The Daily Dose

Keep moving forward

_{And the Lord said, “Judah shall go up. Indeed I have delivered the land into his hand.” ~ Judges 1:2}

Have you ever started something you knew God told you to do, only to find resistance right away? Not just a small inconvenience, but real opposition that made you question if you heard Him correctly. Today’s scripture reading opens with a people who just lost their leader, stepping into uncertainty, asking God what to do next and God answered them clearly. He said: Go up, I’ve already given it to you.

What’s interesting is that even with that promise, the journey wasn’t instant victory. There were wins, but there were also areas they didn’t fully take. That tension speaks to us right where we are as children of God in the world today. We’ve been given promises, direction, and purpose, yet we still face resistance, delays, and moments where we don’t finish what we started. But God’s faithfulness doesn’t change, and His call to move forward still stands.

Here are three truths for us in this chapter to walk out in real life:

1. Move when God speaks, even if you don’t see the full picture.

Judah didn’t have all the details, but they had a word from God, and that was enough to take the first step.

In your daily life, this might look like God nudging you to reach out to someone, start something new, or step into a role you feel unprepared for. Maybe you feel called to pray more consistently, or to speak truth in a situation where you’ve stayed quiet. You might not know how it will turn out, but obedience starts with movement. One step at a time builds momentum. When you choose to act on what God has already said, you position yourself to see Him move in ways you couldn’t have planned.

2. Don’t let partial progress become your stopping point.

The chapter shows several victories, but it also repeats something important, they did not drive out all the inhabitants. They settled in some areas instead of fully possessing what God gave them.

It’s easy to do the same today. You start strong, you make changes, you see growth, but then you get comfortable. Maybe you begin to set healthy boundaries, but you allow certain habits to remain. Maybe you step into your calling, but hold back in areas that feel challenging or uncomfortable. Growth requires consistency. Finishing what God started in you means not settling for halfway freedom when full freedom is available. Keep pressing forward, even when it stretches you.

3. Be aware that what you tolerate today can affect tomorrow.

The people allowed some of the inhabitants to remain, and over time, those compromises became problems.

In your life, this can look like ignoring small things that don’t seem like a big deal right now. It might be negative thoughts you entertain, distractions that pull you away from time with God, or relationships that quietly influence you in the wrong direction. At first, it feels manageable, but over time it grows. Being intentional now protects your future. When you notice something that doesn’t belong, address it early. God’s desire isn’t just for you to survive, but to walk in total freedom and strength.

I’ve mentioned this situation in other messages, but one real life example of this played out when we were buying our home. We were trying to secure a land easement with our neighbors so we could move forward with the purchase, and they weren’t willing to cooperate. We explored every option we could think of. We considered cutting a new access point through our property, taking them to court, or even walking away and finding another home. Every option was expensive, time consuming, and stressful, but because we knew this was where the Lord had led us, we were committed to see the transaction through to the end. The opposition was real, and it would’ve been easy to stop or settle for a different outcome.

One morning during that process, I felt a nudge in my spirit to bake a cake, take it to the neighbors, and talk with them about the situation. Honestly, I didn’t want to do it because I wasn’t exactly happy about the complications they were causing, but I chose to take that step of faith. I was willing to do what God was asking, to make an effort to bring peace into the situation. As I baked and prepared for the visit, something shifted in me. I began to feel excited because I realized I had the opportunity to bless them, regardless of the outcome. I didn’t even tell my husband what I was doing, so you can imagine his surprise when they called later that day and agreed to sign the paperwork. What could have cost us thousands of dollars and created years of tension with the people we were moving next to turned into peace, favor, and even a friendly relationship. God is so wise.

As we chose to keep moving forward, we saw God show up in ways that reminded us He had already gone before us. What felt difficult and full of resistance at first became a testimony of His faithfulness.

Today I want to encourage you, if God has spoken something to your heart, don’t stop halfway. He hasn’t changed His mind about what He’s called you to do. Even if it feels unfinished, even if there’s resistance, keep going. The same God who said go up is the same God who goes with you. You’re not doing this alone, and you’re not without direction. Stay committed, stay attentive, and trust that what He’s given you is still yours to walk in.

Today’s scripture reading: Judges 1

1 Now after the death of Joshua it came to pass that the children of Israel asked the Lord, saying, “Who shall be first to go up for us against the Canaanites to fight against them?”

2 And the Lord said, “Judah shall go up. Indeed I have delivered the land into his hand.”

3 So Judah said to Simeon his brother, “Come up with me to my allotted territory, that we may fight against the Canaanites; and I will likewise go with you to your allotted territory.” And Simeon went with him. 

4 Then Judah went up, and the Lord delivered the Canaanites and the Perizzites into their hand; and they killed ten thousand men at Bezek. 

5 And they found Adoni-Bezek in Bezek, and fought against him; and they defeated the Canaanites and the Perizzites. 

6 Then Adoni-Bezek fled, and they pursued him and caught him and cut off his thumbs and big toes. 

7 And Adoni-Bezek said, “Seventy kings with their thumbs and big toes cut off used to gather scraps under my table; as I have done, so God has repaid me.” Then they brought him to Jerusalem, and there he died.

8 Now the children of Judah fought against Jerusalem and took it; they struck it with the edge of the sword and set the city on fire. 

9 And afterward the children of Judah went down to fight against the Canaanites who dwelt in the mountains, in the South, and in the lowland. 

10 Then Judah went against the Canaanites who dwelt in Hebron. (Now the name of Hebron was formerly Kirjath Arba.) And they killed Sheshai, Ahiman, and Talmai.

11 From there they went against the inhabitants of Debir. (The name of Debir was formerly Kirjath Sepher.)

12 Then Caleb said, “Whoever attacks Kirjath Sepher and takes it, to him I will give my daughter Achsah as wife.” 

13 And Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother, took it; so he gave him his daughter Achsah as wife. 

14 Now it happened, when she came to him, that she urged him to ask her father for a field. And she dismounted from her donkey, and Caleb said to her, “What do you wish?” 

15 So she said to him, “Give me a blessing; since you have given me land in the South, give me also springs of water.” And Caleb gave her the upper springs and the lower springs.

16 Now the children of the Kenite, Moses’ father-in-law, went up from the City of Palms with the children of Judah into the Wilderness of Judah, which lies in the South near Arad; and they went and dwelt among the people. 

17 And Judah went with his brother Simeon, and they attacked the Canaanites who inhabited Zephath, and utterly destroyed it. So the name of the city was called Hormah. 

18 Also Judah took Gaza with its territory, Ashkelon with its territory, and Ekron with its territory. 

19 So the Lord was with Judah. And they drove out the mountaineers, but they could not drive out the inhabitants of the lowland, because they had chariots of iron. 

20 And they gave Hebron to Caleb, as Moses had said. Then he expelled from there the three sons of Anak. 

21 But the children of Benjamin did not drive out the Jebusites who inhabited Jerusalem; so the Jebusites dwell with the children of Benjamin in Jerusalem to this day.

22 And the house of Joseph also went up against Bethel, and the Lord was with them. 

23 So the house of Joseph sent men to spy out Bethel. (The name of the city was formerly Luz.) 

24 And when the spies saw a man coming out of the city, they said to him, “Please show us the entrance to the city, and we will show you mercy.” 

25 So he showed them the entrance to the city, and they struck the city with the edge of the sword; but they let the man and all his family go. 

26 And the man went to the land of the Hittites, built a city, and called its name Luz, which is its name to this day.

27 However, Manasseh did not drive out the inhabitants of Beth Shean and its villages, or Taanach and its villages, or the inhabitants of Dor and its villages, or the inhabitants of Ibleam and its villages, or the inhabitants of Megiddo and its villages; for the Canaanites were determined to dwell in that land. 

28 And it came to pass, when Israel was strong, that they put the Canaanites under tribute, but did not completely drive them out.

29 Nor did Ephraim drive out the Canaanites who dwelt in Gezer; so the Canaanites dwelt in Gezer among them.

30 Nor did Zebulun drive out the inhabitants of Kitron or the inhabitants of Nahalol; so the Canaanites dwelt among them, and were put under tribute.

31 Nor did Asher drive out the inhabitants of Acco or the inhabitants of Sidon, or of Ahlab, Achzib, Helbah, Aphik, or Rehob. 

32 So the Asherites dwelt among the Canaanites, the inhabitants of the land; for they did not drive them out.

33 Nor did Naphtali drive out the inhabitants of Beth Shemesh or the inhabitants of Beth Anath; but they dwelt among the Canaanites, the inhabitants of the land. Nevertheless the inhabitants of Beth Shemesh and Beth Anath were put under tribute to them.

