Sunday, August 10, 2025

Nightly Bible Verse 11

 You Will Win. Amen!!!!!!

Nightly Bible Verse

And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. ~Luke 9:61

Nightly Inspiration

We cannot surrender part of our lives to serve the Lord; we must surrender it all. We see multiple occurrences in the New Testament when Jesus says, ‘follow me,” met with an excuse or other business that needed to be taken care of first. We like to think that, given the opportunity, we would follow immediately, but that may not be true. We put many earthly activities before the Lord. We make idols of technology, sports, and other activities or people. These secondary priorities cause us to wander away from the Lord instead of closer to Him. We must analyze our walk closely and remove all stumbling blocks that distract us from the Lord.

Nightly Prayer

Dear Lord, we want to serve You with ALL our hearts. Help us analyze our lives and remove stumbling blocks that slow our walk with You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Pray Because God Listens!!!!!!

If Discouraged About Your Work

The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad. ~Psalm 126:3

Morning Bible Verse

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. ~Proverbs 4:23

Morning Prayer

Lord, open my mind that I may be aware of Your presence in my daily life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Afternoon Bible Verse

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. ~Galatians 5:16

Nightly Bible Verse

Rejoice evermore. ~1 Thessalonians 5:16

Nightly Prayer

Dear Lord, I believe You set Your eyes on me from the beginning. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions Young People Ask/Answers That Work: How Can I Earn More Freedom

 How Can I Earn More Freedom?

“I wish my parents would let me venture out a little.”—Sarah, 18.

“I’m always asking my parents why they don’t trust me when I want to go out with a group of friends. Often, they tell me: “We trust you. We just don’t trust your friends.” –Christine, 18.

Like Sarah and Christine, do you yearn for more freedom? To get it, you’ll need to gain the trust of your parents. But trust is a lot like money. Earning it is hard, losing it is easy, and no matter how much you’re given, it may never seem to be enough. “Whenever I want to go out,” says 16-year-old Iliana, “my parents bombard me with questions about where I’m going, the people I’m going with, what I’ll be doing, and when I’ll be back. I know they’re my parents, but it irritates me when they question me like that!”

What can you do to get your parents to trust you and give you more freedom? Before answering that question, let’s look at why trust is such a hot-button topic between many parents and youths.

Growing Pains

The Bible acknowledges that “a man will leave his father and his mother.” (Genesis 2:24) Of course, the same can be said of a woman. Whether you’re a male or a female, a vital objective of adolescence is to prepare you for adulthood—the time when you’ll be equipped to leave home and perhaps raise a family of your own.”

However, the transition to adulthood isn’t like a door that you simply walk through when you reach a certain age. It’s more like a stairway that you climb, step by step, throughout adolescence. Granted, you and your parents may have conflicting opinions as to just how far you’ve progressed up that stairway. “I’m 20 years old, and this is still an issue!” says Maria, who feels that she’s not trusted when it comes to her choices of friends.

“My parents think that I wouldn’t have the strength to walk away from a bad situation. I’ve tried telling them that I have already walked away from bad situations, but that’s not good enough for them!”

As Maria’s comments reveal, the issue of trust can be a source of considerable tension between youths and parents. Is that true in your family? If so, how can you earn greater trust from your parents? And if you’ve lost their trust because of some unwise actions on your part, what can you do to repair the damage?

Did You Know…

Unlimited freedom is not a sign of parental love but of parental neglect.

·        For more information, see Chapter 7 of this book.

Tip…

Rather than comparing your present restrictions with the freedom of an older sibling, compare the restrictions you used to have when you were younger with the freedom you have now.

Prove Yourself Trustworthy

The apostle Paul wrote to first-century Christians: “Keep proving what you yourselves are.” (2 Corinthians 13:5) True, he wasn’t primarily addressing adolescents. Still, the principle applies. The degree to which you’re accorded freedom often matches the degree to which you prove yourself trustworthy. Not that you have to be perfect. After all, everyone makes mistakes. (Ecclesiastes 7:20) Overall, though, does your pattern of behavior give your parents reason to withhold their trust?

