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

Today’s Scripture

John 6:5-15

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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).

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.

For further study, read The Strength of Weakness.

Today’s Insights

After the feeding of the five thousand (John 6:5-13), a crowd again found Jesus (v. 25). He knew they were there to see another miracle, so He said, “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life” (v. 27). He explained, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent” (v. 29). Just as a boy’s small gift of food had a momentous impact, so too the decision to trust Christ in the midst of a crisis has tremendous ramifications—for us and for the lives God will touch through us.

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

Today’s Scripture

Philippians 4:1-3

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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.

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.

Today’s Insights

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul calls on the believers in Jesus to rejoice no matter what circumstances they face (Philippians 4:4). He urges them to let go of personal pride and selfish ambition and continue to live in unity (see 2:3-4, 14; 4:2). They’re to have the same attitude that Christ had in order to live like Him (2:5-11). The apostle singled out two women—Euodia and Syntyche—whose personal rivalry was disrupting the church’s harmony. He urged them “to be of the same mind in the Lord” (4:2), echoing his earlier encouragement to be “like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind” (2:2). He also called on an unnamed member in the church to help repair this fractured fellowship (4:3).

When we face conflict with other believers, the Spirit will help us be peacemakers and to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).

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They bowed down and worshiped Him. Matthew 2:11

Today’s Scripture

Matthew 2:1-2, 7-12

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When writing teacher Peter Turchi sees a map, he looks for the adventure it holds. “To ask for a map,” he says, “is to say, ‘Tell me a story.’ ” I seized on that idea when preparing to teach a Sunday school class during Christmas on the “Faith of the Wise Men.” As I studied maps, I learned the Magi traveled some nine hundred miles—perhaps over several months—to find the Christ child, finally finding not a babe in a manger but a toddler living with His parents in a house. Their reaction after such a long trip? “They bowed down and worshiped him” (Matthew 2:11).

Their journey invited my students and me to plan with intention to seek Christ more fully. As Scripture tells us, when the Magi finally arrived in Jerusalem, their urgent question was: “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him” (v. 2).

Distance didn’t deter their worship. Nor did danger or delays. Herod’s deadly demand was ironic: “Go and search carefully for the child” (v. 8). Nobody had searched more diligently for Jesus than the Magi.

We can heed the example of the wise men by seeking Christ diligently too. Then, as we worship Him, we can expect our heavenly Father to speak to our hearts, leading us from old ways to new paths to journey with Him.

Reflect & Pray

How can you seek Christ this new year? How can you worship Him?

Dear Father, please help me to seek Your Son Jesus with all my heart and worship Him with all I have.

To learn more about seeking Jesus, watch In Pursuit of Jesus.

Today’s Insights

Matthew alone shares the account of star-gazing Magi who traveled in search of the newborn king of the Jews. Though this was a one-time phenomenon, the diligence of these men as they searched for Jesus deserves our attention and emulation. As we search and study the Scriptures, we’ll find Him too. Stressing the fact that the Old Testament Scriptures spoke of Christ, He said to the fault-finding religious leaders of His day: “You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life” (John 5:39-40). The Bible (Old and New Testaments) testifies about Jesus (see also Luke 24:27, 44-45). As we seek Him and worship Him, we’ll grow in our faith, and God will lead us from our old ways to new paths.

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

Today’s Scripture

1 Samuel 12:19-24

Bible in a Year

• Genesis 13-15
• Matthew 5:1-26

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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.

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.

For further study, read Man of God and Man of the People.

Today’s Insights

Despite Samuel’s excellent character as a judge and prophet, his sons “accepted bribes and perverted justice” (1 Samuel 8:3). This prompted “the elders of Israel” to request a king (v. 4). Samuel disapproved and consulted God in prayer. He told Samuel, “It is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king” (v. 7).

Five hundred years before the time of Samuel, God had told Israel, “[When] you say, ‘Let us set a king over us like all the nations around us,’ be sure to appoint over you a king the Lord your God chooses” (Deuteronomy 17:14-15). But this didn’t mean that God approved of them choosing a king.

Samuel outlined the problems a human king would create for them (1 Samuel 8:9-18), but they “refused to listen” (v. 19). Still, he continued to serve God by shepherding Israel and praying for them (12:19). We too honor God when we pray for the needs of others.

