Tuesday, November 26, 2024

TUESDAY 26TH NOVEMBER 2024-HUMAN DIVINE RELATIONSHIP- PREGNANCY

 






Today's Scripture

Mark 6:35-44

Bible in a Year

Ezekiel 27-29; 1 Peter 3

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Today's Insights

In Mark’s account of a large crowd being fed with only five loaves of bread and two fish, the focus is on how this miracle instructed the disciples—both in God’s power as well as in their calling to serve (Mark 6:35, 39). The “how” of the miracle is mysterious. Mark doesn’t tell us that the crowd is even aware of a miracle occurring; the disciples simply start dispensing the food and somehow there’s enough for all.


Jesus opens the meal with a customary prayer of thanks (v. 41). He may have spoken this traditional Jewish prayer: “Praise be to you, O Lord our God, King of the world, who makes bread to come from the earth, and who provides for all that you have created.”


Today's Devotional

When my friend and her husband struggled to conceive, doctors recommended she have a medical procedure done. But my friend was hesitant. “Shouldn’t prayer be enough to fix our problem?” she asked. “Do I really need to do the procedure?” My friend was trying to work out what role human action has in seeing God work.


The story of Jesus feeding the crowd can help us here (Mark 6:35-44). We may know how the story ends—thousands of people are miraculously fed with just a little bread and some fish (v. 42). But notice who is to feed the crowd? The disciples (v. 37). And who provides the food? They do (v. 38). Who distributes the food and cleans up afterward? The disciples (vv. 39-43). “You give them something to eat,” Jesus said (v. 37). Jesus did the miracle, but it happened as the disciples acted.


A good crop is a gift from God (Psalm 65:9-10), but a farmer must still work the land. Jesus promised Peter “a catch” of fish but the fisherman still had to cast his nets (Luke 5:4-6). God can tend the earth and do miracles without us but typically chooses to work in a divine-human partnership.


My friend went through with the procedure and later successfully conceived. While this is no formula for a miracle, it was a lesson for my friend and me. God often does His miraculous work through the methods He’s placed in our hands.


Reflect & Pray


When are you tempted to pray without acting? What’s God calling you to act on right now?



Dear God, thank You for including me in Your amazing work. Please take what’s in my hands and do wonders through it.

Monday, November 25, 2024

MONDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 2024- WELCOME

 



WELCOME BABY JESUS

Today's Scripture

Luke 2:8-20

Bible in a Year

Zephaniah 1-3; Revelation 16

Today's Insights

Luke’s record of Jesus’ birth includes several paradoxes: people—humble, nightshift-shepherds (2:8); place—Bethlehem “the town of David” (v. 11; see also Micah 5:2); and setting—a cloth-wrapped child “lying in a manger” (Luke 2:12). At first, these seem to be an incongruent mismatch with the coming of one hailed as “a Savior . . . the Messiah, the Lord” (v. 11). Yet, as we soberly reflect on this Christmas Day, pondering turns to praise of the God who “chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; . . . the weak things of the world to shame the strong” (1 Corinthians 1:27).


Today's Devotional

It felt like we’d been waiting forever for news that our pregnant neighbor had welcomed her first baby. When a sign declaring “It’s a Girl!” finally appeared on their front lawn, we celebrated the birth of their daughter and texted friends who might not have seen the outdoor display.


There’s great excitement awaiting the arrival of a baby. Before Jesus’ birth, the Jewish people hadn’t just been waiting a few months, they’d longed for the birth of the Messiah, Israel’s expected rescuer, for generations. I imagine that over the years faithful Jews wondered if during their lifetime they would see the fulfillment of this promise. 


One night the long-anticipated news was displayed in the heavens when an angel appeared to shepherds in Bethlehem announcing that the Messiah had finally been born. He told them, “This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:12). After the shepherds saw Jesus, they praised God and “spread the word” (v. 17) about the baby.


God wanted the shepherds to know that the long-awaited baby had arrived so they could tell others about Jesus’ birth. We still celebrate His birth because His life provides rescue from the brokenness of the world to anyone who believes. We no longer have to wait to know peace and experience joy, which is good news worth announcing!


Reflect & Pray


How do you think the shepherds felt hearing the news that Christ was born? How might you share the good news of Jesus’ birth?



Dear Jesus, I want everyone to know that Your birth is good news.

Sunday, November 24, 2024

SUNDAY 24TH NOVEMBER 2024-XMAS TRADITIONS

 




Today's Scripture

Matthew 2:1-2, 9-12 

Bible in a Year

Habakkuk 1-3; Revelation 15

Today's Insights

We see an interesting connection between the genealogy in Matthew 1 and some key characters in Matthew 2. In the genealogy, several gentiles are listed among the ancestors of Jesus, including Rahab and Ruth (1:5). Rahab heard of the miracles God performed on behalf of the Israelites and decided she’d rather join God’s people than be destroyed along with her pagan city of Jericho (Joshua 2). Ruth left her country of Moab to follow her mother-in-law Naomi’s God—the one true God (Ruth 1:16-17) and became King David’s great-grandmother. In Matthew 2, the magi from the east came to search for “the one who has been born king of the Jews” (v. 2). They too were gentiles pursuing the one true God. John the apostle wrote: “[Jesus] is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2).


Today's Devotional

My husband and I have always enjoyed attending the Christmas Eve service at our church. In the early years of our marriage, we had a special tradition of bundling up in warm clothing after the service to hike up a nearby hill where 350 glowing lights were strung from tall poles in the shape of a star. There—often in the snow—we’d whisper our reflections on Jesus’ miraculous birth while we gazed out over the city. Meanwhile, many people in the town were looking up at the bright, string-light star from the valley below.


That star is a reminder of the birth of our Savior. The Bible tells of magi “from the east” who arrived in Jerusalem seeking “the one who [had] been born king of the Jews” (Matthew 2:1-2). They’d been watching the skies and had seen the star “when it rose” (v. 2). Their journey took them onward from Jerusalem to Bethlehem, the star going “ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was” (v. 9). There, they “bowed down and worshiped him” (v. 11).