For example, Paul wrote: “We wish to conduct ourselves honestly in all things.” (Hebrews 13:18) Ask yourself, “What kind of track record do I have when it comes to being up front with my parents about my whereabouts and activities?” Consider the comments of a few youths who have had to take a look at themselves in this regard. After you’ve read their comments, answer the questions listed below.

Lori: “I was secretly e-mailing a boy I liked. My parents found out about it and told me to stop. I promised that I would, but I didn’t. This went on for a year. I’d e-mail that boy; my parents would find out. I’d apologize and promise to stop, but then I’d do it again. It got to the point where my parents couldn’t trust me with anything.”

Why do you think, did Lori’s parents withhold their trust?

 

If you were Lori’s parent, what would you have done, and why?

 

How could Lori have behaved more responsibly after her parents first talked to her about the problem?

 

“When talking to my parents, I am open about my problems and concerns. I think this makes it easier for them to trust me.” ~Dianna

Beverly: “My parents didn’t trust me when it came to boys, but now I can understand why. I was flirting with a couple of them who were two years older than I was. I was also spending long hours on the phone with them, and at gatherings I’d talk to them and almost no one else. My parents took away my phone for a month, and they wouldn’t let me go places where those boys would be.”

If you were Beverly’s parents, what would you have done, and why?

 

Do you think the restrictions that Beverly’s parents placed on her were unreasonable? If so, why?

 

What could Beverly have done to restore her parents’ trust?

 

“You must not use your freedom as an excuse for doing wrong.” ~1 Peter 2:16, Contemporary English Version

Regaining Trust

What if, like the youths quoted above, your actions have contributed to your parents’ lack of trust? Even if that’s the case, be assured that you can turn the tide. But how?

Likely, your parents will accord you greater trust and freedom as you build up a record of responsible behavior. Annette came to appreciate that fact. “When you’re younger,” she says, “you don’t fully appreciate the importance of being trusted. Now I feel more responsible, and I feel compelled to act in a way that will help me retain my parents’ lack of trust in you, focus on building up a record of trustworthy behavior. You will likely earn more freedom.

For example, are you dependable in the areas listed below? Put a checkmark in the box next to any traits you need to work on:

·        Keeping my curfew

·        Being punctual

·        Finishing chores

·        Keeping my room clean

·        Using the phone or computer in a balanced way

·        Following through on my promises

·        Being financially responsible

·        Getting out of bed without prodding

·        Speaking the truth

·        Admitting mistakes and apologizing

·        Other

Why not make a personal resolve to prove yourself trustworthy in the area you indicated? Follow the admonition of the Bible: “Put away the old personality which conforms to your former course of conduct.” (Ephesians 4:22) “Let your Yes mean Yes.” (James 5:12) “Speak truth each one of you with his neighbor.” (Ephesians 4:25) “Be obedient to your parents in everything.” (Colossians 3:20) In time, your advancement will be manifest to others. Including your parents. – 1 Timothy 4:15.

But what if you feel that, despite your best efforts, your parents aren’t giving you the freedom you deserve? Why not talk over the matter with them? Instead of complaining that they need to be more trusting, respectfully ask them what they think you need to do to earn their trust. Explain your goals clearly in this regard.

Don’t expect your parents to make concessions immediately. No doubt they’ll want to make sure that you’ll make good on your promises. Use this opportunity to prove yourself trustworthy. In time, your parents may well accord you greater trust and freedom. That was the case with Beverly, quoted earlier. “It’s much harder to gain trust than it is to lose it,” she says, adding, “I’m gaining trust right now, and it feels good!”

Action Plan

I will be more trustworthy in the following areas:

 

If I lose my parents’ trust, I will:

 

What I would like to ask my parent(s) about this subject is:

 

What Do You Think?

·        Why might your parents hesitate to give you greater freedom even when you work hard to prove yourself trustworthy?

