Devotable Daily Devotions

Daily Devotion - Galatians 5:22-26 - The Fruit of the Spirit⁠⁠The other day, I was listening to a podcast where the speaker prayed that we would see supernatural acts. She asked God to make us more in tune with the supernatural and empower us with His Spirit. While she was praying, my mind immediately went to signs and wonders. I imagined people being healed and miracles happening left and right.⁠⁠Then I asked myself why I limited "the supernatural" to miracles.⁠⁠aWhile signs and wonders are amazing and I pray God continues to move this way in the world, I think we might have only a partial view of the supernatural. In fact, I think the miraculous is closer than we might think.⁠⁠Read Galatians 5:22-26⁠⁠I would say that each of these characteristics is supernatural. It's impossible to bear the fruit of the Spirit in our own strength—it's a miraculous act of the Lord. Without Him, there's no way that we can love the unloveable and have joy during turmoil. True peace, patience, and kindness are impossible in our own strength. Our goodness and faithfulness fall way short without His presence. Have you ever tried to be gentle or self-controlled in your own strength? In my experience, it's not pretty.⁠⁠Though I don't want to admit it, I think social media has warped our brains a little bit, tricking us into believing the lie that if we can't post about it, then it's not good. After all, if an event isn't on social media, did it even happen? This means good (and supernatural) deeds like being patient with a coworker or loving our neighbor don't seem as meaningful as a mysterious sign or wonder. Because we can't post it on social media, we might underestimate the impact good fruit has on the world around us.⁠⁠The fruit of the Spirit in our lives is just as important and life-changing for those around us as a miraculous moment of healing. I believe our intentional, daily choices to submit and surrender are supernatural acts that please God and touch the hearts of others.⁠⁠When we are in Christ, we are walking miracles—I think that's pretty incredible!Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-galatians-5-22-26-the-fruit-of-the-spirit/

Daily Devotion - Luke 10:17-20 - The Perfect Spiritual Guide⁠⁠Like the consummate spiritual guide, Jesus led His disciples and the people of Israel with righteousness and holiness. He masterfully led them with perfect gentleness and limited but powerful words.⁠⁠Read Luke 10:17-20⁠⁠Imagine living as an apostle of Jesus in His time. You’ve been given this unimaginable power, only by the grace of God, to defeat the evil that existed around them.⁠⁠There are many things that may raise our level of excitement to a height that we rarely experience. None as great as the gift given to these followers of Christ. Like the innocence of children they find themselves in a euphoric state of excitement as they rejoice about this new gift.⁠⁠We find Jesus quietly standing among them gazing upon their exhilaration. Just so He could listen to all they say until the perfect moment occurs. In His infinite wisdom and perfection He makes a slight course correction in their jubilation.⁠⁠Jesus refreshes their memory of the great power they possess and adds one small and important adjustment. A simple and beautiful truth He shares with them to keep their focus on what truly matters so as not to be consumed by what they’ve been given.⁠⁠Like a good Spiritual Guide, He uses a few simple words with a powerful heavenly truth.⁠⁠“Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:20)⁠⁠While He quietly shared in their excitement He remained steadfastly on the watch to help keep their eyes on what mattered most. His apostles put their lives in His hands and He in return, kept their course steady and pointed toward their ultimate destination.⁠⁠He is the consummate Father and the perfect spiritual guide. Through His perfect love He continually guided, nudged, and prodded His children toward the way, the truth and the life. He constantly protected them from themselves and from falling into the trap of the evil one.⁠Read the full devotion at Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-luke-10-17-20-the-perfect-spiritual-guide/

This is a sample devotion from our newest book. Learn more at https://devotableapp.com/equalityjournal/⁠Daily Devotion - Matthew 18:19-20 - Practicing for Heaven"Again, truly I tell you, if two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them." Matthew 18:19-20 CSBWe moved to Japan when I was four years old. My father, a U.S. Marine, had previously served in the Middle East and Viet Nam. This was our first overseas adventure as a family.“Our neighbors will be Japanese,” Mom said. “God makes us different.” She said we were privileged to live among beautifully distinct new neighbors.Mom embraced Japan. She dragged the family all over in trains and buses. We camped on Mt. Fuji. We dug for clams in the bay alongside our Japanese neighbors.Dad’s next orders brought us to San Diego. Mrs. Clark was my new fifth grade teacher. In her class, I learned about slavery. She read an abridged version of Roots by African-American author Alex Haley. He recounts his family history from Gambia, Africa to America. The story horrified me. The abduction, transport, and enslavement of free-born Kunta Kinte, Haley’s ancestor, was shackled to the hull of a slave ship stuffed with other men, women, and children. Many died and were tossed overboard; unprofitable, disposable. At 10, I was devastated to learn this was how the world worked. “There is no way this is how God wants things to be,” I remember telling my mother.“Men can be very cruel,” my mother said. “You must make every effort to love others even if it seems you’re the only one doing it. This is difficult, but it matters.”In the verse above, we get a glance at heaven’s diverse human population. The word “nations” is translated into English from the Greek word ethnos like our word “ethnic.” Every human ethnic group is represented.THE MISSION OF THE CHURCHThe mission of the Church is to build a new culture that reflects God’s love and goodness. This is our task as people reconciled to God. This is why Jesus taught His disciples to pray: “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven” (Matthew 6:10). Jesus expects the Kingdom of God to invade our world through those who pray His words.Jesus gives His vision for human relationships in Matthew 18:18. “Whatever you loose on earth will have been loosed in heaven." Theologian Ben Witherington writes, “Jesus believes that decisions taken on earth have eternal consequences. Heaven is not seen as the place where all things have been predetermined, rather there is an interactive relationship between events on earth and things in heaven.”In Matthew 18, Jesus teaches about justice and equality, the outcome of human relationships made right. The results echo into eternity.Here’s the challenge: practice makes perfect. Do what Jesus teaches in Matthew 18. Get good at these and we’ll be better prepared, now and in the future, for living in God's everlasting Kingdom.PRAYERLord, please open my eyes to how I can make relationships in my life look like the relationship You want to have with me. May I live the kind of life where it is easy for Your Kingdom to invade the everyday world around me.Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-matthew-18-19-20-practicing-for-heaven/

