Daily Devotion

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THE CHURCH, THE ROCK, AND THE POPE
May 14, 2025
Bryant Wright, Founder, RFTH

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” He asked. “Who do you say I am?’ Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. Matthew 16:13-18

“Who do you say I am?”

That question from Jesus to His disciples in Matthew 16:15 still echoes through history. It’s not just a question for Peter—it’s the question every person must answer. This question stands above them all in a world full of opinions, speculation, and headlines—even those as big as the announcement of a new Pope.

The world recently watched as a new Pope, Pope Leo XIV, was named. With 1.4 billion Catholics globally, the Pope is arguably the most visible Christian witness in the world. That level of influence demands our attention, even if we’re from different Christian traditions. Some cheer with hope; others watch with caution.

But the real issue isn’t about robes, rituals, or Rome. It’s about Jesus. Who do you say He is? Jesus asked that question in Caesarea Philippi, a region known for pagan worship and even considered the “gate to hell” in mythological lore. He was setting the stage for a lesson not just in identity but in mission. The disciples answered with what others said: “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah…”

Sound familiar?

Even today, Jesus is often reduced to a wise teacher or spiritual influencer. But then Peter speaks up: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus affirms Peter’s confession—not because Peter figured it out on his own, but because God revealed it to him.

And then Jesus says something striking: “You are Peter [meaning ‘pebble’], and on this rock [meaning ‘boulder’], I will build my church.” Peter was the first leader of the early church, but his leadership was built on something much bigger: Jesus Himself. Peter wasn’t the foundation—Jesus was and is.

In Acts 4:11, Peter plainly says: “Jesus is the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.”

The Catholic Church sees Peter as the first Pope and believes he is “the rock” of which Jesus spoke in Matthew 16:18. While we may differ in theology, particularly around authority (Scripture alone vs. Scripture plus Church tradition), there is something powerful about understanding the global weight of Christian leadership. Whether we agree or not, the Pope represents Christianity in the eyes of many. That’s why praying for him matters.

But let’s not miss the bigger truth. Jesus is The Rock, The Foundation of the church. And Peter’s statement about belief is foundational for the church.

Then Jesus said, “I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” That’s not a picture of a fragile fortress under siege. It’s a declaration of an unstoppable mission. The church is not meant to retreat from the world but to charge the darkness with the light of Christ. (Like a Navy Seal team sent to rescue and free those held captive by evil forces.)

You and I are part of that mission. We may not wear robes or stand on balconies, but we carry the same gospel that Peter preached—boldly, publicly, and without apology. We storm the gates of hell not with anger or arrogance, but with grace and truth.

So, what do we do in light of a new pope, a changing world, and rising spiritual hunger across our nation and globe?
 We refocus on the foundation. Jesus is still the rock. The Church is still His.

And the question remains: Who do YOU say He is?

Your answer changes everything.

 

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SHEPHERD-LESS SHEEP
May 19, 2025
Jonathan Munson, Executive Director

“When He saw the crowds, He was deeply moved with compassion for them, because they were troubled and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” Matthew 9:36

Without a shepherd, sheep can put themselves in a precarious position.

For example…
In 2005, a sheep in Turkey jumped off a 164-foot cliff. Following the actions of this one ‘daredevil’ sheep, the remaining 1499 sheep also threw themselves off the cliff. Tragically, a total of 450 sheep were killed. In a bizarre turn of events, the rest of the sheep survived only because they landed on the fluffy pile of sheep who’d jumped ahead of them. (To read more about the story, click here.)

You might wonder, “Where were the shepherds while the sheep went cliff-diving?”

Answer: They had stepped away to eat breakfast.

This true and somewhat humorous story makes an obvious point: sheep need a shepherd.

And so do we.

Which leads me to how Jesus describes the crowds in Jerusalem. He looks past their outward appearance and assesses the spiritual condition of their hearts, describing them as “sheep without a shepherd.”

Now, imagine for a moment that you were standing in that crowd and Jesus looked at you.

What would He say about your life?

Would He say that you are a “sheep without a shepherd?”

Perhaps you’d try to refute Jesus’ assessment by reminding Him of what you believe.

For instance, you believe “Jesus is the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for the sheep” (John 10:11). You agree with the prophet, Isaiah, that “all of us like sheep have gone astray” (Isaiah 53:6) and therefore, you’ve trusted Jesus to be your Savior and Shepherd. Amen.

And yet…while your lips declare, “Jesus is my Shepherd,” your life tells a different story.

