Do not quench the Spirit. 1 Thessalonians 5:19

Today’s Scripture

1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

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They were three adrenaline-fueled teenage boys, unleashed in the immense underground system connecting to Mammoth Cave. With them was their Uncle Frank, a veteran caver familiar with these parts. He knew the drop-offs and danger spots and continually called to the three, “Guys, this way!” Still, they ventured ever farther from him.

Dimming his headlamp, Uncle Frank decided to remain silent. Soon, the boys realized they’d lost their guide. Panic-stricken, they yelled his name. No response. Finally, they saw his headlamp flicker to life in the distance. Instant relief and peace! Now they were ready to follow their guide.

This true story makes an apt parable for how we can treat the gift of the Holy Spirit. Detours lure us away from the voice that calls us to follow the one who said, “Follow me” (Matthew 16:24). That voice is the Holy Spirit, who dwells inside each child of God (Acts 2:38-39).

God’s Spirit will never abandon us, but we can ignore Him. The apostle Paul warns, “Do not quench the Spirit” (1 Thessalonians 5:19). Instead, “Rejoice always, pray continually,” and “give thanks in all circumstances” (vv. 16-18). By doing so, we stay close to our guide, “the God of peace,” who can keep us “blameless” (v. 23). It’s not our work that does it. It’s His. As Paul reminds us, “The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it” (v. 24).

Reflect & Pray

In what ways have you ignored the voice of the Holy Spirit? How might you follow Him more closely?

Father, please keep me close and attentive to You today.

Watch this video to learn how to Let the Spirit Lead You.

Today’s Insights

In this series of exhortations, Paul first urges us to “rejoice always” (1 Thessalonians 5:16). How are we to rejoice when our situation is dire? Paul wasn’t naive; he faced constant difficulties with more challenges than most of us will ever experience. He knew that continual prayer was key (v. 17). This doesn’t mean that we pray literally every moment, but rather that we pray through all our circumstances, for the Spirit will never abandon us. Prayer becomes as natural as breathing. Connected closely to these vital concepts is gratitude (v. 18). When our hearts are inclined toward thankfulness, joy naturally follows. This pattern foreshadows a similar theme the apostle emphasizes in his letter to the Philippians, written several years later: “Rejoice in the Lord always. . . . In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:4-6). The inevitable result is the peace of God ruling in our hearts.

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Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” John 11:23

Today’s Scripture

John 11:1-7, 17-25

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Today’s Devotional

In 2011, Karey Packard and her daughter were packing boxes for a move to a new home. Suddenly, Karey collapsed, and her heart stopped. Doctors revived Karey, but her condition worsened through the night. Her husband, Craig, was told to call family to say final goodbyes. They prayed what Craig called “a prayer of desperation.”

How often have we prayed a prayer of desperation in a crisis? Mary and Martha did. They sent a desperate message to Jesus: their brother Lazarus, “the one you love,” was gravely ill (John 11:3). When Christ finally arrived, Lazarus had been dead for four days. Martha, in anguish, said to Jesus: “If you had been here, my brother would not have died” (v. 21). She knew Christ could heal sick people but could not imagine His power to overcome death. Jesus, of course, raised Lazarus, a foreshadowing of His own resurrection weeks later.

Karey had officially flatlined, yet miraculously God brought her back to life. In the stories of both Karey and Lazarus, it’s easy to miss the point: God has purposes that we don’t know. He neither heals everyone nor brings all dead people back to life. But He gives us a transcending assurance: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die” (v. 25). As believers, whatever happens, we know we’ll be with Jesus. Maybe that makes our desperate prayers a little less desperate.

Reflect & Pray

What desperate experiences have you had? How have you prayed through them?

Father God, please help me see the bigger picture of Your purposes.

It can be hard to know God’s plan when we go through hardships. Learn how to change your perspective by reading Why Does God Allow Painful Circumstances?

Today’s Insights

The idea of a future resurrection (see John 11:23) was an ancient Jewish belief. Job was confident that after his death he would “see God” (Job 19:26-27). The prophets proclaimed that people would rise from the dead when the Messiah came (see Isaiah 26:19; Daniel 12:2). Paul warned that “if there is no resurrection . . . , then not even Christ has been raised” and we “are still in [our] sins” (1 Corinthians 15:13, 17). Because Christ has “been raised from the dead” (v. 20), we can look beyond our desperate situation to the day when “the dead will be raised imperishable” (v. 52).

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Present yourself to God as one approved. 2 Timothy 2:15

Today’s Scripture

2 Timothy 2:14-16, 22-26

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In her early years as a Christian author, Gayle often received winsome gifts from her publisher. Bouquets of flowers, chocolates, boxes of herbal teas. All lovely. But over time, her publisher began to send gifts with lasting value. A one-year Bible, devotionals, and prayer journals. As she used them, Gayle became a more mature believer—less distracted by frilly gifts and more committed to using her life to lead others to Christ.

This approach recalls Timothy’s growth under the mentoring of the apostle Paul. Stressing spiritual maturity, Paul advised, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

Then Paul added, “Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly” (v. 16). He added, “Flee the evil desires of youth . . . . Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments. . . . And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful” (vv. 22-24).

