2 Samuel 22:3-7

Life can certainly throw punches, can’t it? Relationships, finances, work pressures, and loneliness—just to name a few—sometimes leave us feeling too weak to keep going. Even if our beliefs are deeply anchored in Christ, all the chaos of life can seem overwhelming. But just like a conductor whose raised arms quiet a stage full of musicians, God calms the raging storm and causes the winds to be still. He remains steady in the storm—our peace amidst the noise.

Are you walking difficult paths and feeling the need for clarity? Do you long for a firm shield as you face harsh words or hurtful memories? What situations are you in that require a protector to fight on your behalf? Take heart, friend. God promises that we will never have to face anything alone. On the contrary, Scripture says, “The Lord is the one who is going ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not desert you or abandon you. Do not fear and do not be dismayed” (Deuteronomy 31:8).

David’s words of praise to God from today’s passage are still powerful for us. Not only does the Lord shield us from eternal death; He also illuminates our path and strengthens us for each day. Let us hold tightly to the truth that no matter what comes our way, He remains with us.

Philippians 2:9-11

As we saw yesterday, Jesus—God made flesh—didn’t insist on the position and privileges that were rightly His. Instead, He emptied Himself and became a servant. But He didn’t stop at token humility: He took this step all the way to death—in fact, the excruciating and demeaning death by crucifixion. This is a powerful statement of God’s character. What the Lord delights in is not arrogance but a servant’s heart.

Jesus set aside power to serve in humility. As believers, we want to gain in Christlikeness, so shouldn’t humble service be our goal as well? To avoid losing sight of this calling, let’s keep in mind the lengths our Father went to: He reached into death and raised Jesus to new life—resurrection life. God highly exalted the Savior, giving Him the name above every name.

Even if we somehow miss the breathtaking scope of the Savior’s love and service during His life on earth, it will be clear when He returns. Philippians 2:10 says that every knee will bow before Jesus. The phrase “in heaven and on earth and under the earth” indicates that everything will worship Him as Lord.

In God’s view, the way up is down. We don’t please or honor Him by exalting ourselves. Rather, we pour out what we have in service and humility, to the glory of God the Father.

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10

Picture this: You’re at a professional football game. There are thousands of people in the stands, all cheering as if their shouts are actually willing their team to victory. Now think about your faith. How many believers do you know who put that same passion and intensity into their relationship with Jesus?

In his letter to the church at Thessalonica, the apostle Paul rejoiced in the young congregation’s passion for telling the world about Christ. Because the city was a busy seaport, he knew that the church there had the ear of the whole world. Travelers would hear the gospel and then take it back to their own communities.

By saying that the word of the Lord had “sounded forth” from the church (1 Thess. 1:8), Paul painted a powerful word picture. In Greek, this verb refers to a sound that projects like a trumpet blast or thunder. So, Paul was praising the Thessalonians for being living megaphones proclaiming Christ.

As followers of Jesus, we have the responsibility of sharing who He is and what He has done. Shout it from the rooftops! Fill entire stadiums with the thunder of your praise! Don’t just show the people around you who your favorite sports team is. Make sure they know who your Savior is, too.

Colossians 1:1-9

Today’s passage includes a life-changing prayer, written by Paul to the believers at Colossae. Here’s what makes this prayer so powerful: Every request is in agreement with God’s will.

In verse 9, Paul asked that the Colossians be filled with knowledge of what the Father desires from His children. The way this happens is by spending time with God—talking with Him, reading His Word, and seeking His will. It includes His general purposes for all believers—such as loving Him and people (Luke 10:27)—as well as His specific plan for each one of us (Ephesians 2:10).

Paul knew that to apply what we learn, we need insight and clarity, which come from the Holy Spirit (John 16:13). So he asked God to give the believers at Colossae spiritual wisdom and understanding. But this is also a request we can make for those who don’t yet know Christ. After all, it’s not God’s desire for any to perish (2 Peter 3:9), and people need spiritual understanding in order to come to faith.

Our heavenly Father has promised that those who pray in agreement with His purposes will receive what they ask. Therefore, it is important to start by discovering what His plans are. Try incorporating scriptural prayers—like the one from today’s passage—into your conversations with the Lord.

Colossians 1:10-14

Paul fervently desired that the body of Christ—individually and corporately—become spiritually mature. The apostle asked that we believers would know God’s will and then ...

Live a godly life (Col. 1:10). Paul prayed for our character, conversation, and conduct to be consistent with the Lord’s. Our lives ought to be an extension of His—with eyes that look compassionately at others, hands that offer help, and mouths that speak forgiveness and love. A believer’s character, while imperfect, should reflect Christ’s righteousness.

Make our life count (v. 10). God cares deeply about what’s done in obedience to Him. Jesus spoke about the importance of bearing much fruit, which is possible only when we stay connected with Him (John 15:5).

