– Scripture: 

“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling you servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named you friends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father. “You didn’t choose me, remember; I chose you, and put you in the world to bear fruit, fruit that won’t spoil. As fruit bearers, whatever you ask the Father in relation to me, he gives you. “But remember the root command: Love one another.

                                 John 15:11–17 (MSG)

– Reflection:

                        The Vine and The Branches

God chose us for a purpose, and the specifics of that purpose will remain untold until we become part of the life He wants for us. When I first became a believer, I didn’t know what my role was supposed to be, so I naturally followed my instincts. Over time, the things I routinely did became more purposeful, motivating me to engage in them even more. 

I believe that the work we do outside of our careers, the everyday tasks that have no monetary reward, is the work God intends for us to do for one another. Think about it: when we participate in activities unrelated to earning money, we often feel the most connected to others. Whether it’s attending a practice or game as a coach, or teaching someone a skill they wouldn’t have learned otherwise, these moments illustrate what we are designed for. 

We should strive to engage in more of these connections. Connecting on a more human level is the meaningful work we should prioritize.

– Where do we go from here?

Take a moment today to connect with your community. Don’t wait—building human connections is essential for creating a stronger community. Connection is a powerful healer; if we prioritize these connections, we all have a better chance at thriving.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for designing us to need one another in this world. It is these connections that keep us strong and vigilant as we fulfill our responsibilities for the Kingdom. While there may be a few who seek to tear down, you have created far more builders than destroyers. Thank you, Father. Amen.

– Scripture:

If you fall to pieces in a crisis, there wasn’t much to you in the first place.

                            Proverbs 24:10 (MSG)

– Reflection:

                     Take Care of You

When people frequently take from your life without giving back, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re making enough deposits to sustain yourself. If you continue to give without replenishing your own energy, you will feel depleted and weak. Avoid adopting a hero mentality that allows others to make constant withdrawals from your well-being without contributing to your renewal. 

When you become spiritually exhausted, emotionally drained, and physically worn out, it can lead to increased blood pressure, heightened stress levels, and a negative impact on your relationships. If you don’t set aside time for rest and self-care, you risk falling short of your true potential. This can affect your ability to be a good parent, spouse, leader, or friend.

– Where do we go from here?

Only you can make this change. If you don’t learn to say no to some demands, you won’t have the strength to face tough times. You need to assert, “I’m adjusting my schedule. My well-being is more important than pleasing everyone.” Prioritize maintaining your balance and taking care of yourself.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for calling us to love and help others, but not to the point of becoming depleted and weak. Please help us to protect our peace and well-being. We declare that we will care for ourselves and be strong for the day of adversity. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

– Scripture:

Don’t lie to one another. You’re done with that old life. It’s like a filthy set of ill-fitting clothes you’ve stripped off and put in the fire. Now you’re dressed in a new wardrobe. Every item of your new way of life is custom-made by the Creator, with his label on it. All the old fashions are now obsolete. Words like Jewish and non-Jewish, religious and irreligious, insider and outsider, uncivilized and uncouth, slave and free, mean nothing. From now on everyone is defined by Christ, everyone is included in Christ.

                              Colossians 3:9–11 (MSG)

– Reflection:

                              Be Renewed

You won’t achieve success if you hold a negative image of yourself. Just like a magnet, your self-image will attract your reality. If you view yourself as someone who struggles to get by or has a scarcity mindset, that’s the path you’ll follow. 

Now, imagine if you began to see yourself as blessed, prosperous, talented, and capable of having a wonderful year. By adopting this positive image and aligning your mindset with God’s vision, you would gravitate toward abundance, good fortune, and a fulfilling life. You would stand tall and carry yourself with the dignity and confidence of the royalty that God created you to be.

Where do we go from here?

God’s Word assures us that when we face adversity, “the Lord delivers us out of them all.” It teaches that when the enemy comes in like a flood, God will raise up a barrier. If you see yourself as a victor rather than a victim, you will maintain your confidence and hope, even in tough times. You can expect God’s favor, knowing that He didn’t bring you this far to abandon you. He hasn’t failed you in the past, and He won’t start now.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for giving us the opportunity to start this day with a fresh attitude because You dwell in us all and have given us a brand-new nature. We are grateful that we can align ourselves with Your Word and believe what You say about us. Together, we will strive to be our best and make the most of this day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

– Scripture:

Jotham was twenty-five years old when he became king; he reigned sixteen years at Jerusalem. His mother was Jerusha the daughter of Zadok. In God’s eyes he lived a good life, following the path marked out by his father Uzziah. Unlike his father, though, he didn’t desecrate The Temple of God. But the people pushed right on in their lives of corruption. Jotham constructed the Upper Gate of The Temple of God, considerably extended the Wall of the Ophel, and built cities in the high country of Judah and forts and towers down in the forests. He fought and beat the king of the Ammonites—that year the Ammonites turned over three and a quarter tons of silver and about 65,000 bushels of wheat, and another 65,000 bushels of barley. They repeated this for the next two years. Jotham’s strength was rooted in his steady and determined life of obedience to God. The rest of the history of Jotham, including his wars and achievements, are all written in the Royal Annals of the Kings of Israel and Judah. He was twenty-five years old when he became king; he reigned for sixteen years at Jerusalem. Jotham died and was buried in the City of David. His son Ahaz became the next king.

                             2 Chronicles 27:1–9 (MSG)

– Reflection:

                             Keep Being Your Best

What God has planned for us is much greater than anything we’ve ever imagined. If He were to reveal to us where He is taking us—showing us the favor, the promotions, and the influence—we would be amazed. We may not be the most qualified or talented individuals, and that’s perfectly fine. God’s anointing on us is far more significant than our talent, education, or hard work. You might not see how this can happen; it may even seem impossible. However, we don’t need to chase after the right people, seek good opportunities, pursue contracts, ideas, and resources, or try to gain influence by relying solely on our own strengths or skills. We don’t have to figure everything out on our own.

Where do we go from here?

If we strive to do our best in our current circumstances—arriving at work on time, going above and beyond, and embodying excellence and integrity—the right people will notice us and the right opportunities will come our way. By honoring and following God’s guidance, we will find favor, wisdom, and promotions beyond what we ever imagined. When we seek God, His blessings will pursue us.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for the assurance that when I strive to be my best and seek to honor You in all my actions, Your abundant blessings will find me. I appreciate that I don’t need to rely solely on my own efforts to make things happen. I declare that I will prioritize seeking You and Your kingdom first. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

– Scripture:

So if they don’t trust you and aren’t convinced by the first sign, the second sign should do it. But if it doesn’t, if even after these two signs they don’t trust you and listen to your message, take some water out of the Nile and pour it out on the dry land; the Nile water that you pour out will turn to blood when it hits the ground.” Moses raised another objection to God: “Master, please, I don’t talk well. I’ve never been good with words, neither before nor after you spoke to me. I stutter and stammer.” God said, “And who do you think made the human mouth? And who makes some mute, some deaf, some sighted, some blind? Isn’t it I, God? So, get going. I’ll be right there with you—with your mouth! I’ll be right there to teach you what to say.” He said, “Oh, Master, please! Send somebody else!”

                            Exodus 4:8–13 MSG

– Reflection:

               Do What Is Asked of You

There are times when we almost miss out on the great things that God wants to do in and through us because we talk ourselves out of believing what He says. When God asked Moses to go and tell Pharaoh to free God’s people from slavery, Moses responded, “I can’t do that. I have a speech problem and I’m not a good speaker.” I always have to remind myself of God’s response to Moses, which was a question: “Moses, who made your tongue?” It was as if God was saying, “I’ve already equipped you with everything you need. Take a step of faith, and you’ll discover gifts inside of you that you never knew were there.” It may take time, but as you draw closer to Him, the courage to step into whatever He has for you begins to feel easier.

Where do we go from here?

Don’t let the size of your dreams or the challenges to your dreams intimidate you. Just think about that for a moment. If you can fix something that you have asked GOD for, why would he show up in that? For example, “God, I need you to help me with practicing my speech and the nervousness I feel in front of others while speaking.” This is something you can fix on your own by practicing and placing yourself in those uncomfortable speaking environments. And don’t let naysayers discourage you from pressing forward, either. You must realize that God will never put a dream in your heart without first equipping you with everything you need to accomplish it. If you don’t have the necessary wisdom, talent, or resources, remind yourself that God has matched you with your world. Do as Moses did and keep taking steps of faith, and God will do the rest.

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, thank you for the gifts and talents you have given us to accomplish our dreams. We are grateful that we don’t have to feel like we already have everything we need in order to move forward. We can declare that we will keep taking steps of faith and trust you to guide us to where you want us to be. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

– Scripture:

But it’s trouble ahead if you think you have it made. What you have is all you’ll ever get. And it’s trouble ahead if you’re satisfied with yourself. Your self will not satisfy you for long. And it’s trouble ahead if you think life’s all fun and games.
There’s suffering to be met, and you’re going to meet it. “There’s trouble ahead when you live only for the approval of others, saying what flatters them, doing what indulges them. Popularity contests are not truth contests—look how many scoundrel preachers were approved by your ancestors! Your task is to be accurate, not popular.

                           Luke 6:24–26 MSG 

– Reflection:

              Give Away Your Life

Sooner or later, our faith will be tested in the context of friendship. There will come a time when a friend needs us, and they may stray from their beliefs. When this happens, we are faced with a choice to confront the situation and speak the truth into their life or to ignore it and risk damaging or losing the friendship.

Where do we go from here?

When the time comes, before you do anything, make sure you are not being driven by judgment, resentment, or jealousy. If you might be, stop and simply entrust your friend to God. God is able to reach your friend through other means. If, however, you are sure that it is love that’s driving you, more than anything else, then go ahead and speak. Put your friendship upon the altar and see what God does with it. Do it privately and gently. But be warned, it might not go well. These conversations are tough. That’s okay. Trust God to work it out in the end.

Our Prayer for Today

Thank you, Father, for waking us up each day with good news. Help us praise you as we should and honor the work within each of us. Amen.

– Scripture:

The Israelite foremen came to Pharaoh and cried out for relief: “Why are you treating your servants like this? Nobody gives us any straw and they tell us, ‘Make bricks!’ Look at us we’re being beaten. And it’s not our fault.” But Pharaoh said, “Lazy! That’s what you are! Lazy! That’s why you whine, ‘Let us go so we can worship GOD.’ Well then, go—go back to work. Nobody’s going to give you straw, and at the end of the day you better bring in your full quota of bricks.” 19  The Israelite foremen saw that they were in a bad way, having to go back and tell their workers, “Not one brick short in your daily quota.” As they left Pharaoh, they found Moses and Aaron waiting to meet them. The foremen said to them, “May GOD see what you’ve done and judge you; you’ve made us stink before Pharaoh and his servants! You’ve put a weapon in his hand that’s going to kill us!” Moses went back to GOD and said, “My Master, why are you treating this people so badly? And why did you ever send me? From the moment I came to Pharaoh to speak in your name, things have only gotten worse for this people. And rescue? Does this look like rescue to you?”

                              Exodus 5:15–23 MSG

– Reflection:

                Your Freedom

Justice is not easily achieved, and it certainly doesn’t happen quickly. I often wish that the great injustices in the world could be solved as neatly and swiftly as they are in a one-hour crime drama on TV. The problem is introduced, the characters are developed, there might be a minor setback for drama, and then victory comes before the final commercial break. Don’t you wish life were that simple? We all know it isn’t, but sometimes we expect the great injustices to crumble and fall as soon as we put our minds to it. Personally, I’ve felt tempted to step away, pull out, and give up if things get too “messy” when advocating or standing up for justice in the world. When it is no longer popular to have the catchy yard sign, speak up among colleagues and friends, or call attention to the suffering in the world, what do we do? When the powers that be double down on their power, use language to slander, attack, and blame the victims and those who stand with them, what do we do? When the work towards justice seems to ask something of me in my lifetime, but might not be resolved for a generation or two later, do we stay committed or do we back down?

Where do we go from here?

It’s important to remember that working for justice is never easy. It can turn people who care about each other into enemies. The pushback from authority and the powers that be can instill fear and prevent positive action. Too often, just as the work for justice is beginning, well-meaning people step back and retreat to the safety and comfort of their lives. Nevertheless, we are called not to turn away from the world’s troubles, not to ignore the suffering of our brothers and sisters, and perhaps to make ourselves a little uncomfortable so that others may receive comfort. Let’s keep in mind the marginalized, the persecuted, and the mistreated, for that is where we are often called to show up and make a difference.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, you know the places of peace we need, continue to strengthen us through the trouble our hearts have and quicken our feet to move and respond to the injustices of the world. Grant us courage and strength to sustain the work alongside you, which points and bends towards your beloved community. Through your Son, the Prince of Peace, we pray. Amen.

– Scripture:

Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don’t quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality. Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they’re happy; share tears when they’re down. Get along with each other; don’t be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don’t be the great somebody. Don’t hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you’ve got it in you, get along with everybody. Don’t insist on getting even; that’s not for you to do. “I’ll do the judging,” says God. “I’ll take care of it.”

                             Romans 12:11–19 MSG

– Reflection:

               Don’t Burn Out

Remember this: When you’re going through tough times, it’s important to be patient and stay positive. It’s easy to get discouraged and think that things will never work out, but God already has a plan in place. Stay patient, stay prayerful, and remember that the trouble you’re facing is only temporary. God will bring you through it and make everything beautiful in its time.

Where do we go from here?

“Give God the time to work it out. Just because you don’t see anything happening doesn’t mean God is not working. Behind the scenes right now, He’s lining up everything that you need. His plans are bigger, better, and more rewarding than ever imagined.”

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, thank you for your plans for our lives and how you always work them out. Thank you that we can trust you in our times of trouble and be patient, knowing that you will make it beautiful in time. We believe that trouble is temporary, and you’re going to bring us out better. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

– Scripture:

Moses objected, “They won’t trust me. They won’t listen to a word I say. They’re going to say, ‘God? Appear to him? Hardly!’ ” So God said, “What’s that in your hand?” “A staff.” “Throw it on the ground.” He threw it. It became a snake; Moses jumped back—fast! God said to Moses, “Reach out and grab it by the tail.” He reached out and grabbed it—and he was holding his staff again. “That’s so they will trust that God appeared to you, the God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” God then said, “Put your hand inside your shirt.” He slipped his hand under his shirt, then took it out. His hand had turned leprous, like snow. He said, “Put your hand back under your shirt.” He did it, then took it back out—as healthy as before. “So if they don’t trust you and aren’t convinced by the first sign, the second sign should do it. But if it doesn’t, if even after these two signs they don’t trust you and listen to your message, take some water out of the Nile and pour it out on the dry land; the Nile water that you pour out will turn to blood when it hits the ground.” Moses raised another objection to God: “Master, please, I don’t talk well. I’ve never been good with words, neither before nor after you spoke to me. I stutter and stammer.”

                          Exodus 4:1–10 MSG

– Reflection:

It will be Hard; But We must Speak

Yesterday, I wrote a post about the power of our tongues. Today, I want to talk about the words given to us by God. While we don’t have the same direct evidence of God speaking to individuals as in biblical times, we have a sense of purpose and love imprinted on our hearts from the beginning. Faith and love, along with the Holy Spirit, are the gifts God has left us. When these three come together, we can feel God’s presence in everything around us. Unfortunately, today, anger and fear are trying to replace faith and love, pushing the Holy Spirit further away from many people. It’s troubling, but it’s the reality we live in.

Where do we go from here?

Why do we humans long for “signs”? In Exodus, God responds to the Israelites’ cries in the wilderness to see a visible manifestation of Him. God offers a first sign and a second, and for the third, God says, “Let the water from the river become blood on the ground.” These are the signs that the people of that time received. We no longer have those, but what we do have is the WORD, “The Bible.” When we begin to read those words together, His presence is strongly felt among a group of us who are genuinely wrapped in faith. The world wants to bottle and hand us a stiff drink of chaos, hate, and despair. We have to believe that Christ died for us as He did all those years ago and still walks and helps us through our days. That is for those of us who believe; for the rest of those who do not, we are the guides to help them get to where they are going.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for another day in your presence. Thank you for allowing me to help another soul begin to balance their faith and love for you and those they hold dear. Please allow them to see that in Christ, everything is possible, and they will be safe if only they give their hearts to him. Thank you, Jesus. Amen.

– Scripture:

Announce this to the godless nations: Prepare for battle!
Soldiers at attention! Present arms! Advance! Turn your shovels into swords, turn your hoes into spears. Let the weak one throw out his chest and say, “I’m tough, I’m a fighter.” Hurry up, pagans! Wherever you are, get a move on! Get your act together. Prepare to be shattered by God! Let the pagan nations set out for Judgment Valley. There I’ll take my place at the bench and judge all the surrounding nations.

                              Joel 3:9–12 MSG

– Reflection:

               Power of Your Tongue

I am not sure if many people know it, but constantly telling yourself that something is wrong will eventually make something go wrong. It can affect your health, finances, relationships, and more. This negative self-talk can hold us back from reaching our potential. If we go around saying negative things about ourselves, our family, or our future, it will limit our potential for success. When you say, “I’ll never be successful. I’m not talented. I can’t break this addiction. I always get the flu. After what they did, I’ll never be happy again,” you’re giving those words the power to come true. You’re predicting your own future. You’re inviting negativity into your life. Before you say it, make sure you truly want it. The environments we grow up in often teach us to speak negatively about ourselves. As a child of Christ, it’s up to you to break free from this pattern. No one else is going to do it for you.

Where do we go from here?

It’s not easy to break the habit of allowing others to mistreat you and repeating negative words that have been passed down through generations. Now is the time to change your mindset. You can’t speak negatively and expect a positive life. You can’t talk about defeat and lack and expect to live a victorious and abundant life. Your words shape your future. If you want to know what you’ll be like in five years, listen to what you’re saying about yourself now. Stop speaking defeat over your future and start proclaiming victory over your life. Talk about the person you want to become. Speak about health, vitality, and abundance.

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You for the power of our words to bring life to our faith and to speak our future into existence. We are grateful that we can use our words to welcome healing, freedom, abundance, and strength into our lives. We will declare what You say about us and the promises You’ve given us in Your Word. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

-Scripture:

Do you think I speak this strongly in order to manipulate crowds? Or curry favor with God? Or get popular applause? If my goal was popularity, I wouldn’t bother being Christ’s slave. Know this—I am most emphatic here, friends—this great Message I delivered to you is not mere human optimism. I didn’t receive it through the traditions, and I wasn’t taught it in some school. I got it straight from God, received the Message directly from Jesus Christ. I’m sure that you’ve heard the story of my earlier life when I lived in the Jewish way. In those days I went all out in persecuting God’s church. I was systematically destroying it. I was so enthusiastic about the traditions of my ancestors that I advanced head and shoulders above my peers in my career. Even then God had designs on me. Why, when I was still in my mother’s womb he chose and called me out of sheer generosity! Now he has intervened and revealed his Son to me so that I might joyfully tell non-Jews about him.

