Daily Devotion

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Love God. Love Others.


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December 11
Pointing to Jesus
Bible in a Year :

• Hosea 5-8
• Revelation 2

As God’s chosen people . . . clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Colossians 3:12

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Colossians 3:12-17
An older man jogging down a street in New York City stopped in his tracks when he noticed a pair of battered sneakers placed near a homeless man’s sign requesting help. When the jogger learned that the two men wore a similar size, he gave the younger, homeless man the shoes (and socks!) off his feet and walked home barefoot. But not before explaining, “I’ve been blessed my whole life. God has been very good to me, so I feel like I should bless you too.”
Just as this man showed kindness to another because God had been good to him, so too believers in Jesus are called to “clothe [our]selves with . . . kindness” (Colossians 3:12). In fact, in whatever we do or say, we’re to do it as “a representative of the Lord Jesus” (v. 17 nlt). Along with kindness, we’re also to embody the characteristics of “compassion, . . . humility, gentleness and patience” (v. 12). The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) grows in us because we have the Spirit dwelling inside us; and this fruit is evidenced by God’s love for us flowing out to others—binding all these virtues “together in perfect unity” (Colossians 3:14).
Like the jogger, may we be on alert for opportunities to be kind—an encouraging word, a thoughtful act, or even giving the shoes off our feet—and as we do, let’s point to Jesus (v. 17).
By: Alyson Kieda



Reflect & Pray
What effect has another's kindness had on you? How might you show kindness to someone today?
Loving Father, please help me be attuned to opportunities to spread Your love through kind words and actions. I want to be more like You!
Consider three things we can learn from the kindness Jesus showed to everyday people.

 

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December 12
Cultivating Gratitude
Bible in a Year :

• Hosea 9-11
• Revelation 3

I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.
Psalm 9:1

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Psalm 9:1-12
“Dad, can you get me some water?” my youngest daughter asked. “Sure,” I said, bringing her a full cup. She took it wordlessly. Then my oldest daughter made the same request. She didn’t respond either after I got her some water. Annoyed, I blurted out, “Is anyone going to say, ‘Thank you’? Why is that so hard?”
Sometimes there’s nothing like parental frustration to open the door for God to work. Immediately I felt the gentle nudge of the Holy Spirit: Yes, Adam, why is it so hard to say, “Thank you”? Busted. Turns out a lack of gratitude isn’t just my kids’ problem; it’s mine too.
I don’t know why saying thank you can be so hard, but it certainly seems to be a part of the human condition. In the psalms, however, we see a model for growing in gratitude. There, David and others often praise God amid myriad trials. And a particular phrase frequently precedes their thanksgiving: “I will . . . .”
In Psalm 9:1, David deliberately chooses thankfulness: “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” We might be prone to think of gratitude primarily as a feeling. But David reminds us that it’s also a choice.
Like David, as we choose to cultivate a habit of giving thanks, we can gradually grow to recognize and appreciate God’s goodness in every aspect of life.
By: Adam R. Holz



Reflect & Pray
How can we cultivate the habit of gratitude? What are some things you’re thankful for?
Dear Father, thank You for all You’ve given me. Please help me to choose gratitude today for the many ways You’ve blessed me.

 

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December 15
Knowing and Loving Others
Bible in a Year :

• Amos 1-3
• Revelation 6

I wrote you . . . to let you know the depth of my love for you.
2 Corinthians 2:4

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
2 Corinthians 2:1-8
Hippocrates (ca. 460–375 bc) brought medicine out of the realm of the superstitious and into the light of testing and observation. But he didn’t lose sight of the patient’s humanity. “It is far more important to know what person the disease has,” he said, “than what disease the person has.”
The apostle Paul cared for a church with multiple problems, yet he saw the humanity of each member—including a man who’d committed a sin “that even pagans do not tolerate” (1 Corinthians 5:1). Paul dealt strongly with the “disease,” and the man repented. Now, as he wrote another letter to the church in Corinth, Paul had affirming instructions for all of them. He recognized that this man’s sin had affected everyone: “He has grieved all of you to some extent,” he said (2 Corinthians 2:5). But since the man had turned from his sin, Paul said, “Reaffirm your love for him” (v. 8).
His motivation was clear: “I wrote you out of great distress and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to grieve you but to let you know the depth of my love for you” (v. 4). He knew them all. And he loved them.
Sin affects us all. Behind each sin is a human being. When we’ve been wronged, it may be difficult to work toward restoration, yet that’s what God calls us to do. Know the person. Then, in Christ’s strength, love them.
By: Tim Gustafson



