Living For God

Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 9:27-28

“Inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment, so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him.”

Words of Devotion

The people of Pompeii were busy—conducting business, building houses, pursuing pleasures, living as though nothing would change.

Then, on August 24,79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted. Located about nine miles from Naples in southern Italy, this volcanic mountain had been thought to be extinct. 

The volcanic explosion rained down on Pompeii with frightening debris that rose to more than nine feet deep. The air filled with poisonous gas and fumes. More than 15,000 people died. This terrifying event was a sobering reminder that change can happen at any time.

Many Bible scholars believe that the letter to the Hebrews was written around the time of the Vesuvius eruption. This letter reminded readers of the brevity of life and the importance of being right before God. It is a reminder that all of us will face the judgment, when God will evaluate our thoughts, words, and deeds.

But even now, we can know God’s peace and be freed from worry or fear. The Bible tells us that He sent Jesus to die for us. He was sacrificed to take away our sins, to give us freedom, peace, and joy, and deliver us from fear.

Today, you don’t have to be afraid or worried. Remember that Jesus died for you. He came so you could be freed from sin and filled with peace.

Never forget: “The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever” (1 John 2:17). 

Today remember to; Always seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness (Matthew 6:33) Seek to be faithful with the resources you’ve been given. Trust that God will meet your every need.

Today's Prayer: Father, thank You that You sent Jesus to die for my sins. I want to be ready to face You. Forgive my sins, and help me to live for You. I commit my life to You. In Jesus’ name Amen

Overflowing Abundance

Today’s Scripture: Ephesians 3:19

“May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.”

Words of Devotion

Paul had experienced the power of God. Through his own life, he had realized that “eye has not seen and ear has not heard…all that God has prepared for those who love Him.” In fact, it hasn’t even “entered the heart of man” (1 Corinthians 2:9). Paul was confident that “my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).

But he also knew that many Believers were content with less than what God had prepared for them, and that He was ready to bless them with much more!

In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul prayed that they would “be filled up to the measure of all the fullness of God” (Wuest Translation). He wanted them to realize that God had a fullness ready for them—an abundance and deep reservoir of riches and blessings. This fullness was so massive that it was humanly impossible to grasp!

If we want to receive this fullness, we must cry out for more. We need to be filled with the Holy Spirit and ask God to open our minds, hearts, and lives. We need to live with expectant faith and plant Seeds with our time, talent, and resources.

Think about this fullness in your life. Realize that God has prepared more blessings for you than you could imagine—blessings for your family and finances, your relationships, and your health.

Today… Don’t limit God or be content with a small portion of His blessings. Ask Him to give you a vision of His greatness and help you experience more of His blessings. Ask Him to reveal the vastness of His bounty and the riches, wisdom, anointing, and power He already has prepared for you.

Today's Prayer: Father, help me to grasp Your greatness. Thank You for all that You have prepared for me. I believe You for an outpouring of abundance. Thank You! In Jesus’ name Amen

Overcoming Fear

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 27:1-3

“The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the defense of my life; whom shall I dread? When evildoers came upon me to devour my flesh, my adversaries and my enemies, they stumbled and fell. Though a host encamp against me, my heart will not fear; though war arise against me, in spite of this I shall be confident.”

Words of Devotion

David had many opportunities to be afraid. As a boy, he faced attacks from wild animals. As a young man, he confronted the giant, Goliath, and the armies of Israel’s enemies. 

Then David faced the wrath of King Saul, who came to view him as a rival to be eliminated. But, in every situation, David found that he could trust in the Lord and that this trust took away his fears.

There are many reasons why each of us might experience fear. We can be afraid because of the situations we face or the forces that are coming against us. We might feel overwhelmed or unsure of what to do. We might be asked to do something that is difficult. Yet, as David learned, we can be delivered from fear by focusing and depending on the Lord.

David declared that he realized God was his light and salvation. This means that the Lord gives us the right perspective on life. We don’t need to fear wars or opposition, personal problems or uncertainties. We don’t need to be afraid if we make mistakes, have weaknesses, or don’t know what to do. 

As we trust in the Lord, He will light our path and provide everything we need. If we focus on Him instead of on our problems, He will give us strength and take away our fears.

Is there any fear in your life? Look to God. Meditate on His promises and confess them as true. 