Christ is the source of light in our lives both figuratively (as the one who guides us) and literally as the one who created the sun, moon, and stars in the sky (Colossians 1:15-16). Like the magi who “were overjoyed” when they saw His star (Matthew 2:10), our greatest delight is in knowing Him as the Savior who came down from the heavens to dwell among us. “We have seen his glory” (John 1:14)! 


Reflect & Pray


How has Jesus brought light to your life? With whom might you share that today?



Thank You, Jesus, for being the light of my life.


For further study, read Jesus or Herod? The Choice of the Magi.

Saturday, November 23, 2024

SATURDAY 23RD NOVEMBER 2024-FRIENDLY AMBITIONS

 





Today's Scripture

Hebrews 10:19-25

Bible in a Year

Nahum 1-3; Revelation 14

Today's Insights

The words priest/high priest occur nearly forty times in the book of Hebrews. The priestly ministry of Jesus comes into view in the earliest verses of the book: “After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven” (Hebrews 1:3). Accolades for Jesus as high priest include words like “merciful and faithful” (2:17) and “great” (4:14; 10:21). The chorus of praise in 7:26 is of note: “Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.” What are the implications for believers in Jesus that He occupies this role? The “therefore” and “let us” phrases help us. “Therefore, . . . since we have confidence . . . and since we have a great priest . . . let us draw near to God . . . let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess . . . let us consider how we may spur one another on” (10:19-24).


Today's Devotional

Gregory of Nazianzus and Basil of Caesarea were celebrated leaders in the fourth-century church and also close friends. They first met as philosophy students, and Gregory later said that they became like “two bodies with a single spirit.”


With their career paths so similar, rivalry could’ve arisen between Gregory and Basil. But Gregory explained that they avoided this temptation by making a life of faith, hope, and good deeds their “single ambition,” then “spurring each other on” to make the other more successful in this goal than themselves individually. As a result, both grew in faith and rose to high levels of leadership without rivalry.


The book of Hebrews is written to help us stay strong in faith (Hebrews 2:1), encouraging us to focus on “the hope we profess” and to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (10:23-24). While this command is given in the context of a congregation (v. 25), by applying it to their friendship, Gregory and Basil showed how friends can encourage each other to grow and avoid any “bitter root,” such as rivalry that might grow between them (12:15).


What if we made faith, hope, and good deeds the ambition of our own friendships, then encouraged our friends to become more successful in this goal than ourselves individually? The Holy Spirit is ready to help us do both.


Reflect & Pray


What qualities do you see in Gregory and Basil’s friendship? How could you encourage your friends to grow in faith, hope, and good deeds?



Dear Jesus, please make my friendships rich in faith, hope, and good deeds.

Friday, November 22, 2024

FRIDAY 22ND NOVEMBER 2024- CHURCH FAMILY @ HOSPITAL , UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

 






Today's Scripture

1 John 4:13-21

Bible in a Year

Micah 6-7; Revelation 13

Today's Insights

The night before Jesus was betrayed, He commanded His followers to “love one another” (John 13:34) as He had loved them. Such sacrificial and unconditional love would be the irrefutable proof that they were truly His disciples (v. 35). The author of 1 John (traditionally believed to be the same John who wrote the fourth gospel), says that Christ’s disciples must “live as Jesus did” (2:6)—living a life of loving God and loving others. John reminds us that “God is love” and we must “rely on the love God has for us” (4:16). Reminiscent of the language of John 3:16, the author reminds us that God loves us in this way: “He sent his one and only Son into the world . . . as an atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 4:9-10). “He has given us of his Spirit” to help us live and love (v. 13).


Today's Devotional

As I sat next to my friend Margaret, who was lying in her hospital bed, I took in the bustle and activity of the other patients, medical staff, and visitors. A young woman sitting nearby with her ailing mother asked Margaret, “Who are all the people who keep visiting you?” She responded, “They’re members of my church family!” The young woman remarked that she’d never seen anything like it; she felt as if the many visitors were “like tangible love poured out.” Margaret replied, smiling, “It all comes down to our love of God through His Son Jesus Christ!”


In her response, Margaret echoed the disciple John, who in his final years wrote three letters brimming with love. In his first letter, he said, “God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them” (1 John 4:16). That is, those who acknowledge “that Jesus is the Son of God” (v. 15) have God living in them through “his Spirit” (v. 13). How can we lovingly care for others? “We love because he first loved us” (v. 19).


Because of the gift of God’s love, visiting Margaret hadn’t felt like a hardship to me or others in our church. I received more than I gave, not only from Margaret, but through observing her gentle witness about her Savior, Jesus. How might God love others through you today? 


Reflect & Pray


When have you been surprised by someone noticing God’s love in your life? How does His love spur you on to serve others?



Loving God, I love because You first loved me. Please keep increasing my love so Your Spirit will shine through me.


Thursday, November 21, 2024

THURSDAY 21ST NOVEMBER 2024-WINDOW TO THE WONDERFUL- COLD= CLEAR SKIES

 





Today's Scripture

Revelation 21:23-22:5

Bible in a Year

Micah 4-5; Revelation 12

Today's Insights

In Revelation 21:1-22:5, we’re given a vision of “a new heaven and a new earth” (21:1), our home once Christ returns and makes all things right. One striking element of this vision is that the old creation seems to be still recognizable in the new; the new Jerusalem, for example, is still recognizable as Jerusalem (v. 10). Humanity still enjoys fellowship in a city. God has wholly redeemed and transformed His good creation.


Today's Devotional

Photographer Ronn Murray likes cold weather. “Cold means clear skies,” he explains. “And that can open a window to the wonderful!”


