians that it is the same for all who place their faith in Yahweh. Devotionables #423 - God's Accounting PrinciplesGenesis 15:6F260
Genesis 12 is a turning point in the Bible. The story of Abraham, still Abram in this passage, begins to come into focus. God tells him to follow after him and makes some astonishing promises. Again, the early chapters of the Bible paint Yahweh as the promise-making God. As we continue reading, we will also see that he is the promise-keeping God.Devotionables #422 - Yahweh's Promises Genesis 12:1-7F260
The Tower of Babel is a fascinating story. It advances themes from the garden and will come up in the Scripture again. No matter how we try to build or even how high we can attain for ourselves, God is still in the heavens. Devotionables #421 - The Tower and CityGenesis 11:1-9F260
Job is a fascinating story in the heart of the Old Testament. Our Bible reading plan has us reading a few chapters and what a blessing they are to us. Job pulls back the curtain on the nature of God's good, wise, and loving providence. The book is entitled Job, but we learn much about God. Devotionables #420 - Job: Behind the Curtain of God's ProvidenceJob 1-2, 38-42F260
The story of Noah and the flood is a fantastic story about God. We learn in Genesis 6-9 that God will not ignore sin. Sin must be punished. Yet a pattern begins to emerge in the early pages of Scripture that even amid judgment, there is mercy and salvation for those who walk with God by faith. More promises come, and God is becoming known as the promise maker early on in Genesis.Devotionables #419 - Noah, the Flood, and More PromisesGenesis 6-9F260
What is wrong with the world is a quintessential question for everyone alive. All religions and philosophies deal with the problem. The Bible tells us what's wrong with God's good creation in Genesis chapter 3. In a word, the answer is sin. Adam and Eve fell prey to the serpent's temptation, ate the fruit God had commanded them not to eat, and ushered sin and death into God's world. That is the fundamental issue with why this world is broken. Thankfully, God gives hope in that dark moment that he would do something to fix what we have broken. Devotionables #418 - Hope in the AshesGenesis 3F260
How a story begins is almost as important as how the story ends. The Bible starts before the beginning, with God. It introduces us to the hero and main character of Scripture. Who is God? God is the Creator and Ruler of EVERYTHING.Devotionables #417 - Let's Get Started!Genesis 1:1-5F260
Jesus has just fed thousands with a few loaves of bread and a couple of fish. The next day, he delivers a long sermon called the Bread of Life discourse. After discussing with the crowd, many of his followers leave after his "hard sayings." When asking the remaining disciples if they would also like to leave, Peter answers, "To whom shall we go? You alone have the words of eternal life." Devotionables: #416: To Whom Shall We Go?John 6:68naobc.org/discipleship
Jesus calls his disciples to abide in him, knowing that he is our source of life and growth. Through him, we bear abiding fruit, but apart from him, we can do nothing. Thankfully he tells us how we can abide in him. Devotionables: #415: Abide in ChristJohn 15:1-7naobc.org/discipleship
Christmas is not something about which only the gospel authors wrote. The Apostle Paul talks about the incarnation of Jesus, too! It was all according to God's plan and was at the right time. Devotionables: #414: Just in Time!Galatians 4, Philippians 2
We often see Jesus confronting and correcting the expectations of his followers and opponents regarding the Messiah in the gospels. Jesus is so much better than our wildest dreams. He's the Christ we need. He is the one who will set us free from sin. Devotionables: #413: This is the ChristMatthew 1:21, Gen 3:15Christmas Songs
Mary's "Magnificat" is one of four songs in Luke's infancy narrative. It's a God-exalting, Scripture-saturated prose of the overflow of the mother of Jesus's heart. Recently, Sovereign Grace Music released a modern hymn based on Mary's song, "He Who is Mighty." Matthew Walden uses this new hymn and Luke 1 to direct our attention to Jesus this Christmas. Devotionables: #412: He is MightyLuke 1Christmas Songs
Do you find yourself so busy at Christmas that it seems it comes and goes, and you never quite contemplated its Christian meaning? Timothy Babatunde helps us consider how we might prepare for Christmas using the traditional hymn The First Noel and Luke 2 so that we might worship with joyful hearts, longing for the second coming of Jesus. Devotionables #411: How Can We Prepare for Christmas?Luke 2Christmas Songs
NAOBC Worship has done a fantastic job writing new songs and rearranging old favorite hymns this past year. They recently released a Christmas song, "Come Almighty to Deliver." Caleb Morton and his wife, Ellen, led the charge on this song, and Caleb leads us through today's Devotionable about the immovable truths of this song based on the Scriptures. Devotionables #410: Come Almighty to DeliverGenesis 3, Luke 2, Philippians 2, Revelation 5Christmas Songs
Jesus, true man, yet very God comes to dispel the darkness. He is the promised one of Jesse. He comes to set us free from Satan, sin, and death. Devotionables #409: Truly God, Truly ManRomans 15:12, John 1:5Christmas Songs
"Pleased as man with men to dwell." This verse from "Hark, the Hareld Angels Sing" demonstrates great wordplay for a glorious truth. God has become a man. Jesus has taken on flesh to dwell with people. Great news of great joy for all people! Roger Seekell talks to us about what this means for us. Devotionables #408: Veiled in FleshJohn 1:14, Hebrews 2:17Christmas Songs
"Silent Night" is a beautiful Christmas hymn. It reminds us of our Lord's humble entrance into the world he created. It reminds us that our Savior's coming fulfilled Old Testament promises to come to us and to come for us, and his coming brings peace to his people. Devotionables #407: Silent NightIsaiah 9, Luke 2:11, Matthew 11:28-30Christmas Songs
The hymn, "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," reminds us of God's promises to free his people from Satan, sin, and death through the victory of King Jesus–the promised rod of Jesse. The LORD brings magnificent victory to his people in the most unbelievable ways. Through humility and seeming defeat, the Lord Jesus takes on flesh, lives a perfect life, and is hung on a criminal's cross. It looks like Satan rules the day. But on Sunday, everything changes. Victory belongs to King Jesus, and his people share in his triumph. Devotionables #406: V is VictoryColossians 2, Revelation 20Christmas Songs
The Word became flesh. Stunning. We must sit back and contemplate these words and the truth they are communicating. It's easy to be so familiar with Christmas that we miss its significance. We need hymns like "O Come All Ye Faithful" and devotionals from guys like Derek Riley to call us back to this contemplation that leads to worship. O come, all you faithful!Devotionables #405: Come All Ye FaithfulJohn 1Christmas Songs
It's important to sing songs that are theologically and doctrinally sound. "Away in A Manger" is a sweet Christmas song, but what line of the hymn needs a bit of correction? Daustin Kratzer reminds us that babies cry, and Jesus cried as a baby because he was fully human. That's vital to our theology and our salvation. Devotionables #404: Go Away in A MangerMark 4, Luke 24, John 11, John 19Christmas Songs
There is a magnificent line in the hymn, "Joy to the World." Jonah Chitty discusses the line and points us to the Scriptures as we consider how Christmas through Jesus brings us joy.
Devotionables #403: Far As the Curse is Found Romans 3 Christmas Songs
We are now in the advent season, so we are looking at different Christmas songs and Scriptures to prepare our hearts for Christmas. Christmas reminds us that God intervenes and is active in his world throughout history, and Henry Longfellow penned a verse about this truth in his hymn, I Heard the Bells, on Christmas Day. Where is God? He is on his throne, where he rules over all things.
Devotionables #402: I Heard the Bells Luke 2:14, Revelation 21:4 Christmas Songs
We know that we are commanded to evangelize. Some of us are natural evangelists, and others of us don't know where to begin. When we try to witness, it can be clunky and awkward. Three circles is a tool that is very useful when we have opportunities to share the gospel. Daustin Kratzer walks us through how to use it effectively.
Devotionables #401: 3 Circles
Thanksgiving should be characteristic of God's people. We have much for which to be thankful. At the top of the list is God himself.
Devotionables #400: Psalm 118 Give Thanks
What is marriage? Who defines it? God has given it as an order of creation to mankind. It is a gift! He defines it, not Caesar.
Devotionables #399: Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:3-6, Eph 5:32 From the Beginning
God receives worship from all religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. This statement was affirmed by 56% of American Evangelicals in a recent survey conducted by Ligonier Ministries and Lifeway Research. It doesn't matter how many agree with this statement; it doesn't make it true. The Bible is clear that there is one way to God and that God defines how he will be worshipped and served.
Devotionables #398: John 4:19-22 The Exclusive Worship of Yahweh Theology 101
https://thestateoftheology.com/
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2022/september-web-only/state-of-theology-evangelical-heresy-report-ligonier-survey.html
Old heresies die hard. The ancient Arianism heresy claim that God created Jesus is still circulating today. An eye-popping 73% of American Evangelicals polled in a recent State of Theology survey conducted by Ligonier Ministries and Lifeway Research agreed with the statement, "Jesus is the first and greatest being created by God." Thankfully we don't go to the court of public opinion for our theology but to God's word. David Christensen faithfully walks us through several Scripture passages showing us the testimony of Scripture that, indeed, Jesus was not created but eternally existed as God the Son.
Devotionables #397: Several Scriptures The Preexistent Christ - Jesus was NOT Created Theology 101
https://thestateoftheology.com/
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2022/september-web-only/state-of-theology-evangelical-heresy-report-ligonier-survey.html
An alarming number of American Evangelicals, 43%, affirmed, "Jesus was a great teacher, but he was NOT God." The state of our theology is sad and scary. The Biblical authors of the New Testament believed and affirmed in their writings the deity of Jesus. The early church codified this belief, and many died for their faith—the historic teaching of the church and our only who is that Jesus Christ is God.
Devotionables #396: Matthew 26:57-68 Lunatic, Liar, or Lord Theology 101
https://thestateoftheology.com/
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2022/september-web-only/state-of-theology-evangelical-heresy-report-ligonier-survey.html
There needs to be some clarification regarding the person and work of the Holy Spirit. In a recent survey, 60% of American Evangelicals agreed with the statement, "The Holy Spirit is a force, but is not a personal being." We go to the Scriptures to quickly correct this erroneous thinking. The Holy Spirit is not a mere force but the co-eternal, co-equal third person of the Godhead.
Devotionables #395: John 14-16; Acts 4&5 The Holy Spirit Be with You Theology 101
https://thestateoftheology.com/
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2022/september-web-only/state-of-theology-evangelical-heresy-report-ligonier-survey.html
57% of American Evangelicals agree with the statement, "Everyone sins a little, but most people are good by nature." It's easy to see why most people would affirm this statement. But what does the Bible teach? The Bible paints a different picture of human beings.
Devotionables #394: Romans 5:12; Psalm 51:5 Sinners by Birth and Sinners by Choice Theology 101
https://thestateoftheology.com/
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2022/september-web-only/state-of-theology-evangelical-heresy-report-ligonier-survey.html
https://naobc.org/events/devotionables/
https://thestateoftheology.com/
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2022/september-web-only/state-of-theology-evangelical-heresy-report-ligonier-survey.html
Our study of Ruth concludes with today's Devotionable, and we must ask ourselves, "Why is Ruth even in our Bibles?" David Christensen helps us answer this question and admonishes us to take refuge in the Lord just as Ruth has taken refuge in the wings of the Lord. The book of Ruth reminds us that God is faithful and is always at work in his loving providence.
Devotionables #392: Ruth 4:18-22 Take Refuge in the Wings of the Lord Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
The Lord has indeed blessed Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz, and through their offspring, he has blessed the world. The promises made to Abraham are being fulfilled faithfully and meticulously by Yahweh. In a fantastic arc of redemption, the Lord reverses the fortunes of Naomi and restores her beyond her most fantastic dreams. Her blessings are not confined to her only but are the beginnings of a universal reversal. A King is coming!
Devotionables #391: Ruth 4:13-17 Universal Reversal Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
Boaz settles the matter of redemption in Ruth 4. In a legal action, he redeems Ruth and Naomi, thus providing permanent rest, protection, and love for Ruth. This act of redemption for Ruth is only a foretaste, a beautiful picture of the permanent redemption God's people find by faith in Jesus Christ.
Devotionables #390: Ruth 4:7-12 Redemption Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
Boaz wastes no time settling the matter of Ruth and Naomi's redemption. He approaches the nearer kinsman redeemer. But unlike the other character's in the book, he does not act in faithfulness but rather selfishness. He's the only character in the narrative that is nameless. But thankfully for Ruth and Naomi, Boaz is faithful.
Devotionables #389: Ruth 4:1-6 The Faithless Redeemer Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
Boaz proves himself to be a faithful redeemer and thus brings hope to Ruth and Naomi. We see it demonstrated in the change in Naomi's tone and actions. Just as Ruth and Naomi had hope in their redeemer Boaz, we can have greater confidence in a better Boaz, Jesus–the faithful redeemer.
Devotionables #388: Ruth 3:17-18 The Faithful Redeemer Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
This unique story in the middle of the night shows us not that some scandal has occurred between Ruth and Boaz but is another opportunity for the narrator to display their noble characters. The actions of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz show that the righteous act in faith under the umbrella of the sovereignty of God.
Devotionables #387: Ruth 3:6-18 In the Middle of the Night Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
"Let go, let God" is a common phrase in Christian circles. At its best, it can be helpful. But for many, it tends to lead toward faithless passivity. In Ruth, we see the characters all acting in faith. Each of them operates in righteousness. God works through their actions to bring blessings. Where do you need to act faithfully where perhaps you've been too passive?
Devotionables #386: Ruth 3:1-5 Let Go, Let God? Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
The Lord is at work in seemingly mundane moments. Ruth was faithful in the small things. Ruth has found a kinsman redeemer! The Lord's providence brings Boaz and Ruth together to bring a future redeemer through their lineage.
Devotionables #385: Ruth 2:14-23 Kinsman Redeemer Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
The Lord works providentially behind the scenes through the acts of faithful people. Through his providential work, the Lord graciously blesses Ruth through Boaz–fulfilling his promises to Abraham. Just like Ruth is blessed through a faithful redeemer, all who look to Jesus in faith are blessed in him and by him.
Devotionables #384: Ruth 2:4-13 Blessed by the Lord Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
The narrator of Ruth introduces the readers to a new character in chapter 2. The introduction is intentionally prolonged to heighten its importance and stresses the character of the man called Boaz. We learn that Boaz is a mighty man of character who is a kinsman redeemer in Elimelech's line. He is meticulously faithful to the Lord and his law. He protects and cares for Ruth and Naomi. The Lord providentially works through Boaz to bring about redemption for Naomi and Ruth; and also you and me. For through Boaz, we get David. And through the line of David, a Savior who is Christ the Lord!
Devotionables #383: Ruth 2:1-3 Who is this Man? Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
The story of Ruth reminds us that the God of the Bible is good. He works all things for our good and his glory. We don't always see the complete picture of how God is working in our lives, but Ruth reminds us that he is and that he is good!
Devotionables #382: Ruth 1:19-22 God is Good Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
Ruth leaves all that she has known to follow Naomi back to the land of Judah. She puts her trust in the Lord. The Lord works in ways beyond her imagination.
Devotionables #381: Ruth 1:16-18 The Lord Works Beyond Our Greatest Imagination Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
It's really easy, amid the hardness and struggles of life, to think that God is against us. Even more, we are tempted to believe that it is our fault. The dark moments in our lives are not the end of the story. Our dark and desperate times are not a sign that God is against us. Through these times, God works something greater than we could imagine as long as we continue in the faith.