Experience God’s power (Col. 1:11). Through the Holy Spirit’s presence, we have all we need in order to do our Father’s will.

Remain committed and grateful (v. 12). God answers in His perfect timing. In the meantime, we should be steadfast in prayer and thankful for everything He’s already done.

Whenever we pray these verses, our petitions are in accordance with God’s will. And 1 John 5:14-15 tells us our Father responds affirmatively to prayers that align with His purposes.

Galatians 5:22-23

Who doesn’t enjoy accomplishments? Most of us like being recognized for our achievements, whether it’s landing a big client at work, winning the chili cook-off, or training a baby to sleep all night. These are all good things, but God’s purpose for us is so much deeper. Galatians 5:22-23 tells us that our character is important to God. That’s why He instructs us to walk by the Spirit, so that the deeds of the flesh are replaced with God’s attributes.

• Love is the foundation for all other virtues. We cultivate it by embracing God’s unconditional love for us.

• Joy is contentment regardless of our circumstances.

• Peace comes from trusting God and surrendering to Him.

• Patience is developed by trusting God’s perfect timing.

• Kindness is God’s compassion reflected to others.

• Goodness occurs as we mirror His righteousness and justice.

• Faithfulness means we are steadfast and trustworthy.

• Gentleness comes when we approach others with humility.

• Self-control requires us to exercise restraint and rely on the Holy Spirit’s strength.

Growing in these virtues makes us more Christlike and testifies to God’s transformative work in our life. And that’s an accomplishment worth celebrating.

2 Corinthians 9:6-8

The act of giving holds a special place in God’s heart. Verse 7 of today’s passage reminds us that God cares about the way we share what we have. He delights in cheerful givers who act with a joyful heart and willing spirit.

When we give grudgingly or out of duty, we miss the delight of aligning our heart with God’s generous nature. Sharing with others should be seen as a privilege, not a burden. It’s an opportunity to participate in God’s work and to be His hands and feet by meeting the needs of those around us.

The condition of our heart—not the size of our gift—is what determines how the Lord views what we offer. Giving cheerfully reflects gratitude for His blessings and trust in His provision. It acknowledges that everything we have belongs to God and we are merely stewards. So, allow the joy of giving to fill your heart as you partner with God in blessing others. And remember, it’s not about the dollar amount but the love behind your gift.

Take a moment now to ask God where He is inviting you to generously give to others, just as He generously gave to you. Ask Him who, and then faithfully and obediently execute the what.

Romans 14:13-17

In today’s passage, the apostle Paul writes, “[Do not] put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother’s or sister’s way … For if because of food your brother or sister is hurt, you are no longer walking in accordance with love” (vv. 13, 15). God’s kingdom isn’t about what we eat or drink—or any other “rule” we think we must follow. Rather, it’s about the transformative work of the Holy Spirit within us.

When we align with God’s righteousness, seeking His ways and His will, joy blossoms. The Holy Spirit, our Comforter and Guide, brings it to life within us. He reminds us of God’s love, assures us of our salvation, and empowers us to live in harmony with those around us. This is not some superficial or temporary happiness; it’s the fruit of the Spirit dwelling in us (Galatians 5:22) and transcends our circumstances.

Take a moment to reflect on the joy that comes from knowing God and seeking Him. This profound sense of stability and strength cannot be bought or manufactured—it flows from our connection to the Source of all joy and is a taste of the eternal pleasures that await us in God’s presence (Psalm 16:11).

1 Samuel 17:45-47

Life’s “Goliaths” come in all shapes, sizes, and intensities: an unhappy relationship, a difficult job, a pile of debt. In today’s passage, David faced what appeared to be an insurmountable problem, but he was victorious through God’s power. We can be, too.

David declared victory over Goliath before the battle even began (v. 46). His confidence was rooted in his past experiences with the Lord. What’s more, David believed triumph was certain because he came in the name of the Lord. As a shepherd, he’d spent hours alone in the wilderness, listening to God’s voice. Even a giant’s discouraging shout couldn’t shake his convictions about who God was and what He could do through His servant.

David had practical faith habits. A strong relationship with the Lord developed from spending time in His presence. This in turn enabled David to face problems with certainty that he was a beloved child of God, with full access to his Father’s storehouses of power, courage, and wisdom. If doubts ever arose, he could look back on God’s great faithfulness in past troubles.

To be victorious, we should practice David’s spiritual habits. Spend time with God and keep a record of His work in your life. Then you can be confident that He is sufficient, no matter the obstacle.

1 Samuel 17:20-40

David found King Saul’s reward for Goliath’s defeat interesting—in fact, he asked to have it repeated twice (1 Sam. 17:26, 30). However, David may have been young, but he wasn’t foolish. The reward was a nice perk, but it wasn’t the young shepherd’s motivation.

