Team Daily Bible Reading & Commentary Devotional Thoughts for April 2025
Will be Posting for April 1st Later This Morning!
Hope you enjoyed the Bible Readings and Commentary’s all thru March and will enjoy them this month of April! ✝️📖
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Tuesday April 1
Bible Reading
Psalm 91: 1-2
Commentary Thoughts
Day 3:
Scripture:
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:1-2 (NIV)
A Call to: Draw Near
Location, Location, Location. It’s more than a well-known catchy phrase; it’s the number one rule in real estate. You hear it from every real-estate agent, see it on all of the HGTV shows and read it in the apartment and home finder magazines. Where a property is located directly impacts its value. It is actually possible for two identical properties to be priced drastically different simply because of their neighborhood. That’s also how a cozy one-room efficiency in New York City can cost the same as an elaborate three-bedroom home with a yard in the midwest. The closer the property is to the action, the higher the price. The farther away it is, the lower.
This real-estate truth is also a gospel truth. When it comes to experiencing God during Lent, finding just the right spot matters even more. According to Psalm 91:1-2 the best location to be is dwelling in God’s shelter because that is the place that allows you to rest and abide in His protection. It’s the safest, most secure and valuable location to be. You can totally trust God to keep His promise to cover and shield you. This is such a prime location that no matter what is going on in the world around you or what your circumstances are, you will be in a place of serenity and peace that cannot be penetrated.
It’s important to remember that Satan is checking out your location, also. He’s hoping you want to be farther away from God so that you are not protected and vulnerable. He knows that the closer you are to God in His safety and shelter, the harder it is for him to get to you, steal your joy, disturb your peace and make you forget that God’s power is greater than your current situation.
Accept the invitation to draw near and take refuge in God so that you can be in the right place at the right time, all the time because location, location, location matters.
Reflection:
Abiding in God’s protection is not like unpacking boxes and moving into a home permanently. Unfortunately, it’s very easy to constantly change locations because location is a choice. The protection offered in this secret location is conditioned upon a decision you have to make every day to dwell and take refuge in the presence of God. Have you been wandering away from God’s protection? What can you do to make sure you take up residence in the most valuable location and stay there daily?
Praise + Prayer: Thank You Lord for being a God that I can really trust to keep me safe. Thank You for covering me so well that even in times of trouble when it looks like my world is falling apart, my spirit and my heart are safe with You. Thank You that I can have peace because You are with me. You are mighty to save and You have the power to withstand all of Satan’s attacks, so I have no need to fear or fret as long as I stay in the right location. Lord I don’t want to move around any more. In this season of Lent, as I turn to You, help me make dwelling my habit so that I can stay in Your presence. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen
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Wednesday April 2
Bible Reading
John 1:14-17
Commentary Thoughts
Day 4:
Scripture:
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”) Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” John 1:14-17 NIVCall to: Draw Near
Jesus is the very real, flesh-and-blood Son of God. Incarnation literally means “in the flesh”. Yes, in the earthly presence of God’s Son, John saw His glory, grace and fullness.This is the mystery of the divine housed in an earthly body to make the crucifixion even more powerful. In His divinity, Jesus bore the weight of the sin of mankind. In his humanity, he experienced all the pain, agony, and humiliation of the cross.
And out of the human/divine reality, we experience grace upon grace. Only God could do that. And our only gut response is love, praise, worship and thanksgiving.
Reflection:
Sit, think and meditate for a moment on the divine miracle, the divine paradox of Creator God becoming the suffering Savior. Now, what are you feeling inside about your relationship to Jesus? And what is your natural response?Praise + Prayer:
Jesus, my Savior and Friend, You lived the perfect life that I could not live. You died to pay sin’s penalty that really I deserved to pay.I thank You for Your great love, the unbelievable price you paid to leave the glory of heaven to come to this broken world to save us from ourselves. I love You, Jesus. I receive Your gift of grace upon grace. And inwardly, and outwardly, I fall to my knees in praise and adoration for who You are and what You’ve done. Amen
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Thursday April 3
Bible Reading
John 1:35-39
Commentary Thoughts
Day 5:
Scripture:
“The following day John was again standing with two of his disciples. As Jesus walked by, John looked at him and declared, “Look! There is the Lamb of God!” When John’s two disciples heard this, they followed Jesus. Jesus looked around and saw them following. “What do you want?” he asked them. They replied, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?” “Come and see,” he said. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon when they went with him to the place where he was staying, and they remained with him the rest of the day.” John 1:35-39 (NLT)
A Call To: Draw Near
Here we have a first hand account of the calling of Jesus’ first disciples - John and Andrew. Isn’t it interesting that these two were already disciples of John the Baptist? They were seekers. I wouldn’t doubt they were there the day before seeing John the Baptist - their leader - baptize Jesus.