Today put your trust in Him. Let Him be your light and salvation. Make Him your stronghold. You can be safe and secure in Him.

Today's Prayer: Father, You are my light, my salvation, and the stronghold of my life. I will not fear, no matter what happens. I trust in You completely. Thank You. In Jesus’ name. Amen

God Will Take Care of You

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 55:22

“Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.”

Words of Devotion

H. Stillman Martin, accompanied by his wife, Civilla, had come to Lestershire, New York in 1904 to conduct a Bible school. Normally, they both attended his services, but one Sunday she became ill. As Stillman considered canceling his preaching engagement, their young son asked him, “Father, don’t you think that if God wants you to preach today, He will take care of mother while you’re away?” 

Encouraged, Stillman went to the service, where several people gave their lives to Christ.

While confined to bed, Civilla realized just how much she could trust in God. She wrote her conviction that “God will take care of you, through every day, o’er all the way.” 

Civilla, who was born on this day in 1866, realized that there was no reason to be dismayed by her illness or any other circumstance. She realized that God will take care of us “through days of toil” and when we face dangers. He will provide all we need, and “nothing you ask will be denied.” We might be weary, but “no matter what may be the test,” God will take care of us.

Later, Stillman wrote music to these words, and the song “God Will Take Care of You” became part of the songbook he was compiling. It still is sung today.

The truths Civilla discovered that day apply to all of us. No matter what problems we face, we can be confident that God will take care of us.

Remember that God is with you in every situation you face. He is by your side. He is the Creator of the universe, who has an abundant supply of every resource. 

You can trust Him for your finances and health, your job and family. Cast every burden on Him, and keep Sowing Seeds into His Kingdom. He cares for you!

Today's Prayer: Father, I commit the following needs to You: _______. Thank You that You will take care of me. Thank You for Your faithfulness. I trust my life to You. In Jesus’ name Amen

His Eye Is on the Sparrow

Today’s Scripture: Matthew 10:29-31

“Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.”

Words of Devotion

W. Stillman Martin served several churches throughout the United States. He also was a professor at Atlantic Christian College in Wilson, North Carolina, and conducted Bible conferences and evangelistic meetings. Together with his wife, Civilla, he wrote many Gospel songs.

In 1905, while staying in Elmira, New York, the Martins became friends with a couple who experienced severe problems. The wife had been bedridden for 20 years, and the husband was an “incurable cripple who had to propel himself to and from his business in a wheelchair.” Even though they faced these problems, “they lived happy Christian lives, bringing inspiration and comfort to all who knew them.”

When asked the secret of their happiness, the wife replied, “His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.” Inspired by this comment, the Martins wrote a hymn, “His Eye Is on the Sparrow.”

They wrote, “Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come, why should my heart be lonely?” They knew that “Jesus is my portion.” He is “my constant friend,” for “His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.”

Confident in God’s care, they wrote words that overflowed with joy. They could sing because they were happy and free. “For His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.” They knew that what Jesus taught was true: They could trust in God completely.

Today, don’t let your life be plagued by worry and fear. Trust in God, no matter what you face. Commit your needs to Him. You can sing and be happy. His eye is on you!

Today’s Prayer: Father, thank You for taking my worries away. I know that You are watching over me. I commit every situation I face to You. Thank You for Your joy and peace. In Jesus’ name  Amen

Deceivers

Today’s Scripture: 2 John 1:7-9

“Many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist…Anyone who goes too far and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God; the one who abides in the teaching, he has both the Father and the Son.”

Words of Devotion

John declares this straightforward truth: “Many deceivers have gone out into the world.” He also teaches us how to recognize these “deceivers.” Although there are many possible indications, he summarizes their identity with one phrase: “those who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh.”

There can be no simpler statement. In short, the entire test is based on the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. If we want to know the truth about a person’s faith and whether or not they are genuine and trustworthy or a “deceiver,” we simply need to know their attitude toward Jesus.

This test does not just mean a recognition that Jesus lived. Many skeptics, doubters, and deceivers acknowledge that He lived. However, they question His character and nature. They deny that He was God. They doubt His miracles and the supernatural power He demonstrated. They reject the fact that He was raised from the dead and that He still lives.

In simple terms, the test we should apply encompasses all of these aspects of Jesus’ life and ministry. Those who fail to stand on these truths reveal their true character. They have chosen to misinterpret Jesus’ life and ministry, twisting the evidence according to their own perspective. Their goal is not to serve God.