Devotionables #380: Ruth 1:6-15 Dark Days Ruth: The Loving Providence of God
Ruth opens by reminding the readers that this book's setting is in the time of the judges. Israel is longing for a king, and they need a king. God works providentially in the line of Judah to bring about a king, and ultimately the King who will fix this broken world. King Jesus has come and is coming again, and we long for his appearance.
Devotionables #379: Ruth 1:1-5 Longing for A King Ruth: God's Loving Providence
Ruth is a beloved part of the Old Testament wisdom literature. The author paints a beautiful picture of God's wise and loving providence. It shows us what it looks like to take refuge in the Lord and live under his rule.
Devotionables #378: Ruth Ruth Takes Refuge in the LORD Ruth: God's Loving Providence
Proverbs 31 paints a beautiful picture of the wise way of living. Many voices are telling us how to live our lives, but the woman depicted in the last chapter of Proverbs shows us that it is favorable and wise to choose a life of trusting God and serving others. This way of life is not only for women; we would all do well to emulate this way of life.
Devotionables #377: Proverbs 31 The Wise Way of Living Proverbs: A Word to the Wise is Sufficient
Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out from all sound judgment. The Lord designed us to need community. The Christian has been gifted the community of God's family, the church. We are wise to participate, to know, and be known by others. We foolishly hurt ourselves when we withdraw.
Devotionables #376: Proverbs 18:1 Isolation Proverbs: A Word to the Wise is Sufficient
Proverbs help us glean insight into various areas of life. How we speak is a frequent theme in the book. When we use our words in anger, we leave a wake of destruction—the wise use the tongue to bring healing and life.
Devotionables #375: Proverbs 12:18 The Destroying Anger of Fools Proverbs: A Word to the Wise is Sufficient
It's not uncommon to hear Christians talk about a "life verse." Among the most common has to be Proverbs 3:5-6. Pastor Adam spends a few moments taking us through these beautiful verses.
Devotionables #374: Proverbs 3:5-6 Pursue Wisdom Proverbs: A Word to the Wise is Sufficient
Proverbs is a beautiful book helping us glean insight and best practices for living under God's rule in God's world. Solomon tells us that the wisdom of God is one of life's most valuable treasures encouraging us to attain it at whatever the cost. How are you pursuing the Lord and his wisdom?
Devotionables #372: Proverbs 2:1-6 Pursue Wisdom Proverbs: A Word to the Wise is Sufficient
Proverbs is a beautiful book helping us glean insight and best practices for living under God's rule in God's world. Chad Padgett begins our short study in Proverbs, considering two of the most important themes central to the book: Wisdom and the Fear of the Lord.
Devotionables #372: Proverbs 1:1-7 Wisdom & The Fear of the Lord Proverbs: A Word to the Wise is Sufficient
Everything we have comes from the Lord. Yet, even as believers and in churches, we can judge ourselves as having arrived. Our ingenuity, strength, and resources have caused us to reach certain levels, or so we think. Laodicea had fallen into this trap, and it led them to complacency. Thankfully, the Lord Jesus reproves those he loves. He told the church at Laodicea to repent of their lukewarmness and come to him for all they needed. He stands ready to fellowship with them if they respond in repentance as he knocks at their door.
Devotionables #371: Revelation 3:14-22 Laodicea Revelation: Letters to the Churches
The letter to the church in Philadelphia reminds us that our King Jesus is in complete control. He has authority over all things. We are to hold fast, unwavering in our faith and obedience to the Lord, trusting him with all things. He opens doors and shuts doors. We follow his lead with humility and confidence.
Devotionables #370: Revelation 3:7-13 Philadelphia Revelation: Letters to the Churches
Wake up! That's the Lord's message to the church of Sardis. King Jesus knows that his church in this city does not match their reputation. Indeed they are dead! He tells them to wake up and complete the work promising phenomenal rewards for the one who conquers. Are you asleep? Jesus says, "wake up!"
Devotionables #369: Revelation 3:1-6 Sardis Revelation: Letters to the Churches
It's tempting to compromise in our lives for friendships, promotions, and our general welfare. We can tweak Biblical teaching to allow us to engage in practices that are not holy. That's the situation the church in Thyatira was facing. Jesus rebuked those who had compromised morally and encouraged the others to hold fast. The reward for following Jesus far outweighs any temporary benefit of compromising to the world around us.
Devotionables #368: Revelation 2:18:29 Thyatira Revelation: Letters to the Churches
Hard times and temptations are nothing new to the church. The letters that Jesus sent to the churches in Revelation were an encouragement to the believers then, and they are a source of comfort and exhortation to us today as well. God is faithful in all circumstances and at all times. Pergamum reminds us of this and calls us to live holy and obedient lives holding fast to the Word of God.
Devotionables #367: Revelation 2:12-17 Pergamum Revelation: Letters to the Churches
Jesus' message to Smyrna is, "Be faithful!" It is a word we need to hear today as well. No matter what we face, it's only momentary in light of eternity with Jesus.
Devotionables #366: Revelation 2:8-11 Be Faithful: A Lesson from Smyrna Revelation: Letters to the Churches
Ephesus receives a letter from King Jesus. He commends them for their work, patience, and not tolerating false doctrine. However, he tells them that they have lost their first love calling them to repent and promising a phenomenal reward if they conquer.
Devotionables #365: Revelation 2:1-7 The Honeymoon is Over, Ephesus has Lost Their First Love Revelation: Letters to the Churches
Jesus' letters to the churches in Revelation have some common themes. While written to specific churches in Asia Minor, they teach us something about what Jesus wants for his churches for all time. The letters encourage us that Jesus knows our works, and he speaks into our lives. Many voices are vying for your ear. Does the Good Shepherd have your attention? Listen. Obey. Conquer and receive the promise he gives to those who overcome, namely, himself.
Devotionables #364: Revelation 2&3
Jesus shows John a vision of himself and tells him to write letters to seven churches in Asia Minor. These churches are experiencing intense persecution and temptation. Jesus calls them to stay strong, repent, and conquer. Jesus' words are divine because he is divine, and he isn't writing to them as some aloof and distant commander. He is among them, and he will keep them secure.
Devotionables #363: Revelation 1:9-20
The Lord helps the needy. We are needier than we realize, but God is quick to aid the humble. Because of Jesus, our Great High Priest, God's sons and daughters can confidently approach him to receive mercy and grace to help.
Devotionables #362: Hebrews 4:16
Some of God's promises do indeed seem too good to be true. How can the spiritually dead live? How can I be forgiven? How can the dead rise to life? There is nothing too hard for the Lord. We learn many things about God early in the Scriptures. The story of Abraham teaches many things, among which is that the Lord never fails to keep his word. He never breaks a promise!
Devotionables #360: Genesis 18:14, Genesis 21:1
The Lord never promises his people a life free from trouble and suffering. He did promise he would be with us. While we shouldn't seek out suffering, we should seek the Lord in our times of despair, knowing that he is with us and will cause all things to work for our good and his glory.
Devotionables #360: Acts 23:11, 2 Cor 11:21-30
Forgiveness is a necessary action of a believer. It is not easy, but we are obligated to forgive. It is evidence that we ourselves have been forgiven a debt far more enormous than we could ever repay. Forgiveness requires faith. Do I trust God to handle a situation better than I can? Do I believe that obeying Jesus is better than holding onto unforgiveness?
Devotionables #359: Matthew 18:21-35
Everyone is telling us to do what makes us happy that we pursue our true selves. That is horrible advice. That flies in the face of what Paul said about the church in Colossae. We must realize that the biggest obstacle in our way as we pursue Christlikeness is ourselves. We have to fight against our very own nature.
Devotionables #358: Colossians 3
Do you love the church? Jesus does. We should love what Jesus does.
Devotionables #358: Ephesians 5, Hebrews 10 I Love My Church Happy Birthday, Ninth & O!
We are set free from sin, not so that we can live however we want but so that we can live to please the Lord. Holiness is not legalism. Gospel freedom means that we no longer have to sin but can live unto righteousness.
Devotionables #356: 1 Peter 2:24
The chasm between God and man can only be bridged through Jesus Christ. He is our only hope. No ladder we can climb can get us back to God. The good news is that he has sent the Son for us. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved.
Devotionables #355: John 1:51
Anger and fear are two sides of the same coin. Both emotions reveal hearts that want to be in control. We respond with fear or anger when a desire is denied or a treasure threatened. James tells us that one of the antidotes to anger or fear is to remind ourselves of who is really in charge. The Lord! He providentially guides and directs our steps. We have to root out anger in our lives, for it does not produce the righteousness God requires from us.
Devotionables #354: James 1:19-20, 4:15
It's easy to be prideful, even more so when you are considered an expert or the best in your field. Vin Scull was considered by many to be the greatest baseball announcer. When asked about his longevity and accomplishments, Mr. Scully remarked that it was all about the grace of God and that he was thankful. Peter tells us that we are to clothe ourselves in humility. Let's learn from Vin, Peter, and the Lord Jesus by exercising humility toward one another.
Devotionables #353: 1 Peter 5:5, John 13:1-17
Share your story of how God has saved you! When we share our stories, it honors the Lord, provides an opportunity to share the gospel, and encourages fellow Christians to recall God's goodness in their lives.
Devotionables #352 - I Love to Tell the Story Galatians 1, Acts 9
Redeemed people are a singing people. We sing to worship, honor, and glorify the Lord. In the Lord's goodness, corporate worship of YHWH also blesses us. Sing to the Lord!
Devotionables #351 - Exodus 15:1 Do You Hear the People Sing?
The number one reason to share the gospel is that we love God! Luke's account of Paul in Athens shows us that the apostle's love of God and jealously for his name fuels his passion for evangelism. As John Piper has famously quipped, "Missions exists because worship doesn't."
Devotionables #350: Acts 17 Top 3 Reasons for Sharing the Gospel - Because we Love God and we are Jealous for His Name
A second motivating factor for sharing the gospel is that it is an act of loving others.
Devotionables #349: John 1:35-42 Top 3 Reasons for Sharing the Gospel - Because We Love Others
As Jesus is about to ascend to heaven, he gives his final instructions to his disciples. The account in Matthew is known as the Great Commission. Jesus commands his followers to make disciples. We evangelize because we want to obey Jesus' commands.
Devotionables #348: Matthew 28:16-20 3 Reasons to Evangelize: #1 - Because We Want to Obey God's Commands
Acts 15 is in the center of Luke's second volume. Hanchen says it is a watershed, 'turning point' moment in Luke's account and for church history. The church considers what to do with these new Gentile converts? Their answer is a resounding, "Justification is by faith alone!'" Praise God for these faithful believers and the work of God. Outside of the Holy Spirit's arrival in Acts 2, this is the most crucial moment in Acts.
Devotionables #347: Acts 15 The Gospel vs False Faith: The Most Important Chapter in Acts?
We finish our series of important Bible words and themes by once again considering the Scriptures. The Bible is a gift of God in which he has revealed himself to us. The flower and the grass will fade and fall away, but the Word of the Lord is forever.
Devotionables #346: Isaiah 40:8 Bible Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Trinity is a word you won't find in your Bible. However, the theological concept and teaching are spread throughout the Old and New Testaments. It's a complex doctrine to understand, but that doesn't make it any less true. It is how God has revealed himself to us in his Word. Scott Hardy helps us consider this doctrine in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #345: Genesis 18; Matthew 3, 28; Ephesians 1 Trinity Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Everybody has an opinion on heaven. If we're not careful, some of our thinking can be more informed by popular culture than Scripture. Derek Riley talks to us about heaven as we wind down our series of Big Bible Words in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #344: Revelation 21 & 22, 1 Thess 4 Heaven Big Themes and Words of the Bible
The day is coming when everyone will be judged according to all they've done. God is the supreme judge, and he will execute justice flawlessly. How do you stack up? What will God say to you? If in Christ, you know that you will be judged based on his work. Christians also comfort that God will rightly deal with all evil in wickedness. Come, Lord Jesus!
Devotionables #343: Hebrews 9:27, Revelation 20:11-15 Judgment Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Death is not a dinner talk conversation in many homes, and that's okay. But we do well to think about death and consider the end of our lives. For all big questions of life, we should start with Scripture. So in today's devotionable, we will consider some of the Bible's words about death.
Devotionables #342: Hebrews 2:14-15, Ecclesiastes 7:2,4, Psalm 116:15 Death Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Repentance describes the heartbeat of the Christian life—a constant call to walk by faith. We adjust our thinking and actions to love God and walk in his ways. Ethan Hinkson talks about this biblical word in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #341: Nehemiah 5:6-13 Repentance Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Regeneration is a big Bible word, AND it's an important Bible word. Chad Padgett talks to us about regeneration in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #340: 1 Peter 1:3, John 3 Regeneration Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Mercy is not receiving what you deserve. Mercy is a beautiful biblical word. Paul Cook talks to us about the parable of the unforgiving servant that highlights God's mercy and how we should live our lives as recipients of that mercy.
Devotionables #339: Matthew 18:21-25 Mercy Big Themes and Words of the Bible
When we hear the word 'mediator,' we probably think of lawyers. We live in a litigious culture. It's not uncommon to hear the phrase, "lawyer up." For the Christian, Jesus is our mediator between God and us. And there is none better! Derek Riley talks about today's word in our series, Mediator.
Devotionables #338: 1 Timothy 1:5, Hebrews Mediator Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Covenant is not a word you use frequently. It's an important Bible word. What does it mean, and why is it essential for us today?
Devotionables #337: Jeremiah 31, Hebrews 8 - 9 Covenant Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Life. The Bible tells us a great deal about it and is a prevailing theme in its pages. God is the Author of life. When sin came into the world, so did death. God has done something about it and offers eternal life to all who look to Jesus in faith. As God's people, we must be a people of life.
Devotionables #336: Genesis, John Life Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Is man born basically good? The answer to that question is crucial. The Bible has the answer to these questions, bringing us to the word sin in our study through Bible Themes and Words of the Bible. The Bible tells us that we are sinners by birth and sinners by choice. Sin entered into the world through Adam. But God's story is a story of redemption through the God-man, the perfect, sinless Jesus Christ. Jason Dierking talks to us about the fall, sin, and hope of redemption through faith in Jesus in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #335: Genesis, Romans Sin Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Justification is a long word that pops up in the New Testament. It is one of the essential doctrines in the Christian faith and is a word with which all believers should be familiar. Kory Zakeri spends a moment talking about this crucial doctrine in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #334: Romans 3:21-26, 5:18-21 Justification Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Apologies for a few pops in the audio
The election is an essential word in the Bible and must be studied carefully and with humility. We shouldn't stress this doctrine more or less than the authors of Scripture but should seek to receive the teaching in ways that cause us to marvel at God's grace, worship him with tremendous passion, and fervently share the good news of his saving grace with all!
Devotionables #333: Revelation 13, Ephesians Election Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Adam is the first man. Created in God's image and given authority to rule over the rest of God's creation as God's viceroy. We know the tragic story of the fall, but over against that stands the beautiful picture of redemption found only in the second Adam, the Lord Jesus Christ!
Devotionables #332: Romans 5, 1 Corinthians 15 Adam Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Today's word is Worship. All creation rejoices in the LORD. The Redeemed of the Lord gives praise, thanksgiving, and worship to our God. Brandon Pisacrita walks us through Psalm 100 as we consider worship.
