What is it?

Where is it found? 

Is it lasting?

Matthew 6:32–33 says, “For the pagans run after all these things and your Heavenly Father knows that you need them but seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.” 

Our old friend balance is so important. In every aspect of our lives, we should have a goal of keeping steady. Solomon spoke to this in Proverbs 30, when he asked God to give him not too much or too little. He reasoned that if he had great wealth, he might forget God. If he was in poverty, he might be inclined to steal. This effort to find balance is the heart of finding contentment. God is the ultimate source, and He gives us the capacity to be content, using Scripture as our guide. And as usual, God has a comprehensive plan for you, especially in the area of contentment.

Notice what Proverbs 14:30 says, “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” 

The actor Chris Tucker discovered all this after the huge success of “Rush Hour” and other projects. But he became a Christian, and now he’s selective in what he does, and he keeps it clean and real. It’s been estimated that since he turned to faith, Tucker has turned down a hundred million in projects. What’s his take on all that? He says, “But I've got a hundred million great experiences.” 

Whether you’re hard-charging and ambitious or you’re simply neglecting the pursuit of peace in your life, you’re damaging your spiritual health.

Finding spiritual harmony makes you a complete person. Anything short of that, you’re flying with a broken wing. Bottom line is, if you look at all the verses in the Bible that speak to being truly content, you’ll quickly understand that Christ is the answer. 

Let’s pray, 

Father, you’ve provided the only way to true peace and contentment, and we thank You for that. Help us to keep this in front of us every day as we seek to live life well and abundantly, in Jesus’ name, amen.

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Magnificent Mary!

Her story has been told many times, but how grateful we are that it’s recorded in Scripture. Whatever God’s reasons for choosing this particular woman to give birth to Jesus, we know that she must have loved the Lord with all her heart.

And just think how her head and heart must have been spinning when the angel visited her and told her the special job God was going to give her!

Luke 1:46–48 says, “And Mary said: “‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.’”

We know little about her beyond that, although we are given some fascinating details: she socialized with her Son, as we see at the wedding in Cana.

And of course, she was with Him at His death. No mother should have to endure that, but Mary was very strong. Her toughness and love ring like a bell through time. We remember her way of finding patience and faith.

Maybe the most amazing thing about her is that God trusted Mary with an initial secret that would have floored most people!

She handled it, though. The mother of our Lord was ready when her time came.

Let’s pray.

Lord, the mother of Jesus shows us an eternal love. It is also a mystery of sorts for us, but we know that this amazing mother is experiencing supernatural joy, forever! In Jesus’ name, amen.

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In the Old Testament, we read of a really remarkable mother-in-law. She showed great kindness to a young woman at just the right moment.

After returning home to Bethlehem after a famine is over, Naomi wants the best for her young daughter-in-law, Ruth, whose husband has died. Although she must have longed for security herself and companionship, Naomi encourages Ruth to marry Boaz. Eventually, Ruth has a son, Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David!

Ruth 1:22 says, “So Naomi returned from Moab accompanied by Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, arriving in Bethlehem as the barley harvest was beginning.”

Naomi’s unselfish act, her encouragement to the vulnerable Ruth, is the model for all such relationships. It is intentionally about the other person. It is the story of a woman mentoring and loving another she sees as her daughter.

So, how will your mother-in-law’s story be recorded? Have you thought about that?

How will the women in your family remember you?

Let’s pray.

Lord, people are watching us in how we treat others. Nowhere is that more important than in our own homes. Help us think of others before we think of ourselves. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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We know of a remarkable woman, a family member, who would have been able to be around to watch the most amazing life unfold.

Her name was Elizabeth. An aunt of Jesus.

We read in Luke that everyone thought that the time for Elizabeth to become a mother was passed. In those days people thought sin prevented pregnancy, so this godly woman went through great sorrow.

Luke 1:13 says, “But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.”

But Gabriel, an angel, told her priest husband that she would conceive. She did, and later, when visiting her cousin Mary, felt her own son jump in her womb! Even he knew the significance of such a woman!

Elizabeth’s son would be named John, and he would be given the privilege of introducing the world to the Man, Jesus. Both mothers would endure great tragedy in their lives, but would enjoy fellowship forever with them in glory.

Elizabeth knew how to be steady during momentous times. A great lesson for all of us.

Let’s pray.

Lord, sometimes you surprise us with great tasks. Help us to always be ready to stand when you call on us to do something great. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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But Ruth Bell Graham was so much more. While her husband was away so much, preaching to the masses, she was preaching to her own little flock. The result was children who became adults, and in turn shared the Good News of Jesus with others.

Anne Graham Lotz and Franklin Graham didn’t just fall out of the sky!

Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

In their little home in the mountains of North Carolina, while Daddy was in Brussels, New York, and Sydney, Mother Ruth was faithful for years on end to impart godly wisdom to their children. Much iron was sharpened on cold winter nights and long summer days.

Theirs was a home that didn’t always have both parents available, but they thrived.

Use that as an example of how to bring up your own children. You’ll be happy forever that you did.

Let’s pray.

Lord, Your Word is good, and it shines a light on our path. Give us the strength to mentor our own children in your ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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And then the eyes open. You’re in love.

Jeremiah 1:5 says, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.”

A baby is a blessing and a gift from the Lord. All life is precious; it doesn’t matter if the parents are famous or completely obscure. In that warm bundle is a whole lifetime waiting to unfold. Will he be adventurous? Will she run the country?

Man is capable of much, but creating life as God creates will always remain outside the borders. Only a great and all-powerful God could give us such a beautiful life, and He makes each one of us truly unique.

It is an inescapable fact that a human being, separate from everyone else in terms of physicality and emotions, becomes fully formed in its mother’s womb. This is perhaps the greatest miracle in all the universe, and one deserving of our awe and respect.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you form us in the womb, and walk with us each step of the way through life. Thank you for your mercies and grace that you freely give each of us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Who isn’t aware just how wonderful it feels to experience true joy? It is as if the Lord has freed a prisoner.

When American POWs returned from captivity in Vietnam, the looks on their faces as they emerged from the planes carrying them to freedom…well, no one will ever forget that!

Psalm 16:9 says, “Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.

Scripture tells us that we don’t escape trouble in this life, but that for the believer, eternal joy waits for us, and the Holy Spirit gives us joy in our daily walk in the here and now.

It is also ours for the taking, to reach up and pick this fruit that feeds our souls. Sometimes simply making the choice to embrace a joyful spirit is the key to having a blessed day.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you did not create us to be defeated or sad. Your Spirit brings joy in big and small moments, sustaining us for our journey. Thank you for joy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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But the absolute worst is when we fool ourselves. We try to manage some problem on our own, or analyze why our boss is so mean.

But the Bible has a better way of thinking about it.

Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

We have to do two things here: give total control to God, and de-emphasize our own judgment. Sometimes our gut is wrong. “Following our heart” often ends in heartache.

God doesn’t mess up. He doesn’t get it wrong. And he really longs to make it better for you.

Do you remember a time when you put your life in God’s hands? Maybe it was a really important career choice. Or a relationship needed healing. Maybe your body needed healing. Whatever it was, recall that situation today as you wrestle with a new problem.

Let’s pray.

Lord, every time we learn to trust you, it builds our faith a little more. You are a good God who always has our back. Thank you for that. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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It was World War 2, and American forces in the Philippines were nearby. Just when Gwen and her friends thought someone would throw open the trapdoor to their basement hiding place, loud voices began getting dimmer.

The enemy troops were distracted, and left in a hurry!

Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”

God always shows up at the right time. If we can remember that, and commit ourselves to prayer and reading Scripture, we will not let fear overtake us.

There are times we need to just be still, and wait on the Lord.

He always knows just where we are, and what we need.

Let’s pray.

Lord, help us to be calm when we want to run. By waiting on You, we also practice obedience. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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The book of Judges in the Old Testament gives us an awesome example of trusting God in the story of Gideon.

God called Gideon to lead Israel into battle with the Midianites, who had a sizable army of 135,000 men. Gideon gathered an army of 32,000 men to battle with the Midianites, but despite odds in favor of the enemy, God told Gideon there were too many men in his army. Through a selection process, God whittled the Israelite army down to just 300 men.

Though Gideon was afraid, he trusted God to fulfill His promise. And God told Gideon they needed a smaller army so people would know God won the battle, and not some large army.

The night of the battle, Gideon and his servant snuck into the camp of the enemy and overheard the telling of a dream. The two Midianites interpreted the dream to mean that Gideon’s small army would wipe out their larger army.

Reassured, Gideon returned to camp to begin the battle. The Midianites were so frightened, many of them began fighting and killing one another, thinking that Gideon’s army was all around them.

Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.”

Gideon trusted God’s plan, even when he didn’t understand. Because of his faith, God helped Gideon and the Israelites to conquer the Midianites with an army a fraction of the size of the enemy’s.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you are mighty to save. Help us to trust you in every battle. We love you and believe you have a plan for us. Give us courage to face the challenges in our lives, knowing you are here with us, and you have a good plan. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”

Could Jesus meet our needs by just giving us something instantly? Of course. He made everything! And sometimes He does that; the miracles he performed that are recorded in the New Testament tell us that he often instantly met a person’s need.

But He doesn’t always work that way. That’s because Jesus loves to teach us.

In the book of John, He is telling us the steps necessary to trust Him for provision. First, we ask. Then we learn to receive His good gifts. Finally, we feel real joy, because we know exactly where it came from.

This process is designed to teach us faith and then to be genuinely appreciative to the Lord for meeting our needs. All through the Bible, we are told that He delights in helping us, in loving us through tough times. The older we get, the more we are able to look back and see that He and He alone brought us through.

There is usually no other explanation.

And that is called a miracle.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, we are dependent on you for everything, and we are blessed that you are our Source. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Revelation 22:1–3 says, “Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing 12 crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse.” 

In the meantime, maybe you’re really going through a challenge in your life. You need a miracle. Do you know that you can simply ask Jesus for this? He’s answered too many people, too many times, not to be real. And if we’re honest, the presence and regularity of miracles today are staggering. They’re everywhere. 

So why not you?

1 Corinthians 1:1–2 says, “To those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be his holy people, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours, grace and peace to you from God, our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.” There’s such peace in this. Put aside your doubts and your fears. Just ask Him to help you, and He can. He will. In fact, He will bless you so much, you won’t be able to stay quiet about it. You will have to tell people. You are a miracle.

Let’s pray. 

Father God, you rescue us all the time in ways big and small. Your faithfulness in helping us is worthy of our worship. Thank you for making miracles part of everyday life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Taylor McCaffrey was an alcoholic as a teenager. He was also a preacher’s kid, and these combined to weigh him down with guilt. From the age of 16, he drank heavily, but God didn’t leave him there. He says, “On my 21st birthday, I’d been drinking about eight hours straight and simply heard the voice of the Holy Spirit inside me say, ‘Either do what I’ve called you to, or I will not continue wrestling you.’”

It sounded so stern. However, so loving, “I was instantly sober.” And that was several years ago. Today, Taylor is still sober. There are also countless examples of what we might call ‘corporate’ miracles—those that bless whole communities. At Christmas time of 2004, a group of 400 believers wanted to hold a Christmas service. The local authorities, though, told them that they could not do that in the city of Meulaboh in North Sumatra. The 400 decided to hold their service in a remote mountain region, and they stayed overnight. Early the next morning, an earthquake and resulting tsunami flattened their city, but they were safe in the higher elevations. Had they opted not to worship Jesus during their holiday, they would have perished.

The fact is, our world is miracle-heavy. They happen all the time. Miracles happen to ordinary people and to whole nations every day. This is one of the clearest evidences of the power and the majesty of the living God. We can choose to be witnesses for Him by pointing out to everyone we come in contact with that, though our world has problems, God is still working in a mighty way.

Let’s pray. 

Father God, thank you. The example of miracles. They give us strength in our faith and a boost to our days. We’re forever grateful to you for routinely doing things that some say cannot happen. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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There’s not much comfort in that, though. 

Remember the account of ancient people who longed to see a miracle from their God? The Egyptians developed a complex system of gods that operated on a whim, but when the God of Moses showed up, they very clearly understood the true source of miracles. And that was the point of the 10 plagues: to show them that the Creator God was infinitely powerful and capable of producing miracles. 

We’ve been given a reasonable source that tells us where miracles come from: The Bible. Deuteronomy 29:2–3 says, “Moses summoned all the Israelites and said to them, ‘Your eyes have seen all that the Lord did in Egypt to Pharaoh, to all his officials and to all his land. With your own eyes, you saw those great trials, those signs, and great wonders.’”

Here we see clearly that the source of any and all miracles is God Himself, not a force in the universe. Not a spirit guide. Miracles are from God alone, and He wants you to experience miracles in your life. He wants you to live an abundant life, not one of defeat and misery and oppression. His limitless power was seen by the ancients, and today, people on every continent see that miracle-working power. There’s a beautiful description of this in Isaiah 43:13, which says, “Yes, and from ancient days I am He. No one can deliver out of my hand. When I act, who can reverse it?” And this is the truth we can expect from the One who really does want to help you, and help you today. 

Let’s pray. 

Father God, you have put within each of us the knowledge that tells us you are the source of all miracle-working power. And this is part of the good news of Jesus that we get to tell others about. Thank you for the miracle of Jesus. Thank you for all of Your miracles. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Another reason some have trouble really believing in miracles is because when one is needed, doubt and fear crowd out our belief. Remember, even the ancient Israelites who saw historic miracles almost on a daily basis sometimes complained that God had left them to die in the desert.

Man, our attention span’s short. 

Maybe the most famous example of doubting a miracle is seen in the New Testament when one of the disciples of Jesus, Thomas, refuses to believe reports of His resurrection. John 20:25 says, “But he said to them, unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” The 18th-century philosopher David Hume thought that miracles violated the laws of nature. In fact, his views and others like him influenced many people in Europe and America in the next two centuries. So, they believed that reason cannot believe in miracles.

Notice that doesn’t mean they don’t exist. The opinions of men too often influence people who haven’t really thought this through. As the Christian writer Timothy McGrew has said, “Science properly understood will tell us the limits of nature, but it will never tell us that nothing lies beyond those limits.” In the case of Thomas, we could say that he didn’t have enough information. Once he saw the risen Lord with his own eyes, he could believe. 

For others, it’s a matter of the heart. Perhaps you’ve been wounded, and you’re shutting God out. This can cause you not to see what’s right in front of your face. So, do this. Allow yourself one day to be open to the possibility of miracles. Scan the news. Listen to friends. Scroll through social media. It would be a miracle if you don’t find a miracle. 

Let's pray.

Father God, you are good to us in big ways and in small ways. You make miracles happen in our lives. From healing to repaired relationships, we know that we can ask you for your good gifts and you will give them. Help us to be ambassadors for your miracle-working power. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Skeptics claim that miracles are impossible.

Chad and Mandy Stacy saw one of them when their son, Ethan, was born with leukemia, and over a period of three weeks, he developed tumors all over his body. He couldn’t eat. His heartbroken parents began to make his funeral arrangements and took him home. But one night at his lowest, he began taking nourishment, and over the next week, he improved so much that his doctors were not able to find evidence of the killer disease in his body. One doctor said it was just remarkable to witness it.

One scholar has a thought that skeptics might consider: “To say that miracles are scientifically impossible is one thing, but to say that they can’t happen is another thing. We might even define a miracle as an event which is scientifically impossible, but which happens anyway.” Well, there you have it. 

The Bible, in fact, has much to say about miracles, and because Scripture also tells us that our God does not change, we can reasonably believe He gives us miracles. We might say that the very first miracle was the creation of everything out of nothing. A marvelous world that still retains great beauty. The moon is just the right distance from Earth to allow perfect tides that clean our oceans. The sun is just the right distance so that we have heat, but not too much. Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”

One of the first of what we might call personal miracles is recorded in Exodus 3, the burning bush. Moses is allowed to talk with God up close as the Lord’s presence was in a bush nearby that wouldn’t burn up. Another use of fire we see in 1 Kings 18, when Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to sort of a dual, each is to call on his God to answer. And Elijah says, “The true God will answer by fire.” And He does, as fire comes down from heaven and consumes the altar they’ve built.

An especially heartfelt miracle occurs in the New Testament in John 4, when Jesus heals a nobleman’s son. Jesus doesn’t force Himself on anybody. But as we will see, He’s in the miracle business. If you need one, tell Him that. Tell Him your friend or relative or a stranger needs a miracle. He’s the God who answers by fire.

Let’s pray. 

Father God, you have proven yourself to us so many times that we don’t need to doubt anything in Your Word. We believe that You grant miracles in different times and places, and no one is beyond Your miracle-giving gifts. Thank you for that. And help us to carry them in our hearts and our minds so that we can be witnesses for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Much more serious is the tendency to get lazy about the fire inside us to share the love of Christ. After so many years of being a Christian—especially living in a free country—sharing the Gospel can be put on the back burner.

Romans 12:11–12 says, “Never let the fire in your heart go out. Keep it alive. Serve the Lord. When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful.”

Do you see what God is urging us to do in Scripture? He says to never let the fire go out! Never doesn’t mean sometimes, when we’re tired or annoyed about something. This is too important to mess up. Remember that Jesus saved you. And more than likely, through someone keeping their own inner fire going, they saw you through the eyes of compassion.

Let’s pray.

Lord, give us a passion for the souls of all people, at all times. And help us to be ready to share Christ with them. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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He is intimately aware of you, and where you are in life.

Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”

When we trust Christ—when we believe the simple Gospel—we are called to get in the game. Sitting on such good news doesn’t make much sense, does it? Are you guilty of failing to shine a light in a dark world?

It’s not too late, friend! If you’re a friend of God, just as the Bible says Abraham was long ago, you are to invite others to live in his healing light.

The glory of the Lord rises on you each morning, it really does. Put your feet on the floor and share His glory with friends, family, and people who travel your path only briefly.

God is so good! Walk in His light and see what He’ll do in countless lives!

Let’s pray. 

Lord, there are so many opportunities to share your light. Give us opportunities to do that daily, and give us the energy to seize them. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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He had just risen from the dead. That doesn’t happen every day.

His ministry had been destroyed, so they thought. He wasn’t coming back. But then He did. Only days after being killed on a brutal Roman cross, Jesus was standing in front of his friends, looking very much alive. And He was telling them their futures were dicey.

Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”

Jerusalem at the time was under occupation by an unforgiving empire. The empire required all from each individual and never gave anything back. Jesus was telling His disciples that if they would give up all for Him, He’d give it back and more.

Forever.

This was the first great command to preach the Good News everywhere. The first marching orders for a spiritual army.

We are called to be in that army, to give our all in order to shake things up for eternity.

Let’s pray.

Lord, thank you for giving us the chance to share your love with others, all over the world. We love you! In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Now, consider that 1,000 and more years ago, if a person wanted to use salt on his dinner, this required some prior work. A lot of work! The Romans boiled seawater in huge, lead-lined pans. So valuable was salt in the Roman Empire, it was used as currency! Mainly, it was used as a critical food preservative.

Matthew 5:13–16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.                                      Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

God tells us we are to be the instrument that preserves and makes known the Gospel, and salt is the analogy.

Let us say to our friends, loved ones, and even strangers: Taste, and see that the Lord’s promises are good!

Let’s pray.

Lord, help us to be salt and light for your Word in this world. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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The thing is, it’s great to be zealous for our faith, but let’s also be disciplined. We don’t want to alienate a person who might otherwise listen. To put it simply: an angry Christian is usually a lonely Christian.

Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.”

We can defend our faith in a strong way. We can be bold in what we believe, sure of our eternity with Jesus Christ. But our messaging is all-important. It could be that having a conversation with someone is the right approach. Don’t feel pressure. Don’t press. Jesus has the job of saving; we just have to be available to share about Him.

Let’s pray.

Lord, please always remind us to share the Gospel with love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Psalm 23:1–2 says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.”

This psalm contains some of the most famous words ever written. It has everything: beautiful language, a man’s raw, honest heart for God, and a universal theme of love that God has for all people.

It echoes in the universe.

Think of the picture that God is painting here for us.

We are bone weary, but He has actually made a place for us to rest in a garden. We hear the flowing water. We are refreshed inside and out. And He is with us.

Do yourself a favor this spring. Memorize every line of the 23rd Psalm. Put it in your heart so that when you’re in that dark valley, you will remember that the one true God loves you absolutely and completely.

Goodness and mercy follow you. Close your eyes and sit in the cool grass. He is with you.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you are the Great Shepherd who provides a sanctuary for us. Thank you, thank you for making a place of safety for us as we go through life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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An amazing example of this is found in Psalm 22, and it’s almost surprising how many people are not aware of it.

Psalm 22:11 says, “Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.”