34 And the Amorites forced the children of Dan into the mountains, for they would not allow them to come down to the valley; 

35 and the Amorites were determined to dwell in Mount Heres, in Aijalon, and in Shaalbim; yet when the strength of the house of Joseph became greater, they were put under tribute.

36 Now the boundary of the Amorites was from the Ascent of Akrabbim, from Sela, and upward.

  
Journal:

• What has God asked me to step into that I may have slowed down in
• Where have I settled for partial progress instead of continuing forward
• Is there anything in my life I’ve been tolerating that I need to address now
• What is one step I can take today to keep moving forward

Choose again today

_{And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” ~ Joshua 24:15}

What if the biggest spiritual breakthrough in your life wasn’t found in a dramatic moment, but in a quiet decision you make today? Not someday, not when everything settles down, not when you feel more ready, but right here in the middle of your current reality. Joshua stood before the people and didn’t leave room for hesitation. He brought them face to face with a choice and that same invitation still stands for us today.

We live in a world full of noise, opinions, pressure, and distractions. Every day, something is competing for your attention, your time, and ultimately your devotion. Being a child of God isn’t just about what you believe, it’s about who you choose to follow daily, even when life feels busy, uncertain, or overwhelming.

Below are three ways this passage challenges us to live with intentional faith right where we are.

1. Make your decision personal

Joshua didn’t say, “As for the nation,” he said, “As for me and my household.” There was ownership in his words. Following God is deeply personal. It’s not based on what others are doing, what culture says, or even what feels convenient in the moment.

Start your day by choosing God before anything else tries to claim your attention. For example, before checking your phone or jumping into responsibilities, take a moment to pray and invite God into your day to lead and go with you. That simple act shifts your focus and reminds you who you belong to.

2. Choose consistency over convenience

The people Joshua spoke to had seen God move, yet they still struggled with divided loyalty. It’s easy to serve God when everything is going well, but real faith shows up in consistency.

In your current circumstances, this might look like choosing integrity at work when no one is watching or responding with patience when you feel stretched thin at home. Maybe it’s continuing to trust God financially when things feel tight. Consistency builds strength in your walk with Him, even when it’s not easy.

3. Lead by your example

Joshua didn’t just make a private decision, he made a declaration that would influence those around him. Your life speaks, whether you realize it or not. The way you trust God, the way you respond under pressure and the way you love others all points people somewhere.

Think about the people in your life right now. Your family, your coworkers, your friends. When challenges come, choose to respond in faith instead of fear. For example, when unexpected news hits, instead of reacting with panic, pause and pray. That response may be the very thing that encourages someone else to trust God too.

I have mentioned in several past doese that I lived many years of my life trying to figure things out on my own.  I would call out to God when I was in trouble or needed help, but outside of those moments, I kept my relationship with Him tucked quietly in my heart. It wasn’t something that guided my daily life. If someone had looked at my home or my routine, they probably wouldn’t have recognized that God was truly at the center. He wasn’t first place, He was someone I turned to when things felt out of control.

Then there came a moment that shifted everything. I found myself once again searching for answers to some of life’s hardest questions. But this time, something was different. Deep down, I knew I couldn’t keep living the same way, reaching for God only when I needed Him and then going back to doing life on my own. That’s when it became clear. It was time to make a real decision, not just to believe in Him, but to make Him Lord of my entire life and my home.

I discovered that God had a plan, and if I truly wanted to walk in it, I couldn’t hold parts of my life back. I had to surrender everything. The truth is, I still didn’t have all the answers. I had responsibilities pressing in, decisions to make, and more questions than clarity. Part of me wanted to wait until everything made sense before moving forward. But God kept bringing me back to something simple and steady, choose Me today. Not when you understand everything, not when it feels easier but right here and now in this day.

So, I did. I made the choice to trust Him in the middle of the unknown. I chose to put Him first, not just in words, but in the way I lived each day. As I did, step by step, I began to see His faithfulness show up in ways I never would have experienced if I had stayed stuck waiting. That decision didn’t just change a moment, it changed the direction of my life. It turned my faith from something occasional into something intentional, and it made my relationship with God real, active, and central in my everyday life. That’s exactly what Joshua was calling the people to. Not a casual connection with God, but a clear, personal decision to serve Him fully.

Today I want to encourage you to stop waiting for the perfect moment and make the choice to follow God right where you are. You don’t need all the answers to take the next step. You don’t need everything to make sense to say yes to Him. Just like Joshua, you have the opportunity to decide who you will serve, not tomorrow, but today. When you choose Him, again and again, you’ll see your life shaped by His faithfulness in ways that are steady, personal, and real.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 24

1 Then Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem and called for the elders of Israel, for their heads, for their judges, and for their officers; and they presented themselves before God.

2 And Joshua said to all the people, “Thus says the Lord God of Israel: ‘Your fathers, including Terah, the father of Abraham and the father of Nahor, dwelt on the other side of the River in old times; and they served other gods. 

3 Then I took your father Abraham from the other side of the river, led him throughout all the land of Canaan, and multiplied his descendants and gave him Isaac. 

4 To Isaac I gave Jacob and Esau. To Esau I gave the mountains of Seir to possess, but Jacob and his children went down to Egypt. 

5 Also I sent Moses and Aaron, and I plagued Egypt, according to what I did among them. Afterward I brought you out.

6 ‘Then I brought your fathers out of Egypt, and you came to the sea; and the Egyptians pursued your fathers with chariots and horsemen to the Red Sea. 

7 So they cried out to the Lord; and He put darkness between you and the Egyptians, brought the sea upon them, and covered them. And your eyes saw what I did in Egypt. Then you dwelt in the wilderness a long time. 

8 And I brought you into the land of the Amorites, who dwelt on the other side of the Jordan, and they fought with you. But I gave them into your hand, that you might possess their land, and I destroyed them from before you. 

9 Then Balak the son of Zippor, king of Moab, arose to make war against Israel, and sent and called Balaam the son of Beor to curse you. 

10 But I would not listen to Balaam; therefore, he continued to bless you. So, I delivered you out of his hand. 

11 Then you went over the Jordan and came to Jericho. And the men of Jericho fought against you—also the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. But I delivered them into your hand. 

12 I sent the hornet before you which drove them out from before you, also the two kings of the Amorites, but not with your sword or with your bow. 

13 I have given you a land for which you did not labor, and cities which you did not build, and you dwell in them; you eat of the vineyards and olive groves which you did not plant.’

14 “Now therefore, fear the Lord, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord! 

15 And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

16 So the people answered and said: “Far be it from us that we should forsake the Lord to serve other gods; 

17 for the Lord our God is He who brought us and our fathers up out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage, who did those great signs in our sight, and preserved us in all the way that we went and among all the people through whom we passed. 

18 And the Lord drove out from before us all the people, including the Amorites who dwelt in the land. We also will serve the Lord, for He is our God.”

19 But Joshua said to the people, “You cannot serve the Lord, for He is a holy God. He is a jealous God; He will not forgive your transgressions nor your sins. 

20 If you forsake the Lord and serve foreign gods, then He will turn and do you harm and consume you, after He has done you good.”

21 And the people said to Joshua, “No, but we will serve the Lord!”

22 So Joshua said to the people, “You are witnesses against yourselves that you have chosen the Lord for yourselves, to serve Him.” And they said, “We are witnesses!”

23 “Now therefore,” he said, “put away the foreign gods which are among you, and incline your heart to the Lord God of Israel.”

24 And the people said to Joshua, “The Lord our God we will serve, and His voice we will obey!”

25 So Joshua made a covenant with the people that day and made for them a statute and an ordinance in Shechem.

26 Then Joshua wrote these words in the Book of the Law of God. And he took a large stone and set it up there under the oak that was by the sanctuary of the Lord. 

27 And Joshua said to all the people, “Behold, this stone shall be a witness to us, for it has heard all the words of the Lord which He spoke to us. It shall therefore be a witness to you, lest you deny your God.” 

28 So Joshua let the people depart, each to his own inheritance.

29 Now it came to pass after these things that Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died, being one hundred and ten years old. 

30 And they buried him within the border of his inheritance at Timnath Serah, which is in the mountains of Ephraim, on the north side of Mount Gaash.

31 Israel served the Lord all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua, who had known all the works of the Lord which He had done for Israel.

