Christian living Archives

April 5, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

This is the Day

Opening Verse

“This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
Psalm 118:24 (KJV)

Introduction

Every new day is a gift. Not just another page on the calendar, but a chance—a holy invitation from God to live with purpose, joy, and obedience. Psalm 118:24 is more than a morning greeting; it’s a declaration of faith and decision.

Devotional Story

There was a man who used to dread mornings. Life felt heavy. One day, while sitting in silence before heading to work, he opened the Bible and his eyes landed on Psalm 118:24. “This is the day which the Lord hath made…” He read it over and over.

That moment changed everything. He started to rise each morning with a new mindset—not focused on his problems but focused on God’s purpose for that day. Whether it was hard or easy, sunny or stormy, he chose to rejoice, because God had made that day. Not by accident. Not randomly. But with purpose.

He began to say it aloud every morning, and over time, his heart followed his words. People around him noticed the change. He didn’t just survive his days. He lived them. With joy. With focus. With praise.

What This Means

We don’t make the day. We don’t control what it brings. But we do choose how we live it. God made today. That means it has meaning. That means it has grace. That means you’re alive for a reason right now. Choose joy. Choose praise. Choose to see God’s hand in every hour.

Think About This

Do you treat today like a gift?
What if today was your last—would you live it differently?
Are you rejoicing, or just rushing through?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for today. Help me to see it as Yours, not mine. Give me a heart that rejoices, even when life is hard. Teach me to live each day as a gift, not a guarantee. Let me walk in Your purpose and shine for You in every hour. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.”
Proverbs 27:1 (KJV)

April 4, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

It’s Not the Act, It’s the Intent

Opening Verse

“Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the Lord pondereth the hearts.”
— Proverbs 21:2 (KJV)

Introduction

Many people think that if their actions look good, that’s enough. But God doesn’t just look at what we do—He looks deeper. He sees why we do it. It’s not just the act that matters to God; it’s the heart behind it.

Devotional Story

There was a young woman who gave to the poor every month. She made sure to post about it online, tagging her church and using popular Scriptures as captions. Everyone thought she was generous, kind, and spiritually mature. But behind closed doors, her heart was far from God. She often mocked the very people she helped, seeing them as beneath her.

Across town, there was a man who quietly slipped envelopes of cash into struggling families’ mailboxes. He told no one. No hashtags. No photos. He even skipped church sometimes out of shame for his past. But every act of kindness came from a heart broken by his own sin and desperate to honor Christ in secret.

Which one did God approve of?

Jesus answered that very question in Matthew 6:1:

“Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.”

What This Means

God doesn’t just want our hands—He wants our hearts. You can do the right thing for the wrong reason and miss the mark completely. You can preach, give, or serve, but if it’s done for attention, praise, or guilt, it doesn’t please Him. But even the smallest act, done with a heart that loves Jesus, is seen and rewarded by God.

This is urgent—because many will one day say, “Lord, didn’t we do all these things in Your name?” and Jesus will reply, “I never knew you” (Matthew 7:22-23). Why? Because their intent was never truly for Him.

Think About This

Are your actions for Christ or for credit?
If no one saw what you did, would you still do it?
What does God see when He looks past your deeds and into your heart?

Prayer

Lord, search my heart and show me the truth. Cleanse me from false motives. Let everything I do be for Your glory and not my own. Teach me to live with eternity in mind, not applause. I want to please You, not people. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” — Jeremiah 17:9-10 (KJV)

January 31, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Believing Without Obeying

Opening Verse

“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.”
James 1:22 (KJV)

Introduction

It is easy to say, “I believe in God.” Many people claim faith in Jesus, but their lives do not reflect His teachings. Believing is not enough—obedience must follow. Faith without action is dead, just as hearing without doing is self-deception.