Paul’s wise advice offers believers one other key benefit. Even opponents of Christ, when they see our mature choices in Him, may “come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil” (v. 26). So “growing up” in God has eternal outcomes beyond ourselves. Let’s not wait, therefore, to grow up in our faith. Others will benefit as well.

Reflect & Pray

Where is your faith immature? How can you “grow up” spiritually?

Wise God, please grow my spiritual maturity in You.

For further study, read Going the Distance—Spiritual Disciplines.

Today’s Insights

The name Timothy (which means “honoring God”) is the compound form of the Greek words timē (honor) and theos (God). From what’s recorded of Timothy in Scripture, he lived up to his name. He’s first mentioned in Act 16, where it’s noted that he was a disciple with a good reputation (v. 2). Paul recruited him as a member of his ministry team (vv. 3-5). Timothy’s path to belief in Jesus and maturity and usefulness began under the tutelage of his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice (2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15). Paul mentions Timothy in many of his letters, including these accolades in Philippians 2: “I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. . . . But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel” (vv. 20, 22). As we grow in our relationship with Christ, others will benefit.

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God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 1 John 5:11

Today’s Scripture

1 John 5:6-13

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Michael Sparks walked into a thrift store and bought a souvenir copy of the US Declaration of Independence for $2.48. Later, as he looked closely at his parchment copy, he felt there was something unusual about it. So he had it assessed by experts, who told him it was one of now thirty-six remaining copies of two hundred commissioned by John Quincy Adams in 1820. Sparks then sold his rare copy of the Declaration for $477,650!

While the acquisition of this treasure for such a small price is astounding, there’s a treasure that’s infinitely better. As a child, I found out about a priceless, matchless, and eternal treasure that didn’t cost me a cent. But I didn’t find it at a thrift store.

My parents revealed to me that a man named Jesus had purchased this gift by giving His life on the cross as a sacrifice for my sins. They then told me this gift was called salvation. It promised the treasure of an abundant “life . . . to the full” on earth (John 10:10) and an “eternal life . . . in [God’s] Son” with Jesus (1 John 5:11). I accepted that gift by faith.

It’s amazing to find an earthly treasure at low cost, but that can’t compare with the eternal treasure Christ offers at no cost. This treasure offered to each person is received as we “believe in the name of the Son of God”—Jesus (v. 13).

Reflect & Pray

What does it mean for you to trust Jesus as your Savior? How can you tell others about this great treasure?

Thank You, Jesus, for paying the price for my salvation. It’s a treasure I could never purchase on my own.

Learn more about having a personal relationship with God.

Today’s Insights

John says, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:13). This echoes the purpose of his gospel: “Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:30-31). Faith in Christ not only saves us from judgment but gives us abundant and eternal life. John uses the word life more than forty times in his gospel, most dramatically in the shepherd parable: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (10:10-11). Jesus gave up His life to make eternal life possible for us.

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Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. Psalm 63:3

Today’s Scripture

Psalm 63

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With the referee’s final gesture, wrestler Kennedy Blades became a 2024 Olympian. She pressed her palms together, lifted her hands and eyes to the heavens, and praised God. A reporter asked about her growth over the past three years. The elite athlete didn’t even mention her physical training. “I’ve just gotten super close to Jesus,” she said. Professing Christ as King, she proclaimed that He’s coming again and encouraged others to believe in Him. “It’s Him,” she said. “That’s the main reason why I was able to accomplish such a big thing.” In other interviews, she faithfully declared that Jesus is everything to her and the reason for everything good in her life.

This passion for living a God-centered life reflects David’s confessions in Psalm 63. Acknowledging his desperation for his creator, he said, “I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you” (v. 1). David had “seen” God and “beheld” His “power” and “glory” (v. 2). He declared God’s steadfast love as “better than life” (v. 3). Then, he prayed: “Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your right hand upholds me” (vv. 7-8). God was clearly everything to David.

Our lives can be beacons that point others to a life-saving relationship with God when Jesus becomes our reason, our everything.

Reflect & Pray

In what ways does your life reflect that Christ is your reason, your everything? What do you need to surrender to acknowledge that He’s your king?

Dear Jesus, please help me truly live like You’re my reason, my everything.

Feeling tired? Learn how to find rest in God.

Today’s Insights

The heading of Psalm 63 tells us that David wrote it “when he was in the Desert of Judah.” This indicates that he was either fleeing from Saul (1 Samuel 23:14; 24:1) or from his son Absalom (2 Samuel 15:13-37). It’s more likely that he was fleeing from Absalom because in Psalm 63:11, David addressed himself as “king,” and he wasn’t yet king when Saul pursued him. In the arid desert, David thirsted for God (v. 1), affirming that God is his sustenance (vv. 7-8). With his life threatened, he turned to God instead of his army to rescue and protect him (vv. 9-11). His experience with God’s power and love (vv. 2-3) enabled him to trust Him, praise Him, and rejoice in Him (vv. 4-5, 11). Like David, as we earnestly seek God (v. 1), gratefully celebrate His love (vv. 2-5), passionately remember His faithfulness (vv. 6-8), and triumphantly rejoice in Him (vv. 9-11), our lives can point others to Him.

