One In Christ

Two are better than one because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

I can remember years ago when the Bible study group I was a part of started a prayer chain. We prayed for each other and the group began to grow tremendously. It was a group of Christian singles just starting their careers. We would attend church together, have Bible Study together, and meet for social events together.

I look back on that group now and many friendships were formed. I’ve kept in contract with them and several couples are now missionaries around the world.  There were even a few marriages from that group.

We can display oneness with other believers in Christ today. Our faith in Christ gives us the freedom we need and we have the opportunity to tap into our individual skills and talents for His glory. As you go about your day today, remember that you are never alone and that God has given other Christians to help us along the journey. How Great is Our God by Chris Tomlin!

Index of devotionals

The Target is God’s Will

All things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. - Romans 8:28

Joshua had accomplished much of what God had wanted him to as a large portion of the land promised to the Israelites had been conquered by Joshua and his army. As pointed out in the post “Fulfilling Our Purpose”, Joshua had done the will of God. Reading in Joshua 13, he was now up in age, yet God’s purpose for him was not finished.

Like Joshua, let God be a part of evaluating your current activities to discover if you are on target to fulfilling your purpose in life. The target is God’s will and I hope this song called Thy Will by Hillary Scott & The Scott Family moves in you the need to evaluate your current activities to discover if you are on target to fulfilling the purpose God has for you.

Index of devotionals

Stand Firm and Hold Fast to the Teachings

So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. – 2 Thessalonians 2:15

The thoughts brought out in the post “Learn and Apply the Principles” were inspired by the study of Paul teaching the Thessalonians. We not only have the advantage of history to look back on but can now read what is stated in the Bible and know it has come about.

Even in the area of science, what was written in the Bible has come to pass. Areas such as dealing with stars, the ocean, and how the earth is shaped. What was not known by humanity at the time the words were written have since been proven to be true.

Cheer up today and receive this inspirational video Solid as the Rock by Avalon and know that the truths found in the Bible are indeed solid as a rock.

Index of devotionals

Greatest Reward

Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. - Revelation 22:12

The greatest reward in life is Jesus in our heart. The post “Internalizing His Principles” describes how to obtain this great reward that allows us to fellowship with God throughout our day.

This day, believe that God has a great plan for you and He will set things up so everything will fall into place. It all starts with receiving a plan from Him through faithful, consistent, and powerful prayer. Here is a video poem to start you toward an amazing day: This Day with God.

Index of devotionals

Acknowledge Greatness

Let us acknowledge the Lord; let us press on to acknowledge Him. As surely as the sun rises, He will appear; He will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth. - Hosea 6:3

Technology has been developed so that we can communicate with each other on the other side of the world but at the same time, humanity can be a fool in not acknowledging God’s part in making the world amazing. Such was the case when I shared in the post “Evidence of His Existence”.

When God is present, we have purpose, teamwork, and integrity. Without a focus on God, there is corruption and failure. This day with God, let us see Him around us and acknowledge His greatness. As we go throughout the day, let us give thanks.

To gain momentum to an amazing day, receive inspiration from this video highlighting God’s amazing world: God’s Beautiful Creation, Awesome Scenery – Creation Calls by Brian Doerksen.

Index of devotionals

Making Your Path Straight

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5-6

In the post “Seeking the Best Direction and Guidance”, shared was how spiritual decline led to God’s wrath being poured out on Israel. The Bible gives us a chance to learn from mistakes made in the past and provides a better understanding of the best way to live.

Only God can transform from the inside out; making intangibles like faith, hope, and love into tangible blessings. Today’s video emphasizes this transformation that God can make: Busted Heart – For King & Country.

Index of devotionals

Former Things and New Things

See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you. - Isaiah 42:9

God wants to make each day amazing and our tomorrows more amazing than today. In His timing, things are made right. He is for us so we can be at peace and focus on a brighter future. Because of His love for us, we are inspired to share about this love with others.

The good memories we have can give us a lift and the nicer weather can give us a lift but the ultimate lift is knowing that the future is bright because of the reward God has for all who believe in His Son. No matter what is going on in life, we can count on the turning of the season from winter to spring. We can also count on greater tomorrows because of our acceptance of Christ in our heart.

We get hit with so many negative thoughts on a daily basis. One idea to overcome is to begin our day with uplifting positive music to inoculate the negative thoughts. Take a few minutes to listen to this uplifting song to get your mind in the right frame of mind as you begin your day: Forgiven – Sanctus Real. 

Index of devotionals

Praise for What He Gave

Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him. - 1 Corinthians 2:9

What is our greatest reward in this life? Is it nice houses, cars, and cloths, or is it waking up early with God, studying the Word, praying, and knowing He is with us throughout our day. Unfortunately, as written about in the post “Our True Reward”, many look for their happiness, needs, and desires from this world rather than from God.

