Team Daily Bible Reading and Commentary Thoughts for August 2024
316Judith
Posts: 11,657 Member
Welcome Back
Hope you will join me in this Months Bible Reading and Commentary Thoughts.
I welcome your response to what is posted on this thread!
August 1, 2024
Bible Reading
Colossians 3:18-25
Colossians 4:1
Commentary Thoughts
Key Verse:
Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Reflection:
Life is busy. It's easy to be consumed by to-do lists, work deadlines, and that one task you always seem to put off until later.
Naturally, when we accomplish something, whether big or small, our tendency is to want recognition and praise for our hard work.
Paul reminds us that everything we do should be for the Lord, not for others.
Instead of letting people-pleasing take up space in our minds, we can rest in the fact that we are promised an inheritance from the Lord.
Response:
Whose approval do you catch yourself working for?
In this day and age, it's common for people to wear busyness and overworking as a badge of honor. Have you caught yourself doing this before? If so, when?
In what ways can you slow down? Where can you intentionally build rest and reflection into your calendar?
Take time in prayer to dedicate your work to the Lord. Whether it be a career, the work of maintaining your home, or even the task list you have to tackle today, we get to offer it all to Him!
Hope you will join me in this Months Bible Reading and Commentary Thoughts.
I welcome your response to what is posted on this thread!
August 1, 2024
Bible Reading
Colossians 3:18-25
Colossians 4:1
Commentary Thoughts
Key Verse:
Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Reflection:
Life is busy. It's easy to be consumed by to-do lists, work deadlines, and that one task you always seem to put off until later.
Naturally, when we accomplish something, whether big or small, our tendency is to want recognition and praise for our hard work.
Paul reminds us that everything we do should be for the Lord, not for others.
Instead of letting people-pleasing take up space in our minds, we can rest in the fact that we are promised an inheritance from the Lord.
Response:
Whose approval do you catch yourself working for?
In this day and age, it's common for people to wear busyness and overworking as a badge of honor. Have you caught yourself doing this before? If so, when?
In what ways can you slow down? Where can you intentionally build rest and reflection into your calendar?
Take time in prayer to dedicate your work to the Lord. Whether it be a career, the work of maintaining your home, or even the task list you have to tackle today, we get to offer it all to Him!
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Replies
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August 2, 2024
Bible Reading
Colossians 2:6-7
Commentary Thoughts
Prayer Direction:
In these verses, Paul teaches us that accepting Christ as our Savior is not a mere one-time event; rather, He is the foundation upon which we should continually build our lives.
Following Jesus means engaging in a life of continual pursuit with a desire to grow closer to Him.
As our roots grow down deep into Him, we know Him in a more intimate way.
This deeper relationship increases our faith and causes our lives to naturally overflow with gratitude.
Prayer:
Thank You, Jesus, for Your love for me. Instill in me a desire to pursue You daily and grow in my knowledge and love for You.
Forgive me for the times I have built my life on things other than You.
Help me recognize the moments when I stray, and lead me back to Your path where my roots grow deeper in You. Jesus, You are my greatest treasure; it’s my heart's desire to know You in a deeper and more intimate way.1 -
August 3
Bible Reading
Colossians 4:2-18
Key Verse:
Colossians 4:8
Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Reflection:
In his final remarks to the church in Colossae, Paul is looking toward the greater picture: the message of the gospel being spread.
He highlights the importance of prayer, as we can't effectively reach others without our Helper.
As believers, we also must be aware of our speech; approaching others with grace and the love of Jesus is often our best witness for Him.
Our time on Earth is limited, so it's vital to be very intentional with how we interact with others.
Response:
There are multiple ways we can use our speech to curse (gossip, anger, unwholesome language, etc.). In which area does the enemy tempt you the most?
How can you combat this, to instead make your speech "seasoned with salt"?
Think of someone you know who doesn't have a relationship with the Lord. Take a moment to
devote yourself to prayer on their behalf.
How can you use your words as a witness the next time you see them?0 -
August 4
Bible Reading
1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
Key Verse:
1 Thessalonians 1:8
The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it…
Reflection:
Living the way that Jesus taught us to live—in a family of believers—is countercultural.
This was true for the church in Thessalonica, and it’s true for us today.
The world may look at us and see that there’s something different about the way that we live.
It’s because we are not living with our own interest in mind, but with our focus on God’s kingdom.
This kind of faithfulness is bound to turn heads.
Response:
The reputation of the church in Thessalonica spread throughout the entire region.
What example do you want to set for your community?
In what ways are you spreading the word about your faith?
Prayerfully consider the example that you are setting for those around you and how that may be in or out of alignment with what you would like for it to be.0 -
August 5, 2024
Bible Reading
1 Thessalonians 2:1-20
Key Verse:
1 Thessalonians 2:13
And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.
Reflection:
When we realize that the Word of God is divinely written, alive, and active, we read it differently.
The good news of Jesus isn’t just a headline in a news feed. It’s an incredible invitation to a different kind of life with God.