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We . . . are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory. 2 Corinthians 3:18

Today’s Scripture

2 Corinthians 3:7-18

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Living in a coastal town, Valerie loved warm weather, wildlife photography, and being in the water. Above all, she loved watching the sunrise over the ocean. Every morning, she woke up before dawn to catch a view of the water. Val estimated that despite cloudy weather or travel, she still managed to see more than three hundred waterfront sunrises each year. She never tired of watching them. In her eyes, the sunrise held a glory she didn’t want to miss.

In Exodus 34, we read about Moses’ radiant face literally reflecting his glorious encounter with “the Lord” (vv. 29-35). Paul said that since Jesus came, there’s an even more glorious ministry than what Moses experienced (2 Corinthians 3:7-8). It’s the ministry of the Spirit, which brings righteousness (vv. 8-9). God’s plan of salvation has permanent glory, surpassing anything that came before (v. 10), and we get to participate in it. The apostle said, “We all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory” (v. 18). That ever-increasing glory is not dependent on how well we perform but on the Holy Spirit. We, like the clouds at sunrise, just reflect a little more and a little better each day the glorious work that He’s doing.

Reflect & Pray

When is it more difficult to see the work of the Holy Spirit in your life? How do you know He’s still there?

Dear God, You’re doing a glorious work within me! Thank You for transforming me into Your image.

Watch this video to learn how the fruit of the spirit make us more like Jesus.

Today’s Insights

The “ministry” that Moses performed was “engraved in letters on stone” (a reference to the tablets of the law), yet it “brought death” (2 Corinthians 3:7). Despite this, it “came with glory”—a glory that was startlingly evident on Moses’ face. Paul says the ministry of the Holy Spirit is far more glorious (vv. 10-11) and belongs to those who have the hope of Christ. The glory that appeared on Moses’ face was “transitory” (v. 11)—it faded away. The glory believers in Jesus enjoy is “ever-increasing” because it “comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit” (v. 18).

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

Today’s Scripture

1 Samuel 12:19-25

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“I don’t know where I’d be today if my mom hadn’t prayed for me. I don’t think I’d even be alive,” my friend Rahim related. He was a former addict who’d spent time in prison for drug distribution. Over coffee one day, he shared the difference his mother’s prayers had made in his life. “Even when I disappointed her so badly, she kept loving me with her prayers. I was in a lot of trouble, but if she hadn’t prayed for me, I know it would have been worse.”

The Old Testament account of Samuel tells another story of someone who showed faithfulness to God and others through prayer. On the day Saul was coronated as king at Gilgal, the prophet Samuel was also disappointed. The people had placed their faith and hope for their future in a monarchy instead of in God.

As the people gathered, God displayed His displeasure through an unseasonable storm that terrified them and made them regret their decision (1 Samuel 12:16-18). When they pleaded with Samuel to intercede for them, he replied, “Far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you” (v. 23).

Samuel’s response reminds us that praying for others is a way of keeping God first in our hearts and lives. When we love others by praying for them, we open the door to witness what only He can do. And we never want to miss that.

Reflect & Pray

How does consistent prayer help you to keep God first? How will you pray for others today?

Strong Savior, thank You for praying for me. Please help me to follow Samuel’s example and love others with my prayers today.

Learn how consistant prayer can change your relationship with God

Today’s Insights

Israel was set apart as “a holy nation” to serve Yahweh (Exodus 19:6; see Deuteronomy 7:6). God had always been their judge (Judges 11:27; 1 Samuel 2:10) and had fought their battles (Exodus 14:14; Joshua 10:42; 23:3; 1 Samuel 11:13). But by asking to become “like all the other nations, with a king to lead [them] and to go out before [them] and fight [their] battles” (1 Samuel 8:20), they’d rejected Him as their judge and king (vv. 7-8). After they crowned Saul as king, Samuel reminded them that God had faithfully come to their rescue time and again despite their unfaithfulness (12:6-18). Samuel warned of judgment if they persisted in unfaithfulness (v. 25). They confessed their sin and asked Samuel to intercede on their behalf. He assured them of his prayers and urged them to “fear the Lord and serve him faithfully” (v. 24). We too can pray for others, that they might keep God first in their hearts and lives.

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I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. Psalm 3:5

Today’s Scripture

Psalm 3

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My friend confided that he hadn’t been sleeping well. His sleeplessness was related to a difficult family situation that had kept him up at night. It happened that this was the day I was prepared to discuss Psalm 3 in my adult Sunday school class.

In Psalm 3, King David also had a family problem, one that would lead most of us to sleeplessness. His son Absalom was undermining David’s rule over Israel as part of his plan to overthrow him and snatch the crown for himself.

David was in despair. He fled Jerusalem after a messenger said, “the hearts of the people of Israel are with Absalom” (2 Samuel 15:13). In Psalm 3:1, David describes his situation: “Lord, how many are my foes!”

But notice how David found peace. He recalled that God was his shield of protection and that He “lifts [his] head” (v. 3). Then came the help we all need when we fret over our circumstances: David was able to “lie down and sleep.” He observed, “I wake again, because the Lord sustains me” (v. 5).

For my friend facing a tough time, this was great news. And for all of us who face hard circumstances and sleepless nights, our God protects us and gives us rest. When we place our total trust in Him, He helps us “lie down and sleep” (v. 5).