Ronn provides Alaskan photography tours dedicated to tracking Earth’s most spectacular light show—aurora borealis (the northern lights). Murray speaks of the experience as “very spiritual.” If you’ve ever seen this iridescent display dance across the heavens, you’ll understand why.


But the lights aren’t only a northern phenomenon. Aurora australis, nearly identical to borealis, occurs simultaneously in the south—the same kind of lights.


In the disciple John’s telling of the Christmas story, he skips the stable and shepherds and goes directly to the one who “brought light to everyone” (John 1:4 nlt). When John later writes of a heavenly city, he describes the source of its light. This “city has no need of sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its light” (Revelation 21:23 nlt). This light source is Jesus—the same source referenced in John 1. And for those who inhabit this future dwelling, “there will be no night there—no need for lamps or sun—for the Lord God will shine on them” (22:5 nlt).


As our lives reflect this light of the world—the one who created aurora borealis and australis—we open a window to the truly wonderful.


Reflect & Pray


When or how have natural wonders dazzled you? What’s distracting you from reflecting God’s light to the world?



Dear Creator of the cosmos, may the beauty of the night sky remind me that You’re the true light of the world.

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

WEDNESDAY 20TH NOVEMBER 2024-PERFECT TRUTH IS ONLY ONE.

 





Today's Scripture

Isaiah 40:1-8

Bible in a Year

Micah 1-3; Revelation 11

Today's Insights

We tend to make the phrase “the Word of God” (see Isaiah 40:8) into a synonym for Scripture itself. And it’s true that the Bible is an integral and vital way in which God reveals Himself to us. Ultimately, however, the greater revealer of God is a living and enduring person: Jesus. Isaiah 40:1-11 has a strong messianic message as it describes this eternal Word in whom we trust. This is who Isaiah is pointing to—the Word made flesh as revealed in John 1 (see especially vv. 1, 14). The words of God given to us in the pages of the Bible point to the Word of God (Jesus) spoken of in John 1.


Today's Devotional

When he was younger, my son Xavier and I read a fictional children’s story about a boy who rebelled against his teacher by referring to a pen by a made-up name. The student convinced his fellow fifth graders to use the new name he created for pens. News about the boy’s replacement word spread through the whole town. Eventually, people across the country changed the way they referred to pens, simply because others accepted one boy’s made-up reality as a universal truth.


Throughout history, flawed human beings have embraced ever-changing versions of truth or personal preferred realities to suit their desires. However, the Bible points to one truth, the one true God, and one way to salvation—the Messiah—through whom “the glory of the Lord will be revealed” (Isaiah 40:5). The prophet Isaiah affirmed that people, like all created things, are temporal, fallible, and unreliable (vv. 6-7). He said, “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever” (v. 8).


Isaiah’s prophecy of the coming Messiah provides a dependable foundation, a safe refuge, and a secured hope. We can trust God’s Word because Jesus Himself is the Word (John 1:1). Jesus is the Truth who never changes.


Reflect & Pray


When have you been tempted to reject what the Bible says simply because others accepted another view as truth? How does knowing Jesus is the Word and the fulfillment of all God’s promises comfort you?



Dear Jesus, please help me live in a way that shows I believe the Bible is the truth that never changes

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

TUESDAY 19TH NOVEMBER 2024-YEAR OF CALAMITIES? RACIAL VIOLENCE? HISTORY REPEATING ITSELF ALERT? PRAY

 






Today's Scripture

Genesis 1:1-10

Bible in a Year

Jonah 1-4; Revelation 10

Today's Insights

The word genesis means “origin” or “beginnings.” The book of Genesis is about beginnings: the beginning of the world, of God’s chosen people, and of His plan to save us. It begins: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (1:1). The gospel of John has a similar opening: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning” (1:1-2). These verses reveal much about the world’s origin: The Word (Jesus) was with God in the beginning—and is God. Not only was Jesus with the Father and Spirit from the very beginning, He gave life and created all things (1:3; Genesis 1:2). In Genesis 1:3, God speaks light into the world; in John 1:4, we read that Jesus is “the light” (see also 8:12).


Today's Devotional

It was 1968, and America was mired in a war with Vietnam, racial violence was exploding in cities, and two public figures had been assassinated. A year before, fire had taken the lives of three astronauts on the launchpad, and the idea of going to the moon seemed like a pipe dream. Nonetheless, Apollo 8 managed to launch a few days before Christmas.


It became the first manned mission to orbit the moon. The flight crew, Borman, Anders, and Lovell—all men of faith—broadcast a Christmas Eve message: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). At the time, it was the most watched TV event in the world, and millions shared the God’s-eye view of Earth in a now iconic photo. Frank Borman finished the reading: “And God saw that it was good” (v. 10).


Sometimes it’s hard to look at ourselves, all the hardships we’re mired in, and see anything that’s good. But we might return to the story of creation and see God’s view of us: “In the image of God he created them” (v. 27). Let’s pair that with another divine-eye view: “For God so loved the world” (John 3:16). Today, remember that God created you, sees the good despite the sin, and loves the you He created.


Reflect & Pray


What hardships and sins are you mired in today? What does it mean that you're created in the image of God?



Dear God, I'm struggling these days. Please help me to see what You see in me—You’re the God’s-eye view.

Monday, November 18, 2024

MONDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 2024

 









OBEDIENCE IS A CHOICE 

John 14: 15-24


Today's Insights

Four times in John 14:15-24, Jesus emphasized that obeying Him would be proof of the disciples’ love for Him (vv. 15, 21, 23, 24). They weren’t left alone to obey Christ by their own volition and human strength. God the Father would give them “another advocate to help [them]— the Spirit of truth” (vv. 16-17). The Holy Spirit would remind them of everything Jesus had taught them (v. 26) and show them what’s right and wrong (16:8-13). To love Christ is to obey Him. As we’re “led by the Spirit” (Galatians 5:18), we’ll obey Him and “keep in step with the Spirit” (v. 25).