Reflect & Pray
How did Paul handle the sin in the Corinthian church? How does loving someone despite their sin differ from enablement?
Dear Father, please help me see others as You see them. Thank You for complete forgiveness of my sins.

 

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December 16
Who Is My Neighbor?
Bible in a Year :

• Amos 4-6
• Revelation 7

Go and do likewise.
Luke 10:37

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Luke 10:25-34, 36-37
From her hospital bed, Marie Coble lit up when she saw the delivery driver whose help had likely saved her life. She’d fallen in her driveway and hit her head, causing a brain bleed. Seeing her injury, Raheem Cooper helped her while calling paramedics. Invited by family to visit her in the hospital, Raheem often brings sweet treats she enjoys to assist her recovery.
Their story brings to mind the parable of the Good Samaritan. The parable is Jesus’ reply to an expert’s question on what he must do to inherit eternal life. Do “what is written in the law,” Jesus said (Luke 10:26), including “love your neighbor as yourself” (v. 27). But the expert persisted, asking, “Who is my neighbor?” (v. 29).
Christ’s answer describes a man attacked by robbers, left half dead, and then ignored by two people—a priest and a Levite—who passed him by. “But a Samaritan . . . took pity on him,” “bandaged his wounds, . . . and took care of him” (vv. 33-34). Seeing the hurting man in need, the Samaritan’s help was active, urgent, and without bias—looking past race or creed to assist someone he could’ve ignored.
Thus, Jesus asked, “Which of these three was a neighbor to the man?” “The one who had mercy on him,” the expert said. Said Jesus, “Go and do likewise” (vv. 36-37). In Christ, we too can find the compassion to help a hurting person instead of passing by. It’s a lesson for all in sharing Jesus’ love.
By: Patricia Raybon



Reflect & Pray
How do you need mercy? How can you show mercy?
Dear Father, may I look beyond differences to share Jesus’ mercy with others.

 

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DON’T MISS THE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS
December 15, 2025
Bryant Wright, Founder

“and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest
room available for them.” Luke 2:7

Christmases come and Christmases go, each one wrapped in traditions, gatherings, and memories. Yet every year, countless people miss the true meaning of it all. They hear the carols, see the lights, watch the nativity scenes… but somehow still miss Jesus.

It was the same on the very first Christmas.

Take the Innkeeper, for example.
He was overwhelmed — rooms filled, travelers everywhere, demands mounting by the minute. His business was booming, but his attention was consumed. He wasn’t hostile; he was simply busy. Too busy to notice that the Messiah was right outside his door. He had no room in his inn for Jesus, and no room in his life either. Many still miss the meaning of Christmas for the same reason– crowded schedules, packed calendars, and never a quiet moment to welcome the Savior.

Then there were the religious leaders in Jerusalem.
When the wise men arrived asking about the birth of a king, these scholars knew exactly where the Messiah would be born. They quoted Scripture with precision, pointing straight to Bethlehem. Yet none of them went to see for themselves. They preferred proximity to power and comfort over seeking the Savior they had studied for years. They had knowledge, but no hunger for truth. Many today know the story of Christmas well, but fail to let it move them closer to Jesus.

And of course, King Herod.
He didn’t misunderstand Christmas. He feared it. Herod tried to stop it before it began, using his authority to erase Christ from the picture. The world still does this in many ways, pushing Jesus out of public life, out of schools, out of celebrations. But Herod’s efforts failed– and so will every attempt to remove Jesus from Christmas.

So what about you?

