Daily Bible Reading and Commentary Thoughts for May 2025
May 1
Bible Reading
Jonah chapter 1 thru to Chapter 3
Commentary
Just because you’re in a storm, don’t assume that God is angry with you or has abandoned you. In fact, your storm may come precisely because you are seeking to obey God.
This world is full of people who get upset when Christians are faithful and obedient to God, and they will continue to make trouble for God’s people.
What I’m saying is that your conscience can be clear before God, and yet you can be smack-dab in the middle of a raging storm.
Of course, there are those storms that come when we are out of God’s will and running from what He wants us to do.
The rebellious prophet Jonah comes to mind.
He didn’t want to go to Nineveh and warn the people to repent.
Jonah didn’t like that idea because the people of Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, were Israel’s enemies.
So Jonah ran the other way, but God tracked him down with a literal storm much like the one the disciples faced on the Sea of Galilee.
The storms will come no matter what—but I’d much rather be in a storm within God’s will than outside of it!
Is there any area of your life where you are running from God’s plan?
Replies
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Guess you could say my family is in a storm with our son Harry 3, having had brain tumor. So, brain surgery. Still waiting for the pathologist report. Today he walked and finally got out of ICU. Now comes the recovery and relearning everything. Rehab soon.
we knowmGod is with us and it’s only one day at a time. Harry 3 has 2 young girls Mariposa 2.5 years, and Annabella is 4 months. 5 months next week.2 -
Thank you for sharing Barb. My prayers continue for Harry3, Hong Hong, Annabella, Mariposa and you and Harry your Husband.
Friday May 2Bible Reading
2 Corinthians 12:9
Hebrews 13:5
Commentary
I hope you don’t believe that hard times aren’t supposed to come to God’s people when we are doing what He wants us to do. If someone told you that, I would like to correct the misinformation. Storms come, period.
God uses life’s setbacks and challenges to perfect and mature us, so you can be sure He doesn’t waste His storms or send them randomly.
But the storms will come. The only question is when, what their intensity will be, and what our reaction will be.
Of course, not every trial we face comes in the middle of doing right. Remember Jonah.
God often sends a storm to track us down and turn us around. You may ask, “How will I know the difference?”
Trust me, God often shows us the reasons behind pain. And He is with us in every storm.
What might God be trying to teach you through the storms in your life?
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Saturday May 3
Theme for Next 3 Days
“Spiritual Fruitfulness”
Bible Reading
Colossians 1:9-10
Commentary
A deeper knowledge of God should produce fruitfulness in the life of the believer.
In the Bible, “fruit” is a term often used to represent the product of one’s life, its impact on others, and its usefulness within the plan of God—also what the apostle Paul labeled as the fruitfulness of every good work in Colossians 1:10:
"For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding."
Paul connected this fruitfulness of the Colossian believers with being filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding (Colossians 1:9).
You should always be challenging yourself to grow deeper in your knowledge and experience of God, realizing that the production of fruit is a natural result of putting in place these deeper roots of intimacy with God. Fruit is the visible outcome of this internal process of growth in the knowledge of God.
In what area of life would you like to see more fruitfulness?
Pray for intimacy with God, and it will come naturally.
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May 4
Bible Reading
John 15: 1,4,6,8
Commentary
Fruit multiplies as we abide in Christ.
In John 15, we are instructed that Christ is the true vine, and, in order to grow fruit, believers must abide in Christ:
“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me” (John 15:4).
The word “abide” means to remain, hang out with, or loiter. A good example of abiding would be a young couple who had just fallen in love, spending long hours of hanging out together so that, even when they were apart, their thoughts would return constantly to each other. Unfortunately, many believers only desire a visit with Christ on Sundays or Wednesdays with no desire to abide or remain with Him.
The apostle John, however, warned that a branch disconnected from the source of its nutrients in Christ, the true vine, would eventually become barren:
“If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up” (John 15:6).
The good news is that if we do abide with Christ, remaining with Him through study of Scripture and prayer, He gives us more and more of His life so that believers can bear much fruit, as we show ourselves to be His disciples (John 15:8).
Would you describe your relationship with God as a casual visitation or as abiding and remaining with Him?
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May 5
Bible Reading
John 15:1-2
John 15:16
Collodion’s 2:10
Commentary Thoughts
Fruit multiplies as our branches are pruned.