Every step of Jesus was intentional. His public ministry was just 3 1/2 years in length so every day counted. Here He is walking by the same place He did the day before. John the Baptist sees Him again and uses the same phrase when he first saw Jesus “Behold the Lamb of God.” But this time something happened - two of John the Baptist’s disciples were signaled out by Jesus and asked a direct question “What are you seeking?” These two seekers asked where Jesus was staying and followed him - not just that day but the rest of their lives. Their search was over. They had found what they were looking for. They would spend the rest of their time with Jesus and become bold witnesses for Jesus after His death.
Reflection:
There is an emptiness in our lives that can only be filled by the presence of Jesus. Picture Jesus walking by you right now. He turns and ask you this question “What are you seeking?” What would you say?
Praise + Prayer:
Lord, You have a special purpose for my life. I desire to seek You first and I know that everything else will fall into place. In Jesus’ name, Amen1 -
Friday April 4
Bible Reading
Hebrews 2:14-18
Commentary Thoughts
Day 6:
Scripture:
“Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— 15and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. 16For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham’s descendants. 17For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. 18Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” Hebrews 2:14-18 NIV
A Call To: Draw Near
As the men walked out after Bible Study, I noticed that one guy was seated in the corner, his eyes fixed on the floor. When I asked what was going on, he quietly said, "I have an addiction problem with my computer. My wife has no idea that I've battled this for over ten years."
Hebrews 2 declares that because of the death of Jesus, we have been set free and are not "held in slavery." That day in a locker room, the question hung in the air. If we are no longer slaves to sin, then why a decade of defeat?
To answer the question, we began by talking about the mercy of Jesus. Hebrews 2 describes him as our "merciful and faithful high priest," which means that our sin doesn't change His love for us. Hebrews 2 also declares that "He is able to help those who are being tempted." But how does he help us? As we talked, a question formed in my mind. "In light of this, would you say that your Christian life has become about sin management?" The answer was immediate. "Yes. When I manage to stay pure for a few weeks, I feel good about my faith walk. When I stumble and fall, I feel like I'm far away from God. It's all I can think about."
We talked and prayed, and then I suggested something radically different. "Here is your assignment. For the next several months, I want you to stop focusing on sin, and instead focus on Jesus. Delight in Him. Sing to Him!" Several months later, I was in another locker room when suddenly I saw him, and as he walked across the room, I could see the light in his eyes. He whispered, "It worked! I'm free!"
Reflection: Has your walk with Jesus become a life of sin management, or do you still delight in the Lord? How does worshipping Jesus help you when temptation knocks on your door?
Prayer: Jesus forgive me for allowing my walk with You to drift into sin management. Forgive me for treasuring my sin instead of treasuring You.
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April 6
Bible Reading
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits;” Psalms 103:2-12 NKJV
Commentary Thoughts
A Call To: Reflect
It’s so easy to forget, isn’t it? I forget people’s names, sometimes I forget meetings and one time I forgot my jacket at a restaurant! I never saw it again. There have been times I went looking frantically for my phone only to realize I couldn’t find it because I was talking on it! It was right there in my hand, but I wasn’t paying attention. Blessings are often like that.We have them, they’re in our hand…but we’re not paying attention to the Giver and we forget them.
Lent is a time to remember. To intentionally recall God’s goodness and the benefits of His love and care. To pay attention to Jesus by spending time valuing Him, treasuring His presence and honoring Him for the very real and lasting benefits only He provides. New life, forgiveness, redemption, satisfaction, compassion. Amazing! All these blessings come from His nail scarred hands into our own. We are blessed! Take time to remember what’s really important today.