·        How does your ability to communicate with your parents affect their willingness to give you more freedom?

In the next chapter: have your parents divorced? How can you keep your balance when your world seems to have fallen apart?

Devotion: Asking God First

 The Bible In One Year: Isaiah 5-6/Ephesians 1

Today’s Reading: Psalm 37:3-7; 23-24

Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. ~Psalm 37:4

Asking God First

Early in our marriage, I struggled to figure out my wife’s preferences. Did she want a quiet dinner at home or a meal at a fancy restaurant? Was it okay for me to hang out with the guys, or did she expect me to keep the weekend free for her? Once, instead of guessing and deciding first, I asked her, “What do you want?”

“I’m fine with either,” she replied with a warm smile. “I’m just happy you thought of me.”

At times, I’ve wanted desperately to know exactly what God wanted me to do—such as which job to take. Praying for guidance and reading the Bible didn’t reveal any specific answers. But one answer was clear: I was to trust in the Lord, take delight in Him, and commit my way to Him (Psalm 37:3-5).

That’s when I realized that God usually gives us the freedom of choice—if we first seek to put His ways before our own. That means dropping choices that are plainly wrong or would not please Him. It might be something immoral, ungodly, or unhelpful toward our relationship with Him. If the remaining options please God, then we’re free to choose from them. Our loving Father wants to give us the desires of our hearts—hearts that take delight in Him (v.4). ~Leslie Koh.

Teach me, O God, to put You first in everything I do. Show me how to take delight in You, that my heart will be transformed to be like Yours.

Do your decisions please God?

When You Pray

Give us this day our daily bread. ~Matthew 6:11

Ephesians 2:8

 Ephesians 2:8 -- For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the Gift of God:

Romans 3:23-25 – For ALL have sinned, and come short of the Glory of God: Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

Romans 5:1-2 – Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the Glory of God.

John 14:16 – And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;

Ephesians 2:13-18 – But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby; And came and preached to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

Titus 2:11 – For the Grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to ALL men.

Devotion: Teach Your Children

 You Will Win!!!!!!

Daily Bible Verse

All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things are not edified. Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth. ~1 Corinthians 10:23-24

Daily Inspiration

Paul does not here reject God’s Law and claim that nothing he could possibly do would be sin. He speaks about using the things of the world and matters of doubt. He speaks about the believer’s freedom, but he makes it clear that we should choose what is edifying and what is beneficial to the welfare of others.

Daily Prayer

 Help me not to use my freedom as an excuse to walk uncharitably or to live for myself. All things must be done to serve God and serve others, not simply to serve myself. Give me godly discernment, I pray, to know what will edify and what will needlessly offend others. Give me a spirit of love that seeks good for others instead of just claiming my rights. Amen.

All We Need Is JESUS!!!!!!

Teach Your Children

By Frances Taylor

Teach Your Children: God should be first in our thoughts in the morning and the last thing we think about before going to sleep. ~Deuteronomy 6:4-7

God, through Moses, tells us that it is our responsibility to pass on our faith to our children. It’s not the job of others, although others certainly will help you and can add to what you have taught them. But the primary job is ours. We do this in words and by our actions. We talk to them about God, we tell of the glory of creation that the Father has given us, we talk about the salvation earned for us by the Son, Jesus, and we talk about the fact that the Holy Spirit dwells within us and all who believe. We let them know that we are ALL God’s children, and we have a responsibility to love others as Jesus loved us, that we have a responsibility to care for ALL of God’s creation, and that includes not being wasteful or destroying the land. It’s telling them that God comes first and that sports or money or pleasure are not gods to be worshipped. And this message goes beyond just the telling; these words are to be written in our hearts, carried with us when we’re home or away, at work or play. God should be first in our thoughts in the morning and the last thing we think about before going to sleep. In order to teach our children, we need to learn this for ourselves.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, You are first in our lives, in our minds, and our hearts. May we always keep You there and share the wonder of You with others. Amen.

