The Daily Dose

When you’re tired of the cycle

So, they put away the foreign gods from among them and served the Lord. And His soul could no longer endure the misery of Israel. ~ Judges 10:16

 Have you ever found yourself frustrated because you keep ending up in the same place emotionally, spiritually, or even physically? You promise yourself things will be different this time, but somehow you drift back into the same patterns, the same struggles, or the same distractions. It can feel exhausting trying to move forward while carrying habits, fears, or mindsets that keep pulling you backward.

Today’s scripture reading paints a very honest picture of God’s people. Once again, the Israelites turned away from the Lord and gave their attention to other things. Because of their choices, they found themselves overwhelmed, oppressed, and desperate for help. When they cried out to God, He reminded them how many times He had already rescued them before. But even in His correction, His compassion came through. Once the people truly turned back to Him and removed the things that were taking His place in their hearts, God responded with mercy because He could no longer look at their misery.

I love verse 16 of this chapter because it reminds me that God is not distant or cold toward His people. He cares deeply about what we walk through, but sometimes He allows us to recognize where we’ve been placing our trust so we can return fully to Him.

Here are three truths from Judges 10 that can help us break unhealthy cycles and move closer to God in our everyday lives.

1. God wants more than temporary cries for help, He wants our hearts and a daily relationship with each one of us

The Israelites cried out to God many times, but often they wanted relief more than relationship. This time, though, they removed the foreign gods and turned back to serving the Lord wholeheartedly.  Sometimes we do the same thing. We want God to rescue us from stress, fear, confusion, or difficult situations, but we don’t always want to let go of the things pulling us away from Him.

If anxiety keeps overwhelming your thoughts, but instead of bringing your worries to God first, you constantly fill your mind with negativity, social media noise, or unhealthy distractions. God is asking you to remove what is feeding the fear so your heart can fully rest and be filled up with His love.

2. Repeating unhealthy patterns only leads to exhaustion

The book of Judges is full of cycles. The people wandered away from God, faced trouble, cried out for help, then repeated the pattern again and again. Eventually, cycles become draining. Many times in life, we know something isn’t helping us grow, but we keep returning to it because it feels familiar and appeals to our physical body.

Every time you feel rejected or hurt, don’t isolate yourself from people who genuinely care about you.  When you sense God’s Spirit leading, don’t continue stepping back from opportunities He places before you because fear feels safer than faith. God wants to help you recognize the cycle so healing and freedom can begin.

3. God’s mercy is still greater than your failures

One of the most powerful parts of this chapter is that God responded with compassion when His people genuinely turned back to Him. Even after all their mistakes, He still cared deeply about their pain. That’s such good news for us today. No matter how many times you’ve struggled, drifted, doubted, or gotten off course, your heavenly Father’s mercy is still available.

If you feel disappointed in yourself because you thought you would be farther along spiritually by now. Instead of hiding in shame, come honestly before God. He’s not asking for perfection, He’s just asking for you to open the door so He can reach into your every area of your life by surrendering all and trusting Him.

I’ve experienced this in my own life more times than I can count. There have been seasons where I found myself emotionally exhausted because I was carrying things God never asked me to carry. Sometimes it was hurt from people, disappointment, or even trying to figure everything out on my own. I would cry out to God for help, but deep down He was also showing me areas where I needed to let go, trust Him more fully, and stop returning to old habits and relationships that kept weighing me down.

What amazes me is how patient and compassionate God has been through every season. Even when I felt frustrated with myself for not growing faster or understanding things sooner, He continued drawing me back to Him gently. Time after time, He reminded me that His mercy is greater than my weakness and that freedom begins when I stop trying to manage everything myself and simply surrender it to Him.

Today I want to encourage you, if you’re tired of the cycle, tired of carrying the same burdens, or tired of feeling spiritually drained, bring it honestly before God. Ask Him to show you what needs to be removed, what mindsets need to change, and where He wants to lead you next. His heart toward you is full of compassion. He isn’t waiting to push you away, He’s waiting for you to come close again. Don’t settle for living stuck in the same place when God is inviting you into greater freedom, peace, and purpose.

Today’s scripture reading: Judges 10

1 After Abimelech there arose to save Israel Tola the son of Puah, the son of Dodo, a man of Issachar; and he dwelt in Shamir in the mountains of Ephraim. 

2 He judged Israel twenty-three years; and he died and was buried in Shamir.

3 After him arose Jair, a Gileadite; and he judged Israel twenty-two years. 

4 Now he had thirty sons who rode on thirty donkeys; they also had thirty towns, which are called “Havoth Jair” to this day, which are in the land of Gilead. 