Reflection:
If you have time, read all of Psalm 103 and praise God for all the specific ways He is blessing you today.Praise + Prayer:
God, thank You for all the ways You bless my life…starting with caring for my soul. Jesus, You’ve changed me forever by forgiving me and saving me.
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April 8
Bible Reading
Luke 19:1-10
Commentary Thoughts
ADRIFT
The Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost. (Luke 19:10)
A man desperate for work agreed to spend six months miles from shore on a tiny fishing hut—lighting lamps to attract fish. His only human contact occurred once a week when supplies were delivered.
Disaster struck when the hut’s mooring broke and he drifted hundreds of miles out to sea.
His hopes later sank as he watched ten ships pass and his cooking fuel ran out. Finally, after 49 days adrift, the man was spotted by a ship’s crew and rescued!
We may never be stranded in the ocean, but most of us have felt adrift, lost, and desperate for help and hope.
Perhaps like Zacchaeus in today’s Scripture reading, we’re an outcast and yet somehow know Jesus is the One we need (Luke 19:3-4).
Scripture repeatedly recounts how God comes to us in our rebellion and troubles. In Eden, God finds Adam and Eve, hiding and confused (Genesis 3:8-9). And Israel runs away again and again (Psalm 78:40), but God draws them back.
Finally, Jesus, God’s ultimate Source of rescue, comes not for those who have life figured out but for those who are in a mess.
Jesus “came to seek and save those who are lost” (Luke 19:10).
While we face challenges amidst the tossing seas of life, God promises to be with us in them. And hope comes as we remember that Jesus has provided our ultimate rescue—from sin and death (v. 9; Ephesians 2:4-8). –Winn Collier
Where do you need God’s rescue? Where are you lost? What would it take for you to yield to God’s rescue and help?
Dear Father, I’m out on my own, in deep trouble. I don’t think anyone can help me. But, You say You come for the lost. I’m here. Please come.
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April 9, 2025
Bible Reading
John 13:6-20
Commentary Thoughts
WAY MOREJesus replied, “You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will.” (John 13:7)
George had a passion for telling others about Jesus. He organized a gospel crusade in his high school. In college, he recruited two of his friends to distribute the Bible in Mexico.
George Verwer later founded the international ministry Operation Mobilization.
Successful though he was, Verwer was aware of mistakes he made. In his book Messiology, he wrote, “I believe history will show that God was doing way more in the midst of our messes than we realized at the time.”
Jesus said something to Peter on the evening of the Last Supper that would affirm Verwer’s contention. About to wash Peter’s feet, Christ said, “You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will” (John 13:7).
Intriguingly, Peter’s “mess” hadn’t happened yet: “Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me” (v. 38).
But it was a much bigger mess that Jesus was referring to: the sin of all mankind. The disciples didn’t know that God was doing something far greater than they realized.
In living for Jesus, we may find ourselves in our own “messiology.” Even in our best work, we make mistakes, mess things up, and fall into despair.
But Jesus tells His disciples, “I am the Messiah” (v. 19). That gives us real hope. We may not know what God is doing, but we should trust in who He is. He’s way more than what we understand. –Kenneth Petersen
What in your life is hard to understand? How are God’s purposes confusing to you?
Dear God, please help me accept that Your ways are not always known to me.
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April 10
Bible Reading
Exodus 2:23-25
Commentary Thoughts
GOD REMEMBERS
God heard their groaning, and he remembered his covenant. (Exodus 2:24)
Sok Ching had just recovered from COVID-19 when her aged mother took a fall. Days later, her mother died. Then her estranged husband filed for divorce and threatened to fight for custody of their young son. Sok Ching felt like she was going through a desert, totally drained of life. Where is God? she wondered. Does He know what I’m going through?
She found it tough even to pray. Then Exodus 2:23-25 came to mind. The Israelites were suffering a multitude of troubles: an oppressive pharaoh, cruel slave masters, their sons were being killed. They must have asked the same question: “Where is God?”
But He was there: “God heard their groaning, and he remembered his covenant . . . . He looked down on the people of Israel and knew it was time to act” (vv. 24-25). Though their deliverance would come forty years later, the Israelites were assured that God knew their pain and would respond.