Just Pray And Everything Will Be Fine!!!!!!!

When You Are Seeking Peace

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulations: continuing instant in prayer; ~Romans 12:12

Thursday, July 31, 2025

John 14: 13-14

 You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!

John 14:13-14

Ask In His Name

There are some in this world that take the Bible out of context, especially when it comes to prayer. Some think that God is a genie in which you can just ask Him for whatever you want and He will grant it to you. This is not how God works at all. Sometimes you may not get the answer you want. You may get a “no” or a “wait.” When Jesus says, “You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it” it does not mean that we should ask for any material thing we want. Instead, we should make sure our desires align with God’s desires. When that happens, then we can ask for anything in His name because it will be His desires and His will.

Take some time to pray today and ask God to place His desires in your heart, so that you will know what He wants.

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
May your desires become my desires. I long for what you long for. Amen.

John 14:15

 If you love me, obey my commandments.

John 14:15

A Deeper Love

We show our love for the Lord by obeying His commandments. When we do what He wants us to do, we show how much we love Him. Think about a husband and wife. One of the greatest ways they can show each other how much they love each other is the way they act toward one another. If they are always complaining about one another, then it will be difficult to really love each other deeply. However, when husband and wife go out of their way to show each other how much they love each other, their love will grow deeper and deeper. This is the same as our relationship with God. When we obey His commandments, our love for Him will grow and grow.

Take some time to pray and ask God to give you a love for His commandments. Pray and ask Him to give you a love for who He is.

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
I want to do right by you, Oh Lord. I want to desire your commandments and will. Amen.

Colossians 3:23

 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3:23‬

Work for the Lord

Paul tells believers here that whatever they do, do it for the Lord. Not everyone can be a preacher or minister for the gospel, but whatever you do, you can work heartily for the Lord. If you work for men, you will never be able to meet their standards. They will never be satisfied. When you work for the Lord you are serving a higher purpose.

If you begin to see your job differently, as if you are working for the Lord, then you will act differently. Everyday when you go to work, think about the purpose and why God has you there.

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
May I serve you everyday when I go to work. Amen.

John 14:16

 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you.

John 14:16

The Advocate

When Jesus left the earth, He left a piece of who He was with His followers: the Holy Spirit, the advocate for mankind. The Holy Spirit is part of the trinity: God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and Holy Spirit (or the Holy Ghost). The Holy Spirit is the one that goes between man and God the Father. The word advocate has three meanings in Merriam Webster’s dictionary: “one who pleads the cause of another, specifically: one who pleads the cause of another before a tribunal or judicial court, one who defends or maintains a cause or proposal, or one who supports or promotes the interests of a cause or group.” So in essence, the Holy Spirit is the one who pleads on our behalf before the Lord, he defends us, and he supports us. We are not condemned to death for our sins because the Spirit pleads for us. Remember that when you pray, you have someone going before the throne of God on your behalf. Praise Him for that!

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
Thank you for sending the Holy Spirit, my advocate. He is my support and my defender. Amen.

John 14:17

 He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.

John 14:17

The Spirit of Truth

The Holy Spirit is the one who speaks truth over your life. When the world is whispering lies in your life, He shouts the truth to drown out the lies. It would be impossible to go through this life if we didn’t have the Holy Spirit giving the words of truth to us. We would be easily swayed by the world.

This verse says that the world cannot receive the Holy Spirit because it does not look for him; therefore, it does not recognize him. This is why they deny what that church says and think that the ways we live are foolish. They do not seek the truth because they are not looking for the truth. Spend some time in prayer today, asking God to help you speak words of truth when the world tries to tell you lies.

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
The world can not recognize you because they do not have you. Help me speak words of truth and share the gospel with all I meet. Amen.