Devotionables #331 - Psalm 100 Worship Important Bible Words & Themes
Fellowship belongs in our study of important Bible words and themes. To have fellowship with God is to have life. And once you are brought into fellowship with the Lord, you are called into fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ. Jonah Chitty leads us into today's devotionable.
Devotionables #330: 1 John Fellowship Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Baptism may be a word you weren't expecting in our journey through important Bible words and themes. Pastor Philip talks about the importance of Baptism in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #329 - Matthew 28; Mark 1 Baptism Important Bible Words & Themes
Today's word in our series is a name. We are talking about the Devil, Satan, the accuser. We'll remind ourselves of his origin, character, activity, and destiny. Jesus said that the devil came only to steal, kill, and destroy. Thankfully, because of Jesus, the devil's doom is sure! Praise God! Come, Lord Jesus!
Devotionables #328: Revelation 20 The Devil Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Today's word in our series of Important Bible Words & Themes is Reconciliation. God is reconciling sinners to himself in the person and work of Jesus Christ and has entrusted this glorious message with his people. We are his ambassadors!
Devotionables #325 - Reconciliation 2 Corinthians 5:18-21 Important Words & Themes of the Bible
As we continue our journey looking at essential words of the Bible, we come to the word peace. Pastor Larry helps us consider peace in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #326 Peace Big Themes and Words of the Bible
What is mortification? Have you ever used it in a sentence? Highly unlikely, but the concept is a crucial one for the Christian. Peter Holmes takes our attention to Colossians 3, where the Apostle Paul admonishes us to put sin to death.
Devotionables #325: Colossians 3:1-17 Mortification Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Love. People are always talking about it, singing about it, or writing about it. The Bible has a lot to say about it, so we'll turn to the disciple of love, the Apostle John, to see just a tiny amount of what this critical Bible word means.
Devotionables #324: 1 John Love Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Propitiation is a big Bible word. You've probably heard it or even come across it while reading in the New Testament, but perhaps you're unsure what it means. It's an important word, and the word Derek Riley will help us to think about today.
Devotionables #323: Propitiation Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Our series of essential Bible words and themes has us looking at grace today. Tino Soto takes us to Daniel, Titus, Romans, and others to consider the grace of God.
Devotionables #322 - Grace
Today we consider what it means to take refuge in the Lord. TJ Betts walks us through Psalm 2.
Devotionables #320: Psalm 2 Refuge Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Today's word in our series of Big Themes and Words of the Bible is more than a word; it's a name. It's the most important name in the Bible. We are talking about the Lord, and all of Scripture is the Story about the Lord. Brandon Pisacrita leads us in today's Devotionable.
Devotionables #319: Exodus 3:14, Philippians 2, John The LORD Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Today's word in our series of Big Themes and Words of the Bible is JOY! When you find God, you have found joy! Joy is closely related to love, as what we love produces joy. Joy is more profound and longer-lasting in comparison to happiness. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit and is a gift from God to his people that they can have no matter their circumstances.
Devotionables #318: Galatians 5:22, Psalm 16:11 Joy Big Themes and Words of the Bible
Faith is one of the most elemental and crucial words in Scripture. There is a myriad of ways people might define the word. The author of Hebrews gives God's definition and examples of people who followed God by faith.
Devotionables #317: Hebrews 11, 12 Faith Big Themes and Words of the Bible
We are looking at some of the important words and themes of Scripture. Today's word is ATONEMENT. Pastor Blake helps us consider this vital work of Jesus in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #316 - Atonement Big Words & Themes of the Bible
Our word of the day in this devotional is Sanctification. Brandon Pisacrita helps us learn about this by reviewing Hebrews 12, Romans 6, and other Bible passages.
Devotionables #315: Hebrews 12, Romans 6 Sanctification Big Themes and Words of the Bible
The Bible is God's revelation of himself to us. It is the foundation of our faith. It is a gift from the Lord. Derek Riley starts our new series about some essential themes and words in the Bible by talking about Scripture.
Devotionables #314: Psalm 19 Big Themes and Words of the Bible
God has given us his Son! What love is this? If you put your trust in Jesus, you will have eternal life!
Devotionables #313: John 3:16 John 3:16
Roe is said to be overturned by the United States Supreme Court soon. How should Christians consider and respond to this decision? We rejoice, pray, and seek to help and serve the cause of life in a culture of death.
Devotionables #312: Roe & A Culture of Death Exodus 1
The Apostle Paul shares his testimony with the Galatians, and it reminds us of the power of the gospel. God saves sinners–even the worst of sinners like Paul, David, and Moses. It's easy for folks that maybe don't have a dramatic story to feel like their testimony is slightly inferior. The reality is that each of us was given new life in Christ. We were once blind and now see. God saved us, and that is a titanic testimony.
Devotionables #311: Titanic Testimony Galatians 1
What now after Jesus' resurrection and ascension? He sends the Holy Spirit, the church is born, and the people of God are sent across the street and around the world as God's ambassadors. We share the good news that God in Christ is reconciling sinners to himself! Joy to the world!
Devotionables #310: Across the Street and Around the World 2 Corinthians 5:18-21, Acts 1:8, Matthew 28, John 20
After the Holy Spirit arrives, the Church is born. It's an exciting story in Acts 2. The church is a gift to believers and the world. Though sadly, we don't always view it as such. Jesus loves his church. We should love the church too.
Devotionables #309 - The Church is A Gift Acts 2:41-47
Jesus sends the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. Now God indwells his people! The Holy Spirit brings life. He emboldens and equips his saints for service. Praise God!
Devotionables #308: The Holy Spirit Arrives Acts 2:1-8
King Jesus suffered, died, was buried, and on the third day rose from the dead and left the grave. He appeared to hundreds over 40 days at different times and in other places. Then after 40 days, he ascended into heaven and was received by the Father so that all who are united by faith in him will be received by the Father into heaven one day. The ascension of Jesus is an important doctrine, and it gives us hope and reminds us of who Jesus is and what he has done.
Devotionables #307: Where is Jesus? Luke 24:50-54; Acts 1:9-12
As we share the gospel, we must be both prepared to give an answer for the hope that resides in us and have mercy on those who doubt. We didn't reason ourselves into the kingdom. We were born of the Spirit, so we must pray for the Spirit to cause those with whom we share to be born again from above.
Devotionables #306: Doubting Thomas John 20:24-29, Jude 22, 1 Peter 3:15
The gospel authors all share resurrection accounts. The evidence is clear that Jesus Christ was raised bodily from the dead. Jesus is alive! Our response should be faith, repentance, worship, obedience, and evangelism.
Devotionables #305: Jesus is Alive! Luke 24 Jesus's Final Week
Good Friday. What is it that makes this day good? This particular Friday is the day Jesus Christ, a carpenter and itinerant preacher is condemned to the most excruciating and embarrassing form of death. He is sentenced to a criminal's cross to die. All of this is part of the Father's plan. Through the death of Jesus Christ, our sins have once and for all been dealt with so that all who look to him in faith might be forgiven. And that is good news and why we call it Good Friday.
Undoubtedly you can recall where you were when the verdict of a specific trial was reached. There hasn't been a more significant trial in history than the one on Friday of Passion Week, in April of A.D. 30. Jesus, an itinerant preacher from Nazareth, is put on trial and unjustly condemned.
Devotionables #303: The Trial of the Ages Matthew 27 Jesus's Final Week
Early Friday morning, Jesus is facing a trial that will condemn him to death. Most of his disciples have scattered, but a couple of his companions follow to see what their teacher will become. Peter is nearby and is recognized by several in the crowd as an associate of the Nazarene Jesus. Peter adamantly denies it, just as Jesus said would happen before day breaks. There are many takeaways from this Good Friday story. Pastor Philip leads us through this story on today's devotionable.
Devotionables #302: Before the Rooster Crows
Jesus's Final Week
After enjoying the Passover meal, teaching, and serving his disciples, John tells us that Jesus prays. The prayer found in John 17 is known as Jesus' High Priestly prayer. In it, Jesus prays for you. He has planted you where you are and has prayed for you as you serve others, attend to the Great Commission, and participate in the local church. The needs around you may seem overwhelming, but you can invest in those God has brought into your life.
Devotionables #301: One for All John 17 Jesus's Final Week
Thursday of Holy Week is another busy day for Jesus as he marches closer and closer to the cross. On this day, he will host what is known as the Last Supper with his disciples in the Upper Room. In these final moments together, Jesus teaches them about many things. He gives them a new commandment to love one another. Pastor Craig discusses what is known to us as Maundy Thursday in our 300th devotionable.
Devotionables #300: A New Commandment - Love One Another John 13 Jesus's Final Week
There seems to be a bit of a respite for Jesus during his busy final week. But things are going on behind the scenes and in the heart of one Judas Iscariot–who would betray him. Brandon Pisacrita leads us through Silent Wednesday in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #299: Silent Wednesday Luke 22, John 12 Jesus's Final Week
It is another active day for Jesus during his final week. On Tuesday, the disciples discover the tree Jesus cursed indeed has withered. Once in the city, Jesus clashes with the religious elite over a number of matters.
Devotionables #298: Tuesday Passion Week Mark 11-12 Jesus's Final Week
It's Monday of Passion Week, Jesus' Final Week, and what can he be found doing? Is he checking the last things on his bucket list? He does something completely unexpected! What are the events of cursing a tree and cleaning out the temple supposed to communicate to us about Jesus? Pastor Adam discusses in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #297: Unexpected Jesus Mark 11 Jesus's Final Week
We begin a ten-part series on the final week of Jesus' known as Holy Week or Passion Week. The amount of space each gospel author gives to this week only highlights its prominence. The week begins with the event known as the Triumphal Entry. Jesus is in complete control, and no longer is obscuring his identity as Israel's Messiah-King but announces it for all in this overt and open act as the one who comes in peace ready to save. How will the people respond? Hosanna, the King, is here! What is your response to Jesus?
Devotionables #296: Hosanna, the King is Here! John 12:12-19 Jesus's Final Week
You and I are in great need of mercy. Thankfully, the Lord is rich in mercy. He has an abundance of it! And the good news is that he is not stingy but lavishly bestows it upon all who cry out to Him in faith.
Devotionables #295: God is Rich and is not Stingy Psalm 51
You've probably heard it said that money is the root of all evil. This phrase is misapplied to the Apostle Paul writing to Timothy. Paul told his young friend that the "love of money" is the root of all kinds of evil. Oh, how one word can make a difference! Why did Paul write this to Timothy? What did he mean, and how can we rightly apply it to our lives today?
Devotionables #294: Money is NOT the Root of All Evil 1 Timothy 6:10 Reading Scripture Carefully
Jesus makes several wonderful promises in the Gospel of John. One of which is found in chapter 12, where he says, "And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself." What does Jesus mean by this statement? David Christensen helps us to consider the passage faithfully within its context.
Devotionables #293: When I Am Lifted Up John 12:32-33 Reading Scripture Carefully
It's not uncommon to hear people pray the promises of 2 Chronicles 7:14 for their nation. It's right, and we are commanded to pray for our governing authorities. We should pray for our countries often. Let's frequently pray that God would give wisdom to our leaders and that they would execute their responsibilities with righteousness and justice. Let's pray for God to save sinners. Let's pray that churches would lead the way in our communities. However, we must remember that the specific context of this verse is for Israel–the people of God.
Devotionables #292: The People of My Land 2 Chronicles 7:14 Reading Scripture Carefully
One of the most beloved themes that run through the Bible is God's promise of his presence. The believer takes immense joy and comfort knowing that God is with us! Not only can we have confidence in the general principle of God's presence with us, but Jesus also encourages us that he will be with us at specific times and in challenging circumstances.
Devotionables #291: Where Two or Three Gather in My Name Matthew 18:20 Reading Scripture Carefully
A favorite verse for many is Jeremiah 29:11. It reminds us that God is in charge and has a plan for us. Let's take a moment to remember the backdrop of this wonderful verse in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #290: God's Plans for You Jeremiah 29:11 Reading Scripture Carefully
Perhaps the most well-known verse in the Bible is Matthew 7:1. Jesus says, "Do not judge, and you will not be judged." What does Jesus mean by this statement? Jonah Chitty helps us break down this passage on today's Devotionable.
Devotionables #289: Don't Judge Me Matthew 7:1 Reading Scripture Carefully
Jesus makes an astonishing promise regarding prayer. There are usually two errors regarding this promise. One, we may be tempted to overly qualify what Jesus said, leading us to not ask him for much in prayer. Or conversely, we can pray selfishly and not receive what we ask for because we ask with wrong motives. Let's take Jesus at his word and pray BIG prayers for his glory and the good of ourselves and others.
Devotionables #288: Pray BIG Prayers John 14:14 Reading Scripture Carefully
Children are a gift and heritage from the Lord! How precious they are. Christians are called to raise their children in the fear and admonition of the Lord. We think about Proverbs 22:6 when we consider parenting in fear of the Lord. What does this proverb mean? Ninth & O Family Pastor Ryan Morris talks about it today on Devotionables.
Devotionables #287: Train Up A Child Proverbs 22:6 Reading Scripture Carefully
Romans 8:28 is an anchor of hope for the believer, and rightly so! This precious verse reminds us that God is in control and that he is good and does good. But, we must be careful not to remove this verse from its context or truncate it to the point that we misapply it to our lives. Adam Cole reminds us of what God is telling us through the pen of the Apostle Paul.
Devotionables #286: Do All Things Work for Good? Romans 8:28 Reading Scripture Carefully
Misinterpretations come in many forms. Are we aware of Scriptural misinterpretations? In this Devotionable, Brandon discusses Philippians 4:13 as a commonly misinterpreted Scripture - do Christians have the power to do anything? Our power rests in the strength that God provides to achieve His will for His glory.
Devotionables #285: I Can Do All Things Through Christ Philippians 4:13 Reading Scripture Carefully
Today we begin a new series taking a closer look at Scriptures that we sometimes misapply or take out of context. We'll look at James 5 and remind ourselves that our hope is in the Lord who heals. We trust him, and we call out to him.
Devotionables #284: As the Lord Wills James 5:13-15 Reading Scripture Carefully
Who is at the top of your call list when you need help? Who is your emergency contact? For King David, his trust was in the Lord. He knew that God was his helper, and he pleaded for help. The good news for David and you is that God is eager and able to help. Call out to him for help today.
Devotionables #283: Help! Psalm 30:10 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
Our series of the whole Bible in 16 verses concludes with some of the sweetest words found in Scripture. John sees and hears that God is making all things new. He will dwell with his people forever. We are HOME! We couldn't get there by ourselves, so through the work and person of Jesus Christ, he brings heaven, our eternal home, to us. This passage brings us comfort and hope as we eagerly await our Savior. Come, Lord Jesus!
Devotionables #282: HOME Revelation 21:1-4 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
The Apostle Paul talks about what God has done to make us right with him. It's a big Bible word called justification. Kyle Barrett walks us through Romans 3:21-26 and tells us the implications of justification for those who believe.