32 The bones of Joseph, which the children of Israel had brought up out of Egypt, they buried at Shechem, in the plot of ground which Jacob had bought from the sons of Hamor the father of Shechem for one hundred pieces of silver, and which had become an inheritance of the children of Joseph.

33 And Eleazar the son of Aaron died. They buried him in a hill belonging to Phinehas his son, which was given to him in the mountains of Ephraim.

Journal:

• What areas of my life have I been delaying my decision to fully trust God
• What does choosing God today look like in my current season
• Who is being impacted by the way I live out my faith right now

Interesting instructions

And He took him aside from the multitude, and put His fingers in his ears, and He spat and touched his tongue. ~ Mark 7:33

Have you ever sensed God leading you to do something that didn’t make sense, something that felt completely opposite of what you would naturally do? I sure have. I remember a time when we were trying to secure a land easement with our neighbors so we could move forward with the purchase of our home. They were not willing to cooperate, and we explored every option we could think of. We considered cutting a new access point through our property, taking them to court, or even walking away and finding another home. Every option was expensive, time consuming, and stressful. Not to mention that we believed this was where the Lord had led us.

One morning during that process, I felt a nudge in my spirit to bake a cake and take it to the neighbors and talk with them about thee situation. Honestly, I didn’t want to do it.  I wasn’t exactly happy with the complications they were causing, but I chose to take that step of faith. I was willing to do about anything to resolve the situation and I know a little humility goes a long way in God’s hands.

As I baked and prepared, something shifted in me. I began to feel excited because I realized I had the opportunity to bless them, regardless of the outcome. I didn’t even tell my husband what I was doing, so you can imagine his surprise when they called later that day and agreed to sign the paperwork. What could have cost us thousands of dollars and created years of tension with the people we were moving in next to turned into peace, favor, and even a friendly relationship. God is so wise.

I’ve seen this in other situations too. There was a time I was involved in a court battle that was draining me emotionally, financially, and relationally. The Holy Spirit led me to step out of the legal process and trust Him to handle it. That did not look like the right decision from a natural perspective. It felt like I might lose financially and waste time, but I obeyed. Over time, not only did peace come, but a deep wound was healed. Looking back now, it was one of the wisest decisions I could have made.

When you look at scripture, you see this pattern over and over. God’s instructions often look very different from what we would expect. Jesus taught that if you want to elevate a situation, first you must humble yourself. If you want to receive, you give. If you want to be great, you serve. If you want to live, you surrender your life over to Him.

God told Noah to build an ark before rain had ever fallen. He told Abraham to leave everything familiar without a clear destination. He even told Joshua to march around a city instead of attacking it. None of it made sense in the natural, yet every act of obedience led to something powerful.

In today’s reading, Jesus healed a man in a very unexpected way. He took him aside, touched his ears and tongue, and then told him not to tell anyone. It wasn’t a formula, it wasn’t predictable, it was personal. That is how God works. He knows exactly what is needed in each situation, and His instructions are always purposeful, even when they seem unusual.

Here is the truth, when you go to your heavenly Father with a need, don’t try to figure out how He is going to answer. His ways are higher, and His solutions are often very different from what we expect. But understand this when you turn a matter over to Him, you can trust Him completely.

Here are some practical ways to apply this truth in your life:

• Stay open when you pray, do not limit God to your expectations of how He should answer
• Pay attention to the small nudges in your spirit, they often carry His direction
• Be willing to act, even when the instruction feels simple or does not make sense
• Choose obedience over understanding, trust that He sees what you cannot see
• Let go of fear of how it will look to others, focus on what God is asking you to do
• Look back on past acts of obedience and remind yourself how faithful He has been

When I think about the ways God has led me over the years, I am so thankful I chose to listen, even when it felt uncomfortable or unexpected. It has shaped my life in ways I never could have planned on my own. I have not always done it perfectly, but I have learned to get excited when His direction feels different, because I know something good is on the other side of it.

Today I want to encourage you to trust God’s instructions, even when they seem unusual or go against what you would naturally do. He knows exactly what you need and how to bring it to pass. Stay sensitive to His leading, take the step of faith when He speaks, and believe that His way will always lead to something better than you could have imagined.

Today’s scripture reading: Mark 7:31-37

31 Again, departing from the region of Tyre and Sidon, He came through the midst of the region of Decapolis to the Sea of Galilee. 

32 Then they brought to Him one who was deaf and had an impediment in his speech, and they begged Him to put His hand on him. 

33 And He took him aside from the multitude, and put His fingers in his ears, and He spat and touched his tongue. 

34 Then, looking up to heaven, He sighed, and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.”

35 Immediately his ears were opened, and the impediment of his tongue was loosed, and he spoke plainly. 

36 Then He commanded them that they should tell no one; but the more He commanded them, the more widely they proclaimed it. 

37 And they were astonished beyond measure, saying, “He has done all things well. He makes both the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.”

Journal:

• What is something I am currently asking God for
• Have I been limiting how I think He should answer
• Is there a nudge or direction I have sensed but hesitated to follow
• What is one step of obedience I can take today, even if it does not fully make sense

Press through in humility

But Jesus said to her, “Let the children be filled first, for it is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.”  ~ Mark 7:27

Have you ever felt like you weren’t getting through in prayer, or even that you were being resisted, only to later realize that what felt like resistance was actually an invitation to press in deeper? Have you ever wanted something so badly, but something happened along the way that stole your hope of receiving it? I know I have. I remember a time when we were trying to buy our home and complication after complication kept slowing the process down. It started to feel personal, like an offense, and definitely a disappointment. Just when we were close to closing, there was an unexpected death in the family that shifted everything into perspective, and I had almost given up on the purchase happening at all. I could feel bitterness and frustration trying to take root because of all the struggle we were going through.

This same kind of disappointment could have easily taken hold of the woman in today’s reading. She came to Jesus from another region, desperate for her daughter to be healed from demonic oppression. Yet this is one of the only times we see Jesus respond in a way that seems to push someone away. He told her His ministry was to His own people and then He made a statement that could have easily offended her.

Those words could have caused her to walk away hurt and angry, but instead, she responded with humility. She didn’t argue, she didn’t defend herself, and she didn’t allow offense to take root. She took what was said, stayed low in her posture, and pressed in even more. She was determined to see her daughter set free, no matter what it took.

It may look like Jesus changed His mind, but what we really see is a heart that refused to be offended and chose humility instead. He wasn’t trying to push her away, He was drawing out a deeper response of faith and humility.

We see a similar situation with Naaman in the Old Testament. He was a man of authority and status, yet when he was given simple instructions for his healing, he became offended because it did not meet his expectations. He almost walked away from his miracle because of pride, until he chose to humble himself and follow the direction given.

How many times have we done the same thing? We pray, we believe, and when the answer doesn’t come the way we expected, or when it feels delayed, we become discouraged. Sometimes we even allow frustration or offense to pull us away when God is actually inviting us to come closer.

Here are some practical ways to apply this truth and get started today

• Check your heart when things do not go as expected, ask yourself if disappointment is turning into offense
• Stay in His presence even when you do not feel immediate results, keep talking to Him and trusting Him
• Choose humility in your response, even when something does not make sense or feels uncomfortable
• Be quick to obey any direction He gives you, even if it seems simple or challenges your pride
• Thank Him in advance for working behind the scenes, even when you cannot see the outcome yet
• Guard your thoughts and words, do not allow bitterness or frustration to take root in your heart

The truth is, faith will bring you to Him, but humility will keep you there. When you stay low before Him, you stay in a position to receive everything He has for you.

Today I want to encourage you to press through in humility when things do not go the way you expected. Do not allow disappointment or offense to pull you away from the very place your answer is waiting. Stay close to Him, trust His timing, and be willing to follow His leading even when it challenges your understanding. He is not withholding from you, He is working in ways you cannot yet see, and your breakthrough may be just on the other side of your willingness to stay humble and keep moving forward with Him.

Today’s scripture reading:  Mark 7:24-30

24 From there He arose and went to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And He entered a house and wanted no one to know it, but He could not be hidden. 

25 For a woman whose young daughter had an unclean spirit heard about Him, and she came and fell at His feet. 

26 The woman was a Greek, a Syro-Phoenician by birth, and she kept asking Him to cast the demon out of her daughter. 

27 But Jesus said to her, “Let the children be filled first, for it is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.”

28 And she answered and said to Him, “Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs under the table eat from the children’s crumbs.”