Sunday, July 6, 2025

Nightly Bible Devotion 10

 ~You Will Win~

Nightly Bible Verse

Let me not be ashamed, O Lord: for I have called upon thee: let the wicked be ashamed, and let them be silent in the grave. ~Psalm 31:17

Nightly Inspiration

We humble ourselves before the Lord when we come to Him with earthly burdens. We understand we do not have the power to control or fix our problems alone, so we lay our egos down and align our lives with the will of God. We are proud to be His servants and accept His help throughout our struggles. His love is unconditional, and His wisdom parallels none other.

Nightly Prayer

Dear Lord, we humble ourselves before You, seeking Your wisdom and guidance ALL the days of our lives. Thank You for Your presence and unfailing love. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Jesus Is My Rock!!!!

When You Pray

Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. ~Matthew 8:10

Morning Bible Verse

Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding. ~Proverbs 17:28

Morning Prayer

Lord, open my mind that I may be aware of Your presence in my daily life, In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Afternoon Bible Verse

This is say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. ~Galatians 5:16

Nightly Bible Verse

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. ~Isaiah 41:10

Nightly Prayer

Dear Lord, that all throughout Scripture, time, and time again, You showed Your faithful love to Your people. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Signs Accompanying Believers

 And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues

Mark 16:17 (NIV)

Today’s Devotional

In Mark 16:17, Jesus describes the supernatural signs that will accompany the believers. These signs, such as driving out demons and speaking in new tongues, serve as a testament to the authority and power of Jesus’ name. They also demonstrate the transformative nature of faith in Christ and the empowerment that believers receive through the Holy Spirit.
 
As believers, we can take comfort in knowing that the same power that enabled the early disciples to perform miracles and overcome spiritual darkness is also available to us today. As we grow in our faith and submit to the leading of the Holy Spirit, we can experience God’s power at work in our lives and become effective witnesses for Christ.

Time to reflect

To apply the lessons from this verse, consider these points:
 
  • Reflect on the power and authority of Jesus’ name and the significance of the supernatural signs accompanying believers.
  • Acknowledge the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life and seek to submit to His leading and guidance.
  • Pray for the courage and faith to be an effective witness for Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
  • Seek opportunities to minister to others, trusting in the power of Jesus’ name and the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
  • Encourage fellow believers in their faith journey and their experiences of God’s power at work in their lives.

Prayer Of The Day

Lord Jesus, thank You for the power and authority that You have given us through Your name. We are grateful for the supernatural signs that accompany believers, showing the world the transformative power of faith in You. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, and help us to submit to His leading and guidance in our lives.
 
Empower us to be effective witnesses for You, sharing Your love and grace with others. Grant us the courage and faith to minister to those in need, trusting in the power of Your name and the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Strengthen and encourage our fellow believers as they experience Your power at work in their lives. In Your mighty name, we pray. Amen.

Strengthening Faith

To apply the lessons from this verse, take these action steps:
 
  1. Reflect on the power and authority of Jesus’ name in your own life and how it has impacted your faith.
  2. Seek to develop a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit through prayer and study of the Word.
  3. Identify areas in your life where you can be a witness for Christ and share His love with others.
  4. Pray for opportunities to minister to others, trusting in the power of Jesus’ name and the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
  5. Encourage and support fellow believers as they grow in their faith and experience God’s power in their lives.

Today's Wisdom

The supernatural signs that accompany believers serve as a powerful reminder of the authority and power of Jesus’ name. As followers of Christ, let us submit to the leading of the Holy Spirit, and trust in the power of Jesus’ name to guide and empower us in our journey of faith.


Jesus, The Perfect Reflection of the Father

 Jesus gave them this answer: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.”

John 5:19 (NIV)

Today’s Devotional

In John 5:19, Jesus makes a powerful statement about His relationship with God the Father. He explains that He does not act independently but only does what He sees the Father doing. This passage highlights the unity between Jesus and the Father, illustrating how Jesus is the perfect reflection of God’s character, will, and actions.
 
As followers of Christ, we should strive to imitate Jesus in our own lives, seeking to align ourselves with God’s will and purpose. By studying the life and teachings of Jesus, we gain insight into the heart of God and learn how to live a life that pleases Him.

