Daily Devotions for April 2023

316Judith

The Weekend That Changed the World - Easter Devotional - April 1

When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified Him and the criminals, one on the right and the other on the left. But Jesus was saying, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing. Luke 23:33-34a

The weekend of March 14-16, 1986 will always be special to my wife and me. It was on that weekend we were married. Friday night was the wedding rehearsal, Saturday night was the main event, and Sunday kicked off our first day as husband and wife.

The course of our lives was changed as God brought us together to be one until death.

That weekend in March is special to us… but there was a weekend in early April, nearly 2000 years ago, that is special to all of humanity.

It was the weekend of brutality and bloodshed as the righteous died for the unrighteous.

It was the weekend that began with tremendous agony, but ended with tremendous victory.

It was the weekend when Jesus Christ gave Himself up for sinful man.

It was the weekend when Jesus Christ conquered sin, death, hell, and the grave.
It was the weekend that changed the world for all history and eternity.

PERSONALLY ENCOUNTERING THAT WEEKEND

From the time I was little, my parents taught me about that weekend when Jesus died and rose again. I believed the report. I believed He died on the cross and rose from the grave. The only problem I had was that I believed it as facts on a printed page. I believed in Jesus in the same way I believed in George Washington. I had a mental assent to the truths of history. But those truths didn’t make one bit of difference in my daily life.

In short, I was like the vast majority of those
who call themselves Christians—I had head
knowledge of Jesus, but no heart knowledge of Him. I believed on paper, but not in practice. I didn’t really know Him, I just simply knew about Him.

I. was 17 years-old when the good news of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection made a connection from my head to my heart.

The Lord revealed to me that I was a sinner, totally deserving of death and hell—with no way out, in and of myself. It was at that moment that the cross and the empty tomb took on real meaning as I cried out to Jesus for salvation.

Alone in my bedroom on a Monday night in early 1980, I got down on my knees, and with all my heart prayed this simple prayer, “Save me, Jesus.”
And you know what? He did!

That night, I put my faith and trust in Jesus and Jesus alone for my salvation. In that split second of time, I passed from death to life (John 5:24). I went from being a child of wrath to a child of God (Ephesians 2:3, John 1:12).

I was spiritually transferred from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of His Son (Colossians 1:13). I was born again and changed forever. The Lord had come into my life to live in me and through me. I certainly didn’t understand it all at the time, but I knew within a couple of weeks that my life could never be the same.

IT MUST BE PERSONAL TO BE EFFECTUAL

Has the message of Jesus death, burial, and resurrection made it from your head to your heart?

Jesus didn’t die for a faceless humanity, He died for you (Galatians 2:20). He rose again for you. He wants you to know Him, not just know about Him. You see, it must be personal in order for His death and resurrection to be effectual in your life.

Let me encourage you this Easter weekend to make sure you don’t just simply go through the motions. The worst thing that could ever happen to anyone is to know the plan of salvation and not the Man of salvation… to know the way to heaven and yet fail to go that way.

Jesus is indeed the One and only Savior. He will save anyone who will cry out to Him in repentance and faith. His cross and empty tomb changed the world as they made it possible for sinful man to have a personal relationship with Holy God. Receive Christ into your heart.

Don’t just tip your hat to Him, bow your knee. The surrender of your heart makes it personal, and that makes all the difference in the world.

Love,
Pastor Jeff Schreve,
From His Heart Ministries

316Judith

Palm Sunday - Easter Devotional - April 2, 2023

Palm Sunday
Luke 19:28-44

Hindsight is always 20/20. Yet while we are in a particular situation, we tend to make things out to be what theyaren’t and infer wrong meanings. We kick ourselves, thinking, If only I had known then what I know now!

Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem must have been one of those moments for His disciples. It had appeared to be such a wonderful day for them—and it was, but for different reasons than they realized.

They thought the Messiah had come to reestablish Israel’s power in the world.

But God had something else in mind.

The disciples weren’t the only ones who had misconceptions about the Messiah. Many Jews of the day expected Him to be an earthly king.

When the crowds heard Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, they cheered, “Hosanna! ” which means, “Save now!”

They saw Him as their new King, come to bring salvation from political and societal oppression. He raised the dead—no doubt he could also restore the kingdom of David and free them from Roman rule.

Seated upon a donkey, Jesus resembled a ruler returning to his city in peacetime, loyal subjects lining his path with coats and palm fronds.

Even the Pharisees were there watching in indignation, saying, “Look, the world has gone after Him” (John 12:19).

This week, think back to those times when circumstances looked one way but turned out to be something else entirely.

Remember when you realized God was different than you imagined and saw His will unfold in surprising ways.

Look for an opportunity to share your insight with a friend or loved one.

Devotion by In Touch Ministries

316Judith

The Tomb Was Empty - Easter Devotional - April 3, 2023

Today's Truth

He is not here; He has risen! (Luke 24:6, NIV).

Friend to Friend

The boys and girls in Mrs. Stephens’ fourth grade Sunday school class entered the room and quickly found their seats. The girls were dressed in frills and lace and chatting excitedly about the candy-filled baskets they had received that morning. The boys pulled at the unfamiliar ties around their necks and quickly discarded the sports coats they had obviously been forced to wear. The room was filled with excitement – for good reason. It was Easter Sunday.