Reflect & Pray

What is your “David moment” today? Instead of listening to those who distrust God (Psalm 3:2), how are you trusting His offer to protect you?

Heavenly Father, sometimes like David I exclaim, “How many are my foes!” But You’re there for me. Please shield me, lift my head, and allow me to lie down and sleep.

Discover how to pray through the Psalms to express yourself to God.

Today’s Insights

Psalm 3 is a psalm of lament written by David. The superscription provides us with a reason for his despair: “A psalm of David. When he fled from his son Absalom.” The events surrounding this event are found in 2 Samuel 15. Absalom, with the aid of David’s close friend and counselor Ahithophel, tried to unseat his father as king and take the throne for himself, forcing him to flee Jerusalem (vv. 13-37). Psalm 3 captures David’s heartache when he was on the run from his own son. But, like most songs of lament, it ends with a hopeful note: “From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people” (v. 8). In his lament, David trusts in God for his rescue. God gives him rest and helps him “lie down and sleep” (v. 5) even in the midst of his circumstances. He provides rest for us too as we trust in Him.

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Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards. Song of Songs 2:15

Today’s Scripture

Song of Songs 2:8-15

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“It’s the little foxes that spoil the vine,” my grandmother used to say. Then my mom repeated the same thing. And now I say it to my own children. But what does it mean to beware of “the little foxes”?

After planting grapevines, it can take several years before they bear fruit. The vines require a lot of patience, care, watering, pruning, and protection. Foxes—even though small—can cause major damage by destroying the roots, eating the grapes, or chewing the stalk.

In the poetic love story of the Song of Songs, Solomon warns, “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards” (2:15). Some scholars believe this refers to seemingly small problems or behaviors that could threaten the young man and woman’s relationship if left unchecked.

Likewise for our spiritual journey, little things like bitterness (Hebrews 12:15), “unwholesome talk” (Ephesians 4:29), or even harmful influence from others (1 Corinthians 15:33) can slip into our lives and hardly be noticed.

My grandmother understood that little things can cause great harm, and her wisdom spoke volumes to her grandchildren. As we spend time in prayer and reading the Scriptures, the Spirit will help us “catch the little foxes”—the temptations or habits that might spoil our relationship with others and our walk with Christ.

Reflect & Pray

What little things do you need to catch before they cause harm? How can you warn others to watch for “little foxes”?

Dear Father, please help me be alert for and deal with the little stuff that causes great damage.

Check out this piece from Discovery Series to find hope even when times are tough.

Today’s Insights

First Kings 4:32 tells us that Solomon’s songs “numbered a thousand and five.” The very first verse of Song of Songs attributes the book to this wisest of kings (1:1). Also called Song of Solomon, the song differs substantially from Solomon’s other wisdom writings (Proverbs and Ecclesiastes). It isn’t a collection of proverbs; it’s a love poem. Solomon extols romantic love, and he does so in poetry so passionate it may cause some to blush (see ch. 7 for a case in point). Perhaps because of this frankness, some early church leaders tried to interpret the song allegorically (and some still do). They see it as a picture of God’s love for His church. That’s a possible interpretation, but the theme of the song is undeniably about sexual love. Importantly, this Song of Songs presents sex as God intended—within the context of a loving marriage between a man and woman. And as we live out what God has intended, we’ll also catch the “little foxes” (2:15) that can destroy us and others.

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Jesus replied, “ . . . That is why I have come.” Mark 1:38

Today’s Scripture

Mark 1:35-39

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“May we invite you to be the main speaker in our nationwide church leadership conference?” After Jose read the invitation from the renowned organization, he replied, “Please let me pray about it first.” Later, when he turned down the offer, he told a friend, “I knew God was calling me to editorial work on a mission’s project, and the speaking engagement would take time and energy away from that. I said no so I can do what God wants me to do.”

What God wants me to do—that was Jose’s priority and what determined his decision. Jesus also made God’s purpose His priority. The morning after healing many in Capernaum who were sick and demon-possessed, Jesus went to a solitary place to pray (Mark 1:32-35). The disciples came, saying, “Everyone is looking for you!” (v. 37). Some of those seeking Him were likely requesting healing. Christ, however, didn’t allow urgency or His sudden popularity to determine what He’d do next. “Let us go . . . to the nearby villages,” He said, “so I can preach there also. That is why I have come” (v. 38). Jesus followed His priority—a ministry that covered the rest of Galilee, and one that included preaching (v. 39).

How may we know God’s purpose for us? We can approach Him in prayer, be led by His wisdom found in the Scriptures, and seek counsel from people who uphold His ways. Let’s spend our life doing what God wants us to do.

Reflect & Pray

How can you be intentional about asking God to lead you? How have you seen God help you live with His purpose?

Dear God, please show me what You want me to do.

Discover God’s will for you by reading Making Decisions God’s Way.