Author Paul Tripp talks about the difference between our formal theology (what we say we believe) and our functional theology (the beliefs we live out in our everyday lives). Unfortunately, there is often a significant discrepancy between our formal and functional theology.

Formally, we believe Jesus is our Shepherd. In reality, however, we (not Jesus) function as the shepherds of our lives.

For the most part, we go through our week without Him. Sure, we might go to church and say our prayers, but practically, Jesus has little to no influence over our daily choices and behavior. We’ve confined Him to a tiny area of our lives. And, while we think we’re doing a pretty good job of managing our lives without Him, we don’t realize we’re slowly walking toward a cliff.

Consider the first verse from the beloved 23rd Psalm: “The Lord is my Shepherd” (Psalm 23:1). Warren Wiersbe explains that this famous verse can be translated: “The Lord is shepherding me.” This translation reminds us that “shepherding” implies ongoing, continuous action. It means the Lord is actively leading and guiding our lives, moment by moment.

When we let Jesus shepherd us, we trade aimless striving for Divine direction. Our souls are at rest, even when the road is difficult. Though we walk through a valley, we’re not overwhelmed by fear. Instead, we walk with assurance, not because we know what’s next, but simply because the Shepherd is by our side.

Honestly…can you say that Jesus is “shepherding” you through this current season of life?

If you feel like you’ve been functioning as your own shepherd, I have good news.

Rather than running away from you in disappointment, Jesus runs toward you in love.

Just as He did for the people in Jerusalem that day, the Lord has compassion on shepherd-less sheep.

You see, He knows each of His sheep by name (John 10:3). So, that means He sees you.
He knows where you’ve been and what lies ahead and is fully capable of carrying you through it.

So, let this be a call to surrender. Not a one-time moment, but a daily rhythm of declaring: “Lord Jesus, come and shepherd me. I belong to You.”


DIG DEEPER
Read “What Does It Mean That The Lord Is My Shepherd?” on GotQuestions.org

 

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May 20
A Grieving God
Bible in a Year :

• 1 Chronicles 10-12
• John 6:45-71

Do not fear, for I am with you.
Isaiah 41:10

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Isaiah 41:10-13
In the aftermath of Turkey’s devastating earthquake in February 2023, a haunting photo came across newswires: a father sitting amid ruins holding a hand extending from the rubble—the hand of his daughter. We see the edge of the mattress where his daughter had been sleeping, and we see her lifeless fingers that he now holds. His face is grim; his grief is profound.
In this father’s gritted face, I see a semblance of our own heavenly Father. Genesis tells us that God was grieved by the devastation of sin in His creation: “It broke his heart” (6:6 nlt). Isaiah, speaking of the future Messiah, says, “He was . . . a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief” (53:3 nlt). God grieves for us, and with us, and sits at the edge of the rubble of our lives, reaching for us: “I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand” (41:13).
Whatever devastation you currently face—a tragic circumstance, the loss of a dear one, or maybe even the effects of your own sin—know that God grieves with you. Whatever earthquake has shaken your life, see that God is reaching for your hand. Whatever your current sorrow, hear the God of love saying to you, “Do not fear; I will help you” (v. 13).
By: Kenneth Petersen



Reflect & Pray
In what ways has your life, current or past, been shaken to the core? What does it mean to you that God grieves with you?
Father God, who grieves with me and for me, thank You for Your “righteous right hand.”

 

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May 26
From the Deadly Sword
Bible in a Year :

• 1 Chronicles 28-29
• John 9:24-41

I will sing a new song to you, my God.
Psalm 144:9

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Psalm 144:1-2, 9-15
Sabin Howard’s remarkable sculpture A Soldier’s Journey breathes with vitality and anguish. Thirty-eight bronze figures lean forward across a fifty-eight-foot bas-relief that traces the life of a World War I soldier. Completed in 2024, the panorama begins with a heartrending goodbye to family, leads us through the naive elation of departure, and moves into the horrors of battle. Finally the sculpture returns us home, where the veteran’s daughter peers into his upturned helmet—only to foresee World War II.
Howard sought “to find the thread that runs through humanity—that human beings can reach great heights, and they can sink to the level of the animal.” War reveals this reality.
The psalmist David knew well the bloody consequences of war. Aware of its tragic necessity to confront evil, he praised the God who “trains my hands for war” (Psalm 144:1). Yet he also recoiled from combat, praying, “From the deadly sword deliver me” (vv. 10-11). David looked forward to the time when the young won’t die in war, but sons “will be like well-nurtured plants” and daughters “like pillars carved to adorn a palace” (v. 12). On that day “there will be no breaching of walls, no going into captivity, no cry of distress in our streets” (v. 14).
Looking back, we remember those who’ve fallen in battle. Looking ahead, we sing with David, “I will sing a new song to you, my God” (v. 9).
By: Tim Gustafson



Reflect & Pray
How has war affected you? What can you do to work for peace?
Father, we remember those who’ve died in war. We long for Your lasting peace.