5 And Jair died and was buried in Camon.

6 Then the children of Israel again did evil in the sight of the Lord, and served the Baals and the Ashtoreths, the gods of Syria, the gods of Sidon, the gods of Moab, the gods of the people of Ammon, and the gods of the Philistines; and they forsook the Lord and did not serve Him. 

7 So the anger of the Lord was hot against Israel; and He sold them into the hands of the Philistines and into the hands of the people of Ammon. 

8 From that year they harassed and oppressed the children of Israel for eighteen years—all the children of Israel who were on the other side of the Jordan in the land of the Amorites, in Gilead. 

9 Moreover the people of Ammon crossed over the Jordan to fight against Judah also, against Benjamin, and against the house of Ephraim, so that Israel was severely distressed.

10 And the children of Israel cried out to the Lord, saying, “We have sinned against You, because we have both forsaken our God and served the Baals!”

11 So the Lord said to the children of Israel, “Did I not deliver you from the Egyptians and from the Amorites and from the people of Ammon and from the Philistines? 

12 Also the Sidonians and Amalekites and Maonites oppressed you; and you cried out to Me, and I delivered you from their hand. 

13 Yet you have forsaken Me and served other gods. Therefore, I will deliver you no more. 

14 “Go and cry out to the gods which you have chosen; let them deliver you in your time of distress.”

15 And the children of Israel said to the Lord, “We have sinned! Do to us whatever seems best to You; only deliver us this day, we pray.” 

16 So they put away the foreign gods from among them and served the Lord. And His soul could no longer endure the misery of Israel.

17 Then the people of Ammon gathered together and encamped in Gilead. And the children of Israel assembled together and encamped in Mizpah. 

18 And the people, the leaders of Gilead, said to one another, “Who is the man who will begin the fight against the people of Ammon? He shall be head over all the inhabitants of Gilead.”

Journal:

• What unhealthy cycle or mindset keeps pulling me backward
• Is there anything competing for God’s place in my heart right now
• What is one practical step I can take this week to move closer to God
• Where have I seen God’s mercy continue showing up in my life, even when I struggled

Now is not the time for that

Then He strictly warned them that they should tell no one about Him.  ~ Mark 8:30

Have you ever listened to a beautiful symphony and noticed how every instrument seems to move together with such precision and purpose? The music rises and falls perfectly because every musician is watching the conductor carefully. What’s interesting is that not every instrument plays the entire time. Some musicians sit quietly for several measures, waiting attentively for the exact moment their part is meant to begin. Then suddenly, right on cue, their sound enters the melody and adds something beautiful to the masterpiece. But if someone comes in too early, too late, or ignores the timing altogether, it becomes obvious immediately. What should have sounded beautiful suddenly feels distracting and out of place.

Our relationship with our heavenly Father and walk of faith can feel very similar.

In today’s reading, Jesus asked His disciples what people were saying about Him. Some believed He was John the Baptist, Elijah, or one of the prophets. Then Jesus asked them personally, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered boldly, “You are the Christ.”

What comes next almost seems surprising. After Peter recognized who Jesus truly was, Jesus firmly instructed the disciples not to tell anyone. At first glance, that can feel confusing because later Jesus would tell His followers to go into all the world and preach the gospel. So why silence them now? The answer was timing.

If you continue reading, Jesus began explaining what was about to happen. He told them openly that He would suffer, be rejected, killed, and raise up from the dead after three days. There was a specific plan in progress, step by step, and everything had to happen according to the Father’s timing.

The disciples were walking with Jesus daily, but they still didn’t fully understand the bigger picture. At that moment, their assignment was simple. Follow Him closely and trust His timing. Now was not the time for them to announce everything they knew about Him.

I can understand this more now than I used to. There have been many moments in my life where I sensed God placing something in my heart. Sometimes it was a dream for the future. Sometimes it was an encouraging word for someone else. Sometimes it was an idea or opportunity that stirred excitement in me. But I’ve learned that just because God reveals something doesn’t always mean it’s time to act or push for results.

There were times I tried to move too quickly, and I could feel myself striving, forcing doors open, or trying to make things happen in my own strength. It became exhausting and frustrating. But when I stopped, prayed, and waited for God to open the right door, everything changed. His peace came with it. The timing became clear, and what once felt forced suddenly flowed naturally.

God knows how to prepare people, situations, and hearts before the opportunity ever arrives. He sees details we can’t see yet.

Timing matters deeply in the plan of God. Rushing ahead can create confusion, while patiently following His lead brings peace and clarity. Just like musicians watching the conductor, we have to keep our eyes on the Lord and stay close to His Word so we know when it’s time to move and when it’s time to wait.

