I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands. Psalm 119:176

Today’s Scripture

Psalm 119:169-176

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

David Uttal is a cognitive scientist who studies navigation but has problems navigating his way around geographic locations. This isn’t a new problem for him—one that goes back to when he was thirteen years old and got lost for two and a half days on a hike. Uttal admits he’s still terrible with simple directions in life. But some people are natural navigators—knowing exactly where they are and how to get where they desire to go. Others, like Uttal, struggle even with clear directions and often get lost.

The psalmist also felt the disorientation of lostness: “I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands” (Psalm 119:176). He compared himself to a wandering sheep. Although sheep can be valuable creatures, they’re also notoriously rebellious and will sometimes drift away from their shepherd—putting them in need of rescue. The psalmist’s spiritual navigation skills had deteriorated, and his spiritual sense of direction had faded, so he needed God to pursue him and give him a “discerning mind” (v. 169 nlt).

When we wander away from God’s care, He loves us enough to seek us and lead us back to Himself. As He helps us understand the Scriptures and follow “all [His] commands” (v. 172), we can avoid getting spiritually lost.

Reflect & Pray

In what ways have you drifted away from God and His wisdom? In what ways will you remember His instruction today?  

Gracious God, I recognize that I’m often like a lost sheep—easily distracted and led astray. Please bring me back to Your side.

For further study, read Learning the Rhythms of Freedom.

Today’s Insights

The Bible is God’s gift to enable us to live a life that honors Him (Deuteronomy 4:1-8; 2 Timothy 3:14-17). Psalm 119 is the psalmist’s unwavering commitment to live out its truths. The psalm begins with a declaration that “those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart” are blessed (v. 2). Throughout the psalm, the psalmist spells out these blessings. Its 176 verses (arranged in 22 stanzas of 8 verses each) affirm the authority, supremacy, sufficiency, and transformative power of the words of Scripture. They provide assurance, hope, peace, joy, and delight (vv. 14, 16, 24, 97, 103, 111, 114, 165). Scripture provides wisdom and guidance to navigate life’s challenges (vv. 32, 98-100, 105) and comforts us in times of trouble (vv. 28, 50, 52, 92). It empowers us to live a life that honors God, keeping us from sin and correcting us when we go astray (vv. 9-11, 29, 133). Our loving God uses the Scriptures to draw us to Himself.

http://www.odb.org

If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. 1 John 1:6

Today’s Scripture

1 John 1:5-10

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

When my two nieces were younger, they’d coax me into a game after dinner. They’d turn off all the lights in the house, and we’d shuffle through the darkness, clutching each other and laughing. They enjoyed scaring themselves by choosing to walk in the dark, knowing they could turn on the light anytime.

In his letter to the early believers in Jesus, the apostle John talked about choosing to walk in a different kind of darkness. First John 1:6 refers to sin as “darkness.” Walking in darkness isn’t a momentary lapse but a choice to keep engaging in wrongdoing. John reminds us that our holy God “is light” and “in him there is no darkness” (v. 5). So when we claim a relationship with Him yet willfully continue sinning, “we lie and do not live out the truth” (v. 6). Jesus, the light of the world, came so that “whoever follows [Him] will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).

By God’s grace, after we’ve wandered in spiritual darkness and we turn to Him in repentance, we can walk in His light again—in His ways and purposes. He will “forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Only when we live in obedience to God can we enjoy the full blessing of relationship with Him and with other believers (v. 7).

Reflect & Pray

When have you chosen to “walk in the darkness”? How did this choice impact your relationship with God and with other believers?

Thank You, God, for Your forgiveness and help. Please enable me to walk in Your light.

For further study, watch The Scenery of Forgiveness.

Today’s Insights

The prologue to the letter of 1 John (1:1-4) echoes the introduction to the gospel he’d written earlier (John 1:1-18). In the gospel of John, the apostle says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (1:1). The letter of 1 John begins, “That which was from the beginning . . .” (1:1). John’s gospel says of Jesus, “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind” (1:4). His letter says, “The life [Jesus] appeared” (1:2). The parallels continue as the gospel of John calls Christ “the true light” (1:9) and 1 John says, “God is light” (1:5). John then encourages us to “walk in the light, as he is in the light” (v. 7). Bringing our sin to the light of confession brings us forgiveness through the blood of Jesus (vv. 7, 9).

http://www.odb.org

Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. Ecclesiastes 4:9 nlt

Today’s Scripture

Ecclesiastes 4:8-10

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

Climbing Jamaica’s Dunn’s River Falls is an exhilarating experience. Water cascades over the smooth rocks of the falls on its way to the Caribbean. It’s a challenge as climbers battle the water’s flow to make their way to the top. For a teenager named JW, it’s a near impossibility. He’s sight-impaired, with only a pinhole view of the world.

But JW was determined to climb, and his friend Josiah was willing to team up with him. Josiah was JW’s eyes—telling him which slippery rocks to avoid and where to put his hands and feet. And JW was Josiah’s heart—showing him what courage looks like.

So much of life is like that daunting climb: We shouldn’t walk alone. King Solomon points us to that truth. “Two people are better than one, for they can help each other succeed” (Ecclesiastes 4:9 nlt). Both Josiah and JW were attempting something special—and they could do it only in tandem. The passage continues: “If either [person] falls down, one can help the other up” (v. 10). But neither fell and neither failed. Together, they reached their goals.