Today's Devotional

Winters in the Netherlands seldom bring a lot of snow, but it can get cold enough to freeze over the canals. When my husband, Tom, was growing up there, his parents had a family rule: “Stay off the ice until it is thick enough to hold the weight of a horse.” Because horses would leave evidence of their presence behind, Tom and his buddies decided to get some manure off the road. They threw it on the thin ice and ventured out onto the surface. No harm came to them, nor were they discovered, but they knew in their hearts they’d been disobedient.


Obedience doesn’t always come naturally. The choice to obey or not to obey can spring from a sense of duty or fear of punishment. But we can also choose to obey out of love and respect for those in authority over us.


In John 14, Jesus challenged His disciples by saying, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. . . . Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching” (vv. 23-24). It’s not always an easy choice to obey, but the power of the Spirit living within us gives us the desire and ability to obey Him (vv. 15-17). With His enablement, we can continue to follow the commands of the one who loves us most—not out of fear of punishment, but out of love.


 


Bible in a Year:


Ezekiel 8-10; Hebrews 13


Reflect & Pray


In what ways have you been willfully disobedient? Why is it important for you to obey God even when it’s difficult or inconvenient?



Loving God, please soften my stubborn heart to listen to Your instructions. Help me to set aside my own agenda and to faithfully obey You.


For further study, read The (Impossible) Task of Following Jesus.








Sunday, November 17, 2024

SUNDAY 17TH NOVEMBER 2024-JESUS OUR RESCUER, THE PAKISTAN FLIGHT ORDEAL

 







Today's Scripture

Matthew 1:18-25

Bible in a Year

Amos 7-9; Revelation 8

Today's Insights

Matthew clearly states that Mary was pregnant “before [she and Joseph] came together” (1:18). Joseph would have considered this apparent violation of their engagement to be the same as adultery, which carried the death penalty (Leviticus 20:10). That Joseph, who was “faithful to the law” (Matthew 1:19), planned to divorce Mary discreetly reveals his gracious character. Just as important, he believed what the angel told him (v. 24) and married Mary. This exposed them both to public ridicule. When Jesus later returned to “his hometown” to carry out His ministry, the people wondered, “Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers? . . . Isn’t this the carpenter’s son?” (13:54-55). But He was more than just “the carpenter’s son.” He was the Messiah.


Today's Devotional

What began as a normal cable car ride across a Pakistani valley turned into a frightful ordeal. Shortly after the ride began, two supporting cables snapped, leaving eight passengers—including school children—suspended hundreds of feet in the air. The situation sparked an arduous twelve-hour rescue operation by the Pakistani military, who used ziplines, helicopters, and more to rescue the passengers.


Those well-trained rescuers are to be commended, but their work pales in comparison to the eternal work of Jesus, whose mission was to save and rescue us from sin and death. Prior to Christ’s birth, an angel instructed Joseph to take Mary home because her pregnancy was from “the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:18, 20). Joseph was also told to name his son Jesus, because He would “save his people from their sins” (v. 21). Yet, while this name was common in the first century, only this child was qualified to be the Savior (Luke 2:30-32). Christ came at the right time to seal and secure the eternal salvation of all who repent and believe in Him.


We were all trapped in the cable car of sin and death, suspended over the valley of eternal separation from God. But in His love and grace, Jesus came to rescue us and bring us safely home to our heavenly Father. Praise Him!


Reflect & Pray


What significant mission would Mary’s baby have? What does the rescue Jesus secured mean to you?



Dear Jesus, please help me to rejoice in the reality that though I once was lost, I can now be found because of Your grace.

Saturday, November 16, 2024

SATURDAY 16TH NOVEMBER 2024

 Previous Day

November 16, 2024

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Today's Scripture

1 Samuel 17:17-26, 32

Bible in a Year

Ezekiel 3-4; Hebrews 11:20-40

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The Israelites and the Philistines agreed that their battle was to be decided by two representative warriors (1 Samuel 17:8-11). Goliath was a fearsome Philistine champion, nine feet nine inches tall and heavily armored (vv. 4-7). He dwarfed Saul, who “was a head taller than anyone else” in Israel (9:2), possibly six feet tall. For forty days, no Israelites answered Goliath’s challenge (17:16) until David was providentially sent to the battlefront on a food run for his three brothers (vv. 17-19). With no military experience or armor, David slayed Goliath with a sling and a stone in the name of the God of Israel (vv. 45-50).


Today's Devotional

When Heather’s job took her to Tim’s house to deliver his take-out meal, he asked her to help him untie the knot in the food bag. Tim had suffered a stroke a few years prior and no longer had the ability to untie the knot himself. Heather cheerfully obliged. Throughout the rest of her day, Heather’s thoughts returned to Tim frequently and she was inspired to assemble a care package for him. When Tim later found the hot cocoa and red blanket she’d left at his door with an encouraging note, he was moved to tears.


Heather’s delivery became much more significant than she originally anticipated. The same was true when Jesse sent his young son David to supply his brothers with food when the Israelites “drew up their battle line to meet the Philistines” (1 Samuel 17:2). When David arrived with the bread and cheese, he learned Goliath had been instilling fear in God’s people with his daily taunting (vv. 8-10, 16, 24). David was incensed by Goliath’s defiance of “the armies of the living God” (v. 26) and was moved to respond, saying to King Saul, “Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him” (v. 32).


God sometimes uses the circumstances of our daily lives to put us in places where He wants to use us. Let’s keep our eyes (and hearts!) open to see where and how He might want us to serve someone.


Reflect & Pray


When has God supplied your needs through another person? How might He want to use you today in the life of another?



Father, please open my eyes to see where You might use me today.

Sunday, November 10, 2024

SUNDAY 10TH NOVEMBER 2024- GOD SEES ME





November 10


God Sees You

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 48-49Hebrews 7

“You are the God who sees me,” for [Hagar] said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.”