Devotionables #281: God Makes Us Right with God Romans 1:3-4 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
There are multiple places in the Bible where we read that nothing is impossible for God. This truth may be at its peak fullness in the birth and death of Jesus. Paul tells us in Romans 1:3-4 that Jesus picked his parents and that Jesus was raised from the dead. We stand in awe. These truths are the biggest game-changers in history. And our response should be complete devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Devotionables #280: Jesus Does the Impossible Romans 1:3-4 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
Perhaps the most powerful sentence in the Bible is uttered from the lips of Jesus as he is about to die. Jesus declares in John 19, "It is finished." What did Jesus finish, and what does it mean for you?
Devotionables #279: Game Over John 19:30 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
All the promises of God in the Old Testament have pointed to Jesus' Arrival and Ministry in the New Testament. Jesus' first words in Mark's gospel announce that God's Kingdom has arrived. He is here to begin to undo what was lost at the fall. The time is fulfilled. What the saints of old longed for throughout the years is finally here. The wait is over. The King is here, and he is establishing his kingdom.
Devotionables #278: The Wait is Over Mark 1:14-15 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
The good word from Isaiah 65 to you and i is that there is no sin, no matter how deplorable, no suffering, however painful that can ultimately thwart God from fulfilling his purpose. God has the remedy. The remedy is not that God just needs to take us to a new place but that he needs to make us new. And by his grace, he does and will.
Devotionables #276: God Will Make Everything New, Including You Isaiah 65:17 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
We pick up our place going through the whole Bible in 16 verses with a sensational story found in Ezekiel 37. The prophet is shown a vision of a dark and disturbing picture of a vast area filled with bones. Dead, dry, and decaying bones. God asks Ezekiel, "Can these bones live?" Can they ever! Only God can do the impossible and bring what was dead to life!
Devotionables #276: Can These Bones Live? Ezekiel 37:1-5 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
We've seen through the story so far that God will send a rescuer who will crush the head of the serpent and deal with the problem of sin. This rescuer is going to be a king. Isaiah adds to the imagery and points out that this rescuer is not only a king but a suffering servant who himself will be crushed for the sins of his people. What a good and gracious servant King we have!
Devotionables #275 - The Suffering Servant Isaiah 53:6 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
As we march through the storyline of Scripture, we come across the story of King David's desire to build a house for the LORD. It's an admirable desire. The Lord, however, tells David that he will not be the one to make him a home but that his son will. Though David will not build the Lord a house, God will make David a dynasty, and we can learn a bit from David about longing for the Lord to fulfill his promises.
Devotionables #274 - David's Dynasty 2 Samuel 7:12-23 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
Exodus is one of the most dramatic and powerful stories of the Bible. God's revelation of himself and his redemptive plan continue to be sketched out through Scripture. In the Passover, we see God's gracious and merciful deliverance and mercy upon his people and judgment upon Egypt. The reality is that we all deserve judgment, but to any who look up Christ–our Passover Lamb–we will be delivered by faith.
Devotionables #273 - The Passover Exodus 12:2-3 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
God continues to pencil in his sketch of redemption through the pen of Moses. In Genesis 49, we read Jacob's farewell address to his sons. These final words serve as a blessing and a prophecy. In verse 10, something remarkable happens. Judah, his fourth-born, will be the first. It will be from his line that Israel will have a king. We know that the King is ultimately Jesus-not only of Judah and Israel–but of the whole world! Pastor Adam helps us consider this small but crucial verse and why it's vital for us today.
A significant plot point in God's story is revealed in Genesis 12. God's plan to crush the head of the serpent, to reverse the curse, is going to come about through a family, one family. The family's patriarch is Abraham, yet in Genesis 12, he is still known as Abram and has no children. But with God, that is no problem! God's promises to Abraham are ultimately fulfilled in Jesus, and through him, all the nations of the earth are blessed!
Devotionables #271 - More Than a Promise Genesis 12:2-3 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
The Bible is God's story. He is the main character. When his creatures sin against him, all creation is put under a curse. Death is ushered into God's good world. God begins to mete out judgment upon Adam, Eve, and Satan in His perfect justice. Yet, even in judgment, there is hope. Like a bright and beautiful flower in the middle of a torched field, God's promise in Genesis 3:15 is a stark reminder of his faithfulness and loving-kindness pursuing us against the backdrop of the fall. He will come to defeat all of our foes and bring us back to himself. Early in the story, God plants hope in the garden.
Devotionables #270 - God Plants Hope in the Garden Genesis 3:15 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
The Bible is God's story. He is the main character. He is the hero. All the other characters exist in relation to him. In the Scriptures' storyline, we are introduced to Satan's new character. The serpent from old, and enemy of God and his people. The Devil tempts Eve to eat the forbidden fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil by casting doubt upon God's goodness and His word. Adam and Eve fall into temptation, sin against God, and break God's good world. Genesis 3 is the story of the fall, and from it, we learn what is wrong in the world.
Devotionables #269 - What's Wrong? Genesis 3:6-7 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
The Bible is God's story. You can't tell God's story without the story of creation. God is the Creator of all things. Humans have the distinct honor and privilege of being the one creature made in God's image and likeness. What a beautiful thing! Derek Riley explores Genesis 1:27-28 on our journey through the whole story of the Bible in 16 verses.
Devotionables #268 - Created in God's Image Genesis 1:27-28 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
Who doesn’t love a good story? In Genesis 1:31, Creator God says of His creation that it was very good. God creates his world and thus begins the story.
Devotionables #267 - Thus Begins the Story Genesis 1:31 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
God graciously reveals himself to his creatures. We know something of him when we like at his creation. We know much more when we read his Word. Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation of the Father. He pointed his disciples back to the Word and opened their minds that they might understand the Scriptures. Look for God by opening your Bible and praying that God would reveal himself to you!
Devotionables #266 - Look for God in the Mountain Range of Scripture Luke 24:25-27 The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Story-Bible-16-Verses/dp/143354282X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10QYNR1UR5MOA&keywords=the+whole+bible+in+16+verses&qid=1642372624&sprefix=the+whole+Bible+in+%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
Angels remind us that there is more than meets the eye. God has created all things–visible and invisible. Angles work behind the scenes to bring about the purposes of God for his glory and our good in all things.
Devotionables #265 - Final Word on Angels Acts 23:8, Psalm 148 Angelology 101
Angels are servants of God who interact as agents in his world and do his bidding. At times, they are used by God to protect people. Is it possible to see them? As they intervene in God's world, how are people to interact with them? Angels are mighty and strong, but our praise and worship should be directed to God–not angels! Beware of worshiping angels, believing false doctrine from angels, or praying to angels. We worship and believe God alone!
Devotionables #264 - Psalm 91:11, Revelation 19:10, Hebrews 13:2, 1 Corinthians 11:4
Angels are spiritual beings that God created. Though they are spiritual beings, they are sometimes involved in the physical realms as God sees fit to use them. We see them serving God in his world because they are used to pronounce and perform acts of judgment. Two of the most well-known Scriptures that we see angels executing judgment in are Genesis 19 and throughout the book of Revelation.
Devotionables #263 - Genesis 19:12-13, 22, Revelation Angels Carry Out God's Judgment Angelology 101
God created angels to serve him in several ways. We might not know all the ways that angels work to serve the Lord, but Scripture tells us some things. Angels work to help bring about God's work and plans. Angels both announce good news and pronounce and perform acts of judgment. Today, we will consider some instances where angles brought good news!
Devotionables #262 - Psalm 103:20 with selected passages Angelology 101 (Part 2a - Angels Serve God)
Welcome to Angelology 101! In the first part of our study on angels, we see that God is the Creator of all things and that he created angels. Angels are creatures.
Devotionables #261 - Nehemiah 9:6, Genesis 1:1-2 Angelology 101 (Part 1 - Angels Are Created)
Peter ends his second letter with the admonishment to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." We grow as we abide in Christ and in his Word, and it's helpful to have a reading plan to read through Scripture. Yet, completing the program is not the point. The goal is to grow in Christlikeness by spending time with God. We want to create habits, not checkoff lists. So don't let falling behind on a plan keep you from spending time with Jesus in his Word.
Devotionables #260 - 2 Peter 3:18 Don't Let Perfection Kill Your Growth
As we plan different goals we'd like to achieve in the new year, let me encourage you to abide in Jesus through his word and prayer! Do you have a plan to do so? Happy New Year!
Devotionables #259 - John 15 Resolved: To Abide in Jesus in 2022 Happy New Year
The entire chapter of Leviticus 23 discusses the feasts the people of Israel were commanded to observe. These feasts were celebrations that had various purposes. One purpose for the feasts was to cause Israel to pause, reflect, and remember the faithfulness of God. Have you set aside any time to look back on the faithfulness of God this year? Maybe over the next couple of days, you will, for indeed he has been at work!
Devotionables #258 - Leviticus 23 Looking Back As We Continue Foward New Year
The anticipation of the Christmas season is palpable. Year by year, it flies by and ends with a sudden hard stop. You may be left thinking, "Now what?!" as the new year ushers in and hectic schedules ramp back up. Daustin Kratzer takes us to the stories of Simeon and Anna as they meet a week-old Jesus at the temple. What can we learn from them as we consider life after Christmas?
Devotionables #257 Hard Stop Luke 2:22-38
What's on your bucket list? We hear of all different kinds of experiences that people would love to one day do. Mary perhaps had the experience that tops them all. Imagine being with her and Joseph as Jesus is placed in their arms for the very first time. Mary is told all sorts of things considering her son–who is the Savior of the World. Mary now holds the one who holds all things together. No matter what might be on your bucket list, nothing can compare to knowing Jesus. Merry Christmas!
Devotionables #256 - Colossians 1:15-20 Nothing Like This On Your Bucket List Christmas
The glory of Christmas is Jesus and Jesus alone! Pastor Josh Wilson of Storyline Church in St. Louis helps us look at the story of Jesus' birth from Luke 2. Here we see that God uses the characters and circumstances to make sure that we see the main focal point is the birth of the Savior, the Son of God, Jesus. Merry Christmas!
Devotionables #255 Christmas Bokeh
God and sinner reconciled! The message of Christmas is good news. How does this occur? The answer is in the names given to the Son of God at his incarnation. He is given the name of Jesus because he is the one who will save his people from their sin comes as Emmanuel-God with us. Let's not let the season go by without reflecting on the grace of Emmanuel. Christ has come!
Devotionables #254 O Come, O Come, Emmanuel Matthew 1:22-25
The Sermon on the Mount concludes with Jesus giving a final admonishment to obey his words as doing so is wise. We rarely lack the knowledge to do what is right; we need to obey. Obedience is better than knowledge.
Devotionables #253 - Matthew 7:24-29 Obedience>Knowledge Sermon on the Mount
Pastor Jeff walks us through today's passage as Jesus continues teaching about the Kingdom of Heaven in the Sermon on the Mount. As he begins to wind down, he gets to the heart of the matter. Entrance into the Kingdom of Heaven is not merely about knowing the right things or doing the right things. It's about having the right heart. A heart forgiven and changed by God.
Devotionables #252 - Matthew 7:21-23 The Heart of the Matter Sermon on the Mount
Dan Cabal walks us through Matthew 7:15-20 by illustrating this passage by reminding us of the process we go through when considering buying a used car. If you inspect the vehicle, listen to it, look under the hood, and drive it, the car will tell you about itself. The same is true for people. The fruit of our lives gives evidence to our character and heart. Check the carfax if you want to know what kind of person someone is!
Devotionables #251 - Matthew 7:15-20 Check the Carfax Sermon on the Mount
Jesus talks about the way to life being narrow. In fact, in John's gospel, he declares himself to be the way, the truth, and the life. Jonathan Copeland encourages us to point people to the narrow path, the only way, of Jesus and reminds us that the mark of success in evangelism is faithfulness.
Matthew 7:7-11 invites us to pray with the specific intention of asking, seeking, and knocking. We do not get everything we ask for; however, our perspective changes when we consider God's understanding of good against our understanding of good. God invites us in to share every good and perfect gift with those who ask Him.
Matthew 7:1 is quite possibly the most well-known and often quoted verse in the Bible. The frequency in which we might hear, "Judge not," is not rare. What does Jesus mean when he tells us. The passage's context helps us know that Jesus is not prohibiting all judgment but, as per usual in the Sermon on the Mount, calling his disciples to a higher standard.
Devotionables #248 - Matthew 7:1-6 Don't Judge Me Sermon on the Mount
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is calling all who would follow him and live under his kingship to learn to think and live differently. In this well-known passage, Adam Cole helps us to consider how we might live up to Jesus' call to seek first the kingdom of heaven.
Devotionables #247 - Matthew 6:31-33 First Things Sermon on the Mount
Jesus teaches his disciples about riches, reminding them (and us) that this life is not our only life and that we should live in light of the life to come. There is no fence-straddling - you can only serve one master in this regard. So, as Leonard Ravenhill said, "Tattoo eternity on your eyelids." When we live with the proper perspective, we will make the right choices.
Devotionables #246 - Matthew 6:19-24 Tattoo Eternity on Your Eyelids Sermon on the Mount
In Matthew 6:16-19, Jesus warns against fasting in a way to draw attention to one's own righteousness. Instead, our motive for correct spiritual disciplines must be to please God rather than man.
Devotionables #245 - Matthew 6:16-19 Righteous Motives for Righteous Living Sermon on the Mount
In today's Devotionable, Pepe Roberts points out two takeaways from King Jesus' teaching on prayer. First, prayer is simple. Second, prayer is personal. These are two truths we can take with us today and be more faithful and fruitful in prayer.
Devotionables #244 - Matthew 6:5-11 The Praying Life Sermon on the Mount
Jesus begins to teach his disciples about giving. The understanding is that they will give, not that it is optional. Michael Knight helps us work through this portion of the Sermon on the Mount and points us to other positive and negative examples of giving found in the New Testament. As Christ's disciples, let us be found faithful in our giving!
Devotionables #243 - Matthew 6:1-4 Secret Giving Sermon on the Mount
Jesus tells his disciples that they are to love their enemies. Jesus can't be serious, can he? He is! Peter Holmes walks us through this passage as Jesus continues to call us to a higher standard as we live under his kingship.
Devotionables #242 - Matthew 5:43-48 Really Jesus? Sermon on the Mount
What does Jesus mean when he says to 'turn the other cheek' or to 'go the extra mile'? Derek Riley helps us consider these questions in our passage from the Sermon on the Mount today.
Devotionables #241 - Matthew 5:38-42 Pulling Teeth Sermon on the Mount
Jesus continues teaching his disciple in what is known as the Sermon on the Mount. He tells us to be trustworthy. As God's children, we say what we mean and mean what we say. Nothing more. Nothing less. We are to be truth-loving and truth-speaking people. Let us be known as a people whose word is our bond.
Devotionables #240 - Matthew 5:33-37 Be Trustworthy Sermon on the Mount
The wisest and best way to read, teach, and preach the Bible is verse-by-verse through its books. It takes you to topics and issues it's easy to avoid. You come across teaching that is hard, but though it is hard, it is not harsh. Hard calls to follow God faithfully are a grace. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches about Divorce and Remarriage. We should look to God's word to formulate our positions, extend grace where we can, and seek to maintain a high view of marriage in our lives. Marriage is a gift of God. His design is one man, one woman, for one lifetime.
Devotionables #239 - Matthew 5:31-32 Til Death Do Us Part Sermon on the Mount
Jesus is teaching his disciples about the necessity of sexual purity. Take it seriously, put up safeguards, and avoid sexual temptations at all costs! Righteousness is worth the price.