                            Galatians 1:10–16 MSG

– Reflection:

               As Per the Plan

When Christianity was just starting out, there was a man named Saul who did everything he could to fight against it. According to Jewish tradition and the Tanakh, many rules were derived from the Torah, “The Teachings of Moses.” It seems that to Saul, these rules specifically instructed him to persecute anyone who didn’t follow the same rules he did regarding God. Christianity was new, but it was gaining structure because of Jesus, who was changing how the Bible was being lived out. This angered the religious teachers. Saul was like a terrorist until a sudden light from Heaven struck him to the ground on the road to Damascus, and Jesus revealed Himself to him. That day was a turning point, and Saul eventually became the apostle Paul. If God based His will only on our decisions, Paul wouldn’t have had a chance. The beauty is that God has a sovereign will that overrides our choices and puts us into His purpose. It’s the goodness of God, stepping in and showing us mercy and love when we should have judgment. In Paul’s case, this sovereign act brought him into his destiny to preach the gospel to the Gentiles.

Where do we go from here?

When you understand that God is sovereign, loving, and not basing everything on your choices, abilities, or background, you can stay in peace. Disappointments, losses, and bad breaks are all working according to the plan and purpose He decided long ago. You have to trust that He’s sovereign even when you don’t understand. So when Saul was causing pain for the early Christians, it was planned. Not the evil work that the man did, but the free will of that man to be and do what he thinks is right, only to be set straight by the Father himself. We do have free will, and when we use it to create disgrace, pain, and regret, God will still be there to redeem us, just as He did with Saul.

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, thank you for loving us and for never giving up on us when we’ve been off course and failed. Thank you for seeing a chosen vessel in Saul when he was persecuting the church, and for using us as your instruments too. We believe that you are leading us into our destiny. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

– Scripture:

Pharaoh heard about it and tried to kill Moses, but Moses got away to the land of Midian. He sat down by a well. The priest of Midian had seven daughters. They came and drew water, filling the troughs and watering their father’s sheep. When some shepherds came and chased the girls off, Moses came to their rescue and helped them water their sheep. When they got home to their father, Reuel, he said, “That didn’t take long. Why are you back so soon?” “An Egyptian,” they said, “rescued us from a bunch of shepherds. Why, he even drew water for us and watered the sheep.”
He said, “So where is he? Why did you leave him behind? Invite him so he can have something to eat with us.” Moses agreed to settle down there with the man, who then gave his daughter Zipporah (Bird) to him for his wife. She had a son, and Moses named him Gershom (Sojourner), saying, “I’m a sojourner in a foreign country.”

                                   Exodus 2:15–22 MSG

– Reflection:

                  Helper or Stopper

Today’s story takes place at a classic gathering spot: a well for drawing water. Many Bible stories feature encounters around a well, such as Jesus meeting “the woman at the well”, the line of Isaac and Jacob meeting their wives at wells, and even Joseph being thrown into one by his brothers. A wide variety of things can happen when people come to the watering hole. Even though the daughters were supposed to be there, if any men came around the well, they could take control of it. Moses minds his own business sitting by the well, but when he sees the women get chased away, he “came to their defense and watered their flock.” He didn’t necessarily have to do that, but it was a kind thing to do. It’s a story as old as time: people with power, prestige, or popularity pick on those they view as “lesser.” There are bystanders around, but what will they do or not do? Moses chooses to stand up to the bullies and help the women water their father’s flock.

Where do we go from here?

Where are the patterns in your life leading you? How can you transition from being an innocent bystander to becoming a helper? Can you be a friend to someone you’ve never met? All of these questions lead us to reflect on the life of Christ and how he conducted himself while on earth. Be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, help us recognize the humanity in all people. May we courageously stand up for one another and be your hands and feet in the world. Amen.

– Scripture:

Blessed be GOD he heard me praying. He proved he’s on my side; I’ve thrown my lot in with him. Now I’m jumping for joy, and shouting and singing my thanks to him. GOD is all strength for his people, ample refuge for his chosen leader; Save your people and bless your heritage. Care for them; carry them like a good shepherd.

                            Psalm 28:6-9 MSG

– Reflection:

               Trust No One

You see, we can’t trust any person completely. All “have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” So, waiting for complete trust means waiting for something that will never happen. We’re all broken and capable of wickedness even toward those we love most. God, however, is not. So, in Him and in Him only, should we put our trust. He calls us to be transparent and vulnerable with others, so we must. It might not always go well (at least from our perspectives). That’s okay. It will go well from God’s perspective; our obedience to Him always does. And He knows better than we do.

Every person who reads these messages, whom I know and care about, is someone I love. This passage from Psalms really challenges us to think about people; we are all just people with our own mindsets about how we see things. Trusting a person entirely means you are placing them in the realm of God. I can tell you that I am a good person, but I am not like Jesus at all. So, we can’t truly trust a person entirely.

Where do we go from here?

Next time you meet with a brother or sister and there are two or three, look around. Ask yourself, “Which of them do I trust more than God?” In that moment, remind yourself that you trust God and know what you must do. No more lies, no more pretending, no more posturing. Then, engage in conversations honestly and openly. This will help to build the start of a community that you can be a part of and want to be a part of. Always remember how that community was created and stay true to that creation.

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, we are grateful to be awakened by you today to continue the work before us. Now that we are awake, let’s focus on the tasks laid on our hearts. Each of us has different tasks to do, so let’s get to them. We will honor you throughout our day by doing the work you have placed in our hearts. Amen.”

– Scripture:

The king of Egypt had a talk with the two Hebrew midwives; one was named Shiphrah and the other Puah. He said, “When you deliver the Hebrew women, look at the sex of the baby. If it’s a boy, kill him; if it’s a girl, let her live.” But the midwives had far too much respect for God and didn’t do what the king of Egypt ordered; they let the boy babies live. The king of Egypt called in the midwives. “Why didn’t you obey my orders? You’ve let those babies live!” The midwives answered Pharaoh, “The Hebrew women aren’t like the Egyptian women; they’re vigorous. Before the midwife can get there, they’ve already had the baby.” God was pleased with the midwives. The people continued to increase in number—a very strong people. And because the midwives honored God, God gave them families of their own. So Pharaoh issued a general order to all his people: “Every boy that is born, drown him in the Nile. But let the girls live.”

                                 Exodus 1:15–22 MSG

– Reflection:

                 Sightline’s

How can we keep God in sight, in our line of vision, when the world spins around us? In today’s story, Shiprah and Puah, two lowly Hebrew midwives, are named as part of God’s redemptive work in the world. While others are named, they are remembered. When asked by the king to endanger the lives of boys born into the kingdom, Shiprah and Puah refuse. They choose otherwise. They preserve life instead of ending it. It’s hard to imagine being placed in such a provocative moment of decision making. Their lives were at stake for choosing otherwise. The king was out to kill anyone who threatened his power, even helpless newborns. They stood up to his cowardice with a tremendous act of courage. For that, they are remembered. They are named. And we can learn from them what it means to keep what is right, what is just, what is faithful, what is good in our line of sight.

Where do we go from here?

When you are facing tough decisions and everything feels uncertain, what do you focus on to stay centered? It could be an object, a scripture, a place, or a distant point to help you keep your focus on God. Think about what helps you stay centered, and remember it for the next time you face a critical moment.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, help us stay focused on what is good, right, just, and holy, even when it’s hard. Give us courage and fix our gaze on you. Amen.

Scripture:

Meanwhile the prophets Haggai and Zechariah son of Iddo were preaching to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the authority of the God of Israel who ruled them. And so Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jozadak started again, rebuilding The Temple of God in Jerusalem. The prophets of God were right there helping them. Tattenai was governor of the land beyond the Euphrates at this time. Tattenai, Shethar-Bozenai, and their associates came to the Israelites and asked, “Who issued you a permit to rebuild this Temple and restore it to use?” Then we told them the names of the men responsible for this construction work. But God had his eye on the leaders of the Jews, and the work wasn’t stopped until a report could reach Darius and an official reply be returned.

                               Ezra 5:1–5 MSG 

Reflection:

                             Help the Leaders in the Rebuilding

Fifty thousand Israelite men returned to Jerusalem from exile under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Joshua to rebuild the temple. After completing the foundation, they faced opposition, which halted construction for sixteen years. It wasn’t until the prophets Zechariah and Haggai arrived that they were encouraged to start rebuilding. Despite years of discouragement and opposition, when the prophets said it was time to start rebuilding, Zerubbabel regained his faith, found his passion, and rose to lead the people.

Where do we go from here?

Today, you might be experiencing delays, opposition, and setbacks in pursuing your dreams and desires. Sometimes, it can feel like the enemy is winning and everything is falling apart. You are in a situation similar to Zerubbabel’s. However, God has not changed His mind. He is still saying, “Your dreams will come true.” Now, it’s your turn to rise up. Regain your passion and start believing again. This is a new day. Get ready. What didn’t work out the first time is about to happen.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for the dreams and desires you have placed in our hearts. Thank you for the assurance that setbacks and opposition cannot change your plans and that a breakthrough is coming. We believe that it is time to rise and start anew. In Jesus’ name, amen.

– Scripture:

GOD said to Moses, “Climb higher up the mountain and wait there for me; I’ll give you tablets of stone, the teachings and commandments that I’ve written to instruct them.” So Moses got up, accompanied by Joshua his aide. And Moses climbed up the mountain of God. He told the elders of Israel, “Wait for us here until we return to you. You have Aaron and Hur with you; if there are any problems, go to them.” Then Moses climbed the mountain. The Cloud covered the mountain. The Glory of GOD settled over Mount Sinai. The Cloud covered it for six days. On the seventh day he called out of the Cloud to Moses. In the view of the Israelites below, the Glory of God looked like a raging fire at the top of the mountain. Moses entered the middle of the Cloud and climbed the mountain. Moses was on the mountain forty days and forty nights.

                             Exodus 24:12–18 MSG

– Reflection:

               Mount Sinai

Sometimes my wife asks me if I’ve seen a text or picture from her sister with updates about our nieces and nephews. I check my phone for missed texts and unread messages and tell her I didn’t receive anything. She insists that I should have received it because it was sent in the group text. After some back and forth, she checks her phone and realizes that the text was sent in a smaller group chat with just her mom, dad, and sisters. Has this ever happened to you? In every community, there are smaller groups within the larger community. Eventually, everyone will come together as one, but in this text, we see the value of smaller groups within the larger community, each serving a different purpose within the identity of the whole.

Where do we go from here?

The same dynamics occur in our lives, whether within family units, our neighborhoods, at work, or at school, and even here in the church. Where do you find joy and a sense of belonging within a smaller group of the whole? How does this smaller group continue to further the mission and ministry of the whole? Be cautious about situations where the smaller group is in opposition or tension with the whole (we will see that with Moses reading ahead!). But it’s truly a gift when we can find those places of intimate community within the larger group and together join in a unified ministry to serve and glorify God.

Our Prayer for Today

Father of our community, we thank you for bringing together people from all walks of life and for various reasons. Unite us by your Spirit so that we may honor you and form meaningful connections with one another. Give us the courage to engage with new groups and fill us with your love so that we may welcome others hospitably. Amen.

– Scripture:

One day in one of the villages there was a man covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus he fell down before him in prayer and said, “If you want to, you can cleanse me.” Jesus put out his hand, touched him, and said, “I want to. Be clean.” Then and there his skin was smooth, the leprosy gone. Jesus instructed him, “Don’t talk about this all over town. Just quietly present your healed self to the priest, along with the offering ordered by Moses. Your cleansed and obedient life, not your words, will bear witness to what I have done.” But the man couldn’t keep it to himself, and the word got out. Soon a large crowd of people had gathered to listen and be healed of their ailments. As often as possible Jesus withdrew to out-of-the-way places for prayer.

                               Luke 5:1-16 MSG

– Reflection:

                Dare to Say No

When Jesus was on earth, everywhere He went people would come up and say, “Will You heal my child? Please come to my town. Teach us about Your kingdom. Show us a sign.” As the Son of God, He was anointed with power and went about doing good and healing, yet He knew His limits. He knew when He had to take time to replenish, so He often withdrew to pray and be refreshed in His Father’s presence.

Where do we go from here?

It’s important to recognize our limits. Are you feeling burnt out, overextended, or neglecting your main priorities? Remember, you have control over your schedule. Avoid taking on commitments that you know will negatively impact your health. Continuously adding to your schedule without taking breaks will only deplete your energy. It’s essential to be selective about what you commit to and perhaps even eliminate some good things in order to maintain your health. This isn’t about being selfish; it’s about finding balance. Are there any obligations you need to decline?

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, thank you that Jesus constantly went about doing good and healing, yet He knew His limits. We want to have His heart and to always be ready to give and help others, but help us to know our limits. Give us the courage to say no to commitments that cause us to live out of balance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

– Scripture:

As he finished saying this, a local official appeared, bowed politely, and said, “My daughter has just now died. If you come and touch her, she will live.” Jesus got up and went with him, his disciples following along. Just then a woman who had hemorrhaged for twelve years slipped in from behind and lightly touched his robe. She was thinking to herself, “If I can just put a finger on his robe, I’ll get well.” Jesus turned caught her at it. Then he reassured her: “Courage, daughter. You took a risk of faith, and now you’re well.” The woman was well from then on. By now they had arrived at the house of the town official, and pushed their way through the gossips looking for a story and the neighbors bringing in casseroles. Jesus was abrupt: “Clear out! This girl isn’t dead. She’s sleeping.” They told him he didn’t know what he was talking about. But when Jesus had gotten rid of the crowd, he went in, took the girl’s hand, and pulled her to her feet—alive. The news was soon out, and traveled throughout the region.

                           Matthew 9:18–26 MSG

– Reflection:

               Just a Touch

A woman had been ill for twelve years and had spent all her money visiting many doctors, but nothing had helped. She believed her sickness was permanent and that there was nothing else she could do. However, when she heard that Jesus was passing through her town, she decided to change her story. Despite her feelings and everything she had been told, she began telling herself a new story. She said, “When I touch His garments, I’m going to be healed.” With faith rising in her heart, she kept affirming to herself, “Healing is coming.” Pushing through the crowd, she touched His robe and was instantly healed.

Where do we go from here?

It’s common to have thoughts of defeat, thoughts like “I can’t do it” or “it’s never going to work out” play in your mind. You have to say, “No, I’m deleting this story. I will be the exception. I will get well. I will see my family restored. I will break this addiction. I will accomplish my dream.” Give God something to work with. You can’t hold onto an old story and expect to see the new things He wants to do.

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, thank you for giving us the power to delete the thoughts that keep us trapped in an old story of defeat. Thank you that our faith can open the way for you to do amazing things and write a new story. We are reaching out and touching you by faith today, knowing that victory will be ours. In Jesus’ name, we praise. Amen.”

– Scripture:

‘ God told me, “Don’t say, ‘I’m only a boy.’ I’ll tell you where to go and you’ll go there. I’ll tell you what to say and you’ll say it. Don’t be afraid of a soul. I’ll be right there, looking after you.” ’s Decree.’

                              Jeremiah 1:7

– Reflection:

                No Fear

God told Jeremiah that He had set him apart before he was born, that He had called him to speak to nations, and that he would be a prophet who would impact the culture. Jeremiah, as a teenager, felt unqualified, but God assured him that He would give him the words to speak. Wherever Jeremiah went, God’s hand of favor would be on him. After making these incredible promises, God said, “Don’t be afraid of the people.” God knew that people wouldn’t understand Jeremiah and that they might not like the words of warning he was going to speak. God was saying, “Don’t let the opinions of others hold you back. Don’t let what they think or say keep you from fulfilling your purpose.”

Where do we go from here?

God is sending us the same message: “Don’t fear people. If they don’t approve of you, that shouldn’t deter you from your purpose.” The only thing that can stop you is if you allow their opinion to become more important than what God has placed in your heart.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for providing me with everything I need to fulfill my purpose, just as you did for Jeremiah. Thank you for making me enough just as I am, and for granting me your approval. I declare that I will not be afraid even if others don’t approve of me or oppose me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

– Scripture:

‘No prolonged infancies among us, please. We’ll not tolerate babes in the woods, small children who are easy prey for predators. God wants us to grow up, to know the whole truth and tell it in love—like Christ in everything. We take our lead from Christ, who is the source of everything we do. He keeps us in step with each other. His very breath and blood flow through us, nourishing us so that we will grow up healthy in God, robust in love. ‘

Ephesians 4:14 MSG

– Reflection:

In high school, I used to wonder what it would be like to be an adult. Now that I am one, I often ponder what it truly means to be a “real adult.” I envision a moment when I will finally feel like a grown-up, perhaps when I host a holiday cookout or handle car issues without immediately turning to my dad for help. Similarly, I sometimes expect to wake up one day as a “mature Christian,” effortlessly engaging in spiritual practices such as consistent Bible reading, regular prayer, and serving others diligently. However, the verses in Ephesians remind me that spiritual growth requires patience, persistence, reflection, and community.

Where do we go from here?

As a community of new believers, we support each other by being honest and hospitable, speaking the truth in love. We connect with other Christians, recognizing and encouraging their talents to serve the church. Most importantly, we strive to grow closer to Christ, keeping our focus on him. Just like my house plant reaches towards the patch of light on the table, our faith journey brings us closer to Christ, the light of the world.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, we are grateful that you delight in us. Bind us together with one another as we seek to grow together in love. Remind us to focus our eyes on you, the author and finisher of our faith. May we speak with compassion and truth today. Amen.

– Scripture:

King David went in, took his place before God , and prayed: Who am I, my Master , and what is my family, that you have brought me to this place in life? But that’s nothing compared to what’s coming, for you’ve also spoken of my family far into the future, given me a glimpse into tomorrow and looked on me, Master , as a Somebody. What’s left for David to say to this to your honoring your servant, even though you know me, just as I am? O ,out of the goodness of your heart, you’ve taken your servant to do this great thing and put your great work on display. There’s none like you, , no but you, nothing to compare with what we’ve heard with our own ears. And who is like your people, like Israel, a nation unique on earth, whom God set out to redeem as his own people (and became most famous for it), performing great and fearsome acts, throwing out nations and their gods left and right as you saved your people from Egypt? You established for yourself a people your very own Israel! your people forever. And you, , became their God. So now, great , this word that you have spoken to me and my family, guarantee it forever! Do exactly what you’ve promised! Then your reputation will be confirmed and flourish always as people exclaim, “The -of-the-Angel-Armies, the God over Israel, is Israel’s God!” And the house of your servant David will remain rock solid under your watchful presence. You, my God, have told me plainly, “I will build you a house.” That’s how I was able to find the courage to pray this prayer to you. , being the God you are, you have spoken all these wonderful words to me. As if that weren’t enough, you’ve blessed my family so that it will continue in your presence always. Because you have blessed it, , it’s really blessed blessed for good!

                             1 Chronicles 17:16 MSG

– Reflection:

               GOD-Sized Prayers

God gave David a huge promise that one of his descendants would always be on the throne, establishing an everlasting family line. Instead of doubting the promise, David understood its significance, and he prayed boldly, asking God for something big not because of his own abilities, but because God had promised it.

Where do we from here?

The dreams God has placed in your heart may seem impossible. But you have to say, God, You promised it; now I’m bold enough to ask You for it. When you do, don’t be surprised if you have doubts. The enemy gets stirred up when you start asking God for big things. Doubts will bombard your mind when you start praying God-sized prayers and asking Him to take you places that you’ve never been, to touch a family member who has been off course, or to give you the hidden dreams of your heart. Negative thoughts will come: Who do you think you are? Just smile and reply, ‘I am a child of the Most High God.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for creating me to live an abundant life, not a small one. I am grateful for the encouragement to ask for big things and to witness the greatness of your power. Please help me to have the courage to ask for big things and to believe in what seems impossible. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Scripture:

‘My dear friends, if you know people who have wandered off from God’s truth, don’t write them off. Go after them. Get them back and you will have rescued precious lives from destruction and prevented an epidemic of wandering away from God.’