Today’s Insights

Mark 1:38 declares that Jesus’ mission is to preach the gospel. On a few occasions in the Gospels, Christ reveals in a deep and intimate way that He understands His mission. In Luke 4:18-19, He quotes the prophet Isaiah (61:1-2) to reveal to those listening in the synagogue who He is. Christ’s ministry included both the preaching of forgiveness and spiritual freedom as well as freeing those who were bound by various physical infirmities. During the years of His ministry, He never veered from that dedication. And He also entrusted that ministry to His disciples. He empowered them to preach the kingdom and heal the sick. They even drove out demons (see Matthew 10; Luke 10). Before Christ returned to the Father, He entrusted His mission to all His followers (see Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8). God continues to show us what He wants us to do and how He wants to use us to share the gospel with others.

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Surely your God is . . . a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery. Daniel 2:47

Today’s Scripture

Daniel 2:1-5, 13-19

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Hundreds of guests filled a golden ballroom to celebrate a nonprofit’s fiftieth anniversary and honor those who made it possible, especially those who’d been involved for decades. A founding member shared with gratitude how, despite thousands of volunteer hours and millions of dollars in grants, they would not have succeeded without God. He repeated that the organization had blossomed not because of human effort—although there was plenty of that too—but because God had provided for them.

Daniel understood the importance of ascribing good gifts to God. When King Nebuchadnezzar received a dream of the future, he called for all the wise men of Babylon to retell his dream and then interpret it. Dismayed, they protested that no one on earth could do what the king asked; it would require a supernatural power (Daniel 2:10-11). Daniel agreed, “No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries” (vv. 27-28). In faith, he asked God to reveal the dream to him. When his prayer was answered, Daniel was humble and quick to attribute the interpretation not to his own wisdom but to his great God (vv. 30, 45).

It’s right to celebrate accomplishments, but at the same time we should give glory to God. The praiseworthy things in our lives can ultimately be traced back to Him.

Reflect & Pray

Where have you noticed God’s provision lately? Why is it sometimes hard to acknowledge Him?

Dear God, thank You for being the giver of all good things. 

Check out this quick prayer for God’s provision from Reclaim Today.

Today’s Insights

Daniel’s humility in giving God all the glory for the interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream (Daniel 2:24-30) echoes Joseph’s experience with Pharaoh in Genesis 41. Having been summoned from prison to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams, Joseph replied to Pharaoh: “I cannot do it . . . but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires” (v. 16). In both cases, these young men refused to leverage their ability for their own advantage. In ancient times, dreams were seen as messages from the gods. So, to be able to interpret dreams would have been a status builder. Joseph and Daniel both preferred glorifying God—giving Him the credit—to advancing themselves.

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I myself will gather the remnant of my flock . . . and will bring them back to their pasture, where they will be fruitful and increase in number. Jeremiah 23:3

Today’s Scripture

Jeremiah 23:1-8

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Beneath the rugged cliffs of Brora, Scotland, a sheep needed rescue. Trapped at the base of a cliff, surrounded by steep and unyielding rock on one side and the vast ocean on the other, the sheep had been on its own for two long years. Despite several rescue attempts, no one could reach her until a determined farmer named Cammy Wilson and four friends successfully executed a risky rescue mission. Three members of the team carefully descended nearly 820 feet down the cliff to get her, using a winch and a lot of courage to lift her out of her predicament.

The determined and sympathetic farmer and team reflect the compassion of our loving Father as depicted in Jeremiah 23:1-3. The prophet denounced Judah’s sinful leaders as shepherds who were “destroying and scattering the sheep of [God’s] pasture!” (v. 1). God declared through Jeremiah that—due to the ruthless way they treated His helpless people—He’d “bestow punishment” on them (v. 2). He saw the plight of His scattered flock and was deeply concerned about them. Not only was God concerned, but He also said He’d lovingly regather His sheep from places of exile and bring them to a place of safety and abundance (v. 3).

When we feel lost, trapped, or isolated, our heavenly Father sees our plight and won’t leave us stranded. He actively seeks to rescue and restore us.

Reflect & Pray

In what ways are you spiritually trapped and isolated? How does it encourage you to know God sees your challenge?

Heavenly Father, thank You for being my Good Shepherd.

For further study, read Hope in Sorrow.

Today’s Insights

When describing the coming king who would shepherd God’s people in the way their corrupt leaders hadn’t (Jeremiah 23:1), Jeremiah said this king would be called “The Lord Our Righteous Savior” (v. 6). In Hebrew, this title is very similar to the name Zedekiah, the last king of Judah (52:1), which means, “Yah(weh) is righteousness.” This name suggested Zedekiah was meant to be a king who’d rule in a way that reflected God’s justice. But King Zedekiah utterly failed his people, disobeying God’s instructions with severe consequences (vv. 1-3). So Jeremiah emphasized that despite’s Zedekiah’s failures, God would enact justice and rescue for His people through the promised coming king.

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Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. Hebrews 12:1

Today’s Scripture

Hebrews 12:1-3

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Watermelon vines had overtaken my garden. They snaked across the stone path, climbed the fence, and—worst of all—tried to choke my favorite vegetable plants. I knew the garden wouldn’t thrive unless I took action. So, one evening I went to work uncurling tendrils from stems and leaves. When the coils grew back, I kept removing them until the vegetable plants finally matured and produced plump tomatoes and shiny peppers.