God’s design for people, presented clearly by Solomon and demonstrated vividly by these two teenagers, is that we work together. The tasks God calls us to do are best done with others—each using what skills and emotions God has given to bring an outcome that points to Him.

Reflect & Pray

Why is it important to serve with others? How does it feel when you team up to point people to God?

Dear God, please help me team up with You and others to accomplish Your mission on earth.

For further study, read The Absurdity of Chasing Dreams.

Today’s Insights

The book of Ecclesiastes—written from the perspective of “under the sun” (1:14) or the human experience on earth—seems to be one long lament. What’s it all about? Does anything ultimately matter? Why even try? That forlorn theme continues here, as the writer (called “the Teacher” in 1:1) observes “a man all alone” (4:8). Eventually this solitary figure asks himself, “For whom am I toiling?” The Teacher observes, “This too is meaningless—a miserable business!” (v. 8). Yet Ecclesiastes also recognizes that there is a life worth living. The wise man declares, “Two are better than one” (v. 9) and points to a specific reason why doing life together is preferred: “If either of them falls down, one can help the other up” (v. 10). God lovingly equips us to help each other and in turn to accept help. Our necessary interdependence reminds us of our complete reliance on God and His goodness.

Examine the original Hebrew meaning of key words in Ecclesiastes 1.

http://www.odb.org

You have taken from me friend and neighbor—darkness is my closest friend. Psalm 88:18

Today’s Scripture

Psalm 88:1, 6-18

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

Charles had sunk into depression. Despite having a loving family, he felt all alone. “The overwhelming pressure of supporting them was continuing to build,” he said, “and I felt like taking my own life.” Surprisingly—or perhaps not—Charles Morris also led a Christian ministry.

A wise friend told him that when faced with depression, “We should soak in the Psalms.” Charles got through his deep despondency by reading relatable Bible passages, accepting prudent medical care, and pouring his heart out to God.

The Psalms are often brutally honest. Heman the Ezrahite wrote one of the most bitter. Hope is found only in the opening lines: “Lord, you are the God who saves me” (88:1). Heman seems to accuse God: “You have put me in the lowest pit” (v. 6). “You have overwhelmed me” (v. 7). And he had questions: “Why, Lord, do you reject me and hide your face from me?” (v. 14). Most psalms end with a message of hope. Not this one. Heman concludes, “Darkness is my closest friend” (v. 18). This is the prayer of a truly desperate man. Yet Heman directed all his pain to God.

When we read psalms such as this one, we realize we’re not alone. Others have experienced desperate feelings and have dared to put voice to them. God could take such honesty from Heman. He can take it from you too. He’s there, and He’s listening.

Reflect & Pray

What part of Psalm 88 do you most relate to? What will you ask God today?

Heavenly Father, sometimes I hurt too much even to pray. Thank You that You’re big enough to take all my pain and honesty.

Learn how to take wisdom from the book of Psalms.

Today’s Insights

Psalm 88 is an unusual song of lament. Lament psalms typically include a call for God’s help, a specific complaint or reason for lamenting, and an expression of trust in God. Some also offer thanksgiving after He responds. (Psalm 44 is a lament psalm that contains all these elements.) Psalm 88 includes the call for God’s aid (vv. 1-2) and reasons for lament (vv. 3-9, 15-18) but omits any expressions of trust in God. Instead, the psalmist asks accusatory questions (vv. 10-12, 14) and describes being completely alone and in excruciating pain (v. 18). That this psalm is part of inspired Scripture demonstrates that God welcomes complete honesty before Him when we’re struggling. In our pain, we can be assured that He’s there and He’s listening.

http://www.odb.org

I have seen a grievous evil under the sun: wealth hoarded to the harm of its owners. Ecclesiastes 5:13

Today’s Scripture

Ecclesiastes 5:13-20

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

In the classic film Citizen Kane, Charles Foster Kane amasses wealth and power by building a newspaper empire. In a story reminiscent of Ecclesiastes 2:4-11, Kane spares himself no pleasure, building a castle with grand gardens full of artistic treasures.

Like other tycoons, what Kane really wants is adulation. He bankrolls his own political career and, when it fails, he blames the defeat on voter “fraud” to save face. He builds his wife an opera house and forces her into an ill-suited singing career to make him look good. Here too Kane’s story echoes Ecclesiastes, where wealth is found to harm those who chase and hoard it (5:10-15), leaving them eating “in darkness, with great frustration” (5:17). By the end of his life, Charlie Kane lives in that castle alone, isolated and angry.

Citizen Kane ends with the revelation that Charlie’s pursuits have been driven to fill a void in his heart—the parental love he lost as a child. I can imagine the author of Ecclesiastes agreeing. Our Father God has “set eternity in the human heart” (3:11), and life can only be enjoyed with Him (2:25). Charlie Kane’s cautionary tale speaks to us all: Don’t seek spiritual fulfilment through wealth and power, but through the one who pours His love into our hearts (Romans 5:5).

Reflect & Pray

How do you see yourself imitating Charlie Kane? What spiritual need does God need to meet in you today?

Loving God, please forgive my attempts to feel important through buying things or seeking praise. My spiritual need can only be met by You!

For further study read, Translucent Fruit: The Cost of Wealth.