Will you miss the meaning of Christmas this year?

In the rush of shopping, planning, traveling, cooking, and celebrating, it’s easy to let the noise drown out the wonder. But if you pause – if you make room in your heart and carve out space in your days –you’ll find Jesus waiting.

And when you truly seek Him, you won’t miss Christmas.
Not this year.
Not ever again.

DIG DEEPER
Read “Why Do We Celebrate Christmas?” at GotQuestions.org

 

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CHRISTMAS FROM ANOTHER PERSPECTIVE
December 16, 2025
Bryant Wright, Founder

“It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost sinner, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.”
1 Timothy 1:15-17

When we speak of Christmas in Biblical terms, we’re often flipping to the New Testament books of Matthew, Luke, and John.

But today, we’re going to look at it from Paul’s perspective. Now, Paul wasn’t around when Jesus was born, nor was he involved in the earthly ministry of Jesus. And, he most certainly didn’t see Jesus on the cross or at the empty tomb. So, his perspective is a little different from that of the gospels.

First, I want you to think about the worst sinner you can possibly imagine.

Who comes to mind? As you give that some thought, if anyone other than yourself comes to mind – then your heart is probably not quite in tune with God. Why? Because the further a person is from God, the more we tend to feel pretty good about ourselves. As we compare our lives to others, it’s easier for self-righteousness to take root. On the other hand, the closer a person is to Christ, the more we’re aware of our sinfulness.

In comparing our life to Christ, we realize just how great He is!

We realize that we can never measure up.

Well, okay – but what does all this have to do with Christmas and Paul? Paul is about to tell us. “It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance,” Paul begins. This means we better be paying attention to what comes next because Paul wants us to realize that the reason Jesus was born in Bethlehem was to save us from our sins.

Now, we can all think of a multitude of things Jesus’ coming reveals to us. It showed us God’s character and love, God’s compassion and mercy for the poor, His love for the sick, for the hurting, and for those in need of ministry. And Jesus’ coming revealed how God wants us to live. Yet, the main reason that Jesus was born was to save you and me from our sins.

Remember that Jesus was born in Bethlehem to be our Savior.

If you think someone else’s sins are worse than yours, think again.

Each of us is the worst sinner we’ve ever known.
Yet, in spite of it all, God loves us so much that He sent us His Son to save us from ourselves.

That, my friends, is the best news ever.

DIG DEEPER
Read “Christmas – The Real Story” also by Bryant Wright

 

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December 19
Resting in God
Bible in a Year :

• Jonah 1-4
• Revelation 10

The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers.
Acts 12:6

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Acts 12:5-11
My neighbor Sam returned home one night without his car. “It was stolen,” he told his wife, then added, “I’m going to sleep. I’ll sort it out tomorrow.” His wife was flabbergasted. She couldn’t understand how Sam could be so calm, but he explained, “What else can I do? Panicking won’t make any difference.”
My ever-sensible neighbor could see there was no point worrying. He trusted that the authorities would be able to find his missing car later—which they did.
Did the apostle Peter feel likewise after being thrown into prison (Acts 12:4)? He was likely to face execution, yet the usually impulsive disciple “was sleeping between two soldiers” (v. 6). The angel had to “[strike] Peter on the side” to wake him up (v. 7)—suggesting that he was completely calm and at peace. Was it because he knew his life was in God’s hands? Verses 9 and 11 suggest that it wouldn’t have mattered whether he was rescued or not; perhaps he recalled the assurance of salvation and glory that Jesus had given him (Matthew 19:28), as well as Christ’s call to simply “follow me” and not worry about what would happen to him (John 21:22).
No matter what we’re facing today, we can trust that God holds our future—both on earth and in heaven—in His mighty hands. Perhaps then we can sleep in peace more easily.
By: Leslie Koh



Reflect & Pray
What worries keep you awake at night? How can you learn to surrender them to God and hold on to His promises?
Dear God, I know that my life and future are in Your loving and mighty hands. Please help me to keep trusting You.
For further study, read Putting Worry to Work.