Sins like greed, lust, and hate can overtake our lives like the vines that tried to dominate my garden. Left untended, the seed of a wrong thought may develop until it controls our desires and actions like a “sin that so easily entangles” (Hebrews 12:1) and holds us back from growing spiritually.

The writer of Hebrews encourages us to “throw off everything that hinders” so that we can “run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (v. 1). To break free requires that we acknowledge we need help to handle the sin. This can be difficult if we’ve convinced ourselves and others that it’s not a serious issue.

Once we sincerely admit the problem, Jesus welcomes our prayers of confession and forgives us immediately (1 John 1:9). He can show us how to change our life patterns and, through the power of the Holy Spirit, help us to overcome the bondage that prevents us from flourishing.

Reflect & Pray

What sin has the power to make you fall repeatedly? How does God want you to address this problem?

Dear God, please forgive me for the actions and attitudes that grieve You and help me change from this point forward.

How do you respond when you sin? Explore ways that people throughout the Bible responded to sin by listening this episode of Discover the Word.

Today’s Insights

The original audience of the letter to the Hebrews was Jewish believers in Jesus who may have considered reverting back to Judaism or were straying toward false teachings (see 2:1-4; 3:1-4). Many scholars believe the book was written before the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple in ad 70 because it includes references to Jewish ceremonies and sacrifices. The author understood that the readers would need perseverance to face trials and persecution. Hebrews encourages believers to endure and hold fast to Christ (2:1-4; 3:7–4:13; 5:11–6:2). In chapter 11, known as the “Hall of Faith,” the author commends the many men and women of the Bible who lived by faith and sometimes died because of it. Therefore, because of their witness and example, believers in Christ are prompted to “throw off everything that hinders”—including sin—and “run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (12:1).

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Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Matthew 6:26

Today’s Scripture

Matthew 6:25-34

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“AaaaAAAAHHHK!” my daughter shrieked. “DaaaaDDDYY! Get UP here!”

I knew what was wrong: a moth. Every spring, an armada of these dusty insects migrates from the plains of Nebraska to the mountains of Colorado, where they summer. Each year, we brace for their arrival. This year had been especially bad.

To humans, miller moths are unwanted pests that often fly right into your face. But to birds, well, it’s a feast. Doing a little research, I learned that the moths provide incredible nutrition for the region’s swallows. As annoying as they are, these moths are veritable “manna” for the birds.

I don’t know if Israel had moth migrations in Jesus’ day. But Christ took note of God’s provision for the birds there, saying in the Sermon on the Mount, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” (Matthew 6:26).

So these days, I look at moths differently. Not as dirty pests but as winged reminders of God’s provision for His creation—and as a living metaphor for His provision for me too. If God provides so richly for the swallows, how much more does He care for me and for you?

Reflect & Pray

How do you see God’s provision for creation where you live? How might that serve as a reminder of His care for you too?

Father, the beauty of Your provision is ever on display. Thank You for the richness of Your creation. Please give me eyes to see Your handiwork, and let it remind me of Your goodness.

Learn more about God’s creation by reading Get Outside – Life from Discovery Series..

Today’s Insights

Three times in Matthew 6, Jesus counsels His hearers about money and material possessions. First, He addresses giving to the poor, advising us to give discreetly “so that your giving may be in secret” (v. 4). Then He cautions against hoarding: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth” (v. 19), adding, “You cannot serve both God and money” (v. 24). In today’s reading, Christ notes the futility of fretting about our daily needs: “Do not worry about your life” (v. 25). God’s care for creation reminds us that He’s good, and we can trust Him to provide for us (v. 26).

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There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28

Today’s Scripture

Galatians 3:26-29

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Phillis Wheatley, the first published African American poet, used biblical themes to persuade believers in Jesus to abolish slavery. Born around 1753 in western Africa, Wheatley was sold to a slave trader at only seven years of age. Quicky distinguishing herself as a remarkable student, she finally secured her emancipation in 1773. In her poems and correspondence, Wheatley pressed her readers to embrace the scriptural affirmation of the equality of all people. She wrote, “In every human Breast, God has implanted a Principle, which we call Love of Freedom; It is impatient of Oppression, and pants for Deliverance; and . . . the same Principle lives in us.”

Equality before God is a truth emphasized by Paul when he wrote, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). Because we’re “all children of God through faith” (v. 26), differences such as race, ethnicity, gender, or social status shouldn’t lead to discrimination in the church.

Even as equal recipients of God’s love, we still struggle to live out this principle. But Scripture teaches that diverse peoples united through faith in Christ best reflect God’s heart and is His plan for life in eternity. That reality can help us to celebrate the diversity in our communities of faith now.

Reflect & Pray

How does diversity better represent God? How can you celebrate diversity in Christ?

Dear Jesus, please help me love my brothers and sisters through the unity only made possible in You.

Today’s Insights

In Galatians 3-4, Paul makes an extended argument for the exalted position of believers in Jesus as members of the family of God. He says that through Christ, we’re no longer treated like minors but have become full heirs to the promises of God (3:23-29; 4:1-7).

The apostle makes the declaration that we’re all “children of God” (3:26). Everyone who comes to Jesus—Jews and gentiles, slave and free, male and female—receives the privileged status of sonship (v. 28). Those who follow Christ share in His full inheritance with all its blessings (v. 29). For an infant church populated with people of all different backgrounds, social standings, and levels of wealth, the promise of the gospel is that all receive the same blessing through the Son of God and are one in Him.