David’s reason for standing against Goliath was to serve the Lord. He openly criticized the giant: “For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he has dared to defy the armies of the living God?” (v. 26). Challenging the chosen nation of Israel was the same as defying the Lord Himself. David was prepared to defend Yahweh’s holy name and His people, even against this fearsome warrior. A right and holy motive gives a person confidence to obey God, even if doing so defies human wisdom.

When facing life’s Goliaths, we might be tempted to approach God with a plea like, I’m tired of being in this mess, or I want to run away but can’t, so You’ll have to remove this problem.

However, the right motive for facing a problem is the desire to follow, serve, and honor God—no matter what. Giant challenges may tax our comfort or wellbeing, but wanting a quick way out can impede our obedient walk with God. So pray, “Lord, help me to stand strong in Your name. And grant me victory over the Goliaths in my life, bringing you honor and glory each step of the way.”

James 1:12-18

In today’s passage, James writes, “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow” (v. 17).

Have you ever taken a moment to marvel at the abundance of blessings in your life? The air you breathe, the sun that warms your face, and the love of family and friends are all tremendous gifts. Everything we enjoy has been freely bestowed on us by a loving Creator who doesn’t ever change—who never gives us cause for doubt or uncertainty.

Our lives, on the other hand, are constantly shifting, and we will find pleasant times interspersed with periods of hardship and sadness. Thankfully, we can always rely upon our God, whose good gifts are meant to remind us of His unchanging nature. Even when we face pain and adversity, we can look for the Father’s love and mercy in our life, recognizing each breath we take, each relationship we enjoy, and each sunrise we witness as evidence of His presence.

God’s gifts are perfect and precisely designed to sustain us in a way that fills our soul. Let’s receive them with a heart full of gratitude and speak of them as a way of testifying to His love.

1 Peter 4:7-10

As believers, we’ve been granted special abilities to be used during our time here on earth. First Peter 4:10 says we have a responsibility to respond to this divine grace by serving one another. It’s important to realize these gifts aren’t just for our own advantage—they’re meant to be used generously, impacting the lives of those around us. And God is glorified when we do so in dependence on Him for guidance and strength.

The Lord wants us to recognize our abilities as being from Him, and we’re to use them to sow seeds of love and compassion. When we serve one another, we become vessels of God’s grace, enriching the body of Christ and shining His light in the world.

Think about your talents. What do you love to do? What are the things that make serving a joy and cause you to feel fully alive? These capabilities aren’t just coincidental parts of who you are; they’ve been deliberately bestowed by the Lord.

As outlined in today’s passage, believers are to steward their God-given abilities well, selflessly using them to benefit others (Ephesians 4:11-12). So, embrace your gifts with humility and appreciation. And utilize them to uplift those around you, heal wounds, and spread God’s love.

Psalms 103:19-22

Have you ever wondered, If God is in control, why does He expect us to pray? The Lord wants to involve us in the work He is doing in the world, and prayer brings us into cooperation with what He plans to accomplish.

In John 17:11, Jesus asked God to protect the disciples by the power of His name. Did He think they might lose their salvation or permanently drift from their commitment? Absolutely not. Jesus was God in human flesh. He knew exactly what was going to happen—that those men would fulfill their mission and spread the gospel. Jesus was taking part in God’s plan for His followers by interceding for them (Romans 8:34).

The Lord certainly can build His kingdom without us. But when the God of love and His beloved share an interest, the relationship develops depth and intimacy. Praying and working alongside our Lord grows our faith and strengthens our trust in His power.

Talking with almighty God is a privilege. He loves you and invites you into relationship with Him. Prayer is how that connection gets nurtured. Our Father calls us to communicate with Him so He can draw us close to His heart and involve us in building the kingdom.

1 Thessalonians 5:17-18

As we saw yesterday, prayer is how we develop a close relationship with God. But it’s common for believers to have questions about its power and effectiveness. For example, many people ask:

• Will God’s plans fail if I don’t pray? God isn’t subservient to us or dependent upon our prayers. The time we invest in speaking with Him includes us in the work that He’s doing in our lives and in the world, but He can carry on without our involvement.

• Does my prayer (or lack thereof) impact God’s work? Scripture indicates the answer to this question is both yes and no. There are times when God’s purpose is set. He is in control and has determined the best course. In the Old Testament, the Lord often prophesied what He would do and then brought those events to pass. In other cases, the principle that applies is, “You do not have because you do not ask” (James 4:2). There are some good things that He holds back until we put out prayerful hands to receive them. But because God is a loving Father, He also pours out blessings that we wouldn’t even think to request.

For us as believers, prayer has tremendous impact, especially on our own faith and life. Understand what an awesome privilege it is to kneel before the Father and know He listens and will respond. God loves to be good to His children and answer their prayers.

Matthew 1:1-17

Matthew mentions only five women in Jesus’ genealogy. That alone makes them remarkable, but their stories are more than mere curiosities. They reorient how we see and value the women among us.