The branches of a grapevine are frequently invaded by the growth of things called sucker shoots which, if left unchecked, will siphon off the flow of nutrients and cause the branch to wither. The vinedresser (or gardener) must cut off these sucker shoots, pruning the branch so that it can bear fruit. We find a spiritual parallel in the Scriptures:
“My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit” (John 15:1-2).
Many things in our lives can become sucker shoots, things such as sins not confessed, possessions, jobs, unhealthy relationships.
The trials and sufferings we experience are often used by the Father—the vinedresser—to carry out the sometimes painful work of pruning our branches.
A woman who is pregnant is willing to endure the sickness and pain of bearing a child because she can see growth of the child in her expanding belly, realizing the ultimate purpose behind her suffering. In the midst of our suffering, we must also remember that the ultimate goal of the Father’s pruning is to allow us to bear fruit. As the Bible says,
“Bear fruit…that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you” (John 15:16).
As we come to know God more intimately by abiding in Christ and submitting ourselves to the Father’s work of pruning, we, too, will find our branches blossoming, as we find ourselves bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 2:10).
Are there some “sucker shoots” that have sprouted on your branches, siphoning off the flow of nutrients and causing your branch to wither?
How have you been experiencing the work of the Divine “vinedresser” as He carries out the sometimes painful work of pruning your branches?
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May 6
Bible Reading
1 Peter 5
Key Verse 1 Peter 5:10
Commentary Thoughts
The God of All Grace. New theme: by Vance K Jackson
“But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” 1 Peter 5:10 KJV
May the God of all Grace strengthen you. May the God of all Grace establish you. May the God of all Grace settle you. May the God of all Grace give you Peace. May He lead you. May He guide you. May He direct you.
The Amplified Version expounds upon 1 Peter 5:10 AMPC in the following manner, “And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace [Who imparts all blessing and favor], Who has called you to His [own] eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will Himself complete and make you what you ought to be, establish and ground you securely, and strengthen, and settle you.”
May God impart His Blessing and Favor upon you. May every aspect of your life shine of God’s Goodness and Favor. May He establish you and ground you securely. May He establish your feet on a firm foundation. May He guide your footsteps. May He enlarge your borders.
The New Living Translation puts it this way. “In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation.” 1 Peter 5:10 NLT. May He restore you. May He keep you. May He guard you. May He direct your footsteps.
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May 7
Bible Reading
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust In The Lord.
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV
Trust in the God of all Grace. Trust in the Lord whose Rule, Power, Might and Authority has no end. May the God of all Grace lead you. May the God of all Grace comfort you. May the God of all Grace lead and direct your path.
The Amplified Version expounds upon Proverbs 3:5-6 AMPC in the following manner, “Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.”
Lean on the God of all Grace. Trust in the God of all Grace. Be confident in the God of all Grace. Do not rely upon man’s ability, power, and strength. Trust in the God of Grace.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.” Proverbs 3:5-7 NLT
If you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, say this simple prayer and surrender to Him:
Father God, in the Name of Jesus, I thank You for Your Son Jesus Christ.
I believe that He died and rose just for me. Father God, in the Name of Jesus, I repent of my sin and I turn to You.
I accept Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior.
In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
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May 8
Bible Reading
John 8: 10-11
Commentary Thoughts
“Shoot for Perfect, Walk in Grace”
Jesus always pointed to the ideal – how people should live. Yet He never condemned those who fell short of it. He never lowered the bar or made excuses for sin. Rather, He called people to holiness. He pressed them to repent with the urgency of a compassionate God, so that they would know the freedom of redemptive grace.
His forgiveness of the woman caught in adultery is absolute, yet His charge is insistent: “Go and sin no more.” Your life may look totally different from hers, but living out your gratitude for God’s lavish grace by loving and honoring Him – it’s what will change you too, and change the world.
Because changing the world depends on a commitment to obedience that demands truth and courage.
What needs to be done (truth) needs to be done (courage) and the doing is beautiful obedience. You need to be brave to lean hard into truth, but it will set you free to live fully – in the kitchen or the car or the boardroom or the bedroom. And you – living fully, free, forgiven – that’s where change begins.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT: Have you accepted God’s gift of total forgiveness?
PRAYER: Jesus, thank You for setting me free. Strengthen me to use my freedom to glorify You before a watching world. Amen.
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May 10
Bible Reading
Genesis 6
Commentary Thoughts
"Grace Rain"This passage of Scripture goes on to detail the flood God sent to wipe out the wickedness.