If you read the entire chapter carefully, you begin to realize that this is a conversation that Jesus had on the cross.

This psalm was written a thousand years before that world-changing event!

It describes a man being mocked on the cross. A man who is so thirsty his mouth feels like a piece of dry pottery. He even mentions that His tormentors are casting lots for His clothes. All these things are described in the New Testament, and even some of the language Jesus used on the cross is seen here in this psalm for the first time.

God is in charge of all things, all the time. And that includes your situation. He raised Jesus from the dead, and He will provide life eternal for you if you call on Him.

He knows the end from the beginning.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you know all things. No one else does. That alone should give us confidence that you will be with us always. It’s in Jesus’ name that we pray, amen.

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Psalm 91:1–2 says, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”

This psalm is famous for its descriptive language. We can see a picture of this in our minds. And the specific things listed in this passage are very personal for each of us.

We are not to fear.

When we call on Him, He hears.

His angels watch over us.

One of the most beautiful images in the Bible is found in this psalm, as God, like a strong eagle, covers us with His wings so that we are protected.

Remember the words of Psalm 91 and call on Him day or night.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your protection for us is just one of the things that separates you from anyone or anything else. We are grateful for your wings that draw us near and cover us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Psalm 139:1–3 says, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”

The writer of the Psalms marvels at the ways in which God understands each of us intimately, and is present everywhere

Are you aware that God loves you with a supernatural love? He created you to be a singular presence in the world…what we call “unique.” You might feel sometimes that you are worthless, or that no one cares. But that’s not so.

The Creator of the Universe, in that vast space, took time to make only one of you. You are precious to Him, and you should never forget it, even when things look depressing.

God sees you when you sit in that chair and when you get up. He knows what you’re thinking and what’s in your heart.

You are on His mind.

Let’s pray.

Lord, it’s comforting knowing that you are with us in each moment of our day. Help us to live in that moment. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Today, we celebrate them as prayers for the most part, and they give us a beautiful picture of who God is.

Psalm 1:6 says, “For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.”

Traditional authorship is assigned mostly to King David, who loved to worship God with music and even dancing. His heart was open to God, and this inner life could be seen by anyone; this earthly king worshiped the King of kings.

In this introductory psalm, we read about the contrast between those who love God and those who don’t. And we are encouraged to meditate on His Word every day.

Our God is the great God, and loves each of us more than we can even imagine. And that love is a song we can carry in our hearts.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your love for us is eternal and we are so blessed to receive it, as David did, all the days of our lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Christians today celebrate “Good Friday” every year, but what does it really mean?

The date marks the day 2,000 years ago that Jesus Christ willingly died on a gruesome Roman cross for our sins.

Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

The truth is, Jesus died after suffering sustained torture. His followers were devastated. It looked as if His ministry would be as brief as any other holy man that had wandered onto the stage for a brief performance.

And then it happened.

Three days later, He came back from the dead! God the Father, as He had promised, raised Jesus to life. This was a clear message to any who would follow the Savior that there is blessed, eternal life after this one. In our sins, Jesus came to us because He loved us.

It’s as simple as that, really. What was originally raw grief became a very good day.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your Son’s gift to us is beyond words. We simply thank you and are grateful that He didn’t leave us where we were. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Grace means simply that someone gives you something with no strings attached. Just for your good.

Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”

The Bible tells a simple story, really. Mankind sinned and brought evil into the world. God made everything, so He has the right to set the rules. And in His system, sin cannot be tolerated. So, He made a way for us to be reconciled to Him, through His Son, Jesus Christ.

Often, we try to do things to help life along. We plan, plot, and come up with programs. Our own ideas seem like the right thing to do.

But God’s way is always the right thing to do. Setting aside our own ego is key to finding peace in Christ. We literally don’t have to do anything for it.

We accept it in faith.

That is the gift of God.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, in your love for us, you make our path simple. Not always easy, but simple. Thank you for the gift of eternal life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Sam was a fourth grader with a big problem: he left his homework at school, and he was so worried he’d be in trouble with the teacher, he could hardly stand to go to school the next day.

In the car on the way to school, Sam’s mom explained the concept of grace, asking, “Sam, do you know about the idea of grace? Grace means even if we aren’t perfect, the people who care about us can choose to forgive us. I think your teacher will understand about your homework.”

Ephesians 2:8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

The concerns on your mind today are probably bigger than a missed homework assignment. Maybe you’re struggling in your marriage or experiencing financial distress. Maybe things aren’t going well at work, or you are battling addiction, or wrestling with sin.

When you begin to worry you are falling short, give it to the Lord. God sent Jesus as a living sacrifice for me and for you, so we could all experience His grace. Grace isn’t something we can earn; it’s a gift God gives to us, simply because He loves us. And that’s truly amazing!

Let’s pray.

Lord, we thank you for your grace, and thank you for loving us, and we thank you for who you are and all you’ve done. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Rahab lived in the Canaanite town of Jericho, which was near the border of the Promised Land God had promised to His people, who had been wandering for years in search of a home after slavery in Egypt.

Because the Canaanites were powerful, Joshua sent a scouting party into the land to see what they were up against. The men sent ahead were hidden from harm by Rahab, because she had heard of the power that followed the Israelites.

When she talked with the men, she showed remarkable understanding that their God was in fact the true God. She made a bargain with them.

Joshua 2:14 says, “So the men said to her, “Our life for yours if you do not tell this business of ours; and it shall come about when the Lord gives us the land that we will deal kindly and faithfully with you.”

In the end, as the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land, Rahab’s family was spared death. In this way, we see how God’s inclusive love for all is worked out in practical ways that lead to life.

Remember Rahab when you think you are beyond God’s protection!

Let’s pray.

Lord, what an example of faithfulness this woman displayed. Bless all those who look for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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It was in one of these collapsed buildings that a young mother waited with her baby daughter.

A rescuer heard her cries and said, “Can you hear me? We are coming. We will save you.”

John 8:12 says, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”

Those Turkish rescuers did indeed bring the mother and daughter out of the rubble and darkness. They survived.

Do you feel today that your life is dark? Has your world collapsed?

Cry out to Jesus. I’m serious. Cry out to him in your own way and believe that He is your Rescuer and He will save you.

He is coming.

Let’s pray. Lord, we are so thankful that you sent Your Son, Jesus, to rescue us through his sacrifice on the Cross. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Being alone can be healing, and it can be depressing. If you are experiencing the latter right now, we have good news for you. Your ‘alone’ feeling is an illusion.

Psalm 139:7–8 says, “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there.”

God’s Word tells us that there is no place in the universe that is without His presence. That includes the terrible news you just got today. It also includes the severed relationships and any other depressing thing that can dog us.

He is with you, everywhere, and at all times. Best of all, you can call on Jesus to take away your feelings of being alone.

All day, and all night.

Let’s pray.

Lord, without you, we are literally nothing. There is never a time you don’t hear us as individuals, and step in with your healing. Thank you for loving us! In Jesus’ name, amen.

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But in Scripture, God gives us hope for the future. 

John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

Jesus is telling us that in Him alone is true life. He is always pointing us to the future, to a time when that dry creek bed will be filled forever.

In Revelation 22, He showed John a river flowing with the water of life, crystal-clear and coming from the very throne of God.

The whole picture is one of healing and new life. He promises us that this scene will be very real and very permanent! The key is what we read in John 7:38…we must choose to believe! If you long for a new start and a bright future, you will find everything you need and want in the person of Jesus Christ.

The living water He offers is perfect, and the supply is limitless.

Jesus is the well that never runs dry.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you are calling to each of us to follow You and let You lead us to a place of perfect paradise. We eagerly look forward to joining you in Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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One day, He stopped by a well and had a conversation with a woman who had been married five times. When He spoke to her, He knew she was now living with another man. Yet Jesus spoke to her in a way that let her know He valued her as a person.

He told her that people could drink the water from that well, but again, they would eventually be thirsty. He said to her that the water He gives is a spring welling up inside them, pointing to eternal life.

John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

Do you believe in Him? Have you had your encounter with Jesus? If you are thirsty for a new life, reach out to Him and listen to what Jesus has to say.

Your life will no longer be dry and lifeless.

New life will flow out of you so that others will notice and want what you have!

Let’s pray.

Lord, much of what the world offers doesn’t satisfy us. We need the living water that only you can provide. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Water is an image used often in Scripture.

When Jesus emerged from the River Jordan having been baptized by his cousin, John, He used the imagery to help people understand that by trusting in Him, they would live forever.

John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

Did you catch that? You must believe that Jesus is who the Bible says that He is, the very Son of God. In Him is life, rivers of living water. It is a refreshing experience that has no end, because when we drink water now, we know that eventually, we’ll get thirsty again.

But Jesus has told us in John 4 that whoever drinks from the water He gives them—spiritually—will never thirst.

He is talking about eternal life, always new and forever clean and clear.

He is inviting you. He stands at the water’s edge and waits.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your Word uses powerful imagery to help us see the wonderful things you have for us. Thank you for satisfying the thirst we have for fellowship with you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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That’s exactly what each of them did, for the rest of their lives!

John 7:38 says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.'"

Fishing requires patience, and a feel for your surroundings. The men Jesus picked were steady, and used to adapting to shifting opportunities. They were perfect for the work He gave them to do.

Just as Jesus knew what his disciples were suited for in order to build His Kingdom, He also knows exactly the purposes He has for you. You are invited to flow into the River of Life He has created, in order to see the Kingdom grow.

Others will see the life flowing from within you, if you’re willing to follow God.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you invite us to participate in the beautiful future you’ve planned for people everywhere. Help us be willing to look for those fishing opportunities. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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When we give our hearts to the Lord, asking Him to forgive our sins and guide our lives, we are making God a promise: we no longer claim the right to follow our own paths, or to focus on our own agendas.

We are redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ, shed on the cross on our behalf, so that we can be forgiven and live with the Lord for all eternity, when our temporary earthly lives are over.

In Romans 14:8, the Apostle Paul says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”

When we profess our faith as Christian believers, we are saying we will live for the Lord, and we will die for Him as well. Living or dead, our souls belong to the Savior. 

As believers living for the Lord, this means we will make choices that honor Him and ultimately serve His goals and plans. We will ever and always belong to the Lord. Understanding that should impact how we view every choice we make, and how we tackle every challenge.

Let’s pray.

Dear Lord, we give you everything. Our choices, our actions, and our reactions. We ask for clarity in the decisions we make, and that you make us ever dependent on your wisdom and your perfect plan. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Some of us know instinctively whether we are traveling North, South, East, or West. And some of us...would be lucky to find our way out of a paper bag, even with a map in hand.

If you’ve ever been lost on a country road at dusk, no road signs, no one to ask for help, and no idea which way to turn — you know how very useful it is to have directions. You’re burning daylight, and you aren’t sure how to get back to civilization.

Or maybe you’ve driven to a job interview in a new city. Unfamiliar cross streets, busy traffic, and the sound of blaring horns can be a distressing soundtrack when you’re trying to pinpoint one office building among many.

Romans 14:8 says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”

When we’re living for the Lord, we have a North Star to guide us on our way. When you aren’t sure which road to take, or which choice to make, remember Who you live for. Ask the Lord to direct your path, to keep you safe from harm, and to be present every step of the way. Country roads, bustling city thoroughfares, and life itself are all so much more enjoyable when we navigate them with Jesus.

Let’s pray.

God, forgive us for those times we prove ourselves aimless on the road of life. Be our guide, and reveal your presence and direction to us on the journey. We are lost without you! In Jesus’ name, amen.

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John smiled and said, “No, that’s not my problem. What I wonder about is how God could care about me. I’ve done some really bad things and have had some really bad things done to me. I just can’t understand the concept of forgiveness.” 

There you have it. Doubts about the faith come from all directions. While one person cannot bring herself to believe in miracles, another cannot forgive himself for the wrong things he's done — and can't fathom how God could. 

Thomas Jefferson actually cut out the miraculous sections of the Bible. He couldn’t believe in what some would call the God of the Bible. Francis Crick, the co-discoverer of DNA, thought that Christianity was just a collection of mythical stories. And what about those who want to see the proof? They like evidence and feel a need to make an intellectual case for our faith. 

The New Testament writer, Luke, was like that. He wrote in Acts and the gospel of Luke about the importance of eyewitness sightings of Jesus and His miracles. Lots of people debate whether evolution and religion are compatible or not. And this is a big stumbling block to believe for many. 

We all believe something, but our minds can struggle at times to grasp the big stuff, the infinite universe, while for others who doubt, the struggle is more internal. They’re so grieved by their own sin they can’t accept that God could love them. 

Maybe the most famous verse in the Bible is John 3:16, which says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” 

However, few quote the next verse, which says, “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” It isn’t God’s wish to condemn you. Instead, He loves you and wants to give you assurance that life is more than struggle and molecules. 

Whether you’re looking for evidence to believe the Bible, or you just need to know that God loves you, try not to focus too much on your objections. Own them, but just tell God, as a child would, that you’re struggling to understand it all. 

Will you pray with us? 

Father, your grace saves us from a life of struggle with sin, and we are accepted by you. Thank you for putting up with our up and down faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

In Ecclesiastes, God spends considerable time speaking to our innermost needs. Through the stories of Paul and the apostles, we see that He cares about our physical needs and comforts us in times of danger.

The diversity of God’s intervention is awesome! Hannah couldn’t have children, but she prayed, and the Lord answered her…blessing her with six children! Gideon was facing an army much larger than his own, but God told him everything would be okay — and it was! 

Down through time and into the present, God speaks to us with words of comfort and courage. He is actively working in our lives now, and always.

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Daniel, God’s man in exile in Babylon, insisted on worshipping the Lord, and not a human king. This was against the law. When those who were jealous of him urged the king to punish Daniel, the prophet was thrown into a lion’s den overnight.

And that was that. Or was it?

The next morning, the king was so anxious about Daniel that he ran to the den and called out to him to see if he was still alive.

Daniel 6:21–22 says, “Daniel answered, ‘May the king live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.’”

When life threatens to rip you up, remember that the Lord has you. God is on your side, knows where you are, and will hide you in the palm of His strong hand.

Believe that He will.

Let’s pray.

Lord, this story inspires us to rely on you when times are really bad for us. Thank you for being our rescue. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Intentionality is a great way to overcome our hesitancy, and let’s be honest, sometimes fear keeps us from sharing. 

Truth is, each personality requires a customized approach to sharing about Jesus. Some are outgoing, and others are shy. A blogger for God TV has written that he admired a friend who told every seatmate on every plane he’d been in about Jesus.

The blogger went on to write that, “Even if my fellow passengers desperately wanted to know Christ, they likely couldn’t even get my attention with a jackhammer drill or a pie in the face.” Kind of funny…and also kind of sad. Also, very common. 

Matthew 16:24 says, “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.’” So, if we’re looking for ways to overcome our mediocre Gospel sharing, what can we do? 

Let’s look at a few tips. 

The first is prayer. Get honest with God and tell Him you’re not so great at evangelism. I mean, He already knows, anyway. Ask Him specifically to give you both opportunities and an intentional plan for communicating the best news anyone will ever hear.

Two—plan, think ahead. Are you a person who’s good at conversation? Go over a mental checklist that provides you with enough scripture and short sentences to make your pitch when the time comes. However, if you’re not outgoing, maybe you’re a writer. Consider communicating with a card to let the person know you’re thinking about him or her. Play to your strengths, not your weaknesses. 

Number three, listen before you talk. How many times do we jump into a conversation or meeting without taking a breath? Train yourself to be quiet for a bit until you hear where the other person is coming from. You’ll learn about your friend or acquaintance, and you can then think through the best way to approach them about the saving gift of Jesus. But also, don’t just wait for your turn to talk. Hear them. Meet them where they are, and listen to the Holy Spirit to see how you can speak Jesus into that person’s life. 

Very few of us are Billy Graham. That doesn’t mean we can’t share the gospel. Somebody’s depending on it. 

Let’s pray.

Father, whatever our personality and our experiences, give us a passion for loving unbelievers and caring about their well-being. The world is full of diversity. Help us embrace that. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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If so, then we are speaking to you about sharing your light in a dark world.

Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”

Have you seen the movie, “The Ten Commandments?” It’s doubtful the real Moses looked and talked like Charlton Heston. And do we really think God looks for His witnesses among people who have that perfect British accent in a Jesus movie? Nope. 

If we think we have to look or act a certain way, then we’re doing it wrong. God doesn’t ask our permission when giving us our marching orders for sharing the Gospel of Jesus. Instead, He approaches us as He did Job: Stand up and listen to what I have to tell you.

You are called to shine a light for Christ in a world full of dark things. You are equipped, just as you are. God has called you. Be bold in Christ.

He is the Star. We are just lights along the way.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, the time is now. So many need you. God, would you help us to shine for you every day? In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another.”

We also read in Romans 10 that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. We have to do it so that others know how. Remember, there is no substitute for spending time in God’s Word.

In order to properly train an apprentice, you need to obviously be prepared and adept. Anything less leads to weak faith, or no faith at all.

This is what the Great Commission, sharing the Gospel, has always been about. Duplicating disciples. Grounding your own faith in the Bible and then imparting that to others. That is the essence of true iron sharpening iron.

Let’s pray.

Lord, keep us about your work by daily reminding us to spend time with you in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Communication is beyond anything our grandparents could have imagined. The number of mobile devices at this moment stands at 7.22 billion, a slightly bigger number than the human population of our planet. There are more than two billion personal computers around the globe. People in Asia can chat in real time with friends in Chicago or anywhere else. Such communication is instant and constant. Consider that as recently as World War II, whole armies could be on the move before the enemy was aware.

Travel is easier, too. There’s a wonderful story from our friends at Our Daily Bread, in which a teen on a mission trip shared the Gospel with an elderly man in Jamaica. He was disabled but listened intently when she described new life in Jesus and the hope of a new body in heaven. He asked her, “Will you dance with me up there?” He accepted Christ.

Romans 1:16 says, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” We have almost limitless ways to get a Bible into someone’s hand. According to The Bible Society, between 1816 and 1975, 2.5 billion Bibles were printed. Many people, of course, still prefer to hold a book and read the printed word, and that method has been responsible for many millions of conversions over the years.

It’s exciting to think that now, 100 million Bibles are being printed every year. Technology brings advancement here as well. That remarkable YouVersion Bible App has been installed on 300 million devices around the world.

Knowledge is increasing drastically. We have the greatest opportunity in all of history to share the Good News of Jesus with the world. God has given us the means to use technology, prayer, and one-on-one conversations to bring people to Jesus. What will you do with your finite amount of time? It’s up to you.

Let’s pray.

Father God, your provision for us is wonderful. You’ve made it possible for each believer to share their faith with close friends and family, as well as those around the world. Give us a sense of urgency. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Historically, He was born into a Jewish family in Judea at the time the Roman Empire controlled the area. Born in Bethlehem and raised in Nazareth, Jesus was 30 before He gained a reputation as a great teacher, but He was much more than that. The Bible tells us that He was sent into the world by God the Father, to stand in our place and take the penalty for our sin. 

According to Genesis, man defied God’s template for living and because He is holy, God requires that someone is accountable for sin. Had Jesus not entered the world, we’d be left without a way to reconcile with God. Long story short, Jesus Christ is much more than just a wise teacher. He’s also the Son of God. 

The Bible also tells us Jesus is one with the Father. Remember, when Moses encountered God in the burning bush, he asked God how to identify Him to the people, and God replied, “I am who I am.” And that was in the Old Testament.

In John 8:58 in the New Testament, Jesus tells the people, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” Jesus Christ is a divine being. And John 1:29 says, “The next day, John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.’” This description of Him is not embraced by most people around the world. 

The Bible tells us that man’s heart is wicked. It isn’t like billions are rushing to churches so that they can have their sins forgiven. The human mind and heart don't want to focus on the messier side of the Gospel. 

We’re imperfect. We sin. And our sin is an offense to God. Who wants to hear that? We don’t want to be told that we’re not good. We want to be told we’re good, and worthy of God’s love. And the Good News, the Gospel in the person of Jesus Christ, is that we have the pathway to be like Him. 

Romans 8 tells us that it is God’s desire that we become like Jesus. And that’s a goal worth reaching for. 

Let’s pray. 

Father, thank you for providing us with your Word that tells us exactly who Jesus is, and what His life means to us. You could have abandoned us to sin, but you didn’t. The praise and the glory belong to you alone. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”

When Jesus ascended to heaven, He told the apostles, “My peace I leave with you.” Because He lives, we know for sure that this peace is available to us anytime, anywhere. Even in the busy part of your life, when you think you’re going crazy, you can call on Him, and He will answer.

This is our theme this week: that peace is attainable. It comes from God, first and last. You might need to get away for even five minutes and close your eyes to call on Jesus. Let Him know you are beaten down and tired. Remember the verse we just read: peace is not just something for the glorious future Jesus is preparing for us. It is for the here and now.