Take a moment to watch this video: Good, Good Father – Chris Tomlin. Let us keep our eyes on the true reward today for with God, we can sincerely believe that each hardship we face can be overcome. We can be enthusiastic; going about this day by taking action to make it our best day ever. Then our tomorrows will be our best days ahead and we can celebrate progress by giving praise for what He gave.

Index of devotionals

There is a Process that does Bless

Let us, then, feel very sure that we can come before God’s throne where there is grace. There we can receive mercy and grace to help us when we need it. - Hebrews 4:16

Many times throughout the history of mankind, nations have gone astray. Such is the case as written about in the post “Actions to Take Now for the Good Life”. Amos was telling the people that there is a process that does bless God’s people; a way to change course away from their sins which included the oppression of the innocent, taking bribes, depriving the poor of justice, and idol worship to mention just a few.

Here we are in current times and the warning from Amos continues to apply in the present. Many nations throughout the world do not seek the Lord first. Even the United States of America in which the motto is “One Nation Under God” has lost their way as leaders no longer put an emphasis on integrity and upholding justice.

Albert Einstein once said “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning”.  We must continue to question: What does God want in the lives of His people? How can each individual take action now to seek what God has for them?

Learning is a life-long process so let us take every opportunity to ask questions, seek answers, and share with others. God wants His people to seek every good thing and glorify His name. Let us begin at this moment to give praise to the ONE who made this amazing universe as we are inspired by this video: Lifesong– Casting Crowns.

Index of devotionals

Trust is a Must

The testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. - James 1:3-4

As written about in the post “Faith in His Guidance”, every doubt or fear will be replaced with a deep abiding trust in God. Paul had faith in God during the storm at sea and the shipwreck. Paul’s faith began to influence the others aboard the ship and this resulted in good judgment, confidence, and composure as they reached land to safety.

We face storms in our journey through life. There are difficulties we face daily … a family member is sick, a rough day at work, trying to balance work, home, and school. When we face these difficult days and turn them over to God, that’s when His great power begins.

Faith gained today will pull us through for the rest of today. Then this gained faith of yesterday will push us through tomorrow and help us step ahead into the future. To start gaining faith today, here is an inspiring song: Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) – Hillsong United.

Index of devotionals

The ONE that is True will Rescue and Pull US Through

In the post “Pull US Through” noted was that Paul faced much opposition from the Jewish leaders. People stepped up to fill the gaps to strengthen the early church. Paul had a daunting task to fight against the Jewish leaders who wanted Judaism to be the only recognized religion of the Roman Empire and to outlaw Christianity.

He relied on help from many during his missionary journey. When he was in Corinth, he stayed with Aquila and Priscilla. Paul then received financial help from his friends at Philippi (2 Cor. 11:8) which gave him the opportunity to devote himself entirely to his missionary work. Then Silas and Timothy joined him in Corinth.

Also written about was a man named Apollos who had a talent of speaking. After he was taught more about the gospel, he was very effective at debating the Jewish leaders by proving from the scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.

To win the fight against the cultural and religious erosion we are seeing in front of us in the United States and throughout the world, we have to pull together and each use our talents for the glory of God.

We must recognize that our greatest strength or power is prayer because when we pray, we are speaking to the ONE who already has every answer. Enjoy today’s inspiring video with these thoughts in mind: Shoulders – For King & Country.

And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues. - 1 Corinthians 12:28

Index of devotionals

His Assistance Helps Us Go the Distance

When Paul faced opposition in Corinth as shared in the post “The Day May Be Demanding but God is there to Keep You Standing”, he was able to stand his ground. He received help from his friends and God gave him assurance of safety in a vision. In this vision, God spoke to Paul telling him to keep on teaching the Gospel and not be afraid because he would be protected.

We can be assured today that friends will stand with us. We may face some opposition but like anything that takes off, there is the need for some resistance. A kite flies high because of the resistance of the wind. An airplane couldn’t take off without the resistance of the air on the wings which creates a lift.

This day with God, know that He will always be by your side to encourage and He will provide others to help. His army of angels will provide for your needs to overcome fear and go the distance. Receive inspiration from today’s video: Whom Shall I Fear – Chris Tomlin.

Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9

Index of devotionals

It Only Takes a Spark

As shared in the post “Sparking Curiosity”, Paul began his missionary work in Athens by just meeting people and telling about Christ. This new teaching of Paul in Athens is still available to us today.

