I prayed, “Now strengthen my hands.” Nehemiah 6:9

Today’s Scripture

Nehemiah 6:1-9

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Driven by powerful winds, the fire raged for days. The historian Tacitus describes a chaotic scene filled with screams and citizens running for their lives. In the end, nearly two-thirds of Rome had been destroyed. The Roman emperor Nero falsely accused believers in Jesus of starting the fire. He hated Christians and selected them to be the scapegoat for the disaster—one that was rumored to have been ordered by Nero himself!

Nehemiah also faced the blistering heat of false accusation. He’d been a servant to the king of Persia but had been allowed to return to Jerusalem with other Israelites to repair its walls (Nehemiah 2:1-10). When the wall was repaired, however, enemies accused the Jews of “planning to rebel” and making Nehemiah “their king” (6:6 nlt). How did they respond to false accusations? By declaring and living out their innocence (v. 8), courageously standing in God’s power (v. 11), and praying fervently to Him (v. 14). Their enemies were ultimately “frightened and humiliated” as they “realized [the wall reconstruction] had been done with the help of . . . God” (v. 16 nlt).

At times, we’ll be falsely accused by others. But as God provides the strength we need, we can forgive our accusers and “live such good lives” that, though “they accuse [us] of doing wrong, they may see [our] good deeds and glorify God” (1 Peter 2:12).

Reflect & Pray

Why are believers in Jesus sometimes falsely accused? How can you live out a courageous faith?

Loving God, thank You for helping me when I’m falsely accused.

Check out this article to learn more about standing firm with the Lord.

Today’s Insights

Nehemiah was serving as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia when he learned that the Jewish remnant who’d returned to Jerusalem was in trouble. The wall of Jerusalem had been broken, and the gates burned (Nehemiah 1:3). Nehemiah fasted and prayed to God (v. 4), and the king graciously allowed him to return to Jerusalem to rebuild (2:1-6). When Nehemiah arrived and announced his plans, the Jewish leaders replied, “Yes, let’s rebuild the wall!” (v. 18 nlt). Opposition began almost immediately (v. 19), but Nehemiah wasn’t discouraged by the false accusers. He declared, “The God of heaven will give us success” (v. 20). As with Nehemiah, when we trust in God, He’ll give us strength to stand even against those who falsely accuse us.

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Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Matthew 10:38

Today’s Scripture

John 13:36-38; 21:18-19

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In ad 155, the early church father Polycarp was threatened with death by fire for his faith in Christ. He replied, “For eighty and six years I have been his servant, and he has done me no wrong. And how can I now blaspheme my king who saved me?” Polycarp’s response can be an inspiration for us when we face extreme trial because of our faith in Jesus, our King.

Just hours before Christ’s death, Peter boldly pledged His allegiance to Him: “I will lay down my life for you” (John 13:37). Jesus, who knew Peter better than Peter knew himself, replied, “Very truly I tell you, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times!” (v. 38). However, after Jesus’ resurrection, the same one who’d denied Him began to serve Him courageously and would eventually glorify Him through his own death (see 21:16-19).

Are you a Polycarp or a Peter? Most of us, if we’re honest, are more of a Peter with a “courage outage”—a failure to speak or act honorably as a believer in Jesus. Such occasions—whether in a classroom, boardroom, or breakroom—needn’t indelibly define us. When those failures occur, we must prayerfully dust ourselves off and turn to Jesus, the one who died for us and lives for us. He’ll help us be faithful to Him and courageously live for Him daily in difficult places.

Reflect & Pray

When do you need extra doses of courage to stand for Jesus? What do you find helpful in your witness for Him?

Heavenly Father, please give me Your strength to live boldly as a believer in Your Son.

Learn about being on guard against persecution here.

Today’s Insights

In John 13:36-38, Jesus is focused on Simon Peter and his need for courage in the hours and days ahead. The gracious warning He gives to him (v. 38) should’ve gotten the fisherman’s attention, but rather than leaning into the strength of the Master, Peter sought to face those hours in his own strength. Even in the moment when he seemed to be desperately trying to keep his promise to “lay down [his life] for” Christ” (v. 37)—by cutting off the ear of Malchus, servant of the High Priest (John 18:10)—his attempt failed, and he ran away with the other disciples (Mark 14:50). Only in God’s strength can we stand firm and have courage in difficult times and places. Peter would exhibit that courage when confronted by the religious leaders for preaching in Jesus’ name. At that moment, even they had to acknowledge the influence of Christ on His once-fallen, now-restored disciple (Acts 4:13). His influence in our life can also help us face life’s challenges with courageous faith.