These are uncomfortable verses. Not the sort of thing you’d read at your child’s dedication, or a wedding or funeral.
People generally don’t like the idea that they’re dirty and need cleaning, or broken and need fixing.
But until we realize our desperate need to be saved, we won’t seek the Savior. There’s dirt and debris heaped in our hearts and we’re powerless to clean it all up.
We’re born broken and we can’t fix ourselves or our kids or anyone else – which should heighten our relief and joy in knowing that God didn’t leave us bent low in the muck.
He made a miracle plan to restore and renew us, even refreshing our desire to do good.
So for you – beautiful believing woman – this hard truth should be thrilling.
Because sure, you were dirty and broken too, yet you were, are and will be never without hope because Jesus took your dirt to the cross. He was broken on your behalf.
And you’ve been cleansed and recreated by the grace flood of His blood.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT:
Are you okay to be honest with yourself about human nature – yours in particular?
PRAYER: God, I want to stand in the grace rain and get myself uncomplicatedly drenched. Amen.
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May 11, 2025
Bible Reading
Proverbs 16:3
Psalm 91:7
Isaiah 58:8
Psalm 40:2
Commentary Thoughts
Firm Foundation.
“Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.” Proverbs 16:3 KJV
May the God of all Grace establish your thoughts. May you commit the work of your hands unto the Lord. May He cause your enemies to be at peace with you. “A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.” Psalm 91:7 KJV
“When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.” Psalm 27:2 KJV. “Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rearward.” Isaiah 58:8 KJV
May your enemies stumble and fall. May the Glory of the Lord go before you and become your Rearguard. For who is like our God? Who is like our King? For the Glory of the Lord shall lead you and strengthen you. The Glory of our King shall satisfy you and place you on a secure foundation.
“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.” Psalm 40:2 KJV. May the Lord establish you. May the Lord instruct your feet to move. 2 Samuel 22:37 KJV declares, “Thou hast enlarged my steps under me; so that my feet did not slip.” May your feet never slip. May the God of all Grace guide your path.
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May 12, 2025
Bible Reading:
Genesis 1
Genesis 2:2
Mark 6:31
Commentary Thoughts
“Rest Easy and Brave”
It takes courage to rest in a world that tells us to go faster and push harder because it’s a world that relegates rest into the shame-on-you categories of laziness, procrastination or distraction. Sure, you don’t want to be leaking priceless time from the seams of a stitched-tight day because you’re stuck on a Pinterest board.
You want to amplify moment by full-bursting moment the hours you have so that they aren’t frenetic – just full.
But rest is part of the fullness. Even Jesus – perfect Son of God – rested. Rest was one of the first things God modeled for His children, because kids copy: “On the seventh day God had finished His work of creation, so He rested from all His work” (Genesis 2:2).
He didn’t need rest. He wasn’t tired after speaking out the universe. He was making a point.
Declaring something holy. He commands us to rest and if we’re going to be effective instruments of change in His hands, we’d be blessed to obey.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT: “It was evening, it was morning.” The next day (Genesis 1). What would it look like for you to live a Genesis day – moving from rest into work?
PRAYER: God, make me brave enough to rest in preparation for work so that my rest is a mindful laying down of me for the coming work of God, rather than a collapsing – a petering out. Amen.
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May 13, 2025
Bible Reading
2 Corinthians 4:15
Commentary Thoughts
“Making Art”
Grace. To thanksgiving. To glory.
For us to live that grace-thanks-glory progression – to create beauty – maybe all it takes is looking up from the sludge of life long enough to celebrate how the suffering of Jesus has set us free.
Maybe the aesthetic appeal of each new day would change if we opened our heart-eyes to His mercies: new every morning for this world, new every morning for you and me.
Because to live the wide-eyed, beauty-hunting, thankful life is to make art with the words or songs or plates of pasta or text messages or other random materials of any given day. Any ordinary magical day.
Thanksgiving has a way of transforming what is bland into what is noticed, treasured and laden with splendor.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT: Your day probably looks very ordinary, or very stressful. It doesn’t look like a gallery.
But could you give thanks for just one thing?
Could you display it in a different light – hang it up as art?