Daily Devotion - Luke 10:17-20 - The Perfect Spiritual Guide⁠⁠Like the consummate spiritual guide, Jesus led His disciples and the people of Israel with righteousness and holiness. He masterfully led them with perfect gentleness and limited but powerful words.⁠⁠Read Luke 10:17-20⁠⁠Imagine living as an apostle of Jesus in His time. You’ve been given this unimaginable power, only by the grace of God, to defeat the evil that existed around them.⁠⁠There are many things that may raise our level of excitement to a height that we rarely experience. None as great as the gift given to these followers of Christ. Like the innocence of children they find themselves in a euphoric state of excitement as they rejoice about this new gift.⁠⁠We find Jesus quietly standing among them gazing upon their exhilaration. Just so He could listen to all they say until the perfect moment occurs. In His infinite wisdom and perfection He makes a slight course correction in their jubilation.⁠⁠Jesus refreshes their memory of the great power they possess and adds one small and important adjustment. A simple and beautiful truth He shares with them to keep their focus on what truly matters so as not to be consumed by what they’ve been given.⁠⁠Like a good Spiritual Guide, He uses a few simple words with a powerful heavenly truth.⁠⁠“Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:20)⁠⁠While He quietly shared in their excitement He remained steadfastly on the watch to help keep their eyes on what mattered most. His apostles put their lives in His hands and He in return, kept their course steady and pointed toward their ultimate destination.⁠⁠He is the consummate Father and the perfect spiritual guide. Through His perfect love He continually guided, nudged, and prodded His children toward the way, the truth and the life. He constantly protected them from themselves and from falling into the trap of the evil one.⁠Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-luke-10-17-20-the-perfect-spiritual-guide/

This is a sample devotion from our newest book. Learn more at https://devotableapp.com/equalityjournal/⁠Daily Devotion - Galatians 4:4-5 - Becoming One of the Family"When the time came to completion, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons." Galatians 4:4-5 CSBEveryone has a desire to fit in, be recognized, or have access to particular resources. C.S. Lewis writes in his book, The Weight of Glory, a fascinating essay on the dangers of trying to make it into the inner circle of groups or organizations, but we still find ourselves striving to be “on the inside”. Truth be told, there are few groups truly open to all people and give access to all resources for the entire group. One place you do have access to everything is in the family of God.   GOD'S PLANIf we look at this passage of Scripture carefully what we notice is that God’s family is orchestrated by God according to His plan. The phrase “When the time came to completion” indicates that God had a plan for sending His son, Jesus Christ, into the world to redeem humanity. You could understand Genesis 3- Revelation 22 as God’s plan for reconciling a broken relationship with humanity. The adoption we see taking place in the above passage is a reminder that God’s plans are not always ours and nothing we do can ever thwart His plans and purposes.   We are also told that Jesus lived a life like ours. He was born the same as we were--through a woman. He experienced life in much the same way we do. However, Jesus is not like us. He obeyed the law perfectly and by obeying the law and living perfectly, dying, and rising from the dead, He provides redemption to all humanity.   ADOPTED INTO GOD'S FAMILYWhat is the purpose for all this? Paul answers, “So that we might receive adoption as sons.” Through the redemption that is offered and found in Christ, all people have the opportunity to be adopted into God’s family. When someone repents of their sin and places their faith and trust in Christ, they are adopted into the family just as if they were a son or daughter.   We had the privilege of adopting our first child recently. Through all the joy of having a brand-new baby in the family, the greatest day came on the day of our adoption finalization. In front of some of our friends and family, a judge declared that little girl a member of our family. The judge stated she had all the rights and privileges that any child biologically born to us would have. No matter what she does, for the rest of her life, she will be our daughter; nothing can change that. Friend, when you become a member of God’s family you are adopted into His family and nothing can change that. Sure, we will sin and fall short of God’s expectations, but He never says, “That’s it! You are out of the family!”   Adoption into the family of God should cause all Christians to understand the implications for the way that we should treat others. When I recognize that those who claim the name of Christ are adopted into our family, I should guard the way I treat them. This means that when someone puts down my brother or sister in Christ because of their ethnicity, race, or gender, I should be quick to jump in and help them. The body of Christ should look after its fellow family members and not seek to harm them because we understand they are a part of God’s family, and He has graciously adopted both of us into His family.PRAYERGod, please help me to see people the way You see them. Help me to recognize the privilege of what it means to be adopted into Your family, and help me to not take the adoption I never deserved for granted.Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-galatians-4-4-5-becoming-one-of-the-family/