Devotionables #238 - Matthew 5:27-30 Avoid At All Costs Sermon on the Mount
Jesus is preaching to his disciples about life in the Kingdom of Heaven. He continues to ratchet up teachings linking anger and murder. Jesus teaches that they come from the same place in deep recesses of sinful hearts. We must do battle with indwelling sin and look to Jesus to save us and sanctify us.
Devotionables #237 - Matthew 21:26 Angry You Are? Sermon on the Mount
Jesus is teaching about the Kingdom of Heaven in the Sermon on the Mount. In the Kingdom, there is no grading on a curve. For those who would wish to enter, the prerequisite is perfect righteousness. That excludes everyone since we've all fallen short. The good news is that Jesus provides us with the righteousness required for entering the Kingdom!
Devotionables #236 - Matthew 5:17-20 Grading on the Curve Sermon on the Mount
In Matthew 5:12-16, Jesus tells us to pursue righteousness, expect persecution, and live in a way that brings glory to the Father. Using simple examples of salt and light, Jesus asks believers to live in a way that others see a difference in us for the glory of God our Father. How can you be salt and light to those around you today?
Devotionables #235 - Matthew 5:12-16 Seasoned and Shining for the Father Sermon on the Mount
The beatitudes are renown across both Christendom and the world. As Jesus begins his famous Sermon on the Mount, he charges his disciples to be happy people because much more is given them than this world. Are we happy people? Does the world consider us happy? Let this reminder in Matthew from Jesus help us see the beauty of being disciples of Christ.
Devotionables #234 - Matthew 5:1-11 The Happy Ones Sermon on the Mount Series
Are you the kid in class who can't be bothered to participate or do the assignments given by the teacher? The Teacher of this world - God - will grade our assignments. Many people ignore or forget God, but God is clear in his Word - he doesn't forget us, and he will judge all peoples. Don't be the kid too cool to be seen being obedient to God by loving him and his Word.
Devotionables #233 - Psalm 50 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
The roar of the crowd can be thrilling. When our favorite sports team completes a victory in the waning moments, we can become enthralled. Those moments are great, but they pale in comparison to the Almighty God, who is our Creator and Redeemer. The Psalmist tells us to Praise Him! Sing Praises! Clap your hands! Worship!
Devotionables #232 - Psalm 47 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
God is our help- a refuge in times of adversity. Psalm 46 tells us that we can trust that nothing happens that is a surprise to our God. We are assured that He is with us and brings strength in times of need.
Devotionables #230 - Psalm 46 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Israel has just experienced a great defeat. It leaves the people wondering where God is, and the psalmist cries out to him for help! God's delays are not always his denials. He promises his loyal love to us, and he will help us. God is always working in more profound ways than what always meets our eyes. He is faithful. Trust him today, tomorrow, and with eternity.
Devotionables #230 - Psalms 44 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
There is a song based on Psalms 42 and 43 called "Satisfied in You." Some of the lyrics read, "Let my sighs give way to songs that sing about your faithfulness. Let my pain reveal your glory as my only real rest. Let my losses show me all I truly have is you. Why am I down? Why so disturbed? I am satisfied in you." This kind of speech is faith-inducing self-talk that one who knows the Word of God and remembers the promises of God can speak to themselves in moments of despair. Don't listen to the wicked who taunt, Satan who accuses, or your circumstances that despair. Fill your heart with Scripture and let the Spirit apply it as you speak the truth that we have hope in God no matter what goes on around us.
Devotionables #229 - Psalms 42-43 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
We find it relatively easy to recommend restaurants, hotels, movies, vacations, and on and on the list might go. But for some reason, too many of us as God's children share what God has done for us far too rarely. God is our help. We cry to him. He delivers and provides. When we see God act on our behalf, what should we respond? We should respond with worship, thanksgiving, increased trust, and proclaiming to others what he has done for us. Let us boldly share what God has done for us.
Devotionables #228 - Psalm 40 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
In Psalm 37, David reminds us to delight in the Lord. He reminds us that God will deal with the wicked. As Christians, we must be faithful and trust the Lord in every circumstance as we find refuge in Him.
Devotionables #227 - Psalm 37 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
We move towards that which we set our gaze. At first glance, it seems that there is nothing but wickedness that fills the earth. Psalm 36 is a wonderful word from the Lord that says, "Look at me!" His loyal love can not be contained and vastly outpaces the wickedness of the world. His people can remain steadfast, taking refuge in him and his faithful love. Look at him!
Devotionables #226 - Psalm 36 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
In Psalm 34, David tells us to taste and see that the Lord is good. We are reminded how one should use their tongue and life for righteousness. Most poignantly, we see that the Lord protects and loves his redeemed. No one who comes to the Lord will find bitterness or malice - only sweetness and goodness.
Devotionables #225 - Psalm 34 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Psalm 33 is an admonition to praise the Lord! We are given several reasons for which we can praise God and trust him. The final verses remind us that God is watching over his people. There is nothing in our lives that escapes his notices. He is loving-kindness is at work in our life. Look for him at work this week and praise his name!
Devotionables #224 - Psalm 33 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
David records these incredible words in Psalm 32: "Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit." How could David say this? Because of the work of Jesus. Are you able to say this today? If not, why wait? Confess your sins to the Lord, and find forgiveness.
Devotionables #223 - Psalm 32 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Have you ever felt like God is angry with you? Have you had a broken heart or experienced loss, and you feel like God is not with you? These types of moments are challenging. The good news is you are not alone! God has given us an example that has felt these same emotions and been in similar situations–King David! He shows us the path forward as we trust the Lord knowing that God has forgiven us and is with us. The God who has saved us in the past will save us in the future! Can you say this of God today?
Devotionables #222 - Psalm 30 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Psalm 27 expresses confidence in the Lord while David learns to trust God even in the waiting times of life. Our trust in God grows as we worship, pray, and wait on the Lord.
Devotionables #221 - Psalm 27 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Psalm 25 teaches us that we can always count on the Lord and that he is worthy of our trust. Ryan Whitley helps us to see that this psalm encourages us to remember that God will go before us, he will forgive us of our sins, and he will defeat our enemy. He is the first one in and the last one out. Trust him. Obey him. Love him.
Devotionables #220 - Psalm 25 Ryan Whitley 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Nothing is going on in our world right now where God is not present, aware, and ruling in his sovereignty to bring about the end in which he created the world. This means we can't quarantine or segregate God from our lives but that he is extending his presence into our lives and calls us to trust and submit to him humbly. Grace is required, and grace is given!
Devotionables #219 - Psalm 24 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Psalm 23 might be the most well-known passage of Scripture in the Bible, and for a good reason. David tells us that when the Lord is your shepherd, he is with you, and he is all you need.
Devotionables #218 - Psalm 23 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Have you been at a point in your life when it seems God has abandoned you? You're at your breaking point, and you know that God promises to answer prayer, yet your experience is that God is AWOL? King David was in a similar situation when he penned Psalm 22. God heard his prayer and brought him salvation. Jesus prays Psalm 22 from the cross as he suffered and experienced the Father turning his back on him when he bore our sins. Because of that, we know and can trust God will never forsake all who take refuge in him.
Devotionables #217 - Psalm 22 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Psalm 20 gives such a convicting reminder that we do not seek God for help and our hope in the battles of the world often enough. Paul tells us in Ephesians 6 that we are fighting a spiritual war; yet, we neglect to offer up prayers to God or strategize efforts to have victory over the evil in this world. May Psalm 20 help remind us that we are culpable in these decisions for whom we praise and fight.
Devotionables #216 - Psalm 20 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
God wants us to see him, and he wants to make himself known to us. Come on this journey through Psalm 19 with Dr. TJ Betts to see just God is making himself known through his creation and his Word.
Devotionables #215 - Psalm 19 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Life is like having your feet on shifting sand—everything changes. The words of Psalm 18 share the promises God had given to King David. Are the promises of God given to David promises for you and me? Pastor Blake walks us through this powerful psalm.
Devotionables #214 - Psalm 18 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Pastor Philip leads us through Psalm 17, reminding us that we don't live for this earth as Christians, but heaven is our home. Prayer helps us to keep this eternal focus. Indeed, King David had this focus. How is your focus?
Devotionables #213 - Psalm 17 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
It seems like our culture becomes more and more divided every day. Ryan Anderson takes us to Psalm 14 and shows us that something unites all of us from every culture and nation. What is it?
Devotionables #212 - Psalm 14 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
In a fast-paced, instant gratification world, it is easy to find ourselves being impatient in our waiting. Psalm 13 gives us an honest look into how David found strength and trust in God while he waited on God to move in his situation. We can trust that God is moving in our waiting.
Devotionables #209 - Psalm 13 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
What happens when we lose focus? We undoubtedly miss the mark at which we are aiming. When we don't focus on God, not only do we miss him, but we also miss his precepts and direction for our lives. Psalm 11 guides us back to God by reminding us where God is so we can focus up once again.
Devotionables #210 - Psalm 11 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett'sBett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
As we enter the fall season, it's a fun time to enjoy everything associated with it, including fall flavors of pumpkin and apple. Fall is the harvest time, and in that, we culminate in our culture with thanksgiving. Giving thanks is appropriate in the fall, and thanksgiving is a trait that never goes out of season for God's people. So, how can we train ourselves to be thankful people and express that thanks like David in Psalm 9?
Devotionables #209 - Psalm 9 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Psalm 8 is a well-known Psalm that reminds us of the grandeur and majesty of God–the Creator. Kevin Farris walks us through this song penned by King David and reminds us that as big as God is–and that is infinite!–there is no one insignificant in the Lord's eyes.
Devotionables #208 - Psalm 8 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
There are times when life seems overwhelming. You pray and seek the Lord, and at times you may wonder, "Does God even hear me?" Friend, you are not alone, but in fact, in good company. Josh Headrick takes us through Psalm 6, in which King David expresses similar thoughts as we may sometimes be confronted with ourselves. And the good news is, David tells us that God heard him and that he hears us! Keep praying and trusting the Lord!
Devotionables #207 - Psalm 6 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
David's prayer is urgent in Psalm 5 and reminds us that we can pray because of God's Character and His Covenant Love toward his people. Prayer should be our first response rather than a last resort. The movie, The Sandlot, provides an entertaining picture of solving problems without first asking God to help.
Devotionables #206 - Psalm 5 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Sleepless nights can wreck your life. The problem is only exacerbated when you can't sleep because people are seeking to kill you! That's the background for David's insomnia which induced the writing of Psalm 4. Dan Cabal helps us walk through this Psalm to see what enables David to lie down and sleep in peace and what we can do in times of trouble.
Devotionables #205 - Psalm 4 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
It can be easy to follow the wisdom of culture and those in leadership even to our peril. Psalm 2 is a great contrast to how God perceives this way of life and worldview. Michael Knights to the work of brother TJ Betts, who does a remarkable job in his book 40 Days in the Psalms, of helping us see how our rebellion against the Almighty God is just foolishness at its core.
Devotionables #204 - Psalm 2 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Today, we begin a series through the first 50 Psalms corresponding with Dr. TJ Bett's book, 40 Days in the Psalms. Derek Riley gets us started helping us walk through Psalm 1, contrasting the blessed life of the righteous and the way of the wicked.
Devotionables #203 - Psalm 1 40 Days in the Psalms Purchase a copy of Dr. Bett's book here https://us.10ofthose.com/40-days-in-psalms-9781535993500/
Do you find your time and resources too precious to devote to God? Let this hymn remind you why devotion to God is so rewarding and necessary in our pursuit of God's kingdom.
Devotionables #202 - 2 Samuel 19:30 Songs of the Church - Take My Life Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify
Christ is a sure and steady anchor in our lives. Because our anchor is in Jesus, we can face sin, doubt, and death with His assurance in the storms of life.
Devotionables #201 - Hebrews 6:19-20 Songs of the Church - Christ the Sure and Steady Anchor Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify
A recent hymn walks us through the unfolding mystery of the gospel and invites us to behold it and the beauty of the Savior. Come behold the wondrous mystery!
Devotionables #200 - Selected Scriptures Songs of the Church - Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify
Aaron Pickard talks about the hymn, "I Stand Amazed," and encourages us to think upon the things of the Lord through spiritual disciplines of the Word and worship, challenging us to do what we can to seek the Lord at all times.
Devotionables #199 - Philippians 4:8-9 Songs of the Church - I Stand Amazed Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify
Have you ever found yourself succeeding in an area of life only to realize you are thriving in the wrong things? We have to make sure that we are aiming at the correct targets. The Apostle Paul identifies for Christians where we must set our sights, heavenward and on the Lord Jesus. This thought is encapsulated in one of the songs we sing here at Ninth & O, "Center My Life," and Ryan Whitley helps us consider these truths in today's devotionable.
Devotionables #198 - Philippians 3:12-21 Songs of the Church - Center My Life Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify
It is easy to forget God's love for us. Enriched with Scripture references, Stuart Townend gives us this glorious song to remind us that God loves us. Let this rich hymn remind you of the depth of God's love.
Devotionables #197 - Matthew 27:46 Song of the Church - How Deep the Father's Love for Us Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify
"All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name" is a beautiful hymn expressing the power found in the name of our Savior, Jesus. There is only salvation found in Jesus. Praise HIS name today!
Devotionables #196 - Acts 4:12 Songs of the Church - All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify
God's providence resides at the intersection where his sovereignty, wisdom, and love meet, and he acts on our behalf. Behold Our God takes us on a journey of thinking about these attributes of our God and leads us to express worship of our great and good God.
Devotionables #195 - Isaiah 40, Psalm 47:6-7, 1 John 3:16 Songs of the Church - Behold Our God Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify
Have you ever been caught unprepared at a party for forgetting to bring a gift? It can be embarrassing for you and maybe even offensive to others. When we neglect to praise the Lord, it is awful. All of creation praises him. How much more should his people praise him?
Devotionables #194 - Psalm 19, Isaiah 6 Songs of the Church - Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify
The hymn, "Amazing Grace," has reminded Christians since 1779 of the grace found in Christ to redeem from sin. In 2006, "Amazing Grace, My Chains are Gone" was written to remind Christians that freedom from the chains of sin is only found in Christ. I once was blind, but now I see! His grace is truly amazing!
Devotionables #193 - John 8:31-36; John 9:25; Ephesians 2:8-9 Songs of the Church - Amazing Grace, My Chains Are Gone Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify
What makes Good Friday "good"? What is beautiful about the cross? We look to a few Scriptures, including 1 Peter and the song Beautiful Scandalous Night to remind us what makes the death of Jesus mysteriously beautiful.
Devotionables #192 - 1 Peter 2:24 Songs of the Church - Beautiful Scandalous Night Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
We need the Lord at all times and in all ways. Too many times, we wait until we run into problems or even full-on crisis mode. How differently might our lives look if we learn to abide more consistently in the Lord?
Devotionables #191 - John 15 Songs of the Church - Lord, I Need You Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
God is rich in mercy. We are sinners in need of mercy. How do we access that mercy? We can learn how to access God's mercy from King David's prayer of confession recorded in Psalm 51. Though our sins are many, his mercy is more!
Devotionables #190 - Psalm 51
Songs of the Church - His Mercy is More
Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
Jesus Christ stands in the gap between God and sinners. For those to look to him in faith, he is their substitute and Savior. The song "Man of Sorrows" helps us think about these truths and sing praises to the God who saves.