Today’s Insights

In Ecclesiastes, Solomon seeks to answer the perplexing question of the meaning of life. He shows that life without God is futile, unfulfilling, miserable, and meaningless “under the sun” (see 1:3, 13-14; 12:8). Then he explains how and why God must fit into our lives (2:24-26; 3:11-14; 5:7, 18-20). He examines human accomplishments, pleasures, and intellectual pursuits (chs. 1-2); the repetitive mundane existential/experiential life (ch. 3); and social interactions and community (ch. 4). Though accumulating wealth through hard work in itself isn’t wrong, pursuing materialism for its own sake brings disillusionment and despair (chs. 5-6). But the person who reverently worships and fears God (5:1-7) will see and enjoy the fruit of his labor as a gift from God (vv. 18-20). Solomon offers us this recipe for a fulfilled life: “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind” (12:13).

See how the wisdom of Ecclesiastes matches the teaching of Jesus.

http://www.odb.org

I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Ephesians 4:1

Today’s Scripture

Ephesians 4:1-6, 11-16

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

In 1997, Iowa State University named its football stadium after the school’s first black athlete: Jack Trice. Tragically, Trice had never even played in Ames, Iowa—he died from internal injuries sustained during a play in his second college game, played in Minneapolis, Minnesota on October 6, 1923.

Trice wrote a note to himself the night before the game, bearing witness to his determination:

“The honor of my race, family, and self are at stake. Everyone is expecting me to do big things. I will! My whole body and soul are to be thrown recklessly about on the field tomorrow. Every time the ball is snapped, I will be trying to do more than my part.” Trice profoundly understood that what he did flowed from the honor and dignity of who he was, infusing his character with courage.

The apostle Paul says something similar in his letter to the Ephesians, challenging believers to let who they were in Christ influence every decision: “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Ephesians 4:1). Paul challenges us to embrace a way of living shaped by Jesus’ work for us, in us, and through us, which yields humility, gentleness, patience, unity, love, and peace (vv. 2-3) as we use our God-given gifts to serve one another (vv. 15-16).

Reflect & Pray

What’s the connection between our beliefs and actions? What gifts has God given you to serve others?

Dear Father, thank You for inviting me into a life filled with meaning and significance. Please help me to love and serve others with the gifts You’ve given.

Today’s Insights

God’s love poured out through the creation of a new community made up of believing Jews and gentiles—something Paul calls “the mystery of Christ” (Ephesians 3:4)—is the foundation for the apostle’s encouragement to “live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (4:1). Jews and gentiles—two groups long estranged from each other—were called to devote themselves to cultivating the unity created through Christ’s Spirit (v. 3). They needed to serve one another “with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love” (v. 2 esv). Today, we’re also called to love and serve others with the gifts we’ve been given.

http://www.odb.org

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

oday’s Scripture

1 Corinthians 12:21-26

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

When I injured my ring finger, I expected months of pain before regaining its full function. As I practiced the prescribed exercises, the finger next to it began to throb, so I consulted my doctor. “Sympathy pain,” he said. A branching between the nerves of the ring and pinky fingers causes dependence on one another. If one finger hurts, the other aches in sympathy.

The apostle Paul uses the human body to illustrate the uniqueness and unity of God’s people. In 1 Corinthians 12:21-26, he reinforces how valuable each individual member is to the healthy functioning of the whole. Then he turns his attention to the unity achieved when we connect with each other: “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it” (v. 26). His description of the church’s interconnectedness is echoed in these verses, as we ought to “mourn with those who mourn,” and “carry each other’s burdens” (Romans 12:15; Galatians 6:2).

Today, as I extend my hand to greet someone or grab a spoon to prepare a meal for guests, I notice the strain in both my ring finger and my pinky. The various parts of our physical bodies work together to express pain and to strengthen each other toward health. I thank God that He reveals our need for connection to each other in His spiritual body, the church, through sympathy pain.

Reflect & Pray

How is God inviting you to suffer with another in order to strengthen you both? How have others suffered with you?

Dear God, please help me be open to Your invitation to suffer with my brothers and sisters that we might all be strengthened.

Discover how to best help people through their pain.

Today’s Insights

Of the many metaphors Paul uses to describe the church’s identity and mission (for example, temple, fellow citizens, God’s family), “the body” is probably his favorite, using it often to promote the oneness, unity, and solidarity of all believers in Jesus under the headship of Christ (see Ephesians 5:23).

He uses the body metaphor in 1 Corinthians 12:12: “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” He highlights the church’s unity in diversity and instructs believers to prioritize their mutual concern for each other’s well-being, saying that everyone “should have equal concern for each other” (v. 25). Elsewhere, he instructs believers to “be devoted to one another in love” (Romans 12:10) and to step up to serve each other in practical ways (vv. 3-13). Particularly, he tells believers to “be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep” (v. 15 nlt).

http://www.odb.org

In humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:3-4

Today’s Scripture

Philippians 2:1-11

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

At electric vehicle charging stations across the United States, some drivers overstay their time at “fast-chargers,” which are designed to help drivers quickly charge their cars and get back on the road. To resolve this unkind behavior, one of the largest charging networks has implemented strict time limits at some of its busiest stations. When a vehicle’s battery charge reaches eighty-five percent, the driver must make room for the next car in need of a charge.

