Deeper Devos: Recent Episodes
Stacey Salsbery
A verse by verse walk through the Scriptures in an easy devotional format. Meant to help you go deeper into God's word, it's not your average devotional.
Loving God is more than a Sunday thing. It's more than a Bible study thing or a once-a-year Easter thing. It's more than a tithing thing or a give-to-the-poor kind of thing. It's not an "I'll do it when I'm not so tired" kind of thing, or when it agrees with my politics kind of thing. Nor does it have anything to do with how we feel. Loving God is a heart, mind, soul, and strength kind of thing, and here's why.
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I love the Lord. And if you’re listening to this podcast, I have a feeling you do too. But how extravagant is our love for God? Does it push the boundaries of cultural norms? Or have we put up parameters around our faith? Are we willing to only go so far? Today’s passage is all about extravagant love, and I think you’ll soon see why. We’re in Mark 14:3-9 today.
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Over the past few weeks, I’ve been researching the Triumphal Entry, and do you know what I’ve realized? That, in many ways, the Triumphal Entry wasn’t at all what the people were expecting. Jesus wasn’t entering as the long-awaited King to claim the military victory the people desired. Jesus was entering as the long-awaited King to claim the spiritual victory they had no idea they needed. We’re in Mark 11:1-11 today.
Happy Easter!
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Just before Jesus arrived in Jerusalem for Passover week, He changed the life of a blind man named Bartimaeus by granting him what he’d always longed for: his sight. Overcome with gratitude and joy, Bartimaeus then follows Jesus to Jerusalem. This means one of the very first things Bartimaeus saw with his eyes wide open was the triumphal entry, followed by the Crucifixion of the very man who’d just given him sight. For Bartimaeus, there was a cost to having his eyes opened. A cost I think he was more than willing to carry. We’re in Mark 10:46-52, and I think you’re going to love it.
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Appearances can be quite deceiving. Do you agree? We know things aren’t always as they seem, yet the way things appear can have powerful effects on us. This, my friends, is why we live by faith and not by sight. If you’ve been discouraged by the way things look these days, you’re not alone. I’m praying today’s podcast hands you some much-needed encouragement as we look at a few examples from Scripture.
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Today we’re in Mark 10:28-31, and I have to tell you, this isn’t the easiest passage for me. And I doubt it’s at the top of your list either. Radical abandonment of worldly treasure in exchange for radical trust in God’s goodness is easier said than done. But according to the promise God gives us in Mark 10:30, it’s worth it. If anyone’s going to reward me, let it be the Lord, right!?
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What does it mean to strengthen yourself in the Lord? That's the question we're talking about today. 1 Samuel 30:6 says after David’s wives and his men’s families were captured by the Amalekites, “David strengthened himself in the LORD his God.” But how? When difficulties smack us in the face, what does that actually look like?
It looks like remember, surrender, and worship, and then doing it again tomorrow.
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I’ve had a heavy heart lately. As I watch national events unfold from my little corner of the world, I’m grieved. What is going on? What is the church in for and how did we get here? Not to mention, what do we do about it? Church, for some reason, we’ve been pretty quiet, but the days of silence need to be over. This world needs Jesus, and there’s no one else to blame but us if we don’t speak up.
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We made it to episode 100! Today’s episode is something I’ve been thinking about a lot. January is notoriously a time of resolutions, especially when it comes to reading God’s Word more. Yet, most of the time, we don’t keep our resolutions. We might read for a week, or even exercise for a week or two, and then we’re done. But why? Why is it so hard? Because honestly, I think we have too much to lose.
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In Case You Need a Reminder This Christmas. It’s been a long year. I don’t think any of us expected 2020 to turn out the way it has. But as believers, we still have much to celebrate this Christmas. The gospel is still the gospel. Jesus is still the sovereign King of kings, and it’s still the most incredible story ever that our God laid aside His glory to wrap himself in human skin.
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This week we’re in Mark 10:17-31. It’s the story of the rich young ruler who came to Jesus and asked what he must do to be saved. In his mind, he was hopeful he’d already accomplished a laundry list of necessities. After all, he’d worked hard to keep many of the commandments, but Jesus chisels his way to the real issue with a response we’d do well to pay attention to.