PRAYER: God, open my eyes to the ways in which Your grace and goodness surround me, so that I can give thanks, and paint today on canvas. Amen
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May 14, 2025
Bible Reading
John 8:7;8-11
Commentary Thoughts
"The Plumb Line of Grace"We live in a world of reactionary pendulums swinging out of whack. Even among believers, the pendulum swings from legalistic attack to laissez-faire acceptance, neither of which reflects the power of changing grace.
We’re not just recipients of a no-worries, whatever-floats-you-boat kind of lenience.
Grace is so much more than benign tolerance. And grace doesn’t leave us condemned – trapped in a tick-box regime.
Grace isn’t a pendulum; it’s a plumb line suspended dead center – the accurate measure of truth.
Grace said to seething Pharisees, goading Jesus to enforce the law to stone the adulterous woman: “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” (John 8:7).
Grace turned the accusers sheepish. But grace didn’t say to that woman, “Never mind. Carry on!” Jesus loved her far more than that.
He lavished upon her acceptance, cleansing and hope. And then, because He wanted her to be free, He said, “Sin no more.” Which He wouldn’t have said if it wasn’t possible, because grace powers heart change – life change – world change.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT: Today, how can you lean into grace and away from legalism (earning God’s favor) or liberalism (excusing sin)?
PRAYER: God, I’m in awe of Your grace. It enfolds me, and refuses to leave me as I am. Amen.
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May 15, 2025
Bible Reading
Colossians 1:27
Commentary Thoughts
“The Hope of Glory”
Uncertainty can be paralyzing, yet it’s exactly in uncertain times that we need leaders. Fear of an unknown future and the unsettling of a restless culture may be your greatest obstacle and your greatest opportunity, to lead excellently.
Another Bible version renders the end of Colossians 1:27, “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” When we shift our perspective from the future and the culture, to a person – the unchanging Savior – then uncertainty dissipates.
Recognize that you’ll need to be brave to make wise moral and relational choices that fly in the face of our society’s permissiveness and indiscretion. You’ll need to make wise financial choices that are counter-culture in a consumerism age.
You serve a Creator, not a killjoy, and the universe has been designed around the paradox that surprising, overwhelming freedom floods in when we play by the rules.
The terms and conditions set upon our lives by the Architect of galaxies and molecules are only ever to shield us and to liberate us to live fully, with the hope of glory.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT: Regardless of the variables, unknowns and pressures, could you relax and lead comfortably today, because Christ is in you?
PRAYER: Jesus, thank You for the absolute security and confidence I can enjoy because of Your indwelling Spirit. Amen
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May 15, 2025
Bible Reading
Colossians 1:27
Commentary Thoughts
“The Hope of Glory”
Uncertainty can be paralyzing, yet it’s exactly in uncertain times that we need leaders. Fear of an unknown future and the unsettling of a restless culture may be your greatest obstacle and your greatest opportunity, to lead excellently.
Another Bible version renders the end of Colossians 1:27, “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” When we shift our perspective from the future and the culture, to a person – the unchanging Savior – then uncertainty dissipates.
Recognize that you’ll need to be brave to make wise moral and relational choices that fly in the face of our society’s permissiveness and indiscretion. You’ll need to make wise financial choices that are counter-culture in a consumerism age.
You serve a Creator, not a killjoy, and the universe has been designed around the paradox that surprising, overwhelming freedom floods in when we play by the rules.
The terms and conditions set upon our lives by the Architect of galaxies and molecules are only ever to shield us and to liberate us to live fully, with the hope of glory.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT: Regardless of the variables, unknowns and pressures, could you relax and lead comfortably today, because Christ is in you?
PRAYER: Jesus, thank You for the absolute security and confidence I can enjoy because of Your indwelling Spirit. Amen
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May 16, 2025
Bible Reading
Psalm 139: 14
Commentary Thoughts
Wonderfully MadeYou were created with intention and thoughtfulness by a loving maker. God took his time crafting your personality, quirks, and preferences. He knows everything about you because he is the one who carefully knit you together. He sees you clearly, and he loves you without restriction. He is delighted by you simply because you are his. He relishes his creation!
Though everyone is different, we are all equally loved by our Maker. Instead of letting comparison steal your confidence, focus on what God says about you. His opinion is what matters most. As you spend time getting to know him and filling your mind with truth, you will learn to love what he loves. This includes seeing yourself through his eyes. If you have a negative opinion of yourself, don’t mistake it for humility. Instead, learn to look at yourself with awe and wonder. God created you!