Today, make sure that you have made a firm commitment to follow Jesus. Don’t waver or let your mind be clouded by doubts. Declare that Jesus is your Lord, and seek to serve Him. Make Him the foundation of your life. Be on guard against deception.

Today's Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, I trust my life to You. I know that You died and rose again. Thank You that You are alive. Help me to serve You. In Your name Amen

Casting Out Fear

Today’s Scripture: 1 John 4:18

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love.”

Words of Devotion

God placed Adam and Eve in a perfect world. In a garden overflowing with abundance, He met every need! But Satan deceived Adam and Eve into believing that God was withholding blessings. And when they believed his lies, fear entered the world (Genesis 3:10).

After their disobedience, Adam and Eve became conscious of their sin. They no longer could enjoy God’s abundance or even His presence. They no longer looked at Him as their Friend, but as someone to be feared.

This is the impact of fear on our lives: It paralyzes us. It shapes our attitudes and expectations, and blocks the flow of God’s blessings. Like Adam and Eve, we can become afraid of facing God and afraid to believe His Word.

This fear is expressed in many ways. We can be afraid of failure, afraid of what others might say about us, or afraid about our jobs or world conditions.

But everything changes when our relationship with the Father is restored; when our sins are forgiven and we live in fellowship with Him; when we obey and trust Him; when we seek His face and are led by His Spirit; when we believe that His Word really is true and that He delights to bless us; when we realize that He loves with a perfect love; when we remember all that He has prepared for us; when we’re confident that He will meet our every need and give us an abundant life.

Today, remember that there is “no fear in love” and that God loves you perfectly. Enter into that love relationship with your Father. Let His love cast out every fear. 

Today’s Prayer: Father, thank You for loving me. Thank You for delivering me from fear. I trust in You. Thank You for blessing me and providing for my every need. In Jesus’ name Amen

Life Application: Seek to live in expectation and faith, believing that He will meet all your needs and give you His abundant life.

The Need for a Sacrifice

 Today’s Scripture: Nehemiah 10:30-33

We assume the responsibility. For the holy offerings; for sin offerings to make atonement for Israel; and for all the duties of the house of our God (Vs: 32-33).

Words of Devotion

The people recognized the need for offerings and sacrifices. The history of Israel clearly reveals that this nation emphasized shedding the blood of animals and offering up their crops and grain to God. By so doing they were never allowed to forget the cost of redemption. Blood shed means a death has occurred. God is teaching His people that their problem with sin within is of such a serious nature it cannot be solved by merely instructing the mind. Only death can cure it.

These bloody offerings prepared the way for the death of Jesus and even our remembrance of that death at the Lord's Table. We ought to meditate on this every day. We should never allow ourselves to forget the cost of our redemption. It took all that God had to open a door that we might return to Him. As Peter put it, For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect (1 Peter 1:18-19).

Very closely related to the blood offerings was the promise of these people to bring the first fruits of their crops, herds, flocks, and even their sons to God. What they were doing was recognizing the ownership and rights of God in their lives. A corresponding truth for us today is, You are not your own; you were bought at a price (1 Corinthians 6:19b-20a). God owns us. We do not own ourselves. The world says, You are your own. If you are pregnant and you do not want the baby, you can kill it, because you have a right to do what you please with your own body. But the Bible says, No, you are not your own. You do not have a right to do anything you like with the body God gave you.

This is true in other aspects of life as well. We are not our own. We have no right to determine what we are going to do with our lives or even whom we are going to marry, apart from God's limitations. We have certain choices granted to us, but not all choices. One of the important aspects of becoming a Christian is to recognize the rights of God and to live our lives within the limits He establishes. This is what this great passage is teaching. It is the way by which Israel recognized frequently and continually that their lives were not their own. They too were bought with a price. They belonged to God. He has the right to direct their affairs and make many choices for them.

Today’s Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for this reminder that I am not my own; I have been bought with a price. I surrender my life to You, knowing that You have redeemed me with the precious blood of Christ.

Life Application: Can we daily and joyfully choose to sacrifice our will for His will? Do all of our choices reflect the ownership rights of the Lord Jesus who bought us at infinite cost?