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May 27
Wow!
Bible in a Year :

• 2 Chronicles 1-3
• John 10:1-23

Now someone greater than Solomon is here.
Luke 11:31nlt

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Luke 11:27-32
“Wow!” was the response of our team members who toured a retreat center—purchased at great cost by a person with a vision for the refreshment and encouragement of people serving in ministry. We were amazed by double-decker, queen-sized bunks and bedroom suites with king-sized beds. The exquisitely equipped kitchen and dining area also generated wide-eyed delight. And, just when you thought that you’d seen it all, there were more surprises—including a full-sized, indoor basketball court. Every “wow” was warranted.
The Queen of Sheba had a similar “wow” response when she visited King Solomon in ancient Jerusalem. When she “saw all the wisdom of Solomon and the palace he had built . . . she was overwhelmed” (1 Kings 10:4-5). Centuries later, another royal son of David—Jesus—appeared, and He amazed people in other ways. Everywhere He went, people recognized the wonder of His wisdom and works (Luke 4:36), and He urged them to see that “someone greater than Solomon” had stepped onto the scene (11:31 nlt). The stunning ministry of Jesus grants forgiveness of sin—purchased at great cost, His death. He welcomes anyone who will to come to Him. And those who do will experience His beauty and grace and will sing His praises now and throughout eternity. Wow!
By: Arthur Jackson



Reflect & Pray
What about Jesus compels you to say, “Wow!”? If you haven’t yet experienced the goodness of God through Jesus, what’s keeping you from getting to know Him?
Dear Jesus, please continue to open my eyes and heart to see how amazing You are.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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May 28
Go and Tell
Bible in a Year :

• 2 Chronicles 4-6
• John 10:24-42

Do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord . . . . Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel.
2 Timothy 1:8

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
2 Timothy 1:6-14
Elliot is passionate about telling others about Jesus. During a week spent teaching from 2 Timothy for church leaders in a South Asian country, he reminded them of Paul’s farewell to Timothy. He urged them not to be ashamed of the good news but instead to embrace suffering and persecution for the gospel’s sake as did Paul (1:8-9). A few days later, Elliot learned that evangelism and Christian conversion had been banned in that country. With deep concern for their welfare, he prayed for these leaders to persevere and to boldly and with urgency continue to proclaim the gospel.
Paul understood the danger inherent in proclaiming the good news. He spent time in prison (vv. 8, 16) and had suffered in many other ways because of his teaching (vv. 11-12)—including being beaten, whipped, and stoned (see 2 Corinthians 11:23-29). But nothing kept Paul from telling others about Jesus. His philosophy? “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). He lived to tell others about Christ, but he knew that if he died, he would be with Jesus. Paul reminded Timothy that the Holy Spirit would empower him (2 Timothy 1:7).
God calls all of us who believe, wherever we are—at home or abroad—to tell others about Jesus. We may suffer, but He is right there with us.
By: Alyson Kieda



Reflect & Pray
What helps you to tell others about Jesus? How have you suffered for telling someone the good news?
Dear God, I want others to know You as I do! Please empower me through Your Holy Spirt to tell them the great news about You.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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May 29
God’s Great Power
Bible in a Year :

• 2 Chronicles 7-9
• John 11:1-29

You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses . . . to the ends of the earth.
Acts 1:8

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Acts 1:1-9
Our city fell almost dark after a massive ice storm took down miles of power lines, leaving many of our friends without electricity to heat their homes in the dead of a frigid winter. Families longed to see repair trucks in their neighborhoods working to restore power. Later, I learned that a church parking lot served as a temporary command center for the vehicles being sent out to assist those in need.
Hearing about the repair trucks brought to mind Jesus’ command to His disciples in the book of Acts. For forty days after His resurrection, Christ appeared to His disciples to encourage and teach them about the kingdom of God (Acts 1:3). Before Jesus’ return to heaven, He gave them one last promise: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you” (v. 8).
Christ promised that God’s incomparably great power would be available to the disciples through His Spirit. But the purpose of having power wasn’t to keep it to themselves. Instead, the disciples let God empower them in the mission of telling others how to experience once more the connection to God’s power and love that was broken by sin.
As we go out into our communities, we have the same power and calling. Empowered by God’s Spirit, we can care for those who are suffering and share how they too can have access to God’s power.
By: Lisa M. Samra



Reflect & Pray
How have you experienced the power of God’s Spirit to help you? How might you share that message with others?
Dear God, thank You for the gift of Your power and love.