                         James 5:19 MSG

Reflection:

             Prayer To Be Reckoned With

James concludes his impactful and challenging letter to the dispersed and persecuted Jewish Christians by urging them to zealously reach out to those who have strayed from the faith. He emphasizes the importance of praying for those who have wandered from the faith and gently guiding them back to the Lord. When we intercede for each other, it creates opportunities for restoration. It may take some time to gather your thoughts and comprehend the notion that there is someone greater and more capable than yourself who can assist you in life and ensure that you fulfill your intended purpose.

Where do we go from here?

While seeking to follow and obey God, where do you notice evidence of Satan’s influence and interference? Where do you see God’s protection and joy during challenging circumstances? As we earnestly seek God, we can confidently ask Him to restore a believer who has strayed, seek His wisdom and selfless love, ask for His help in controlling our speech, and pray for increased faith to trust Him during times of suffering patiently.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, Thank you for your grace, mercy, and righteousness, made possible through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Please help us to be obedient to your Word. Protect us from discouragement and doubt when we face hardships. Remind us of the privilege and power of prayer. Let our thoughts, words, attitudes, and behavior reflect your love in action to a dark and broken world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

– Scripture:

David and his men burst out in loud wails wept and wept until they were exhausted with weeping. David’s two wives, Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail, widow of Nabal of Carmel, had been taken prisoner along with the rest. And suddenly, David was in even worse trouble. There was talk among the men, bitter over the loss of their families, of stoning him. David strengthened himself with trust in his God. He ordered Abiathar, the priest, son of Ahimelech, “Bring me the Ephod so I can consult God.” Abiathar brought it to David.

                            1 Samuel 30:4,6 MSG

– Reflection:

              Defeat Not Defeated

In 1 Samuel 30, we read about the worst defeat David ever faced. Upon returning from a mission, he and his six hundred men discovered their city in ruins, their wives and children taken by Amalekite bandits, and all their possessions stolen. David’s men blamed him and even talked about stoning him. It was unfair that such a terrible thing happened when David was doing the right thing. However, God doesn’t promise that life will always be fair. It’s our response during these unfair times that determines whether we remain stuck and let it embitter the rest of our lives, or whether we move forward and allow God to work in and through us.

I open a gym on Sunday evening, and after the first game, we gather for a prayer. During this prayer, I ask God to provide safety for every man and young man in the gym and their families while we are gathered. I believe that this is something God provides while we are away. However, if any family is harmed despite our prayers for protection, we will have to deal with that situation. I believe that God covers us, but he doesn’t stop the world from being what it is. We must ensure that we have been honoring him and have not put any evil into the world, so that our prayers, as well as those of others, actually cover us.

Where do we go from here?

David became a champion by refusing to be defeated and instead choosing to recover everything that had been taken, and even gaining spoils from the bandits. He understood the principle that you have to get up when knocked down and not use it as an excuse to stop. Beyond the excuse lies growth and a new level of our destiny.

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, thank you for your power to strengthen us in times of unfairness, which is greater than any force that comes against us. Thank you that we can put discouragement behind us and push forward in faith. We believe that expansion is coming—something greater, something better. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

– Scripture:

“Meanwhile, friends, wait patiently for the Master’s Arrival. You see, farmers do this all the time, waiting for their valuable crops to mature, patiently letting the rain do its slow but sure work. Be patient like that. Stay steady and strong. The Master could arrive at any time. Friends, don’t complain about each other. A far greater complaint could be lodged against you, you know. The Judge is standing just around the corner. Take the old prophets as your mentors. They put up with anything, went through everything, and never once quit, all the time honoring God. What a gift life is to those who stay the course! You’ve heard, of course, of Job’s staying power, and you know how God brought it all together for him at the end. That’s because God cares, cares right down to the last detail. And since you know that he cares, let your language show it. Don’t add words like “I swear to God” to your own words. Don’t show your impatience by concocting oaths to hurry up God. Just say yes or no. Just say what is true. That way, your language can’t be used against you.”

                                James 5:7–12 MSG

– Reflection:

                Destroying Your Life From Within

James encourages believers to remain patient until the promised judgment of the ungodly. Jesus is our best example of suffering. When faced with wrongful accusations and the threat of death, His response was to remain patient, quiet, and focused on God’s will for Him. Jesus did not defend Himself against His enemies; instead, He allowed His Heavenly Father to come to His defense.

Where do we go from here?

Jesus committed Himself to suffering to fulfill God’s plan and reveal His infinite love. When you suffer unjustly, what examples from Jesus’ suffering can you implement and follow? God is able to use man’s injustice for His glory and our good. While suffering, we are made more holy and become more like Jesus. When you find yourself in troubling circumstances, choose to believe that just as Jesus controlled His destiny, He also controlled yours.

Our Prayer for Today

Father God, You are our compassionate and merciful God able to control and command the most difficult issues in life. Lord, help us to patiently endure hardship. Help us not to be moved by the way we feel or by the way things appear. Remind us of Your unfailing love when we are tempted to doubt Your goodness. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

– Scripture:

‘When I kept it all inside, my bones turned to powder; my words became daylong groans. ‘

                             Psalms 32:3 MSG

– Reflection:

               Cover Up

The passage above describes how David reflected on his declining health in the year following his affair with Bathsheba and the subsequent killing of her husband to conceal it. He deceived himself, suppressed feelings of guilt and shame, and pretended that everything was fine. However, burying negative emotions can harm the soul and eventually manifest as physical illness. Eventually, David admitted his wrongdoing and asked God for forgiveness and purification, saying, “Create in me a clean heart.” The beauty of God lies in His forgiveness and mercy. He forgave David, restored his soul, and healed his physical health.

Where do we go from here?

“Don’t let guilt and condemnation from something that you’ve done wrong in the past keep your soul unhealthy, hold you back, or weaken you physically. Get honest with yourself and get the toxins out. Go to God as David did and ask Him to forgive you, to cleanse your heart, to restore your soul and your health. Receive His mercy.”

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that we can receive Your forgiveness and have a clean heart today. Thank You that we can be honest about any sin and any mistake and get the toxins of guilt and bitterness out of our soul. Help me to walk in the joy of our salvation and in the fullness of health. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

– Scripture:

Peter and the apostles answered, “It’s necessary to obey God rather than men. The God of our ancestors raised up Jesus, the One you killed by hanging him on a cross. God set him on high at his side, Prince and Savior, to give Israel the gift of a changed life and sins forgiven. And we are witnesses to these things. The Holy Spirit, whom God gives to those who obey him, corroborates every detail.

                            Acts 5:29 MSG

– Reflection:

               Not Moved

Remember this: Sometimes, you have to make a choice, just like the apostles did. Will you stick to your beliefs and be true to who you are, or will you let other people’s opinions and approval shape your actions and identity? If you rely on others to validate you and lack confidence in yourself, you’ll hold back and let their views dictate your future. However, it will require courage to accept what God has in store for you. He will take you to places no one in your family has ever been. He will turn you into a trailblazer, a trendsetter.

Where do we go from here?

“Not everyone will understand why you refuse to compromise with them. Not everyone will approve of you if you don’t conform to their way of thinking. People who were once supportive may become critics and try to discredit you. Now they’re finding fault. That’s when you have to stand firm and say, ‘I’m not swayed by who’s not for me. I’m living to please God.'”

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for being the true and living God and rewarding those who honor and obey you. Thank you for calling us to follow you and to not shrink back when others want us to let go of our convictions. We believe that as we are doing the right thing, you will reward us with favor. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

– Scripture:

But a wicked person who turns his back on that life of sin and keeps all my statutes, living a just and righteous life, he’ll live, really live. He won’t die. I won’t keep a list of all the things he did wrong. He will live. Do you think I take any pleasure in the death of wicked men and women? Isn’t it my pleasure that they turn around, no longer living wrong but living right—really living?

                            Ezekiel 18:21 MSG

– Reflection:

               Confession Isn’t Sufficient Enough

Confession is important, but it’s not enough. Real change only happens when confession is accompanied by genuine repentance. Confession is about acknowledging our sins—to God, our partners, or trusted friends. Repentance, on the other hand, is about action. It’s about turning away from those sins and leaving our old selves behind. It’s about declaring that we don’t want to be those people anymore. Repentance means turning towards God and being open to becoming new, better individuals. Confession is a crucial first step, but repentance is the ultimate goal. While confession requires courage, repentance simply requires a willing heart.

Where do we go from here?

Please remember the following text:

“Repent of the things you need/needed to confess, brother. Turn your back on those sins and be willing to listen to God. He will always let you start anew. Repent and turn back, so that your sins may be blotted out.”

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, it is a pleasure to do the work that you require of us. If, while helping someone, they try to involve us in worldly things, it is okay to distance ourselves and let them face the consequences. At that point, only you can save them, not us. We have done our part to provide hope for redemption. The rest is up to them to accept you. Knowing this keeps us on the right path, guiding our steps along the path you have set for us. Thank you for the grace of each day, Jesus. Amen.”

– Scripture:

So, let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God, and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet.

                               James 4:7–10 MSG

– Reflection:

                Let GOD Work

When we come to Jesus Christ, God comes close to us in a powerful pursuit. The infinite reaches down to the finite. The holy covers the unholy. Perfection seeks the imperfect. A believer’s salvation starts with a humble confession of our sins and the urgent need for Jesus to cleanse us. Our transformation continues with the humble recognition that we need Jesus daily in order to live holy lives.

Where do we go from here?

“Where are you resisting giving yourself fully to the Lord? God rescues undeserving and unworthy believers from death and the bondage of sin through the sacrifice of His Son. He places infinite and immeasurable value on us, and He can be absolutely trusted with our full devotion. Where do you feel pressured to resist God and deviate from His plans for you?”

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, I thank You for Your amazing love that compels us to trust You with our lives. Lord, please help us to replace our selfishness with Your humility, our resistance with submission, and our half-heartedness with Your wholeness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

– Scripture:

Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. You lust for what you don’t have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn’t yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it. You wouldn’t think of just asking God for it, would you? And why not? Because you know you’d be asking for what you have no right to. You’re spoiled children, each wanting your own way. You’re cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. And do you suppose God doesn’t care? The proverb has it that “he’s a fiercely jealous lover.” And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you’ll find. It’s common knowledge that “God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble.”

                          James 4:1–6 MSG

– Reflection:

             Get Serious

“When believers compromise and live according to the culture, values, and ideas of this world, we are committing spiritual adultery. God makes it clear that we cannot serve two masters. If we live for the world, we will worship the things that the world values, which directly oppose the values of God. We must choose daily to serve, worship, and live for God alone.”

Where do we go from here?

Where are you finding it challenging to compromise with the world? God empowers believers to resist the temptation to compromise His values and instead live wholeheartedly for Him.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, we thank You for protecting us and helping us resist the temptation to compromise Your values and distort Your Word. Please protect our hearts and minds from thoughts, ideas, or belief systems contradicting Your Word. Lord, please remove any areas of pride in our hearts that may prevent us from humbly serving You and Your people. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

– Scripture:

Don’t be in any rush to become a teacher, my friends. Teaching is highly responsible work. Teachers are held to the strictest standards. And none of us is perfectly qualified. We get it wrong nearly every time we open our mouths. If you could find someone whose speech was perfectly true, you’d have a perfect person in perfect control of life. A bit in the mouth of a horse controls the whole horse. A small rudder on a huge ship in the hands of a skilled captain sets a course in the face of the strongest winds. A word out of your mouth may seem of no account, but it can accomplish nearly anything or destroy it!

                              James 3:1–5 MSG

– Reflection:

               When You Open Your Mouth

The importance of our speech is emphasized in the wisdom about the power of the tongue. Our words reflect what is in our hearts, so it’s crucial to confront and correct any expressions of anger, doubt, trickery, or immorality promptly. Because our speech should reflect God, we need His help to ensure that our words are righteous, loving, controlled, and full of grace and mercy.

Where do we go from here?

“Do you struggle with your speech? What are your speaking habits or speech patterns that require God’s help to refine and transform? Our speech reflects our knowledge and wisdom. Just as our attitudes and behaviors, our speech must also be submitted to God for transformation.”

Our Prayer for Today

Father, we thank You for the power of Your Word. Please help us to use Your Word as a guide for our speech. Give us wisdom, discernment, and self-control when it comes to the words that we speak. Let our words be refreshing, gracious, and always reflect You well. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

– Scripture:

My dear friends, don’t let public opinion influence how you live out our glorious, Christ-originated faith. If a man enters your church wearing an expensive suit, and a street person wearing rags comes in right after him, and you say to the man in the suit, “Sit here, sir; this is the best seat in the house!” and either ignore the street person or say, “Better sit here in the back row,” haven’t you segregated God’s children and proved that you are judges who can’t be trusted?  Listen, dear friends. Isn’t it clear by now that God operates quite differently? He chose the world’s down-and-out as the kingdom’s first citizens, with full rights and privileges. This kingdom is promised to anyone who loves God. And here you are abusing these same citizens! Isn’t it the high and mighty who exploit you, who use the courts to rob you blind? Aren’t they the ones who scorn the new name—“Christian”—used in your baptisms? You do well when you complete the Royal Rule of the Scriptures: “Love others as you love yourself.” But if you play up to these so-called important people, you go against the Rule and stand convicted by it. You can’t pick and choose in these things, specializing in keeping one or two things in God’s law and ignoring others. The same God who said, “Don’t commit adultery,” also said, “Don’t murder.” If you don’t commit adultery but go ahead and murder, do you think your non-adultery will cancel out your murder? No, you’re a murderer, period. Talk and act like a person expecting to be judged by the Rule that sets us free. For if you refuse to act kindly, you can hardly expect to be treated kindly. Kind mercy wins over harsh judgment every time.

                             James 2:1–13 (MSG): 

– Reflection:

               The Royal Rule of Love

God has chosen the most meak people in history to tell his story. We do our best work when we complete the royal rule of love, which says we are to love one another as we love ourselves. The times when we go against this train of thought are where most of our problems come into play. Working in care/love gives us the complete direction for what is expected of us. Placing a person or goal in front of the work imprinted on our hearts from birth slaps GOD in the face and says that what we want is more important than what we were created for.

Where do we go from here?

Start small. I have said it several times before: Trying to take on a large project in the beginning will not work. Your focus and heart will not be in it for the duration of the work. Honoring the work must be done at all times, even when you don’t feel as if you are making any headway. So here is what I did first: I am a part of a men’s chat group, and we do a lot of different tasks at the church. We help people move, paint bedrooms, build fences, or, in my case, pray for someone. For me, this was significant, and I took it as seriously as I should have. Even today, when someone in the group asks for prayer, I step up and send one to them – not a prying hands emoji, but an actual prayer. Find your lane and start to own your place.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, we thank you for the influence you have given each of us. Please allow us to honor you faithfully and continue the work that each of us has within us. Amen.

– Scripture:

‘Dear friends, do you think you’ll get anywhere in this if you learn all the right words but never do anything? Does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really has it? For instance, you come upon an old friend dressed in rags and half-starved and say, “Good morning, friend! Be clothed in Christ! Be filled with the Holy Spirit!” and walk off without providing so much as a coat or a cup of soup—where does that get you? Isn’t it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense? ‘

                                James 2:14 MSG

– Reflection:

                Faith In Action

Living in obedience to God as a result of our faith is a key indicator of real salvation. A faith without transformation recognizes biblical teachings but does not reflect those teachings in one’s life. The way a believer lives their life is a reflection of their genuine faith.

Where do we go from here?

“Our works do not make us righteous before God; only Jesus does. However, after one has been saved, they become a new creation with a new purpose, new power, and a new Lord. A believer’s actions and behavior after salvation should reflect the spiritual change on the inside. The Holy Spirit works powerfully within the believer to transform a self-focused life into an others-focused life that brings glory to Jesus. What message does your life convey about the gospel?”

Our Prayer for Today

Father, please help us commit to following You and living out the gospel practically. Cleanse and transform our hearts, and make us willing to love and serve others genuinely. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

– Scripture:

‘You do well when you complete the Royal Rule of the Scriptures: “Love others as you love yourself.” But if you play up to these so-called important people, you go against the Rule and stand convicted by it. You can’t pick and choose in these things, specializing in keeping one or two things in God’s law and ignoring others. The same God who said, “Don’t commit adultery,” also said, “Don’t murder.” If you don’t commit adultery but go ahead and murder, do you think your non-adultery will cancel out your murder? No, you’re a murderer, period. Talk and act like a person expecting to be judged by the Rule that sets us free. For if you refuse to act kindly, you can hardly expect to be treated kindly. Kind mercy wins over harsh judgment every time.’

                            James 2:8-13 MSG

– Reflection:

              Actions of Sacrifice

In the Bible, James challenges believers with the command to love their neighbors as they love themselves. Believers are instructed to love God with all their being and possessions. Only then are we able to prioritize the needs of our neighbors over our own. It’s easy to make sacrifices for family, but what about making sacrifices for a stranger or someone who is not well-liked? Doing great things for anyone in need truly is a sacrifice. Jesus did this for all of us and asked for nothing in return. Truly amazing.

Where do we go from here?

What do our attitude and actions of sacrifice and giving reveal to others about Jesus? Sacrificial giving of our money, time, love, talents, and gifts to others shows that we trust the Lord to provide, supply, and replenish all of those things in our lives. It demonstrates that He truly is the center of our hearts.

Our Prayer for Today

Father God, You are our generous Provider who selflessly pours into our lives. Father, teach us to be generous, to give without counting the cost, and to sacrifice without seeking recognition or reward. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

– Scripture:

 Post this at all the intersections, dear friends: Lead with your ears, follow up with your tongue, and let anger straggle along in the rear. God’s righteousness doesn’t grow from human anger. So throw all spoiled virtue and cancerous evil in the garbage. In simple humility, let our gardener, God, landscape you with the Word, making a salvation-garden of your life.

‭‭.                             James‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬-‭21‬ ‭MSG‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/97/jas.1.19-21.MSG

– Reflection:

                 Gifted with God’s Goodness

Because believers have been gifted with God’s goodness and righteousness, we have a responsibility to control our speech, our attitude, and our behavior. Every word we speak and every action we take first begins in our hearts. When faced with the temptation to pour out our feelings and emotions in anger or unrighteousness, believers must quiet our hearts, slow down, and listen to God concerning what He would have us say and do.  

Where do we go from here?

In what circumstance are you being led by your emotions, your temper, and your attitude? Believers must seek God’s power to surrender our agenda and our self-centered desires in exchange for His humility, His compassion, and His mercy towards others.  

Our Prayer for Today. 

Father God, increase Your love in me. Lord, help my words and actions express the goodness, kindness, and mercy of Your heart. Lord, prevent me from being swept away in negative emotions and attitudes. Help me to humbly lay aside any wicked or inappropriate thoughts or attitudes. Lord, help me to honor You in all that I say and do. In Jesus’ name. Amen.     

– Scripture:

The law always ended up being used as a Band-Aid on sin instead of a deep healing of it. And now what the law code asked for but we couldn’t deliver is accomplished as we, instead of redoubling our own efforts, simply embrace what the Spirit is doing in us.
5–8  Those who think they can do it on their own end up obsessed with measuring their own moral muscle but never get around to exercising it in real life. Those who trust God’s action in them find that God’s Spirit is in them—living and breathing God! Obsession with self in these matters is a dead end; attention to God leads us out into the open, into a spacious, free life. Focusing on the self is the opposite of focusing on God. Anyone completely absorbed in self ignores God, ends up thinking more about self than God. That person ignores who God is and what he is doing. And God isn’t pleased at being ignored.