29 Then He said to her, “For this saying go your way; the demon has gone out of your daughter.”

30 And when she had come to her house, she found the demon gone out, and her daughter lying on the bed.

Journal:

• Where have I felt discouraged because something did not happen the way I expected
• Is there any offense or frustration I need to release to God today
• What is one area where I can choose humility instead of reacting emotionally
• Am I willing to follow God’s direction even if it challenges my pride or expectations

Hold fast and finish strong

But you will hold fast to the Lord your God, as you have done to this day. ~ Joshua 23:8

The greatest victories in your life are not just about how you start, but what matters most is how you choose to stay connected and finish what you have been called to? In today’s scripture reading, Joshua spoke to the people near the end of his life. He reminded them of everything God had done, every battle that has been won for them, every promise He had fulfilled. Then Joshua gave them a clear and loving instruction, hold fast to the Lord. Stay close, stay committed, and don’t drift from His plan and path.

As God’s people today, we live in a world full of distractions, pressures, and influences that can slowly pull our attention away from Him. Usually it’s not a sudden decision, but a gradual shift. That’s why this reminder is so important. Staying connected to God is what keeps us grounded, steady, and moving forward in His purpose.

Below are three truths from this chapter that we can carry into our lives today.

1. Remember what God has already done

Joshua reminded the people that it was God who fought for them and gave them victory. Their past was filled with evidence of His faithfulness.  In your life, it is important to remember where God has brought you from. When you recall His faithfulness, it strengthens your trust for what’s ahead.

Be intentional to remind yourself of past victories. For example, when you face a new challenge, take a moment to think about a time when God came through for you before. Let that memory build your confidence that He will do it again.

2. Be intentional about what you allow into your life

Joshua warned the people not to mix with influences that would pull them away from God’s plan and ways. He knew that what they allowed around them would eventually affect their hearts.  In today’s world, we are constantly surrounded by voices, opinions, and influences. What we give our attention to matters more than we sometimes realize.

Evaluate what you are allowing into your daily life. For example, if certain conversations, media, or environments leave you feeling drained or distant from God, begin to limit your exposure to those things. Choose instead to fill your time with what strengthens your faith and keeps you focused.

3. Staying close to God is a daily choice

Holding fast is not a one-time decision, it is something we choose again and again. It is built through consistency.

Create simple habits that keep you connected to Him. For example, take time each day to talk with God, read His Word, and listen for His direction. Even in busy seasons, small moments of connection can keep your heart steady and centered.

One of the biggest areas in my life where I’ve had to learn to hold fast to Him is when I feel worried about something I’m going through. In those moments, I don’t just remind myself of His faithfulness in my past, I also ask Him to bring to mind a scripture that connects with what I am facing and shows me His faithfulness in a similar situation.

I remember a specific time when I was consumed with concern about the influences surrounding my children, especially when they were spending time with their father after we separated. I found myself constantly talking to God about it, praying that their time there would be limited so that those influences would not pull them away from their relationship with Him.

Finally, I asked the Lord if there was anyone in scripture who had experienced something similar, having to trust Him with their children in an environment they could not control. Immediately, He brought Samuel to my heart. His mother had dedicated him to the Lord, and he went to live in the temple as a young boy. Even though that seemed like the safest place, the priest’s sons were living in great sin. Yet God protected Samuel there and spoke to him, even in the middle of everything that was going on around him.

He also reminded of Moses, who was raised in Pharaoh’s palace, surrounded by idol worship and a culture that did not honor God. Yet God not only preserved him, He also used that very environment to prepare him for his calling and gave him influence that would later be part of God’s plan.

As those truths came to my heart, peace filled me. I knew that because I had committed my children to God, He would be faithful to carry them through that season and lead them into the purpose He had for their lives. I didn’t have to control everything, I just had to trust Him.

There were moments when I had to make a conscious choice to pause, turn my attention back to Him, and hold onto what I knew was true. Even when the feelings of fear tried to come back, choosing to stay connected to Him made all the difference.

Today I want to encourage you to hold fast to the Lord in every season of your life. Don’t let distractions or pressures pull you away from the One who has been faithful to you. Remember what He has done, be intentional about what you allow into your life, and choose daily to stay connected to Him. As you do, you will remain steady, strong, and confident, knowing that the same God who has brought you this far will continue to lead you forward.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 23

1 Now it came to pass, a long time after the Lord had given rest to Israel from all their enemies round about, that Joshua was old, advanced in age. 

2 And Joshua called for all Israel, for their elders, for their heads, for their judges, and for their officers, and said to them:

“I am old, advanced in age. 

3 You have seen all that the Lord your God has done to all these nations because of you, for the Lord your God is He who has fought for you. 

4 See, I have divided to you by lot these nations that remain, to be an inheritance for your tribes, from the Jordan, with all the nations that I have cut off, as far as the Great Sea westward. 

5 And the Lord your God will expel them from before you and drive them out of your sight. So you shall possess their land, as the Lord your God promised you. 

6 Therefore be very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, lest you turn aside from it to the right hand or to the left, 

7 and lest you go among these nations, these who remain among you. You shall not make mention of the name of their gods, nor cause anyone to swear by them; you shall not serve them nor bow down to them, 

8 but you shall hold fast to the Lord your God, as you have done to this day.

9 For the Lord has driven out from before you great and strong nations; but as for you, no one has been able to stand against you to this day. 

10 One man of you shall chase a thousand, for the Lord your God is He who fights for you, as He promised you. 

11 Therefore take careful heed to yourselves, that you love the Lord your God. 

12 Or else, if indeed you do go back, and cling to the remnant of these nations—these that remain among you—and make marriages with them, and go in to them and they to you, 

13 know for certain that the Lord your God will no longer drive out these nations from before you. But they shall be snares and traps to you, and scourges on your sides and thorns in your eyes, until you perish from this good land which the Lord your God has given you.

14 “Behold, this day I am going the way of all the earth. And you know in all your hearts and in all your souls that not one thing has failed of all the good things which the Lord your God spoke concerning you. All have come to pass for you; not one word of them has failed. 

15 Therefore it shall come to pass, that as all the good things have come upon you which the Lord your God promised you, so the Lord will bring upon you all harmful things, until He has destroyed you from this good land which the Lord your God has given you. 

16 When you have transgressed the covenant of the Lord your God, which He commanded you, and have gone and served other gods, and bowed down to them, then the anger of the Lord will burn against you, and you shall perish quickly from the good land which He has given you.”

Journal:

• What has God done in my life that I need to remember today
• Are there any influences in my life that are pulling my attention away from God
• What is one daily habit I can strengthen to stay more connected to Him
• What does holding fast to God look like in my current season

What is your life saying

_{But take careful heed to do the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, to love the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways, to keep His commandments, to hold fast to Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul. ~ Joshua 22:5}

 What if the thing you’re building right now is speaking louder than your words ever could? In today’s scripture reading, we see a moment that could have easily turned into division. The tribes on the other side of the Jordan built an altar, and the rest of Israel immediately assumed the worst. They thought it was rebellion, a turning away from God. But when the truth came out, the altar was not for sacrifice, it was a witness. It was a reminder for future generations that they belonged to the Lord.

As children of God today, we are also building something with our lives. Our choices, our responses, our priorities are all telling a story. The question is, what is your life saying to the people around you?

Here are three truths we can hold onto as we walk this out each day:

1. Stay anchored in your relationship with God

Joshua’s instruction was clear, love the Lord, walk in His ways, hold fast to Him, and serve Him fully. Everything starts there.  In a world full of distractions and competing priorities, it is easy to drift without even realizing it. Staying close to God is not automatic, it is intentional.

Start by building simple, consistent moments with Him into your day. For example, start your morning by talking with Him before anything else tries to take your attention. Even a few minutes of acknowledging His presence and inviting Him into your day keeps your heart connected and focused.

2. Don’t assume, seek understanding

When the other tribes saw the altar, they immediately assumed the worst. It almost led to unnecessary conflict.  It’s easy to do the same thing today. We can misunderstand people’s actions, intentions, or decisions without taking time to seek clarity.

Ask questions instead of jumping to conclusions. For example, if someone says or does something that bothers you, instead of reacting emotionally, pause and have a conversation. You might find there is a completely different reason behind it than what you first thought.

3. Let your life be a witness of your faith

The altar was built as a witness, not just for that moment, but for future generations. It was a visible reminder of their commitment to God.  Your life is also a witness. The way you live, the way you treat people, and the way you respond in difficult moments shows others what you really believe.