 

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DUKING IT OUT IN THE DESERT
May 29, 2025
Jonathan Munson, Executive Director, RFTH

“Then the Spirit led Him into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil…” Matthew 4:1

I’m not going to sugarcoat it.

I’m not going to try to explain it.

I just need to come right out and say it: I gave into temptation the other day.

To be clear, I’m not proud that I messed up. I’ve since repented and “confessed my sin to the Lord, knowing He is faithful and just to forgive my sin and purify me from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

While I may not know you, I bet you know how it feels to lose a battle with temptation. After all, none of us are exempt from the fight against sin. We may not wrestle with the same temptations, but every Jesus-follower knows what it’s like to experience defeat, succumbing to a particular area of weakness.

When we find ourselves on the losing side of a battle, may we remember what Jesus has done on our behalf, not only through the cross and empty grave, but also in the desert.

Having been baptized by John and anointed by the Spirit, Jesus was ready to begin His public ministry (Matthew 3:16-17). Yet, instead of leading Him to a nearby town, the Spirit led Him into the wilderness.

In other words, Jesus didn’t get lost and accidentally stumble into the wilderness. He intentionally followed the guidance of the Spirit. The testing of Jesus was all part of His Father’s plan.

Pastor and author Tony Evans explains, “The temptation of the Son was God’s idea. This tells us that God was not on the defensive in the matter. He was on the offensive, demonstrating the superiority of His Son over Satan.”

Basically, Jesus walked into the wilderness to pick a fight.

At the end of a 40-day period, Satan unleashed a barrage of attacks (Matthew 4:2). Every temptation was a means of getting Jesus to bypass God’s plan and take the easy way out (Matthew 4:3-10). Though He was isolated, famished, and completely exhausted, Jesus never gave in. Not even for a second. He went toe-to-toe with Satan’s fierce assault and stood His ground.

How?

Round after round, day after day, Jesus relied on an unending supply of His Father’s strength. Each time Satan threw a punch, Jesus counter-punched with the Word of God. (A great strategy for us to imitate)

When the final bell rang and the fight was over, it was Jesus, not Satan, who emerged victorious. Jesus walked into the desert as the sinless Son of God, and He walked out of the desert as the sinless Son of God.

And He would keep walking, never once tarnished by sin, all the way to Calvary. While Jesus had won a victory in the wilderness, He would win the ultimate victory on the cross, dealing the enemy a fatal blow.

So, what’s the big deal?

Why does it even matter that over 2,000 years ago, Jesus duked it out with the devil in the desert?

Paul Tripp shares a key insight: “Jesus defeated temptation so that when you and I are defeated by temptation, we would be judged by His record and not ours.”

Praise God!

As the writer of Hebrews tells us, “…for we do not have a High Priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, we have One who has been tempted in every way, just as we are, yet He did not sin” (Hebrews 4:15).

So, the next time temptation gets the best of you, don’t run away from Jesus; run toward Him.

Receive His grace, claim His victory, and get ready to fight sin once again.

“Yes, you are a great sinner, but Jesus is a greater Savior.”
– Charles Spurgeon

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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May 30
In the Depths
Bible in a Year :

• 2 Chronicles 10-12
• John 11:30-57

Do not let the floodwaters engulf me or the depths swallow me up.
Psalm 69:15

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Psalm 69:6-15
San Fruttuoso Abbey is nestled in a cove off Italy’s northwest coast. Accessible only by boat or foot, it’s a secluded gem. But even more treasure hides in its bay. As divers venture into the sea and descend fifty feet down, the figure of a man starts coming into view. This is Christ of the Abyss, the world’s first underwater statue, placed in 1954. The bronze figure depicts Jesus in the depths, His hands raised to heaven.
The depths. Maybe you’ve experienced them. “I sink in the miry depths,” Psalm 69 says, “I am worn out calling for help” (vv. 2-3). Mocked by his foes and estranged from his family (vv. 4, 7-12), the psalmist found no comfort in others (v. 20) and feared his misery would “swallow” him up (v. 15). Whether it’s sin or sadness that takes us there, the depths are life’s moments of dark despair.
Thankfully this isn’t the last word on the depths. For while they’re cold and lonely, there is one who can be found in them (139:8). And He will rescue us from their chilly waters. “I will exalt you, Lord, for you lifted me out of the depths” (30:1).
As that sculpture reminds us, when we’re sinking under the world’s weight, we’re not alone. Jesus by the Spirit is there in the depths, His hands raised high—ready to meet us and lift us out in time.
By: Sheridan Voysey