God’s fingerprints are everywhere, yet you are his greatest masterpiece. There is nothing in creation that God delights in more than you! You are the apple of his eye and the object of his greatest affection. To him, you are more beautiful than the most dynamic sunrise or the most incredible display of stars. No matter what your opinion of yourself is, his love for you is greater than you can understand. He is not disappointed by you, and he does not regret creating you. You are not broken beyond repair, and you are not an exception to the truth. God’s love for you is extravagant. Not only does he love you, but he has created you with a unique and particular purpose. If you ask him to share his thoughts about you, he will not hesitate. Thank God today for making you just the way you are, for he does not make a single mistake!
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May 17, 2025
Bible Reading
Psalm 139:14
Commentary Thoughts
Wonderfully MadeYou were created with intention and thoughtfulness by a loving maker.
God took his time crafting your personality, quirks, and preferences.
He knows everything about you because he is the one who carefully knit you together.
He sees you clearly, and he loves you without restriction.
He is delighted by you simply because you are his. He relishes his creation!
Though everyone is different, we are all equally loved by our Maker. Instead of letting comparison steal your confidence, focus on what God says about you. His opinion is what matters most.
As you spend time getting to know him and filling your mind with truth, you will learn to love what he loves.
This includes seeing yourself through his eyes. If you have a negative opinion of yourself, don’t mistake it for humility. Instead, learn to look at yourself with awe and wonder. God created you!
God’s fingerprints are everywhere, yet you are his greatest masterpiece. There is nothing in creation that God delights in more than you!
You are the apple of his eye and the object of his greatest affection. To him, you are more beautiful than the most dynamic sunrise or the most incredible display of stars.
No matter what your opinion of yourself is, his love for you is greater than you can understand. He is not disappointed by you, and he does not regret creating you.
You are not broken beyond repair, and you are not an exception to the truth. God’s love for you is extravagant. Not only does he love you, but he has created you with a unique and particular purpose. If you ask him to share his thoughts about you, he will not hesitate.
Thank God today for making you just the way you are, for he does not make a single mistake!
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May 18, 2025
Bible Reading
Ecclesiastes 9:7
Commentary Thoughts
Joy of ApprovalEvery child wants to feel the approval of their parents; even as adults, you still might long for acceptance. You were created to be delighted in. Every part of you is woven together by a God who loves you and wants you to experience his love in tangible ways.
Your desire for acceptance and approval is part of you. What really matters is where you go to find that acceptance. You will only be truly satisfied when you look to God for approval.
It’s not uncommon to look at God as though he is constantly disappointed. This feeling of rejection can lead you to turn away from him even when his grace and mercy beckon you to come closer. You might fear that he is bothered by your actions or let down by your poor choices.
In reality, God cares more about your heart than he does the little rules you follow. While it is good to live in a way that is pleasing to him, there is no need to be enslaved by a list of requirements.
Your obedience to him is intended to be built upon a foundation of mercy and grace.
When you have followed God for a long time, certain behaviors can become almost synonymous with your faith.
As a Christian, you must carefully dance your way through the balance of living to honor him and knowing that your actions don’t validate your salvation.
The key to this dance is having confidence in God’s consistent approval of you. There is nothing you can do to lessen his acceptance of you.
It is solidified because of what Jesus has done. When he laid his life down for you, he secured your freedom for all eternity.
Through Jesus, you have the approval of your heavenly Father. When he thinks of you, he smiles. You are always on his mind, and he is not disappointed in you.
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Monday May 19, 2025
Bible Reading
Psalm 18:19
Commentary Thoughts:
Breakthrough of Love
You’ve probably had conflict in relationships that left you feeling unsteady and insecure. Maybe you disappointed a loved one, or there is distance in a friendship that wasn’t there before. It can feel disconcerting to be unsure of where you stand with someone.
Relationships can be complicated, and everyone experiences conflict at some point. A lack of security can make you question the validity of the relationship or even your identity as it relates to a specific person.
While it’s good to be emotionally aware of your relationships, your sense of validation is meant to come from God, not others.
When your sense of belonging comes from where you stand with others, you set yourself up for disappointment. Searching for security in other people’s opinions is like walking on unsteady ground. You might be able to find your footing sometimes, but overall, your steps won’t be reliable or consistent.
True security comes from communion with your Maker. His approval of you is consistent and unchanging. His love for you is strong and steady no matter how you feel. His opinion of you doesn’t change as you experience trials or frustrations. He is not capable of misunderstanding you, and his communication skills are perfect. By understanding his love for you, you can experience a sense of confidence that is unwavering. When your sense of belonging comes from him, it cannot be taken away.