Devotional Story

There was a man who loved the idea of being healthy. He read books on nutrition, watched workout videos, and even told others about the importance of exercise. But he never changed his eating habits, never moved his body, and never put into practice what he learned. Over time, his health declined, and he was confused—how could this happen when he knew so much about fitness?

Faith works the same way. Many people know Scripture, believe in God, and claim to follow Jesus. But when it comes to obedience, they do nothing. They hear God’s Word but refuse to apply it. They pray but won’t surrender. They listen but won’t change.

Jesus warns about this false security:

“And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?”
Luke 6:46 (KJV)

Belief without obedience is empty.

What This Means

True faith is proven by action. If we truly believe, we will obey.

If we believe in the power of prayer, we will pray.
If we believe in the Word of God, we will live by it.
If we believe in Jesus, we will follow Him, no matter the cost.

“Faith without works is dead.”
James 2:26 (KJV)

To believe in Jesus and not obey Him is to deceive ourselves. Real love for Christ is shown through obedience.

Think About This

Are you a hearer of the Word, or a doer?
Is there an area of your life where you believe but refuse to obey?
How can you take a step of obedience today?

Prayer

Lord, I don’t want to be a person who only believes but does not obey. Open my eyes to where I have been deceiving myself. Give me the strength to walk in obedience, even when it is hard. Let my faith be more than words—let it be action. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“If ye love me, keep my commandments.”
John 14:15 (KJV)

August 2, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Walk Worthy of the Lord

Colossians 1:10

“That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;” (KJV)

Introduction

Walking worthy of the Lord is a call to live a life that reflects our faith and commitment to God. It is an invitation to align our actions with the teachings of Christ, bearing fruit in every good work.

Scripture Analysis

In Colossians 1:10, Paul urges believers to live in a way that pleases God. This involves two key aspects: being fruitful in good works and growing in the knowledge of God. It’s not just about performing good deeds, but also about deepening our understanding of who God is and His will for our lives.

Personal Reflection

Think about your daily walk with the Lord. Are your actions reflecting His love and grace? Are you making time to grow in your knowledge of Him through prayer and Bible study? Our journey with God is continuous and requires dedication and intentionality.

Practical Application

To walk worthy of the Lord, start by setting aside time each day for prayer and scripture reading. Engage in acts of kindness and service, not for recognition, but to reflect God’s love. Seek opportunities to learn more about God, whether through Bible studies, sermons, or fellowship with other believers.

Spiritual Encouragement

Remember that walking worthy of the Lord is a lifelong journey. It’s about progress, not perfection. God is patient and gracious, guiding us as we strive to live lives that honor Him. Keep moving forward, trusting that He is with you every step of the way.

Closing Verse

“And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 KJV)

June 27, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Golden Rule

Opening Verse

“Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” (Matthew 7:12, KJV)

Introduction

In our daily lives, we interact with many people. How we treat them speaks volumes about our character and our faith. Jesus summarized a key principle of righteous living in one simple yet profound statement: Treat others as you would like to be treated. This rule, known as the Golden Rule, is a guide for living a life of kindness, compassion, and empathy.

Devotional Story

John, a small-town grocery store owner, always had a kind word and a smile for his customers. He treated everyone with respect, whether they were a regular or someone passing through town. One winter, a heavy snowstorm hit, and many people were stranded. John opened his store to those in need, providing warmth, food, and a place to stay until it was safe to travel. His generosity was remembered long after the storm passed, and his store became a symbol of community and care.

John’s actions reflected the heart of the Golden Rule. He didn’t help others because he expected something in return; he did it because it was the right thing to do. By putting himself in the shoes of those in need, he was able to show true Christian love.

What This Means

The Golden Rule calls us to look beyond our own needs and consider the needs of others. It encourages us to act with kindness and compassion, not out of obligation, but from a sincere desire to reflect God’s love. In treating others as we want to be treated, we build a more just and loving world.