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Consider the lilies . . . . Luke 12:27 esv

Today’s Scripture

Luke 12:22-31

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For a parent, the death of a child is devastating. But to lose two of your children? Unimaginable! Yet that’s the experience of Australian musician, writer, and actor Nick Cave. In 2015, his fifteen-year-old son fell from a cliff and died. A few years later, Cave’s oldest child also died. In the grip of such overwhelming grief, how did Cave and his wife keep going? How would you?

Cave attempted to find comfort in the world around him. “It’s the audacity of the world to continue to be beautiful . . . in times of deep suffering. That’s how I saw the world,” he said. “It was just carrying on, being systemically gorgeous.”

Jesus spoke of such beauty, and He saw it for what it truly is: the creation of God. His oft-quoted words in Luke 12—“consider the lilies” (v. 27 esv)—don’t dismiss the reality of suffering in our lives. In fact, they honor our great tragedies by offering an antidote to such harsh realities. Stop and consider the lilies or the ravens (v. 24) or the sunrise. Christ taught us, “If that is how God clothes the grass of the field . . . how much more will he clothe you” (v. 28).

In the face of grief and loss, the world’s perspective falls short. Jesus encourages us to consider our creator God, who holds His audacious creation together and cares for us deeply.

Reflect & Pray

When was the last time you stopped and considered the world around you? What did you notice?

God of all comfort, in seasons of suffering please give me the presence of mind to consider Your beautiful world.

Learn how lament can help you praise God in the storms of life.

Today’s Insights

Jesus assured His disciples not to worry about food, clothing, and shelter but to trust in God’s providential care (Luke 12:22-31). Just as He feeds the ravens (who were deemed unworthy because they were considered unclean) and adorns wildflowers with beauty (even though they last only a short time), He’ll most certainly take care of those who belong to Him. His children are much more valuable than all His creations (Matthew 6:26; Luke 12:7, 24). In a world of worries and sorrows, Christ tells those who believe in Him not to be afraid. When we see how He cares for His creation, we can be assured that He’ll care for those who belong to Him.

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We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. Romans 12:6

Today’s Scripture

Nehemiah 3:6-12

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A young patient committed suicide because he couldn’t afford the bus fare to the hospital for mental health treatment. Distressed, Dr. Chibanda tested ways to make treatment more accessible. Friendship Bench was born, a program where therapists sit on discreetly placed benches, ready to counsel people with needs. And who did he train as therapists? Grandmothers! In an interview, Dr. Chibanda shared, “[Grandmothers] are rooted in their communities . . . they have an amazing ability to . . . make people feel respected and understood.”

In Nehemiah 3, we read of another project that involved unconventional groups of people. They understood that the city’s wall had to be rebuilt so they’d “no longer be in disgrace” (2:17). As Jerusalem lay in ruins, the surrounding nations mocked its defeat. And besides professional craftsmen like Uzziel, who was a goldsmith (3:8), others who may have had other talents—like Shallum, a district ruler—chipped in too (v. 12).

Just as Dr. Chibanda saw the influence and compassion of grandmothers to make a difference in mental healthcare in Zimbabwe, may God open our eyes to see the strengths of each person. God has gifted each of us with unique experiences, resources, and talents (Romans 12:6). Let’s allow Him to use us in building up the church and serving our community.

Reflect & Pray

What has God laid on your heart to do for the church or community? Who can you invite to join you?

Dear Father, please help me see the strengths in others so I may serve with them for good.

Discover more about being a serving church.

Today’s Insights

Centuries before the wall-building effort led by Nehemiah (see Nehemiah 3), Moses, as directed by God, oversaw the construction of the tabernacle, the portable sanctuary where God met with His people. This special initiative also allowed for broad participation by His people with a variety of gifts. Giving to the project was open to all: “Everyone who was willing and whose heart moved them came and brought an offering to the Lord for the work on the tent of meeting, for all its service, and for the sacred garments” (Exodus 35:21). Furthermore, those with unique gifts were given assignments. Unnamed skilled women (v. 25) and leaders (v. 27) also participated in the effort, as did Bezalel and Oholiab (vv. 30-35). Today, God has given all of us gifts, and He’ll show us how to use them to build up the church and serve our communities.

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He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the charge of our legal [debt]. Colossians 2:13-14

Today’s Scripture

Colossians 2:13-15

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A doctor decided to retire after treating cancer patients for nearly thirty years. While working with a billing company to resolve his clinic’s finances, he opted to forgive $650,000 of debt people still owed him. “I’ve always been rather uncomfortable with sick patients not only having to worry about their own health,” the physician explained in a related interview, “[but also] their families, and their jobs, [and] money. That’s always tugged at me.”