                           Romans 8:3–8 MSG

– Reflection:

              The Solution Is Life On God’s Terms

I know you remember your younger selves as I do, thinking that our way was the best way. Then realizing that our parents had also made mistakes and were trying to guide us in the right direction. This is similar to the experience of becoming a Christian. It feels like all the information is being revealed to you, information that you already knew but didn’t fully listen to. It can be overwhelming and make you want to cry, but it’s important to seek understanding and follow the guidance of the spirit. There’s no time for crying now; it’s time to take action and do whatever work needs to be done.

Where do we go from here?

“When we live according to GOD’s terms, everything is plain and simple; not complex in any way. If people need help and you are able to help, then help them. If someone needs prayer, pray with them. If an elderly person’s yard needs cutting, cut the yard – it’s that simple. There isn’t a lot to living GOD’s way. Cut out all the overthinking about what it looks like to others, and who may see you helping someone who may be considered lower than you. If they have an issue with that, then you shouldn’t be around them anyway.”

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, thank you for waking us this morning to continue on the paths you have laid before us. We know that despite the simplicity of our paths, there will be resistance, but we trust that you will remove those obstacles for us. Thank you. Amen.”

– Scripture:

After several days of visiting, a prophet from Judea by the name of Agabus came down to see us. He went right up to Paul, took Paul’s belt, and, in a dramatic gesture, tied himself up, hands and feet. He said, “This is what the Holy Spirit says: The Jews in Jerusalem are going to tie up the man who owns this belt just like this and hand him over to godless unbelievers.” When we heard that, we and everyone there that day begged Paul not to be stubborn and persist in going to Jerusalem. But Paul wouldn’t budge: “Why all this hysteria? Why do you insist on making a scene and making it even harder for me? You’re looking at this backward. The issue in Jerusalem is not what they do to me, whether arrest or murder, but what the Master Jesus does through my obedience. Can’t you see that?” We saw that we weren’t making even a dent in his resolve, and gave up. “It’s in God’s hands now,” we said. “Master, you handle it.”

                            Acts 21:10–14 MSG

– Reflection:

                  Ready to Go? Let’s Go.

Remember this:

When we follow Jesus, God will eventually ask us to do something we don’t want to do, or go somewhere we don’t want to go. This request may come as a nudge during prayer, a thought while reading the Bible, or through the words of a friend. However it comes, it will come. To become the men we were created to be, and to become the men the world needs us to be, we must act with the same boldness and confidence that Paul used. These requests lead us into the adventures for which we were created.

Where do we go from here?

“What do you think God might be asking of you right now, at this very minute? Is there anything you feel he’s prompting you quietly to do? If so, trust him and take a practical and measurable step towards that thing today.”

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, thank you for always being prepared to go at a moment’s notice. It is your grace that allows us to honor others as you intend. When we are unable to assist those we come to help, we need to recognize when it’s time to leave. Thank you for guiding us in all things, Jesus. Amen.”

– Scripture:

He said, “What has happened?” They said, “The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene. He was a man of God, a prophet, dynamic in work and word, blessed by both God and all the people. Then our high priests and leaders betrayed him, got him sentenced to death, and crucified him. And we had our hopes up that he was the One, the One about to deliver Israel. And it is now the third day since it happened. But now some of our women have completely confused us. Early this morning they were at the tomb and couldn’t find his body. They came back with the story that they had seen a vision of angels who said he was alive. Some of our friends went off to the tomb to check and found it empty just as the women said, but they didn’t see Jesus.” Then he said to them, “So thick-headed! So slow-hearted! Why can’t you simply believe all that the prophets said? Don’t you see that these things had to happen, that the Messiah had to suffer and only then enter into his glory?” Then he started at the beginning, with the Books of Moses, and went on through all the Prophets, pointing out everything in the Scriptures that referred to him.

                                Luke 24:19–27 MSG

– Reflection:

                 Who’s Walking with You

On the Sunday after Jesus was crucified, two of His disciples were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus. They were so discouraged and sorrowful that Jesus was gone; their hopes and dreams were shattered. They were so focused on their great disappointment that they didn’t recognize the risen Jesus who suddenly joined them in their journey and conversation. In that incredible moment, He began to explain to them all that the Scripture had predicted about Him, how He would be crucified and rise from the dead on the third day. It wasn’t until later that day that they realized their seven-mile walk had been in the presence of the risen Savior.

Where do we go from here?

How often do we fail to recognize what God is doing during our daily journey? We become so preoccupied with addressing problems, attempting to improve our finances, managing our family, or coping with an illness that we overlook all the positive things that God is doing in the present moment. Let’s not be so fixated on what’s wrong that we fail to acknowledge that Jesus is accompanying us through it all.

Our Prayer for Today

“Father, thank you for walking with us and working in our lives every day. Help us to not be so focused on today’s challenges that we miss the good things that you’re doing in this present moment. Open our eyes as you did with these two disciples so that we can see too. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

– Scripture:

Still, I want it made clear that I’ve never gotten anything out of this for myself, and that I’m not writing now to get something. I’d rather die than give anyone ammunition to discredit me or impugn my motives. If I proclaim the Message, it’s not to get something out of it for myself. I’m compelled to do it, and doomed if I don’t! If this was my own idea of just another way to make a living, I’d expect some pay. But since it’s not my idea but something solemnly entrusted to me, why would I expect to get paid? So am I getting anything out of it? Yes, as a matter of fact: the pleasure of proclaiming the Message at no cost to you. You don’t even have to pay my expenses!

                           1 Corinthians 9:15–18 MSG

– Reflection:

              Freedom with Responsibility

The passage from First Corinthians 9 prompts us to consider the joy of sharing the gospel without expecting anything in return. We could focus on the potential rewards mentioned in the text, but the main point is to avoid becoming entangled with expectations. By setting aside the possibility of a pay-off, Paul is able to operate freely and without the mindset of “if you give me this, then I will do this.”

Where do we go from here?

Even when we think we have cast those aside, it’s never that easy. What would it look like for you to be able to witness Christ without any sense of expectation? Right there is where I think the Bible is taken out of context. Yes, you need a wage — we all do, but not for telling the Word to the masses.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, free us from mindsets of expectations. Free us from entanglements and resentment. Help us to share the gospel freely. For what is given with the greatest of price cannot be traded or sold. Amen.

– Scripture:

Be good to me, God and now! I’ve run to you for dear life. I’m hiding out under your wings until the hurricane blows over. I call out to High God, the God who holds me together. He sends orders from heaven and saves me, he humiliates those who kick me around. God delivers generous love, he makes good on his word.

                            Psalm 57:1–3 MSG

– Reflection:

               Too Good To Miss

A lot of us struggle with what we consider to be “adventure.” We often associate adventure with extreme activities like mountain climbing, skydiving, or deep wilderness hikes. But what about when God calls us to do something that challenges our pride, risks a friendship, or pushes us out of our comfort zone? Are these experiences not also worthy of being called adventures?

Where do we go from here?

The issue is that we often mistakenly see God’s unexpected events as unwelcome disruptions, unpleasant obstacles, or unnecessary risks to the secure lives we’ve worked hard to build for ourselves and our families, instead of recognizing them as the mythical experiences they truly are. As a result, we overlook the wonderful days, moments, and stories that God wants to share with us, which he dreamt of long ago. When faced with interruptions, procrastination, or opportunities for risk, take a moment to consider whether these may have been intentionally placed in our path by a loving Father God.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for the many things we are called to do that break us out of our comfort zones. It is in those moments where we really find out who we are. When we are stretched, something happens for the betterment of us. God, you step in and begin to show us some pretty cool things. With you watching our backs and your son watching the front of us, we can will be okay on any adventure you send us on. Amen.

 – Scripture:

So, my friends, when you come together to the Lord’s Table, be reverent and courteous with one another. If you’re so hungry that you can’t wait to be served, go home and get a sandwich. But by no means risk turning this Meal into an eating and drinking binge or a family squabble. It is a spiritual meal—a love feast. I’ll respond to the other things you asked about in person when I make my next visit.

                               1 Corinthians 11:33–34 MSG

 – Reflection:

                 It’s About More Than a Meal

When we celebrate, we often forget to honor the one who created us and instead focus on ourselves. I have been to many gatherings where we started the celebrations before everyone arrived because people were hungry. Our relationships with God are more important than the food we eat. It’s about connecting with the people we share our lives with or the bond between two people becoming one. The meal is what brings everyone together, but the real message comes through the fellowship. If the food is the most important thing to you, then maybe it’s better to celebrate alone at home. Most of the time, a dinner invitation is about much more than just having a meal.

Where do we go from here?

This passage relates to what Paul has been teaching the Corinthians about the Lord’s Supper. He chastised them for missing the point of the feast. When the church comes together to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, it’s not supposed to be like any other dinner party. It’s not about the menu; people eat without any consideration for others who have not yet arrived. They drink to excess at the Lord’s Supper! They fail to recognize the community at the heart of the feast. They fail to recognize how the feast brings them into communion with one another and with the Lord. As you prepare your hearts to come to the feast, take time to consider what it means to you, what it means to us, and what it means for the world. By doing so, we know the abundant love God has for us all. Now that’s something worth celebrating! 

Our Prayer for Today

Father, we thank you, for the feast you have prepared for us all. As we break bread and share the fruit of our labor, may we come into deeper communion with one another and with you. We pray through Jesus, the bread of life. Amen. 

– Scripture:

When a gentle southerly breeze came up, they weighed anchor, thinking it would be smooth sailing. But they were no sooner out to sea than a gale-force wind, the infamous nor’easter, struck. They lost all control of the ship. It was a cork in the storm. We came under the lee of the small island named Clauda, and managed to get a lifeboat ready and reef the sails. But rocky shoals prevented us from getting close. We only managed to avoid them by throwing out drift anchors.

                             Acts 27:13–17 MSG

– Reflection:

                   A Storm At Sea

When all hope had been given up of being saved, the captain decided to stop fighting the storm, lowered the sails, and let the wind blow them. But when they shipwrecked on the island of Malta, Paul shared the good news with the islanders, and many were healed and became believers. What looked like a setback in God’s plan for Paul was actually a divine detour to move him to people in need. God promised Paul that he would stand trial before Caesar in Rome, but the ship he was on was caught for fourteen days in a huge storm with hurricane-force winds. Before doing something GOD told us to do there may be other work more pressing that needs to be completed first.

Where do we go from here?

We can stand against sickness, addictions, and abusive situations, there are some storms and troubles that are leading to where God wants you to go. You have to quit trying to make it work out your way. Sometimes a spiritual detour may happen. If you fight it, you’re not going to win. What you can’t see is that trouble is transportation, moving you into your purpose, perhaps into a position to make a difference in someone else’s life.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You that the winds and waves that we face today cannot stop Your plan for our lives. Thank You that our purpose is firmly and securely anchored in You. We believe and declare that the storms and detours cannot defeat us and are pushing us into our destinies. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

– Scripture:

“Now be on your way. Gather the leaders of Israel. Tell them, ‘God, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, appeared to me, saying, “I’ve looked into what’s being done to you in Egypt, and I’ve determined to get you out of the affliction of Egypt and take you to the land of the Canaanite, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite, a land brimming over with milk and honey.” ’ “Believe me, they will listen to you. Then you and the leaders of Israel will go to the king of Egypt and say to him: ‘God, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us. Let us take a three-day journey into the wilderness where we will worship God—our God.’ “I know that the king of Egypt won’t let you go unless forced to, so I’ll intervene and hit Egypt where it hurts—oh, my miracles will send them reeling!—after which they’ll be glad to send you off. I’ll see to it that this people get a hearty send-off by the Egyptians—when you leave, you won’t leave empty-handed! Each woman will ask her neighbor and any guests in her house for objects of silver and gold, for jewelry and extra clothes; you’ll put them on your sons and daughters. Oh, you’ll clean the Egyptians out!”

                               Exodus 3:16–22 MSG

– Reflection:

                 Transfer Is On The Way

Egypt had more wealth and affluence than any other country. As the Israelites were leaving Egypt, they didn’t leave empty-handed. A transfer took place. The Egyptians had oppressed them for years and forced them to work without pay and in unfair conditions. While their oppressors lived in nice homes with whatever they needed, the Israelites had suffered lack, not having enough. But the time came when God said, “I’m going to take from those who are not using their resources for the right purposes and transfer them into the hands of My people.” The Israelites went into the desert loaded with wealth from their oppressors. Those actions in the Bible mean that we can’t just wait for something to be transferred over to us. There had to have been a stage of work that brought this transfer into reality. The slaves worked their butts off, so when the transfer of riches happened, sure, they were surprised but also ready to receive some payment for the services they had performed for so many years.

Where do we go from here?

Even though they had worked and prepared for the transfer of some of the wealth of Egypt, I am not sure they knew how to handle what they had received. The story says that they were only a few miles away from the promised land but were made to wander around in the desert for 40 years because of perversions, idol worship, and lawless bunches of people. God knows how to transfer resources, influence, and abundance. We have to ready ourselves for all that he is doing behind the scenes of our lives. You may be in a situation that looks as though you’re stuck, you’re at a disadvantage, you’re not being treated right. My encouragement is to stay in peace and keep doing the right thing. You will get there in God’s time.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for being a God of justice and for keeping records of all your people. Thank you for the time when you say “enough is enough” and it’s payday. I believe that things are about to shift in our favor and that a transfer is on the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.

– Scripture:

Jesus said, “So, you believe because you’ve seen with your own eyes. Even better blessings are in store for those who believe without seeing.”

                               John 20:29 MSG

– Reflection:

                Don’t Rely on Signs

When Thomas heard that Jesus had risen from the dead, he said he wouldn’t believe it unless he saw physical evidence. Even though you haven’t seen it, you continue to believe. God says that because you believe without a sign, blessing is coming, healing is coming, victory is coming. Don’t be like Thomas and say, “God, show me a sign, open this door, change my circumstances, then I’ll believe.” God is looking for people who believe without a sign, who don’t need evidence to prove to them that He is working.

Where do we go from here?

It’s important to be open to signs, but it’s also crucial not to rely solely on them. Instead of asking for proof, we should demonstrate our faith in difficult times and prove that we won’t waver in the face of challenges. Our faith should kick in even when there’s no evidence, and we should stand firm in our beliefs regardless of the circumstances.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for being worthy of our unconditional trust. There are things in our lives that we don’t understand and situations we want to see changed. However, even if things don’t happen the way we hope, we are still going to trust you. We choose to stand in faith and be blessed. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

– Scripture:

The Message that points to Christ on the Cross seems like sheer silliness to those hell-bent on destruction, but for those on the way of salvation it makes perfect sense. This is the way God works, and most powerfully as it turns out. It’s written, I’ll turn conventional wisdom on its head, I’ll expose so-called experts as crackpots. So where can you find someone truly wise, truly educated, truly intelligent in this day and age? Hasn’t God exposed it all as pretentious nonsense? Since the world in all its fancy wisdom never had a clue when it came to knowing God, God in his wisdom took delight in using what the world considered dumb preaching, of all things! to bring those who trust him into the way of salvation. While Jews clamor for miraculous demonstrations and Greeks go in for philosophical wisdom, we go right on proclaiming Christ, the Crucified. Jews treat this like an anti-miracle and Greeks pass it off as absurd. But to us who are personally called by God himself both Jews and Greeks Christ is God’s ultimate miracle and wisdom all wrapped up in one. Human wisdom is so tiny, so impotent, next to the seeming absurdity of God. Human strength can’t begin to compete with God’s “weakness.”

                              1 Corinthians 1:18–25 MSG

Key Verse – Human wisdom is so tiny, so impotent, next to the seeming absurdity of God. Human strength can’t begin to compete with God’s “weakness.

– Reflection:

Can we appreciate the way God chooses to reveal himself in our world. It’s like an ongoing riddle, where God consistently shows up through the weak and foolish. May you be open today to recognizing God’s presence in unexpected places. Riddles encourage us to think outside the box and see the real potential of things beyond face value.

Where do we go from here?

The passage from 1 Corinthians shows us that what may seem foolish and weak in the eyes of the world actually embodies the spirit of Christ. When we embrace the seemingly foolish act of giving without expecting anything in return, we are embodying Christ’s spirit. Also, when we show what may appear as weakness, such as serving as a greeter or offering forgiveness and mercy, we are actually reflecting the life of Christ. Still, when we welcome and support the weak and marginalized, we are truly seeing the face of Jesus.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, Please slow our mouths and open our ears that we might listen for your presence among us. Allow us to see the ways of your kingdom and the values of your world that we might join along in the foolishness of faith. Amen.

.- Scripture:

Then David took his shepherd’s staff, selected five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in the pocket of his shepherd’s pack, and with his sling in his hand approached Goliath.

                               1 Samuel 17:40 MSG

– Reflection:

                We Have All We Need

The giant Goliath was standing before David in a full set of armor. All David had was a sling and a few stones. He could have been intimidated and afraid. “Maybe this isn’t a good idea.” But he knew that sling with the favor of God was more powerful than having the best equipment. It’s not so much what you have; it’s what you think about what you have. If you’re thinking, “If I just had more talent, training, experience, education, and personality,” you’re going to miss the greatness God put in you and limit your life. You don’t need great talent to do something great or to have great resources to leave your mark. You don’t have to come from an influential family to make a big difference.

Where do we go from here?

You have exactly what you need to fulfill your destiny. Don’t discount what you have. If you needed more, God would have given you more. Don’t underestimate who you are. God will take what seems like not enough and breathe on it. It will become more than enough.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for providing us with the gifts and the talents we need. Thank You that we don’t have to have what we think is a big gift for You to use us in a great way. We will be faithful in developing what You’ve given us and trust You to give us more as we increase it. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

– Scripture:

 If you preach, just preach God’s Message, nothing else; if you help, just help, don’t take over; if you teach, stick to your teaching; if you give encouraging guidance, be careful that you don’t get bossy; if you’re put in charge, don’t manipulate; if you’re called to give aid to people in distress, keep your eyes open and be quick to respond; if you work with the disadvantaged, don’t let yourself get irritated with them or depressed by them. Keep a smile on your face. Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.

                         Romans 12:6–10 MSG

Key Verse – Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.

– Reflection:

We can’t live the full lives promised to us by Jesus Christ if we’re not in a regular, authentic community with other people. And the Church* can never be the Church not as God intends it if we all aren’t connected in that kind of brotherhood. There are many ways the Church is supposed to work, but through us in the community is a primary one. Community is what brings everyone together and creates the bonds that allow us to work together and get things done. Without it, we are nothing; with it, we can be everything to anyone and everyone. In your Church there are groups that build that create each body within. Those groups reach out and build the community in its likeness. Right now all of have something to give to the small groups we are in. Allow yourself to find out what that is and offer it to the group, the Church, and the community.

Where do we go from here?

Paul wrote that we must commit to honesty, transparency, and accountability. A community doesn’t work without them. It just doesn’t. And we must not presume we know how to “fix” each other, but rather should trust God and the Holy Spirit to do all work that needs doing. Without meaning to, we can do damage spiritually, and relationally when we offer fix-it advice to those who’ve been vulnerable in sharing struggles. It’s much better to listen and ask open, non-judgmental questions and pray something else which Paul says we must do together a lot.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for allowing us to be in one another’s presence helping each other heal. Thank you for allowing those of us who have abilities of conversation, coaching, and mentorship opportunity to listen and be a safe space for those in need of it. It is our honor to be in your presence on the days you create. Amen.