 

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January 5
Care Prayer
Bible in a Year :

• Genesis 13-15
• Matthew 5:1-26

Far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you.
1 Samuel 12:23

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
1 Samuel 12:19-24
A woman was unusually nervous as she sat in the dentist’s chair. Family burdens troubled her greatly, and it was noticeable. Her dentist sensed her anxiety and asked her about it. Her story led him to ask, “Can I pray for you?” When the dental hygienist came into the room, she also prayed for the woman. Two prayers and one completed dentist’s visit later, the woman left the office knowing that she’d truly been cared for.
Praying for others is one of the best ways for us to show that we care because it calls on the greatest resource we know—our heavenly Father—to be actively involved in the lives of others. In 1 Samuel 12, the prophet Samuel was faced with the concerns of a very nervous group of people (v. 19). The Israelites had erroneously asked for a king, and they were afraid of how it was going to go for themselves. The prophet told them to “not be afraid” (v. 20) and assured them of God’s goodness as seen in these words: “Far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you” (v. 23).
We also have the privilege and calling to pray for others. Silently sometimes and out loud at other times, we honor God when we petition Him for assistance on behalf of others in need.
By: Dave Branon



Reflect & Pray
How can you provide caring prayer right now? What will it mean for people to know you’re praying for them?
Thank you, dear God, for telling us that “the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16). Please help me to be that kind of person.

 

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January 7
The Bone Wars
Bible in a Year :

• Genesis 18-19
• Matthew 6:1-18

I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.
Philippians 4:2

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Philippians 4:1-3
In the American West in the late 1800s, the search for dinosaur bones created the Bone Wars, in which two paleontologists battled one another in their pursuit of making the most historic find. One writer noted how the two “used underhanded methods to try to outdo the other in the field, resorting to bribery, theft, and the destruction of bones.” He noted how, in trying to ruin each other’s work, both destroyed their own reputations as well.
Conflict and competition are inevitable in our broken world. How we choose to engage those conflicts reveals what’s in our hearts. Paul learned of conflict between two women in the church at Philippi and wrote, “I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.” He asked a fellow believer to “help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel” (Philippians 4:2-3).
When we find ourselves at odds with fellow believers in Jesus, we need the Spirit’s help. As we submit to His work in our hearts, He’ll help us demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). We’ll experience healing and peace—if not for our own reputations, for the reputation of Christ and the gospel.
By: Bill Crowder



Reflect & Pray
What conflicts do you face today? How could the peace of the Spirit make a difference in resolving them?
Loving Father, it must break Your heart when I war with my brothers and sisters in Christ. Please give me Your wisdom and the aid of the Spirit to bring healing and unity.
Follow these ten rules for positive communication when resolving conflicts in relationships.

 

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January 8
Small and Mighty
Bible in a Year :

• Genesis 20-22
• Matthew 6:19-34

Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?
John 6:9

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
John 6:5-15
On December 9, 1987, a squirrel chewed through a power line in Connecticut, and the Nasdaq’s vast financial machinery blinked, sighed, and went dark. Some of the world’s largest corporations stood limp and listless. Global economies watched, sweating bullets for nearly an hour and a half. All because of one tenacious, furry rodent.
Scripture tells many stories of something or someone small making a big impact. But God can turn meagerness into something mighty. John recounts how Jesus fed a hungry crowd (five thousand men, probably fifteen thousand with women and children included) when “a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish” handed over his small lunch (John 6:9). In the Old Testament we remember that a young shepherd boy named David trusted God and slayed a giant (1 Samuel 17). And Christ repeatedly insisted that the kingdom of God is something like a mustard seed, “the smallest of all seeds” (Matthew 13:32).
When we ponder the many complex global crises in addition to the bewildering concerns in our own neighborhoods and families, we’re tempted to believe that our seemingly small efforts lack power. But Scripture tells us to act in obedience and trust as God helps us—assured that with Him, small things can become mighty (John 6:10-12).
By: Winn Collier