Tamar was the mother of Judah’s sons Perez and Zerah. But Judah wasn’t Tamar’s husband; his son Er was. Er, however, was “evil in the sight of the Lord,” so his life was taken from him (Genesis 38:7). Tamar then married Er’s brother Onan, who also displeased God and died. Though Hebrew custom (and, later, the law) protected a widow by requiring a relative of the deceased to marry her, Judah denied Tamar because he was afraid to lose another son (Genesis 38:11). So she took matters into her own hands.

Justice for widows is important in God’s eyes. The psalmist, in fact, calls Him “a father of the fatherless and a judge for the widows” (Psalm 68:5). And God’s ultimate judgment of Tamar is in her favor. She gave birth to Perez and Zerah—the twins Judah fathered and direct-line ancestors of Christ.

Psalm 68 also says God “makes a home for the lonely” (Psalm 68:6). We should participate in caring for those who are grieving or vulnerable. This is confirmed in James’ epistle when he calls the care of widows “pure religion” (James 1:27). So let us make our churches and homes welcoming places for those who need help.

Joshua 2:8-13; Joshua 6:25

When two Israelite spies arrived in Jericho, they received an unexpected welcome from the second woman in Jesus’ genealogy. The Scriptures do not mince words: Rahab is described as a prostitute, making her another surprising addition to the messianic lineage recorded by Matthew.

Rahab’s home was an ideal place for gathering information and lying low, which is exactly what the spies did. When the king of Jericho learned about them, he demanded that Rahab hand them over. But she didn’t.

Facing the likelihood of a siege and battle, Rahab thought of her family and also expressed belief in the God of Israel. “He is God in heaven above,” she said, “and on earth below” (Josh. 2:11). In return for her aid, she asked the spies to protect her when Israel triumphed over Jericho. And the city’s walls did fall, but Rahab’s household was spared. She later made a home in Israel (6:25), eventually marrying Salmon and bearing a son, Boaz (Matthew 1:5).

Rahab is remembered for her readiness to trust God and let Him reframe her understanding of enemies. What about us? Are we inclined to let the Lord adjust our perspective so we understand things the way He does? And are we, like Rahab, willing to entrust our life and family to Him?

Isaiah 31:1-5

Can you recall a time when you witnessed a parent protecting a child from danger? That fierce and tender strength is wondrous to behold. Just as a watchful mom and dad are quick to defend and comfort their kids, so too is our Father swift to shelter and tend His people. Throughout Scripture, we find multiple instances where God’s love for His children is likened to a bird hovering over its nest or a mother comforting her child.

Today’s passage is one of them. Through the prophet Isaiah, God describes a coming time when the nation of Israel will regret looking to any nation or ruler besides the Lord for protection. Yet despite their misplaced trust, God promises to defeat Israel’s enemies and hover over Jerusalem, shielding and rescuing her from destruction. Centuries later, Jesus articulated a similar longing to gather the children of Jerusalem “the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings” (Matthew 23:37).

God was not intimidated by the enemies that surrounded Israel, and He is in no way threatened by the forces, people, and problems that terrify us today. We can be confident that our God is intimately near to us in times of danger. Because of His strong and tender love, we have nothing to fear.

Isaiah 49:13-18

Does it ever seem as if God has forgotten about you? Do you ever feel overlooked, abandoned, or unimportant? In seasons of suffering, it’s easy to think He doesn’t see or care about what we’re going through. With Jerusalem destroyed and most of its inhabitants sent into Babylonian captivity, the people of Israel were also tempted to think God had forgotten and abandoned them.

Today’s passage, however, directly challenges the assumption that pain and hardship are indications of His absence. After God acknowledges that He knows all about Israel’s fear of abandonment, He counters by asserting His unconditional love. He is as near, attentive, and giving as a mother with her nursing baby, and it is impossible for Him to forget us. To make this point clear to the apprehensive, weary Israelites, God gave reassurance that He had inscribed them upon the palms of His hands (49:16). Does that image sound familiar?

Centuries later, Jesus Christ hung on a cross with nails driven into His hands—proving that God’s words were true and that we are worth more to Him than we could ever imagine. We are God’s unforgettable, beloved children. How would it change our daily lives and our relationship with our heavenly Father if we lived safe in the knowledge that we are always on His mind?

Isaiah 66:12-13

In times of distress, we can fall into the habit of turning to God as a last resort. Food, relationships, careers, technology, and entertainment—these and other forms of escapism allure us with the false promise of relief. But whether we indulge in sweets, mindless scrolling on social media, or pointless busyness, we’ll always find ourselves empty and drained afterward. Worse still, the problem that sent us running is still there when we get back.

Reaching for God instead of our distractions requires the pain of being present in our distress—fully aware of our deep need, seeking a heavenly solution instead of the pleasures and diversions of this world. In our reading today, God reminds the children of Israel that even in the messy, painful space between promise and fulfillment, He never begins something that He doesn’t complete. In Israel’s struggle to become a nation after years of suffering and exile, God never left them. Instead, Israel experienced His deliverance in abundant and diverse ways.