You can always be assured of God’s great love. There is no need to question if you are secure in it.
The power of God’s love cannot be overstated.
His mercy and kindness are uninterrupted even when you choose your ways over his.
When you turn your heart toward him, he will gently correct you and guide you along the right path.If you ask him for mercy, he will never leave you floundering in your mistakes or wondering how he feels about you.
Take a deep breath and rejoice, knowing you are fully loved and cared for.
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May 20, 2025
Bible Reading.
Psalm 34:15
Commentary Thoughts
Overseen
What incredible promises you can hold on to as a child of God! Let the Word of truth refresh your spirit and breathe new life into your soul.
When you submit your life to the Lord, you can trust his faithful love to cover you in all you do.
He watches over you, helping you whenever you cry out to him.
Nothing is hidden from his sight.
He sees every problem and knows exactly what you need to overcome it.
The fact that God sees everything you do is not meant to be an indictment.
Understanding that he is all knowing shouldn’t cause stress, frustration, or shame.
Rather, the incredible knowledge he has of your life is meant to equip you and create a sense of safety. He sees every moment of your life with perfect clarity. There is nothing hidden from him.
He sees your circumstances, reactions, and intentions.
He knows every detail you try to control, and he is aware of every situation you cannot see coming.
Let God’s all-knowing sovereignty draw you closer to him in worship and dependence.
Lean on his vast understanding rather than your limited viewpoint.
Cry out to him and ask him for help every time you need it. He longs to give you insight, and he wants to lead you down the best path.
He sees each moment of your life, good and bad, and he looks at you with great love and affection.
There is no limit to the number of times you can cry out to God. His resources are never depleted. This is true about his character as well. He never runs out of goodness to share with you. He is patient, kind, and trustworthy.
You know what it’s like to grow weary and overwhelmed. God, on the other hand, is not bound by your physical and emotional restraints.
He has an abundance of kindness to offer whenever you turn to him.
You can trust his faithful love to meet you where you are today.
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May 21
Bible ReadingNumbers 6:25
Commentary Thoughts
God’s SmileIt’s easy to get so caught up in the chaos of life that you forget to enjoy God’s presence.
If you live under the tyranny of the urgent, before you know it, your life will be a constant hustle to keep up with the pace.
One way to fight against a frantic mind is to slow down and experience God’s delight in you. He smiles over you, and he wants you to have a tangible understanding of his love.
When you are tempted to give in to anxiety or a constant need for productivity, shift your mind to God’s perspective. Take time to revel in his love for you. Breathe deeply and remember what really matters.
God is your respite and your source of strength. No matter what storms you face, he is with you.
No matter how confusing, unexpected, or frustrating your circumstances are, he is faithful. You can be strengthened by his kindness and encouraged by his delight. He longs for you to turn toward him.
Let God’s blessing wash over you. Close your eyes and listen to his voice. It is calm, life-giving, and powerful. God desires good things for your life.
Rest in his kindness and let his peace soothe your tired soul.You are held and eternally loved by your Maker. He keeps you, and he hems you in.
He wants you to experience his affection and know that he is smiling over you.
You are dear to him, and nothing can remove you from his hands.
As you experience the joy of his presence, you will be strengthened to endure the trials you face.
Whether your difficulties are big or small, God will graciously guide you through them.
Run to him, pour your heart out at his feet, and let his delight in you be a source of encouragement.
Whenever you turn to him, he will respond with abundant grace and mercy. He will always be there for you when you need him.
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May 22, 2025
Bible Reading
Psalm 16:11
Commentary Thoughts
Thursday, May 22
Way of LifeGod is faithful to lead his children through life. He doesn’t want you to commit your life to him and then figure everything out on your own. As you follow him, he becomes your prize, your pleasure, and your portion. One of the greatest joys of the Christian life is consistent, lifegiving communion with the one who made you. He can satisfy the longings of your heart. He is overwhelmingly good and consistently gracious. In his presence you will find true joy and realize that being with him is what you were made for.
In a society bent on the pursuit of personal happiness, remember that God’s presence is the only place to find true joy. Any other good thing will only bring temporary satisfaction. You’ve probably experienced the euphoria of getting something you want only to quickly divert your attention to something else completely. You were not created to manufacture happiness. Instead, you were created to experience the goodness of knowing the God of the entire universe. In him you will find the fulfillment of your deepest desires.
