United by the Cross: Recent Episodes
United by the Cross
United by the Cross is meant to encourage and inform. We all fall short of the mark, and need to be reconciled to the creator of all. Everything good comes from Yahweh. https://UnitedbytheCross.org
I am not affiliated with this ministry. I do not receive payment. I do not run ads. I share messages that bless me, that's all.
Today's message is from the YouTube channel RedefinedTV and can be found here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zWdnAlqf4m4
Description from YouTube:
Gentleness is the language of the Kingdom, but unfortunately many of us have lost our accent!
fruitofthespirit #gentleness #therapythursday
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Father, may Your name and character be held with reverence and understood as wonderful and perfect. All good things come from You, because You are all powerful and the good Father. Forgive us for not treating You like You deserve, by worshipping our own desires and putting our own interests above Your call to action to join the great commission. Please pour out Your Holy Spirit on your children and allow us to work together with Your Spirit to bring You the harvest that You desire and deserve. It is more blessed to give than to receive, and we can but give back what You have given us. Please heal Your children spiritually, mentally, and physically so that, we will make better vessels to house Your Spirit. We love You, please help us love You like You deserve, in word and deed. May we be like jars of clay asking our Potter to shape us as You desire for the task that You made us to complete. Thank You Father, for everything You've done and for how You are going to move us forward. Whatever You have planned, we trust that it is for Your glory and our best, so bless You for being so good to Your children. Thank You for sending Your Son, so that we can be forgiven and come into Your presence to speak with You. It's in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, and by the power of His blood that we pray, Amen.
Today's verse of the day is: Romans 8:6 KJV. It says: For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
For context , let's see what Romans chapter 8, verses 1 through 13 says.
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
Today's devotional from you version is titled "Think About What You Think About".
What you tell yourself every day matters. If you believe something about your identity that isn’t true, then you will struggle to believe what God says about you.
But, when you root your identity in God and allow His Spirit to shape your life, you will begin to see yourself the way He sees you—and this will influence the way you treat people, situations, opportunities, and events around you.
So here are three ways you can guard your thoughts and declare God’s truth over your life:
- Identify the lies you tell yourself.
Your words and actions reveal the narratives you tell yourself. To figure out if a narrative is false, ask yourself: Is this thought marked by fear, insecurity, pride, bitterness, or a lack of confidence? Is this thought leading me to cynical or self-serving behavior? If you can answer “yes” to either of those questions, then the narrative you’re telling yourself probably needs to be addressed and adjusted.
When you can identify where and when you began believing a lie, it’ll be easier to change the way you think.
- Shift your perspective.
For every lie, there is a truth that can replace it—and those truths can be found in the Bible. Look over your list of lies, and ask God to show you in His Word what His truth is. Create mental space for the Holy Spirit to clearly show you how He sees you.
- Declare what’s true.
Turn the truths from Scripture into specific, intentional statements you can declare over your life each day.
Here are some declarations to get you started:
- I am enough because I am a child of God. - I rejoice in suffering because Christ suffered for me. - I am not ashamed of Jesus because His sacrifice changes lives. - I am greatly loved, and so I love others like I have been loved. - Nothing can separate me from God’s love.
As you practice these steps, keep in mind that if God—whose Word is truth—says something about you, then it must be true. So allow His Holy Spirit to transform the way you think. Let His thoughts about you become your thoughts about you.
Today's prayer is: A Prayer for a Changed Mind
God, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit. Your Spirit is always with me
This sermon is number 6 from the Parables series. I recommend that you go watch the full series on the YouTube channel RedefinedTV. That is where this audio is sourced.
Today's sermon is from https://youtube.com/watch?v=phvu_lmqh3E&si=ifmPfakwlxl8ZOxbPastor Jerry Flowers Jr is in part 7 of the Parables series. I highly recommend that you go watch the sermon series to this point. If the LORD is willing, I intend to share part 6, because this is a continuation of that one, but I believe someone needs to hear this now I am not affiliated with the ministry and I didn't ask for permission to share this, but I only share to help you hear the word of God.
Happy New Year! As we step into this new chapter, let us reflect on God’s faithfulness and declare His promises over our lives. This message and prayer will encourage you to let go of the past, trust God for your future, and walk boldly into His plans.📖 Isaiah 43:18-19: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!”🙏 Together, let us surrender the new year to the Lord, asking Him to lead, guide, and bless every step we take. His plans are good, and His love is unchanging.💬 If this prayer has touched your heart, type 'Amen' as a sign of faith. Share your prayer requests, and we would be honored to pray for you.✨ May this new year be filled with God’s peace, grace, and overflowing blessings. Happy New Year! 🎉Today's message is from the Grace Oasis YouTube channel https://youtube.com/watch?v=VfEk-iFn1Ic&si=lZd2oLmtMFLML2ZyIf this blesses you, please check out the Grace Oasis channel.Have a blessed day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
No longer will doubt, worry, or the fear of an outcome rob my peace. My God has the power to overrule!#JerryFlowers #RedefinedTV #GodIsInControl Today's message is from the YouTube channel RedefinedTV https://youtube.com/watch?v=9JVcbnMGa4c&si=ksxfMhg7aL0y41UXHave a blessed day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
Then the angel showed me a river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the main street of the city. On either side of the river stood a tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit and yielding a fresh crop for each month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be within the city, and His servants will worship Him. They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads. There will be no more night in the city, and they will have no need for the light of a lamp or of the sun. For the Lord God will shine on them, and they will reign forever and ever. Then the angel said to me, “These words are faithful and true. The Lord, the God of the spirits of the prophets, has sent His angel to show His servants what must soon take place.” “Behold, I am coming soon. Blessed is the one who keeps the words of prophecy in this book.” And I am John, who heard and saw these things. And when I had heard and seen them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who had shown me these things. But he said to me, “Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers the prophets, and with those who keep the words of this book. Worship God!” Then he told me, “Do not seal up the words of prophecy in this book, because the time is near. Let the unrighteous continue to be unrighteous, and the vile continue to be vile; let the righteous continue to practice righteousness, and the holy continue to be holy.” “Behold, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me, to give to each one according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by its gates. But outside are the dogs, the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. “I, Jesus, have sent My angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the bright Morning Star.” The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” Let the one who hears say, “Come!” And let the one who is thirsty come, and the one who desires the water of life drink freely. I testify to everyone who hears the words of prophecy in this book: If anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book. And if anyone takes away from the words of this book of prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and the holy city, which are described in this book. He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all the saints. Amen.Revelation 22:1-21 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/rev.22.1-21.BSB
Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the whole empire. This was the first census to take place while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone went to his own town to register. So Joseph also went up from Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, since he was from the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to him in marriage and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her Child to be born. And she gave birth to her firstborn, a Son. She wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were shepherds residing in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks by night. Just then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid! For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord! And this will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a great multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests!” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph and the Baby, who was lying in the manger. After they had seen the Child, they spread the message they had received about Him. And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, which was just as the angel had told them. When the eight days until His circumcision had passed, He was named Jesus, the name the angel had given Him before He had been conceived. And when the time of purification according to the Law of Moses was complete, His parents brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord: “Every firstborn male shall be consecrated to the Lord”), and to offer the sacrifice specified in the Law of the Lord: “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.” Now there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. Led by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. And when the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for Him what was customary under the Law, Simeon took Him in his arms and blessed God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as You have promised, You now dismiss Your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to Your people Israel.” The Child’s father and mother were amazed at what was spoken about Him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to His mother Mary: “Behold, this Child is appointed to cause the rise and fall of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed— and a sword will pierce your soul as well.” There was also a prophetess named Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher, who was well along in years. She had been married for seven years, and then was a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming forward at that moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the Child to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem..
Watch our overview video on the book of Galatians, which breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In Galatians, Paul challenges the Galatian Christians to stop allowing controversial Torah observances to divide their church's congregation.#Galatians #BibleProject #BibleVideohttps://youtube.com/watch?v=vmx4UjRFp0M&si=tFI1mcF1gzs0tUkIToday's message is from the YouTube channel BibleProject and is better when watched, so I highly recommend you to see the video. BibleProject provides videos about many Biblical topics, word studies, and each book of the Bible. Their illustrations make topics easier to understand and have been an integral part of my walk with the LORD. I learned a lot by Tim Mackie breaking down patterns and subjects. Though I don't agree with Tim on some topics, overall I know that the LORD has blessed me with understanding that I have yet to hear from anyone else.Have a blessed day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
In this heartfelt prayer, we lift our voices to praise and adore the Lord Jesus, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His strength during life’s toughest challenges. We surrender to His will, trusting that every trial is a step towards spiritual growth and deeper faith. Join us in this prayer of surrender and transformation, and feel the peace that comes from placing our lives in His hands. If this prayer resonates with you, type 'Amen' and let us know how we can pray for you today. May God's grace and peace be with you always.This message is from the YouTube channel Grace Oasis.https://youtube.com/watch?v=DYjgXt3A4b8&si=aiV0QbqdfVCpMUxhHave a blessed day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
Recorded at Generations Conference 2024www.jackiehillperry.comhttps://youtube.com/watch?v=D4uuPE_QJrc&si=iwAAlf2P1H5xfc46Today's message is from the YouTube channel Jackie Hill Perry.Have a Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
We want to give you practical tools on how to not just be a perpetual performer in your passions, but a pursuer of your purpose because your purpose is to live your life for His namesake.#Purpose #RedefinedTV #SpiritualMaturityThis message is from the YouTube channel RedefinedTV.https://youtube.com/watch?v=ao3DWHIi4WY&si=VM10nF90NrlnkGJuI hope it blesses you like it did me.Have a Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
Now about spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans, you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. Therefore I inform you that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit. There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different ministries, but the same Lord. There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all people. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in various tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, who apportions them to each one as He determines. The body is a unit, though it is composed of many parts. And although its parts are many, they all form one body. So it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free, and we were all given one Spirit to drink. For the body does not consist of one part, but of many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact, God has arranged the members of the body, every one of them, according to His design. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I do not need you.” Nor can the head say to the feet, “I do not need you.” On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts we consider less honorable, we treat with greater honor. And our unpresentable parts are treated with special modesty, whereas our presentable parts have no such need. But God has composed the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its members should have mutual concern for one another. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each of you is a member of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, and those with gifts of healing, helping, administration, and various tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? But eagerly desire the greater gifts. And now I will show you the most excellent way.If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have absolute faith so as to move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and exult in the surrender of my body, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs. Love takes no pleasure in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be...
On that day David first committed to Asaph and his brothers this song of thanksgiving to the Lord: “Give thanks to the Lord; call upon His name; make known His deeds among the nations. Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; tell of all His wonders. Glory in His holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Seek out the Lord and His strength; seek His face always. Remember the wonders He has done, His marvels, and the judgments He has pronounced, O offspring of His servant Israel, O sons of Jacob, His chosen ones. He is the Lord our God; His judgments carry throughout the earth. Remember His covenant forever, the word He ordained for a thousand generations— the covenant He made with Abraham, and the oath He swore to Isaac. He confirmed it to Jacob as a decree, to Israel as an everlasting covenant: ‘I will give you the land of Canaan as the portion of your inheritance.’ When they were few in number, few indeed, and strangers in the land, they wandered from nation to nation, from one kingdom to another. He let no man oppress them; He rebuked kings on their behalf: ‘Do not touch My anointed ones! Do no harm to My prophets!’ Sing to the Lord, all the earth. Proclaim His salvation day after day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all peoples. For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols, but it is the Lord who made the heavens. Splendor and majesty are before Him; strength and joy fill His dwelling. Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name; bring an offering and come before Him. Worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness; tremble before Him, all the earth. The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved. Let the heavens be glad, and the earth rejoice. Let them say among the nations, ‘The Lord reigns!’ Let the sea resound, and all that fills it; let the fields exult, and all that is in them. Then the trees of the forest will sing for joy before the Lord, for He is coming to judge the earth. Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever. Then cry out: ‘Save us, O God of our salvation; gather and deliver us from the nations, that we may give thanks to Your holy name, that we may glory in Your praise.’ Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting.” Then all the people said, “Amen!” and “Praise the Lord!”1 Chronicles 16:7-36 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/1ch.16.7-36.BSB
Yes, God got you out of Egypt... but now your wilderness season is so God can get the Egypt out of you!Today's message is from Time Of Celebtation Ministries Church and Redefined TV.
Today's message and prayer is from Grace Oasis on YouTube.https://youtube.com/watch?v=3N0PK8VuLMQ&si=THcOChOI7vR9r7cUToday, we draw strength from the story of Jesus in Luke 4, who stood firm against temptation by relying on God’s Word. Let this serve as a reminder that when challenges arise, you too can speak God’s truth over your life. With confidence, declare victory over any obstacle, knowing that you are more than a conqueror through Him who loves you. Stand strong, equipped with the authority of Scripture, and allow God’s promises to fill you with courage and peace. Type "Amen" if this prayer has encouraged you, and let us know if you need prayer. May God's grace and peace be with you!
In this transformative session from the Acts 242 Conference, Jackie Hill Perry delivers a powerful message on the importance of engaging with Scripture authentically. Drawing from Acts 17, Jackie challenges believers to be like the Bereans, who received the Word with eagerness and examined the Scriptures daily.To connect with Jackie Hill Perry, visithttps://jackiehillperry.com/This audio is from the YouTube channel Acts 242.https://youtube.com/watch?v=pUE_KkjwvIo&si=5QnkyptQ7PCZ3gBd
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth! You have set Your glory above the heavens. From the mouths of children and infants You have ordained praise on account of Your adversaries, to silence the enemy and avenger. When I behold Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place— what is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You care for him? You made him a little lower than the angels; You crowned him with glory and honor. You made him ruler of the works of Your hands; You have placed everything under his feet: all sheep and oxen, and even the beasts of the field, the birds of the air and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!Psalms 8:1-9 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.8.1-9.BSB
This is an important topic. There are too many people giving up and removing themselves from the fight. Whether literally or figuratively, destroying life is not the answer. I know first hand what Jesus Christ can do and the difference He can make in your life, personality, and desires. Please know that it's not over while you have air in your lungs. Cultural devaluing of life doesn't change the fact that each person is made in the image of God, made on purpose for purpose, and their body is a temple for the LORD. Pray for the people around you and intercede for anyone that you think might be on the path of self destruction. God hates sin, but He loves you.The audio is from the sermon here https://youtube.com/watch?v=XCDCAmQaBZ0&si=jKPdwoQFTeLT_5_W
Today's audio is from Grace Oasis on YouTube. https://youtube.com/watch?v=c-cw-ZgAMdM&si=0jexmJTZ6ppUpxYdHave a blessed day. ‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
Sermon except from:The Lord Comes As A Thief (Rapture) - Paul Washer https://youtube.com/watch?v=MCV8BnjtrIg&si=eJrmQt0JnTeq84Pb
Can anyone explain to me how saying God, followed by dang is better then saying gd? Do you realize that it was just people that decided dang and d a m n are on different levels? The LORD said His name is to be kept holy ¹, not used in vain or as a substitute for filth ². This is like you saying someone you love is a piece of crap, but at least you didn't say they're a piece of sh--. EXCEPT, and this is the part you might've missed, the person you love is innocent and literally left heaven ³ when He volunteered and took your place on death row ⁴. He allowed Himself to be beaten. He allowed Himself to be killed. He conquered death ⁵ and offers you the opportunity to live with Him. Can ANYONE explain how it makes sense to you?Don't take my word for it:1) Deuteronomy 5:11 BSB2) Galatians 6:7-8 BSB3) John 1:1-5 BSB4) Luke 23:34-43 BSB5) John 20:1-31 BSB
This audio is from Pastor Jerry Flowers https://youtube.com/@Beredefined so while I do not have rights to this content, I do not accept any form of payment for what I share with you. I only pray that this blesses you like it does me. If it blesses you, please go to the YouTube channel and join me in watching the sermon tomorrow. Have a blessed Sabbath and may the LORD Jesus Christ be with you.
For context, this portion of Scripture is at the time when Israel was returning from exile and rebuilding the temple of the LORD. Though some were trying to restore the temple according to the design laid out by God, others were still trying to do things their own way. May God bless the reading and hearing of His word.
Nehemiah 13
At that time the Book of Moses was read aloud in the hearing of the people, and in it they found the passage stating that no Ammonite or Moabite should ever enter the assembly of God, because they had not met the Israelites with food and water, but had hired Balaam to call down a curse against them (although our God had turned the curse into a blessing). As soon as the people heard this law, they excluded from Israel all of foreign descent. Now before this, Eliashib the priest, a relative of Tobiah, had been put in charge of the storerooms of the house of our God and had prepared for Tobiah a large room where they had previously stored the grain offerings, the frankincense, the temple articles, and the tithes of grain, new wine, and oil prescribed for the Levites, singers, and gatekeepers, along with the contributions for the priests. While all this was happening, I was not in Jerusalem, because I had returned to Artaxerxes king of Babylon in the thirty-second year of his reign. Some time later I obtained leave from the king to return to Jerusalem. Then I discovered the evil that Eliashib had done on behalf of Tobiah by providing him a room in the courts of the house of God. And I was greatly displeased and threw all of Tobiah’s household goods out of the room. Then I ordered that the rooms be purified, and I had the articles of the house of God restored to them, along with the grain offerings and frankincense.
Nehemiah 13:1-9 BSB
https://bible.com/bible/3034/neh.13.1-9.BSB
What did you notice?
Pray for God to give you understanding and read it again.
The following is what I received:
God's ways are perfect. His instruction will lead to His glory and our benefit. Who we do life with is just as important as how we live. Put God before everything, even family.
Taking up residence inside God's Holy temple was wrong. Was the man supposed to make the place common with the objects from his daily life and to make a space for himself, taking away from the purpose and design of the temple of the LORD. Remember that the LORD is holy and His design has purpose. We must not allow ourselves to make common what is set apart by God.
We ourselves are the temple of the LORD, therefore we should try to give space in our hearts only to that which is desirable to the Father, and to follow the Holy Spirit's instruction to the best of our ability, so that we might not sin against Him by taking that which is holy for granted, putting ourselves above His instruction, or polluting the environment that we ask Jesus Christ to occupy.
I pray for application of the principals and direction of God to be made whole in His children.
Father, You are wonderful and Your ways are perfect and good. We have placed our own desires above Your Word. Thank you for letting Jesus Christ, Your Son, pay the debt of all of our sins and for showing us what it means to love. Holy Spirit, please remove everything that doesn't belong, and fill us according to Your will. It's an honor to be allowed to be yoked with our God, and we pray that You don't let us forget it or take You for granted. Father, this is the desire of our hearts, but we pray, may Your will be done, in the name of Jesus Christ we pray, by the power of Your Holy Spirit, amen, amen, amen.
When anxiety overwhelms me, Your consolation delights my soul.
Psalms 94:19 BSB
Today's Verse In Context:O Lord, God of vengeance, O God of vengeance, shine forth. Rise up, O Judge of the earth; render a reward to the proud. How long will the wicked, O Lord, how long will the wicked exult? They pour out arrogant words; all workers of iniquity boast. They crush Your people, O Lord; they oppress Your heritage. They kill the widow and the foreigner; they murder the fatherless. They say, “The Lord does not see; the God of Jacob pays no heed.” Take notice, O senseless among the people! O fools, when will you be wise? He who affixed the ear, can He not hear? He who formed the eye, can He not see? He who admonishes the nations, does He not discipline? He who teaches man, does He lack knowledge? The Lord knows the thoughts of man, that they are futile. Blessed is the man You discipline, O Lord, and teach from Your law, to grant him relief from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked. For the Lord will not forsake His people; He will never abandon His heritage. Surely judgment will again be righteous, and all the upright in heart will follow it. Who will rise up for me against the wicked? Who will stand for me against the workers of iniquity? Unless the Lord had been my helper, I would soon have dwelt in the abode of silence. If I say, “My foot is slipping,” Your loving devotion, O Lord, supports me. When anxiety overwhelms me, Your consolation delights my soul. Can a corrupt throne be Your ally— one devising mischief by decree? They band together against the righteous and condemn the innocent to death. But the Lord has been my stronghold, and my God is my rock of refuge. He will bring upon them their own iniquity and destroy them for their wickedness. The Lord our God will destroy them.Psalms 94:1-23 BSB
Today's Devotional From YouVersion Is:God is Our Comfort
Have you ever looked around you and wondered, “why is there so much evil, wickedness, and pain in the world?”
In Psalm 94, King David is extremely upset about the state of humanity. People are blaming God for the world’s rampant wickedness as though God did not see it and did not care (verses 1-7). So David reminds his audience that the Lord is Creator, and He knows, sees, and hears all that goes on (verses 8-11).
Because of God, David could say, “When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul.” (Verse 19)
King David’s “cares of the heart” were because of the wickedness and evil he saw—and our world is not much different. But David’s consolation in all the evil he witnessed was his Creator and Savior.
That’s why He could close his psalm by writing, “But the LORD has become my stronghold, and my God the rock of my refuge. He will bring back on them their iniquity and wipe them out for their wickedness, the LORD our God will wipe them out.” (Verses 22-23)
This isn’t the most pleasant psalm to read. It’s full of pain and anger, sorrow and injustice. But, it’s a prayer of hope and perspective which we can learn from.
There is wickedness, injustice, and war all around us. But in the midst of pain and brokenness, we can follow King David’s example and look to God for comfort and peace. God took care of our shame and sin through the death of Jesus Christ, and He will one day take care of all wickedness and evil.
Until then, like David, we can say, “When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul.”
By trusting in God and knowing that He will one day wipe away all wickedness, we can bring Him our hopes, dreams, fears, and concerns and receive His comfort.
So right now, think about the cares you have that need to be given to God. How can knowing God cheer your soul?
Today's Prayer Is:A Prayer for Comfort and JoyGod, thank You that I am Your child. And because nothing can separate me from You, I can run to You when I face troubles of any kind. Please help me to remember that. Remind my soul of what is true, and comfort...
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
Today's Verse In Context:
Therefore, while the promise of entering His rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be deemed to have fallen short of it. For we also received the good news just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, since they did not share the faith of those who comprehended it. Now we who have believed enter that rest. As for the others, it is just as God has said: “So I swore on oath in My anger, ‘They shall never enter My rest.’” And yet His works have been finished since the foundation of the world. For somewhere He has spoken about the seventh day in this manner: “And on the seventh day God rested from all His works.” And again, as He says in the passage above: “They shall never enter My rest.” Since, then, it remains for some to enter His rest, and since those who formerly heard the good news did not enter because of their disobedience, God again designated a certain day as “Today,” when a long time later He spoke through David as was just stated: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. There remains, then, a Sabbath rest for the people of God. For whoever enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from His. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following the same pattern of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight; everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Hebrews 4:1-16 BSB
https://bible.com/bible/3034/heb.4.1-16.BSB
Today's Devotional From YouVersion Is:
God Speaks Today
Have you ever asked God to speak to you? It can be tempting to think that we could have more faith if God would simply speak to us. If God would just speak, then we would know that He is real and exists.
While at one time God spoke through prophets, He has spoken to us through the Bible which is His Word. Scripture is God’s means of communicating with His people. Every time we open up God’s Word, we are listening to the words of God Himself.
That’s why Scripture says the Word of God is alive and active. It is the primary way that God speaks to His people to guide our thoughts and direct our ways. God’s Word actively refreshes us and provides us with wisdom for living.
The author of Hebrews also tells us that Scripture is like a sword that can cut and divide our innermost places. God’s Word reveals our true heart. It exposes our emotions and thoughts, and then guides us toward what is right.
God’s Word is full of refreshment for our weariness. He speaks encouragement to those who follow Him and listen to His voice. Scripture is also full of God’s truth that guides us into right-living. It shapes our hearts and minds toward loving God and loving those around us.
One of the best things you can do for your life is to engage in Scripture daily. If we rarely read God’s Word, then we will rarely hear His voice speaking to us. The more that we develop regular habits of engaging with God, the easier it will be to hear and follow His guidance.
Today's Verse Of The Day Is:
Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.
Revelation 3:20 BSB
Today's Verse In Context:
To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Originator of God’s creation. I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were one or the other! So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth! You say, ‘I am rich; I have grown wealthy and need nothing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked. I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, white garments so that you may be clothed and your shameful nakedness not exposed, and salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see. Those I love, I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me. To the one who overcomes, I will grant the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
Revelation 3:14-22 BSB
https://bible.com/bible/3034/rev.3.14-22.BSB
Today's Prayer Is:
A Prayer for Restarting
God, thank You for pursuing me and wanting to intimately know me. Free me from distractions and selfish desires. I let go of my personal comforts and control. Renew my passion and heart for You! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a Blessed Day:
‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’
Numbers 6:24-26 BSB
https://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
The entire law is fulfilled in a single decree: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Galatians 5:14 BSB
Today's Verse in Context:
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery. Take notice: I, Paul, tell you that if you let yourselves be circumcised, Christ will be of no value to you at all. Again I testify to every man who gets himself circumcised that he is obligated to obey the whole law. You who are trying to be justified by the law have been severed from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the hope of righteousness. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. All that matters is faith, expressed through love. You were running so well. Who has obstructed you from obeying the truth? Such persuasion does not come from the One who calls you. A little leaven works through the whole batch of dough. I am confident in the Lord that you will take no other view. The one who is troubling you will bear the judgment, whoever he may be. Now, brothers, if I am still preaching circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been abolished. As for those who are agitating you, I wish they would proceed to emasculate themselves! For you, brothers, were called to freedom; but do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Rather, serve one another in love. The entire law is fulfilled in a single decree: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you keep on biting and devouring one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another. So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us walk in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying one another.
Galatians 5:1-26 BSB
https://bible.com/bible/3034/gal.5.1-26.BSB
Today's Devotional from YouVersion is:
A True Neighbor
Have you ever wondered: “What does God want me to do?”
If you’re looking for a verse that summarizes the commands in both the Old and New Testaments, here’s what Paul wrote to the believers in Galatia…
“For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
Galatians 5:14 NLT
Paul’s words echo a command Jesus gave when He was asked what the most important commandment was (Matthew 22:37-40). What they’re both essentially saying is: beyond loving God with everything in you, you should love your neighbor as yourself.
Who is your neighbor? A Jewish expert in religious law once asked Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29) So Jesus told him a story about a man who was beaten and left for dead on the side of the road. Both a priest and a Levite walked by and ignored the man—but it was a Samaritan who sacrificed his time and money to help him heal.
For many reasons, Samaritans were despised by Jews. But that didn’t stop the Samaritan in this story from showing compassion. What Jesus wanted the Jewish expert (and us) to hear is that anyone, anywhere is our neighbor—and everyone is worthy of our sacrificial love.
How do you love yourself? When you...
Be imitators of God, therefore, as beloved children,
Ephesians 5:1 BSB
Today's Verse in Context:
Be imitators of God, therefore, as beloved children, and walk in love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant sacrificial offering to God. But among you, as is proper among the saints, there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or crude joking, which are out of character, but rather thanksgiving. For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure, or greedy person (that is, an idolater), has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them. For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light, for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth. Test and prove what pleases the Lord. Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for everything that is illuminated becomes a light itself. So it is said: “Wake up, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your hearts to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a glorious church, without stain or wrinkle or any such blemish, but holy and blameless. In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. Indeed, no one ever hated his own body, but he nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church. For we are members of His body. “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” This mystery is profound, but I am speaking about Christ and the church. Nevertheless, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
Ephesians 5:1-33 BSB
https://bible.com/bible/3034/eph.5.1-33.BSB
Today's Devotional from YouVersion is:
Be Imitators
Children learn to function in real life by imitating those around them.
They learn to speak by listening to their family’s words and copying what they hear. They learn to interact with others by observing how their loved ones interact with others. They learn what’s culturally and socially appropriate by watching and imitating.
Learning by imitation doesn't stop in childhood. Adults, too, will often reflect those closest to them, as well as their environment.
Perhaps that’s why, while writing from the confines of a Roman prison, the apostle Paul gave the believers in Ephesus this heartfelt charge:
“Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.”
Ephesians 5:1 NLT
Paul knew that loving and reflecting God was foundational. What we observe will get repeated and, eventually, passed along.
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,1 Peter 5:6 ESVToday's Verse in Context:As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but because it is God’s will; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; not Lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. Young men, in the same way, submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you. Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in your faith and in the knowledge that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering. And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore you, secure you, strengthen you, and establish you. To Him be the power forever and ever. Amen. Through Silvanus, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. The church in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings, as does my son Mark. Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.1 Peter 5:1-14 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/1pe.5.1-14.BSBToday's Devotional from YouVersion is:Here’s What Humility Looks Like…When you think of humility, what comes to mind? In our world, humility is not something often celebrated. We would rather be seen as powerful, influential, and competent. If humility is weakness, pride is strength. But is it, really?Pride can feel good, but it can hold us back from who God made us to be. It makes us think that if we try hard enough, we can become good enough. If we’re doing great, pride makes our confidence soar. But if we’re going through a rough season, pride makes us sensitive to our failures. Pride links our worth to our accomplishments, and it prevents us from seeing who we truly are. Humility helps us realize that we are not enough—but God is enough for us. Humility will often ask us to risk something. It might mean laying down our social standing, our reputation, our financial security, our sense of authority, or our expertise. Surrendering our self-sufficiency, surrendering our pride, lets us embrace God’s authority. And our God did miracles through Moses, established David as king of Israel, worked through Isaiah in the midst of chaos, publicly honored Mary, abundantly provided for Peter, and glorified Jesus by raising Him from the dead. When we surrender ourselves to God, we allow Him to be glorified through us. Humility might cost us something—but it leads to abundant life. So today, how can you humble yourself before God? Take a few moments and process what you need to lay down in order to draw closer to God within the upcoming weeks.Today's Prayer is:A Prayer of SurrenderGod, I need You. I can’t pretend that I have my life together, because I don’t. You alone are able to help and sustain me. You alone are able to give me the strength I need to get through each day. Today, please show me that You are in control—and that You are enough for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have a Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSB
Today's Verse Of The Day Is:Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.James 1:12 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/jas.1.12.BSBToday's Verse In Context:James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes of the Dispersion: Greetings. Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. He is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. The brother in humble circumstances should exult in his high position. But the one who is rich should exult in his low position, because he will pass away like a flower of the field. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its flower falls and its beauty is lost. So too, the rich man will fade away in the midst of his pursuits. Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed. Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, with whom there is no change or shifting shadow. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we would be a kind of firstfruits of His creation. My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and every expression of evil, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save your souls. Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves. For anyone who hears the word but does not carry it out is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror, and after observing himself goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so—not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer—he will be blessed in what he does. If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not bridle his tongue, he deceives his heart and his religion is worthless. Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.James 1:1-27 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/jas.1.1-27.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:Walking Through TrialsLet's start by debunking a myth: nowhere in Scripture does God promise us a perfect life, free from troubles. In fact, many, many times in the Bible, Christ-followers find themselves persecuted, under attack, or facing trouble of all kinds.In a letter from James to first-century believers, James informs them about the various trials that they will experience in life: "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him."James 1:12 NIVWhen we see trials as a means of becoming more like Jesus, then we’ll be blessed by them.
Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.Colossians 3:23-24 BSBToday's Verse in Context:Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience. When you lived among them, you also used to walk in these ways. But now you must put aside all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to one another, since you have taken off the old self with its practices, and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, or free, but Christ is all and is in all. Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they will not become discouraged. Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything, not only to please them while they are watching, but with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Whoever does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.Colossians 3:1-25 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/col.3.1-25.BSBToday's Devotional from YouVersion is:Changing Our PerspectivesHave you ever found yourself tasked with doing something that was boring, uneventful, uncomfortable, or difficult? When we find ourselves in those situations, our first reaction might be to complain or quit trying. Sometimes, mundane jobs and everyday responsibilities don’t feel like worthwhile investments of our time and energy. But the truth is: everything we do matters to God and is used by Him. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Colossians 3:23-24 NIV Whatever you do. Whether you’re in your dream career or working for someone difficult, whether you’re taking care of your home, or organizing a business—everything we do is an opportunity to worship Jesus. It’s just a matter of perspective. If we view life through a lens that is only concerned with ourselves, we will quickly grow tired of our circumstances and disappointed by our striving. But if we view life through a lens of worship...
Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see.Hebrews 11:1 BSBToday's Verse in Context:Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. This is why the ancients were commended. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous when God gave approval to his gifts. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he did not see death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in godly fear built an ark to save his family. By faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, without knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the promised land as a stranger in a foreign country. He lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. By faith Sarah, even though she was barren and beyond the proper age, was enabled to conceive a child, because she considered Him faithful who had promised. And so from one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. All these people died in faith, without having received the things they were promised. However, they saw them and welcomed them from afar. And they acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. Now those who say such things show that they are seeking a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them. By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac on the altar. He who had received the promises was ready to offer his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “Through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned.” Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and in a sense, he did receive Isaac back from death. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning the future. By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his bones. By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after his birth, because they saw that he was a beautiful child, and they were unafraid of the king’s edict. By faith Moses, when he was grown, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to suffer oppression with God’s people rather than to experience the fleeting enjoyment of sin. He valued disgrace for Christ above the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his reward. By faith Moses left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw Him who is invisible. By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch Israel’s own firstborn. By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to follow, they were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days. By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies in peace, did not perish with those who...
Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.Psalms 20:7 BSBToday's Verse in Context:May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you. May He send you help from the sanctuary and sustain you from Zion. May He remember all your gifts and look favorably on your burnt offerings. Selah May He give you the desires of your heart and make all your plans succeed. May we shout for joy at your victory and raise a banner in the name of our God. May the Lord grant all your petitions. Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He answers him from His holy heaven with the saving power of His right hand. Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. They collapse and fall, but we rise up and stand firm. O Lord, save the king. Answer us on the day we call.Psalms 20:1-9 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.20.1-9.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion is: Trust What Can’t Be BrokenThink back to a recent situation that caused you stress, anxiety, or fear. Whenever we find ourselves in overwhelming situations, how we react reveals what we trust in. In Psalm 20, King David points out that people tend to trust in “chariots and horses” — things made or controlled by human hands. These tools displayed the wealth and power of a kingdom, and were used to protect armies and conquer other nations. But David knew that his strength wasn’t found in anything created—his trust was in the name of the God of Israel. This God consistently saved Israel from chariots and horses. He had already rescued the Israelites from Egypt, provided for them as they wandered through a wilderness, helped them conquer multiple enemy kingdoms, and established David as King of Israel. And it’s this God that we belong to today. This same God sent His only Son to die for us, rescued us from an eternity separated from Him, gave us His Holy Spirit, and continues to fight for us. So when the world around us crumbles, when our problems seem unbearable, when we start to feel powerless, hopeless, and futureless—God is still present. There has never been a battle He hasn’t won or a situation He couldn’t handle. He is still capable of doing more than all that we might ask, think, or imagine. He is still in control, and nothing is too hard for Him. So today, bring God your “chariots and horses.” Tell Him about the things in your life that you are tempted to place your hope in. Envision handing those objects and ideas over to Him, and then pray this verse out loud: “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”Today's Prayer is: A Prayer to Trust GodJesus, I trust You. My God, I love You. You always provide for me. You always protect me. You are always there for me. There is nowhere I could run to escape Your presence, and that is why I should confidently place my trust in You. Forgive me for the times I haven’t done that. Please change my heart so that I long to put You first in my life. Amen.Have a Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do.Joshua 1:8 BSBToday's Verse In Context:Now after the death of His servant Moses, the Lord spoke to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ assistant, saying, “Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore arise, you and all these people, and cross over the Jordan into the land that I am giving to the children of Israel. I have given you every place where the sole of your foot will tread, just as I promised to Moses. Your territory shall extend from the wilderness and Lebanon to the great River Euphrates—all the land of the Hittites—and west as far as the Great Sea. No one shall stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so will I be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and courageous, for you shall give these people the inheritance of the land that I swore to their fathers I would give them. Above all, be strong and very courageous. Be careful to observe all the law that My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may prosper wherever you go. This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do. Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”Joshua 1:1-9 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/jos.1.1-9.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion is:Timeless WisdomAfter being rescued from Egyptian slavery and wandering around in the wilderness for 40 years, the Hebrew people finally stood at the edge of the land God had promised. Though their long-time leader, Moses, had just died, God appointed Joshua to take his place. During this transition of authority, God gave Joshua some wise advice:“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”Joshua 1:8 NIVThe “Book of the Law” refers to the first five books of the Bible—also known as the Torah (in Hebrew) or the Pentateuch (in Greek). Today, we have that and more—66 books of the Bible, including the Old and New Testaments.God gave the Law to Israel through Moses. These instructions reveal God’s intentions, character, and heart.And even though God was speaking directly to Joshua at that time, His advice holds timeless wisdom for us today…Reading, listening to, and thinking deeply about God's story informs and shapes us. God’s instructions are good, and His commandments are wise. They tell us who God is and who He’s created us to be. They show us where His people have been and where they are going.When we meditate on His Word, study its contents, and understand its core message—everything changes.We don’t have to live meaningless lives; we can step into the world purposefully. And even when we face battles, like Joshua did, it’s always best to be on God’s side.Today's Prayer is:A Prayer of Thanks for God’s WordGod, You give us Scripture so that we can know You better. Your Word is not meant to be a list of instructions but a way of life that leads to You. The more time we spend in the Bible, the more deeply we know Your character and nature. Thank you for revealing Yourself to us in this way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have a Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons: “My son, do not take lightly the discipline of the Lord, and do not lose heart when He rebukes you. For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives.” Endure suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you do not experience discipline like everyone else, then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Furthermore, we have all had earthly fathers who disciplined us, and we respected them. Should we not much more submit to the Father of our spirits and live? Our fathers disciplined us for a short time as they thought best, but God disciplines us for our good, so that we may share in His holiness. No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it. Therefore strengthen your limp hands and weak knees. Make straight paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed. Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God, and that no root of bitterness springs up to cause trouble and defile many. See to it that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his birthright. For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected. He could find no ground for repentance, though he sought the blessing with tears. For you have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom, and storm; to a trumpet blast or to a voice that made its hearers beg that no further word be spoken. For they could not bear what was commanded: “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned.” The sight was so terrifying that even Moses said, “I am trembling with fear.” Instead, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to myriads of angels in joyful assembly, to the congregation of the firstborn, enrolled in heaven. You have come to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. See to it that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if the people did not escape when they refused Him who warned them on earth, how much less will we escape if we reject Him who warns us from heaven? At that time His voice shook the earth, but now He has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth, but heaven as well.” The words “Once more” signify the removal of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that the unshakable may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. “For our God is a consuming fire.”Hebrews 12:1-29 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/heb.12.1-29.BSB
Imagine a deer trail in the woods. We know that the deer are traveling there, because they wear down the grass from going through the same path repeatedly. They take the children through the same path. The way you hunt and kill them is by waiting for them to come back to the same places they were in the past. It's not hard to find them, you just wait for them to come to you.When the ground has been walked over repeatedly, it kills whatever would have grown there. Soil without grass is slippery. Without the grass and its root system, there's no traction. So, when climbing up a slippery path, you will be forced to pull down what is holding you up. Sometimes what you try to hold on to will just break, because it can't hold you up.If you want to kill a deer, you don't wander around in the woods, hoping you stumble upon one. Once you know where they go as a family, all you need to do is wait. You might even bait them with a substance they like. If the hunter wants to wait, they can let the deer live longer, and get bigger. Maybe it will have children too, and knowing the place to wait, they will feed you another day. If it's a male, when they get bigger, you could make them a trophy. Of course, if you remove fathers, you might kill the family off entirely and if you kill them not for food, but because you hate them, this might be the desirable outcome.Be sure, you have an enemy that hates you. The entire reason he exists is to prove that you're just like him. The accuser is here to steal, kill, and destroy. There are no new plays for him to try, so generational sin is an easy method of attack.You are not here to follow the same path as the ones that were before you or the ones that are around you. You are here to follow Christ and make a new path that leaves the death and misery and neglect behind.Scripture:“Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:14-15As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my food day and night, while they say to me all the day long, “Where is your God?” These things I remember, as I pour out my soul: how I would go with the throng and lead them in procession to the house of God with glad shouts and songs of praise, a multitude keeping festival. Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God. My soul is cast down within me; therefore I remember you from the land of Jordan and of Hermon, from Mount Mizar. Deep calls to deep at the roar of your waterfalls; all your breakers and your waves have gone over me. By day the Lord commands his steadfast love, and at night his song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life. I say to God, my rock: “Why have you forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?” As with a deadly wound in my bones, my adversaries taunt me, while they say to me all the day long, “Where is your God?” Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God. Psalm 42
As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul longs after You, O God.Psalms 42:1 BSBToday's Verse In Context:As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul longs after You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, the living God. When shall I come and appear in God’s presence? My tears have been my food both day and night, while men ask me all day long, “Where is your God?” These things come to mind as I pour out my soul: how I walked with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God with shouts of joy and praise. Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why the unease within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him for the salvation of His presence. O my God, my soul despairs within me. Therefore I remember You from the land of Jordan and the peaks of Hermon— even from Mount Mizar. Deep calls to deep in the roar of Your waterfalls; all Your breakers and waves have rolled over me. The Lord decrees His loving devotion by day, and at night His song is with me as a prayer to the God of my life. I say to God my Rock, “Why have You forgotten me? Why must I walk in sorrow because of the enemy’s oppression?” Like the crushing of my bones, my enemies taunt me, while they say to me all day long, “Where is your God?” Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why the unease within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.Psalms 42:1-11 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.42.1-11.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:Desiring God's PresenceThe writer of Psalm 42 compares himself to a deer that is longing for water. The deer is weary and parched without it, and so all it wants is to find a stream to drink from.In a similar way, the psalmist is weary and exhausted from life. He is under pressure and growing tired. And yet, his innermost desire is for God. Just like the deer desires water, the psalmist’s soul desires the presence of God. He knows that the solution to his problems is not more accomplishments and praise—it’s spending time in the presence of God.It’s not wrong to have desires and goals in life. But our foremost desire should be for God, because true satisfaction is only found in His presence.All it takes is your desire and commitment to spend time with Him by reading His Word, talking to Him through prayer, or reflecting on His faithful character. As you draw close to Him, He is ready and willing to be close to you, and to restore your soul.Spending time with God is a basic spiritual need of ours, but it is a powerful time that can change the course of our life and the center of who we are. Take time to be with Him now, but also come up with a plan that helps you continue to seek God every day.Today's Prayer Is:A Prayer for Desiring GodGod, I truly want Your presence to overwhelm me right now. I feel tired and worn out by the news and everything happening in this world. I release my problems to You and embrace Your peace. Fill my thirsty soul and satisfy me like only You can. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have A Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.Ecclesiastes 4:9Today's Verse In Context:Again I looked, and I considered all the oppression taking place under the sun. I saw the tears of the oppressed, and they had no comforter; the power lay in the hands of their oppressors, and there was no comforter. So I admired the dead, who had already died, above the living, who are still alive. But better than both is he who has not yet existed, who has not seen the evil that is done under the sun. I saw that all labor and success spring from a man’s envy of his neighbor. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind. The fool folds his hands and consumes his own flesh. Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and pursuit of the wind. Again, I saw futility under the sun. There is a man all alone, without even a son or brother. And though there is no end to his labor, his eyes are still not content with his wealth: “For whom do I toil and bereave my soul of enjoyment?” This too is futile—a miserable task. Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. For if one falls down, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up! Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? And though one may be overpowered, two can resist. Moreover, a cord of three strands is not quickly broken.Ecclesiastes 4:1-12 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/ecc.4.1-12.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is: Made For CommunityHave you ever worked in a group with other people who only slowed down your progress? A lot of people actually prefer working alone so that they can manage priorities the way they want. While this may be a good method in some cases, it’s not usually the best way to live.From the very beginning of creation, God created us to be in relationship with other people. We are created for community and friendship, and God intended for us to work together and help each other through life.And yet— a lot of people live their life in isolation from others. They believe that as long as they have Jesus, they don’t need anybody else. But you and Jesus can’t make it through life alone. You were created to share life with others.The writer of Ecclesiastes tells us that there are many things that one person cannot do alone. We need others to help us when we fall. We need others to encourage us when we’re down. We need people to accomplish tasks in life that are greater than us.Most people who have gone through difficult seasons of life wish there had been someone to walk alongside them. We long for connection and community. This is how God designed us—we were created to share the burdens of life together. God created the Church to be a community of people who all love God and love others. When we find community within the people of God, we will also find people who can walk through life together with us. You don’t have to walk through life alone—God has provided other people to help you along. And you are also called to help those in your life. Take some time today to thank God for the friends and community He has given you. Thank God for each of them by name. As they come to mind, be sure to let them know that you appreciate their friendship in your life. Seek out ways that you can continue to build a healthy community of friends.Today's Prayer Is: A Prayer for CommunityGod, thank You for creating me to live in community with others. I’m grateful that I don’t have to go through life alone. Please put people in my life who will pray for me during hard times and celebrate with me during good times. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have A Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.Proverbs 31:30 BSBToday's Verse In Context:A wife of noble character, who can find? She is far more precious than rubies. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he lacks nothing of value. She brings him good and not harm all the days of her life. She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She rises while it is still night to provide food for her household and portions for her maidservants. She appraises a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard. She girds herself with strength and shows that her arms are strong. She sees that her gain is good, and her lamp is not extinguished at night. She stretches out her hands to the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. She opens her arms to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy. When it snows, she has no fear for her household, for they are all clothed in scarlet. She makes coverings for her bed; her clothing is fine linen and purple. Her husband is known at the city gate, where he sits among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchants. Strength and honor are her clothing, and she can laugh at the days to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband praises her as well: “Many daughters have done noble things, but you surpass them all!” Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her at the gates.Proverbs 31:10-31 BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:True BeautyIn God’s infinite wisdom and creativity, He has crafted magnificent things: stunning sunsets, awe-inspiring mountains, turquoise oceans, and beautiful people.Proverbs 31 is a well-known chapter in the Bible about a God-fearing, hard-working, generosity-driven woman.Interestingly, Proverbs 31 was written by a man—specifically, King Lemuel, although it’s technically advice from his mother that he shared when he was king.Something that’s not obvious in non-Hebrew languages is that verses 10-31 actually make up an acrostic poem—each verse beginning with one of the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet, successively working their way from aleph to tau (from beginning to end).Toward the climax of the poem, the author writes:“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”Proverbs 31:30 NIVDeep down we know this to be true, don’t we?No matter how charming or beautiful a woman is, we know that beauty is fleeting. We know that charm will not last. We know that the aging process will eventually run its course.In this passage, there’s barely any mention of this woman’s physical beauty. Instead, the focus is on her character—on this woman who fears the Lord.An earlier Proverb explains that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10)—the humble realization that anything good and wise and pure and true must have come from Him.So if you know a woman like that—one who loves and respects God, one who honors and cares for people, one who invests wisely and lives purposefully—you might take a moment to thank God for her life. You might even consider how you can be more like her … as she aims to be more like Him.Today's Prayer Is: A Prayer for WomenGod, today I'm thinking of a woman I know who lives her life for You. Protect and guide her. Fill her with Your strength and hope. I pray she finds her confidence in You, not in the physical beauty standard of the world. Give her wisdom and perseverance as she lives for You. In Jesus' name, Amen.Have A Blessed Day
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs.1 Corinthians 13:5 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/1co.13.5.BSBToday's Verse In Context:If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have absolute faith so as to move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and exult in the surrender of my body, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs. Love takes no pleasure in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be restrained; where there is knowledge, it will be dismissed. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial passes away. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I set aside childish ways. Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love.1 Corinthians 13:1-13 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/1co.13.1-13.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:Loving OthersHave you ever wondered what it truly means to love others? In 1 Corinthians, Paul says:“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails."1 Corinthians 13:4-8 NIVTake a moment to be still before the Lord and reflect on the meaning and actions of love. How does it manifest in our actions towards others? Let's look at three parts of this passage, from 1 Corinthans 13:5:"Love does not dishonor others." Do I prioritize the needs and well-being of others over my own desires? Do I sacrifice personal gain for the benefit of others, motivated by genuine empathy and compassion?"Love is not easily angered." Do I choose forgiveness over resentment, refusing to be provoked by the shortcomings of others?"Love keeps no record of wrongs." Do I truly believe that love keeps no record of wrongs? And do I choose to let go of past hurts and grievances?Truly loving others as ourselves isn't something that happens by accident. It’s something that requires transformation and God's power. It requires a heart that's surrendered to God. How will you choose to love others well today?Today's Prayer Is:A Prayer to Love Others FullyGod, thank You that Your love is perfect. You are kind. You are good. I cannot love others well without Your power. Help me to face the areas of my life that aren't marked by love and take bold steps toward forgiveness and healing. Amen.Have A Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.1 Corinthians 13:4 BSBToday's Verse In Context:If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have absolute faith so as to move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and exult in the surrender of my body, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs. Love takes no pleasure in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be restrained; where there is knowledge, it will be dismissed. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial passes away. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I set aside childish ways. Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love.1 Corinthians 13:1-13 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/1co.13.1-13.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:Love Like HimFrom friendships to family, relationships can be tough to navigate sometimes. But if there’s one thing that can set your relationships apart, it’s understanding real love.In Paul’s first letter to the believers in Corinth, Greece, he explains that even if you have all the faith, all the knowledge, or all the generosity in the world, or if you can speak in tongues, or if you have the gift of prophecy—none of it means anything without love. He continues:“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails."1 Corinthians 13:4-8 NIVChances are, you want to be a patient person. You intend to be a kind human. You desire to be a content and humble individual. But, sometimes you get in a hurry. Sometimes you get annoyed. Sometimes you can be rude, selfish, jealous, unthoughtful, or arrogant. Sometimes, it’s hard being human. But God knows that and He wants to help you.In the same letter, Paul goes on to say that love keeps no record of wrongs and rejoices in the truth. It always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. Most notably, love never fails. But why does love seem to fail at times? After all, divorce rates are high, estranged families are commonplace, and the brokenness of this world is evident on just about every news broadcast or social media feed.And that’s exactly why Jesus came! He offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of the world. And that’s what real love looks like—to lay down one’s life for one’s friends (John 15:13). He is love, and His love never fails.So, now that redemption has begun to break through—first, through Jesus and, now, through His Spirit inside of us—we can love others well by looking to Him, leaning on Him, trusting in Him, listening to Him, and following His lead.God has given you everything you need to love others like He loves you. What step will you take today to show someone else this love?Today's Prayer Is:A Prayer to Love Like God LovesGod, You are the model of love. Help me show love to others as You have shown it to me. Let my actions prove that I love You, and that ...
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness,2 Timothy 3:16 BSBToday's Verse In Context:But understand this: In the last days terrible times will come. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without love of good, traitorous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. Turn away from such as these! They are the kind who worm their way into households and captivate vulnerable women who are weighed down with sins and led astray by various passions, who are always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth. Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so also these men oppose the truth. They are depraved in mind and disqualified from the faith. But they will not advance much further. For just like Jannes and Jambres, their folly will be plain to everyone. You, however, have observed my teaching, my conduct, my purpose, my faith, my patience, my love, my perseverance, my persecutions, and the sufferings that came upon me in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. What persecutions I endured! Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil men and imposters go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in the things you have learned and firmly believed, since you know from whom you have learned them. From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.2 Timothy 3:1-17 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/2ti.3.1-17.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:Growing in RighteousnessScripture is one of the most important aspects of our Christian spirituality. God has chosen to speak to us through His Word. Rather than waiting around to hear the voice of God, we can turn to Scripture and hear God speaking to us.2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us first and foremost that Scripture is God-breathed. This means that it is inspired by God. This makes Scripture unlike any other book. God divinely inspired human authors to write these letters.More than that, Scripture has the power to radically change our lives if we read it and live it out. Paul tells us that Scripture is able to teach us, rebuke us, correct us, and train us in righteousness. All of these things are happening when we choose to engage in God’s Word.When we read God’s Word, we should be attentive to what God is communicating to us. He may want to correct some of our behavior, convict us of choosing our own way instead of His, or teach us something about Himself.All of these things are so that we can continue to live in a way that pleases God. As we read Scripture and do what it says, we grow in living righteously. We are also equipped for the good works that God wants us to do.Engaging with God’s Word is the primary way that God equips us for the life He planned for us. What ways can you continue to build a habit of reading God’s Word every day? Consider how you can better live out what God’s Word says so that you can grow in righteousness and accomplish all God wants for you.Today's Prayer Is:A Prayer for God’s WordGod, thank You for giving me a way to know Your character, nature, and will. Your Word is truth, and nothing can compare with it. I don’t ever want to take Scripture for granted. Help me to prioritize meditating on Your Word, because it has the power to change my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have A Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you;
Be strong and courageous, all you who hope in the Lord.Psalms 31:24 BSBToday's Verse in Context:In You, O Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; save me by Your righteousness. Incline Your ear to me; come quickly to my rescue. Be my rock of refuge, the stronghold of my deliverance. For You are my rock and my fortress; lead me and guide me for the sake of Your name. You free me from the net laid out for me, for You are my refuge. Into Your hands I commit my spirit; You have redeemed me, O Lord, God of truth. I hate those who cling to worthless idols, but in the Lord I trust. I will be glad and rejoice in Your loving devotion, for You have seen my affliction; You have known the anguish of my soul. You have not delivered me to the enemy; You have set my feet in the open. Be merciful to me, O Lord, for I am in distress; my eyes fail from sorrow, my soul and body as well. For my life is consumed with grief and my years with groaning; my iniquity has drained my strength, and my bones are wasting away. Among all my enemies I am a disgrace, and among my neighbors even more. I am dreaded by my friends— they flee when they see me on the street. I am forgotten like a dead man, out of mind. I am like a broken vessel. For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side. They conspire against me and plot to take my life. But I trust in You, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in Your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me. Make Your face shine on Your servant; save me by Your loving devotion. O Lord, let me not be ashamed, for I have called on You. Let the wicked be put to shame; let them lie silent in Sheol. May lying lips be silenced— lips that speak with arrogance against the righteous, full of pride and contempt. How great is Your goodness which You have laid up for those who fear You, which You have bestowed before the sons of men on those who take refuge in You! You hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the schemes of men. You conceal them in Your shelter from accusing tongues. Blessed be the Lord, for He has shown me His loving devotion in a city under siege. In my alarm I said, “I am cut off from Your sight!” But You heard my plea for mercy when I called to You for help. Love the Lord, all His saints. The Lord preserves the faithful, but fully repays the arrogant. Be strong and courageous, all you who hope in the Lord.Psalms 31:1-24 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.31.1-24.BSBToday's Devotional From You version is:Strong in HopePsalm 31 is a heartfelt prayer of King David, a man who experienced numerous trials and challenges throughout his life. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments of our lives, God remains steadfast and faithful to those who seek Him.In Psalm 31:21-22, David feels trapped. He recalls a time when he was in a city under siege, feeling cut off from God's sight, engulfed by feelings of despair and isolation. But David didn’t lose sight of God's character and faithfulness. He cried out to the Lord for mercy, and in response, God heard David's plea and extended His hand.Have you ever felt trapped?This passage is a reminder that God's love and mercy are never far away. When we call out to Him in earnest, He hears our cries and responds with compassion.“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.”Psalm 31:24 NIVThis verse is a rallying cry, an invitation to anchor our souls in the hope that comes from our relationship with God. But there are two things we have to remember about hope in the Lord.First, hope isn’t just optimism. It’s a profound trust in His character and promises. It’s knowing that God is our ever-present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1) and that His love for us is steadfast and unchanging (Psalm 136:26). When we place our hope in God, we tap into a source of strength that transcends our circumstances.Second, hope in the Lord is not passive, but active. It...
But as for you, be strong; do not be discouraged, for your work will be rewarded.”2 Chronicles 15:7 BSBToday's Verse in Context:Now the Spirit of God came upon Azariah son of Oded. So he went out to meet Asa and said to him, “Listen to me, Asa and all Judah and Benjamin. The Lord is with you when you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you, but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. For many years Israel has been without the true God, without a priest to instruct them, and without the law. But in their distress they turned to the Lord, the God of Israel, and sought Him, and He was found by them. In those days there was no safety for travelers, because the residents of the lands had many conflicts. Nation was crushed by nation, and city by city, for God afflicted them with all kinds of adversity. But as for you, be strong; do not be discouraged, for your work will be rewarded.” When Asa heard these words and the prophecy of Azariah son of Oded the prophet, he took courage and removed the detestable idols from the whole land of Judah and Benjamin and from the cities he had captured in the hill country of Ephraim. He then restored the altar of the Lord that was in front of the portico of the Lord’s temple. And he assembled all Judah and Benjamin, along with those from the tribes of Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon who had settled among them, for great numbers had come over to him from Israel when they saw that the Lord his God was with him. So they gathered together in Jerusalem in the third month of the fifteenth year of Asa’s reign. At that time they sacrificed to the Lord seven hundred oxen and seven thousand sheep from all the plunder they had brought back. Then they entered into a covenant to seek the Lord, the God of their fathers, with all their heart and soul. And whoever would not seek the Lord, the God of Israel, would be put to death, whether young or old, man or woman. They took an oath to the Lord with a loud voice, with shouting, trumpets, and rams’ horns. And all Judah rejoiced over the oath, for they had sworn it with all their heart. They had sought Him earnestly, and He was found by them. So the Lord gave them rest on every side. King Asa also removed his grandmother Maacah from her position as queen mother because she had made a detestable Asherah pole. Asa chopped down the pole, crushed it, and burned it in the Kidron Valley. The high places were not removed from Israel, but Asa’s heart was fully devoted all his days. And he brought into the house of God the silver and gold articles that he and his father had dedicated. And there was no war until the thirty-fifth year of Asa’s reign.2 Chronicles 15:1-19 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/2ch.15.1-19.BSBToday's Devotional From You version is:Don't Give UpCan you think of a time recently where something was so hard that you just wanted to give up, but you didn't? Where did you draw strength from? What kept you going?One of the most incredible parts of being a Christ-follower is that our own strength is only part of the equation. God's strength wells up in us. Psalm 46:1 says, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." How incredible that it doesn't say, "A sometimes present help." He is "a very present help."In 2 Chronicles 15, we see that Asa, King of Judah, was up against major challenges—he had been trying to refocus the nation of Judah on God after years of idolatry and war. He was facing a huge challenge! Through the prophet Azariah, God spoke this encouragement to him to build him up:"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded." 2 Chronicles 15:7 NIVGod knew what Asa faced. He knew every detail of the burden, and all that was at stake. God also knew the strength He could provide to someone willing to rely on Him. He didn't say, "Good luck out there, that looks rough so don't blow it." He said, "But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be...
and to aspire to live quietly, to attend to your own matters, and to work with your own hands, as we instructed you.1 Thessalonians 4:11 BSBToday's Verse In Context:Finally, brothers, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus to live in a way that is pleasing to God, just as you have received from us. This is how you already live, so you should do so all the more. For you know the instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. For it is God’s will that you should be holy: You must abstain from sexual immorality; each of you must know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God; and no one should ever violate or exploit his brother in this regard, because the Lord will avenge all such acts, as we have already told you and solemnly warned you. For God has not called us to impurity, but to holiness. Anyone, then, who rejects this command does not reject man but God, the very One who gives you His Holy Spirit. Now about brotherly love, you do not need anyone to write to you, because you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another. And you are indeed showing this love to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to excel more and more and to aspire to live quietly, to attend to your own matters, and to work with your own hands, as we instructed you. Then you will behave properly toward outsiders, without being dependent on anyone.1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/1th.4.1-12.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:A Quiet LifeIn our hustle-and-bustle world, busyness is often glorified, and silence is neglected. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Thessalonians, offers a countercultural challenge—a call to embrace a quiet life:"And make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you." 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 NIVDid you notice how Paul uses a bit of irony? He says to make it your "ambition" to lead a "quiet" life. The two seem to contradict each other, yet they blend to create a powerful calm. How do we follow Paul's guidance?One simple way is to “mind your own business” (1 Thessalonians 4:11). It may sound quaint in our age of constant comparisons, but, instead of meddling in others' business, we should focus on the mindful work we've been called to do. As Paul says, "work with your hands'' (1 Thessalonians 4:11). We are called to approach our work with diligence and excellence, acknowledging that everything we do is unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23). In this quiet dedication, we earn the respect of even those who don't yet know the Lord, showing them the transformative power of faith in God through our actions (1 Thessalonians 4:12).This is the invitation available to you: embrace the call to live a quiet life, mind your own affairs even as you minister to others, and work diligently with your hands.Today's Prayer Is:A Prayer for a Quiet LifeGod, thank You that Your desire for me is simple: to trust You and focus on what You've put in front of me. Help me let go of comparisons and let go of any busyness that doesn't line up with the life You want for me. Thank You for the calm You provide as I live a quiet life in You.Have A Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.1 Corinthians 15:58 BSBToday's Verse in Context:But someone will ask, “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body will they come?” You fool! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. And what you sow is not the body that will be, but just a seed, perhaps of wheat or something else. But God gives it a body as He has designed, and to each kind of seed He gives its own body. Not all flesh is the same: Men have one kind of flesh, animals have another, birds another, and fish another. There are also heavenly bodies and earthly bodies. But the splendor of the heavenly bodies is of one degree, and the splendor of the earthly bodies is of another. The sun has one degree of splendor, the moon another, and the stars another; and star differs from star in splendor. So will it be with the resurrection of the dead: What is sown is perishable; it is raised imperishable. It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. So it is written: “The first man Adam became a living being;” the last Adam a life-giving spirit. The spiritual, however, was not first, but the natural, and then the spiritual. The first man was of the dust of the earth, the second man from heaven. As was the earthly man, so also are those who are of the earth; and as is the heavenly man, so also are those who are of heaven. And just as we have borne the likeness of the earthly man, so also shall we bear the likeness of the heavenly man. Now I declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— in an instant, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must be clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come to pass: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” “Where, O Death, is your victory? Where, O Death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.1 Corinthians 15:35-58 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/1co.15.35-58.BSBToday's Devotional From You version is:Victory in ChristJesus’ death and resurrection is at the core of the Christian faith. It is because of Jesus that we experience the free gift of salvation. Jesus’ death not only makes up for all of our wrong doing, but it also gives us the opportunity to have a relationship with God.However, there are many other benefits that came through Jesus’ death and resurrection. One aspect that Paul focuses on in 1 Corinthians 15 is the victory that comes through Jesus.Scripture says that Jesus’ death not only took care of our sin problem, but He also defeated the power of sin. That means we can experience abundant life by the power of the Holy Spirit living within us.Jesus’ death and resurrection also defeated the consequence of our sin, which is death. We no longer need to fear death because Jesus has power over it. He came back from the dead, and now He gives eternal, abundant life to those who believe in Him.This is why Paul encourages his readers to stand firm in their faith. Victory has already been won by Jesus, and as Christians we are partakers in that victory. Nothing can seperate us from...
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.2 Timothy 1:7 BSBToday's Verse in Context:Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life in Christ Jesus, To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience as did my forefathers, as I constantly remember you night and day in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am convinced is in you as well. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control. So do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, or of me, His prisoner. Instead, join me in suffering for the gospel by the power of God. He has saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works, but by His own purpose and by the grace He granted us in Christ Jesus before time began. And now He has revealed this grace through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has abolished death and illuminated the way to life and immortality through the gospel, to which I was appointed as a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher. For this reason, even though I suffer as I do, I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him for that day. Hold on to the pattern of sound teaching you have heard from me, with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Guard the treasure entrusted to you, with the help of the Holy Spirit who dwells in us. You know that everyone in the Province of Asia has deserted me, including Phygelus and Hermogenes. May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he has often refreshed me and was unashamed of my chains. Indeed, when he arrived in Rome, he searched diligently until he found me. May the Lord grant Onesiphorus His mercy on that day. You know very well how much he ministered to me in Ephesus.2 Timothy 1:1-18 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/2ti.1.1-18.BSBToday's Devotional From You version is:Power, Love, and DisciplineOne of the miracles of salvation is that when we have faith in Christ, God not only saves us—He also gives us the power to live according to His will for us. Your life in Christ is one that is empowered by the Holy Spirit living within you.This is a great gift, but a big shift. It often takes time to change how we think and act. We may have bad habits that take hard work to correct, or patterns of thought that are challenging to break.Thankfully, God promises to be with us and to empower us to make these changes in our life. When Paul is writing to his mentee Timothy, he encourages him to continue to develop the gift that God has given to him. While we are saved in an instant, it takes a lifetime to develop and work out what God is doing inside of us.In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul reminds Timothy that God’s Spirit does not give us fear or cowardice. Those things are tools of the devil who is trying to keep us from God. But the Spirit of God empowers us with confidence in Him. He gives us the power to live out the purposes of God in our life. This power is one that we need to continually remember as we face challenges.The Spirit of God also empowers us to love others. It can be difficult to love people, especially those who may have hurt us. But God promises to give us His power and love so that we can be a light to everyone around us.God’s Spirit also empowers us with self-discipline. We won’t experience spiritual change and growth if we don’t train and practice—but that takes time, dedication, and endurance. We need to be consistent in doing the things that God asks us to do, including reading God’s Word...
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.2 Corinthians 3:17 BSBToday's Verse in Context:Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you? You yourselves are our letter, inscribed on our hearts, known and read by everyone. It is clear that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. Such confidence before God is ours through Christ. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim that anything comes from us, but our competence comes from God. And He has qualified us as ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. Now if the ministry of death, which was engraved in letters on stone, came with such glory that the Israelites could not gaze at the face of Moses because of its fleeting glory, will not the ministry of the Spirit be even more glorious? For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry of righteousness! Indeed, what was once glorious has no glory now in comparison to the glory that surpasses it. For if what was fading away came with glory, how much greater is the glory of that which endures! Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to keep the Israelites from gazing at the end of what was fading away. But their minds were closed. For to this day the same veil remains at the reading of the old covenant. It has not been lifted, because only in Christ can it be removed. And even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.2 Corinthians 3:1-18 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/2co.3.1-18.BSBToday's Devotional From You version is: True Freedom is HereEveryone thinks about freedom differently. Most people would say freedom is a virtue that should be sought, but that idea changes depending on how it’s defined.A lot of people think freedom is the absence of restraints. We are truly free when we are free from things that hold us back. Others define freedom by our human will—if we can choose what we want, then we can be free. These ideas are a bit different from what we find in Scripture. According to God’s Word, freedom is found wherever God is found. Freedom is found when we live according to God’s original design for our life.When we begin our life with Jesus, He gives us a new heart and way to live. He also sends the Spirit of God to live within us. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 3:17 that wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is true freedom. That means all of us who believe in Jesus have access to this freedom.Freedom doesn’t come from doing whatever we want but from living according to the Spirit of God who lives within us.Paul goes on to say that those of us who belong to the Lord should spend time in God’s presence. It’s only when we sit with God daily that we are transformed by Him. Through God’s Word and talking with Him, we have access to true life transformation and true freedom.Can you identify one or two things that are holding you back from living this way? It may be an unresolved conflict or a recurring sin. Whatever it is, spend some time with God today, asking for forgiveness and seeking out your next steps. Spend time in His presence through prayer and reading Scripture. Your life will be transformed if you continue to spend time with the only One who can thoroughly change you.Today's Prayer is: A Prayer for BreakthroughJesus, thank
Then Jesus said to all of them, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.Luke 9:23-24 BSBToday's Verse In Context:One day as Jesus was praying in private and the disciples were with Him, He questioned them: “Who do the crowds say I am?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, that a prophet of old has arisen.” “But what about you?” Jesus asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “The Christ of God.” Jesus strictly warned them not to tell this to anyone. “The Son of Man must suffer many things,” He said. “He must be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and He must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.” Then Jesus said to all of them, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, yet lose or forfeit his very self? If anyone is ashamed of Me and My words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when He comes in His glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. But I tell you truthfully, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God.”Luke 9:18-27 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/luk.9.18-27.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:Following the Way of JesusDiscipleship is at the center of the Christian life. To be a disciple means to be a learner. It means following after Jesus, and patterning our life after His.Jesus tells us that the starting point of following Him is to deny ourselves. Denying ourselves means we choose to put Jesus’ desires above our own. This means that we must come to recognize that we do not have all the answers, or know the right way to go through life. Discipleship is not something we do once or twice. It is a lifestyle that must be lived out each and every day. We will spend our entire lives becoming more like Jesus. The way of life Jesus modeled was to suffer on the cross. When we deny ourselves, we choose to humbly follow Jesus. And as we become more like Jesus, we will also need to take up our cross. We will also suffer for doing good, and for denying things that seem enticing in the moment, but ultimately keep us from God. When we bear our suffering, we represent Christ to those around us.The paradox of following Jesus is that when we give up our life for His sake, we receive eternal life in return. When we hold onto our life and keep it from Jesus, we don’t get to experience the abundant life that He promises. Take some time today to consider how you’re living a life of discipleship. Take inventory on the ways you are denying yourself and living for Christ, or living selfishly for your own pleasure and gain. Commit to following Jesus no matter how hard the path gets. And pray for strength and endurance as you follow Him.Today's Prayer Is:A Prayer to Live Like JesusGod, self-denial can be so hard! I need Your strength and Your grace. I can't do it on my own. Thank You for teaching me how to deny myself and live for You. Show me how to carry my cross like Jesus carried His. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have A Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB
Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.Proverbs 18:21 BSBToday's Verse In Context:He who isolates himself pursues selfish desires; he rebels against all sound judgment. A fool does not delight in understanding, but only in airing his opinions. With a wicked man comes contempt as well, and shame is accompanied by disgrace. The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters; the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook. Showing partiality to the wicked is not good, nor is depriving the innocent of justice. A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating. A fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels that go down into the inmost being. Whoever is slothful in his work is brother to him who destroys. The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. A rich man’s wealth is his fortified city; it is like a high wall in his imagination. Before his downfall a man’s heart is proud, but humility comes before honor. He who answers a matter before he hears it— this is folly and disgrace to him. The spirit of a man can endure his sickness, but who can survive a broken spirit? The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it out. A man’s gift opens doors for him, and brings him before great men. The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him. Casting the lot ends quarrels and separates strong opponents. An offended brother is harder to win than a fortified city, and disputes are like the bars of a castle. From the fruit of his mouth a man’s belly is filled; with the harvest from his lips he is satisfied. Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord. The poor man pleads for mercy, but the rich man answers harshly. A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother.Proverbs 18:1-24 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/pro.18.1-24.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:The Power of Life and DeathThink of a time you said something you regret, or were the target of someone's hurtful words. Now, reflect on a situation where you encouraged a friend who was hurting, or felt the life-giving effects of someone speaking kindly to you. Words matter. Your words matter. And, God has given you the freedom to choose how you use them.Are you using your words to tear down or build up? To provoke destruction or initiate restoration? Do your words stir up drama or encourage peace? “What you say flows from what is in your heart,” Jesus explained in Luke 6:45. Fruit reveals the health of a tree, just as a tongue reveals what is happening in the heart. Most of us want to use our words for good and not for harm … we don’t want to be unkind or critical. But, James 3 tells us that the tongue is unstable and cannot seem to be tamed. So, what can we do? Is there a way to control it? Self-control is a fruit the Holy Spirit produces in us, which means we can’t get there on our own. We cannot, in our own power, control our tongues. But, we do have a part to play in the process: we need to stick close to Jesus. When we read His Word, seek His face, and walk in His ways (no matter how many times we mess up and have to begin again), love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control begin to grow in our lives. The biblical term is abiding: staying, continuing, or remaining in Jesus’ presence. As we abide with Jesus, the Holy Spirit begins to guide the way we speak and change the way we act. When that happens, our words start to bring life and hope to the people around us. Today, how will you use your words to bring healing and hope to people? How will you stick close to Jesus so that His power can equip you to speak life?