– Scripture:

Then he showed them his hands and side. The disciples, seeing the Master with their own eyes, were exuberant. Jesus repeated his greeting: “Peace to you. Just as the Father sent me, I send you.” Then he took a deep breath and breathed into them. “Receive the Holy Spirit,” he said. “If you forgive someone’s sins, they’re gone for good. If you don’t forgive sins, what are you going to do with them?”

                             John 20:20–23 MSG

– Reflection:

               Forgiveness Will Free You

God was saying that when you hold on to the wrongs people have done to you, the poison polutes you. When you don’t forgive, the sin you retain that hurt you that bitterness, anger, hatred, or criticalness can produce the same results in you.

Where do we go from here?

It can be very hard to forgive, especially when someone has hurt you, but you don’t have to forgive them for their sakes; you forgive for your own sake. Forgiving doesn’t mean you’re excusing anyone or lessening the offense. Forgiveness keeps their poison out of your life and takes away their power to keep hurting you.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You that we can forgive other people of their sins and stay free from the poison it holds. Thank You that we can look to You to heal our hurts and right the wrongs done to us. We declare we won’t let bitterness, anger, or an offense have control over our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

– Scripture:

Moses said, “Please. Let me see your Glory.” God said, “I will make my Goodness pass right before you; I’ll call out the name, God, right before you. I’ll treat whomever I want to treat well, and I’ll be kind to whomever I want to be kind.” God continued, “But you may not see my face. No one can see me and live.” God said, “Look, here is a place right beside me. Put yourself on this rock. When my Glory passes by, I’ll put you in the cleft of the rock and cover you with my hand until I’ve passed by. Then I’ll take my hand away, and you’ll see my back. But you won’t see my face.”

                            Exodus 33:18–23 MSG  

Key Verse – God continued, “But you may not see my face. No one can see me and live.”

– Reflection:

               Embrace the Fear

We are fearfully and wonderfully made. It is a scripture just for us. We’re made for fear. We’re made to live with fear, not without it, as we’d like. It’s just that we get preoccupied with things we can see, hear, and touch. But these aren’t what we’re supposed to fear, not people or circumstances. About such things, our King, Jesus Christ, says, “Do not fear.” No, we’re meant to fear a fearsome God.

Fearing the Lord God is the beginning of knowledge. (Proverbs 1:7)

Where do we go from here?

It’s important to remember that God is much greater than any challenge we face, whether it’s financial hardship, difficult work situations, or problems with children. We should not respond to fear by trying to control, minimize, avoid, or numb our feelings. Instead, we need to acknowledge God’s power and presence in our lives every day and recognize that he is the most important force in our lives. Living as if our problems are bigger than God is the ultimate threat.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, we come to you today with honor and respect. Let us stay within your graces and operate in the kingdom. Thank you, Jesus. Amen.

– Scripture:

“Tell them this, ‘The stick gods who made nothing, neither sky nor earth, Will come to nothing on the earth and under the sky.’ ” But it is God whose power made the earth, whose wisdom gave shape to the world, who crafted the cosmos. He thunders, and rain pours down. He sends the clouds soaring. He embellishes the storm with lightning and launches wind from his warehouse. Stick-god worshipers looking mighty foolish, god-makers embarrassed by their hand-made gods! Their gods are frauds—dead sticks, deadwood gods, tasteless jokes. When the fires of judgment come, they’ll be ashes.

                           Jeremiah 10:11–15 MSG

Key Verse – But it is God whose power made the earth,
whose wisdom gave shape to the world, who crafted the cosmos.

– Reflection:

              Beyond Our Understanding

On the first day, He said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. Interestingly, there was light on the first day, but He didn’t make the sun until the fourth day. How can you have light without the sun? I have read that passage so many times and not really paid attention to it. God is showing us that He’s not limited to how we think. He’s supernatural. He’s going to do things in your life that are unexplainable, things that go beyond human reasoning. That’s the God we serve. He does things that are uncommon, unusual, and out of the ordinary.

Where do we go from here?

You don’t think that God is intimidated by the size of your problem do you? He doesn’t lose sleep when someone comes against you? Our small thinking may believe that GOD can’t take someone who is against us. I’m not sure why, but some may believe it. Listen to this: during the night, one angel in the Old Testament defeated 185,000 of the enemies of Israel. God being for you is more than the world being against you. You may have some big obstacles, but you have to remind yourself that we serve a big God who works beyond our understanding.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You that You are in no way limited to what we understand is logical and explainable. Thank You that Your supernatural ways go well beyond our human understanding. Help us to remind ourselves that we are serving a big God who defies the odds. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

– Scripture:

“And don’t say anything you don’t mean. This counsel is embedded deep in our traditions. You only make things worse when you lay down a smoke screen of pious talk, saying, ‘I’ll pray for you,’ and never doing it, or saying, ‘God be with you,’ and not meaning it. You don’t make your words true by embellishing them with religious lace. In making your speech sound more religious, it becomes less true. Just say ‘yes’ and ‘no.’ When you manipulate words to get your own way, you go wrong.

                                Matthew 5:33–37 MSG

– Reflection:

                 Empty Promises

When speaking in the neighborhood with others and friends, it makes sense to try and embellish a little on what you did on your high school team or even at another level of sport now that you are done. Time seems to have a way of making something we did long ago that was small, making it sound huge. In our walk with Christ, though, when we tell someone that we will pray for them, take the time right at that moment to do just that. When I first started my walk, we had Life Groups at our Church that happened through our weeks throughout the year. Each Life Group leader I have had in my Men’s group has stated that if you don’t have the time, don’t say anything; that is better than giving out an Empty Promise. People who truly believe will be hoping for what you stated and will get nothing because you were only trying to be nice. The Kingdom is nothing to play loosely with. 

Where do we go from here?

Honor your word; make happen what you speak. If I tell someone I am praying for them, I will, at that moment, type up something in a note or a text and send it to them. I am working on the piece where I just ask them over while out and pray with them in the parking lot. My spirit isn’t there yet. Remember, small steps will eventually turn into big steps. I hope this helps each one of you who read this small reflection of the words I read in the Bible and how I commit them to use in my day. It is a blessing to give out a piece of what GOD has placed in my heart to share with everyone.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for the many blessings you have given us and the acceptance of the many that are to come. Help us to wish all the moms that this makes it to a Happy Mother’s Day. Thank you for honoring us with your presence in our lives, and allowing us to follow your lead as we lead others. Thank you Jesus. Amen.

 – Scripture:

“Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage. “Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.

                         Matthew 5:13–16 MSG 

 – Reflection:

             Salt and Light

The passage above talks about being salty and light. What I get from that is that we need to be who we were created to be and stop trying to follow others who don’t or haven’t accepted what God placed in them. We must honor the spaces we are allowed to be in while walking with Christ. Be the people we are called to be; that’s it. Whenever we try to be anything else, we mess it up. I tried to be a cool guy instead of who I am, but it didn’t work. I tried to be a workaholic, but that, too, failed. Now I am being who I am destined to be and it fits me perfectly. I love my family, my work, and my community; the salt is back, and my light is shining bright. Let yours shine as soon as you get your assignment from Jesus. It is important, as believers, that we take these assignments seriously. Everyone may not, but for those of us who do, watch how your life changes.

Where do we go from here?

Find the space where you can gain community with Jesus. It may be on the car ride home, it could be on a walk around the neighborhood, wherever it is find it. He is waiting to hear from all of us each and every day.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for the spaces you operate in to have conversations, show visions, and speak to our hearts. It is in these moments that we are able to gain focus on the work we are to do in our communities, families, and our homes. It is a blessing to be able to honor you daily, Jesus. Amen.

– Scripture:

“Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.
14–16  “Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.

                          Matthew 5:13–16 (MSG): 13

– Reflection:

              Light It Up Right Where You Are

The strongest evidence that we are where God wants us in our jobs, careers, and cities is simply that we’re there. God knows where we are. He sees us. He is with us. There is a plan. King David sang to God, “in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them”. So, where we are right now is no accident. And until further notice, which may come, we’ve got to assume that where we are is where he wants us to be for specific reasons, for his specific purposes.

Where do we go from here?

Jesus tells us not to hide the light that radiates from us when we follow him: “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Our lights dim, however, when we get too comfortable with the cultures of the places where we find ourselves in our jobs, in our careers, and our cities. We must, therefore, resist adoption, whether conscious or subconscious, of the prevailing beliefs, codes, or values of those places. We follow Christ. We believe him. That’s our code. Our values are his values.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for not creating me to hide my sins and weaknesses from You. Thank You that we can come to You and unload all the condemnation, fear, and feelings of unworthiness. We believe You have washed away our sins and poured out Your goodness upon us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

There are a lot of smooth-talking charlatans loose in the world who refuse to believe that Jesus Christ was truly human, a flesh-and-blood human being. Give them their true title: Deceiver! Antichrist! And be very careful around them so you don’t lose out on what we’ve worked so diligently in together; I want you to get every reward you have coming to you. Anyone who gets so progressive in his thinking that he walks out on the teaching of Christ, walks out on God. But whoever stays with the teaching, stays faithful to both the Father and the Son.
If anyone shows up who doesn’t hold to this teaching, don’t invite him in and give him the run of the place. That would just give him a platform to perpetuate his evil ways, making you his partner. I have a lot more things to tell you, but I’d rather not use paper and ink. I hope to be there soon in person and have a heart-to-heart talk. That will be far more satisfying to both you and me. Everyone here in your sister congregation sends greetings.

                            2 John 7–13 MSG

– Reflection:

              Don’t Walk Out on God

I was reading the bible this morning and found this entire passage about not walking out on GOD. It fits so well with where we are today in this world. We have adults allowing children the option to mangle themselves, we have men who want to be women, women who want to be me, and then there is the homosexual landscape. Everyone deserves to be loved in the truest capacity. I mean everyone, we are not judges or juries for how the world operates but don’t expect us all to walk toward something that hasn’t ever made sense to the father and son. They are the creators of this world, and we are the ones who are supposed to leave it better than we found it. I, as the writer of this content, do not know all there is to know about internal character or identity and don’t ever want to be an expert on something like that, but I do empathize with anyone who feels they are different than what they are created to be. Now, the groups that were started for the people of this community were private and almost hidden. You wouldn’t know about it if you weren’t a part of it. Now, the mainstream is pushing it hard. There are commercials, there are shows, there are movies, in the same vein as everything else. When this started a few years ago, I think it was a decision in this country to bring this to light by others externally, including the people who are living this lifestyle. No other country is as far into the lives of others as we are in the United States of America. To be this forward-thinking, the people making the decisions here in the U.S. have decided to walk away from GOD. This is my opinion and no one else’s.

Where do we go from here?

We must continue to follow GOD with the work he has given us. Each of us has something we are supposed to be doing, none of the work any of us should be doing for Christ includes hate, because GOD is love period. Hate is the opposite of that; we have to stand strong for our beliefs and what has stood the test of time till now. I am sure there have been campaigns in biblical times similar to the ones we are all facing now, but they no longer exist today. Let GOD do GOD things, and we will just work on the messages that have been placed in us since birth by him. My platform is small, and that is ok, but others have bigger platforms but are not doing the work that they know has been placed on their hearts. The world so far in my short time here on the planet, has been winning, the opposition has many different talents. There is money, which is at the top because of how things are right now, which works on so many levels. Then there are the secret perversion areas that are working behind the scenes, that want no light shed on it but are structuring many of the deals for solid people. The selling of souls is real people, not just something written about in the bible. Stay on the well-lit path and shine light into those dark corners to expose it for what it is. Let’s make this world better for our kids.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for having our backs while the world suffers; we know that you will show up in a big way for everyone who believes in you. We hope for this world that they turn to you for help, and that you bring them into the light with us. Thank you father. Amen.

 – Scripture:

My purpose in writing is simply this: that you who believe in God’s Son will know beyond the shadow of a doubt that you have eternal life, the reality and not the illusion. And how bold and free we then become in his presence, freely asking according to his will, sure that he’s listening. And if we’re confident that he’s listening, we know that what we’ve asked for is as good as ours. For instance, if we see a Christian believer sinning (clearly, I’m not talking about those who make a practice of sin in a way that is “fatal,” leading to eternal death), we ask for God’s help and he gladly gives it, gives life to the sinner whose sin is not fatal. There is such a thing as a fatal sin, and I’m not urging you to pray about that. Everything we do wrong is sin, but not all sin is fatal. We know that none of the God-begotten makes a practice of sin—fatal sin. The God-begotten are also the God-protected. The Evil One can’t lay a hand on them. We know that we are held firm by God; it’s only the people of the world who continue in the grip of the Evil One. And we know that the Son of God came so we could recognize and understand the truth of God—what a gift!—and we are living in the Truth itself, in God’s Son, Jesus Christ. This Jesus is both True God and Real Life. Dear children, be on guard against all clever facsimiles.

                           1 John 5:13–21 MSG

 – Reflection:

              The Reality, Not the Illusion

I wonder why with Christ being our salvation why do so many of us not want to conform to what he means to the world properly? God is a gentlemen in this way he will not force anything on us. The destroyer however will say whatever, do whatever, and be whatever in any moment to destroy your entire life. The saying “If is it looks to good to be true; it probably is” is a great one because of the fact that our human condition wants what is easy. Meanwhile GOD is being that respectable gentlemen just waiting on you to make the correct choice, and even if you make the wrong choice he still wants to redeem you if you are willing to get over yourself and come to him. The destroyer will say anything to get what he wants, which is you on a barbecue spit. That is an illusion that has been given to the world that this flashy lifestyle of doing what you want will be rewarding. Why after you have done all the perverted things and almost sold you soul twice; do you feel that now you know you were wrong? Again God’s words stand on their own, they just are and they aren’t changing like it or lump it it there for you in black white and red.

Where do we go from here?

GOD is who he is the creator of all things, even the destroyer himself too. So how do we allow something that is rebelling against his own father to get us to fight against him as well. Get your relationship right with the father, he is waiting on you, and if you never accept him it will break his but he understands; I think. He wants all of his kids to come home, but he understands that some won’t too, I am guessing. Begin in your home doing some great for your spouse if you are a taker. If you are introverted do something small in the community that you know how to do well. Just make more time to be Christ like, that is the way into reality. Making a bunch of money to create fantasy is an illusion that ends up not lasting and causing more of us to hide for to long before coming to the son and accepting him for our savior.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, break the illusion of the idols in the world showing everyone all the idols they have been worshipping. Allow them to come home by looking in the mirror and saying to themselves that they are enough, and allow you to help us with becoming our true selves. Thank you Jesus. Amen

 – Scripture:

Every person who believes that Jesus is, in fact, the Messiah, is God-begotten. If we love the One who conceives the child, we’ll surely love the child who was conceived. The reality test on whether or not we love God’s children is this: Do we love God? Do we keep his commands? The proof that we love God comes when we keep his commandments and they are not at all troublesome. Every God-begotten person conquers the world’s ways. The conquering power that brings the world to its knees is our faith. The person who wins out over the world’s ways is simply the one who believes Jesus is the Son of God.

                                1 John 5:1–5 MSG

– Reflection:

                 The Power That Brings the World to Its Knees

When I think about words like “Win” and “Lose,” my mind goes to everyday battles, to a world of winners and losers, to small wins for getting up and going on that walk, and on the days that can be called losses could be when you ate late at night when you knew you shouldn’t have because of what it is going to do to your sleep. I remember the old NBC music just before an NBA game came on followed by Bob Costas starting the commenting calls and introduction of the game. For us, as children of God, we win when we do what is asked of us by our father, just like any kid who denies peer pressure. Sure it is tough with all the trimmings and trappings of sin and how taking the easy route can seem faster. It isn’t really quicker to me which I call a loss, because many time taking the easy route or living the wrong way cause a lot of rework to be done. Christians care about the time they spend with GOD, family, friends, and their community that wasting anytime is considered a loss. A win for us is helping others reach their potential, and loving on our families close and far. Simple but true, I think.

Where do we go from here?

The person who wrote John wasn’t thinking about wins and losses the way we do today. We have to get on his level and understand what is being said in this book of the bible. I see the words that I read, and they tell me that when I believe Jesus is the Messiah that he is, I will be saved, meaning my sins will be beaten. Sounds simple, but in that time, things had to be simple for us to understand them quickly. Today, there are way too many words in play, which causes us to lose understanding by over-explaining something that is so easy. The words are easy, but as many of us know who are saved and Christians, the life of a Christian is not. We are challenged at every turn because of the ease of stepping into the wrong side of life. Instead, he is offering his readers the word that, despite the pressures of the world around them and despite the temptations inside them, they can hold onto their faith. He is saying, “You got this!” in the face of difficulty when they might feel like giving up. They can hold on because God will hold on to them.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for this day that you made, and I hope that all of us are happy to be in it. Thank you for making Love stronger than hate so that so many can be brought back from the terrible places they wind up in. Thank you for giving each of us who have strength now the ability to help bring others to the light for your love. Father, thank you for all you do for us each and every day. Amen.

– Scripture:

When Daniel learned that the decree had been signed and posted, he continued to pray just as he had always done. His house had windows in the upstairs that opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he knelt there in prayer, thanking and praising his God. The conspirators came and found him praying, asking God for help. They went straight to the king and reminded him of the royal decree that he had signed. “Did you not,” they said, “sign a decree forbidding anyone to pray to any god or man except you for the next thirty days? And anyone caught doing it would be thrown into the lions’ den?” “Absolutely,” said the king. “Written in stone, like all the laws of the Medes and Persians.” Then they said, “Daniel, one of the Jewish exiles, ignores you, O king, and defies your decree. Three times a day he prays.” At this, the king was very upset and tried his best to get Daniel out of the fix he’d put him in. He worked at it the whole day long.

                          Daniel 6:10–14 MSG

Key Verse – When Daniel learned that the decree had been signed and posted, he continued to pray just as he had always done. His house had windows in the upstairs that opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he knelt there in prayer, thanking and praising his God.

– Reflection:

              Honor God like Daniel

Daniel was serving the king of Persia and was noted as having an excellent spirit and great wisdom. He consistently maintained his faith while living in a foreign land and refused to waver even when the king issued a decree that no one could pray to anyone but him. Despite the threats, he kept praying to Jehovah and ended up being thrown into the lions’ den. But when you have this attitude of faith, God will fight your battles for you. He sent an angel to close the mouths of the lions. There were negative men that could not be what Daniel was to the king which was be faithful and loyal. They had all types of other vices in their lives and noticed Daniel had none. They searched for something horrible in his past but found nothing. The only thing they could find was his faith to GOD, so they tried to use that against him; we know how that turned out.

Where do we go from here?