Time to reflect

To apply the message of John 5:19 to our lives, consider the following points:
 
  • Recognize the unity between Jesus and the Father, as Jesus perfectly reflects the Father’s will, character, and actions.
  • Strive to imitate Jesus in our daily lives, seeking to align ourselves with God’s will and purpose.
  • Study the life and teachings of Jesus to gain a deeper understanding of the heart of God.
  • Pray for guidance and wisdom as we seek to model our lives after Jesus.
  • Share the message of Jesus’ unity with the Father with others, encouraging them to grow in their relationship with God.

Prayer Of The Day

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, as the perfect reflection of Your character, will, and actions. Help us to recognize the unity between Jesus and You, and teach us to imitate Jesus in our own lives. Guide us in aligning ourselves with Your will and purpose, and grant us wisdom as we study the life and teachings of Jesus.
 
May we grow in our relationship with You, and empower us to share the message of Jesus’ unity with the Father with those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Strengthening Faith

To apply the message of John 5:19 to your life, take these action steps:
 
  1. Reflect on the unity between Jesus and the Father and how Jesus perfectly reflects God’s will, character, and actions.
  2. Seek to imitate Jesus in your daily life, striving to align yourself with God’s will and purpose.
  3. Study the life and teachings of Jesus to gain a deeper understanding of the heart of God.
  4. Pray for guidance and wisdom as you work to model your life after Jesus.
  5. Share the message of Jesus’ unity with the Father with others, encouraging them to grow in their relationship with God.

Today's Wisdom

Understanding the unity between Jesus and the Father helps us to appreciate the depth of Jesus’ connection with God and His role as the perfect reflection of God’s character. As we strive to imitate Jesus in our own lives, we align ourselves with God’s will and purpose, ultimately growing in our relationship with Him.

1 Peter 2:5

 And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What’s more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God.

1 Peter 2:5

A Living Stone

As believers, you are the foundation of the Christian life. The word foundation means to establish. God builds or establishes his church on believers who have given their lives over to the Lord. Each one of us is a living stone that he is continuously building. When we show him how much we love him and worship him, we please him. We also please him when we selflessly put him above all else. These sacrifices are a beautiful aroma to him.

In order to become a firm foundation, we need to continuously work on our relationship with the Lord through devotion, prayer, and Bible Study. When we are all working on our own personal relationships with the Lord, we will build that foundation together.

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
Help us become a foundation for the Christian faith. May we all work together. Amen.

1 Peter 2:9

 

But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.

1 Peter 2:9

A Chosen People

If you know the Lord, then you are a chosen people! You have been adopted into the family of God. You are a holy nation, part of God’s very own possession! You belong to him! Since you belong to him, you can show others the love, grace, and mercy of the father. You can show his goodness. He has transferred you from the darkness and into the light. You have been saved and given a new name and identity!

Live as though you are in the light. Live as though you belong to the Lord.

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
Thank you for including me in the family of God. May I shine my light to others! Amen.

Our Daily Bread: When We're Weary

 

The Bible In One Year: Isaiah 3-4/Galatians 6

Today’s Reading: Galatians 6:1-10

Let us not become weary in doing good. ~Galatians 6:9

When We’re Weary

Sometimes trying to do the right thing can be exhausting. We may wonder, Do my well-intentioned words and actions make any difference at all? I wondered this recently when I sent a prayerfully thought-out email meant to encourage a friend, only to have it met with an angry response. My immediate reaction was a mixture of hurt and anger. How could I be so misunderstood?

Before I responded out of anger, I remembered that we won’t see the results (or the results we desire) when we tell someone about how Jesus loves them. When we do good things for others hoping to draw them to Him, they may spurn us. Our gentle efforts to prompt someone to right action may be ignored.

Galatians 6 is a good place to turn when we’re discouraged by someone’s response to our sincere efforts. Here the apostle Paul encourages us to persevere: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity let us do good to all people” (vv. 9-10).