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I will run the course of Your commandments, for You shall enlarge my heart. Psalm 119:32 nkjv

Today’s Scripture

Psalm 119:30-41

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In his Confessions, Augustine wrestled with how it was possible for God to be in relationship with him. How could the one who created the universe come into something as small and sinful as his heart? But he pleaded with God to make it possible, praying, “The house of my soul is narrow. Enlarge it, so that you may enter it. It’s in ruins! Repair it! It has things in it that would offend your eyes. I confess and know it. But who will cleanse it, or to whom will I cry, but to you?”

Today we know Augustine as Saint Augustine, a revered philosopher and theologian. But he saw himself simply as someone transformed by the wonder of a God who wanted to know him.

In Psalm 119, the psalmist is also in awe of God’s revelation of Himself, particularly through Scripture (v. 18). “You shall enlarge my heart” (v. 32 nkjv), the psalmist celebrated. It’s only because God is graciously willing to enlarge our hearts that we can joyfully walk the path He shows us (v. 45). He turns our hearts away from what is corrupt (vv. 36-37) to the “path of [His] commands,” where we find His infinite “delight” (v. 35).

We are small, and our hearts are fickle. But when we turn our longing hearts to God (vv. 34, 36), He guides us down the paths of joy and true freedom.

Reflect & Pray

How has God “enlarged” Your heart? Where might you need to ask Him to bring growth?

Dear God, thank You for opening my heart to Your greatness. Please enlarge my heart today and every day.

Despite being the creator of the whole universe, God also desires to be in relationship with us. Learn more by watching this video.

Today’s Insights

The image of “walking” is one of Scripture’s most common metaphors for describing someone’s lifestyle—whether in close fellowship with God (see Genesis 5:24; 6:9; Psalm 1:1; 15:1-2) or in opposition to Him (Proverbs 4:14; 1 John 1:6). Psalm 119 begins with this metaphor, emphasizing that “those . . . who walk according to the law of the Lord” are blessed (v. 1). The psalm paints a vivid picture of what it looks like to walk closely with God through immersion in and obedience to Scripture. In verse 32, this imagery intensifies as the psalmist shifts from describing walking to running—suggesting not just steady obedience but an eager pursuit of God’s ways. Unlike those whose feet “rush into evil” (see Proverbs 1:16; 6:18), the psalmist in Psalm 119:32 runs in joyful freedom down the path of God’s commands, liberated by His grace and captivated by His beauty.

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

Today’s Scripture

2 Kings 6:9-10, 13-17

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The face was there all along, but no one knew. When Sir Joshua Reynolds painted The Death of Cardinal Beaufort in 1789, he put a demon’s face in the darkness behind the dying man. Reynolds was accurately depicting a scene from a Shakespearean play that mentions the presence of a “busy, meddling fiend,” but some didn’t like his literalism. After Reynolds’ death in 1792, the face was painted over and forgotten. Art conservation work recently revealed it under layers of paint and varnish.

The Bible tells of a spiritual reality around us that the eye can’t see, where God reigns supreme. When Elisha was surrounded by a “strong force” of enemy soldiers and chariots, his servant was frightened and asked, “What shall we do?” Elisha told him that “those who are with us are more than those who are with them,” and “prayed, ‘Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.’ ” Suddenly the servant “saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha” (2 Kings 6:14-17).

The horses and chariots of fire indicate angelic beings there for Elisha’s protection. This is one of many places where Scripture underscores the comforting truth that in a world where danger lurks and spiritual warfare rages, God still watches over us. No matter what we face, how good it is to know that nothing “will be able to separate us” from His love (Romans 8:39).

Reflect & Pray

In what ways does God take care of you? How will you thank Him?

Dear Father, nothing can separate me from Your love for me in Jesus, and I praise You for it!

Learn more about expressing gratitude to God here.

Today’s Insights

In addition to the angels described in 2 Kings 6:9-17, other Scriptures speak of the protection and ministry of angels. Nebuchadnezzar saw a fourth man who looked “like a son of the gods” in the blazing furnace with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3:25). After successfully overcoming Satan’s temptations, angels came and “took care of” Jesus (Matthew 4:11 nlt). As Christ agonized over His impending crucifixion, “an angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him” (Luke 22:43). Jesus reminds us of God’s providential protection and care when He says that He could’ve called on “more than twelve legions of angels” to come to His rescue (Matthew 26:53). Angels are God’s “servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14 nlt). No matter what we encounter in life, we can be assured that God is watching over us. Nothing can separate us from His love.