Devotionables #189 - John 1:29 Songs of the Church - Man of Sorrows Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
In this 2020 hymn, O Come, All You Unfaithful, we are reminded that the birth of Jesus is for all who are weary, broken, or bitter. We all struggle; however, we find our rest, hope, and salvation in the person of Jesus Christ. Christ is born for you.
Devotionables #188 - Matthew 1:21, 11:28-30 Songs of the Church - O Come, All You Unfaithful Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
The overwhelming theme of all of Scripture is the faithfulness of God – from creation through the history of Israel through the early church and all the way to the promise of Christ's return, we can see that God is ever-faithful. The Love of God will never let us go! As the psalmist says, "For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations."
Devotionables #187 - Psalm 100, John 6:37 Songs of the Church - O Love That Will Not Let Me Go Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
Think of a close friend with whom you can talk about anything. Maybe it's a spouse, a sibling, an accountability partner. Someone with whom you feel comfortable enough to share what's going on in your life and heart. Nothing is off-topic, but you naturally express whatever is on your mind. The hymn writer Joseph Medlicott Scriven lived in the mid-1800s and was an Irish poet and immigrant to Canada. He wants us to consider "What a Friend We Have in Jesus, " which is the name of today's hymn.
Devotionables #186 - Philippians 4:6-7, 1 Peter 5:7 Songs of the Church - Who's Your Closest Friend? Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
Thomas Ken wrote this hymn referred to as the "Common Glory." In this short stanza, Ken highlights the praise due the entire God-head with Trinitarian-focus. Let this hymn be a constant reminder of the praise God deserves and sing out this hymn as you live out each day.
Devotionables #185 - Psalm 96:11-12 Songs of the Church - Doxology Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
"O Come All Ye Faithful" is a beautiful hymn celebrating the birth of our Savior. This hymn, written in the 18th century, calls to us to come and adore Christ the King, who is found in a stable in Bethlehem.
Devotionables #184 - Luke 2:8-16 Songs of the Church - O Come All Ye Faithful Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
Augustus Toplady was a gifted hymn writer from England. His hymns are theologically rich and spiritually encouraging. His most famous hymn is "Rock of Ages." This hymn focuses on the salvation found only in God, our Rock of Ages, and purchased by the blood of Jesus. Our only hope is God acting on our behalf to save us. Come to him today!
Devotionables #183 - Romans 5:9, 1 John 1:7 Songs of the Church - Rock of Ages Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
Every once in a while, I hear a song that I wish I had written. O Praise the Name is one such song. I love it. It's currently my favorite worship song of all time. I love that it rehearses the gospel and leads us to worship the one true God. Good theology should lead to doxology. The authors of this song take us back to the work of Christ, AND they point us to his future return. All of which warrants the passionate expression of praise of Yahweh.
Devotionable #182 - 1 Corinthians 15 Songs of the Church - O Praise the Name (Anástasis) Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
This hymn written in 2008 helps us to examine life before Christ and how Christ has made us into a new creation. Nothing we bring to God or nothing we can do saves us, for all we have is Christ. He is our salvation and hope. Jesus is our life!
Devotionable #181 - 2 Corinthians 5:17 Songs of the Church - All I Have is Christ Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
Martin Luther wrote the majestic hymn, "A Mighty Fortress," based on and Psalm 46. God is our refuge. He is with us. Because he is with us, we need not fear.
Devotionable #180 - Psalm 46 Songs of the Church - A Mighty Fortress is Our God Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
This poem of one man’s grateful heart for God’s provision turned into a hymn celebrating God’s new mercies with each morning. Christians celebrate how God is faithful in our daily lives and faithful to have provided salvation through His Son. Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!
Devotionable #179 - Lamentations 3:22-24 Songs of the Church - Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
In this old yet classic hymn, we see the faithfulness of both God and Samuel - God’s prophet - in 1 Samuel 7. What a blessing it is for God to be our “Stone of help.” May we call on him regularly as we seek faithfulness in our lives. I hope ‘Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing’ becomes even richer and deeper in meaning for you as you see the Lord’s goodness to us.
Devotionable #178 - 1 Samuel 7:12 Songs of the Church - Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify.
This Pascal hymn by Philip Bliss is such a great reminder of the atoning work of Christ. Albeit, Bliss does not stop at the Cross but takes the singer all the way home with these wonderful lyrics, rejoicing in our glorious Lord during the final days. Let this classic hymn remind you how Christ has finished it all and secured for himself those whom he came to save. Alleluia! What a Saviour!
Devotionable #177 - Isaiah 53 Songs of the Church - Hallelujah, What a Savior (Man of Sorrows, What a Name) Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify at naobc.org/spotify
Brandon Pisacrita turns our attention to the German hymn written in the 1600s and challenges us to Praise God our Creator. As we praise our Creator, we can find refuge in his presence. Praise the Lord!
Devotionable #176 - Psalm 8 Songs of the Church - "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty" Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/6oeEBx2rj5G4qK5zIZnC7h?si=1VsmVGv9SjyOeOHhhEfhKA&nd=1
The timeless hymn, "It Is Well with My Soul," speaks to our hearts. In this devotionable, we consider that Jesus is our peace when the world is seemingly out of control. Through our faith in Christ, Christians can proclaim, "It is well with my soul."
Devotionable #173 - John 14:27 Songs of the Church - "It Is Well With My Soul" Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/6oeEBx2rj5G4qK5zIZnC7h?si=1VsmVGv9SjyOeOHhhEfhKA&nd=1
Many today are talking about removing the word blood from songs and sermons. Michael Knight helps us understand why the doctrine of the blood sung about in this hymn is such a staple to our Christian development. Without the blood of Jesus, there is no remission of sin.
Devotionables #174 - Hebrews 9:22 Songs of the Church - "Nothing But the Blood of Jesus"
Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/6oeEBx2rj5G4qK5zIZnC7h?si=1VsmVGv9SjyOeOHhhEfhKA&nd=1
Today we begin a new series in Devotionables called "Songs of the Church." Pastor Gabriel talks to us about the hymn, "There is a Fountain Filled with Blood." This hymn, written by William Cowper, is based on Zechariah 13:1. We thank God for the fount of Jesus' blood which cleanses us from sin and all uncleanness. He is our only hope. We proclaim the hope we have in Christ, and we sing. Even in death, our hope remains only Jesus.
Devotionable #173 - Zechariah 13:1 Songs of the Church - There is a Fountain Filled with Blood
Follow NAOBC Worship Ministry on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/6oeEBx2rj5G4qK5zIZnC7h?si=1VsmVGv9SjyOeOHhhEfhKA&nd=1
Pastor Ryan stops by to talk with Gabriel about family discipleships and, in particular, the necessity and wisdom of sheltering and equipping kids in different stages of life.
Devotionables #172 - Deuteronomy 6:7
Just a couple of philosophers sitting around philosophizing about philosophy and the Christian. Pastors Gabriel and Drew consider what the Apostle Paul means when talking to the church in Colossae about philosophy in Colossians 2:8.
Jesus heals a leper. It's a powerful and compassionate moment that shows us the authority of Jesus over sickness and his love for people.
Devotionables #170 - Mark 1:40-45
If you could ask God for anything, what would you ask from him? Jesus teaches his disciples to pray and tells them to ask, seek, and knock. When we ask, God will give us something better than we could ever hope or imagine–himself!
Devotionables #169 - Luke 11
Paul commands Christians everywhere at and in all times to be filled with the Spirit. We ignore the Spirit to our detriment. What are some of the signs of being Spirit-filled? How do we become Spirit-filled?
Devotionables #168 - Ephesians 5:18
Marriage is a picture of the gospel. Wives are called to submit to their husbands. Husbands must love their wives as Christ loved the church. These commands are impossible to obey in our own strength. We must be Spirit-filled.
Devotionables #167 - Ephesians 5
God's grace is to be received, gloried in, and something that causes us to marvel. When I see what God has done for other Christians and me, saving us, redeeming us, cleansing us, my heart soars with gratitude and worship of God. We are walking trophies to celebrate the victory of God's immeasurable riches of grace.
Devotionables #166 - Ephesians 2:7
There are many reasons to find the Bible beautiful. One reason is because of its captivating storytelling. The beloved disciple John paints a breathtaking picture of the life of Jesus and the love he has for his disciples, his Father, and for you. Graham Faulkner helps us consider the never-ending love of Jesus.
Devotionables #165 - John 13:1
I love you are three powerful words. Even more powerful is demonstrating the love we have for someone with actions- even more so when that love seems unwarranted. God showed his love for us when we were still sinners, when we were his enemies, when we had nothing to offer him. He loved us and gave us his only son!
Devotionables #164 - Romans 5:8
Frequently, Christians wish we could receive a diploma to let us know we've accomplished some spiritual phase. We want some evidence of God's conferring a level up to the next rank in the Christian life. But that's not how it works in God's economy. God's grace brings us into God's kingdom, and God's grace will see us through until our faith becomes sight. God's very nature is to love us and to care for us. Derek Riley reminds us of these hopes and promises from Galatians 2:20.
Devotionables #163 - Galatians 2:20
I need mercy. You need mercy. There is a mercy shortage in the world today among sinners. Good news, God is rich in mercy, and he loves to lavish it upon all who ask. Come to him for mercy today!
Devotionables #162 - Ephesians 2:4
The Lord loves his children. He disciplines us in his love to continue to make us what he wants us to be. He is merciful.
Devotionables #161 - Jeremiah 31:20
Do you ever think about the way the Lord works? Do you try to understand his ways? Brandon Pisacrita helps us consider these questions today. Isaiah 55:8 tells us God's thoughts and ways are higher. We find comfort in trusting that God will always have our best interest for us if we are in a right relationship with him.
Devotionables #160 - Isaiah 55:8
The Lord pulls back the curtains and shows Moses his glory by proclaiming his goodness? Wow, is it glorious!
Devotionables #159 - Exodus 34:6
Adam Howell helps us to see the comfort of God's providence and sovereignty. God's sovereignty over our afflictions is for our eternal good. We can trust his wisdom and his heart.
Devotionables #158 - Lamentations 3:33
Have you ever been around someone, maybe your dad, grandpa, or a friend who just seems always to have what you need? One thing we all need is mercy. We need mercy from God. The great news is that his mercies are new every morning. He is the Father of mercies. Whatever type of mercy you need today, come to God and receive it by faith.
Previous Devotionables on 2 Corinthians 1:3
Comfort Forward - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDkru01yutQ
Jesus said that it would be better for himself to go in order to send the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit indwells all believers and is our Helper, our Comforter, the one called alongside to assist. Was it better for Jesus to go away? Fact check – true!
Devotionables #156 - John 14:16, 16:7
The hymn "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" is a great reminder that Jesus is our friend when we trust in him as Lord and Savior. Matthew 11:19 states that Jesus is a friend to tax collectors and sinners, so we have the great blessing that we have an unwavering and faithful friend.
Devotionables #155 - Matthew 11:19
John 11:35 is perhaps most well known for its brevity. It's the shortest verse in the English Bible. Two words. While it's a brief statement, it packs a powerful truth. Pastor Jeff Elieff helps us consider the heart of Jesus as we see it in John 11.
Devotionables #154 - John 11
In chapters 10 of Gentle & Lowly, Dane Ortlund expresses how our love for God must surpass even our love for our parents, as seen in Matthew 10:37. Michael Knight helps us consider our job is as parents and examples to children. We are called to display God as the pinnacle and focus of our ultimate love. Why do we not make God the utmost pursuit and primary purpose of our lives?
Devotionables #153 - Matthew 10:37
Pastor Philip takes a look at God's Advocate Agency. Jesus Christ, the righteous is our advocate! He pleads for us. He helps us. Do you have Christ as your advocate?
Juan Mendoza helps us consider the powerful truth found in Hebrews 7:25. Jesus can save to the uttermost all who place their faith in him. Big sinners require a bigger savior. Jesus is that savior!
Jesus serves as our great high priest who saves to the uttermost and intercedes on our behalf, and represents us before our Father. His priesthood is endless, saves, and his ministry of intercession for those who draw near to God never ends.
Devotionables #150 - Hebrews 7:25
Ryan Hanley helps us consider this question from Chapter 7 of Dane Ortlund's book, Gentle and Lowly, "What father could bring himself to put up for adoption his beloved son, just because his son messed up big time?" God is not throwing up his hands in exasperation with us. He is our loving Father who will not disown us but discipline us out of love for our good.
Devotionables #149 - Hosea 11:8
Jesus offers himself as the Bread of Life to satisfy our spiritual hunger. Whoever comes to Jesus will never be cast out. We who are in Christ will by faith be saved and raised with him on the last day. Who can you share this good news with today?
Devotionables #148 - John 6:37
Don't delay in coming to Jesus. He deals gently with all types of sinners. Just come to him. Failure to come will surely bring his wrath. Come now, come humbly, receive forgiveness from our great and gentle High Priest.
Jesus stands ready to help. He can sympathize with our weaknesses. He knows the power of temptation more than anyone else, for he is the only one who has withstood the powerful allurement of sin. He's eager and capable of helping you today! As our great High Priest, he intercedes on our behalf.
Devotionables #146 - Hebrews 4:15
The author of Hebrews implores believers to run their appointed race of faith with endurance. We are given help to complete the journey, but none more foundational and complete than Jesus, who has gone before us. Because he has gone before us, we can confidently look to him to help us faithfully finish our race. Run, Christian! Run!
Pastoral Intern, Michael Knight, takes us into Matthew's gospel to reflect upon the compassion of Jesus. It pops up when we might least expect it.
Jesus extends an invitation, provides instruction, and identifies himself as one who is GENTLE & LOWLY in heart. Does your conception of Jesus match the revelation of himself to us? Join us in our new series of devotionables complementing our church-wide study of Dane Ortlund's book, Gentle & Lowly.
Devotionables #143 - Matthew 11:28-30
Pastor Blake puts a bow on our 40 Days in Mark study by encouraging us with some final thoughts.
Devotionables #142 - Mark 15 & 16
Mark is bringing his gospel to a conclusion and focuses on the crucifixion of Jesus. As Jesus dies, a centurion nearby cries out, "Truly this man was the Son of God!" Randy Hall walks us through Mark 15 to the climactic statement of the centurion on this Good Friday.
Mark tells us what's happening with Jesus at his sham trial. People are giving all kinds of false testimony about him. Mark then pans to Peter in a courtyard outside and the exchanges he has with others about the identity of Jesus. Sandwiched in between Peter and the false accusers of Jesus, Jesus is asked who he is. He responds with clear and powerful declarations about his true identity. Ninth & O member, Derek Riley, helps us to put all of this together in today's Devotionable as we consider life's most important question, "Who is Jesus?"
Devotionables #140 - Mark 14:53-72
Pastor Drew takes us to an odd passage in Mark. A young man, gripped with fear, flees naked from a garden. In the process, he teaches us an unexpected lesson regarding the depths of Jesus' love.
Devotionables #139 - Mark 14:51-52
Many of us have heard the Passover story and the sacrificial atonement. But many in this world still rely on their works to save them. Pastoral Intern, Michael Knight, reminds us that Jesus must pay it all, or we are still hopeless. Allow this Passover reminder help you prepare your heart and soul for Holy Week. What can wash away our sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus!