Mrs. Stephens wanted to help her students understand that there is so much more to the Easter holiday than new clothes, chocolate bunnies, and egg hunts. Easter is more than family gatherings and tables filled with luscious food. Easter is about life. Easter celebrates the certainty of Jesus’ death on the cross, the fact that He was buried, and that He came out of a burial tomb to conquer death so that we can live now and eternally.

Mrs. Stephens came up with a plan. After sharing the Bible story of Jesus’ resurrection, she gave each one of her students an empty plastic egg and said, “We are going to take a walk outside, and I want each one of you to find one sign of life and put it in your plastic egg.”

As the children filed out of the room, Mrs. Stephens noticed Danny, a little boy with Down syndrome who had been coming to her class for some time. His bright smile and sunny disposition had immediately won her heart. In fact, when it came to Danny, she often thought he had taught her so much more about the unconditional love of God and the joy of simply being a child of God than she could ever teach him. When she heard the other children make fun of him, it broke her heart. She always corrected the children and tried to help them see just how special Danny was, but Danny seemed oblivious to their hurtful words, and thought of each child as his “buddy.”

The children soon returned from their walk, depositing their eggs on the teacher’s desk as they made their way to their seats. Inside one student's egg was a lady bug. In another was an ant. Others had collected flowers, twigs, blades of grass and leaves to fill their eggs. But one egg had nothing in it. Everyone knew whose egg it was. Mrs. Stephens silenced the giggles with a look of warning.

When she asked Danny why he had not put anything inside his egg to show signs of life, his face broke into a huge grin as he responded, "Because the tomb was empty."

Danny got it. He truly understood the profound truth of Easter. The empty tomb is the ultimate sign of life and a miracle like none other.

Jesus Christ had risen from the dead. The women knew Jesus was dead. Some of them had seen Him die. And they were sure His body was in the tomb; it had been there since Friday.

But when they went to anoint the body on that Sunday morning, the tomb was empty! The body could not have been stolen. Nobody was playing tricks on them. They were not merely fooling themselves. The miracle was real. They could see the empty tomb with their own eyes. Jesus Christ really had risen from the dead!

I would love to have been there that morning when the women went to the tomb – expecting to deal with death and instead found life, wouldn’t you? You may be dealing with death in your own life – the loss of a loved one – the death of a dream – the pain of a broken body. Just as Jesus Christ rose from the dead, He can breathe new life into your heart and mind. Right now, quietly turn to Jesus. He is waiting for you – healing and restoration and new life are in His hands.

Let’s Pray

Father, Thank You for the miracle of life – abundant life here, and eternal life with You in Heaven. Help me celebrate that life every day as I seek You and follow Your plan for my life. Today, I say with the Apostle Paul, “Where, O death is your victory? Where, O death is your sting?”
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Now It’s Your Turn

Consider this truth: Satan has no answer for the empty tomb. What does the resurrection of Jesus Christ really mean to you?

Set aside time today to remember what Christ has done for you through His death on the cross and His resurrection from the dead. Read Luke 24 and celebrate the life only He can give.

Devotion by Mary Southerland

316Judith

The Angelic Perspective on Easter - April 4, 2023

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. Colossians 1:15-16

During this time of remembrance of Christ's sacrifice I am prone to wonder about the angels.

I see them standing at attention internally grieving over the suffering of their creator. Jesus was not merely the creator of just mankind.

The Bible says that it was by Him that all things were created. This was their creator in the flesh suffering a brutal death.

I imagine more than a few wishing to dispense with the humans who were causing this atrocity. Matthew records Jesus stating, "Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels?" (Matthew 26:53).

What incredible self-control! What awesome love to bear the punishment of the cross when it could have all ended so easily.

In talking about the prophets, Peter reveals that the angels long to look into this whole business about redemption and the good news of the Gospel (1 Peter 1:12).

They didn't understand why all this was happening. All they knew was their King was being murdered.

Then I hear amongst the mass chaos of the darkness and the rumbling of the earthquake as the Roman Centurion and the witnesses to Jesus death beat their chests proclaiming, "Surely this man was the Son of God!"

Read Luke 23:47-48 and Matthew 27:54.

It was over. Jesus was dead. Now it was time to bury Him in a borrowed tomb.

Three days later I imagine the angels clamoring to be on the special detail that was posted. Who would get to roll back the stone? Who would get to wait in the empty tomb to deliver the wonderful news?

"He is not here, He has risen" (Matthew 28:6).

Oh, what a glorious pronouncement. I wonder just how the angels rejoiced. Were they slapping each other on the back? Were they shouting in victory? Were they beaming with joy over the news that their King was no longer in the grave?

How will we celebrate that day?

How will we honor the death and resurrection of the creator of the universe?

Intersecting Faith & Life:

When you make your Easter eggs this year do one with angel wings on it to remember the angel's words, "He is not here, He has risen."

Further Reading
1 Corinthians 15:3-4

Devotion by Fred Alberti

316Judith

Easter Means No More Condemnation April 5

“Christ sacrificed his life’s blood to set us free, which means that our sins are now forgiven. Christ did this because God was so kind to us” (Ephesians 1:7 CEV).