Even if we’ve never been deep in financial debt, all of us have experienced something similar in a spiritual sense. The Bible likens sin to “debts” (Matthew 6:12). It also says there’s no way for us to repay what we owe God. We can’t donate money to charity, serve others, or work out a deal with Him to cover what we owe. Jesus is our only hope. Through His death and resurrection, Christ “canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross” (Colossians 2:14).

Accepting Jesus’ sacrifice for the wrong things we’ve done means waking up to a new day, completely free from the burden of sin. May God’s mercy and forgiveness shine into the world as He helps us lovingly address people and circumstances in our lives.

Reflect & Pray

Why do you think God cares whether or not you show mercy to others? How does your outlook on life reflect the freedom you have in Jesus?

Dear Jesus, thank You for paying the price for my sin.

Learn more here: odbm.org/personal-relationship-with-god

Today’s Insights

Physical death plays a central role in the story of our redemption from sin, as Paul highlights in Colossians. Why is death so key? The apostle wrote, “[God] has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—if you continue in your faith . . . and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel” (1:22-23). The apostle is combatting false teaching here—probably Gnosticism. Among its claims were that Christ didn’t have a physical body. This isn’t a biblical teaching, as it denies the crucifixion and resurrection. Paul warned, “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy” (2:8). As he said, “You were dead in your sins” but now “God made you alive with Christ” (v. 13). When we accept Jesus’ sacrifice as payment for our sin, we become free from sin’s burden.

Visit go.odb.org/010226 to learn more about salvation through Christ.

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When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered. Acts 17:32

Today’s Scripture

Acts 17:29-34

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It’s risky to venture into the comments section of online news sites. Risky, but fascinating. Commenting on an interview with a millionaire endeavoring to live forever in this life, one reader posted this from Matthew 16:25: “ ‘Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.’ —Jesus.” Reacting to that comment, another reader posted, “Wasn’t there a book written about Him?” To which a third reader replied, “Yes, fiction.”

There are always those who will mock belief in Jesus. When the apostle Paul stood in a public forum to tell a large group of Athenians about Christ, results were mixed. “When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered” (Acts 17:32). Others, however, said, “We want to hear you again on this subject” (v. 32). And some believed (v. 34).

How others respond to the truth of the Bible is between them and God. But it’s the claim that we can live forever in this life that’s fiction. Our bodies are destined to die. In contrast, the Bible tells us of the one who is “the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). Like Paul, it’s our task to share with anyone who will listen what this Man has done for us. We can trust the Holy Spirit to do the rest.

Reflect & Pray

How do you feel when others mock your faith? Why is it important to let them know what you believe about Jesus?

Dear Father, thank You for Your Son, who conquered death for us. I pray for those who don’t believe in You, that Your Spirit will draw them to You.

Learn more about being faithful despite being mocked.

Today’s Insights

Acts 17 shows how Paul did all he could to share the good news of Jesus. Being Jewish, when in Athens he naturally engaged with the Jewish people and “God-fearing Greeks” who frequented the synagogue (v. 17). But he also went to “the marketplace” each day, where he met with “Epicurean and Stoic philosophers” (vv. 17-18). These two groups saw life very differently and gathered to debate those differences. Yet Paul sought common ground with them (vv. 22-23), creating a basis to tell them about the God who “gives everyone life and breath and everything else” (v. 25). Our task is to share the truth of the gospel with those who’ll listen and then pray that the Spirit will draw them to Christ.

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Apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5

Today’s Scripture

John 15:4-12

Today’s Devotional

When we think about New Year’s resolutions, what probably comes to mind is a list of lofty ambitions we rarely achieve (80 percent of New Year’s resolutions are already abandoned by mid-February). Author Amy Wilson suggests a better idea might be to reject entirely “the idea that we have to fix ourselves before our lives can get better.” Wilson suggests that, instead of adding commitments, we see the new year as an opportunity to do less, to finally “start saying no” to some of the “oversized and ongoing commitments that take our time and energy without giving us much in return.”

In a world of constant pressure to do and be more, it can be easy to miss the radically different rhythm of life Jesus invited His disciples into—one of abiding in Him. In John 15, Jesus described Himself as “the true vine” (v. 1) and His disciples as “the branches” (v. 5).

Vine branches don’t grow through working harder but through the nourishment received from the vine. So, too, the growth we long for can only be experienced when we let go of self-reliance in exchange for resting in and finding nourishment in Christ, for “apart from [Him] you can do nothing” (v. 5).