The apostle Paul encouraged believers in Jesus to humbly “value others above [themselves]” (Philippians 2:3). He addressed an issue that was grating the Philippian church—self-centeredness. The people desired recognition and distinction, not from pure motives but from “selfish ambition” (v. 3). Paul urged the believers to have the mind of Christ and to look “to the interests of the others” (v. 4). This didn’t mean that they should forget their own needs in an unhealthy way, but that they would care for others’ needs as those who “have the same mindset as Christ Jesus” (v. 5). The apostle encouraged the Philippians to empty themselves of pride and to humbly make room for others. The ultimate motivation for making room? Love.

As we seek to imitate Christ’s example each day (vv. 6-11), He can help us make room for others by viewing them with His loving eyes.

Reflect & Pray

How can you place others’ needs above your own? What does it mean to see others through God’s eyes?

Dear God, please help me empty myself and make room for others.

For further study, read Loving Your Neighbor through Prayer.

Today’s Insights

Paul’s teaching in Philippians 2:1-11 describes the core values that believers in Jesus are to exhibit. Christ exemplified these principles by becoming a man, living as a servant, and surrendering to death by crucifixion (vv. 7-8). Jesus’ example and teaching in John 13 amplify the need for believers to serve others. Hours before His crucifixion, John describes Christ having “a towel around his waist” (v. 4). Jesus ignored His status as their leader and washed the dusty feet of all present: “After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him” (v. 5). His actions were complemented with these words: “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet” (v. 14). Christ calls us to imitate His example of love and humility and serve others.

http://www.odb.org

We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. 2 Corinthians 5:20

Today’s Scripture

2 Corinthians 5:9-10, 14-20

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

On the first day of a camp where Alan teaches teens entrepreneurial skills, a student said, “You’re a Christian, aren’t you? I can tell.” Before Alan said he was a Christian or wore his favorite socks and ties decorated with Christian symbols, the teen said he saw Jesus through Alan’s words, actions, and attitude. They discussed how they could better represent Jesus wherever they go.

Saying we’re Christian and wearing clothes with Christian messages are good things. However, the Bible teaches that the way we live and love as we share the gospel is the true identifier of those who follow Jesus. The apostle Paul and the other believers in Corinth were compelled, or driven, to please God by living with an eternal perspective while sharing Him with others (2 Corinthians 5:9-14).

When we’re committed to living for Christ instead of for ourselves, the Holy Spirit changes our perspective, character, priorities, and ways of interacting with others (vv. 15-17). Our new life in Jesus is intended to represent Him while we point others to Him, “as though God were making his appeal through us” (v. 20).

Empowered by the Spirit, we’re given the joy and responsibility of representing Christ wherever we go.

Reflect & Pray

How have others pointed you to Jesus by the way they lived? How has God’s transforming work in your life helped you become a better ambassador for Christ?

Life-transforming Jesus, please change me by Your Spirit so that I can better represent You wherever You send me.

For further study, read Paul’s Pain and His Passion.

Today’s Insights

Paul says that the goal for believers in Jesus should be “to please him” (2 Corinthians 5:9). As we share the gospel with others, how we live and love identifies true believers. The pattern Christ established with the twelve disciples is also valid for today. Before witnessing for Him through their words and actions, they looked, listened, and learned from Him. Of two of the twelve it was said, “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13). Those who represent Christ best are those who’ve been drawn to Him, forgiven by Him, and empowered by the Spirit to bear witness to His love and grace.

http://www.odb.org

Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still. Proverbs 9:9

Today’s Scripture

Proverbs 9:1-6, 13-18

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

After Kat learned she was pregnant, she dropped out of high school to care for her daughter. Fifteen years later, Kat was a working mother of three who dreamed of becoming a licensed beautician. With humility and tenacity, she became a student again in a free GED support program. It was humbling to go back to school after so long. “This program changed my life!” Kat said. “My teacher was amazing and offered so much encouragement.”

Remaining teachable may be one of the most difficult things we can do. The Bible speaks of having a teachable heart that’s open to God’s wisdom. The poetry of Proverbs paints a picture of two women calling out to passersby—Wisdom and Folly (Proverbs 9:1-6; 13-18). Those who listen to Wisdom receive correction with grace. They “add to their learning” and become even wiser (v. 9). They habitually “walk in the way of insight” (v. 6) and seat themselves at Wisdom’s table for instruction. Their obedience leads to a full life (v. 11). In contrast, those who listen to Folly hate being corrected or criticized. They insult anyone who tries to instruct them (vv. 7-8). Humility comes from fearing God—acknowledging that He’s “the Holy One” and we are not (v. 10). It’s not easy to stay teachable, but it also brings freedom to admit we don’t know it all and we still need help. Wisdom calls to us. How will we respond?

Reflect & Pray

What’s your default reaction to criticism? How could a humble response lead to growth and victory?

Receiving instruction doesn’t always come naturally to me, wise Father, but I trust Your ways.

For further study, read An Invitation to Wisdom.