You were created to know God throughout every season of your life. Run into his courts with praise and follow him as he guides you on the path which he himself has laid out for you. It is a good path, planned for your benefit, and there is joy in his fellowship along the way. His path for you leads to eternal life. A day is coming when you will experience the pleasure of living with him forever. Until then, he will never leave you or forsake you. He wants to be your constant help and companion through every single one of your days.
Don’t deprive yourself of the goodness he has planned for you today. Turn your heart toward him and acknowledge that he is the best leader you could possibly have. Submit to his plans for your life and willingly follow wherever he leads you. You can trust him even when you’re unsure of your next steps.
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May 23
Bible Reading
Psalm 139:3-4
Commentary Thoughts
Well LovedThe care of a loving parent is powerful. A loving parent always seeks what is best for their child, empowers their child to grow, and provides safety and protection when needed.
Confidence in your parents’ love gives you a firm foundation, and healthy family connections provide a safe harbor for growth.
While you might know what a good parent should do, you might not have seen it firsthand. Whether or not you experienced that kind of love in your early years, you have a heavenly Father who loves you perfectly.
Just as a parent knows the tufts of their child’s hair, the shade of their eyes, or the shape of their hands, God is intimately aware of you. He reads the pages of your heart like an open book. He knows each of your thoughts, and he sees the journey you will embark on. Nothing about you surprises him!
He is not shocked by your sins or swayed by your status or success. He loves you simply because you are his child. You cannot convince him to love you more, and you cannot diminish his opinion of you.
When he looks at you, he sees someone who is made in his image and is a delight to his heart.
If you struggle to accept God’s lovingkindness, allow your heart to be changed by the Word. Speak truth over yourself and ask God to give you confidence in his love. This is a prayer that God loves to answer.
As you walk hand in hand with him, he will faithfully build up your sense of security and trust. Experiencing his love is something God definitively wants for each of his children, including you.
God wants you to know the security of his affection and the sense of empowerment that comes from his love. He is intimately aware of you, and he longs to affirm and equip you.
He knows you better than anyone else, and he offers you all the love and acceptance you need. He is ready and waiting for you to respond to him. Each day you have an opportunity to embrace his love for you and be strengthened by his presence.
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May 24
Bible Reading
Numbers 6:25
Commentary Thoughts
God’s SmileIt’s easy to get so caught up in the chaos of life that you forget to enjoy God’s presence. If you live under the tyranny of the urgent, before you know it, your life will be a constant hustle to keep up with the pace.
One way to fight against a frantic mind is to slow down and experience God’s delight in you. He smiles over you, and he wants you to have a tangible understanding of his love.
When you are tempted to give in to anxiety or a constant need for productivity, shift your mind to God’s perspective. Take time to revel in his love for you. Breathe deeply and remember what really matters. God is your respite and your source of strength. No matter what storms you face, he is with you.
No matter how confusing, unexpected, or frustrating your circumstances are, he is faithful. You can be strengthened by his kindness and encouraged by his delight. He longs for you to turn toward him.
Let God’s blessing wash over you. Close your eyes and listen to his voice. It is calm, life-giving, and powerful. God desires good things for your life.
Rest in his kindness and let his peace soothe your tired soul. You are held and eternally loved by your Maker. He keeps you, and he hems you in. He wants you to experience his affection and know that he is smiling over you. You are dear to him, and nothing can remove you from his hands.
As you experience the joy of his presence, you will be strengthened to endure the trials you face. Whether your difficulties are big or small, God will graciously guide you through them. Run to him, pour your heart out at his feet, and let his delight in you be a source of encouragement. Whenever you turn to him, he will respond with abundant grace and mercy. He will always be there for you when you need him.
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May 25, 2025
Bible Reading
Psalm 139:3-4
Commentary Thoughts
Well LovedThe care of a loving parent is powerful. A loving parent always seeks what is best for their child, empowers their child to grow, and provides safety and protection when needed.
Confidence in your parents’ love gives you a firm foundation, and healthy family connections provide a safe harbor for growth.
While you might know what a good parent should do, you might not have seen it firsthand.
Whether or not you experienced that kind of love in your early years, you have a heavenly Father who loves you perfectly.