Through Jesus, we have hope for a life of less anxiety. Less striving. And more resting in God’s love and letting it flow to those around us (vv. 12, 17).

Reflect & Pray

What might God be leading you to say no to this year? In what areas of your life might God be inviting you to greater surrender?

Gracious God, please help me surrender my self-reliance to rest in You.

For further study, read God’s Invitation to Wholeness.

Today’s Insights

Jesus used an agricultural metaphor of a vine and its branches to depict our dependent relationship with God and Christ. The key word in John 15:4-12 is the verb menō, translated “remain” or “abide” (esv). It carries the meaning of “living,” “dwelling,” “abiding.” It can also mean “to be in a state that begins and continues.” Menō stresses the primacy of our union in Christ and our communion with, dependence on, and obedience to Him. Only Jesus can provide us with the grace and vitality for productivity as we stay connected to Him. In John’s first epistle, he directs us back to the vine-branches metaphor: “Whoever claims to live [menō] in him must live as Jesus did” (1 John 2:6). As we learn to abide in Him, we can surrender our self-reliance and trust Him to work through us.

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The Lord was with Joseph in the prison and showed him his faithful love. Genesis 39:21 nlt

Today’s Scripture

Genesis 39:20-23

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During our church outreach in a nursing home, an elderly resident told me of how his daughter had driven him there years before and simply left him on the sidewalk. In his wheelchair, Ed couldn’t get up to run after her. She’d returned to the car without looking back and had driven away. “We’re going to a nice hotel,” she’d said earlier. That day was the last time he saw her.

Vastly different in nature from the many loving family experiences of eldercare, this clear case of abuse traumatized Ed. He still has nightmares about that day.

Centuries ago, a young man also suffered trauma (Genesis 37:12-36). Joseph’s brothers threw him into a cistern and sold him to traders going to Egypt. But “the Lord was with Joseph” (39:2). In an unfamiliar land, as he courageously did what was right in God’s eyes, both in his master’s house (vv. 7-10) and in prison, Joseph realized that God “showed him his faithful love” (v. 21 nlt). Despite the trauma of his past, Joseph was able to succeed in whatever he did because God helped him (v. 23). Eventually he became second-in-command to Pharaoh and raised a family of his own (41:41-52). Later, he even reconciled with his brothers (45:12-15).

People may hurt us, but God never will. Although He may help us heal in ways different from what He did for Joseph, He promises us His same faithful love. Let’s follow His leading as we trust Him to heal our hearts.

Reflect & Pray

How has God helped you through trauma? How can you trust Him to care for you?

Dear Father, thank You for how Your love heals me.

Listen to how forgiveness can heal the wounds of the heart.

Today’s Insights

Joseph’s plight in Egypt (Genesis 39) calls to mind the dilemma of Daniel in Babylon centuries later. Like Joseph, he was taken from his native land and found favor with the officials even in less-than-ideal circumstances. “God had caused the official to show favor and compassion to Daniel” (Daniel 1:9). The timeless Psalm 23 reminds us that as much as we desire “green pastures” and “quiet waters” (vv. 2-3), our life journeys often include seasons in “the darkest valley” and “in the presence of [our] enemies” (vv. 4-5). This psalm, as well as the examples of Joseph, Daniel, and others, reminds us that our lives must be more about the object of our faith than the location of our feet. God’s faithful love knows no boundaries. Even in our trials, we can trust Him: “Surely your goodness and [faithful] love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever” (v. 6 nlt).

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I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. Habakkuk 3:18

Today’s Scripture

Habakkuk 3:16-19

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Scientists studied the resilience of sixteen societies worldwide, including the Yukon and Australian Outback. They analyzed thousands of years of archaeological records, tracing the impact of famines, wars, and climate. One factor stood out—the frequency of downturns. One would think that they would weaken societies, but the researchers found the opposite to be true. Instead, they found that societies that faced frequent hardships developed resilience, bouncing back faster from future challenges. Stress, it appears, can forge resilience.

The prophet Habakkuk understood this kind of resilience. As he considered Judah’s impending devastation, he painted a bleak picture: “crop fails,” “no sheep . . . no cattle,” and barren land (3:17). Amid earthly securities being stripped away, however, the prophet declared, “Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior” (v. 18). His joy wasn’t tied to circumstances and earthly pleasures but anchored in God’s unchanging character and salvation. In the bleakest seasons, the prophet chose joy and became more resilient.