Think About This

Are there areas in your life where you can better apply the Golden Rule? How might your actions change if you consistently put yourself in others’ shoes? Consider the impact of your words and deeds on those around you. Strive to be a source of encouragement and support.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to see others through Your eyes. Teach me to treat others with the same kindness and compassion that I desire for myself. May my actions reflect Your love and grace. Guide me to live out the Golden Rule in all aspects of my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.” (Luke 6:31, KJV)

May 14, 2024 Christian Perspective Post a Comment

Embracing the New Testament Commandments: A Call to Action

Life can be overwhelming, but the New Testament provides clear and powerful guidance to help us navigate it. These commandments are more than ancient words; they are a blueprint for living a life filled with love, purpose, and spiritual depth.

The Greatest Commandments

Jesus taught us two fundamental principles: Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37-39). These are the cornerstones of a meaningful and fulfilling life. They remind us to stay connected to God and treat others with the same kindness and respect we desire.

Practical Guidance for Every Day

The New Testament offers practical advice for daily living. Don’t judge others (Matthew 7:1). Show mercy and forgiveness (Luke 6:36, Mark 11:25). Keep your promises (Matthew 5:34). Help those in need (Matthew 5:42). These teachings encourage us to live with integrity and compassion, making the world a better place.

The Power of Prayer and Humility

Prayer is a powerful tool. It keeps us connected to God and provides strength in difficult times (Luke 21:36, 1 Thessalonians 5:17). Alongside prayer, humility is essential. Jesus taught us to be humble and serve others (Matthew 23:12, 1 Peter 5:5).

Building a Supportive Community

The New Testament calls us to build strong, supportive communities. Encourage one another, show hospitality, and strive to live peacefully with everyone (Romans 12:18, Hebrews 13:1-2). These commandments help us create a community that reflects the love and compassion of Christ.

Take Action Now

Living according to these commandments transforms our lives and relationships. It leads us toward righteousness, peace, and spiritual fulfillment. Reflect on these teachings and consider how they can influence your life. Start today – embrace these commandments and let them guide you.

A Final Call

The New Testament commandments are a roadmap to a life filled with love and purpose. They are urgent and relevant. Embrace them now, and experience a deeper connection with God and those around you.

Feel inspired? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s support each other in living out these commandments!