Destroying the Devil's Works

Today’s Scripture: 1 John 3:8

“The one who practices sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning. The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil.”

Words of Devotion

Jesus did not come to tolerate the works of the devil or just make a dent in the works of darkness. No. He came to “destroy” these works! The Greek word here means to dissolve or sever; to break or demolish; to loose something that has been bound or tied up.

What did Jesus come to destroy? Anything that the devil has done. He came to eliminate any influence the devil has in any area of our lives, to demolish any hold, to sever any ties, to loosen the grip of the devil, to free us from every bondage, to dissolve all shackles, to help us realize that there is no room for compromise or ungodly tolerance.

Thinking about our lives, we need to realize the many ways the devil might be at work. He is a deceiver and a liar. Even so, many people believe his lies and don’t recognize his deceptions.

We must never forget that the devil wants to steal, kill, and destroy all the good things God wants to give us (John 10:10). He wants to keep us from experiencing God’s blessings. 

But Jesus came to destroy all of the devil’s works. He came to restore everything the devil has tried to steal. He came to give us complete victory and power over the devil.

In your life, don’t tolerate evil or accept compromise! Don’t allow Satan to have any influence in your life or the life of your family members. Exercise the authority God has given you, in Jesus’ name, to bind Satan’s power. Declare your freedom in Christ.

Today, thank God for the blessings that He has prepared for you. Believe Him for abundance. Thank Him for meeting your every need. Celebrate the victory that you have through Jesus.

Today's Prayer: Father, I declare victory over the devil in every area of my life. I will not tolerate his lies and deception. Thank You for giving me abundant life. In Jesus’ name Amen

The Love of the Father

Today’s Scripture: 1 John 3:1-2

“See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God…Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is.”

Words of Devotion

John was overwhelmed with this simple truth: God loves us! Yes, Almighty God, the Creator of the universe, loves us so much, He wants us to realize that He is our Father, and we are His children. This perspective changes everything.

Jesus stressed this revelation during His earthly ministry. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus referred to God as “Father” 16 different times. He taught that we are to address God as “our Father” when we talk with Him (Matthew 6:6).

Jesus described how God is far more loving and concerned than the finest human father. He asked “What man is there among you who, when his son asks for a loaf, will give him a stone?” He asked us to realize that, “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him” (Matthew 7:9-11).

This love should frame our attitude toward God. He delights to talk with us, reveal deeper truths, and guide us. He desires to pour out blessings on us. As a good Father, He also wants us to be mature and responsible, faithful with the gifts we’ve been given.

Ask God to help these truths sink into your heart and mind. Humble yourself before Him. Worship Him. Know His Word. Spend time with Him, listen to Him and be faithful with the resources He has given you.

Be confident that He desires to bless you—abundantly!

Today's Prayer: Father, thank You that You love me and that I am Your child. May my life be pleasing to You. Help me to have a deeper relationship with You. In Jesus’ name Amen

Tested and Proven

Today’s Scripture: Mark 1:12-13

“Immediately the Spirit impelled Him to go out into the wilderness. And He was in the wilderness forty days being tempted by Satan; and He was with the wild beasts, and the angels were ministering to Him.”

Words of Devotion

Jesus had been baptized. The Father had declared that He was pleased with His Son. We might think the stage had been fully set for Jesus’ ministry to begin, with everything in place. Yet there was one additional step: Jesus needed to face temptation. 

Yes, even though He was the Son of God, Jesus was “impelled” by the Spirit to go into the wilderness, where, alone, He would be “tempted by Satan.” He would be forced to deal with many critical pressures—the pressure to conform; pressure to misuse His power, privileges, and authority; pressure to seek personal fame and fortune; pressure to compromise; pressure to yield to satanic influence; and pressure to abandon His mission. 

How would Jesus respond when He was pushed to His physical and emotional limits? What would He do when there was no one else to lean upon, when no one else could see what He was doing? 

Only when Jesus emerged from this time of testing and temptation did His ministry begin. And when He emerged triumphant, He was illustrating a pattern that would be true for all of His followers. For if the Son of God needed to go through testing and temptation, it’s logical that His followers would face this as well. 

In our flesh, we may feel that these moments are unnecessary. But, in fact, real ministry only is possible after we’ve been tested…after we’ve been proven…after we’ve faced temptation…after we’ve had real experience…after our character has been refined and deepened…after we’re toughened and ready for battle…and after we’ve matured spiritually and can stand against the “schemes of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11). 