DAILY DEVOTION - PSALM 1:1-3 - MEDITATING ON SCRIPTURE⁠⁠Read Psalm 1:1-3 HCSB⁠⁠This first psalm highlights the blessing that comes with godly wisdom. It recognizes that our thought life is important, as it influences all that we say and do. Quite simply what we think, becomes how we feel and then our actions flow from our feelings. We live in a world that generally, does not follow the ways of God. It is so easy to absorb worldly attitudes and ways of thinking which can be contrary to God’s word. The writer here declares the wisdom of making the right choice in what we are listening to and meditating on.⁠⁠In verse one we see a progression, that if we follow worldly advice, we can find ourselves taking the wrong path. It may be following popular opinion but when we do, we can find ourselves in the company of those who not only do not believe in God, but who actively oppose the truth of God’s word. What may seem right to them, is not right or acceptable in God’s sight.⁠⁠Instead there is a far better way for us, the way of blessing. True spiritual blessing is an inner happiness, a sense of assurance and well-being that comes from knowing the faithful love and care of a gracious God. Knowing, what we know. This is where we see the benefits of meditating on God’s word.⁠⁠Meditating on scripture is not some mystical practice. It is quite simply pausing to reflect on God’s word, to take the time to focus on its meaning and to absorb it into our minds. Meditating is not the same as memorizing scripture. We may take a verse or part of a verse to reflect on, but in the main it is dwelling on the thought and the concept of the verse rather than reciting the verse.⁠⁠Meditating is aligning our thoughts with God’s word, by immersing our thoughts in God’s Word.⁠⁠What we meditate on today may not always bring immediate insight or blessing, but it is deepening our faith and developing our relationship with God. Meditating on God’s word develops a grateful and thankful heart and changes our perspective and outlook on life. ⁠⁠“Help me understand the meaning of Your precepts so that I can meditate on Your wonders.” Psalm 119:27 HCSBRead the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-psalm-1-1-3-meditating-on-scripture/

Daily Devotion - Galatians 4:4-5 - Becoming One of the Family⁠⁠Read Galatians 4:4-5⁠⁠Everyone has a desire to fit in, be recognized, or have access to particular resources. C.S. Lewis writes in his book, The Weight of Glory, a fascinating essay on the dangers of trying to make it into the inner circle of groups or organizations, but we still find ourselves striving to be “on the inside”. Truth be told, there are few groups truly open to all people and give access to all resources for the entire group. One place you do have access to everything is in the family of God.   ⁠⁠If we look at this passage of Scripture carefully what we notice is that God’s family is orchestrated by God according to His plan. The phrase “When the time came to completion” indicates that God had a plan for sending His son, Jesus Christ, into the world to redeem humanity. You could understand Genesis 3- Revelation 22 as God’s plan for reconciling a broken relationship with humanity. The adoption we see taking place in the above passage is a reminder that God’s plans are not always ours and nothing we do can ever thwart His plans and purposes.   ⁠⁠What is the purpose for all this? Paul answers, “So that we might receive adoption as sons.” Through the redemption that is offered and found in Christ, all people have the opportunity to be adopted into God’s family. When someone repents of their sin and places their faith and trust in Christ, they are adopted into the family just as if they were a son or daughter.   ⁠⁠We had the privilege of adopting our first child recently. Through all the joy of having a brand-new baby in the family, the greatest day came on the day of our adoption finalization. In front of some of our friends and family, a judge declared that little girl a member of our family. The judge stated she had all the rights and privileges that any child biologically born to us would have.⁠⁠Adoption into the family of God should cause all Christians to understand the implications for the way that we should treat others. When I recognize that those who claim the name of Christ are adopted into our family, I should guard the way I treat them.Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-galatians-4-4-5-becoming-one-of-the-family/