For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.Habakkuk 2:14 BSBToday's Verse In Context:I will stand at my guard post and station myself on the ramparts. I will watch to see what He will say to me, and how I should answer when corrected. Then the Lord answered me: “Write down this vision and clearly inscribe it on tablets, so that a herald may run with it. For the vision awaits an appointed time; it testifies of the end and does not lie. Though it lingers, wait for it, since it will surely come and will not delay. Look at the proud one; his soul is not upright — but the righteous will live by faith — and wealth indeed betrays him. He is an arrogant man never at rest. He enlarges his appetite like Sheol, and like Death, he is never satisfied. He gathers all the nations to himself and collects all the peoples as his own. Will not all of these take up a taunt against him, speaking with mockery and derision: ‘Woe to him who amasses what is not his and makes himself rich with many loans! How long will this go on?’ Will not your creditors suddenly arise and those who disturb you awaken? Then you will become their prey. Because you have plundered many nations, the remnant of the people will plunder you— because of your bloodshed against man and your violence against the land, the city, and all their dwellers. Woe to him who builds his house by unjust gain, to place his nest on high and escape the hand of disaster! You have plotted shame for your house by cutting off many peoples and forfeiting your life. For the stones will cry out from the wall, and the rafters will echo it from the woodwork. Woe to him who builds a city with bloodshed and establishes a town by iniquity! Is it not indeed from the Lord of Hosts that the labor of the people only feeds the fire, and the nations weary themselves in vain? For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. Woe to him who gives drink to his neighbors, pouring it from the wineskin until they are drunk, in order to gaze at their nakedness! You will be filled with shame instead of glory. You too must drink and expose your uncircumcision! The cup in the Lord’s right hand will come around to you, and utter disgrace will cover your glory. For your violence against Lebanon will overwhelm you, and the destruction of animals will terrify you, because of your bloodshed against men and your violence against the land, the city, and all their dwellers. What use is an idol, that a craftsman should carve it— or an image, a teacher of lies? For its maker trusts in his own creation; he makes idols that cannot speak. Woe to him who says to wood, ‘Awake!’ or to silent stone, ‘Arise!’ Can it give guidance? Behold, it is overlaid with gold and silver, yet there is no breath in it at all.” But the Lord is in His holy temple; let all the earth be silent before Him.Habakkuk 2:1-20 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/hab.2.1-20.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:Knowledge of GodEverywhere you look you can learn something about God. The earth is filled with information about Him. Psalm 19:1 says that the skies proclaim the wonders of God’s handiwork. Romans 1:20 says that since the beginning of creation, God’s attributes have been visible in the world.Learning about God’s character through nature is called General Revelation. These are the things that anyone can learn about God by observing creation. Special Revelation is knowledge about God and salvation that only comes through His Word.One example of Special Revelation is Habakkuk 2:14, which talks about a future day when the earth will be filled with true knowledge of God. When this was first proclaimed, the nation of Israel was in the midst of exile. They were experiencing injustice at the hands of their enemies. But God gave them a promise in the middle of their hopeless situation…For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of..--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.Psalms 23:4 BSBToday's Verse In Context:The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.Psalms 23:1-6 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.23.1-6.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:A God of ComfortIn ancient Israel, the rod and staff of a shepherd protected and guided the sheep, and even reminded the sheep that the shepherd was there. Familiar with this, King David, a shepherd at one time, used the metaphor in Psalm 23:4 to convey this truth: God was his protector and guide. King David faced death many times and had enemies bent on killing him. He also dealt with his own sin issues and personal mistakes. But in the midst of all this, he repeatedly turned his attention to the faithfulness of God and to the assurances of God. Where did he find these assurances? King David would have been a student of the Hebrew Scripture, the Torah—the first five books in our Bibles. To a Hebrew, the Torah wasn’t just a story about God, it was the very Word of God. It was authority, promise, and guide. It was this Word that David based his life—and his psalms—upon. David could write about God’s character because: 1. He knew the Word of God. 2. He experienced the faithfulness and goodness of God based on that word. We, too, have this—and more. We have the revealed Word of God from the ancient prophets in the Old Testament, the words of Jesus while on earth, and the revealed words of Jesus through the apostles and authors of the New Testament. In other words, we have what David had: 1. We have the Word of God. 2. We can experience the faithfulness and goodness of God based on that word. Read what Jesus said to His disciples: I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. John 16:33 ESV Like David, we don’t have anything to fear, because God is near—and He is our comfort. Knowing Scripture helps us confidently believe that God is and will be a faithful protector, guide, and presence to those who love Him. So today, determine to discover more of God's Word. It is in this source of truth that you will better know He who is the Good Shepherd.Today's Prayer Is:A Prayer for Guidance & ProtectionGod, You are the foundation upon which I build my life. You are my source of protection and strength. You fight for me, protect me, and lead me through hard times. With You, I am never alone or abandoned. Thank You for being my source of strength and salvation. Thank You for crushing the devil’s schemes and guiding me closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have A Blessed Day:‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.2 Corinthians 4:18 BSBToday's Verse in Context:Therefore, since God in His mercy has given us this ministry, we do not lose heart. Instead, we have renounced secret and shameful ways. We do not practice deceit, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by open proclamation of the truth, we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For we do not proclaim ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. Now we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this surpassingly great power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always consigned to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you. And in keeping with what is written: “I believed, therefore I have spoken,” we who have the same spirit of faith also believe and therefore speak, knowing that the One who raised the Lord Jesus will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in His presence. All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is extending to more and more people may overflow in thanksgiving, to the glory of God. Therefore we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.2 Corinthians 4:1-18 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/2co.4.1-18.BSBToday's Devotional From You version is: There’s MoreThere are plenty of things we can see: trees, stars, mountains, oceans, people, penguins, our best friend's smile, elephants, skyscrapers, coffee beans, sunsets, and tulips, to name a few.God created all those things. He made the natural world, as well as the laws that govern it. But there are also things we cannot see: behind the breath of the wind, beyond the depths of the universe, beneath the foundations of love. Through Christ, all things were created—in heaven and on earth, both visible and invisible (Colossians 1:16).And while our mortal eyes might not be able to see the wind or infrared light or the Spirit of God, we still experience their effects. Because there’s more than what meets the eye. There’s more beyond this life. Paul’s friends, the Corinthians, were experiencing great hardship. They were being hunted and persecuted because of what they believed about Jesus—that He was the long-awaited Messiah. Some were even facing death. But Paul encouraged them to endure such fleeting trials with a hope that’s beyond this world. He wrote:“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”2 Corinthians 4:18 NIVHuman eyes can only see so much. Human minds can only grasp so much. But we can trust God with all that we cannot see or comprehend.God is real. We might not be able to see Him today, with our physical eyes, but we can experience the effects of His life. Jesus sacrificed Himself so that you might live, a--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
We all like sheep have gone astray, each one has turned to his own way; and the Lord has laid upon Him the iniquity of us all.Isaiah 53:6 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/isa.53.6.BSBToday's Verse In Context:Who has believed our message? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? He grew up before Him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no stately form or majesty to attract us, no beauty that we should desire Him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief. Like one from whom men hide their faces, He was despised, and we esteemed Him not. Surely He took on our infirmities and carried our sorrows; yet we considered Him stricken by God, struck down and afflicted. But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. We all like sheep have gone astray, each one has turned to his own way; and the Lord has laid upon Him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth. He was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so He did not open His mouth. By oppression and judgment He was taken away, and who can recount His descendants? For He was cut off from the land of the living; He was stricken for the transgression of My people. He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with a rich man in His death, although He had done no violence, nor was any deceit in His mouth. Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush Him and to cause Him to suffer; and when His soul is made a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, and the good pleasure of the Lord will prosper in His hand. After the anguish of His soul, He will see the light of life and be satisfied. By His knowledge My righteous Servant will justify many, and He will bear their iniquities. Therefore I will allot Him a portion with the great, and He will divide the spoils with the strong, because He has poured out His life unto death, and He was numbered with the transgressors. Yet He bore the sin of many and made intercession for the transgressors.Isaiah 53:1-12 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/isa.53.1-12.BSBToday's Devotional From YouVersion Is:Heavy Weight RemovedWe’ve all done things that weigh us down and make us wonder, “Why do I do what I know is wrong?”In Scripture, sin is used to describe actions that miss the target God has asked us to aim for: living a life centered around loving God and others. While there are universal actions that dishonor God, small acts of disobedience also pull us away from Him. The apostle James wrote that “it is a sin to know what the right thing to do is, and then not do it” (James 4:17).In other words, if you know what God is asking you to do, yet you still decide to disobey Him—then you’re undermining God’s authority in your life. Sin entices us because it is self-gratifying, but it results in eternal separation from God and others.For a long time, there was no way for most people to draw near to God because God cannot be a part of anything that undermines His perfect character. But while we were controlled by sin, Jesus came and died for us. And because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we can now experience a life that isn’t ruled by our mistakes. Jesus’ voluntary sacrifice and separation from God can lead to our reconciliation with Him. None of this is because we deserve it, but because God has always desired it.While we might continue to struggle between doing right and wrong, we don’t have to face this struggle alone. And the great news is: God wants to help because He knows that we can’t overcome sin on our own.So right now, take note of some of the things you are currently struggling with. Where do you need to give God control? Picture handing those things over to Jesus and allow Him to show you His love for you. He paid the price for you--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following the same pattern of disobedience.Hebrews 4:11 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Therefore, while the promise of entering His rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be deemed to have fallen short of it. For we also received the good news just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, since they did not share the faith of those who comprehended it. Now we who have believed enter that rest. As for the others, it is just as God has said: “So I swore on oath in My anger, ‘They shall never enter My rest.’” And yet His works have been finished since the foundation of the world. For somewhere He has spoken about the seventh day in this manner: “And on the seventh day God rested from all His works.” And again, as He says in the passage above: “They shall never enter My rest.” Since, then, it remains for some to enter His rest, and since those who formerly heard the good news did not enter because of their disobedience, God again designated a certain day as “Today,” when a long time later He spoke through David as was just stated: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. There remains, then, a Sabbath rest for the people of God. For whoever enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from His. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following the same pattern of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight; everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.Hebrews 4:1-16 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/heb.4.1-16.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: Resting in ObedienceIn Hebrews 4:11, the consequences of disbelief and disobedience are clear, urging us to avoid repeating the history of the Israelites' rebellion.There's a danger in neglecting God's promised rest. This verse calls for active pursuit of rest, shifting from relying on ourselves to fully trusting in God. By actively seeking this rest, we trade the wilderness of doubt for the green pastures of God’s presence.It sounds a little odd, doesn’t it? Making an effort to rest? What the verse is really saying, though, is that we need to actively trust in the One who provides, and make a conscious choice to surrender and release the burden of proving self-worth. We have to accept that His love and His comfort is enough. We can embrace an unconditional peace that doesn't depend on how well we perform.We rest by setting aside dedicated time for prayer, reflection, and trusting in God’s guidance. We turn toward God and away from doubt and disobedience.What do you need to say no to in order to step into God's rest today?Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for Less StrivingGod, break me of my busyness and striving. I want to be a person of peace, not stress. I want to prioritize spending time with You. Show me what I need to surrender. Teach me how to actively pursue rest. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have a Blessed Day‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
For whoever enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from His.Hebrews 4:10 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Therefore, while the promise of entering His rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be deemed to have fallen short of it. For we also received the good news just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, since they did not share the faith of those who comprehended it. Now we who have believed enter that rest. As for the others, it is just as God has said: “So I swore on oath in My anger, ‘They shall never enter My rest.’” And yet His works have been finished since the foundation of the world. For somewhere He has spoken about the seventh day in this manner: “And on the seventh day God rested from all His works.” And again, as He says in the passage above: “They shall never enter My rest.” Since, then, it remains for some to enter His rest, and since those who formerly heard the good news did not enter because of their disobedience, God again designated a certain day as “Today,” when a long time later He spoke through David as was just stated: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. There remains, then, a Sabbath rest for the people of God. For whoever enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from His. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following the same pattern of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight; everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.Hebrews 4:1-16 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/heb.4.1-16.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: Called to ContentmentObserving Sabbath-rest allows us to step into the same rhythm God established in creating the world. Scripture tells us when God rested from His work, it was because His work was complete (Genesis 2:1). God took joy in His accomplishment. In Hebrews 4:10, the writer draws a parallel between God's rest and ours: "for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his." We're invited to delight in His presence and share in God’s divine contentment.This rest isn't about taking a break from good works. It’s about surrendering the need to control by trusting in the completeness of God’s work. Our "rest" releases us from the burden of proving ourselves good enough to earn His love and approval. These things have been secured through Jesus’ finished work on the cross. When we step into this rhythm of rest can we find contentment that spills over into every part of our lives.Is God is calling you to stop trying to do everything on your own and instead find peace in Jesus’ finished work on the cross?Lay down your burdens, not out of laziness, but surrender. Believe that the One who made the world also takes care of you.Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for ReleaseGod, my heart is heavy. I release my burdens to You. I lay them down and surrender them to You. Thank You for holding me in my weakness and weariness. Show me how to rest and refuel in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have a Blessed Day‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
There remains, then, a Sabbath rest for the people of God.Hebrews 4:9 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Therefore, while the promise of entering His rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be deemed to have fallen short of it. For we also received the good news just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, since they did not share the faith of those who comprehended it. Now we who have believed enter that rest. As for the others, it is just as God has said: “So I swore on oath in My anger, ‘They shall never enter My rest.’” And yet His works have been finished since the foundation of the world. For somewhere He has spoken about the seventh day in this manner: “And on the seventh day God rested from all His works.” And again, as He says in the passage above: “They shall never enter My rest.” Since, then, it remains for some to enter His rest, and since those who formerly heard the good news did not enter because of their disobedience, God again designated a certain day as “Today,” when a long time later He spoke through David as was just stated: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. There remains, then, a Sabbath rest for the people of God. For whoever enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from His. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following the same pattern of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight; everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.Hebrews 4:1-16 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/heb.4.1-16.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is:Rest is a RealityIn Hebrews 4:9, the author offers a reassurance of hope: "There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God." The author is referring to more than just observing a specific day of the week. It's about a spiritual inward peace and wholeness with God, not depending on external circumstances. Through faith and trust in God, we can find a deep and lasting rest for our souls, reminding us of the eternal rest to come. This Sabbath-rest serves as a precursor—a promise that concludes in a future, perfect rest (Revelation 14:13). The rest we get to experience here is only a shadow, and what we hope for is the reality (Colossians 2:17).Sabbath-rest isn't earned. It’s a gift God offers to all who seek Him. As you contemplate Hebrews 4:9, consider: what it would look like for you to fully enter God's rest in your daily life. How can you practice releasing your burdens and anxieties?The promise of Sabbath-rest is not just a concept. It's a reality for those who walk faithfully with God.Today’s Prayer is:A Prayer to Slow DownGod, thank You for being the perfect example of how to rest. Teach me how to find true rest in Your presence. I lay all my stress and anxiety at Your feet. Free my mind from the thoughts and weights of busyness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have a Blessed Day‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.Matthew 6:19 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:“Be careful not to perform your righteous acts before men to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. So when you give to the needy, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not babble on like pagans, for they think that by their many words they will be heard. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. So then, this is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’ For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive yours. When you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting will not be obvious to men, but only to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! No one can serve two masters: Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? And why do you worry about clothes? Consider how the lilies of the field grow: They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his glory was adorned like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles strive after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough troubl--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress. He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death and broke away their chains.Psalms 107:13-14 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy and gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south. Some wandered in desert wastelands, finding no path to a city in which to dwell. They were hungry and thirsty; their soul fainted within them. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and He delivered them from their distress. He led them on a straight path to reach a city where they could live. Let them give thanks to the Lord for His loving devotion and His wonders to the sons of men. For He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, prisoners in affliction and chains, because they rebelled against the words of God and despised the counsel of the Most High. He humbled their hearts with hard labor; they stumbled, and there was no one to help. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress. He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death and broke away their chains. Let them give thanks to the Lord for His loving devotion and His wonders to the sons of men. For He has broken down the gates of bronze and cut through the bars of iron. Fools, in their rebellious ways, and through their iniquities, suffered affliction. They loathed all food and drew near to the gates of death. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress. He sent forth His word and healed them; He rescued them from the Pit. Let them give thanks to the Lord for His loving devotion and His wonders to the sons of men. Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and declare His works with rejoicing. Others went out to sea in ships, conducting trade on the mighty waters. They saw the works of the Lord, and His wonders in the deep. For He spoke and raised a tempest that lifted the waves of the sea. They mounted up to the heavens, then sunk to the depths; their courage melted in their anguish. They reeled and staggered like drunkards, and all their skill was useless. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and He brought them out of their distress. He calmed the storm to a whisper, and the waves of the sea were hushed. They rejoiced in the silence, and He guided them to the harbor they desired. Let them give thanks to the Lord for His loving devotion and His wonders to the sons of men. Let them exalt Him in the assembly of the people and praise Him in the council of the elders. He turns rivers into deserts, springs of water into thirsty ground, and fruitful land into fields of salt, because of the wickedness of its dwellers. He turns a desert into pools of water and a dry land into flowing springs. He causes the hungry to settle there, that they may establish a city in which to dwell. They sow fields and plant vineyards that yield a fruitful harvest. He blesses them, and they multiply greatly; He does not let their herds diminish. When they are decreased and humbled by oppression, evil, and sorrow, He pours out contempt on the nobles and makes them wander in a trackless wasteland. But He lifts the needy from affliction and increases their families like flocks. The upright see and rejoice, and all iniquity shuts its mouth. Let him who is wise pay heed to these things and consider the loving devotion of the Lord.Psalms 107:1-43 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.107.1-43.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: Do You Believe?Brought out of slavery in Egypt. Saved from lions. Victorious in battle. The Word of God is full of stories of deliverance, full of accounts of God showing Himself strong as the Deliverer of His people. He hears...--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.James 1:27 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes of the Dispersion: Greetings. Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. He is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. The brother in humble circumstances should exult in his high position. But the one who is rich should exult in his low position, because he will pass away like a flower of the field. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its flower falls and its beauty is lost. So too, the rich man will fade away in the midst of his pursuits. Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed. Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, with whom there is no change or shifting shadow. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we would be a kind of firstfruits of His creation. My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and every expression of evil, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save your souls. Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves. For anyone who hears the word but does not carry it out is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror, and after observing himself goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so—not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer—he will be blessed in what he does. If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not bridle his tongue, he deceives his heart and his religion is worthless. Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.James 1:1-27 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/jas.1.1-27.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: True ReligionWhat do you think about when you hear the word religion?Maybe you picture a church building. Maybe you envision a cross. Maybe you imagine statues or cathedrals or altars or pews. Maybe the thought of religion brings you comfort, or it makes you want to run in the opposite direction. Here's what the Bible says religion truly is: “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”James 1:27 NIVTrue religion in God’s eyes is looking after the hurting and most vulnerable, as well as honoring Him with your life. You can do this in countless ways. Here are just a few:Physically: You could deliver groceries to a widow, teach..--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
And this is love, that we walk according to His commandments. This is the very commandment you have heard from the beginning, that you must walk in love. 2 John 1:6 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:The elder, To the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in the truth—and not I alone, but also all who know the truth— because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, will be with us in truth and love. I was overjoyed to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father has commanded us. And now I urge you, dear lady—not as a new commandment to you, but one we have had from the beginning—that we love one another. And this is love, that we walk according to His commandments. This is the very commandment you have heard from the beginning, that you must walk in love. For many deceivers have gone out into the world, refusing to confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. Watch yourselves, so that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be fully rewarded. Anyone who runs ahead without remaining in the teaching of Christ does not have God. Whoever remains in His teaching has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you but does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your home or even greet him. Whoever greets such a person shares in his evil deeds. I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come and speak with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete. The children of your elect sister send you greetings. 2 John 1:1-13 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/2jn.1.1-13.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: Love One AnotherJesus gave a new command to His disciples toward the end of His time on earth. He said to them…“A new commandment I give you to you, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this, all people will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35 ESVJohn later wrote to Christians reminding them of this command. He said—“And now I ask you … that we love one another. And this is love, that we walk according to his commandments: this is the commandment, just as you have heard from the beginning so that you should walk in it.” 2 John 1:5-6 ESVJohn taught that it was an act of love when Christians obeyed Jesus by loving one another.This was important because it would show the world that they were His disciples. Christ-followers who loved one another despite their differences in race, country, background, and experience showed how much the saving grace and love of Jesus could change people and save people.This is still a command for us.The love we have for one another is vital to what others see when they look at Jesus' followers. If people who don’t believe in Jesus see Christians loving each other in the midst of difficult or violent times, it will be a picture of the love God has for all of us.It’s while we were still sinners that Christ died for us. He loved us enough to die for us. This is the kind of love we are to have for one another.Today, think of ways you can show Jesus' love to other believers. By doing so, you will obey your Lord Jesus and you will be walking in His ways.Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for Loving OthersJesus, thank You for showing me how to love others by the way You lived Your life. Sometimes it’s hard to love people, but I want to love them because You love them. Today, help me see the opportunities in front of me to love others. Amen.Have a Blessed Day‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.24-26.BSB--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
The father of a righteous man will greatly rejoice, and he who fathers a wise son will delight in him.Proverbs 23:24 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:When you sit down to dine with a ruler, consider carefully what is set before you, and put a knife to your throat if you possess a great appetite. Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive. Do not wear yourself out to get rich; be wise enough to restrain yourself. When you glance at wealth, it disappears, for it makes wings for itself and flies like an eagle to the sky. Do not eat the bread of a stingy man, and do not crave his delicacies; for he is keeping track, inwardly counting the cost. “Eat and drink,” he says to you, but his heart is not with you. You will vomit up what little you have eaten and waste your pleasant words. Do not speak to a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words. Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you. Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge. Do not withhold discipline from a child; although you strike him with a rod, he will not die. Strike him with a rod, and you will deliver his soul from Sheol. My son, if your heart is wise, my own heart will indeed rejoice. My inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right. Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always continue in the fear of the Lord. For surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off. Listen, my son, and be wise, and guide your heart on the right course. Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat. For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe them in rags. Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. Invest in truth and never sell it— in wisdom and instruction and understanding. The father of a righteous man will greatly rejoice, and he who fathers a wise son will delight in him. May your father and mother be glad, and may she who gave you birth rejoice! My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes delight in my ways. For a prostitute is a deep pit, and an adulteress is a narrow well. Like a robber she lies in wait and multiplies the faithless among men. Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has needless wounds? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to taste mixed drinks. Do not gaze at wine while it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly. In the end it bites like a snake and stings like a viper. Your eyes will see strange things, and your mind will utter perversities. You will be like one sleeping on the high seas or lying on the top of a mast: “They struck me, but I feel no pain! They beat me, but I did not know it! When can I wake up to search for another drink?”Proverbs 23:1-35 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/pro.23.1-35.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: Godly and WiseIf you’re a parent figure, you know that raising children can be the greatest joy you ever experience and the biggest struggle you face. And if you’re a follower of Christ, you likely feel an added burden to make sure your kids grow up to know and love God. In Proverbs 23:24, the author points out that joy in parenting comes when our children are two things: godly and wise. So, how do we help our kids become more like Jesus and develop the wisdom they need to navigate the challenges of life? While there are different ways, here are two to start with: Find a Christ-centered community. As a parent, you’ll need to surround yourself with a community that loves Jesus so that way you’re not alone when raising kids gets challenging. If you don’t have that today, commit to taking the next step in that direction—join a small group, get connected at church, invite friends over for dinner, or get to know a neighbor. Teach kids to ask for...--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.Exodus 20:8 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:And God spoke all these words: “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in the heavens above, on the earth below, or in the waters beneath. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on their children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing loving devotion to a thousand generations of those who love Me and keep My commandments. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not leave anyone unpunished who takes His name in vain. Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God, on which you must not do any work—neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant or livestock, nor the foreigner within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth and the sea and all that is in them, but on the seventh day He rested. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy. Honor your father and mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you. You shall not murder. You shall not commit adultery. You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his manservant or maidservant, or his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”Exodus 20:1-17 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/exo.20.1-17.BSBToday's devotional mentions Genesis 2:1-3 so I'm including it here:Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. And by the seventh day God had finished the work He had been doing; so on that day He rested from all His work. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because on that day He rested from all the work of creation that He had accomplished.Genesis 2:1-3 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/gen.2.1-3.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: The Sabbath Practice - Day 1 of 4Day 1: StopThe word Sabbath comes from the Hebrew word shabbat, which literally means “to stop” or “cease.” But it can also mean to rest, to delight, and even to worship. The first time that shabbat shows up is in Genesis 2:1-3. God finishes the work of creation, and it says “he rested [shabbat] from all his work.” Notice: God sabbathed. Abraham Joshua Heschel notes that God didn’t sabbath because he was tired, or worn out from all the creating he did. Rather, his act of stopping was an act of creation itself. God stops, and in doing so, he creates a rhythm of rest woven into the very fabric of creation. When we live without Sabbath, we go against the rhythm that God the creator himself built into our body and into the fabric of all creation. This is true on the negative side—when you don’t sabbath, you suffer the consequences: burnout, stress, trashed immune systems, brain fog, frayed relationships, distance from God, etc. But it’s also true on the positive side—when we do sabbath, we reap the rewards: peace, health, and delight, just to name a few. But Sabbath isn’t just an aspirational idea; it’s a practice. Sabbath, like all of the practices, is a means to an end. The end isn’t to say “I practice Sabbath.” It’s not even to be well-rested and happy. It’s to participate in the love and life of God himself, to center our entire life around him, and to live more deeply in him—not just on Sabbath, but all week long. You do not have to live a Sabbath-less life of non-stop exhaustion. You, right where you are, no matter your stage of life, can adopt the practice of Sabbath. And you don’t have to buy it, or order it online, or--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.Lamentations 3:25-26 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:I am the man who has seen affliction under the rod of God’s wrath. He has driven me away and made me walk in darkness instead of light. Indeed, He keeps turning His hand against me all day long. He has worn away my flesh and skin; He has shattered my bones. He has besieged me and surrounded me with bitterness and hardship. He has made me dwell in darkness like those dead for ages. He has walled me in so I cannot escape; He has weighed me down with chains. Even when I cry out and plead for help, He shuts out my prayer. He has barred my ways with cut stones; He has made my paths crooked. He is a bear lying in wait, a lion hiding in ambush. He forced me off my path and tore me to pieces; He left me without help. He bent His bow and set me as the target for His arrow. He pierced my kidneys with His arrows. I am a laughingstock to all my people; they mock me in song all day long. He has filled me with bitterness; He has intoxicated me with wormwood. He has ground my teeth with gravel and trampled me in the dust. My soul has been deprived of peace; I have forgotten what prosperity is. So I say, “My strength has perished, along with my hope from the Lord.” Remember my affliction and wandering, the wormwood and the gall. Surely my soul remembers and is humbled within me. Yet I call this to mind, and therefore I have hope: Because of the loving devotion of the Lord we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness! “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in Him.” The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is still young. Let him sit alone in silence, for God has disciplined him. Let him bury his face in the dust— perhaps there is still hope. Let him offer his cheek to the one who would strike him; let him be filled with reproach. For the Lord will not cast us off forever. Even if He causes grief, He will show compassion according to His abundant loving devotion. For He does not willingly afflict or grieve the sons of men. To crush underfoot all the prisoners of the land, to deny a man justice before the Most High, to subvert a man in his lawsuit— of these the Lord does not approve. Who has spoken and it came to pass, unless the Lord has ordained it? Do not both adversity and good come from the mouth of the Most High? Why should any mortal man complain, in view of his sins? Let us examine and test our ways, and turn back to the Lord. Let us lift up our hearts and hands to God in heaven: “We have sinned and rebelled; You have not forgiven.” You have covered Yourself in anger and pursued us; You have killed without pity. You have covered Yourself with a cloud that no prayer can pass through. You have made us scum and refuse among the nations. All our enemies open their mouths against us. Panic and pitfall have come upon us— devastation and destruction. Streams of tears flow from my eyes over the destruction of the daughter of my people. My eyes overflow unceasingly, without relief, until the Lord looks down from heaven and sees. My eyes bring grief to my soul because of all the daughters of my city. Without cause my enemies hunted me like a bird. They dropped me alive into a pit and cast stones upon me. The waters flowed over my head, and I thought I was going to die. I called on Your name, O Lord, out of the depths of the Pit. You heard my plea: “Do not ignore my cry for relief.” You drew near when I called on You; You said, “Do not be afraid.” You defend my cause, O Lord; You redeem my life. You have seen, O Lord, the wrong done to me; vindicate my cause! You have seen all their malice, all their plots against me. O Lord, You have heard their insults,--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
And He said to them, “Come with Me privately to a solitary place, and let us rest for a while.” For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. So they went away in a boat by themselves to a solitary place.Mark 6:31-32 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Meanwhile, the apostles gathered around Jesus and brought Him news of all they had done and taught. And He said to them, “Come with Me privately to a solitary place, and let us rest for a while.” For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. So they went away in a boat by themselves to a solitary place. But many people saw them leaving and recognized them. They ran together on foot from all the towns and arrived before them. When Jesus stepped ashore and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And He began to teach them many things. By now the hour was already late. So the disciples came to Jesus and said, “This is a desolate place, and the hour is already late. Dismiss the crowd so they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” But Jesus told them, “You give them something to eat.” They asked Him, “Should we go out and spend two hundred denarii to give all of them bread to eat?” “Go and see how many loaves you have,” He told them. And after checking, they said, “Five—and two fish.” Then Jesus directed them to have the people sit in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, Jesus spoke a blessing and broke the loaves. Then He gave them to His disciples to set before the people. And He divided the two fish among them all. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish. And there were five thousand men who had eaten the loaves.Mark 6:30-44 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/mrk.6.30-44.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: Resting to RestoreHurry. Hustle. Go. Do. Achieve. Fix. How many of your days begin with thoughts like these at the front of your mind? Adulthood is marked by the pressures of so much to do and never enough time. There are due dates, bills to pay, people to speak to, and things that demand our attention. We need reminding—as we did when we were children—sometimes it’s time to rest, even if we didn’t get our list of chores done. Jesus’ disciples were healthy men with energy and skills, but even they became overwhelmed by the strain of attending to a constant stream of needs. Jesus noticed this and called them away to be alone and get some much-needed rest. No matter how great our capacity is, we all have limits. Even those with tremendous energy and passion need time to rest. It's not a sign of failure. It's a sign of trust in God.Jesus took naps and spent time alone to regroup and rest. He made plans for His disciples to do the same. His pattern and invitation are there for us, too. He knows we need downtime. If you’re exhausted, how might Jesus be inviting you to get away and rest in His presence? As you look around and see others who are weary and heavy-laden—maybe not even stopping to eat—how might you bless them by helping them to take a break?Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for RestJesus, You are the Good Shepherd who leads me into green pastures and beside quiet waters to restore my soul. Help me notice when I’m overwhelmed and tired and then accept Your invitation to rest in Your presence. Amen.Have a Blessed Day:“May the LORD bless you and keep you; may the LORD cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the LORD lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.Galatians 6:2 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own work. Then he will have reason to boast in himself alone, and not in someone else. For each one should carry his own load. Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor. Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return. The one who sows to please his flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; but the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith. See what large letters I am using to write to you with my own hand! Those who want to make a good impression outwardly are trying to compel you to be circumcised. They only do this to avoid persecution for the cross of Christ. For the circumcised do not even keep the law themselves, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. But as for me, may I never boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything. What counts is a new creation. Peace and mercy to all who walk by this rule, even to the Israel of God. From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.Galatians 6:1-18 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/gal.6.1-18.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: When You Need SupportEveryone carries burdens, and the things we go through shape the way we view the world, and ourselves. But we weren’t meant to carry our burdens alone. In fact, Jesus says to the people following Him—"Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. … For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light."Matthew 11:28-30 NLTA yoke is a heavy wooden beam that lies across a pair of oxen, evenly distributing the weight of the loads they carry. But the term was also used by Jewish Rabbis. “The yoke of the law” symbolized complete submission to God’s law, and Rabbis taught that becoming yoked to it would free the Jews from enslavement to the world.Jesus is using a phrase that His Jewish followers would have easily understood, but then He flips the illustration. He tells the crowd that they must yoke themselves to Him—because He is the fulfillment of their law. When they do this, the burdens they carry won’t be heavy at all—because He will bear the weight of their burdens. Paul references this teaching in his letter to the Galatian Christians: “Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 NLT The law of Christ is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love others as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40). But the only way we can fulfill the law of Christ is if we bind ourselves to Him. When we are yoked to Jesus, He becomes our source of strength. He helps us endure hard situations and enables us to walk away from poor decisions. He fills us up with His love so that we can pour His love out onto others. He gives us the capacity to support other Christ-followers just like He supports us. Just as Jesus bore our sins and suffering, we are called to bear the suffering of others. In this way, we show them the love--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Trust in the Lord forever, because GOD the Lord is the Rock eternal.Isaiah 26:4 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: We have a strong city; salvation is established as its walls and ramparts. Open the gates so a righteous nation may enter— one that remains faithful. You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, because GOD the Lord is the Rock eternal. For He has humbled those who dwell on high; He lays the lofty city low. He brings it down to the ground; He casts it into the dust. Feet trample it down— the feet of the oppressed, the steps of the poor. The path of the righteous is level; You clear a straight path for the upright. Yes, we wait for You, O Lord; we walk in the path of Your judgments. Your name and renown are the desire of our souls. My soul longs for You in the night; indeed, my spirit seeks You at dawn. For when Your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness. Though grace is shown to the wicked man, he does not learn righteousness. In the land of righteousness he acts unjustly and fails to see the majesty of the Lord. O Lord, Your hand is upraised, but they do not see it. They will see Your zeal for Your people and be put to shame. The fire set for Your enemies will consume them! O Lord, You will establish peace for us. For all that we have accomplished, You have done for us. O Lord our God, other Lords besides You have had dominion, but Your name alone do we confess. The dead will not live; the departed spirits will not rise. Therefore You have punished and destroyed them; You have wiped out all memory of them. You have enlarged the nation, O Lord; You have enlarged the nation. You have gained glory for Yourself; You have extended all the borders of the land. O Lord, they sought You in their distress; when You disciplined them, they poured out a quiet prayer. As a woman with child about to give birth writhes and cries out in pain, so were we in Your presence, O Lord. We were with child; we writhed in pain; but we gave birth to wind. We have given no salvation to the earth, nor brought any life into the world. Your dead will live; their bodies will rise. Awake and sing, you who dwell in the dust! For your dew is like the dew of the morning, and the earth will bring forth her dead. Go, my people, enter your rooms and shut your doors behind you. Hide yourselves a little while until the wrath has passed. For behold, the Lord is coming out of His dwelling to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity. The earth will reveal her bloodshed and will no longer conceal her slain.Isaiah 26:1-21 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/isa.26.1-21.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is:Who Do You Trust?Maybe it’s a dream you’re holding onto, or a promise you’ve been given. Maybe you’re waiting on a person to change, or a situation to shift. Maybe you’re waiting for a prayer to be answered, joy to replace sorrow, or clarity and hope to replace confusion and chaos. It can be difficult in the midst of pain, loss, and suffering to patiently cling to the One who promises to come through for us. Isaiah was a prophet to the leaders of Judah during a time of national corruption and spiritual destitution. He foretold of his people being dragged away into exile because they were trusting in idols, political rulers, and other momentary things. But Isaiah also reminded the people that God was sovereign, God would bring them out of exile, and God would one day send a savior to rescue them forever. Isaiah didn’t live to see all his prophecies fulfilled—but he held onto the hope that he prophesied about, and his words to the people of Israel can continue to encourage us today.Trust in the Lord even when circumstances don’t make sense. Trust in the Lord even when you’re suffering. Trust in the Lord even when your heart is breaking. Come what may, trust in the Lord...--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.Matthew 7:24 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it. Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. So then, by their fruit you will recognize them. Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’ Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell—and great was its collapse!” When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were astonished at His teaching, because He taught as one who had authority, and not as their scribes.Matthew 7:13-29 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.7.13-29.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: Choose Your FoundationImagine standing next to the sea as waves crash at your feet, storm clouds swallow the sky, and the wind whips your face. You know you need shelter—and that’s when you see a small hut nestled in the sand nearby, and one further away that’s firmly built into a rocky hill. Which shelter would you choose to take cover in? 2,000 years ago, when Jesus walked this earth, He often told stories to the crowds that gathered around to hear Him teach. One day, He said to them: “Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock.” Matthew 7:24-25 NLT As was His way, Jesus used real-life examples to help explain spiritual truths: “But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.” Matthew 7:26-27 NLT We are all building our lives on something. Every decision we make reinforces what we believe our support system to be. So when life’s storms come, will the thing you’ve built your life on support you—or cause you to crumble? Jesus’ teachings have remained reliable and steadfast through social upheaval, the rise and fall of government regimes, and generations of historic change. No matter what has happened—God’s Word still stands firm. Teachings from the world, on the other hand, tend to shift with each generation. Like shifting sand, what current culture provides is usually unstable because its values are constantly changing. Storms are inevitable and challenges will come, but you get to choose your foundation. You can choose to make Jesus the one thing you build your life upon, or you can choose whatever habit, idea, or desire feels good and accessible in the ...--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Then Jesus declared, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.Mark 2:27 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:One Sabbath Jesus was passing through the grainfields, and His disciples began to pick the heads of grain as they walked along. So the Pharisees said to Him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?” Jesus replied, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need? During the high priesthood of Abiathar, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which was lawful only for the priests. And he gave some to his companions as well.” Then Jesus declared, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Therefore, the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”Mark 2:23-28 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/mrk.2.23-28.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: God’s Rhythm to Bless UsHumans have a complicated relationship with rules. Even as small children, we struggle to understand the “why” behind them. Consider how parents teach children to brush their teeth, reminding them morning and night. That child might only appreciate the chore years later, as they grow into adults and experience expensive and uncomfortable dental work. It’s then that a dull tooth-brushing routine feels valuable. What a shift in perspective! We weren’t made to serve a strict toothbrushing schedule, but toothbrushing was made to serve us to help maintain healthy teeth. Jesus brings similar wisdom and perspective to the expectation of taking a regular day of rest (Sabbath). The Jews knew that God was insistent on Sabbath observance, but they almost thought of it as if it were a chore. Jesus reminds them that people weren’t made for the Sabbath, but the Sabbath was created for people by God to provide much-needed rest. Sabbath rest is God’s rhythm to bless us, not God’s requirement to burden us.How can we know this is true? Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath. He’s the maker (and fulfiller) of all God’s good rules, and He knows that regular rest is one of the rhythms that leads to an abundant life.Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer to Learn to RestLord Jesus, You are wise and good in all things. Thank you for creating both work and rest as a blessing. Teach me to rest regularly and to receive it as the gift You made it to be. I need wisdom and faith to do this. Amen.Have a Blessed Day:“May the LORD bless you and keep you; may the LORD cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the LORD lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