Genesis 16:13

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Genesis 16:9-16

“Get down!” my friend said firmly to her son after he climbed onto the church pew and waved his hands. “I want the pastor to see me,” he innocently replied. “If I don’t stand up, he won’t see me.”


While standing on the pews is probably not encouraged in most churches, my friend’s son had a good point. Standing and waving his hands was certainly one way to be seen and to capture the pastor’s attention.


When we’re trying to get God’s attention, we don’t have to worry about being seen by Him. God sees each of us all the time. He’s the same one who revealed Himself to Hagar when she was probably at the lowest, loneliest, and most frustrating time in her life. She’d been used as a pawn and given to Abram by his wife, Sarai, to produce a son (Genesis 16:3). And when she did get pregnant, Abram allowed his wife to mistreat Hagar: “Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her” (v. 6).


The runaway slave found herself alone, pregnant, and miserable. Yet in the midst of her desperation in the wilderness, God compassionately sent an angel to speak to her. The angel told her that God had “heard of [her] misery” (v. 11). She responded by saying, “You are the God who sees me” (v. 13).


What a realization—especially in the midst of the wilderness. God saw Hagar and had compassion. And no matter how tough things are, He sees you.


By:  Katara Patton


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Reflect & Pray

What wilderness situations are you facing? How does knowing that God sees you help you to keep going? 


Dear God, thank You for seeing me. I know You’re with me even during my toughest times.


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Tuesday, November 5, 2024

TUESDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2024-HE IS OUR SHEPHERD- AM PLAYER SMALL








November 5


Courage from the Shepherd

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 34-36Hebrews 2

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.


Psalm 23:1

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Psalm 23

The nearly 107,000 people in the stadium stood in anticipation as Texas A&M college football kicker Seth Small took the field with only two seconds left in the game. With A&M tied 38-38 against the best team in the country—a perennial football powerhouse—a successful field goal would seal an epic upset victory. Looking calm, Small lined up to take the kick. The stadium erupted in pandemonium after the ball sailed through the uprights for the winning score.


When questioned by reporters how he prepared for such an intense moment, Small said he kept repeating to himself the first verse of Psalm 23, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” When Small needed strength and reassurance, he drew on the deeply personal metaphor of God as a shepherd.


Psalm 23 is a beloved psalm because it assures us that we can be at peace, or comforted, because we have a loving and trustworthy shepherd who actively cares for us. David testified both to the reality of fear in intense or difficult situations as well as the comfort God provides (v. 4). The word translated “comfort” conveys assurance, or the confidence and courage to keep going because of His guiding presence.


When walking into challenging circumstances—not knowing what the outcome will be—we can take courage as we repeat the gentle reminder that the Good Shepherd walks with us.


By:  Lisa M. Samra


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Reflect & Pray

How have you experienced God as a loving shepherd? How did His trustworthy care give you courage?


Heavenly Father, please help me to take courage knowing that You’re my loving Shepherd.


Gain wisdom and leadership skills from our loving Shepherd.


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Monday, November 4, 2024

MONDAY 4TH NOVEMBER 2024- MULTICULTURALISM







November 4


Loving the Nations

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 32-33Hebrews 1

Before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language.


Revelation 7:9

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Revelation 7:9-12

As the daughter of two loving and hard-working parents from Central and South America, I’m grateful they had the courage to be the first in their families to immigrate to the United States for better opportunities. They met as young adults in New York City, married, had my sister and me, and went on to run their respective businesses.


As a native New Yorker, I’ve grown up embracing my Hispanic heritage and have been fascinated with people of diverse backgrounds. For instance, I once shared my story of faith at an evening service at a multicultural church that meets in a former Broadway theater. Speaking to a multicultural group about God’s love is only a glimpse of what heaven will be like when we see people from different nations come together as the body of Christ.


In Revelation, the apostle John gives us this amazing picture of heaven: “Before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb” (Revelation 7:9). God our Savior will receive the “praise and glory” and so much more He’s worthy of “for ever and ever” (v. 12).


Now we have just a glimpse of what heaven will be like. But one day, we who believe in Jesus will be united with Him and with people from different countries, cultures, and languages. Since God loves the nations, let’s also love our global family in Christ.


By:  Nancy Gavilanes


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Dear God, please help me to love others well.


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Sunday, November 3, 2024

SUNDAY 3RD NOVEMBER 2024



November 3


Our Trustworthy Father

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 30-31Philemon 1

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.


Isaiah 26:3

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Isaiah 26:1-8

My six-foot-three son, Xavier, lifted his giggling toddler, Xarian, into the air with ease. He wrapped his large hand around his son’s tiny feet, securing them firmly in his palm. Stretching out his long arm, he encouraged his son to balance on his own but kept his free hand at the ready to catch him if necessary. Xarian straightened his legs and stood. With his smile wide and his arms resting at his side, his eyes locked on his father’s gaze.


The prophet Isaiah declared the benefits of focusing on our heavenly Father: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3). He encouraged God’s people to be committed to seeking Him in the Scriptures and connected with Him through prayer and worship. Those faithful ones would experience a confident trust built through their established fellowship with the Father.


As God’s beloved children, we can cry out with boldness: “Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal” (v. 4). Why? Because our Father in heaven is trustworthy. He and the Scriptures never change.


As we keep our eyes fixed on our heavenly Father, He will keep our feet planted firmly in His hands. We can count on Him to continue being loving, faithful, and good forever!


By:  Xochitl Dixon


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How does keeping your thoughts on God give you peace? What have you done to focus your thoughts on Him throughout the day?


Heavenly Father, thank You for using Scripture to remind me of Your unchanging character and everlasting faithfulness.


For further study read, God Answers the Silly Prayers Too.


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Saturday, November 2, 2024

SATURDAY 2ND NOVEMBER 2024





November 2


Serving God for Good

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 27-29Titus 3

Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.