Just as a parent knows the tufts of their child’s hair, the shade of their eyes, or the shape of their hands, God is intimately aware of you. He reads the pages of your heart like an open book. He knows each of your thoughts, and he sees the journey you will embark on. Nothing about you surprises him!
He is not shocked by your sins or swayed by your status or success. He loves you simply because you are his child. You cannot convince him to love you more, and you cannot diminish his opinion of you.
When he looks at you, he sees someone who is made in his image and is a delight to his heart.
If you struggle to accept God’s lovingkindness, allow your heart to be changed by the Word. Speak truth over yourself and ask God to give you confidence in his love. This is a prayer that God loves to answer.
As you walk hand in hand with him, he will faithfully build up your sense of security and trust. Experiencing his love is something God definitively wants for each of his children, including you.
God wants you to know the security of his affection and the sense of empowerment that comes from his love. He is intimately aware of you, and he longs to affirm and equip you.
He knows you better than anyone else, and he offers you all the love and acceptance you need.
He is ready and waiting for you to respond to him.
Each day you have an opportunity to embrace his love for you and be strengthened by his presence.
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May 26
Bible Reading
Philippians 2:3
Commentary Thoughts
Why Humility Feels Like Freedom
Humility isn’t weakness — it’s your secret superpower! When life gets heavy, choosing to lower yourself lifts the weight off your shoulders. It’s not about groveling; it’s about trusting God’s got you. Pride screams, “Me first!” but humility whispers, “I’m enough in him.”
Today, start this spiritual practice with a simple move: let someone else shine.
Maybe it’s biting your tongue in a spat or giving credit away. Feels weird? That’s okay — it’s freedom sneaking in!
God delights in your humble heart, and it opens space for his joy. You’re not less; you’re more alive. Ready to try it? Step into humility today!
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May 27, 2025
Bible Reading
James 4:10
Commentary Thoughts
Find Peace in Letting Go of Control
Yesterday, you dipped into humility — today, dig deeper!
Life’s storms tempt us to grip tighter, but humility says, “Let go.” It’s not giving up; it’s handing over.
When you stop playing boss and trust God’s lead, peace rolls in like a wave.
Try this: pick one thing you’re clinging to — maybe a plan or a grudge — and pray, “God, I release this to you.”
Then wait. He’ll lift you higher than you could climb alone!
This practice isn’t about losing; it’s about winning his way.
You’re not powerless — you’re perfectly placed.
Where will you loosen your grip today?
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May 28
Bible Reading
1 Peter 5:6
Commentary ThoughtsShine Brighter by Stepping Lower
You’ve tasted humility’s freedom and peace — now let it glow!
Stepping low doesn’t dim your light; it makes it dazzle. Jesus washed feet and changed the world — humility’s that powerful!
Today, build on the last two days: serve someone quietly. Hold a door, listen well, or skip the spotlight. It’s not small — it’s seismic.
God promises to lift you up, not because you demand it, but because you trust him.
This practice rewires your soul for joy, turning tough seasons into testimonies. You’re not just surviving — you’re thriving his way.
Carry humility forward; it’s your strength!
How will you shine low today?
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May 29
Bible Reading
Psalm 16:11
Commentary Thoughts
Why Celebration Changes Everything
Celebration isn’t just for birthdays — it’s a spiritual game-changer! God’s goodness is all around, and cheering it on fills your soul with joy.
It’s not about waiting for perfect days; it’s about spotting his gifts right now. Think of it as a treasure hunt: a sunny sky, a kind word, a breath in your lungs — all worth a shout!
Today, kick off this practice: pick one thing to celebrate. Say thanks out loud, dance a little, or share it with a friend. Feel that lift?
That’s God’s presence bubbling up! You’re not ignoring the hard — you’re choosing the happy. Ready to party with him? Start today!
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May 30
Bible Reading
Nehemiah 8:10
Commentary Thoughts
Turn the Mundane Into a Mini Fiesta
Yesterday, you celebrated something — today, go deeper! Life’s ordinary bits — coffee brewing, a task done — can spark joy if you let them.
Celebration isn’t just for big wins; it’s fuel for every day. God’s joy isn’t a bonus; it’s your strength!
Try this: pick a routine moment — like washing dishes — and turn it into a praise break.
Hum a tune, grin, or whisper, “This is good, God!” It’s not silly — it’s sacred.
You’re training your heart to see his fingerprints everywhere. This practice flips dull into dazzling! What everyday thing will you cheer today?
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