Have you ever wondered who put Jesus on the cross? 

It wasn’t Judas or Caiaphas. It wasn’t Pilate. It wasn’t even the religious leaders who hated Jesus.

This may shock you, but there are two answers.

First, it was God. The Bible says it was his plan from the very beginning. It’s the reason he came to earth. The Bible had predicted his death hundreds of years earlier.

But the other answer is us. You put Jesus on the cross, and so did I. If we had never sinned, Jesus wouldn’t have needed to die. Romans 4:25 says, “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification” (NIV). 

Because Jesus died on the cross, our sins are forgiven.

We’re all imperfect. We have sin that makes us feel guilty about our past. We have regrets. But God doesn’t want us to live with that guilt.

That’s why Jesus died!

Ephesians 1:7 says, “Christ sacrificed his life’s blood to set us free, which means that our sins are now forgiven. Christ did this because God was so kind to us” (CEV).

Guilt wastes a ton of energy. It wears us out and robs us of peace of mind.

Too many believers are saved but don’t act like it. They’re full of shame and guilt. It dominates everything they do. They believe in Jesus, but they haven’t been set free from the condemnation of sin.

Romans 8:1 says, “Now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus” (NLT).

“No condemnation” means God doesn’t judge you for all the things you’ve done wrong if you’ve trusted in Christ Jesus.

He took your punishment on the cross. God doesn’t have to condemn you, because Jesus took your condemnation.  

That’s what Easter is all about. You’re forgiven. Jesus died for you.

You can live with hope and not condemnation.

You can be free.
Devotion By Rick Warren 

316Judith

What Easter Is Really About - Easter Devotional - April 7

For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10 nkjv).

Easter is not about eggs and wearing pastel colors. That’s all fine, but that isn’t what Easter is about. It’s about Jesus wanting a relationship with you.

Jesus was born to die—and to rise again. That was the reason for the Incarnation. On the cross, Jesus faced the judgment of God. He took the wrath of God upon Himself.

It’s why He cried out, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” which means, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”

He was bearing all the sin of the world, including your sins and mine, by dying in our place. That is why He came.

Jesus talked about it all the time. He was on a mission to go to the cross of Calvary. His life was not taken from Him; He willingly gave it up for us.

Nails did not hold Jesus to that cross. Love did—love for you and love for me. He died for us.

So how do you come into a relationship with Him?

First, you have to admit that you’re a sinner. Some of us choke on that word, but we have to admit that we’ve broken God’s commandments. If you’ve broken even one commandment, then you have sinned.

We’ve all done that many times over, because the Bible says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23 nkjv).

You need to realize that Jesus died on the cross for you.

And then you need to repent of your sin, which means a change of direction. It means turning away from it.

Next, you must receive Christ into your life. You must ask Jesus to be your Savior and your Lord.

No one else can do this for you. This is a decision you make. And eternity hinges on this decision.

Devotion by Greg Laurie

316Judith

The Resurrection - Easter Devotional April 8

Jesus said to her,
 "I am the resurrection and the life."
JOHN 11:25

FROM THE FATHER'S HEART

My child, you've walked away from the funerals of your loved ones with fresh memories still clinging to you like grave clothes. Tears have filled your eyes as you've said good-bye to the last dreams of your heart.

Remember, for those who love Me and are My children, death is but a step into eternity with Me. It is never the end but the start of forever - what you were created for!

Take heart. I am the resurrection and the life. Where I am, you will be also. Find peace in Me.

A GRATEFUL RESPONSE

Lord, death could not hold You. And because of You, the resurrection, we, too, can live.

Thank You that the grave is only a journey into the presence of God. You have removed the sting of death and empowered this thing called life. Now I will live in Your presence forever.

SIMPLE TRUTH

On the other side of death is the real side of life.

Devotion by Rebecca

316Judith

Celebrate, We Will! - Easter Devotional - April 9

He must increase, I must decrease.” - John 3:30

As we have just walked through the Easter season, looking at Jesus and His life, I find myself so often wondering what it would’ve been like to be there watching his life happen.

We read through Scripture and we glimpse into amazing things about Jesus’ life and all that happened to those around him. I get chills when I think about watching his display of love, grace, truth sharing, and obedience to whatever his Heavenly Father directed him to do.

So, each Easter season, I find myself in a posture of awe and wonder. The hope-filled joy of knowing who holds the pen to the pages of my life and who walks alongside me through all my seasons. This my friends, is good news.

If you’re like me, I love thinking of Jesus’s whole life, not just his years of ministry. I can hardly imagine watching Jesus take his first steps as a wobbly toddler or watching him walk up to be baptized by John the Baptist or to see him feed the 5,000, or to have the honor of hearing Him teach the Sermon on the Mount.

All of these amazing things we hear and picture but wow, to actually see them in the flesh sounds like such a gift, a gift that I’d give just about anything to see.

And while that would be an amazing gift, I am reminded that we have the greatest gift of living on this side of the cross. This side of the cross allows his Spirit to live inside you and me, this side of the cross is where death has no more sting.