And the Lord answered, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”Exodus 33:14 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Then the Lord said to Moses, “Leave this place, you and the people you brought up out of the land of Egypt, and go to the land that I promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob when I said, ‘I will give it to your descendants.’ And I will send an angel before you, and I will drive out the Canaanites, Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. Go up to a land flowing with milk and honey. But I will not go with you, because you are a stiff-necked people; otherwise, I might destroy you on the way.” When the people heard these bad tidings, they went into mourning, and no one put on any of his jewelry. For the Lord had said to Moses, “Tell the Israelites, ‘You are a stiff-necked people. If I should go with you for a single moment, I would destroy you. Now take off your jewelry, and I will decide what to do with you.’” So the Israelites stripped themselves of their jewelry from Mount Horeb onward. Now Moses used to take the tent and pitch it at a distance outside the camp. He called it the Tent of Meeting, and anyone inquiring of the Lord would go to the Tent of Meeting outside the camp. Then, whenever Moses went out to the tent, all the people would stand at the entrances to their own tents and watch Moses until he entered the tent. As Moses entered the tent, the pillar of cloud would come down and remain at the entrance, and the Lord would speak with Moses. When all the people saw the pillar of cloud standing at the entrance to the tent, they would stand up and worship, each one at the entrance to his own tent. Thus the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young assistant Joshua son of Nun would not leave the tent. Then Moses said to the Lord, “Look, You have been telling me, ‘Lead this people up,’ but You have not let me know whom You will send with me. Yet You have said, ‘I know you by name, and you have found favor in My sight.’ Now if indeed I have found favor in Your sight, please let me know Your ways, that I may know You and find favor in Your sight. Remember that this nation is Your people.” And the Lord answered, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” “If Your Presence does not go with us,” Moses replied, “do not lead us up from here. For how then can it be known that Your people and I have found favor in Your sight, unless You go with us? How else will we be distinguished from all the other people on the face of the earth?” So the Lord said to Moses, “I will do this very thing you have asked, for you have found favor in My sight, and I know you by name.” Then Moses said, “Please show me Your glory.” “I will cause all My goodness to pass before you,” the Lord replied, “and I will proclaim My name—the Lord—in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” But He added, “You cannot see My face, for no one can see Me and live.” The Lord continued, “There is a place near Me where you are to stand upon a rock, and when My glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft of the rock and cover you with My hand until I have passed by. Then I will take My hand away, and you will see My back; but My face must not be seen.”Exodus 33:1-23 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/exo.33.1-23.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: A Way for Us to RestIt feels intimidating to start something new without knowing how it will work out, whether a new relationship, job, project or even traveling to a new place. We never know what challenges we might face along the way.After God met the people of Israel at Mount Sinai, He gave them a new identity (people belonging to Him), new values (the Ten Commandments), and a new destination (the Promised Land). They had no idea where to go or how long it would take. As God led them further into the wilderness, He also..--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.Psalms 4:8 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved my distress; show me grace and hear my prayer. How long, O men, will my honor be maligned? How long will you love vanity and seek after lies? Selah Know that the Lord has set apart the godly for Himself; the Lord hears when I call to Him. Be angry, yet do not sin; on your bed, search your heart and be still. Selah Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord. Many ask, “Who can show us the good?” Shine the light of Your face upon us, O Lord. You have filled my heart with more joy than when grain and new wine abound. I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.Psalms 4:1-8 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.4.1-8.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: The Peace of God for Anxious HeartsMany of us struggle with anxiety over our future, finances, career, or personal health. Scripture tells us that while there are some things that are within our control, most things in life are outside of our control. So more often than not, we spend time worrying about things that we have no control over.Scripture tells us that trust in God should fill the gap between reality and what we desire. We should not be anxious about the things we cannot control, but rather we should submit everything to God in prayer. He alone has control over the unknown.That is why the writer of Psalm 4 says that he will lay down at night in peace, free from anxiety and worry. Even though the writer is surrounded by danger, he places his trust in God. That leads him to sleep peacefully and safely.Spend some time considering your own heart. Are you anxious or filled with worry? Meditate on God’s power and sovereignty. Ask Him to fill you with His peace and assurance that He is in control of your future. Continually remind yourself of the promises that God has given you in Scripture.Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for RestGod, I can sleep peacefully because You care for me and my future. So today, I commit my concerns to You. Give me peace-filled rest so that I can rise joyfully and do all that You have called me to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have a Blessed Day:“May the LORD bless you and keep you; may the LORD cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the LORD lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?Micah 6:8 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Hear now what the Lord says: “Arise, plead your case before the mountains, and let the hills hear your voice. Hear, O mountains, the Lord’s indictment, you enduring foundations of the earth. For the Lord has a case against His people, and He will argue it against Israel: ‘My people, what have I done to you? Testify against Me how I have wearied you! For I brought you up from the land of Egypt and redeemed you from the house of slavery. I sent Moses before you, as well as Aaron and Miriam. My people, remember what Balak king of Moab counseled and what Balaam son of Beor answered. Remember your journey from Shittim to Gilgal, so that you may acknowledge the righteousness of the Lord.’” With what shall I come before the Lord when I bow before the God on high? Should I come to Him with burnt offerings, with year-old calves? Would the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of oil? Shall I present my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? The voice of the Lord calls out to the city (and it is sound wisdom to fear Your name): “Heed the rod and the One who ordained it. Can I forget any longer, O house of the wicked, the treasures of wickedness and the short ephah, which is accursed? Can I excuse dishonest scales or bags of false weights? For the wealthy of the city are full of violence, and its residents speak lies; their tongues are deceitful in their mouths. Therefore I am striking you severely, to ruin you because of your sins. You will eat but not be satisfied, and your hunger will remain with you. What you acquire, you will not preserve; and what you save, I will give to the sword. You will sow but not reap; you will press olives but not anoint yourselves with oil; you will tread grapes but not drink the wine. You have kept the statutes of Omri and all the practices of Ahab’s house; you have followed their counsel. Therefore I will make you a desolation, and your inhabitants an object of contempt; you will bear the scorn of the nations.”Micah 6:1-16 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/mic.6.1-16.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: What does God want?“What is God’s will for my life?”“What is my purpose and calling?”“What can I do to please God?”In the New Testament, Jesus provides the answer to those questions by telling His followers to love God and love people. In the Old Testament, the prophet Micah—empowered by the Holy Spirit—summarized God’s will for Israel by saying: “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”Micah 6:8 ESV These words were penned during a time when God’s people were trying to please Him with sacrifices, offerings, and going through religious motions, while living lives of deception, violence, and pride. But as the prophet Hosea writes, “I [God] desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.” (Hosea 6:6 NIV)God is after our heart motives, not our outward religious activity or begrudging obedience. Let’s break down what God desires of us:- Do justice. Doing justice requires faith and actions working together: helping the hurting, defending the weak, dealing fairly with the people we encounter, and speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves. In other words, to do justice, we must love others as we love ourselves.- Love kindness. The mercy of God is an extreme kindness. And because we’ve been shown undeserved kindness by Him, we can show undeserved kindness to others. God desires these things more than endless “I’m sorry” speeche--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God.3 John 1:11 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:The elder, To the beloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth: Beloved, I pray that in every way you may prosper and enjoy good health, as your soul also prospers. For I was overjoyed when the brothers came and testified about your devotion to the truth, in which you continue to walk. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. Beloved, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, and especially since they are strangers to you. They have testified to the church about your love. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God. For they went out on behalf of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles. Therefore we ought to support such men, so that we may be fellow workers for the truth. I have written to the church about this, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not accept our instruction. So if I come, I will call attention to his malicious slander against us. And unsatisfied with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers and forbids those who want to do so, even putting them out of the church. Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God. Demetrius has received a good testimony from everyone, and from the truth itself. We also testify for him, and you know that our testimony is true. I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with pen and ink. Instead, I hope to see you soon and speak with you face to face. Peace to you. The friends here send you greetings. Greet each of our friends there by name.3 John 1:1-14 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/3jn.1.1-14.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: A Heart That Follows GodWhen we plant apple seeds, we expect an apple tree to grow. It’s the seed and the roots that decide what kind of tree grows in the soil. Similarly, when we belong to God we expect goodness and righteousness to grow in our lives. It is the fruit of our actions that tells us what kind of seeds we’ve planted.One of the ways we can identify the work of God in our life is by watching what type of fruit we produce. A sign of a growing and godly life is a heart that desires to live and act in accordance with God’s Word. Only someone who has spent time with God will produce that type of action in their life.John cautions us to be mindful of what type of fruit our lives produce. When we truly belong to God, and we spend time with Him, our lives will naturally produce goodness and right living. The goal is not to be prideful about how many good deeds we do, but instead, to cultivate a heart that wants to selflessly do good to others in the name of Jesus. We may not be perfect, but our hearts should desire to follow God. Take a moment to think about your thoughts and actions over the past week. Do they reflect a heart that has been in a close relationship with God? Think of some steps you can take to create regular rhythms of spending time with God.Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for Imitating GodGod, I truly desire to imitate and know You! When people see me, I also want them to see You. Guide me as I seek to follow You with my whole heart. Bring godly people into my life. Surround me with positive relationships, so I can better imitate You. In Jesus' name, Amen.Have a Blessed Day:“May the LORD bless you and keep you; may the LORD cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the LORD lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace,Romans 8:6 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set you free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful man, as an offering for sin. He thus condemned sin in the flesh, so that the righteous standard of the law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh; but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind of the flesh is hostile to God: It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are controlled not by the flesh, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit, who lives in you. Therefore, brothers, we have an obligation, but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery that returns you to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him. I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will, but because of the One who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time. Not only that, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved; but hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he can already see? But if we hope for what we do not yet see, we wait for it patiently. In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know how we ought to pray, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans too deep for words. And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified. What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, freely give us all things? Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God wh--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His graceEphesians 1:7 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms. For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the Beloved One. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. And He has made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to bring all things in heaven and on earth together in Christ. In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will, in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, would be for the praise of His glory. And in Him, having heard and believed the word of truth—the gospel of your salvation—you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession, to the praise of His glory. For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in your knowledge of Him. I ask that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know the hope of His calling, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and the surpassing greatness of His power to us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of His mighty strength, which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God put everything under His feet and made Him head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.Ephesians 1:1-23 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/eph.1.1-23.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: The Center of SalvationPaul’s letter to the church in Ephesus lays a foundation for the power of salvation that is achieved through Jesus’ death and resurrection. The core of the Christian faith is found in this event.The forgiveness of sins that we experience as Christians came through the blood of Christ that was shed on the cross. Jesus lived a perfect life, and became a perfect sacrifice for the brokenness of all mankind. Without the shedding of blood, there would be no forgiveness of sins (Hebrews 9:22). And without the forgiveness of sins, we would not be able to approach our holy and perfect God. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection made a way for us to have a relationship with Him.Jesus gave His life once and for all, which means that He doesn’t have to die again. All of your sins—past, present, and future—are forgiven through Jesus. In fact, nothing can separate you from the love God has for you.Paul says that all of this is in line with God’s grace and His promises. All throughout Scripture God promises to redeem His people. He promises to rescue them and free them from their bondage to sin and brokenness. God accomplishes this through Jesus.Think about God’s great love and grace for you. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
And by the seventh day God had finished the work He had been doing; so on that day He rested from all His work. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because on that day He rested from all the work of creation that He had accomplished.Genesis 2:2-3 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. And by the seventh day God had finished the work He had been doing; so on that day He rested from all His work. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because on that day He rested from all the work of creation that He had accomplished. This is the account of the heavens and the earth when they were created, in the day that the Lord God made them. Now no shrub of the field had yet appeared on the earth, nor had any plant of the field sprouted; for the Lord God had not yet sent rain upon the earth, and there was no man to cultivate the ground. But springs welled up from the earth and watered the whole surface of the ground. Then the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, and the man became a living being. And the Lord God planted a garden in Eden, in the east, where He placed the man He had formed. Out of the ground the Lord God gave growth to every tree that is pleasing to the eye and good for food. And in the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Now a river flowed out of Eden to water the garden, and from there it branched into four headwaters: The name of the first river is Pishon; it winds through the whole land of Havilah, where there is gold. And the gold of that land is pure, and bdellium and onyx are found there. The name of the second river is Gihon; it winds through the whole land of Cush. The name of the third river is Hiddekel; it runs along the east side of Assyria. And the fourth river is the Euphrates. Then the Lord God took the man and placed him in the Garden of Eden to cultivate and keep it. And the Lord God commanded him, “You may eat freely from every tree of the garden, but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil; for in the day that you eat of it, you will surely die.” The Lord God also said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make for him a suitable helper.” And out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field and every bird of the air, and He brought them to the man to see what he would name each one. And whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name. The man gave names to all the livestock, to the birds of the air, and to every beast of the field. But for Adam no suitable helper was found. So the Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep, and while he slept, He took one of the man’s ribs and closed up the area with flesh. And from the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man, He made a woman and brought her to him. And the man said: “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ for out of man she was taken.” For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked, and they were not ashamed.Genesis 2:1-25 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/gen.2.1-25.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: A Rhythm of RestWhere did the idea of a seven-day week come from? Throughout history, cultures have experimented with varying the number of days in a week, but the most enduring pattern for human work and rest is woven into how the Creator made us. When God first created the world, He finished all He wanted to do in six days. He could have moved on to the next project on His to-do list, but instead, God intentionally rests and enjoys His creation. This is the standard pattern of work and rest created for us from the beginning. How we create and produce reflects how we are created in His image. Just like God--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
However, when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak what He hears, and He will declare to you what is to come.John 16:13 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:“I have told you these things so that you will not fall away. They will put you out of the synagogues. In fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God. They will do these things because they have not known the Father or Me. But I have told you these things so that when their hour comes, you will remember that I told you about them. I did not tell you these things from the beginning, because I was with you. Now, however, I am going to Him who sent Me; yet none of you asks Me, ‘Where are You going?’ Instead, your hearts are filled with sorrow because I have told you these things. But I tell you the truth, it is for your benefit that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. And when He comes, He will convict the world in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment: in regard to sin, because they do not believe in Me; in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will no longer see Me; and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world has been condemned. I still have much to tell you, but you cannot yet bear to hear it. However, when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak what He hears, and He will declare to you what is to come. He will glorify Me by taking from what is Mine and disclosing it to you. Everything that belongs to the Father is Mine. That is why I said that the Spirit will take from what is Mine and disclose it to you. In a little while you will see Me no more, and then after a little while you will see Me.” Then some of His disciples asked one another, “Why is He telling us, ‘In a little while you will not see Me, and then after a little while you will see Me’ and ‘Because I am going to the Father’?” They kept asking, “Why is He saying, ‘a little while’? We do not understand what He is saying.” Aware that they wanted to question Him, Jesus said to them, “Are you asking one another why I said, ‘In a little while you will not see Me, and then after a little while you will see Me’? Truly, truly, I tell you, you will weep and wail while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. A woman has pain in childbirth because her time has come; but when she brings forth her child, she forgets her anguish because of her joy that a child has been born into the world. So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. In that day you will no longer ask Me anything. Truly, truly, I tell you, whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you. Until now you have not asked for anything in My name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete. I have spoken these things to you in figures of speech. An hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you this way, but will tell you plainly about the Father. In that day you will ask in My name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. For the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came from God. I came from the Father and entered the world. In turn, I will leave the world and go to the Father.” His disciples said, “See, now You are speaking plainly and without figures of speech. Now we understand that You know all things and that You have no need for anyone to question You. Because of this, we believe that You came from God.” “Do you finally believe?” Jesus replied. “Look, an hour is coming and has already come when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and you will leave Me all alone. Yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. I have told you these things so that in--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
“Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth.”Psalms 46:10 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas, though their waters roar and foam and the mountains quake in the surge. Selah There is a river whose streams delight the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her; she will not be moved. God will help her when morning dawns. Nations rage, kingdoms crumble; the earth melts when He lifts His voice. The Lord of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah Come, see the works of the Lord, who brings devastation upon the earth. He makes wars to cease throughout the earth; He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; He burns the shields in the fire. “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth.” The Lord of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. SelahPsalms 46:1-11 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.46.1-11.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: The Power of StillnessWe’re busy people.Between work and home, family and friends, full schedules and unending tasks, it’s tempting to hurry through our days without even stopping to look up. But, speaking through the psalmist, God said: “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”Psalms 46:10 NIVWhen was the last time you were intentionally still (and not just when you were sleeping)? When was your body and mind quiet enough to acknowledge that God is God? Regardless of the past, what will you choose today? You can close this app, check “time with God” off your to-do list, and continue on with business as usual. Or, you can allow the knowledge and truth of God to bring peace to your restless heart.There’s something about stillness that compels us beyond ourselves. There’s something about stillness that heightens our awareness of our need for God. It’s one thing to acknowledge God with our words, but another to put Him above every other good, bad, and distracting thing in our lives—to live in a way that honors and magnifies Him.There will come a day when, ready or not, God will reveal Himself fully. There will come a day when, willing or not, every secret will come to light. There will come a day when, like it or not, He will be exalted above the nations and honored throughout the world. But you don’t have to wait to worship Him. You don’t have to wait to call Him your God. You don’t have to wait to make Him the Lord and King of your life.You can be still —right now—and know that He is God.Reflect: How can you be still and experience God today?By admiring His Creation.By reading His Word and reflecting on it.By listening to His voice in prayer.Today’s Prayer is: Awe for God’s PowerGod, You alone are all-knowing, present, and powerful. You are the God who created the heavens and the earth, the sun and the moon, and all of creation. All people will come to know Your glory and goodness. Please help me linger with You, still and aware of Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have a Blessed Day:“May the LORD bless you and keep you; may the LORD cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the LORD lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.2 Corinthians 1:3-4 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God in Corinth, together with all the saints throughout Achaia: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ overflow to us, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which accomplishes in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we experience. And our hope for you is sure, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you will share in our comfort. We do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the hardships we encountered in the province of Asia. We were under a burden far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, we felt we were under the sentence of death, in order that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us. In Him we have placed our hope that He will yet again deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the favor shown us in answer to their prayers. And this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in relation to you, in the holiness and sincerity that are from God—not in worldly wisdom, but in the grace of God. For we do not write you anything that is beyond your ability to read and understand. And I hope that you will understand us completely, as you have already understood us in part, so that you may boast of us just as we will boast of you in the day of our Lord Jesus. Confident of this, I planned to visit you first, so that you might receive a double blessing. I wanted to visit you on my way to Macedonia, and to return to you from Macedonia, and then to have you help me on my way to Judea. When I planned this, did I do it carelessly? Or do I make my plans by human standards, so as to say “Yes, yes” when I really mean “No, no”? But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No.” For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was proclaimed among you by me and Silvanus and Timothy, was not “Yes” and “No,” but in Him it has always been “Yes.” For all the promises of God are “Yes” in Christ. And so through Him, our “Amen” is spoken to the glory of God. Now it is God who establishes both us and you in Christ. He anointed us, placed His seal on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a pledge of what is to come. I call God as my witness that it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth. Not that we Lord it over your faith, but we are fellow workers with you for your joy, because it is by faith that you stand firm.2 Corinthians 1:1-24 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/2co.1.1-24.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: The Source of ComfortWhen you find yourself in pain, it’s natural to seek comfort. Everyone wants the agony of injury, illness, or heartbreak to disappear as quickly as possible.If you touch a hot stove, you might grab a ice for your burn. If you get caught in a rainstorm, you might immediately look for shelter. If you experience the loss of someone you love, you might do whatever you can to distract yourself from grief. We can also seek things like food, shopping, work, drugs, alcohol, technology, or entertainment as min--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Once again, Jesus spoke to the people and said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.”John 8:12 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Once again, Jesus spoke to the people and said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.” So the Pharisees said to Him, “You are testifying about Yourself; Your testimony is not valid.” Jesus replied, “Even if I testify about Myself, My testimony is valid, because I know where I came from and where I am going. But you do not know where I came from or where I am going. You judge according to the flesh; I judge no one. But even if I do judge, My judgment is true, because I am not alone; I am with the Father who sent Me. Even in your own Law it is written that the testimony of two men is valid. I am One who testifies about Myself, and the Father, who sent Me, also testifies about Me.” “Where is Your Father?” they asked Him. “You do not know Me or My Father,” Jesus answered. “If you knew Me, you would know My Father as well.” He spoke these words while teaching in the temple courts, near the treasury. Yet no one seized Him, because His hour had not yet come. Again He said to them, “I am going away, and you will look for Me, but you will die in your sin. Where I am going, you cannot come.” So the Jews began to ask, “Will He kill Himself, since He says, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come’?” Then He told them, “You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. That is why I told you that you would die in your sins. For unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” “Who are You?” they asked. “Just what I have been telling you from the beginning,” Jesus replied. “I have much to say about you and much to judge. But the One who sent Me is truthful, and what I have heard from Him, I tell the world.” They did not understand that He was telling them about the Father. So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and that I do nothing on My own, but speak exactly what the Father has taught Me. He who sent Me is with Me. He has not left Me alone, because I always do what pleases Him.” As Jesus spoke these things, many believed in Him. So He said to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” “We are Abraham’s descendants,” they answered. “We have never been slaves to anyone. How can You say we will be set free?” Jesus replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. I know you are Abraham’s descendants, but you are trying to kill Me because My word has no place within you. I speak of what I have seen in the presence of the Father, and you do what you have heard from your father.” “Abraham is our father,” they replied. “If you were children of Abraham,” said Jesus, “you would do the works of Abraham. But now you are trying to kill Me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham never did such a thing. You are doing the works of your father.” “We are not illegitimate children,” they declared. “Our only Father is God Himself.” Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on My own, but He sent Me. Why do you not understand what I am saying? It is because you are unable to accept My message. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out his desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, refusing to uphold the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, because he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I speak the truth, you do not believe Me! Which of you can prove Me--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
This is how God’s love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. 1 John 4:9 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. For many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you will know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and which is already in the world at this time. You, little children, are from God and have overcome them, because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world. They are of the world. That is why they speak from the world’s perspective, and the world listens to them. We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us. That is how we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of deception. Beloved, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God’s love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. And love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God remains in us, and His love is perfected in us. By this we know that we remain in Him, and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. And we have come to know and believe the love that God has for us. God is love; whoever abides in love abides in God, and God in him. In this way, love has been perfected among us, so that we may have confidence on the day of judgment; for in this world we are just like Him. There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment. The one who fears has not been perfected in love. We love because He first loved us. If anyone says, “I love God,” but hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And we have this commandment from Him: Whoever loves God must love his brother as well. 1 John 4:1-21 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/1jn.4.1-21.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: The Great Love of JesusLove is the beginning of everything. You and I have life and breath at this very moment because God loves us. God created us because He wanted a people to love, and we are the recipients of His great love.In 1 John 4:9, John tells his readers that the primary way God showed His love toward us is through Jesus. Even while we were considered enemies of God, He sent Jesus to earth on our behalf. While Jesus was on earth, he lived a sinless life as a representative of humanity to God. His death and resurrection made a way for us to be forgiven of our sins and begin a relationship with God.God now gives us His love freely. There is nothing that we can do to earn His love, and there’s nothing about us that deserves His love. This is why John says love comes from God (1 John 4:7).Love is our greatest responsibility in life. Jesus made it very clear to His disciples that loving God and loving others are the two greatest commandments. But the basis for all of this is the love of God through Jesus.John tells us in 1 John 4:7-8 that those who truly know God will also love others. Our relationship with God is the model for how we should love other people. We should never deny someone something we’ve been freely given. And since we have freely received love from God,--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.Acts 2:38 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like a mighty rushing wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw tongues like flames of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. And when this sound rang out, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking his own language. Astounded and amazed, they asked, “Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans? How is it then that each of us hears them in his own native language? Parthians, Medes, and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome, both Jews and converts to Judaism; Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” Astounded and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?” But others mocked them and said, “They are drunk on new wine!” Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, lifted up his voice, and addressed the crowd: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen carefully to my words. These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It is only the third hour of the day! No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: ‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out My Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on My menservants and maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke. The sun will be turned to darkness, and the moon to blood, before the coming of the great and glorious Day of the Lord. And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’ Men of Israel, listen to this message: Jesus of Nazareth was a man certified by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs, which God did among you through Him, as you yourselves know. He was delivered up by God’s set plan and foreknowledge, and you, by the hands of the lawless, put Him to death by nailing Him to the cross. But God raised Him from the dead, releasing Him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for Him to be held in its clutches. David says about Him: ‘I saw the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will dwell in hope, because You will not abandon my soul to Hades, nor will You let Your Holy One see decay. You have made known to me the paths of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence.’ Brothers, I can tell you with confidence that the patriarch David died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. But he was a prophet and knew that God had promised him on oath that He would place one of his descendants on his throne. Foreseeing this, David spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that He was not abandoned to Hades, nor did His body see decay. God has raised this Jesus to life, to which we are all witnesses. Exalted, then, to the right hand of God, He has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. For David did not ascend into heaven, but he himself says: ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.”’ Therefore let all Israel know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ!” When the people heard t--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”Acts 1:8 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:In my first book, O Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach, until the day He was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles He had chosen. After His suffering, He presented Himself to them with many convincing proofs that He was alive. He appeared to them over a span of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. And while they were gathered together, He commanded them: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift the Father promised, which you have heard Me discuss. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” So when they came together, they asked Him, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” Jesus replied, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by His own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight. They were looking intently into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.” Then they returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, which is near the city, a Sabbath day’s journey away. When they arrived, they went to the upper room where they were staying: Peter and John, James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. With one accord they all continued in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. In those days Peter stood up among the brothers (a gathering of about a hundred and twenty) and said, “Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit foretold through the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide for those who arrested Jesus. He was one of our number and shared in this ministry.” (Now with the reward for his wickedness Judas bought a field; there he fell headlong and burst open in the middle, and all his intestines spilled out. This became known to all who lived in Jerusalem, so they called that field in their own language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood.) “For it is written in the book of Psalms: ‘May his place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in it,’ and, ‘May another take his position.’ Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have accompanied us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from John’s baptism until the day Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. And they prayed, “Lord, You know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two You have chosen to take up this ministry and apostleship, which Judas abandoned to go to his rightful place.” Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.Acts 1:1-26 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/act.1.1-26.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: Live EmpoweredImagine God’s Spirit hovering over the face of the earth. Everything is dark and without form until God breathes out the words, “Let there be light.” In an instant, everything changes. The light pierces the darkness, and what was once invisible is now seen clearly. This is what God’s Spirit does. He is always near—bringing light to what was once covered in darkness.The Holy Spirit is available to anyo--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,Matthew 28:19 BSBToday’s Verse in Context:After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, rolled away the stone, and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards trembled in fear of him and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said! Come, see the place where He lay. Then go quickly and tell His disciples, ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him.’ See, I have told you.” So they hurried away from the tomb in fear and great joy, and ran to tell His disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” They came to Him, grasped His feet, and worshiped Him. “Do not be afraid,” said Jesus. “Go and tell My brothers to go to Galilee. There they will see Me.” While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests all that had happened. And after the chief priests had met with the elders and formed a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money and instructed them: “You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep.’ If this report reaches the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” So the guards took the money and did as they were instructed. And this account has been circulated among the Jews to this very day. Meanwhile, the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain Jesus had designated. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him, but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”Matthew 28:1-20 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.28.1-20.BSBToday’s Devotional from Youversion is: The Mission of the ChurchAfter Jesus’ death and resurrection, he spent 40 days on earth ministering to people and preparing His disciples for life without Him. Jesus planned on leaving earth and ascending to heaven, but before doing so, He gave His disciples a mission found in Matthew 28:19-20. We often call this mission The Great Commission.The Great Commission begins with getting up and going to places where people need to hear about the good news of Jesus. This doesn’t mean you have to leave your country—there are people in your own neighborhood and workplace that need to hear the hope of Jesus.The ultimate goal of the Great Commission is to make followers of Jesus. So as we go about sharing the good news of Jesus with people, we’re to show people how Jesus has changed our lives, and invite them to discover Jesus for themselves.Jesus also instructs us to baptize new believers. Baptism is a symbol of someone’s incorporation into the family of God. It is their public display of their new faith in Jesus. Baptism is such an important part of the Christian life that Jesus made sure to include it in our mission.It can be easy to think that making disciples and baptizing believers is the responsibility of our church pastors and ministry leaders. While those things certainly are part of every church’s mission, Jesus intended for every believer to be making disciples.So take a moment to think about someone in your own life who helped you grow spiritually. Ask God to bring to mind someone you can help and disciple. Then, allow God to give you the courage to share the hope of Jesus with those around you.Reflect:--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
One gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor. Proverbs 11:24 BSBToday's Verse in Context:Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord, but an accurate weight is His delight. When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom. The integrity of the upright guides them, but the perversity of the faithless destroys them. Riches are worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness brings deliverance from death. The righteousness of the blameless directs their path, but the wicked fall by their own wickedness. The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the faithless are trapped by their own desires. When the wicked man dies, his hope perishes, and the hope of his strength vanishes. The righteous man is delivered from trouble; in his place the wicked man goes in. With his mouth the ungodly man destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous are rescued. When the righteous thrive, the city rejoices, and when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy. By the blessing of the upright a city is built up, but by the mouth of the wicked it is torn down. Whoever shows contempt for his neighbor lacks judgment, but a man of understanding remains silent. A gossip reveals a secret, but a trustworthy person keeps a confidence. For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance. He who puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer, but the one who hates indebtedness is secure. A gracious woman attains honor, but ruthless men gain only wealth. A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself. The wicked man earns an empty wage, but he who sows righteousness reaps a true reward. Genuine righteousness leads to life, but the pursuit of evil brings death. The perverse in heart are an abomination to the Lord, but the blameless in their walk are His delight. Be assured that the wicked will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will escape. Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion. The desire of the righteous leads only to good, but the hope of the wicked brings wrath. One gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor. A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. The people will curse the hoarder of grain, but blessing will crown the one who sells it. He who searches out good finds favor, but evil will come to him who seeks it. He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like foliage. He who brings trouble on his house will inherit the wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise of heart. The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise. If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner! Proverbs 11:1-31 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/pro.11.1-31.BSBToday's Devotional from Youversion is: What Does It Mean to Be Generous?The word “generous” is often defined as:- Open in giving or sharing - Willing to give help or support - UnselfishGenerous living is not a concept limited to the wealthy, the gifted, or the lucky. Generosity is a lifestyle that stems from a desire to worship God in every area of life.The principle of generosity is laced all throughout Scripture, and we have the best model and mentor when it comes to seeing it in action—God. He sent His Son, Jesus, as a sacrifice for our mistakes so that way we could spend eternity with Him. That is generosity in action.Psalm 24:1 says that “the earth is the LORD’s and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it…” Everything we have belongs to God and is given to us by Him. He is the owner, and we are His managers. And the people who manage well are often entrusted with more to manage.It doesn’t matter how much we have—it matters what we do with what we’re given.We will live generously when we view everything we hav--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
He cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit, and every branch that does bear fruit, He prunes to make it even more fruitful.John 15:2 BSBToday's Verse in Context:“I am the true vine, and My Father is the keeper of the vineyard. He cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit, and every branch that does bear fruit, He prunes to make it even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself unless it remains in the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me. I am the vine and you are the branches. The one who remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit. For apart from Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers. Such branches are gathered up, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, proving yourselves to be My disciples.John 15:1-8 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/jhn.15.1-8.BSBToday's Devotional from Youversion is: What It Takes to ThriveIn both gardening and spiritual terms, planting and harvesting are exciting seasons. Planting is the start of an adventure, and harvesting is the product of hard work. It’s easy to celebrate new beginnings and hard-earned completions—but one thing that’s not as much fun? The pruning process.Who wants to acknowledge what’s dead and unproductive in their lives? Who wants to trim back what’s already blooming—leaving you smaller, awkward, and feeling extra weak?But pruning is exactly what we need to keep producing fruit.“He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.”John 15:2 NIVJesus mentions two separate actions in this process—cutting off what’s dead and pruning fruit.Cutting out what’s dead makes sense. It’s extra weight, it’s unproductive, it’s blocking sunlight, and it’s stealing good energy from branches that could thrive. But without proper context, pruning fruit feels backwards.However, the purpose of pruning isn’t to disable something, but to revitalize it. If a branch is weak or diseased, it could not only damage itself, but the surrounding trees as well. Without pruning, both the tree and the life surrounding it can never reach full potential.Pruning creates room for more growth.Pruning stimulates production.Pruning keeps the plant or person strong.God is a good Gardener. He wouldn’t be a good Gardener if He left you to yourself—overgrown, ineffective, and full of dysfunction. But He cares for those He loves. He cuts off what’s dead for your benefit. He lovingly trims back ineffective things in your life to make way for more fruit. You can trust God with your life because He cares about who you are and who you can become. So what “dead branches” are you dragging around? Is it possible that God is pruning you for future growth? Take a few moments and talk to God about any areas in your life that you recognize need to change.Today's Prayer is: Declutter My LifeGod, You know everything about me. You know the areas of my life that have potential but are being held back by broken habits and belief systems. Please bring clarity and healing to my life by cutting away anything that is cluttering or destroying my heart and mind. Transform me so that way I continue to bear healthy fruit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
But Ruth replied: “Do not urge me to leave you or to turn from following you. For wherever you go, I will go, and wherever you live, I will live; your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.Ruth 1:16 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/rut.1.16.BSBIn the days when the judges ruled, there was a famine in the land. And a certain man from Bethlehem in Judah, with his wife and two sons, went to reside in the land of Moab. The man’s name was Elimelech, his wife’s name was Naomi, and the names of his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion. They were Ephrathites from Bethlehem in Judah, and they entered the land of Moab and settled there. Then Naomi’s husband Elimelech died, and she was left with her two sons, who took Moabite women as their wives, one named Orpah and the other named Ruth. And after they had lived in Moab about ten years, both Mahlon and Chilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two sons and without her husband. When Naomi heard in Moab that the Lord had attended to His people by providing them with food, she and her daughters-in-law prepared to leave the land of Moab. Accompanied by her two daughters-in-law, she left the place where she had been living and set out on the road leading back to the land of Judah. Then Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, “Go back, each of you to your mother’s home. May the Lord show you loving devotion, as you have shown to your dead and to me. May the Lord enable each of you to find rest in the home of your new husband.” And she kissed them as they wept aloud and said, “Surely we will return with you to your people.” But Naomi replied, “Return home, my daughters. Why would you go with me? Are there still sons in my womb to become your husbands? Return home, my daughters. Go on, for I am too old to have another husband. Even if I thought there was hope for me to have a husband tonight and to bear sons, would you wait for them to grow up? Would you refrain from having husbands? No, my daughters, it grieves me very much for your sakes that the hand of the Lord has gone out against me.” Again they wept aloud, and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law goodbye, but Ruth clung to her. “Look,” said Naomi, “your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and her gods; follow her back home.” But Ruth replied: “Do not urge me to leave you or to turn from following you. For wherever you go, I will go, and wherever you live, I will live; your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord punish me, and ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me.” When Naomi saw that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped trying to persuade her. So Naomi and Ruth traveled until they came to Bethlehem. When they entered Bethlehem, the whole city was stirred because of them, and the women of the city exclaimed, “Can this be Naomi?” “Do not call me Naomi,” she replied. “Call me Mara, because the Almighty has dealt quite bitterly with me. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi? After all, the Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me.” So Naomi returned from the land of Moab with her daughter-in-law Ruth the Moabitess. And they arrived in Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest.Ruth 1:1-22 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/rut.1.1-22.BSBPortions of the text used in today's message is from https://bible.com/stories/19462--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery.Galatians 5:1 BSBFreedomFreedom Conference is tonight and tomorrow. I ask that you join me in prayer for the Holy Spirit to be on and in the people who are volunteering, the small group leaders, and everyone who is attending.Father, thank You for being our provider, healer, shepherd, banner, peace, and way maker. We come before You today as an imperfect, yet eagerly searching people, requesting Your presence. Your Word tells us that when we search for You with all of our hearts and minds, that we will find You. O God, our souls thirst for You like the deer thirsts for water, and we know that You delight in Your children when they seek Your face. You are a good and loving Father and none can compare to You.We haven't given You the proper place of honor in our lives. We've tried to take the lives You provided and do things our own ways. We've broken every law You provided to teach us how to love You and Your children. We are completely depraved and thoroughly disqualified in our sins. Without the intervention of Jesus Christ, we could never be in Your presence.Thank You Jesus, for taking the punishment we rightly deserve, and for dieing to pay for the debt of our sins. We can never thank You enough. Father thank You for loving us enough to allow Your only Son to take our place on that cross. Thank You for Your Word, without which, we couldn't know how wonderful You are and how much You do for the ones You love. Holy Spirit thank You for drawing us to Christ, bringing conviction without condemnation, teaching us, helping us to forgive, providing healing, comforting, teaching us patience, and offering sanctification as You walk through each step with us. God we thank You for love and truth.I pray for hearts and minds to be made new with a hunger for Jesus Christ and a distaste for sin. I pray for chains to be broken and never be put on again, for wounds to be healed, to remove the enemy's foothold and tear down strongholds. I pray that today burdens are surrendered and never picked up again. I pray that every spiritual, mental, and physical attack from the enemy will be made harmless.Every knee must bow down and worship Jesus Christ and every mouth must confess that Jesus Christ is King! Hallelujah! All praise and honor and glory belongs to the Lamb, our Savior, our Messiah, our King, our God! In Jesus's name we pray, Amen.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Do not fret over those who do evil; do not envy those who do wrong. For they wither quickly like grass and wilt like tender plants. Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will do it. He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn, your justice like the noonday sun. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him; do not fret when men prosper in their ways, when they carry out wicked schemes. Refrain from anger and abandon wrath; do not fret—it can only bring harm. For the evildoers will be cut off, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land. Yet a little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found. But the meek will inherit the land and delight in abundant prosperity. The wicked scheme against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them, but the Lord laughs, seeing that their day is coming. The wicked have drawn the sword and bent the bow to bring down the poor and needy, to slay those whose ways are upright. But their swords will pierce their own hearts, and their bows will be broken. Better is the little of the righteous than the abundance of many who are wicked. For the arms of the wicked will be broken, but the Lord upholds the righteous. The Lord knows the days of the blameless, and their inheritance will last forever. In the time of evil they will not be ashamed, and in the days of famine they will be satisfied. But the wicked and enemies of the Lord will perish like the glory of the fields. They will vanish; like smoke they will fade away. The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous are gracious and giving. Surely those He blesses will inherit the land, but the cursed will be destroyed. The steps of a man are ordered by the Lord who takes delight in his journey. Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, for the Lord is holding his hand. I once was young and now am old, yet never have I seen the righteous abandoned or their children begging for bread. They are ever generous and quick to lend, and their children are a blessing. Turn away from evil and do good, so that you will abide forever. For the Lord loves justice and will not forsake His saints. They are preserved forever, but the offspring of the wicked will be cut off. The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever. The mouth of the righteous man utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice. The law of his God is in his heart; his steps do not falter. Though the wicked lie in wait for the righteous, and seek to slay them, the Lord will not leave them in their power or let them be condemned under judgment. Wait for the Lord and keep His way, and He will raise you up to inherit the land. When the wicked are cut off, you will see it. I have seen a wicked, ruthless man flourishing like a well-rooted native tree, yet he passed away and was no more; though I searched, he could not be found. Consider the blameless and observe the upright, for posterity awaits the man of peace. But the transgressors will all be destroyed; the future of the wicked will be cut off. The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; He is their stronghold in time of trouble. The Lord helps and delivers them; He rescues and saves them from the wicked, because they take refuge in Him.Psalms 37:1-40 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.37.1-40.BSB--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
1 Corinthians 9:Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you yourselves not my workmanship in the Lord? Even if I am not an apostle to others, surely I am to you. For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord. This is my defense to those who scrutinize me: Have we no right to food and to drink? Have we no right to take along a believing wife, as do the other apostles and the Lord’s brothers and Cephas? Or are Barnabas and I the only apostles who must work for a living? Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat of its fruit? Who tends a flock and does not drink of its milk? Do I say this from a human perspective? Doesn’t the Law say the same thing? For it is written in the Law of Moses: “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.” Is it about oxen that God is concerned? Isn’t He actually speaking on our behalf? Indeed, this was written for us, because when the plowman plows and the thresher threshes, they should also expect to share in the harvest. If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much for us to reap a material harvest from you? If others have this right to your support, shouldn’t we have it all the more? But we did not exercise this right. Instead, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ. Do you not know that those who work in the temple eat of its food, and those who serve at the altar partake of its offerings? In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel. But I have not used any of these rights. And I am not writing this to suggest that something be done for me. Indeed, I would rather die than let anyone nullify my boast. Yet when I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because I am obligated to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! If my preaching is voluntary, I have a reward. But if it is not voluntary, I am still entrusted with a responsibility. What then is my reward? That in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not use up my rights in preaching it. Though I am free of obligation to anyone, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), to win those under the law. To those without the law I became like one without the law (though I am not outside the law of God but am under the law of Christ), to win those without the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings. Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize. Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable. Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air. No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.1 Corinthians 9:1-27 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/1co.9.1-27.BSB--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, rolled away the stone, and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards trembled in fear of him and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said! Come, see the place where He lay. Then go quickly and tell His disciples, ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him.’ See, I have told you.” So they hurried away from the tomb in fear and great joy, and ran to tell His disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” They came to Him, grasped His feet, and worshiped Him. “Do not be afraid,” said Jesus. “Go and tell My brothers to go to Galilee. There they will see Me.” While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests all that had happened. And after the chief priests had met with the elders and formed a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money and instructed them: “You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep.’ If this report reaches the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” So the guards took the money and did as they were instructed. And this account has been circulated among the Jews to this very day. Meanwhile, the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain Jesus had designated. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him, but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”Matthew 28:1-20 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.28.1-20.BSB--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
When morning came, all the chief priests and elders of the people conspired against Jesus to put Him to death. They bound Him, led Him away, and handed Him over to Pilate the governor. When Judas, who had betrayed Him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was filled with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders. “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood,” he said. “What is that to us?” they replied. “You bear the responsibility.” So Judas threw the silver into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself. The chief priests picked up the pieces of silver and said, “It is unlawful to put this into the treasury, since it is blood money.” After conferring together, they used the money to buy the potter’s field as a burial place for foreigners. That is why it has been called the Field of Blood to this day. Then what was spoken through Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: “They took the thirty pieces of silver, the price set on Him by the people of Israel, and they gave them for the potter’s field, as the Lord had commanded me.” Meanwhile Jesus stood before the governor, who questioned Him: “Are You the King of the Jews?” “You have said so,” Jesus replied. And when He was accused by the chief priests and elders, He gave no answer. Then Pilate asked Him, “Do You not hear how many charges they are bringing against You?” But Jesus gave no answer, not even to a single charge, much to the governor’s amazement. Now it was the governor’s custom at the feast to release to the crowd a prisoner of their choosing. At that time they were holding a notorious prisoner named Barabbas. So when the crowd had assembled, Pilate asked them, “Which one do you want me to release to you: Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?” For he knew it was out of envy that they had handed Jesus over to him. While Pilate was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent him this message: “Have nothing to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered terribly in a dream today because of Him.” But the chief priests and elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus put to death. “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?” asked the governor. “Barabbas,” they replied. “What then should I do with Jesus who is called Christ?” Pilate asked. They all answered, “Crucify Him!” “Why?” asked Pilate. “What evil has He done?” But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify Him!” When Pilate saw that he was accomplishing nothing, but that instead a riot was breaking out, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd. “I am innocent of this man’s blood,” he said. “You bear the responsibility.” All the people answered, “His blood be on us and on our children!” So Pilate released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed Him over to be crucified. Then the governor’s soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company around Him. They stripped Him and put a scarlet robe on Him. And they twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on His head. They put a staff in His right hand and knelt down before Him to mock Him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” Then they spit on Him and took the staff and struck Him on the head repeatedly. After they had mocked Him, they removed the robe and put His own clothes back on Him. Then they led Him away to crucify Him. Along the way they found a man from Cyrene, named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross of Jesus. And when they came to a place called Golgotha, which means The Place of the Skull, they offered Him wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, He refused to drink it. When they had crucified Him, they divided up His garments by casting lots. And sitting down, they kept watch over Him there. Above His head they posted the written charge against Him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS. Two robbers were crucified with Him, one on His right hand and the other on His left. And those who passed by heaped abuse on Him...--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
When Jesus had finished saying all these things, He told His disciples, “You know that the Passover is two days away, and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.” At that time the chief priests and elders of the people assembled in the courtyard of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, and they conspired to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him. “But not during the feast,” they said, “or there may be a riot among the people.” While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came to Him with an alabaster jar of expensive perfume, which she poured on His head as He reclined at the table. When the disciples saw this, they were indignant and asked, “Why this waste? This perfume could have been sold at a high price, and the money given to the poor.” Aware of this, Jesus asked, “Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful deed to Me. The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have Me. By pouring this perfume on Me, she has prepared My body for burial. Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached in all the world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.” Then one of the Twelve, the one called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?” And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver. So from then on Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus. On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?” He answered, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him that the Teacher says, ‘My time is near. I will keep the Passover with My disciples at your house.’” So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover. When evening came, Jesus was reclining with the twelve disciples. And while they were eating, He said to them, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray Me.” They were deeply grieved and began to ask Him one after another, “Surely not I, Lord?” Jesus answered, “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with Me will betray Me. The Son of Man will go just as it is written about Him, but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed. It would be better for him if he had not been born.” Then Judas, who would betray Him, said, “Surely not I, Rabbi?” Jesus answered, “You have said it yourself.” While they were eating, Jesus took bread, spoke a blessing and broke it, and gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is My body.” Then He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in My Father’s kingdom.” And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. Then Jesus said to them, “This very night you will all fall away on account of Me. For it is written: ‘I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.” Peter said to Him, “Even if all fall away on account of You, I never will.” “Truly I tell you,” Jesus declared, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” Peter replied, “Even if I have to die with You, I will never deny You.” And all the other disciples said the same thing. At that time Jesus went with His disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and He told them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee and began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. Then He said to them, “My soul is consumed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with Me.” Going a little farther, He fell facedown and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will.” Then Jesus returned..--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
Father, I have a problem. It's weighing heavy on me. It's all I can think about night and day. Before I bring it to You in prayer, I suppose I should pray for those who are less fortunate than me. Those in this world who have hardly enough food for this day and for those who don't have a roof over their heads. I also pray for families who have lost loved ones in sudden death, for parents whose children have leukemia, for the many people who are dying of brain tumors, the hundreds of thousands who are laid waste with other terrible cancers, for people whose bodies have been suddenly shattered in car wrecks, for those who are lying in hospital with agonizing burns over their bodies, whose faces have been burned beyond recognition. I pray for people with emphysema, whose eyes fill with terror as they struggle for every breath, merely to live, for those who are tormented beyond words by irrational fears, for the elderly who are wracked with the pains of aging, whose only escape is death. I pray for people who are watching their loved ones fade before their eyes through the grief of Alzheimer's disease, for the many thousands who are suffering the agony of AIDS, for those in such despair they're about to commit suicide, for people who are tormented by the demons of alcoholism and drug addiction. I pray for children who have been abandoned by their parents, for those who are sexually abused, for wives held in quiet despair, beaten and abused by cruel and drunken husbands, for people whose minds have been destroyed by mental disorders, for those who have lost everything in floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, and earthquakes. I pray for the blind, who never see the faces of the ones they love, or the beauty of a sunrise, for those whose bodies are horribly deformed by painful arthritis, for the many whose lives will be taken from them today by murderers, for those wasting away on their deathbeds in hospitals. Most of all I cry out for the millions who don't know the forgiveness that's in Jesus Christ, for those who in a moment of time will be swept into hell by the cold hand of death and find to their utter horror the unspeakable vengeance of eternal fire. They will be eternally damned to everlasting punishment. O God, I pray for them... Strange, I can't seem to remember what my problem was... In Jesus's name I pray, Amen.May God help each of us to keep in perspective that which comes our way and to never lose sight of the great commission that God has entrusted to us.Let's bow in prayer shall we.Father, we really need You to work in our hearts. Today we do acknowledge that it's so easy to be luke warm, to just have a form of godliness, to come to church on Sundays, and read the Bible now and then during the week. We pray that the zeal for Your house would eat us up. We present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to you, which is a reasonable service. Father, we pray that we will be imitators of Paul who said to imitate him as he imitated Christ. May the zeal of God's house eat us up as it ate Paul. We pray that You would give us eyes to see the harvest fields. Pray that You would cause our consciences to be tender and that we would take advantage of the great weapons that You've given to us that are mighty through God at the pulling down of strongholds. You'd help us to use your law and to see sinners' consciences resurrected. They might speak to sinners, warn them to flee from the wrath that is to come, to submit ourselves afresh to you this day. In Jesus's name we pray, Amen.Audio excerpt is from "A Raven, a Whip, and a Stone", in which Ray Comfort reads from his book: Life Liberty and the Pursuit of Righteousness.Audio from:https://soundcloud.com/livingwaterspub--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
History and Authenticity of the Bible is a study series by David Hocking, provided on Blue Letter Bible Institute, at the website: https://Study.BibleBlue Letter Bible Institute, with permission from the author, shares the audio and transcripts of the courses. The audio quality was sometimes difficult for me to hear. The audio I'm sharing here, was created by using the transcripts of David Hocking's lectures. I put the text through a text to speech program. I made these audio files for my personal use, but I believe that it can be beneficial for others too.Regarding permissions: I have reached out to Blue Letter Bible Institute regarding permission to share this, but they referred me to the author. I requested permission multiple times by means of different email addresses associated with David's ministry, but I didn't get a response from Mr Hocking. If you know Mr Hocking and he doesn't want me sharing this, please let me know and I will take it down immediately. I do not use ads or accept donations. I only want to further the kingdom.The following description is from the Blue Letter Bible Institute website: History and Authenticity of the BibleOverviewThis course was taught during twenty-five classroom sessions with the purpose of instructing Bible college students in topics such as the inspiration, the inerrancy, and the authority of God’s Word. The instructor examines how the Bible was written over centuries of time and how it has been preserved by the Author Himself. He explains the process of translations from the original languages; the importance of canonicity; the issues of textual criticism; and the principles of interpretation. This informative series will elicit bold confidence in the inerrant & infallible Word of God. Ages ago someone wisely said, “We cannot dispense with a single word of Holy Writ; the removal of a part would mar the completeness and connection of the whole. Absolutely perfect are the proportions of God’s inspired truth.” That view of the Bible is strictly adhered to in this course taught by David Hocking. It is available through the text or the audio version, and we encourage you to enroll today. David Hocking has been preaching and teaching the Bible for over 50 years and is committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. He has pastored churches in Ohio and Southern California, and has been teaching on the radio since 1970. David attended Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated with a B.A. in Bible, Greek, and Ancient History. After college David attended Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he received his Master of Divinity degree in Biblical Studies. David also continued graduate studies and received a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Ph.D. degree in Biblical Studies and languages and a Doctor of Laws degree, being honored by Biola University.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ubtc/message
The Zen TV Experiment Written by Adbusters in May 2002 and pinched from adbusters.org.How Many of You Know How to Watch Television?“How many of you know how to watch television?” I asked my class one day. After a few bewildered and silent moments, slowly, one by one, everyone haltingly raised their hands. We soon acknowledged that we were all “experts,” as Harold Garfinkel would say, in the practice of “watching television.”The purpose of our un-TV experiment was to provoke us into seeing television as opposed to merely looking, and to stop the world as the first step to seeing. Here we engage in stopping the world by stopping the television.For the experiment, students were asked to watch TV consciously. Insofar as this is sort of “Zen and the art of TV watching,” I said to them, “I want you to watch TV with acute awareness, mindfulness and precision. This experiment is about observing television scientifically, with Beginner's Mind, rather than watching television passively with programmed mind. Ordinarily, if you are watching TV you can't also observe and experience the experience of watching TV. When we watch TV we rarely pay attention to the details of the event. In fact, we rarely pay attention.”Count the Technical EventsIn this particular experimental odyssey, we are going to be exploring how we subject ourselves on a daily basis to the overwhelming sirens' song of TV entertainment (the great electronic cyclops) and, like Homer's Odysseus, we will need to strap ourselves to the mast–in this case, the mast of counting technical events. For 10 minutes simply count the technical events that occur while you are watching any show. This is a TET or Technical Events Test as Jerry Mander discusses it in Four Arguments for the Elimination of Television. What is a technical event? We've all seen TV cameras in banks and jewelry stores. A stationary video camera simply recording what's in front of it is what I will call “pure TV.” Anything other than pure TV is a technical event: the camera zooms up, that's a technical event; you are watching someone's profile talking and suddenly you are switched to another person responding, that's a technical event; a car is driving down the road and you also hear music playing, that's a technical event. Simply count the number of times there is a cut, zoom, superimposition, voice-over, appearance of words on the screen, fade in/out, etc.Now proceed with these experiments:Watch any TV show for 15 minutes without turning on the sound.Watch any news program for 15 minutes without turning on the sound.Watch television for one half hour without turning it on.The time requirements in these experiments are extremely important. I would urge you, the reader, to undertake the experiment personally rather than merely going on to read the results.Anger and Resistance: What's the Meaning of This?!In examining the results of this experiment, one of the first things that consistently comes up is students' anger and resentment at being made to do such a thing–an anger and resentment very different from what comes up, say, in regard to the reading load or the writing requirements of the course. This anger, I think, is quite good and useful–not per se, but insofar as students notice their anger and then inquire into and examine the sources of that anger. For, in studying society, we often unconsciously assume we are studying “them”–but we are not. We are studying ourselves and we resist that, we dislike that. It makes us uncomfortable and it makes us angry. Socrates wasn't given a medal and a tickertape parade after all. As the Russian existentialist philosopher Shestov said, “It is not man who pursues truth, but truth man.”One expression of this anger that comes up repeatedly is “I wasted 30 minutes of my time.” Is it possible that this is a very valuable waste of time? Is it possible that “wasting time” is a very valuable thing to do in studying society? Pursuing this experien
When I converted the Berean Bible to speech, there was not an audiobook version available. Since text to speech is better than nothing, I thought this was a good place holder. I'm happy to say that there are spoken audio versions available now. I would highly recommend going to the official site and finding the tools that work for you. The text and audio can be found at https://berean.bible or https://audiobible.org
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
Once again, Jesus spoke to the people and said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life."Today’s Scripture is from: John 8But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Early in the morning He went back into the temple courts. All the people came to Him, and He sat down to teach them. The scribes and Pharisees, however, brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before them and said, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such a woman. So what do You say?” They said this to test Him, in order to have a basis for accusing Him. But Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with His finger. When they continued to question Him, He straightened up and said to them, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to cast a stone at her.” And again He bent down and wrote on the ground. When they heard this, they began to go away one by one, beginning with the older ones, until only Jesus was left, with the woman standing there. Then Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are your accusers? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, Lord,” she answered. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Now go and sin no more.” Once again, Jesus spoke to the people and said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.” So the Pharisees said to Him, “You are testifying about Yourself; Your testimony is not valid.” Jesus replied, “Even if I testify about Myself, My testimony is valid, because I know where I came from and where I am going. But you do not know where I came from or where I am going. You judge according to the flesh; I judge no one. But even if I do judge, My judgment is true, because I am not alone; I am with the Father who sent Me. Even in your own Law it is written that the testimony of two men is valid. I am One who testifies about Myself, and the Father, who sent Me, also testifies about Me.” “Where is Your Father?” they asked Him. “You do not know Me or My Father,” Jesus answered. “If you knew Me, you would know My Father as well.” He spoke these words while teaching in the temple courts, near the treasury. Yet no one seized Him, because His hour had not yet come. Again He said to them, “I am going away, and you will look for Me, but you will die in your sin. Where I am going, you cannot come.” So the Jews began to ask, “Will He kill Himself, since He says, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come’?” Then He told them, “You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. That is why I told you that you would die in your sins. For unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” “Who are You?” they asked. “Just what I have been telling you from the beginning,” Jesus replied. “I have much to say about you and much to judge. But the One who sent Me is truthful, and what I have heard from Him, I tell the world.” They did not understand that He was telling them about the Father. So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and that I do nothing on My own, but speak exactly what the Father has taught Me. He who sent Me is with Me. He has not left Me alone, because I always do what pleases Him.” As Jesus spoke these things, many believed in Him. So He said to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” “We are Abraham’s descendants,” they answered. “We have never been slaves to anyone. How can You say we will be set free?” Jesus replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. I know you are Abraham’s descendants, but you are trying to kill Me because My
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
Today’s Scripture is from: Hebrews 11Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. This is why the ancients were commended. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous when God gave approval to his gifts. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he did not see death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in godly fear built an ark to save his family. By faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, without knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the promised land as a stranger in a foreign country. He lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. By faith Sarah, even though she was barren and beyond the proper age, was enabled to conceive a child, because she considered Him faithful who had promised. And so from one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. All these people died in faith, without having received the things they were promised. However, they saw them and welcomed them from afar. And they acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. Now those who say such things show that they are seeking a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them. By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac on the altar. He who had received the promises was ready to offer his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “Through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned.” Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and in a sense, he did receive Isaac back from death. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning the future. By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his bones. By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after his birth, because they saw that he was a beautiful child, and they were unafraid of the king’s edict. By faith Moses, when he was grown, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to suffer oppression with God’s people rather than to experience the fleeting enjoyment of sin. He valued disgrace for Christ above the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his reward. By faith Moses left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw Him who is invisible. By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch Israel’s own firstborn. By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to follow, they were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days. By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies in peace, did not perish with those who were d
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
A voice of one calling: “Prepare the way for the Lord in the wilderness; make a straight highway for our God in the desert.Today’s Scripture is from: Isaiah 40“Comfort, comfort My people,” says your God. “Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her forced labor has been completed; her iniquity has been pardoned. For she has received from the hand of the Lord double for all her sins.” A voice of one calling: “Prepare the way for the Lord in the wilderness; make a straight highway for our God in the desert. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill made low; the uneven ground will become smooth, and the rugged land a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all humanity together will see it. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” A voice says, “Cry out!” And I asked, “What should I cry out?” “All flesh is like grass, and all its glory like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall when the breath of the Lord blows on them; indeed, the people are grass. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.” Go up on a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good news. Raise your voice loudly, O Jerusalem, herald of good news. Lift it up, do not be afraid! Say to the cities of Judah, “Here is your God!” Behold, the Lord GOD comes with might, and His arm establishes His rule. His reward is with Him, and His recompense accompanies Him. He tends His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart. He gently leads the nursing ewes. Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or marked off the heavens with the span of his hand? Who has held the dust of the earth in a basket, or weighed the mountains on a scale and the hills with a balance? Who has directed the Spirit of the Lord, or informed Him as His counselor? Whom did He consult to enlighten Him, and who taught Him the paths of justice? Who imparted knowledge to Him and showed Him the way of understanding? Surely the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are considered a speck of dust on the scales; He lifts up the islands like fine dust. Lebanon is not sufficient for fuel, nor its animals enough for a burnt offering. All the nations are as nothing before Him; He regards them as nothingness and emptiness. To whom will you liken God? To what image will you compare Him? To an idol that a craftsman casts and a metalworker overlays with gold and fits with silver chains? To one bereft of an offering who chooses wood that will not rot, who seeks a skilled craftsman to set up an idol that will not topple? Do you not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been declared to you from the beginning? Have you not understood since the foundation of the earth? He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth; its dwellers are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them out like a tent to dwell in. He brings the princes to nothing and makes the rulers of the earth meaningless. No sooner are they planted, no sooner are they sown, no sooner have their stems taken root in the ground, than He blows on them and they wither, and a whirlwind sweeps them away like stubble. “To whom will you liken Me, or who is My equal?” asks the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high: Who created all these? He leads forth the starry host by number; He calls each one by name. Because of His great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing. Why do you say, O Jacob, and why do you assert, O Israel, “My way is hidden from the Lord, and my claim is ignored by my God”? Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary; His understanding is beyond searching out. He gives power to the faint and increases the strength of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall. But those who wait upon the Lord will renew their stre
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
Today’s Scripture is from: Numbers 6Then the Lord said to Moses, “Tell Aaron and his sons: This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them: ‘May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up His countenance toward you and give you peace.’ So they shall put My name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.”Numbers 6:22-27 BSBhttps://bible.com/bible/3034/num.6.22-27.BSBToday’s Devotional from YouVersion is: A Prayer of BlessingThe Old Testament is full of various types of prayers. There are prayers of blessings, which requests good on someone’s behalf, and prayers of vindication, which seeks harm for someone who does something unjust. Numbers 6:24-26 is a specific prayer of blessing that was said on Aaron’s behalf, as he was the priest for the nation of Israel.This blessing represents an ideal condition for someone who follows God. The first part of the blessing is for protection. Because God is all-powerful, He is our ultimate Protector. He is the only one who can truly protect us from evil.The second part is a prayer for grace from God. For God’s face to shine upon someone is for the favor of God to be on them. But for this to happen, we need to be in relationship with God. We ought to spend time with God each day learning from Him and receiving grace from Him through His Spirit.The last part of the blessing is for God’s face to turn towards us. This means that God is looking out for our good. When God is watching over us, protecting us, and giving us the gift of His presence, we can truly be at peace. There is nothing we can do to earn God’s favor because He gives it freely.The primary way that God blesses us today is through a relationship with Jesus. When we have faith in Jesus, our future is eternally secure in Him. After we begin a relationship with Jesus, the Holy Spirit lives within us and empowers our new life. God’s grace, favor, and protection are all available to us.Take some time to pray this prayer of blessing from the book of Numbers over yourself. Then pray this prayer over someone else. Thank God for His favor on your life and the gift of salvation. Thank Him for being your protector and provider through every season of your life.Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer of Thanks for God’s BlessingsGod, thank You for blessing me and for always keeping me near You. Thank You for looking upon me with delight and love. Thank You for showing me mercy. Thank You for seeing me through every challenge and bringing me peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Have a Blessed Day‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions. “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
The Holy Bible, Berean Reader’s Bible, Copyright © 2020 by Bible Hub. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Free Licensing for use in Websites, Apps, Software, and Audio: https://berean.bible/licensing.htm
Generous permissions for print use are also available. See https://berean.bible/terms.htm for terms and conditions.
“Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11
Introduction from UnitedbytheCross.org
Welcome to the Berean Reader's Bible. At the time this is being made, there is no official audio version of the Berean Bible. I split the txt version of the Berean Reader's Bible into books, and then into chapters. I used a text to speech program to make this text accessible for people who need an audio version. I want to thank the team involved with making the Berean Bible series, because it is difficult to find modern english translations, with so little restriction on use.
“Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you"
I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed.
Today’s Scripture is from: Psalms 34
I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips. My soul boasts in the Lord; let the oppressed hear and rejoice. Magnify the Lord with me; let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed. This poor man called out, and the Lord heard him; He saved him from all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them. Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! Fear the Lord, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing. Young lions go lacking and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Who is the man who delights in life, who desires to see good days? Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech. Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to wipe out all memory of them from the earth. The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears; He delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him from them all. He protects all his bones; not one of them will be broken. Evil will slay the wicked, and the haters of the righteous will be condemned. The Lord redeems His servants, and none who take refuge in Him will be condemned. Psalms 34 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.34.1-22.BSB
Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer Against Anxiety
God, sometimes, it’s hard for me to turn to You when I’m afraid, but I trust that You will answer me when I seek You. I know You hear my anxious thoughts—I give them to You. Please give me peace in return, and help me to trust Your control. No matter what happens in my life, I trust that You and Your plans are good. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You.