As Sok Ching read from her journal, it reminded her of the time God helped her take care of her mom, strengthened her when her husband left her, and encouraged her as a single mother. And she recalled how Jesus went to the cross for us. “It gives me hope,” she said, “knowing that God is there for me in the desert.” She could declare in confidence, “God is there. And He remembers.” –Leslie Koh
How has God helped you through tough times in the past? How can you draw strength from His promises?
Father, You know what I’m going through, and You know my pain and worry. I know You care for me. Help me to keep trusting in You.
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April 11
Bible Reading
Psalm 2:1-12
Commentary ThoughtsWhat joy for all who take refuge in him! (Psalm 2:12)
Standing trial for the “crime” of writing about his nation’s unprovoked invasion of another, the journalist made his final statement. Yet he didn’t defend himself. Instead, he spoke boldly. “The day will come when the darkness over our country will dissipate,” he said, “when at the official level it will be recognized that two times two is still four; when a war will be called a war.”
With irrepressible confidence, he continued: “This day will come as inevitably as spring follows even the coldest winter.”World events often seem irrevocably bleak.
Lies and violence are the way of the world.
It’s nothing new. A thousand years before Jesus’ crucifixion, the psalmist David wrote of the Messiah he awaited: “The kings of the earth prepare for battle; . . . against the Lord and against his anointed one” (Psalm 2:2).
God merely laughs (v. 4). The rightful King would one day “break them with an iron rod” (v. 9). David wrote, “Be warned, you rulers of the earth! Serve the Lord with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling” (vv. 10-11).
The arrest and crucifixion of Jesus was the worst human rights atrocity ever, yet it’s through that travesty of justice that Christ conquered sin and death and offers us hope.
As sure as spring follows winter, the darkness is dissipating, fleeing before the Light of the World. “What joy for all who take refuge in him!” (v. 12). –Tim Gustafson
What events tempt you to despair? Where and how do you experience the Light of the World today?
Precious Savior, may Your light flood this dark world and give us hope for a future with You.
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April 12, 2025
Bible Reading
John 20:19-29
Commentary Thoughts
NAIL-SCARRED HANDS
Put your finger here, and look at my hands. . . . Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe! (John 20:27)
Like me, you may know exactly when you received certain wounds that left scars.
A small scar on my wrist is the result of a fellow middle-school band member plowing me over in his haste.
Another on my elbow is from the time a driver mistook the gas pedal for the brakes and slammed into our van. And a third comes from a surgery.
Perhaps you also have mental and emotional scars from the pain of sickness, loss, or death. The wonderful, healing news is that, as the song “The Only Scars in Heaven” by Casting Crowns affirms, the only scars in heaven will belong to Jesus.
In that place, we won’t be broken or wounded.
We have the hope of a life without doubts, fears, mental anguish, or physical pain. We’ll be with Jesus, made new (Revelation 21:4).
After Jesus’ death and resurrection, He appeared to His disciples and showed them the scars in His hands and side (John 20:20).
Thomas wasn’t there, so he doubted the news (v. 25).
Jesus returned and told him to touch His scars and not “be faithless any longer” (v. 27).
His doubts gone, Thomas responded, “My Lord and my God!” (v. 28).
Jesus died to take our sins away. His scars identify Him as the Lamb who was slain for us (Revelation 5:6)!
We can believe and rejoice and be filled with hope, for one day He’ll hold us in His nail-scarred hands. –Alyson Kieda
What emotional or mental wounds do you still bear? How have you experienced healing through Jesus?
Dear Jesus, thank You for being scarred for me. Help me to rejoice in You.
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Palm Sunday
Bible Reading
Commentary
Day 1: Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday was a day of celebration and victory, marking Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem. With Passover week beginning, thousands of Jews were arriving in the city, creating a large crowd.
Jesus instructed His disciples to go and get a donkey and bring it back to him. This donkey would symbolize peace and fulfill Zechariah's prophecy from many years before. Jesus’ bold statement as the Victorious King was met with the crowd laying down coats and palm branches in respect, shouting "Hosanna," recognizing Him as the awaited Messiah.
Word of this dramatic entrance of Jesus as the prophesied Messiah spread like wildfire.
But how quickly things can change. In a week, many who celebrated Jesus would quickly turn against Him and forget all about the joyous celebration.