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

Today’s Scripture

2 Corinthians 1:3-11

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I couldn’t wait. My husband and I had just returned from the grocery store; and as we unloaded the groceries, I frantically searched—but couldn’t find the donut bag. Then I checked the receipt. No donuts. Frustrated, I cried out, “All I wanted from the store was a donut!” Fifteen minutes later, my husband handed me a bag of donuts. He’d braved the snow again and snuck out to buy them. After squeezing him tightly, I sheepishly said, “I’m glad you didn’t get into an accident just to appease my craving!”

I don’t usually get that worked up about a donut! But it had been an emotionally draining week, and so I sought solace in a donut—and I experienced a much deeper joy through the love and compassion of my husband.

The kind of comfort we may get from satisfying our cravings is always short-lived. As the apostle Paul shared with the Corinthians, true—and lasting—comfort comes from the “God of all comfort” (2 Corinthians 1:3).

Paul understood his readers’ deep struggles and needs. Like them he faced daily trials, including persecution for his faith. And because God had comforted him, he was able to comfort them (v. 4).

When we’re hurting, we can turn to Jesus, who abounds in compassion and comfort (v. 5). There we find solace. And when we’ve experienced His comfort, we can extend it to others.

Reflect & Pray

When and how have you been comforted by God? How might you comfort others experiencing a shared trial?

God of all comfort, thank You for giving me solace, and please help me to share it with others. 

Learn more about how God is the God of all comfort by reading All Means All.

Today’s Insights

Second Corinthians 1:3-7 includes a cluster of “comfort” words. The word translated “comfort” (vv. 3, 4, 5, 6 [2x]) is paraklēsis, a compound word meaning “to call alongside to assist.” Before His departure, Jesus used the related word paraklētos, translated “advocate” to speak of the Holy Spirit: “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever” (John 14:16; see also 14:26; 15:26; 16:7). Other English versions render it “helper,” “comforter,” “counselor.” Through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, believers in Christ experience God’s comfort and in turn can extend it to others.

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I will not let you go unless you bless me. Genesis 32:26

Today’s Scripture

Genesis 32:22-28

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At our school district’s championship wrestling match, children as young as eight grappled on gym mats, deploying clever holds to wrestle down their opponents and win. An ancient sport, wrestling demands a savvy combination of takedowns, escapes, pins, and other point-winning maneuvers to come out on top. One little third-grade girl—a crowd favorite—was simply faster than all her opponents, using swift moves that seemed to trick her rivals into defeat.

Jacob used tricky moves to get the best of his twin brother Esau, “wrestling” Esau out of his birthright to their father’s inheritance (Genesis 25:33) and life blessing (27:27-40). But stealing the blessing kept Jacob on the run, forcing him to flee his father’s household, depend on his cunning father-in-law, and live in fear of his brother’s wrath.

Later, he found himself alone, wrestling all night with a man who was God Himself. “Let me go,” the man told Jacob, “for it is daybreak” (32:26). But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me” (v. 26). Finally Jacob was seeking a blessing of his own, holding tight to God even until his name was changed to reflect his changed heart.

No tricky moves were needed to gain this rich blessing from God—only persistence. Jacob was learning to live in relationship with God. It’s a persistent and honest hold—a winning move God will reward.

Reflect & Pray

What does it mean for you to hold tight to God? How has spiritual persistence blessed you?

As I hold on to You, dear Father, please help me in my spiritual persistence.

See what Jesus had to say about persistence in prayer.

Today’s Insights

We might think the story of Jacob is about his deception. He twice cheated his brother Esau, which forced him to flee from his family (Genesis 27:41-45; 28:10). God stepped in, however, and Jacob is remembered as a pillar of faithful persistence. God met Jacob in a dream (28:12-17), a dramatic intervention that prompted him to declare, “The Lord will be my God” (v. 21). Two decades later, he still feared his brother, who’d sworn to kill him (27:41), but again God intervened (32:1). Jacob understood the significance of his first encounter with God at Bethel (28:16-19), and he understood this meeting too. “This is the camp of God!” he said (32:2). Jacob’s sins were obvious, yet his persistent faith was in the one true God. His name was changed from Jacob, the supplanter (25:26; 27:36) to Israel—one who struggled with God and overcame (32:28). Today, God will also help us be persistent in our faith as we hold on to Him.