Here are a few practical ways to apply this passage and begin walking in God’s timing:

1. Pay attention to God’s prompts without rushing ahead

Sometimes God gives you a glimpse of something before it’s time to act on it. It could be when you feel stirred to start a ministry, write a book, change jobs, or encourage someone. Instead of forcing it immediately, begin praying over it consistently and allow God to lead you to the next steps.

2. Stop striving to make doors open

If something constantly requires manipulation, pressure, or exhaustion to keep moving forward, pause and seek God again. Rather than trying to convince everyone around you or push opportunities into place, ask God to open the right door in the right timing.

3. Stay close to God’s Word while you wait

Waiting seasons aren’t wasted seasons. God often prepares your heart before He releases the assignment. Spend time daily in prayer and scripture so your heart stays sensitive to His direction instead of becoming impatient or discouraged.

4. Learn to recognize peace versus pressure

God may stretch your faith, but He doesn’t lead with confusion and panic. When a decision brings overwhelming striving and unrest, slow down and ask God for wisdom before moving forward.

5. Write down what God places on your heart

Not every word, dream, or idea is for right now, but it may become important later. Keep a journal of the things you sense God speaking to you. Over time, you may begin seeing how His timing is working all things together perfectly.

Today I want to encourage you to trust God’s timing even when you don’t fully understand what He’s doing. Just because something hasn’t happened yet doesn’t mean God has forgotten about it. He is still conducting every detail of your life with purpose and precision. Don’t rush ahead trying to force what only God can establish. Stay close to Him, listen carefully for His direction, and be willing to wait when He says wait. Then, when the appointed time comes, you’ll step into exactly what He prepared for you, and it will carry His peace, His strength, and His blessing.

Today’s scripture reading: Mark 8:27-33

27 Now Jesus and His disciples went out to the towns of Caesarea Philippi; and on the road He asked His disciples, saying to them, “Who do men say that I am?”

28 So they answered, “John the Baptist; but some say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.”

29 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”

Peter answered and said to Him, “You are the Christ.”

30 Then He strictly warned them that they should tell no one about Him.

31 And He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. 

32 He spoke this word openly. Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him. 

33 But when He had turned around and looked at His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying, “Get behind Me, Satan! For you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.”

Journal:

• Is there something God placed on my heart that I may be trying to force too quickly
• What area of my life requires more patience and trust in God’s timing
• How can I stay spiritually attentive while I wait for God to open the right door
• What practical step can I take this week to stay close to God’s direction instead of rushing ahead

See Clearly

Then He put His hands on his eyes again and made him look up. And he was restored and saw everyone clearly. ~ Mark 8: 25

Have you ever noticed how emotions can completely change the way you see a situation? One moment you feel certain about a decision, then a conversation, a hurt feeling, or someone else’s opinion suddenly clouds everything. What once seemed clear now feels confusing and unsettled. It’s frustrating when you want to do the right thing, but your thoughts, emotions, and circumstances all seem to be pulling you in different directions.

I think many of us have been there. Sometimes the hardest decisions in life aren’t difficult because we lack options, they’re difficult because our feelings are so involved. We want to be loyal to the people we love and we don’t want to hurt others. We especially don’t want to make the wrong move. But in the middle of all those emotions, it can become hard to recognize what God is actually doing.

Lately, I’ve found myself in situations where I was ready to move forward with something, only to hear information afterward that suddenly made me question everything. Sometimes it involved someone I care about being hurt or upset, and immediately I felt torn. I wanted to stand by the people I love, but at the same time, I didn’t want to miss something God was trying to do in the situation. Then came the bigger question. Is this a distraction pulling me away from God’s direction, or is this God warning me to pause?

Over the years, I’ve learned to pay attention to what I call the “I don’t feel like it” mindset. It’s that place where we only want to obey God when it feels comfortable, convenient, or emotionally easy. The problem is that faith rarely grows in comfort. Most of the time, God leads us into places that stretch us beyond what feels safe or familiar.

There have been many times when I sensed God leading me toward something that honestly felt overwhelming. My first reaction usually wasn’t excitement. It was hesitation. But instead of immediately saying no, I began praying differently. I would say, “Lord, if this is truly from You, place the desire in my heart and help me walk it out.” Little by little, He would begin changing my perspective and strengthening my faith to take the next step.

In today’s scripture, the blind man experienced healing in stages. After Jesus first touched him, he could see, but his vision was still blurry. Things were unclear. Then Jesus touched him again, and suddenly he saw everything clearly.

I know comparing physical blindness to decision making may seem like a stretch, but the solution is very similar. Keep bringing the matter before Jesus until clarity comes. Don’t rush forward based only on emotions, pressure, hurt, or fear. Let Him continue working in your heart until you can see clearly enough to move in faith.