Daily Devotion - Jeremiah 24:5-6 - God Turning Bad Into Good⁠⁠I know a couple who share freely about a devastating time in their marriage. But the focus of their story isn’t the hurt or the wounds they endured and/or inflicted. Instead, they talk about how God used that bad experience to reveal deep-seated issues which, once addressed, turned their marriage around for good. As a result, they emerged from that painful pruning closer to each other and to Him. Now, they speak about that difficult period with gratitude for all the good that has come from it.⁠⁠GOD PROMISES HOPE⁠⁠⁠Speaking of God turning good into bad, He once asked, “What do you see, Jeremiah?” The prophet replied, “Figs, some very good and some very bad, too rotten to eat” (Jeremiah 24:3). The people of Judah who remained after Babylon’s first Judean raid were the bad figs. Rather than choosing to heed God’s warnings, they turned to Egypt for help. But all of pharaoh’s horses and men couldn’t save Judah from utter destruction. Instead, Egypt too was judged. When all was said and done, Egypt would never again be a major world power.⁠⁠What about the exiles? At first, they “sat and wept” by the rivers of Babylon (Psalm 137:1). But then a new perspective emerged. Jeremiah proclaimed that they were the good figs, who God “sent out of [Judah] for their own good” (Jeremiah 24:5 NKJV). God promised them a future and hope—including the restoration of their homeland.⁠⁠GOD CAN TURN WHAT SEEMS BAD INTO GOOD⁠⁠⁠Sometimes life’s challenges are actually good blessings in disguise. As we go through hard seasons, God can use them to mold and grow us, turning those "bad" things into good.⁠⁠He told the Israelite exiles that He would “build them up and not tear them down” (Jeremiah 24:6). It wasn’t a time to weep, but one to rejoice. God took something bad meant for evil and turned it around for good.⁠⁠He does the same for you and me today!⁠⁠Read Jeremiah 24:5-6 NKJVRead the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-jeremiah-24-5-6-god-turning-bad-into-good/

This is a sample devotion from our newest book. Learn more at https://devotableapp.com/equalityjournal/⁠⁠Daily Devotion - When Double Standards Challenge Our Faith⁠⁠Read Proverbs 20:10 CSB⁠⁠Many years ago, I experienced betrayal at the hands of my best friend. It broke my heart and left me wondering if I would ever trust anyone again. I wondered if the bitterness eating away at me would ever give way to forgiveness.⁠⁠Our Scripture today talks about “differing weights and varying measures.” In the days when these words were written, people used stones (weights) and ephahs (measures) to determine cost when buying or selling goods. Often, to increase profit, people found ways to manipulate the system and deceive each other.⁠⁠So, what does this Scripture have to do with God’s command for us to live justly? He tells us this practice of double standards is detestable to Him. Other Bible translations use the word “abomination.” I don’t know about you, but that word grabs my attention and convicts me!⁠⁠Throughout the Bible, we see God does not have double standards. His command for us to first love Him and then love others is universal. His love isn’t dependent upon our race, age, gender, social, or financial class.⁠⁠This concept of differing weights and measures applies to every aspect of life. Sometimes we carry within us hidden iniquities in judgment, expectation, and behavior. Our subtle habits of gaining a little extra for ourselves become so ingrained, we overlook them. How we view the world and others filters through a lens of life circumstances and the world around us, rather than through the Word of God.⁠⁠But God does not waver in His opinion of double standards. There is no room for them in His Kingdom.⁠⁠It took me a long time to work through my heartbreak at the hands of my best friend. I had to ask myself some tough questions. Do I expect an apology before I am willing to consider laying down my own bitterness at the feet of Jesus?⁠⁠I came to realize there would be no justice if my actions were fueled by bitterness and unforgiveness. She never apologized for what she did. But with God’s help, I forgave her.Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-when-double-standards-challenge-our-faith

Daily Devotion - Apart From Me You Can Do Nothing⁠⁠Read John 15:4-8 NLT⁠⁠Can I be honest for a moment? One of my least favorite gifts to receive is flowers.⁠⁠I appreciate the kindness behind the gift, and I smile and truthfully admire the flowers' colors and vibrancy. When they are fresh and flourishing, they are beautiful, and if they could just stay that way it would all be fine, but what I dread is knowing that I am going to watch them slowly wither and die.⁠⁠There's nothing I can do about it. I look after them as well as I can. I trim the stems, I add the flower food, and I make sure the water is topped up, but I know that all it will do is prolong their life by a few days. In the end it is futile, because they have been cut off from their source of life.⁠⁠Jesus paints a similar picture in John 15, when He talks about Himself as the grapevine and His followers as the branches. If we remain in Him, we will flourish and bear much fruit, but apart from Him we can do nothing.⁠⁠As I read about the branches that are detached from the vine being thrown away and deemed useless, I picture those dying flowers. I want to make sure that I'm not one of them, and I want to do all that I can to help others avoid the same fate.⁠⁠If there's one thing sadder than a withering bunch of flowers, it's a withering Christian.⁠⁠So, how can we make sure that we flourish as followers of Jesus? In one sense, it's simple: remain in Him.⁠⁠How that works out practically will be different for each of us - there's not a one-size-fits-all formula - but the starting point is recognizing our dependence on Him. That is what is going to help us to flourish.⁠⁠If we recognize that, we will naturally do the things that keep us close to Him. We will read His Word because we know we need to hear His voice. We will pray because we know we need His help and guidance. We will join with other believers because we know that we can strengthen and encourage one another to flourish in our walk of faith. In order to flourish, we must remain deeply rooted.⁠⁠May we truly flourish!Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-apart-from-me-you-can-do-nothing/