It’s a watershed moment in our lives that brings both new light and healing to everything that has come before in our story, and it changes everything else that comes afterwards.
Response:
Remember back to when you first encountered the good news of Jesus. How has He changed you since that moment?
What parts of yourself, either in the past or in the present, have you yet to surrender to God?
Take a moment in prayer to invite Jesus into the parts of your heart that you haven’t before. Ask Him to bring healing, renewal, and understanding.0 -
It is correct that our acceptance of Jesus is not just a one time decision. It is a continuing life journey. As I grow more, I see more to change like taking off the layers of an onion. There are many layers and God will reveal to me what layers need to be changed first. it is not as overwhelming when I see growth in different areas of my life.2
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Yes, we all need to accept or believe that Jesus died & rose again for our sins. We may never killed or stolen anything but we all sin. ,Anne with bad thoughts. I have that every day.
Once we accept what Jesus has done for us we know that God, Jesus’ father & ours gives us eternal life. So when we die we go right away to heaven. Our souls go there.
Every day we can talk & learn how to love for God. PTL he forgives our sins. Romans 3:23 & Romans 6:23.1 -
August 6, 2024
Bible Reading
John 3:22-30
Commentary Thoughts
The Necessity of Spiritual Growth
Getting a handle on spiritual growth is crucial for at least two reasons.
First, it is God’s command and, therefore, His will for us.
And second, the alternative to growth is stagnation and eventual deformity.
There’s a good reason you won’t find a hymn called “Backwards Christian Soldiers” being sung in any church.
Failing to grow is not an option for believers—at least not if we want to please God.
It may help to begin with a definition of spiritual growth.
Spiritual growth can be defined as that transformational process by which we allow the indwelling Christ to increasingly express Himself in and through us, resulting in a greater capacity on our part to bring God greater glory, be a blessing to others, and advance His kingdom on earth.
Spiritual growth involves more of Christ being expressed in your life and less of you.
John the Baptist said it best. As Jesus’ ministry and popularity grew and John began to step into the background, John’s disciples came to him and said, “Do you realize what’s going on here?”
(John 3:22–26). John responded, “He [Jesus] must increase, but I must decrease” (v. 30).
We are growing spiritually when more of Jesus is being expressed through us than we ourselves.0 -
August 7, 2024
Bible Reading
1 Peter 2:2
Ephesians 4:15
Commentary Thoughts by Tony Evans
Spiritual Growth Demands Nourishment
It often helps to follow a definition with an illustration of what we’re talking about.
One obvious way to illustrate spiritual growth is by looking at its physical counterpart.
Going back to our topic of newborn babies, I’m sure you know that every infant not only wants but also often demands food.
Everything within that child cries out, “Give me something to eat. I’ve got some growing to do!”
If you have ever heard a newborn baby cry out of hunger, you can appreciate the apostle Peter’s words of admonition to Christians:
“Like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (1 Peter 2:2).
This is one of the best one-sentence descriptions of spiritual growth you’ll find in the Bible.
We may not know exactly how spiritual growth works, but this verse helps us because it compares spiritual growth to physical growth.
The issue for a newborn baby is the development of the life he or she has been given.
Now that may seem so simple and obvious that you wonder why I even mention it.
But it has been my experience as a pastor that this key principle of spiritual growth is often overlooked for exactly that reason.
Spiritual growth is not first and foremost a program or a curriculum, as I said above, but the nourishment and development of a life.
Now I can hear someone saying, “Well, a baby may not be following a program, but her mom certainly is.”
That’s true. There is a well-established, proven program of nourishment that any mom needs to follow if she wants her baby to experience healthy growth.
That’s why I said there is nothing wrong with various programs or steps as long as they are facilitating the growth of spiritual life.
The goal of spiritual growth is to feed the life you were given by the Holy Spirit at the moment of your conversion, or your re-birth, so that you may, as Peter wrote, “grow in respect to salvation” (1 Peter 2:2).
Paul put it this way: “We are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ” (Eph. 4:15).
The point is that your spiritual DNA is complete because you received the life of Christ at your conversion, and nothing can be added to Christ.
Our challenge as Christians is to maximize what we already have, not run around and look for that which we don’t have.1 -
Spiritual growth is a process. We do not get born full grown anymore than we are spiritually mature when we accept Jesus as our Savior and make him Lord of our lives. There is always room for growth as we read the scriptures and build our relationships with others. It is amazing how each time I read my Bible, I can find something new or a challenge to grow in some area of my life. I do not like to re-read a book of fiction because I know how it will end but I do read and re-read and Bible and still have more to learn.1
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Friday August 9
Bible Reading
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
Key Verse:
1 Thessalonians 5
So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.
Reflection:
Have you ever heard the saying, “Stay ready, so you don't have to get ready”?
That’s the idea that Paul is trying to get across to the believers in Thessalonica who are worried about the day of the Lord.
If we are living the way that Jesus has called us to live, by the example that He set for us, it shouldn’t make any difference when He returns.