So if you’re going through tough times today, don’t despair. God is preparing you for service!

Today's Prayer: Father, thank You that You are with me in every situation. Thank You for power over the enemy. Thank You for helping me to stand in the face of temptation. I trust You. In Jesus’ name Amen

Taking Up Our Cross

Today’s Scripture: Matthew 16:21

“From that time Jesus began to show His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised up on the third day.”

Words of Devotion

Jesus knew what was ahead. He was destined to go to Jerusalem, where suffering and death awaited Him. He wanted the disciples to know this too.

To Peter this made no sense, and he rebuked Jesus for even thinking these thoughts. But Jesus warned Peter that he actually was being a stumbling block, for all that awaited Him in Jerusalem was part of God’s plan.

Jesus’ disciples were learning more about what it meant to be true disciples. It did not just mean listening to or following Jesus. They were learning that real discipleship meant complete surrender and obedience, regardless of the difficulty or consequences.

In His response, Jesus emphasized three principles: We must deny ourselves and lay everything else aside. We must take up our cross and sacrifice everything to serve Him. And we must follow Him, wherever He leads.

In our lives, we are presented with the same choices. All who want to serve and follow Jesus must pass these tests. We, too, must seek first His Kingdom and deny ourselves. We, too, must take up our cross and be willing to die to self, every day. We, too, must leave all to follow Him.

We need to realize that God is watching our lives and evaluating the choices we make. We are reminded to set our priorities and think ahead, “for the Son of Man is going to come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and will then repay every man according to his deeds” (v. 27).

Today, think about what following Jesus means for you. If you are His disciple, you must be willing to give up all, yield your rights, and be ready and willing to follow Him and do what He calls you to do.

Today's Prayer : Dear Lord Jesus, I surrender my life to You. I dedicate my time, talent, and treasure to You. Use me for Your Kingdom and Glory. In Your name Amen

Impact

Today’s Scripture: Matthew 5:16

“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

Words of Devotion

What impact does the Christian faith really have on society? Are Christians truly making a difference? These questions were the subject of a recent study conducted by Grey Matter Research.

As we would expect, there were strong disagreements on many aspects of these questions. In particular, Christians and non-Christians had diverse points of view.

In general, most people agreed that the Christian faith made a positive difference in areas like raising children and helping the less fortunate. But, in ways that may seem surprising, less than half of all Americans perceived that Christianity had made a positive impact in the amount of crime, poverty, and violence in society. Many even concluded that Christians had not made a major difference regarding ethics in the business world or in their participation in politics and voting.

As he reviewed the conclusion of this massive study, Ron Sellers, president of Grey Matter Research, commented, “What should be really concerning for faith leaders is how many Americans see the Christian faith as not really having an impact at all.” People throughout society know how many men and women claim to be Christians, but they simply don’t see the evidence that their faith is making a significant difference.

The sad fact is that many Christians seem focused primarily on themselves and their own interests. Many are quick to criticize and complain, yet seem unwilling to “let their light shine.” They seem content to focus on their own lives, but are reluctant to be bold about their faith. Some simply sit on the sidelines and watch. In fact, an amazing 41% of “born again” Christians in America did not vote in the 2000 presidential elections!

Today, think about your life. What impact are you making on the world around you? Ask God to help your light shine brightly.

Today's Prayer: Father, use me to impact others for the Gospel. Give me a burden for Souls. I commit my time, talent, and treasure to You. In Jesus’ name Amen

http://www.greymatterresearch.com/

Much Is Required

Today’s Scripture: Luke 12:48

“From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more.”

Words of Devotion

What does God expect from each of us? In many ways, we can know the answer by examining what He has given us—our skills and interests, our traits and characteristics, the areas in which we excel.

From the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-31), we see how God gives each of us differing resources and unique abilities, and He only holds us accountable for the talents we’ve been given.

In a similar way, Jesus taught that “much will be required” from those who have been given much. God blesses us so we can use the gifts we’ve been given. This applies in every area—our minds, our bodies, our relationships, our finances.

But, based on the evidence, it seems that some Believers don’t take this warning seriously. They remain unmoved when they see Souls who need salvation…people who are hurting…and ungodly forces attacking Christians.