The gift of living on this side of the cross is a gift that we cannot overlook. We have the Word of God in written form that we are able to dig into to learn more about who our Creator is, what his son’s life was really like, and why we needed a Savior to take our place.

It’s sitting in that awe and wonder that I am reminded of one of my favorite verses, one that has changed my life forever: John 3:30. “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

These are seven life-changing, powerful, needed words spoken by John the Baptist. These seven words continue to be a reminder to me of the gift Jesus is to all of us daily.

Because of Jesus and His life we are able to live our lives in the posture of decrease so that our lives increase in Him. How amazing is that?

Our Heavenly Father sent His perfect, sinless son Jesus to come and take on the penalty of all we would ever do just so we would have the opportunity to be made right with Him and live eternally together. This leaves me speechless. Jesus had to come and take on all you and I would ever do so we could be eternally right with God forever. He had to.

What a powerful, all-consuming love story this is and it’s offered to you and me. We get the choice to accept Christ and all His life was, is, and is to come. Because, Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection is what tethers us to eternity.

Without one part of it, there would be no opportunity to have the gift of grace and mercy. There is no defeated grave without the cross.

The magnitude of John 3:30 carries so much importance of who Jesus is and what His life means to us. Everything He calls us to is so that our lives would be ones that soak up the goodness of God and all He has for us, this means we have to decrease. His life calls us to not be afraid to pick up our cross and follow Him. It calls us to love Him more than anyone or anything and walk to always hand in hand with His spirit as we point others back to Him.

This is what an increase of Christ looks like in our lives. When we die to self to make Him known. This is what we get invited into, and this my sweet friends is something to celebrate and celebrate we will.

Devotion by Chelsey DeMatteis

316Judith

6 Prayers to Pray the Week after Easter April 10

"The angel said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: "He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him." Now I have told you.'" Matthew 28:5-7 (NIV)

I don't think Easter is quite done with me yet.
I know what glorious things this Holy Day says to the world at large.

But what does Jesus want me to know, to think about, to wrestle through at this time of year?

This season of new beginnings.

So, I'm lingering here a bit longer.

I feel like the girl who wears the same outfit to school two days in a row. Easter is done now. Time to put it back in the closet. Only for me it isn't. I want to wear it again today, tomorrow and many more tomorrows.

After all, Easter is no longer a ritual to me. It's a revelation. A time where Jesus splits my soul along the fault line of a scar deep within: I was an unwanted child to my birth dad.

Unwanted.

But to Jesus ... I was wanted so much that He gave His life for me. It feels so personal. Even though I know God so loved the world, He gave His son, it becomes very individual if we let it.

Be personal.

With Jesus.

Yes.

So, in the midst of a world putting Easter away, might we let it sit with us for just a bit more?
I keep my Bible open to the place where the angel spoke to the women at the tomb. And I tangle my thoughts around His words from Matthew 28 as six prayers emerge ...

• "Do not be afraid," - God, I hand over to You those things that make me so afraid. Resurrect the parts of my faith squelched by fear.

• "I know that you are looking for Jesus," - God, when my soul is searching, help me know the answer to every longing can be found in You.

• "He has risen," - God, the fact that Jesus is risen should lift my head, my heart and my attitude. Help me to live today as if I really believe this with every part of my life.

• "just as he said," - Jesus, You keep Your promises. Help me live as though I believe that with every part of me. Help me trust You more, obey You more and resemble You more.

• "Come and see," - Jesus, You had the angels invite the women in to see for themselves that You had risen. You invite me into these personal revelations every day. Forgive me for sometimes rushing about and forgetting to come and see for myself ...

You, Your Word, Your insights.

• "Then go quickly and tell his disciples," -

Jesus, I don't want to be a secret keeper with my faith. I want to be a bold and gracious truth proclaimer. For You. With You. Because of You.
Me, the unwanted girl whom You loved, redeemed and wanted. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Yes, let this miraculous Easter be personal. And prayerful. And linger a bit longer.

Dear Lord, I want to let Your Truth sink deep down into my heart and soul today. Help me stay focused on You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Devotion by Lysa Terkeurst

316Judith

Remembering His Sacrifice April 11, 2023

And they crucified Him.
--Mark 15:24

A medical doctor once gave a detailed description of what happens when someone is crucified:

"The cross is placed on the ground and the exhausted man is quickly thrown backwards with his shoulders again the wood. The legionnaire feels for the depression at the front of the wrist. He drives a heavy, square wrought-iron nail through the wrist and deep into the wood.

Quickly he moves to the other side and repeats the action, being careful not to pull the arms too tightly, but to allow some flex and movement. The cross is then lifted into place.

"The left foot is pressed backward against the right foot, and with both feet extended, toes down, a nail is driven through the arch of each, leaving the knees flexed. The victim is now crucified.

As he slowly sags down with more weight on the nails in the wrists, excruciating, fiery pain shoots along the fingers and up the arms to explode in the brain--the nails in the wrists are putting pressure on the median nerves.

As he pushes himself upward to avoid the stretching torment, he places the full weight on the nail through his feet. Again he feels the searing agony of the nail tearing through the nerves between the bones of his feet.