Reflect & Pray
Where do you feel small or powerless? How do you sense God inviting you to surrender your smallness to Him?
Dear God, I often feel small, with nothing to offer. Please help me remember that with You, small things become mighty.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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January 9
The Future God’s Preparing
Bible in a Year :

• Genesis 23-24
• Matthew 7

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.
Isaiah 43:18

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Isaiah 43:16-21
We live in a world where the internet forgets nothing—every photo, post, and blog entry is seemingly stored forever. One major search engine, however, introduced a privacy feature allowing users to request the removal of personal data like phone numbers, home addresses, and more. While this doesn’t erase the data from the internet entirely, it significantly reduces its visibility, giving people a sense of control over their digital footprints.
This idea of “scrubbing” the past echoes the prophet’s words in Isaiah 43:18-19. God said, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing.” These verses were spoken to Israel during their exile in Babylon—a period of deep despair and longing for restoration. God commanded His people to not fixate on their past failures or the pain of captivity but to look forward to the new work He was about to do—a new and more significant exodus—their deliverance from Babylon and return to their homeland. He wasn’t just erasing the past but “making a way” (v. 19) to a future filled with hope and purpose.
Instead of dwelling on failures or regrets, let’s trust that God has “scrubbed” our past sins, regrets, and shame and—through Jesus’ sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10)—“remembers [our] sins no more” (Isaiah 43:25). God propels us toward the future He’s preparing.
By: Marvin Williams



Reflect & Pray
Why is it so difficult to let go of the past? How might you deepen your trust in God for new beginnings?
Dear God, please help me say goodbye to my past and look forward to the future.

 

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THE SICKNESS THAT AFFECTS EVERYONE
January 10, 2026
Bryant Wright, Founder

“…Jesus said, ‘It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: I desire mercy, not sacrifice. For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.’” Matthew 9:12-13

Medical research is an ongoing, ever-challenging process, filled with endless peaks and valleys of success and failure.

We definitely live in an age of exciting medical breakthroughs. Scientists are learning more every day about cancer, heart disease, and other life-threatening illnesses. Soon, there may be cures for many of the diseases that cause so much suffering.

But the sickness that affects everyone who ever lived and causes untold suffering and misery is sin. It leads not only to physical death but to spiritual death – eternal separation from God.

This sickness is called sin. And it only has one cure. Jesus.

Over 2,000 years ago, the cure for our sickness was revealed. Jesus Christ, through His perfect life and sacrificial death, brought to mankind the cure for the ultimately fatal disease of sin. By accepting His free gift of a cure, not only are you spared the terrible eternal consequences, but you can begin to enjoy life today.

Why not turn to Jesus, the Great Physician, and enjoy good spiritual health now and always?

DIG DEEPER:
Read “The Nature of Man is to Sin” by Bryant Wright

 

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January 11
Thank God for His Gifts
Bible in a Year :

• Genesis 27-28
• Matthew 8:18-34

We have lost our appetite; we never see anything but this manna!
Numbers 11:6

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Numbers 11:1-2, 4-11
The elderly man was taking a long time looking at the children’s backpacks in the store. He told me, “It’s my granddaughter’s birthday. I hope she likes my gift.” At the checkout, he clutched a pink backpack with a cartoon character design. He looked excited.
Later in a restaurant, I saw him again with a little girl and her parents. When the child opened her gift, she said, “I don’t like this character! And I hate pink!” Her parents made her apologize, but she still complained. My heart broke for her grandpa.
I was reminded of how I sometimes respond to God’s gifts. I complain because I want something different, failing to see the miracle before me—that God Himself has lovingly given something for me. The Israelites behaved similarly. God had kept His promise to them: “I will rain down bread from heaven for you” (Exodus 16:4). God’s faithful provision in the wilderness was sure: “When the dew settled on the camp at night, the manna also came down” (Numbers 11:9).
But instead of being thankful, the Israelites complained about God’s expression of loving provision: “We never see anything but this manna!” (v. 6). Instead of humbly requesting other food from God, they wailed over His gift.
I still remember the hurt look in the grandfather’s eyes that day. It made me think of how our heavenly Father must feel when we complain. Let’s be grateful for the gifts He’s given us.
By: Karen Huang



Reflect & Pray
What blessings have you complained about? How can you thank God for them?
Dear Father, please forgive me for the times I’ve complained.