Daily Devotion - John 13:34 - Everybody, Always⁠⁠“I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another." John 13:34 CSB⁠⁠“I love you!” my youngest daughter said earnestly, attempting to make up with her sister after a recent squabble. “I love you, too,” my oldest replied somewhat reluctantly, “except when you do that!”⁠⁠Can you relate?⁠⁠As believers in Christ, we are called to love everyone—no exceptions. But in reality, it’s not always that straightforward. As the saying goes, “No one ever said love was easy. And if they did, they lied.” (Jenn Sterling)⁠⁠LOVING OTHERS ISN'T EASY⁠⁠Human beings are inherently sinful and fundamentally flawed with the capacity to frustrate, anger, baffle, and deeply wound one another. We are a wonderfully rich and diverse species, yet those differences can be a source of much confusion, conflict, and division between us. From the way we look, speak, and live out our beliefs and values, to our cultural experiences, educational backgrounds, and even our zip codes, each person brings their own unique contribution to the table—and some of it may be more palatable to us than others.⁠⁠No, loving others is never easy, but Jesus calls us to do it anyway.⁠⁠Why? Because He does.⁠⁠JESUS DIDN'T DISCRIMINATE⁠⁠Male and female, rich and poor, healthy and sick, honorable and dishonorable; Jesus did not discriminate. Instead, He demonstrated a radical, passionate, counter-cultural love to each and every person He encountered—without strings, without judgment, and without exception. A redeeming love that pointed people toward the Father and offered hope and freedom to a world that was weary, broken, and lost. A self-sacrificial love that took Him all the way to the cross. A love that is still very much evident today.⁠⁠And we, as undeserving recipients of this abundant, life-changing love, have a responsibility to extend it to those around us, so that, as Jesus said, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples…” (John 13:35).⁠⁠Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-john-13-34-everybody-always/

Daily Devotion - Colossians 2:6-7 - The Foundation of FaithEach one of us experiences tests and trials throughout life. How we face them depends on our foundation of faith. This foundation of faith isn’t dependent on how much of the Word we can quote, how often we attend church, or even how much we give; it rests in knowing God loves us.The foundation of love is what keeps us from getting carried away with other doctrines and beliefs. Paul warns the church at Colossae they will be carried off by ideas that ‘seem good’ if they are not firmly rooted in Him. We are in Christ, not because of anything we have done, but by the work of the cross. To grow and be firmly and deeply planted we have to seek truth by reading the Word and spending time with the Father in prayer.As we do this, we build ourselves up. Learning His nature through the Word and experiencing it first-hand in prayer develops a deeper relationship with Him. It’s from this relationship, not knowledge, that we experience true love, joy, and peace. We become securely rooted in the truth of who we are in Christ and His love for us.Tests and trials will still come, but our reaction changes. We can still hope and expect for great things because we know He has a plan and purpose for us, and our joy overflows at what God is working in us and through us. The roots we put down, or the foundation of faith and love of Christ, provide nourishment for our souls, but these roots also provide stability and strength for the storms.Even in our weakness, we have an advocate who already won and defends us from the accuser. This is joy! We don’t have to just endure the tests and trials; we can be joyful because in Him there is always hope.It can be difficult to feel victorious when we experience hard times, but rooting ourselves in the love of the Father and the sacrifice of Jesus will cause our hearts to overflow with joy. Out of joy comes our thanksgiving to Him who gave all so we would live victorious.As we carry on in this year, let us pray and seek the Lord for ways we can be thankful for this past season, and thank Him for the new things that await us.Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-colossians-2-6-7-the-foundation-of-faith/