Matthew 20:26

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Matthew 20:20-28

Brad moved to a new city and quickly found a church where he could worship. He went to services for a few weeks, and then one Sunday he talked to the pastor afterward about his desire to serve in any way needed. He said, “I just want to ‘reach for the broom.’ ” He started by helping set up chairs for the services and cleaning the restrooms. The church family found out later that Brad’s giftedness was in teaching, but he was willing to do anything.


Jesus taught two of His disciples, James and John, and their mother a lesson in servanthood. Their mother requested that her sons have a place of honor on each side of Christ when He came into His kingdom (Matthew 20:20-21). The other disciples heard about this and grew angry with them. Perhaps they wanted those positions for themselves? Jesus told them that exercising authority over others wasn’t the way to live (vv. 25-26), but instead serving was most important. “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (v. 26).


Brad’s words “reach for the broom” are a practical picture for what each of us can do in our communities and churches to serve Christ. Brad described his life’s passion for God in this way: “I want to serve for the glory of God, for the good of the world, and for my own joy.” How will you and I “reach for the broom” as God leads us?


By:  Anne Cetas


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In what ways can you serve your church family? When will you start?


Dear God, You’ve done so much for me and deserve my love. Please empower me and show me how to serve others in my midst.


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Friday, November 1, 2024

FRIDAY 1ST NOVEMBER 2024-TIME SPENT WISELY IN SPACE

 



November 1


Time Well Spent

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 24-26Titus 2

Be very careful, then, how you live . . . making the most of every opportunity.


Ephesians 5:15-16

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Ephesians 5:15-20

On March 14, 2019, NASA rockets ignited, catapulting astronaut Christina Koch toward the International Space Station. Koch wouldn’t return to Earth for 328 days, giving her the record for the longest continuous space flight by a woman. Every day, living roughly 254 miles above the Earth, a screen kept track of the astronaut’s time in five-minute increments. She had a myriad of daily tasks to complete (from meals to experiments), and—hour after hour—a red line inched along the display, constantly showing whether Koch was ahead or behind schedule. Not a moment to waste.


While certainly not recommending anything so intrusive as a red line ruling over our life, the apostle Paul did encourage us to carefully use our precious, limited resource of time. “Be very careful then, how you live,” he wrote, “not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16). God’s wisdom instructs us to fill our days with intention and care, employing them to practice obedience to Him, to love our neighbor, and to participate in Jesus’ ongoing redemption in the world. Sadly, it’s entirely possible to ignore wisdom’s instruction and instead use our time foolishly (v. 17), frittering away our years in selfish or destructive pursuits.


The point isn’t to obsessively fret about time but simply to follow God in obedience and trust. He will help us make the most of our days.


By:  Winn Collier


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What does time mean to you? How can you make the most of your time today?


Dear God, please help me make the most of my time.


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Thursday, October 31, 2024

THURSDAY 31ST OCTOBER 2024- POLITICS, RELIGION AND PUMPKIN







October 31


The Great Divide

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 22-23Titus 1

Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.


Mark 12:17

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Mark 12:13-17

In a classic Peanuts comic strip, Linus’ friend berates him for his belief in the Great Pumpkin. Walking away dejectedly, Linus says, “There are three things I have learned never to discuss with people . . . religion, politics, and the Great Pumpkin!”


The Great Pumpkin existed only in Linus’ head, but the other two topics are oh-so-real—dividing nations, families, and friends. The problem occurred in Jesus’ day as well. The Pharisees were deeply religious and tried to follow the Old Testament law to the letter. The Herodians were more political, yet both groups wanted to see the Jewish people freed from Roman oppression. Jesus didn’t seem to share their goals. So they approached Him with a politically charged question: should the people pay taxes to Caesar (Mark 12:14–15)? If Jesus said yes, the people would resent Him. If He said no, the Romans could arrest Him for insurrection.


Jesus asked for a coin. “Whose image is this?” He asked (v. 16). Everyone knew it was Caesar’s. Jesus’ words resonate today: “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s” (v. 17). His priorities in order, Jesus avoided their trap.


Jesus came to do His Father’s will. Following His lead, we too can seek God and His kingdom above all else, directing the focus away from all the dissension and toward the one who is the Truth.


By:  Tim Gustafson


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What divisive issues trouble you? How might keeping your eyes on Jesus help guide your conversations today?


Father, I need Your wisdom and guidance for all my interactions.


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Wednesday, October 30, 2024

WEDNESDAY 30TH OCTOBER 2024- THE BEAUTIFUL SURPRISE







October 30


A Beautiful Surprise

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 20-212 Timothy 4

In that day the Branch of the Lord will be beautiful and glorious.


Isaiah 4:2

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Isaiah 4:2-6

The plowed ground contained a secret—something hidden. In preparation for their fiftieth wedding anniversary, Lee Wilson had set apart eighty acres of his land to produce perhaps the grandest floral gift his wife had ever seen. He secretly planted countless sunflower seeds that eventually erupted into 1.2 million of the golden plants—his wife’s favorite. When the sunflowers raised their yellow crowns, Renee was shocked and overwhelmed by Lee’s beautiful act of love.


Speaking to the people of Judah through the prophet Isaiah, God shared a secret with them: Though they couldn’t see it now, after His promised judgment against them for their unfaithfulness to Him (Isaiah 3:1-4:1), a new and golden day would dawn. “In that day the Branch of the Lord will be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory of the survivors in Israel” (4:2). Yes, they would experience devastation and exile at the hands of Babylon, but a beautiful “branch”—a new shoot out of the ground—would then be seen. A remnant of His people set apart (“holy,” v. 3), cleansed (v. 4), and lovingly led and cared for by Him (vv. 5-6).


Our days can seem dark, and the fulfillment of God’s promises hidden. But as we cling to Him by faith, one day all His “great and precious promises” will be fulfilled (2 Peter 1:4). A beautiful new day awaits.


By:  Tom Felten


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Why do God’s promises seem to be hidden at times? How can you accept them by faith today?