Devotionables #138 - Mark 14:12-21
Pastoral Intern, Michael Knight, leads us through Mark 13:32-37 as Jesus charges his disciples to stay alert. For just as the master will return at any time, an hour or day which no one knows, so will it be with the end of the age. Therefore, he calls his people to remain on guard and continue completing the tasks laid before us. May our Lord and master bless us upon his return as those who have not slumbered in our duties.
Devotionables #137 - Mark 13
Pastoral Intern, Brandon Pisacrita, points us to Mark's story about the widow's mite. Jesus and the disciples observe the giving of the scribes and a lowly widow. Jesus is touched by the widow's offering because she gave all that she had. Our own giving is reflected in our talents, time, and treasure. What can you offer to Christ today?
Devotionables #136 - Mark 12:41-44
Juan Mendoza, one of our applied ministry students, shares a devotionable today in Spanish! He's talking about the patience and love of God from the Gospel of Mark.
Devotionables #135 - Mark 12
Jesus tells a parable about a vineyard. Discipleship Intern, Brandon Pisacrita, helps us see Jesus teaching us about God's patience, His steadfast pursuit, and His coming judgment.
Pastor Philip helps us consider the account of the triumphal entry. Jesus enters Jerusalem to the songs of the crowd. The shouts of "Hosanna!" fill the air. Palm branches are laid on the ground as a sign of triumphant victory. The king has arrived. What are the crowds looking for at this moment? What are you looking for in Jesus?
Devotionables #133 - Mark 11:7-10
Pastor Tommy takes us through this powerful verse in Mark, "For the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." If you're in Christ, your debt has been paid!
Devotionables #132 - Mark 10:45
Our culture emphasizes many essential questions. The Bible points to this question of particular importance: Who do you say Jesus is? This question is found three times in the Gospels. This question is so pivotal and paramount that its answer drastically changes our lives and determines our eternal destination. Join us for this discussion about our greatest legacy with one of our pastoral interns, Michael Knight.
Devotionables #131 - Mark 8:27-30
Jesus calls a desperate mother a dog, and she agrees! Find out about the unique story of this persistent mother and the virtues of the dog life as Pastor Drew teaches today's devotionable.
Devotionables #130 - Mark 7
Jesus brings his ministry and teaching back to his hometown of Nazareth. All seems to be going well when those closest to him take offense at him all of a sudden. We are right to be disappointed and feel bad for our Lord, but we do better to ask ourselves, "Am I ever offended by Jesus?" The Spirit of God uses the Word of God to mold us and shape us into the Son of God. We have to be in the Word and willing to respond with faith, especially when God confronts us from the Bible with things we need to address in our lives.
Devotionables #129 - Mark 6:1-6
We've seen Jesus always on the move so far in Mark, but what do we learn about his heart when he slows down? Josh Headrick, one of our communication team members, helps us consider this question in today's devotionable.
Devotionables 128 - Mark 5:21-34
One of the reasons Jesus came was to preach and to teach. Mark's gospel has started with a bang and up through chapter 3, we've not yet read any of Jesus' formal teaching. Readers of Mark finally introduced to Jesus' teaching in Mark 4. Jesus teaches truths about the kingdom by telling farming stories. What does that mean? Dr. Dan Cabal helps us consider these stories in today's devotionable.
In Mark 3:13-19, Jesus calls the twelve disciples. Jesus is intentional in teaching the disciples as they follow Him and do ministry together. Discipleship is important to the life of a believer. We need one another to spur each other to grow in Christ.
Devotionables #126 - Mark 3:13-19
Jesus finds himself enthralled in conflict with the religious leaders early in Mark's gospel account. The Pharisees are incensed that Jesus would eat with tax collectors and sinners. Jesus tells them that is exactly the kind for whom he came. Praise God, Jesus saves sinners!
Devotionables #125 - Mark 2:13-17
Jesus' ministry begins in Mark with the public proclamation of the Kingdom's arrival. The Lord calls people to respond to this announcement with repentance and faith in the gospel. Have you responded with faith and repentance? Are you inviting others to respond to God's gracious invitation?
Devotionables #124 - Mark 1:4-15
Mark begins his account of the gospel with this bold, powerful, simple, and beautiful sentence. Life's most important question is, "Who do you believe Jesus to be?" Mark wants you to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.
Devotionables #123 - Mark 1:1
God has just saved his people through Esther and Mordecai. Now the Jews institute a feast and celebrate the work of God. God's work is to be praised! The people of God are to rejoice, worship, and celebrate all that he does.
Do you believe God is still doing big things today? God is always at work and specializes in the impossible. Trust his timing, pray, fast, and expect big things from our big God!
Devotionables #121 - Esther
The author of Esther uses a genius literary tactic by not making a single mention of God in the entire book! It heightens our awareness of God's activity behind the scenes as many "coincidences," "reversals," and "fortunate moments" build the story of Esther, Mordecai, and the Jews. Often we live our lives and think that God is asleep or not at work in or around us. Esther reminds us that God is always at work to accomplish his good purposes for his glory. Look for God at work and join him by acting with courage.
Devotionables #120 - Esther
Jesus taught the disciples, and us by extension of John's gospel, that one of the ways we express our love of Jesus is by obeying Jesus. How do you need to grow in obedience in order to express your love? Thankfully, Jesus has died to forgive us of our sins AND he has sent the Holy Spirit to us to help us obey! Praise God!
1 Corinthians 13 is known as the "Love Chapter." It's read frequently at weddings. Paul wrote this chapter to real people at a real church in response to a question they had regarding spiritual gifts. This chapter is primarily about life in the church, though applying it to all of our relationships will please the Lord and bless others!
Devotionables #118 - 1 Corinthians 13
We love a good chase scene in the movies. Sometimes we'll see people running around on the field of a sporting event. Kids love to place chase. King David tells us in Psalm 23 that God's steadfast love chases after us. What a love! What a God!
Devotionables #117 - Psalm 23:6
*Very helpful to our consideration:
https://albertmohler.com/2009/07/16/the-salvation-of-the-little-ones-do-infants-who-die-go-to-heaven
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KaiGy-EJKsE
John MacArthur was also helpful in considering Revelation 7.
A question we must consider when we study heaven is, "What happens to infants when they die?" We will seek to answer this question in our next two devotionables.
Devotionables #115 - Romans 5:12-19, Hebrews 9:27
Heaven is where God dwells. Who else will be there? How do you get there? These are the crucial questions we seek to answer in today's Devotionable about heaven.
Will we hear wedding bells in heaven? Will you and your spouse be married in heaven? Jesus taught that we will not be married in heaven but will be like the angels in this regard.
Devotionables #113 - Mark 12:18-27
Have you ever wondered if your favorite pets will be in heaven? Me too. I honestly don't know the answer. But we know that God is good, and he will redeem a groaning creation one day!
Devotionables #112 - Romans 8:18-23
In our fourth installment of answering questions about heaven, today we seek to answer the question, "Will we know one another in heaven?"
Devotionables #111 - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, John 20-21, Luke 24
As a boy, I'm embarrassed to say that I dreaded heaven because I expected it would be boring. I thought it would be an endless choir session in the clouds. How wrong was I!?!? Over the years, I thankfully have come to know the Lord and learn more about the place he calls home, heaven. Heaven will be anything but boring! The psalmist said that there is endless joy in heaven! We will be working in heaven–all the blessings of work without a single curse of the fall!
I have been to a lot of funerals in my day. It's not uncommon to hear someone say or post on Facebook, "Heaven gained an angel." Maybe even, "God needed his angel back." These remarks are well-meaning and are said to attempt to encourage and comfort grieving friends, but are they true? Do we become angels? What does the Bible say about God's people "earning their wings"?
Devotionables #109 - Matthew 22:30, John 21
Today's devotionable, we are starting a series on Heaven. People have many questions about the place where God dwells, so we want to seek to answer those questions. We begin by asking, "Is heaven a real place?"
Devotionables #108 - John 14:1-5, Revelation 22:1-2
The United States of America is a democratic republic that depends on the peaceful transfer of power. By the grace of God, we have experienced such transitions for more than two centuries. And by his grace, we will again next week witness a peaceful change in government. While there has been recent chaos in our nation, the Christian knows who is ultimately in charge. We know who the boss is. The Ancient of Days!
It's natural to have times when we wonder if God cares about us. Is he interested in my life? Can he help, or does he even want to help me? Let me say in a word–ABSOLUTELY! The authors of Scripture know nothing of a God who creates a world and then does not act within his creation. God cares for us, and he knows all that we are going through. He works all things for our good and his glory.
Early in the Bible, we are introduced to heartbreak when a man murders his brother, leaving their parents bereaved of a son. Before this violent act of anger, God graciously confronts Cain and tells him about an enemy lurking within–sin. Sin indwells each of us, and we must do battle. Thankfully, Jesus has come to forgive sins and will one day vanquish sin once for all. Until that day, each believer has been given the resources needed to fight indwelling sin with faith and from a position of victory.
It's been a hard week for America, and it has many of us thinking about and talking politics. As a Christian, we remember that our citizenship is in heaven. We are also called to engage culture. The Christian engages in politics to build up a political party but engages with humility, prayer, and guidance from the Scriptures and the Spirit with the hopes of promoting and cultivating the best culture for human flourishing.
Devotionables #104 - Philippians 3:20
When you are about to engage in an athletic endeavor or go to war with an enemy, it's extremely wise and profitable to size up your competition. What are their strengths and weaknesses? What is their game plan? We have to know our enemy. For the Christian, one of the enemies that we face is the old serpent, Satan. He is formidable but defeated. We first learn about him and his tactics in Genesis 3.
New Year's resolutions can be helpful. It's good to have goals in life. It's even better when we have plans in place that help us attain our aspirations. Do you have a plan in place to spend more time with God this year? Everything around us is fading, but the Word of God stands forever!
Happy New Year! We enter this new year full of hope in the God who sits on heaven's throne ruling with all power, wisdom, and goodness and the great expectation that he will make all things new.
Episode 100! Gabriel shares about why devotionables exist, and we pray it is a blessing to you.
If Jesus had a business card, it would read "Friend of Sinners." Indeed, Jesus is a friend to sinners. He came to seek and to save the lost. This is good news! Unfortunately, not everyone was happy with Jesus' ministry. His Google review would not have five stars. The Pharisees and scribes grumbled at his relationship with tax collectors and sinners. Jesus tells them three stories to help them see that God is finding the lost, making the dead alive, and that is a great cause of joy and celebration!
Merry Christmas! Can you think of some of your favorite gifts you ever received? Sometimes, we receive gifts that we're not so crazy about and wonder if there is anything more. Not with God! He has already given us the greatest gift he could give us–Jesus! What more could we want or need!?!?
Devotionables #98 - Luke 2:8-14
If God first loved us, we ought to love another. God has loved and forgives us, so we love and forgive others. The love of the Father seen in the work of salvation and intercession in Jesus propels his people to live at peace with others with love and forgiveness.
Devotionables #97 - 1 John 4:7-12
Immanuel means 'God with us.' What love is this?!?!? That God would send us his Son to reconcile us to him so that we might be with him forever! Merry Christmas!
Devotionables #96 - Matthew 1:23
We have peace with God, and we can have the peace of God in the midst of all of life's anxieties. The people of God are also called to live at peace with others. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, PEACE, patience, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness, goodness, self-control. As the Spirit works in our lives, we work to pursue peace with others–even our enemies. Today's devotionable dips into our sermon archives as Pastor Drew talks about living peaceably with all from Galatians 5:22. To hear the sermon in its entirety, follow this link https://vimeo.com/345499747. Merry Christmas!
Devotionables #95 - Galatians 5:22
The presence of God brings peace. No matter what comes against us, we know that God is with us and for us. We can have peace because the Lord is near!
Devotionables #94 - Romans 15:33
The Christmas season brings us a myriad of things to enjoy with family and friends. Some of my favorite things to do are listen to Christmas music and watch Christmas movies. Two of my favorite Christmas movies end their films by singing 'Hark the Herald Angels Sing.' A beautiful song, filled with powerful truths that Christ has come to reconcile us back to God, and we now have peace with God!
Devotionables #93 - Romans 5:1
Don't get your hopes up. We often try to damper expectations to protect ourselves from disappointment. Jesus wants us to raise our expectations and increase our hope. Jesus poured hope into his disciples in the Upper Room. Jesus wants to pour hope into his people through His Word. May you abound with hope today!
Devotionables #92 - John 13-17
There are two types of hope. For the people of God, we have a certain hope. Why? Because he who promised is faithful! So, we hope. We look back at what God has done, and we trust him with the future.
Hope and faith are two peas in a pod. Faith is the bank that backs the bonds of hope. Faith grows as we feast on the Word of God. Faith allows the people of God to see the future filled with hope in the return of our King! We live by faith and not by sight.
Devotionables #90 - Hebrews 11:1
When Christians talk about hope, we don't mean that warm feeling of well-wishing that our favorite football team will win or that we might have tacos on Tuesday. Hope for the Christian is a deep conviction in the God of the Bible and that all of his promises will be confirmed in the end. This hope leads us to live differently. We don't live for the here and now only, but we live in the here and now with an eternal perspective. There are many times when our hope is threatened or may wane, but we can strengthen our hope in the community of God, and with the Word of God. May advent be a season where your hope gets stronger as we await our faithful King.
Advent has just started, and we begin focusing on hope. We have hope that our King is coming. Jeremiah 29:11 is a verse that has given hope to millions. What makes this verse hope inducing?
John focuses his gospel on seven signs and seven "I Am" statements that Jesus performs and says. These signs are hard miracles. John focuses on these signs to point us in the direction of believing that Jesus is the Son of God. In John 9, Jesus heals a man that was born blind. Talk about a hard miracle! In this story, we see the power, compassion, and true identity of Jesus Christ- he is God!
Psalm 100 is a psalm for giving thanks. The people of God are thankful, but it doesn't always come naturally. Thanksgiving is learned and requires intentionality at times. Giving thanks is an appropriate form of worship and helps us exercise humility.
I remember as a kid making up different clubs with friends and cousins. Sometimes we'd have secret handshakes or code names. Many times, the kingdom of God is seen as this exclusive club for the narrow-minded. That's not my take away from Scripture. The kingdom of God is entirely inclusive - whoever wants to come may come. The Apostle John says it is comprised of people of every nation, tribe, and language. There are much diversity and inclusivity. There is one door to come into the kingdom - Jesus Christ. Devotionables #85 - Revelation 5
Philip Diehl created the oscillating fan in 1907. This invention was a great leap forward in the search for cooling mechanisms. The oscillating fan is a brilliant invention, but it's not the way God wants us to live our lives. Frequently, we find ourselves oscillating between two extremes. God calls us to himself. Instead of falling into the trap of self-reliance or drowning in the pit of anxious despair, trust in the Lord!
Devotionables #84 - Matthew 6:25-34
There are more than 2,000 billionaires in the world. This group has a cumulative wealth of more than $8 trillion. All the wealth in the world pales in comparison to the richness of God. He owns it all and bestows it all on his creatures. God is rich in many ways, one of which is mercy. The Bible tells us that God is rich in mercy. You never have to wonder if there is mercy in the bank with God. You can always come to him by faith, and he will forgive and welcome you home. He is rich in mercy, and he loves to lavish it on any and all who come to Him in faith. Come to him today!
Devotionables #83 - Ephesians 2:4
Most of our day-to-day decisions are pretty innocuous. They don't require a great deal of forethought or deep prayer. Pastor Cook helps us consider living faithfully in the mundane moments and the momentous moments, trusting in the LORD with all of our hearts.