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I don’t know about you but my heart is breaking for all that's going on in our world right now. But we are not helpless and we are not without hope. I've been doing a lot of praying lately, and I thought maybe you have too. There is power in prayer. There is peace in prayer. There is hope in prayer because God answers prayer. Care to join me? Let's pray.
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Psalm 86
Well, I cannot ignore that today’s a big day. Neither of us knows what’s going to happen today, but God does. He ordained it long ago and that’s a truth I’m clinging to today. We may be surprised by today’s results or we may not. We may be filled with major trepidation and sitting on the edge of our seats, but God never is, and He’s invited us to cling to Him. To come and find rest in Him. To fill our minds with Him. To hope in all His promises. So today, we’re going to do just that.
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This week’s Deeper Devo comes from Mark 10:1-12, and I confess, I thought about skipping it. No thank you Lord, I’d rather not dabble in that topic. But all of Scripture is profitable, right? There’s no doubt God has some things to say about divorce but at the same time—He also has some things to say about us. And I think when we look at the two in tandem, we can figure this out.
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This week’s Deeper Devo comes from Mark 9:42-50, which is a portion of Scripture I like to refer to as the greatness section. What should we do to be great in the kingdom of heaven? Well there are several things, but as this week’s title gives away, one of those things is fighting sin. As believers if we aren’t fighting against sin then somethings wrong. Our flesh and soul are not on the same page. It isn’t easy to fight sin, but it is necessary.
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Hmm, are you intrigued? I thought you might be. A few weeks ago, while on a run, I heard something on a podcast that literally just about stopped me in my tracks (or running shoes, that is). It involves that well-known passage in 2 timothy 3 where the Apostle Paul describes the behavior of people in the last days. Something was clarified for me and I’ve been counting the days until I can talk about.
https://staceysalsbery.com
We’re all about stimulus these days. It’s our public duty to spend money, right? But do you know what’s more important than stimulating the economy? Stimulating the gospel out into a world in desperate need of good news. Stimulating the church to stand up for what we claim is true. That the Lord Jesus Christ is worthy of honor and praise and trust. That He is faithful and sovereign. That Christ alone reigns over and above all this craziness and our hope is in Him.
https://staceysalsbery.com
There is no greater accomplishment than to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. So here’s where I hope we can land today. Whatever we do, let’s do it for God. Wherever we go, let’s seek God. No matter who we encounter or what we come up against, let’s remember God. He's the one we need to honor because He's the one who's in control.
https://staceysalsbery.com
It’s week 3 of our 3-part series on missions with Pastor Mike. Did you know there are 17,000 people groups in the world and over 7,000 of them are still considered unreached? We have work to do friends! The question is, are we called to go or to send? And the sending part, well, that's more than just giving money.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Welcome back for week 2 of our 3 part series on mission with Pastor Mike! Today’s podcast has some practical ideas you can implement into your church whether you’re a pastor or a church member, starting with the idea that missions isn't just a program - it's a culture. A mindset I'd say we need more than ever, right now. Missions isn't just for the guy who's passionate about it or the girl who loves to travel. Missions is for all of us!
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevors.org
If you’ve been around for a while then this won’t surprise you. But we’ve come upon that time of year again when I soak up as much sunshine as possible with my kids at the pool and I take some time off from Deeper Devos. But don’t worry I’ll be back once school gets under way again in August—whatever that might look like. In the meantime, I have a special treat for you! My pastor, Pastor Mike, has graciously offered to be a guest here at Deeper Devos and I said YES in capital letters with fifteen exclamation points because that’s just pretty cool. So today and the next two weeks you get hear from my pastor on the topic of missions. Pastor Mike is a serious student of the Word and I love sitting under his teaching and I think you will too.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
After Jesus tells the disciples about his impending death and resurrection for the second time, the disciples begin arguing about who among them is the greatest. Yep, that’s right. Jesus is about to embark for Jerusalem to pay for the sins of the world and they’re stuck on who should be nominated for Disciple of the Year. I’d say it’s obvious Jesus and the disciples weren’t quite on the same page. So Jesus takes the opportunity to teach them what true greatness looks like to God.
We’re in Mark 9:30-41 today, so if you’re ready because I know I’m ready let’s dig a little deeper.