Paul goes on to say in verse 9, “for God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Response:
Do you resonate with the fears that some of the believers in Thessalonica had about Jesus’ return? If so, take a moment to reflect on why that is.
What do you need to adjust to make sure that you are ready when that amazing day does come?
In prayer, thank God for the salvation that you
have through Jesus.0 -
With the way the world is, I am ready for Him to come anytime but He knows the time and I do not need to be concerned. He is full of grace and mercy and does not wish for anyone to perish.1
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August 9, 2024
Bible Reading
Mark 1:33-49
Psalm 143:8
God's Agenda
Todays Theme:
Early Morning: Spending Time with Jesus
You’ve been there before, we’ve all been there.
That alarm clock goes off and you roll over almost
slinging your arm using your body weight to get
your fingers on that snooze button. You want that all-familiar, but not very pleasant sound to stop so you can sleep a little more.
If that’s been you, but your desire is to create an intentional habit of waking up early in the morning to spend time with God, then the next five days will help you.
I’m going to encourage you with five biblical examples of the power of waking early in the morning to meet with God as well as five prayers to equip you.
They say, “the early bird gets the worm,” well in the case of believers, “the early bird gets the Word (of God).”
Let’s start with Jesus, who, as described in Mark 1:35, modeled this intentional process of spending time with God early in the morning.
This particular morning comes after a day when Jesus spent the day teaching in the church, healed a demon-possessed man while He was there, then went to Simon and Andrew’s house where He healed Simon’s mother-in-law.
But He wasn’t done. As word got out, people began bringing sick and demon-possessed people to Him to be healed. Verse 33 says, “the whole town was assembled at the door.”
So, the morning after practically healing the whole town, Jesus pressed through by waking up early to spend intentional time with God.
It had to be exhausting after a day like that serving so many people. You’d think He'd “earned” a morning to sleep late right?
So, what would make Jesus get up “while it was still dark?”
I can’t tell you His exact reason why, but I can share the benefits that resulted.
After an amazing day like that, people were looking for Jesus. They wanted Him to perform more miracles, but He needed to preach in nearby villages.
Getting up early and spending time with God allowed His soul and body to be refreshed, equipping Him to do God’s will for the day!
Waking early allowed Jesus to stay on course and walk in His purpose instead of being pulled by other people’s agendas.
If you want to be refreshed each morning, and head into the day walking in God’s purpose and will for you, then doing what Jesus did is the best way to allow this to happen.
Today's Prayer
Lord, let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love. I put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go today, and equip me to go there.
Now that Jesus has shown us how meeting with God early in the morning will help us line up our agenda with His, tomorrow we'll learn how we should respond.0 -
August 10, 2024
Bible Reading
Exodus 24:4
Exodus 34:4
Psalm 90:14
Your Response
Commentary Thoughts
When God wants to do something through you,
He doesn’t leave it up to chance. He will not only
give you the instructions, but He’ll give you the
provisions and even more.
He’ll remove, block, unblock, and come against anything that will get in the way of making it happen.
He’ll even set up a personal meeting with you to talk about it.
When you put it all in perspective, it seems unfathomable. But that’s exactly what happened with Moses in Exodus 24 and 34.
In these passages, Moses was given a set of instructions as God was confirming His covenant with the Israelites. Moses was to deliver God’s words and laws to the people of Israel.
Both times God invited Moses to meet with him, even telling him to “be ready in the morning” and to come alone.
Moses’ response was exactly what your response should be when God is choosing to do something through you.
First, you want to act with eager obedience ready to receive.
Moses was told to be ready in the morning and he made sure he did not miss this divine appointment as verse 34:4 says he went up “early in the morning.”
He even came with a pen and pad as the verse also says “Moses chiseled out two stone tablets like the first ones.” Moses was prepared, eager, obedient, and ready to receive.
In addition to responding with eager obedience and a receptive heart like Moses, you should respond by being ready to give something to God.
Moses built an altar and pillars, offered sacrifices, bowed to the ground to worship God, and gave God all the glory He deserves.
God responded by doing exactly what He said He would do.
He confirmed His covenant, made sure nothing stopped the promises from being fulfilled, and showed everyone how amazing it is to be used to do the will of God.
I believe similar experiences will happen in your life as you consistently have personal meetings with God early in the morning.
As you do, be ready to give and receive, then be ready to be amazed.
Today's Prayer
Lord, satisfy me each morning with your unfailing love, that I may sing for joy and be glad all my days.
Let's "meet" again tomorrow, for day three, as we learn to seek God early in the morning, no matter what awaits us each day.0 -
August 11, 2024
Bible Reading
Joshua 6:12
Joshua 7:16
Joshua 8:10
Commentary Thoughts
God awaits
One of the biggest barriers for me consistently waking up early in the morning is what awaits me the next day.
There have been times I wished I could’ve slept longer because I wasn’t excited about the work awaiting me.
Other times I knew I had to face something the next day that I really didn’t want to face.
Whether that be my wife after an ugly argument the night before, or maybe a major problem at work.