Since we are children of God, Israel’s promised deliverance is extended to us—it’s an invitation to turn to Him with full confidence that we will be comforted. We are assured that “He who began a good work among [us] will complete it” and see us through to the end (Philippians 1:6).

Matthew 4:18-22

Peter, Andrew, James, and John were fishermen before they became Jesus’ disciples. Their lives revolved around the details of their occupation—weather conditions, equipment repair, catching fish, and turning a profit. But in today’s passage, when Jesus called them to become fishers of men, they made a dramatic change (v. 22).

In contrast, the rich young ruler walked away sad when he realized what he’d have to give up to follow Christ (Matthew 19:21-22). An invitation from the Lord usually means modifying our way of living. Whether this involves switching jobs or altering habits, God expects us to adapt to His plan.

At times, the Lord may call for a shift in our relationships. Before being invited to travel in Jesus’ company, James and John had worked in the family business with their father. Saying yes to God meant seeing friends and relatives less frequently. But Christ promises a great return on any sacrifice we make (Matthew 19:29).

Our heavenly Father’s plans are based on His goodness, justice, and mercy. Because of His perfect character, we can trust the direction He gives us. Adjusting to God’s design—accepting His will and making needed changes in our circumstances and relationships—is always the wisest action to take (Proverbs 3:5-6).

1 Chronicles 17:1-15

How do you respond when God says no? What if you requested something good—or even godly—and God doesn’t merely withhold but says, “No, I’m giving this good thing to someone else”?

David built a kingdom and then erected a palace for himself. It was evident (to him) that the next thing to construct was a temple for God. Why should he, a mere man, live in luxury while the Lord had nothing more than the old tabernacle tent? It was such an obvious next step, in fact, that the prophet Nathan didn’t even inquire of the Lord. He told David to go right ahead. “Do whatever is in your heart,” he said, “for God is with you” (1 Chron. 17:2).

But God said no. That night, the Lord met Nathan in a vision and gave him the unenviable task of telling the king—one of the most powerful men in the known world—that he could not pursue this task. Rather, his son Solomon would be the one to do it (1 Chronicles 28:6).

David wasn’t a perfect man by any means, but his response to this news demonstrates faith and the ability to surrender to God’s will. Instead of resisting, David came before God with thanksgiving, worship, and awe—and blessed His name. David found contentment and gave praise for all the Lord had done for him. May his example be one that comes to mind when we face delays and disappointments.

2 Chronicles 6:18-21

The dream was a long time coming. But years after Solomon began its construction, God’s temple was finished. This magnificent structure was more than a building. It was the centerpiece of Israel’s identity—the place where the people would meet with God. There, He could live among them in a tangible way, in a place built to His specifications and befitting His glory.

In today’s passage, we can hear hope and longing in Solomon’s prayer of dedication: God, will You keep Your promises to our ancestors, to us, and to our children? The highest heavens can’t contain You—and yet, is it possible You will dwell here among us?

In some ways, this is our age-old question. In the garden of Eden, Adam and Eve communed with God. In the wilderness, as the liberated slaves journeyed to the Promised Land, they erected a tabernacle, a dwelling place for God among their own tents. In Jesus, we believe God came in the flesh to live—to “tabernacle”—with us. And in Revelation, God makes the incredible pronouncement that His dwelling will be with mankind forever (Revelation 21:3).

This hope may seem unbelievable, but God’s Word is true and unshakeable—a cause for joy. For now “we know in part,” but a perfect day will come when we will be united with our Lord and “know fully,” as we have been “fully known” (1 Corinthians 13:9; 1 Corinthians 13:12).

Ezra 3:10-13

Have you ever waited a long time and then finally gotten something you dearly wanted? Maybe you waited decades to see a close relative. Or perhaps you left your home country and never expected to get back there. How did you feel when the time finally came? Sometimes the reality at the end of a long period of expectant waiting feels bittersweet.

The destruction of the temple in Jerusalem and the exile to Babylon were traumatic. The Israelites waited 70 years for redemption and the chance to return. Now, in Ezra 3, the time is finally here—the people have returned and the temple foundation has also been laid. What was lost will be rebuilt at last. Can you imagine the relief, the celebration?

Yet there’s also weeping. The older generation remembers what stood before and knows all that’s been lost. This redemption, though cause for joy, stirs memories of what will never be again.

In this fleeting life, we have moments of rejoicing and of sorrow (Ecclesiastes 3:4), and sometimes they intermingle in a way we can’t understand or ever hope to separate. And God doesn’t ask us to. He remains faithful to us in those moments—and a thousand more besides—until the day comes when He will wipe away every tear (Revelation 21:4).  

1 Samuel 25:20-35

How do you respond when someone mistreats you? Are you quick to judge that person, cataloging all the reasons you didn’t deserve to be treated so unfairly? That was David’s initial response when the fair treatment he expected was denied.