Be intentional in your everyday actions. For example, when you are under pressure at work or at home, choose patience instead of frustration. When someone needs encouragement, speak life into them. Those moments become a testimony that points people to God.

I can think of times in my own life when I misunderstood a situation or someone’s intentions, and it created unnecessary tension. But I have also seen how taking a step back, seeking understanding, and keeping my focus on God completely changed the outcome.

There have also been moments when I didn’t realize how much my actions were speaking to others. Simply choosing to stay steady, to trust God, and to respond with grace opened doors for conversations and connections I didn’t expect. It reminded me that people are always watching, and our lives can either point them closer to God or create confusion.

Through those experiences, I now understand that staying close to God and being mindful of how I respond in situations matters more than I sometimes realize. It not only shapes my walk with Him, but it also determines the impact I have on others.

Today I want to encourage you to stay close to God, choose understanding over assumption, and live in a way that clearly points others to Him. Your life is telling a story every single day. Let it be a witness of His love, His truth, and His faithfulness. What you build now will speak not only in this moment, but for years to come.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 22

1 Then Joshua called the Reubenites, the Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh, 

2 and said to them: “You have kept all that Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, and have obeyed my voice in all that I commanded you. 

3 You have not left your brethren these many days, up to this day, but have kept the charge of the commandment of the Lord your God. 

4 And now the Lord your God has given rest to your brethren, as He promised them; now therefore, return and go to your tents and to the land of your possession, which Moses the servant of the Lord gave you on the other side of the Jordan. 

5 But take careful heed to do the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, to love the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways, to keep His commandments, to hold fast to Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul.” 

6 So Joshua blessed them and sent them away, and they went to their tents.

7 Now to half the tribe of Manasseh Moses had given a possession in Bashan, but to the other half of it Joshua gave a possession among their brethren on this side of the Jordan, westward. And indeed, when Joshua sent them away to their tents, he blessed them, 

8 and spoke to them, saying, “Return with much riches to your tents, with very much livestock, with silver, with gold, with bronze, with iron, and with very much clothing. Divide the spoil of your enemies with your brethren.”

9 So the children of Reuben, the children of Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh returned, and departed from the children of Israel at Shiloh, which is in the land of Canaan, to go to the country of Gilead, to the land of their possession, which they had obtained according to the word of the Lord by the hand of Moses.

10 And when they came to the region of the Jordan which is in the land of Canaan, the children of Reuben, the children of Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh built an altar there by the Jordan—a great, impressive altar. 

11 Now the children of Israel heard someone say, “Behold, the children of Reuben, the children of Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh have built an altar on the frontier of the land of Canaan, in the region of the Jordan—on the children of Israel’s side.” 

12 And when the children of Israel heard of it, the whole congregation of the children of Israel gathered together at Shiloh to go to war against them.

13Then the children of Israel sent Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest to the children of Reuben, to the children of Gad, and to half the tribe of Manasseh, into the land of Gilead, 

14 and with him ten rulers, one ruler each from the chief house of every tribe of Israel; and each one was the head of the house of his father among the divisions of Israel. 

15 Then they came to the children of Reuben, to the children of Gad, and to half the tribe of Manasseh, to the land of Gilead, and they spoke with them, saying, 

16 “Thus says the whole congregation of the Lord: ‘What treachery is this that you have committed against the God of Israel, to turn away this day from following the Lord, in that you have built for yourselves an altar, that you might rebel this day against the Lord? 

17 Is the iniquity of Peor not enough for us, from which we are not cleansed till this day, although there was a plague in the congregation of the Lord, 

18 but that you must turn away this day from following the Lord? And it shall be, if you rebel today against the Lord, that tomorrow He will be angry with the whole congregation of Israel. 

19 Nevertheless, if the land of your possession is unclean, then cross over to the land of the possession of the Lord, where the Lord’s tabernacle stands, and take possession among us; but do not rebel against the Lord, nor rebel against us, by building yourselves an altar besides the altar of the Lord our God. 

20 Did not Achan the son of Zerah commit a trespass in the accursed thing, and wrath fell on all the congregation of Israel? And that man did not perish alone in his iniquity.’ ”

21 Then the children of Reuben, the children of Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh answered and said to the heads of the divisions of Israel: 

22 “The Lord God of gods, the Lord God of gods, He knows, and let Israel itself know—if it is in rebellion, or if in treachery against the Lord, do not save us this day. 

23 If we have built ourselves an altar to turn from following the Lord, or if to offer on it burnt offerings or grain offerings, or if to offer peace offerings on it, let the Lord Himself require an account. 

24 But in fact we have done it for fear, for a reason, saying, ‘In time to come your descendants may speak to our descendants, saying, “What have you to do with the Lord God of Israel? 

25 For the Lord has made the Jordan a border between you and us, you children of Reuben and children of Gad. You have no part in the Lord.” So your descendants would make our descendants cease fearing the Lord.’ 

26 Therefore we said, ‘Let us now prepare to build ourselves an altar, not for burnt offering nor for sacrifice, 

27 but that it may be a witness between you and us and our generations after us, that we may perform the service of the Lord before Him with our burnt offerings, with our sacrifices, and with our peace offerings; that your descendants may not say to our descendants in time to come, “You have no part in the Lord.” ’ 

28 Therefore we said that it will be, when they say this to us or to our generations in time to come, that we may say, ‘Here is the replica of the altar of the Lord which our fathers made, though not for burnt offerings nor for sacrifices; but it is a witness between you and us.’ 

29 Far be it from us that we should rebel against the Lord, and turn from following the Lord this day, to build an altar for burnt offerings, for grain offerings, or for sacrifices, besides the altar of the Lord our God which is before His tabernacle.”

30 Now when Phinehas the priest and the rulers of the congregation, the heads of the divisions of Israel who were with him, heard the words that the children of Reuben, the children of Gad, and the children of Manasseh spoke, it pleased them. 

31 Then Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest said to the children of Reuben, the children of Gad, and the children of Manasseh, “This day we perceive that the Lord is among us, because you have not committed this treachery against the Lord. Now you have delivered the children of Israel out of the hand of the Lord.”

32 And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, and the rulers, returned from the children of Reuben and the children of Gad, from the land of Gilead to the land of Canaan, to the children of Israel, and brought back word to them. 

33 So the thing pleased the children of Israel, and the children of Israel blessed God; they spoke no more of going against them in battle, to destroy the land where the children of Reuben and Gad dwelt.

34 The children of Reuben and the children of Gad called the altar, Witness, “For it is a witness between us that the Lord is God.”

Journal:

• Where do I need to be more intentional about staying connected to God
• Is there a situation where I have made assumptions instead of seeking understanding
• What is my life currently communicating to the people around me
• How can I be more intentional about being a witness of God’s love in my daily interactions

Every promise still stands

Not a word failed of any good thing which the Lord had spoken to the house of Israel. All came to pass.~ Joshua 21:45

What if the very thing you are waiting on is not uncertain at all, but already settled in the heart of God?  Today’s scripture reading is a powerful reminder that God keeps His Word. After years of waiting, wandering, fighting battles, and stepping into unknown territory, every promise God made to His people came to pass. Not some of them, not most of them, but every single one of them.

As God’s people in the world today, it can sometimes feel like we are in the middle of the process, still waiting for things to come together. We pray, we believe, and we take steps of faith, but there are moments when we wonder if what God spoke will really happen. This chapter reassures us that God is faithful to fulfill what He has promised, even if it takes time and trust along the way.

Below are three truths from this passage that we can hold onto in our everyday lives.

1. God’s promises are certain, even when the process is long

The Israelites didn’t step into the promised land overnight. There were years of preparation before they saw God’s promises come to life.  In your life, there may be promises you are still holding onto. It might feel like it is taking longer than expected, but delay doesn’t mean denial. God is working even when you cannot see it.

You can this truth to work in your life by choosing to trust Him in the waiting. For example, if you are believing for a breakthrough in your family or finances, continue to pray, stand on His Word, and thank Him in advance. Trust is built when you keep believing even before you see the outcome.

2. God places you exactly where you are meant to be

In this chapter, the Levites were given specific cities among the tribes. Their placement was intentional and purposeful.  God has also placed you where you are for a reason. Your location, your relationships, and your opportunities are not random. They are part of His greater plan.

Begin by embracing your current assignment. For example, if you feel overlooked in your workplace or community, instead of pulling back, step in with purpose. Encourage others, serve faithfully, and trust that God is using you right where you are.