#	Comprehensive List of New Testament Commandments	Scripture Reference
1	Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind	Matthew 22:37-38
2	Love your neighbor as yourself	Matthew 22:39
3	Do not murder	Matthew 19:18
4	Do not commit adultery	Matthew 19:18
5	Do not steal	Matthew 19:18
6	Do not bear false witness	Matthew 19:18
7	Honor your father and mother	Matthew 19:19
8	Love one another	John 13:34
9	Forgive others	Mark 11:25
10	Preach the gospel	Matthew 28:19
11	Make disciples	Matthew 28:20
12	Be baptized	Mark 16:16
13	Partake in communion	Luke 22:19
14	Do not judge	Matthew 7:1
15	Seek first the kingdom of God	Matthew 6:33
16	Love your enemies	Matthew 5:44
17	Pray	Luke 21:36
18	Be humble	Matthew 23:12
19	Keep the Sabbath	Matthew 24:20
20	Do not swear oaths	Matthew 5:34
21	Let your light shine	Matthew 5:16
22	Do not worry	Matthew 6:25
23	Lay up treasures in heaven	Matthew 6:20
24	Do to others as you would have them do to you	Matthew 7:12
25	Be perfect	Matthew 5:48
26	Be merciful	Luke 6:36
27	Do not store up wealth for yourself	Matthew 6:19
28	Repent	Matthew 3:2
29	Do not judge by appearances	John 7:24
30	Help those in need	Matthew 5:42
31	Do not covet	Romans 13:9
32	Be kind and compassionate	Ephesians 4:32
33	Be holy in all your conduct	1 Peter 1:15-16
34	Clothe yourself with humility	1 Peter 5:5
35	Be content with what you have	Hebrews 13:5
36	Do everything in love	1 Corinthians 16:14
37	Be patient, bearing with one another in love	Ephesians 4:2
38	Do not lie to each other	Colossians 3:9
39	Encourage one another and build each other up	1 Thessalonians 5:11
40	Do not be yoked together with unbelievers	2 Corinthians 6:14
41	Abstain from every form of evil	1 Thessalonians 5:22
42	Pray without ceasing	1 Thessalonians 5:17
43	Give thanks in all circumstances	1 Thessalonians 5:18
44	Do not quench the Spirit	1 Thessalonians 5:19
45	Do not despise prophecies	1 Thessalonians 5:20
46	Test all things; hold fast what is good	1 Thessalonians 5:21
47	Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit	Romans 12:11
48	Bless those who persecute you	Romans 12:14
49	Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position	Romans 12:16
50	Live at peace with everyone	Romans 12:18
51	Overcome evil with good	Romans 12:21
52	Submit to authorities	Romans 13:1
53	Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind	Romans 12:2
54	Do everything without grumbling or arguing	Philippians 2:14
55	Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God	Philippians 4:6
56	Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts	Colossians 3:15
57	Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly	Colossians 3:16
58	Whatever you do, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus	Colossians 3:17
59	Put to death whatever belongs to your earthly nature	Colossians 3:5
60	Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience	Colossians 3:12
61	Bear with each other and forgive one another	Colossians 3:13
62	Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters	Hebrews 13:1
63	Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers	Hebrews 13:2
64	Honor marriage	Hebrews 13:4
65	Obey your leaders and submit to them	Hebrews 13:17
66	Do not love the world or anything in the world	1 John 2:15
67	Do not be surprised if the world hates you	1 John 3:13
68	Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits	1 John 4:1
69	Walk in the light as He is in the light	1 John 1:7
70	Confess your sins	1 John 1:9
71	Do not love in word or talk but in deed and truth	1 John 3:18
72	Abide in Christ	1 John 2:27

April 29, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Scent of Sin

Opening Verse

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” – Romans 12:2

Introduction

Just as we can carry the scent of a busy kitchen or the smoke from a campfire, our lives can carry the scent of our actions and choices. Sometimes, we don’t notice how much we’ve been influenced by our surroundings until we step away and see the residue they’ve left on us.

Devotional Story

Imagine walking into a busy gas station with a deli at the back. The air is thick with the smell of fried chicken, and before you know it, the smell has clung to your clothes. Your hair feels greasy, and your face sticky. Everywhere you go after that, you carry the smell with you. It’s not just a smell; it’s a reminder of where you’ve been.

Living in sin can be a lot like that. It’s easy to become so accustomed to the negative influences in our lives that we don’t even notice the ‘smell’ they’re leaving on us. But just like that aroma of fried food, the residue of our choices sticks around, affecting everything we do and every place we go.

What This Means

When we live in ways that aren’t aligned with God’s word, we end up ‘smelling’ like the world. Our thoughts, actions, and attitudes start to reflect the negative influences we’ve been around, rather than the freshness of God’s spirit.

Think About This

Have you ever stopped to notice what you ‘smell’ like? Are there habits, places, or people in your life that are covering you with an aroma that isn’t pleasant in God’s nostrils? What steps can you take today to ‘change your clothes’ and freshen up?

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for Your forgiveness and cleansing. Help me to recognize the scent of sin and give me the strength to step away from influences that tarnish my spirit. Renew me, Lord, and let my life be a sweet aroma to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:57

January 16, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Path of Righteousness

Opening Verse:

Proverbs 21:21 (KJV) – “He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.”

Introduction:

In Proverbs 21:21, we’re invited to embrace a lifestyle focused on doing what’s right and being kind to others. It’s like being told that the best way to live a fulfilling life is by being good and caring towards everyone.

Devotional Insight:

In simpler terms, ‘righteousness’ here means doing what’s right according to God’s standards. It’s about being honest, fair, and just in everything we do. ‘Mercy’ is about being compassionate and kind, showing love and forgiveness just like how God does with us.