Sometimes we want immediate answers, but God is helping us to trust Him at a deeper level through the process. Clarity often comes as we continue seeking Him, praying, listening, and obeying step by step.

Here are a few practical ways to apply this passage in your daily life and begin seeing more clearly:

• Pause before making emotional decisions

When emotions are high, give yourself space before responding. Pray first. Ask God to help you separate feelings from truth.

If, for example, someone says something hurtful and your first instinct is to pull away, quit, or react quickly. Instead, take time to pray and ask God for wisdom before making a permanent decision based on a temporary emotion.

• Bring the situation before Jesus consistently

The blind man stayed with Jesus through the process until his healing was complete. Sometimes clarity doesn’t happen instantly.

For example, instead of praying once and giving up, continue seeking God daily about the situation. Keep reading His Word and listening for His direction.

• Obey even when you don’t fully feel ready

Faith often requires movement before comfort comes.

This could happen when God is leading you to forgive someone, step into ministry, have a conversation, or try something new. You may not feel fully confident, but obedience opens the door for God to guide you further.

• Watch for what’s influencing your thinking

Not every voice deserves authority in your life. Hurt feelings, fear, pride, and outside opinions can sometimes cloud your judgment.

Before making a choice, try asking yourself, “Am I responding out of fear, emotion, pressure, or faith?”

Today I want to encourage you to keep bringing your decisions, questions, and emotions before Jesus until things become clear. Don’t allow temporary feelings to lead you away from what God is doing in your life. He sees the full picture even when you only see pieces of it. If you continue seeking Him, He will guide you faithfully. Take small faith steps each day, even when you don’t fully understand the outcome yet. God knows how to bring clarity to confusion, peace to uncertainty, and direction to the heart that is willing to follow Him.

Today’s scripture reading: Mark 8:22-26

22 Then He came to Bethsaida; and they brought a blind man to Him, and begged Him to touch him. 

23 So He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the town. And when He had spit on his eyes and put His hands on him, He asked him if he saw anything.

24 And he looked up and said, “I see men like trees, walking.”

25 Then He put His hands on his eyes again and made him look up. And he was restored and saw everyone clearly. 

26 Then He sent him away to his house, saying, “Neither go into the town, nor tell anyone in the town.”

Journal:

• What situation in my life feels unclear or emotionally difficult right now
• Have my emotions been influencing any recent decisions more than my faith
• What is one faith step God may be asking me to take, even if I don’t fully feel ready yet
• What voices or influences do I need to quiet so I can hear God more clearly

Choose Wisely

 “Now therefore, if you have acted in truth and sincerity in making Abimelech king, and if you have dealt well with Jerubbaal and his house and have done to him as he deserves. But if not, let fire come from Abimelech and devour the men of Shechem and Beth Millo; and let fire come from the men of Shechem and from Beth Millo and devour Abimelech!” ~ Judges 9:16, 20

Have you ever noticed how quickly people can choose what looks impressive instead of what’s actually healthy? Sometimes what grows the fastest isn’t the strongest. A weed can spread across a garden overnight, while a healthy tree takes time to develop deep roots. In today’s scripture reading, the people chose Abimelech, a selfish and destructive leader, because his offer sounded good in the moment. What they had hoped would bring peace eventually brought chaos, division, and destruction.

That still happens today. In our world full of loud opinions, selfish motives, and constant pressure to fit in, it’s easy to be drawn toward things that look appealing on the surface but slowly drain our peace, joy, and spiritual strength. As children of God, we have to learn to recognize what’s truly rooted in Him and not what looks best for our benefit or appearance’s sake.

There are several important truths in this chapter that can help us guard our hearts and walk wisely in today’s world.

1. Not every opportunity is from God

Abimelech convinced people to support him through manipulation and selfishness. The people went along with it because it sounded beneficial at the time, but the outcome brought pain and destruction.

Sometimes opportunities come wrapped in excitement, quick success, or acceptance from others, but beneath the surface there’s compromise. As God’s people, we can’t make decisions based only on what feels good in the moment. We need God’s wisdom continually.

Maybe you’ve been offered a friendship, relationship, job opportunity, or commitment that seems attractive outwardly, but something inside you feels unsettled. That pause may be God protecting you. Taking time to pray before saying yes can save you from unnecessary heartache later. When you seek God first, He helps you discern what’s healthy and what will eventually bring trouble.

2. Your character matters way more than popularity

The people of Shechem wanted a leader who benefited them personally. They weren’t concerned about integrity. They were focused on convenience and self-preservation.

Our culture often rewards appearance, influence, and popularity, but God is always about what is in our heart. As children of God, we’re called to live differently. Integrity, kindness and honesty still matter.