God wants us to continue living for Him, which includes praying for and telling others about Him—“doing good.” He will see to the results. ~Alyson Kieda

Dear God, thank You for the encouragement we receive from Your Word, help us to persevere in doing good.

We can leave the results of our lives in God’s hands.

When You Are Sick

For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. ~Isaiah 55:9

Hebrews 3:12

 Hebrews 3:12 – Take heed brethren lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

1 Corinthians 10:6-13 – Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

Daily Devotion: You Are a Temple of The Holy Spirit

 

You Will Win! Amen!!!!!

Daily Bible Verse

For thou Lord, art good, and ready to forgive: and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee. ~Psalm 86:5

Daily Inspiration

Think of a grudge that you held on for a long time. Did you feel better from holding this grudge? Now think about this deeper: what if God held a grudge against us? Wow, how blessed we are that He forgives those us that He forgives our sins! He leads by example, forgiving those of us that do exactly what He asks us not to do. We ALL should ALL be more forgiving, like God is to us.

Daily Prayer

You sent Your Only Son to the world to die so that we may be forgiven, Merciful God. Forgive me, once again, for being too selfish and proud to not forgive those that trespass against me. I wish that I can sin less and ask for forgiveness and guidance when I need it. I thank You for sending Your Son to us, Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. Amen.

Just Pray And Everything Will Be Fine!!!!!

You Are A Temple of The Holy Spirit

By Frances Taylor

You Are A Temple of The Holy Spirit: Men and women are ALL created in the image of God, to be the face of God in the world. ~1 Corinthians 6:18-20

This is a hard saying in today’s world. Sexual immorality is so rampant and public that few people believe it to be immoral! People no longer think of sexual behavior outside of marriage as wrong and, in fact, have no problem with going from one person to another quite publicly, broadcasting their behavior on social media and if you’re famous enough, on Twitter/X, on TV, in magazines, etc. What happened to “Thou shalt not commit adultery?” I guess I’m old fashioned, I’m not about to condemn anyone who truly loves another and is faithful to them regardless of marriage, but I don’t understand and cannot condone random sexual encounters that are not based on love but lust, have no desire for permanency but are literally just to satisfy a sexual itch.

Sorry if I offend anyone but if we believe that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit to be kept Holy, how can we treat them as what – toys, prizes? I’m aware that women have often been treated as sexual objects rather than human beings, but men have also been treated badly and often have been given expectations that are false. Men and women are ALL created in the same image of God with the same free will and with the same purpose, to be the face of God in the world. And our God is not like the promiscuous gods of the Romans, the Greeks, the Egyptians, or any other culture. for our God is one of unconditional love, and as He loves us, He expects us to love others and that does not mean using another for pleasure. I hope that someday, we will cease to promote immorality and be more concerned with our immortality.

Prayer

Lord, we have come so far from the people we were created to be. Help us to return to You and live Your commandments with a renewed respect for the bodies You have given us. Amen.

Get Closer To God Day By Day!!!!!!

If You Want to Be Fruitful

But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake, because they know not him that sent me. ~John 15:21

Sunday, June 8, 2025

Our Spiritual Battle

 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV)

Today’s Devotional

Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that the battles we face as Christians are not merely physical or against other people. Instead, our true struggle is against spiritual forces of evil that work against us and God’s purposes. These spiritual battles can manifest in various forms, such as temptations, discouragement, or lies that try to pull us away from our faith.

This verse encourages us to recognize that our real enemy is not the people around us, but the spiritual forces of darkness that seek to destroy and divide. By understanding the nature of our struggle, we can better prepare ourselves to face these spiritual battles with the armor of God and the power of His Spirit.