This is a sample devotion from our newest book. Learn more at https://devotableapp.com/equalityjournal/Daily Devotion - Acts 10:34-35 - No PartialityThen Peter began to speak: 'Now I truly understand that God doesn’t show favoritism, but in every nation the person who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable to him.' (Acts 10:34-35 CSB)After recent events in the United States, I needed to read this Scripture and allow it to settle within my spirit as a reminder of how God feels about His people. As an African American woman working in a professional world where, in almost all settings, I am considered a “minority,” I felt Peter’s words sharpen me as iron encouraging me to persevere in the most racially, politically, and economically charged environment I have ever experienced. I would have never imagined the start of a new decade would fuel a sense of reverse thinking. I imagined this year being more about vision and forward progression, but unfortunately, I see veiled blindness and systemic oppression. Many times I find myself asking the question, “How did we get here?”DISPLAY EQUALITY BY OUR ACTIONSIn this verse, Peter reveals that with God there is no partiality, which tells us there were those who did not believe this. If this was occurring so many years ago with a different group of individuals, I wondered if it is our time as the Church to remind others there is no prejudice in God. “How can we do this, Lord?” I prayed. In my mind I saw the words, “Through our actions.” If there is no partiality, favoritism, bias, or prejudice with our Heavenly Father who created us, then where did we get the notion this should ever exist in the first place? The enemy, also known as the great deceiver. This is so apropos during this season where the love of many has waxed cold, lawlessness abounds, and hearts are hardened.Then I remembered who we as the body of Christ belong to and how He feels about us. As we are still battling the decisions of those who came before, let us not forget how our Creator feels about us. He even came to ensure we are all set free. He did not save His salvation for one race, creed, or political party. He came for all, but we must love and believe. As we continue to grow deeper and stronger in God, let us put the Word to work and literally be the hands and feet of Jesus. Let us rise to the standard of equality, and let it start with the actions of you and me.PRAYERHeavenly Father, protect us. Be our Guide through this wilderness and valley. Heal our land and help us to persevere; to not grow weary in well-doing, and seek You first. Let us be mindful of our actions, our thoughts, and our walk. Give us the courage to be bold, but provide us with the sensitivity to recognize where we fall short. We are so grateful there is no bias with You and let us use You as an example for the way we should live our fleeting lives each day. In Jesus' name, Amen.Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-acts-10-34-35-no-partiality/

Daily Devotion - Colossians 3:2 - Persevere in the Unknown⁠⁠Do you think we can thrive in the face of uncertainty? What would it take to make that a possibility? How do we persevere in the unknown. After all, most of us are starting this year out with a lot of uncertainty.⁠⁠WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO PERSEVERE IN THE UNKNOWN?⁠⁠It takes focus! However, our focus must be on the right component. It can't be on us and our abilities. Nor can we only stare at our circumstances. Haven't you ever noticed the more we concentrate on our troubles, it increases our despair? Our fear and our worry will skyrocket.⁠⁠Our concentration needs to be on something more significant. It isn't always easy. After all, we are human, and our thoughts sometimes feel uncontrollable. Yet, we all can choose to push the thoughts aside and focus on what will give us peace, joy, and the strength to persevere.⁠⁠WE MUST TURN OUR FOCUS TO GOD⁠⁠"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." Colossians 3:2⁠⁠BE PRESENT WITH THE LORD⁠⁠Sit at His feet daily. Push away all of the distractions and solely be with Him. Let this relationship be your most important, especially when you can't see the next step to take.⁠⁠Listen carefully for what He might be asking; Jesus loves to ask questions to help us find our way. But don't be afraid to inquire of Him. After all, questions help us to deepen relationships; why would it be any different with God?⁠⁠"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." James 4:8 ESV⁠⁠REMEMBER WHAT HE HAS DONE⁠⁠Recollect what God has done in the past. Think about the times God answered your prayers or those of someone else. You can even start with the stories in the Bible.⁠⁠LET GO OF THE DISTRACTIONS⁠⁠Jesus never let the distractions nor the busyness of life get in the way of spending time with His Father. Often in the Bible, we hear about Jesus removing himself to a quiet place to commune with God.⁠⁠Will you do the same? Consider what keeps you from focusing on God. Is it possible to eliminate some of those distractions?⁠⁠"But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray." Luke 5:16Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-colossians-3-2-persevere-in-the-unknown

Daily Devotion - John 13:34 - Extravagant Love⁠⁠My energy level was low and my mind fuzzy by the unfamiliar path I was on. Friends had supplied meals not only during the week of my husband’s funeral, but for days following. Finally, a trip to the supermarket was inevitable. You’d think that would be a simple task, but it wasn’t. ⁠⁠I walked through the door unprepared for the sea of red, white, and pink. Balloons, bears, and greeting cards were displayed. Valentine’s Day signs shouted. As it turned out, the walk from the parking lot wasn’t the hardest, it was facing the romance advertised.⁠⁠I found a shopping cart and shopped as fast as I could, remembering I would never buy a “For my husband” card again. I was sure if I didn’t move fast, my flood of tears at the checkout would alarm the cashier.⁠⁠WHAT DOES EXTRAVAGANT LOVE LOOK LIKE⁠⁠Valentine’s Day wasn’t always the scene that it is now. ⁠⁠Although the commercial trappings of the holiday may be extravagant and the focus, celebrating love is not a new idea. Jesus instructed us to “…Love one another…” (John 13:34) It’s an imperative that is the canopy for the fifty-nine “one anothers” in the New Testament.⁠⁠What does that look like? A sampling shows us we love by…⁠⁠being “at peace with each other.” (Mark 9:50)⁠being “devoted to one another in brotherly love…” (Romans 12:10)⁠living “in harmony with one another…” (Romans 12:16)⁠“honoring one another above yourselves.” (Romans 12:10)⁠“serving one another in love.” (Galatians 5:13)⁠“encouraging each other…” (I Thessalonians 5:11)⁠“carrying each other’s burdens…” (Galatians 6:2)⁠“praying for each other.” (James 5:16)⁠⁠It may be Valentine’s Day on February 14 but loving one another in distinct and practical ways doesn’t know a calendar.⁠⁠Which “one another” especially speaks to you? Perhaps living out one of these today will be the valentine you give as you follow Peter’s instruction to, “…Love one another deeply, from the heart.” (I Peter 1:22 NIV)⁠⁠That is extravagant love.⁠⁠“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." John 13:34 NIVRead the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-john-13-34-extravagant-love/