 

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HOW DO I KNOW IF MY FAITH IS REAL?
January 11, 2026
Michael Kelley, Guest Contributor

“What use is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone says he has faith, but he has no works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,” yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? In the same way, faith also, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself.” James 2:14-17

During a youth weekend retreat when I was in the 7th grade, some friends and I were attempting to stay up all night and found ourselves at 2 or 3 in the morning with flashlights on reading the middle chapters of the Book of Revelation. We read about tattoos, dragons, bowls, and all kinds of other things. For most of us, it was the first time we had read this Book of the Bible, and we were terrified. But that was the point for all of us.

And though I’ve grown up at least a little since then, there are still some scary texts in the Bible. But not scary in the sense that it was that night so many years ago; in some ways, even more so. And I think there is no more terrifying text in all of Scripture than what we find in Matthew 7 straight from the Lord Jesus Himself:

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in your name, drive out demons in your name, and do many miracles in your name?’ Then I will announce to them, ‘I never knew you. Depart from me, you lawbreakers!’” (Matthew 7:21-23).

Now, there’s a text that will make you take a second look at your life. What’s truly disturbing is the sense of absolute and complete surprise you find in these people. It never, until that very moment, entered their minds that they might be unknown to Jesus. They had lived – possibly for years or even decades, under the delusion that they were safe. Secure. True servants of Jesus.

If Jesus said what He meant and meant what He said, then it’s not only possible but a certain reality that there will be people among us now who will go to their graves convinced they are eternally safe only to find out they had lived their entire lives in eternal danger. This is indeed a terrifying prospect.

So how do we know if our faith is real?

The Bible gives us the answer:

“What use is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone says he has faith, but he has no works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,” yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? In the same way, faith also, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself” (James 2:14-17).

How do we know our faith is real? It’s by a changed life exhibiting good works. To be clear, it is not these works that save us; not at all. It is that these good external works show the reality of what has happened on the inside of us. If our faith is real, then our lives will show us.

But wait – doesn’t that contradict what Jesus was saying in the above passage? After all, the people in those verses were doing what seemed to be great things for God, weren’t they?

Apparently, despite the things the people in Matthew 7 were doing, they were not only lawbreakers; they were also not doing the will of the Father. What, then, is the will of the Father?

Well, Jesus tells us the answer to that very plainly:

“For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day” (John 6:40).

With that, we have a firm progression, and also the answer to our initial question: The will of God is what we believe. Those who truly believe in Jesus, that is, who put their trust in Him, will have their lives changed.

A changed life results in visible fruit.

And that visible fruit is how we know if our faith is real.

DIG DEEPER
Read “What Does Real Faith Look Like?” by Bryant Wright

 

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AND THEN ELIJAH PRAYED
January 12, 2026
Bryant Wright, Founder

“Then Elijah said to the people, ‘I alone am left a prophet of the Lord, but Baal’s prophets are 450 men. Now let them give us two oxen; and let them choose one ox for themselves and cut it up, and place it on the wood, but put no fire under it; and I will prepare the other ox and lay it on the wood, and I will not put a fire under it. Then you call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the Lord, and the God who answers by fire, He is God.’ And all the people said, “That is a good idea.”’ 1 Kings 18:22-24

It all began when King Ahab turned his back on God and built a statue to Baal, the so-called god of rain. In a moment of deep irony, the rain stopped. For three and a half years, the land suffered drought, and the people cried out for both rain and God.

That’s when Elijah appeared for an unforgettable showdown:

Elijah and the One True God versus 450 prophets of Baal.

Both sides prepared an altar and a sacrifice, but there was one condition: no fire. Each would pray and ask their god to send fire from heaven. The prophets of Baal went first. They prayed, shouted, and danced for hours, but nothing happened. Elijah even mocked them, suggesting their god might be asleep. Still, there was no response.