"As the arms fatigue, cramps sweep through the muscles, knotting them in deep, relentless, throbbing pain. With these cramps comes the inability to push himself upward to breathe. Air can be drawn into the lungs but not exhaled.

He fights to raise himself in order to get even one small breath. Finally carbon dioxide builds up in the lungs and in the blood stream.

Spasmodically he is able to push himself upward to exhale and bring in life-giving oxygen.

"Hours of this...pain, cycles of twisting, joint-rending cramps, intermittent partial asphyxiation, searing pain as tissue is torn from his lacerated back as he moves up and down against the rough timber. Then another agony begins: a deep, crushing pain deep in the chest as the pericardium slowly fills with serum and begins to compress the heart.

It is now almost over--the loss of tissue fluids has reached a critical level--the compressed heart is struggling to pump heavy, thick, sluggish blood into the tissues--the tortured lungs are making a frantic effort to gasp in small gulps of air. He can feel the chill of death creeping through his tissues...finally he can allow his body to die."

The Bible records this process of death by crucifixion in just a few simple words. How often we take for granted the pain and suffering Jesus endured when He died on the cross for you and me.

Let us remember this Easter the sacrifice He made.

PRAYER CHALLENGE: Thank Jesus for the price He paid for your sins through His painful death on the cross.

Devotion by Senior Living Ministries

316Judith

Wisdom from the Psalms April 12

Psalms 40:2

He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.

Gina held onto the branch for dear life. The floodwaters swirled around her, pulling at her, threatening to carry her off in the raging torrent.

The pouring rain blinded her, and large clumps of mud kept bumping into her. Her arms ached and throbbed. The last of her strength gave out, but as she let the branch slip through her fingers, a strong hand gripped her wrist. Gina felt herself slide up onto the bank of the swollen river, and she spread herself out to feel the firm ground beneath her.

There are days that feel like a struggle for life.

How wonderful it would be to have someone come along and lift us up out of the struggle. God can do that. His Spirit renews and strengthens us.

Through the loving power of God, we are pulled out of the darkest pit and set upon solid ground.

Prayer: Lord, hear me as I call out to You. Whether my prob lems are huge or tiny, I find I need Your help to get me through. Pull me up into Your loving arms, and surround me in Your love. Amen.

316Judith

A Heart for God A Vision for the World - In Touch - April 12


Acts 13:16-22

I sometimes like to walk through a cemetery and read the epitaphs on the tombstones. It's interesting to see what words are used to sum up a person's life. This may seem like a morbid pastime, but it's actually a great way to reassess our own lives. We're each going to leave a testimony of some kind when we die.

Have you ever wondered what your loved ones will write on your gravestone? What words do you want inscribed there?

In our passage today, the apostle Paul tells us God's evaluation of David: He described him as "a man after My heart, who will do all My will" (v. 22).

What an awesome testimony of a life well lived! The Lord wasn't describing a perfect man, but one whose life was centered on God's interests and desires.

David's many psalms attest to the fact that his relationship with the Lord was the most important aspect of his life. His passion was to obey God and carry out His will. However, that doesn't mean he was always obedient. Who can forget his failure with Bathsheba?

But even when he sinned by committing adultery and murder, his heart was still bent toward God. The conviction he felt and his humble repentance afterward proved that his relationship with the Lord was still his top priority.

If God was writing a summary of your life, how would He describe you? Does your heart align with His, or have you let it follow the pleasures and pursuits of this world? Unless we diligently pursue our relationship with the Lord, we will drift away from Him. Maybe it's time for a course correction.

Devotion by In Touch Ministries

316Judith

The Battle Isn’t Yours April 13, 2023

O our God, won’t you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help.” (2 Chronicles 20:12 NLT)

King Jehoshaphat had the right idea when he was leading the army of Judah into battle against an enemy that greatly outnumbered them.

He prayed, “O our God, won’t you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help” (2 Chronicles 20:12 NLT).

In other words, “Lord, we’re depending on You. We’re standing in You. We’re looking to You.”

Then the Bible tells us that “the Spirit of the Lord came upon one of the men standing there. His name was Jahaziel son of Zechariah. . . .

He said, ‘Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s’ ” (verses 14–15 NLT).

That is the best place to be—in complete dependence on God.

Sometimes it seems as though you can’t overcome the sin you’ve been struggling with for so long. It seems as though you can’t break free from the addiction that has had a hold on your life for many years. And it seems as though you can’t get out of that lifestyle you are trapped in.

God is saying that you can—but not in your strength. You can do it in His strength. So, admit your weaknesses and inadequacies. Then ask God to help you utilize the principles for spiritual battle from His Word.

Realize that in Jesus Christ, you belong to the family of God. Don’t let the devil cheat you out of that truth. The Bible says, “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7 NLT).

Live as a child of the King and walk in close fellowship with Him.

Devotion by Greg Laurie

316Judith

What is Your True Purpose April 14, 2023

1 Samuel 16:6-13

What do you live for each day? A pay raise?

Retirement? Then perhaps you've discovered the reality that basing aspirations on getting ahead in this world typically ends in disappointment.

People with a misguided sense of direction often wonder why they feel unfulfilled.