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Remind them . . . to show perfect courtesy toward all people. Titus 3:1-2 esv

Today’s Scripture

Titus 3:1-11

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The statement on the wall of my bank declares that its corporate principles could be summed up in a single word: courtesy. And how refreshing it was to find courtesy in the teller who helped me with my transaction there!

In a harsh and unkind world, to be driven by courtesy is a big idea. We find this concept in the apostle Paul’s letter to his friend Titus. He instructed Titus to remind his congregation “to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people” (Titus 3:2 esv). This idea of courtesy is also rendered as “peaceable and considerate” (niv) or “showing every consideration” (nasb).

How we treat others reveals whether we see them as image bearers of God or not. C. S. Lewis wrote of this in The Weight of Glory: “There are no ordinary people,” he said. “You have never talked to a mere mortal.” Lewis anticipated eternity, where we’ll either enjoy God’s presence or be banished from Him forever. So he reminds us, “It is immortals whom we joke with, work with, marry, snub and exploit—immortal horrors or everlasting splendors.”

May we allow the Spirit to enable us to treat those around as what they truly are—image bearers of God.

Reflect & Pray

What effect does the absence of courtesy have on your interactions? How might you intentionally bring more courtesy into those interactions?

Dear God, it’s easy to get frustrated with people. Please give me a patient spirit and a heart of kindness that I might treat everyone with dignity and courtesy.

For further study, read Cleaning Under the Rug.

Today’s Insights

Titus, a gentile (non-Jew) who came to faith in Jesus through Paul, became the apostle’s “partner and co-worker” in his ministry (2 Corinthians 8:23). In the apostle’s letter addressed to Titus, he calls him “my true son in our common faith” (Titus 1:4). Titus proved to be especially useful in straightening out problems in the church of Corinth (2 Corinthians 7:13-15; 12:17-18). In 2 Timothy 4:10, we learn that Titus served in Dalmatia (a Roman province on the east shore of the Adriatic Sea). He also served on the island of Crete (Titus 1:5). It’s likely he strived to show respect to everyone—something we should do in God’s strength as well.

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

Today’s Scripture

Isaiah 55:1-3, 8-13

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Wendy was feeling a little left out. During lunch break, her boss had left chocolates on everyone’s desks—except hers. Puzzled, she lamented to a friend, “Why did he leave me out?”

When asked, their boss explained: “Those chocolates are still good, but they’ve been around for some time. Wendy’s pregnant, so I just wanted to play it extra safe.” Then he laughed. “As for the rest of you . . . .”

The little incident became a running joke in the office, but it got me thinking about how we sometimes misread God’s intentions because of our limited understanding and perception. We may even believe ourselves to be victims of unfair treatment, forgetting that God always has our best interests at heart. Always.

Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that while we may not fully understand God’s thoughts and ways, we can be sure that they’re “higher than [our] ways” (v. 9). Ours are often influenced by selfish desires; His are perfect, compassionate, and righteous. So even when things don’t look good for now, we can trust that God will provide what we truly need (vv. 1-2), for He’s loving and faithful to His own everlasting promise (v. 3). Let’s “call on him while he is near” (v. 6), knowing that He’ll never leave us.

Reflect & Pray

Which promises of God can you hold on to when life seems unfair? Which aspects of His character give you comfort and assurance?

Faithful God, You know I sometimes feel left out of Your blessings and doubt Your love for me. Please help me to trust in You and to hold on tightly to Your everlasting promises.

Today’s Insights

In Isaiah 55:8-9, we’re reminded that God is mysterious. He’s beyond our comprehension; we’re unable to fully understand His will or His ways. Paul echoes that idea in Romans 11:33-34: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” The apostle described Him as “the only wise God” (16:27). Our truly wise God is also our loving heavenly Father. We can rest in His wisdom and His purposes because they’re couched in His great love for us. We may not always understand what happens in our lives or in our world, but we can rest assured that God’s in control and is with us, and we can cling to His promises.

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

Today’s Scripture

2 Corinthians 3:12-18

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When Neil Douglas boarded his flight to Ireland, he discovered his seat was occupied by another passenger, so he began a conversation to sort out the discrepancy. When the passenger looked up to answer, Neil was face to face with his lookalike! Onlooking passengers laughed at the men’s resemblance while the two took a selfie. Later, they ran into each other again when checking into the same hotel and a third time at a local pub. The next morning, they discovered their selfie had gone viral on social media due to their striking facial similarities.

Bearing a resemblance to another human being is a surprise for those of us without a biological twin, but the Bible says we’ll begin to look more like God as we follow Him. In the Old Testament, Moses’ countenance was changed by his face-to-face encounter with God—so much so that “the Israelites could not look steadily at [his face] because of its glory” (2 Corinthians 3:7; see Exodus 34:33-35).

Today, we see the glory of Jesus revealed in people who “are being transformed into his image” through the ministry of the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18; see v. 8). Our growing knowledge of and love for God results in moral and spiritual transformation that’s visible both inwardly and outwardly. When God “makes over” our hearts and minds, it’s evident to our fellow travelers in this journey of life.