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Let’s be honest, faith is not always something we have a large supply of. Sometimes due to difficult circumstances, or situations we just can’t see our way out of, our faith struggles. And we wonder, will God see me through? But friend, have you ever thought about praying for God to give you more faith? The father of a demon possessed boy asked for just that and you know what? I think God gave him a resounding yes. We’re in Mark 9:14-29 today.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Listen, I have no doubt all of us have seen some amazing things in our lifetimes. But I’m not sure any of us have ever seen anything as incredible as Peter, James, and John witnessed the day Jesus was transfigured right in front of them. And as if that wasn’t awesome enough, then Moses and Elijah appear. But what does all that mean for us? It’s truly amazing to think about. We’re in Mark 9:1-13 today and I know I say this a lot but I loved thinking through this story.
Deeper Devos Website >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Mark 8 holds one of the most celebrated moments in discipleship history, when Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ. And yet it also holds one of the worst moments in discipleship history, when Peter rebukes Jesus for saying he will soon suffer and die. Though Peter’s confession was right it’s clear the disciples still didn’t understand everything going on. But did they need to? Friends, I found a lot of comfort in Mark 8:22-33.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
After the feeding of the four thousand we get three quick verses stating that the Pharisees asked Jesus for a sign. In other words, we don’t believe you are who you claim to be, so prove it us Jesus. But if Christ gave them another sign would it matter? It’s tempting to think if Jesus would just write his name in the sky then the whole world would believe. But would they? Is it really another sign that we need? According to Mark 8:11-21, I don’t think so.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
We’re back in Mark this week – Mark 8:1-10 to be exact. Jesus and the disciples are still in the gentile region of the Decapolis because God’s compassion isn’t just for the Jews but the gentiles also. And while it’s a plot that might sound familiar to you, it sure didn’t sound familiar to the disciples. We're talking about the feeding of the four thousand today and it's a great reminder to me that we already have all we need when we have Jesus.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Last week I wrote a post at Revive Our Hearts on the first chapter of James titled: It’s Not Enough Just to Hear the Word. Prompting me to read several times through the entire book of James. Um, talk about convicting. But when I came to the last section I paused and then I dug in because honestly, I just didn’t get it.
What did James mean when he said “the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick.” Um, hello, but aren’t we all currently hiding in our homes due to a rapidly spreading illness? So, this week we’re taking a break from our study of Mark to talk about some very confusing verses in James.
“Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him…And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.” James 5:13-15
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https://www.reviveourhearts.com/true-woman/blog/its-not-enough-just-to-hear-the-word-james-11927/
At the end of Mark 7, verses 31-37, we get a quick snippet of Jesus healing a deaf man in the gentile region of Decapolis. And as I pictured Jesus taking the deaf man aside, putting his fingers into his ears, and touching his tongue, one thing kept coming to mind: The vast and beautiful kindness of God. And it’s the reminder I needed amidst these interesting days.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
It’s Easter week so we’re skipping ahead a little to Mark 8:34-38 to that famous verse: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” It’s a verse we know well, but how well do we know what it means? I spent some time here this week and found it really insightful.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
I know, the title goes against everything we’re experiencing right now. Today we’re in Mark 7:1-23. The title of this section is traditions and commandments. The Pharisees make a big deal about the fact that Jesus and the disciples did not wash their hands before eating. And when they confront Jesus on the matter, Jesus takes the opportunity to show them the real problem. It’s not what we do on the outside that matters—it’s who we are on the inside that really counts.
Deeper Devos Website >>> https://deeperdevos.org
In today’s passage, Mark 6:45-56, after feeding a massive crowd of well over 5,000, Jesus sends the disciples out on the sea of Galilee while He spends some much-needed alone time with God. Then in a crazy display of His amazing deity, Jesus decides to walk out to them on the water. The problem is the disciples weren’t looking for Jesus and due to their fear, they miss one of the greatest displays of Jesus’ glory yet. Friends, I have no doubt God has a word for us today.
Deeper Devos Website >>> https://deeperdevos.org
In today’s passage, Mark 6:30-44, Jesus and the disciples set out to find some rest but when an enormous crowd gets to their desolate spot before they do all plans get tossed aside. How disappointed were the disciples to see that crowd of people? How tired were they in that moment? There just wasn’t enough patience, energy, or resources for this day. Or was there? You guys, I think you’re going to love this one.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
In today’s passage, Mark 6:7-30, Jesus sends the disciples out on their first missionary journey. I can only imagine the disciples were equal parts terrified and excited. The text doesn’t tell us how long they were on their journey but it appears that while they’re out and about John the Baptist is beheaded, setting up for us a striking parallel between the risk and reward of following Christ.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
The great acts of faith we’ve been studying come to a screeching halt as we follow Jesus into Mark chapter 6, back to his hometown of Nazareth, where He is not at ALL well received. Was Jesus surprised by His hometown’s reaction? Perhaps. There’re only two places in Scripture where it says Jesus marvels and unfortunately this story is one of them.