When we reflect on Jesus’ humble yet powerful declaration as King on Palm Sunday, it can inspire a deeper sense of worship and adoration for Him. But as we will read, the crowd’s response during Holy week shifted dramatically. One day they celebrated Jesus as Messiah only to later deny His power and presence.
Reflection:
Today as you reflect, ask yourself this question…
Do I look more like the adoring crowd on Palm Sunday or the condemning crowd at the crucifixion? Why?
Allow yourself to become aware of the ways you daily respond to Jesus and His proclamation as King. Spend some time praying and thanking God for being the Victorious King.
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April 14
Bible Reading
Matthew 21:12-22
Mark 11:15-18
Commentary
Day 2: Holy MondayHoly Monday started with excitement, marked by contrasting reactions to Jesus: one group worshiped Him, while another was angry.
Jesus drove away those misusing the temple and brought closer those seeking genuine worship.
Most people in the temple were engaged in commercial activities rather than worship.
They were not using the temple for its intended purposes.
They had replaced prayer with profit, abusing the temple as a place that could promote their own agendas instead of promoting praise to God.
Jesus, angered by the misuse of God's house, overturned tables and disrupted their routines to restore the temple's intended purpose. He denounced the materialism and commercialism that had taken over.
After driving people away, the hurt and hopeless flocked to Jesus in the temple as it became what it was originally intended to be.
He began teaching, healing, and proclaiming truth, which upset many, especially the religious leaders. Jesus specialized in turning things upside down and redeeming broken situations.
This marked the beginning of a monumental week, where He would leave a lasting impact on the world.
Reflection:
Today as you reflect, ask yourself this question…
What is one part of my life where I’ve shifted the focus from honoring God to serving myself?
Allow yourself time to talk with God and ask Him for forgiveness in this area.
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April 15
Bible ReadingMark 11: 27-33
Mark 12:-1-44
Commentary
Day 3: Holy Tuesday
On the third day of Holy Week, Jesus spent the day teaching and facing questions posed by religious and political leaders, They were furious about His actions in the temple and wanted to trick Him with their questions.
They sought answers to advance their own agendas, but Jesus knew they didn't want the truth. He responded with parables to teach the crowd about the kingdom of God, presenting a different way of living.
Despite attempts to trap Him, Jesus persevered and eventually addressed an important question about God's greatest commandment: loving God completely and loving others wholeheartedly.
He emphasized the connection between the two, encouraging people to live according to God's upside-down way.
This day marked the beginning of what would lead to Jesus' final days on earth, demonstrating His readiness to tackle tough topics and challenge conventional thinking.
Throughout Jesus' time on earth, we can see evidence of what a life led by the Holy Spirit looks like. We can learn so much from Him about following God and loving people in ways that look much different than the world.
Reflection:
Today as you reflect, ask yourself this question…
What is an area of my life that God is asking me to live in an “upside-down way” compared to our culture? Why is this hard for me?
Spend time to today in prayer. Allow God to give you clarity as you ask Him to help you live counter culturally and aligned with His ways.
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April 16
Bible Reading
Mark 14:10-11
Luke 22:1-6
Commentary
Day 4: Holy Wednesday
As Passover approached, the plot to kill Jesus intensified. Unable to trap Jesus with words, the chief priests and teachers of the law sought other ways to take Him down without causing a riot. We then read of Judas, one of Jesus' closest disciples, who becomes a big player in this unholy scheme.
Luke 22:3 tells us Judas is overtaken by Satan and then begins looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus.
This close friend and disciple of Jesus makes a decision that will change the course of his life. He exchanges his Savior for a few coins.
As we’ll read more about tomorrow, Jesus was fully aware of the betrayal.
But in spite of that awareness, Jesus remained focused on His mission. He demonstrated immense courage and trust in the Father- knowing He could redeem even the worst situations and turn them for good.
Can you imagine how difficult it would have been to persevere in the face of betrayal? Yet Jesus never wavered. He didn't become angry at Judas. He didn't bad mouth him to the other disciples. He simply kept His eyes focused on God, the author of the most incredible redemption story ever written, and trusted God's plan to unfold the way it was meant to.
Reflection:
Today as you reflect, ask yourself this question…
What is an area of my life where I have seen the enemy (Satan) try to creep in and gain a stronghold? Maybe it was through a betrayal or a loss. Perhaps it was through an addiction or a fear.