Reflect & Pray
How have you experienced “the depths” in the past? How might Psalm 69:15 be pivotal in getting through them?
Dear Jesus, thank You for meeting me in the depths. Please lift me out with Your love, grace, and power.
Gain more wisdom from the book of Psalms.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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June 4
’Tis a Fearful Thing
Bible in a Year :

• 2 Chronicles 21-22
• John 14

Abraham went to mourn for Sarah and to weep over her.
Genesis 23:2

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Genesis 23:1-4, 17-20
“Tis a fearful thing / to love what death can touch.” That line begins a poem written more than a thousand years ago by the Jewish poet Judah Halevi, translated in the twentieth century. The poet clarifies what’s behind the fear: “to love . . . / And oh, to lose.”
In Genesis, an outpouring of emotion occurred when Abraham lost Sarah in death. “Abraham went to mourn for Sarah and to weep over her” (23:2). The chapter unfolds the beautiful, grief-heavy story of the loss of one of Scripture’s most memorable characters: Sarah, the faithful wife of Abraham, that old woman who'd laughed at the news she’d be a mother (18:11-12) but had cried in pain as Isaac made his way into this world.
We make much of that crisp, humanity-rich verse in John’s gospel: “Jesus wept” (John 11:35). The Messiah’s tears at the tomb of Lazarus emphasized Jesus’ loss. To love is indeed a fearful thing. The poet Halevi calls it “a thing for fools,” yet he follows by also naming it “a holy thing,” which it is, especially for those whose faith is “hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3).
We love and lose everything from spouses to children to parents to friends to pets, and weeping with “painful joy” is oh so human. Yet for the believer in Jesus, our weeping only lasts for the proverbial night. As David wrote, “Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5). Our Father hasn’t left us bereft of hope.
By: John Blase



Reflect & Pray
What has affected your ability to love? Who is the last person you wept over and why?
Dear Father, please grant me the courage to love.

 

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DON’T COMPROMISE YOUR CHRISTIAN PRINCIPLES
June 04, 2025
Bryant Wright, Founder, RFTH

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33

Practicing Christianity inside the walls of the church is one thing.

In fact, it’s probably the easiest place to act “Christ-like.”

Practicing Christianity in the secular workplace is an altogether different thing. The following story is about a company that has refused to compromise its Christian principles, regardless of what the world says.

Chick-fil-A has grown to be the largest chicken fast food chain in America. Some would say it’s due to their menu, while others point to their clever advertising. (Let’s face it, there is something appealing about seeing a cow beg you to “Eat Mor Chikin.”) But, founder Truett Cathy had a different answer. He declared that the secret to his success was the company’s high-quality people and their attention to customer service.

But how did they begin to attract such high-caliber employees? Truett said it all went back to Chick-fil-A being closed on Sundays. He believed everyone should have one day off a week – for church, rest, or to enjoy family. Restaurant professionals appreciated that lifestyle and have been drawn to the company ever since.

And what do the employees say? In an industry known for its high turnover (50% annual turnover for managers is not unusual), Chick-fil-A experiences a turnover of just 3%. “It was not hard to decide to close on Sunday,” said Truett Cathy. Dan Cathy, President and COO of the company, says, “Jesus Christ did not die for a company; He died for individuals, personally.” The company wants to operate on Biblical principles and acknowledge the Lord in all ways.

Now, that’s what I call putting the Lord first, even in business.

How about you?

Are you courageous enough to “seek Him first” outside the walls of the church? Will you boldly seek to live out Christian principles in your home, office, or neighborhood, even if you’re not in the company of other believers?

Why not give it a try today?

If you do, you will honor God, and “He will honor you” (John 12:26).


DIG DEEPER
Read “Being a Christian” at GotQuestions.org

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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June 6
No Wasted Pain
Bible in a Year :

• 2 Chronicles 25-27
• John 16

The Lord said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people . . . and I am concerned about their suffering.”
Exodus 3:7

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Exodus 3:1-4, 7-10
She looked into my eyes and said, “Don’t waste your pain.” My mind immediately returned to the time years prior when I’d led the memorial service for her young adult son whose life was taken in a car accident. She knew what she was talking about. She knew pain. But she also knew how God could use it to honor Him and help others—something this friend had done so very well. And as I heard her words, they comforted and encouraged me as I faced a serious cancer diagnosis. She was reminding me that God heard my cries and lament, and that He was with me in my pain and might use it to help others in a new way.
Moses also learned that God was with His people in their pain. “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt,” God said. “I have heard them crying out . . . and I am concerned about their suffering” (Exodus 3:7). The Israelites, like us at times, must have felt alone in their pain. But God assured them He had a plan to “rescue them” and that “the cry” of their hearts was heard (vv. 8-9). He would ultimately use their pain to grow their faith, defeat their enemies, and bring Him honor.
In Psalm 90, the only psalm attributed to Moses, he declared that even though our “best years are filled with pain” (v. 10 nlt), God’s “unfailing love” is with us “to the end of our lives” (v. 14 nlt). He lovingly won’t waste our pain—and neither should we.
By: Tom Felten



Reflect & Pray
What does it mean for you to know God hears your cries? How is God using your pain to help others?
Loving God, thank You for hearing my cries and using my pain to help others.
Discover why we believe in a God who allows suffering.

 

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WALKING WITH INTEGRITY
June 06, 2025
Jonathan Munson, Executive Director, RFTH

“He who walks with integrity walks securely; the man who takes crooked paths will be found out.” Proverbs 10:9

Health professionals recommend that we walk 10,000 steps per day. It’s an ambitious goal and can be tough to accomplish with our jam-packed schedules. Most of us walk roughly 3,000-4,000 steps or about 1.5-2 miles a day.

Whether we’re avid walkers or prefer a leisurely stroll, the Lord wants our steps saturated with integrity.

What is integrity?

Integrity is more than maintaining high moral standards or an impeccable degree of honesty. It is, first and foremost, about living an integrated life – a life that holistically revolves around a set of guiding values and principles.

For the Christ-follower, this means every area of life is centered around Jesus. Living with integrity means we recognize there is no division between sacred and secular, online and offline, or public and private. Life is not compartmentalized. Everything is linked and interconnected to our walk with Jesus.

Integrity is comprised of three all-encompassing words – wherever, whatever, and whenever.

Wherever we are,
Whatever we’re doing, and
Whenever we’re doing it…
We are called to live with the utmost integrity.

Are you starting to feel the weight of Solomon’s words?

I am.

If we fail to heed his wise warning, we risk being “found out.” The Hebrew word, ‘yiwwadea,’ connotes something being made known that we’ve kept concealed. And as if the Lord is highlighting the forewarning, this is the only occurrence of the phrasing of this particular word in all of Scripture.

Maybe we need to pay extra attention.

Many who take “crooked paths” are never exposed. So, this isn’t a guarantee. But haven’t we seen the truth of this proverb play out time and again?

My friends, the world is starved for individuals of genuine integrity.

I believe the world, maybe now more than ever before, needs to see Christian men/women rise up and exemplify irresistible integrity in all areas of life. We must demonstrate that Jesus has powerfully changed us from the inside out. So much so that our ‘walk’ truly matches our ‘talk’ and every crevice of our character testifies to the veracity of what we say we believe.

No matter how daunting the pursuit may be, we must never cease striving for integrity. There is too much at stake.

Candidly, it’s humbling to write these words.

I’m aware of little compromises in my integrity. I bet you are, too.

We rejoice today, not because of our flawless performance but because Jesus has walked the perfect path of integrity on our behalf.

Cling to Him. Confess and repent.

Regardless of past failures or present missteps, resolve to walk with integrity once again.


DIG DEEPER
Read “What Does the Bible Say About Integrity?” at GotQuestions.org

 

[boldstardex]

Love God. Love Others.


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June 9
Heart Surgery
Bible in a Year :

• 2 Chronicles 32-33
• John 18:19-40

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you.
Ezekiel 36:26

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Ezekiel 36:22-28
Some years ago, after exchanging heated words, Carolyn and I resolved our conflict through compassion and love for each other. I confessed my wrongdoing, and she prayed for me, referencing Ezekiel 36:26: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” I sensed that God was conducting a form of spiritual heart surgery on me, taking away my fears and bitterness as He enfolded me in His love.
God delights for us to engage with the Scriptures as I did back then, but it’s important to note the passage’s original context. Ezekiel spoke on God’s behalf to His people with the promise that He would cleanse them. Why? “It is not for your sake . . . I am going to do these things, but for the sake of my holy name” (v. 22). God would do His purifying work among His people so that all the nations would revere Him and know that He is God.
God works His purposes in our lives not only to help us flourish and grow, but so we would bring Him honor. Even as He gave the Israelites the promise of a new heart and a new spirit, so through the inward work of the Holy Spirit, God replaces our cold and hardened hearts with those that receive and share His love and life.
By: Amy Boucher Pye



Reflect & Pray
How have you experienced God’s “heart surgery”? How have others noticed the changes that He’s brought about in your life?
God of all life, thank You for changing me, for forming in me a new self that’s rooted in You. Please pour out Your love on me today.
Learn more about having a personal relationship with God.