Then there are those times when I’ve been excited for the next day as I knew something great was waiting for me.
All three of these things happened to Joshua and the Israelites in a series of events detailed in the book of Joshua, chapters 6-8.
It all resulted in one of their greatest triumphs, followed by a crushing defeat, and culminated with redemption from that defeat.
No matter what he was facing the next day, Joshua got up early in the morning to carry out what he believed God wanted. And it set him and the Israelites on the path to something great.
First, Joshua and the Israelites got up early in the morning to do the same thing day after day for six straight days. They walked circles around Jericho.
Ever feel like you’re repeating the same cycles each day? Or you are getting nowhere?
Well on the seventh day one of the greatest victories in the history of Israel happened -- the impenetrable walls of Jericho collapsed and they took the city.
Soon after conquering Jericho, Joshua woke up early to address all the tribes of Israel to find out who sinned against God by keeping things from Jericho that were to be set apart.
This sin led to God’s anger burning against them and their inability to defeat their enemies. They lost their next battle which was a battle they should have easily won.
God then instructed Joshua to confront this sin and remove the things taken, as well as the person who took them.
This was a major problem Joshua had to face the next day, yet he still rose early in the morning to face it.
After he did, God was no longer angry with Israel.
Finally, God assured Joshua that they would defeat the enemy who had just beaten them.
Once again Joshua started early the next morning, and Israel captured the city of their enemy.
Each morning, no matter if something good or bad awaits you, like Joshua, you must know God is there for you.
His presence is greater than any problem you’ll face and time spent with Him to start your day is better than any other use of your time.
Be encouraged knowing that when you get up early to seek God, you can trust that His hand, His mercies, and His blessings will be with you throughout the day.
Today's Prayer
Lord, because of your great love I am not
consumed, for Your compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. You are my portion, so I will wait for You.
Although we may feel differently about our experience each morning with God, nothing should change our expectations of what God will do. "See" you early tomorrow for that.0 -
August 12, 2024
Bible Reading
1 Samuel 17:17-20
Psalm 5:3
Commentary Thoughts
Great Expectations
After years of struggling to be consistent in spending quality time with God first thing in the morning, I recently realized this practice is something I don’t even have to think about anymore.
The streak counter in my Bible app shows I have a streak of almost 200 days. There have only been five days this year I haven’t used my Bible app to read God’s Word.
Even though this is now a permanent part of my morning routine, every day doesn’t “feel” the same.
Some days I feel like I didn’t hear from God at all, or what I heard seemed very insignificant.
I’d imagine David was thinking this one particular day when he received instructions from his father.
On this day, David won his most well-known victory, his defeat of Goliath.
David got up early in the morning to do what his father had directed him to -- he was to take lunch to his brothers and see how they were doing.
Maybe after receiving these instructions he was thinking, “Really dad? Surely there is something more significant you can tell me to do?”
I’ve had similar conversations with my heavenly Father after getting up early in the morning only to hear nothing that seemed significant.
That might be you right now.
Maybe on day four of this plan, the luster, newness, or excitement of getting up early in the morning to spend time with God isn’t producing anything as significant as you had hoped.
Well, as you read the events in 1 Samuel 17, you’ll see that David’s insignificant instructions from his father put him smack in the middle of the battle lines and gave him an opportunity that changed his life.
Whether you feel like every morning is a mountaintop experience with God or not, I encourage you to wake up early with eager anticipation to follow God's directions, no matter how insignificant they seem.
Be alert for opportunities to serve God in the least expected ways.
And boldly take action, having great expectations for Him to produce significant victories in your life and those around you.
Today's Prayer
Father, in the morning, You hear my voice. In the morning, I lay my requests before you and wait
expectantly for you to open my eyes to Your will, to Your direction, and for the giant-sized victories You have in store for me.
I hope you’re ready for day five, as we learn what happens when we make our time with God early in the morning a top priority.
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August 13, 2024
Bible Reading
Genesis 22:2-3
Genesis 22:13-14
Matthew 6:33
Commentary Thoughts
Top Priority
As much as we try to stick to a specific morning routine, our mornings can be unpredictable sometimes. If you’re a parent you're probably shouting “amen” right now.
Let’s be real and very clear: sometimes stuff happens and that divine time we have set up to spend with God gets upended by something unexpected.
What do you do?
If you’re reading this, then it means you’ve completed four days of this Bible plan, and thus you’re committed to waking early in the morning to spend time with God.
You may even feel He has been speaking to you about doing this for a while now.
This is where we can learn from Abraham’s example.
He chose to seek God first no matter what happened or what was requested of him. He was even willing to follow God’s instructions to sacrifice his son.
In the past, anything that didn't go according to plan with my morning routine would lead me to sacrifice my time with God first.
In my mind, I reasoned that my work, the car needing gas, my wife and my kids' schedules, or my workout all had to be done as they had an immediate impact, so for that particular day they needed to be a priority.
But over time, I realized there was nothing more important than my time with God.