This is a sample devotion from our newly released book on equality. Check it out at https://devotableapp.com/equalityjournal/⁠⁠Daily Devotion - Equality among Multiple Generations In the Church⁠⁠Read 1 Timothy 5:1-2 CSB⁠⁠We have all been in a place where we look to the younger or older generation with judgment and condescending thoughts within the church; although, one is not more important than another. The local church is supposed to be a place of unity surrounded by the gospel. However, generational conflict and strife between different age groups are as prominent as ever.⁠⁠Generations are separated within the local church, not having the opportunity to learn and grow under the wisdom and knowledge from each other. Or worse, there are churches where one cannot even find more than one or two generations represented within the congregation.⁠⁠EQUALITY OF AGE⁠⁠1 Timothy 5:1-2 gives a beautiful example of what it means to have unity and equality of age, and also, how we should treat all age groups within the local church. We are to treat and exhort (another word for encouragement) the older men and women as parents, and we should look at the younger men and women in the church as siblings. Within the local church, we are committed to each other through membership, therefore we are committed to each other like a family. Paul instructed Timothy to close the gap of multiple generations to create equality and peace and to simply encourage the church to be family.⁠⁠Each person of each age is important and is made in the image of God. This is important to remember when there is conflict between ages within the church. The 55+ group is not the church of the past, but they are the church. The children and youth groups are not the future of the church, but the church. The church should be a place of equality of all ages just as it is a place of equality of all races, nationalities, and languages. Each age group and generation brings a different perspective and gift to the local church, and that should be celebrated. Equality of age is a beautiful picture of the church and shows a necessary aspect that is needed to be a healthy and growing church.Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-equality-among-multiple-generations-in-the-church/

This is a sample devotion from our newly released devotional book and journal Equality: Created Equal in His Image. We'd love to have you check it out at https://devotableapp.com/equalityjournal/⁠⁠Daily Devotion - Colossians 3:14-15 - Ruled By Peace⁠⁠Have you ever compared yourself or your circumstances to others? I know I have. The voice in my head says, “I wish I were more like…,” or “I’m not as successful/attractive/respected/thin/etc. as…,” or “They have it all together, not like me.” Sometimes the voice sounds more along the lines of, “I’m glad I’m not like…,” or “They should try harder to make better choices as I do,” or “Their kids are so messed up, not like mine. What did they do wrong?”⁠⁠Sound familiar? When we compare ourselves to others, we fall into the enemy's trap of believing what I call “Ladder Lies.” This is where we are ruled by the worldly perspective that we exist in a system of hierarchies, where some are above and some fall below, and the goal of life is to climb up and keep others down.⁠⁠At their core, these lies are judgments. Whether we judge ourselves as inferior or superior, judgments are based on insecurity in who we are in Christ: existing on an equal plane with others as “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17). As Paul described, “There is no Jew or Greek, slave or free, male and female, since you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). Ladder Lies oppose the Kingdom's perspectives of equality and unity.⁠⁠When we look at others through Christ’s loving eyes, we see ourselves as equal and unified. We stand side-by-side before God’s throne, “holy and dearly loved” (Colossians 3:12). Comparing ourselves to others robs us of contentment. Ladder Lies are forms of idolatry that lead to anger, hatred, malice, and wrath. Knowing who we are in Christ and standing in equality and unity with others are the pathways to peace.⁠⁠PRAYER⁠⁠Lord Jesus, cleanse my thoughts of all judgments of myself and others. Remove my Ladder Lies and all hierarchical perspectives, and help me to put on love.Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-colossians-3-14-15-ruled-by-peace/