There may be moments when doing the right thing causes you to stand alone. Maybe everyone around you is gossiping, compromising, or cutting corners, and you feel pressure to join in so you won’t feel out of place. But remaining faithful to God and His principles in those moments builds strength within you. A person with godly character may not always be the loudest person in the room, but their life carries lasting fruit. What’s built on truth will stand.

3. God sees what others overlook

Jotham stood alone and delivered a warning that many ignored. Even though others dismissed the truth, God still saw everything happening behind the scenes.

Sometimes you may feel unseen when you’re trying to honor God. You may wonder if your prayers and your obedience matter or if anyone notices your efforts to stay faithful. God sees every act of obedience, every private prayer, and every time you choose righteousness over compromise.

Maybe you’ve been misunderstood, overlooked, or treated unfairly while trying to do what’s right. This passage in Judges 9 reminds us that God is still just. He’s not absent, He sees clearly, and in His timing, He brings truth into the light. Keep walking faithfully even when others don’t understand your journey.

For many years, I lived looking out mostly for myself and those closest to me. So many of my decisions revolved around what felt best for me in the moment instead of what was truly right. There were times I made choices that disappointed people around me because I never stopped to consider how my actions affected others. Other times, I simply went along with what was popular because I wanted to fit in with my so called friends. Looking back now, I can see that it was a life built on compromise and convenience.

What I eventually realized was that selfish motives and crowd driven decisions almost always led to disappointment, confusion, and sometimes even destruction. Just like the people in Judges 9, I was following what looked good on the surface instead of seeking God’s wisdom first.

Everything began to change when I finally surrendered my choices to God and allowed the His Spirit to guide my steps. I started paying attention to that inward check in my spirit whenever something didn’t seem right, even if outwardly it looked like the perfect opportunity. There was one particular situation where everyone around me encouraged me to move forward quickly. On the outside, I felt the pressure to make the rash decision because everything appeared beneficial and exciting, but deep inside I sensed that I should seek wisdom before acting. Instead of rushing ahead like I normally would have in the past, I prayed about it for several days. The more I prayed, the more unsettled I became.

Not long afterward, I started finding out things that were going on behind the scene. What initially looked so promising would’ve brought unnecessary stress, hurt, and pain into my life. In that moment, I could see those warnings are an act of love from my heavenly Father. Sometimes His protection comes through that quiet uneasiness that keeps us from stepping into the wrong place at the wrong time.

Because of that experience I now understand that God doesn’t just care about where we’re going, He cares about how we get there. When we allow Him to lead our decisions instead of our emotions, popularity, or selfish desires, He protects us in ways we may not fully understand until later after the dust has settled.

Today I want to encourage you to stay rooted in God’s wisdom even when the world pushes you toward shortcuts, compromise, or outward appearances. Not everything that looks successful is healthy, and not every loud voice carries truth. God is faithful to guide those who look to Him sincerely. He sees your desire to honor Him, and He will give you wisdom for every decision you face. Keep choosing integrity, listening for His voice and trusting that what God builds in your life will have lasting strength and peace.

Today’s scripture reading: Judges 9

1 Then Abimelech the son of Jerubbaal went to Shechem, to his mother’s brothers, and spoke with them and with all the family of the house of his mother’s father, saying, 

2 “Please speak in the hearing of all the men of Shechem: ‘Which is better for you, that all seventy of the sons of Jerubbaal reign over you, or that one reign over you?’ Remember that I am your own flesh and bone.”

3 And his mother’s brothers spoke all these words concerning him in the hearing of all the men of Shechem; and their heart was inclined to follow Abimelech, for they said, “He is our brother.” 

4 So they gave him seventy shekels of silver from the temple of Baal-Berith, with which Abimelech hired worthless and reckless men; and they followed him. 

5 Then he went to his father’s house at Ophrah and killed his brothers, the seventy sons of Jerubbaal, on one stone. But Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal was left, because he hid himself. 

6 And all the men of Shechem gathered together, all of Beth Millo, and they went and made Abimelech king beside the terebinth tree at the pillar that was in Shechem.

7 Now when they told Jotham, he went and stood on top of Mount Gerizim, and lifted his voice and cried out. And he said to them: “Listen to me, you men of Shechem, that God may listen to you!

8 “The trees once went forth to anoint a king over them. and they said to the olive tree, ‘Reign over us!’

9 But the olive tree said to them, ‘Should I cease giving my oil, with which they honor God and men, and go to sway over trees?’

10 “Then the trees said to the fig tree, ‘You come and reign over us!’