I then began to find a way, any way, to spend the time with Him, even if it was condensed, or as a very last option, postponed until I accomplished whatever was in the way.
Things changed when I decided my time with God is too important.
By putting God first, He was able to bring such a transformation into my life that the other things seemed to be taken care of.
Just like it did with Abraham, where God provided the sacrifice since he was willing to put God above everything else.
The last thing I want to encourage you with is to follow Abraham’s model.
Wake up early in the morning and put God first, make Him your top priority.
Then trust Him to show you what to do, to provide what is needed in order to do it, and to be with you while you do it.
Today's Prayer
Lord, I wake up early each morning seeking You first and Your righteousness. Thank You, for as I do this, You open my eyes to Your provision. I trust You will meet all of my needs and more. And I praise You for Your presence and Your many blessings.
“Amen” “Amen” Praise ye the Lord!0 -
August 14
Bible Reading
Jeremiah 29:11-14
Psalm 137:1-4
Commentary Thoughts
Knowing God leads us into a deeper recognition of our spiritual identity. A deeper knowledge of God can lead us to a deeper understanding of ourselves as God’s sons and daughters.
In Jeremiah 29:11-14, the prophet Jeremiah was addressing a group of exiled Israelites who were tempted to lose hope.
They understood that they had been defeated by the Babylonians and exiled from their homeland because of their sin, but what were they to do now?
How should they live out their lives in this foreign land?
As they sat down and wept by the rivers of Babylon, they asked,
“How can we sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land?” (Psalm 137:1-4).
The Israelites had forgotten that even though they were exiled from their land, they were not exiled from their God. They were still God’s chosen people, and He still beckoned them in the midst of their difficult circumstances to seek after Him and come to know Him in a deeper way:
“You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you” (Jeremiah 29:13-14a).
When we are overwhelmed with a sense that our lives are directionless, we must remember that our first priority as God’s people should always be to seek to know God more intimately.
Next time you find yourself stuck between a rock and a hard place, rather than grumble about the circumstances you’ve been handed, search for a deeper understanding of God.0 -
August 15, 2024
Bible Reading
Jeremiah 29:11
Jeremiah 29:7
Jeremiah 29:14
Genesis 39:3
Genesis 39:21
Genesis 50:20
Commentary Thoughts
Discernment of our spiritual purpose gives us hope in the midst of the trials we face.
Jeremiah’s word of encouragement to the Israelites on the brink of despair was that God was at work in the midst of their mess. Jeremiah comforted the people with these words:
“‘For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not calamity to give you a future and a hope’” (Jeremiah 29:11).
The Israelites could settle down, build houses, and seek the welfare of the city where God had sent them into exile (Jeremiah 29:7) because they knew God’s ultimate plans to restore their fortunes and gather them from all the nations and from all the places where He had driven them (Jeremiah 29:14).
When we understand our spiritual purpose rooted in who God is and who He created us to be, we can look back, like Joseph, over the trials and messy spots in life, knowing that God has always been with us (Genesis 39:3, 21). We can say confidently, as Joseph said to his brothers,
“You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive” (Genesis 50:20).
I want to bring to mind a scene from the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. When the bad guys had stolen the map to find the Holy Grail from Indiana Jones and his father, Indiana was perplexed at what to do next. His father, however, reminded his son not to worry, because he was the one who had written the map in the first place.
When our own lives seem directionless, we need to remember that our Heavenly Father has already meticulously drawn out the maps of our lives (Psalm 139:13-16).
As we seek God and come to know Him more intimately, He will give direction to our directionless lives, granting us the benefit of spiritual purpose.0 -
August 16, 2024
Bible Reading
James :1:17
Commentary Thoughts
A Healthy Dose of Gratitude
Are you needing a boost of joy and strength for your day? Try adding a healthy dose of gratitude to your routine. Include a time of praise and worship as you exercise; post five things you’re thankful for on social media, your bathroom mirror, or your household white board; or share what you most appreciate from your day over dinner with someone you love. The method doesn’t matter as much as establishing the habit—a habit of praise.
God’s gifts don’t need fancy packaging to qualify for gratitude. Most of life happens in the small surprises and simple pleasures. That means anything counts! From an extra-long hug from your child, to another driver letting you in front of them during a rough commute, to trying on a beautiful new shade of lipstick or enjoying a taste of chocolate after a good meal, God’s goodness is all around. We just need to be watching for it.
A thankful heart can’t help but mine deeper and deeper for the gems that are within each new day. Likewise, a grateful mind keeps looking higher and higher, above life’s difficulties or frustrations, to the One who is above it all. Even on our worst days, we can thank God because we trust that He sees the bigger picture, and He has good plans for us. There’s really nothing like a healthy dose of gratitude. Don’t go a day without it!