God is watching. What will they do? Will they just focus on themselves and their own interests? Or will they get involved and make a difference? Will they vote for Godly leaders? Will they take a stand? Will they reach out to those in need? Will they stand up for their faith? Will they humble themselves before God and pray for revival?

In your life, think about what God has given you. What have you done with these gifts and talents? How are you investing your time and resources? Remember: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be required.”

Search your heart and mind. You are called to be the “light of the world” and obey Jesus’ clear instruction to “let your light shine” (Matthew 5:14-16). Be ready to use the gifts God has given you, and never be afraid to be a bold witness for the Gospel.

Today's Prayer: Father, thank You for all You have given me. Open my eyes to see how I can invest these resources to impact others. I will seek first Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen

God's Design

Today’s Scripture: Genesis 2:8

“The LORD God planted a garden toward the east, in Eden; and there He placed the man whom He had formed.”

Words of Devotion

It was a perfect world. Everything was desirable and good. There was abundance and beauty, harmony and joy, health and prosperity. This was God’s design and desire for His creation. But everything changed when Satan deceived Adam and Eve by distorting God’s Word and convincing them that God actually was withholding His blessings.

Down through the ages, Satan has continued to distort God’s Word and convince people to believe his lies and doubt the goodness of God. But the Bible reminds us that God has not changed! He still desires to bless His people with abundance and meet their every need.

We may doubt this truth when we look at the world around us. We see poverty and sickness, people struggling, marriages and families torn apart. How easily we can forget God’s design and desire.

What is His desire? To find out, we just need to look at the garden He created for Adam and Eve. However, just like Adam and Eve, each of us has choices. Will we trust in and obey God? Will we focus on His plan and design? Will we believe His promises? Or will we believe the lies of the devil? Will we, too, be deceived?

Today, ask God to give you a revelation of His design for you. Be aware of the choices you face: What will you allow into your mind? What will you believe? 

Make a declaration that you will believe God’s Word. Make a commitment to obey Him. Commit your life to trust and serve Him. Seek to be a faithful steward, wisely using the resources He gives you.

Remember: He wants to bless you so you can be a blessing to others (Genesis 12:2). Believe that He will supply your every need according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19).

Today's Prayer: Father, I declare Your promises to be true in my life. I trust You. I will Sow into Your Kingdom with the resources You’ve given me. Thank You for Your blessings. In Jesus’ name Amen

How to cure spiritual stagnation

Today’s Scripture: Lamentations 3:22-23

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Words of Devotion

Have you ever noticed in the Christian life that there’s always the next step of dedication? We always strive to love more, to learn more, and to grow beyond what we’ve been before. The Christian life is a series of new beginnings.

The most exciting part about being a believer in Jesus Christ is the next chapter, the next day, and the next open door that we have. And when it comes to the next step of our growth, we must be aware of the peril of the plateau… of becoming stagnant and still, rather than moving forward for the cause of Christ.

Perhaps as you look at your own life today, you would have to say you’ve plateaued spiritually. Maybe you’ve become sort of “Leave it alone”  in your spiritual life and you need to take the next step by renewing your commitment to Jesus Christ. 

In the Christian life, it’s never too late for a new beginning. So whether you’ve been in a holding pattern for days, months, or even years, start new and afresh this day. Remember God’s faithfulness in your life, recommit yourself to growing in His grace, and experience a whole new fullness of life!

WHEN YOU FEEL SPIRITUALLY STAGNANT, RECOMMIT YOURSELF TO GOD’S PURPOSES, REMEMBER HIS FAITHFULNESS, AND EXPERIENCE HIS MERCIES ANEW EVERY DAY!

Building an Unshakable Faith

Today’s Scripture: Galatians 1:6-8

"I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel... But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed."

Words of Devotion

It's an unfortunate reality today that many men and women in our churches are being swept away by false teachings. Whether it's the newest self-help guru or another method of “spiritual enlightenment,” many people simply want to follow another gospel, which is not the Gospel at all.

I think I know why so many Christians fall for everything that comes along. It's because they've never consciously chosen and made decisions regarding the convictions of their lives. They've never set up a ‘non-negotiable’ and said, "Here's where I refuse to compromise."

And rather than being governed by the Word of God, these people are governed by the system of the world and anything it throws at them. They're susceptible and vulnerable because their commitment has not been made, and their faith is missing a firm foundation.