David, while still on the run from Saul, sent men from his army to request provisions from Nabal, a rich man in the area. David felt sure Nabal would look favorably on him and meet the needs of his army. Not only would that have been customary, but David had also earned the favor by protecting Nabal’s flocks.  Yet the request, though reasonable, was scornfully rejected.

When we feel spurned, mistreated, or unappreciated, it can cause us to respond in a way that only makes the situation worse. In David’s case, his anger flared and he set out for revenge. But before he and his 400 warriors could make it to their destination, Nabal’s wife Abigail intercepted them, falling on her face to apologize for her husband’s behavior and to reason with David.

In that moment, David had a choice to make. He could either charge right past her, fueled by his own rage and need for justice, or he could pause (James 1:19). God gave him the wisdom to make the better choice. The next time anger erupts in your heart, will you follow David’s example and stop to listen to wisdom?

Hebrews 10:1-14

God’s grace has no limits. His mercy can reach the darkest part of our heart. Christ not only erased our past, present, and future sin; He also paid for the wrongs of every generation. When the ancient Israelites brought a goat or a lamb to the temple for a sacrifice, they placed their hands on its head and confessed their sins. The priest then killed the animal and sprinkled some of its blood on the altar of atonement. The ritual symbolized a confessor’s payment for sin.

But the lamb could not actually take on the sin and die in place of the Israelite (Heb. 10:4). If an animal’s blood could actually erase a sin debt, then Jesus’ death would have been unnecessary. The ritual of sacrificing a lamb was the Father’s idea (Leviticus 4:1-35), though the act itself was symbolic. God established such offerings as an illustration of the seriousness of sin. The practice also pointed to Christ’s perfect sacrificial death on our behalf and the salvation He brings.

Like the Israelites, we must also look to a lamb—the Lamb of God (John 1:29). When we receive Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins, we are forgiven forever.

1 John 1:1-3

Genesis 1:26-27 teaches that God created us in His image. As a result of Adam’s transgression, however, sin entered the world and separated us from God. Knowing our dilemma—that we’re enslaved by our “flesh” and cannot make ourselves righteous—Jesus came to restore us and return us to a right relationship with the Father. Because Christ is perfectly holy, innocent, and undefiled (Hebrews 7:26), He alone qualified to carry our sins to the cross. When we receive Jesus’ finished work on our behalf, we are acknowledging His lordship over our life. Then we’re adopted into God’s family (Ephesians 1:4-5).

Take a moment to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice. Jesus, the One without sin, took on mankind’s sins—past, present, and future—to save us from eternal separation from the Father. He willingly gave His life so we might be reconciled to God and live with Him forever. As we ponder this amazing demonstration of grace and love, our response should be a strong desire to spend time with Him.

Child of God, you were designed to have sweet communion with your heavenly Father. Jesus died so that you and I might become part of His family. How strong is your need for fellowship with Him? Does it override the clamor of the week’s events or get lost in the demands of daily living?

Romans 12:9-10

Many of us make it a point to show interest when we’re with other people. We’ve learned how important it is to be cordial, make small talk, and express concern at the right moments, all of which are commendable. But take a moment to consider ways that God might want you to go further. 

Pleasantries and polite chit chat are a good way to break the ice and begin a friendship. But watch for when God might be calling you to strive for something richer. Are you available and willing to go beneath the surface? Loving others well requires sacrifice—an investment of time and heartfelt energy in those relationships. It might involve shifting the calendar to spend time with a friend who needs to talk through a problem. Or it could mean going without an unnecessary purchase in order to bless someone who is hurting financially.

There are times when the Lord wants our relationships to go deeper, even when doing so gets messy. After all, isn’t that exactly what Jesus did with us? He loved us so profoundly that He gave His very life on the cross (Romans 5:8). Let’s follow His example by giving away a little more of our own life as we commit to truly loving the people around us.

Psalms 40:1-3

It’s likely we’ve all had the difficult experience of praying for something and wondering how long God would take to respond. We express our desire, pray sincerely, and sometimes get impatient when we don’t get our answer. We might even begin to create a backup plan if it seems He’s taking too long to come through.

Learning how to wait patiently on the Lord is an acquired skill—and an essential one. David, who learned to do so in times of joy, exile, and conflict, wrote in Psalm 40:1 that he “waited patiently” for God. In fact, the Hebrew word qawa is repeated, which gives the verse a literal sense of “to wait, I waited on the Lord.” That repetition also lets us know the writer is stating something important. David recognized that patient stillness helped his faith to grow—a truth he emphasized by writing it twice.

The psalmist was saying that he persevered in prayer and anticipated God’s answer. For us as well, waiting develops perseverance. Then, as Romans 5:3-5 teaches, perseverance will lead to character, and character will bring about hope. If, while waiting, we look to God for wisdom and direction, we will begin to see His work in our life and recognize His goodness. Not only does waiting patiently express our trust in and reliance on God; it also helps us develop greater faith.