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We’re still in Mark chapter 5 this week and for good reason. We still need to talk about the bleeding woman. We don’t even know her name and yet I believe God has given her a prominent place in Scripture not just because her faith deserves it, but because our faith needs it. Coming to God with all our mess might feel wrong but it’s the best thing we could ever do.
Mark 5:21-34
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Mark 5:21-43 holds two parallel stories filled with hope and trust and determination all fixed on Jesus. Giving us a beautiful picture of what true Biblical faith looks like.
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In Mark chapter 5 we meet a man no one wanted to be around. He was a madman, driven from town, and unable to be restrained. Possessed by multiple demons he was in bad shape. For those who loved him, it was a hopeless situation. This guy was too lost to ever be saved. That is, until Jesus entered his life. For those with lost loved ones this is absolutely a hope-filled story.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Have you been there? I know I have, uncertain of God’s affection for me as I wade through this unexpected situation or that one. And you know what? We’re not alone. The disciples found themselves there too, uncertain of how God really feels about them. We’re in Mark 4:35-41 today and it’s fast become one of my favorite stories thus far.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
In Mark 4:30-32 Jesus said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth, yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.” It’s the greatness of a small beginning…
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Today, we're in Mark 4:26-29. It's the parable of the seed growing and it's found only in the gospel of Mark. It’s just a few verses, but as I thought through Jesus’ words, I found them to be packed with insight. Especially, for those of us in ministry. And if you’re a follower of Jesus Christ, then guess what? You’re in ministry.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
In the middle of Mark chapter 4 we come to our second parable. Two little verses easy to skip over but in doing so we would miss both the challenge and the treasure of Christ’s words. “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not on a stand?” I absolutely loved digging into these verses and I think you will too.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
We're back in Mark this week and I don't know about you but I'm ready to dig in! Today we're chapter 4 which begins a series of four parables. And let me just tell you, I learned so much by diving into this story. In farming the soil is of upmost importance for a good crop to grow. And surprise, surprise, it’s the same way when it comes to the gospel and the receiving of the truths of Christ.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Job’s friend Elihu says in Job 36:26, “Behold, God is great, and we know him not.” Meaning His ways are beyond our comprehension and yet is He unknowable? No. In fact God has made himself known in great detail by the Christmas story alone.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
https://www.reviveourhearts.com/true-woman/blog/necessity-forever-high-priest-hebrews-7/
It's week two of our advent series and today we're asking another question. Is God actually faithful? It's a question (I think) that looms in the hearts of many, though few vocalize it. But God has not left the question unanswered. Especially when we peer deeper into the details of the Christmas story.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
We’re taking a few weeks off from out study of Mark because it’s Advent time and I firmly believe we’d be doing a disservice to both our faith and our God to ignore it. Christmas is not about the gifts or the giving or the food or even family—it’s about a God who came anyway. A God who cares. A God whose given us answers to some of life’s deepest questions through the gift of His precious Son.
Deeper Devos Website >> https://deeperdevos.org
The passage we’re looking at in Mark today (Mark 3:22-30) is one that is easily and often misunderstood. What did Jesus mean when he said “whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin.” I mean, that’s kind of a harsh statement, right? Did he mean there’s a sin we as believers can commit that will never be forgiven? Nope, not at all.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Happy Thanksgiving! We're suspending our study of Mark this week to discuss the topic of thankfulness. I know, not always fun and yet we can't ignore that the Bible says to be thankful all the time. But what does that look like and why is God so set on thankfulness? Because the benefits far out way the difficulty of trying. In today's talk we discuss 15 specific benefits, but I know there's more. Because with Jesus, just as the sign in my living room says, there is always, always, always something to be thankful for.