Today’s Insights

“I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses,” Moses told Israel shortly before his death. Then he exhorted them: “Choose life . . . . love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him” (Deuteronomy 30:19-20). Proverbs reinforces this prudent counsel to forsake deadly ways and choose life. Chapter 9 is the last of three chapters that contrast folly and wisdom by personifying these concepts as female characters. In chapter 7, a father urges his son, “Say to wisdom, ‘You are my sister’ ” (v. 4) but warns against the adulterous woman: “Do not let your heart turn to her ways” (v. 25). Chapters 7, 8, and 9 all conclude with warnings about the deadly end awaiting those who neglect wisdom (7:26-27; 8:35-36; 9:18). Instead, “Leave your simple ways and you will live” (9:6). By cultivating a teachable heart, fools grow wiser and draw closer to God.

http://www.odb.org

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light. Isaiah 9:2

Today’s Scripture

Isaiah 9:2-7

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

The tugboat sank twenty miles off the coast of Nigeria, turning upside down as it fell to the sea floor. Eleven crew members drowned, but the ship’s cook, Harrison Odjegba Okene, found an air pocket and waited. He only had one bottle of Coke for provisions, and both of his flashlights died within the first twenty-four hours. For three terrifying days, Okene was trapped alone in darkness at the bottom of the ocean. He’d begun to give up hope when divers on a mission to recover dead bodies found him hunkered and shivering deep in the hull.

The image of Okene alone in the dark for sixty hours is unnerving. He told reporters he still suffers nightmares from the horrifying ordeal. But can you imagine what he felt when he saw the diver’s powerful lamp piercing the darkness? What joy and elation, what hope. The prophet Isaiah foretold how, when the Messiah came, all “the people walking in darkness” would see “a great light” (9:2). Left to our own devices, we live “in the land of deep darkness,” but in Jesus, “a light has dawned” (v. 2).

Christ is “the light of the world,” and in Him we need never again fear the darkness for we “have the light of life” (John 8:12). We may feel trapped or hopeless, alone or in despair, but God illuminates good news. Jesus carries us out of the dark and into His marvelous light.

Reflect & Pray

What darkness are you facing? How do you need Jesus to be your light and bring you out of it?

Dear God, I need Your light in my life. Please bring me out of my dark place.

For further study, read Deceived by Disappointment.

Today’s Insights

Oppressed by an Aram-Israel alliance, King Ahaz of Judah turned to Assyria for help (2 Kings 16:7-9; Isaiah 7:1-6). God told Ahaz He’d use Assyria to defeat Israel and Aram (Isaiah 7:7-9; 8:4-7), and because of Ahaz’s unfaithfulness, Judah too would be punished (7:13-25; 8:8). The punishment would be so severe the Israelites would “be thrust into utter darkness” (8:22). But God promised deliverance and restoration, starting with Zebulun and Naphtali (9:1), lands in Israel’s far north that had been ravaged by the Assyrians. Isaiah prophesied that with the birth of the Messiah, “the people walking in darkness [would see] a great light” (v. 2).

Seven hundred years later, Jesus fulfilled this prophecy as He began His ministry in that region (Matthew 4:12-17). Christ, that “great light,” calls us to follow Him: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).

http://www.odb.org

It is by grace you have been saved, through faith. Ephesians 2:8

Today’s Scripture

Ephesians 2:1-10

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

A French sailor, along with his cat, was sailing from Dutch Harbor—located on an island south of Alaska—to San Diego, California, when his yacht was capsized by a huge wave. The vessel righted itself, but the mariner lost his rudder and rigging to the violent swells. He reported his dire situation to the Coast Guard, saying he was stranded, had no control, and his boat was “pretty much dead in the water.” Eventually the Coast Guard contacted an oil drilling ship nearby, and they came to the sailor’s rescue. However, he still had to make a literal leap of faith—with his cat tucked under his jacket—from his boat to the rescue vessel.

In Ephesians 2, Paul described the sinful and hopeless condition of humanity—dead in the water spiritually and separated from God (v. 1). Moreover, we were disobedient to all that He desires (v. 2) and depraved—unable to do anything to merit salvation (v. 3). But “by grace,” Jesus made it possible for us to be “saved, through faith,” and this salvation is a “gift of God” (v. 8).

We were all stranded in the raging seas of sin and death, but praise God that we have a Savior who made it possible for us to leap into His saving arms by faith. Christ alone can rescue us and carry us to safety.

Reflect & Pray

What is the means of the rescue Jesus has made possible? How are faith in Him and the salvation He’s made possible linked?

Dear Jesus, Your mercy and grace led me to—by faith—leap into Your saving arms.

For further study, read What’s Wrong with the Sinner’s Prayer.

Today’s Insights

Our need of Christ’s rescue is undeniable, given Paul’s clear teaching in Ephesians 2. Apart from Jesus we “were dead” (v. 1), and the dead can do absolutely nothing on their own behalf. How grateful we should be that God, out “of his great love for us” and His rich mercy (v. 4) has given us life through Christ’s death and resurrection on our behalf. In addition to giving us life, He’s given us a place “in the heavenly realms” (v. 6). All this was done to express God’s “kindness to us” (v. 7). Apart from Jesus (vv. 8-9), we’d be both lost and helpless, but He came and took our place. He’s rescued and brought to safety those who’ve believed in Him!

http://www.odb.org

Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” The dead man came out. John 11:43-44

Today’s Scripture

John 11:38-44

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

Football fans were stunned when Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills collapsed on the field on live television after executing a seemingly routine tackle in January 2023. The twenty-four-year-old was in sudden cardiac arrest. His heart stopped beating but was restored by medical professionals while on the field. Amazingly, three months after dying and being resuscitated on the field, Hamlin was cleared to play football again.

Hamlin has stated that he’s grateful to God and the medical staff for saving his life. He plans to continue being an inspiration to others. In John chapter 11, Lazarus also had a remarkable recovery.