James 1:2-4

Have you ever wondered how to wait? In yesterday’s reading, David said he waited patiently on the Lord. But how did he actually accomplish this? Did he sit around and twiddle his thumbs until he recognized God’s work? Or did he do something while he waited? And how can we best emulate the “man after [God’s] own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14)?

It might seem counterintuitive, but waiting often involves action. The pause sometimes feels quite long, especially if you’re waiting for an answer before moving forward. But there are things both we and the Lord can actively accomplish in the interim.

For our part, we should talk to God through prayer about our concerns, dreams, and desires. In the stillness and tension of waiting, we must also read His Word diligently to learn more about His character and love. While we seek the answers, care, and encouragement we need from Him, we develop patience and grow as our faith is strengthened and stretched.

During this time of actively waiting, we begin to see what God does. Like David, we will be lifted from a pit, given a firm place to stand, and receive a new song to sing (Psalms 40:2-3). Yes, waiting is so much more than merely pausing—it allows us to experience God in a deeper and more personal way.

Colossians 2:6-7

After a hurricane a few years ago, a photographer captured an interesting picture of a tree. It stood tall above the ground on what looked like stilts. Upon closer examination, however, it was easy to see that those “stilts” were actually the exposed root system. The tree had grown deep and wide, and that strength held firm, even as storm-tossed waves washed away the sand and soil around its trunk. The tree survived because of the patient work it had done creating its base.

We, too, can be hardy like this tree, able to withstand life’s many challenges. As we fix our eyes on Jesus and meditate on His Word, the roots of our faith grow and stretch more deeply. When we delve into God’s Word, though the winds blow and the sands shift beneath us, we can focus on His character instead of our worries. Then we’re able to experience His great love and mercy amid our fears (Luke 8:22-25).

When we know the Lord is with us, we can endure all things. So spend a few moments in prayer today, asking God to help you grow like that tree standing tall and strong on its roots, whatever comes.

Ephesians 4:25-32

Imagine yourself sitting on a park bench enjoying a gorgeous day. You see two people walking toward each other, and they’re both distracted. One is looking down at a phone, thumbs flying over the screen. The other is juggling keys, a briefcase, and a cup of coffee. Before you can say anything, they run into each other. No one is hurt, but things crash to the ground and spill everywhere.

There are many ways this scene could play out. Each person could get angry at the other for not paying attention, or they could accept blame and apologize. They might even ignore each other and keep walking (though that’s highly unlikely). How they choose to react reveals what their character is—and has the potential to color onlookers’ opinions of them, for better or worse.

This is especially important with regard to those of us who follow Christ. Our behavior should reflect who we are becoming in Him and demonstrate that we are indeed transformed people. If we lash out in anger or frustration, we aren’t following Paul’s call to “be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven [us]” (Eph. 4:32).  However, if we choose the way of peace, kindness, and compassion, others will see the Lord through us and be drawn to His light (Hebrews 12:14).

1 John 4:19-21

What advantage is there to living in unity? Paul suggests one benefit is the “comfort from love” that we find in Christ (Phil. 2:1 ESV). Comfort, we understand—the modern world prizes it above most things. But while the world has made this desire the goal of an endless pursuit, Paul teaches that God’s love provides it.

The Lord describes Himself as “merciful and compassionate” (Ps. 145:8 NLT). That’s why, as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land, Moses could tell them, “The Lord your God loves you” (Deuteronomy 23:5). And when those same people went into exile and captivity again, God reminded them through Jeremiah, “I have loved you with an everlasting love” (Jeremiah 31:3). Then in the New Testament, Jesus told Nicodemus that God’s rescue plan is based on His love (John 3:16). In short, we experience comfort because God loved us, even before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4).

God’s love consoles us and comforts us individually. But His love also makes it possible for us to care for others. “We love,” John writes, “because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). We can know the greatest unity—and the deep connection with others that we long for—when we live out of the comfort we experience in knowing the Father.

1 John 1:1-4

Most churches have a fellowship hall—a space where members gather for all kinds of events other than worship services. Getting out of the pew and interacting with our brothers and sisters in Christ fosters a deep sense of community.

Paul describes this kind of togetherness as “being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose” (Philippians 2:2). Our Bibles usually translate it as “fellowship of the Spirit” (Philippians 2:1).

But today, the word fellowship has lost some of its original impact. To recapture what it was meant to convey, let’s examine the word Paul uses in that verse. The Greek term koinonia means what we use the English word fellowship to express—that is, connection and camaraderie with others.

What’s more, koinonia carries a sense of participation in what God is doing. This seems reasonable, given that the church and its members are Christ’s body (Romans 12:5; 1 Corinthians 12:27). Together, we enjoy His life and love in certain ways that we understand—and in others we don’t fully grasp yet. Remembering our fellowship in the Spirit can help bring about unity in the family of faith. How can you foster this kind of fellowship in your own church and friendships?