Lord, I choose to be mindful of the blessings
You’ve built into my day. From the greatest miracle to what seems ordinary, I know these blessings come from You.1 -
August 17, 2024
Bible Reading
James 1:17
Commentary Thoughts
A Healthy Dose of Gratitude
Are you needing a boost of joy and strength for your day? Try adding a healthy dose of gratitude to your routine. Include a time of praise and worship as you exercise; post five things you’re thankful for on social media, your bathroom mirror, or your household white board; or share what you most appreciate from your day over dinner with someone you love. The method doesn’t matter as much as establishing the habit—a habit of praise.
God’s gifts don’t need fancy packaging to qualify for gratitude. Most of life happens in the small surprises and simple pleasures. That means anything counts!
From an extra-long hug from your child, to another driver letting you in front of them during a rough commute, to trying on a beautiful new shade of lipstick or enjoying a taste of chocolate after a good meal, God’s goodness is all around.
We just need to be watching for it.
A thankful heart can’t help but mine deeper and deeper for the gems that are within each new day.
Likewise, a grateful mind keeps looking higher and higher, above life’s difficulties or frustrations, to the One who is above it all.
Even on our worst days, we can thank God because we trust that He sees the bigger picture, and He has good plans for us. There’s really nothing like a healthy dose of gratitude. Don’t go a day without it!
Lord, I choose to be mindful of the blessings You’ve built into my day. From the greatest miracle to what seems ordinary, I know these blessings come from You.0 -
August 18, 2024
Bible Reading
Philippians 4:8
Commentary Thoughts
Think On These Things
If forming good habits were easy, we’d all be happy, healthy, and fit comfortably in that cute party dress. But it’s the good habits that give us a run for our money, right? Which means we need to bring our best to the effort.
If you’re struggling to develop a new habit, it might help to ask yourself: “What’s holding me back? Is it fear, a lack of motivation, or a lack of information about how to reach my goal?” A little research or a life coach can go a long way in providing the how-tos.
And in Scripture after Scripture, God encourages us to “be strong and courageous,” because the battles we face are actually His to win, if only we seek His help. Bringing Him into the fight with us makes fear start to fall away.
As for motivation, why not try putting mindfulness to work for you?
The Bible advises us: “Whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).
After you’ve done something consistently, you know how good it feels and how beneficial it is for you.
So the next time you’re tempted to stay in bed instead of getting up to exercise, don’t give power to your tiredness.
Think instead on how much happier you’ll be once you’ve finished your workout.
Think on the good results you’re achieving—better health, more confidence, a stronger body, a longer life with the people you love.
And think on the fact that you’re worth it. God says so. And if He says so, you can believe it!
Then put your feet on the floor and keep pushing to be your best. The future you will thank you.
I stand in awe that You are more than willing and able to fight the hard battles with me. As I invite You into the process, dread and fear will diminish, and healing and renewal can begin.0 -
Monday August 19, 2024
Bible Reading
Colossians 3:22-24
Commentary Thoughts
Right Where You Belong
Would you classify yourself as a participant or a
spectator? Maybe because I’ve been working
since I was in kindergarten, I’m inclined to get in there and get involved, regardless of what’s going on.
Some people naturally seem to gravitate toward the action. If it’s game on, they’re a go. But others are actually completely the opposite—introverted, these friends tend to be slower to join in. But once they do enter the game, they make an incredible contribution.
The type of hesitancy to avoid is that which originates in something other than temperament.
Our friends who are retired or ailing probably know it best, though stay-at-home moms can easily struggle with it: the hesitancy brought about by buying into our circumstances.
Do you know what I mean? It’s when you feel discarded, useless, relegated to the sidelines, and you suspect that’s right where you belong.
It doesn’t take much to think our best days are behind us. Well, think again, sisters.
God has powerful work for you to do. You may no longer be part of the economic workforce, but you remain in the Kingdom’s workforce.
Your back may be bad, but if your mouth still works, you can tell your neighbor and your grandkids and your favorite waitress at the local restaurant about what a faithful friend Jesus is.
You may be confined to a bed, but as long as you have breath and a heartbeat, you can be praying for everyone you know.
Life may have you on the sidelines, but you’re still on the team.
If you’re on the team, you’re still part of the game.
If you’re part of the game, you have a role to play.
Get in there and give it your all.
I’ll be cheering you on.
Lord, whether it’s a day where I’m leading the charge or a day where I’m in the background, may I make every moment count. Thank You for picking me for Your team in the biggest game of all!0 -
August 20, 2024
Bible Reading
Psalm 17:6
Commentary thoughts
Answered!
I suppose that anyone who prays has done this, but I’ve sometimes caught myself thanking God for “answered prayer,” when what I really meant was, “Thank You, God, for answering the way I wanted!"
What I see in Scripture, though, is that whenever His sons or daughters pray, God answers; it’s just that sometimes it’s “no” or “not now” or “this instead” rather than “sure, here you go, child.”
This has pushed me to examine myself and my reasons for praying in the first place. And it’s been pretty convicting for me, to say the least. Is God solely my divine 911—my emergency standby—or my Friend whom I take everything to?
Am I coming to Him only for His gifts, or to know Him better?