The verse encourages us to actively chase after these qualities. It’s like a journey where we keep trying to be better in being fair and kind. The reward for this? A life filled with real meaning, staying true to what’s right, and earning respect not just from people but, more importantly, in God’s eyes.

What This Means:

This verse isn’t just about being religious; it’s about how we act every day. It’s a call to be our best selves – fair, kind, and caring. It affects how we treat our family, friends, and even strangers.

Think About This:

Consider your daily actions. Are you making an effort to be fair and kind? How do these choices shape your life and relationships?

Prayer:

Dear God, help me to always aim for what’s right and to be kind to others. May these values guide me every day and make my life meaningful and respected in Your sight. Amen.

Closing Verse:

Micah 6:8 (KJV) – “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”

January 7, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Authentic Ministry

Opening Verse:

“For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 2:17 (KJV)

Introduction:

In today’s fast-paced world, filled with voices and messages, it’s essential to discern the authentic from the counterfeit, especially in matters of faith and ministry. Paul’s words to the Corinthians resonate with this urgent need for sincerity and truth in sharing God’s word.

Narrative Insight:

Consider a craftsman who creates beautiful, hand-carved furniture. His work isn’t just a means to an end; it’s an expression of his integrity and passion. He chooses the finest wood, not the cheapest. He spends hours on details that many won’t notice. Why? Because his work is a reflection of who he is. Similarly, in our spiritual lives, how we convey the word of God should mirror the depth of our commitment to truth and sincerity.

Connection:

Paul’s message in 2 Corinthians 2:17 challenges us to evaluate our approach to our faith and how we share it with others. Are we like the sincere craftsman, diligently ensuring that our words and actions reflect the purity and truth of Christ? Or are we tempted to take shortcuts, to dilute the message for broader appeal?

Reflection Prompts:

1. How can you ensure that your spiritual journey and the way you share it with others are rooted in sincerity and truth?
2. Reflect on a time when you faced the temptation to compromise your spiritual integrity. How did you respond?

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, guide us to be authentic carriers of Your word. Help us to embrace sincerity and truth as we walk with You. May our lives reflect the purity of Your love and the integrity of Your teachings. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse:

“But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” – 1 Peter 1:15-16 (KJV)

January 1, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Voices for the Voiceless

Opening Verse:

Proverbs 31:8-9 (KJV) “Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction. Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.”

Introduction:

In a world where injustice often silences the vulnerable, Proverbs 31:8-9 stands as a clarion call for believers to be advocates for those who cannot advocate for themselves. This scripture not only encourages but commands us to be the voice for the voiceless, embodying the heart of God in our actions and words.

Devotional Story:

There once was a small town where a certain group of people were overlooked and mistreated. They had little resources and even less influence. In this town, there also lived a Christian man named John. He noticed the plight of these people and remembered Proverbs 31:8-9. Moved by these words, John began to speak up. He organized community meetings, wrote to local leaders, and provided direct assistance to those in need. His actions stirred others in the community to join his cause. Together, they brought about significant changes that improved the lives of the marginalized. John’s commitment to speaking up for the voiceless demonstrated the power of living out God’s Word.

What This Means:

As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect God’s heart for justice and mercy. Speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves is not just a noble act; it is a biblical mandate. It means actively seeking out those in need, listening to their stories, and advocating for their rights and well-being.

Think About This:

Consider the ways you can be a voice for the voiceless in your community. Are there specific groups or individuals who are overlooked or marginalized? How can you use your resources, influence, and time to make a difference in their lives?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your heart of compassion and justice. Help me to see those who are often unseen and to hear those who are often unheard. Give me the courage to speak up for the voiceless and to act justly in their defense. Guide me in ways that I can make a tangible difference in the lives of those who are in need. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse:

Micah 6:8 (KJV) “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”