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I will instruct you . . . I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. Psalm 32:8

Today’s Scripture

Psalm 32:1-5, 9-11

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Jason and Pierre had worked together for a decade putting siding on houses. They were good friends, but neither was talkative. As they worked, they said hardly a word. Yet they knew each other so well that this was seldom a problem. The two could rely on the mere nod of a head or glance of the eyes to communicate. Small gestures spoke volumes.

Psalm 32 evokes this level of familiarity between God and the psalmist. One version renders verse 8 this way: “I will guide you with my eye” (nkjv). God isn’t looking from afar; He’s a loving Father working in partnership with His child. While the psalm begins with confession of sin (vv. 1-5), the focus is not on punishment but on loving redirection as God teaches His child the right path (vv. 6-7).

The other option is to be like the horse or the mule, which “must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you” (v. 9). The picture is of willful defiance and ignorance of God’s way. As believers in Jesus, we are to develop a deep intimacy with God so we’re in tune with His gentle gestures. One way we develop this intimacy is through reading the Scriptures. This helps us “keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25) so we’ll love what God loves. Then we can “rejoice in the Lord and be glad” (Psalm 32:11).

Reflect & Pray

In what ways has your spiritual life perhaps become mere ritual? How do you develop intimacy with God as you read and reflect on the Scriptures?

Dear Father, thank You for not only knowing me intimately but also asking me to partner with You as You advance Your kingdom. 

Today’s Insights

For about a year after David’s sin of adultery, he failed to repent until the prophet Nathan confronted him (2 Samuel 11-12). Most scholars believe that David wrote Psalm 32 after confessing his sin. In this penitential psalm, he speaks of the crushing burden of unrepentant guilt (vv. 3-4) and the subsequent joy of receiving God’s forgiveness (vv. 1-2, 5). The psalmist also emphasized the priority of submitting to God’s instructions (vv. 8-9). The unnamed author of Psalm 119 dispensed the same wisdom for living a life that honors God: “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you” (vv. 9-11). We too grow closer to God as we echo the resolve of the psalmist: “I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word” (v. 16).

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

Today’s Scripture

Numbers 11:1-2, 4-11

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The elderly man was taking a long time looking at the children’s backpacks in the store. He told me, “It’s my granddaughter’s birthday. I hope she likes my gift.” At the checkout, he clutched a pink backpack with a cartoon character design. He looked excited.

Later in a restaurant, I saw him again with a little girl and her parents. When the child opened her gift, she said, “I don’t like this character! And I hate pink!” Her parents made her apologize, but she still complained. My heart broke for her grandpa.

I was reminded of how I sometimes respond to God’s gifts. I complain because I want something different, failing to see the miracle before me—that God Himself has lovingly given something for me. The Israelites behaved similarly. God had kept His promise to them: “I will rain down bread from heaven for you” (Exodus 16:4). God’s faithful provision in the wilderness was sure: “When the dew settled on the camp at night, the manna also came down” (Numbers 11:9).

But instead of being thankful, the Israelites complained about God’s expression of loving provision: “We never see anything but this manna!” (v. 6). Instead of humbly requesting other food from God, they wailed over His gift.

I still remember the hurt look in the grandfather’s eyes that day. It made me think of how our heavenly Father must feel when we complain. Let’s be grateful for the gifts He’s given us.

Reflect & Pray

What blessings have you complained about? How can you thank God for them?

Dear Father, please forgive me for the times I’ve complained.

Today’s Insights

God provided physical nourishment for the wilderness travelers in the form of manna, but their unthankful attitudes made their dining experience distasteful (Numbers 11:6).

John 6 describes the spiritual nourishment that Jesus provides: “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty” (v. 35). The response to this amazing offer? “At this the Jews there began to grumble about him because he said, ‘I am the bread that came down from heaven’ ” (v. 41). These examples illustrate the failure to be grateful for God’s provision of both our physical and spiritual needs. As we reflect on all that He’s provided, we can respond with a grateful heart.

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You do not even know what will happen tomorrow. James 4:14

Today’s Scripture

James 4:13-17

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Vietnamese collector Pham has salvaged twenty church clocks from around Europe, many of which had been replaced with electronic versions. One clock, made in Italy, dates back to 1750 and, remarkably, still keeps time accurately. Pham enjoys restoring and preserving the timepieces, saying they remind him of how precious time is and to savor each moment.