11 But the fig tree said to them, ‘Should I cease my sweetness and my good fruit, and go to sway over trees?’

12 “Then the trees said to the vine, ‘You come and reign over us!’

13 But the vine said to them, ‘Should I cease my new wine, which cheers both God and men, and go to sway over trees?’

14 “Then all the trees said to the bramble, ‘You come and reign over us!’

15 And the bramble said to the trees, ‘If in truth you anoint me as king over you, then come and take shelter in my shade; But if not, let fire come out of the bramble and devour the cedars of Lebanon!’

16 “Now therefore, if you have acted in truth and sincerity in making Abimelech king, and if you have dealt well with Jerubbaal and his house, and have done to him as he deserves— 

17 for my father fought for you, risked his life, and delivered you out of the hand of Midian; 

18 but you have risen up against my father’s house this day, and killed his seventy sons on one stone, and made Abimelech, the son of his female servant, king over the men of Shechem, because he is your brother— 

19 if then you have acted in truth and sincerity with Jerubbaal and with his house this day, then rejoice in Abimelech, and let him also rejoice in you. 

20 “But if not, let fire come from Abimelech and devour the men of Shechem and Beth Millo; and let fire come from the men of Shechem and from Beth Millo and devour Abimelech!” 

21 And Jotham ran away and fled; and he went to Beer and dwelt there, for fear of Abimelech his brother.

22 After Abimelech had reigned over Israel three years, 

23 God sent a spirit of ill will between Abimelech and the men of Shechem; and the men of Shechem dealt treacherously with Abimelech, 

24 that the crime done to the seventy sons of Jerubbaal might be settled and their blood be laid on Abimelech their brother, who killed them, and on the men of Shechem, who aided him in the killing of his brothers. 

25 And the men of Shechem set men in ambush against him on the tops of the mountains, and they robbed all who passed by them along that way; and it was told Abimelech.

26 Now Gaal the son of Ebed came with his brothers and went over to Shechem; and the men of Shechem put their confidence in him. 

27 So they went out into the fields, and gathered grapes from their vineyards and trod them, and made merry. And they went into the house of their god, and ate and drank, and cursed Abimelech. 

28 Then Gaal the son of Ebed said, “Who is Abimelech, and who is Shechem, that we should serve him? Is he not the son of Jerubbaal, and is not Zebul his officer? Serve the men of Hamor the father of Shechem; but why should we serve him? 

29 If only this people were under my authority! Then I would remove Abimelech.” So he said to Abimelech, “Increase your army and come out!”

30 When Zebul, the ruler of the city, heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger was aroused. 

31 And he sent messengers to Abimelech secretly, saying, “Take note! Gaal the son of Ebed and his brothers have come to Shechem; and here they are, fortifying the city against you. 

32 Now therefore, get up by night, you and the people who are with you, and lie in wait in the field. 

33 And it shall be, as soon as the sun is up in the morning, that you shall rise early and rush upon the city; and when he and the people who are with him come out against you, you may then do to them as you find opportunity.”

34 So Abimelech and all the people who were with him rose by night, and lay in wait against Shechem in four companies. 

35 When Gaal the son of Ebed went out and stood in the entrance to the city gate, Abimelech and the people who were with him rose from lying in wait. 

36 And when Gaal saw the people, he said to Zebul, “Look, people are coming down from the tops of the mountains!”

But Zebul said to him, “You see the shadows of the mountains as if they were men.”

37 So Gaal spoke again and said, “See, people are coming down from the center of the land, and another company is coming from the Diviners’ Terebinth Tree.”

38 Then Zebul said to him, “Where indeed is your mouth now, with which you said, ‘Who is Abimelech, that we should serve him?’ Are not these the people whom you despised? Go out, if you will, and fight with them now.”

39 So Gaal went out, leading the men of Shechem, and fought with Abimelech. 

40 And Abimelech chased him, and he fled from him; and many fell wounded, to the very entrance of the gate. 

41 Then Abimelech dwelt at Arumah, and Zebul drove out Gaal and his brothers, so that they would not dwell in Shechem.

42 And it came about on the next day that the people went out into the field, and they told Abimelech. 

43 So he took his people, divided them into three companies, and lay in wait in the field. And he looked, and there were the people, coming out of the city; and he rose against them and attacked them. 

44 Then Abimelech and the company that was with him rushed forward and stood at the entrance of the gate of the city; and the other two companies rushed upon all who were in the fields and killed them. 

45 So Abimelech fought against the city all that day; he took the city and killed the people who were in it; and he demolished the city and sowed it with salt.

46 Now when all the men of the tower of Shechem had heard that, they entered the stronghold of the temple of the god Berith. 