Maybe you've already realized a goal of saving for the future or moving up the corporate ladder. You give to charity and volunteer at church, but somehow still feel a sense of insignificance or aimlessness. If so, there is a truth you need to hear:

God gives each of us life for a very specific reason: to serve Him. Nobody finds inner peace without reconciling this fact. Our society teaches us that pleasure, prosperity, position, and popularity will make us happy--but living in the service of self always leaves an emptiness no earthly reward can fill.

Besides, worldly philosophy won't stand the test of time. Few of us are going to live even 100 years. So whatever we'll become in this life, we're in the process of becoming that right now.

Consider David: he was anointed king long before actually assuming the role (1 Sam. 16:12). He spent many years serving the purpose of God in insignificant places while developing into a great man. As his story shows, discovering God's purpose for your life is the surest path to success.

Our heavenly Father's purpose for our lives comes from His heart of love--which is perfect.

None of us can foretell the great things He has in store for us, but we can trust His plan completely.

Surrender to Him today and say, "Not my will, Lord, but Yours be done."

Devotion by Charles Stanley

316Judith

Wisdom from the Psalms April 15, 2023

Psalms 42


As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.

The male deer is a single-minded creature.

Once its sights are set on its goal, nothing can dissuade it. It will battle opponents to the death in order to succeed. Even for a drink of water, the male deer will not be stopped.

Such single-mindedness is what the Lord desires of His children. The Lord loves to see real commitment that changes lives. To live for the Lord means to give oneself to Him, body, mind, and spirit. As the hart pursues the cooling brook with all that it has, so must we pursue our Lord.

Prayer: You are my goal, Lord. Keep my eyes focused on You. Make sure that I don't turn away. I can have no greater prize in sight, Father, than to spend eternity with You. Amen.

316Judith

An Essential for Spiritual Survival April 18, 2023

Then the angel showed me Jeshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord. The Accuser, Satan, was there at the angel’s right hand, making accusations against Jeshua. (Zechariah 3:1 NLT)

On more than one occasion, the Bible describes Satan as an accuser.

We see this illustrated in the third chapter of Zechariah. The setting is a heavenly courtroom, God is the judge, and Jeshua, the high priest, is the defendant. Meanwhile, Satan is the prosecutor, trying to prove Jeshua guilty.

But then God says, “I, the Lord, reject your accusations, Satan. Yes, the Lord, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebukes you. This man is like a burning stick that has been snatched from the fire” (Zechariah 3:2 NLT).

Satan also will accuse us before God when we have sinned. That is where the breastplate of righteousness comes in. In his letter to the Christians in Ephesus, the apostle Paul wrote, “Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness” (Ephesians 6:14 NLT).

Paul was alluding to the armor that Roman soldiers wore. The breastplate, or “body armor,” was a crucial element of the armor, protecting the soldier’s vital organs. In the same way, the “body armor of God’s righteousness” is essential for our spiritual survival. It speaks of what God has done for us through Jesus Christ.

God has saved us. He justified us. And He forgave all the sins that we have committed. He erased them and washed them away. Then He placed His righteousness into our account. God gives this righteousness to us. It isn’t based on what we do for Him.

The devil, however, has declared war on followers of Christ. He wants to keep us away from God. First, he tempts us and traps us. Then he condemns us and accuses us before God. He wants to make disobedient Christians doubly defeated.

Yet we are righteous in Jesus Christ through His finished work for us on the cross. So put on the “body armor of God’s righteousness”—and keep it there.

Devotion by Greg Laurie

316Judith

Wisdom from the Psalms, April 19, 2023

Psalms 45:17

I will make thy name to be remember in all generations: therefore shall the people praise thee for ever and ever.

The sculptor looked at the piece of stone and thought. His mind whirled at the possibilities the stone presented.

He could make anything he wanted. He could carve out great beauty. He could create a monument to himself. He could immortalize a great figure from history. He could sculpt a statement of power and dignity. His mind danced with imagination. He began to dream of the ultimate statement he could make.

He looked into the sky and saw the glories there. He looked at the trees and flowers. He watched people walking past. He thought of waterfalls and rainbows and beautiful music. His heart swelled full, then sank. What could be possibly carve into stone that would do justice to the world of wonder he lived in?

He set about his carving, working with great care and determination.

After days of labor and love, he unveiled the greatest work his life could offer. Three letters, finely shaped, lovingly created. The greatest legacy the artist could give.

The name was GOD.

Prayer: Make my life a symbol of Your love and a sign of Your grace. I live my life in Your will, trying to be the best person I can be. Accept my life as an offering of love. Amen.

316Judith

Wisdom from the Psalms April 20

Psalms 46

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

The cross I wear around my neck is not there for show, nor is it the object of my worship. I would not be lost without it, though I do like it. I do not believe it has some mystical power, nor does it protect me.

The cross that I wear reminds me of the great love that God has for me. Christ's gift of eternal life is made real to me each time I look down at the cross or feel it lightly resting on my chest.

In difficult times, I look at the cross and feel warmth and comfort. From its gentle reminder I draw strength when I am weary, refuge when I need to rest. Whether I wear my cross or not,

God is with me, but sometimes it is nice to have a small reminder.

Prayer: I run to You when I need rest, Lord. You take me in Your arms and protect me from the pressures of the day. In every time of trial, You are the source of my help. Thank You. Amen.