When you’re in a difficult situation, you rest in faith knowing that the same God who kept Daniel safe in the lions’ den has put a hedge of protection around you. You don’t shrink back in fear with thoughts such as, “Why is this happening to me?” Instead, you rise up in faith and say, “I am lion proof. I am coming out stronger, increased, and promoted just as with Daniel. God is even in control of my enemies.” HAve this thought process everyday and you can overcome all of your issues when you truly believe in our Savior Jesus Christ. When we honor him with the smallest thing he comes through for us in a big way. Trust him and you will see too.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You that You are the One who opens doors and gets us to where we want to be. Show us if there is anything that is holding us back from having an excellent spirit. We declare that we will be faithful and not shrink back and take the easy way out when pressure comes. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 – Scripture:

One day in one of the villages there was a man covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus he fell down before him in prayer and said, “If you want to, you can cleanse me.” Jesus put out his hand, touched him, and said, “I want to. Be clean.” Then and there his skin was smooth, the leprosy gone. Jesus instructed him, “Don’t talk about this all over town. Just quietly present your healed self to the priest, along with the offering ordered by Moses. Your cleansed and obedient life, not your words, will bear witness to what I have done.” But the man couldn’t keep it to himself, and the word got out. Soon a large crowd of people had gathered to listen and be healed of their ailments. As often as possible Jesus withdrew to out-of-the-way places for prayer. One day as he was teaching, Pharisees and religion teachers were sitting around. They had come from nearly every village in Galilee and Judea, even as far away as Jerusalem, to be there. The healing power of God was on him.

                             Luke 5:12–17 MSG

Key Verse – As often as possible, Jesus withdrew to out-of-the-way places for prayer.

 – Reflection:

Grabbing Some Solitude: Invitation to a Changed Life

Why are we so bad at solitude? Our king did it quite well. As a man, Jesus knew his limitations. He understood his need to connect with his father to his guidance and power. He knew how good that connection was. He wants us to know, too. If it’s so good, though, why do we struggle? Well, it’s because we’re busy. Solitude is hard when you’re working and/or married and/or have kids and/or have friends. And, it’s a little because we’re not well practiced. Our culture trains us for motion and multitasking, not for slowing and simplifying. And it’s a little because, deep down, we know solitude means confrontation. But if we avoid his confrontation, we’ll miss his companionship, counsel, comfort, restoration, and rescue. So, we must take courage. We must not worry that we don’t yet do it well. We must make solitude a priority, just as Jesus did.

Where do we go from here?

You see, solitude removes distractions and leaves us, for a few minutes, alone with God the Holy Spirit. Solitude is sometimes defined as being alone, but we aren’t. The Spirit dwells within us. God’s right there. And we never know what might happen when we’re alone with God. He might ask us to stop something we don’t want to stop or start something we don’t want to start. He might. He does that.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, allow us to start small. Allow us to find something that works for us. Let us turn off our devices and walk at work at lunchtime or during breaks. Allow us to get some air in our neighborhoods after dinner. Let us slip outside just before bed and sit quietly in the dark. And, when we’re ready for more, let us take a half-day, full-day, or overnight solo trip into the outdoors to be with you. With the grace and mercy you provide us every day. We can all say. Amen.

 – Scripture: 

God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. This way, love has the run of the house, becomes at home and mature in us, so that we’re free of worry on Judgment Day—our standing in the world is identical with Christ’s. There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life—fear of death, fear of judgment—is one not yet fully formed in love. We, though, are going to love; love and be loved. First we were loved, now we love. He loved us first. If anyone boasts, “I love God,” and goes right on hating his brother or sister, thinking nothing of it, he is a liar. If he won’t love the person he can see, how can he love the God he can’t see? The command we have from Christ is blunt: Loving God includes loving people. You’ve got to love both.

                          1 John 4:17–21 MSG

Key Verse – We, though, are going to love—love and be loved. First we were loved, now we love. He loved us first.

 – Reflection:

              To Love, to Be Loved

We love because God loved us first. Do you know what we can do with that love? Pass it on! The very same love that comes from God is something that we could absolutely pass on to others. It’s the very best gift you could ever give OR receive. It’s free; there’s nothing we can do to get rid of it, and no strings are attached. God’s love is pretty amazing! Pass it on!

Where do we go from here?

The world would have us believe that status is more important than anything. TV is the big problem that spreads hate. The people we watch our shows on, no matter how clean-cut they seem, are very dark in real life. God’s love is out in the open, and so should ours be for our families, friends, and co-workers. How can a person that you have only seen on TV tell you how to vote, tell you that what they are doing is the correct thing to be doing. It is a hearding effect, for money, power and respect of this world. If the famous person tells you something it should be true by the worlds standards. Listen to the one thing that knows the true measure of a person, your heart which was filled to the brim with his love when you were made. Only his love can show you the true direction for your life.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, we thank you for your amazing love. Grant us the courage to be able to love one another in a similar manner, with the same type of all-encompassing love you have for us. Amen.

– Scripture:

Servants, respectfully obey your earthly masters but always with an eye to obeying the real master, Christ. Don’t just do what you have to do to get by, but work heartily as Christ’s servants doing what God wants you to do. And work with a smile on your face, always keeping in mind that no matter who happens to be giving the orders, you’re really serving God. Good work will get you good pay from the Master, regardless of whether you are slave or free.

                                Ephesians 6:5–8 MSG

– Reflection:

                 It All Matters

God designed us and built us for his work. Work is his gift to us, not his punishment, nor even a necessary evil. It’s how we’re brought into how he’s blessing and helping his sons and daughters. How do you think about work? What do you think about your work? Is it something you look forward to? Do you have to drag yourself there? Is it a calling? Is it a means to an end? Work shouldn’t separate you from your faith. It should be an expression of your faith.

Where do we go from here?

God provides his blessings and help through people through us. The blessing of a house is given by God, but through the people who build it, who assist in its purchase, like the realtor and the banker; who make and sell the furnishings, who maintain it, and even those who insure the house against its loss. All this seemingly secular work becomes sacred when it’s done (1) to love and serve God and his purposes and (2) to love and serve God’s sons and daughters. It may not seem like it sometimes, especially with supply chains as long and complex as they are today, but it does. There’s no menial or meaningless work as long as it positively helps someone else.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for allowing us to be a part of God’s blessing, giving us the ability to help others. May it continue to give us purpose and meaning to our lives. Keep us from tha dark thoughts of how negative work and helping another can be, and continue to allow us to see how helping another is your plan that will bring us joy and strength of community. Amen.

 – Scripture:

”Old enemies of Judah and Benjamin heard that the exiles were building The Temple of the God of Israel. They came to Zerubbabel and the family heads and said, “We’ll help you build. We worship your God the same as you. We’ve been offering sacrifices to him since Esarhaddon king of Assyria brought us here.” Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and the rest of the family heads of Israel said to them, “Nothing doing. Building The Temple of our God is not the same thing to you as to us. We alone will build for the God of Israel. We’re the ones King Cyrus of Persia commanded to do it.”“ ”So these people started beating down the morale of the people of Judah, harassing them as they built. They even hired propagandists to sap their resolve. They kept this up for about fifteen years, throughout the lifetime of Cyrus king of Persia and on into the reign of Darius King of Persia.“

                             Ezra‬ ‭4‬:‭1‬-‭5 ‭MSG

 – Reflection:

               Keep Your Vision In Front of You

I ask this knowing the answer already; with all the people in the Bible that overcame huge obstacles how did they keep their eyes on the goal in front of them? There are so many things that I have not gotten to because of fear of the unknown, just can’t seem to get out of my own way, and the one that sets me back every time expectations. I know I am close to something happening for the community I am in or myself and family personally, I can feel the tension. Now I need to take another step to make sure we don’t lose ground but continue to gain ground. There is a passage in Ezra 4 that speaks to something similar, but he had the final piece to keep him moving towards his goal. When there is nothing but what has been shown to you how do you keep moving?

 – Where do we go from here?

There has to be a way for us to complete tasks, and stay motivated without seeing the finished product itself or a piece of that finished product. When we have faith it helps us move through everything, to keep a dream alive we have to have unwavering faith. Right now we are all at a place where the world is eating up all of our dreams, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is up to us to honor what GOD did for us on the Cross all those years ago. Finish what he started, some of us won’t, some of us will but all of us have to believe that it can be done. I also want to be able to say at some point “ It is finished ”. As we start our days today, remember what has been placed on your heart and work toward making that happen. There are quite a few of us out here with you that will be doing the same things.

 Our Prayer for Today?

Father, thank you for keeping us each and everyday watching over us while we try to find a way through to the work you have placed in front of us. It is you who we honor each day that we wake up trying to make this world a better place than it was when we were placed in it. Lord help us to fight the spirit of procrastination, and all other pieces that keep us from moving towards our goals. With all the grace and mercy you give us each day, we are all able to say. Amen.

– Scripture:

But make sure that you don’t get so absorbed and exhausted in taking care of all your day-by-day obligations that you lose track of the time and doze off, oblivious to God. The night is about over, dawn is about to break. Be up and awake to what God is doing! God is putting the finishing touches on the salvation work he began when we first believed. We can’t afford to waste a minute, must not squander these precious daylight hours in frivolity and indulgence, in sleeping around and dissipation, in bickering and grabbing everything in sight. Get out of bed and get dressed! Don’t loiter and linger, waiting until the very last minute. Dress yourselves in Christ, and be up and about!

                                 Romans 13:11–14 MSG

– Reflection:

                  Living With Urgency

No question, a lot of us are living in “I know, I know” mode . . . in “I’m gonna do it, but just not right now” mode. We know what’s important; we’ve just convinced ourselves we’ve got all kinds of time. And, because life is crazy busy right now, we’ve resolved to get around to doing what we should be doing later—when things slow a bit. We’ll change our ways later. We’ll get around to living out our faith later. It couldn’t possibly be. Waking up this morning was just like waking up yesterday. Tomorrow’s sure to be the same. There’ll always be plenty of time . . . right? Well, Peter wrote that God’s right now “restraining himself” because he loves you and me (2 Peter 3:8-9 MSG). He’s “holding back the End because he doesn’t want anyone lost. He’s giving everyone space and time to change.” But, warned Peter, it won’t last forever: “. . . when the Day of God’s Judgment does come, it will be unannounced, like a thief.”

Where do we go from here?

When the last day comes, the “space and time” God’s been giving us will vanish. So Peter made his appeal: “Since everything here today might well be gone tomorrow, do you see how essential it is to live a holy life?” So Peter made his appeal: live with urgency. Take a look at your life. Where are you spending money and talent? Where and with whom are you spending time? What’s being neglected? What needs to change? Are you willing? It’s time; time to shift into “I’m on it” mode.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for the time we have been given to get out of our mess together. Time in my mind is endless, and I need these reminders to stay on task. Let us all get to doing the work we are put here to do before the thief shows up. Jesus, allow us this day to move for you and the work you have for us. In your name, we pray. Amen.

– Scripture:

Children, time is just about up. You heard that Antichrist is coming. Well, they’re all over the place, antichrists everywhere you look. That’s how we know that we’re close to the end. They left us, but they were never really with us. If they had been, they would have stuck it out with us, loyal to the end. In leaving, they showed their true colors, showed they never did belong. But you belong. The Holy One anointed you, and you all know it. I haven’t been writing this to tell you something you don’t know, but to confirm the truth you do know, and to remind you that the truth doesn’t breed lies. So who is lying here? It’s the person who denies that Jesus is the Divine Christ, that’s who. This is what makes an antichrist: denying the Father, denying the Son. No one who denies the Son has any part with the Father, but affirming the Son is an embrace of the Father as well. Stay with what you heard from the beginning, the original message. Let it sink into your life. If what you heard from the beginning lives deeply in you, you will live deeply in both Son and Father. This is exactly what Christ promised: eternal life, real life!
I’ve written to warn you about those who are trying to deceive you. But they’re no match for what is embedded deeply within you—Christ’s anointing, no less! You don’t need any of their so-called teaching. Christ’s anointing teaches you the truth on everything you need to know about yourself and him, uncontaminated by a single lie. Live deeply in what you were taught.

                          1 John 2:18–27 MSG

– Reflection:

              Antichrists Everywhere You Look

How have we been tempted to consider our enemies to be antichrists? We might not go so far as to use the label but perhaps we treat our opponents that way. Have you or someone you love ever gone down the online rabbit hole in search of material to fulfill some prophetic claim?

Where do we go from here?

If you hear spiritual words used to demean or disparage others, pause and pray. Go back and read what the Bible actually says. Take the time to consider how, in your own life, you might be living “anti” the love and grace of Jesus Christ. With humility, ask God to guide you in faithfulness.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, we are tempted to judge others while refusing to look honestly at ourselves. Show us how we fall short of who you created us to be. By the power of your Spirit, equip us for faithful living. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

 – Scripture:

Don’t love the world’s ways. Don’t love the world’s goods. Love of the world squeezes out love for the Father. Practically everything that goes on in the world wanting your own way, wanting everything for yourself, wanting to appear important has nothing to do with the Father. It just isolates you from him. The world and all its wanting, wanting, wanting is on the way out—but whoever does what God wants is set for eternity.

                                  1 John 2:15–17 MSG

 – Reflection:

                  Loving the World

On Monday, there was an eclipse of the sun, and I was driving to my kid’s school to pick them up. An important event like this is happening, and I am driving to a school to pick up my dudes. You see, the world has a way of choosing for us what is important and what is not. I, however, was on a more important mission, picking up my dudes. It is important to me to follow the path that Christ placed before me. The world has a path, but it doesn’t lead where I want to go. I want what our Lord Jesus Christ wants, and that is a community that doesn’t judge, fight, or kill one another. We should support one another in this community, allowing an uplift of aid when needed, and ask if the others are doing well within this community. The same way I didn’t let a world event crowd out what was important to me is the same way we can’t let God’s Kingdom fall.

Where do we go from here?

It can be so easy for us to stake our comfort and stability in the ways we live in the world. A job might provide the ability to meet basic needs and some “wants”. Seeking new sights or places can bring excitement. This passage is a reminder to not become dependent on our understanding of the world. The world changes over time as cultural priorities shift and needs vary, but God’s presence is the one constant we can rely on. We can appreciate the many gifts of God’s creation, but it’s important not to allow them to turn into idols. I wonder what other things “of the world” might distract us from centering our lives around God’s promises.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for your consistent love. Help us to enjoy your world in ways that are life-giving while staying grounded in you. Amen.

“Has anyone by fussing before the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? If fussing can’t even do that, why fuss at all? Walk into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They don’t fuss with their appearance—but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them. If God gives such attention to the wildflowers, most of them never even seen, don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you?

                         Luke 12:25–28 MSG

– Reflection:

      Allow Your Life To Follow Your Positive Thoughts

Do you realize your life is moving toward what you constantly think about? This can be helpful or harmful. Are you worrying about your future? “I never get good breaks. How will I ever retire?” You’re moving toward defeat, lack, and mediocrity. Try a new approach. “Favor is in my future. Good breaks are chasing me down. The right people are headed my way.” When you think like that, you’re moving toward favor, increase, open doors, and abundance.

Where do we go from here?

Change starts in your thinking. Try this approach, “This condition is not permanent. Chains that have held me back are being broken. I am free. I am whole. I am healthy. I am full of energy, vitality, and strength. My youth is being renewed every day. Get your mind going in the right direction. Your life is going to follow your thoughts.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for being in control of all the situations in our lives and fighting our battles. We choose to guard our minds from worrisome, anxious thoughts that trap us in negativity and discouragement. We believe that no weapon formed against us will prosper. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 – Scripture:

Next Jesus let fly on the cities where he had worked the hardest but whose people had responded the least, shrugging their shoulders and going their own way. “Doom to you, Chorazin! Doom, Bethsaida! If Tyre and Sidon had seen half of the powerful miracles you have seen, they would have been on their knees in a minute. At Judgment Day they’ll get off easy compared to you. And Capernaum! With all your peacock strutting, you are going to end up in the abyss. If the people of Sodom had had your chances, the city would still be around. At Judgment Day they’ll get off easy compared to you.” Abruptly Jesus broke into prayer: “Thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth. You’ve concealed your ways from sophisticates and know-it-alls, but spelled them out clearly to ordinary people. Yes, Father, that’s the way you like to work.” Jesus resumed talking to the people, but now tenderly. “The Father has given me all these things to do and say. This is a unique Father-Son operation, coming out of Father and Son intimacies and knowledge. No one knows the Son the way the Father does, nor the Father the way the Son does. But I’m not keeping it to myself; I’m ready to go over it line by line with anyone willing to listen. “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

                             Matthew 11:20–30 MSG

Key Verse – Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

 – Reflection:

              The Unforced Rhythms of Grace

We’re all built by the same creator. And we’re built by him to “come home” every so often. This coming home is meaningful to the lives we’re meant to live. God’s built us to need and receive his loving care. He’s built us to be restored by him. The thing is, many of us men don’t know how to come home. We’re each designed to do it uniquely, so it takes some discovery. Few of us do that. If we do discover how, though, and if we begin to come home regularly, we live in a condition of abundance. We get filled up—and are able to overflow onto others, onto spouses, children, friends, and people in need. We can give, for we’ve first received. We’re able to love and serve as we were meant to. We can be who we were created to be and do the work we were made to do. When we neglect the task of discovery, if we fail to learn how to come home, we operate instead in a condition of depletion. We tend to try to pull what we (think we) need from other people. We tend to try to take from them rather than overflow onto them.

Where do we go from here?

Make a list of a few things, things you truly love doing. Avoid obligations or things you “love” because other people might think you’re cool for doing them. List things that move your heart, calm your heart, or make it beat fast. List things that restore you, excite you, connect you to God, and truly allow you to worship him in the doing. Once you have your list, commit to inserting those things generously into your daily, weekly, monthly calendar.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for the week of restoration last week. Thank you for keeping us safe and giving us a path to walk. Father, the joy we feel this morning as we get ready for our day, we know is freely given by you. I am happy to come to you with everything I am. Thank you for the grace and mercy you pour out on us each and every day. Amen.

 – Scripture:

I write this, dear children, to guide you out of sin. But if anyone does sin, we have a Priest-Friend in the presence of the Father: Jesus Christ, righteous Jesus. When he served as a sacrifice for our sins, he solved the sin problem for good—not only ours, but the whole world’s. Here’s how we can be sure that we know God in the right way: Keep his commandments. If someone claims, “I know him well!” but doesn’t keep his commandments, he’s obviously a liar. His life doesn’t match his words. But the one who keeps God’s word is the person in whom we see God’s mature love. This is the only way to be sure we’re in God. Anyone who claims to be intimate with God ought to live the same kind of life Jesus lived.

                              1 John 2:1–6 MSG

Key Verse – Anyone who claims to be intimate with God ought to live the same kind of life Jesus lived.

 – Reflection:

                The Only Way To Know We’re In Him

On some nights, as I walk around in the gym I find myself having to change how I walk sometimes my pace slows, other times I have to hurry up so as not to be run over! Many times my route is a bit more quickened to dodge the ambling child in front of me. Other nights, however, I have somewhere else to be (often in my mind, somewhere else more important) I keep my pace, find a clear route and get out of the way as quickly as possible my gait doesn’t change one bit. Being in that gym with those guys watching them pickup what we are pouring into them is amazing. Each face watching and paying attention some are not but each starts to learn in their own way. I bet that was probably how Jesus felt as he looked around at the people he was leading too. I like to think so anyway.

 Where do we go from here?

What would it look like to abide in Christ in such a way that we “walk just as he walked”? How would our pace around the youth or others be changed? Where would you slow down to be present, and where would you be quickened to be by the side of another? How might our most efficient routes be stretched to meet those on the margins in life? Where would our business march be turned into skips of joy?!

 Our Prayer for Today

Father, we praise you for your rhythms of moving in this world. Shake us out of our day to day routine that we may be awakened to your movement among us. And as we join in your way, may we receive the joy of Jesus being alive.