DAILY DEVOTION - ECCLESIASTES 1 - THE ELUSIVE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESSAs a nation, we (US) Americans thrive on what's new. It seems to be the engine of our economy, and the goal of our pursuit of happiness. Businesses and social networks are dedicated to helping us pursue the elusive pursuit of happiness.With all we have, shouldn’t we be happy?And yet, more people than ever are medicated for depression and anxiety, while suicide rates soar. Our collective pursuit of happiness is an elusive, never-ending effort, which leaves most people empty-handed.And yet, all of this is nothing new. Ancient wisdom tells us this.Could it be we are looking for the wrong kind of happiness, in the wrong places, and in the wrong way?This is the point, more or less, of the book of Ecclesiastes.King Solomon amassed great wealth, hundreds of wives and concubines, was well-learned, and yet he viewed all of it as pointless. What would bring him to that view of life? Well, that's a long story but it leads to the wisdom found in Ecclesiastes.Solomon speaks to the redundancy of life itself. All we do in life no matter how new or special it may seem has been done before. And he drives home this cynical and pessimistic view of life by returning to various generations of people that come and go and are forgotten.Our worldview—how we view the world and our place in it all—is a very personal and subjective issue. What makes it complicated is our individuality—how we are distinct and unique from others.And yet, the basis for how we view the world simplifies it all.Our worldview impacts our sense of meaning and purpose in life.This is the crux of the book of Ecclesiastes. When our worldview is earthbound and based on human nature, it’s easy to develop a cynical or pessimistic worldview.However, if we believe God is the Creator and Lord of all, we are more likely to see an order and purpose to our life that rises above the cynical and pessimistic view so often presented by those who don’t believe or trust in God.What is your worldview based on?Do you see life on earth as boring and pointless or having meaning and purpose?How you answer these questions is important.Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-ecclesiastes-1-the-elusive-pursuit-of-happiness

Daily Devotion - James 4:8-10 - Fully Draw Near to GodAs I was reading one of my favorite series, The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis, there was a moment within The Prince Caspian that never stood out to me before. After Aslan has been away for hundreds of years, Lucy thinks she sees him, but after her other siblings do not believe her, she also begins to doubt.Later on in the book, she finally regains fellowship with Aslan, and she says,“I knew it was you the whole time, but the others did not believe.”Then Aslan gracefully responds with,“And why would that stop you from coming to me?”Those ten words really resonated with me deeply. What in my life would stop me from coming to Christ? What am I placing above Him that is hindering me to fully and uncontrollably run after God? Lucy didn’t come to Aslan because the others didn’t believe. Personally, my pride and sinful heart has caused me to not bring honor to God countless times!So fellow brothers and sisters, what is stopping you from drawing near to God? James 4:8-10 writes, Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be miserable and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.Here, James is directing us on how we must act towards our Father!Believer, posture your heart towards Christ, laying aside all sinful desires. Matthew Henry writes,“The heart that has rebelled must be brought to the foot of God; the spirit that was estranged from a life of communion with God must become acquainted with Him again.”We must continually humble ourselves, posturing our hearts differently, so that we can approach Him reverently. Don’t let the sin you are holding on too so tightly keep you from coming to God. Draw near to him, humble yourself before Him as you cleanse your hands, and your hearts. Put to death the things that are stopping you from coming to Christ, whether that be the opinions of others, pride, or whatever sin you are grasping onto.Your fears, and sin should not stop you from drawing near.Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-james-4-8-10-fully-draw-near-to-god

Daily Devotion - Isaiah 6:9 - Explaining My Relationship with God⁠⁠How do I explain my relationship with God to others, namely unbelievers? My small group leader got me thinking on this question this past Sunday, and what came to mind repeatedly was Isaiah 6:9.⁠⁠“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send Me.” And he said, “Go, and say to this people: “’Keep on hearing, but do not understand; keep on seeing, but do not perceive.’” ESV⁠⁠PERCEIVING GOD⁠⁠Isaiah had a tough assignment. His commission from the Lord made it evident that most of the people would listen, but not take heed to, his prophetic words. The strength of my relationship with God is in the evidence of when I am not like those people. When I hear words from scripture and apply what is said, it represents an understanding of deeper truths God is wanting to teach me. ⁠⁠Isaiah 5 is a poetic description of the self-destruction of the people of Judah. He pronounces “woes” upon them because they are greedy, drunken, unjust, and mocking God in their sin. In chapter 6 a favorite king, Uzziah, has died. To comfort and encourage him, Isaiah gets the blessing of seeing the Lord still on the throne in all his glory. ⁠⁠UNDERSTANDING OUR NEED FOR PURIFICATION⁠⁠That is a scary thought. Purification is dangerous, but Isaiah leaned in close for the cleansing. He was then told to go preach to those who would not do the same. How can I make sure I end up like Isaiah, understanding and perceiving?⁠⁠I am rebellious, lazy, and stubborn. I back up from the throne because I want to maintain control.⁠⁠Recently, I heard a missionary say that Isaiah must have been face down to the ground in front of the throne, because all he could describe was the train, or hem, of God’s robe. I love this thought! I pray I am there with Isaiah every day, describing each stitch in detail.⁠⁠This how I explain my relationship with God. I lean in close. I read his word and listen to trusted spiritual leaders. May these thoughts always set me in motion! Here am I, send me.⁠Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-isaiah-6-9-explaining-my-relationship-with-god