316Judith

Wisdom from the Psalms April 21

Psalms 46:4


There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.

In the woods of Maine, not too far from the eastern coast, there is a river that flows clear and cool. It winds through some of the most gorgeous scenery imaginable, and carries with it a beauty that is unsurpassed.

To see such sights convinces a person of the reality of God.

God gives us glimpses of heaven here on earth, so that we might long for such a place from the deepest reaches of our hearts.

That part of us that carries the seed of God responds to His beauty in creation.

If we will look at the world with our spiritual eyes rather than our physical eyes, we will begin to see God's glories in many new ways.

The gifts of God are indeed abundant. Open your eyes and enjoy them all.
 
Prayer: I stand in awe of the wonder of Your creation, God. Help me to see beauty wherever I look. Don't let me waste time on ugliness, but turn my attentio n to what is good. Amen.

316Judith

In Touch Ministries April 22

Trained to Discern

Hebrews 5:11-14

In today's world, impatience is all too common a trait. We want food, help, and information fast.

Just waiting for the computer to boot up or the "next avail-able agent" to answer our call can cause frustration. But the Lord specializes in slow, steady work. He's more interested in a quality outcome than a speedy process.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the realm of spiritual discernment.

When we become Christians, we aren't instantly wise and knowledgeable. It takes a lifetime to grow to maturity. Some believers, however, don't seem to grow up at all. They get older, but their understanding of God's Word never goes very deep.

This lack of godly wisdom is caused by ignorance of the Scriptures, apathy and complacency about spiritual things, and a failure to apply biblical truths.

Discernment requires time and effort. You can't simply move through life, thoughtlessly reacting to situations yet never learning from them.

Take time to reflect on your responses and observe the consequences of your actions and choices. If you feel convicted by what you notice, let that motivate you to begin a lifelong pursuit of the Lord and His ways.

Start reading the Bible regularly. And as you do, ask the Lord to open your heart and mind to understand what He's saying.

But just reading God's Word isn't enough. Without applying what you've read, all you'll have is head knowledge.

Obedience trains us to discern good
and evil.

Through practice, we learn wisdom and develop spiritual maturity.

If you'll begin today and patiently persevere, in time discernment will come.

316Judith

Pick Up Your Sword, Monday, April 24, 2023

Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:17 NLT)

Before I became a Christian, I read some of the Bible, but it seemed largely meaningless. After I became a Christian, however, the Bible came alive to me.

I remember reading it and understanding it for the first time. It changed my life as I discovered new principles every day for living the Christian life.

When the apostle Paul outlined God’s armor in Ephesians 6, the only piece he listed that is both defensive and offensive is the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God (see Ephesians 6:17).

With the sword we can block attacks, but we can strike with it as well.

The Holy Spirit inspired the Bible and illuminates the Scriptures for us. And the Holy Spirit enables us to know God’s Word, remember verses we’ve studied, and use them appropriately.

Jesus modeled this for us during His temptation in the wilderness. He responded to each temptation by quoting the Scriptures. He effectively deflected temptation using the sword of the Spirit.

Sadly, a lot of believers have all their spiritual armor in place but never use the sword of the Spirit. They talk about it. They study it. But they never actually use it in spiritual battle.

Meanwhile, the devil knows all too well the power and authority of the Bible, and he will try to keep Christians from it at all costs. He fears the sword. He knows the value of it.

What shape is your sword in? Is it polished from daily use and sharpened on the anvil of experience as you apply and obey its truth in your life? Or, is it rusty from a lack of preparation and dulled by disobedience?

If we neglect Bible study, our spiritual life ultimately will unravel. Everything we need to know about God is found in His Word. So, let’s follow the example of Jesus and use it.

Devotion by Greg Laurie

Healthyme7410

This is so true. Just reading or even memorizing scripture with not help us if we do not apply it to our lives and use it against Satan.

316Judith

Amen Linda…Hope you are enjoying these Devotions…📖✝️

The Necessity of Prayer - April 25, 2023

Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. (Ephesians 6:18 NLT)

In Exodus 17 we find the story of a battle between the people of Israel and the Amalekites. Moses sent Joshua to lead the troops in battle. Meanwhile, Moses climbed up a hill, raised his staff, and interceded for Israel’s army.

When Moses held up his staff, Israel’s armies prevailed. But whenever his arms grew tired and he lowered the staff, the enemy prevailed.

Eventually, Aaron and Hur, who were with Moses, held up his hands until the sun went down. As a result, Israel won on the field of battle.

This illustrates how God’s Word (represented by Joshua’s sword) and prayer (symbolized by Moses’ staff) worked together. Someone had to go into battle with the sword. And someone had to pray.

The Book of Acts tells us that the leaders of the early church gave themselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the Word (see 6:4). And Jesus said, “But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!” (John 15:7 NLT).

The Word of God enlightens us, and prayer enables us. The Word of God reveals the will of God, and prayer enables us to do His will.

To grow spiritually and stand strong in the spiritual battle, we need a regular diet of God’s Word in our lives. But we also need to pray.

The apostle Paul tells us, “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere” (Ephesians 6:18 NLT).