3. God’s faithfulness becomes your testimony

By the end of this chapter, the people could look back and clearly see that God had done everything He said He would do.  Your life will also tell a story of His faithfulness in every season. The things you are walking through today will one day become the testimony that strengthens someone else.

Spend some time remembering what God has already done and His faithfulness in your life. For example, when you face a new challenge, remind yourself of past victories. Let those moments build your confidence that He will come through again.

I can think of so many times in my own life where I was waiting on God to move.  Most of the time it didn’t happen as quickly as I had hoped. There were moments when I questioned how everything would come together and whether I had heard Him clearly.

But as I stayed faithful in the process, continuing to trust Him, continuing to show up, and continuing to do what He placed in front of me, I began to see His promises unfold one step at a time. Looking back now, I can see that not one thing He spoke over my life has failed. Some things came in ways I didn’t expect, and some took longer than I thought they would, but every single one was fulfilled in His perfect timing. Now I understand that God is always working behind the scenes, even when it feels quiet. His faithfulness is not based on what I see in the moment, it is rooted in who He is.

Today I want to encourage you to hold onto the promises God has spoken over your life and trust that not one word will fail. Even if you are in a season of waiting, God is still moving. Even if you cannot see the full picture, He is still faithful. Stay where He has placed you, continue to walk in obedience, and believe that what He has said will come to pass. Your story is being written, and His faithfulness will be evident in every part of it as you trust Him every step of the way.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 21

1 Then the heads of the fathers’ houses of the Levites came near to Eleazar the priest, to Joshua the son of Nun, and to the heads of the fathers’ houses of the tribes of the children of Israel. 

2 And they spoke to them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, “The Lord commanded through Moses to give us cities to dwell in, with their common-lands for our livestock.” 

3 So the children of Israel gave to the Levites from their inheritance, at the commandment of the Lord, these cities and their common-lands:

4 Now the lot came out for the families of the Kohathites. And the children of Aaron the priest, who were of the Levites, had thirteen cities by lot from the tribe of Judah, from the tribe of Simeon, and from the tribe of Benjamin. 

5 The rest of the children of Kohath had ten cities by lot from the families of the tribe of Ephraim, from the tribe of Dan, and from the half-tribe of Manasseh.

6 And the children of Gershon had thirteen cities by lot from the families of the tribe of Issachar, from the tribe of Asher, from the tribe of Naphtali, and from the half-tribe of Manasseh in Bashan.

7 The children of Merari according to their families had twelve cities from the tribe of Reuben, from the tribe of Gad, and from the tribe of Zebulun.

8 And the children of Israel gave these cities with their common-lands by lot to the Levites, as the Lord had commanded by the hand of Moses.

9 So they gave from the tribe of the children of Judah and from the tribe of the children of Simeon these cities which are designated by name, 

10 which were for the children of Aaron, one of the families of the Kohathites, who were of the children of Levi; for the lot was theirs first. 

11 And they gave them Kirjath Arba (Arba was the father of Anak), which is Hebron, in the mountains of Judah, with the common-land surrounding it. 

12 But the fields of the city and its villages they gave to Caleb the son of Jephunneh as his possession.

13 Thus to the children of Aaron the priest they gave Hebron with its common-land (a city of refuge for the slayer), Libnah with its common-land, 

14 Jattir with its common-land, Eshtemoa with its common-land, 

15 Holon with its common-land, Debir with its common-land, 

16 Ain with its common-land, Juttah with its common-land, and Beth Shemesh with its common-land: nine cities from those two tribes; 

17 and from the tribe of Benjamin, Gibeon with its common-land, Geba with its common-land, 

18 Anathoth with its common-land, and Almon with its common-land: four cities. 

19 All the cities of the children of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their common-lands.

20 And the families of the children of Kohath, the Levites, the rest of the children of Kohath, even they had the cities of their lot from the tribe of Ephraim. 

21 For they gave them Shechem with its common-land in the mountains of Ephraim (a city of refuge for the slayer), Gezer with its common-land, 

22 Kibzaim with its common-land, and Beth Horon with its common-land: four cities; 

23 and from the tribe of Dan, Eltekeh with its common-land, Gibbethon with its common-land, 

24 Aijalon with its common-land, and Gath Rimmon with its common-land: four cities; 

25 and from the half-tribe of Manasseh, Tanach with its common-land and Gath Rimmon with its common-land: two cities. 

26 All the ten cities with their common-lands were for the rest of the families of the children of Kohath.

27 Also to the children of Gershon, of the families of the Levites, from the other half-tribe of Manasseh, they gave Golan in Bashan with its common-land (a city of refuge for the slayer), and Be Eshterah with its common-land: two cities; 

28 and from the tribe of Issachar, Kishion with its common-land, Daberath with its common-land, 

29 Jarmuth with its common-land, and En Gannim with its common-land: four cities; 

30 and from the tribe of Asher, Mishal with its common-land, Abdon with its common-land, 

31 Helkath with its common-land, and Rehob with its common-land: four cities; 

32 and from the tribe of Naphtali, Kedesh in Galilee with its common-land (a city of refuge for the slayer), Hammoth Dor with its common-land, and Kartan with its common-land: three cities. 

33 All the cities of the Gershonites according to their families were thirteen cities with their common-lands.

34 And to the families of the children of Merari, the rest of the Levites, from the tribe of Zebulun, Jokneam with its common-land, Kartah with its common-land, 

35 Dimnah with its common-land, and Nahalal with its common-land: four cities; 

36 and from the tribe of Reuben, Bezer with its common-land, Jahaz with its common-land, 

37 Kedemoth with its common-land, and Mephaath with its common-land: four cities; 

38 and from the tribe of Gad, Ramoth in Gilead with its common-land (a city of refuge for the slayer), Mahanaim with its common-land, 

39 Heshbon with its common-land, and Jazer with its common-land: four cities in all. 

40 So all the cities for the children of Merari according to their families, the rest of the families of the Levites, were by their lot twelve cities.

41 All the cities of the Levites within the possession of the children of Israel were forty-eight cities with their common-lands. 

42 Every one of these cities had its common-land surrounding it; thus were all these cities.

The Promise Fulfilled

43 So the Lord gave to Israel all the land of which He had sworn to give to their fathers, and they took possession of it and dwelt in it. 

44 The Lord gave them rest all around, according to all that He had sworn to their fathers. And not a man of all their enemies stood against them; the Lord delivered all their enemies into their hand. 

45 Not a word failed of any good thing which the Lord had spoken to the house of Israel. All came to pass.

Journal:

• What promise from God am I currently holding onto
• Where do I need to trust His timing instead of my own
• How can I stay faithful in my current season, even if I do not see immediate results
• What has God already done in my life that reminds me of His faithfulness

A place to run

“Speak to the children of Israel, saying: ‘Appoint for yourselves cities of refuge, of which I spoke to you through Moses.” ~ Joshua 20:2

Where do you run when life hits hard, when you make a mistake, or when pressure starts closing in from every side?  In today’s reading, God instructed the Israelites to establish cities of refuge. These were not random places, they were intentional spaces of safety, where someone could run in a moment of distress and find protection. It was a place where they would not be condemned immediately, but given time, space, and protection.

This wasn’t just about physical safety, it reveals the heart of God. Even under the law, He made a way for mercy. He made a way for people to run toward safety instead of away in fear.

As children of God in the world today, we don’t run to a physical city when things are tough, we run straight to a living Savior. Jesus is our refuge. He is our safe place in every situation, whether we are overwhelmed, hurting, or even dealing with the weight of our own mistakes. The question is not whether a place of refuge exists, the question is, are we running to it.

Here are three powerful truths to hold onto and live out daily:

1. God has already provided a place of refuge for you

The cities of refuge were established before they were ever needed. God, in His wisdom, made provision ahead of time.  In the same way, God has already provided everything you need through Jesus. You don’t have to figure out where to go when life becomes overwhelming, He has already made the way.

Turn to Him first instead of last when life is hard. When you receive bad news or feel anxious, instead of immediately trying to fix it or carry it on your own, pause and go to Him in prayer. Say, Lord, I need Your peace right now.  Then allow yourself to rest in His presence.

2. You have to choose to run to the right place

The cities of refuge were available, but the person had to make the decision to run to them. Staying where they were was not an option if they wanted safety.  It is the same for us. We can try to run to distractions, people, or our own understanding, but true peace is only found by committing everything to the Lord Jesus.

Be intentional about where you go in times of stress. If you feel overwhelmed, instead of numbing out with distractions, take time to step away, spend time with God, and let Him speak into your situation. Choosing Him in those moments changes everything.