In James 4, the writer encouraged his readers to recognize the preciousness of time by reminding them that their lives are like “a mist that appears for a little while” before vanishing (James 4:14). James warned against making plans to “go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money” (v. 13) without consulting God. Instead of presuming on God for the timing and success of their ventures, he reminded them that they “do not even know what will happen tomorrow” (v. 14). Designing our own successes is actually boastful and arrogant if it leaves God out of the picture.

When we recognize the brevity of our lives, we’re able to hold our plans for the future more loosely and better embrace the present moment. We live and work according to God’s design and purpose, which means we can humbly entrust our future to Him and savor each day as the gift from Him it truly is—no matter what it may hold.

Reflect & Pray

When have you left God out of your plans? How can you embrace today for the gift it is?

Thank You, God, for the gift of today. I trust my future to You.

Discover more by reading Making Decisions God’s Way.

Today’s Insights

James has a strong warning. “Now listen,” he says (James 4:13), before cautioning us against trusting in the reliability of our plans. It’s not wrong to make plans; in fact, it’s foolish not to do so. But it’s arrogant to make those plans without consulting the wisdom of the Bible and looking to our heavenly Father to instruct us by His Spirit. No one “plans” to have trials, nor do we want them, but some of God’s greatest gifts are surprises that grow out of immense difficulties. In the opening lines of this letter, James says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance” (1:2-3). As we entrust our lives and future to God, we can hold our plans loosely. And even in the midst of trials, we can treasure each day as a gift.

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

Today’s Scripture

Isaiah 43:16-21

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We live in a world where the internet forgets nothing—every photo, post, and blog entry is seemingly stored forever. One major search engine, however, introduced a privacy feature allowing users to request the removal of personal data like phone numbers, home addresses, and more. While this doesn’t erase the data from the internet entirely, it significantly reduces its visibility, giving people a sense of control over their digital footprints.

This idea of “scrubbing” the past echoes the prophet’s words in Isaiah 43:18-19. God said, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing.” These verses were spoken to Israel during their exile in Babylon—a period of deep despair and longing for restoration. God commanded His people to not fixate on their past failures or the pain of captivity but to look forward to the new work He was about to do—a new and more significant exodus—their deliverance from Babylon and return to their homeland. He wasn’t just erasing the past but “making a way” (v. 19) to a future filled with hope and purpose.

Instead of dwelling on failures or regrets, let’s trust that God has “scrubbed” our past sins, regrets, and shame and—through Jesus’ sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10)—“remembers [our] sins no more” (Isaiah 43:25). God propels us toward the future He’s preparing.

Reflect & Pray

Why is it so difficult to let go of the past? How might you deepen your trust in God for new beginnings?

Dear God, please help me say goodbye to my past and look forward to the future.

Learn more about Dealing with the Past.

Today’s Insights

God exiled Judah to Babylon because of her sins (Isaiah 39:6-7). Hundreds of years earlier, He’d mightily rescued them from the Egyptians (43:16-17), but they weren’t to “dwell on the past” (v. 18) because their miraculous journey in the first exodus would pale in comparison with the “new thing” God would do for them (v. 19). He’d bring them back from exile (vv. 5-7) and give them a glorious future (vv. 20-21). More importantly, He’d blot out their sins (v. 25). This forgiveness wasn’t because they were deserving—for they’d failed to honor Him as their God (vv. 22-24)—but because of who God is (v. 25).

God forgives our sins because He’s “a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love” (Nehemiah 9:17). We can look forward to the future rather than dwell on our past sins because of the “new thing” God did through Jesus.

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

Today’s Scripture

John 6:5-15

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On December 9, 1987, a squirrel chewed through a power line in Connecticut, and the Nasdaq’s vast financial machinery blinked, sighed, and went dark. Some of the world’s largest corporations stood limp and listless. Global economies watched, sweating bullets for nearly an hour and a half. All because of one tenacious, furry rodent.

Scripture tells many stories of something or someone small making a big impact. But God can turn meagerness into something mighty. John recounts how Jesus fed a hungry crowd (five thousand men, probably fifteen thousand with women and children included) when “a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish” handed over his small lunch (John 6:9). In the Old Testament we remember that a young shepherd boy named David trusted God and slayed a giant (1 Samuel 17). And Christ repeatedly insisted that the kingdom of God is something like a mustard seed, “the smallest of all seeds” (Matthew 13:32).