Spend some time in prayer today asking the Lord to have full access to every part of your life. Give him the area above that you struggle with and ask Him to give you freedom.
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April 17
Bible Reading
Matthew 26:17-46
Mark 14:43-52
John 17:1
Commentary
Day 5: Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday began with a feast but ended with a fallout. The disciples readied a place in a local man’s home to celebrate the Passover meal with Jesus. He knew that the time was nearing when He would leave the earth and return to His Father. So He gathered them together and instructed them.
He began by washing their feet, even the feet of the one He knew would betray him.
Afterwards, He joined them at the table, informing His disciples that one of them would betray Him. Judas acted as if he was surprised by this even though he had just been plotting ways to hand Jesus over.
Judas left and then Jesus led them in the Lord's Supper. This meal would be a symbol of His sacrifice and his lasting covenant with His people.
After the meal, Jesus predicted Peter's denial and spent time praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, submitting to God's will despite His anguish.
The day ended with Judas betraying Jesus with a kiss, handing Him over to be arrested. In that moment, Judas’ downfall became the doorway for God’s ultimate plan to unfold.
Reflection:
Today as you reflect, ask yourself this question…
What would I do in the face of betrayal? Would I respond like Jesus with grace and truth or would I lash out and seek vindication?
Allow the example that Jesus set of following God’s plan of forgiveness and submission to challenge you today. Spend time in prayer like Jesus did in the Garden and ask Him to be glorified in your life.
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April 18
Day 6: Good Friday
Bible Reading
Mark 15:1-47
Commentary
As morning began, Jesus was handed over to Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea. Pilate offered to release a prisoner, expecting the crowd to choose Jesus, but they demanded Barabbas, a convicted murderer, instead.
The same people who praised Jesus days earlier now called for His crucifixion.
To satisfy the crowd, Pilate ordered Jesus to be flogged and executed. He was severely whipped, painfully mocked, and intensely beaten and then made to carry His own cross to the hill He would die on.At Golgotha, Jesus was put on display, insulted and then His body was nailed to a cross.
At noon, darkness came over the land, symbolizing God's judgment on sin. Jesus took His last breath and the temple curtain was torn in two, demonstrating the cancellation of sin and the bridge between mankind and God.
Then, Joseph of Arimathea took Jesus' body down from the cross, wrapped Him in cloth and placed Him in an empty tomb. Then He rolled a stone in front of the entrance.
The day began with chaos and ended with calm, leaving friends and family mourning but hopeful that God's promise would be fulfilled and death would be defeated. This monumental moment in time would forever change the world!
Reflection:
Today as you reflect, ask yourself this question…
How do I feel the weight of the incredible sacrifice that Jesus made for me when He was brutally beaten and hung on a cross?
Allow yourself time to reflect and thank God that He loved you so much that He would take on your sin and die such a brutal death for you.
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April 19
Bible Reading
Micah 7:7
Psalms 130:5
Lamentations 3:25
Commentary
Day 7: Silent Saturday
God said a lot on Friday. He shifted the daytime into sudden darkness and turned the world upside down, tearing the temple curtain in two. Jesus loudly cried out to His Father on Friday with anguished words that everyone could hear. Friday was a loud day…full of words and sorrow and lament and proclamations. And then came Saturday.
Scripture is silent on this day because God was silent. No words were spoken and nothing took place that was recorded in scripture. It was the waiting period. It was the day between the battle and the finish line where nothing was resolved. Where was God? Was He working even when He was silent? And when would God’s people hear from Him again?
God’s people could do NOTHING that day and had to fully trust that God was up to SOMETHING. They had heard of the promises He made- that after three days, He would rise. But it looked hopeless. It seemed like death had won. It felt as though everything they had hoped for had culminated in tragedy instead.
But little did God’s people know- Silent Saturday was just the preparation they would need to witness all the miraculous things that were to come!
Reflection:
Today as you reflect, ask yourself this question…
When have I experienced a “ Silent Saturday” where I was in a waiting period, hoping that God was working? How did I react?
If you are in a season of waiting right now, ask God to strengthen your patience as you wait. You can trust that He is with you and is working even when you can’t see it.
