Category: Daily Devotions

“All the nations may walk in the name of their gods, but we will walk in the name of the Lord our God for ever and ever.” (Micah 4:5). Do you like to walk? Going for a walk can clear the head. You can walk on your own to think or take a friend or…

“Lift up your voice with a shout, lift it up, do not be afraid; say to the towns of Judah, ‘Here is your God!’” (Isaiah 40:9) Some time ago a chaplain at a public university heard one of the administrators saying, “No offense, but I think anyone who believes in God has a mental health…

“He who was seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making everything new!’” (Revelation 21:5) In December 2003 the long-awaited third installment of The Lord of the Rings movies was released in theaters. It seemed wonderful and fitting that millions of people, in the season approaching Christmas, were making plans for The Return of…

“Be patient, then … until the Lord’s coming.” (James 5:7) The dictionary defines patience as “the capacity to endure without complaint something difficult or disagreeable.” Patience is synonymous with forbearance and longsuffering. Our patience is tested when a goal we desire or expect is threatened or delayed. A simple thing like being stuck in traffic…

“We continually remember … your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 1:3 ) When they think about life, lots of people say they love the journey but aren’t much interested in the destination. Anna Quindlen, in her book A Short Guide to a Happy Life, writes, “Life is good. I…

“We do not want you to … grieve like the rest … who have no hope.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13) The dictionary defines grief as “a keen, mental suffering, or distress over loss.” Philosophy teacher Nick Wolterstorff states that suffering occurs “when something prized or loved is ripped away or never granted.” None of us escapes…

“Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with … the anxieties of life …” (Luke 21:34 ) The New York Times carried the story of a miner who had been trapped for 16 hours deep under the mountains of Colorado. Tons of rock blocked his escape. Water was slowly filling the mine. To…

“As you sent me into the world [Father], I have sent them into the world.” (John 17:18) The Bible describes Jesus’ followers in a number of ways. We are called forgiven sinners, adopted sons and daughters, and beloved members of the body of Christ. All of these are key aspects of who we are in…

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) One of the things Jesus wants his followers to understand is that the way forward for them will not be easy. As we saw…