Loving God, thank You for the beauty of Your faithful promises.


For further study, read The Promises of God: Taking God at His Word.


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Tuesday, October 29, 2024

TUESDAY 29TH OCTOBER 2024- Pause to Pray



October 29


Pause to Pray

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 18-192 Timothy 3

In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.


Philippians 4:6

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Philippians 4:4-9

A meteorologist in Mississippi went viral for uttering six simple yet profound words during his weather forecast on March 24, 2023. Matt Laubhan was tracking a severe storm when he realized a catastrophic tornado was about to bear down on the town of Amory. That’s when Laubhan paused on live TV to say this prayer heard worldwide: “Dear Jesus, please help them. Amen.” Some viewers later said that prayer prompted them to take cover. His spontaneous and heartfelt prayer may have helped save countless lives.


Our prayers can make a difference too. They don’t have to be long-winded. They can be short and sweet and can be said at any time of the day. Whether we’re at work, running errands, or on vacation, we can “pray continually” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).


God loves to hear us pray throughout the day. The apostle Paul reminds us that we don’t have to be prisoners of worry or fear but can take all our cares and concerns to God: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).


Whether we’re enjoying a sunny day or being hit by the literal or figurative storms of life, let’s remember to pause and pray throughout the day.


By:  Nancy Gavilanes


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How can you be more intentional about praying throughout the day? How has your prayer life grown over the years?


Heavenly Father, thank You that I can pray to You at any time.


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October 29


Pause to Pray

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 18-192 Timothy 3

In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.


Philippians 4:6

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Philippians 4:4-9

A meteorologist in Mississippi went viral for uttering six simple yet profound words during his weather forecast on March 24, 2023. Matt Laubhan was tracking a severe storm when he realized a catastrophic tornado was about to bear down on the town of Amory. That’s when Laubhan paused on live TV to say this prayer heard worldwide: “Dear Jesus, please help them. Amen.” Some viewers later said that prayer prompted them to take cover. His spontaneous and heartfelt prayer may have helped save countless lives.


Our prayers can make a difference too. They don’t have to be long-winded. They can be short and sweet and can be said at any time of the day. Whether we’re at work, running errands, or on vacation, we can “pray continually” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).


God loves to hear us pray throughout the day. The apostle Paul reminds us that we don’t have to be prisoners of worry or fear but can take all our cares and concerns to God: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).


Whether we’re enjoying a sunny day or being hit by the literal or figurative storms of life, let’s remember to pause and pray throughout the day.


By:  Nancy Gavilanes


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How can you be more intentional about praying throughout the day? How has your prayer life grown over the years?


Heavenly Father, thank You that I can pray to You at any time.



Today's Scripture:

Philippians 4:4-9 (NIV)

Insight

Paul’s teaching on prayer in Philippians 4:4-9 is a wonderful encouragement. But he did more than teach about prayer. The following verses are examples of how the great apostle also practiced prayer on behalf of himself and others: “God . . . is my witness how constantly I remember you in my prayers at all times” (Romans 1:9-10). “Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved” (10:1). “We are glad whenever we are weak but you are strong; and our prayer is that you may be fully restored” (2 Corinthians 13:9). “In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy . . . that your love may abound more and more” (Philippians 1:4, 9). This is a small sampling of how Paul prayed for others—both those who believed in Jesus and those who didn’t yet know Him. What a marvelous example!


By: Bill Crowder


Monday, October 28, 2024

MONDAY 28TH OCTOBER 2024-EMOTIONAL GABBAGE



October 28


Getting Rid of Baggage

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 15-172 Timothy 2

Esau ran to meet Jacob and embraced him.


Genesis 33:4

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Genesis 33:1–11

In college, I studied William Shakespeare’s writing for a semester. The class required a giant textbook containing everything Shakespeare had ever written. The book weighed several pounds, and I had to carry it for hours at a time. Lugging that weight around caused my back to hurt, and it eventually broke a metal fastener on my bookbag!


Some things are just too heavy for us to carry. Emotional baggage from past hurt, for example, can weigh us down with bitterness and hatred. But God wants us to have freedom through forgiving people and, when possible, reconciling with them (Colossians 3:13). The deeper the pain, the longer this may take. That’s okay. It took many years for Esau to forgive Jacob for stealing his birthright and blessing (Genesis 27:36).


When the two finally reunited, Esau graciously forgave his brother and even “embraced him” (33:4). Not a word was exchanged before they both burst into tears. Over time, Esau had let go of the anger that made him consider murder (27:41). And all those years gave Jacob the chance to see the magnitude of how he’d harmed his brother. He was humble and respectful throughout the reunion (33:8-11).


In the end, both brothers came to the place where neither required anything from the other (vv. 9, 15). It was enough to forgive and be forgiven and walk away free from the heavy baggage of the past.


By:  Jennifer Benson Schuldt


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What types of offenses are hardest for you to forgive? How does forgiving others reflect your relationship with your heavenly Father?


Dear God, please set me free from bitterness and anger.


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October 28


Getting Rid of Baggage

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 15-172 Timothy 2

Esau ran to meet Jacob and embraced him.


Genesis 33:4

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Genesis 33:1–11

In college, I studied William Shakespeare’s writing for a semester. The class required a giant textbook containing everything Shakespeare had ever written. The book weighed several pounds, and I had to carry it for hours at a time. Lugging that weight around caused my back to hurt, and it eventually broke a metal fastener on my bookbag!


Some things are just too heavy for us to carry. Emotional baggage from past hurt, for example, can weigh us down with bitterness and hatred. But God wants us to have freedom through forgiving people and, when possible, reconciling with them (Colossians 3:13). The deeper the pain, the longer this may take. That’s okay. It took many years for Esau to forgive Jacob for stealing his birthright and blessing (Genesis 27:36).