To see these benefits in list form just head on over to https://deeperdevos.org
We're in Mark 3:7-21 today and it's clear to me from this passage that the pressures Jesus faced were coming at him from multiple venues. Had it been me, I would have caved, but Christ didn't. How? Well, that's what we're going to talk about. So if you're ready, because I know I'm ready, let's dig a little deeper.
Deeper Devos Website >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Mark 3:1-6 A man with a withered hand and our compassionate God. We've made it through two chapters of Mark and I'm stoked to get started on the third, but as I look back over where we've come, I can definitely see an emerging theme.
Deeper Devos Website >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Mark 3:1-6 >>> https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+3%3A1-6&version=ESV
Hopefully our view of God comes from the Bible, right? Yet the pharisees would have told you that's where their view came from and yet clouded by tradition instead of truth, their view of God was man made. In our text today it's the Sabbath the pharisees get hung up on. So what does Jesus do? He points them to the truth. We're in Mark 2:23-28.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
While eating at Levi's house, Jesus is questioned about why He and the disciples are feasting while John's disciples and the pharisees are fasting. And Christ's reply, is nothing short of amazing. "Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them?" (Mark 2:19) While the Pharisees were busy judging Jesus' dedication to God (because of his lack of fasting), Jesus was graciously letting them in on a huge secret: The Bridegroom has come! While feasting with sinners, Jesus calls himself the bridegroom. We're in Mark 2:18-22 today.
Deeper Devos Website >>> https://deeperdevos.org
There's a common belief out there that a person should clean up their act before coming to saving faith in Jesus Christ, but our story today says otherwise. It's the story of Levi, otherwise known as Matthew, whom Jesus calls to be his disciple not after he spends a little time getting his act together, but right from the tax booth! I loved this story and I think you will too. Mark 2:13-17
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You guys, we have made it to Mark chapter 2 and who’s excited? I am! Our text today is the story of the paralytic who was lowered through the roof (of probably Peter’s house) by his friends and I am just full of questions and perhaps a few answers. This text spoke to me on so many different levels and I can hardly wait to share it all with you.
Deeper Devos Website >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Today's text rocked me. It's the account of the leprous man in Mark 1:35-45 and when we stop to think about what Jesus did for that man and our relation to the man and what Jesus has done for us, it's crazy amazing. I can hardly wait to show you the picture of the gospel we get from one little story.
Website: https://deeperdevos.org
With just one touch from Jesus Peter's mother-in-law was up and well and serving them. Then as the Sabbath came to a close, the entire city gathered at the door hoping for an opportunity to experience healing. But what about today? Is Jesus still in the business of healing? And the answer is yes, very much so. Though it may not be in the way we're looking for, we can be sure, Christ the Lord is still our healer. We're in Mark 1:29-34 today and oh how I pray this word encourages you.
Deeper Devos Website >>>> https://deeperdevos.org
Mark 1:29-34 >>>> https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+1%3A29-34&version=ESV
After calling Andrew, Peter, James, and John to follow him Jesus heads to Capernaum where his authority is clearly defined. There is no doubt while walking this earth Jesus made himself known. And yet what was their response? Or better yet, what’s our response? I loved this section in Mark 1:21-28 and I think you will too.
Deeper Devos Website >>> https://deeperdevos.org
The calling of the first disciples sounds a little crazy if you ask me. I mean how could Peter, Andrew, James, and John just up and leave their old life so quickly? It seems absurd, but it wasn’t. God had been preparing them to receive the invite of a lifetime. And you know what? He’s done the same for us too.
We're in Mark 1:16-20 today and I loved studying this portion of Scripture.