By the time Jesus had arrived in Bethany, Lazarus had been dead for four days. His distraught sisters, Mary and Martha, witnessed Jesus’ power over death and that He is “the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25). “Jesus called in a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out!’ The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face” (vv. 43-44).

We’re also examples of Christ’s resurrection power. We were once dead in our sins, but we’re now alive in Christ (Romans 6:1-11). As believers, the same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead lives inside of us (8:10-11). Be encouraged. While we’ll all die a physical death, that’s not the end of our story. We’re promised eternal life with Jesus.

Thank you for being a faithful reader of Our Daily Bread devotions. If you would like to help others connect with God’s Word all across the globe, please consider partnering with us

Dear God, thank You for Your resurrection power.

Today’s Insights

In John 11:1-2, Lazarus, the brother of Martha and Mary, is sick. Yet, instead of rushing to Bethany and the home of this beloved family, Jesus “stayed where he was two more days” (v. 6). The gospel tells us He waited because He would “be glorified through it” (v. 4). God is glorified when we acknowledge His sovereignty and power and trust in Him. In our passage today, Christ tells Martha, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” (11:40). Jesus was telling her to trust and believe in Him. Soon she’d see God’s supernatural, transcendent power (His glory) displayed. Martha, Mary, the disciples, and all those gathered at the graveside witnessed the miraculous resurrection of a man dead for four days (vv. 41-44)! We too are recipients of God’s miraculous power. He gives eternal life to all who turn from their sins and follow Him.

http://www.odb.org

Through the obedience of the one man [Jesus Christ] the many will be made righteous. Romans 5:19

Today’s Scripture

Genesis 2:8-9; 3:1-6

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

Coniston Water in England’s beautiful Lake District is a favorite vacation spot for families in the UK. The waters are perfect for boating, swimming, and other water sports. That beautiful setting, however, was also the site of great tragedy. In 1967, Donald Campbell was piloting his hydroplane Bluebird K7, seeking to break the world water speed record. He reached a top speed of 328 mph (528 km/h) but didn’t live to celebrate the achievement as Bluebird crashed, killing Campbell.

Tragic moments can happen in beautiful places. In Genesis 2, the Creator “took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and take care of it” (v. 15). The garden was a masterpiece, yet when placed in this paradise, the man and woman disobeyed God, bringing sin and death into His creation (3:6-7). Today, we continue to see the destructive effects of their tragic choice.

But Jesus came to offer life to us—people who were dead in our sins. The apostle Paul, referring to that, wrote, “Just as through the disobedience of the one man [Adam] the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man [Jesus Christ] the many will be made righteous” (Romans 5:19). Because of Jesus, the most beautiful home of all awaits us.

Out of beauty came tragedy. And by God’s grace, out of tragedy came eternal beauty.

Reflect & Pray

When have you seen God bring beauty out of tragedy? How did you respond to that event?

Heavenly Father, thank You for the eternal beauty You alone provide.

For further study, read A Season of Suffering: Meeting Jesus in Our Pain.

Today’s Insights

The garden of Eden was handcrafted by the Creator as a home for the man and woman (Genesis 2-3). The garden had everything they’d need, including unfettered access to God Himself. Yet, through disobedience, they were driven from that home (3:24). Jesus, however, promised a better home to His followers (John 14:1-4), described by John in Revelation this way: “I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God’ ” (21:3). As with Eden, the greatest thing about that home won’t be its beauty or provision but God’s presence, for “God himself will be with [his people]” (v. 3).

http://www.odb.org

The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. Psalm 118:6

Today’s Scripture

Psalm 118:5-14

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

One of my daughter’s most vivid childhood memories is the day her dad taught her to ride a bike without training wheels. At one point in their outing, my husband balanced his feet on the hubs of her rear wheel (while she kept hers on the pedals and they shared the handlebars) so they could coast down a small, gently sloping section together. She remembers her dad laughing with joy—a sharp contrast to her own fearful experience of the moment. The ride was so short that the entire episode happened too quickly for him to stop and empathize with her. As they reminisce about the incident today, my husband’s gentle response to her recollection is to reassure her that he knew everything would be okay.

Their story is an apt metaphor for the moments when we too experience fear in life. The “hills” might look big and scary from our vantage point, and the risk of being hurt can seem very real. Yet Scripture assures us that because “the Lord is with [us],” we don’t need to “be afraid” (Psalm 118:6). Though human help may fail us, He’s a trustworthy refuge when we feel overwhelmed by our struggles (vv. 8-9).

God is our “helper” (v. 7), which means we can trust Him to care for us during life’s most trying and fearful moments. Despite any falls, scars, and pain we might endure, His saving presence is our “strength” and “defense” (v. 14).

Reflect & Pray

When have you been aware of God’s presence in the midst of difficulty? How has He helped you?

Thank You, Father, for being present in my life. Please help me to recognize Your nearness.

Find out more about God’s Comforting Presence.