Philippians 2:3-4

We live in a world where taking care of yourself first is often top priority. But in his letter to the Philippians, Paul suggested that Christians are to operate differently. “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit,” he wrote, “but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves” (2:3).

Today, it might be easy to miss how radical this statement was in the first century. Let’s look at Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount for a moment (Matthew 5:1-48). In order to get to the gospel’s higher standard for humility, the Lord pushed beyond what His followers might have expected. Treating others as well as you treat yourself is a start, but go further and you will see how radical Jesus’ humility was (Philippians 2:5-8).

Cultivating this kind of humility requires more than simply acting humble. That’s what Paul means when he says we should “do nothing from … empty conceit” (Phil. 2:3). Anyone can feign humility if it suits or benefits them. As believers, our call is to truly consider others first and to look out for their interests before our own.

Imagine how our communities would be transformed if everyone put others before themselves. What’s one step you can take to make that happen?

Psalms 25:4-5

Perhaps you have wondered, Does God have a specific plan for my life? And if He does, is it possible to know what the plan is? These are questions many Christians have grappled with at some point. And there’s good news—the answer to both is a resounding yes! God has a plan for each believer’s life. Moreover, He wants us to know and walk the path He has for us.

Sometimes we make the idea of finding the Lord’s will more complicated than it needs to be. He’s not playing hide and seek with His will. There are three simple things we can do to discover His best path for our life:

1. We must have a sincere desire for God’s guidance, trusting that He will direct us in His perfect timing (John 16:13).

2. We should seek the Lord through His Word. After all, the Bible is one of the primary tools He uses to make His will and His ways apparent to us (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

3. We are to pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17), fully expecting that our Father has something to say to us, His beloved children.

As we seek the Lord in these ways, we’ll be able to perceive His direction for our life. Then, we can live with the confident hope that we are walking in His will.

Luke 15:20-24

The Parable of the Prodigal Son is a beautiful picture of the grace God showers on us when we repent and turn to Him. In this story, the father has been greatly disrespected by his younger son but continues to wait patiently for him to come home. Finally, as the young man is returning, the father runs to meet him and orders the servants to prepare a feast. His eagerness to celebrate his child’s return exemplifies how God stands ready to receive us when we head toward Him. It also provides a perfect model for how we’re to show grace to the prodigals in our own lives.

This illustration of God’s character underscores Paul’s assertion to the Ephesians: “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us” (Ephesians 1:7-8). When we turn to God, He showers His grace on us. He doesn’t forgive our sins begrudgingly or keep a record of our wrongs. He offers complete redemption that leads to new life.

Do you need that kind of grace today? Know that God stands ready to immerse you in it (John 1:16-17). Or perhaps you need to offer it to someone in your life. Let the image of the forgiving father in today’s passage be a reminder of the grace God calls us to extend every day.

1 Peter 2:21-24

There’s an adage about parenting that says more things are caught than taught. In other words, our children will pick up more from what we do than what we say. To lead those in our care well, two things are required: right teaching and a right attitude. While the principles we work to instill in our children are vital, the attitude with which we approach those lessons (and all of life, in fact) is key. For the best example of the right attitude to have, we need look no further than Jesus.

Parents are called to lead those in their home, modeling Jesus’ love and sacrifice for the people entrusted to their care. Our kids need to see us spending time with God, turning to Scripture when making decisions, being generous with our resources, and showing love to the people around us. Children learn to walk with God as they watch us apply His principles in daily life. Our right example will build their confidence and trust in His ways.

Even if you aren’t a parent, it’s likely you’re leading others in your circle of influence. Remember that Jesus is the perfect model for us to emulate as we share God’s truth with those around us (Mark 10:42-45). Lean into His example of servant leadership as you teach, train, and love others well. And ask Him to help you grow in godliness each and every day.

Isaiah 30:15-21

In the season of upheaval described in today’s reading, God clearly specified how the people of Israel could be saved from their enemy. They were under threat from Assyria, and God said to wait on His ultimate deliverance instead of trying quick fixes like running to Egypt for protection. Repentance, rest, quietness, and trust were His gracious prescriptions for those awaiting restoration.

Tragically, the Israelites “would have none of it” (v. 15 NIV). Some fled on horses only to meet with disaster—a stark reminder that relying on our own efforts can easily fail us. So how can we learn to accept God’s invitation to trust and rest when we’re tempted to take matters into our own hands?

This is our hope: No matter how bleak our circumstances seem, God is our constant source of security—our “very ready help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). It is our confidence in His character and constancy that enables us to experience peace, even when chaos surrounds us. We serve a gracious and just God who longs to pour out compassion and deliver us. Our choice to rest is a profound act of trust. Indeed, “blessed are all who wait for him” (Isa. 30:18 NIV).