Like Habakkuk and those resilient societies, our spiritual endurance grows through repeated adversity. When we face difficult seasons in life, let’s cling to our hope in God and remember that He’s with us—using our challenges to grow our joy and resilient faith.

Reflect & Pray

How do you find hope in God? Amid adversity, what prayer of rejoicing can you offer to Him?

Gracious God, I will find hope in You when life is barren and empty.

Learn more about worshipping and fearing God.

Today’s Insights

Much of the short book of Habakkuk is dark and foreboding. It begins with Habakkuk crying out, “How long, Lord, must I call for help?” (1:2). God answers by telling him the terrible things that will happen to His people (vv. 5-11). Habakkuk recoils from this strange reply with a complaint to God: “Why then do you tolerate the treacherous?” (v. 13). By chapter 3, however, the prophet is compelled to praise this powerful, terrifying God: “Lord, I have heard of your fame” (v. 2). He recounts how God “shook the earth” (v. 6) and “in wrath . . . strode through the earth” (v. 12). Habakkuk understood this power would be displayed on His people’s behalf. “You came out to deliver your people,” he says. “You crushed the leader of the land of wickedness” (v. 13). He concludes in hope: “The sovereign Lord is my strength” (v. 19). Today, when we face adversity, we also can cling to our hope in God and remember that He’s with us.

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Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. Luke 10:23

Today’s Scripture

Luke 10:21-24

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In a café one afternoon, I noticed a toddler with her parents at an adjacent table. As the parents talked with their friends, a pigeon flew in and started pecking crumbs from the floor. Filled with awe at this sight, the little girl tried getting the adults’ attention by squealing with delight. But they never got to see what she saw. They just smiled at her and returned to their conversation.

Jesus once sent His disciples on a preaching mission, which turned out to be tremendously successful (Luke 10:17). “I praise you, Father,” Jesus prayed in response, “because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children” (v. 21). In this case, “little children” didn’t refer to age but status. It was humble, everyday “sinners” who responded to the gospel, while “wise and learned” religious leaders ignored it (7:29-34). While God decides who He reveals Himself to, Jesus always explained more about the kingdom to those who asked (see Matthew 13:36). The leaders had missed seeing who Jesus was because they didn’t really want to know.

The little girl in the café saw something wonderful while her parents missed out. May we never be so distracted by the world’s chatter, or lacking in humility to seek more understanding, that we miss what God wants to show us about Himself.

Reflect & Pray

What first opened your eyes and heart to the gospel? How hungry are you to know more of God right now?

Father God, please open my eyes to see everything You want me to see about You and the gospel.

Learn more about God by watching Asking Who Is God.

Today’s Insights

Although the word trinity is never used in Scripture, we see clear evidence in Luke 10 of God’s triune nature. “Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit” praises His Father, the “Lord of heaven and earth” (v. 21). The Son accomplishes the Father’s will by the power of the Spirit. Then Christ speaks of Himself when He says, “All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father” (v. 22). But didn’t the disciples know Him? Jesus is using the word knows in the sense of knowing someone completely and perfectly. Christ knew they were in danger of being distracted by the miracles they’d just performed (v. 17). So He turned their focus back to what mattered: “your names are written in heaven” (v. 20). Step by step, He revealed Himself to them. May we also keep our eyes open to see what God wants to reveal to us about Himself.

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They opened their treasures and presented [Jesus] with gifts. Matthew 2:11

Today’s Scripture

Matthew 2:1-2, 7-12

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Today’s Devotional

“What sweeter music can we bring/ Than a carol for to sing/ The birth of this our heavenly King?” The lines of this seventeenth-century poem “What Sweeter Music” by Robert Herrick were reimagined by modern-day choral composer John Rutter to become an Advent season favorite. Its gentle melody describes a long, cold season of waiting that’s thawed by the springtime feeling of Jesus’ arrival. The singers bring Him a Christmas carol; the listeners are invited to bring their hearts.

Rutter’s arrangement was commissioned to correspond with a church reading on the wise men who brought Jesus gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These mysterious magi traveled a great distance to meet baby Jesus with the express purpose of worshiping Him (Matthew 2:1-2). When they finally found Him, they “were overjoyed,” bowed down in reverence, and “opened their treasures” at His feet (vv. 10-11). Warned in a dream, they left without informing wicked King Herod (v. 12).

The Christmas season shouldn’t focus on material gifts—but it’s certainly about giving and receiving gifts. God gave His Son to heal a broken world. If we’ve never given Him our hearts, today’s a wonderful day to do so. If He already reigns there, let’s offer a carol of peace and joy as we think about His arrival all those years ago in Bethlehem—and wait for His return.