It's time we as Christians make commitments to Christ. It's time today to make the choice to commit and stand on principle when it comes to not negotiating on our faith. Don't let the world sweep you away. Instead, stand firmly on the Gospel and you'll never be put to shame!

LAY THE FOUNDATION FOR AN UNSHAKEABLE FAITH BY IDENTIFYING AREAS WHERE YOU REFUSE TO COMPROMISE.

How to find your purpose in life

Today’s Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:20

Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

Words of Devotion

I saw a news story not long ago about some of the poverty in many portions of our nation. The reporter went into some of the roughest areas of some American cities to see how many of these people, who had absolutely nothing at all, lived their lives. And as they were interviewing some of these people, my heart was so heavy. None of them, it seemed, had any purpose in life.

They asked one young man, "What are your dreams?" And he said, "I don’t know, just stay here." As I heard those words, I was struck by how many Christians live their spiritual lives just that way. They go to church on Sunday, maybe read their Bibles, but never reach for anything more.

As believers, God calls us to have a purpose. It's not just to go to church; it's to make a real impact for His name. We have been given a mission as ministers of reconciliation. And because of that, our work is never done until we go home to be with the Lord or He returns.

In Christ, you're an ambassador of the Kingdom. Live your life to tell others of His goodness, and make an impact for eternity!

BE AN AMBASSADOR OF GOD'S KINGDOM BY LIVING A LIFE OF IMPACT AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR GOD'S PURPOSES!

How to defeat discouragement

Today’s Scripture: John 16:33

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Words of Devotion

I once heard a story about an auction they were having in hell. God said, “Satan, you need to reduce your arsenal.” So they were auctioning off some of the weapons of the enemy. And the one auctioned off at the highest price was the tool of discouragement because it is such a powerful weapon against us.

We all get discouraged from time to time. And discouragement can range from the moody blues all the way to clinical, and even severe, depression. Even some of the greatest saints of all time have been discouraged… biblical heroes like Moses, Elijah, Jonah, David, and Peter.

Discouragement can come in all kinds of phases. One is that of listlessness—that feeling of just “blah.” And if that’s not dealt with, it moves to sadness, and eventually to helplessness as the chains of discouragement grow stronger and stronger in our lives.

However in Christ, you can overcome discouragement. As the Lord Jesus tells us in today’s passage, the peace that can overcome discouragement is only found in Him. Yes, there will be trouble in this world, but we can have victory because Christ has overcome. So whenever you feel discouraged, lean on Jesus, who has overcome so that you can have abundant life!

WHEN DISCOURAGEMENT HITS, TRUST IN JESUS BECAUSE HE HAS OVERCOME THE TROUBLES OF THE WORLD!

The Source of Liberty

Today’s Scripture: Leviticus 25:10

“Set this year apart as holy, a time to proclaim freedom throughout the land for all who live there. It will be a jubilee year for you, when each of you may return to the land that belonged to your ancestors and return to your own clan.”

Words of Devotion

John Henry came to America from Scotland in the early 18th century to serve as a surveyor, colonel, and justice of the Hanover County Court in colonial Virginia. But it was his son, Patrick, who would change the world.

Born in Studley, Virginia, in 1736, Patrick began making an impact as a young lawyer, particularly because of his speaking ability. As a member of Virginia’s House of Burgesses, he became involved in the dispute between the colonies and the English government.

In a famous debate, he argued that the Virginia militia needed to be armed. Others strongly disagreed, but he responded, “I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death.” His passionate stand for liberty became an inspiration, and others began realizing the importance of standing for principle and not compromising.

But Patrick also knew that real liberty had to be based on Christian principles. He once said, “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists but by Christians, not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

Today, the world desperately needs men and women in every nation who have this bold commitment to the Gospel. May God give us more leaders who realize that only He can truly sets us free. May He raise up more Believers who realize that “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty” (2 Corinthians 3:17), and who understand that there is no liberty without His Spirit.

In your life, seek to serve God with your whole heart, soul and mind. Don’t give in to the deception in the world, but seek the spiritual freedom that comes only from God.

 Inspirational Prayer: Father, take away the veil that prevents me from experiencing Your victory. I surrender my life to You. Fill me with Your Spirit that I might have true liberty. In Jesus’ name Amen