The phrase “at all times and on every occasion” speaks of frequency. Prayer should be a regular part of our lives.

We need the Word of God, but we also need prayer. The Bible and prayer are inseparable.

Devotion by Greg Laurie

Healthyme7410

The two - the word of God and prayer are so important to stand against the wiles of the Devil. I also think it is important to have people around us that can support us when we are tired or weakened as Moses had Aaron and Hur to help him hold up his arms. We need each other so much to live and grow spiritually.

316Judith

Yes I agree Linda, we do need each other.

A scripture came to mind as we meditate on the above Devotional and what you said about we needing each other.

In part, this is what came to mind, “Threefold cord is not easily broken.

This in turn impressed me to look up Ecclesiastes chapter 4 and read from verses 9 to 12. It was one line in each of the following verses that really stood out: look Below:

Verse 9: Two are better than one…
Verse 10: For if they fall, one will lift up his companion
Verse 12: And a threefold cord is not easily broken.

Indeed we all need each other!
I read from the New King James Translation!

Healthyme7410

This is true! I have heard the verse about the three fold cord used in weddings. We have each other but need God be be our third cord. I have a friend who when she got married, had two wedding bands to go with her engagement ring. She said it was to remind her that in their marriage, they needed to have God in the center. She had a band (her husband), her engagement ring (most expensive and in the center was God) and a second wedding band (herself) to wear. It really impressed me how true that was.

316Judith

How beautiful Linda… it’s getting late now so let’s meditate on what was said yesterday and read the scriptures again and I will be back with a new Devotional tomorrow! 📖🙏

316Judith

One of the Hardest Things to Do April 28, 2023

Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. (Ephesians 4:32 NLT)

One day when Jesus was talking about forgiveness, Peter thought he would impress Him. So, he asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” (Matthew 18:21 NLT).

Maybe Peter expected Jesus to say, “Peter, that is pretty good. Let’s give Peter a round of applause.”

Instead, Jesus told him, “No, not seven times . . . but seventy times seven!” (verse 22 NLT). 

In other words Jesus was saying, “You should forgive endlessly. There should be no limits to your forgiveness.”

Then Jesus went on to tell a story about a servant who owed millions of dollars to a king.

The king gave the order for the servant, his wife, their children, and their possessions to be sold for compensation. But the servant pleaded with the king for another chance to repay the debt. The king, touched by the servant’s attitude, decided to completely forgive what he owed.

But it wasn’t long before the man found a fellow servant who owed him a few thousand dollars, and he demanded that he pay it back immediately. And when the servant asked for more time to repay his debt, the man had him arrested and thrown into prison. 

Someone saw what happened and told the king about it. The king called for the man and said, “You evil servant! I forgave you that tremendous debt because you pleaded with me. Shouldn’t you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?” (verses 32–33 NLT). Then the king sent him to prison.

If you have put your faith in Jesus Christ, then He has forgiven your sins.

The Bible tells us, “Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:32 NLT).

We must forgive because we have been forgiven. And God will bless us for obeying Him.

Devotion by Greg Laurie

316Judith

Wisdom from the Psalms, April 29, 2023

Psalms 51:17

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.

Thomas was a proud man. He had never liked admitting that he might need help from someone else. His daddy had taught him that the only way a man was worth his salt was to stand on his own two feet.

Thomas had always tried to live by that rule, but now he was at a loss. His wife was sick, and he didn't know where to turn. The doctors were doing all they could, but Thomas felt helpless.

Though it felt strange to him, Thomas got down on his knees to pray. Self-consciously, Thomas asked the Lord's help, and in his hour of quiet desperation, he was answered.

God wants us to need Him. He made us to need help, not to try to do everything on our own.

When times get tough, God wants us to open our hearts to Him, that He might be made real to us. Call upon God from your brokenness, and He will be faithful to answer.

Prayer: When all else fails, I turn to You, Lord . I should not wait until situations get bad, but I do. Be with me to help me in the hardest of times, and stay with me in all times, that I might know You better. Amen.

316Judith

In Pursuit of Peace April 30, 2023

Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18 NLT)

Sometimes you can’t live peaceably with some people. They’re ill-tempered and don’t want to get along with anyone, including you.

That is why the Bible says, “Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18 NLT). Notice the phrase “do all that you can.” That means you make the effort.

Jesus said, “So if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God” (Matthew 5:23-24 NLT).

For instance, let’s say that someone has wronged you and you’re angry about it. You’re at church worshipping, but you can’t stop thinking about what they did to you.

Something is wrong. It’s hindering your prayer life.

You need to go to that person and try to resolve the conflict. It may be just a misunderstanding. Maybe you say, “The other day you made this comment, and this is the way I took it. Is that how you meant it?”

“Of course not!” they reply. “The last thing I want to do is offend you!”

On the other hand, they might tell you that is exactly what they meant and then say something even worse to offend you. What do you do then?

You’ve done what you were supposed to do. If they don’t want to reconcile with you, then it has become their problem. Put it into the hands of God, and pray for them. If they want to stay mad at you, then let it go.

When you’ve made the effort, when you’ve tried to reconcile, you can know that you’ve done your part. And you can come before God with a clean conscience.

Devotion by Greg Laurie