Today’s Insights

Psalm 118 begins and ends by encouraging the entire faith community to “give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever” (vv. 1, 29). In between those bookends of communal praise, we hear a personal account of how the psalmist has experienced God’s goodness: “When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord; he brought me into a spacious place” (v. 5); “I was pushed back and about to fall, but the Lord helped me” (v. 13). The psalmist’s personal testimony and experience that God’s empowering, protecting presence (vv. 6-7) led to overcoming seemingly impossible odds (vv. 10-11), leads to joyful, exuberant celebration (v. 15). The psalmist’s remarkable experience of God’s deliverance even from the brink of death (vv. 17-18) invites all to live in gratitude to a God they can trust in all circumstances.

http://www.odb.org

I served the Lord with great humility and with tears and in the midst of severe testing. Acts 20:19

Today’s Scripture

Acts 20:17-24

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

Adolfo Kaminsky knew how to remove indelible ink from paper. As a member of the anti-Nazi resistance in France, he altered identification cards to save hundreds from concentration camps. Once he was given three days to forge nine hundred birth and baptismal certificates and ration cards for three hundred Jewish children. He labored two straight days without sleep, telling himself, “In one hour I can make thirty blank documents. If I sleep for an hour thirty people will die.”

The apostle Paul felt a similar urgency. He reminded the church in Ephesus how he’d “served the Lord with great humility and with tears and in the midst of severe testing” (Acts 20:19). Paul said, “I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you” (v. 20). This urgency compelled him to share with everyone the necessity of repentance and faith in Jesus (v. 21). Now he was sailing back to Jerusalem, eager to “finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus [had] given [him]—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace” (v. 24).

Paul couldn’t save people. Only God does that. But he could tell them God’s good news about Jesus, the only “name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

Who is the Holy Spirit bringing to your mind today? You can share God’s good news with them.

Reflect & Pray

Who do you know who needs to hear “the good news of God’s grace”? How might you share it with them?

Dear Jesus, please open my heart to those who need You and give me opportunities to tell them of Your love.

For further study, read The Power of Prayer in Sharing the Gospel.

Today’s Insights

In Acts 20:22-24, Paul was compelled by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem. No matter what happened to him there, his aim was to complete “the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace” (v. 24). This urgency likewise motivated him to urge Timothy to “preach the word” (2 Timothy 4:2). Peter too felt the same urgency. Immediately after being filled by the Spirit (Acts 2:4), he began preaching the good news to the gathered crowd (vv. 14-40). The Spirit is the one who empowers and motivates believers in Jesus to spread the good news (1:8; 4:31; 8:29). And He’s the one who gives us the words to speak (Matthew 10:19-20). The Spirit continues to motivate and compel believers today to tell others about Christ. We can trust Him to provide the words to tell of the Savior who died and rose again so that all who receive Him can spend eternity with Him.

http://www.odb.org

Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? John 14:9

Today’s Scripture

John 14:8-14

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

Richard Griffin was Queen Elizabeth II’s personal police officer for fourteen years. Accompanying her on a picnic in the hills near Balmoral Castle one day, they met two American hikers. “Have you ever met the Queen?” they asked, not recognizing the monarch in plain dress. “I haven’t,” the Queen quipped, “but Richard here meets her regularly!” Thrilled to meet someone close to royalty, the hikers then handed the Queen their camera, posed with Richard, and asked her to take a photo!

It isn’t the first time someone has been in the presence of an important person unawares. “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it,” Jacob said after encountering God in a dream at Bethel (Genesis 28:16). And when Philip asked Jesus to show the disciples the Father, Jesus replied, “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). Like the hikers, the disciples had been ready to hand Jesus the camera, not recognizing He was the one to zoom in on (vv. 10-11).

Like the Queen that day, Jesus hasn’t always been recognized for who He really is. Beyond a “wise teacher” or “great moral leader,” He’s God in the flesh and King of the world (1:14; 18:36). What a revelation it is when we discover it!

Reflect & Pray

What would you say to Jesus if you met Him on a picnic trip? Who do you understand Him to be?

Dear Jesus, I praise You today for being the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, and far more than I can ever grasp.

Learn more about the divinity and humanity of Jesus.

Today’s Insights

Lack of spiritual sight wasn’t limited to those closest to Jesus. The beginning of John’s gospel says this about people not being able to see Christ for who He is: “He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him” (1:10-11).

Yet Jesus had expectations for those who were closest to Him—those who’d heard His words, who’d seen and experienced His works. He rebuked His disciple for not recognizing Him: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time?” (14:9). When we honestly and prayerfully evaluate the words and works of Christ as seen in the Gospels, the Spirit can open our eyes and hearts regarding His identity as God’s Son and the King of Kings, and we’ll be welcomed into the family of God (1:12-13).

http://www.odb.org

Whoever . . . confesses and renounces [their sins] finds mercy. Proverbs 28:13

Today’s Scripture

Proverbs 28:13-14

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

When a patch of irritated skin formed near my left eye, I used makeup to cover it. Temporarily this kept my problem a secret. After a while, though, the swollen red spot didn’t clear up, and I knew it needed medical attention. On the morning of the doctor’s appointment, I was tempted to apply makeup as usual, but I didn’t. I wanted the doctor to see the problem clearly and treat it so it could heal.

Have you ever tried to hide a sin problem? Maybe you’re aware that some action or thought is controlling you, but you’ve avoided praying about it or mentioning it to friends and family. Maybe you think it’s no big deal because many other people are dealing with similar issues. But it’s impossible to thrive spiritually when sin is secretly fouling up our lives. As Proverbs 28:13 says, “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper.” Thankfully the verse continues, “but the one who confesses and renounces [sin] finds mercy” (v. 13).

It can be hard to adopt God’s view of our actions and admit that certain practices are wrong. However, His kindness eases the process of humbling ourselves. When we welcome the power of Christ’s Spirit into our struggle, we can reject the wrong that tempts us (Galatians 5:16-17, 22-24). As God guides us, change is possible, and our spiritual health is worth the effort!