3. Refuge is not just protection, it is restoration

The city of refuge was not just about escaping danger, it was about being held in a place where restoration and rebuilding could begin.  When you run to God, He doesn’t just cover you, He restores you. He heals your heart, renews your mind, and gives you direction for what’s next.

Stay in His presence long enough to receive what He wants to give you. If you are dealing with guilt or regret, don’t just ask for forgiveness and move on quickly. Sit with Him, receive His grace, and allow Him to remind you of who you are in Him and the purpose for your life.

I remember one of the first times I was dealing with a crisis after one of my children became an adult. I wanted to help them so badly, and I desperately wanted to fix everything for them. I tried to carry the weight of their struggle and take control of the situation, but no matter what I did, I couldn’t fix it.

When I finally went to God about it, I started with, “Oh Lord, I don’t know what to do. How am I going to help them and fix this situation?” I poured everything out to my heavenly Father, but at first, I didn’t feel any resolve or peace.

Then, something began to shift in my spirit. It reminded me of how God had brought me through every other difficult situation in my life. In that moment, I stopped speaking out of fear and said out loud, We are going to get through this the same way we always have and that is by trusting God and taking one step of faith at a time until we get to the other side.

That’s when it settled in my heart and probably the first time, I understood that God rarely removes the problems we face in life. More often, He walks us through each situation we face, giving us wisdom, direction, and strength along the way and leading us to overcome all the way to victory.

Today I want to encourage you to run to the refuge that God has already provided for you. You don’t have to carry the weight, you don’t have to figure it all out, and you don’t have to stay stuck in fear or uncertainty. He is your safe place, your peace, and your restoration. Run to Him quickly, stay with Him, and trust that He will meet you right where you are and lead you through to your breakthrough.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 20

1 The Lord also spoke to Joshua, saying, 

2 “Speak to the children of Israel, saying: ‘Appoint for yourselves cities of refuge, of which I spoke to you through Moses, 

3 that the slayer who kills a person accidentally or unintentionally may flee there; and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood. 

4 And when he flees to one of those cities, and stands at the entrance of the gate of the city, and declares his case in the hearing of the elders of that city, they shall take him into the city as one of them, and give him a place, that he may dwell among them. 

5 Then if the avenger of blood pursues him, they shall not deliver the slayer into his hand, because he struck his neighbor unintentionally, but did not hate him beforehand. 

6 And he shall dwell in that city until he stands before the congregation for judgment, and until the death of the one who is high priest in those days. Then the slayer may return and come to his own city and his own house, to the city from which he fled.’ ”

7 So they appointed Kedesh in Galilee, in the mountains of Naphtali, Shechem in the mountains of Ephraim, and Kirjath Arba (which is Hebron) in the mountains of Judah. 

8 And on the other side of the Jordan, by Jericho eastward, they assigned Bezer in the wilderness on the plain, from the tribe of Reuben, Ramoth in Gilead, from the tribe of Gad, and Golan in Bashan, from the tribe of Manasseh. 

9 These were the cities appointed for all the children of Israel and for the stranger who dwelt among them, that whoever killed a person accidentally might flee there, and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood until he stood before the congregation.

Journal:

• Where do I usually run first when I feel overwhelmed or pressured
• Is there something I have been trying to handle on my own instead of bringing to God
• What does it look like for me to run to God first in my current situation
• How can I create space in my day to rest in His presence and receive His peace

Fully known, fully placed

The seventh lot came out for the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families. And the territory of their inheritance was Zorah, Eshtaol, Ir Shemesh. ~ Joshua 19:40

Have you ever felt like you were overlooked, like everyone else seemed to get their place and their big break while you were still waiting for yours? Today’s scripture reading may look like a chapter filled with names and land assignments, but there is something deeply personal woven into every line. Each tribe, each family, each boundary mattered to God. Nothing was random, nothing was forgotten, and no one was misplaced. Every portion was intentional.

As God’s people in the world today, we can sometimes question where we fit, especially when life doesn’t look the way we expected. But this chapter reminds us that God doesn’t lose track of His people. He knows exactly where you belong, and He has already prepared a place for you.

Before we look at how this applies to our lives, here are three truths we can hold onto as we walk out our faith each day.

1. God knows your portion even when you don’t see it yet

The tribes didn’t choose their land, God assigned it. That means their portion was not based on preference but on His perfect plan. In your life, there may be times where you feel uncertain or even frustrated, wondering why you’re where you are. Remember that God sees the full picture and what feels like waiting or wandering to you is often the place of preparation for what’s coming up next.

You can apply this truth in your life by trusting Him in your current season. For example, if you’re in a job that doesn’t feel fulfilling, instead of becoming discouraged, thank your heavenly Father that you have that job for now and begin to ask Him what He is developing in you there. Maybe it’s patience, leadership, or faithfulness. Your current place is not wasted when it’s surrendered to your Lord.

2. Your place has purpose connected to others

Each tribe’s land connected with another. There was no isolation, it was all part of a bigger picture. Sometimes we want our own space, our own breakthrough, our own answers, but God often works through connection. Your placement is not just about you, it’s about how your life impacts others.

You can apply this principle in your life by looking around at who God has placed in your life right now. For example, if you’re a parent, your influence is shaping your children and family daily. If you’re part of a church or small group, your presence matters more than you think. When you show up, encourage someone, or pray for another person, you’re walking out your purpose right where you are.

3. God’s promises require participation

Even after receiving their land, some tribes still had to go in and possess it. The promise was given, but action was required.

In the same way, God has given you promises, but stepping into them requires faith and movement. It’s not about working harder, it’s about responding .

You can apply this by taking small, intentional steps forward. For example, if you feel called to start something, whether it’s a ministry, a business, or simply reaching out to others, begin with one step. Send the message, make the call, show up. God meets you in your obedience.

When I look back over recent years in my life, I can clearly see how God has been so intentional in placing people in my path. There have been many opportunities to connect with new people, and if I’m honest, not all of them felt convenient or even necessary at the time. There were moments when I found myself pushing back a little, thinking I already had enough on my plate and enough relationships to manage.

I can remember having those quiet conversations with the Holy Spirit, almost trying to explain why I didn’t need to add one more connection to my life. It felt uncomfortable, and at times, even inconvenient. Now I understand that God doesn’t waste connections, and He doesn’t randomly place people in our lives.

Every time I chose to step through those open doors and engage anyway, something meaningful happened. Those relationships became valuable in ways I didn’t expect. I had the opportunity to encourage, to walk alongside someone in their season, and to speak life into their situation. At the same time, my own life was being greatly enriched. My perspective grew, my faith deepened, and I began to see just how intentional God was being with every connection. through it all, I simply chose to be faithful in what He placed in front of me, even when I didn’t fully understand or didn’t even feel like it at the time.

It reminded me that my placement is never just about me. It’s about the lives I’m called to touch and the ways God wants to move through those relationships. Even the moments that felt like interruptions were actually His call into greater purpose.

Today I want to encourage you to trust that God knows exactly where you are and where you are going. You are not forgotten, you are not misplaced, and you are not behind. Just like in Joshua 19, your portion has been thoughtfully prepared, and your place has purpose. Stay faithful where you are, take steps of obedience, and believe that He is working even when you cannot see it.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 19

1 The second lot came out for Simeon, for the tribe of the children of Simeon according to their families. And their inheritance was within the inheritance of the children of Judah. 

2 They had in their inheritance Beersheba (Sheba), Moladah, 

3 Hazar Shual, Balah, Ezem, 

4 Eltolad, Bethul, Hormah, 

5 Ziklag, Beth Marcaboth, Hazar Susah, 

6 Beth Lebaoth, and Sharuhen: thirteen cities and their villages; 

7 Ain, Rimmon, Ether, and Ashan: four cities and their villages; 

8 and all the villages that were all around these cities as far as Baalath Beer, Ramah of the South. This was the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Simeon according to their families.

9 The inheritance of the children of Simeon was included in the share of the children of Judah, for the share of the children of Judah was too much for them. Therefore the children of Simeon had their inheritance within the inheritance of that people.

10 The third lot came out for the children of Zebulun according to their families, and the border of their inheritance was as far as Sarid. 

11 Their border went toward the west and to Maralah, went to Dabbasheth, and extended along the brook that is east of Jokneam. 

12 Then from Sarid it went eastward toward the sunrise along the border of Chisloth Tabor, and went out toward Daberath, bypassing Japhia. 