47 And it was told Abimelech that all the men of the tower of Shechem were gathered together. 

48 Then Abimelech went up to Mount Zalmon, he and all the people who were with him. And Abimelech took an ax in his hand and cut down a bough from the trees, and took it and laid it on his shoulder; then he said to the people who were with him, “What you have seen me do, make haste and do as I have done.” 

49 So each of the people likewise cut down his own bough and followed Abimelech, put them against the stronghold, and set the stronghold on fire above them, so that all the people of the tower of Shechem died, about a thousand men and women.

50 Then Abimelech went to Thebez, and he encamped against Thebez and took it. 

51 But there was a strong tower in the city, and all the men and women—all the people of the city—fled there and shut themselves in; then they went up to the top of the tower. 

52 So Abimelech came as far as the tower and fought against it; and he drew near the door of the tower to burn it with fire. 

53 But a certain woman dropped an upper millstone on Abimelech’s head and crushed his skull. 

54 Then he called quickly to the young man, his armorbearer, and said to him, “Draw your sword and kill me, lest men say of me, ‘A woman killed him.’ ” So his young man thrust him through, and he died. 

55 And when the men of Israel saw that Abimelech was dead, they departed, every man to his place.

56 Thus God repaid the wickedness of Abimelech, which he had done to his father by killing his seventy brothers. 

57 And all the evil of the men of Shechem God returned on their own heads, and on them came the curse of Jotham the son of Jerubbaal.

Journal:

• What voices have been influencing my decisions lately?
• Have I been prioritizing appearance or godly wisdom in any area of my life?
• Is there a situation where God may be asking me to slow down and seek Him more deeply?
• What does integrity look like in my current circumstances?
• How has God protected me in the past through His guidance?

Don’t lose Strength

When Gideon came to the Jordan, he and the three hundred men who were with him crossed over, exhausted but still in pursuit. ~ Judges 8:4

There’s a kind of exhaustion that sleep doesn’t fix. It’s the kind that comes from carrying responsibility for too long, walking through disappointment, or continuing to obey God while still waiting to see the outcome. You keep moving, but deep down you wonder how much longer you can keep going.

Today’s scripture reading picks up after a major victory, yet Gideon and his men were still pursuing the enemy. They had already seen God move, but the assignment wasn’t finished yet. They were tired, worn down, and still pressing forward.

I think many believers can relate to that place. You’ve prayed, trusted, served, forgiven, stood in faith, and yet there are still battles to face. Sometimes we assume that once God gives victory in one area, everything should instantly become easy and what follows is peace for evermore. But as long as we are alive, God will continue to do a good work in us.

Here are three truths to hold onto when you feel weary but know God is still calling you forward.

1. You can be exhausted and still faithful

Judges 8:4 says Gideon’s men were exhausted, yet they kept pursuing. God never denied their weariness, but He also didn’t tell them to quit because of it. Being tired doesn’t mean you’re failing. Sometimes it simply means you’ve been faithfully fighting battles that matter.

You may feel emotionally drained from caring for your family, walking through a difficult season in your marriage, or continuing to believe God for breakthrough in an area that hasn’t changed yet. Don’t mistake exhaustion for defeat. Keep bringing your weakness to God and ask Him to strengthen you one step at a time.

2. Not everyone will support you while you’re pursuing what God said

As Gideon and his men continued forward, they asked for help from others and were refused. Instead of encouragement, they encountered resistance. There will be moments when the people you hoped would support you don’t understand what God is asking you to do.

Maybe you’re stepping into ministry, making a faith decision, or changing direction in your life, and instead of support you receive criticism or hesitation. Don’t allow the opinions of others to stop your obedience. Continue doing what you have been called to do, even if everyone around you doesn’t fully see it yet.

3. Victory must be handled with humility

After the battle, the people wanted to make Gideon king because of the victory he experienced. Gideon understood that the victory belonged to God, not to himself. When God begins moving in your life, stay dependent on Him. It’s easy to start well and then slowly shift into self-reliance.

When opportunities increase or doors begin opening, continue praying, listening, and giving God the credit instead of assuming you can handle things in your own strength. Humility keeps your heart in the right place to continue hearing Him clearly.

There was a time in my life when I felt emotionally exhausted from carrying so many responsibilities at once. There were ministry commitments, family needs, personal struggles, and moments where I honestly wondered if I had anything left to give. I kept thinking that if I could just get through one more situation, then things would finally calm down. But it seemed like every time one challenge ended, another began.

One morning while praying, I sensed the Holy Spirit reminding me that I didn’t have to carry everything in my own strength. That may sound simple, but at the time I had been trying to push through by determination alone. I realized I had been depending more on my ability to hold things together than on God’s strength to sustain me.