Reflect & Pray

As you consider confessing sin, why is God’s everlasting love encouraging? How might the enemy deceive you in your struggle with sin?

Dear God, please help me yield the areas of sin in my life to You.

Today’s Insights

Proverbs 28:13-14 focuses on the importance of confession—the good that comes to those who acknowledge their sins. This essential message is consistent with the Bible’s teaching elsewhere in the Old and New Testaments. Psalm 32 shares several words with the Proverbs passage: blessed, cover [conceal], confess. “Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord does not count against them” (Psalm 32:1-2). “I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord’ ” (v. 5). First John 1:9 shares the encouraging sentiments of these Old Testament texts: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Hiding our sin is unhealthy, but humbly bringing it to light through confession and turning from it leads to life.

http://www.odb.org

Who has a claim against me that I must pay? Everything under heaven belongs to me. Job 41:11

Today’s Scripture

Job 41:1-5, 10-14

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

Years ago, a lumpy package arrived in my mailbox. I noticed my best friend’s return address on it and smiled. Joe sometimes sends me unexpected things. This package qualified: Inside was a dark brown shark’s tooth—five inches long.

Joe’s letter explained it was a fossilized tooth from a prehistoric shark, a megalodon, many times bigger than a great white shark. I tried to fathom how big a fish’s jaw would have to be to contain rows of such teeth. Scientists offer a speculative answer: nine by eleven feet. What a sight these creatures must have been!

Scripture doesn’t mention megalodons. But in the book of Job, God describes a sea beast called Leviathan. Job 41 details its impressive frame. “I will not fail to speak of Leviathan’s limbs, its strength and its graceful form,” God tells Job (v. 12). “Who dares open the doors of its mouth, ringed about with fearsome teeth?” (v. 14).

The answer? Only Leviathan’s creator. And here, God reminds Job that as great as this beast might be, it’s nothing compared to its Creator: “Everything under heaven belongs to me” (v. 11).

That meg tooth sits on my desk, a visual token of our Creator’s majesty and creativity. And that unlikely reminder of God’s character comforts me when it feels like the world might eat me up and spit me out.

Reflect & Pray

How do certain aspects of creation remind you of God’s powerful, creative nature? How does His work in creation encourage you?

Dear Father, Your creation speaks of Your splendor and power. Please help me trust You when life feels overwhelming.

Learn more about what we can learn from nature by reading What Leviathan Teaches Us About God.

Today’s Insights

Job 41 represents part of the lengthy discourse—which began in Job 40:6—between God and His struggling servant Job about His authority and power proven by the things He’s created. After many chapters of defending his innocence and righteousness, Job can’t maintain his own personal goodness when confronted by the greatness of God, and he responds to His speech with true brokenness and repentance (42:1-6). There can be no question that Job was a good man, but confronted by the God of the universe, Isaiah’s comparison is clear: “All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6). Creation reminds us of the greatness of God. It reveals our smallness before Him and our deep dependence on Him.

http://www.odb.org

The Spirit of the Lord came on him. Judges 3:10

Today’s Scripture

Judges 3:7-11

Listen to Today’s Devotional

Apple LinkSpotify Link

Today’s Devotional

Her husband’s death began a period of transition for Nora. She took over his hardware business and cared for their three children on her own. “Be strong,” friends often told her. But what does that mean? she’d think. That I must deliver without fail in my responsibilities?

God gave great responsibilities to Othniel in a time of transition for the people of Israel. As discipline for the nation’s idolatry, God had given them “into the hands of Cushan-Rishathaim . . . to whom the Israelites were subject for eight years” (Judges 3:8). Under the cruel king of Mesopotamia, the Israelites “cried out to the Lord,” and “he raised up for them a deliverer” (v. 9)—Othniel, whose name means “God’s strength.”

As the first judge of Israel, Othniel had no predecessor to help him. This military leader had to guide the Israelites back to living out their covenant relationship with God and defend them from their enemies. But because “the Spirit of the Lord came on him” (v. 10), he succeeded. With God’s strength sustaining Othniel’s leadership, “the land had peace for forty years, until [he] died” (v. 11).

How can we truly “be strong”? It’s by knowing we’re not strong and by trusting God to give us His strength. His “grace is sufficient for [us], for [His] power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). God’s strength works through us, doing things only He can do.

Reflect & Pray

How have you tried to “be strong”? How does Othniel’s story impact your understanding of strength?

Father God, please enable me to rely on Your strength.

Read this article to learn more about God’s Motivations.

Today’s Insights

Judges 2:10-19 describes a pattern throughout the book of Judges. When the people no longer “acknowledge[d] the Lord” or “remember[ed] the mighty things he had done for [them]” (v. 10 nlt), they descended into apostasy (abandoned their faith). So God would side with Israel’s enemies to defeat them (v. 15). Then He’d respond to the Israelites’ “groaning” (v. 18) by raising judges to save them. They were given safety while the judge was alive (v. 18), but once the judge died, the pattern would repeat itself (v. 19).

Judges 3:7-11 describes an example of this pattern. God’s anger led to the Israelites being under subjection for eight years (v. 8). When they cried out to God, He raised up Othniel to rescue them through the power of the Holy Spirit (vv. 9-10). As God gave strength to Othniel, we also can rely on His strength to do through us what He alone can do.

http://www.odb.org