Reflect & Pray

What are some of the greatest gifts of Christmastime? What might you be reluctant to give over to God?

Dear Jesus, You’re the greatest gift of all. Everything I am, and everything I have, I give back to You.

Discover more about the Christmas story.

Today’s Insights

Matthew’s gospel is bookended by the worship of Jesus (2:1; 28:17). In both accounts, readers see what the proper response to Christ should be. Based on what had been revealed to them, “Magi from the east came to Jerusalem” (2:1), bearing gifts to honor Jesus. They asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him” (v. 2). “Worship[ed]” (vv. 2, 8, 11) translates the word proskyneō—meaning “to fawn,” “to “crouch down” (literally or figuratively), “to prostrate oneself in homage” (reverence, adore). Matthew’s account of Christ shows that worship is the proper response to Him (see 8:2-3; 9:18-22; 14:33; 15:25-28; 28:9). The final use of the word worship[ed] in this gospel occurs in the last scene of the book, after the resurrection: “When they saw him, they worshiped him” (28:17). Today, as we celebrate Jesus—the greatest gift ever given—may we also respond with worship.

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Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Luke 2:10

Today’s Scripture

Luke 2:8-14

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Today’s Devotional

Many historians believe the first-ever radio broadcast of music and speech was heard by radio operators on US Navy and other ships in the Atlantic on Christmas Eve, 1906. Instead of the usual beeps and pulses to transmit codes, they listened to Reginald Fessenden play a violin solo of the Christmas carol “O, Holy Night.” Fessenden closed his broadcast by echoing the angels’ praise: “Glory to God in the highest heaven!” (Luke 2:14). The listeners must have been startled by the evocative music and statement of praise over the birth of Jesus.

The first people surprised by Jesus’ birth were the shepherds who’d been keeping to their usual business of watching their sheep at night (Luke 2:8). Then an angel appeared, shining with the glory of God and giving the shepherds a fright (v. 9). The angel urged them not to be afraid and declared: “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (vv. 10-11). The shepherds left their sheep to investigate the angel’s words and found the baby lying in a manger, just as they had been told (vv. 16, 20).

The shepherds accepted this good news of great joy. May we too rejoice and share the wonders of Jesus’ birth and life.

Reflect & Pray

How do you think you would have reacted to the news the angel proclaimed? Why do you think God chose to reveal His Son’s birth to them?

Dear Jesus, Your birth was revealed to the shepherds, for You don’t despise anyone, and You came to earth to love and save me.

Discover more about the Christmas story.

Today’s Insights

In Luke 1, we read Mary’s song in which she “glorifies . . . God my Savior” (vv. 46-47). She includes herself by referring to “the humble state of [God’s] servant” (v. 48) and notes how God “has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble” (v. 52). In Luke 2, God lifts up the humble when the angel appears first to shepherds with the good news of Jesus’ birth (vv. 9-12). Shepherds lived “on the margins,” rendered ceremonially unclean by a job whose requirements kept them outside the city limits and outside civic norms. Shepherds found it difficult even to participate in the religious festivals and sacrifices. Yet they were the chosen eyewitnesses for the angelic celebration on a Bethlehem hillside (vv. 13-14). The angel spoke of “great joy for all the people” (v. 10)—shepherds included. We’re included too. May we celebrate the wonder of Christ’s birth.

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If you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. James 2:9

Today’s Scripture

James 2:1-4, 8-13

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Today’s Devotional

In 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant was stopped for recklessly driving his carriage through Washington DC. One published account says that the officer, an African American named William West, warned Grant, “Your fast driving, sir . . . is endangering the lives of the people who have to cross the street.” Grant apologized, but the next night he was racing carriages again. West stopped Grant’s horses. “I am very sorry, Mr. President, to have to do it, for you are the chief of the nation and I am nothing but a policeman, but duty is duty.” West arrested the president.

I admire this brave man for doing his duty. So did Grant. He praised West and made sure he kept his job. God also was pleased, for He hates the injustice of favoritism. James wrote, “Believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism” (James 2:1). That includes not giving special favors to the rich and powerful, leaving only leftovers for the poor (vv. 2-4). Instead, we’re called to love our neighbor as ourselves (v. 8). If we play favorites, serving our platinum club neighbors rather than the less privileged, we “sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers” (v. 9).