 

[boldstardex]

STRUGGLES WITH PATIENCE?
June 09, 2025
Bryant Wright, Founder, RFTH

“He who is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who is quick-tempered exalts folly.” Proverbs 14:29

One of the Merriam-Webster definitions of patience is: “steadfast despite opposition, difficulty, or adversity.”

It’s not the most uplifting definition. Being patient is hard because as humans, we have a tendency to want what we want at that particular moment.

Unfortunately, it seems that life is often a test of patience.

I struggle with waiting – whether it’s sitting in traffic or at a restaurant. Why, I’d rather drive five miles out of the way than sit stuck in traffic. I get impatient when I’m facing a deadline and get interrupted or when someone says they’ll do something and then fall through.

Do you ever pray, “Lord, give me some patience, now!”

Let me suggest a few practical ways to learn patience:

1. Take a deep breath and pray for self-control.
2. When people anger you, if possible, retreat for a moment. Take time to back off and get control of your emotions.
3. Confront fairly, and seek to listen and understand first. When needed, be sure to forgive.
4. Remember, the greatest motive for patience is remembering God’s patience with us.

Patience is a precious commodity and a powerful way to win the respect of others and turn a potential enemy into a friend.


DIG DEEPER
Read “What Does the Bible Say About Patience?” at GotQuestions.org

 

[boldstardex]

STRUGGLES WITH PATIENCE?
June 09, 2025
Bryant Wright, Founder, RFTH

“He who is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who is quick-tempered exalts folly.” Proverbs 14:29

One of the Merriam-Webster definitions of patience is: “steadfast despite opposition, difficulty, or adversity.”

It’s not the most uplifting definition. Being patient is hard because as humans, we have a tendency to want what we want at that particular moment.

Unfortunately, it seems that life is often a test of patience.

I struggle with waiting – whether it’s sitting in traffic or at a restaurant. Why, I’d rather drive five miles out of the way than sit stuck in traffic. I get impatient when I’m facing a deadline and get interrupted or when someone says they’ll do something and then fall through.

Do you ever pray, “Lord, give me some patience, now!”

Let me suggest a few practical ways to learn patience:

1. Take a deep breath and pray for self-control.
2. When people anger you, if possible, retreat for a moment. Take time to back off and get control of your emotions.
3. Confront fairly, and seek to listen and understand first. When needed, be sure to forgive.
4. Remember, the greatest motive for patience is remembering God’s patience with us.

Patience is a precious commodity and a powerful way to win the respect of others and turn a potential enemy into a friend.

 

[boldstardex]

Love God. Love Others.


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June 13
Standing Firm in Faith
Bible in a Year :

• Ezra 6-8
• John 21

Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him.
1 Peter 5:8-9

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
1 Peter 5:6-11
On my walk to catch the train to work a few years ago, I saw a woman with a ferocious-looking dog heading toward me. I grew up around pet dogs, so I’m usually not afraid of furry friends, but this one looked menacing. As the dog got closer, he barked at me. I tried to laugh it off. But then he lunged at me, so I screamed. Thankfully the dog couldn’t harm me because he couldn’t reach me. His owner held on tightly to his leash.
That scary encounter reminded me that as believers in Jesus, Satan is also “on a leash” but waiting to attack if we give him the opportunity. In 1 Peter, the apostle Peter warns us, “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (5:8). He growls and snarls and lunges at us to try to scare and intimidate us and to paralyze us with fear, but we can stand firm in our faith and “resist him” (v. 9).
When you feel the enemy taunting or tempting you, remember this: He’s no match for Jesus. We can cry out to Him and He’ll help us. He “will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast” (v. 10).
When we’re under spiritual attack, we can choose faith over fear because Jesus is always with us.
By: Nancy Gavilanes



Reflect & Pray
How do you react when you feel the enemy taunting or tempting you? How can you focus on Christ during spiritual battles?
Dear Jesus, thank You for always being there for me even during the toughest trials.
For further study, read Taking Sin Seriously.






https://odb.org/page/odbmph-visit-luwalhati-ng-maynila-2025

 

[boldstardex]

STRUGGLES WITH PATIENCE?
June 09, 2025
Bryant Wright, Founder, RFTH

“He who is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who is quick-tempered exalts folly.” Proverbs 14:29

One of the Merriam-Webster definitions of patience is: “steadfast despite opposition, difficulty, or adversity.”