Many are looking for answers to the challenges of this world. They’ve looked at the various philosophies in how best to take on these challenges and none seem to work. But there is one plan that has proven to work and continues to work.

Here’s a video to provide that spark today: Build Your Kingdom Here – Rend Collective Experiment.

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. - Galatians 2:20

Index of devotionals

Not Going Under But Being an Overcomer

Written about in the post “Advancing the Gospel Even in Troubles” is how Paul and Silas faced difficulty in doing the will of God. They were beaten publicly and put in prison. But as described in the post, God can advance the gospel even in our troubles.

This day with God, be an over comer even when things happen that should not or when  those you thought you could trust do something that makes you not trust them anymore. Be able to forgive, step ahead, and be grateful for what you do have. Here’s today’s inspirational video as we build momentum this day: Overcomer – Mandisa.

And call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me. - Psalm 50:15

Index of devotionals

Visions of Hope Become Actions of a Blessed Reality

In the post “Paying Attention to Your Dreams”, written about was Paul’s vision of the man of Macedonia. Paul received this vision as he was sharing God’s Word on his missionary journey and was not sure which direction they should go. Should they share God’s word in Asia or in Europe?

Paul and his companions immediately followed the direction of the Holy Spirit and went towards Macedonia in Europe. We should take this lesson and also pay attention to our dreams and take action. God blesses those who seek His advice and follow through on His guidance.

This day with God will be amazing if we put His guidance into practice. Receive inspiration from this video: What Can I Do – Paul Baloche and put all your hope in God to guide you into the right places at the right time today. Hear and visualize the direction or plans received from God today. Then carry out these plans so that your visions of hope become actions of a blessed reality.

Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. - Proverbs 29:18

Index of devotionals

Son Beam to Every Hope and Dream

Shared in the post He Clears the Path to Safety, the lesson was to examine our hopes and dreams and strive to accomplish them in order to give glory to God just as Moses did by creating a path through the sea to the other side.

Keep in mind that God can create a path for us to victory.  So this day with God, remember there is no more fear because the path is made clear with His Son beam to our every hope and dream.

Since God always delivers on His promises, let us do like Moses and the Israelites by praising Him with a song. Enjoy today’s video: Hope in Front of Me – Danny Gokey.

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. - Romans 15:4

Index of devotionals

With God All Things Are Possible

The post The Greatest Conversion Story was about Saul’s conversion on the road to Damascus. He had been a persecutor of the followers of Christ but suddenly became their strongest advocate. That’s how God works; turning what seems to be something impossible into something that is possible. Today’s inspiring video is about changing people for the better: Changed – Rascal Flatts.

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us. - Ephesians 3:20

Index of devotionals

Partnership in the Faith

In the post Believe and Have No Need, I wrote about the believers becoming of one in heart and mind. It was not about the individual but about something bigger. It was about working together to spread the Good News of the Lord Jesus.

We can do the same today but at an even greater rate because of the Internet. Thoughts and ideas can be shared with believers across the globe. There are inspiring videos, quotes, thoughts, and ideas that are easily shared daily.

Let us purposefully look for God today in nature, music, sports, movies, at the golf course, work, the shopping center, and in His people. Document what you see. Collect facts, quotes, and personal thoughts from your experiences. Let us work together to highlight the building blocks of faith that lay a path for us to step ahead and spread the Good News.

Let us be thankful that Christ has given us a helper in the Holy Spirit that we can lean on together as our partner in the faith. Enjoy today’s video Lean On Me – Bill Withers

I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ. - Philemon 1:16

Index of devotionals

Each Day Can Be Amazing Because of Our Savior

Our days can look bleak just like they did in the post Refuge in the Deluge but each day can be amazing because of our Savior and our growing faith can never be taken away or depleted. The gospel message has a beautiful and refreshing simplicity about it that sets us free and never let us down

It’s much easier living in God’s light, trusting in His promises, and using His resources. With God, it’s like running with the wind at your back. He knows our needs and gives us that extra push to the finish line.

Enjoy today’s inspiring video: He Knows – Jeremy Camp.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5-6

Index of devotionals

Faith is the Weapon Needed to Fight Our Spiritual Enemies

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. - 1 John 1:9

David faced many enemies and was in distress as written in the post “He is Faithful and Just” but prays with assurance because he knows that God would hear his prayer. David speaks with such assurance that his life would turn around because of his confession and his faith in God’s mercy.

David’s faith gives him an optimistic outlook for the future and the weapon needed to fight his spiritual enemies. This day with God, we too can look forward to a brighter future where every doubt or fear can be replaced with a deep abiding trust in God.

Enjoy today’s uplifting video: Healing Rain – Michael W. Smith.

Index of devotionals