Do I pray as a spiritual-sounding means of getting what I want, or to truly seek what God wants?
And when He does answer, do I trust that He has me covered, no matter the answer?
The difference in my attitude matters more than I want to admit sometimes.
And the litmus test is this: I’m deeply, actually relating to Him when I not only desire His will above my own, but when I can respond, “I trust You, Lord,” to any answer of His.
I repent of being shortsighted in my relationship with You. Draw me deeper and deeper into our friendship, teaching me to seek You and Your will above all.1 -
August 21, 2024
Bible Reading
Psalm 130:3-4
Commentary Thoughts
Clean Slate
I don’t know how figure skaters and gymnasts do it. Having points deducted every time you fall has to be intimidating.
Viewing their world from the outside makes me so thankful that God skips the points system with us.
Instead of treating us as competitors before a judge or convicts in front of a jury, our heavenly Father treats us as a dad should.
That changes our entire picture.
As a parent, have you ever kept track of how many times your kids have fallen down?
Or if you don’t have children, did your own parents log how many times you fell?
Is the tally in your baby book? No, a loving parent doesn’t dwell on the stumbles.
A loving parent cares that his or her child gets up again and keeps going.
God doesn’t keep an inventory of our sins.
That means we don’t have to either. Once we repent, that sin is over and done with in His eyes.
There’s no need for us to look back, because God sure doesn’t.
Our slates are cleared. Wiped clean.
His mercies are new. Every single morning.
It can be hard for us to believe that if we’re strapped with shame or a guilty conscience.
But those lingering whispers are not from the Lord.
Jesus has already paid the debt for those sins, and thus He has successfully fought our case as our divine Advocate.
We’ve been cleared. Case closed.
The reason it doesn’t always feel closed is because our accuser, Satan, loves to kick us while we’re down and keep us there.
His favorite mirror is the rear-view, where what’s behind is constantly in our sights.
Jesus, however, sets us back on our feet, points us forward, and clears us to run.
Every one of us has things in our past that we’d like to erase. I could reel off several right now.
What matters is: Have you sincerely repented of that sin or failure to God?
If yes, then do you know what the current headlines in heaven say about your case?
ALL CHARGES DROPPED. [YOUR NAME] SET FREE.
Believe it! As John 8:36 says: when Christ sets you free, you are free indeed!
Jesus, it’s because of You that I’m free of my past
Now help me accept and believe it.
Moving forward, may I boldly walk in the truth of forgiveness just as boldly as You work on my behalf.1 -
August 22, 2024
Bible Reading
2 Timothy 2:23-24
Commentary Thoughts
Sitting It Out
We’re living in a culture where almost no one hesitates to say what’s on their mind. In the court of public opinion, every topic is fair game; every comment carries weight. So Paul’s sound advice to a young pastor is a good word for us today.
Social media, office politics, bickering among friends or family members or within a church—petty arguments are popping up around us almost constantly, like a never-ending game of whack-a-mole. Anytime they do, God invites us to pause, take a breath, and consciously decide: Am I going to join in or sit this one out?
We do have that choice. And according to Paul, it’s a choice worth taking seriously.
Conflict is essentially a bicycle built for two. When one person steps off and quits their quarrel ride, you can guarantee that, unless another rider comes along, the bike won’t be going much farther.
There are undoubtedly situations and topics that deserve our full (and patient) engagement. Paul’s own life bore this out. But for those little opinions that only stir up trouble, or the nitpicking over inconsequential things? We can leave those fight-starters alone, lest they become fire-starters.
Though sometimes I’m tempted to spout my opinion, give me the grace to hold my tongue and walk away from the pettiness before it starts.0 -
August 23, 2024
Bible Reading
Romans 8:34
Commentary Thoughts
Praying for Me?
Jesus prays for us. How incredible is that? The One who never sleeps is at the right hand of God in heaven, constantly praying with us and for us.
We were also in His thoughts and prayers in the hours preceding His crucifixion. Among His requests on our behalf were that…
We would know and accept the words we’ve heard from Him.
Our heavenly Father would protect us from the evil one by the power of Christ’s name while we are in this world.
We could experience utmost joy.
We as Christians would be unified in our faith and exhibit God’s love to the world until we one day reunite with Jesus in heaven.
Jesus is still praying today. He’s praying for you and your church family to be protected, preserved in the truth, and filled with joy. He is also praying for the people you know and love who don’t yet know Him.
Whatever you’re up against right now, He’s praying you through it. At this very moment, Jesus has you on His mind.
Today I am reminded of how intimately close You are. I know I’m not alone; I’m in the presence of my King.0 -
August 24, 2024
Bible Reading
Galatians 1:12
Psalm 119:98-99
Psalm 119:130
Commentary Thoughts
The Light
No spiritual transformation in history compares to the apostle Paul’s. Within only three years of his conversion, he went from persecuting Christians to their death, to debating religious teachers and astonishing listeners with his fearless preaching of Jesus as the Son of God.
