Daily Devotion

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Love God. Love Others.


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January 21
Divine Interruptions
Bible in a Year :

• Exodus 1-3
• Matthew 14:1-21

A well-to-do woman . . . urged [Elisha] to stay for a meal.
2 Kings 4:8

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
2 Kings 4:8-10, 14-17
Up early, Sara wrote her to-do list for the day. But she was interrupted with a request from a young, struggling family. They desperately needed a gas card from church to be delivered to them. Sara was busy but knew God wanted her to do this. So she agreed to drop it off at the hotel where the church was having them stay for a few weeks. She got the card and checked the address—the drive was farther than she’d anticipated, so she complained to God, It’s going to take too much gas to get this to them!
Sara sensed these words in her spirit: Haven’t I provided for you? She replied, Yes, God, You have. Forgive my attitude. When she arrived, she found the couple, gave them the card, and held their baby. Sara thanked God on her drive home for blessing her with this simple, yet joyful opportunity.
In Elisha’s travels to Shunem in Israel, he found a woman who had a servant’s heart toward him. She urged Elisha “to stay for a meal,” so he often “stopped there to eat” (2 Kings 4:8). She and her husband even built him a room so whenever he came to their town, he’d have a place to stay (vv. 9-10). God graciously chose to bless them through Elisha’s prophecy of a child (v. 16).
Whether serving a prophet of God or a homeless family, when we’re open to God’s plan and defer to His to-do list, God delights to bless our hearts with joy.
By: Anne Cetas



Reflect & Pray
What interruption might be God’s plan for you? How can you serve in ways that are best for others?
Dear God, please open my heart to hear Your voice and serve as You lead.
For further study, read When He Was Gone.

 

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CONTENT WITH LITTLE OR WITH MUCH
January 21, 2026
Bryant Wright, Founder

“If you have food and covering, with these we shall be content.” 1 Timothy 6:8

Regardless of the state of our economy, somehow, we still find the need to have more “things.”

But in our rush to acquire wealth and possessions, do we ever stop to ask ourselves when enough is enough?

God’s Word tells us that when God meets all the basic necessities of life, satisfaction should follow. And that should be enough – although it is often much easier said than accepted.

The apostle Paul says, “Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need” (my paraphrase of Philippians 4:11-12a.)

Paul got it. He could be content with little. He could be content with much.

Let’s learn to follow his example. Because material “things” will come and go, but a relationship with God through Jesus Christ is eternal. Ask God for help aligning your priorities.

When you focus on your relationship with God, contentment is one of the many by-products.

Let’s be thankful for all of God’s many blessings and realize when enough is enough!

DIG DEEPER
Read “The Riches of Contentment” also by Bryant Wright

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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January 23
Survivors by God’s Mercy
Bible in a Year :

• Exodus 7-8
• Matthew 15:1-20

Unless the Lord Almighty had left us some survivors, we would have become like Sodom.
Isaiah 1:9

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Romans 9:22-29
Charles Joughin was a sailor from the young age of eleven. He served as a baker on a number of ships and, in 1912, got hired on to a cruise ship sailing out of Southampton, England. That ship, the Titanic, hit an iceberg in the Northern Atlantic. As the ship went down, Joughin helped people into lifeboats. He himself stood atop the end of the Titanic as it sunk vertically into the water. Miraculously, he survived.
Thirty years later, during World War II, Charles was on another ship, the RMS Oregon. It was rammed by another vessel, and it also sank. Remarkably, Joughin survived again.
Scriptures tell us we’re all on a sinking ship. Paul writes, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). He refers to the rebellious nation of Israel, quoting Isaiah: “Unless the Lord Almighty had left us some survivors, we would have become like Sodom” (Isaiah 1:9). Paul speaks of a “remnant” of Israel, a shipload of survivors: “only the remnant will be saved” (Romans 9:27). How are they saved? By receiving the good news (10:16). You see, we’re all like Israel, drowning in our sin. None of us can be rescued unless we receive the good news. The lifeboat that God throws out to us all is Jesus.
We who believe in Jesus might need to be reminded of the remarkable truth that we are, by God’s mercy, survivors. Those who haven’t yet found Jesus in the troubled waters of life might do well to climb in the lifeboat.
By: Kenneth Petersen



Reflect & Pray
When have you felt like you’re drowning in life? How do you understand God’s offer of a lifeboat?
Dear God, thank You for Your mercy and rescue.
For further study, read What’s Wrong with the Sinner’s Prayer?

 

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January 26
Mercy and Our Mess
Bible in a Year :

• Exodus 14-15
• Matthew 17

From inside the fish Jonah prayed to the Lord his God.
Jonah 2:1

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Jonah 2:1-2, 7-10; 3:1-5
During Sunday school, my patience with three-year-old Peter was wearing thin. He was unhappy, unkind to the other kids, and absolutely refused to be content, even when we offered him the most coveted toys. My pity turned to annoyance. If he stubbornly persisted in being difficult, then fine, I’d send him back to his parents and he would miss out on all the fun.
Too often I find my compassion has conditions. If someone ignores my advice or refuses my help, then they don’t deserve it anymore. Fortunately, God doesn’t act that way toward us. The prophet Jonah experienced His great mercy after a time of stubborn disobedience when God commanded him to travel and preach to Nineveh (Jonah 1:2). Defiantly choosing the opposite direction, Jonah was caught in a terrible storm, set adrift at sea, and then swallowed by a great fish—a self-made disaster (vv. 4, 15-17). When Jonah finally “prayed to the Lord his God” (2:1), God was still listening to him, ready to forgive His reluctant prophet. Jonah was delivered from the fish and graciously given a second chance to go to Nineveh (3:1).
In little Peter’s case, a trip to the playground consoled him—a brilliant idea by a helper with more patience than I had shown. How beautiful is mercy that continually seeks us out, even in the middle of our own mess.
By: Karen Pimpo



Reflect & Pray
Why do you sometimes struggle to offer mercy to others? When have you seen God’s love seek out even the most difficult recipients?
Dear Jesus, thank You for loving me with such long-suffering love. Teach me, please, to do the same.

 

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WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH YOUR ANGER?
January 26, 2026
Jonathan Munson, Executive Director

“But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” Genesis 4:7

Have you heard of “rage rooms?”

For a small price, you can walk into a room armed with a bat or a club and smash all sorts of breakable objects. No cleanup. No consequences. Just a place where you can let off some steam. Participants say it’s a cathartic, stress-relieving experience.

Unfortunately, Cain didn’t have access to a rage room.

He was furious that the Lord accepted his brother, Abel’s, offering but rejected his (Genesis 4:5). A brooding, jealous anger simmered in his heart.

Seeing this, the Lord came to Cain and asked a piercing question, “Why are you angry?” (Genesis 4:6)

If the Lord asked you that question, how would you answer?

We usually give surface-level responses—traffic, work, difficult people, bad service at a restaurant, etc. While these answers are understandable, they don’t necessarily explain why we’re angry; they only point to what we’re angry about. The Lord’s question challenges us to explore the underlying causes of our anger and resolve them once and for all.

Unless we want to repeat Cain’s fatal mistake, we must recognize two truths:

• The Lord sees our anger.

We may try to ignore, cover up, or bury it deep inside, but it’s impossible to hide our anger from God.

• We have a choice.

When we feel angry, we can either respond in a God-honoring way or in a stubborn, selfish way.

The Lord warned Cain that “sin was crouching at his door.” Like a predator lying in wait for its prey, anger was ready to devour Cain. He could resist and do the right thing, or he could get eaten alive by his rage. Cain stood at a pivotal fork in the road: one path led to the Lord’s blessing, the other led to destruction.

Sadly, we know how the story ends. Ignoring the Lord’s warning, Cain lured his brother into a field and committed the first murder in human history (Genesis 4:8).

Cain’s story still plays out in today’s headlines. Random acts of violence. School shootings. A husband kills his wife. A wife kills her husband. Thousands of years later, unchecked anger continues to fuel our rage.

Although we may never have committed murder because of our anger, we’re not off the hook. The New Testament warns us against anger taking root in the heart. Jesus said, “Anyone who his angry at his brother or sister will be subject to judgment” (Matthew 5:21). John echoes Jesus’ words, “We must not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and killed his brother…anyone who hates another brother or sister is really a murderer at heart.” (1 John 3:12,15).

Harboring hateful anger is relationally and spiritually deadly. We can’t afford to let our anger go unchecked and consume us as it did Cain.

So, let me ask—Is anger “crouching at your door” today?

How will you respond? Where will you take it?

There is a place to go that is infinitely superior to a rage room: the throne room.

As Charles Swindoll says, “The best place to get angry is on your knees, where nobody hears but God.”

Get alone with the Lord. Tell Him why you’re angry.

Ask for His help.

And allow His grace, not your anger, to rule over you.

DIG DEEPER:
Read “What’s At the Root of Your Anger?” by Michael Kelley

 

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ACTUALLY, MONEY CAN BUY HAPPINESS
February 02, 2026
Bryant Wright, Founder

“If there is a poor man among your brothers…do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother.” Deuteronomy 15:7

We’ve all heard the phrase, “Money can’t buy happiness.” But research suggests how we spend money matters. People who use even small amounts to help others consistently report greater happiness than those who spend it only on themselves.

That may sound new, but Scripture has been saying it all along. God repeatedly calls His people to live with open hands and generous hearts. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Long before studies existed, God designed generosity as a pathway to joy and contentment.

Why does generosity bring joy? Because giving shifts our focus outward. It loosens our grip on possessions and reminds us that everything we have ultimately comes from God. Generosity reflects the heart of a gracious Father who gave us everything through Jesus. It teaches us that life isn’t about accumulation—it’s about participation in God’s work of blessing others.

Here’s a simple challenge: find one way today, big or small, to bless someone else. Buy coffee for a coworker. Help a neighbor. Give to a need. Even a small gift, offered in love and obedience, can have an eternal impact.

Money itself won’t make you happy. But when you use it God’s way—to serve, bless, and give—it becomes a source of joy that lasts.

DIG DEEPER:
Read “What the Bible Says About Money” also by Bryant Wright

 

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YOU MIGHT NOT BE AS LOVING AS YOU THINK
February 03, 2026
Jonathan Munson, Executive Director

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

Today, you’re going to evaluate how loving you are, not by the world’s standards but according to the well-known Bible passage, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. (For the sake of time, we’ll focus only on some of the verses.) As you read these familiar words, pause and reflect on how well you live them out, not in theory, but in your everyday behavior.

Remember, love isn’t just an idea, an emotion, or something you believe in; it’s an action. Love is a verb. Love is selflessly choosing to seek the good of another person above ourselves. Unless you actually demonstrate love to real people in real-life situations, it only exists in your mind and remains untested. You’re like an athlete who excels on the practice field but fails to play in the game, where it truly matters.

WARNING: This might be a humbling exercise. (It certainly is for me.)

Love is…

“Patient”-Chances are someone’s testing your patience right now. Considering God’s immense patience with you, are you extending the same patience towards them?

“Kind”-Are you practicing intentional acts of kindness, or are you waiting for others to deserve your kindness before you show it?

“Does not envy”-The Corinthians envied those who possessed the spiritual gifts of “tongues” (1 Corinthians 13:1). Paul reminded them that love and envy cannot coexist. If you envy someone’s talents, status, or circumstances, you’ll find it hard to love them because, secretly, you wish you had what they have.

“Does not boast or isn’t proud”– Are you seeking recognition for love? Then perhaps your idea of love is just pride in disguise. True love embraces humility and is content to serve behind the scenes, without applause or acknowledgement.

“Not self-seeking” –If I’m honest, my love is often motivated by what I might get in return. It’s a ‘what’s-in-it-for-me’ kind of love. But ‘agape’ love, the kind Paul describes here, cuts against this natural inclination. ‘Agape’ love chooses to show love even if it goes unnoticed, unappreciated, or unreciprocated. Love always puts others before self.

“Not easily angered”– A quick temper hinders love. You might say, “If this person weren’t always pushing my buttons, then I wouldn’t get so angry.” While this may be true, their behavior also exposes a weakness in you. Because, according to God’s Word, love does not have a short fuse. We are called to reflect the character of God, who is “slow to anger” (Exodus 34:6).

“Rejoices in the truth”- Love doesn’t shy away from communicating truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. Still, we don’t wield truth like a weapon. We aim to “speak the truth in love” with tact, grace, and sensitivity (Ephesians 4:15).

“Love always perseveres”- Love doesn’t give up when circumstances become painful, exhausting, or demanding. Instead of making excuses, love keeps showing up–no matter what.

So…how’d you do?

This exercise was not meant to discourage you. Instead, it’s intended to point you to Jesus, the only One who perfectly embodies love and can give you the strength and ability to love others in this way.

Let’s pray-

“Lord Jesus, thank You for loving me despite myself. I’m aware of my weaknesses in loving others, and I need Your help to love them as You do. Today, let Your love flow through me and shape my perspective, words, and actions. Amen.”

DIG DEEPER:
Read “How Do You Define Love” by Bryant Wright

 

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FIRST, YOUR SWORD
February 04, 2026
Bryant Wright, Founder

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7–8

After a naval victory, a defeated admiral once approached Lord Horatio Nelson to surrender, sword still at his side. As he reached out his hand, Nelson replied, “Your sword first, then your hand.”

That moment pictures how we often come to God. We want His peace, help, and blessing—yet we cling to our “swords.” Our pride. Our stubbornness. Our favorite sins. We ask God to intervene, but we hesitate to surrender control.

James is clear: if we want God to draw near, we must first surrender and submit. That means laying down our resistance, resisting the enemy’s lies, and refusing to live double-minded lives—partly devoted to God and partly devoted to ourselves. True surrender is not passive; it is an intentional choice to trust God fully.

Here’s the good news: the moment we put down our sword, God meets us with grace. He is not distant or reluctant. He is ready to draw near, to cleanse our hearts, and to restore what sin has damaged. He won’t bless our stubbornness—He blesses our surrender.

So what are you still holding onto? Pride? Anger? Fear? A habit you don’t want to release? Lay it down. Draw near to God, and He promises to draw near to you.

And when He does, the enemy (the devil) has no choice but to flee – defeated once again by Jesus.

DIG DEEPER:
Read “3 Things to Remember As Your Submit Yourself to God” by Michael Kelley

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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February 6
Small Beginnings
Bible in a Year :

• Exodus 39-40
• Matthew 23:23-39

Who dares despise the day of small things, since [God’s] eyes . . . will rejoice when they see the chosen capstone in the hand of Zerubbabel?
Zechariah 4:10

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Zechariah 4:1-10
In 1848, engineer Charles Ellet Jr. puzzled over how to begin the process of constructing the first bridge over the Niagara Falls gorge. How would they get a cable across the river? Prompted by a dream, Charles decided to host a kite-flying contest. American teenager Homan Walsh won five dollars when his kite landed on the American side of the river. Homan’s kite string was secured to a tree and used to pull a light cord back across the river, then progressively heavier cords until heavy wire cable was in place. This was the small beginning of the construction of the Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge.
The bridge’s challenges and inauspicious beginnings mirror those faced by those working to rebuild God’s temple after returning from captivity in Babylon. An angel awakened the prophet Zechariah with a message that nothing would thwart God’s work—it would all be accomplished “by [his] Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6). Some of those who’d seen the temple in its previous glory were fearful that the rebuilt version would pale in comparison (Ezra 3:12). The angel encouraged Zechariah that they shouldn’t “despise the day of small things” because God would “rejoice” in seeing the work begun (Zechariah 4:10).
Even though the tasks God has appointed to us may seem insignificant, we can be encouraged knowing He uses small things—like kite strings—to accomplish His great works.
By: Kirsten Holmberg



Reflect & Pray
How does it encourage you to know that God’s works often start small? How might you trust His faithfulness?
Dear Father, thank You for being faithful to Your plans.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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February 9
How the Proud Fall
Bible in a Year :

• Leviticus 6-7
• Matthew 25:1-30

Before a downfall the heart is haughty.
Proverbs 18:12

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Proverbs 18:1-12
John Taylor was a British eye surgeon in the 1700s who, driven by arrogance, fabricated a prestigious reputation. He pursued celebrities and became the personal eye doctor for King George II. Taylor traveled the country performing medical shows that promised miracle cures, often escaping towns under the cover of night carrying bags overflowing with villagers’ cash. However, records suggest Taylor was a charlatan and likely blinded hundreds of patients. History remembers him not as a medical luminary but as the man who destroyed the eyesight of two of the century’s greatest composers: Bach and Händel.
Taylor craved reputation and acclaim, but his legacy declares his lies, and the embarrassment and hurt he caused. Proverbs explains how egotistical addictions lead to devastation. “Before a downfall,” we read, “the heart is haughty” (18:12). Taylor’s disgrace warns us of how arrogance can ruin our lives, but one’s foolishness often harms others too (vv. 6-7). The “downfall” is great indeed.
While a proud heart destroys us and others, a humble heart leads toward a life of meaning and joy. “Humility comes before honor,” the proverb says (v. 12). If we selfishly pursue only self-interests (v. 1), we’ll never find what we crave. If we yield our heart to God and serve others, however, we honor Him and reflect His goodness.
By: Winn Collier



Reflect & Pray
How have you seen pride lead to a downfall? How have you seen humility lead to honor?
Dear God, please give me a humble heart and help me reject a haughty, arrogant spirit.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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February 10
The Exchange
Bible in a Year :

• Leviticus 8-10
• Matthew 25:31-46

Our old self was crucified with [Christ] so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin.
Romans 6:6

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Romans 6:4-12
Elijah had accidentally ripped a ten-dollar bill while playing with his friends. But instead of admonishing him, his father offered to exchange the torn bill with a fresh one from his wallet.
“Why would you do that?” Elijah asked, confused. “For one, you’re my son,” his father explained. “It’s also a reminder of what Jesus did for us. Because Jesus came and gave His life in exchange for ours, we can now live new lives.”
Every human life is valuable to God because He created each of us. But our sinful nature—“the body ruled by sin” (Romans 6:6)—keeps us from living a life worthy of God’s holiness. So God, in His great love for us, willingly gave up His Son to pay the price of our sin. Our old self was put to death, and in exchange, He offers us a new one—“no longer . . . slaves to sin” (v. 6). When we accept God’s offer of new life, we can be assured that even though our old self was sinful and broken—“corrupted by its deceitful desires” (Ephesians 4:22), we are now being perfected “to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (v. 24).
Elijah’s father was willing to offer him something of his own because he loves him. But the even better offer is the one God extends to us: the redemption of our lives. When we accept His offer of new life, we aren’t the same as we were before.
By: Jasmine Goh



Reflect & Pray
What was your life like before you received Jesus as your redeemer? How would you describe it now?
Dear God, thank You for offering me new life, set free from sin, through faith in Christ.
Get to know the basics of the doctrine of salvation.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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February 11
Honoring Jesus
Bible in a Year :

• Leviticus 11-12
• Matthew 26:1-25

She has done a beautiful thing to me.
Matthew 26:10

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Matthew 26:6-13
A twenty-dollar bill and two leaflets with messages about Jesus. That’s what was inside an envelope labeled “John Daniels Sr, Random Act of Kindness Day.” A woman gave it to me while I was on my walk at the community college campus. A year earlier, John had been fatally struck by a car after helping a homeless man and sharing words about Christ’s love with him. John’s legacy of witnessing through words and deeds lives on through the woman I met that day, along with John’s other family members.
In Matthew 26:13, one woman was memorialized by Jesus with these words: “Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.” The woman’s tender heart for Christ compelled her to anoint Him with expensive ointment (v. 7). What was misunderstood and criticized by others as wasteful (vv. 8-9) was commended by Jesus as “a beautiful thing” (v. 10). The woman’s costly devotion was used by God in a unique way, just as He uses our deeds today for His purposes.
The envelope I received reinforced my desire to distribute resources to those on the street corners in my city, but honoring Jesus can happen in a variety of ways. Let’s tell others about Him and demonstrate His love practically.
By: Arthur Jackson



Reflect & Pray
Who has inspired you to honor Jesus in practical ways? What acts of kindness might your love for Him compel you to do?
Heavenly Father, the lives of other believers in Jesus inspire me to love You more. Please help me to see ways to share my love for You.

 

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TAMING OF THE TONGUE
February 11, 2026
Taken from a sermon by Senior Pastor George Wright, Shades Mountain Baptist Church

“For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” James 3:7-8

One of my heroes growing up was the big cat trainer extraordinaire, Gunter Gebel Williams.

Gunter was the leading performer for many years in the Ringling Brother’s Barnum & Bailey Circus. His command over the lions, tigers, and leopards made him the central attraction of the greatest show on earth. I was in awe of his ability to tame and command the most ferocious beasts on planet Earth with poise and grace.

In our Scripture today, James tells us that every creature on earth can be tamed, but no one can tame the tongue. It truly is the untamable beast. The tongue is full of deadly poison and can lash out and strike at any moment.

So, in light of that description, here’s today’s question to reflect upon:

What do we do when we have lashed out at someone?

Consider these thoughts when your words have run wild:

1. Acknowledge Hurtful Speech – As painful, harsh, and reckless as words can be, the greater pain is often caused when we refuse to acknowledge what we did. It can be so healing to simply say, “I realize I was out of line” or “I know that what I said was hurtful.” Acknowledgment of the pain caused shows that we are aware of what we have said and are willing to move toward healing.
2. Apologize – I know this seems basic, but saying “I’m sorry” and really meaning it is often very hard. An apology shows we are taking ownership of what we said, rather than getting defensive or deflecting blame. Oh sure, we may try to rationalize or explain our tone, but an apology is essential to move toward reconciliation. Don’t minimize the destructive power of your words. My motto is: Apologize, don’t minimize!
3. Seek Forgiveness – Few words can be spoken with more power than “Please, forgive me.” Asking for forgiveness reveals a heart of reconciliation and humility. It is the path to healing and renewal when our words have run wild.

Taming the tongue seems impossible, but we can all choose to do what’s right when our words cause pain. Seeking forgiveness and reconciliation allows us to point people to the good news of Jesus Christ, “In whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:14).

Do you need to ask forgiveness from someone?

Ask God to give you the courage and the humility to begin the reconciliation process.

Don’t wait; do it today. Trust me when I tell you, it will change your life!

DIG DEEPER
Read “Your Words Can Alter Someone’s Life” also by George Wright

 

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CALLED BY NAME
February 12, 2026
Bryant Wright, Founder

“When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, ‘Moses! Moses!’ And Moses said, ‘Here I am.’ ‘Do not come any closer,’ God said. ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.’” Exodus 3:4-5

Imagine, Moses just sitting in the desert watching his flock of sheep. As the adoptive prince of Egypt now living in exile after killing an Egyptian – this is his new normal. Suddenly, Moses spots a bush completely consumed by flames, only it’s not burning up. Curious, he begins to investigate. That’s when he hears his name.

What follows is God calling Moses to return to Egypt and lead the Israelites into freedom. This is no small task: an Egyptian fugitive turned shepherd, confronting the most powerful man on earth to let all his slave labor go free.

Filled with courage and faith, Moses jumped into action – right? Wrong. Despite everything he had just experienced, inadequacy and doubt overwhelmed him. “But who am I to do this?… Who do I say sent me?… What if nobody believes me?… But, I’m not a public speaker” (My Paraphrase of Ex. 3:11, 13; Ex. 4:1, 10).

Perhaps you can relate.

When I was struggling with the decision to leave the business world for full-time ministry, I would have loved an audible confirmation from God (like Moses had) that I was headed in the right direction.

But, it didn’t happen that way. And it doesn’t happen that way for most of us. However, the God who saw Moses in the middle of the desert and called him by name, sees you right where you are. He knows your name and has a specific calling on your life.

What has God put on your heart that you’re letting insecurity and doubt hold you back?

Like Moses, are you giving God excuse after excuse rather than stepping out in faith? Maybe you’re trying to figure out what exactly is your calling in life. If that’s you, then start by giving your life to God in repentant faith. This is the calling we ALL have on our lives – the calling to follow Jesus. Where God leads you from there – well, the possibilities are endless. Trust that God will fill in the details!

DIG DEEPER:
Read “The Faith of Moses” also by Bryant Wright

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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February 16
It Takes Humility
Bible in a Year :

• Leviticus 19-20
• Matthew 27:51-66

[Jacob] bowed down to the ground seven times as he approached his brother.
Genesis 33:3

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Genesis 33:1-10
My cousins, who lived only two miles away when we were growing up, weren’t allowed to interact with my family. They never came to reunions or talked to us at the local grocery store. Their parents said it was because, back then, we didn’t attend church and we’d be a bad influence on them. What a surprise when many years later, a cousin attended my eldest brother’s funeral! He approached us one by one and humbly apologized for their attitude. Our relationship with him began to be restored.
Jacob needed a humble heart to seek restoration with his twin brother, Esau. Jacob, the second born, had connived against Esau: He stole his brother’s birthright (Genesis 25:19-34) and deceived his elderly father into giving him the firstborn’s blessing (26:34–27:40). Furious, Esau threatened to kill him, so Jacob had run to another country.
Years later, Jacob wanted to return home but was afraid the deep division between him and his brother wouldn’t be resolved without bloodshed (32:6-8). When he and Esau finally met, he humbly “bowed down to the ground seven times as he approached his brother” (33:3). He feared Esau would kill him, but instead Esau came running “and embraced him” (v. 4).
Whether we’ve harmed another or have been harmed, it takes humility, openness, and often much work to heal the brokenness. But God can and will help us.
By: Anne Cetas



Reflect & Pray
What relationships in your life might need restoration? How can you start the process?
Dear Father, please keep me from holding grudges or becoming bitter and help me forgive others and ask for forgiveness.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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February 17
Belle’s Belief
Bible in a Year :

• Leviticus 21-22
• Matthew 28

Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life.
John 3:36

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
John 3:1-6, 9, 14-16, 36
Belle wanted nothing to do with her parents’ faith in Jesus. In college, she proclaimed herself an agnostic and sought to live without God. But a breakup with her boyfriend and growing depression sent her on a downward spiral. She thought of ending her life.
In those depths of despair, she thought of her parents’ joy in Christ and, despite her struggles, eventually trusted Jesus as Savior. Later, she heard a man speak about a people group in China who’d never heard the gospel. She wanted to go there to tell them, but some people discouraged her because of the danger. She went anyway. Together with a young man she met in college and whom she later married, Belle spent the rest of her life taking the gospel to people in China and Thailand. Thousands of people trusted Jesus, and the legacy of this woman, Isobel Kuhn, lives on in those lands.
Who gave a young woman a new life and hope and walked with her as she dealt with difficult life challenges? Jesus.
Are you wondering what life is about? Perhaps questioning your existence? Turn to Christ—“God’s one and only son” (John 3:18) who died for you (Romans 5:8). He loves you enough to provide life that lasts forever (John 3:16). Yes, “whoever believes in [Jesus] the Son has eternal life” (3:36). And when we believe in Him, as Belle did, He will be with us as we face life’s challenges and help us extend His love to others.
By: Dave Branon



Reflect & Pray
How does God provide purpose for your life? What does it mean for you to find hope in Christ?
Dear Jesus, thank You for the purpose and plans You have for me!
Learn more about having a personal relationship with God

 

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WEIGHED DOWN BY EVERYDAY BURDENS?
February 17, 2026
Written by Jonathan Munson, Executive Director

“The Lord upholds all of those who are falling and lifts up all who are bowed down.” Psalm 145:14

They are known as “mule women.” Often carrying more than twice their weight in portable goods, the women transport a number of products back n’ forth between Morocco and Spain every day. It’s a grueling, inhumane, and back-breaking way to eke out a living.

I recently saw a picture of the massive weight they carry on their backs and was blown away.

We may never have transported a huge load of merchandise between two countries, but most of us can, in some way, relate to the struggle of these women.

We wake each day, beleaguered by our own burdens, bearing our hefty loads once again. Some days, the weight feels heavier than others, but each day exacts a toll, nonetheless.

We wonder, “Why hasn’t God removed the load from our shoulders? Why doesn’t He just take it away all at once?”

Well, sometimes He does.

Remember when Jesus healed the woman who had been bent over for 18 years (Luke 13:10-13)? Miraculously standing straight, she rightfully responds with joyful praise.

But what about the times He doesn’t immediately lift the weight off our backs? What then?

Well, for one thing, we can rejoice that He sees us. Today’s text teaches that the Lord’s eye is on the worn-down, on those who are about to fall beneath life’s crushing load.

But it gets better.

Not only does He see us – He also “upholds” us. To put it another way, when the Lord chooses not to remove our burdens, He promises to help us bear the weight of them. When we feel like we can’t take another step, He “lifts” us up, enabling us to keep going. C.H. Spurgeon, draws our attention to the fact that both of these verbs are present participles. Spurgeon explains, “The form of the verb shows that He is always doing this. He is Jehovah-upholding.” In other words, this is not a one-time act, but something He does constantly, 24/7. His eternal, unchanging nature means He will uphold us forever, never growing tired or losing an ounce of compassion.

(Let that sink in for a moment.)

Unfortunately, many of us fail to experience the reality of His sustaining power in our daily lives. We simply neglect to tap into it on a regular basis. This is like having access to a limitless bank account and never making a withdrawal. It makes no sense.

Whatever burdens are on our backs, our role is to live in a continuous state of surrender, asking for His help throughout the day, saying Jesus, “I can’t carry this alone. I need You right now!” Granted, this doesn’t eliminate our struggle, but it does alleviate it.

Leaning on His everlasting arms, we’ll find our strength renewed. And one day, we’ll look back and share a powerful testimony of His great faithfulness.

Joining with the psalmist, we’ll declare- He might not have removed the burden, but He upheld me every step of the way.

DIG DEEPER
Read “Do You Know the God of Comfort?” by Bryant Wright

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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February 19
Lavish Love
Bible in a Year :

• Leviticus 25
• Mark 1:23-45

If one of your fellow Israelites falls into poverty . . . allow him to live with you.
Leviticus 25:35nlt

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Leviticus 25:35-43
Todd invited his younger brother Alex, a recent college graduate, to come live with him in the house he’d built. He wanted to help his sibling gain some financial footing by allowing him to live rent-free for a while. After six months, Todd asked Alex to begin paying rent. Years later, Alex made an offer on his own home. When the offer was accepted, Todd surprised him by telling him that he’d deposited Alex’s rent payments in a savings account over the years and that the substantial sum of money was now his! Alex wept as he received the lavish gift.
In Leviticus 25, God gave Moses commands for the Israelites that included allowing those in need “to live with you” (v. 35 nlt). This command was part of God enacting “a jubilee year” (v. 10 nlt)—when debts were forgiven, those in poverty were helped, and the enslaved were freed (vv. 23-55). He declared that He’d lovingly led His people “out of Egypt to give [them] the land of Canaan and to be [their] God” (v. 38). He’d provided a new homeland, and now they were to imitate Him by showing love and opening their homes to others.
The apostle John would later write, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” (1 John 3:1). By Jesus’ sacrifice we can receive the fullness of that lavish love (v. 16). And as He helps us, we can lavish it on others.
By: Tom Felten



Reflect & Pray
How have you experienced God’s lavish love? How can you extend it to others?
Loving God, please help me pour out Your amazing, lavish love on others.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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February 23
Humble Leadership
Bible in a Year :

• Numbers 7-8
• Mark 4:21-41

Among you stands one you do not know. . . . the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.
John 1:26-27

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
John 1:19-28
My friend Butch Briggs has been the beloved coach for the swim teams at a local high school for fifty-one years. Out of curiosity, I asked him how many state championships he’d won during his five decades. In his trademark, gentle tone he quipped, “I’ve not won a single championship because I’ve never swum in a single race.” Trying again, I asked him, “How many championships have your swimmers won?” He happily responded, “Thirty-nine.”
Butch taught me a valuable lesson. A coach plays an important role, but he didn’t want to take credit for what his swimmers accomplished.
Butch’s humility reminds me of how John the Baptist saw his role. John was tasked with pointing people to Jesus as the Messiah—the one who fulfilled God’s promise to send a rescuer. But John garnered so much attention that the religious leaders wanted to find out exactly who he was. In response, Scripture records that John “confessed freely, ‘I am not the Messiah’ ” (John 1:20). Even when they pressed him, John was clear that his role was to announce Jesus’ arrival (vv. 21-23). Jesus was the one they’d longed for (v. 27).
This aspect of humility—not taking more credit than is due—is a way we can keep a proper perspective regarding our accomplishments while recognizing others for the assignments or roles they’ve been given.
By: Lisa M. Samra



Reflect & Pray
Where might you struggle to display humility? How might the Spirit empower you to act humbly?
Dear Jesus, please grant me grace to act with the humility You so vividly displayed and modeled for us during Your life and death.

 

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Love God. Love Others.


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February 24
Missing the Divine
Bible in a Year :

• Numbers 9-11
• Mark 5:1-20

Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.
Isaiah 53:3

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Today's Scripture & Insight :
Isaiah 53:1-6
Most people avoided George Chase. He lived in a twelve-foot square shack in the woods where New England’s Pawcatuck River meets Little Narragansett Bay. To the locals, it was obvious George didn’t have a bathtub. They could smell the evidence.
One day a hurricane brought the Atlantic Ocean rushing over the seacoast, washing away the beachfront with its attractive homes. Survivors pulled themselves from the bay and began searching for refuge. Eleven of them, soaked and shivering, found it in George’s cabin. He gave them everything he had: water, milk, ginger tea, and shelter. After the hurricane of 1938, the townsfolk had a far different opinion of George Chase.
It’s sad when we make superficial judgments about others, yet it’s our nature to do so. We do that with Jesus too. We might picture Him as He’s portrayed in old paintings, serenely handsome. But the prophet Isaiah said of the Messiah, “He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him . . . . like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem” (Isaiah 53:2-3). Yet this man gave us everything He had. “He took up our pain and bore our suffering” (v. 4). He offered His life for ours.
It’s tragic when we miss the humanity of our fellow human beings. How much more tragic to miss the divinity of the One we despised!
By: Tim Gustafson



Reflect & Pray
How might you look past outward appearances to see the humanity of others? When you think of Jesus, how do you picture Him?
Dear Jesus, please help me to see others as beautiful beings created in Your image.