Website >>> https://deeperdevos.org
The message of John the Baptist was to repent because the kingdom of God was at hand. Which in our text today, Mark 1:14-15, is also the same message Christ is declaring. “The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand.” Can you imagine being a Jew in the days of Christ and hearing Jesus speak those very words? I wonder what they were thinking? Better yet, I wonder what they were expecting? Because I guarantee you what happened is not what they were expecting.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Friends, Jesus’ first assignment after being commissioned by God with baptism, was a lonely one. Immediately the Spirit led Christ into the wilderness, wherein after fasting for forty days, he was tempted by the devil. But not to worry because spoiler alert: Christ was victorious. Which surprise, surprise has way more meaning for us than you might think. We’re in Mark 1:12-13 today.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
If I were a campaign manager or the agent for some up and coming star, my plan for their initial rise into publicity would be to go big right from the start. Yet that's not how God did it. Jesus' ministry doesn't begin with some big party but with the simple act of baptism. A fact that I've been stirring over all week. God is so good my friend and I can't wait to tell you why.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Devotional Scripture: Mark 1:8-11
John the Baptist may not be a popular guy to imitate but let me tell you, that guy, had something figured out we'd do well to pay attention to. We're in Mark 1:4-7 today and I can't wait to share with you what I discovered.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
Welcome back friends! Show of hands, who's ready to study the gospel of Mark? Me! Mark is a fast-paced book summarizing the divine character and ministry of Jesus, but not to worry because we’ll take it slow. There is much for us to discuss as we dive deep into the Holy Spirit inspired words recorded by John Mark, who was Peter’s writer and interpreter, the cousin of Barnabas, and also co-missionary with the apostle Paul.
Mark 1:1-3
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It's our last week in Ephesians and it's a good one! The Apostle Paul has some great words for us today, particularly on the subject of prayer. Even Paul, the very guy who wrote the book of Romans, asked for prayer to make the gospel clear. And if he needed it, how much more so do we? Friends, we underestimate our need for prayer but the Bible certainly doesn't, telling us to pray all the time and on all occasions. Prayer isn't just a last resort; it's the secret to a successful life.
Ephesians 6:18-24
Deeper Devos Website: https://deeperdevos.org
Did you know the Bible tells us to fight? Though it's not the kind of fighting we're most familiar with, I assure you, it's an everyday battle. One of temptation and fear and doubt. And the only way to fight and win is with the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. The cool thing is Jesus showed us how. We just need to follow His example.
Deeper Devos >>>> https://deeperdevos.org
I’m sure we could make a list of activities requiring helmets: biking, skiing, motor cycle adventuring. But did you know living a Christ-centered life requires a helmet too? Seriously! A helmet of salvation to be exact, because one of the enemies favorite targets is the mind.
Deeper Devos Website: https://deeperdevos.org
What is faith and how in the world do we use it as a shield? Those are the questions we're diving into today. But to figure out what faith is, we also need to know what it isn't. And that is unfortunately where we can easily get confused.
Deeper Devos Website >>> https://deeperdevos.org
We aren't talking about just any given pair of shoes today. These are shoes of “readiness given by the gospel of peace.” But what in the world does that mean? And perhaps even more important, what do these shoes look like? Oh friend, I'm telling you, these are the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn and I can't wait to tell you about them. Because I have no doubt you're going to like them too.
Deeper Devos >>> https://deeperdevos.org
The breastplate of righteousness is crucial for the believer. And when I say crucial, I mean crucial. But why? And how do we put it on? But maybe more importantly, how do we keep it on? That's what we're talking about today. It's the second piece of armor Paul urges us to put on in Ephesians 6:14 and it's a good one.
Deeper Devos Website >>> https://deeperdevos.org
We're digging into the armor of God over the next several weeks and I couldn't be more excited. This week is all about the belt of truth and you guys the symbolism is amazing. Our verse today is Ephesians 6:14, "“Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth…” So come on - let's get started!
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God is real. Angels are real. Satan is real. Demons are real. There is a battle going on we can’t see. One of good and evil. (Hollywood didn’t think that stuff up.) It’s happening every day, and I believe all the more as the day of the Lord draws closer. We’re in Ephesians 6:10-13 today talking about what it means to be strong in the Lord. And I’m telling you, it doesn’t include sitting around in our Christian comfy pants.
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Whether you work in an office, on a job site, or at home—we have a responsibility and a purpose centered around one thing: the gospel of Jesus Christ. It's for this purpose Paul urges slaves to obey their masters in Ephesians 6:5-9 not just with eye-service but a sincere heart. And it's for the same purpose that today - we do the same. We're talking about the work place today (including you, stay-at-home mama's) so come along friends because we've got things to talk about!
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Continuing his mandates on submission, the Apostle Paul turns his attention to the family as we dive into Ephesians 6. Specifically, his command is for the kids. But as we dig deeper, I think we’ll see it’s actually for us parents. Discipline is today’s topic. If you have kids, we’ve got some things to talk about.
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Have you ever heard the argument that the Bible is unfair to women? It's out there, but it's not true. And it's proven right here in Ephesians 5:25-33.