When the two finally reunited, Esau graciously forgave his brother and even “embraced him” (33:4). Not a word was exchanged before they both burst into tears. Over time, Esau had let go of the anger that made him consider murder (27:41). And all those years gave Jacob the chance to see the magnitude of how he’d harmed his brother. He was humble and respectful throughout the reunion (33:8-11).


In the end, both brothers came to the place where neither required anything from the other (vv. 9, 15). It was enough to forgive and be forgiven and walk away free from the heavy baggage of the past.


By:  Jennifer Benson Schuldt


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Dear God, please set me free from bitterness and anger.


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Today's Scripture:

Genesis 33:1–11 (NIV)

Insight

Jacob and Esau were twins born to Isaac and Rebekah. Before their birth, God told Rebekah: “Two nations are in your womb . . . ; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger” (Genesis 25:23). From Esau’s line sprang the Edomites (36:9), enemies of the Israelites. From Jacob, the younger, sprang the twelve tribes of Israel. Jacob convinced Esau to sell his birthright for a bowl of stew (25:29-34) and tricked his father into giving him the firstborn’s blessing that was due to Esau (27:1-29). Although they had a rocky relationship, we read of their reunion and Esau’s forgiveness in today’s text (33:1-9).


By: Alyson Kieda


Wednesday, October 23, 2024

WEDNESDAY 23RD OCTOBER 2024- THE HOLY SPIRIT IS PRESENT



October 23


The Holy Spirit Is Present

Bible in a Year :


Jeremiah 1-21 Timothy 3

I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever.


John 14:16

Today's Scripture & Insight :


John 14:16, 23-27

Making his preflight checks for a flight from Charlotte, North Carolina, to New York City, a flight attendant noticed a passenger visibly anxious and concerned about flying. He sat in the aisle, held her hand, explained each step of the flight process, and reassured her that she was going to be fine. “When you get on an aircraft, it's not about us, it's about you,” he said. “And if you’re not feeling good, I want to be there to say, ‘Hey, what’s wrong? Is there something I can do?’ ” His caring presence can be a picture of what Jesus said the Holy Spirit would do for believers in Him.


Christ’s death and resurrection and ascension were necessary and beneficial to save people from their sins, but it would also create emotional turbulence and deep sorrow in the disciples’ hearts (John 14:1). So He reassured them that they wouldn’t be left alone to carry out His mission in the world. He would send the Holy Spirit to be with them—an “advocate to help [them] and be with [them] forever” (v. 16). The Spirit would bear witness about Jesus and remind them of all Christ did and said (v. 26). They would be “encouraged by” Him during difficult times (Acts 9:31).


In this life, everyone—including believers in Christ—will experience the turbulence of anxiety, fear, and grief. But He’s promised that, in His absence, the Holy Spirit is present to comfort us.


By:  Marvin Williams


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What’s been troubling you in your life? How can you seek the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit?


Dear Jesus, thank You for the Spirit’s comfort and counsel.


Learn how to walk daily with the Holy Spirit.


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Tuesday, October 22, 2024

TUESDAY 22ND OCTOBER 2024



October 22


Transformed from the Inside

Bible in a Year :


Isaiah 65-661 Timothy 2

You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence.


Matthew 23:25

Today's Scripture & Insight :


Matthew 23:23-33

In the worst UK residential fire since World War II, fire engulfed the twenty-four story Grenfell Tower building in West London, claiming the lives of seventy people. Investigations revealed a primary reason the flames spread so quickly was the cladding used as part of renovation that covered the building’s exterior. The material was aluminum on the outside but had an extremely flammable plastic core.


How was such a dangerous material allowed to be sold and installed? The product’s sellers failed to disclose poor fire safety test results. And buyers, drawn by the material’s cheap price tag, failed to heed warning signs. The shiny cladding looked nice on the outside.


Some of Jesus’ harshest words were directed at religious teachers He accused of covering corruption behind a nice-looking exterior. He said they were like “whitewashed tombs”—“beautiful on the outside” but inside full of dead bones (Matthew 23:27). Instead of pursuing “justice, mercy and faithfulness” (v. 23), they were focused on looking good—cleaning “the outside of the cup” but not the “greed and self-indulgence” inside (v. 25).


It’s easier to focus on looking good than to bring our sin and brokenness honestly before God. But a nice-looking exterior doesn’t make a corrupt heart any less dangerous. God invites us to let Him transform all of us from the inside (1 John 1:9).


By:  Monica La Rose


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When have you tried to disguise corruption? How can you prioritize internal change?


Gracious God, please help me not to hide my brokenness but let You transform all of me.


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Today's Devotional

Transformed from the Inside

Bible in a Year :

You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence.

Today's Scripture & Insight :

In the worst UK residential fire since World War II, fire engulfed the twenty-four story Grenfell Tower building in West London, claiming the lives of seventy people. Investigations revealed a primary reason the flames spread so quickly was the cladding used as part of renovation that covered the building’s exterior. The material was aluminum on the outside but had an extremely flammable plastic core.

How was such a dangerous material allowed to be sold and installed? The product’s sellers failed to disclose poor fire safety test results. And buyers, drawn by the material’s cheap price tag, failed to heed warning signs. The shiny cladding looked nice on the outside.

Some of Jesus’ harshest words were directed at religious teachers He accused of covering corruption behind a nice-looking exterior. He said they were like “whitewashed tombs”—“beautiful on the outside” but inside full of dead bones (Matthew 23:27). Instead of pursuing “justice, mercy and faithfulness” (v. 23), they were focused on looking good—cleaning “the outside of the cup” but not the “greed and self-indulgence” inside (v. 25).

It’s easier to focus on looking good than to bring our sin and brokenness honestly before God. But a nice-looking exterior doesn’t make a corrupt heart any less dangerous. God invites us to let Him transform all of us from the inside (1 John 1:9).

By:  Monica La Rose

Reflect & Pray

When have you tried to disguise corruption? How can you prioritize internal change?

Gracious God, please help me not to hide my brokenness but let You transform all of me.

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