Claim that for your busy life today!

Let’s pray. 

Lord, when chaos seems to rule over us, you tell us differently. Thank you that we can simply ask and you will settle peace over us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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It’s a metaphor for life that most internalize at some point. All of a sudden, what you were sure of isn’t there anymore. You might as well be behind the wheel of a fast car that’s heading into oncoming traffic.

1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”

This isn’t some nice little bit of wisdom someone put on a greeting card. This is the very Word of God. It has sustained civilization for thousands of years. It’s a proven method for getting your life back under control.

It doesn’t work, though, unless you can see Jesus taking the wheel. Let Him get you to safety and peace.

He’s ready and waiting to take all your worries and set you on a smooth and straight path.

Let’s pray.

Lord, feeling out of control is not something we want to have anymore. Please take over and guide us in your perfect ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Anita’s life was like that, growing up in Hong Kong, where revolutionary movements brought violence and loss of hope. She couldn’t see how the pieces of her life could be put together. She would ask herself, “How do you make peace with a potential that is frustrated?

Philippians 4:19 says, “But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

Over time, Anita saw that God had always been shaping her to find her calling in Christ. She did that, and today operates a ministry that helps women see that they are daughters of the Living God! Truly, Anita didn’t always have it together, but her life is living proof that God puts us back together for His purposes!

Let’s pray. 

Lord, someone listening today needs a dramatic move from you in their life. Please bring your peace and comfort to them today. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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These two short verses tell us several things: One, if we submit to God’s power by acknowledging we can’t solve our problems, He is strong enough to intervene and bring about the outcome we really want.

Second, He does this in his own time, on His own timetable.

Third, we are to leave our problems at His feet. There is nothing wrong with getting an image in your mind where you actually do this and then walk away, your burden lifted.

Key in getting on track is recognizing that you might have a trust problem. If you’ve been deeply hurt by, say, a family member, you might subconsciously be failing to trust God himself.

And this is a first step in getting free of fear for good.

Know that an unburdened mind is not usually gained quickly, or without what we would call maintenance. The only thing predictable about our world is that it’s unpredictable. If you think you’re going to have one great afternoon and then every day after that is carefree, you’re deluding yourself.

We’ve already established that a daily time of prayer, reading your Bible, and focusing on God’s love for you is a combination that our enemy can’t overcome. Choosing to believe God’s Word is practical, and it works. That can’t be emphasized enough!

Jesus said in John 16:33 that we will absolutely have trouble in our lives, but that He has already overcome the world. This fact will help to keep you on that straight path that will ultimately one day lead to paradise with the One that created you, sustains you, and loves you forever.

Let’s pray.

Lord, having the discipline to daily rely on you is something we often lack. When we focus and concentrate our minds and our hearts on your good gifts, fear leaves and can be replaced with courage and peace. Thank you for providing for all of our needs, all the time. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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In our discussion this week, we will talk about this human condition. Today, we are really no different from people in ancient times: We all need a relationship with our Creator.

Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Don’t those words give you a feeling of peace and calm? You can say them to yourself, with no one around, and begin to feel God’s strong arms wrapping you in love. He wants you to be free from all the strongholds that keep you from your destiny.

Wouldn’t you like to spend the rest of this week at rest emotionally and mentally? You can. This is the Lord’s will for you, as we heard in this famous passage from the book of Isaiah

Let’s pray. Lord, your perfect love always comes through for us. Just as you didn’t abandon your people long ago, we know you will remember us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Matthew 5:23–24 says, “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First, go and be reconciled to your brother, then come and offer your gift.”

Notice that God is aware how we think. This passage from Matthew describes a very interesting trait that is often overlooked. The person who has come to worship God cannot properly do that, because he remembers there’s trouble in his relationship with his friend. We just can’t let it go. God is telling us here to take care of this spirit of unforgiveness first, then come back for worship. Refusing to do things in this order only diminishes our time with God. 

Jonathan Draper has written about this problem of holding onto grudges, and he specifically says that having a forgiving spirit allows us to grow closer to God. This is the number one benefit of forgiveness.

Tony Roberts is an Indiana pastor and relationship expert. In a conversation he had with a young woman impacted by a negative relationship, he asked for her top emotional health benefits that come from forgiving. She said, “It impacts emotional health, in that if you don’t take care of you, nobody will.”

Taking care of you is forgiving and forgetting that person for trespassing against you. Forgetting isn’t the most important part, but it’s definitely one of the most challenging. And if they don’t happen, you will lose yourself. Now, think about that. God has promised to walk with us through our trials, and those include cycles of unforgiveness. It’s critical to our emotional well-being that we forgive, so that we begin the process of looking after our own emotional health. Letting go of bitterness is an important first step.

Let’s pray. 

Father God, you intended for us to live in harmony, so that our physical bodies and our emotional selves would be in sync. And when that doesn’t happen, we need your help to strike the right balance. Please walk with us in divine health. Let us come to a place where we embrace forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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In Genesis Chapter 37, verses 12–36, 17-year-old Joseph is sent by his father to visit his brothers, who were tending the family’s flock of sheep in the countryside.

Rather than the friendly check-in he expected, Joseph’s brothers initially plotted to kill him out of jealousy, but instead sold him into slavery to a group of Ishmaelites heading for Egypt. Among the brothers, only Reuben wished to leave Joseph unharmed, attempting (but failing) to set up a situation where he could rescue his brother and return him to their father.

In Egypt, Joseph was falsely accused of a crime, thrown into prison, became an interpreter of dreams for Pharaoh, and eventually attained a seat of power over Egypt.

When famine hit the land where his brothers lived, they came to Egypt to buy grain. They didn’t know Joseph was not only alive, but was now the governor of Egypt. To their surprise, Joseph wasn’t angry at his brothers, but showed them compassion when he saw them again. Instead of taking revenge, he took them in and cared for them. Joseph knew everything that had happened was part of God’s plan, and what his brothers intended for harm, God intended for good.

Ephesians 4:2 says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”

The story of Joseph teaches us that humility, patience, gentleness, and love are not just qualities to be saved up for those who we think deserve it; God asks us to approach others with love, even if they have offended or caused us harm.

Let’s pray.

Lord, sometimes the people in our lives are disappointing, frustrating, or downright hurtful. God, help us to love those who fall short and need our forgiveness the most, and to bear with each other with patience and with grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Legendary cowboy actor Roy Rogers said something profound. He said that sometimes it hurts to do the right thing, but afterwards, you’ll feel better. 

When it comes to forgiveness, this certainly applies to choosing to forgive someone who has wronged you. But have you considered that it can be even tougher to ask for someone’s forgiveness? Humans hate to fail, and most of us hate looking foolish. It hurts. Maybe you’ve hurt someone recently, or maybe the hurt happened a long time ago, and it just festers.

Luke 6:37 says, “Do not judge and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven.” 

Brenda Blakely knows all about this. The daughter of an alcoholic father, she resented both her parents for years. One day though, she realized that she had internalized her anger so much that it in turn targeted her mother. Brenda called her one day and began pouring out her heart, acknowledging that her bitterness had caused her to be difficult growing up. It was a painful revelation. Yet at the end of the call, her mother’s heart was moved. She said to Brenda, “I forgive you, and please forgive me.”

Choosing to ask for forgiveness might literally be the hardest thing you ever have to do. Maybe you’re not there yet, but keep your mind and your heart open. The end result will be well worth the wait, and think of the person whose forgiveness you’re asking. Remember the words of Corrie Ten Boom, who nearly died in a Nazi extermination camp. She said this, “To forgive is to set the prisoner free and to realize that the prisoner was me.” 

Let’s pray. 

Father, our sinful human nature rebels against humbling ourselves and asking for forgiveness, but give us this practical thing, Father, to be objective and really examine ourselves to see if we’ve hurt someone and never made amends. Help us move towards reconciliation. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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According to Dr. Michael Berry, 61% of cancer patients have forgiveness issues. And Dr. Karen Schwartz of the Johns Hopkins Hospital confirms that the hurt and disappointment associated with forgiveness issues can spike incidents of heart disease, depression, and diabetes. On the other hand, forgiveness calms stress levels, leading to improved health. 

The Bible tells us that we can make the decision to forgive when someone wrongs us. 

In Colossians 3:13, we read, “Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember the Lord forgave you so you must forgive others.” Did you notice that? We should basically cut each other some slack. 

We all fail, but making a choice to let it go, especially with an individual, will benefit everyone. Your own stress will melt away. It's like a gift you can give yourself. 

In a Focus on the Family article by Rose Sweet, we find this key piece of wisdom that can unlock our inability to forgive: “Forgiveness is returning to God the right to take care of justice. By refusing to transfer the right to exact punishment or revenge, we are telling God we don’t trust him to take care of those matters.” 

So, you see, it’s not really so much about the person who wronged you, it’s more about your refusal to let God handle it. By doing that, by letting God handle it, taking that critical step, we can step into the freedom that God had waiting for us the whole time. Your physical health will improve, but that pales in comparison to the improvement in your spiritual health. 

Let’s pray. 

God, an unforgiving spirit is so hard to carry. Help us see daily that we can choose to forgive just like you chose to forgive us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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There are all sorts of things: wisdom for living, history, spiritual food. It’s the Bible’s practical value that hooks most people who read it. The Bible says a lot about money, how to raise kids, and even how to strengthen your marriage.

It also tells us a lot about forgiveness. Forgiveness is mentioned dozens of times in the Bible. 

In Genesis 33, Esau forgives his brother Jacob’s treachery in stealing his birthright. And the most famous example is the forgiveness Jesus chooses on the cross, as His accusers and executioners mock Him. Think about how hard that was! It gives some perspective on our own situations in life.

When you think about it, the entire theme of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation is one of forgiveness. 

Man chose to bring sin into the world and defy God’s perfect plan. Yet God didn’t leave us in that state. He made a way for our sins to be put away forever. Jesus Christ became the vessel through which forgiveness could be extended on an epic scale.

One of the most difficult passages in all the Bible is found in the New Testament. Matthew 5:43–45 says, “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and you hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.”

In the here and now, is there anything more difficult than forgiving a mocking enemy?

There are people in the world who delight in making others miserable their whole lives. But Jesus is telling us forgiveness is possible. The key is when we take the long view. We must mentally and emotionally take ourselves out of the pain we’re experiencing right now. Think of the future. Begin imagining the most wonderful healing that can take place between enemies.

That’s what God did for us. The Bible tells us He is holy and cannot look on sin. Yet in Genesis Chapter 3, God began the process of grace. In the Gospels and in Paul’s letters, we see Him continuing to be patient with us. And then in Revelation, the long view: God takes our acts of forgiveness and makes a powerful, redemptive new world. And we can look forward to that.

Let’s pray.

Father, thank you for having mercy on us in every way. Sometimes we need to forgive someone, and sometimes the shoe is on the other foot. Help us to read your Word and act on your commands to forgive. Especially when it hurts. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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God the Father is the ultimate parent, and we would do well to model His love for us.

Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”

Passing the torch, or training up the next generation, involves taking the time to do it properly. If you love your kids, you’ll make time for them. You won’t take the easy way out and settle for schools or the culture at large to raise them.

Teach them—yourself—that we all experience tough times in this life, but sticking to God’s plan for their lives is the key to winning. Living the abundant life Jesus taught about, and sharing His Good News is the ultimate win. But we don’t get there by quitting when the going gets tough.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you never leave us, and you never abandon the human community to evil. You are a great God, and we thank you for your commitment to us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Life can be like that.

Matthew 28:20 says, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

In your own life, you might be facing some really serious stuff. And it’s not unusual to be staring at several problems at once. 

That’s when God’s Word is so valuable to us. Jesus has promised us that He will stick right with us all the way through. Human friends often go a long way with us—but only Jesus is sure to never, ever leave us.

That’s the best way to beat the uncertainties of life. Tell Jesus you can’t make it without Him.

It’s then that the future no longer scares us at all.

Let’s pray.

Lord, we don’t know a fraction of what you do, including what our future looks like. We do know that we can trust you, and we thank you for that. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows.”

God promises bountiful blessings when we follow Him, but what about when times are tough? Nowhere does the Bible suggest we should wallow in misery when things don’t go our way. Instead, we should slow down enough to count and savor every blessing, even when goodness is harder to find.

Kristi Nelson, executive director of gratefulness.org, says this about gratitude, “I think gratefulness is about understanding that in each and every moment that we notice we are alive, we are succeeding in creating a life that hovers vividly at the brim. Because, in the end, it is all about the glass, not what is in it.” 

Let’s pray. 

Lord, thank you for the blessings that you pour out on us. Not because we’ve earned your favor, but because you love us sacrificially. Give us an attitude of gratitude beyond our circumstances. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Winston Churchill was almost 70 when his country needed him most, when he stared down Hitler’s war machine. The British Prime Minister’s signature line was, “We shall fight on the beaches,” but the essence of his message came with these words, “We shall go on to the end.” 

Luke 18:1 says, “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” And it is a partnership because God keeps His word. Philippians 1:6, “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”

There’s a great practical application in scripture. These old words that are always new were not meant to be just some nice thing to say. God does what He says he will do. 

If you feel like you have no way out of your troubles today, tell God that. Remember the scriptural promises and remind yourself that countless people have done the same and come out okay on the other side. Don’t give up, and see what the Lord will do.

 Let’s pray. 

Lord, we give you our fear and our uncertainty. We can’t cope with the situation we’re in alone, but we trust you to give us strength not to quit. We believe for the victory over these circumstances, and God, we find rest in your mercies. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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 Imagine that your profession is on a national stage. You have the ball with less than two minutes to go, and your team is behind. Standing behind center and looking out at the defense, how many of us could even think? Then, imagine throwing the ball with any kind of accuracy, knowing you have to win the game.

Most of us would be scared to death!

Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

When we believe in something greater than ourselves—whether a close-knit team or better yet, the God of the universe—fear tends to leave. Just leave. Get away from me!

 If you are feeling terrible pressure right now and don’t know what to do, stop what you’re doing and get by yourself. Pray to the Lord that He will help you and show you the way.

That’s the true path to victory, and the best way to assure the win.

 Let’s pray.

Lord, we can’t do it by ourselves. We need your Spirit in us and your strength every second of every day. Thank you for never leaving us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Many times, the word itself loses all real meaning. It’s like homemade chicken soup without the chicken and without the soup.

1 John 3:16–18 “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.”

The Divine Word helps us yet again. Here we learn that true love means doing for others. Get involved. Don’t just say you love your community. Show the community your love.

Cleanup projects, running errands for a shut-in, taking your niece to the movies because her mother is working two jobs…you know what to do. You know the opportunities.

Think you love those around you? Show them.

Let’s pray.

Lord, there is so much good to do in the world! Please show us opportunities every day, so that we put action to our words. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”

If we’re honest, that definition—God’s definition, really—is pretty different from much of how the world sees love. In real life, it can be complicated, stressful, even brutal. Broken relationships devastate lives.

But those of us who know Jesus know that our mission is to love like Him. Loving like Jesus takes the complications out of relationships.

If you are sorting through what love means to you, would you consider for the next few days what it means to love with the pure love of Christ? Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians require something of us, and that is a key we will continue to explore.

Make someone else the priority this week, and not yourself.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, your perfect love has sustained us always. We love you in return! In Jesus’ name, amen.

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We’re talking about loving like Jesus, and as usual, His Word unlocks the secrets of our hearts and shows us the way to healing.

1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”

Frankly, each of us is supposed to love like this. But just briefly, let’s focus on you. Why? Because it’s okay to do that if you understand that Jesus loves you and wants all the best for you.

Has someone hurt you in a relationship? Is marriage or romance a challenging topic for you? Then please meditate on Scripture and realize that Jesus wants a partner for you who is patient, kind, and honors you. Oh — and he or she doesn’t take frustrations out on you, either.

Use that as your starting point over whether to stay in a relationship or open your heart to new opportunities.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, help us to be mindful of your desires for us in the area of relationships. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”

Love isn’t about control or about protecting our own interests. It’s not about winning, because true love doesn’t keep score. God’s Word gives us a beautiful picture of what love can be when we seek to follow the Lord: patient, kind, selfless, humble, and forgiving. That’s the kind of love we should strive to build with family, friends, and a potential mate.

If we want to take Paul’s wisdom in Corinthians to heart, we must first think about what the other person needs in our relationships. And you know, if you practice this model, you’ll find that soon enough, your own needs will be met, too! Pure love has a ripple effect.

Let it wash over you!

Let’s pray. 

Lord, your relationship to us is perfect. Help us love as you love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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If you do, you are listening at the right time this week as we are reminded that God’s timing is always perfect.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”

Did you catch that? Here, God is talking about and to the individual. He is talking to you. And guess what? He has made you beautiful, a truly unique creation. God has also placed you at the right place in history, right where you are.

God made you in His image. His Son, Jesus, went to the cross for you. If you still feel alone after all that, go back and read our verse for today. Read it again and again.

Our God loves you so very much. His Word says so directly, again and again. Let that be the backdrop for your day-to-day. Can I get an amen?

Let’s pray.

Lord, thank you for loving each of us infinitely. Thank you for saving us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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The 62nd Psalm was written by King David with a goal of reminding himself and others of the Lord’s steadfast love. A man of immense power and influence, David wanted to encourage people to continue seeking the Lord and to trust Him with all their endeavors. 

Psalm 62:5 says, “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.”

Some scholars see Psalm 62 as a warning: each of us possesses a certain amount of power over our own choices and circumstances, but we should not let our personal authority get in the way of our trust in God. 

King David had wise and experienced advisors at his side, and he commanded armies that did his bidding at home and abroad. Upon his orders, men could be rewarded or condemned. He certainly wielded a significant amount of power, yet he put his faith and his trust in God. 

Whether you sit at the helm of a large corporation, you lead a military regiment, or maybe you are the king or queen of your family’s castle, let power rest not upon your own shoulders but ultimately with the Lord. 

Let’s pray. 

Heavenly Father, like King David, we are mere mortals blessed with opportunities, gifted in unique ways, and called to follow you. Let us turn to you with full trust in your plan, and remember the source of all power is you, and not ourselves.  In Jesus’ name, amen.

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In Acts 14:20, we read about Jesus and the disciples preaching in a city called Derbe. It says that, “Jesus then was busy strengthening the souls of his disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations, we must enter the kingdom of God.” 

God wants us to know that the journey we are on ends with a destination, and along the journey, we must be prepared to endure hardship for his sake. 

His compassion for the whole world is summed in maybe the most famous verse in all Scripture, John 3:16, which says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.” And that's it. That's the whole point of living this Christian life. It isn't complicated in terms of understanding, but it can be hard to live out. 

There are currently 7.4 billion people on the planet, and most have not received Christ. Many have not even heard Him yet, hard as that is to believe. There's still a lot of work to be done. 

700 years before Jesus, the prophet Isaiah saw God’s throne in a vision. And the Lord said there, “Who can we send? Who will go for us?” Isaiah eagerly said, “Here I am. Send me.” 

This is the willing heart God is looking for. We live in this world with all its misery and beauty, chaos and harmony. We are to share the Good News of Jesus. And if we do that from a willing heart, God is faithful to use our efforts to advance His kingdom. And that is our purpose. 

Would you pray with me?

Father God, your great plan from the beginning is right on schedule. It’s always on schedule. We love you. Nothing, and no one, stops you from accomplishing your will. See us through to the end, Lord, that we can accomplish your will for our lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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In the great scheme of things, we sometimes feel like ants in an anthill: nameless drones, fetching and carrying, an unremarkable face among the masses.

We are so much more than that to the Lord.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 says simply, “Pray continually.” Written as a letter to early Christians by the Apostle Paul, this encouraging note doesn’t specify that the holiest, worthiest, or only the best among believers should pray without ceasing. God’s Word encourages everyone to pray, pray again, then keep on praying.

We all sin and fall short of God’s glory, but even in our unworthiness, God does not hold us at arm’s length; He loves us, and wants us to know Him, and to be known by Him.

Prayer is a powerful means of communication that deepens our relationship with the Lord.

Who are you, then? Of the 7.9 billion or so people who call this planet home, you are someone God wants to hear from. Imagine that. The head honcho Himself, the Creator of all heaven and earth, the King above all Kings, has invited you to call Him anytime, anywhere.

The Lord is only a prayer away, and He is waiting to hear from you.  

Let’s pray.

Lord, how incredible to imagine you know my name. Thank you for your presence, your faithfulness, and for the gift of prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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The will is read by an attorney, and all of a sudden, the beneficiary goes from struggling to pay the rent to needing a financial planner. It can be an exciting time, even disorienting.