Devotionables #82 - Proverbs 3:5-6
Stories of tragedy to triumph are universally beloved. There is something in our hardwiring that longs for wrongs to be made right and for beauty to come from ashes. Our God specializes in the impossible, so the people of God can be a people of hope. We have hope that God will make all things new, that he brings death to life, and hope instead of despair. Ezekiel was given a vision that produces hope. We all need a little hope today.
Devotionables #81 - Ezekiel 37
You've heard it said, "All good things come to an end." This sentiment was true for Yankees great Joe DiMaggio in 1941. Joe had collected a base hit in 56 straight games that summer until a July game with Cleveland left him hitless for the first time in nearly two months. Now finished was the hitting streak that had captivated the nation's attention. Thankfully for us, God is constant and unchanging. The Psalmist wrote, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever." Nothing we can do can stop God's streak of his steadfast love. It endures forever. It is grounded in his character. And for that, we give thanks!
Devotionables #80 - Psalm 136:1
Today is Veterans Day in the United States. Each year, we set this day aside to honor the brave men and women who have served in our military. The Apostle Paul told the Christians in Rome that they should outdo one another in showing honor. When is the last time you honored someone? How might you do that today?
Devotionables #79 - Romans 12:10
I'm thankful for teaching that keeps it simple. There are parts of the Bible that require more effort to understand, but much of the Bible is clear and simple. I know what God is saying. The Apostle Paul gives explicit instruction to the Colossians regarding prayer. Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. How do we obey this clear teaching to devote ourselves to prayer?
It's not uncommon for cars to need realignment. Even people need realignment at times and seek chiropractic care. We also are prone to need spiritual alignments. When we come to God's Word, the Spirit uses the Scriptures to realign our hearts with God's. The Psalmist said, 'Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.' We need to align ourselves daily by hiding God's Word in our hearts.
Devotionables #77 - Psalm 119:105
The gospels authors go out of their way to show that Jesus was an innocent man that was unjustly condemned. Jesus' condemnation was wrong, but it was part of God's plan so that he might save sinners through the sacrificial death of his son. Jesus was declared guilty so that all who trust in him might be declared 'Not Guilty!' before God.
The more things change, the more they stay the same. It's amazing how the life circumstances of Habakkuk are still relevant for Christians today. When it seems like the Lord is turning his face from chaos, wickedness, and suffering, he reminds Habakkuk and us that he sees what is happening, and he is doing something about it. He calls us to live by faith, exercising an obedient trust with a spirit of joy.
The Lord takes his prophet to school. God reminds Jonah that his mercy is for all peoples, including Jonah's enemies. God is sovereign over all creation and in salvation. We are to preach God's gospel of mercy and extend mercy to others–even our enemies.
Finally! Jonah reaches Nineveh and preaches a message of impending doom. The Ninevites repent, and the Lord relents from destroying their city. What can we learn from this event that can help us be more faithful in sharing the gospel?
Too many times, we don't pray until we are at the end of our rope. How many pickles could we avoid finding ourselves in if we'd seek the Lord's face before doing life on our own? Jonah is at the end of his rope, sitting in the belly of a fish for three days; he turns to the Lord in prayer. It's a beautiful prayer of confession, thanksgiving, and acknowledging that salvation belongs to the Lord!
God miraculously saves his rebellious prophet. He saves all who believe him in a miraculous way, though it seems foolish to the perishing. God loves you.
Devotionables #71 - Jonah 1:17, 2:10
The book of Jonah shows us the unparalleled beauty of God's mercy and compassion. The LORD is sovereign over all of creation and in salvation. Desiring to show his mercy to the people of Nineveh, he sends his prophet Jonah to preach to the city. Jonah disobeys. Every other creature obeys God in this book, except the prophet of the LORD! Where is God calling you to great obedience today? We can obey because of His great mercy.
Our church recently lost a couple of beloved members. Mrs. Millie Perkins or 'Mimi' was one of our dear ones lost. Mimi loved Psalm 121, so today in her honor, we are resharing an earlier devotionable from that psalm.
We are tempted to look to all kinds of insufficient things for help in this broken world. Ultimately, only God can help us. Psalm 121 is a beautiful song and powerful prayer that reminds us and assures us that God will help us and will keep us.
Devotionable #69 - Psalm 121
As we head into Missions Sunday this weekend, Daustin Kratzer, a member of our Missions Team, talks to us about evangelism from John 4 – GO TELL!
Devotionables #68 - John 4
It's Missions Week at Ninth & O. Pastor Blake shares with us from Philippians chapter 4 about missions and giving – GO GIVE!
Devotionables #67 - Philippians 4
It's Missions Week at Ninth & O. Ryan Pickwick, our Missions Intern, is doing today's devotionable related to missions – GO PRAY!
Cain, Judas, and Elisha's assistant Gehazi each failed to do battle with sin in their hearts. The battle rages daily. We're either drawing closer to God or moving further away. Thankfully, with the Spirit's help, we can fight indwelling sin and walk with God.
Devotionables #65 - 2 Kings 5
Naaman almost missed the healing God wanted to give him. Thankfully, he had folks in his life who would speak the truth with grace. He humbly listened, obeyed the prophet's direction, and received healing from God. Who do you have that will speak into your life? Who is God calling you to speak to today? No Lone Ranger Christianity! Devotionables #64 - 2 Kings 5
Naaman is a leper who is looking for healing. His servant girl tells him about the prophet in Israel who can help. Naaman goes with great gifts to purchase healing but is miffed when he is offered a simple solution. Don't miss out on God's blessing, work, and answers to prayer by scoffing at seemingly dismissable answers from God.
Parents have a great responsibility in raising their children. God has also given them the gift of influence. No one influences a child in their early years, like parents. Paul recognizes this with young Timothy that his mother and grandmother have blessed him with a spiritual heritage. To all the weary parents out there, keep up the good work of leading your kids toward Jesus.
As we enter the boiling point of the 2020 election season, Daniel reminds us that God is the one who raises up kings and removes kings. God's kingdom will not be shaken. Christians should take heart and trust God.
What is the goal of godly parenting? Pastor Drew helps us consider and answer this question in part 2 of this 3-part series.
Devotionables #59 - Ephesians 6:4
God works on a global scale. His work is grand. He also works on a very personal level. He loves YOU. He is at work for your good and His glory.
Devotionables #58 - 2 Kings 5:1, Luke 4:25-26
What if I don't feel like going to church? The truth is most every Christian will struggle with this emotion at some point. Maybe that's how you feel right now! In today's devotionable, Pastor Blake begins with the first of three devotionables discussing what Christians should do when they lack a desire to be with the people of God. We are reminded in Proverbs 14:12 of the danger of living life guided by our feelings.
What if I don't feel like going to church? The truth is most every Christian will struggle with this emotion at some point. Maybe that's how you feel right now! In today's devotionable, Pastor Blake begins with the first of three devotionables discussing what Christians should do when they lack a desire to be with the people of God. We are reminded in Proverbs 14:12 of the danger of living life guided by our feelings.
What if I don't feel like going to church? The truth is most every Christian will struggle with this emotion at some point. Maybe that's how you feel right now! In today's devotionable, Pastor Blake begins with the first of three devotionables discussing what Christians should do when they lack a desire to be with the people of God. We are reminded in Proverbs 14:12 of the danger of living life guided by our feelings.
Devotionables #55 - Proverbs 14:12
Throughout the gospels, people marvel at the miracles and teachings of Jesus. A couple of times, someone causes Jesus to marvel. What makes Jesus marvel? FAITH! Luke introduces us to a man that astonishes Jesus with his faith.
Obadiah's message to Edom is just as pertinent to us today. What does he say? What do we need to hear, and how can we obey the Lord?
We are introduced to the prophet Elijah with some fascinating stories in 1 Kings 17. These snippets into his life show the remarkable trust and obedience he gives to the Lord. He lives like Yahweh is God. In fact, that is what Elijah's name means. When we live like Yahweh is God, we live with greater trust and quicker obedience to the Lord, and it brings blessings to others.
Have you ever come across a verse or story that seems odd or out of place? A lot of times, there is a lot of gold found in these nuggets of obscurity. We come across one of these nuggets in 1 Kings 16. It helps us know that God will always, ALWAYS, fulfill his word.
Rose encourages us to seek our refuge in the Lord, who is our rock, refuge, shield, and strength. It's only upon the Lord that we can have a firm foundation.
Pastor Cook reminds us of who God is and gives us some thoughts on how we can jumpstart our devotional life from Psalm 100!
Devotionables #48 - Psalm 100
Pastor Cook encourages us as the people of God to lift our drooping chins and look to God in faith with thanksgiving and worship him with shouts of joy!
Devotionables #47 - Psalm 100
Pastor Larry follows up with some real-life examples and testimony about walking with Jesus daily.
Devotionables #46 - Ephesians 5:1
Pastor Larry leads us through a series of questions to evaluate the health of our daily walk with Jesus.
Devotionables #45 - Ephesians 5:1
Bartimaeus is an example for us of the faith required for salvation. Who do you believe Jesus is? For many, he was a good man, a carpenter, a leader of a rebellion, or simply, Jesus of Nazareth. For Bartimaeus, he was the long-awaited promised one. Blind Bartimaeus had eyes of faith that saw Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of David! Jesus saved him and healed him. Jesus saves all who follow him in faith.
Devotionables #44 - Luke 18:35-43
It's heartbreaking to see ones who have seemingly walked with the Lord for years fall away. The Bible tells us the tragic story about King Solomon turning his heart away from the Lord. Don't fall away but cling to the Lord in faith!
1 Kings 11
There is a disconcerting trend among Christians who are accepting a works-based version of the gospel. There is no other gospel! We are saved by grace alone, through faith, by Christ alone. Don't desert this glorious gospel!
Galatians 1:6-9
As we begin a new week, it's easy to rely on our gifts, abilities, bank accounts, etc. to lead us to success. These things are useful, but if that's all we have, we're in trouble. We need the Lord!
Devotionables #41 - Psalm 20:7-9
In recent weeks, our church has experienced the passing away of several long-term, faithful church members. In today's devotionable, Pastor Blake points us to 1 Peter 2:5 to help us find reassurance in the future of the church even as we mourn our present loss.
Solomon completes the construction of the temple, and then God shows up–bringing heaven to earth. When heaven meets earth, God's people enjoy God's presence, give thanks for God's faithfulness, and engage in God's mission.
Devotionables #39 - 1 Kings 8
In a world that throws a myriad of competing voices at us enticing us to doubt God and his Word, we need to be resolute in our commitment to reading the Scriptures. God will use the Word to sanctify us and help us recognize the Shepherd's voice.
John 18:37-38
Light reveals things and dispels darkness. God is our light; therefore, we will not fear.
The way you tell a story can emphasize the purpose of your story. The Apostle John starts his story about the life of Jesus from the beginning...the beginning of time. Jesus was there; he created all things–including time! The beginning of John’s gospel wastes no time focusing on Jesus’ divinity. John wants us to know and believe that Jesus is God!
Devotionables #36 - John 1:1-3, 14
- Life is like a vapor.
- Avoid the pitfall of living only for this life.
- Avoid the pitfall of not enjoying this life.
- Love God and walk in His ways.
Work is part of God's creation and design for mankind. It is a gift. Work is good.
Work pleases God.
Work blesses others.
Work provides for us.
Work protects us from idleness.
As Solomon prepares to succeed his father David as king, the Lord visits him and tells Solomon to ask for whatever he wants. What would you ask for if you were in Solomon's position? Solomon's request may surprise us and provides us with a great lesson in prayer and wisdom.
The Lord provides
- Care
- Guidance
- Peace
- Protection
- Blessing
- Victory
- Hospitality
- Love
- An Eternal Home
People are sheep. We are always being led by someone or something. No one can be the shepherd that the LORD is to his people. Who is your shepherd?
God comforts us in our affliction. He is the father of mercies and God of all comfort. He comforts us so that we might also comfort others in their affliction with the comfort which we have received from God.
Performing CPR on dry bones is a pointless, and a rather strange, endeavor. That is unless you are God. We learn in today's devotionable that just as God can restore dry bones to life, he can also restore those who are spiritually dead and bring them to a place of vibrant faith.
1 Corinthians 12
- God gives every believer a gift.
- Cultivate the gift he's given you.
- Use your gift to serve him and others.
Prayerlessness leads to hopelessness. Don't lose hope as we await the return of King Jesus. Pray!
Israel's new King, David, extends grace to Mephibosheth. What can we learn about God's grace from this beautiful story?
As we continue to grow in our faith, we do so building on the foundation of the gospel. We never outgrow the gospel. We need to preach the gospel to ourselves every day!
We have to be vigilant in our battle against sin. What can we learn about sin from David & Bathsheba to help us in this war?
Have you ever struggled to trust the goodness of God? Alex takes us to Psalm 34 to encourage our faith and remind us of God's goodness.
Mark describes Jesus' ministry starting with a bang. The crowds are overwhelming as he teaches and performs miracles. Chapter 2 starts with Jesus healing AND FORGIVING a paralytic. The crowds respond with enthusiasm and awe while the scribes scoff.
John 3:16 is the most popular in the Bible and for good reason! Let's remind ourselves of God's love and why we love this verse so much.
How do promises of God made to a Jewish King thousands of years ago have any impact on our lives and future? Dive into 2 Samuel 7 with us to find out!
Discipleship begins with a simple invitation, come and see. The Apostle John invites us to come see Jesus in the opening pages of his gospel so that by seeing we might believe, and that by believing we might have life! And we then go and invite others to come and see.
The Apostle John is given a vision of the new heaven and the new earth. In the middle of this eternal city, he sees a tree. This tree is a gift from God and reminds us of some other trees in the Bible that make this tree even more special. This tree reminds us of the hope we have in God to make all things right. Come quickly, Lord Jesus!
The Psalmist invites others to come and hear about the works of God in his life. When God does something for us, we give him thanks and glory when we tell others about it.
God wants his people to have assurance of salvation, to know their sins have been forgiven. How does he provide that assurance?
Wherever you find yourself today, know that God is with you. He will lead you through whatever you face for your good and his glory.
What can we learn from a list of rag tag guys following a carpenter around Israel? We are reminded of God's love for each of us and his work to change our lives and give us a better story.
What if you could have bought a share of a company like Amazon or Google before their stock prices jumped through the roof? In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus gives us the greatest insider-trading tip of all time.
All of us have experienced shame and some of us have dealt with it extensively. Pastor Blake reminds us that God has gone to extraordinary lengths to deal with shame. Shame wants us to hide and blame. God invites us out of hiding and offers us forgiveness and hope in Jesus Christ.
We are tempted to look to all kinds of insufficient things for help in this broken world. Ultimately, only God can help us. Psalm 121 is a beautiful song and powerful prayer that reminds us and assures us that God will help us and will keep us.
If Jesus had a business card, it would say, "Jesus, Friend of Sinners." Jesus saves a rich man by taking his place on a tree. The crowds grumble.
Psalm 46 is a song. The word "Selah" appears three times. A musical term probably meaning to play an interlude providing a time of reflection. God is with us! The River of God.
Hannah Responded to God's Work; Hannah's Prayer was God-Centered; Hannah Realizes a Pattern; Hannah Recognizes a Person