He could do these things because he immersed himself in the teaching of Christ as a new believer. “I received my message from no human source,” he explained later. “I received it by direct revelation from Jesus Christ” (Galatians 1:12 NLT)
Like us, Paul didn’t have the advantage of knowing Jesus while he walked the earth; he had what we have: the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit, and a relationship with Christ. That was his seminary, so to speak.
Through that training, God equipped Paul to instruct pastors, plant churches, and evangelize the unsaved all over the ancient world, and the ripple effect of his ministry reaches to us today.
His experience excites me so much! What might God do through us as we invest time in Bible reading and prayer?
Clearly, God doesn’t care how long we’ve been a Christian. He doesn’t disqualify us because we’re in the early days of our faith.
He can teach us, purpose us, use us from the start of our salvation or at any point thereafter.
His Word makes the difference, illuminating who Jesus is and God’s incredible plans for us. Nothing else turns up the light so quickly.
What a gift Your Word is! Knowing that the Holy
Spirit will take Your teachings and enlighten my soul every time I open up my Bible is a game changer.0 -
August 25, 2024
Bible Reading
James 1:17
Commentary Thoughts
A Healthy Dose of Gratitude
Are you needing a boost of joy and strength for your day?
Try adding a healthy dose of gratitude to your routine.
Include a time of praise and worship as you exercise; post five things you’re thankful for on social media, your bathroom mirror, or your household white board; or share what you most appreciate from your day over dinner with someone you love.
The method doesn’t matter as much as establishing the habit—a habit of praise.
God’s gifts don’t need fancy packaging to qualify for gratitude. Most of life happens in the small surprises and simple pleasures. That means anything counts!
From an extra-long hug from your child, to another driver letting you in front of them during a rough commute, to trying on a beautiful new shade of lipstick or enjoying a taste of chocolate after a good meal, God’s goodness is all around.
We just need to be watching for it.
A thankful heart can’t help but mine deeper and deeper for the gems that are within each new day.
Likewise, a grateful mind keeps looking higher and higher, above life’s difficulties or frustrations, to the One who is above it all.
Even on our worst days, we can thank God because we trust that He sees the bigger picture, and He has good plans for us.
There’s really nothing like a healthy dose of gratitude. Don’t go a day without it!
Lord, I choose to be mindful of the blessings You’ve built into my day. From the greatest miracle to what seems ordinary, I know these blessings come from You.1 -
August 26, 2024
Bible Reading
Galatians 2:20
Commentary Thoughts
Letting Go
The world will tell you that the ultimate success is a big bank account, or being famous, or having a husband and kids. If we’re honest, though, many of us define success by our ability to either juggle all the demands of life or control what happens in our worlds.
But the real test of success is our friendship with God and the depths to which we trust Him.
I learned this firsthand. I’m a very motivated person and a really hard worker who gives 100 percent in whatever I do, so I’m used to ambitiously hunting down success.
But there came a time in my life when I had to let go of trying to make success happen and start being available to what God had for me.
That meant setting aside my desires to keep acting in order stay at home and be the primary caretaker of our kids.
The cry of the surrendered heart is “Here I am, God. Use me however You choose.”
For people like me who prefer to be in control, reaching this place of surrender is as challenging as it sounds.
But there is a big upside: Once you’re there, it takes the pressure off of success. You no longer have to be responsible for it. You can focus on being faithful, letting God handle the success of your efforts.
He will, you know. And you’ll be able to be fully present to everything He is doing in you and through you.
You are the One who can be trusted with the
depths of my dreams and desires.
As I surrender control, increase my trust that You’ll work all things for what You know is best.0 -
August 27, 2024
Bible Reading
Philippians 4:8
Commentary Thoughts
Think On These Things
If forming good habits were easy, we’d all be
happy, healthy, and fit comfortably in that cute party dress. But it’s the good habits that give us a run for our money, right? Which means we need to bring our best to the effort.
If you’re struggling to develop a new habit, it might help to ask yourself: “What’s holding me back? Is it fear, a lack of motivation, or a lack of information about how to reach my goal?”
A little research or a life coach can go a long way in providing the how-tos.
And in Scripture after Scripture, God encourages us to “be strong and courageous,” because the battles we face are actually His to win, if only we seek His help. Bringing Him into the fight with us makes fear start to fall away.
As for motivation, why not try putting mindfulness to work for you?
The Bible advises us: “Whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).
After you’ve done something consistently, you know how good it feels and how beneficial it is for you.
So the next time you’re tempted to stay in bed instead of getting up to exercise, don’t give power to your tiredness.
Think instead on how much happier you’ll be once you’ve finished your workout.
Think on the good results you’re achieving—better health, more confidence, a stronger body, a longer life with the people you love.
And think on the fact that you’re worth it. God says so. And if He says so, you can believe it!
Then put your feet on the floor and keep pushing to be your best. The future you will thank you.
I stand in awe that You are more than willing and able to fight the hard battles with me. As I invite You into the process, dread and fear will diminish, and healing and renewal can begin.1