God didn’t play favorites with us. He loved us when we had nothing to offer, when we were “without hope and without God in the world” (Ephesians 2:12). With His help, we can love all people equally.

Reflect & Pray

Why is favoritism such a harmful thing? How might you avoid playing favorites?

I praise You, Father, that no human is above or beneath me.

Discover more through Hearing God Through the Christmas Story reading plan.

Today’s Insights

A key problem James addressed was the rich-poor divide threatening the unity and harmony of the church (2:1-11; 5:1-6). He reiterated that God intentionally chose the materially poor to be spiritually rich as sons and heirs of God (2:5; see Luke 6:20; 1 Corinthians 1:26-29). Therefore, it’s a sin to favor the wealthy and discriminate against or exploit the poor (James 2:1-9). Those who commit these evil acts “have dishonored the poor” (v. 6) whom God has blessed and have blasphemed His holy name (v. 7). To treat all believers in the church impartially, James instructs us to keep “the royal law found in Scripture, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’ ” (v. 8, see Leviticus 19:18). Jesus says this is the second greatest commandment for His followers (Matthew 22:39). With God’s help, we can love everyone equally and without favoritism.

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We were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body. 1 Corinthians 12:13

Today’s Scripture

1 Corinthians 12:12-20

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When my friend Maritza took a job that required traveling to many different cities by herself, she often felt lonely. But over dinner one night, she leaned in and told me, “Jen, I prayed and asked God to send me His people.” She went on to say it wasn’t long before she’d begun to meet other believers in Jesus on a regular basis. Once, she met three in one day!

When we encounter others who have faith in Jesus, we share a spiritual connection. In a hard-to-explain way, this lights a spark within us. We have the most important thing in common because we believe what the Bible says about Christ and how it’s possible to have a relationship with God through Him (Romans 10:9).

Most importantly, the Spirit of God lives in each believer, knitting us together so powerfully that the Bible compares us to the interconnected parts of the human body. First Corinthians 12:13 says, “We were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body”—the body of Christ.

God often works in our lives through others who love Him, whether they’re near or far, known or new acquaintances. In our loneliest times, we can ask Him to send His people—even as we offer ourselves to be used by Him to encourage others.

Reflect & Pray

Where do you turn when you feel lonely? How has God worked through other believers in your life?

Dear heavenly Father, thank You for including me in Your family. Please use me to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ today.

For further study, watch Why is Community So Important?

Today’s Insights

The metaphor of believers in Jesus forming one body is used elsewhere in Scripture. Paul employs the same imagery in Romans 12:4-5. He also speaks of the church as God’s “building” (1 Corinthians 3:9; Ephesians 2:19-21). These metaphors point to an essential unity among the members of the church at large. We may be tempted to downplay certain roles as less prestigious while esteeming others that have more visibility. The apostle cautions against this mistake by pointing out the essential role of each gifting: “If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be?” (1 Corinthians 12:17). Earlier in this passage, he emphasized how God gifts each of us “for the common good” (v. 7). Just as we receive gifting to help others in the body of fellow believers in Christ, when we’re lonely, God uses others to encourage us.

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

Today’s Scripture

Acts 12:5-11

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Today’s Devotional

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.

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.

Today’s Insights

Peter “was sleeping” the “night before Herod was to bring him to trial” (Acts 12:6). He’d already been unjustly imprisoned by King Herod for eight days and would’ve been sentenced the following day. And, like James, his fellow apostle, he too would’ve been executed (vv. 2-3). But “the church was earnestly praying to God for him” (v. 5; see vv. 11-12). During his imprisonment, Peter experienced the peace that only Jesus could give (see John 14:27).

In the Old Testament, David also had confident trust in God and experienced His peace: “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety” (Psalm 4:8; see 3:5). No matter what we’re facing today, we can turn our situation over to God, knowing that we can trust Him and experience the peace He alone provides (Philippians 4:6-7).

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I have given ability to all the skilled workers to make everything I have commanded you. Exodus 31:6

Today’s Scripture

Exodus 31:1-11

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Today’s Devotional

Virtuoso composer Ludwig van Beethoven is one of the most celebrated musicians in history. Nearly two centuries after his death in 1827, his compositions are still among the most performed pieces. A study of Beethoven’s DNA, however, indicates he may not have been born with some of his abilities—as we might assume. When his genes were compared to those of 14,500 other people who’d shown an ability to keep rhythm (merely one aspect of musical talent), Beethoven ranked surprisingly low.