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Submission is not a popular word, especially when it's regarding women verses men. Or better yet, a wife to her husband. The world tells us submission is a weakness, but God says something much different. But what does it mean for a wife to submit to her husband? Does it mean we bow to his every whim? No and to say so is to grossly take the Bible out of context. We're in Ephesians 5:22-24 today.
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After directing the Ephesians to be “filled with the Spirit” Paul goes on to say in Ephesians 5:19-21, “but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.”
And at first glance it may seem as though Paul is just adding to our already longer than we'd hoped "to do" list. Not only should you be filled with the Spirit but now you need to walk around singing and being thankful and submitting to everyone. Um, really Paul? No. Actually, he's simply elaborating on the benefits of being filled with the Spirit. The result of letting the Spirit lead. Aka. the believer's benefit package and it's amazing!
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So how would you explain the filling of the Holy Spirit? Does it seem like a foreign concept to you too? Paul says to be filled with the Spirit, so we are tackling the idea today to hopefully gain a better understanding of what it really means.
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You can be really smart apart from knowing Christ. You can build stuff and know stuff and research stuff and speak way over my head on various subjects, without having Christ as your Savior, but you can’t be wise. Wisdom comes from God alone. So what's the difference between being smart and being wise? Well, I'm glad you asked because that's where we're headed.
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We are great at pointing out people’s sin, but how good are we at pointing those same people to Christ? Ephesians 5:8 says, “For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” But what does it really mean to walk as children of light?
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We’ve all had moments we weren’t sure we wanted to claim our family or our ancestry or our kids, but what about our Christianity? Ephesians 5:1 says we're to look and act just like our Father in heaven. So is there a family resemblance? There should be. The Apostle Paul doesn't beat around the bush in Ephesians 5:1-6, so neither do we.
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Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” Yet sometimes keeping God's commands gets labeled as legalism. But is it? I'll give you a hint. It's not. We're in Ephesians 4:25-32 today looking at seven characteristics every believer is called to display.
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My mind can take me crazy places. As a six on the Enneagram, I’m prone to thinking things like, “Oh no, I probably need a hip replacement,” the minute my hip starts hurting and I can’t figure out why.
My saving grace is the Holy Spirit who gives me not only the capability but also the capacity to think rightly. The key is renewing my mind, as Paul says in Ephesians 4:23-24. But what does that really mean? Is it simply the power of positive thinking or something more?
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There is a trend right now, especially in Christian literature (if you can call it that), of self-focus. Do what makes you happy. Be who you want to be. Find yourself. Let yourself shine forth. Take care of yourself first and foremost. But this trend of love thyself first is not of God. Since when does the Bible say to turn inward? Since when are we to be self-focused?
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Before Christ we were in rough shape. Ephesians 4 doesn't beat around the bush. But in Christ we are a new creation. The old has gone and the new has come. But when we sin, choosing to walk in our “former manner of life” (Eph. 4:22) instead of our new one, it’s like smearing mud all over the wallpaper of righteousness Christ just took the time to hang on the walls of our new heart.
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I’m good at excuses. I think most of us are. Rebuttals? They come naturally. But according to Ephesians 4 we have no excuses. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up.
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In his letter to the Ephesians the Apostle Paul focuses on four specific gifts that are for the equipping of the church body. And guess what? One of those gifts is your pastor. It's true your pastor is a gift from Christ to you. Do you believe it? Ephesians 4:11-16
Unity and uniformity are two very different things. Yet sometimes I think we get them confused, especially in regards to the church. Replacing the need for unity with uniformity. But which should it be? Or is it both? Ephesians 4 has a few things to say on the topic.
Rules and expectations are a good thing. Most organizations have them; most employers have them. And it's fine; it's expected. Yet for some reason when it comes to Christianity and expectations are brought up, people run for the doors.
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What if I told you the question of who God is could be answered with the Christmas story - would you believe me? I don't think God intended his identity to be complicated. We're the ones who complicate it. In fact, I think God's made it quite clear. But for starters lets just say this: He's the God who came anyway.
It's week 2 of our advent series: Life's Deepest Questions Answered by the Christmas Story. This week we're tackling a big one: Is God faithful? Listen friend, God has not left us and the story of Christ's birth is pleading with us to see it.