Then Elijah stepped forward. He rebuilt the altar, prepared the sacrifice, and soaked everything with water – an unthinkable act during a drought. He wanted there to be no doubt that what followed could only be God.

When Elijah prayed, fire immediately fell from heaven, consuming the sacrifice, the stones, and even the water. It was an undeniable display of God’s power.

Elijah trusted God when it didn’t make sense.

When life feels uncertain, where will you place your trust—false idols, or a faith that remains firm?

DIG DEEPER
Read “Getting Through the Difficult Days” also by Bryant Wright

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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January 14
Comfort of God
Bible in a Year :

• Genesis 33-35
• Matthew 10:1-20

The God of all comfort . . . comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort [others].
2 Corinthians 1:3-4

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
2 Corinthians 1:3-11
I couldn’t wait. My husband and I had just returned from the grocery store; and as we unloaded the groceries, I frantically searched—but couldn’t find the donut bag. Then I checked the receipt. No donuts. Frustrated, I cried out, “All I wanted from the store was a donut!” Fifteen minutes later, my husband handed me a bag of donuts. He’d braved the snow again and snuck out to buy them. After squeezing him tightly, I sheepishly said, “I’m glad you didn’t get into an accident just to appease my craving!”
I don’t usually get that worked up about a donut! But it had been an emotionally draining week, and so I sought solace in a donut—and I experienced a much deeper joy through the love and compassion of my husband.
The kind of comfort we may get from satisfying our cravings is always short-lived. As the apostle Paul shared with the Corinthians, true—and lasting—comfort comes from the “God of all comfort” (2 Corinthians 1:3).
Paul understood his readers’ deep struggles and needs. Like them he faced daily trials, including persecution for his faith. And because God had comforted him, he was able to comfort them (v. 4).
When we’re hurting, we can turn to Jesus, who abounds in compassion and comfort (v. 5). There we find solace. And when we’ve experienced His comfort, we can extend it to others.
By: Alyson Kieda



Reflect & Pray
When and how have you been comforted by God? How might you comfort others experiencing a shared trial?
God of all comfort, thank You for giving me solace, and please help me to share it with others.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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January 15
Kindness Unseen
Bible in a Year :

• Genesis 36-38
• Matthew 10:21-42

Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.
2 Kings 6:16

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
2 Kings 6:9-10, 13-17
The face was there all along, but no one knew. When Sir Joshua Reynolds painted The Death of Cardinal Beaufort in 1789, he put a demon’s face in the darkness behind the dying man. Reynolds was accurately depicting a scene from a Shakespearean play that mentions the presence of a “busy, meddling fiend,” but some didn’t like his literalism. After Reynolds’ death in 1792, the face was painted over and forgotten. Art conservation work recently revealed it under layers of paint and varnish.
The Bible tells of a spiritual reality around us that the eye can’t see, where God reigns supreme. When Elisha was surrounded by a “strong force” of enemy soldiers and chariots, his servant was frightened and asked, “What shall we do?” Elisha told him that “those who are with us are more than those who are with them,” and “prayed, ‘Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.’ ” Suddenly the servant “saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha” (2 Kings 6:14-17).
The horses and chariots of fire indicate angelic beings there for Elisha’s protection. This is one of many places where Scripture underscores the comforting truth that in a world where danger lurks and spiritual warfare rages, God still watches over us. No matter what we face, how good it is to know that nothing “will be able to separate us” from His love (Romans 8:39).
By: James Banks



Reflect & Pray
In what ways does God take care of you? How will you thank Him?
Dear Father, nothing can separate me from Your love for me in Jesus, and I praise You for it!

 

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January 16
An Enlarged Heart
Bible in a Year :

• Genesis 39-40
• Matthew 11

I will run the course of Your commandments, for You shall enlarge my heart.