Today’s Scripture is from: Isaiah 26
In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: We have a strong city; salvation is established as its walls and ramparts. Open the gates so a righteous nation may enter— one that remains faithful. You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, because GOD the Lord is the Rock eternal. For He has humbled those who dwell on high; He lays the lofty city low. He brings it down to the ground; He casts it into the dust. Feet trample it down— the feet of the oppressed, the steps of the poor. The path of the righteous is level; You clear a straight path for the upright. Yes, we wait for You, O Lord; we walk in the path of Your judgments. Your name and renown are the desire of our souls. My soul longs for You in the night; indeed, my spirit seeks You at dawn. For when Your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness. Though grace is shown to the wicked man, he does not learn righteousness. In the land of righteousness he acts unjustly and fails to see the majesty of the Lord. O Lord, Your hand is upraised, but they do not see it. They will see Your zeal for Your people and be put to shame. The fire set for Your enemies will consume them! O Lord, You will establish peace for us. For all that we have accomplished, You have done for us. O Lord our God, other Lords besides You have had dominion, but Your name alone do we confess. The dead will not live; the departed spirits will not rise. Therefore You have punished and destroyed them; You have wiped out all memory of them. You have enlarged the nation, O Lord; You have enlarged the nation. You have gained glory for Yourself; You have extended all the borders of the land. O Lord, they sought You in their distress; when You disciplined them, they poured out a quiet prayer. As a woman with child about to give birth writhes and cries out in pain, so were we in Your presence, O Lord. We were with child; we writhed in pain; but we gave birth to wind. We have given no salvation to the earth, nor brought any life into the world. Your dead will live; their bodies will rise. Awake and sing, you who dwell in the dust! For your dew is like the dew of the morning, and the earth will bring forth her dead. Go, my people, enter your rooms and shut your doors behind you. Hide yourselves a little while until the wrath has passed. For behold, the Lord is coming out of His dwelling to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity. The earth will reveal her bloodshed and will no longer conceal her slain. Isaiah 26:1-21 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/isa.26.1-21.BSB
Today’s Devotional from YouVersion is: The Power of Thinking
Your thoughts are some of the most powerful things about you. Thoughts can actually make you more anxious, happy, fearful, or content. And what you spend time thinking about has the power to affect your emotions, your actions, and ultimately—your character. Scripture has a lot to say about our thoughts because God knows the power of our minds. Isaiah 26:3 says that God will keep our hearts in perfect peace if we keep our minds fixed on Him. Can you imagine that? Perfect peace. The more time we spend focusing our thoughts on God and His Word, the more our hearts will be kept in peace. That is a powerful thought, especially in a world that is constantly looking for peace and unity. The starting point for this peace is trusting God. We must come to Him trusting in who He is, and having faith in what He has done for us. We know that God is good and just. So if we have faith in Him, we know that we are accepted and loved by Him. And those who trust in God are given access to Him and His presence. Perfect peace is available to those who consistently trust in God, and fix their thoughts on Him. What does it mean to keep your mi
The Law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is trustworthy, making wise the simple.
Today’s Scripture is from: Psalms 19
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. Without speech or language, without a sound to be heard, their voice has gone out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens He has pitched a tent for the sun. Like a bridegroom emerging from his chamber, like a champion rejoicing to run his course, it rises at one end of the heavens and runs its circuit to the other; nothing is deprived of its warmth. The Law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart; the commandments of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the judgments of the Lord are true, being altogether righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. By them indeed Your servant is warned; in keeping them is great reward. Who can discern his own errors? Cleanse me from my hidden faults. Keep Your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then I will be blameless and cleansed of great transgression. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalms 19:1-14 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.19.1-14.BSB
Today’s Prayer is: Trusting God’s Law
God, I trust that Your law is perfect. I may not always understand Your ways, but I know You care about my well-being and You have my best interest in mind. Encourage me each day to stay within the boundaries You have set for me, and help me to remember that You know more than I do—You are God and I am not. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Today’s Scripture is from: Galatians 6
Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own work. Then he will have reason to boast in himself alone, and not in someone else. For each one should carry his own load. Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor. Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return. The one who sows to please his flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; but the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith. See what large letters I am using to write to you with my own hand! Those who want to make a good impression outwardly are trying to compel you to be circumcised. They only do this to avoid persecution for the cross of Christ. For the circumcised do not even keep the law themselves, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. But as for me, may I never boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything. What counts is a new creation. Peace and mercy to all who walk by this rule, even to the Israel of God. From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen. Galatians 6:1-18 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/gal.6.1-18.BSB
Courtesy of YouVersion
Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for Endurance
God, help me to never become tired of doing good things. As I grow closer to You, give me the endurance to serve and love others no matter how I’m feeling. I want to bring those around me closer to You—so please help me to act more like You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
Give us this day our daily bread.
Today’s Scripture is from: Matthew 6
And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not babble on like pagans, for they think that by their many words they will be heard. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. So then, this is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’ For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive yours. Matthew 6:5-15 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.6.5-15.BSB
Today’s Devotional from YouVersion is: God Is Our Provider
In Matthew 6, Jesus’ disciples ask Him how they should pray. So Jesus teaches them a very simple prayer that covers the basic areas of life. Jesus’ model for prayer orients our hearts toward God and His kingdom work on earth. And in the middle of that prayer, Jesus prays, “Give us today our daily bread.”
What Jesus is showing us is this: God wants us to bring everything to Him in prayer—even the small things. God cares about us and our needs.
This prayer also points out that it is God who gives us good things and provides for us. While it may seem like we earn our own basic necessities, it is actually God who gives us our breath and our ability to work and earn a wage. God even created the very food that we eat.
Everything we have comes from God. That means we can spend time in prayer thanking Him for what He has given us, and talking to Him about our needs.
What’s significant is that Jesus doesn’t ask for God to provide His needs for tomorrow or next week —He only asks for His needs today. Our whole life can change in an instant, and things we’ve stored up for years can be taken away. But Jesus teaches us to depend on God to meet our needs day by day. Dependence on God takes trust—but when we trust in Him, we end up living by God’s power and provision rather than our own.
Take some time today and thank God for what He has given you. Thank Him for taking care of your basic needs each and every day, and ask God to continue to meet your needs each and every day. Consider how you can live with an increasing awareness of God as your provider. He loves you and cares for you.
Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for God’s Provision
God, thank You for caring about my needs and for promising to be my provider. I’m grateful that You are my loving Father—and You care about my well-being. Please sustain me and my loved ones, guide my decision-making, and provide me with ideas and dreams. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.
Today’s Scripture is from: Ecclesiastes 4
Again I looked, and I considered all the oppression taking place under the sun. I saw the tears of the oppressed, and they had no comforter; the power lay in the hands of their oppressors, and there was no comforter. So I admired the dead, who had already died, above the living, who are still alive. But better than both is he who has not yet existed, who has not seen the evil that is done under the sun. I saw that all labor and success spring from a man’s envy of his neighbor. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind. The fool folds his hands and consumes his own flesh. Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and pursuit of the wind. Again, I saw futility under the sun. There is a man all alone, without even a son or brother. And though there is no end to his labor, his eyes are still not content with his wealth: “For whom do I toil and bereave my soul of enjoyment?” This too is futile—a miserable task. Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. For if one falls down, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up! Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? And though one may be overpowered, two can resist. Moreover, a cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Better is a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to take a warning. For the youth has come from the prison to the kingship, though he was born poor in his own kingdom. I saw that all who lived and walked under the sun followed this second one, the youth who succeeded the king. There is no limit to all the people who were before them. Yet the successor will not be celebrated by those who come even later. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind. Ecclesiastes 4:1-16 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/ecc.4.1-16.BSB
Today’s Devotional from YouVersion is: Made For Community
Have you ever worked in a group with other people who only slowed down your progress? A lot of people actually prefer working alone so that they can manage priorities the way they want. While this may be a good method in some cases, it’s not usually the best way to live.
From the very beginning of creation, God created us to be in relationship with other people. We are created for community and friendship, and God intended for us to work together and help each other through life.
And yet— a lot of people live their life in isolation from others. They believe that as long as they have Jesus, they don’t need anybody else. But you and Jesus can’t make it through life alone. You were created to share life with others.
The writer of Ecclesiastes tells us that there are many things that one person cannot do alone. We need others to help us when we fall. We need others to encourage us when we’re down. We need people to accomplish tasks in life that are greater than us.
Most people who have gone through difficult seasons of life wish there had been someone to walk alongside them. We long for connection and community.
This is how God designed us—we were created to share the burdens of life together.
God created the Church to be a community of people who all love God and love others. When we find community within the people of God, we will also find people who can walk through life together with us. You don’t have to walk through life alone—God has provided other people to help you along. And you are also called to help those in your life.
Take some time today to thank God for the friends and community He has given you. Thank God for each of them by name. As they come to mind, be sure to let them know that you appreciate their friendship in your life. Seek out ways that you can continue to build a healthy community of friends.
Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for Community
He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son
Today’s Scripture is from: Colossians 1
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae: Grace and peace to you from God our Father. We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and your love for all the saints— the faith and love proceeding from the hope stored up for you in heaven, of which you have already heard in the word of truth, the gospel that has come to you. All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood the grace of God. You learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, and who also informed us of your love in the Spirit. For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have full endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:1-14 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/col.1.1-14.BSB
Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for Freedom
God, thank You for rescuing me from darkness and evil. I am so grateful You have made me a citizen of Your kingdom. Help me to remember the freedom I have with You when I face hard situations. I believe You have the ability to change circumstances for the better. Through every challenge I face, I ask that You will free me from worry and fear and bring me Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing.
Today’s Scripture is from: Psalms 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalms 23:1-6 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.23.1-6.BSB
Today’s Prayer is: God is My Shepherd
God, thank You for being my Shepherd. I know with You, I lack nothing. I’m grateful I can trust You with my worries, and I can be at peace knowing You are in control. Thank You for guiding me through each day of my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.
Today’s Scripture is from: Romans 8
I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will, but because of the One who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time. Not only that, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved; but hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he can already see? But if we hope for what we do not yet see, we wait for it patiently. In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know how we ought to pray, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans too deep for words. And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. Romans 8:18-27 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/rom.8.18-27.BSB
Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer to Endure Hardship
God, I know I will face troubles in this world, but I also know You are in control. In all circumstances, help me to remember Your promises, and remind me of the beautiful eternity with You that I will have. Thank You for being with me during hardship. Today, please give me the courage and strength I need to stand firm in my faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.
Today’s Scripture is from: Hebrews 11
Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. This is why the ancients were commended. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous when God gave approval to his gifts. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he did not see death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in godly fear built an ark to save his family. By faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, without knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the promised land as a stranger in a foreign country. He lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. By faith Sarah, even though she was barren and beyond the proper age, was enabled to conceive a child, because she considered Him faithful who had promised. And so from one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. All these people died in faith, without having received the things they were promised. However, they saw them and welcomed them from afar. And they acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. Now those who say such things show that they are seeking a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them. By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac on the altar. He who had received the promises was ready to offer his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “Through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned.” Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and in a sense, he did receive Isaac back from death. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning the future. By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his bones. By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after his birth, because they saw that he was a beautiful child, and they were unafraid of the king’s edict. By faith Moses, when he was grown, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to suffer oppression with God’s people rather than to experience the fleeting enjoyment of sin. He valued disgrace for Christ above the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his reward. By faith Moses left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw Him who is invisible. By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch Israel’s own firstborn. By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to follow, they were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days. By faith the prostitute Rahab, bec
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
Today’s Scripture is from: Colossians 3
Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience. When you lived among them, you also used to walk in these ways. But now you must put aside all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to one another, since you have taken off the old self with its practices, and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, or free, but Christ is all and is in all. Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they will not become discouraged. Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything, not only to please them while they are watching, but with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Whoever does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism. Colossians 3:1-25 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/col.3.1-25.BSB Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer to Honor God with My Life
God, with everything I do, I want to honor You. You have given me my life and all that I have. You inspire me with ideas, words, and actions. Help me to humble myself, and to not take credit for what You’ve done in my life. Thank You for wanting to use me to accomplish Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
For the gospel reveals the righteousness of God that comes by faith from start to finish, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”
Today’s Scripture is from: Romans 1
Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God— the gospel He promised beforehand through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures, regarding His Son, who was a descendant of David according to the flesh, and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord. Through Him and on behalf of His name, we received grace and apostleship to call all those among the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being proclaimed all over the world. God, whom I serve with my spirit in preaching the gospel of His Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you in my prayers at all times, asking that now at last by God’s will I may succeed in coming to you. For I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you, that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith. I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, how often I planned to come to you (but have been prevented from visiting until now), in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles. I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome. I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek. For the gospel reveals the righteousness of God that comes by faith from start to finish, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness. For what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse. For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images of mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles. Therefore God gave them over in the desires of their hearts to impurity for the dishonoring of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is forever worthy of praise! Amen. For this reason God gave them over to dishonorable passions. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. Likewise, the men abandoned natural relations with women and burned with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their error. Furthermore, since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, He gave them up to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed, and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant, and boastful. They invent new forms of evil; they disobey their parents. They are senseless, faithless, heartless, merciless. Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things are worthy of death, they not only co
Love takes no pleasure in evil, but rejoices in the truth.
Today’s Scripture is from: 1 Corinthians 13
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have absolute faith so as to move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and exult in the surrender of my body, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs. Love takes no pleasure in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be restrained; where there is knowledge, it will be dismissed. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial passes away. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I set aside childish ways. Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/1co.13.1-13.BSB Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for Loving Others Better
God, because You love me, I want to love others better. Sometimes I compare myself to those around me and I find it hard to be happy when they receive a blessing. In those moments, help me to remember that I’m blessed and created uniquely. Regardless of how I feel, help me to love them well. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
Today’s Scripture is from: Matthew 10
And calling His twelve disciples to Him, Jesus gave them authority over unclean spirits, so that they could drive them out and heal every disease and sickness. These are the names of the twelve apostles: first Simon, called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus. These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: “Do not go onto the road of the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. As you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give. Do not carry any gold or silver or copper in your belts. Take no bag for the road, or second tunic, or sandals, or staff; for the worker is worthy of his provisions. Whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy there and stay at his house until you move on. As you enter the home, greet its occupants. If the home is worthy, let your peace rest on it; but if it is not, let your peace return to you. And if anyone will not welcome you or heed your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town. Truly I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town. Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. But beware of men; for they will hand you over to their councils and flog you in their synagogues. On My account, you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. But when they hand you over, do not worry about how to respond or what to say. In that hour you will be given what to say. For it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rise against their parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of My name, but the one who perseveres to the end will be saved. When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next. Truly I tell you, you will not reach all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes. A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for a disciple to be like his teacher, and a servant like his master. If the head of the house has been called Beelzebul, how much more the members of his household! So do not be afraid of them. For there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, and nothing hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the housetops. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father in heaven. Do not assume that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn ‘a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. A man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.’ Anyone who loves his father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me; and anyone
Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him from them all.
Today’s Scripture is from: Psalms 34
I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips. My soul boasts in the Lord; let the oppressed hear and rejoice. Magnify the Lord with me; let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed. This poor man called out, and the Lord heard him; He saved him from all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them. Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! Fear the Lord, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing. Young lions go lacking and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Who is the man who delights in life, who desires to see good days? Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech. Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to wipe out all memory of them from the earth. The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears; He delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him from them all. He protects all his bones; not one of them will be broken. Evil will slay the wicked, and the haters of the righteous will be condemned. The Lord redeems His servants, and none who take refuge in Him will be condemned. Psalms 34:1-22 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.34.1-22.BSB Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for God’s Guidance
God, I know that in this world I will have many troubles—but I also know You are with me. I’m grateful that I can trust You to guide and protect me as I go through hard circumstances. Please give me peace during challenges, and allow me to rest with the promises You’ve made. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. Therefore my heart rejoices, and I give thanks to Him with my song. Today’s Scripture is from: Psalms 28 To You, O Lord, I call; be not deaf to me, O my Rock. For if You remain silent, I will be like those descending to the Pit. Hear my cry for mercy when I call to You for help, when I lift up my hands toward Your holy sanctuary. Do not drag me away with the wicked, and with the workers of iniquity, who speak peace to their neighbors while malice is in their hearts. Repay them according to their deeds and for their works of evil. Repay them for what their hands have done; bring back on them what they deserve. Since they show no regard for the works of the Lord or what His hands have done, He will tear them down and never rebuild them. Blessed be the Lord, for He has heard my cry for mercy. The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. Therefore my heart rejoices, and I give thanks to Him with my song. The Lord is the strength of His people, a stronghold of salvation for His anointed. Save Your people and bless Your inheritance; shepherd them and carry them forever. Psalms 28:1-9 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.28.1-9.BSB Today’s Devotional from YouVersion is: The Lord is a Warrior There are many different ways that we can think about God. He is presented in Scripture as a God of love and of mercy. He is also the Creator as well as our Rescuer. God is even spoken of as a Protector and a Warrior. Most importantly, God is the Protector of His people, those who trust in Him. We don’t always consider God as a warrior, fighting on our behalf through the various trials and battles in life. Maybe you even remember a tough season where it seemed like God was absent or felt distant. Typically in seasons of difficulty, it is us who draws away from God, not God drawing away from us. Scripture says that God is our strength and shield. But it also says that we should trust Him, which means we have to believe He is present and working in the background even when we don’t think He is. Psalm 28:7 says that as we trust in Him, He will help us in our need. In addition to trusting in God during seasons of difficulty, the Psalmist encourages us to find joy in God, not only through trusting Him, but also through singing songs of praise and worship. Singing to God, especially in the midst of tough seasons, has the power to turn our hearts and minds toward God because singing to God is actually a way of building trust in God. Songs remind us of who God is and what He has done for us in the past, so that we can trust Him in the present. All of this builds our trust, and produces joy in our lives. Spend some time thinking through your current season of life. Are you trusting God to be your strength and shield, or are you trying to manage life’s difficulties on your own? What songs can you think of that can help build your faith and joy in this season? Every season of life provides a new opportunity to trust God as our Protector, and praise Him for all He has done for us. Today’s Prayer is: My Strength and My Shield Jesus, thank You for being my strength and my shield. I trust You because I know You will always be there for me. I can rejoice each day knowing that You are good, and I praise You because You love me. Thank You for being my Savior. Amen. Have a Blessed Day ‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
Though the mountains may be removed and the hills may be shaken, My loving devotion will not depart from you, and My covenant of peace will not be broken,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.
Today’s Scripture is from: Isaiah 54
“Shout for joy, O barren woman, who bears no children; break forth in song and cry aloud, you who have never travailed; because more are the children of the desolate woman than of her who has a husband,” says the Lord. “Enlarge the site of your tent, stretch out the curtains of your dwellings, do not hold back. Lengthen your ropes and drive your stakes in deep. For you will spread out to the right and left; your descendants will dispossess the nations and inhabit the desolate cities. Do not be afraid, for you will not be put to shame; do not be intimidated, for you will not be humiliated. For you will forget the shame of your youth and will remember no more the reproach of your widowhood. For your husband is your Maker— the Lord of Hosts is His name— the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer; He is called the God of all the earth. For the Lord has called you back, like a wife deserted and wounded in spirit, like the rejected wife of one’s youth,” says your God. “For a brief moment I forsook you, but with great compassion I will bring you back. In a surge of anger I hid My face from you for a moment, but with everlasting kindness I will have compassion on you,” says the Lord your Redeemer. “For to Me this is like the days of Noah, when I swore that the waters of Noah would never again cover the earth. So I have sworn that I will not be angry with you or rebuke you. Though the mountains may be removed and the hills may be shaken, My loving devotion will not depart from you, and My covenant of peace will not be broken,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you. “O afflicted city, lashed by storms, without solace, surely I will set your stones in antimony and lay your foundations with sapphires. I will make your pinnacles of rubies, your gates of sparkling jewels, and all your walls of precious stones. Then all your sons will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their prosperity. In righteousness you will be established, far from oppression, for you will have no fear. Terror will be far removed, for it will not come near you. If anyone attacks you, it is not from Me; whoever assails you will fall before you. Behold, I have created the craftsman who fans the coals into flame and forges a weapon fit for its task; and I have created the destroyer to wreak havoc. No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their vindication is from Me,” declares the Lord. Isaiah 54:1-17 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/isa.54.1-17.BSB Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for God’s Peace
God, thank You for Your peace. Even in life’s most difficult moments, I can have peace because I know You are with me. Help me to feel Your nearness in every circumstance and guide me through challenges. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood up and called out in a loud voice, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. Whoever believes in Me, as the Scripture has said: ‘Streams of living water will flow from within him.’” He was speaking about the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were later to receive. For the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet been glorified.
Today’s Scripture is from: John 7
After this, Jesus traveled throughout Galilee. He did not want to travel in Judea, because the Jews there were trying to kill Him. However, the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles was near. So Jesus’ brothers said to Him, “Leave here and go to Judea, so that Your disciples there may see the works You are doing. For no one who wants to be known publicly acts in secret. Since You are doing these things, show Yourself to the world.” For even His own brothers did not believe in Him. Therefore Jesus told them, “Although your time is always at hand, My time has not yet come. The world cannot hate you, but it hates Me, because I testify that its works are evil. Go up to the feast on your own. I am not going up to this feast, because My time has not yet come.” Having said this, Jesus remained in Galilee. But after His brothers had gone up to the feast, He also went—not publicly, but in secret. So the Jews were looking for Him at the feast and asking, “Where is He?” Many in the crowds were whispering about Him. Some said, “He is a good man.” But others replied, “No, He deceives the people.” Yet no one would speak publicly about Him for fear of the Jews. About halfway through the feast, Jesus went up to the temple courts and began to teach. The Jews were amazed and asked, “How did this man attain such learning without having studied?” “My teaching is not My own,” Jesus replied. “It comes from Him who sent Me. If anyone desires to do His will, he will know whether My teaching is from God or whether I speak on My own. He who speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory, but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is a man of truth; in Him there is no falsehood. Has not Moses given you the law? Yet not one of you keeps it. Why are you trying to kill Me?” “You have a demon,” the crowd replied. “Who is trying to kill You?” Jesus answered them, “I did one miracle, and you are all amazed. But because Moses gave you circumcision, you circumcise a boy on the Sabbath (not that it is from Moses, but from the patriarchs.) If a boy can be circumcised on the Sabbath so that the law of Moses will not be broken, why are you angry with Me for making the whole man well on the Sabbath? Stop judging by outward appearances, and start judging justly.” Then some of the people of Jerusalem began to say, “Isn’t this the man they are trying to kill? Yet here He is, speaking publicly, and they are not saying anything to Him. Have the rulers truly recognized that this is the Christ? But we know where this man is from. When the Christ comes, no one will know where He is from.” Then Jesus, still teaching in the temple courts, cried out, “You know Me, and you know where I am from. I have not come of My own accord, but He who sent Me is true. You do not know Him, but I know Him, because I am from Him and He sent Me.” So they tried to seize Him, but no one laid a hand on Him, because His hour had not yet come. Many in the crowd, however, believed in Him and said, “When the Christ comes, will He perform more signs than this man?” When the Pharisees heard the crowd whispering these things about Jesus, they and the chief priests sent officers to arrest Him. So Jesus said, “I am with you only a little while longer, and then I am going to the One who sent Me. You will look for Me, but you will not find Me; and where I am, you cannot come.” At this, the Jews said to one another, “Where does He intend to go that we will not find Him? Will He go where the Jews are dispersed among the Greeks, and teach the Greeks? What does He mean
He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Today’s Scripture is from: Psalms 23
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over. Surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the Lord’s house forever. Psalms 23:1-6 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/psa.23.1-6.WMB
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: And I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. Psalm 23:1-6 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.23.1-6.KJV
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalms 23:1-6 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.23.1-6.BSB
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalms 23:1-6 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/psa.23.1-6.NIV Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for God’s Guidance
God, thank You for refreshing my soul. Thank You for being my Shepherd—for leading me along the right paths. Please guide every aspect of my life—help me navigate my relationships, my calling, and decision making. Help me live a life that’s honoring to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
Beloved, if God loved us in this way, we also ought to love one another. Today’s Scripture is from: 1 Yochanan (1 John) 4 Beloved, don’t believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit who confesses that Yeshua the Messiah has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit who doesn’t confess that Yeshua the Messiah has come in the flesh is not of God; and this is the spirit of the Anti-messiah, of whom you have heard that it comes. Now it is in the world already. You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because greater is he who is in you than he who is in the world. They are of the world. Therefore they speak of the world, and the world hears them. We are of God. He who knows God listens to us. He who is not of God doesn’t listen to us. By this we know the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. Beloved, let’s love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. He who doesn’t love doesn’t know God, for God is love. By this God’s love was revealed in us, that God has sent his only born Son into the world that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son as the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Beloved, if God loved us in this way, we also ought to love one another. No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God remains in us, and his love has been perfected in us. By this we know that we remain in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. We have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son as the Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Yeshua is the Son of God, God remains in him, and he in God. We know and have believed the love which God has for us. God is love, and he who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him. In this, love has been made perfect among us, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment, because as he is, even so we are in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear has punishment. He who fears is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If a man says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who doesn’t love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? This commandment we have from him, that he who loves God should also love his brother. 1 Yochanan 4:1-21 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/1jn.4.1-21.WMB
Now the God of perseverance and of encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Messiah Yeshua, that with one accord you may with one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Yeshua the Messiah.
Today’s Scripture is from: Romans 15
No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it.
Today’s Scripture is from: Hebrews 12
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons: “My son, do not take lightly the discipline of the Lord, and do not lose heart when He rebukes you. For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives.” Endure suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you do not experience discipline like everyone else, then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Furthermore, we have all had earthly fathers who disciplined us, and we respected them. Should we not much more submit to the Father of our spirits and live? Our fathers disciplined us for a short time as they thought best, but God disciplines us for our good, so that we may share in His holiness. No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it. Therefore strengthen your limp hands and weak knees. Make straight paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed. Hebrews 12:1-13 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/heb.12.1-13.BSB Today’s Devotional from YouVersion is: Overcomer: Finding Strength in Hard Seasons
Overcoming difficult seasons can feel impossible when you’re going through them. But thankfully, God is able to do more than what we ask or imagine. In this 4-day plan, discover how God can redeem your pain and disappointment and give it purpose.
This original Bible Plan was created and provided by YouVersion. Have a blessed day. ‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment. Indeed, he has crossed over from death to life.
Today’s Scripture is from: John 5
Now because Jesus was doing these things on the Sabbath, the Jews began to persecute Him. But Jesus answered them, “To this very day My Father is at His work, and I too am working.” Because of this, the Jews tried all the harder to kill Him. Not only was He breaking the Sabbath, but He was even calling God His own Father, making Himself equal with God. So Jesus replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you, the Son can do nothing by Himself, unless He sees the Father doing it. For whatever the Father does, the Son also does. The Father loves the Son and shows Him all He does. And to your amazement, He will show Him even greater works than these. For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whom He wishes. Furthermore, the Father judges no one, but has assigned all judgment to the Son, so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment. Indeed, he has crossed over from death to life. Truly, truly, I tell you, the hour is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. For as the Father has life in Himself, so also He has granted the Son to have life in Himself. And He has given Him authority to execute judgment, because He is the Son of Man. Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming when all who are in their graves will hear His voice and come out—those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment. I can do nothing by Myself; I judge only as I hear. And My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. John 5:16-30 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/jhn.5.16-30.BSB
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge
Today’s Scripture is from: Proverbs 1
These are the proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel, for gaining wisdom and discipline, for comprehending words of insight, and for receiving instruction in wise living and in righteousness, justice, and equity. To impart prudence to the simple and knowledge and discretion to the young, let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel by understanding the proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and do not forsake the teaching of your mother. For they are a garland of grace on your head and a pendant around your neck. My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield to them. If they say, “Come along, let us lie in wait for blood, let us ambush the innocent without cause, let us swallow them alive like Sheol, and whole like those descending into the Pit. We will find all manner of precious goods; we will fill our houses with plunder. Throw in your lot with us; let us all share one purse”. My son, do not walk the road with them or set foot upon their path. For their feet run to evil, and they are swift to shed blood. How futile it is to spread the net where any bird can see it! But they lie in wait for their own blood; they ambush their own lives. Such is the fate of all who are greedy, whose unjust gain takes the lives of its possessors. Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square; in the main concourse she cries aloud, at the city gates she makes her speech: “How long, O simple ones, will you love your simple ways? How long will scoffers delight in their scorn and fools hate knowledge? If you had repented at my rebuke, then surely I would have poured out my spirit on you; I would have made my words known to you. Because you refused my call, and no one took my outstretched hand, because you neglected all my counsel, and wanted none of my correction, in turn I will mock your calamity; I will sneer when terror strikes you, when your dread comes like a storm, and your destruction like a whirlwind, when distress and anguish overwhelm you. Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; they will earnestly seek me, but will not find me. For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the Lord. They accepted none of my counsel; they despised all my reproof. So they will eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. For the waywardness of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them. But whoever listens to me will dwell in safety, secure from the fear of evil.” Proverbs 1:1-33 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/pro.1.1-33.BSB
Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.
What if there’s a better way to fight the endless worries that keep you up at night? Real rest is available—maybe closer than you think. Replace panic with peace through this 7-day Bible Plan from Life.Church, accompanying Pastor Craig Groeschel’s message series Anxious for Nothing. We would like to thank Life.Church for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: Life.Church
The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it
Today’s Scripture is from: John 1
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made. In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:1-5 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/jhn.1.1-5.BSB
Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for God’s Light
Jesus, thank You for being the light of the world. For shining light in the darkness and showing us how to live a God-honoring life. Help me to be an example of You to everyone I encounter, and give me the courage to shine Your light in my community. Amen.
Today’s Devotional from YouVersion is: Jesus our Light
Have you ever stumbled through a dark room, or tried to walk around at night when there were no lights? Maybe you ran into a wall or hit your foot on something. Do you remember how great it was to turn on the light so you could see where you were walking? God’s Word says that we similarly walk in the darkness. Our life apart from Jesus is characterized by just that–darkness. When we try to live life in our own strength, we inevitably fail and cause problems. Jesus is the light that shines within the darkness of the world around us, and within our own lives. He illuminates the truth of the world so that we don’t have to remain captive to our old ways, but can be transformed by Jesus through forgiveness. Without His light shining in the darkness, we wouldn’t know the truth. Jesus is also the one who directs our paths. Just like how we stumble through the darkness without a physical light, Jesus is the light that illuminates the way of life for us. John 1:5 also tells us that the light of Jesus cannot be overcome by anything. There are no spiritual powers or cultural events that can overcome the light of Jesus. And there is nothing that anyone can do to separate us from the love and light of God. Regardless of how dark things might seem, we are called to walk in the light of Jesus. It’s the physical light that illuminates the world around us, but it’s the light of Christ that illuminates the beauty in everything. Spend some time today in prayer, thanking Jesus for the salvation that you have, but also asking Him to continue to illuminate the path of life for you. Then, let the light of Jesus shine through you by the way you love those around you.
Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God
Today’s Scripture is from: Matthew 5
When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain and sat down. His disciples came to Him, and He began to teach them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you.
From blog.youversion.com - Resting in a Busy World - YouVersion John Shaida: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest.”
MATTHEW 11:28-29
So often, the world feels frantic. We wake to the sound of urgent alarms and rush from one activity to the next.
Interrupting our busy schedules can feel unthinkable—we worry we’ll fall behind. The world screams at us to buckle down, to grind, to work even harder.
But Scripture encourages us to pause and turn to God instead.
In a world that moves at such an unsustainable pace, how do we find time to rest? Find your why.
God created us for purposeful work. But there’s a difference between doing meaningful work and letting that work become our identity. The second we cross the line, we’re caught in a vicious cycle.
Taking time to rest is the extreme opposite of what the world asks of us.
But, it’s something God consistently instructs us to do throughout the Bible.
From the very beginning, God modeled rest, and He commanded us to make rest part of our weekly rhythm.
Maybe you recognize you need to rest because you notice something in your life is becoming more important than God. Maybe it’s to prioritize your mental health. Maybe you’re simply exhausted.
Whatever it is, find a clear vision for why rest matters to you. Schedule it on your calendar.
Time is one of our most valuable resources.
If we don’t schedule rest in advance, chances are something else will consume that resource.
One of the simplest ways to find rest is by planning when you’re going to do it. Try scheduling it on your calendar, and consider communicating the times to your family and friends.
Whether it’s 20 minutes or 24 hours, rest gives you room to appreciate and experience the things God created you to do. Give yourself something to look forward to.
When you step back and slow down to draw closer to God, it’s likely going to feel uncomfortable or unsettling.
That probably means you’re doing it right.
When we rest, the temptation to fall into busyness becomes even greater. But true rest doesn’t always look like doing nothing.
When you schedule time to rest, plan to do something that brings you joy or peace.
This could include spending time appreciating God’s creation or cultivating a hobby God wired you to be passionate about. Don’t do it alone.
God created us for community. We’re wired for relationships. And, those relationships can be one of the most tangible ways we experience God’s presence.
Finding a rhythm of rest isn’t something you have to do alone. Think about ways you can rest alongside your family or friends.
Resting together will help you to stay accountable when the world tries to pull you into work and activity. Be relentless.
Practicing rest is a spiritual discipline. And, like any discipline, resting requires determination and self control.
When we choose not to rely on our own effort and let Jesus take over, we surrender our shame, striving, and expectations. In return, we experience God’s perfect peace.
Rest helps us enjoy God’s presence and realign our priorities.
Rest allows us to trust that God is working even when we aren’t.
Rest is how we trust our Savior enough to say “enough.”
From YouVersion Bible App: A Prayer for Guidance
Holy Spirit,
You know my heart. You understand my deepest wants and needs, and You know my every intention. You know me better than I know myself. There is nowhere I could run to escape Your presence, and nothing I could hide from You!
And that’s why, right now, I am asking You to give me Your divine wisdom and guidance.
I don’t always know what to pray for. My soul is weary and I am tired. I often worry about making the right decision—but I want to live a life that honors You.
Even though I may feel like I can’t move forward or see what’s ahead—You see me. And You know me. So please guide me. Show me the paths that lead to abundant life, and convict me when I am tempted to stray from You.
As You guide me, restore me. I will place my hope in You at all times because You know all things, and by You, my life is held together. You are my strength in times of need, and You have become my salvation.
So hold me close, Lord, and teach me to walk in a manner worthy of the calling You have given me. Direct my steps as You guard my life, because I want to glorify You.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.
Love means doing what God has commanded us, and He has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning.
Let your light shine that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? And why do you worry about clothes? Consider how the lilies of the field grow: They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his glory was adorned like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles strive after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:25-34 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.6.25-34.BSB
For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. Today’s Scripture is from: Matthew 6 And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not babble on like pagans, for they think that by their many words they will be heard. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. So then, this is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’ For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive yours. Matthew 6:5-15 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.6.5-15.BSB
No one is Holy like the Lord! There is no one besides You; there is no rock like our God. Today’s Scripture is from: 1 Samuel 2 At that time Hannah prayed: “My heart rejoices in the Lord in whom my horn is exalted. My mouth speaks boldly against my enemies, for I rejoice in Your salvation. There is no one holy like the Lord. Indeed, there is no one besides You! And there is no Rock like our God. Do not boast so proudly, or let arrogance come from your mouth, for the Lord is a God who knows, and by Him actions are weighed. The bows of the mighty are broken, but the feeble are equipped with strength. The well-fed hire themselves out for food, but the starving hunger no more. The barren woman gives birth to seven, but she who has many sons pines away. The Lord brings death and gives life; He brings down to Sheol and raises up. The Lord sends poverty and wealth; He humbles and He exalts. He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap. He seats them among princes and bestows on them a throne of honor. For the foundations of the earth are the Lord’s, and upon them He has set the world. He guards the steps of His faithful ones, but the wicked perish in darkness; for by his own strength shall no man prevail. Those who oppose the Lord will be shattered. He will thunder from heaven against them. The Lord will judge the ends of the earth and will give power to His king. He will exalt the horn of His anointed.” 1 Samuel 2:1-10 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/1sa.2.1-10.BSB
Living Changed: Spiritual Warfare
As Christians, we have the power of Jesus Christ living inside us, but so often, we surrender that strength to the one who opposes us. There is a battle happening all around us, but we’re not helpless. We can choose to use our God-given authority to fight for ourselves and for our loved ones. This plan will introduce you to your spiritual weapons and get you ready for battle!