Reflect & Pray

How has knowing Jesus changed you? What is He growing in you today?

Thank You, God, for continuing to transform me into Your likeness.

Today’s Insights

In 2 Corinthians 3, Paul refers to the experience of Moses to show the great privilege possessed by believers in Jesus. After Moses communed with God, “his face was radiant” (Exodus 34:29), reflecting God’s divine countenance. Because the people were afraid to come near him, Moses put a veil over his face, seemingly to protect the Israelites from God’s holiness. But when communing with God, Moses removed his veil (vv. 30-35).

Paul now reveals that Moses veiled himself so the Israelites wouldn’t see that this glory was temporary (2 Corinthians 3:13). The apostle then says that a veil is preventing people from “seeing” Christ, God’s greater glory. Only when one “turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away” (v. 16). “So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord,” Paul explains, and we are transformed to be “more and more like [Jesus] as we are changed into his glorious image” (v. 18 nlt).

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

Today’s Scripture

1 Peter 5:6-11

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On my walk to catch the train to work a few years ago, I saw a woman with a ferocious-looking dog heading toward me. I grew up around pet dogs, so I’m usually not afraid of furry friends, but this one looked menacing. As the dog got closer, he barked at me. I tried to laugh it off. But then he lunged at me, so I screamed. Thankfully the dog couldn’t harm me because he couldn’t reach me. His owner held on tightly to his leash.

That scary encounter reminded me that as believers in Jesus, Satan is also “on a leash” but waiting to attack if we give him the opportunity. In 1 Peter, the apostle Peter warns us, “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (5:8). He growls and snarls and lunges at us to try to scare and intimidate us and to paralyze us with fear, but we can stand firm in our faith and “resist him” (v. 9).

When you feel the enemy taunting or tempting you, remember this: He’s no match for Jesus. We can cry out to Him and He’ll help us. He “will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast” (v. 10).

When we’re under spiritual attack, we can choose faith over fear because Jesus is always with us.

Reflect & Pray

How do you react when you feel the enemy taunting or tempting you? How can you focus on Christ during spiritual battles?

Dear Jesus, thank You for always being there for me even during the toughest trials.

For further study, read Taking Sin Seriously.

Today’s Insights

There’s a stark difference between how believers in Jesus are to relate to God and how we’re to respond to the devil. To confuse the two is unwise and dangerous. Humility—to trustingly bring oneself low in non-anxious dependence—is always in order before God Almighty (1 Peter 5:6-7). On the other hand, we’re to be “alert and of sober mind” and must “resist” the devil (vv. 8-9), for he’s a prowling spiritual predator—the adversary of those who believe in Jesus. James’ words echo those of Peter: “ ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.’ Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you” (James 4:6-8). Revelation 12:9 speaks of the devil as “that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray.” In Christ, however, by faith we can resist the devil and stand strong.

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Do not forget to do good and to share with others. Hebrews 13:16

Today’s Scripture

Hebrews 13:15-21

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When soccer star Sadio Mané from Senegal was playing for Liverpool in the English Premier League, he was one of the world’s highest-paid African players, making millions of dollars per year. Fans spotted a picture of Mané carrying an iPhone with a cracked screen and joked about him using the damaged device. His response was unflustered. “Why would I want ten Ferraris, twenty diamond watches, and two jet planes?” he asked. “I starved, I worked in the fields, played barefoot, and didn’t go to school. Now I can help people. I prefer to build schools and give poor people food or clothing. . . . [Give] some of what life has given me.”

Mané knew how selfish it would be to hoard all his prosperity when so many of his neighbors back home struggled under crushing conditions. Hebrews reminds us that this generous way of life is for all of us, not only for those who are wealthy. “Do not forget to do good and to share with others,” the writer says, “for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (13:16). Nurturing a generous heart isn’t only the right thing to do, but according to Scripture, generosity also makes God smile. Who doesn’t want to make God pleased?

Generosity isn’t defined simply by how much we give. Instead, generosity refers to the posture of our heart. One thing we can do that’s “pleasing to [God]” (v. 21) is to simply open our hands and share what we have.

Reflect & Pray

How have you shown generosity? What helps you cultivate a generous heart?

Dear God, thank You for the generous heart You’ve shown me. Please help me to be generous too.

Today’s Insights

The letter to the Hebrews is anonymous. This, however, hasn’t prevented centuries of scholarly speculation as to the identity of the author, which includes Paul, Luke, Apollos, as well as Barnabas, Priscilla, Silas, and Philip the evangelist. While human authorship can be debated, the divine authorship of the Holy Spirit is unquestioned. The audience for the letter was Jewish believers who’d been through great hardship and were in danger of abandoning their faith in Jesus the Messiah due to their struggles. This letter encourages them to keep on believing and trusting in God, with a series of warnings to that effect (2:1-3; 3:7–4:11; 6:4-6; 12:25-26). To encourage them, the author sets out to show the superiority of Jesus over everything—angels, Moses, Joshua, the priesthood, the sacrificial system, and more. And not only is He superior; He’s also the model of true sacrifice and generosity. As we practice generosity, we reflect His heart.

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