We're taking a three week break from Ephesians to talk about the most wonderful time of year - Christmas! If I told you life's deepest questions could be answered in the Christmas story, would you believe me? Because it's true. Today we start with the question - Does God really care? The answer is in the details that surround us every December but steeped in baking and buying and all things free shipping, we're missing it.
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Walk by any magazine rack and you'll be told how to live your best life now. But no matter how many different methods you try, they will fail. I'm sorry, not sorry, to say it but grocery store aisle headlines will always lead to unmet expectations. But there is a place that won't. A word that won't. A method that no matter how much you try, will never fail you.
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We're looking at a fascinating verse today. Ephesians 3:10 states, “So that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.” Say what? That's right, apparently, we aren't the only ones paying attention. It's food for thought this lovely Thanksgiving week. So if you're ready, let's dig a little deeper.
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Whether it’s a cry for help or confusion or a lack of understanding, behind each scenario is the rising epidemic of entitlement. Meaning, I can do what I want. I deserve to be happy. And you can’t say nothin’ about it.
An attitude so far opposite of God, it leads to all kinds of problems. (If only we understood this.) But the apostle Paul had no such attitude. Prior to praying yet again for the Ephesian believers he pauses in the first part of chapter three to clarify a few things. It’s as if he was ready to break into prayer but at the last minute decides a tangent is needed. And it's beautiful and inspiring and such a great reminder to us in this crazy world we live in today.
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God uses tough stuff to expand our faith and draw us closer to Him, which is the ultimate goal seeing as there is nothing more satisfying than the presence of God, right? So why do we get so down and out when things turn sour? Why are we so quick to think God’s rejected us? He isn’t going to reject us any more than my children are going to reject a box of donuts. A silly thought, right? God hasn’t chosen, adopted, blessed, redeemed, and forgiven us just so He can hang us out to dry. On the contrary, He’s going to use every type of circumstance as an opportunity to draw us closer.
Yet we fret. But the Apostle Paul has set a great example for us to take note of. We're diving into Ephesians 3:1 today and I pray it offers you some sweet encouragement my friend. God hasn't left you - he's right there with you.
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In Christ, God doesn’t just make our acquaintance or add us to a roster or offer us a room in the servant’s quarters – he makes us part of his family. Adopting us as his own children. And if that isn't amazing then I don't know what is.
Ephesians 2:19 says very believer is both a citizen of heaven and a member of God’s household, equal in God’s sight. So today not only are we digging a little deeper, we're having a little family chat.
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When you read the Bible, there’s no arguing against the fact that God chose the Israelites to be His special people. Israel was and still is God’s chosen nation. God loved and chose Israel as a fulfillment of the promise He gave to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
A promise that began with Abraham before he even displayed an ounce of faith. A promise made with the intention of actually blessing all the families of the earth (Genesis 12:3), not just the Jews. A promise fulfilled through Christ, bringing us into the picture. Handing us the same responsibility the Jews had. Yet I fear we are just as prejudice as they were. We may say the gospel is for everyone but do we mean it? Hold onto your hats ladies and gents because we're about to dive a little deeper into Ephesians 2:11-18.
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We’re in Ephesians 2:8-10 today. A passage many of us probably know well and may even have memorized. Yet with God’s word there’s always something new on the horizon. So today whether you're working at home with littles bombarding your every minute or your working out or working hard at a job you may or may not love, I pray you are deeply encouraged.
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So what has God ever done for me? Caught in a web of unmet expectations maybe you’ve asked that very question. Wondering why YOU have to be the forgotten one. The only one in the world whose prayers apparently bounce off the ceiling hitting you square in the nose. It feels like that sometimes doesn’t it? It’s OK, we can be honest here. Life can feel lonely and unfair, giving us need for a little reminding every now and again. Which is exactly what Paul does for us today. We're in Ephesians 2:4-7 and I think you're going to love it.
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I don’t think we should be surprised by the ways of the world today. The lack of respect across the board in just about everything from athletes who won’t stand for the American flag to kids who won’t give their teacher the time of day, saddens me, but doesn’t shock me.
But here's the thing. If it weren't for Christ, we'd be there too. Following the ways of this world. Because the reality is we all started the same way - dead in our trespasses and sins. It's how the Apostle Paul starts chapter two of Ephesians so we're wasting no time and diving in today too. And I'll tell you, it's absolutely a miracle story we need to be sharing.
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