Day 5 of 5: Armor Up and Rally the Troops
We’ve talked about how to use the weapons God has given us. But every warrior knows, you’re not ready for battle until you’re in your armor. In Ephesians, Paul encourages us to put on the full armor of God—not just when we’re feeling weak, but every day. Before our feet hit the floor in the morning, we should armor up through prayer.
The Belt of Truth reminds us who we are in Christ. The Breastplate of Righteousness protects our hearts as we strive to make God-honoring decisions. The Shoes of Peace give us a restful tranquility everywhere we go. The Shield of Faith helps us trust in God, no matter our circumstances. The Helmet of Salvation keeps out Satan’s distractions and gives us a sound mind. And by reading the Bible, our Sword of the Spirit helps us speak truth and life over every situation.
Each piece of armor is crucial in protecting us from harm, but we still need another thing to be fully ready for the fight. Warriors don’t charge into battle alone because they recognize they’re stronger together. Similarly, we weren’t meant to engage in spiritual warfare without a community of believers around us.
When you let your guard down and truly let others get to know you, it forges a special bond. They won’t let you beat yourself up, stay home depressed, or wallow in self deprecation. When you’ve lost all strength, they’ll pull you up. When you don’t have the words, they’ll rebuke the enemy and fight on your behalf. We were designed to lock arms and fight together, so don’t isolate yourself. Make the effort to build community and watch out for each other. Because the battle is real, and the enemy prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
With God, we don’t need to fear. Instead, let the warfare fire you up! Let it awaken you to the power of God and what He stands ready to do through you. See the attacks as confirmation of God’s purpose for your life. Don’t be confused or overwhelmed. Be motivated and encouraged. We are robbing hell and setting captives free! So, stay in the Word. Take thoughts captive. Worship like never before. Pray without ceasing. Put on God’s armor. And get in community. You’re on the front lines, so let’s hear your battle cry! Because it’s time to fight! Fight! Fight!
We pray God used this plan to minister to your heart.
Explore Other Living Changed Bible Plans https://www.bible.com/search/plans?q=living%20changed
Learn More about Changed Women’s Ministries https://www.changedokc.com/
Everyone who hears My teachings and applies it to his life can be compared to a wise man who built his house on an unshakable foundation.
Today’s Scripture is from: Philippians 4
Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you must stand firm in the Lord, my beloved. I urge Euodia and Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true yokefellow, to help these women who have labored with me for the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be apparent to all. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me, put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Now I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Nevertheless, you have done well to share in my affliction. And as you Philippians know, in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church but you partnered with me in the matter of giving and receiving. For even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs again and again. Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account. I have all I need and more, now that I have received your gifts from Epaphroditus. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. Greet all the saints in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send you greetings. All the saints send you greetings, especially those from the household of Caesar. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Philippians 4:1-23 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/php.4.1-23.BSB
Living Changed: Spiritual Warfare
As Christians, we have the power of Jesus Christ living inside us, but so often, we surrender that strength to the one who opposes us. There is a battle happening all around us, but we’re not helpless. We can choose to use our God-given authority to fight for ourselves and for our loved ones. This plan will introduce you to your spiritual weapons and get you ready for battle!
We would like to thank Changed Women’s Ministries for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://www.changedokc.com
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear.
Today’s Scripture is from:
Beloved, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God’s love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. And love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God remains in us, and His love is perfected in us. By this we know that we remain in Him, and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. And we have come to know and believe the love that God has for us. God is love; whoever abides in love abides in God, and God in him. In this way, love has been perfected among us, so that we may have confidence on the day of judgment; for in this world we are just like Him. There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment. The one who fears has not been perfected in love. We love because He first loved us. If anyone says, “I love God,” but hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And we have this commandment from Him: Whoever loves God must love his brother as well. 1 John 4:7-21 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/1jn.4.7-21.BSB Today’s Devotional from YouVersion is: Marked by Love
Imagine God’s perfect creation: the garden of Eden. In the garden, there was no evil and hardship—the world was perfect and good. Unfortunately, because humans were deceived by the devil into disobeying God, we now live in an imperfect world.
The world we live in is different from what God intended—in this world, situations are not always good. People make mistakes and they sometimes hurt us and the people we love. Because of this, you might feel uncertain about loving others … or even God. But there’s good news: when our world changed, God did not change.
God is still perfect—and He still loves us perfectly. Regardless of the mistakes we make, God will not stop loving us. We know God loves us because He redeemed our mistakes on the cross through Jesus. And when Jesus returned to heaven, He sent His Holy Spirit to be with us.
His love for us is not dependent upon our love for Him—it’s not reliant on what we do, what we say, or how we act. This doesn’t mean we should purposefully go against God’s Word—it means that no matter where we’re at in life, God’s love will meet us where we are.
In 1 John 4, we are told that whoever remains in love remains in God because God is love. If we say we love Jesus, the evidence of love in our lives should be seen through how we treat and serve others. This doesn’t always feel natural—but this is a challenge the Lord wants to help us overcome.
As we continue to grow closer to Him, His love is perfected in us. And as He transforms us into people perfected by His love, we don’t have to fear His judgment because we can be confident that we are His.
God desires our love, and our love for Him grows through worship, prayer, and spending time in His Word. But God is also the source of love, and He wants to help us remain in love so we can remain in Him. He loves us perfectly, He understands our imperfections, and He can make us perfect in His love.
So today, take some time to ask the Lord to help you live a life marked by love. Today’s Prayer is: God’s Perfect Love
Jesus, thank You for Your perfect love. Because you are more than enough for me, I know I have nothing to fear. Thank You for reassuring me of You
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.
Isaiah 6:1-13 BSB - United by the Cross Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying: “Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?” And I said: “Here am I. Send me!” Today’s Scripture is from Isaiah 6 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted; and the train of His robe filled the temple. Above Him stood seraphim, each having six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling out to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Hosts; all the earth is full of His glory.” At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook, and the temple was filled with smoke. Then I said: “Woe is me, for I am ruined, because I am a man of unclean lips dwelling among a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts.” Then one of the seraphim flew to me, and in his hand was a glowing coal that he had taken with tongs from the altar. And with it he touched my mouth and said: “Now that this has touched your lips, your iniquity is removed and your sin is atoned for.” Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying: “Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?” And I said: “Here am I. Send me!” And He replied: “Go and tell this people, ‘Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.’ Make the hearts of this people calloused; deafen their ears and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed.” Then I asked: “How long, O Lord?” And He replied: “Until the cities lie ruined and without inhabitant, until the houses are left unoccupied and the land is desolate and ravaged, until the Lord has driven men far away and the land is utterly forsaken. And though a tenth remains in the land, it will be burned again. As the terebinth and oak leave stumps when felled, so the holy seed will be a stump in the land.” Isaiah 6:1-13 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/isa.6.1-13.BSB Today’s Devotional is from: The Mission of Missions In this five-day study, we’ll examine what the Bible tells us about missions. Discover how the missions is a call for all believers, what it entails, and how we can all live on mission wherever we are! We would like to thank Calvary Chapel Ft. Lauderdale for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://Resources.CalvaryFTL.org Send Me By Denise Trio “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’”—Isaiah 6:8 (NIV) Only a few years ago, we didn’t have the ability to text people. We’d pick up the phone and call them. If someone we knew called us, we instantly recognized them by their voice. In this passage of Scripture, Isaiah received a call, but it wasn’t on the phone. He was called by God. Isaiah hears the voice of the Lord. I’ve always wondered what God’s voice sounds like. Is it deep? Is it gentle? We won’t be certain until we get to heaven, but we can be sure that, just like the voices of our loved ones, the voice of the Lord is identifiable. The Lord asks Isaiah two questions. In the first question He uses “I,” and in the second He uses “us.” It seems contradictory to use both singular and plural pronouns to refer to Himself, but this is the language of the Trinity. It’s the mystery that God is one being existing in three persons—the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. What’s also interesting is that God isn’t commanding Isaiah to go or to be sent. The questions He asks seek a volunteer. And since God is all powerful, why does He need someone to be sent for Him? He is so mighty, He could do it Himself! We know that God is at work, and we learn here that He invites His people to partner with Him in that work. Isaiah emphatically responds to God’s invitation: “Send me!” I want to point out that prior to this verse, Isaiah had encountered Go
if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land Today’s Scripture is from: 2 Chronicles On the twenty-third day of the seventh month, he sent the people away to their tents, joyful and glad of heart for the goodness that the LORD had shown to David, to Solomon, and to Israel his people. Thus Solomon finished the Lord’s house and the king’s house; and he successfully completed all that came into Solomon’s heart to make in the Lord’s house and in his own house. Then the LORD appeared to Solomon by night, and said to him, “I have heard your prayer, and have chosen this place for myself for a house of sacrifice. “If I shut up the sky so that there is no rain, or if I command the locust to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people, if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to prayer that is made in this place. For now I have chosen and made this house holy, that my name may be there forever; and my eyes and my heart will be there perpetually. “As for you, if you will walk before me as David your father walked, and do according to all that I have commanded you, and will keep my statutes and my ordinances, then I will establish the throne of your kingdom, according as I covenanted with David your father, saying, ‘There shall not fail you a man to be ruler in Israel.’ But if you turn away and forsake my statutes and my commandments which I have set before you, and go and serve other gods and worship them, then I will pluck them up by the roots out of my land which I have given them; and this house, which I have made holy for my name, I will cast out of my sight, and I will make it a proverb and a byword among all peoples. This house, which is so high, everyone who passes by it will be astonished and say, ‘Why has the LORD done this to this land and to this house?’ They shall answer, ‘Because they abandoned the LORD, the God of their fathers, who brought them out of the land of Egypt, and took other gods, worshiped them, and served them. Therefore he has brought all this evil on them.’” 2 Chronicles 7:10-22 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/2ch.7.10-22.WMB Today’s Devotional is: Turn Toward What Matters Around 957 B.C., after King Solomon spent years planning, building, and, finally dedicating the temple that his father, King David, had longed for—God made Himself known by sending fire down from heaven and filling the temple with His presence. Then the Lord appeared to Solomon at night, explaining how He’d heard his prayer and chosen his temple—reminding Solomon how the Israelites should respond when they encounter hard things. He said: “Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT Though this specific message was given to a specific people at a specific time in history—humbling ourselves, seeking God, and turning from our sins are timeless actions that we should continue to live out. True humility, honest prayer, and genuine repentance are the keys to intimacy with God. And we can’t fake it. We can’t just go through the motions. We can’t merely pretend to “look” humble and repentant … and we can’t do these things on our own. We need to come to God in order to receive His help. We need Him in order to maintain a posture of humility, prayer, and repentance. So if you’ve found yourself feeling distant from God, trying to do things your own way, or intentionally running in the opposite direction of your Creator—it’s not too late to turn around. You can still come to God, admit that you can’t go
Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in Me. Today’s Scripture is from John 15. “I am the true vine, and My Father is the keeper of the vineyard. He cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit, and every branch that does bear fruit, He prunes to make it even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself unless it remains in the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me. I am the vine and you are the branches. The one who remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit. For apart from Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers. Such branches are gathered up, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, proving yourselves to be My disciples. John 15:1-8 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/jhn.15.1-8.BSB Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer to Remain in the Lord Jesus, I want to be in Your presence at all times. Thank You for promising to remain in me as I remain in You. I want to be as close to You as possible—to hear how Your heart beats for those who love You. As I grow closer to You, please use me for Your purposes—to serve and love those around me each day. Amen. Have a Blessed Day ‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ Today’s Scripture is from: Galatians 6:1-10 Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own work. Then he will have reason to boast in himself alone, and not in someone else. For each one should carry his own load. Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor. Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return. The one who sows to please his flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; but the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith. Galatians 6:1-10 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/gal.6.1-10.BSB Today’s Devotional from YouVersion is: Boundaries 101 https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/4835-boundaries-101 Does your life feel like it’s out of control? Perhaps you have inexplicable feelings of guilt, fear, resentment, powerlessness, anger, or deep emotional pain connected with people you know. In their book BOUNDARIES , Drs. Henry Cloud and John Townsend help you learn when to say yes and know how to say no in order to take control of your life. This plan will help you get started with boundaries. We would like to thank HarperCollins/Zondervan/Thomas Nelson for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: http://www.boundariesbooks.com/ Day 2 of 5 We Are Responsible “To” and “For” We are responsible to others and for ourselves. “Carry each other’s burdens,” says Galatians 6:2, “and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” This verse shows our responsibility to one another. Many times others have “burdens” that are too big to bear. They do not have enough strength, resources, or knowledge to carry the load, and they need help. Denying ourselves to do for others what they cannot do for themselves is showing the sacrificial love of Christ. This is what Christ did for us. He did what we could not do for ourselves; he saved us. This is being responsible “to.” On the other hand, Galatians 6:5 says that “each one should carry their own load.” Everyone has responsibilities that only he or she can carry. These things are our own particular “load” that we need to take daily responsibility for and work out. No one can do certain things for us. We have to take ownership of certain aspects of life that are our own “load.” The Greek words for burden and load give us insight into the meaning of these texts. The Greek word for burden means “excess burdens,” or burdens that are so heavy that they weigh us down. These burdens are like boulders. They can crush us. We shouldn’t be expected to carry a boulder by ourselves! It would break our backs. We need help with the boulders—those times of crisis and tragedy in our lives. In contrast, the Greek word for load means “cargo,” or “the burden of daily toil.” This word describes the everyday things we all need to do. These loads are like knapsacks. Knapsacks are possible to carry. We are expected to carry our own. We are expected to deal with our own feelings, attitudes, and behaviors, as well as the responsibilities God has given to each one of us, even though it takes effort. Problems arise when people act as if their “boulders” are daily loads and refuse help, or as if their “daily loads” are boulders they shouldn’t have to carry. The results of these two instances are either perpetual pain or irresponsibility. Lest we stay in pain or become irresponsible, it is very im
Psalms 8:3-4 When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place— what is mankind that You are mindful of them?
Today’s Scripture is from: Psalms 8
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth! You have set Your glory above the heavens. From the mouths of children and infants You have ordained praise on account of Your adversaries, to silence the enemy and avenger. When I behold Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place— what is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You care for him? You made him a little lower than the angels; You crowned him with glory and honor. You made him ruler of the works of Your hands; You have placed everything under his feet: all sheep and oxen, and even the beasts of the field, the birds of the air and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth! Psalms 8:1-9 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.8.1-9.BSB
Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 Image Courtesy of YouVersion Today’s Devotional is from: Understanding God, Myself, and the World
Join us as we grow in our understanding of God, ourselves, and the world through the lens of the Bible. Jesus defines discipleship as being obedient to God. Life in Christ is, therefore, incomplete if the knowledge we acquire does not influence our daily lives. This means that studying the Bible, and studying the Bible with others, is a vital part of the process of discipleship. By Shofar Christian Church
We would like to thank Shofar Christian Church for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://shofaronline.org/bibleschool The God who creates
When we look around us, we often see chaos, brokenness, suffering, and evil in the world. Many times, we also experience these things within our own lives. From our perspective, it might appear as if everything is just a string of random, chaotic events with no meaning and no purpose. This can also leave us feeling meaningless and purposeless. Isn’t God in control? Doesn’t He care about us? Is He really involved in our lives? There are two very important descriptive names of God that hold huge implications for us as human beings when dealing with these kinds of questions.
The Bible describes God as both the Creator and the Father. As Creator, God made us for a purpose. We are not random beings floating into and out of existence. We were made for a reason. Our lives have meaning and beauty. As Father, God lovingly creates us. We are wanted and welcomed into existence. In Biblical language, we are called into existence by God.
Revelation 21:1-7 presents God to us as Creator and Father. He is the Beginning and the End. All things start with Him, and all things are made unto Him. He also re-creates heaven and earth and removes all chaos, evil, suffering, and death. It is a “new heaven” and a “new earth.” The first heaven and first earth, filled with failure and regret, have passed away. “And he who was seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’”
For those who are believers in Jesus, this re-creation is already present in our lives through the Holy Spirit who gives us rebirth and makes us walk according to the ways of God. We already, through the Spirit of God, taste something of God’s new creation which will one day be fully realised at the return of Christ. The Holy Spirit also testifies that we are adopted as children of God the Father. We can know Him intimately and be known by Him intimately.
Take some time to read Psalm 8 and Romans 8. Reflect on the parts that speak of God as the Creator and Father. Do you know Him as your Creator and Father? Spend a few minutes in prayer where you ask God to reveal His fatherly heart to you. Allow the Holy Spirit to minister to you in the areas of your
YouVersion Verse of the Day - United by the Cross Many plans are in a man’s heart, but it is Yahweh's purpose that prevails. Today’s Scripture is: Proverbs 19 Better a poor man who walks with integrity than a fool whose lips are perverse. Even zeal is no good without knowledge, and he who hurries his footsteps misses the mark. A man’s own folly subverts his way, yet his heart rages against the Lord. Wealth attracts many friends, but a poor man is deserted by his friend. A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who utters lies will not escape. Many seek the favor of the prince, and everyone is a friend of the gift giver. All the brothers of a poor man hate him— how much more do his friends avoid him! He may pursue them with pleading, but they are nowhere to be found. He who acquires wisdom loves himself; one who safeguards understanding will find success. A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who pours out lies will perish. Luxury is unseemly for a fool— how much worse for a slave to rule over princes! A man’s insight gives him patience, and his virtue is to overlook an offense. A king’s rage is like the roar of a lion, but his favor is like dew on the grass. A foolish son is his father’s ruin, and a quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping. Houses and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the Lord. Laziness brings on deep sleep, and an idle soul will suffer hunger. He who keeps a commandment preserves his soul, but he who is careless in his ways will die. Kindness to the poor is a loan to the Lord, and He will repay the lender. Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be party to his death. A man of great anger must pay the penalty; if you rescue him, you will have to do so again. Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days. Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the Lord will prevail. The desire of a man is loving devotion; better to be poor than a liar. The fear of the Lord leads to life, that one may rest content, without visitation from harm. The slacker buries his hand in the dish; he will not even bring it back to his mouth. Strike a mocker, and the simple will beware; rebuke the discerning man, and he will gain knowledge. He who assaults his father or evicts his mother is a son who brings shame and disgrace. If you cease to hear instruction, my son, you will stray from the words of knowledge. A corrupt witness mocks justice, and a wicked mouth swallows iniquity. Judgments are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools. Proverbs 19:1-29 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/pro.19.1-29.BSB Today’s Devotional from YouVersion is: The Old Testament On Purpose https://bible.com/reading-plans/13478/day/4?segment=0 Pursuing the purpose God has for you is the most unselfish thing you can do. It’s only in the pursuit of purpose where we are able to accept the grand invitation God has laid out and surrender to something infinitely larger than ourselves. But don’t just take my word for it. Discover for yourself exactly what the Old Testament reveals about purpose in this powerful 5 day reading plan! We would like to thank Faithspring for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: http://www.ramosauthor.com/books/ Day 4 of 5 Plans are interesting things. They are certainly important. You wouldn’t trust an architect who told you, “No, I don’t really have a plan for how I’m going to build your house but I’ll figure it out as I go along.” That would be horrible! You wouldn’t trust a doctor who didn’t have a plan for your surgery. Even taking it down a level, most of us wouldn’t trust a taxi driver who didn’t have a plan for getting us to the airport on time! Plans are necessary, but plans can only take us so far. You see, plans are preparation. They fit onto notecards and into notebooks. They’re fun to talk about and brainstorm. But plans only take us up
Wait for Yahweh. Be strong and let your heart take courage, wait for Yahweh.
Today’s Scripture is: Psalms 27
The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— whom shall I dread? When the wicked came upon me to devour my flesh, my enemies and foes stumbled and fell. Though an army encamps around me, my heart will not fear; though a war breaks out against me, I will keep my trust. One thing I have asked of the Lord; this is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and seek Him in His temple. For in the day of trouble He will hide me in His shelter; He will conceal me under the cover of His tent; He will set me high upon a rock. Then my head will be held high above my enemies around me. At His tabernacle I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord. Hear, O Lord, my voice when I call; be merciful and answer me. My heart said, “Seek His face.” Your face, O Lord, I will seek. Hide not Your face from me, nor turn away Your servant in anger. You have been my helper; do not leave me or forsake me, O God of my salvation. Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me. Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me on a level path, because of my oppressors. Do not hand me over to the will of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, breathing out violence. Still I am certain to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait patiently for the Lord; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the Lord! Psalms 27:1-14 BSB
Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
James 5:13-18
Is any one of you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praises.
Today’s Scripture is: James 5:13-18
Is any one of you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone cheerful? He should sing praises. Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick. The Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail. Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth yielded its crops. James 5:13-18 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/jas.5.13-18.BSB Today’s Devotional is from:
https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/21059/day/4
REBOOT: A 5 Day Devotional
This devotional series looks to inspire and refresh those who are in a season of stress, weariness, and uncertainty. Everyone faces difficult seasons and the Spirit of God can Reboot and empower us through God’s word to live with strength in the midst of hardships. Publisher
We would like to thank Faith Church for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: http://faithchurch.family/
Devotional Day 4 of 5: The Power of Prayer
“To pray is to change. Prayer is the central avenue God uses to transform us. If we are unwilling to change, we will abandon prayer as a noticeable characteristic of our lives. The closer we come to the heartbeat of God the more we see our need and the more we desire to be conformed to Christ.” Richard Foster (Celebration of Discipline)
“If your heart hungers for souls to be saved and your nation to be turned to God…then the life of prayer is a must.” Paul Y. Cho (Prayer: Key to Revival)
We all want to live a life that carries meaning and purpose. We want to see our family thrive in every season regardless of what may come. We want to hear God’s voice and be lead in the right direction for our life. We all desire this. However, intentions are not actions.
It can also be true that we all want these things right now, instantaneously. We want to snap our fingers, say a word, press the button, and it happen exactly as we desire it. This is often a false reality. This is often how we view and see prayer. If I say the magic words then it should happen, right?
Prayer, as Richard Foster notes, is the central avenue God uses to transform us and to be changed for the better. This does not occur in an instant moment, but in a gradual, habitual lifestyle of prayer. To pray is to seek God’s heart. To pray is to confess your sins, and share your heart with God. To pray is also to listen and focus on God’s voice through His word.
Where do we find a life that carries meaning and purpose? It’s found in moments of prayer. How do we see our families thrive, persevere, and overcome in every season? It is done through moments of prayer. How do we hear God’s voice and find direction for our life? We hear him in moments of prayer.
The Apostle James understood that, “The earnest prayers of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (5:16b) Prayer is the fuel to a greater spiritual life. It is the difference between life and death in your spirit. Prayer is the power and the key that unlocks victory in your life.
Reflection Question:
What do I need to give to God today in prayer?
Prayer: Lord, as I pray, help me pray As I pray, speak to me As I pray, hear me As I pray, change me As I pray, have your way Amen
and if My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:1
Psalms 85 BSB
You forgave the iniquity of Your people; You covered all their sin
Today’s Scripture is: Psalms 85
You showed favor to Your land, O Lord; You restored Jacob from captivity. You forgave the iniquity of Your people; You covered all their sin. Selah You withheld all Your fury; You turned from Your burning anger. Restore us, O God of our salvation, and put away Your displeasure toward us. Will You be angry with us forever? Will You draw out Your anger to all generations? Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You? Show us Your loving devotion, O Lord, and grant us Your salvation. I will listen to what God the Lord will say; for He will surely speak peace to His people and His saints; He will not let them return to folly. Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, that His glory may dwell in our land. Loving devotion and faithfulness have joined together; righteousness and peace have kissed. Faithfulness sprouts from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The Lord will indeed provide what is good, and our land will yield its increase. Righteousness will go before Him to prepare the way for His steps. Psalms 85:1-13 BSB
Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.85.1-13.BSB Image Courtesy of YouVersion Today’s Devotional is from: YouVersion
Remember What God Has Done
Remembering what God has done is an important part of Jewish worship. After God delivered the Israelites from Egypt, He instructed the people to remember His words. He told them to diligently teach His commands, and to talk about them in their houses,when they walked, when they were lying down, and when they got up in the morning (Deuteronomy 6:7).
The Israelites were told to constantly remember what God had done, who God was, and what He had said.
And so, in Psalm 85:2, the Psalmist engages in an act of remembrance by reflecting on God’s forgiveness:
“You forgave the iniquity of your people; you covered all their sin.” (ESV)
The Israelites had sinned against God many times, and many times over God forgave them. The author of Psalm 85 didn’t want Israel to forget God’s great kindness, so he crafted a Psalm that would remind anyone who repeated it of God’s mercy, forgiveness, power, and love.
The Psalmist appeared to know that purposefully remembering what God has done is a powerful practice—and it’s a powerful practice we should take part in.
Remembrance helps us think about the grace and love of God.
Remembrance provides reassurance that we are right with God through Jesus.
Remembrance fills us with hope that God will be faithful to do what He’s promised.
Remembrance strengthens our faith in God and His Word.
Remembrance helps us worship God for what He has done and be grateful for all that He will do.
Developing a practice of remembrance will keep our minds fixed on God, and keep our hearts connected to His grace.
So what are some of the things you can purposefully reflect on and thank God for? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Remember He sent His one and only son to die for the sins of the world.
Remember He created the world, and praise Him for it.
Remember He has filled you with His Holy Spirit to remind you of His words and transform you into the likeness of Jesus.
Remember the grace and love He has for you. Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for Forgiveness
God, please forgive me for the mistakes I’ve made. I know I mess up sometimes, but I know You are a Father who forgives His children. As I move forward, help me to learn, grow, and change for the better. Because of You, I am made new and my mistakes do not have to define me. Thank You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Image Courtesy of YouVersion Bible App Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
God Our Shepherd
There are times when I think, How can someone like me succeed? Yet, these thoughts don’t devastate me because I know where success comes from. It doesn’t matter what I am. It only matters who God is, because He is all I need! He is my Jehovah-raah, the Lord my Shepherd. And because the Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.
Oh, what a marvelous revelation the Spirit of God gave us as He breathed these words through the pen of David! It’s much better to cling to the precepts of God than to maxims or positive thinking, because He has magnified His Word above His name (Psalm 138:2).
What does God think about us? Many things—and all of them are precious (Psalm 139:17-18). Yet, His thoughts are based on an honest evaluation of what we are like.
We are like sheep. Over and over again God refers to us as sheep: “All we like sheep have gone astray” (Isaiah 53:6). “My sheep hear my voice” (John 10:27). “We are...the sheep of His pasture” (Psalm 100:3). “I...will both search my sheep, and seek them out” (Ezekiel 34:11). “Feed my sheep” (John 21:17).
All the positive thoughts in the world can’t change the fact that sheep are sheep. Sheep are the dumbest of all animals. They are helpless, timid, and feeble. They require constant attention and meticulous care. Sheep have little means of self-defense.
What makes the difference in sheep is the shepherd.
Even though we do dumb things, even though we are not perfect, even though we all stumble in many ways (James 3:2), we can succeed because the Lord is our Shepherd. God designed us as we are so that we would see our need of Him. In Him, we find all that we need. Thus, we can say with total confidence and conviction, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1).
As you read through Psalm 23, make a list of all that Jehovah-raah does for His sheep. https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/17849/day/4
Today’s Scripture is: John 10:1-21
“Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever does not enter the sheepfold by the gate, but climbs in some other way, is a thief and a robber. But the one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen for his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will flee from him because they do not recognize his voice.” Jesus spoke to them using this illustration, but they did not understand what He was telling them. So He said to them again, “Truly, truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before Me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. If anyone enters through Me, he will be saved. He will come in and go out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd, and the sheep are not his own. When he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf pounces on them and scatters the flock. The man runs away because he is a hired servant and is unconcerned for the sheep. I am the good shepherd. I know My sheep and My sheep know Me, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father. And I lay down My life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them in as well, and they will listen to My voice. Then there will be one flock and one shepherd. The reason the Father loves Me is that I lay down My life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of My own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from My Father.” Again there was division among the Jews because of Jesus’ message. Many of them said, “He is demon-possessed and insane. Why would you listen to Him?” But others replied, “These are not the words of a man possessed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?” John 10:1-21 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/jhn.10.1-21.BSB Today’s Devotional is: Your Good Shepherd
Shepherding has been a vital part of Middle Eastern life for thousands of years. And 2,000 years ago in ancient Israel, shepherds played an especially important role in the local economy.
Shepherds would not only lead their sheep to green pastures and freshwater, but they would also defend their flocks against predators, robbers, and other natural threats. They would nurture the weak, chase after wandering sheep, fix fences, persevere through extreme weather, and endure long seasons of loneliness.
If necessary, a shepherd would even put himself in harm’s way, risking his own life for his sheep.
It’s this ordinary, lonely life that Jesus chose to use to explain who He was to His people…
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:11 ESV
By using a tangible example that first-century Jews would have understood, Jesus revealed characteristics about Himself.
Just like a shepherd, Jesus was—and is—humble, selfless, hardworking, concerned with the details of our lives, tender, brave, dedicated, and unafraid to lay down His life for His people.
But Jesus isn’t just a good shepherd; He is the Good Shepherd— and He wants to be your personal shepherd. So will you let Him? Will you trust Him with your life today? Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer of Thanks to the Good Shepherd
Jesus, thank You for caring for Your people so much. You are the Good
Living Changed: Spiritual Warfare
https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/12693-living-changed-spiritual-warfare
As Christians, we have the power of Jesus Christ living inside us, but so often, we surrender that strength to the one who opposes us. There is a battle happening all around us, but we’re not helpless. We can choose to use our God-given authority to fight for ourselves and for our loved ones. This plan will introduce you to your spiritual weapons and get you ready for battle!
Day 2: Take Thoughts Captive
One of the most common ways we experience spiritual warfare is in the mind. The enemy is constantly hurling lies at us and trying to get us to agree with the discouraging, destructive, and dangerous things he says. But Satan isn’t creative. Creation belongs to God. So the best he can do is figure out which lies hurt us the most and torment us with them over and over again. The attacks impacting us most today are probably the same attacks he’s been throwing at us our whole lives. But his lies only have power when we choose to agree with them. When we agree with a lie, we give it credibility. We internalize it and let it become a part of who we believe we are. You’ll know you’ve made an agreement with a lie because it will sound like the voice in your head. If we heard an evil, hissing voice like something out of a movie, we’d never listen to it. But because it’s in our own voice, we’re so much more willing to believe it as truth. When our thoughts are aligned with God’s word, the devil can’t lie to us. The apostle Paul encourages us to take our thoughts captive. That means not letting our thoughts run wild, but checking our thoughts against the truth of God’s word. He also urges us to think on whatever is true, noble, lovely, and praiseworthy. He understood the mind is a battlefield, and he wanted us to cast out everything that doesn’t line up with God. Again, taking thoughts captive and casting out lies is active. We can’t simply think “go away.” Satan can’t read our minds. Sometimes we allow him to influence our thoughts when we pick up the lies he hurls at us, but only God is all-knowing and able to hear our thoughts. When Jesus was in the desert being tempted by Satan, Jesus spoke Scripture and told him to go away. In the same way, we have the authority to command him to flee in the name of Jesus. With practice, it gets easier to spot the inconsistencies between what you’re hearing and what God promises. You’ll get faster at taking thoughts captive, speaking against lies, and realigning with truth. Ask God to help you spot the lies and remind you of the truth so you can more easily fight back!
Again, the devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. “All this I will give You,” he said, “if You will fall down and worship me.” “Away from Me, Satan!” Jesus declared. “For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.’” Then the devil left Him, and angels came and ministered to Him. Matthew 4:8-11 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.4.8-11.BSB
We tear down arguments and every presumption set up against the knowledge of God; and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/2co.10.5.BSB
My son, pay attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not lose sight of them; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and health to the whole body. Proverbs 4:20-22 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/pro.4.20-22.BSB
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Psalms 51:10 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.51.10.BSB
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things. Philippians 4:8 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/php.4.8.BSB
Living Changed: Spiritual Warfare - As Christians, we have the power of Jesus Christ living inside us, but so often, we surrender that strength to the one who opposes us. There is a battle happening all around us, but we’re not helpless. We can choose to use our God-given authority to fight for ourselves and for our loved ones. This plan will introduce you to your spiritual weapons and get you ready for battle!
https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/12693-living-changed-spiritual-warfare
Warfare is Active
There is a spiritual battle raging around us, every day of our lives. Satan is constantly attacking us, hurling lies, and trying to distract us from the plans God has for us. He doesn’t want us to be who God made us to be, to step into our calling, or stand up for what’s right. He knows if he can keep us down—thinking we’re incapable, inadequate, unattractive, unworthy, and unwanted—he wins.
But we are not helpless or hopeless. God has given us the authority to say we won’t take it. Not for ourselves, and not for our spouses, children, families, or friends. In the book of James, God promises us that when we resist the devil, he must flee. But too often, we might just think about resisting while actually staying passive. In this passage, God is telling us to act. Calling us to fight.
Think about it this way: If someone were to sneak up behind you and attack, you wouldn’t stay quiet and let them hurt you. You would fight back by yelling, kicking, hitting, screaming—doing anything you could do to get away safely. Fighting a spiritual battle isn’t any different. You must do everything you can to resist the attack.
God has given us multiple weapons to fight the enemy. Taking our thoughts captive, worship, prayer, and staying involved in Christian community are all weapons in our arsenal, and the best weapon God gave us is the Bible. The Bible is the Word of God, and it’s described in Ephesians as our Sword of the Spirit. As we become more familiar with Scripture, we are sharpening our sword for battle. We can deflect the lies of the enemy by speaking God’s truth and promises over ourselves, our situation, and our families.
The enemy knows if he can keep us fearful, hopeless, and isolated, then he can steal from us the opportunity to win more people to Christ. Satan is desperate to convince us we’re not enough and we can’t make a difference because his future is already written, and he loses.
Take a moment to acknowledge that you’re in a spiritual battle and the eternities of your loved ones are at stake. Let it strengthen your resolve and give you something to fight for. Stand confident on God’s promise that He’s already won the war, and ask Him to show you how to fight.
Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in your faith and in the knowledge that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering. 1 Peter 5:8-9 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/1pe.5.8-9.BSB
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/jas.4.7.BSB
And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:17 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/eph.6.17.BSB
From UnitedByTheCross.org
Matthew 11:25-30 BSB
At that time Jesus declared, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was well-pleasing in Your sight. All things have been entrusted to Me by My Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him. Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:25-30 Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.11.25-30.BSB
Today’s Devotional is: Sabbath Keeping
The Gift of Sabbath
What is the sabbath? A weekly day of rest and worship. A day to cease working and relax in God’s care for us. A day to stop doing the things that occupy our workdays and participate in activities that nurture peace, worship, relationships, celebration and thankfulness. The purpose of the sabbath is to clear away the distractions of our lives so we can rest in God and experience God’s grace in a new way.
The sabbath has been a great gift to me by slowing me down and inviting me to experience God’s rest—not just analyze it. Jesus said to his disciples, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29). I have received that gift of rest in Christ because of the sabbath.
The sabbath has enabled me to learn from Jesus, to take his gentle yoke on my shoulders rather than live in response to the world’s demands and my own unhealthy desires. Keeping a sabbath has taught me the deep truths of God’s love as much as any faith discipline I have observed as an adult. It has shaped my heart, opening me to receive God’s gifts more fully. The sabbath has inscribed God’s grace on my soul in a way I can barely describe.