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April 20
Bible Reading
Mark 16:1-8
Matthew 28:9-20
Day 8: Resurrection Sunday
Early in the morning, some women went to the tomb to anoint Jesus' body with oils. They found the tomb open and an angel of the Lord sitting on the rolled-back stone, whose appearance was so astonishing it scared the guards into passing out.
The angel announced that Jesus had risen, as He said He would, and invited them to see the empty tomb before sending them to tell the disciples.
On their way, the resurrected Jesus met them, and they fell down and worshiped Him in awe. He instructed them to tell the disciples to meet Him in Galilee.
The chief priests devised a plan to explain the supernatural event, but Jesus' resurrection could not be explained away.
His resurrection became the catalyst for the disciples' life-changing work and fulfilled God's purpose, commissioning them to "Go and make disciples."
The Hope of Heaven defeated death and swallowed up sin once and for all. Jesus’ suffering was meant to save us.
From the grave to glory, the resurrection of Jesus is what transforms despair into eternal hope. Let’s celebrate our Risen King!
Reflection:
Today as you reflect, ask yourself this question…
How does Jesus defeating death give me confidence in my faith?
Take some time today to praise the Risen King. Thank Him that He defeated death and sin so you can live in victory today!
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April 21
Bible Reading
Psalm 59:10
Exodus 3:4-6
Commentary
In Exodus 3:4-6, Moses found himself in front of a burning bush from which God was speaking. This wasn’t a normal situation! God told Moses to take off his shoes, because the place he was standing was “holy ground.” It was a place for an encounter with the Living God. So, Moses slipped off his shoes in obedience to God’s command.
Removing his shoes demonstrated Moses’ humility in God’s presence. Please notice what God used in order to speak to Moses.
He used an ordinary object. The bush was already there. It was simply an ordinary bush that had been invaded by God’s supernatural presence. But it resulted in an extraordinary encounter.
I don’t know how God is going to meet you, but I do know that any old bush will do. He’s prepared to meet you if you seek His face.
Are you prepared to meet Him at your own burning bush?
What burning bushes has God used to speak to you?
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April 22
Bible Reading
Amos 4:12
Hebrews 12:29
Commentary:
God, who spoke through the burning bush, can use even the most ordinary thing and set fire to it as a greater manifestation of His power and glory. He wants to meet you where you are. But, let me remind you, if this is going to happen to you, you cannot be an asbestos Christian.
People put on asbestos suits when they work in close proximity to flames so that they won’t catch fire. Some of us as believers will never burn with the brilliance of the Holy Spirit’s power made manifest in and through us because we wear evangelical asbestos suits. We really don’t want to get close to the fire of God’s presence. So, to protect ourselves from that which we cannot explain or rationalize, we put on our intellectual or emotional asbestos attire and we come to church, leaving on our asbestos shoes. All the while we wonder why we don’t catch fire for the Lord.
God’s miraculous manifestations are for those who have the faith it requires to enter into His presence and the humility to surrender to His instructions. As Amos 4:12 says, “Prepare to meet your God…” We prepare through humble obedience.
Are you ready to enter God’s presence, or are you keeping a “safe” distance from Him?
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April 23
Bible Reading
1 Peter 2:20
Isaiah 43:2
Daniel 3
Commentary
Sometimes God will deliver you from whatever it is that seeks to do you harm. But there are other times when, because He wants to give you a special encounter with Himself, He will not deliver you from it, but instead He will join you in it.
Sometimes He wants you to see that even when you are in the fire, just like the bush Moses encountered, you will not be burned up.
Sometimes heaven wants to join you in a bad situation instead of taking you out of it.
But whether He takes you from it or joins you in it, you can have an encounter with the Living God because He has a perfect plan for you.
1 Peter 2:20 tells us why God sometimes allows the fire in our lives. It says, “For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience?
But if when you do what is right and suffer for it you patiently endure it, this finds favor with God.”
When you do the right thing in the face of persecution, threat, pain, or any number of potential fears, this will bring you favor with God. Not only that, but it will also bring you His blessing.
Are you prepared, if necessary, to go through the fire so that you can find God in the midst of it?