It’s not the most uplifting definition. Being patient is hard because as humans, we have a tendency to want what we want at that particular moment.

Unfortunately, it seems that life is often a test of patience.

I struggle with waiting – whether it’s sitting in traffic or at a restaurant. Why, I’d rather drive five miles out of the way than sit stuck in traffic. I get impatient when I’m facing a deadline and get interrupted or when someone says they’ll do something and then fall through.

Do you ever pray, “Lord, give me some patience, now!”

Let me suggest a few practical ways to learn patience:

1. Take a deep breath and pray for self-control.
2. When people anger you, if possible, retreat for a moment. Take time to back off and get control of your emotions.
3. Confront fairly, and seek to listen and understand first. When needed, be sure to forgive.
4. Remember, the greatest motive for patience is remembering God’s patience with us.

Patience is a precious commodity and a powerful way to win the respect of others and turn a potential enemy into a friend.


DIG DEEPER
Read “What Does the Bible Say About Patience?” at GotQuestions.org

 

[boldstardex]

Love God. Love Others.


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June 16
Changed by the Spirit
Bible in a Year :

• Nehemiah 4-6
• Acts 2:22-47

We . . . are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
2 Corinthians 3:12-18
When Neil Douglas boarded his flight to Ireland, he discovered his seat was occupied by another passenger, so he began a conversation to sort out the discrepancy. When the passenger looked up to answer, Neil was face to face with his lookalike! Onlooking passengers laughed at the men’s resemblance while the two took a selfie. Later, they ran into each other again when checking into the same hotel and a third time at a local pub. The next morning, they discovered their selfie had gone viral on social media due to their striking facial similarities.
Bearing a resemblance to another human being is a surprise for those of us without a biological twin, but the Bible says we’ll begin to look more like God as we follow Him. In the Old Testament, Moses’ countenance was changed by his face-to-face encounter with God—so much so that “the Israelites could not look steadily at [his face] because of its glory” (2 Corinthians 3:7; see Exodus 34:33-35).
Today, we see the glory of Jesus revealed in people who “are being transformed into his image” through the ministry of the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18; see v. 8). Our growing knowledge of and love for God results in moral and spiritual transformation that’s visible both inwardly and outwardly. When God “makes over” our hearts and minds, it’s evident to our fellow travelers in this journey of life.
By: Kirsten Holmberg



Reflect & Pray
How has knowing Jesus changed you? What is He growing in you today?
Thank You, God, for continuing to transform me into Your likeness.

 

[boldstardex]

Love God. Love Others.


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June 17
Clinging to God’s Promises
Bible in a Year :

• Nehemiah 7-9
• Acts 3

My ways [are] higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:9

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Isaiah 55:1-3, 8-13
Wendy was feeling a little left out. During lunch break, her boss had left chocolates on everyone’s desks—except hers. Puzzled, she lamented to a friend, “Why did he leave me out?”
When asked, their boss explained: “Those chocolates are still good, but they’ve been around for some time. Wendy’s pregnant, so I just wanted to play it extra safe.” Then he laughed. “As for the rest of you . . . .”
The little incident became a running joke in the office, but it got me thinking about how we sometimes misread God’s intentions because of our limited understanding and perception. We may even believe ourselves to be victims of unfair treatment, forgetting that God always has our best interests at heart. Always.
Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that while we may not fully understand God’s thoughts and ways, we can be sure that they’re “higher than [our] ways” (v. 9). Ours are often influenced by selfish desires; His are perfect, compassionate, and righteous. So even when things don’t look good for now, we can trust that God will provide what we truly need (vv. 1-2), for He’s loving and faithful to His own everlasting promise (v. 3). Let’s “call on him while he is near” (v. 6), knowing that He’ll never leave us.
By: Leslie Koh



Reflect & Pray
Which promises of God can you hold on to when life seems unfair? Which aspects of His character give you comfort and assurance?
Faithful God, You know I sometimes feel left out of Your blessings and doubt Your love for me. Please help me to trust in You and to hold on tightly to Your everlasting promises.