From Sabbath Keeping by Lynne M. Baab https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/13075-sabbath-keeping/day/1
Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer for Rest
Jesus, You know exactly what I need. You know where I am suffering and hurting. And You are gentle with me. You want me to approach You and give You all my concerns. So here I am. I need You, and I want You. Please carry these burdens with me, and give me Your rest in return. Amen. Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB Image Courtesy of YouVersion
Psalms 100:1-5 BSB
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Serve the Lord with gladness; come into His presence with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and bless His name. For the Lord is good, and His loving devotion endures forever; His faithfulness continues to all generations. Psalms 100:1-5 Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020 https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.100.1-5.BSB Today’s Devotional is: Living Changed: Spiritual Warfare Living Changed: Spiritual Warfare
Day 3 of 5 • This day’s reading
Isaiah 55:10-11 Psalm 100:1-5 Ephesians 5:19-20
Devotional: Worship
Worship is a key tactic in spiritual warfare. The act of praising God helps us combat the lies of the enemy and shut out that inner dialogue telling us we’re not enough. It’s impossible to focus on His goodness, faithfulness, power, and might while also feeling weak, worried, afraid, or alone.
Most people, when they hear the word “worship,” think of the songs they sing in church or music they hear on the local Christian radio station. But, by definition, worship is any expression of reverence and adoration for God. We are worshipping when we give our tithe, serve with a joyful heart, show love to our neighbor, and help someone in need. Worship is simply showing gratitude to God for who He is and what He’s done. And it’s a powerful weapon against the enemy.
Several years ago, my family went through a difficult financial season where we were barely making ends meet. My husband was struggling to overcome the lie that he had failed us. I knew Satan wanted us afraid and focused on what we didn’t have, but we refused to give in. Instead, we chose gratitude because I remembered—you can’t worry and worship at the same time. So, whenever we were home, we were blasting worship music to help us replace our negative thoughts with God’s promises.
I love how so many worship songs include God’s word as song lyrics. It not only makes it easier to remember encouraging verses when we need them, but just by singing, we can declare the truth of God’s word over our situation. In fact, if you’re feeling attacked in the grocery store and don’t want to recite Bible verses or speak out against the enemy, you can boldly use your Sword of the Spirit just by singing a few lines. No matter if it’s spoken or sung, keeping God’s word on your lips throughout the day helps you stay in a mindset of worship.
When we worship, our whole focus is on God. It’s the best way to block out the lies of the enemy because in a state of worship, we remember who God is, what He brought us out of, and how He can be trusted to do it again.
How do you stay in an attitude of worship throughout your week? Do you have a favorite worship song that reminds you of God’s truth?
Today’s Prayer is: God is Worthy of My Worship
God, You make all things beautiful. You bring beauty out of ugly situations, and You can turn mourning into joy. No matter what comes my way, I will choose to worship You with gladness—because You are worthy of my worship. I will view my pain as an opportunity to find fulfillment in You, and I will view my blessings as opportunities to praise You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Courtesy of YouVersion Bible App
Have a Blessed Day
‘The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face to shine on you, and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face toward you, and give you peace.’ Numbers 6:24-26 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/num.6.24-26.WMB
Make sure that no one repays evil for evil. Always pursue what is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice at all times. Pray without ceasing. Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not extinguish the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt, but test all things. Hold fast to what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely, and may your entire spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it. 1 Thessalonians 5:15-24 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/1th.5.15-24.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Today's Prayer is: Give Me a Gracious Heart
God, when I come to You with humility, You never hold my mistakes against me. Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, all my mistakes are paid for. I never want to cheapen Your gracious gift by refusing to show mercy or kindness to others—especially to other Christians. Remove any hurt or devision from my heart, and show me where I need to do good to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a Blessed Day The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/num.6.24-26.NIV
Today’s Verses are: Philippians 4:4-9
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be apparent to all. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me, put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:4-9 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/php.4.4-9.BSB
Today’s Devotional is from: Untriggered: Resting in God When You’re Triggered by Anxiety, Anger, or Temptation
https://www.bible.com/en/reading-plans/19880
Stir-Crazy
Think About It
Stir-crazy.
Those words can be used to describe the feelings that come with being stuck in one place for far too long. Kids can feel stir-crazy when Summer days get taken over by rain and they can’t go outside. Sometimes moms get stir-crazy when they find themselves realizing they haven’t left the house in a long time. In a pandemic, people go stir-crazy when “stay at home” orders go from days to weeks.
Being stir-crazy can often trigger an emotional domino effect. Feeling stuck moves to unrest. Unrest moves to anxious thoughts. And then anxious thoughts start to feel like the walls are closing in and there’s no hope.
When you recognize the feelings and emotions involved in this train of thoughts, you get to make a choice. Where will you turn for hope and a way forward?
While you could battle feeling stir-crazy with practical suggestions from the latest blog or Pinterest board, there is nothing like the answer of Scripture from God’s perspective to help you pause and find real rest from it all.
You say, I am anxious.
God says, In every situation, come to Me with prayer and praise.
You say, No one understands.
God says, My peace transcends all understanding.
You say, I can’t take this anymore.
God says, Throw it all on me.
When being stir-crazy triggers anxiety and unrest, stop today and take it all to the God who cares. He wants all of your emotions today, all of your messy stir-crazy feelings. God is ready to listen and bring peace.
Pray About It
Holy God, I confess that it’s more natural for me to worry about what I can’t control than it is to trust You. Forgive me for forgetting so easily how faithful and good You are. May Your Spirit teach me to rest in Your peace and turn my thoughts toward worship and gratitude. Amen.
Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer to Practice Biblical Principles
God, thank You for teaching me through Your Word. And thank You for placing people in my life that inspire me to draw close to You. As I go about my day, please surround me with opportunities to learn more about You, and apply what I learn. Let me be on the lookout for ways to deepen my relationship with You, and the people You love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a Blessed Day
“ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/num.6.24-26.NIV
Matthew 6:5-15 BSB And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not babble on like pagans, for they think that by their many words they will be heard. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. So then, this is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’ For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive yours. Matthew 6:5-15 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.6.5-15.BSB
Today’s Prayer is: A Prayer to Come as I am God, here I am. I just want to get to know You better. Forgive me for all the times I’ve made prayer about me instead of You. Change the way I think and live, and make me eager to talk to You every day. Here I am Lord, let’s talk. Amen.
Have a Blessed Day “ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/num.6.24-26.NIV
Hebrews 13:1-25 WMB
Let brotherly love continue. Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for in doing so, some have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those who are in bonds, as bound with them, and those who are ill-treated, since you are also in the body. Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the bed be undefiled; but God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers. Be free from the love of money, content with such things as you have, for he has said, “I will in no way leave you, neither will I in any way forsake you.” So that with good courage we say, “The Lord is my helper. I will not fear. What can man do to me?” Remember your leaders, men who spoke to you the word of God, and considering the results of their conduct, imitate their faith. Yeshua the Messiah is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Don’t be carried away by various and strange teachings, for it is good that the heart be established by grace, not by foods, through which those who were so occupied were not benefited. We have an altar from which those who serve the holy tabernacle have no right to eat. For the bodies of those animals, whose blood is brought into the holy place by the high priest as an offering for sin, are burned outside of the camp. Therefore Yeshua also, that he might sanctify the people through his own blood, suffered outside of the gate. Let’s therefore go out to him outside of the camp, bearing his reproach. For we don’t have here an enduring city, but we seek that which is to come. Through him, then, let’s offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips which proclaim allegiance to his name. But don’t forget to be doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch on behalf of your souls, as those who will give account, that they may do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be unprofitable for you. Pray for us, for we are persuaded that we have a good conscience, desiring to live honorably in all things. I strongly urge you to do this, that I may be restored to you sooner. Now may the God of peace, who brought again from the dead the great shepherd of the sheep with the blood of an eternal covenant, our Lord Yeshua, make you complete in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Yeshua the Messiah, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen. But I exhort you, brothers, endure the word of exhortation, for I have written to you in few words. Know that our brother Timothy has been freed, with whom, if he comes shortly, I will see you. Greet all of your leaders and all the holy ones. The Italians greet you. Grace be with you all. Amen. Hebrews 13:1-25 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/heb.13.1-25.WMB
Today's Prayer is: Help Us to Imitate Jesus
Jesus, the world may change—but You won’t. You don’t shift. You don’t unexpectedly change Your mind or leave us. You give us a consistent example to follow because You are trustworthy and worth following. So please help us to look to You as we go about our daily lives. Help us to follow the example You set. Amen.
Have a blessed day “ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/num.6.24-26.NIV
Romans 12:14-21 BSB
Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but enjoy the company of the lowly. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” On the contrary, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:14-21 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/rom.12.14-21.BSB Today’s Devotional is: A counter-cultural way to live
Have you ever been betrayed by someone you trusted, or had moments when you wondered why your life was filled with disappointment, hardship, and injustice?
In moments of pain, loss, and betrayal, it’s normal to want vengeance. Because we are broken people living in a broken world, our first reaction is often a desire for the people who hurt us to experience equal or greater amounts of pain.
But Jesus calls us to live differently.
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:43-45 NIV
This is something the apostle Paul reiterates in Romans chapter 12…
“Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. …Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.” Romans 12:19, 21 NLT
We have a choice. We can either choose to let anger and pain overcome and control us—or we can allow God to justify, deliver, and take care of us.
This choice isn’t easy. In many cases, it goes against our sense of personal justice and fairness. But when we take someone’s punishment into our own hands, we become as guilty as the person who’s hurt us. The only one impartial enough to bring us true justice is the God who daily has mercy on us.
Romans 12:19-21 serves as a reminder that God is the ultimate judge. We are not God, and so our role is to cry out to Him, and let Him take care of us. Do we fight for justice? Yes. Do we stand up for the poor and the oppressed? Absolutely—we must.
The way we conquer evil is by doing good.
But one day, God will right every wrong. Infact, He has righted every wrong. Because of Jesus, every sin, mistake, and painful action has been paid for—because He paid for it with His life.
This means that evil has an end date. The righteous anger of God will have its full effect. But in the meantime, let’s follow Jesus’ example by showing people love, mercy, and forgiveness—because that is what God has shown us. Today’s Prayer is: Help Me to Do What is Good
God, when I am overwhelmed by the brokenness I see, help me to remember that You see me. You are in control. I might not be able to stop all the pain and injustice I witness, but I can help overcome evil by doing good. Please help me to do that. Give me the courage and humility to love people well today. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Have a Blessed Day
“ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/num.6.24-26.NIV
And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified. What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, freely give us all things? Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is there to condemn us? For Christ Jesus, who died, and more than that was raised to life, is at the right hand of God—and He is interceding for us. Romans 8:28-34 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/rom.8.28-34.BSB
Remember my affliction and wandering, the wormwood and the gall. Surely my soul remembers and is humbled within me. Yet I call this to mind, and therefore I have hope: Because of the loving devotion of the Lord we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness! “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in Him.” The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is still young. Let him sit alone in silence, for God has disciplined him. Let him bury his face in the dust— perhaps there is still hope. Let him offer his cheek to the one who would strike him; let him be filled with reproach. For the Lord will not cast us off forever. Even if He causes grief, He will show compassion according to His abundant loving devotion. For He does not willingly afflict or grieve the sons of men. To crush underfoot all the prisoners of the land, to deny a man justice before the Most High, to subvert a man in his lawsuit— of these the Lord does not approve. Lamentations 3:19-36 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/lam.3.19-36.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Today’s Prayer is: Great is God’s Faithfulness
God, when the troubles of my heart are many—You are still faithful. When I am tired, overwhelmed, burnt out, or grieving—Your love still wraps around me. Thank You for showing me kindness and mercy every day. Your mercies never cease, and Your steadfast love endures forever. Great is Your faithfulness! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Today’s Song is: Great Is Thy Faithfulness
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father There is no shadow of turning with Thee Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be
Great is Thy faithfulness Great is Thy faithfulness Morning by morning new mercies I see All I have needed Thy hands hath provided Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside
Great is Thy faithfulness Great is Thy faithfulness Lord every morning new mercies I see All I have needed Thy hands hath provided Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me
“ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/num.6.24-26.NIV
Have a Blessed Day
Mark 8:34-38 BSB Then Jesus called the crowd to Him along with His disciples, and He told them, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and for the gospel will save it. What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? If anyone is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in His Father’s glory with the holy angels.” Mark 8:34-38 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/mrk.8.34-38.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Today's Prayer is: A Prayer to Live Like it Matters
Jesus, I don’t want to lose what matters most by focusing on momentary things. So please help me. When I am tired, please strengthen me. When living a comfortable life seems more appealing than following You unconditionally—please convict and correct me. Give me the strength to trust in You. I know that You are worth living and dying for, but please help me to live like it. Amen.
Have a blessed day.
“ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/num.6.24-26.NIV
Proverbs 12 BSB Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid. The good man obtains favor from the Lord, but the Lord condemns a man who devises evil. A man cannot be established through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted. A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but she who causes shame is like decay in his bones. The plans of the righteous are just, but the counsel of the wicked leads to deceit. The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them. The wicked are overthrown and perish, but the house of the righteous will stand. A man is praised according to his wisdom, but a twisted mind is despised. Better to be lightly esteemed yet have a servant, than to be self-important but lack food. A righteous man regards the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are only cruelty. The one who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies lacks judgment. The wicked desire the plunder of evil men, but the root of the righteous flourishes. An evil man is trapped by his rebellious speech, but a righteous man escapes from trouble. By fruitful speech a man is filled with good things, and the work of his hands returns to him. The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to counsel. A fool’s anger is known at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult. He who speaks the truth declares what is right, but a false witness speaks deceit. Speaking rashly is like a piercing sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment. Deceit is in the hearts of those who devise evil, but the counselors of peace have joy. No harm befalls the righteous, but the wicked are filled with trouble. Lying lips are detestable to the Lord, but those who deal faithfully are His delight. A shrewd man keeps his knowledge to himself, but a foolish heart proclaims its folly. The hand of the diligent will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor. Anxiety weighs down the heart of a man, but a good word cheers it up. A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the ways of the wicked lead them astray. A lazy man does not roast his game, but a diligent man prizes his possession. There is life in the path of righteousness, but another path leads to death. Proverbs 12:1-28 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/pro.12.1-28.BSB
Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Today's Prayer is: A Prayer to Replace Worry with Kindness God, as I go about my day, help me to be on the lookout for people who might need a reminder of Your love and kindness. Use me to be a source of encouragement to the people around me. And when I get worried by events that are beyond my control, please remind me that You are near by filling me with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/num.6.24-26.NIV
Have a blessed day.
Psalms 94 BSB O Lord, God of vengeance, O God of vengeance, shine forth. Rise up, O Judge of the earth; render a reward to the proud. How long will the wicked, O Lord, how long will the wicked exult? They pour out arrogant words; all workers of iniquity boast. They crush Your people, O Lord; they oppress Your heritage. They kill the widow and the foreigner; they murder the fatherless. They say, “The Lord does not see; the God of Jacob pays no heed.” Take notice, O senseless among the people! O fools, when will you be wise? He who affixed the ear, can He not hear? He who formed the eye, can He not see? He who admonishes the nations, does He not discipline? He who teaches man, does He lack knowledge? The Lord knows the thoughts of man, that they are futile. Blessed is the man You discipline, O Lord, and teach from Your law, to grant him relief from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked. For the Lord will not forsake His people; He will never abandon His heritage. Surely judgment will again be righteous, and all the upright in heart will follow it. Who will rise up for me against the wicked? Who will stand for me against the workers of iniquity? Unless the Lord had been my helper, I would soon have dwelt in the abode of silence. If I say, “My foot is slipping,” Your loving devotion, O Lord, supports me. When anxiety overwhelms me, Your consolation delights my soul. Can a corrupt throne be Your ally— one devising mischief by decree? They band together against the righteous and condemn the innocent to death. But the Lord has been my stronghold, and my God is my rock of refuge. He will bring upon them their own iniquity and destroy them for their wickedness. The Lord our God will destroy them. Psalms 94:1-23 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.94.1-23.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Today's Prayer is: A Prayer for Comfort and Joy
God, You are in control. And because You are in control, I am safe. I am Your child. And because nothing can separate me from You, I can run to You when I face troubles of any kind. Please help me to remember that. Remind my soul of what is true, and comfort me as I face hardships that are too big for me to handle. Fill me with joy as I believe in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/num.6.24-26.NIV
Have a Blessed Day
1 John 4:7-21 BSB Beloved, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God’s love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. And love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God remains in us, and His love is perfected in us. By this we know that we remain in Him, and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. And we have come to know and believe the love that God has for us. God is love; whoever abides in love abides in God, and God in him. In this way, love has been perfected among us, so that we may have confidence on the day of judgment; for in this world we are just like Him. There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment. The one who fears has not been perfected in love. We love because He first loved us. If anyone says, “I love God,” but hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And we have this commandment from Him: Whoever loves God must love his brother as well. 1 John 4:7-21 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/1jn.4.7-21.BSB
Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Prayer: Help Me to Live With Love
God, thank You for showing every generation throughout history the same unconditional love. You are constantly inviting us to experience intimacy with You. What a beautiful gift that is! Today, no matter what I face, help me to love others like You have loved me. Let my life be evidence of Your love at work in the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Have a Blessed Day
“ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/num.6.24-26.NIV
I thank my God every time I remember you. In every prayer for all of you, I always pray with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart. For in my chains and in my defense and confirmation of the gospel, you are all partners in grace with me. God is my witness how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to test and prove what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:3-11 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/php.1.3-11.BSB
Now after the death of His servant Moses, the Lord spoke to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ assistant, saying, “Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore arise, you and all these people, and cross over the Jordan into the land that I am giving to the children of Israel. I have given you every place where the sole of your foot will tread, just as I promised to Moses. Your territory shall extend from the wilderness and Lebanon to the great River Euphrates—all the land of the Hittites—and west as far as the Great Sea. No one shall stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so will I be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and courageous, for you shall give these people the inheritance of the land that I swore to their fathers I would give them. Above all, be strong and very courageous. Be careful to observe all the law that My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may prosper wherever you go. This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do. Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:1-9 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/jos.1.1-9.BSB
Berean Bible - United by the Cross
A Bible to Share
I know your time is valuable, so I’ll start at the end. The Berean Reader’s Bible and the Berean Study Bible are current English translations and available for free. You can find it at https://berean.bible/ or you can get an unofficial audiobook version here.
Now let’s start at the beginning
You’re probably familiar with the idea that we have multiple translations of the Bible, but you may not know why. There’s a lot of things that are difficult to explain in other languages.
Imagine telling someone about a message. The note says, “I love my spouse, my career, microwave popcorn, and sleeping with the TV on”.
There’s a few problems here:
Your one word has multiple meanings
The person is from a country that’s never heard of electricity
There’s no words in their language for microwave or television
Oh yeah, you don’t speak the same language
What is your solution?
You have an app to translate what you say. How do you decide what to say? Do you change words to keep the meaning? Do you say the closest equivalent in their language? Is it ok if you change any of the words so they can understand what you’re talking about?
You can take someone else’s old translation and update it. Since it’s out of copyright, there’s no fees for using it. You can go back to the oldest known sources. You can look at many translations from different areas and times throughout history.
Ultimately, the choices have a lot to do with what you plan on doing with it. Do you want it for easy reading? Do you need everything numbered so you can reference a specific verse? Do you want to have cross references noted? How about commentary to help you understand the context?
If time is money…
Now, the Bible has over 30,000 verses and the meaning isn’t something trivial, like my note. The process of translating old languages, especially this quantity, is an amazingly time intensive exercise. It’s a common practice for translations to be protected by copyright, because of the investment involved in making it. Under copy protection, there are restrictions on what you can do and how much of the text is available with and without permission.
And the point of my ramblings is
The Berean series of Bibles are free to use like the King James Version. They’re also current English like the New International Version or New Living Translation.
According to their website:
The following image, courtesy of https://bereanbibles.com/about-berean-study-bible/compare-translations/ shows the different use cases.
The four tiers of the Berean Bible are as follows:
Tier 1 An interlinear Bible to directly follow the Greek and Hebrew texts.
Tier 2 A literal translation to take the reader to the core of the Greek and Hebrew meanings.
Tier 3 A modern English study translation, effective for public reading, memorization, and evangelism.
Tier 4 An emphasized translation to bring out the full meaning and intensity of the original texts.
https://bereanbibles.com/about-berean-study-bible/translation-tiers/
The original point of this writing is to say that there is no audio version yet, but it’s in progress according to their website. There are multiple free Bibles and resources available from Berean.Bible and due to the generous permissions they offer, I have made an audiobook version of the Berean Reader’s Bible. I will post download links here from multiple sources, and I expect to have the files available to play directly from the site soon. If you made it all the way to the end, thank you for taking the time and I pray that this blessed you.
Download Text, WAV, MP3, & M4B
Google Drive https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1OCaqIYw9zz5gMbl-sswkoPUxrxvqXpcF
OneDrive https://1drv.ms/f/s!AkY0Sg5WiN6r1joTH1ib_FeFbffp
Mega https://mega.nz/folder/osFBVCaL#AbXlvkIS1ovp5RdPmRaYhw
And when the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they themselves gathered together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested Him with a question: “Teacher, which commandment is the greatest in the Law?” Jesus declared, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:34-40 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.22.34-40.BSB
unitedbythecross.org
Romans 15:1-13
New Living Translation NLT
I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:1-13 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.15.1-13.NLT
Berean Study Bible BSB
We who are strong ought to bear with the shortcomings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For even Christ did not please Himself, but as it is written: “The insults of those who insult You have fallen on Me.” For everything that was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we might have hope. Now may the God who gives endurance and encouragement grant you harmony with one another in Christ Jesus, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring glory to God. For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the circumcised on behalf of God’s truth, to confirm the promises made to the patriarchs, so that the Gentiles may glorify God for His mercy. As it is written: “Therefore I will praise You among the Gentiles; I will sing hymns to Your name.” Again, it says: “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with His people.” And again: “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and extol Him, all you peoples.” And once more, Isaiah says: “The Root of Jesse will appear, One who will arise to rule over the Gentiles; in Him the Gentiles will put their hope.” Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:1-13 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/rom.15.1-13.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
World Messianic Bible WMB
Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each one of us please his neighbor for that which is good, to be building him up. For even Messiah didn’t please himself. But, as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that through perseverance and through encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Now the God of perseverance and of encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Messiah Yeshua, that with one accord you may with one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Yeshua the Messiah. Therefore accept one another, even as Messiah also accepted you, to the glory of God. Now I say that Messiah has been made a servant of the circumcision for the truth of God, that he might confirm the promises given to the fathers, and that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, “Therefore I will give praise to you among the Gentiles and sing to your name.” Again he says, “Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people.” Again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles! Let all the peoples praise him.” Again, Isaiah says, “There will be the root of Jesse, he who arises to rule over the Gentiles; in him the Gentiles will hope.” Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope in the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:1-13 WMB https://bible.com/bible/1209/rom.15.1-13.WMB
A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold. The rich and the poor have this in common: The Lord is Maker of them all. The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and suffer the consequences. The rewards of humility and the fear of the Lord are wealth and honor and life. Thorns and snares lie on the path of the perverse; he who guards his soul stays far from them. Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender. He who sows injustice will reap disaster, and the rod of his fury will be destroyed. A generous man will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor. Drive out the mocker, and conflict will depart; even quarreling and insults will cease. He who loves a pure heart and gracious lips will have the king for a friend. The Lord’s eyes keep watch over knowledge, but He frustrates the words of the faithless. The slacker says, “There is a lion outside! I will be slain in the streets!” The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit; he who is under the wrath of the Lord will fall into it. Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him. Oppressing the poor to enrich oneself or giving gifts to the rich will surely lead to poverty. Proverbs 22:1-16 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/pro.22.1-16.BSB
Psalms 68 God's Enemies Are Scattered For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. A song.
God arises. His enemies are scattered, and those who hate Him flee His presence. As smoke is blown away, You will drive them out; as wax melts before the fire, the wicked will perish in the presence of God. But the righteous will be glad and rejoice before God; they will celebrate with joy. Sing to God! Sing praises to His name. Exalt Him who rides on the clouds — His name is the Lord— and rejoice before Him. A father of the fatherless, and a defender of the widows, is God in His holy habitation. God settles the lonely in families; He leads the prisoners out to prosperity, but the rebellious dwell in a sun-scorched land. O God, when You went out before Your people, when You marched through the wasteland, Selah the earth shook and the heavens poured down rain before God, the One on Sinai, before God, the God of Israel. You sent abundant rain, O God; You refreshed Your weary inheritance. Your flock settled therein; O God, from Your bounty You provided for the poor. The Lord gives the command; a great company of women proclaim it: “Kings and their armies flee in haste; she who waits at home divides the plunder. Though you lie down among the sheepfolds, the wings of the dove are covered with silver, and her feathers with shimmering gold.” When the Almighty scattered the kings in the land, it was like the snow falling on Zalmon. A mountain of God is Mount Bashan; a mountain of many peaks is Mount Bashan. Why do you gaze in envy, O mountains of many peaks? This is the mountain God chose for His dwelling, where the Lord will surely dwell forever. The chariots of God are tens of thousands— thousands of thousands are they; the Lord is in His sanctuary as He was at Sinai. You have ascended on high; You have led captives away. You have received gifts from men, even from the rebellious, that the Lord God may dwell there. Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden, the God of our salvation. Selah Our God is a God of deliverance; the Lord GOD is our rescuer from death. Surely God will crush the heads of His enemies, the hairy crowns of those who persist in guilty ways. The Lord said, “I will retrieve them from Bashan, I will bring them up from the depths of the sea, that your foot may be dipped in the blood of your foes— the tongues of your dogs in the same.” They have seen Your procession, O God— the march of my God and King into the sanctuary. The singers lead the way, the musicians follow after, among the maidens playing tambourines. Bless God in the great congregation; bless the Lord from the fountain of Israel. There is Benjamin, the youngest, ruling them, the princes of Judah in their company, the princes of Zebulun and of Naphtali. Summon Your power, O God; show Your strength, O God, which You have exerted on our behalf. Because of Your temple at Jerusalem kings will bring You gifts. Rebuke the beast in the reeds, the herd of bulls among the calves of the nations, until it submits, bringing bars of silver. Scatter the nations who delight in war. Envoys will arrive from Egypt; Cush will stretch out her hands to God. Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth; sing praises to the Lord— Selah to Him who rides upon the highest heavens of old; behold, His mighty voice resounds. Ascribe the power to God, whose majesty is over Israel, whose strength is in the skies. O God, You are awesome in Your sanctuary; the God of Israel Himself gives strength and power to His people. Blessed be God! Psalms 68:1-35 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.68.1-35.BSB
Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. Invest in truth and never sell it— in wisdom and instruction and understanding. The father of a righteous man will greatly rejoice, and he who fathers a wise son will delight in him. May your father and mother be glad, and may she who gave you birth rejoice! Proverbs 23:22-25 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/pro.23.22-25.BSB
Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience. When you lived among them, you also used to walk in these ways. But now you must put aside all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to one another, since you have taken off the old self with its practices, and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, or free, but Christ is all and is in all. Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Colossians 3:1-17 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/col.3.1-17.BSB
I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips. My soul boasts in the Lord; let the oppressed hear and rejoice. Magnify the Lord with me; let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed. This poor man called out, and the Lord heard him; He saved him from all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them. Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! Fear the Lord, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing. Young lions go lacking and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Who is the man who delights in life, who desires to see good days? Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech. Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to wipe out all memory of them from the earth. The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears; He delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him from them all. He protects all his bones; not one of them will be broken. Evil will slay the wicked, and the haters of the righteous will be condemned. The Lord redeems His servants, and none who take refuge in Him will be condemned. Psalms 34:1-22 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.34.1-22.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us walk in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying one another. Galatians 5:16-26 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/gal.5.16-26.BSB
The body is a unit, though it is composed of many parts. And although its parts are many, they all form one body. So it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free, and we were all given one Spirit to drink. For the body does not consist of one part, but of many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact, God has arranged the members of the body, every one of them, according to His design. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I do not need you.” Nor can the head say to the feet, “I do not need you.” On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts we consider less honorable, we treat with greater honor. And our unpresentable parts are treated with special modesty, whereas our presentable parts have no such need. But God has composed the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its members should have mutual concern for one another. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. 1 Corinthians 12:12-26 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/1co.12.12-26.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. Watch out for those dogs, those workers of evil, those mutilators of the flesh! For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— though I myself could have such confidence. If anyone else thinks he has grounds for confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin; a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, persecuting the church; as to righteousness in the law, faultless. But whatever was gain to me I count as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things as loss compared to the surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to Him in His death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead. Philippians 3:1-11 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/php.3.1-11.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God. ‘He will wipe away every tear from their eyes,’ and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away.” And the One seated on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” Then He said, “Write this down, for these words are faithful and true.” And He told me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give freely from the spring of the water of life. The one who overcomes will inherit all things, and I will be his God, and he will be My son. But to the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and sexually immoral and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their place will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. This is the second death.” Revelation 21:1-8 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/rev.21.1-8.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Now by the mildness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am humble when face to face with you, but bold when away. I beg you that when I come I may not need to be as bold as I expect toward those who presume that we live according to the flesh. For though we live in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh. The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the world. Instead, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We tear down arguments and every presumption set up against the knowledge of God; and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, as soon as your obedience is complete. You are looking at outward appearances. If anyone is confident that he belongs to Christ, he should remind himself that we belong to Christ just as much as he does. For even if I boast somewhat excessively about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed. I do not want to seem to be trying to frighten you by my letters. For some say, “His letters are weighty and forceful, but his physical presence is unimpressive, and his speaking is of no account.” Such people should consider that what we are in our letters when absent, we will be in our actions when present. We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they show their ignorance. We, however, will not boast beyond our limits, but only within the field of influence that God has assigned to us—a field that reaches even to you. We are not overstepping our bounds, as if we had not come to you. Indeed, we were the first to reach you with the gospel of Christ. Neither do we boast beyond our limits in the labors of others. But we hope that as your faith increases, our area of influence among you will greatly increase as well, so that we can preach the gospel in the regions beyond you. Then we will not be boasting in the work already done in another man’s territory. Rather, “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends. 2 Corinthians 10:1-18 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/2co.10.1-18.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness. When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest.” Matthew 9:35-38 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.9.35-38.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also; if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well; and if someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor’ and ‘Hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Do not even tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even Gentiles do the same? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:38-48 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/mat.5.38-48.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
In that day you will no longer ask Me anything. Truly, truly, I tell you, whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you. Until now you have not asked for anything in My name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete. I have spoken these things to you in figures of speech. An hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you this way, but will tell you plainly about the Father. In that day you will ask in My name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. For the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came from God. I came from the Father and entered the world. In turn, I will leave the world and go to the Father.” His disciples said, “See, now You are speaking plainly and without figures of speech. Now we understand that You know all things and that You have no need for anyone to question You. Because of this, we believe that You came from God.” “Do you finally believe?” Jesus replied. “Look, an hour is coming and has already come when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and you will leave Me all alone. Yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!” John 16:23-33 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Psalms 119:1-176 BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.119.1-176.BSB
The double-minded I despise, but Your law I love. You are my hiding place and my shield; I put my hope in Your word. Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may obey the commandments of my God. Sustain me as You promised, that I may live; let me not be ashamed of my hope. Uphold me, and I will be saved, that I may always regard Your statutes. You reject all who stray from Your statutes, for their deceitfulness is in vain. All the wicked on earth You discard like dross; therefore I love Your testimonies. My flesh trembles in awe of You; I stand in fear of Your judgments. Psalms 119:113-120 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/psa.119.113-120.BSB
“Everything is permissible,” but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible,” but not everything is edifying. No one should seek his own good, but the good of others. Eat anything sold in the meat market without raising questions of conscience, for, “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof.” If an unbeliever invites you to a meal and you want to go, eat anything set before you without raising questions of conscience. But if someone tells you, “This food was offered to idols,” then do not eat it, for the sake of the one who told you and for the sake of conscience— the other one’s conscience, I mean, not your own. For why should my freedom be determined by someone else’s conscience? If I partake in the meal with thankfulness, why am I denounced because of that for which I give thanks? So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God. Do not become a stumbling block, whether to Jews or Greeks or the church of God— as I also try to please everyone in all I do. For I am not seeking my own good, but the good of many, that they may be saved. 1 Corinthians 10:23-33 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/1co.10.23-33.BSB Berean Study Bible © Bible Hub, 2020
Is work a blessing? In Biblical times people did not connect their work to their self-fulfillment. In fact, work was more about survival, given that hard work and honest labor produced food, income, and a sense of accomplishment. The idea behind work in biblical times was to be productive and, in doing so, you were actually doing what God commanded. You were a contributor not only to your family’s well-being but also to the nation’s well-being. The same holds true today. Work, when viewed in the proper biblical perspective, produces sustenance, a roof over one’s head, gives voice to worth and value, and supports generous giving and much, much more.
For career professionals today, viewing your work as something more than a paycheck can have profound implications on the motivation, passion, ethics, energy, and devotion put into your work. Stop right now and ask yourself the following questions:
Is my work a paycheck, or do I view it as part of God’s blessing in my life? Is my work something I have to do, or something I have the privilege of doing? Does my work provide a sense of accomplishment, or is it mundane with no sense of purpose? The answer to these questions can reveal your motivation regarding your work—whether you approach your work with enthusiasm and passion or as an obligation. It can also reveal how you feel about God. Do you approach your work with integrity? Do you recognize the blessing of your work as a gift from the Lord? Finally, it can also reveal how you physically do your work: Do you put energy into your work? Are you devoted to doing your work well? While in a Roman prison, Paul stated, “Rejoice and again I say rejoice.”
God values work, and He has blessed us with it. I invite you to think of work as a blessing. God ordained work in the Garden of Eden, and we see it all throughout the Scriptures. Many of Jesus’ parables were describing works such as planting, sowing, working in vineyards, tending sheep, etc. Jesus and the Apostles all worked. The image we have of God, in the beginning, is that He worked. If He did, as His children, we should also see work as a blessing.
Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God, on which you must not do any work—neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant or livestock, nor the foreigner within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth and the sea and all that is in them, but on the seventh day He rested. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy. Exodus 20:8-11 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/exo.20.8-11.BSB
Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. Philippians 3:1 BSB https://bible.com/bible/3034/php.3.1.BSB
Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you yourselves not my workmanship in the Lord? Even if I am not an apostle to others, surely I am to you. For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord. This is my defense to those who scrutinize me: Have we no right to food and to drink? Have we no right to take along a believing wife, as do the other apostles and the Lord’s brothers and Cephas? Or are Barnabas and I the only apostles who must work for a living? Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat of its fruit? Who tends a flock and does not drink of its milk? Do I say this from a human perspective? Doesn’t the Law say the same thing? For it is written in the Law of Moses: “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.” Is it about oxen that God is concerned? Isn’t He actually speaking on our behalf? Indeed, this was written for us, because when the plowman plows and the thresher threshes, they should also expect to share in the harvest. 1 Corinthians 9:1-15 BSB