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April 24
Bible Reading
Exodus 3:4-6
Psalm 59:10
Commentary
In Exodus 3:4-6, Moses found himself in front of a burning bush from which God was speaking. This wasn’t a normal situation! God told Moses to take off his shoes, because the place he was standing was “holy ground.” It was a place for an encounter with the Living God. So, Moses slipped off his shoes in obedience to God’s command.
Removing his shoes demonstrated Moses’ humility in God’s presence. Please notice what God used in order to speak to Moses.
He used an ordinary object. The bush was already there. It was simply an ordinary bush that had been invaded by God’s supernatural presence. But it resulted in an extraordinary encounter.
I don’t know how God is going to meet you, but I do know that any old bush will do. He’s prepared to meet you if you seek His face.
Are you prepared to meet Him at your own burning bush?
What burning bushes has God used to speak to you?
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April 25
Bible Reading
Theme: God’s Peace
Romans 8:6
Psalm 91:1
Colossians 3:5
Commentary
A PLACE OF TRANQUILITYLife is a mad rush. We crave tranquility and serenity on life’s journey. Take the initiative for quieter meals around the table, routines before bedtime and heartfelt conversations in the car. Sometimes we take a moment to be still, but during this time there is so much that needs to happen that we end up going to bed with more “noise” than tranquility. During the time we take to just be still before the Lord, we mostly experience peace that cannot be described in words.
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April 26
Bible Reading
John 14:27
Romans 15:33
James 3:18
Commentary
PEACE IN THE MIDST OF CONFLICTAre you seeking the kind of peace that is more than a feeling and not dependent on good circumstances?
This peace is called Jesus – the Prince of Peace. He doesn’t give you peace, and He wants to be your peace.
Peace grows from your relationship with Him.
So you don’t only seek after it, but you also want to be a peacemaker. Peace is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of God during conflict. It is not to give up biblical principles, but to live them.
Peace be with you!
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Sunday, April 27
Bible Reading
Romans 5:3-4
Proverbs 16:32
2 Peter 3:9
Commentary
THE ART OF PEACEFUL LIVINGWe live in a hectic world where everything should have happened yesterday already.
There is not even time to be patient. One of the best definitions of patience is to calmly carry on with life, with the knowledge that God is in control.
Patience is to love under pressure.
Maybe you can practice your patience this week by driving in the slow lane and showing love for your family during your busiest hour.
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Monday April 28
Bible Reading
Psalm 119:50
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Isaiah 66:13
Commentary
FINDING COMFORT
Have you encountered the dark side of life: the doctor’s examination results, the call from the hospital and a police officer ringing your doorbell? Do you know the place where comfort is found in someone rather than something? Comfort lies deeper than wiping away tears and handing out tissues. True comfort gives light to your darkness. Find comfort in God’s presence.
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April 29-30Bible Reading
Proverbs 29:25
2 Thessalonians 3:3
Psalm 31:3
CommentaryHIDING FROM DANGERWhat are the dangers that frighten you physically (sickness, distress, violence) or mentally (temptation, discouragement, depression)?
The same way a father carries his daughter, God will carry you through every danger. He will hide you under the soft feathers of His wings. He will give light within your darkness. He will protect you from danger. He never sleeps nor slumbers. He will be a safe hiding place in your darkest night.
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April 30
Bible Reading
1 Peter 4:12
John 16:33
Commentary: Navigating the Storms of Life; by Tony Evans
A few years ago, my wife and I were on a cruise to Alaska with friends from our national ministry, The Urban Alternative. We were having a great time, but at one point our ship ran into a storm that quickly became scary.
Things got so turbulent that my wife called the captain and chided him for not knowing that there was such a frightening storm ahead of us. But the captain assured her that he knew the storm was out there and that we would be fine.
When you’re in a storm on the sea and the ship is tossing back and forth, I can assure you it makes all the difference in the world to know that the person in charge has the situation under control.
It’s important to know the same thing when the storms of life hit, because I can assure you, they will.
In fact, without even knowing your circumstances I can say with confidence that you’re either coming out of a storm, in one right now, or heading into one.
Storms that can create fear and anxiety are a part of life, whether we are talking about marital storms, financial storms, health storms or any other kind of problem you can name.
But these are to be expected—and they never catch God by surprise.
What storms are on the horizon in your life? Are you ready to give them over to God?
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