The only downside to receiving a large inheritance is the knowledge that someday it will run out, or you die and can’t take it with you. That’s why the Bible’s revelations about eternal riches are so much more important.

Genesis 31:14 says, “Rachel and Leah said to him, ‘Do we still have any portion or inheritance in our father’s house?’”

Let’s think of this as a parable. A man took the place of another and was executed.

He was no ordinary man, though. Only a few days after His death, the will was read.

He left it all to you!

Jesus Christ died for our sins and took the penalty for them so that we don’t have to. That is what the Gospel is, the Good News that we have riches in Christ, and they last forever.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your precious gift for each of us is something we did nothing to earn. You simply decided to put us in your will. We thank you forever for your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Many of us do.

Although it isn’t a quick answer, the best way to find God’s will for your life is to read His Word. The Bible will tell you the answer to that question.

Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Actually, finding God’s will isn’t the hardest part. Deciding to follow His will is where we get tripped up.

People need the skill and discipline of being persistent. Too often, the impulse is to give up and then, if we’re honest, pretend that God hasn’t revealed His will to us.

Good old Abe Lincoln had it right when he said that the only important response is to make sure we are on God’s side, not whether He’s on ours.

God has already told us that He’s on our side. He sent His Son, Jesus, to take the penalty for our sin. It doesn’t get any more “on our side” than that.

Change your thinking a bit. Don’t focus on what you think God is supposed to do.

Resolve instead to follow God, and do it every day.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your will is the thing that drives us on to find our purpose in life. Thank you for sticking with us. Help us to stick with you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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There is good news for you, though. Literally, Good News.

1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”

This is a message to us that we don’t have to win the war ourselves. We don’t have to win a battle. Don’t have to take part even in a skirmish. Jesus has overcome it all. If you wonder how this can play out in practical terms, do this:

Read this verse several times—First John 5:4. Make the choice to believe it’s true. And then just literally sit back and close your eyes for a couple of minutes, and rest in the truth of God’s Word.

He is telling us that our faith overcomes all setbacks and difficulties. Our faith. Scripture tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for. We might not be able to see the end, but we trust God that He will be standing there.

Choose to be a warrior for Christ, and let Him lead. That is what will make the difference.

Let’s pray. 

Thank you, Lord, for winning the war already. We worship you alone. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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The hurried goodbyes and awkward pats on the back actually sort of made Craig feel worse. He threw the small box with his personal belongings in the backseat and drove as fast as he could away from the scene.

Giving him some space for a day or so, Rebecca called to check on her friend; she had that wonderful quality of not being overbearing, but also sticking with it.

After a couple of weeks, the cloud began to lift, and Craig found not only a new job but a new resolve to do his very best and succeed. Rebecca’s example of friendship had been a catalyst in Craig’s decision to move on in a positive way.

Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”

A lot of people will love you when you’re winning. Everybody loves a winner. It’s fun and, honestly, a little self-serving. We can often live vicariously through a friend who’s riding high. But a true friend offers encouragement and love no matter what.

Are you that kind of friend?

Let’s pray.

Lord, you are our example. We seek to do your will for our lives and contribute to the lives of those we come into contact with. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

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God the Father is the ultimate parent, and we would do well to model His love for us.

Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”

Passing the torch, or training up the next generation, involves taking the time to do it properly. If you love your kids, you’ll make time for them. You won’t take the easy way out and settle for schools or the culture at large to raise them.

Teach them yourself that we all experience tough times in this life, but sticking to God’s plan for their lives is the key to winning. Living the abundant life Jesus taught about, and sharing His Good News is the ultimate win. But we don’t get there by quitting when the going gets tough.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you never leave us, and you never abandon the human community to evil. You are a great God, and we thank you for your commitment to us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

The Lord has told us directly not to be afraid. We aren’t even to be discouraged! He’s told us through His promises that He’ll be with us every step of the way.

If we stop and think about the amazing history of this nation, we can see that God has literally been with us every minute of every hour. He was at Yorktown. He dropped a last-minute winning strategy into Chamberlain’s mind at Gettysburg. God went with our invasion forces in the Pacific and in Europe during World War 2, because people were enslaved and in need of rescue. He has been with us since the terrible moments of 9/11.

Be strong and of good courage today in the land of the free!

Let’s pray.

Lord, your provision for us in all times and all places is wonderful. Thank you for never leaving us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Reaching out in Christian Love and kindness often means being a peacekeeper and letting go of the need to be right or to win an argument. God wants us to walk with humility at work, on social media, and at home. 

When we’re frustrated with someone across the table or online, considering the words and deeds of others through the lens of Jesus’ sacrificial love for us can bring clarity. 

Our scripture for today is Ephesians 4:1–3, which says, “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Let’s pray. 

Lord, we live in a world that praises getting the last word. Being the loudest voice, or the winner of every argument is not your will for us. Bless us with the spirit of humility and guide us in being peacekeepers online and in person. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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These two short verses tell us several things: One, if we submit to God’s power by acknowledging we can’t solve our problems, He is strong enough to intervene and bring about the outcome we really want.

Second, He does this in His own time, on His own timetable.

Third, we are to leave our problems at His feet. There is nothing wrong with getting an image in your mind where you actually do this and then walk away, your burden lifted.

Key in getting on track is recognizing that you might have trust problem. If you’ve been deeply hurt by, say, a family member, you might subconsciously be failing to trust God himself.

And this is a first step in getting free of fear for good.

Know that an unburdened mind is not usually gained quickly, or without what we would call maintenance. The only thing predictable about our world is that it’s unpredictable. If you think you’re going to have one great afternoon and then every day after that is carefree, you’re deluding yourself.

We’ve already established that a daily time of prayer, reading your Bible, and focusing on God’s love for you is a combination that our enemy can’t overcome. Choosing to believe God’s Word is practical, and it works. That can’t be emphasized enough!

Jesus said in John 16:33 that we will absolutely have trouble in our lives, but that He has already overcome the world. This fact will help to keep you on that straight path that will ultimately one day lead to paradise with the One that created you, sustains you, and loves you forever.

Let’s pray.

Lord, having the discipline to daily rely on you is something we often lack. When we focus and concentrate our minds and our hearts on your good gifts, fear leaves and can be replaced with courage and peace. Thank you for providing for all of our needs, all the time. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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How you respond is really important. If you’ve listened previously, you know we are talking about how to live by faith.

Having perseverance when we’re miserable is really, really hard. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you’re the only one.

2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, and not by sight.”

Really listen to the words: “For we live by faith, not by sight.”

That’s how we’re supposed to live. Not for a few hours or a day or even a season. For life. It’s how we’re supposed to live. And we don’t always cling to what we can see in the short term.

Strong faith is built over time. Think back over your life to those times when God met your needs. Big needs! Those were the moments He gave you to prove that His strength is not limited.

That’s how we walk by faith!

Let’s pray. 

Lord, life is a marathon, it’s not a quick sprint. God help us to walk by faith, from beginning to end. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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It’s a given then that when times are scary, brave leaders that reassure us are really needed…but really rare!

The Bible speaks of one such person.

Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua was an especially passionate and courageous leader. A born leader. God used him during a time the Israelites were ‘going all wobbly,’ as a political leader once said.

The Israelites had seen it all. A plague in Egypt. An army bearing down on them. Mass hunger. Homelessness for years.

But Joshua played it all with a chip on his shoulder. An edge of anger, really that caused him to never be afraid. In his community, he was boss—and everyone knew it. God made him that way.

In your own community—your family at home, your church family, a group of scared coworkers—be a Joshua. Be strong and courageous. Set your feet so that your legs don’t go wobbly, and then tell your people that God has this.

He is with you, wherever this situation goes.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, Joshua is our human example of courage. Help us keep others safe and calm in the midst of crisis. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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They were brought into the court of King Nebuchadnezzar II, and ordered to bow before the king’s golden image. The alternative was a one-way ticket to the fiery furnace.

The king’s command would have been easy for these guys to follow, but their own King of Kings had already commanded them to place no other gods before Him, and to stay away from the evil of graven images. They may have been wary of the king’s wrath, but their faith in God was stronger.

They replied in Daniel 3:16–18, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter...Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”

Rather than violate their commitment to obey God, these men put their lives in His hands. They didn’t know whether God would intervene to save them. They knew God could, but they didn't know that He would. Regardless of the outcome, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego chose to live for the Lord, and if necessary, they were willing to die in obedience to the Lord.

Romans 14:8 says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”

As an example of His power, God intervened to spare their lives. Even though He allowed them to be tied up and thrown into the furnace, the blazing heat didn't affect them at all. They walked out unharmed.

In the midst of our own challenges, we know God can and does show up for us. He asks us to trust Him with the obstacles we face every day, and even with our very lives.

Let’s pray.

Jesus, it’s unlikely anyone will threaten to throw us into a fiery furnace, but sometimes it sure feels like our feet are put to the fire. Remind us to trust you...with every dilemma, every shortcoming, and every situation. We give you our challenges and our lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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You too, huh? Many of us look fine on the outside, but the human condition is often much different on the inside.

Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”

But the thing is, God did not make us to have a spirit of fear. He never planned for us to suffer from depression or anxiety.

Look, life happens. Sometimes we are rocked by circumstances. But God’s Word says that we don’t stay there. We keep our eyes on Him, and He is our strength. It’s not even our job to find the strength to breathe and go about our day!

The person who endures a cancer diagnosis isn’t doing it on her own. When Christ dwells in you, He takes the burdens and promises that in the end, we will be healed.

If you look like a confident statue on the outside, but you’re about to lose it on the inside, take time to tell that to Jesus. Give Him your fears and doubts.

Let’s pray.

Lord, we are not in this alone. Your grace is sufficient for all our needs, every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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In the past, it was sort of taboo to tell the world you were not exactly all together. Back in the day, a “hot mess” usually referred to an overturned pot on the stove.

But today, the phrase “hot mess” has a whole new meaning. Our lives are often just a mess.

Thank goodness the outcome is not dependent on us.

Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”

Recognizing that you don’t quite have it together is a positive first step to moving beyond your circumstances. But the real key is internalizing the fact that God—not you—saves the day. 

All we can do is admit our shortcomings and then rest in the knowledge that God has it from here. That’s an attitude the Lord will bless. 

God’s got you covered and blessed all at the same time!

Let’s pray.

Lord, you are so good to us. And you have so much more for us than we can even imagine. Thank you for blessing us and not leaving us where we were. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Losing the ability to hear, or being born deaf, is unimaginable for many of us who have never experienced hearing loss, but there are some surprising upsides to being differently-abled in this way.

Deaf people develop keener senses of observation, touch, taste, and smell to compensate for their loss of hearing. What the hearing world may view as a loss can lead to Sensory Superpowers for members of the deaf community.

ASL, or American Sign Language, is an incredibly rich language, and it’s the 6th most common language in the United States

Statistics show deaf people are safer drivers due to their ability to focus on the visual aspects of driving, and actually live longer than hearing people.

Ephesians 2:8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

Sometimes when we lose out on something, God’s grace sweeps in to fill up that space with other beautiful blessings in amazing ways.

Let’s pray.

Heavenly Father, sometimes we see differences as stumbling blocks, but your grace tells us otherwise. Help us to be noticers of where your grace shines a light in the lives of those around us, and to embrace the differences we encounter. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Maybe a work colleague let you down, or got you in trouble with the boss.

Maybe family drama is dragging you down, and there are unresolved hurt feelings.

Maybe your spouse betrayed you, and you aren’t sure how to move past it.

Unforgiveness in our lives is painful, and as believers, it can affect our prayer life, and even our relationship with the Lord.

Mark 11:25 says, “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”

God’s amazing grace is one of the most beautiful aspects of Christian belief. He sent His Own Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross in exchange for our sins. We are forgiven because of the sacrifice Jesus made, and have eternity in heaven to look forward to because of that forgiveness.

The truth about unforgiveness is it does the most damage not to the party we hold a grudge against — but to ourselves. You can’t see it on the outside, but an unhealed wound on our hearts is like a cancer, spreading and growing, and preventing us from experiencing joy to the full.

God wants better for us. If you are struggling to forgive someone, give it to God today, and ask Him to help you let it go.

Let’s pray.

Lord, I have a person or situation to forgive that is weighing heavily on my heart, and I need your help. Please give me the strength to forgive and renew my sense of peace. I give you every aspect of this situation. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Sam was a fourth grader with a big problem: he left his homework at school, and he was so worried he’d be in trouble with the teacher, he could hardly stand to go to school the next day.

In the car on the way to school, Sam’s mom explained the concept of grace, asking, “Sam, do you know about the idea of grace? Grace means even if we aren’t perfect, the people who care about us can choose to forgive us. I think your teacher will understand about your homework.”

Ephesians 2 verses 8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

The concerns on your mind today are probably bigger than a missed homework assignment. Maybe you’re struggling in your marriage or experiencing financial distress. Maybe things aren’t going well at work, or you are battling addiction, or wrestling with sin.

When you begin to worry you are falling short, give it to the Lord. God sent Jesus as a living sacrifice for me and for you, so we could all experience His grace. Grace isn’t something we can earn, it’s a gift God gives to us, simply because He loves us. And that’s truly amazing!

Let’s pray.

Lord, we thank you for your grace and thank you for loving us. We thank you for who you are and all you’ve done. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Benjamin had slipped on the wet bathroom floor and managed to take down the shower curtain and the curtain rod in one fell swoop.

His mom’s concern wasn’t the state of the shower curtain, but whether the broken something was an arm or leg. Thankfully, her son wasn’t hurt, and fixing the curtain was a lot easier than mending a broken bone. A reassuring hug from Mom was all the boy needed to mend his hurt pride.

None of us are perfect, whether we’re 8 years old or 80. Slips and trips happen in life, and beyond accidental mishaps, we also slip up and sin, making choices that disappoint the Lord, and send us on a detour from the path He has planned for us. 

1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

God loves us dearly, and while our sin makes Him sad, He is ready and willing to forgive us; we only need to ask Him to. God’s love for us is so deep He sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins because He knew we’d need forgiveness. That’s amazing grace!

Let’s pray.

Lord, you love us through our imperfections. Thank you for the incredible gift of your forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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That can bring us to an empty place. Spiritually and emotionally…we begin to look in the wrong places. But as we’ve discussed this week, that spark of joy we look for can be found only in Jesus. Everything else is, yes, clutter.

John 16:24 says, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”

This plays out over and over every day. We see this in dramatic ways when a famous person turns from materialism and empty fame and finds Jesus. Someone like that who has experienced uncommon wealth, comes to a place where Jesus must be dealt with.

How about you? Are you tired of your empty pursuits? Has the excitement over a new career or a new car worn off? If you’re listening and nodding, or maybe you’re not even sure, do this today: tell Jesus what’s in your heart and what’s in your mind. He said to ask.

Ask.

Receive His joy. Then you’ll be complete. You will be uncluttered.

He’s literally waiting for you to sit down and tell Him all about it.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, refresh us and renew us. Clean our hearts and minds. We know you can and will. We receive that! In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Jesus does away with all that.

Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

Ask yourself: is my pride keeping me from asking for help? If so, mull that over. And then, take a step toward the Lord and ask for what you need.

God opens doors when we ask Him to. And sometimes what we find on the other side isn’t what we expected. When that happens, we choose patience. And we remain open to His good plans for us.

When you’ve asked God to help, and prayers are answered, share the Good News with people you meet. Tell anyone who will listen that the Lord of the universe cared about you and delivered you from a problem no one else could solve.

And if the answer He gave was totally unexpected and sent you in a different direction—share that, too! Accepting God’s plan when it doesn’t match up with our own best-laid plans is what faith is all about. 

Let’s pray. 

Lord, please give us a heart that seeks you. God, we want to be obedient, and we know that your blessings, whatever they look like, will follow. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

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Many years ago, while America was going through a severe economic depression and a world war, President Roosevelt told Americans that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.

Those listening over the radio said later that they felt a great sense of relief just from his words!

Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

Our country emerged from a very scary time to become a people determined to embrace the future. Those who survived those dark days were known as the Greatest Generation. And they were, because they decided giving in to fear was not an option. It was a simple choice, honestly. They gritted their teeth and went to work. And prayed like never before.

As individuals, we face our own depression and our own wars. And any of us can be overwhelmed by the life-altering decisions we must make. Doing all of that while living in fear is very unsustainable.

The Psalmist clearly understood that God would rescue him, and the words that he wrote about it were words of life.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you are great, and your love for us is the only thing that should overwhelm us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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You seem like something is really getting to you. Are you about to give up on something important? If so, please listen—just for a couple of minutes.

Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”

Let’s think boldly for a second. Whatever your problem is, God can fix it. He can. The Bible is full of these fixes, and so is our present day, when story after story of miraculous rescues shows us clearly that God exists, and that He cares for you as a person.

Jesus knows your story, and more importantly, He knows the end of your story.

Victory is waiting for you, but you must not give up. Don’t give in to that voice urging you to stop. Listen to the voice of Love. Tell Jesus what you need. Right now.

Will you pray with me?

Lord, this thing hurts so much right now, but we aren’t going to give up, because you never give up on us. Thank you for that! In Jesus’ name, amen.

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It’s one of the bits of creative genius God used when He formed His highest creation. And apart from regular communication, whether it’s the written word or verbal, we have a great gift from a loving God: prayer.

Prayer is an intensely personal way to communicate with our Creator, the One who knows everything about us.

Jeremiah 29:12 says, “Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me and I will listen to you.”

All through scripture, we see that God is available to us all the time. No regular hours or standing meetings. We can talk to Him anytime we want. There are 650 recorded prayers in the Bible, and we read about people praying while sitting, standing, kneeling, with faces to the ground or hands lifted up.

By the way, amen means “let it be,” or “so be it.”

The word appears for the first time in Numbers 5:22.

Since prayer is human communication with God, we see that the first prayers were way back in Genesis 3 and 4 when Adam and Eve, and later Cain, talked with God. In the second exchange, even though Cain was angry and had just killed his brother, he was having a conversation with God.

Jesus famously modeled prayer in Luke 11, and notice that He was talking to God the Father.

It can be a fine line when thinking about how prayer is initiated. Often, thoughts come to our minds, or we’re reminded to pray for someone. However, there’s an indication that God prompts us to talk with Him.

Galatians 4:6, that from our hearts we cry out, “Abba Father,” and that the indwelling spirit of the Lord prompts this in us. Of all the great gifts God has given us, prayer is one of the most special. It’s how our spirits commune with the One who loves us with perfect love. And He’s always ready and waiting to hear from us.

Let’s pray.

Father God, we worship you for who you are. We love you, and thank you for loving us. Thank you for making a way for us to talk with you about the things that lie hidden in our hearts. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Matthew 5:37 says, “Let what you say simply be yes or no. Anything more than this comes from evil.” 

How many times have we pledged to do something and then followed through? Follow-through is important. Whether it’s weight loss, repairing relationships, or embarking on a new career, it’s time to actually do what we say we’re going to do.

If you make a resolution to something positive going forward, remind yourself every hour of every day that you made a promise to yourself, and then meditate on all the ways God has fulfilled His promises to you. 

Commitment, follow-through, perseverance. It doesn’t really matter what you call it. What matters is that personally in our own goals, let our yes be yes, and our no be no. 

There’s nothing wrong with not pledging something that’s extremely difficult to achieve. You can start by building on a small goal and then going on to the next, but if you say you’re going to do something, do it. 

Let’s pray. 

Lord, we are going into a new year full of possibilities. Help us to do what we say we’re going to do. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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New Year’s stuff is beneficial in several things. We make resolutions and we might even stick to some of them. But it’s what God does that really matters. He’s in the renewal business—making broken things whole again, especially people. 

2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he’s a new creation. The old has passed away and behold the new has come.” 

It’s great for us when this involves repaired relationships or even a career boost. Yet this vital truth matters most in our relationships with Him. God fashions relationships that are sustainable over time, and the Gospel is the essence of this truth. 

If you feel empty, call on Jesus who’s ready to make you clean, and take away your guilt and shame. One day He will restore the whole creation to its original, perfect state. But in the meantime, He will look at you with love, put His hand on your heart, and offer you eternity. 

If you’re wondering what the new year has for you, set your sights higher. Think bigger. Step into your future this year with a real sense of who you are in Christ. He’s waiting for you to come to Him for the rest you’ve needed for a long time. 

The new has come. 

Let’s pray. 

Lord, thank you for the fresh start that only you can bring. Thank you for wiping off the dirt of the past and helping us see clearly a future that is always new. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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How about light bulbs? For some reason, they all seem to go at the same time, leaving you in the shadows and looking for that flashlight—you know, the one with the dead batteries!

Light bulbs burn out, tires go flat, umbrellas turn inside out on a windy day, and batteries die. Many of the things we use on a frequent basis are designed to be temporary—and sometimes they let us down when we need them most.

Lamentations 3:22–23 says, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfulness.”

God’s Holy Word, the Bible, promises that His compassion never fails. Each day is a new opportunity to experience God’s love and benefit from His grace, and His faithfulness to us that will never end. Not because we’ve earned the Lord’s favor—simply because He loves us.

Let’s pray.

Heavenly Father, your mercy is new every morning, and your steadfast love for us is amazing. Thank you for loving us so much, and thank you that we can depend on you, always. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

Jesus is telling us that in Him alone is true life. He is always pointing us to the future, to a time when that dry creek bed will be filled forever.

In Revelation 22, He showed John a river flowing with the water of life, crystal-clear and coming from the very throne of God.

The whole picture is one of healing and new life. He promises us that this scene will be very real and very permanent! The key is what we read in John 7:38…we must choose to believe! If you long for a new start and a bright future, you’ll find everything you need and want in the person of Jesus Christ.

The living water that He offers is perfect, and the supply is limitless.

Jesus is the well that never runs dry.

Let’s pray.

Lord, You are calling each of us to follow You and let You lead us to a place of perfect paradise. We eagerly look forward to joining You in Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Instead, this determined woman became the first person to fly from England to North America. She later said that in order to move forward, we can’t stay in the past. In fact, she said, “Leave it the fastest way you can!”

This pioneer knew that staying stuck was not inevitable—that we must choose to keep our eyes on what it is we are yet to accomplish in life.

Ephesians 4:31–32 says, “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

Maybe you’re letting some past hurts keep you from your destiny. Don’t waste another moment! Your future is waiting on you to turn your eyes to it, and stop staring at a past failure.

Leave those past hurts as fast as you can!

Let’s pray.

Father God, we are grateful that you make a way for us to forge ahead and not be limited by the things of the past. Walk with us, always, Father, and bless our efforts. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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2 Corinthians 9:15 says, “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” 

In the West, we tend to have a letdown when the excitement and rush of Christmas is over, as if at midnight on December 25th, we’re ready to go into emotional hibernation.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Whether it’s something as simple as leaving your decorations up a few extra days, or having a long talk with yourself, you have permission to enjoy Christmas into the foreseeable future. Why not? Whose schedule are we trying to meet when it comes to Christmas?

As believers, we have every expectation that the great gift of Jesus Christ is something to celebrate and be grateful for always. If you have this change of attitude, it’ll be noticed by everyone. Go ahead, keep Christmas going as long as you want.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, we celebrate this season, the birth of Your Son. We worship Him as our great Savior who brought the greatest gift of all. He’s changed us, and we thank you in Jesus’ name, amen.

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Christmas is a date on the calendar that literally quickens our hearts. Everyone understands the significance of it. It’s why hateful people behave differently for at least 24 hours. 

Isaiah 9:6 says, “For to us, a child is born. To us, a son is given. And the government will be on His shoulders, and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” 

This wonderful passage from Isaiah, recorded 700 years before Jesus was born, speaks, of course, of our Messiah—born there in a damp setting surrounded by farm animals, and a few people who began to understand that they were seeing something extraordinary. 

Keep Christmas in your heart this year. Today, stop and think about the one who came bearing the gift of gifts just for you. Have a Merry Christmas. 

Let’s pray.

Lord, today, we wake up with anticipation. A day unlike other days through the year, we love you for the greatest gift anyone could ever give. The gift of Jesus, the gift of eternal life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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We’d like to share the Christmas story from Luke Chapter 2, verses 4–20. And just a note, we’ve made some minor edits for length purposes in this excerpt from the King James version of the story. 

“Joseph went up from Galilee out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, to be taxed, along with his wife Mary, who was great with child. 

While they were there, the days were accomplished that she could be delivered, and she brought forth her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. 

There were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flocks by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them and the glory of the Lord shone around them and they were afraid. And the angel said unto them, ‘Fear not for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people for unto you is born this day in the city of David a savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: You’ll find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.’ 

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, ‘Glory to God and the highest and on earth, peace, goodwill toward men.’ 

As the angels returned into heaven, the shepherd said to one another, ‘Let us go into Bethlehem and see this thing, which the Lord has made known to us.’ 

They came with haste and found Mary, Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they shared the news with everyone they met, and all who heard it wondered at the things that the shepherd told them. 

But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart, and the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen as it was told unto them.” 

God bless you and yours this Christmas.

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In Norway, Christmas Eve is the main event with bells ringing at five in the evening, followed by family dinners.

In Mexico, Christmas begins on December 16th, and on the ninth evening, Christmas Eve, children walk to the local church to place a figure of the Christ child in a manger.

Like nature, God put wonderful color in our world family, and Christmas has its own traditions in diverse places. Yet in each heart, the Christ child is center. 

Luke 2:4–5 says, “So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth and Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem, the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.” 

Wherever we celebrate, the baby in the lowly manger in Bethlehem calls to us through time. This season, reflect on that special night so long ago, and remember to give extra love to your family and friends. 

Let’s pray. 

Lord, you love all people everywhere. Help us to do the same as we remember our brothers and sisters around the world at Christmas time. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

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We’re pretty sure Jesus wasn’t born on December 25th. There are clues in scripture that put the date more in the springtime. 

In ancient times, the winter solstice occurred on December 25th. Sometime early in the 4th century, the church fathers set the date as the one we now celebrate. 

Even factoring in the diverse cultures around the world, Christmas is celebrated on every continent close to the same time for everyone. It’s pretty much agreed that our present day celebrations have their origins in pre-Christian, Christian and secular festivals, and there’s some debate about what is and isn’t appropriate.

However, for the believing Christian, the season is truly all about the birth of our Savior. No matter where you live or how you choose to celebrate, the scarlet thread of Christ’s birth and sacrifice that runs through scripture is the tie that binds. 

Let’s pray.

Lord, it has been said that we can keep Christmas in our hearts. We thank you for sending your Son as the ultimate gift to mankind. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Most of us assume that if Jesus had a driver’s license, His listed name would have been “Jesus Christ.”

That’s kind of funny, but as usual, our human perceptions can’t define Him and box Him in. The Bible tells us that Jesus has many names, each a shining facet of Who He is.

He is called the Alpha and Omega—the beginning and the end. The Lamb of God. Elsewhere, He is referred to as the Prince of Peace.

Romans 10:13 says, “For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’”

His names are a reminder to us that He is everywhere, aware of everything, and equipped to handle any situation or challenge in our lives. From the image of a warrior king, to a counselor who listens to us, Jesus is able to meet all our needs.

Let’s call on Him.

Lord, you are wonderful to us, the perfect landing place for our souls. Thank you for that. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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One of our biggest weaknesses is that we just want stuff. Bigger house, more expensive car—that kind of thing. In those moments, we’re missing out on a big prize. Our focus is wrong.

Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

The Bible—the Word of God itself—shows exactly what our priorities should be. God knows us far better than we could ever know ourselves, and He tells us that we have it exactly backwards. We look for the stuff, and then tack on the God stuff later. In fact, turn that around and that’s how we should be doing life. Look for God first, and then later He’ll give us the desires of our heart. Because our hearts will then be aligned with His perfect will for our lives.

Try this approach, and see if it works for you. What we’ll also find as a bonus is peace that the world can’t give us…that stuff can’t give us. When you seek first a relationship with your Creator, you find that material possessions are no substitute for knowing Him.

Let’s pray.

Lord, thank you for our relationship with you. Thank you for loving us through our sin. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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It’s a metaphor for life that a lot of folks internalize at some point. All of a sudden, what you were sure of isn’t there anymore. You might as well be behind the wheel of a fast car that’s heading straight into oncoming traffic.

1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”

This isn’t some nice little bit of wisdom someone put on a greeting card. This is the very Word of God. It has sustained civilization for thousands of years. And it’s a proven method for getting your life under control. 

It doesn’t work though, unless you can see Jesus taking the wheel. Let Him get you to safety and peace. He’s ready and waiting to take all your worries and set you on a smooth and straight path.

Will you pray with me?

Lord, feeling out of control is not something we want anymore. Please take over and guide us, Lord, in your perfect ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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That’s the moment that we walk along the highway of life completely alone.

Proverbs 3:5–6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

Notice the precise language in these beautiful verses. We are to trust Him with all of our heart. Don’t take your eyes off Him and follow your own choices. Be upfront that He is your peace. It’s then He picks you up, protects you, and carries you home.

Today is the day you’re thinking about all this. Maybe you’ve messed up. You’ve messed up in the most spectacular and disheartening way. And it is exactly at this moment that God is ready to do the greatest miracle in your life. Tell him you’ve messed up, and you have no idea where to turn.

There—you’re learning to completely trust Him. Commit your life to Him, and be consistent about it. Remember: the turning point to an awesome future can just start with reliance on God. Commit your ways to Him, and He will direct your paths.

Let’s pray.

Lord, help us to reject our own flawed wisdom and rely totally on yours. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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World War 1 ended 100 years ago, and all sides joined together as a League of Nations to make that conflict the “War to end all wars.”

And then World War 2 happened.

Our history is littered with noble attempts to make things right, but only God can bring peace to nations and to individuals. He has promised both! One day, He will make everything new, forever. While we wait for that great day, He also grants us peace in our daily lives.

2 Thessalonians 3:16 says, “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.”

We only have to ask Him for it. Jesus, as He said in Matthew 11:28, gives us peace even in our greatest trials and when we are exhausted. Then, peace comes to refresh us and give us all the strength we need.

If you don’t have peace in your life, simply ask God for it. He will provide.

Let’s pray.

Father God, let your peace wash over people everywhere in this hurting world. Make them aware of your spirit of peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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That is not how God sees you.

Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”   

Hope and a future. That’s what’s ahead, not depression and failure. The Bible is full of stories of people God would not allow to slip away. Peter denied Christ, and the Savior forgave him! Sarah mocked the idea that she would ever have a child, but God let her be a mother late in life!

This is the world God created. Not one of misery and losing. Does it make sense that He would create you in very specific ways, uniquely gifted as you are, and then just give up on you?

Don’t let that be your story. 

Your part in it is refusing to believe the enemy when you hear that voice that tells you it’s all over.

God knows the plans He has for you! Remember that.

Let’s pray.

Lord, thank you that you don’t let us sink out of sight. Thank you for setting us on our feet and helping us move forward. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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What is the endgame?

In this context, we’re talking about what comes after this life we are living now. Believers of course, look forward to an eternity with the Living God. And even unbelievers wonder about what comes next after you draw your last breath.

It’s the most important element in our discussion this week.

Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”

Like snowflakes and other beauty in nature, no two lives are alike. Each of us is unique. God made us that way. The Psalmist said that you are fearfully and wonderfully made!

And in your unique life, you face singular challenges. If you believe in Christ, you are well aware that in this life there is pain, and struggle, and obstacles.

But all through Scripture, the Lord lovingly reminds us that He is always with us, and when we pass to the next life, He has prepared a wonderful future for us. One that will never end and will never be tainted by sin.

If you endure in your faith, that is what is waiting for you. Think about that today!

Let’s pray. 

Lord, your Word tells us that eternity is joy beyond our understanding now. All glory belongs to you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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A famous passage from Isaiah we’ve been discussing this week uses a powerful mental image to convey deep truths from God.

Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

The sight of a majestic eagle, flying high above the ground…well, it can just make us feel good. It inspires. Gliding on the wind, the eagle dominates the place we’d like to be.

This gorgeous creature is exactly where God wants it to be. Free and sure of its place in the world, the eagle uses its extraordinary eyesight to see the big picture.

This is the place God wants you to be, and why He uses this verse in Isaiah to let us know our aspirations are not limited to the ground, not dependent on gravity.

Like the majestic eagle, let God free you to fly in every area of your life.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, your beautiful creation inspires us. Put us to flight so that we go to the place you have prepared for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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But have you ever considered that even when life gets tough, you can still have joy?

Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

Sheila Walsh has said that what got her through a bout of depression was the knowledge that God the Father loved her and wanted the best for her.

Today, one of her missions in life is to help others recover their joy, by pointing them to the Lord. The truth is, this life sometimes beats us up, but those circumstances don’t have to win. It isn’t inevitable.

It’s when we learn to rejoice while clinging to hope that true joy comes.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, in our lowest moments, we cling to you and your promises. Thank you for that joy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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This poignant carol reflects on the birth of Jesus as humanity's redemption.

O holy night! The stars are brightly shining

It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth

Long lay the world in sin and error pining

’Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth

A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn

A thrill of hope...what a poignant, moving way to describe the feeling in our hearts as we approach the date we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Right now, you may be feeling a weariness you haven’t experienced before. Concerns about the health and well-being of your family, and worldly troubles beyond your control, maybe weighing heavily on your heart this year.

We invite you to join us as we approach Christmas Day in rejoicing in the Lord. A new and glorious morning is on the way, and our hope is still, and always, in Jesus.

Let’s pray.

Heavenly Father, we confess this year has made us weary. We pine for your holy presence, and we rejoice in your gift of Jesus! Be present among us, Lord. Bring peace to the chaos of this world and renew our hope for the coming year. We ask these things in Jesus’ name, amen.

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Jesus calls us to something more.

Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”

Of the 200 or so nations in the world today, a good portion of them have citizens who have never heard the Gospel. They’ve never had someone explain to them who Jesus was, is, and will be. Millions have not heard of the eternal sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross, to pay for the penalty for our sins.

Do we even have the right to stay in our comfortable place?

Are you called to more?

Can you justify not sharing the Good News about Jesus?

Your situation is unique, and Jesus knows all of it. If He isn’t calling you to a remote place on the globe, maybe it’s working with kids in your own church. Whatever opportunity God is giving you to change the world…take it! 

Let’s pray.

Lord, we ask you to put more people in our path. Give us more chances to change our world for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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A recent study shows that more than 50% of U.S. churchgoers don’t know what that term Great Commission means. And when asked if they had heard of the Great Commission, half of U.S. churchgoers say they don’t know that term. Maybe our priorities need tweaking.

Matthew 28:19 says, “Go and make disciples of all nations. Baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” 

And though the Great Commission is not a term used in the Bible, it does describe the command Jesus gave us to share the Good News of His sacrifice for our sins. In this way, He provides a way for people to be reconciled to God, and this is the greatest news anyone will ever hear. Christians should be excited about this action plan.

Matthew chapter seven indicates that the path leading to God is narrow, and that many are on the broad path that leads away from God. This truth should motivate us as Christians to fulfill Christ’s Great Commission. And the Bible tells us that this activity will have an endpoint. We should have a sense of urgency about that. The Gospel of Jesus Christ was literally born in the Middle East. Jesus’ disciples took His words to heart and began preaching and teaching about Him in Israel, then to all the regions around the Mediterranean basin. From there, the Gospel spread quickly into Europe, and beyond.

Today, even with all our technology and hundreds of years of sending missionaries to remote parts of the world, not everyone has heard the Good News about Jesus. We have our marching orders. It’s time to move. 

Let’s pray.

Father, we know that no matter what time is passing. We want all people to come to a saving faith in Your Son Jesus. Remind us daily that we should have a sense of urgency about sharing your good gift with everyone we come into contact with. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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The will is read by an attorney, and all of a sudden, the beneficiary goes from struggling to pay the rent to needing a financial planner. It can be an exciting time, even disorienting.

The only downside to receiving a large inheritance is the knowledge that someday it will run out, or you die and can’t take it with you. That’s why the Bible’s revelations about eternal riches are so much more important.

Genesis 31:14 says, “Rachel and Leah said to him, ‘Do we still have any portion or inheritance in our father’s house?’”

Let’s think of this as a parable: A man took the place of another and was executed. He was no ordinary man, though. Only a few days after His death, the will was read. And he left it all to you!

Jesus Christ died for our sins and took the penalty for them so that we don’t have to. That is what the Gospel is, the Good News that we have riches in Christ, and they last forever.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your precious gift for each of us is something we did nothing to earn. You decided to put us in your will. We thank you forever for your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Now, consider that 1,000 and more years ago, if a person wanted to use salt on his dinner, this required some prior work. A lot of work! The Romans boiled seawater in huge, lead-lined pans. So valuable was salt in the Roman Empire, it was used as currency! Mainly, it was used as a critical food preservative.

Matthew 5 verses 13–16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 

You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.                         

Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

See there—God is telling us that we are to be the instrument that preserves and makes known the Gospel, and salt is one of the analogies.

Let us say to our friends, loved ones, and even strangers: Taste, and see that the Lord’s promises are good!

Let’s pray.

Lord, help us to be salt and light for Your Word in this world. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Millions of books and articles have been written about a carpenter who lived in the Middle East 2000 years ago, and Jesus has been identified as anything from a desert mystic to God Himself.

Historically, He was born into a Jewish family in Judea at the time the Roman Empire controlled the area. Born in Bethlehem and raised in Nazareth, Jesus was 30 before He gained a reputation as a great teacher. But He was much more than that. The Bible tells us that He was sent into the world by God the Father, to stand in our place and take the penalty for our sin.

According to Genesis, man defied God’s template for living and because He is holy, God requires that someone is accountable for sin. Had Jesus not entered the world, we’d be left without a way to reconcile with God. Long story short, Jesus Christ is much more than just a wise teacher. He’s also the Son of God.

The Bible also tells us Jesus is one with the Father. Remember, when Moses encountered God in the burning bush, he asked God how to identify Him to the people. And God replied, “I am who I am.”

And that was in the Old Testament. In John 8:58, in the New Testament, Jesus tells the people, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” Jesus Christ is a divine being. 

John 1:29 says, “The next day, John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.’” This description of Him is not embraced by most people around the world. The Bible tells us that man’s heart is wicked. It isn’t like billions are rushing to churches so that they can have their sins forgiven. The human mind and heart don’t want to focus on the messier side of the gospel. We’re imperfect. We sin. And our sin is an offense to God. Who wants to hear that? We don’t want to be told that we’re not good. We want to be told we’re good, and worthy of God’s love.

And the Good News, the gospel in the person of Jesus Christ, is that we have the pathway to be like Him. Romans Chapter Eight tells us that it is God’s desire that we become like Jesus, and that’s a goal worth reaching for. 

Let’s pray.

Father, thank You for providing us with Your word, that tells us exactly who Jesus is and what His life means to us. You could have abandoned us to sin, but You didn’t. The praise and the glory belong to You alone. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Such a person is a magnet for sharing the Gospel, and the greatest source of wisdom has much to say on the subject. Dozens of times in the Bible, we read about the value of gratitude. Paul mentions it several times, including in the account of Elisha healing a woman’s sick son.

We read in 2 Kings 4:37, “She fell at his feet and bowed before him, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she took her son in her arms and carried him downstairs.”

To be overwhelmed with gratitude is an emotional reaction to kindness.

Lamentations 3:22–24 says, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in him.’”

This is especially interesting because to lament means a person is sorrowful about something. In this case, it’s the prophet, Jeremiah. But notice, even in his grief, he focuses on God’s love and care for him. He is grateful in his circumstance. In modern language, Jeremiah was being intentional about his gratitude.

The Bible tells us there are many variations of gratitude. In Second Corinthians, Paul even expressed his deep gratefulness to God for allowing him to participate in sharing the Gospel. You see, a truly grateful heart transitions from selfishness to concern for others. And we can do the same thing today. When we focus on others, gratitude follows.

In Philippians 4, Paul also passes along a profound life lesson. Here, he says that we can learn to be grateful in all circumstances. Think about that. Grateful — whether in distress or good times. Abundance, or poverty.

A few years ago, a youth missions group was repairing homes damaged by storms in Louisiana. A girl entered a house that was missing part of its roof, and she found an elderly woman rocking in a chair in a bedroom. “Oh, I’m just so happy to have a dry place to sit,” the woman said. She literally had no other dry areas in her home to be until help could arrive. Yet she didn’t complain about her circumstances. Instead, she gave thanks to the Lord, and in so doing — inspired that 16-year-old girl.

Gratitude is a perpetual gift, to us, and to others.

Let’s pray.

Father God, you are good. You’re good to us every day, and we are thankful for that. We’re grateful that you didn’t leave us in our sins, but you sent Jesus. We’re grateful that you sustain us always, in body and in spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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The Bible shares many examples of gratitude in the midst of challenging circumstances.

Imagine Mary, a young Galilean girl, given the news that she was to be the mother of the Messiah. She didn’t panic or protest. Instead, she embraced the news and nurtured the One who would bring healing to the whole world.

The story in Luke 17 tells us that of the 10 lepers who were healed, only one returned to thank Jesus.

Luke 17:15–16 says, “One of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned with a loud voice glorifying God, and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks.”

Whether He was blessing food given to thousands by a miracle, or giving thanks at the Last Supper, Jesus modeled an attitude of gratitude for us; knowing His death was imminent, Jesus still thanked His Heavenly Father.

What can you find in your own life to be thankful for this week?

Let’s pray.

Lord, thank you for the marvelous gifts you give us on a daily basis. Help us be mindful of this always. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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How did we get to this place? 

Are we too prideful to thank each other, or even to thank God? Too busy? Too self-absorbed, maybe?

As believers, we know life is a rich blessing from God. The clearest path to becoming a person of gratitude is to choose it. If we don’t choose gratitude, we choose ingratitude.

Psalm 107:1 says, “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”

Yes, we’re busy. Yes, life gets us down in legitimate ways. But research proves being intentional about gratitude on a consistent basis can bring positive benefits to almost every area of our lives.

Realizing we’re too negative is a great first step, but keep going by actively counting and considering your blessings each day. Before long, you’ll be amazed how little you think about what you don’t have. You’ll be too busy enjoying what you do have!

Let’s pray.

Lord, you never leave us. And along the way, you bless us with big and small acts of kindness and mercy. Thank you for the grace in our lives! In Jesus’ name, amen.

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When we focus on unpleasant circumstances or people, life can really bring us down. And this perspective is a downward spiral — not a place we want to dwell.

Author John Kralik was there, once. A long hike one day led him to an emotional crossroads; there, he decided to devote the rest of his life to being thankful.

His life changed dramatically.

John began to write thank you notes to everyone he could think of. Not emails or texts, either. Taking the time to send a handwritten note really connected with the other people. Pretty soon, he was so aware of his blessings that there was no room for depression anymore.

Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”

Consistently thanking others will enrich them, and it will enrich you. Try it!

Let’s pray.

Lord, your Word is a love letter to us, and our gratitude to you is our thank you note. Help us to spread your Good News to all we come in contact with. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Psalm 107:1 says, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”

Often, we can become disappointed if we don’t get everything we think we should have. But that’s a dead-end when it comes to true happiness and peace. And those are things that we all really, deep down, crave.

The ultimate gratitude comes from the Lord Himself. We learn in Psalm 149 that “the Lord delights in His people.” He first loved us, and that love flows down and through us. Truly, believers should be the most grateful people on the planet because we know that God has given to us His Son, Jesus Christ.

Honestly, the Christian should go through each day so happy he or she can barely stand it. God has given us what we need, much of what we want, and He has already created a future for us that is so wonderful, humans can’t even perceive it!

Remember, God is the source of gratitude. He shows us how it’s done because He knows us completely. Remember, as we go along with this topic that practicing gratitude is a huge key to finding peace.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, your goodness overwhelms us. Thank you for giving to us just because. We love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Often, when we are really up against it, that’s when we resist seeking help.

Jesus does away with all that.

Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

Ask yourself: is my pride keeping me from asking for help? If so, mull that over. And then, take a step toward the Lord and ask for what you need.

God opens doors when we ask Him to. And sometimes what we find on the other side isn’t what we expected. When that happens, we choose patience, and we remain open to His good plans for us. 

When you’ve asked God to help and your prayers are answered, share the Good News with people you meet. Tell anyone who will listen that the Lord of the Universe cared about you and delivered you from a problem no one else could solve. 

And if the answer He gave was totally unexpected and sent you in a different direction — share that, too. Accepting God’s plan when it doesn’t match up with our own best-laid plans is what faith is all about.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, please give us a heart that seeks you. God, we want to be obedient, and we know that your blessings, whatever they look like, will follow. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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What if a heat-seeking missile could be used for good? What if one has been launched…in your direction?

Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

If you open your heart to God—even if you aren’t a believer—then it’s as if Jesus is now the missile launched and He is coming toward your still-beating heart. The heart that has been wounded. He finds you and connects in such a powerful way, but the connection is for life, and not for destruction.

The Word tells us to simply ask Him and He will find us.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, your unwavering promises to stay with us during trials is unique in history. Thank you for loving us that much. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Eventually, he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family.

It is really a story of Jesus and us.

Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

We screw up sometimes. Maybe it’s so bad we can’t see a way back.

That’s when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn’t as concerned with where we’ve been as He is with where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real ointment for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you’ve screwed up too much, put that out of your mind and simply tell Jesus you need Him. 

Let’s pray. 

Lord, your willingness to welcome us back to fellowship is something to behold. We are grateful for your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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This small group has a single focus the whole mission. Eventually—at great cost—they locate him and return him to his loved ones. Much of it is difficult to watch, as we see the incredible sacrifice the many make to find the one.

Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

Long ago, Jesus did the same thing for all of us. God sent His Only Son to find those that are lost.

If you feel totally lost, call on the Lord. Just tell Jesus you really need Him.

Then you’ll have your own memorable story to share! Jesus loves you and will find you if you call on Him. 

Let’s pray. 

Lord, thank you forever for the sacrifice Your Son made for us, to take our sin. We love you for it. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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It also is very relevant to our walk with Jesus. Often, we work really hard to solve our own problems, then we finally give in and ask Jesus for help.

Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

As with every other promise in the Bible, the really cool thing about this is, it is true. The promises Jesus has made are literally true. So, for example, if you’re looking for a solution to an impossible situation, ask Him.

It works!

Let’s pray. 

Lord, forgive us for not placing our trust in you all the time. You are our sustainer. We need to remember that. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Life can be like that.

Matthew 28:20 says, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

In your own life, you might be facing some really serious stuff. And it’s not unusual to be staring at several problems at once. That’s when God’s Word is so valuable to us. 

Jesus has promised us that He will stick right with us all the way through. Human friends often go a long way with us, but only Jesus is sure to never, ever leave us.

That’s the best way to beat the uncertainties of life. Tell Jesus you can’t make it without Him.

It’s then that the future no longer scares us at all.

Let’s pray.

Lord, we don’t know a fraction of what you do, including what our future looks like. But we do know that we can trust you, and we thank you for that. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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But the absolute worst is when we fool ourselves. We try to manage some problem on our own, or analyze a situation gone awry.

The Bible has a better way of thinking about it.

Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

We have to do two things here: give total control to God, and de-emphasize our own judgment. Sometimes our gut is wrong. Following our heart often ends in heartache.

God doesn’t mess up. He doesn’t get it wrong. And He really longs to make it better for you.

Do you remember a time when you put your life in God’s hands? Maybe it was a really important career choice. Or a relationship that needed healing. Maybe your body needed healing. Whatever it was, recall that situation today as you wrestle with a new problem.

Let’s pray.

Lord, every time we learn to trust you, it builds our faith a little more. You are a good God who always has our back. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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One such story is breathtaking if we follow it through. It involves a father trusting God more than his own instincts.

2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, and not by sight.”

In Genesis, we read about Abraham being instructed by the Lord to offer his young son, Isaac, as a sacrifice.

As a sacrifice?! Nothing could be more repulsive! Telling a man to kill his son? Why?

We gain a different perspective when we trust God to the end of this story.

Climbing a high mountain, Abraham intends to obey God all the way. As he raises a knife over his son, God stops him.

God’s compassion hadn’t taken a vacation. He taught Abraham an important lesson about obeying Him no matter what. In fact, Abraham and Isaac would go on to become two of the greatest men of all time.

Learn to trust God—even if you don’t understand. 

Let’s pray. 

Lord, your ways can at times be mysterious to us, but you always want the best for us. God teach us to trust you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Who isn’t aware just how wonderful it feels to experience true joy? It is as if the Lord has freed a prisoner.

When American POWs returned from captivity in Vietnam, the looks on their faces as they emerged from the planes carrying them to freedom…well, no one will ever forget that!

Psalm 16:9 says, “Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.”

Scripture tells us that we don’t escape trouble in this life, but that for the believer, eternal joy waits for us, and the Holy Spirit gives us joy in our daily walk in the here and now.

It’s also ours for the taking—to reach up and pick this fruit that feeds our souls. Sometimes simply making the choice to embrace a joyful spirit is the key to having a blessed day.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you did not create us to be defeated or to be sad. Father, your Spirit brings joy in big and small moments, sustaining us for our journey. Thank you for joy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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The book of Judges in the Old Testament gives us an awesome example of trusting God in the story of Gideon.

God called Gideon to lead Israel into battle with the Midianites, who had a sizable army of 135,000 men. Gideon gathered an army of 32,000 men to battle with the Midianites, but despite odds in favor of the enemy, God told Gideon there were too many men in his army. Through a selection process, God whittled the Israelite army down to just 300 men.

Though Gideon was afraid, he trusted God to fulfill His promise. And God told Gideon they needed a smaller army so people would know God won the battle, and not some large army.

The night of the battle, Gideon and his servant snuck into the camp of the enemy and overheard the telling of a dream. The two Midianites interpreted the dream to mean that Gideon’s small army would wipe out their larger army.

Reassured, Gideon returned to camp to begin the battle. The Midianites were so frightened, many of them began fighting and killing one another, thinking that Gideon’s army was all around them.

Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.” 

Gideon trusted God’s plan, even when he didn’t understand. Because of his faith, God helped Gideon and the Israelites to conquer the Midianites with an army a fraction of the size of the enemy’s.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you are mighty to save. Help us to trust you in every battle. We love you, and believe you have a plan for us. Give us courage to face the challenges in our lives, knowing you are here with us, and you have a good plan. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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It’s especially false for the believer who understands what God has done for all people everywhere. 

He, the Creator of the universe, formed us long ago, and His Word tells us clearly that He never takes a second off in His pursuit of us. 

Consider this: If you’re stuck in a bad relationship, you won’t find your way into the light until you’re reconciled to God. That relationship is number one. It’s the one you cannot be without. Even if others fail you; resolve to work on that one, and the others will fall into place. 

Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” 

That ‘friend’ is referring to Jesus Christ, who loved us enough to step into history and take the punishment meant for us. Understand that, and cultivate a relationship with Him. 

Let’s pray.

Lord, we owe everything to you...literally everything. We worship you, and we praise your name as the One who sacrificed all for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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There's a wonderful scene in the classic film To Kill a Mockingbird, when the attorney Atticus Finch is confronted by the father of a girl who has accused a black man of rape, the father, enraged walks up to Finch, played perfectly by Gregory Peck. He spits in Finch’s face as the attorneys' children watch. 

You can see the anger in Finch’s face, but he slowly and calmly maintains his composure. He simply walks past the man, who now looks pretty small in everyone’s eyes. 

God has given us the power over difficult people. It’s called not letting them set the rules. 

1 Peter 3:9 says, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing because to this you were called, so that you may inherit a blessing.” 

Not always easy, definitely, but we’re capable of it. Remember that. This life is very much about winning and losing. Determine that a difficult person in your life is not going to win by controlling you and getting under your skin. In wrestling terms, don’t let that person pin you. 

Is that obnoxious person in your life really all that obnoxious, or are you a grouch, letting yourself get caught in what is really only a difference in personalities? Go home from work one evening and think about that. Make your mind up to start out the next day by being nice to that person. You’ll be surprised how that can change the equation. And that’s what Colossians 4:6 is talking about when it says, “Let your speech be always with grace seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man.” 

Or maybe you’re a man frustrated with the relationship between your wife and your mother. This is always a potentially difficult situation. Maybe you think your wife should be more adaptable, but you’ve forgotten what God told the man in Genesis 2:24. It says, “This is why a man leaves his father and mother, and is united to his wife. And they become one flesh.” Your responsibility in that situation is to your wife, not to making sure your parents’ feelings come first in all situations. 

So, you see, often that difficult person you’re dealing with is you, or at the very least a different perspective will help you see where the fault really lies. 

Finally, in 1 Corinthians 5, we read that Paul advises for really difficult people, a cooling-off period is legitimate. For example, the person who is causing real strife in a church should not be allowed to go on like that indefinitely; bad behavior sometimes must be confronted for the good of the community. And even for the good of the offended person, this is sound advice. 

So, if we stick to what the Lord has already told us and our tried and true methods for dealing with difficult people, we can get to a better place. 

Let’s pray.

Father God, a person who is angry or a troublemaker creates chaos for everyone. Help us analyze each of these situations as unique so that we know how to handle them from your Word. And most especially help us make it a habit to pray for those who are difficult so that we might see their lives changed and brought into harmony and unity. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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If you weren’t related to these people, you’d never see them.

What a horrible punchline, really.

1 Corinthians 13:7 says, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”

God’s Word has purpose in everything. Everything.

He gave you a specific family for specific reasons. It’s super easy to be nice to people we aren’t around very much. Short-term “love” is pretty common. It’s when we get in close quarters with long-term relationships that our character really comes out.

Sure, some family members are not nice people. There are still ways to manage that, taking our cues from Scripture.

Love, especially family style, is for the long haul. That beautifully worded verse from 1 Corinthians says it all. We bear one another’s burdens, and we hope for the best.

And we endure any obstacle that blocks us from truly loving the family God gifted us with.

No joke.

Let’s pray.

Lord, remind us daily of the unique gift our families are for us. Help us look for ways to enhance these special communities you’ve placed us in. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Few things are more heartbreaking than damaged relationships. When those linger, the Body of Christ is weakened. Churches split because of it. Families suffer for it.

Joshua 22:5 says, “Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.”

Notice that we are to walk in all His ways. And what did the Lord do in every situation in the Bible that involved relationships? He provided the very best.

That’s our mandate. Do excellence in your relationships. Has someone wronged you, or do they mock you? Take your eyes off their smug expressions and “walk in all His ways.” You’ll be surprised how some people will react, in a good way!

Just as we read that spouses can choose to pray for an unbelieving spouse in the hopes they come to repentance and wholeness, so too can we simply choose to want the best in all our relationships.

Let’s pray.

Lord, relationships are difficult! But how blessed we are by You, that You created them for us. Most of all, our relationship with You, our Creator. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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1 Corinthians 13:4–5 says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”

Love isn’t about control or about protecting our own interests. It’s not about winning, because true love doesn’t keep score. God’s Word gives us a beautiful picture of what love can be when we seek to follow the Lord: patient, kind, selfless, humble, and forgiving. That’s the kind of love we should strive to build with family, friends, and a potential mate.

If we want to take Paul’s wisdom in Corinthians to heart, we must first think about what the other person needs in our relationships. And you know, if you practice this model, you’ll find that soon enough, your own needs will be met, too! Pure love has a ripple effect.

Let it wash over you!

Let’s pray. 

Lord, your relationship to us is perfect. Help us love as you love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Luke 18:1 says, “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”

That story was about a woman who didn’t give up in her pursuit of justice. Jesus then said that God hears our pleas for what we need, and He acts accordingly. He doesn’t forget or lose interest. Ever.

Isn’t that one of the most comforting things you’ve ever heard? In all the messes of our lives, God does not give up on us, no matter where we are. He knows everything about us, and His infinite strength is far too much for evil to overcome, and His grace covers all of our brokenness.

Let’s pray.

Lord, thank you for your willingness to stay with us in the worst of times. You are our strength, now and forever. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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But the worst one is trying to figure out where God is in the middle of life’s great difficulties. Sometimes the world is just flat-out mean, and it seems like it’s an entity that’s trying to break you in half.

It’s in this very moment that God’s ancient and eternal words come to us.

Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that! Jesus lives so that you will live forever. And in the interim, He will walk with you and carry you when necessary. He never fails and what’s more, His willingness to never leave us has been proven over and over again, in a billion different ways. 

If you need Him right now, don’t doubt Him. Call out to Him. Your circumstances might seem impossible and impossibly unique. But don’t believe it; believe Him instead.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you promised that you would never leave us. We know that’s true, but help us with our faith in our weak moments. God, make us believe. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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But he said something that surprised more than a few in the audience. He said that one of his main priorities for the Institute was hiring more Bible teachers!

Washington, who had been forced to work in an evil system, once felt powerless. Yes, an American president legally freed the slaves—but Washington’s faith in Christ was the real key in lifting him up.

Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”

Are you down and out right now? Are you chained to problems too big for you to overcome? Take Paul’s letter to heart and realize that all things are possible for your future, through faith in Christ. He has perfect strength, all you’ll ever need. Tell him that today.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, your perfect will is more than enough to help us escape a terrible past and future. Our future is what you have told us it will be. Thank you for that blessing. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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For fully two years, he struggled to get out of bed. He felt sapped of energy every waking moment. Then, on a park bench one afternoon, he met Mildred, who shared the Good News of Jesus with him. And Bill said later that during his walk home, he could feel blood flow back into his legs. And by the time he got home, he dusted off a Bible and began his journey to Christ. He says, “He saved me in every way. I no longer felt weak and helpless. Today, I look forward to my future.”

Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” And Christ longs to give you the strength to live a full life. 

Let’s pray.

Lord, our hope is in you and you alone. Thank you for loving us enough to want the very best for us. Thank you for strength for the journey. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Proverbs 31:25 says this of a godly woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”

As believers, we can laugh in the midst of struggle because God did not make us to have a spirit of fear. He never planned for us to suffer from depression or anxiety

Look—life happens. Sometimes…many times…we are rocked by our circumstances. But God’s Word says that we don’t stay there. We keep our eyes on Him, and He is our strength. It’s not even our job to find the strength to breathe and go about our day. It’s our reliance on God—that is our job.

The person who endures a cancer diagnosis isn’t doing it on her own. The man or woman experiencing sudden job loss doesn’t stand tall by him or herself. When Christ dwells in you, He takes the burdens and promises that in the end, we will be healed. And He will provide. That’s not a guarantee that the things of this life will all work out in a positive and favorable way, but our reliance on Christ is the answer.

If you look like a confident statue on the outside, but you’re about to lose it on the inside, take time to tell that to Jesus. Give Him your fears and doubts.

Let’s pray.

Lord, thank you that we’re not in this alone. Your grace is sufficient for all of our needs, every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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God’s Word, the Bible, is filled with examples of His loving-kindness, His grace, His mercy, His faithfulness...the Lord’s love for us is infinite and eternal, and His example is what we should strive to embody as we interact and react to the people around us. 

Lamentations 3:22–23 says, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Our almighty God, Creator of the Universe, is all-powerful, capable of mighty wrath, yet He deals with us with patience and compassion.

Psalm 86:15 says, “But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.”

Jesus Christ was the living embodiment of compassion during His ministry on earth.

Over and over, our Lord Jesus Christ had compassion for people, offering healing and comfort at every opportunity. He saw lost and hurting people as sheep without a shepherd, and He came to give them purpose and to be their ultimate shelter.

As God’s Son, Jesus possessed more power than we can ever imagine. Yet He chose to give up everything, selflessly sacrificing Himself for us so we can be forgiven our sins and have eternal life. In that sacrifice, we see the greatest example of kindness in the Bible — a level of compassion beyond anything the world has ever known.

Let’s pray.

Dear Jesus, your compassion never fails. We are so grateful for your love and for the gift of salvation you freely gave to us through your death on the cross. Inspire us to share the Good News about you with others, that we can be messengers of hope in your name. Amen.

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The prophet Elijah received a prophecy that the land would suffer a years-long drought, and this message from God had come to pass. The Lord sent him to a ravine east of the Jordan River, where He sent ravens with bread and meat in the morning and in the evening, and Elijah could drink from a brook, but eventually, the brook ran dry because there was no rain in the land.

The Lord commanded Elijah, “Go at once to Zarephath in the region of Sidon and stay there. I have directed a widow there to supply you with food.”

When the prophet came upon the widow, she told him she had just enough flour and oil left for a last meal for herself and her son, and she expected they would die of starvation after this final meal.

Elijah instructed her not to be afraid and asked her to make a small loaf of bread for him, then to do the same for herself and her son.

1 Kings 17:15–16 says, “She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah.” 

Because of the kindness she paid to the Lord’s servant, the unnamed widow was blessed with enough to continue sharing with Elijah, and enough for her family to eat until the rains returned.

Let’s pray.

God, you are our steadfast provider. When we have an opportunity to give to those in need, remind us that you bless us with enough to share. Help us to give unselfishly from the abundance you provide for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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In Luke 10 verses 25–37, Jesus shares the Parable of the Good Samaritan to illustrate what it means to love our neighbors the way Jesus loves us.

“A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’”

The Lord asks us not to dole out kindness sparingly, but to generously pour love and compassion over the hurting people we meet...even complete strangers we encounter on the road of life.

Let’s pray.

Heavenly Father, give us eyes to see, ears to hear, and hands to help the broken and bruised people in our midst every day. There are lost and wounded souls in every corner of this world, and we ask for the courage to reach out to them with love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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In Genesis Chapter 37, verses 12–36, 17-year-old Joseph is sent by his father to visit his brothers, who were tending the family’s flock of sheep in the countryside.

Rather than the friendly check-in he expected, Joseph’s brothers initially plotted to kill him out of jealousy, but instead sold him into slavery to a group of Ishmaelites heading for Egypt. Among the brothers, only Reuben wished to leave Joseph unharmed, attempting (but failing) to set up a situation where he could rescue his brother and return him to their father.

In Egypt, Joseph was falsely accused of a crime, thrown into prison, became an interpreter of dreams for Pharaoh, and eventually attained a seat of power over Egypt.

When famine hit the land where his brothers lived, they came to Egypt to buy grain. They didn’t know Joseph was not only alive, but was now the governor of Egypt. To their surprise, Joseph wasn’t angry at his brothers, but showed them compassion when he saw them again. Instead of taking revenge, he took them in and cared for them. Joseph knew everything that had happened was part of God’s plan, and what his brothers intended for harm, God intended for good.

Ephesians 4:2 says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”

The story of Joseph teaches us that humility, patience, gentleness, and love are not just qualities to be saved up for those who deserve it; God asks us to approach others with love even if they have offended or caused us harm. 

Let’s pray.

Lord, sometimes the people in our lives are disappointing, frustrating, or downright hurtful. Help us to love those who fall short and need our forgiveness the most, and to bear with each other with patience, and with grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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As the day wore on, she thought about her impatience and frustration with her children as everyone got dressed and grabbed a granola bar on the way out the door. It wasn’t their fault the family was running behind, and she regretted sending them to school with tension, instead of hugs and kisses.

Ephesians 4:2 says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”

Of all the lessons we teach our children, kindness stands out. We have an opportunity to show patience, humility, and God’s love to colleagues, classmates, neighbors, and friends — and the people in our lives learn more from watching how we behave, than they do from just being told what to do. 

We have a choice in how we treat others, and God asks us to approach the people around us with love. When Carissa arrived home from work, the first thing she did was apologize to the kids for the cranky way their day began, and let them know kindness matters morning, noon, and night — even when we’re running late.

Let’s pray.

Lord, thank you for the wisdom the Bible teaches us about kindness. Help us to be patient when we’re short on time, and to be an example of your love in every situation — even when circumstances fall short of perfect. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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There are seven colors in the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. As it turns out, the human eye is capable of discerning color to an incredible degree. According to laboratory tests, humans are capable of detecting a total of 10 million colors. That’s a pretty big box of crayons. 

Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” 

Imagine the most colorful painting or photograph you’ve seen in an art gallery, or come across in your Facebook feed. Our Creator God has every color in the universe to work with, the knowledge of a master craftsman, and the most significant artistic talent in existence. And He calls us—you and me—His masterpiece.

When you look in the mirror and wish you were taller, better looking, or somehow measured up to your ideal, remember—we are created in God’s image. When you envy someone else’s position or title at work or wish you were better at math, cooking, or public speaking, remember—we are God’s masterpiece. And He has a good plan for each of our lives. 

God had 10 million colors and countless personality traits and unique skills with which to create each of us, and the palette of colors and mix of materials He used to make you, is one of a kind. 

Let’s pray.

Heavenly Father, thank you for making us who you did. We’re your children and one-of-a-kind creations. You’re so good, and we have so many things to be thankful for. Help us to use our unique skill sets and talents you’ve blessed us with, to do your work. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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At each mile marker in our life journeys, God is standing alongside the road, smiling at us, and holding out His strong hand to guide us. And from the indispensable wisdom of scripture to stories of human triumphs over tragedies, He is always there reminding us we’re never truly alone. 

His grace and mercies begin to overshadow and overwhelm those forces that want to harm us, and it’s then that we see God for who He truly is. 

1 Peter 5:10 says, “And after you’ve suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” 

And that is Good News! 

Let’s pray. 

Lord, it’s important to see who our enemy is, but it’s more important to look past that and concentrate our focus on you who brings us that peace that passes all understanding, the kind that gets down deep in us and calms us from the inside out. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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A first clue is the example of Paul. Philippians 4:12–13 says, “I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I’ve learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” 

Notice that the famous preacher trained his mind and heart to be always grateful. This meant a conscious, daily, hourly focus on the good things God has brought him. And sometimes we’re down to basics on this: life, food to eat, clothes to wear, shelter. That’s all many people have, and it’s easy—living in the U.S. especially, to forget that our basic needs are met. But choosing gratitude is key. The actor Will Arnett does this. He says, “I’m happy because I’m grateful, and I choose to be grateful. That gratitude allows me to be happy.” 

Another way to maintain a grateful heart is being very mindful every day of what God has gifted us with. Music icon Willie Nelson understands the value of such an attitude. He says, “When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.” Take stock every day, and actually list the things you’re grateful for. Soon enough, it’ll be part of your daily routine. 

A third way to maintain a grateful heart is to choose to focus on the positive. There’s enough junk in the world. What you choose to focus on will in large part define you. It’s sort of like a natural law. If you do an act of kindness for someone, or sit for 20 minutes watching a gorgeous sunset, instead of scrolling through the news on your phone, you’ll find that joy and a grateful heart become your reality. God loves you. Start your journey toward gratitude with that.  

Let’s pray. 

Father God, no one can stop us from thanking you for your love and grace. That’s our first step toward having a grateful heart. From breathing clean air to enjoying a holiday with family and friends. We commit ourselves to a life of gratitude. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

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If we don’t know if our problems are caused by emotional, mental, or physical challenges, we can’t see our way out of the forest. Identifying the source helps us settle into God’s perfect peace, and He’s given us the ability to make good choices when dealing with issues beyond our control. 

1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability. But with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”  

You hear that—God will provide, and you can endure. 

Let’s pray. 

Lord, in our imperfect state, our bodies sometimes fail us. We don’t know if up is down or which direction to go. In those moments, bring to our minds the knowledge that we can seek your good solutions, whether it be medical, or psychological. It’s then we can find ourselves set on the right path to health and wholeness. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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We instinctively know what goodness is. It’s a kind touch, a gentle word, a gift that was unexpected.

Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”

And in life, we understand the distinction between good and evil. These two—always warring with each other. The key thing to remember in this conflict is that God is good, and infinitely stronger than evil. That’s important to remember as we see injustice.

What did Micah tell us? That goodness is wrapped up in the choices we make: oppose injustice, love what is kind, and be humble. The truth is, all of us have been given so much good by our good God that it should be second nature to model that for those we meet in our journey.

Let’s pray.

Lord, thank you for your sweet goodness. Sustain us with that goodness for the journey. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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She used as many as 200 pseudonyms to publish her work, with a goal of maintaining humility. The author was admired for both her poetry and her music during her lifetime, but she wasn’t motivated by personal fame.

Fanny Crosby was so well-known in her day that musicians often came to her for lyrics. One day, musician William Doane dropped by for a surprise visit, begging her to put words to a tune he had recently written and was set to perform at an upcoming Sunday School convention. The only problem was that his train to the convention was leaving in 35 minutes. He sat at the piano and played the tune.

“Your music says, ‘Safe in the Arms of Jesus,’’’ Fanny said, scribbling out the hymn’s words immediately. “Read it on the train and hurry. You don’t want to be late!” The hymn became one of Crosby's most famous.

Fanny Crosby could write very complex hymns and compose music with a more classical structure, but she preferred to write sweet, simple verses that could be used for evangelism. She sought to share Jesus at every turn and to use her talents for God’s glory. 

Let’s pray.

Dear Lord, thank you for the beautiful gift of music. We are so grateful for your love and for the opportunity to praise your name through song. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Fanny Crosby was struck blind at just 6 weeks of age, but God had a plan for her. She was raised by her mother and grandmother after her father’s death when she was about 6 months old, and although she grew up poor, she was blessed to attend an excellent school for the blind in New York state, near where the family lived.

Fanny enrolled at the New York Institution for the Blind in 1835, just before her 15th birthday. She was a student of the school for 11 years, eventually joining the faculty as a teacher for another 12 years. During her time at the school, she learned to play the piano, organ, harp, and guitar, and became a good soprano singer. After graduation, she joined a group of lobbyists in Washington, D.C., arguing for support of education for the blind. Fanny was the first woman to speak in the United States Senate when she read a poem on the Senate floor encouraging funding for state schools for the blind.

Fanny befriended 17-year-old Grover Cleveland, future President of the United States, while she was a teacher, and in fact, she knew each of the presidents who served during her lifetime through her work as a celebrated poet and songwriter.

She later stated: “It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank him for the dispensation. If perfect earthly sight were offered me tomorrow, I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things about me.”

Let’s pray.

Lord, help us to set aside every distraction and focus on your plan for us. We often take for granted the gifts you’ve given us. Remind us to be grateful, and to use our gifts for your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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As a Christian, Fanny understood the importance of looking forward. When a preacher once remarked that it was a pity Fanny could not see because she had been given so many other gifts, she responded:

“Do you know that if at birth I had been able to make one petition, it would have been that I was born blind? Because when I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Savior.”

Philippians 3:12–14 says, “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Fanny Crosby was struck blind as an infant, lost her father before the age of one and was raised by a working single mother and her grandmother at a time when this was not at all common — but she never gave up. She allowed the Lord to shape her story, and used her talents to praise Him, and inspire others to do the same.

Let’s pray.

Dear Lord Jesus, we ask you to be present in our current circumstances. Help us to look forward and keep our eyes on you, rather than dwelling on the past. You have a plan, and you are present in our lives. Thank you for that. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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At the age of 8, the little girl wrote this poem,

“Oh, what a happy soul I am,

Although I cannot see!

I am resolved that in this world

Contented I will be.”

The little girl was encouraged to work to the best of her abilities, and not to view herself as limited by blindness. She carried that resourceful attitude throughout her 94 years of living, and during her lifetime penned over 9,000 hymns.

You may not have heard of Fanny Crosby, but if you’ve ever sung or listened to favorite hymns in church, chances are you’ve heard her music.

She poured out her heart writing hymns, many of which are still sung today, nearly 200 years after her birth. Songs such as “Blessed Assurance” and “To God be the Glory” are treasured classics in many denominations.

This is my story, this is my song,

Praising my Savior all the day long.

Fanny Crosby was struck blind as an infant, but she allowed the Lord to shape her story, and used her talents to praise Him, and inspire others to do the same.

Let’s pray.

Lord, the story of Fanny Crosby is an encouraging reminder to rely on you, no matter our circumstances. You had a plan for her life from the very beginning, and the songs you wrote on her heart continue to inspire us today as we worship Your Holy Name. Thank you for writing Fanny’s story so beautifully. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Psalm 102:18 says, “Let this be recorded for a generation to come, so that a people yet to be created may praise the Lord.”

The Lord asks us to invite Him to be the author of our story, and it’s a choice that makes an incredible difference in our lives today, changes the lives of future generations, and can define your story for all eternity. Accepting Jesus into your heart and giving your life to Him means trusting Him every moment and leaning into His plan for each of us. Growing in faith means handing editorial control of your story over to God, even as the world tells us to seize control of our own destiny.

So, what is your story, friend? And how has that story been changed, because you know Jesus? God has a plan for your life, and a beautiful story is unfolding every day. Even in the midst of tough times, God knows your name. He has a plan, and the ending — eternity alongside the Lord, is the very best part!

Let’s pray.

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us enough to not only create us, but to want to be part of our individual stories. We love you, we trust you, and we ask you to be present every moment of every day as our lives unfold. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Truth is, each personality requires a customized approach to sharing about Jesus. Some are outgoing and others are shy. A blogger for God TV has written that he admired a friend who told every seatmate on every plane he’d been in about Jesus.

The blogger went on to write that “Even if my fellow passengers desperately wanted to know Christ, they likely couldn’t even get my attention with a jackhammer drill or a pie in the face.” Kind of funny and also kind of sad, also very common. 

Matthew 16:24 says, “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.’” So, if we’re looking for ways to overcome our mediocre gospel sharing, what can we do? Let’s look at a few tips. 

The first is prayer. Get honest with God and tell Him you’re not so great at evangelism. I mean, He already knows, anyway. Ask Him specifically to give you both opportunities and an intentional plan for communicating the best news anyone will ever hear.

Two, plan, think ahead. Are you a person who’s good at conversation? Go over a mental checklist that provides you with enough scripture and short sentences to make your pitch when the time comes. However, if you’re not outgoing, maybe you’re a writer. Consider communicating with a card to let the person know you’re thinking about him or her. Play to your strengths, not your weaknesses. 

Number three, listen before you talk. How many times do we jump into a conversation or meeting without taking a breath? Train yourself to be quiet for a bit until you hear where the other person is coming from. You’ll learn about your friend or acquaintance, and you can then think through the best way to approach them about the saving gift of Jesus. But also, don’t just wait for your turn to talk. Hear them. Meet them where they are, and listen to the Holy Spirit to see how you can speak Jesus into that person’s life. Very few of us are Billy Graham. That doesn’t mean we can’t share the gospel. Somebody’s depending on it. 

Let’s pray.

Father, whatever our personality and our experiences, give us a passion for loving unbelievers and caring about their well-being. The world is full of diversity. Help us embrace that. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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This includes sharing and standing up for our faith.

The Bible is full of examples of how Jesus did this. Occasionally, He got mad, as when He threw out the moneychangers. Other times, He just quietly sat and taught what His Father had shown Him.

This is our model. When you share Christ with someone and that person believes, you have been given the privilege of watching the most important moment in his or her life—ever. To get to this moment, it will require you to be knowledgeable about your faith, balanced enough to be gentle in sharing, and sometimes edgy enough to push back when someone mocks our Lord.

Jude 1:3 says, “Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.” 

God gave us a job to do, and one of his prophets, Jude, told us to be ready to defend the Gospel. This, we should be happy to do.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your wisdom is enough for us. We are always ready to defend the Good News. In Jesus' name. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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He had just risen from the dead. That doesn’t happen every day.

His ministry had been destroyed, so they thought. He wasn’t coming back. But then He did. Only days after being killed on a brutal Roman cross, Jesus was standing in front of His friends, looking very much alive. And He was telling them their futures were dicey.

Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”

Jerusalem at the time was under occupation by an unforgiving empire. The empire required all from each individual and never gave anything back. Jesus was telling His disciples that if they would give up all for Him, He’d give it back and more—forever.

This was the first great command to preach the Good News everywhere. The first marching orders for a spiritual army.

We are called to be in that army, to give our all in order to shake things up for eternity.

Let’s pray.

Lord, thank you for giving us the chance to share your love with others, all over the world. We love you! In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Now, consider that 1,000 and more years ago, if a person wanted to use salt on his dinner, this required some prior work. A lot of work! The Romans boiled seawater in huge, lead-lined pans. So valuable was salt in the Roman Empire, it was used as currency! Mainly, it was used as a critical food preservative.

Matthew 5 verses 13–16 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 

You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.                    Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

God is telling us that we are to be the instrument that preserves and makes known the Gospel, and salt is one of the analogies.

Let us say to our friends, loved ones, and even strangers: Taste, and see that the Lord’s promises are good!

Let’s pray.

Lord, help us to be salt and light for your Word in this world. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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If so, then we are speaking to you about sharing your light in a dark world.

Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”

Have you seen the movie, “The Ten Commandments?” It’s doubtful the real Moses looked and talked like Charlton Heston. And do we really think God looks for His witnesses among people who have that perfect British accent in a Jesus movie? Nope. 

If we think we have to look or act a certain way, then we’re doing it wrong. God doesn’t ask our permission when giving us our marching orders for sharing the Gospel of Jesus. Instead, He approaches us as He did Job: Stand up and listen to what I have to tell you.

You are called to shine a light for Christ in a world full of dark things. You are equipped, just as you are. God has called you. Be bold in Christ.

He is the Star. We are just lights along the way.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, the time is now. So many need you. God would you help us to shine for you every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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But Ruth Bell Graham was so much more. While her husband was away so much, preaching to the masses, she was preaching to her own little flock. The result was children who became adults, and in turn, shared the Good News of Jesus with others.

Anne Graham Lotz and Franklin Graham didn’t just fall out of the sky!

Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

In their little home in the mountains of North Carolina, while daddy was in Brussels, New York, and Sydney, Mother Ruth was faithful for years on end to impart godly wisdom to their children. Much iron was sharpened on cold winter nights and long summer days.

Theirs was a home that didn’t always have both parents available, but they thrived.

Use that as an example of how to bring up your own children. You’ll be happy forever that you did.

Let’s pray.

Lord, Your Word is good, and it shines a light on our path. Give us the strength to mentor our own children in your ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

We also read in Romans 10 that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. We have to do it so that others know how. Remember, there is no substitute for spending time in God’s Word.

In order to properly train an apprentice, you need to obviously be prepared and adept. Anything less leads to weak faith, or no faith at all.

This is what the Great Commission, sharing the Gospel, has always been about. Duplicating disciples. Grounding your own faith in the Bible, then imparting that to others. That is the essence of true iron sharpening iron.

Let’s pray.

Lord, keep us about your work by daily reminding us to spend time with you in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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If so, you might be ready to help in such a way that will bring honor and glory to God.

Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

The apostle Paul suffered much for his faith in Christ. Beyond a dramatic shipwreck, prison, beatings, and hunger were part of his daily routine.

Then, God set Timothy in his path.

The younger man needed encouragement and instruction as the early Church grew. Paul stepped in to mentor him. He not only helped Timothy with practical church matters, but he encouraged him to stay strong in the Word, and to rely on God solely.

More than likely, you have a Timothy heading your way. Or maybe a Tina! Whoever it is, resolve in your heart to be everything they need you to be, and to model iron sharpening iron for them.

Stay sharp in the Word, so that your counsel is sound.

Keep on the lookout; Timothy is about to cross your path!

Let’s pray.

Lord, prepare me to be the person my own Timothy needs me to be, for as long as he (or she) needs. In Jesus’ name, amen.       

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Yet the benefits are so good for us.

Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

Make no mistake, God sets people in our path for a reason. That Bible teacher in your church might have words of wisdom for you from her rich and varied life. Be open to that.

If you are in fellowship with a mature, older believer, let him or her walk with you on your journey. Learn from them. Ask questions. Learn to be vulnerable.

The benefits and outcomes will be richer than you can imagine. This is especially true when someone points out areas you can do better in. Not fun, but that is the essence of iron sharpening iron.

And it’s good for you.

Let’s pray.

Lord, help us be open to the leading of your Holy Spirit when encountering someone who could mentor us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

The idea is that as pieces of iron are drawn against the other, each piece becomes sharper. A further application is made in Hebrews 4:12, which talks about Scripture as being a double-edged sword, and it is with His Word that we are to sharpen each other.

The goal is mutual accountability and imparting wisdom for living.

As author Michelle Lazurek has written: “As the body of Christ, we forget that part of our job is to sharpen other brothers and sisters in Christ so that the flame in their hearts, put there by the Holy Spirit, continues to burn.”

Although the “iron sharpens iron” analogy is often used to describe the relationship between men, the application is relevant for everyone who believes. Even at this moment, there are millions of women mentoring girls, sharpening their wisdom in the Lord!

Let’s pray.

Lord, you have given us wonderful relationships that help us grow. We thank you for this great gift. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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It’s especially false for the believer who understands what God has done for all people everywhere. 

He, the Creator of the universe, formed us long ago, and His Word tells us clearly that He never takes a second off in His pursuit of us. 

Consider this: If you’re stuck in a bad relationship, you won’t find your way into the light until you’re reconciled to God. That relationship is number one. It’s the one you cannot be without. Even if others fail you, resolve to work on that one, and the others will fall into place. 

Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” 

That ‘friend’ is referring to Jesus Christ, who loved us enough to step into history and take the punishment meant for us. Understand that, and cultivate a relationship with Him. 

Let’s pray.

Lord, we owe everything to you...literally everything. We worship you, and we praise your name as the One who sacrificed all for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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There’s a wonderful scene in the classic film To Kill a Mockingbird, when the attorney Atticus Finch is confronted by the father of a girl who has accused a black man of rape. The father, enraged, walks up to Finch—played perfectly by Gregory Peck. He spits in Finch’s face as the attorneys’ children watch. 

You can see the anger in Finch’s face, but he slowly and calmly maintains his composure. He simply walks past the man, who now looks pretty small, and everyone’s eyes. 

God has given us the power over difficult people. It’s called not letting them set the rules. 

1 Peter 3:9 says, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing because to this you were called, so that you may inherit a blessing.” 

Not always easy, definitely, but we’re capable of it. Remember that. This life is very much about winning and losing. Determine that a difficult person in your life is not going to win by controlling you and getting under your skin. In wrestling terms, don’t let that person pin you. 

Is that obnoxious person in your life really all that obnoxious, or are you a grouch, letting yourself get caught in what is really only a difference in personalities? Go home from work one evening and think about that. Make your mind up to start out the next day by being nice to that person. You’ll be surprised how that can change the equation. And that's what Colossians 4:6 is talking about when it says, “Let your speech be always with grace seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man.” 

Or maybe you’re a man frustrated with the relationship between your wife and your mother. This is always a potentially difficult situation. Maybe you think your wife should be more adaptable, but have you forgotten what God told the man in Genesis 2:24? It says, “This is why a man leaves his father and mother, and is united to his wife. And they become one flesh.” Your responsibility in that situation is to your wife, not to making sure your parents’ feelings come first in all situations. 

So you see, often that difficult person you’re dealing with is you, or at the very least a different perspective will help you see where the fault really lies. 

Finally, in 1 Corinthians 5, we read that Paul advises for really difficult people, a cooling-off period is legitimate. For example, the person who is causing real strife in a church should not be allowed to go on like that indefinitely; bad behavior sometimes must be confronted for the good of the community. And even for the good of the offended person, this is sound advice. 

So if we stick to what the Lord has already told us, and our tried and true methods for dealing with difficult people, we can get to a better place. 

Let’s pray.

Father God, a person who is angry or troublemaker creates chaos for everyone. Help us analyze each of these situations as unique so that we know how to handle them from Your Word. And most especially help us make it a habit to pray for those who are difficult, so that we might see their lives changed, and brought into harmony and unity. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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 A marriage in balance, friends who mutually respect each other, and most of all a strong “God connection” can be the ticket to a healthy, whole life. The full life that Jesus spoke about!

Hebrews 10:24–25 says, “And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works. Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another, especially as you see the Day approaching.”

With the fast pace of life, sometimes we forget to squeeze all the gratitude we can out of a great relationship. Remember to regularly tell the people in your life how much they mean to you, and to give thanks to God for sending these loved ones your way. Write them a note, even a text, to tell them just what they mean to you.

Let’s pray.

Lord, it’s not about the number of relationships we have, but the quality. Thank you for giving people who are loyal, and love us in return. Encourage us to love others in word, and in deed. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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 When a relationship sours, it’s important to remember we bear responsibility for doing everything possible to nurture healthy relationships. Our prayer life and resolve can go a long way toward repairing the damage.

When King David’s advisor, Nathan, saw what sin had done to David’s life, he confronted him. It must’ve been difficult for Nathan to be this honest with the king about his personal issues, but things got better. 

Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” Commit yourself to healing in a bad relationship. With God’s help, it can be done. 

Let’s pray.

Lord, there is so much hurt in this world, and none of us gets out without some trouble. If we’ve hurt someone, or if someone has hurt us, please put a burden on our hearts to go to that person in a spirit of love and peace, seeking to make things right. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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From the beginning, God walked with Adam and Eve in the garden, talking with them and nurturing a personal relationship with them. In fact, throughout the scriptures, God built foundational relationships, whether it was with the reluctant leader Moses or Hannah, the woman who wanted to be a mother more than anything. 

Ephesians 4:2–3 says, “Be completely humble and gentle. Be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the spirit of unity through the bond of peace.” 

Right relationships are foundational to life. The Bible is clear that if one of ours is suffering, letting it drift is not an option. Make living in harmony with other people a top priority every day.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, you gave everything for us, created us to have fellowship, to experience your love, and to love you in return. Help us to always be mindful that life is short, but relationships can last for eternity. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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In the 1930s, as war approached in Europe, the British loved their monarchs. The royal family has been beloved for generations, and King Edward the 8th was ready to take his place on the throne after the death of his father.

The people loved the dashing young king, and he seemed to enjoy his role.

Then he fell in love.

Falling in love isn’t a bad thing, even for kings, but Edward loved an American woman who was divorced. In royal society, that just wasn’t done. So, in an amazing decision, Edward abdicated! He left the throne less than a year after assuming power.

1 Timothy 1:17, “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”

Earthly kings come and go, but Jesus Christ will never abdicate. He will never abandon His duties. In fact, His famous sacrifice on the cross would not have been offered by any earthly king.

It was too costly.

Put your faith in the eternal King today.

Let’s pray.

Lord, we have confidence in you that you will never abandon us. Thank you for your eternal love and that of your Son, Jesus. Amen.

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Revelation 19 tells us that a descendant of Judah, Jacob’s son, will one day come and rule the whole world. And He will be unlike any other king in history.

1 Timothy 1:17, “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”

This verse tells us that the role of the greatest of all kings belongs to Christ alone. The image of a lion, with its sleek coat, fierceness, and strength, best describes Jesus as ruler over all.

He will preside over an eternal kingdom, one that has no end and no boundaries. This picture of our great King is one we can hold fast to and believe in. One day, King Jesus, that strong lion, will even put away all dangers that threaten us.

That is an amazing thing to look forward to. And it has been promised to us.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your lion is coming to defeat evil and put away death and suffering forever, and we greatly look forward to that. Thank you for keeping your promises. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Even Jesus came from somewhere!

One of the Bible’s patriarchs, Jacob, had a son named Judah. The father calls the son a lion’s cub, and blesses him. Judah is told he will have favor in the family.

1 Timothy 1:17, All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.

It is from this family of Judah that Jesus would come. There is even an interesting prophecy about this in Genesis 49; you should read it sometime.

In fact, Jesus was born into the tribe of Judah, and so symbolically, He becomes the “Lion of the Tribe of Judah,” and will return one day to Earth as a conquering King, the greatest one of all time.

The very name, the Lion of Judah, carries with it power and mystery. How thankful we are that it is Jesus’s name.

Let’s pray.

Lord, we love you for many reasons. We love you and thank you that the things you tell us will happen do in fact take place. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Only one problem: we don’t know if he actually existed.

We certainly don’t know where he’s buried.

And it’s a sure thing that King Arthur, if he lived, wasn’t history’s greatest ruler.

1 Timothy 1:17, “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”

The Bible tells us that the Creator God is the ruler overall. He is the great King, seen on Earth as Jesus Christ, who will come again one day as a conquering King.

Although other kings achieved legendary status, Jesus is no myth. The most documented figure in history, He waits for the right time to restore righteousness and perfection to our world.

We long to see Him!

Let’s pray.

Lord, you are indeed our great King, righteous and perfect in all your ways. Amen.

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We know from the Bible that He is many things: a child, a carpenter, a leader of men. We know that He is our Savior, the One who went to the cross to take on our sin.

He is also our King.

1 Timothy 1:17, “All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.”

In this letter to his young friend, Paul emphasized to Timothy that Jesus has dominion over everything and everyone. That’s because Jesus knows exactly what needs to be done in every situation.

While His earthly characteristics and roles give us some picture of Him, it is the picture of Him as King that best describes Him. God the Father has made Jesus Lord overall, and in Him we find true peace.

Have you ever felt safe because you knew your dad or mom was in charge and would do everything right?

We have that confidence in Jesus times infinity! He is our great and good King, forevermore.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you have set Jesus aside as unlike anyone else, ever. You have placed kingly robes and a special crown on His head. Thank you for sending your Son for our sake. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Oskar Schindler was a businessman with factories in countries occupied by the Nazis. Jews everywhere were being shipped like cattle to extermination camps. Some of Schindler’s employees were in danger.

What did he do? He saved over a thousand of them by keeping their names on a list of employees necessary to conduct business. By war’s end, he had spent his entire fortune bribing officials to look the other way while his workers remained in their jobs.

Oskar Schindler took that road less traveled that we’ve heard about.

Mark 16:15 says, “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”

In another life-and-death matter, for much higher stakes, Jesus has called us who love Him to share the Good News of His sacrifice with others. Sometimes this will place us in danger. Sometimes we will lose friends and alienate family.

None of that matters. All that matters is that lost people who have no other hope for escape will rely on what we tell them about our King.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross has given us eternal life. Please keep giving us opportunities to reach others with this Good News. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Romans 8:31 tells us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Terry Looper is the CEO of a multi-billion-dollar company. Once, he was negotiating a sale and was at the finish line when he realized he hadn’t sought God’s will in the matter. He stopped, prayed, and read the Word for discernment. And he was shocked to find that he wasn’t supposed to sell at all!

Looper learned his lesson. Being in God’s will in every area of our lives is the key. It’s great to be godly and led by the Spirit sitting in your den with a Bible open. But it’s not less important to be led by the Spirit in the boardroom, or on the floor of the plant where you work.

People see you. They see what we do. If we want to be sure success finds us, we’d better make sure we’re looking in the right place.

There are no shortcuts to fully being in God’s will.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you bless us in every area of our lives. Thank you for being on our side, all the time. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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And that’s exactly what each of them did, for the rest of their lives!

John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

Fishing requires patience and a feel for your surroundings. The men Jesus picked were steady and used to adapting to shifting opportunities. They were perfect for the work He gave them to do.

Just as Jesus knew what His disciples were suited for in order to build His Kingdom, He also knows exactly the purpose He has for you. You are invited to flow into the River of Life He has created, in order to see the Kingdom grow.

Others will see the life flowing from within you, if you’re willing to follow God.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you invite us to participate in the beautiful future you’ve planned for people everywhere. Help us be willing to look for those fishing opportunities. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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A construction site is a unique kind of mess. Dirt and mud mingle with piles of wood, shingles, and other building materials. Utility flags poke up from the ground like man-made weeds. Trampled grass and dirty sidewalks give further evidence of the work at hand.

Eventually, what began as an empty field will grow into something more: a business, a medical facility, or a home.

Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”

Sometimes, in the midst of building our lives, we look around and see only chaos: Our relationships aren’t as blissful as we hoped. Our career isn’t following the upward path we planned. Our health or finances or life circumstances are a mess, and we wonder why our best-laid plans didn’t result in the stable, structured life we wanted.

God does some of His very best work in the midst of our biggest messes, if we invite Him in, and step back to let Him work in our lives.

Let’s pray.

Lord, what we see as unworthy, undesirable, and impossible—you see as beautiful, lovable, and filled with potential. We invite you to be the master architect for our lives, and to bring a sense of order to our days and our circumstances. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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He’s told us! As with every other situation, His Word speaks directly to our circumstances.

Micah 6:8 says, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

The Lord requires of us that we have the mind of Christ. That we aim for showing justice and mercy to those we encounter. And notice: we are to love doing these things, not just go through the motions. 

And finally, we are to remember to be humble. There’s only One Who is perfect, and that is the Father. In our present state, we are to emulate the qualities that caused His Son Jesus to turn the world upside down for good.

If you ever wonder what your purpose is, start with these awesome words from the prophet Micah.

Let’s pray.

Lord, help us to keep in front of us at all times the simplicity that is in Christ. He shows us the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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The word grace is used about 170 times in the Bible. Most of those occur in the New Testament as the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ unfolds. His sacrifice for all of us, dying on the cross for our sins, was the backdrop for a lot of other moments in grace He gave to those He came in contact with.

Jesus perfectly understood that there’s a lot of suffering in the world. Those poignant moments when He stooped to heal a person in distress, or when He unlocked the emotional chains of people like Zacchaeus and Mary Magdalene—that is supernatural grace. 

Grace is a moment in time when the living God intervenes in someone’s life. We often hear stories of people being surprised by grace. It arrives when they least expect it, but is really needed. James 4:6 says, “But he gives us more grace.” That is why scripture says, “God opposes the proud, but shows favor to the humble.”

What we learn about grace from the Bible is that although God is the originator, we are also capable of giving grace. 

Is there someone in your life that you need to forgive? Maybe that person is badly in need of that forgiveness. Swallow your pride and give that grace. There are many more ways to give grace. That family in your church that is struggling financially. Can you find a way to discreetly help them out? That kind of grace can be just the boost people need to rise above their circumstances. 

Some people are prideful, but the truth is, all of us need God’s grace. We need it for the duration. So, think about that the next time a grudge or stubborn pride is blocking you from being a blessing to others. One day you might just find yourself on the other end of that situation. 

Let’s pray. 

Father God, you are so good to us, all the time. If we stop and think about the unmerited favor you give us each day, amazing. Help us to keep this in mind as we find ways to pay it forward in our daily walk. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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This childhood treasure became even more important when Gramma Ann passed away — a reminder of her love for her family, and her faith in God.

Jane’s blanket kept her warm in sickness and in health, but the washing machine proved its eventual undoing. One day, the last remaining fragment of Gramma Ann’s very last blanket was lost.

Ephesians 2:8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

A few years after the remaining bit of Jane’s ‘Gramma Ann Blankie’ was lost to time (but not to memory), her mom stumbled across the best yard sale find of all time: the very same blanket, likely created from a quilting kit, in brand-new condition. Jane and her mother cried together right there in a stranger’s driveway, certain that Gramma was smiling down on them from Heaven in that moment of discovery. It was the best two dollars the pair ever spent.

Grace can show up when we least expect it—even in the form of a long-lost family heirloom returned to us in the unlikeliest of ways.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your grace is a constant delight. You are faithful to us when we seek Your face, and Your gift of grace shows up in incredible ways. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Within 24 hours, she had a Bible from a new friend who reached out to her, and even though some of Theresa’s bad choices would land her in jail, her friend and that Bible, were constant sources of healing. Today, she’s a member of a loving church, and she tells anyone who will listen about God's grace in her life. 

Daniel 4:2 says, “I thought it good to declare the signs and wonders that the most high God has done for me.” 

Too often we are too tribal. We think God only works in our circles, but the fact is, God has always been the definition of inclusive. The Bible makes it very clear that God’s grace is available to anyone in all times and places. 

Matthew 5:45 is a very interesting verse that illustrates this. It says, “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” 

That’s fascinating. What might seem unusual or even unjust to us is routine for God. Because God takes the long view. He knows that our lives on Earth are brief. So, if he gives grace to a bad person, he’s thinking of that person’s eternal place. And let’s face it, there are plenty of times in our lives that we didn’t deserve grace. But he gave it anyway. 

In God’s economy, a Babylonian brickmaker from 3,000 years ago is as valuable as you are. Theresa Rosenthal was warmed by that grace at a time when she was doing drugs and spiraling into depression, and she had no ability to improve her life. And that’s the point of grace. God gives it to a variety of people and circumstances. And life would be unbearable without it. 

Let’s pray. 

Father God, your grace sustains us, in bad times and in good times, and we might take our focus off you. Sometimes that grace is almost unseen. We might not be aware of it until years later when looking back gives us insight. Thank you for giving us what we don’t deserve. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Benjamin had slipped on the wet bathroom floor and managed to take down the shower curtain and curtain rod in one fell swoop.

His mom’s concern wasn’t the state of the shower curtain, but whether the broken something was an arm or leg. Thankfully, her son wasn’t hurt, and fixing the curtain was a lot easier than mending a broken bone. A reassuring hug from Mom was all the boy needed to mend his hurt pride.

None of us are perfect, whether we’re 8 years old or 80. Slips and trips happen in life, and beyond accidental mishaps, we also slip up and sin, making choices that disappoint the Lord and send us on a detour from the path He has planned for us. 

1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

God loves us dearly, and while our sin makes Him sad, He is ready and willing to forgive us; we only need to ask Him to. God’s love for us is so deep He sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins because He knew we’d need forgiveness. That’s amazing grace!

Let’s pray.

Lord, you love us even through our imperfections. God, thank you for the incredible gift of your forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Grace means simply that someone gives you something with no strings attached. Just for your good.

Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”

The Bible tells a simple story, really. Mankind sinned and brought evil into the world. God made everything, so He has the right to set the rules. And in His system, sin cannot be tolerated. He made a way for us to be reconciled to Him, through His son, Jesus Christ.

Often, we try to do things to help life along. We plan, plot, and come up with programs and agendas... Our own ideas seem like the right thing to do.

But God’s way is always the right thing to do. 

Setting aside our own ego is key to finding peace in Christ. We literally don’t have to do anything for it. We accept it in faith. That’s the gift of God.

Let’s pray. 

Lord, in your love for us, you make our path simple. Not always easy, but simple. We thank you for the gift of eternal life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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The will is read by an attorney and all of a sudden, the beneficiary goes from struggling to pay the rent to needing a financial planner. It can be an exciting time, even disorienting.

The only downside to receiving a large inheritance is the knowledge that someday it will run out, or you die and can’t take it with you. That’s why the Bible’s revelations about eternal riches are so much more important.

Genesis 31:14 says, “Rachel and Leah said to him, ‘Do we still have any portion or inheritance in our father’s house?’”

Let’s think of this as a parable. A man took the place of another and was executed.

He was no ordinary man, though. Only a few days after His death, the will was read.

He left it all to you!

Jesus Christ died for our sins and took the penalty for them so that we don’t have to. That is what the Gospel is, the Good News that we have riches in Christ, and they last forever.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your precious gift for each of us is something we did nothing to earn. You simply decided to put us in your will. We thank you forever for your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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But in Scripture, God gives us hope for the future.  

John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

Jesus is telling us that in Him alone is true life. He is always pointing us to the future, to a time when that dry creek bed will be filled forever.

In Revelation 22, He showed John a river flowing with the water of life, crystal-clear, and coming from the very throne of God.

The whole picture is one of healing and new life. He promises us that this scene will be very real and very permanent! The key is what we read in John 7:38…we must choose to believe! If you long for a new start and a bright future, you will find everything you need and want in the person of Jesus Christ.

The living water He offers is perfect, and the supply is limitless.

Jesus is the well that never runs dry.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you are calling to each of us to follow You and let You lead us to a place of perfect paradise. We eagerly look forward to joining you in Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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One day, He stopped by a well and had a conversation with a woman who had been married five times. When He spoke to her, He knew she was now living with another man. Yet Jesus spoke to her in a way that let her know He valued her as a person.

He told her that people could drink the water from that well, but again, they would eventually be thirsty. He said to her that the water He gives is a spring welling up inside them, pointing to eternal life.

John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

 Do you believe in Him? Have you had your encounter with Jesus? If you are thirsty for a new life, reach out to Him and listen to what Jesus has to say.

Your life will no longer be dry and lifeless.

New life will flow out of you so that others will notice and want what you have!

Let’s pray.

Lord, much of what the world offers doesn’t satisfy us. We need the living water only you can provide. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Water is an image used often in Scripture.

When Jesus emerged from the River Jordan having been baptized by his cousin, John, He used the imagery to help people understand that by trusting in Him, they would live forever.

John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

Did you catch that? You must believe that Jesus is who the Bible says that He is, the very Son of God. In Him is life, rivers of living water. It is a refreshing experience that has no end, because when we drink water now, we know that eventually we’ll get thirsty again.

But Jesus has told us in John 4 that whoever drinks from the water He gives them—spiritually—will never thirst.

He is talking about eternal life, always new and forever clean and clear.

He is inviting you. He stands at the water’s edge and waits.

Let’s pray.

Lord, your Word uses powerful imagery to help us see the wonderful things you have for us. Thank you for satisfying the thirst we have for fellowship with you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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That’s exactly what each of them did for the rest of their lives!

John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

Fishing requires patience, and a feel for your surroundings. The men Jesus picked were steady, and used to adapting to shifting opportunities. They were perfect for the work He gave them to do.

Just as Jesus knew what his disciples were suited for in order to build His Kingdom, He also knows exactly the purposes He has for you. You are invited to flow into the River of Life He has created, in order to see the Kingdom grow.

Others will see the life flowing from within you, if you’re willing to follow God.

Let’s pray.

Lord, you invite us to participate in the beautiful future you’ve planned for people everywhere. Help us be willing to look for those fishing opportunities. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Malachi 3:6 says, “I the Lord do not change.” From this, we can logically see that the Bible’s powerful and majestic miracles didn’t stop in the first century. They’re still happening. God didn’t suspend the love He dispenses in the form of miracles. 

Taylor McCaffrey was an alcoholic as a teenager. He was also a preacher’s kid, and these combined to weigh him down with guilt. From the age of 16, he drank heavily, but God didn’t leave him there. He says, “On my 21st birthday, I’d been drinking about eight hours straight and simply heard the voice of the Holy Spirit inside me say, ‘Either do what I’ve called you to or I will not continue wrestling you.’”

It sounded so stern. However, so loving, “I was instantly sober.” And that was several years ago. Today, Taylor is still sober. There are also countless examples of what we might call ‘corporate’ miracles—those that bless whole communities. 

At Christmas time of 2004, a group of 400 believers wanted to hold a Christmas service. The local authorities, though, told them that they could not do that in the city of Meulaboh in North Sumatra. The 400 decided to hold their service in a remote mountain region, and they stayed overnight. Early next morning, an earthquake and resulting tsunami flattened their city, but they were safe in the higher elevations. Had they opted not to worship Jesus during their holiday, they would have perished.

The fact is, our world is miracle-heavy. They happen all the time. Miracles happen to ordinary people and to whole nations every day. This is one of the clearest evidences of the power and the majesty of the living God. We can choose to be witnesses for Him by pointing out to everyone we come in contact with that though our world has problems, God is still working in a mighty way.

Let’s pray. 

Father God, thank you. The example of miracles. They give us strength in our faith and a boost to our days. We’re forever grateful to you for routinely doing things that some say cannot happen. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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