When we ponder the many complex global crises in addition to the bewildering concerns in our own neighborhoods and families, we’re tempted to believe that our seemingly small efforts lack power. But Scripture tells us to act in obedience and trust as God helps us—assured that with Him, small things can become mighty (John 6:10-12).

Reflect & Pray

Where do you feel small or powerless? How do you sense God inviting you to surrender your smallness to Him?

Dear God, I often feel small, with nothing to offer. Please help me remember that with You, small things become mighty.

For further study, read The Strength of Weakness.

Today’s Insights

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

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

Today’s Scripture

Philippians 4:1-3

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In the American West in the late 1800s, the search for dinosaur bones created the Bone Wars, in which two paleontologists battled one another in their pursuit of making the most historic find. One writer noted how the two “used underhanded methods to try to outdo the other in the field, resorting to bribery, theft, and the destruction of bones.” He noted how, in trying to ruin each other’s work, both destroyed their own reputations as well.

Conflict and competition are inevitable in our broken world. How we choose to engage those conflicts reveals what’s in our hearts. Paul learned of conflict between two women in the church at Philippi and wrote, “I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.” He asked a fellow believer to “help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel” (Philippians 4:2-3).

When we find ourselves at odds with fellow believers in Jesus, we need the Spirit’s help. As we submit to His work in our hearts, He’ll help us demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). We’ll experience healing and peace—if not for our own reputations, for the reputation of Christ and the gospel.

Reflect & Pray

What conflicts do you face today? How could the peace of the Spirit make a difference in resolving them?

Loving Father, it must break Your heart when I war with my brothers and sisters in Christ. Please give me Your wisdom and the aid of the Spirit to bring healing and unity.

Follow these ten rules for positive communication when resolving conflicts in relationships.

Today’s Insights

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

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

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They bowed down and worshiped Him. Matthew 2:11

Today’s Scripture

Matthew 2:1-2, 7-12

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Today’s Devotional

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

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

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

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

Reflect & Pray

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

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

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

Today’s Insights

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

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

Today’s Scripture

1 Samuel 12:19-24

Bible in a Year

• Genesis 13-15
• Matthew 5:1-26

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A woman was unusually nervous as she sat in the dentist’s chair. Family burdens troubled her greatly, and it was noticeable. Her dentist sensed her anxiety and asked her about it. Her story led him to ask, “Can I pray for you?” When the dental hygienist came into the room, she also prayed for the woman. Two prayers and one completed dentist’s visit later, the woman left the office knowing that she’d truly been cared for.

Praying for others is one of the best ways for us to show that we care because it calls on the greatest resource we know—our heavenly Father—to be actively involved in the lives of others. In 1 Samuel 12, the prophet Samuel was faced with the concerns of a very nervous group of people (v. 19). The Israelites had erroneously asked for a king, and they were afraid of how it was going to go for themselves. The prophet told them to “not be afraid” (v. 20) and assured them of God’s goodness as seen in these words: “Far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you” (v. 23).

We also have the privilege and calling to pray for others. Silently sometimes and out loud at other times, we honor God when we petition Him for assistance on behalf of others in need.

Reflect & Pray

How can you provide caring prayer right now? What will it mean for people to know you’re praying for them?

Thank you, dear God, for telling us that “the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16). Please help me to be that kind of person.

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

Today’s Insights

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

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

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

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

Today’s Scripture

Luke 12:22-31

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

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

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

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

Reflect & Pray

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

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

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

Today’s Insights

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

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

Today’s Scripture

Nehemiah 3:6-12

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

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

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

Reflect & Pray

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

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

Discover more about being a serving church.

Today’s Insights

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

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

Today’s Scripture

Colossians 2:13-15

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

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

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

Reflect & Pray

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

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

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

Today’s Insights

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

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

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

Today’s Scripture

Acts 17:29-34

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

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

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

Reflect & Pray

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

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

Learn more about being faithful despite being mocked.

Today’s Insights

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

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

Today’s Scripture

John 15:4-12

Today’s Devotional

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

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

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

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

Reflect & Pray

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

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

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

Today’s Insights

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

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

Today’s Scripture

Genesis 39:20-23

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

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

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

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

Reflect & Pray

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

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

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

Today’s Insights

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

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