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Psalm 119:30-41
In his Confessions, Augustine wrestled with how it was possible for God to be in relationship with him. How could the one who created the universe come into something as small and sinful as his heart? But he pleaded with God to make it possible, praying, “The house of my soul is narrow. Enlarge it, so that you may enter it. It’s in ruins! Repair it! It has things in it that would offend your eyes. I confess and know it. But who will cleanse it, or to whom will I cry, but to you?”
Today we know Augustine as Saint Augustine, a revered philosopher and theologian. But he saw himself simply as someone transformed by the wonder of a God who wanted to know him.
In Psalm 119, the psalmist is also in awe of God’s revelation of Himself, particularly through Scripture (v. 18). “You shall enlarge my heart” (v. 32 nkjv), the psalmist celebrated. It’s only because God is graciously willing to enlarge our hearts that we can joyfully walk the path He shows us (v. 45). He turns our hearts away from what is corrupt (vv. 36-37) to the “path of [His] commands,” where we find His infinite “delight” (v. 35).
We are small, and our hearts are fickle. But when we turn our longing hearts to God (vv. 34, 36), He guides us down the paths of joy and true freedom.
By: Monica La Rose



Reflect & Pray
How has God “enlarged” Your heart? Where might you need to ask Him to bring growth?
Dear God, thank You for opening my heart to Your greatness. Please enlarge my heart today and every day.

 

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January 19
From Every Nation
Bible in a Year :

• Genesis 46-48
• Matthew 13:1-30

God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.
Acts 10:34-35

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Acts 10:30-35, 39-43
London is a cosmopolitan city, with people from many nations living side by side. This coming together of people from around the world can bring richness—including amazing food—but also challenges. For instance, I was saddened that friends from one European country felt they were the least respected in London because their country had been admitted to the European Union more recently. They felt overlooked, blamed for problems, and resented for the jobs they secured.
Since God doesn’t show favoritism, neither should we. He breaks down barriers between people. We see His Spirit at work in Peter’s vision while praying on the rooftop, and how Peter was called to minister to Cornelius, a God-fearing gentile. God helped Peter evaluate the Jewish regulations about not associating with gentiles. The apostle listened and went to Cornelius’ home to share the good news of Jesus. He said, “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right” (Acts 10:34-35).
Those who follow Jesus are called to love and serve all those who are made in the image of Christ. Part of that mission is to not to show favoritism for people from certain nations or with particular skin colors. May we learn to seek justice and to defend the oppressed as God guides us (Isaiah 1:17).
By: Amy Boucher Pye



Reflect & Pray
Why do you think God breaks down barriers between people of different nations? How could you speak out for the oppressed?
Dear God, please help me make a difference for You in my community.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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January 20
Our Birthright in Christ
Bible in a Year :

• Genesis 49-50
• Matthew 13:31-58

The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.
Acts 11:26

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
1 Peter 4:12-19
The owner of the NBA's Dallas Mavericks offered a Chicago sports-talk host $100,000 to legally change his name to "Dallas Maverick." In addition, he said he would donate $100,000 to the man’s favorite charity. After some soul-searching, the radio host held firm and told the owner no. He explained, “I'd be saying I'd do anything for money, and that bothers me. My name is my birthright. I’d like to preserve my integrity and credibility.”
Just as the radio host’s name is his birthright, early believers in Jesus took on the name “Christian” as their spiritual birthright. Barnabas and Saul ministered a year in Antioch, and through the preaching of the good news, the church grew. The early believers in Antioch lived so much like Christ that people who didn’t believe in Jesus—called them “Christians” (Acts 11:26). So “Christians” were those who belonged to Christ. Bearing that name ultimately became a source of persecution. But Peter encouraged believers to “not be ashamed” of their birthright and of suffering for bearing that name (1 Peter 4:16).
For those who believe in Jesus, “Christian” is our birthright, and no amount of money, suffering, or abuse should cause us to compromise that name. We have a responsibility, as God provides what we need, to live every day to bring honor to the name of Christ.
By: Marvin Williams



Reflect & Pray
When people hear the name “Christian,” what do you think fills their thoughts? What does it mean for you to be called a Christian?
Dear Jesus, please help me to live in a way that honors Your name.