 – Scripture: 

Saul answered David, “You can’t go and fight this Philistine. You’re too young and inexperienced and he’s been at this fighting business since before you were born.”
David said, “I’ve been a shepherd, tending sheep for my father. Whenever a lion or bear came and took a lamb from the flock, I’d go after it, knock it down, and rescue the lamb. If it turned on me, I’d grab it by the throat, wring its neck, and kill it. Lion or bear, it made no difference I killed it. And I’ll do the same to this Philistine pig who is taunting th,e troops of God-Alive. God, who delivered me from the teeth of the lion and the claws of the bear, will deliver me from this Philistine.”

                             1 Samuel 17:33-37 MSG

 – Reflection:

               Allow Your Will To Make A Way

David became the greatest king the world has ever seen even though his father did not believe in him, his brother made fun of him and tried to humiliate him, and King Saul told him that it was ridiculous that he thought he could defeat Goliath. Most people would have been insecure, had low self-esteem, lived offended, and given up. But when the giant Goliath ridiculed him, David proved that he would not let another person determine his value or let threats and insults hold him back. He knew his value came from his Creator and that he was a giant killer.

 Where do we go from here?

Letting people, your past, or what you’re up against determine your image? It takes faith to say, “God, I feel intimidated and afraid. I don’t see how I can do this, but I’m going to get in agreement with what Your Word says about me and believe that I can.” That’s when you’ll discover talent, ability, and courage that you’ve never seen. You won’t be talked out of your dreams. You will defeat your giants.

 Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You that we are not limited by what the people around us say or think about us. Thank you that you have qualified me to do what you have planned for us to do. We will not allow others to put a limitation on what You have placed in our hearts. With all the grace and mercy you have given us, we can all say. Amen.

 – Scripture:

When Jesus saw that a curious crowd was growing by the minute, he told his disciples to get him out of there to the other side of the lake. As they left, a religion scholar asked if he could go along. “I’ll go with you, wherever,” he said. Jesus was curt: “Are you ready to rough it? We’re not staying in the best inns, you know.” Another follower said, “Master, excuse me for a couple of days, please. I have my father’s funeral to take care of.” Jesus refused. “First things first. Your business is life, not death. Follow me. Pursue life.” Then he got in the boat, his disciples with him. The next thing they knew, they were in a severe storm. Waves were crashing into the boat—and he was sound asleep! They roused him, pleading, “Master, save us! We’re going down!” Jesus reprimanded them. “Why are you such cowards, such faint-hearts?” Then he stood up and told the wind to be silent, the sea to quiet down: “Silence!” The sea became smooth as glass. The men rubbed their eyes, astonished. “What’s going on here? Wind and sea come to heel at his command!”

                              Matthew 8:18–27 MSG

 – Reflection:

               Your Business is Life, Not Death

We all face dreams and obstacles that seem too big for us, but God has all the power in the world. The key is our faith. God works through our faith. If you believe little, you’ll receive little. If you think small and talk small, you’ll get stuck where you are. Trust and believe in GOD and his son Jesus Christ. With that belief you can go farther than you ever thought you could, and it can all be attributed to your belief in our savior.

 Where do we go from here?

The Scripture talks about different levels of faith. The disciples were in a boat with Jesus when a huge storm arose and the waves swept over the boat. They woke Jesus up and cried out, “We’re about to die!” He responded, “Why do you have such little faith? You’ve seen the miracles I’ve done. You know I can do anything. Why are you still stuck at this low level of faith?” If you’re going to reach the fullness of your destiny, it’s not going to happen with weak faith, doubting faith, or average faith. It’s going to take great faith. The good news is, it’s in you, but you have to awaken your great faith. You have to dare to believe big, to take the limits off. Remember what he did for us and the miracles performed by him to help others.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You that You bring obstacles across my path so big that only You can make it happen. Help me to be bold, to dare to believe, to dare to take some new steps of faith. I declare that I will not stay stuck at a low level of faith. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 – Scripture:

Keep your eyes open, hold tight to your convictions, give it all you’ve got, be resolute, and love without stopping.

                                     1 Corinthians 16:13–14 MSG

 – Reflection:

                   Speak Responsibly

I mean, the mess and complexity of life can make speaking truth in love daunting and uncomfortable for example, when it requires we challenge a brother or admonish him; when it requires we call-out a brother or call him back from sin. So it’s a rare group of men indeed who are willing to speak truth in love even when it’s hard. We’ve got to be that kind of men. Whether it’s two of us or twelve of us or more, when we gather in Christian community, are to speak truth to one another, truth motivated by love.

 Where do we go from here?

Do you know one another’s stories? If you haven’t already, give each person an hour—at least—to tell his story, completely. Have each person start at the beginning and bring his story current. Encourage transparency. Ask no questions. Give no advice. Just listen. For us to be that kind, though, we must first be another kind: men who take time to know one another. You see, except in a few cases, it’s irresponsible to “speak truth” to any man without knowing his story. We’re one body, all following our King, Jesus Christ, but we’re also all different, with different designs, different functions, different experiences.

 Our Prayer for Today

Father, being the creator of al things including community. You know that for community to work, for truth to actually flow freely we must be honest. It is with that honesty that we are all able to help each other become the best versions of ourselves, to complete the best work; the work you have for us. We can’t fix anyone all we can do is help to lead those people to you the father by showing them our savior Jesus Christ. With that grace that is given to us by God, we can all say. Amen.

Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

                                     Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 MSG

– Reflection:

                    Who Can Handle The Truth

Can you handle the truth? A truth that is so blinding that all you can do is pay attention. Would you be able to handle that? I thought I could, but I am not so sure now. There have been times when I knew where the boat of life was taking me. Now that I have this nonprofit and helping young people become their best selves, the truth I thought I was driving toward looks different. We are normally prepared for whatever change happens. God’s work takes you by surprise and makes you take notice. It blinds you and doesn’t let you look away until you understand all that needs to be done. My path is now busy; as I try to complete both paths, mine and the one GOD has placed me on, there will be a choice. I know what I must do and will do to honor GOD and the work he has placed before me. When that light blinds you, I hope you choose the correct path the first time. I didn’t, but hopefully, you will be better than I am.

Where do we go from here?

I am now in a brotherhood of those who have the work of Christ in their hearts, too, so I am no longer alone and can accept the truth of the work of Christ. Support and encouragement are crucial for friendship, of course. But by themselves, they aren’t enough and are not even close. True friendship requires more. The kind of friendship God intends requires that we look deeper and try to see things only friends can see. And it requires that we tell the truth. So, when friends are stuck or struggling with denial, passivity, or sin, true friendship requires that we face awkwardness, embarrassment, or fear of rejection head-on, name problems honestly (though gently, too), and make every attempt to challenge, push, rescue, and restore. True friendship requires that we go “all in.” We must be willing to initiate tough conversations when they are needed. I can handle the truth now; if you haven’t been able to, hopefully, you gain a group of people around you who are willing to hold you accountable, and you them.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, you empower all men or groups of people to search for and know you. Thank you for encouraging us all. You have allowed us to know your entire story and explicitly empowered us to speak honestly into one another’s lives. For those who haven’t, stand on your courage and take that step. It’s one most men or women will never take. Amen.

– Scripture:

The apostles then rendezvoused with Jesus and reported on all that they had done and taught. Jesus said, “Come off by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.” For there was constant coming and going. They didn’t even have time to eat.

                                Mark 6:30–31 MSG

– Reflection:

                 Stay In Balance

Everywhere Jesus went, He was healing people, teaching in the Jewish Churches, pouring Himself into His disciples. People made constant demands on His time and energy. Imagine how He felt. As the Son of God, He had this incredible power, anointing, wisdom, and much to offer. Yet, when He was exhausted at times, He would go away from the crowds and get alone so He could be refreshed. Despite the pressing needs around Him, Jesus knew He had to take care of His temple.

Where do we go from here?

The Son of God had to be alone and rest; if He couldn’t meet all the demands of the people around Him, why do we think we can go all the time and be everything for everyone? You get depleted no matter how special, strong, smart, or gifted you are. Despite all the needs around you, you have to get alone and recharge your batteries. There will always be needs, always be something to do, and always be someone who needs your attention. You have to make it a priority to stay in balance.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for knowing our needs and making provisions for us throughout our life journey. Thank You for the example of how Jesus would get away and be refreshed when He was tired. Help us to be wise about taking care of ourselves and living balanced. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

– Scripture:

He told his disciples, “Hard trials and temptations are bound to come, but too bad for whoever brings them on! It’s better to wear a millstone necklace and take a swim in the deep blue sea than give even one of these dear little ones a hard time! “Be alert. If you see your friend going wrong, correct him. If he responds, forgive him. Even if it’s personal against you and repeated seven times through the day, and seven times he says, ‘I’m sorry, I won’t do it again,’ forgive him.” The apostles came up and said to the Master, “Give us more faith.” But the Master said, “You don’t need more faith. There is no ‘more’ or ‘less’ in faith. If you have a bare kernel of faith, say the size of a poppy seed, you could say to this sycamore tree, ‘Go jump in the lake,’ and it would do it.

                                         Luke 17:1–6 MSG

– Reflection:

                     A Kernel of Faith

We all want our lives to matter. We want these few days we spend here to mean something. We want to have some sort of impact. Well, if we really want impact, we’ve got to allow the amplifying power of the Holy Spirit to work through us by being willing to act in faith. When we act alone (as we so often do), we do so with our own strength. But when we act in faith, our actions are amplified by the strength of a great and powerful God. Men and women acting in faith have “stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight.”

Where do we go from here?

The surprising thing about acting in faith is that unlike when we act alone, our skill or cleverness does not determine the magnitude of impact. When the Apostle Paul worked to start the church in Corinth, he spoke “in weakness and fear,” lacking “plausible words of wisdom.” He must have doubted whether he’d had any impact at all. But the church was established nonetheless. “God’s Spirit and God’s power did it,” through Paul’s seemingly unimpressive actions, taken in faith.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, You wake us every day ready for the work You have for us. Please watch over us as we go about our day. We will definitely have some ups and downs because of our human condition. Please help us to keep you on our minds as we do what we are supposed to and continue helping those who are further away from you than us. As I end this prayer, I want to honor my Aunt Vera for the loss of her son “Deron Thompson.” Keep her and my cousin Shunda safe, as well as the family’s little ones. Keep them safe and protect them for the rest of the day. In Jesus’ name, we all said. Amen.

– Scripture:

My purpose in writing is simply this: that you who believe in God’s Son will know beyond the shadow of a doubt that you have eternal life, the reality and not the illusion. And how bold and free we then become in his presence, freely asking according to his will, sure that he’s listening. And if we’re confident that he’s listening, we know that what we’ve asked for is as good as ours.

                                  1 John 5:13–15 MSG

– Reflection:

                  The Reality, Not the Illusion

When you pray, you can know that you have your requests. When you believe and receive your healing, promotion, or freedom, things begin to happen in the unseen realm. But if the answer is always in your future, you haven’t received it in your spirit.

Where do we go from here?

What God is going to bring to pass is not what you ask for but what you believe you receive when you pray. Are you receiving when you’re believing? Do you know that you have your request? It’s not just, “God, I’m asking You to help me break this addiction.” That’s good, but by itself, it’s not enough. Follow it up with: “Lord, I receive my freedom. Thank You that I am free from this addiction now—not that I’m going to be free one day. No, I have my request now.” When you prayed, you not only believed it, but you received it. Now change your report from “I’m hoping to” to “It’s already done.” It’s just a matter of time before what happened in the unseen realm shows up in the natural realm.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for the privilege of being able to come to You, the Creator of the universe, and knowing that I have the requests I have asked of You. Thank You that I can believe and receive now. I believe and declare that the answer is on the way. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

“To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for that person. If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, gift wrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant’s life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously.

                              Luke 6:27–30 MSG

– Reflection:

                   Who Are Your Enemies?

Who are your enemies? Do you have any? Who hates you? Anyone? Most of us would probably answer no. We might even conclude that these words, spoken so long ago, have become a little irrelevant in our everyday lives. And we might try to just move on to the next set of instructions. But should we? Can we? The answer is absolutely not. These particular instructions are as relevant to us right now as they are challenging and as they are important. Our King, Jesus Christ, is calling on us to love even those hardest to love. And we know people like that.

Where do we go from here?

Who’s mistreated you? Who’s let you down? Who’s taken advantage of you? Maybe someone at work? A family member? A friend? A neighbor? Someone you barely know? “Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst.” We must treat those who’ve treated us badly well. We must help those who will never help us back. We must be generous to those who are anything but. And we must be merciful to them all. But not only that, we must be merciful again and again and again. You see, what Jesus is teaching us is that we must grasp and embrace that we don’t fight evil with yet more evil; we fight evil with good.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, today we are going to pray for the hardest person for us to pray for. We have that person in mind. Let God the Holy Spirit lead you in how to pray for them. Honor the negative thoughts that can arise surrounding this person during prayer, throw those away, and begin to build a successful prayer life for these people. Thanks, Father, for giving us the strength to honor you in all we do. Amen.

 – Scripture:

  God told Moses, “Look at me. I’ll make you a god to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron will be your prophet. You are to speak everything I command you, and your brother Aaron will tell it to Pharaoh. Then, he will release the Israelites from his land. At the same time, I will put Pharaoh’s back up and follow it up by filling Egypt with signs and wonders. Pharaoh is not going to listen to you, but I will have my way against Egypt and bring out my soldiers, my people, the Israelites, from Egypt by mighty acts of judgment. The Egyptians will realize that I am God when I step in and take the Israelites out of their country.” Moses and Aaron did exactly what God commanded. Moses was eighty and Aaron eighty-three when they spoke to Pharaoh.

                               Exodus 7:1–7 MSG

– Reflection:

                Right Desires

When God told Moses to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelite slaves go free, He also caused Pharoah to harden his heart to say no. God put the desire in him to be stubborn. Why? So that He would receive great glory at Pharaoh’s expense. God went on to perform great miracles so the Egyptian people knew He was the true God. It was a part of His plan so the Israelites could fulfill their purpose.

Where do we go from here?

You don’t have to fear the future or worry about whether you will be making the right choices. Just keep honoring God. Your part is to commit your ways to Him every morning and say, “Lord, let Your will be done and not mine. I put You first place.” God’s part is to give you the right desires that are strong enough to allow you to step into His will. This is how He will lead you to the best plan.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for being the Almighty God working for my good. Thank You. As I put You first, You put desires in my heart that will lead me to fulfill my purpose. I will walk in peace, knowing You are taking me down the best path for my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 – Scripture:

 So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life your sleeping, eating, going to work, and walking around life and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, which always drags you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you and develops a well-formed maturity in you.

                            Romans 12:1–2 (MSG)

 – Reflection:

                 Staying Energized & OnFire

What a great challenge for us men today. It dares us to engage our God-given capacities for imagining and inventing. But, it also dares to direct these capacities toward good purposes, toward God’s purposes. Too often, we use our imaginations to envision prosperous futures for ourselves, futures of comfort, materialism, and separation. We use them to envision worrisome futures where our worst fears come to pass. And too often, we use our inventiveness to build our prosperity or barricades around our lives to protect ourselves from our fears.

 Where do we go from here?

What if we stopped doing that so much? What if, in faith, we were to refocus these imaginative and inventive capacities? What if we put them toward keeping ourselves and those around us “energized and burning”? What if we dedicated a few moments every week, every month to look at ourselves, our families, our friends, and our communities and allowed ourselves to dream and create? We wouldn’t be alone. God, the Holy Spirit, would be right there in those moments, guiding and inspiring us.

 Our Prayer for Today

Father, it’s not easy to change how we think and how we act. We need your help. Allow us a few minutes to pray and listen for the Holy Spirit. Let us be still. As we consider how you might encourage “love and good deeds” in our family, friends, and community. Whatever comes, if it fits within the principles of Scripture, we trust it and know you will make it happen. Amen.

– Scripture: 

 Kind words heal and help; cutting words wound and maim.

                         Proverbs 15:4 MSG

– Reflection:

                            God Doesn’t Miss A Thing

You have something that will cause your spouse to blossom, your children to bloom, your loved ones to feel more secure. It’s not your money, your hard work, or your accomplishments; it’s your kind words. They need to hear how much you love them, how much you believe in them, how great you think they are. Today there are so many voices saying harsh things, being rude and demeaning, trying to push people down. We need to be just as bold and speak our mind in a positive way. God is counting on us to be healers, to be lifters, to be encouragers.

Where do we go from here?

Don’t let a day go by when you don’t say something kind to the people God put in your life. It’s not enough to just think it; your thoughts don’t nourish anyone. A blessing is not a blessing until it’s spoken. They need to hear, “I love you. I’m proud of you. You’re beautiful. You’re going to do great things.” Make it your business to nourish people’s souls, to bring healing and wholeness.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for the people You have placed in our lives and the special role You have given us in their lives. Thank You that You can take our words of encouragement and bring healing and wholeness to them. Help us to see who we can bless and lift up today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother’s womb. I thank you, High God you’re breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth; all the stages of my life were spread out before you, The days of my life all prepared before I’d even lived one day.

                          Psalm 139:13–16 MSG

Key Verse – Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out; you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something.

 – Reflection:

                            Believing We Were Made

Scripture says we’ve been fearfully and wonderfully made, but the enemy doesn’t want us to see ourselves that way. He puts up distorted mirrors to change our self-image. When we look in the distorted mirror, even though we’ve been forgiven and redeemed, all we see are our mistakes, failures, and times that we didn’t measure up. The person looking back at us in the distorted mirror is guilty and unworthy. That’s not who we are.

Where do we go from here?

If life has treated you unfairly, we’ll see ourselves in that distorted mirror as a victim, defeated, with nothing good in our future. But the truth is that God has beauty for those ashes. What was meant for harm, He’s turning to your advantage. What’s the problem? You’re looking in the wrong mirror. As long as we’re letting that distorted image define who we are, it will keep us from rising higher. Get rid of that mirror and go to God’s Word. Let Him define your image. If we see ourselves the way God sees us, it will begin to heal a damaged self-image.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You that we are fearfully and wonderfully made in Your image. Thank You for not letting us know that we are not any of the negatives that the enemy tries to use to distort the image of who we are. We believe nothing can hold us back from becoming all You created us to be. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

– Scripture:

                 Where Is Your Heart At?

I, Paul, am under God’s plan as an apostle, a special agent of Christ Jesus, writing to you faithful believers in Ephesus. I greet you with the grace and peace poured into our lives by God our Father and our Master, Jesus Christ. How blessed is God! And what a blessing he is! He’s the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind and had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago, he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son.

                                 Ephesians 1:1–6 MSG

Key Verse – Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love.

– Reflection:

In our nonprofit, we teach basketball to the youth; the guys that come in are just learning basketball. I think of it as the beginning of my walk with Christ. You may not know how to do everything the first day or even the first month, but if you keep showing up, you will eventually learn to complete a layup and play defense against an offense correctly. Well early on my walk with Christ the toughest thing for me was prayer, I couldn’t understand how saying words into open air would allow our father to hear me. Now I can pray in front of people and even write this blog to go out to others hoping to encourage you guys to come an walk with Christ. It is an amazing journey ahead of us if we only listen to the words written in our hearts by our Father.

Where do we go from here?