Beethoven also had ample opportunity and exposure to music (which developed the aptitude he did have). Yet neither talent nor opportunity fully account for God’s role in endowing us with the abilities we have. Our Creator equipped two men, Bezalel and Oholiab, with specific skills to be used in building the tabernacle. God filled Bezalel “with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs” and appointed Oholiab “to help him” (Exodus 31:3-6). God gave “ability to all the skilled workers to make everything [He] commanded” (v. 6).

Few of us will work on projects as significant as God’s tabernacle. And our abilities may never be recorded in history’s annals. Yet God has equipped us with the skills, aptitudes, and experiences He wants us to share with the world. May we serve Him faithfully, in His strength and for His glory.

Reflect & Pray

What skills and abilities has God given you? How might you serve Him with them?

Thank You, Father, for the abilities You’ve given me. Please help me use them for Your glory.

For further study, watch Gifts with Your Name on Them.

Today’s Insights

Bezalel and Oholiab are mentioned again in Exodus 35-38, as the Israelites prepared to put into action the instructions God had given them. But the construction of the “tent of meeting” (31:7) wasn’t just for those specially gifted by God (v. 6). The entire nation had the opportunity to participate. Moses said, “From what you have, take an offering for the Lord” (35:5). Notice that the command was to give “from what you have.” Then Moses said, “All who are skilled among you are to come and make everything the Lord has commanded” (v. 10). The record says, “Everyone who was willing and whose heart moved them came and brought an offering to the Lord for the work on the tent of meeting” (v. 21). God has equipped each of us to contribute something, whether skill or time or material.

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You are precious and honored in my sight. Isaiah 43:4

Today’s Scripture

Isaiah 43:1-7

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Today’s Devotional

The painting hung on the wall of a home for years, unnoticed and forgotten, until one day it fell. When it was taken to an art restorer for repairs, he discovered it was a long-lost Rembrandt masterpiece titled The Adoration of the Magi. It had been thought that only copies of the work remained, but here was the original. Suddenly the painting’s value skyrocketed to hundreds of millions of dollars.

The Bible paints another picture of underestimated value and forgotten worth. Isaiah the prophet, inspired by the Holy Spirit, told God’s people that even though they would be taken away to a foreign land where they would suffer and be devalued, He would still be with them: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine,” He assured them (Isaiah 43:1). Though they would “pass through the waters” and “walk through the fire” (v. 2), His faithfulness to them would not change. With words that point to His coming kingdom in Christ, God promised that He would one day restore “everyone who is called by my name” (v. 7) and bring them home to Him.

God will one day gather all who are His because they “are precious and honored in [His] sight” (v. 4), each one an original! Our Creator values us because of His infinite kindness and mercy. The world may overlook us, but He never will.

Reflect & Pray

How does God’s kindness in Christ show that you are precious to Him? How much is He worth to you?

Saving God, how amazing is Your perfect love, that You would give Yourself for me!

Learn more here about having a personal relationship with God.

Today’s Insights

God disciplined His covenant people because of their unrepentant unfaithfulness and exiled them to Babylon for seventy years (Isaiah 39:6-7). But He wouldn’t forget His covenant or abandon His chosen people. In Isaiah 40-66, the prophet speaks of the return from exile and Judah’s future restoration. In chapter 43, God promised He’d bring them back to the promised land. They were disciplined, not abandoned, for He said, “I am with you” (v. 5). He reminded them that He’s still their God—their creator, redeemer, protector, and savior (vv. 7-15). As God’s people, we need not be afraid of the trials we face or the uncertainties of our future. Because we belong to Him, we can be assured of His unfailing love (vv. 1-3). He tells us, “You are precious and honored in my sight” (v. 4). He loves us and won’t forget us.

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Go and do likewise. Luke 10:37

Today’s Scripture

Luke 10:25-34, 36-37

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Today’s Devotional

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.

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.

To learn more about mercy, read Living Justly, Loving Mercy.

Today’s Insights

The key to understanding the parable of the good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) lies in knowing how first-century Israel answered the question, “Who is my neighbor?” (v. 29). They’d distorted the command “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18) into “love your neighbor and hate your enemy” (Matthew 5:43). The Jews defined a neighbor as a fellow Israelite, for gentiles were accursed. For the Pharisees (experts in the law), it referred to a fellow Pharisee, for those who knew nothing of the law were accursed (John 7:49). Jesus turned this thinking upside down by making a hated Samaritan (people of mixed race whom the Jews viewed as heretics) the hero of the story. The Spirit can help us today to show compassion to others instead of simply passing by.

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