Time to reflect

To apply the lessons from Ephesians 6:12, consider the following steps:

  • Recognize the true enemy: Be aware of the spiritual battles occurring around you, and understand that your fight is not against other people but against spiritual forces of evil.
  • Put on the armor of God: Equip yourself with the spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6:10-18, such as the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the shield of faith.
  • Pray for strength and guidance: Ask God to strengthen you and guide you in your spiritual battles. Pray for discernment to recognize the schemes of the enemy and the wisdom to resist them.
  • Stand firm in your faith: Stay grounded in your faith, knowing that Christ has already won the ultimate victory over sin and death. Remain steadfast in your commitment to follow Jesus, even when facing spiritual challenges.

Prayer Of The Day

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that our true battle is against spiritual forces of evil, not against flesh and blood. Help us to recognize the true enemy and equip ourselves with the armor of God. Strengthen us and guide us in our spiritual battles, and grant us discernment and wisdom to resist the schemes of the enemy. May we stand firm in our faith, trusting in the victory of Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Strengthening Faith

  1. Recognize the true enemy.
  2. Put on the armor of God.
  3. Pray for strength and guidance.
  4. Stand firm in your faith.

Today's Wisdom

As Christians, it is essential to understand the spiritual nature of our battles and to equip ourselves with the armor of God. By recognizing the true enemy and standing firm in our faith, we can face and overcome the challenges that come our way, trusting in the ultimate victory of Jesus Christ.

A Glimpse of Heaven: Unity and Diversity in God's Kingdom

 After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.

Revelation 7:9 (NIV)

Today’s Devotional

Revelation 7:9 provides us with a beautiful glimpse of heaven, where a diverse multitude of people from every nation, tribe, people, and language stand united before the throne of God and the Lamb. This powerful image serves as a reminder that God’s love and grace extend to all people, regardless of their background or earthly distinctions.

As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect this unity and diversity in our own lives and communities. We should strive to break down barriers that divide us and seek to build bridges of understanding and love. This begins with recognizing and appreciating the diversity of God’s creation and celebrating the unique ways in which people from different backgrounds can enrich our lives and our faith.

Time to reflect

Embracing Unity and Diversity in God’s Kingdom (Revelation 7:9)

  • Seek to understand and appreciate the diversity of God’s creation, recognizing the beauty and value in every person.
  • Strive to break down barriers that divide, promoting unity and love within your community and the global church.
  • Actively engage with people from different backgrounds, seeking to learn from their experiences and perspectives.
  • Celebrate the unique ways in which diverse cultures and traditions can enrich our understanding of God and our faith.
  • Reflect on the image of the great multitude in Revelation 7:9, allowing it to inspire your efforts towards unity and diversity.

Prayer Of The Day

Heavenly Father, thank You for the beautiful glimpse of heaven found in Revelation 7:9, where a diverse multitude of people stand united before Your throne. Help us to embrace and celebrate the diversity of Your creation, recognizing the value and beauty in every person. Guide us as we strive to break down barriers and promote unity and love within our communities and the global church. Teach us to learn from and appreciate the unique ways in which people from different backgrounds can enrich our lives and our faith. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Strengthening Faith

Fostering Unity and Diversity in God’s Kingdom (Revelation 7:9)

  1. Take time to learn about and appreciate the diversity of God’s creation, celebrating the beauty and value of every person.
  2. Engage in conversations and relationships with people from different backgrounds, seeking to learn from their experiences and perspectives.
  3. Work towards breaking down barriers that divide and strive to promote unity and love within your community and the global church.
  4. Participate in events or activities that celebrate diverse cultures and traditions, enriching your understanding of God and your faith.
  5. Reflect on the image of the great multitude in Revelation 7:9, allowing it to inspire your efforts towards fostering unity and diversity in God’s Kingdom.

Today's Wisdom

The vision of heaven found in Revelation 7:9 reminds us that God’s Kingdom is a diverse and unified place, where people from every nation, tribe, people, and language come together to worship the Lord. As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect this unity and diversity in our own lives and communities. By seeking to understand and appreciate the diversity of God’s creation, breaking down barriers, and promoting unity and love, we can work towards building a more inclusive and harmonious global church that reflects the beauty of God’s Kingdom.