It is not expected for anyone to start a nonprofit or pick up a sport they know nothing about. I am sure, though, that there is something that you are great at that you could possibly help someone out with. Do that and watch how your life begins to change. I had a cousin doing a lot wrong by the Church today’s standards, but he found out that if he made the smallest change in himself, he could make a difference. Those small things make GOD smile and pour out his blessings on us.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for all you have done in the lives of those we have touched together. Allow us to continue on this path together. It is a blessing to perform small things for great people. You honored us with your son, so allow us to honor you with our love for you and the work you provide us each day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

 – Scripture:

              Faith to Believe

And so I arrived in Jerusalem. After I had been there three days, I got up in the middle of the night, I and a few men who were with me. I hadn’t told anyone what my God had put in my heart to do for Jerusalem. The only animal with us was the one I was riding.

                          Nehemiah 2:11–12 MSG

Key Verse – I hadn’t told anyone what my God had put in my heart to do for Jerusalem. The only animal with us was the one I was riding.

 – Reflection: 

When Nehemiah heard that the walls and gates of Jerusalem had been torn down, there was nothing he could do about it. He was a cupbearer to the king of Persia, living in exile a thousand miles away. But suddenly, God dropped a desire in Nehemiah to rebuild those walls. It didn’t make sense to his mind. He didn’t have the staff, the resources, or the experience. But with the desire came a new boldness, a confidence, the faith to believe in what seemed impossible. He went to the king, and amazingly, the king sent Nehemiah and supplied him with the materials and funds to do it.

Where do we go from here?

Notice that God not only puts desires in you, but He puts the favor on you so you can see that desire come to pass. When it’s a destiny desire, there’s a force breathing in your direction, pushing you forward, opening doors, and causing people to be good to you. You’re not stressed over how it will happen; you know it will happen. Get ready for where God is about to take you.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for never giving me the desire to do something without the power and favor to do it. Thank You that I don’t have to make it all happen alone or manipulate people to help me. I will keep You first place and watch You work out Your plans for my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 – Scripture:

                    If the Son Sets You Free

Then Jesus turned to the Jews who had claimed to believe in him. “If you stick with this, living out what I tell you, you are my disciples for sure. Then you will experience for yourselves the truth, and the truth will free you.” Surprised, they said, “But we’re descendants of Abraham. We’ve never been slaves to anyone. How can you say, ‘The truth will free you’?” Jesus said, “I tell you most solemnly that anyone who chooses a life of sin is trapped in a dead-end life and is, in fact, a slave. A slave is a transient who can’t come and go at will. The Son, though, has an established position, the run of the house. So if the Son sets you free, you are free through and through. I know you are Abraham’s descendants. But I also know that you are trying to kill me because my message hasn’t yet penetrated your thick skulls. I’m talking about things I have seen while keeping company with the Father, and you just go on doing what you have heard from your father.” They were indignant. “Our father is Abraham!”
Jesus said, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would have been doing the things Abraham did. And yet here you are trying to kill me, a man who has spoken to you the truth he got straight from God! Abraham never did that sort of thing. You persist in repeating the works of your father.” They said, “We’re not bastards. We have a legitimate father: the one and only God.”

                                John 8:31–41 MSG

 – Reflection:

We cannot mature in our faith without community. We just cannot. The process of maturing isn’t simple and isn’t smooth. It’s one of getting off track and getting on again and again and again. We need help with that. We’re designed to be together. We’re built to need one another. To “grow up healthy in God, robust in love,” we need community. We need to want to do the things that our savior did in being in the community and seeing the people; that way, we will know for ourselves what the community needs. Not listening to someone who hasn’t even been to your community, but get out there yourself. Go see family, see them, and remember what your city or town was like before you moved away. Help honor where you came from; if we all can do this, it will make for a better community that will move the needle more for change than just talking about it. Christ got out in the community and sacrificed his life to move the needle of his community, which, in a sense, has moved across the world today. We all want to do the work that has been placed in our hearts, let’s do what Jesus did start small and connect with one another to make the change necessary for the Kingdom.

Where do we go from here?

Do you have a sense of the true identities of your brothers and sisters in the community? Get serious about learning. Get intentional about allowing God to show you. Begin creating small groups. In those small groups; speak on things that will help the group honor the WORD. When you meet next, have each person bring a favorite story or verse from Scripture. Read them. Talk about them. They’ll point to something true. If someone loves the story of Caleb, for example, they’re likely designed and built to be brave, bold, and faithful like Caleb. And his community must help him do just that.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, help guide us in the ways that made you do the work you were called to do and aid us in those same abilities. We know things are not going to be easy, and know that anything worth having is worth working for. Allow us the strength to honor you and the Father with the work necessary to bring change in this world. In your name, Jesus, we pray and say Amen.

 – Scripture:

                 Pushing Through

A woman who had suffered a condition of hemorrhaging for twelve years—a long succession of physicians had treated her, and treated her badly, taking all her money and leaving her worse off than before—had heard about Jesus. She slipped in from behind and touched his robe. She was thinking to herself, “If I can put a finger on his robe, I can get well.” The moment she did it, the flow of blood dried up. She could feel the change and knew her plague was over and done with.

                               Mark 5:25–29 MSG

 – Reflection:

The passage is talking about the lady in the bible who pushed through everyone to get the miracle that she knew was there. She had spent all her money on the best doctors but continued to get worse. Then, one day, she heard that Jesus was passing through her town, and her faith was awakened suddenly. She left her house determined to get to Jesus through the crowds. She had to push through doubts that it wouldn’t happen, push through her past that said she’d tried and it didn’t work out, push through fear that Jesus might not approve of her. Despite all the opposition, she kept saying, “When I get to Jesus, I will be healed.” She tapped into her great faith, reached out and touched the edge of His robe, and was healed. Jesus looked at her and said, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. I didn’t even see you. Your faith caused this miracle to happen.”

Where do we go from here?

Are there blessings you’re missing, favors you’re not seeing because you’re not stretching your faith? What do you need to press through in faith? Great faith gets God’s attention. What is necessary for you to push through and get what you need from Jesus?

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for Your presence in our lives today and that our faith can push through to You and do amazing things. Thank You that we can reach out and touch You by faith. We declare that we ar stretching our faith to believe in You in greater ways. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

– Scripture:

                  Unexpectedly Strong     

After the death of Moses, the servant of God, God spoke to Joshua, Moses’ assistant:

“Moses, my servant, is dead. Get going. Cross this Jordan River, you and all the people. Cross to the country I’m giving to the People of Israel. I’m giving you every square inch of the land you set your foot on—just as I promised Moses. From the wilderness and this Lebanon east to the Great River, the Euphrates River—all the Hittite country—and then west to the Great Sea. It’s all yours. All your life, no one will be able to hold out against you. In the same way I was with Moses, I’ll be with you. I won’t give up on you; I won’t leave you. Strength! Courage! You are going to lead these people to inherit the land that I promised to give their ancestors. Give it everything you have, heart and soul. Make sure you carry out The Revelation that Moses commanded you, every bit of it. Don’t get off track, either left or right, so as to make sure you get to where you’re going. And don’t for a minute let this Book of Revelation be out of mind. Ponder and meditate on it day and night, making sure you practice everything written in it. Then you’ll get where you’re going; then you’ll succeed. Haven’t I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don’t be timid; don’t get discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take.”

                               Joshua 1:1–9 MSG

– Reflection:

God showed up in my life totally unexpectedly one evening while my wife, Karrie watched our sons I was set to have a meeting with GOD himself. Freedom House Church was having its first “Strong Men’s” event. It is where the men of the Church came together to become more for the community and help lift one another up. I was sitting in the sanctuary waiting for the church service to start. I was not sure what to expect, but I was definitely ready for anything. It was late 2013, and it would prove to be the start of a personal journey that would change my life. I had already been a part of a few careers, the first in corporate IT and banking and the second in automotive technology. I was completely content and excited about getting better at programming and having a chance to learn to be a better father and husband. Little did I know that God had other plans for me, showing up in unexpected places in unexpected ways. That night he showed up in a way that I was not expecting at all, I have heard of GOD being in the Church. I can’t really describe how it felt but I am going to try. Standing there worship with the other men, I suddenly felt a happiness that is indescribable, then came the goose bumps on my arms, and this feeling of safety I had never felt before. I knew it was GOD and I was experiencing him at that moment. I have never forgotten that and will always be on my walk until it is time for me to leave here. It was a great feeling that I hold on to each and every day.

Where do we go from here?

When I look back on that night and remember the speaker’s words of the opening night. The pastor was from Australia, and he spoke about the relationship we have with GOD and how that can be good, but our relationships with our brothers and sisters can be all bad. WE have to work on those relationships just as much as the ones we have with GOD. That first night of that conference showed me who I was to become, not how it was going to happen. That takes others to get there. To be a better husband you have to want to be that, to become a better father you have to want to be that and get in company with those that are doing those same things. Whatever has been shown to you; it is up to you to make it important to begin that walk and find others like yourself. On my journey I have become closer to a lot of people, some I helped and some helped me but those relationships have strengthened me into the person GOD is creating to do his work.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you to everyone who has been a part of my journey, for those who have helped, and for those who have been an obstacle. It is because of you that we know how to be for Jesus. Allow the walks we have begun to finish with as we search for your face and hear your voice. Allow us the ability to perform the work that you have placed in front of us. In Jesus’ name, we say Amen.

 – Scripture:

                  Soul Health

The Pastor, to my good friend Gaius: How truly I love you! We’re the best of friends, and I pray for good fortune in everything you do and for your good health—that your everyday affairs prosper, as well as your soul! I was happiest when some friends arrived and told me you persist in following the way of Truth. Nothing could make me happier than getting reports that my children continue diligently in the way of Truth!

                                 3 John 1–4 MSG

 – Reflection:

If you’re living worried, bitter, guilty, and angry, those negative emotions and negative energy poison your soul and weaken your immune system’s ability to fight sickness. You lie in bed worrying about your finances all night, can’t sleep, then wonder why you have no energy, your blood pressure is high, and you have constant headaches. It might be related to bitterness over what someone did years ago. You can’t take in toxins and not be poisoned. If you get your soul healthy, many physical ailments will disappear. It’s all interconnected.

Where do we go from here?

Is your soul healthy? Ask God to show you anything causing you negative emotions, then release it to Him. When you empty the unforgiveness, the worry, the discouragement, God will cause your soul to prosper and fill you with joy and healing.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for wanting both my soul and health to prosper in all things. I choose to empty any negative emotions and attitudes so You can fill me with peace and joy. I believe You will help me keep my soul and body whole and healthy. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 – Scripture:

                Being An Overcomer

Every God-begotten person conquers the world’s ways. The conquering power that brings the world to its knees is our faith. The person who wins out over the world’s ways is simply the one who believes Jesus is the Son of God.

                        1 John 5:4–5 MSG

 – Reflection:

Many people are not reaching their potential because their vision is limited. They’re talented and have favor, but they don’t see themselves accomplishing dreams, being blessed, or living healthily. You will never rise any higher than the way you see yourself. Through your eyes of faith, you need to see yourself the way you want to be. You may be fighting an illness, but you need to see yourself healthy. If you’re struggling with your finances, you need to see yourself out of debt, with abundance, being a blessing to others. If you’re dealing with an addiction, don’t let that negative image take root. Don’t see yourself defeated or dysfunctional as someone who “can’t break it.” 

Where do we go from here?

Get a new image. See yourself being free. See yourself whole. See yourself as a child of the Most High God. See yourself as an overcomer, as “more than a conqueror through Him who loved us.” Your inner vision is setting the limits for your life. The pictures you keep in front of you, in your imagination, that’s what you’re moving toward.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for being my God and making me into a brand-new creation in Jesus. Thank You that I was born to overcome and see myself as free and whole. I believe and declare that I am more than a conqueror by faith, a victor and not a victim of circumstances. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 – Scripture:

               Remembrance

Once again, I’ll go over what God has done and lay out the ancient wonders on the table; I’ll ponder all the things you’ve accomplished and give a long, loving look at your acts.

                            Psalm 77:11–12 MSG

 – Reflection:

It’s hard to complain when you constantly think about how good God has been to you. It’s hard to be negative when you are always talking about God’s blessings and favor in your life. Too often, though, we remember what we should forget—our disappointments, hurts, and failures—and we forget what we should remember—our victories, successes, and the good times.

Where do we go from here?

You must remember God’s goodness regularly, simply thinking about the significant victories in your life, the unexpected successes, or the times when you knew that God intervened in your circumstances and protected you. Remember when you knew your sins were forgiven and became a child of God. If you get this awareness of God’s goodness down inside you, your faith will grow, and your joy will overflow.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for all the amazing things You’ve done in my life, the victories You’ve helped me win, the restoration, the vindication, and the favor You’ve shown. Help me remember the doors You’ve opened for me and the times You’ve protected, promoted, and given me opportunities. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 – Scripture:

                  The Unstoppable GOD

This is God’s Word on the subject: “As soon as Babylon’s seventy years are up and not a day before, I’ll show up and take care of you as I promised and bring you back home. I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out: plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.

                                   Jeremiah 29:10-11 MSG

 – Reflection:

Long before you were born, God laid out the plan and purpose for your life. His will is unstoppable. When it’s His sovereign will for you to be blessed, it’s not dependent on anything that has happened to you or anything you are currently facing. The blessing will overtake you. It’s unstoppable. There’s nothing you can do or not do to keep His sovereign will from coming to pass or to get God to change His mind. You’ll see favor that you didn’t earn, you didn’t deserve, you weren’t born into, and you can’t explain.

 Where do we go from here?

You will face some things you don’t understand. The enemy will try to cause you to doubt, but you can stay in peace knowing it all works according to God’s plan. You’re not at the mercy of fate or happenstance. You don’t have to worry about how something can happen or how you will come through. The sovereign God has already not only planned it, but He will make it happen. It’s not up to you; it’s up to Him. You can rest in His plan.

 Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for Your plans for our lives, plans that are full of hope and a tremendous future. Thank You for calling us to trust You and to be comfortable not knowing how everything will work out. We believe that You not only have written our plans but that You will make them happen. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 – Scripture:

                Truly Free

Jesus said, “I tell you most solemnly that anyone who chooses a life of sin is trapped in a dead-end life and is, in fact, a slave. A slave is a transient who can’t come and go at will. The Son, though, has an established position, the run of the house. So if the Son sets you free, you are free through and through. I know you are Abraham’s descendants. But I also know that you are trying to kill me because my message hasn’t yet penetrated your thick skulls. I’m talking about things I have seen while keeping company with the Father, and you do what you have heard from your father.”

                              John 8:34–38 MSG

 – Reflection:

When we’ve struggled in an area for a long time, it’s easy to accept that it’s permanent. We prayed, we stood in faith, but nothing changed. Now we think we’ll always have the sickness, always struggle with our finances, depression, or anxiety. Maybe we’ve tried to forgive someone who hurt us, but we’re still angry. We’re functioning and making it, but it’s restricting our joy and limiting our growth.

Where do we go from here?

You were not created to be bound by anything. Jesus came to make you unquestionably free. The things that are hindering you, that are keeping you from your potential, are not permanent. That sickness is not how your story ends. You don’t have to live with the depression or the addiction. God is about to do something new in your life. You’re coming into a shift, a breakthrough. Yes, there are seasons we have to endure and fight the good fight of faith, but there comes a time when God says, “Enough is enough. Now I’m going to step in and free you. Not partially free, not a little better, but unquestionably free.”

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You that when Christ defeated death on the cross, He broke the power of every negative thing that was trying to hold us back. Thank You that we are unquestionably free and the chains are falling off. We believe and declare that we are free indeed. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 – Scripture:

                  (Red Flags) Doing It Our Way

Samson went down to Timnah. There in Timnah a woman caught his eye, a Philistine girl. He came back and told his father and mother, “I saw a woman in Timnah, a Philistine girl; get her for me as my wife.” His parents said to him, “Isn’t there a woman among the girls in the neighborhood of our people? Do you have to go get a wife from the uncircumcised Philistines?” But Samson said to his father, “Get her for me. She’s the one I want—she’s the right one.” (His father and mother had no idea that God was behind this, that he was arranging an opportunity against the Philistines. At the time, the Philistines lorded it over Israel.) Samson went down to Timnah with his father and mother. When he got to the vineyards of Timnah, a young lion came at him, roaring. The Spirit of God came on him powerfully, and he ripped it open barehanded, like tearing a young goat. But he didn’t tell his parents what he had done. Then he went on down and spoke to the woman. In Samson’s eyes, she was the one. Some days later, when he came back to get her, he made a little detour to look at what was left of the lion. And there a wonder: a swarm of bees in the lion’s carcass—and honey! He scooped it up and kept going, eating as he went. He rejoined his father and mother and gave some to them, and they ate. But he didn’t tell them that he had scooped out the honey from the lion’s carcass. His father went down to make arrangements with the woman while Samson prepared a feast there. That’s what the young men did in those days. Because the people were wary of him, they arranged for thirty friends to mingle with him.

                                      Judges 14:1-11 MSG

 – Reflection:

The church message today was very good. We are still in our series called “Red Flags.” The message surrounded Samson and the red flags he should have noticed as he went through the early stages of his ascension into the power God had blessed him with. A few of the red flags that he should have noticed were choosing a woman outside the Israelite faith was the first one, going down to a vineyard was the second, and killing something without a tool so his hands don’t touch something dead. We all know and have heard the stories of Samson, and these are the red flags he posted for me, at the beginning of his walk with God. He was supposed to be the one who saved the Israelites and gave himself over to the power of God; instead, he used the power of God for himself; in a roundabout kind of way, God still got what he wanted in the Philistines taken out in the end, but his tragedy had to happen for it to take place.

Where do we go from here?

What has God placed in your path that you can or could have helped, and everything went every which way but right? Somehow, though, God still was able to reap a reward from that power grab or drug deal, or adulterous situation. The thing is, if we had just done as he asked first, the reward from our Father would have been so much sweeter and more gratifying. Doing it our way is what gets us late to the blessing table. Since starting my walk a few years ago I can a lot of things where if I had only listened the first time; man!!!! Now from where I started, things are so much better. Problems no longer seem so big, a conversation can cure a lot, trickery is not necessary anymore. Find you a place to pray the Lord’s Prayer and the prayer of acceptance and begin your walks with Christ. You will see, too, the peace that will come into your life as well.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for helping me to spot “Red Flags” and notice the things that may make it difficult. All the glory and praise you are honored with by us each is well deserved if only because of the things you remove from our paths. Thank you, Father, for keeping our homes and jobs safe while we dwell within them and while away. It is an honor to be in your presence each and every day. Amen.

– Scripture:

                A Fight To The Finish

Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting, you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so no one falls behind or drops out.

                           Ephesians 6:13–18 MSG

– Reflection:

God never promised us that we would not have problems. Jesus told His disciples that they would have trouble in this life. That goes for us as well. But God gives us His armor for protection: the helmet of salvation, the breastplate of righteousness, the belt of truth, the shoes of peace, and the shield of faith. He gives us everything we need for victory. When difficult things come, things we don’t understand, God uses them to develop our character. We were created to confront our fears and live in His peace. If we stand in faith, letting Him fight our battles no matter how bad things get, we will come out better than before.

Where do we go from here?

Many of us have been facing battles this week battles of fear, uncertainty, and doubt. Pray to see things from God’s perspective. Whatever we face, whatever comes against us, we have no reason to worry. The Most High God fights for us. We can put on His armor and live without fear. The enemy may come, but he has no power over us. He’s already been defeated.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for providing us with Your armor to withstand the evil days. Thank you for being so helpful. With your help, we can take our stand and not be overcome by fear. We believe that as we stay in peace, You will give us everything we need for victory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 – Scripture: