Steve Durkac | Hospice Chaplain

July 1

Celebrating Life

“The city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there.” Zechariah 8:5

Our society is increasingly favoring laws that value death and downplay life, but in our eternal home we will have none of it! Life will be celebrated. When you see children out in public with no worry of harm, you’ll see life and know there is safety. Heaven will be like that. You’ll see it as the lamb and lion tussle together without fear and in the presence of children freely playing.

Life in our eternal home will be unlike our society today with its sinful consequences. There will be no fear of evil disrupting our days when we are in Heaven because every inhabitant will be in harmony with the righteousness of the Lord.

Let’s pray today that the children in our families will follow Jesus and join with us in life.

 

July 2

Double Blessing

“Return to your fortress, you prisoners of hope; even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you.” Zechariah 9:12

The enemy of souls may have stolen your joy, but the Lord has promised to restore to you double. You may have lost health, career, family, but the Lord God declares that He will restore to you twice as much. The delay may try your faith and the pain may push you to doubt, but wait on the Lord for your double blessing.

Just as our days on earth are fleeting moments of time that cause us to wonder where our lives went, so will we soon find ourselves in the place of double blessings. Our hope may be realized yet on earth but it is certain in Heaven.

Let’s pray today to be patient in endurance and hopeful as we wait on our Lord’s promise.

 

July 3

Living Water

“On that day a fountain will be opened to the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity.” Zechariah 13:1

All our righteousness is as filthy rags, it can’t cleanse us from sin and it can’t get us in Heaven. Jesus Christ offers His own righteousness as a fount of living cleansing water. Have no fear of failing when you live by faith, because fail as you will, with the Spirit of Christ within you, the fount of living water continues to flow, forgive, and cleanse you from all unrighteousness.

The Savior gives like a fountain that brings forth an endless stream of refreshing water. The needs of mankind through the ages is Jesus the prophesied Messiah who has come to cleanse us from sin so we may have eternal life.

Let’s pray today that we may trust in the living water of Christ’s Spirit to forgive and save.

 

July 4

More Like God

“This third I will put into the fire; I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will call on my name and I will answer them; I will say, ‘They are my people,’ and they will say, ‘The Lord is our God.‘”  Zechariah 13:9

There is a people of God who call upon the Lord and whom the Lord recognizes as His own. Not necessarily a people by membership in a church, but who have been born again by the blood of Lamb, who have heard Him through answers of prayer, through conviction of the Bible, in fellowship with other followers of Christ Jesus. God’s people are more like God than the world around them.

The people of God are often refined by the fires of tribulation and in that testing, like metal in the refiner’s fire, are made pure. It is easy to give praise to the Lord in our times of plenty, but it is in the trials that our character is shaped more like Christ.

Let’s pray today that we will faithfully show the world the character of God in us.

 

July 5

Return to Jesus

“Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty.” Malachi 3:7

Don’t think that you have been away from God for so long that He would never take you back. Don’t think that He wouldn’t want you, or that He has moved on to help others. The Lord died for you on Calvary’s cross and His investment in you and every wayward soul is immeasurably great. Turn back to God just as you are and He shall make you just as you were and move you by His Spirit to just where you should be.

Your family history may be against the things of God but that doesn’t have to define you and your choices today. Now is the right time to do the right thing. Returning to Jesus while we still have breath is good for us and our family’s future.

Let’s pray today that our loved ones would stop running from God and allow Him to help.

 

July 6

Provider God

“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” Malachi 3:10

The church is God’s ordained means of distributing gospel food to a world starving for truth. When we contribute to the mission of the gospel through our talents, our time, and our resources, the Provider God which we serve returns back to us through providential provision. The very practice of giving becomes God’s provision for receiving.

God does not need our resources, but we certainly need His. Every good thing we have and are is from God. When we willingly participate in God’s work of providing to others we find that His blessings often become ours.

Let’s pray today to be faithful in returning gratitude in tithes and offerings to the work of God.

 

July 7

True Believers

“On the day when I act, says the Lord Almighty, they will be my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as a father has compassion and spares his son who serves him.” Malachi 3:17

A quick look across the pews won’t tell you who truly believes in Jesus, but the return of Jesus will. The difference between those who serve the Lord and those who don’t isn’t always clear, but we all serve somebody. Some serve self, some serve money, some serve power, but when the end of all things is final and Jesus returns for His own, it will be clear to all and for all eternity.

The genuine followers of the Lord Jesus will make up God’s treasured possession and they will be spared the wrath meant for those who willfully reject divine mercy. On the day that our God acts, the true saints of the Lord will be saved.

Let’s pray today that we may not serve anyone or anything above our Lord and Savior.

 

July 8

Repairing Homes

“He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come and strike the land with total destruction.” Malachi 4:6

God is concerned about families, which is why the gospel repairs broken hearts, relationships, and homes. This is why Satan seeks to attack the institution of marriage and why he drives a wedge between fathers and children. This is also why Jesus seeks reconciliation between families and offers His Spirit to turn hearts toward home.

The outcome of homes intentionally without a parent, sons without fathers and daughters without mothers, is detrimental to the development of wholeness in future adults unless the Holy Spirit intervenes with healing and hope.

Let’s pray today that we will guard our parenting and family relationships by His Spirit.

 

July 9

Jesus Saves

“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21

Our God does not demand that we reach Him, instead He has reached us by His Son Jesus Christ. He was born into the human family as the second Adam, He understands our frailty, and He alone saves. Jesus lived the sinless life for the forgiveness of our sins. No other god can claim such love birthed from divinity to save those who will believe in faith that His grace is sufficient to forgive our sins.

How different is the God of the Bible than other gods of man’s religions, because ours has come to us, seeking a relationship. The Lord left His glory in Heaven and entered into our world for the purpose of becoming the sacrifice for our sins.

Let’s pray today that we may rejoice in the good news Jesus saves and we will be with Him for all eternity.

 

July 10

Word of God

“Jesus answered, It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4

Food is required to keep us healthy and alive to see tomorrow, but the Bible is required to keep us healthy and alive to see eternal life in Heaven. The Bible is the word of life, the word of truth, the word of God and is far more important for an abundant life – on earth and in heaven – than every crumb of food that may pass through our lips. So let us live our days in hunger for the very words of our God.

The Bible is not meant to be a reference book for sporadic referral in times of trials or problems. We should go to it in the circumstances that try us but God’s Word is our daily spiritual sustenance required for life, even more than bread.

Let’s pray today for the Spirit of God to stir our yearning to digest the words of eternal life.

 

July 11

Broken for Heaven

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3

Being heartbroken, deeply saddened, in the depths of despair can sometimes seem like a prerequisite for Heaven. It’s hard to feel like we actually have a future when we feel broken, but Jesus says that the future belongs to such. This world may reward the ambitious confident go-getter, but the Kingdom of Heaven is about rewarding redemption to the broken-hearted.

It is hard to be prideful and feel self-sufficient when our heart’s are shattered with sorrow or our attitude is depressed of any positivity. However, it is in these times we can turn to the Lord and appreciate His sacrifice that we have the hope of Heaven.

Let’s pray today that when we feel our life is in pieces we will go to Jesus and find healing.

 

July 12

No More Grief

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:4

Grief is a very lonely feeling that leaves the mourner wondering if things will ever be normal again. Jesus knows your grief and with the story of the death Lazarus we saw that he knows the tears that grief brings. The day is coming when mortal shall put on immortal and sorrow will be replaced with eternal peace and the empty void of loss will end in the comforting arms of God in Heaven.

Comfort does not always come as we may expect because family and friends may stay at a distance, but the Lord is always near. Allow our times of mourning to drive us to find comfort from the Lord, in His promises, and in the blessed hope.

Let’s pray today for those who miss loved ones and that we will all long for Heaven.

 

July 13

Humble for Heaven

“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” Matthew 5:5

Our society doesn’t always recognize meekness as a quality to be cherished, but our Father in Heaven does. No one wants to spend eternity with boisterous proud people, but rather with those who humbly recognize the high cost of salvation, which is why God rewards those who stand faithful to heavenly principles above earthly gains.

Heaven will be filled with those who lived quiet lives, like the faithful mother who lived mostly unknown outside her family and the steadfast father who labored without worldly ambition. Thankfully, the Lord sees the humble and the new earth is their reward.

Let’s pray today that we will not become hardened by others but stand for truth, humbly.

 

July 14

Satisfying Grace

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” Matthew 5:6

If you hunger to be right with the Lord, you will, because in our emptiness we have room for His grace. The Spirit of God is fully available to those who acknowledge their need, who ask, who seek Jesus, and who willfully follow after Him. As we deal with our shortcomings, we become thirsty for His grace and that living water always satisfies.

A love for what is righteous is evidenced by our hunger and thirst for the way and works of God. God’s grace brings a satisfaction to our soul that fills us, yet causes us to increase in hunger and thirst after His righteousness.

Let’s pray today to not hide our sins, but let’s seek the grace of Christ to forgive and restore.

 

July 15

Merciful Judgment

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5:7

As you are merciful toward others, so will God in his judgment be merciful toward you. We all want God’s grace, not the wrath we deserve, but when we realize our own sinfulness it’s easier to be merciful toward others. When we are grateful for Calvary and appreciate the price Christ paid, it’s easier to be merciful with others.

Sometimes circumstances and relationships may tempt us to judge harshly but often, through prayerful contemplation, we can extend mercy in attitude and deed when we are reminded of the undeserved mercy the Lord has extended to us.

Let’s pray today to have compassion and patience with others for the sake of Christ.

 

July 16

Unspoken Prayers

“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:6

God does not overlook or ignore the unspoken private heartfelt prayers of His people. A meaningful relationship with our Lord is not dependent on outward religiosity but on genuine gratitude, simple petitions, and personal communion with Him. Our prayer life may be unnoticed by those around us or even unadvertised by us, but the power of prayer is not in us but in the God we approach in prayer.

Every believer in Jesus Christ can share in the high privilege of prayer with Heaven and it is not dependent upon recognition or approval of anyone else. Prayer is communication between us and the Lord anytime and in any need.

Let’s pray today in a continual communion with our Lord, spoken or unspoken.

 

July 17

Forgiving Others

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6:14-15

The best way to know that we understand God’s grace is to evaluate how we extend grace to others. To know that we are forgiven by God is to know that we are forgiving of others. It is easy to willingly forgive another for their sinfulness expressed toward us when we are fully aware of how much our Lord has willingly forgiven us.

It is in our appreciation for God’s forgiveness of our sins that our attitude softens toward others in similar sin. When we realize that God has turned our own life around we can begin to view others with a hope that He can do the same for them.

Let’s pray today that we would allow God to handle those who hurt or harm us and stay in His grace.

 

July 18

Eternal Investment

“But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:20-21

Investments of earth will depreciate and decay but investments in Heaven will give you eternal returns. Nothing of this earth lasts, and nothing of this earth is guaranteed to remain secure or safe. Only our treasures of gospel worth will return dividends to last into eternity. What we invest in faithfulness to Christ is all that will last.

If we are consumed with investing our energies into the things of this earth, we’ll come to the end of our days unprepared for Heaven. If we have sowed our life into the things of Heaven, we’ll reap a great joy when it comes time to meet the Lord.

Let’s pray today that we would give of our heart and mind, all that we are and have to Heaven.

 

July 19

Start with God

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33

Getting life right begins by putting God first and starting all we do with God’s Kingdom in mind. First we seek His face and that means we focus on Him not on us, on His promises not our problems, on the healing wounds of Calvary not our own hurts. If we only think about our grievances we’ll never be able to ascend to God’s Kingdom and His righteousness, so let’s start each day fixed on God, not ourselves.

Each decision we may face should be filtered through its impact upon our place in the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. Every choice we make ought to reinforce our faith and draw us closer to our eternal home.

Let’s pray today that we may give the first fruits of our thoughts and actions to God and His Kingdom.

 

July 20

Judging Others

“For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Matthew 7:2

Followers of Christ should be the most discerning of others because except for the grace of God we’d be the same. While we can’t read men’s hearts, we know our own, and we can be keen to ungodliness and rightly judge beyond mere words. We judge character in light of God’s grace, knowing how He has changed us, but we cannot forfeit honesty for the sake of earthly gain.

Talk is cheap to a dishonest person, but behavior determines one’s true self. It is not our calling to be worried about evaluating everyone’s intent, but when it matters to us we should remember that actions speak louder than words.

Let’s pray today that we may be Spirit-led with wisdom to know God’s grace as we deal with others.

 

July 21

Persistent Prayer

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8

When we know the love of God for us and His desire to bless us, it is motivation to pray more persistently. Too often we ask once then move on, even lamenting that praying didn’t work, but the truth is we stopped asking because of our disbelief in the very character and willingness of our Heavenly Father to answer. The test is not in the answer but in our asking.

This promise offers a nice visual regarding persistent prayer as asking to receive, seeking to find, and knocking on the doors before us for the answer we prayed for. Prayer is not just a one-time passive shot, but a persistent activity of faith.

Let’s pray today to be faithful to ask, seek, and knock for answered prayers that honor God.

 

July 22

Speak of Jesus

“Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10:32

When you publicly speak honor to the name of Jesus on earth you become the conversation in Heaven. This is far bigger than a chance conversation with a Hollywood celebrity, this is the Creator of all things talking about you! When we don’t shrink back from our testimony of faith before others and freely give glory to the Lord, Jesus will talk us up before the Father.

The Lord Jesus Christ in Heaven is fully aware of our testimony for Him on earth, and that should be all the more encouraging to us to confidently speak His name before others. The name of Jesus carries power above all names.

Let’s pray today to be bold in declaring the name of Jesus before others as often as we have opportunity.

 

July 23

Christ’s Life

“Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” Matthew 10:39

A Christian does not live their own life, we live Christ’s life through faith and by His indwelling Spirit. When we believe the Bible and respond to the gospel we follow our Lord in newness of life. We die to self and arise to a new life that is no longer governed by selfish ambition, but we seek to bring glory to God in all that we do, say, and think.

We may not always perfectly represent our new life in Christ, because we are sinful human flesh, but the Lord is our advocate whose grace is sufficient for us in our weakness. There is no limit on repentance, forgiveness, and faith to live Christ’s life.

Let’s pray today to allow the Spirit of God to have control of our every thought and actions.

 

July 24

The Church Wins

“And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Matthew 16:18

The church may appear to be losing the culture war but the faithful word of God says it wins. It may appear that the lawless godless men in positions of authority are crushing its mission, but their wicked boldness is arousing slumbering saints to stand in revival of righteousness. The very gates of hell can not and will not be moved against the church triumphant.

We must remember that the weeds will grow with the wheat until the final harvest when the separation of the false and true will be made clear. Until the Lord returns, we have this promise that the church whom Christ died for will be redeemed.

Let’s pray today that we would not lose heart or give in to rampant disregard of the truth of God’s word.

 

July 25

Simple Church

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20

Our Lord does not only show up if the crowd is big, but when the gathered church is simple and few. Congregational programs and hi-tech productions do not impress the Savior of men. Jesus is there when you and another will simply meet as the church you are with the purpose of worship and the intent of growing in grace and knowledge of Him.

The church in large gatherings is not at a greater heavenly advantage than a smaller gathering of a few. In fact, the promise of Jesus’ presence is made for those who seek a simple New Testament fellowship with as many as two or three.

Let’s pray today for simple church gatherings everywhere to meet for the glory of Him.

 

July 26

Pray Bigger

“Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’” Matthew 19:26

Don’t hold back your big prayers from God, because prayer can do anything that God can do. Nothing is impossible for the God who created all things and who asks your full assurance of trust in Him for salvation. No relationship is too broken, no problem is too bad, nothing is impossible for the prayer answering God of the Bible.

Whatever the challenge of our life, the answer is prayer because it puts us in communion with the God who is not hindered by impossibility. With God it is possible and that is exactly why we share our heart and mind with the Lord through prayer.

Let’s pray today that we would share our greatest needs and dreams with our Father in Heaven.

 

July 27

Answers to Prayer

“If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Matthew 21:22

Answers to prayer are not limited by our lack of religious works, but by our lack of biblical faith. A lack of faith in the promises of God’s word is what hinders our effective communication with the Lord. Prayer may go unanswered when we ask in doubt and criticism or when we ask against His will, but God does honor His promises.

It is possible that a request we make to the omniscient Lord is not what’s best for us and that may go unanswered, but in our prayerful laboring through the promises of Scripture we may discover that. Through prayer our faith grows stronger.

Let’s pray today that we may pray in a clinging faith based on the very promises of God.

 

July 28

No Soul Overlooked

“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14

God has planned for everyone to have an opportunity to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. The proclamation of the gospel has been a global effort and in these last days it will be magnified as the Spirit of Truth pierces these dark days with chances to turn to Christ. When the last trump sounds and the Lord’s return occurs no soul will have been overlooked by a choice between heaven or hell.

Heaven will be filled with those who intentionally rest in Jesus Christ through faith and hell will be filled with those who intentionally reject Jesus Christ through works. The records of our decisions will testify to which choices we made.

Let’s pray today for all around to recognize and accept Jesus as their Savior.

 

July 29

Always Ready

“So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” Matthew 24:44

Being ready for Jesus’ return at any moment comes when your every moment is looking for Jesus. Prophecy charts may be helpful in understanding timelines of events, but they can’t turn your heart toward the Savior in readiness. There is no waiting till the last minute to be ready for the Lord’s return, because you don’t know when it is. So rather than always looking around or looking down, we can always be ready by always looking up.

We may live our days around tasks and activities that require our attention but the longing for the Savior’s promised return to take us to Heaven is the blessed hope of the Christian life. Regardless of what we are doing, our heart and soul is looking up.

Let’s pray today that we may stay focused on the Savior and looking for His return.

 

July 30

Forever Fellowship

“I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” Matthew 26:29

In eternity, when we are with our Lord Jesus we will enjoy personal, genuine, forever fellowship with Him. We will enjoy the intimacy of eating and drinking together, being together, and having a close relationship together. The Lord has given us the practice of communion to remind us of this and is longing for the day when we will be together again at His Father’s table.

The bread and wine are symbols to remind us of the life of Christ but even more so is the reminder to look forward to the Lord’s return. When Jesus returns we will be with Him forever and truly know the extent of His sacrifice for us.

Let’s pray today that the Spirit may give us a longing heart to be with Jesus in eternal fellowship.

 

July 31

The Great Promise

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20

The great commission from Jesus Christ is a great promise to be shared, that He has not left us and He is returning for us. Jesus has not escaped us by leaving us behind to defend for ourselves against the world. We can collectively and cooperatively preach all the teachings of Scripture, because the promise of our Lord is that He will never leave us, never forsake us, never forget us, never ever even until the end of time.

As the church we are not left without direction, but we have this directive from the Lord Jesus Christ to go and make more disciples. Every believer and every congregation that claims the Lordship of Christ has this great promise to live by.

Let’s pray today that we may be led by the Holy Spirit to share the great promise with others.

 

August 1

Rescued to Rescue

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” Mark 1:17

Every follower of Jesus Christ is rescued from sin and becomes a rescuer of those in the same sin. Like a fisherman whose experience brings forth a catch by the use of an exact lure, so will your own personal experience draw those who need the Savior that you follow. Whatever He has brought you from is where you are best equipped to fish for men.

We are all called to share whatever testimony we have experienced in deciding to follow Jesus as Lord but we can also fish for those who are as we once were. Whatever story we may have is likely the very story that others need to hear.

Let’s pray today that we may cast our nets in the direction from where we have found the Savior.

 

August 2

Dying Without Fear

“For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.” Mark 8:35

When the selfless Spirit of God dwells in us we do not fear loss of our earthly life because eternity awaits. We may grieve the thought of leaving loved ones, but God will remain with them. We may think to resist threats to our life on behalf of the Kingdom of God, but by His strength we will gladly lay down our life rather than dishonoring the God we serve.

Life is precious and none of us should want death, but we ought not to fear it either. The enemy of Christ delights in death but we know that it is not the end. Our Lord gained victory over death and because of Him we have that same victory.

Let’s pray today that we may be in such close worship of Christ that we do not fear dying.

 

August 3

Impossibilities

“If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Mark 9:23

Belief in the promises of God’s word, not in your own worth, is what makes the impossible possible. Jesus Christ bids us to have faith in Him and in so doing our belief is a trust, sometimes unseen but always backed by the very power of the Creator God. We believe because we have faith in the words of our God and it is God’s Word that gives us reason to have faith.

Without belief in the Lord Jesus Christ we are left to live by fear, rather than faith in Him to do what His word has promised. Belief is fully resting in the Lord, much like the same way we fully rest in a chair to support our full body weight.

Let’s pray today that we may not doubt but have faith in God’s word as we face impossibilities.

 

August 4

Child-Like Faith

“Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Mark 10:15

Jesus asks of us a child-like faith, just as a toddler trusts in a parent’s love for a secure future. Children know they have limitations and recognize an adult’s physical and mental superiority. Likewise we are but children of the Creator God and unable to obtain eternal life without Jesus. With a child-like faith we acknowledge our inability to help ourselves and we willingly seek His help.

The life of a child is generally more simplistic than that of an adult with responsibilities and stressors continually beckoning for attention. When we give those cares over to the Lord we can experience a child-like faith that saves.

Let’s pray today that we would trust in Jesus with a simple faith relying completely on Him.

 

August 5

Eternal Treasure

“Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” Mark 10:21

Whatever treasure we cling to today has no comparison to the treasure we will possess in heaven. Things that we cherish now are only temporary, subject to deterioration, and kindling for when the earth is made new by fire at the end of the age. However, your treasure in heaven is what matters most, like everlasting life, and that includes peace, joy, and God Himself.

When we follow the Lord in becoming more like Him our attitude toward possessions will change. With our eyes on Jesus we can learn to hold things of this earth loosely, to not let material things own us, and we will set up treasure in Heaven.

Let’s pray today that we would stay focused on our future treasures in Heaven.

 

August 6

Pray in Belief

“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” Mark 11:24

Prayer is not about us and what we need, it’s about God and His abundant grace for us. When we pray, let our focus be on God Himself, His righteousness, and His character. Prayer is not a mirror that looks back at us but a telescope that looks far into the very throne room of God. That’s why we can pray with belief. We believe in God, not ourselves, we believe in His promises, not our own wishes.

Our belief in God’s ability to answer should drive us to invest ourselves in prayer throughout our day. Like communing with a friend, we can communion with the Lord by expressing thanksgiving, praise, and our need for His help.

Let’s pray today to commit our focus and practice of daily prayer believing in God.

 

August 7

Our Gospel Light

“He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Mark 16:15

The Lord commands His followers to take the gospel wherever we go because the gospel is who we are. We are called to be light in every corner of society. There is no such thing as a secular activity if the light of the gospel shines upon it. Our own testimony of the gospel is who we always are because we are always on mission. The entire creation is to witness the light of the gospel through us.

The transforming power of the gospel of Christ cannot be hidden when the Spirit of God is our companion. A follower of the Lord Jesus is a witnessing light in darkness and in daily activities through their demeanor and interaction with others.

Let’s pray today to always remember that the message of Christ is our very life.

 

August 8

Jesus Will Reign

“He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David” Luke 1:32

No other name can rightly reign our whole world, but that of Jesus and that day is coming soon. The name of our Lord divides with conviction of sin in light of His majestic character and causes men to either humble themselves or hunchback in fierce anger. Men have tried and will yet try to rule the world, but Jesus is coming soon and He will reign.

The Kingdom of God is with us today through the Holy Spirit in the heart of the righteous, but the day is also approaching when King Jesus will reign on all the earth. On that day, sin will be no more and the earth will be made new.

Let’s pray today that we would not falter in our faith but fix our hope beyond men to Jesus.

 

August 9

Evangelism

“I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:32

The gospel is not about entertaining the saint, but rather it is about evangelizing the sinner. It is not about drawing crowds or growing budgets but about individual people finding the richness of Christ through their new life. It is our witness before others of growing in His grace, it is reaching out to those seeking hope, and it is winning souls to Calvary by the convicting power of the Holy Spirit.

Evangelism is sharing the good news of the gospel of Christ, and helping another find life in a fallen world and hope in the coming righteous Kingdom. No sinner is too far gone to turn from wickedness and embrace the forgiveness of the Savior.

Let’s pray today that we may share with others what the Lord is doing in our lives.

 

August 10

Facing Enemies

“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” Luke 6:35

People may disadvantage us for following Christ, but that doesn’t mean we cease being a Christian. Relationships are not mere business transactions requiring us to come out with profit, but relationships are opportunities to show the grace of Christ to the least deserving. We may protect our interests, but we can afford to let go of the wrongs because we rely on God’s judgment against the wrongdoer, not our own.

An enemy may gloat in having the upper hand over us, but no circumstance of this world will change our eternal position in Christ Jesus. The affairs of men are subject to the dwindling sands of time but our life is hidden in Christ for eternity.

Let’s pray today to trust in God to ultimately handle the enemies that we face.

 

August 11

Ask for His Spirit

“If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” Luke 11:13

The Holy Spirit brings all the blessings of Heaven to earth, so why don’t we pray more for His Spirit? We ought to plead for the Holy Spirit to baptize us, to transform us, to dwell within us that we may see as Jesus sees. The good news is that our Heavenly Father wants to give us His Holy Spirit so we may know His transforming power and walk in His continual leading.

We don’t always have because we simply don’t always ask. When we ask for the Holy Spirit’s presence we receive the mind of Christ to lead and guide us in accordance with righteousness and with a strong faith in our daily life.

Let’s pray today to be Spirit-led in all that we may say or do and better reflect Jesus.

 

August 12

Encouraging Creator

“Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.” Luke 12:27

The same Creator who cares for the flowers of the fields is just as sure to care for us. Flowers don’t worry about getting enough water or nutrients to grow and neither should we. The flowers of the field remind us that the Creator cares for our needs. When life is burdensome because of fear for our future, worry about loved ones, or discouraging circumstances, let us refocus and look to our Creator.

When we view and consider the beauty and majesty of creation we are reminded that the Creator is also our Provider. The Lord who created all things also sustains all things, and that is encouraging to us as we face each unknown day.

Let’s pray today that we turn our eyes upon Jesus and be encouraged by His care.

 

August 13

One Soul

“I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” Luke 15:7

Heaven is more celebratory over one new believer than over ninety-nine sitting in the pews. We tend to think differently because we equate success with larger crowds, bigger buildings, and chasing programs that promise to reach more than we have now. However, Jesus would have come to earth, enduring the cruel cross of Calvary, even if it meant for the salvation of one soul.

We can certainly say that in Heaven’s economy it is quality over quantity. If every follower of the Lord Jesus would give themselves to prayer and witness for the salvation of one soul near to them, we would all give impact to the great commission.

Let’s pray today to give attention to one that is lost, more than those who are with us.

 

August 14

Be Humble

“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 18:14

A prideful man flaunts his sin because he considers himself to be of greater worth than he actually is. Like the wheat in the field whose empty heads stand tallest, while the full wheat bows low. The same can be said for the humble before their Creator, who bow low, recognizing that without the Lord there is no value to the harvest and no benefit to others.

It’s easy to be humble when our eyes are on the Lord Jesus Christ and we are fully aware that we are undeserving of His saving grace. It’s also hard to boast or exalt ourselves when we know that our lives are nothing without the mercy of God.

Let’s pray today that we would be humble before our Lord and always give Him glory.

 

August 15

Signs of His Return

“There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken.” Luke 21:25-26

With a Bible in one hand and the headlines of the day in the other, the signs of Jesus’ return are shouting for attention. We know the time is at hand for Christ to come take His church home, because we are seeing an increase in natural disasters in weather and floods, with a sense of fear and perplexity for the future of our nation.

Yet, our focus should not be on the signs but on the event the signs point toward — the return of our Savior. When we drive down the interstate looking for our exit, we do not stop on the off ramp staring at the sign. Rather we focus beyond that sign toward the reason we needed that exit.

Let’s pray today that we may strengthen our focus on the Blessed Hope and not fall to fear.

 

August 16

The Promised Spirit

“I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” Luke 24:49

Without the promised Holy Spirit, sent at Pentecost by the Father, we are powerless to be the church. We are to be clothed with the power of the Holy Spirit, not our own spiritual fashions, but by His Spirit. When we are clothed by the Holy Spirit our own nakedness, the lack of His fruit, is covered.

Sometimes we think we are ready to do a thing for God’s glory, but before we move in that directions we need to stay put in prayer. We need to wait on God’s Spirit to empower us so we speak His words and do His will.

Let’s pray today that we may walk in the Spirit of God in all we do.

 

August 17

Forever Adoption

“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” John 1:12

The God of the Bible desires a relationship with us by adopting us as His forever children. Our God doesn’t keep us at a distance or suppress us as subjects, but welcomes us into His family as His children. Our God adopts us, because He loves us, and assumes parental care of us with full responsibility for our future.

Please don’t doubt your faith-inherited right to the family of God. Whatever your name was — scoundrel, thief, failure, victim, etc. — now in Christ your new family name has been changed to forgiven, victorious, faithful, etc. because you are now the child of God.

Let’s pray today in faith that our God has adopted us as His own child, forever.

 

August 18

Behold Jesus

“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29

Behold Jesus, fix your thoughts on Him, turn your eyes to your Savior on Calvary’s cross and be changed. Stop gazing upon your own shortcomings and start beholding His character and grace. You may struggle with sin or its effects of sorrows, regrets, and heartache, but don’t rehearse the ills when you can find change in beholding Jesus.

The battle of the mind is very real but the choice is yours to focus on yourself or on Jesus Christ. If you focus on yourself you’ll get more of the same, but by focusing on the Lord you will be transformed into His likeness — you’ll trade your fears for His peace.

Let’s pray today that our hearts and minds will turn from self and toward the Savior.

 

August 19

Angelic Intervention

“He then added, “Very truly I tell you, you will see ‘heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”” John 1:51

Angels are God’s helpers from heaven because they have an active part in His Kingdom on earth. They tirelessly labor on behalf of those who seek to glorify God in their lives and circumstances. Though we are mostly unaware, there may be a day in heaven when the Lord plays the film of our life and we will be in awe for His angelic intervention.

Knowing that God’s holy helpers are by our side as we seek to walk with the Lord, ought to motivate us to pray more earnestly. When divine intervention is needed in our affairs on earth, we can confidently know that our God has the ways and means to help.

Let’s pray today that we may always welcome God’s intervention into His work on earth.

 

August 20

Look and Live

“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” John 3:14-15

Those who intently gaze upon the Lord Jesus Christ held high on Calvary’s cross find reprieve from their sin. The Old Testament points toward the ministry of the Messiah to come, and when an outbreak of venomous snakes occurred among the Israelites, those who looked upon Moses’ serpent on the pole found healing from the venom. Behold the Lamb of God that takes away sin and live.

Whatever venom is crippling you from walking with the Lord, take time out to behold Him through prayer, meditation, and by being in His word. In the Lord Jesus Christ you will find healing, wholeness, and hope.

Let’s pray today that we focus upon Jesus’ sacrifice on Calvary and receive His healing.

 

August 21

God’s Love

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

God is love and His love was displayed to the world through His Son Jesus Christ. God’s love is unconditional. You can not earn salvation but you can receive salvation by believing in Jesus Christ as the Son of God who came to show God’s love to a denying world. God died for you, paid for your sins, gave you forgiveness, and loves you enough to do that.

The bad news is that you can not do anything good enough to earn your right to eternal life, but the good news is that you can not do anything bad enough to keep you from eternal life, if you will simply repent and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Let’s pray today that we too truly believe through faith and accept the love of God for us.

 

August 22

Grace or Wrath

“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.” John 3:36

To believe in Christ as your Savior is to obey Him as your Lord, and that means staying in His grace. The wrath of God is due those who do not believe in Christ. You either receive what’s not due to you, that is God’s grace in Jesus Christ or you receive what is already due to you, that is God’s wrath in the judgment at the end of times.

The choice for us is very simple, we either have the Son or we don’t have the Son. It means we live our lives by His grace or we suffer the consequences of rejecting faith in what Jesus has already done for us on Calvary’s cross.

Let’s pray today that we would continually live by grace in faith as we follow Jesus.

 

August 23

Refreshing Grace

“but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” John 4:14

The refreshing grace of Christ, once willfully drunk in faith, is an eternal thirst quencher. The redemptive work of Jesus Christ is for now and forever. It even gets better because as a saved sinner by grace you now get to share that grace with other sinners wanting to be saved and it is in that sharing that you continue to grow in His refreshing grace.

The fresh forgiveness that we receive by regularly seeking Christ’s grace for our shortcomings, becomes the joy that we wish to share with other thirsty souls. No matter how often we thirst, it’s not too often to seek His refreshing grace.

Let’s pray today that we would confess our sins and readily accept the grace of Calvary.

 

August 24

Relationship Not Religion

“Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.” John 4:23

Jesus ushered in the new covenant of worshiping God, not through a religion, but through a relationship. As we search the pages of Scripture we see Jesus was the fulfillment of the letter of the law because the old covenant pointed to Him. In Jesus, we worship God through our relationship with Him, not through religious laws, ordinances, or rituals.

It is possible for religious activities to help point a person to a relationship with the Lord, but all men can find that relationship with the Lord, directly. So spend time with Him in prayer, the study of His word, and fellowship with others doing the same.

Let’s pray today to be in the Bible and conscientious of its pointing toward Christ.

 

August 25

Good Enough

“Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” John 5:24

There is no being good enough for Heaven, eternal life is a gift because only Jesus is good enough. Eternal life is not a reward for the good enough. Our enough is enough to earn us judgment, but not enough to save us. It is in believing that Calvary’s cross is enough to save that we pass from damnation to redemption, from earth to heaven, and from death to life.

It doesn’t mean that we are unable to die this side of the rapture, just that dying is not our end. Our mortality shall put on immortality in the resurrection or when we are caught up to meet the Lord in the air when He returns.

Let’s pray today that we would praise the Lord in all we say and do because of His gift of salvation.

 

August 26

Redeemer of the Dead

“Very truly I tell you, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live.” John 5:25

Jesus is the resurrection, the life, the Redeemer of the dead – before and after the funeral. He gives life to the one seeking a resurrection for a spiritual death, when we’ve walked away from God and His abundant life. He’ll give life to the one who dies before the Lord returns, but at the resurrection all who sleep in the dust of the ground shall come forth when Jesus calls.

There are a thousand voices clamoring for our attention but only our Lord’s has authority over death. There is hope in knowing that the voice of the Lord will one day call forth from the grave every follower and believer who will hear Him.

Let’s pray today that in our grief we will find comfort in Jesus’ promise to live again.

 

August 27

Awaken to Eternity

“Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out—those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned.” John 5:28-29

Jesus referred to death as a sleep because the resurrection awakens us to our eternal destiny. For the believer who dies in Jesus, they will awake in the resurrection at His return of eternal life in Heaven. For those who have willfully rejected Jesus as the Savior, they will awaken in the resurrection of eternal judgment.

Death is not the end and grief is not forever, but we can take hope that our loved ones who worshiped the Lord Jesus will rise to an eternity in Heaven. We can look forward to embracing them again when we all awaken to eternity.

Let’s pray today we may face death with the hope that is in the resurrection, because Heaven awaits.

 

August 28

Fulfillment in Life

“Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35

True fulfillment in our lives can only come when Jesus is the center of our daily activities and attitudes. Without Christ in our lives we will find ourselves always dissatisfied with life and in endless searching for meaning. Only in Jesus can we truly have peace about our future and contentment in waking up to an uncertain day.

Grounding our lives in a biblical worldview is how we arrive at the understanding that the Lord Jesus is working His plan of redemption perfectly. We may question God’s timing and methods but we know that His will is best.

Let’s pray today that we would be led by the Spirit of God and give all glory to the Lord Jesus.

 

August 29

Remain Saved

“All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away.” John 6:37

When you come to Jesus Christ and receive His gift of salvation through faith, the rules don’t change. Once saved, you remain saved in Him by faith. The Lord does not change. Salvation is not of you, but is of Him. Like being born into a family name and its DNA you likewise are born again as a child of God by faith and you remain in God’s family by remaining in faith.

Don’t let the devil tempt you into thinking you are not wanted in God’s family. Don’t allow others to plant doubts in your head when it comes to belonging to God, but stay connected to the body of Christ in your heart, mind, and soul.

Let’s pray today that we may live in a saving faith, like trusting children of God.

 

August 30

Behold Jesus

“For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.” John 6:40

It is God the Father’s will that we would behold Jesus the Son and we would be saved. Stop rehearsing your doubts and start focusing on faith in God’s Word. This world does not have the final say over you. Greater is He who saved you then he who seeks to harm you, even if that harm is fatal, because it will not and cannot be final.

Just as Lazarus was raised up, and just as Jesus was raised up, so shall you be raised up if you live your life beholding the Lord. It is in beholding Jesus that you will become changed into His likeness and that includes His resurrection.

Let’s pray today in thanksgiving that Jesus has saved us and conquered death.

 

August 31

Jesus Saves

“Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life.” John 6:47

We are a fallen people in a fallen world, but we have a risen Savior who has risen from this fallen world. He has made a way for us. We are saved by the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ because He has taken the place of us in being a sinless sacrifice. It is only by believing in Jesus, not ourselves, that we have eternal life.

We must exercise faith in the atonement of Christ’s sacrifice as perfect enough to save us. No circumstance or condition of our fallen humanity was overlooked in the plan of Calvary and no part of it requires our contribution for its success.

Let’s pray today in rejoicing that salvation is all because of Jesus and not us.

 

September 1

Bread from Heaven

“I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” John 6:51

Bread from the grocery store will satisfy for a time, but the Bread from Heaven will satisfy for eternity. Earthly bread may give you sustenance, but the Heavenly Bread of Jesus Christ will give you salvation. Take His life into your heart, mind, and soul, and you will allow the nutrients of the Holy Spirit to transform, comfort, and guide you.

Eternal life cannot be achieved by our own doing, like the work of kneading and baking the bread. Eternal life is not of this world but is of Heaven and is ours only as we partake through faith in the Savior Jesus Christ.

Let’s pray today for the Holy Spirit to continually dwell and work within us.

 

September 2

Discerning Evil

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10

Jesus Christ is all about giving life to the dying, while Satan is all about forcing death upon the living. Anything that is associated with the abundant life is a target for Satan’s attempt to steal, kill, and destroy. So be a discerner of these things and judge for yourself if a particular way promotes life or death so you will know if it is from Christ or Satan.

This promise from Jesus on giving life is also a good test of decisions and choices if you are wondering about your options. Choose the path, the person, the program, or whatever choice is before you that promotes life over stealing, killing, and destroying.

Let’s pray today for the Spirit of God to help us discern evil and trust in Christ.

 

September 3

The Shepherd’s Voice

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27

Many claim to be Christians, but few seem to be hearing, listening, or following the voice of Christ. We are sheep who know that without the true Shepherd’s voice, made plain in the Bible and clear in prayer, we are open to be prey of thieves and wolves. Thankfully, the pleas of God’s children never go unrecognized either.

Social media has added to the already existing multitude of causes that are voicing their fight and bidding us to join. Don’t be tossed about by everything you hear but stay clearly tuned to the call of the Shepherd.

Let’s pray today to walk close with our Lord Jesus Christ as we go about our day.

 

September 4

Jesus Promises

“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” John 10:28

Jesus has promised eternal life and He does not renegotiate, renege, or revoke His promises. Eternal life is a gift that you receive through faith and hold unto by His grace. The Savior has secured your salvation on Calvary’s cross as His promise to you. Jesus does not change, Calvary can not be undone, He simply delivers on His promise.

No one can undo the grace of Christ that saves you and brings new life into your hope for the future, no one can tempt you without your permission to yield, so do not allow anyone to talk you into taking your hand out of His.

Let’s pray today that we will not falter or turn our thankful heart away from Calvary’s gift.

 

September 5

Resurrected Life

“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die“ John 11:25

You can try to renew yourself with new clothes, hair style, or cosmetic surgery, but only Jesus can renew your life. Despite our own changes on the outside we still need His changing on the inside. With Jesus, even in death we will find renewal as we transform from our fallen mortal life to our resurrected immortal life.

Like awakening from a night’s sleep, we will arise from the grave to an eternity with our saved loved ones and the hosts of Heaven forever. Not even death itself on earth can prevent us from the resurrected life when Jesus calls us forth as He did Lazarus.

Let’s pray today in thanksgiving that though the grave may take us it can not keep us.

 

September 6

At Calvary

“And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” John 12:32

All people are attracted to the crucified Lord Jesus, either as their eternal hope or eternal curse. At Calvary He both redeems the sinner and repulses the sinning. The righteous praise His name and the wicked curse His name. We either believe and go to heaven or we deny and go to hell. There is no neutral, so please choose Jesus as your Savior.

When we fix our thoughts on what Jesus did at Calvary’s cross it will change us. Our hearts of stony resistance will soften as we realize that the Son of God gave up the glories of Heaven to die in our place so that we may leave the sorrows of earth to live in the glories of Heaven.

Let’s pray today for our friends and family to be convicted by the Spirit and follow Jesus.

 

September 7

Absolute Truth

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” John 14:1

Both sides of man’s framed arguments can seem convincing, but only God’s word offers absolute truth. God speaks truth without exaggeration, without lies, or without selfish persuasion. We are all capable of disguising lies behind flowering words, but in these troubling times it is only the Lord who is trustworthy.

As long as we are alive this side of Heaven, we will have troubles, but we don’t have to stay in those troubles because we can give them over to the Lord. We can trust in Jesus to walk with us and we can trust in His word as absolute truth.

Let’s pray today that we may become students of the Bible and discern man’s falsehoods.

 

September 8

Promised Return

“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” John 14:3

The evils of society and the wickedness of earth’s leaders will not prevent Jesus’ promised return. Just as daylight always follows a long dark night, so we can be as certain that our Lord will come again and take His church out of these troubling times. Jesus Himself has promised not to leave us and His promise is sure.

Jesus said He will return for us so we can be with Him throughout eternity. Think of it this way, if He came the first time to pay the price for our sin, if He came and died the horrific death as our sacrifice, why would He now forsake us?

Let’s pray today with a confidence in the Blessed Hope of Jesus’ promised return.

 

September 9

Glory to God

“Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” John 14:12

With the ascension of Jesus and His promise of the Holy Spirit’s power, comes greater glory to God. The Old Testament believers of the true God were limited to public expressions of obedience to old covenant laws until the gift of the Holy Spirit would come at Pentecost. We are now free to bring glory to God in all our circumstances of life.

With the Holy Spirit filling us and as we give Him authority over our human spirit — our will — it is in that yielding that we shine as a light before a dark world. The power of God’s grace in our lives will give glory to God, and not to ourselves.

Let’s pray today that in all situations, good and bad, we will rightly give glory to God.

 

September 10

Beauty of Prayer

“And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” John 14:13-14

The beauty of prayer is that it depends on Jesus Christ, His name, His character, His righteousness, not our own. It is not our works, our ability to use the right formula of phrases or proper posture that makes prayer work. It is faith in the Lord Jesus Christ that under-girds the promise of God to answer our heart cries to our Heavenly Father.

Our Lord desires to bless us that we would reflect gratitude back toward Him and before others around us as a testimony of God’s goodness. As our prayers are answered we have opportunity to declare God’s power to others through that testimony.

Let’s pray today more than we have, trusting in the name of Jesus Christ.

 

September 11

Eternal Contentment

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27

Satan’s temporary fix for stress is illicit drugs and immoral activities, but in Jesus peace is an eternal contentment. It’s human nature to seek an escape from the discomfort of problems, but running and hiding doesn’t resolve them. Only by clinging to the cross of Christ can we find strength to cope and hope for managing the stress of our lives.

The follower of Christ knows contentment in having faith in the Lord. We may not be able to explain it, but as we live close to the Lord there is less to fear and stress over because He is right beside us and that means His peace goes with us.

Let’s pray today that we may run to Jesus in prayer as situations of life cripple our plans.

 

September 12

Prayer for Holiness

“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” John 15:7

Prayer is not given as a means to achieving our happiness, but as a means to obtaining God’s holiness. It is not about getting our will done, but about getting God’s will done. When we are in communion with God through the Spirit filled life, we will be focused on being in His will, doing His will, and being filled with His holiness. Prayer is the means of remaining in Christ.

Prayer is a gift from God to draw us closer to Him and keeps us in communion with Him throughout the circumstances of each day. Prayer is meant as an avenue for us to talk with Him, share with Him, and be in communion with Him.

Let’s pray today to be filled with God’s Spirit and walk in holiness apart from this world.

 

September 13

The Commandments

“ If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.” John 15:10

When we are abiding in the love of Jesus we are in harmony with God and we have no desire to harm others. The letter of the law is meant to keep us from doing harm to others and the spirit of the law is how we keep in harmony with God, but if we abide in Jesus’ love we are in harmony with God and will do no harm to others.

The commandments do not save us, but they do guide us in living the saved life. We do not keep the commandments by continually referencing them as if checking our progress, but by abiding in God’s love.

Let’s pray today that we may live by His Spirit so we will love God and others as Jesus.

 

September 14

The Spirit Convicts

“When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment” John 16:8

The Holy Spirit transforms the human heart by bringing conviction of wrongs and assurance of right. Many hell-bound people have an intellectual ascent of right and wrong, but they block the Spirit of God from bringing them conviction. The Spirit doesn’t just point a finger at us for being wrong, He also motions a finger to us to lead us to an assurance that Jesus Christ saves.

The Spirit of God doesn’t just convict us of right and wrong, but of the assurance that the Enemy of our souls stands condemned. Knowing that we follow a victorious Savior is empowering and the convictions from the Spirit of God are encouraging.

Let’s pray today to welcome God’s Spirit into our life to convict us and empower us.

 

September 15

Spirit of Truth

“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.” John 16:13

The Holy Spirit takes the word of God and speaks convicting truth and freedom from falsehoods to the believer. Unless we are standing on the promises of Scripture we can be helpless in deciphering truth from error. God desires that we continue to grow in faith and the knowledge of the Bible, and we do that by listening to the Spirit of truth.

As we near the end of the age, error will masquerade as truth, even in the pulpit, and unless we are in the habit of consulting the very words of God to decipher truth from the lies, we risk being easily deceived.

Let’s pray today that we would remain tuned into the Spirit of God to convict us from God’s Word.

 

September 16

Witness of the Spirit

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8

Jesus promised that His followers would be led by the influence of His Holy Spirit and thereby witness to others. With the power of the Spirit we witness to those around us by the influence of our life, our words, and our deeds. Our selfish spirit will repulse others, but His selfless Spirit will point others to the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world.

A Christian witness is one with a personal encounter with the Lord Jesus who is only asked to share what is already part of their life experience. We can not give away what we don’t have, but we also can’t help sharing the joy we do have.

Let’s pray today that the Spirit of God will make our lives a witness of influence before others.

 

September 17

Angels Promised

“Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” Acts 1:11

The ascension of Jesus was an actual event and His promised return is as certain as His ascension. Like a child whose parent leaves in the morning for work with a promise to return with funds for dinner, so are we wistfully looking for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. The prophets have promised it, Jesus has promised it, now the angels have promised it – our Lord will return!

The return of our Lord will not be some type of spiritual or mystical awareness like a new age dawning, but it will be a literal, real-life, personal, actual return of the Lord Jesus. We’ll meet our Lord in the air then we’ll be face to face forever.

Let’s pray today in an expectant faith that our Lord will return and redeem us from this world.

 

September 18

The Simple Gospel

“Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38

The gospel is very simple – turn away from your sins toward Jesus as your Savior and live His Spirit-filled life. There is full forgiveness in the sacrifice of Calvary’s cross. Stop depending on your own feelings and start trusting in Christ through faith, not by sight, but by faith. His grace is given for you to change you, empower you, and lead you by His Spirit.

Sometimes over adherence to religion can complicate the simple relationship that our Lord wants with us, but don’t fall for it. God loves you, Jesus died for your sins, and the Holy Spirit assures you of His relationship with you.

Let’s pray today that we may frequently meditate on the grace of the simple gospel.

 

September 19

Repent

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord” Acts 3:19

We are a fallen people, but we have a risen Savior, so let us be quick to repent of our sins. When temptation arises, resist rehearsing the excuses that keep you from victorious living and turn from yourself to your Savior. Have faith in the forgiveness of Christ’s grace and repent from participating in sin.

Yes, Jesus died for your sins on Calvary, but just having an intellectual assent to that won’t forgive your sins. We must act by believing Christ, receiving His forgiveness in faith, and then turning away from our sin in repentance.

Let’s pray today that we will keep our heart and soul fixed on the Savior’s grace, not ourselves.

 

September 20

Name of Jesus

“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12

Jesus is the only name you must know to be saved, because He is the Messiah, the Christ, and there is no other. Jesus is the only One, the only Way, the only God who can redeem man. Don’t be fooled by heathen religions claiming we share a god by a different name, because only the name of Jesus gives eternal life.

His name is His character and that is why we trust in Him. No one has His character except Him, so we find salvation in the Lord Jesus Christ because only He has given His life for the sacrifice that forgives our sins.

Let’s pray today to be quick to speak the name of Jesus in prayer and conversations.

 

September 21

Gospel Change

“They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” Acts 16:31

Believing in Jesus as your personal Savior is not an intellectual acknowledgement, but trusting in Him to live a changed life. The gospel changes the one who believes and it influences those close to that one. The gospel changes hearts, minds, and attitudes and when others see that change in us we become a witness for God’s glory.

When a person finds Christ and follows Him by believing in Him and what the word of God says, the gospel change in their lives becomes evident to all. When we are saved we shine a light that dispels the darkness around us.

Let’s pray today that we may be so filled with the gospel in our lives that influences others.

 

September 22

Willful Rejection

“In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.” Acts 17:30

God does not hold men accountable for what they do not know, but for what they willfully reject. We either turn toward Him or we turn away from Him. Do not think anyone has a claim of excuse, because even without the Scriptures, men have the revelation of nature and the magnificence of creation that testifies to the existence of a loving God.

Our choice is repentance from our sins or rejection of truth. In that we give evidence that we are responding to the convicting power of the Spirit of God or are willfully rejecting the light that we have been given.

Let’s pray today to fully accept and follow the Lord Jesus Christ as we learn of Him.

 

September 23

Sanctified by Grace

“Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.” Acts 20:32

The sanctified life of a Christian is not about adherence to works but about growing in Christ’s grace. If you can be obedient to religious laws then you’ll have no need to be saved by Christ’s righteousness for forgiveness of sins. God doesn’t seek the self-righteous for His heaven because they won’t like a place where everyone else is a sinner saved by grace.

The Christian is not one by membership in a church organization, but by sanctification from believing in the promises of Christ’s grace through the word of God. We live like we trust in Christ’s grace.

Let’s pray today to not be discouraged by our sins but run to Christ for grace.

 

September 24

The Gospel

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” Romans 1:16

In modern times being a Christian has been a quiet walk, but the gospel is meant to be a loud pursuit. The gospel speaks volumes to those who choose to remain in their sin. The gospel puts backbone in a persecuted saint, it preaches words beyond the ability of any pulpit, it is power to the powerless, and that is louder than any evil-doer can shout.

The gospel is light in darkness, it is good news among bad news, it cannot be hidden or denied so as believers in Jesus Christ we ought not to shrink back in our testimony. Allow the gospel to simply shine.

Let’s pray today that we may be the gospel of Jesus Christ through our words and deeds.

 

September 25

Justified

“Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.” Romans 3:20

The old covenant law was meant to instruct us on how not to sin, not on how to be saved. Justification is by faith, not works. God will not justify your entrance into heaven by your religious works or by any standard of keeping the Old Testament laws and regulations, but by grace through faith in the work of Jesus Christ.

We do not disregard the law, but we do not fixate ourselves on it either. There is no constant referencing of the law through our day because we fix our eyes upon the Lord Jesus Christ and become justified by Him.

Let’s pray today that we would obediently trust in Christ’s grace for our justification to be saved.

 

September 26

Calvary Has Happened

“For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!” Romans 5:10

It’s easy to doubt your salvation when you see your sins, but remember that Calvary has already happened. God has invested in you prior to your birth through the sacrifice of His Son and He is not pulling back from that eternal investment in you. Jesus Christ gave up His Heavenly throne for an earthly cross so you can have eternal life.

The Son of God did not leave His glorious Heaven to die on your behalf only to lose interest in you — He gave His life for you and He has not changed His mind now. You are saved by His life so wholeheartedly give yours to Him.

Let’s pray today that we may be in praise and awe of what our Savior has done for us.

 

September 27

He Arose

“For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.” Romans 6:5

Jesus didn’t just die for you, He also arose from the grave to eternal life for you. Just as at Calvary your sins were forgiven, so at the resurrection your life is made new, forever. You can not duplicate Calvary or resurrection morning through works, but through faith you can believe that His word is true – you are united with your Lord in forgiveness of confessed sins and the new life of His grace.

We really need to talk more from the pulpit about the resurrection promise because that will be the ultimate evidence of our faith in Calvary, if we are not translated with those who are alive at the time of Christ’s return.

Let’s pray today that we may put our faith in believing that His resurrection life is ours, too.

 

September 28

Live by Grace

“In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” Romans 6:11

You struggle with a sinful fallen nature, but exercise faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and live by His grace. Be alive in faith and believe that He died for you on Calvary’s cross and that He rose from the grave for you so that you may live in newness of life, now. Contemplate His great sacrifice and step forward in Christ’s grace through faith.

It does not matter how often you fall as long as you keep getting up by His grace, but you must trust that in Christ you are dead to sin. That means you don’t give sin life by yielding to it, rehearsing it, and keeping it alive in your mind.

Let’s pray today in meditation upon the glory of our Lord and His grace for us.

 

September 29

Under Grace

“For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.” Romans 6:14

Living under the law as a means of salvation is a sure way to condemnation, but life under grace is freedom from sin. If we live our lives consumed with avoiding the breaking of the law, we are beholding our own imperfection. If we live our lives beholding the grace of Christ, we are consumed with His perfection.

We love Him most when we know His grace most. When we realize that the Creator of all has freely given Himself as the sacrifice for our sinful choices, we can’t help but to want to follow Him in obedience.

Let’s pray today that we may find freedom from sin through the covering grace of Christ.

 

September 30

No Condemnation

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” Romans 8:1

The believer in Christ’s grace is legally freed from the penalty of their sins – past, present, and future. There is absolute freedom in Jesus Christ, but His grace doesn’t motivate us toward greater sin, instead it inspires us toward a greater obedience to Calvary. Grace compels us ever closer in a daily walk with Him, not further from Him.

There is no condemnation for you as you seek to follow your Lord because He was tempted as man and is familiar with the battle you fight. Jesus Christ is full of compassion and endless grace for those who seek, follow, and obey Him.

Let’s pray today in praise and gratitude for forgiveness and mercy that is ours in Jesus.

 

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Scripture quotations taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.