13 And from there it passed along on the east of Gath Hepher, toward Eth Kazin, and extended to Rimmon, which borders on Neah. 

14 Then the border went around it on the north side of Hannathon, and it ended in the Valley of Jiphthah El. 

15 Included were Kattath, Nahallal, Shimron, Idalah, and Bethlehem: twelve cities with their villages. 

16 This was the inheritance of the children of Zebulun according to their families, these cities with their villages.

17 The fourth lot came out to Issachar, for the children of Issachar according to their families. 

18 And their territory went to Jezreel, and included Chesulloth, Shunem, 

19 Haphraim, Shion, Anaharath, 

20 Rabbith, Kishion, Abez, 

21 Remeth, En Gannim, En Haddah, and Beth Pazzez. 

22 And the border reached to Tabor, Shahazimah, and Beth Shemesh; their border ended at the Jordan: sixteen cities with their villages. 

23 This was the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Issachar according to their families, the cities and their villages.

24 The fifth lot came out for the tribe of the children of Asher according to their families. 

25 And their territory included Helkath, Hali, Beten, Achshaph, 

26 Alammelech, Amad, and Mishal; it reached to Mount Carmel westward, along the Brook Shihor Libnath. 

27 It turned toward the sunrise to Beth Dagon; and it reached to Zebulun and to the Valley of Jiphthah El, then northward beyond Beth Emek and Neiel, bypassing Cabul which was on the left, 

28 including Ebron, Rehob, Hammon, and Kanah, as far as Greater Sidon. 

29 And the border turned to Ramah and to the fortified city of Tyre; then the border turned to Hosah, and ended at the sea by the region of Achzib. 

30 Also Ummah, Aphek, and Rehob were included: twenty-two cities with their villages. 

31 This was the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Asher according to their families, these cities with their villages.

32 The sixth lot came out to the children of Naphtali, for the children of Naphtali according to their families. 

33 And their border began at Heleph, enclosing the territory from the terebinth tree in Zaanannim, Adami Nekeb, and Jabneel, as far as Lakkum; it ended at the Jordan. 

34 From Heleph the border extended westward to Aznoth Tabor, and went out from there toward Hukkok; it adjoined Zebulun on the south side and Asher on the west side, and ended at Judah by the Jordan toward the sunrise. 

35 And the fortified cities are Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, 

36 Adamah, Ramah, Hazor, 

37 Kedesh, Edrei, En Hazor, 

38 Iron, Migdal El, Horem, Beth Anath, and Beth Shemesh: nineteen cities with their villages. 

39 This was the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Naphtali according to their families, the cities and their villages.

40 The seventh lot came out for the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families. 

41 And the territory of their inheritance was Zorah, Eshtaol, Ir Shemesh, 

42 Shaalabbin, Aijalon, Jethlah, 

43 Elon, Timnah, Ekron, 

44 Eltekeh, Gibbethon, Baalath, 

45 Jehud, Bene Berak, Gath Rimmon, 

46 Me Jarkon, and Rakkon, with the region near Joppa. 

47 And the border of the children of Dan went beyond these, because the children of Dan went up to fight against Leshem and took it; and they struck it with the edge of the sword, took possession of it, and dwelt in it. They called Leshem, Dan, after the name of Dan their father. 

48 This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families, these cities with their villages.

Joshua’s Inheritance

49 When they had made an end of dividing the land as an inheritance according to their borders, the children of Israel gave an inheritance among them to Joshua the son of Nun. 

50 According to the word of the Lord they gave him the city which he asked for, Timnath Serah in the mountains of Ephraim; and he built the city and dwelt in it.

51 These were the inheritances which Eleazar the priest, Joshua the son of Nun, and the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel divided as an inheritance by lot in Shiloh before the Lord, at the door of the tabernacle of meeting. So they made an end of dividing the country.

Journal:

• Where in my life do I feel uncertain about my place right now
• What is one area where I need to trust God’s timing and plan
• Who has God placed around me that I can encourage or support
• What is one step I can take today to move forward in faith

Heart Check

There is nothing that enters a man from outside which can defile him; but the things which come out of him, those are the things that defile a man.~ Mark 7:15

What’s coming out of your mouth lately might be telling you more about your heart than you realize. Have you ever stopped and wondered what’s really in your heart? I’m not talking about blood and valves, I’m talking about the core of who you are. Your thoughts, your intentions, the place where your words and actions are formed. Your mind may direct your steps, but your heart is what influences those directions in the first place. When I talk about a heart check, I’m talking about paying attention to what is truly governing your life and leading your steps.

In today’s scripture, Jesus was addressing the Pharisees and religious leaders. They were focused on outward cleanliness, making sure their hands, cups, and external practices looked right. While there is nothing wrong with being clean and practicing good hygiene, Jesus made it clear that their focus was in the wrong place. Their priorities had become about appearance rather than true purity.

He told them something that still speaks to us today.  He said, “It’s not what goes into a person that defiles them, it’s what comes out of them.” In other words, what is in your heart will eventually show up in your words and your actions.

Yes, there are things we can take into our bodies that may affect us physically, but what we allow to take root in our hearts affects us spiritually. Jesus listed the kinds of things that come out of the heart, and they are revealed so clearly through how we speak and how we treat others.

If you begin to hear constant criticism, complaining, or harshness in your words, it’s a sign that something deeper needs attention. If your thoughts are filled with comparison, jealousy, or desire for what someone else has, that’s a clear signal too. These things don’t just appear, they grow from what has been allowed to settle in the heart.

But here is the good news, you are not stuck there. You can grow what is good in your heart by choosing what you feed it. It starts with a decision, and it’s sustained by the grace of God. When you invite Him in, He helps you shift those desires. He empowers you to cultivate love, kindness, patience, and grace. As those things take root, they will begin to overflow in your words and in your actions.

Here are some simple ways to apply this truth and get started today:

• Pay attention to your words throughout the day, notice patterns in how you speak about others and about your circumstances
• Ask God to reveal anything in your heart that doesn’t honor Him, be open and honest in that moment
• Replace negative or critical thoughts with truth, choose to speak life even when it feels unnatural at first
• Spend time in God’s Word daily, let it shape your thinking and influence what fills your heart
• Practice speaking encouragement, find something good to say about others and say it out loud
• Pause before responding in conversations, give yourself a moment to respond with grace instead of reacting emotionally

Today I want to encourage you to take a real and honest look at what’s flowing out of your heart and invite God into that space. He is ready to help you clear out what doesn’t belong and strengthen what does. As you allow Him to work in you, you will begin to see a change, not just in your thoughts, but in your words, your relationships, and your daily life. A healthy heart produces life giving fruit, and that is exactly what He wants to grow in you.

Today’s scripture reading: Mark 7:1-23

1 Then the Pharisees and some of the scribes came together to Him, having come from Jerusalem. 

2 Now when they saw some of His disciples eat bread with defiled, that is, with unwashed hands, they found fault. 

3 For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands in a special way, holding the tradition of the elders. 

4 When they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other things which they have received and hold, like the washing of cups, pitchers, copper vessels, and couches.

5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked Him, “Why do Your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashed hands?”

6 He answered and said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written: ‘This people honors Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me.

7 And in vain they worship Me,

Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’

8 For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men —the washing of pitchers and cups, and many other such things you do.”

9 He said to them, “All too well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition. 

10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.’ 

11 But you say, ‘If a man says to his father or mother, “Whatever profit you might have received from me is Corban”—’ (that is, a gift to God), 

12 then you no longer let him do anything for his father or his mother, 

13 making the word of God of no effect through your tradition which you have handed down. And many such things you do.”

14 When He had called all the multitude to Himself, He said to them, “Hear Me, everyone, and understand: 

15 There is nothing that enters a man from outside which can defile him; but the things which come out of him, those are the things that defile a man. 

16 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear!”

17 When He had entered a house away from the crowd, His disciples asked Him concerning the parable. 

18 So He said to them, “Are you thus without understanding also? Do you not perceive that whatever enters a man from outside cannot defile him, 

19 because it does not enter his heart but his stomach, and is eliminated, thus purifying all foods?” 

20 And He said, “What comes out of a man, that defiles a man. 

21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 

22 thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. 

23 All these evil things come from within and defile a man.”

Journal:

• What have my words been revealing about my heart lately
• Are there any attitudes or thoughts I need to surrender to God today
• What truth from God’s Word can I begin speaking over my life and others
• What is one practical way I can choose kindness and grace in my conversations today