Little by little, I began giving those burdens back to Him daily instead of carrying them into every situation. The circumstances didn’t instantly disappear, but my heart changed in the middle of them. I found peace where anxiety had been and strength where exhaustion had settled in. God showed me that faithfulness doesn’t mean pretending you’re never tired. It means continuing to trust Him even while you’re weary.

Today I want to encourage you, if you feel exhausted in the middle of your battle, don’t give up now. God sees every step you’ve taken, every prayer you’ve prayed, and every moment you’ve continued forward even when it felt difficult. Just because you’re weary doesn’t mean God has left you. He is still strengthening you for the journey ahead. Like Gideon, you may feel tired, but you can still pursue what God has placed before you. Stay faithful, stay humble, and keep trusting Him to carry you through every unfinished battle.

Today’s scripture reading: Judges 8

1 Now the men of Ephraim said to him, “Why have you done this to us by not calling us when you went to fight with the Midianites?” And they reprimanded him sharply.

2 So he said to them, “What have I done now in comparison with you? Is not the gleaning of the grapes of Ephraim better than the vintage of Abiezer? 

3 God has delivered into your hands the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb. And what was I able to do in comparison with you?” Then their anger toward him subsided when he said that.

4 When Gideon came to the Jordan, he and the three hundred men who were with him crossed over, exhausted but still in pursuit. 

5 Then he said to the men of Succoth, “Please give loaves of bread to the people who follow me, for they are exhausted, and I am pursuing Zebah and Zalmunna, kings of Midian.”

6 And the leaders of Succoth said, “Are the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna now in your hand, that we should give bread to your army?”

7 So Gideon said, “For this cause, when the Lord has delivered Zebah and Zalmunna into my hand, then I will tear your flesh with the thorns of the wilderness and with briers!” 

8 Then he went up from there to Penuel and spoke to them in the same way. And the men of Penuel answered him as the men of Succoth had answered. 

9 So he also spoke to the men of Penuel, saying, “When I come back in peace, I will tear down this tower!”

10 Now Zebah and Zalmunna were at Karkor, and their armies with them, about fifteen thousand, all who were left of all the army of the people of the East; for one hundred and twenty thousand men who drew the sword had fallen. 

11 Then Gideon went up by the road of those who dwell in tents on the east of Nobah and Jogbehah; and he attacked the army while the camp felt secure. 

12 When Zebah and Zalmunna fled, he pursued them; and he took the two kings of Midian, Zebah and Zalmunna, and routed the whole army.

13 Then Gideon the son of Joash returned from battle, from the Ascent of Heres. 

14 And he caught a young man of the men of Succoth and interrogated him; and he wrote down for him the leaders of Succoth and its elders, seventy-seven men. 

15 Then he came to the men of Succoth and said, “Here are Zebah and Zalmunna, about whom you ridiculed me, saying, ‘Are the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna now in your hand, that we should give bread to your weary men?’ ” 

16 And he took the elders of the city, and thorns of the wilderness and briers, and with them he taught the men of Succoth. 

17 Then he tore down the tower of Penuel and killed the men of the city.

18 And he said to Zebah and Zalmunna, “What kind of men were they whom you killed at Tabor?”

So they answered, “As you are, so were they; each one resembled the son of a king.”

19 Then he said, “They were my brothers, the sons of my mother. As the Lord lives, if you had let them live, I would not kill you.” 

20 And he said to Jether his firstborn, “Rise, kill them!” But the youth would not draw his sword; for he was afraid, because he was still a youth.

21 So Zebah and Zalmunna said, “Rise yourself, and kill us; for as a man is, so is his strength.” So Gideon arose and killed Zebah and Zalmunna, and took the crescent ornaments that were on their camels’ necks.

22 Then the men of Israel said to Gideon, “Rule over us, both you and your son, and your grandson also; for you have delivered us from the hand of Midian.”

23 But Gideon said to them, “I will not rule over you, nor shall my son rule over you; the Lord shall rule over you.” 

24 Then Gideon said to them, “I would like to make a request of you, that each of you would give me the earrings from his plunder.” For they had golden earrings, because they were Ishmaelites.

25 So they answered, “We will gladly give them.” And they spread out a garment, and each man threw into it the earrings from his plunder. 

26 Now the weight of the gold earrings that he requested was one thousand seven hundred shekels of gold, besides the crescent ornaments, pendants, and purple robes which were on the kings of Midian, and besides the chains that were around their camels’ necks. 

27 Then Gideon made it into an ephod and set it up in his city, Ophrah. And all Israel played the harlot with it there. It became a snare to Gideon and to his house.

28 Thus Midian was subdued before the children of Israel, so that they lifted their heads no more. And the country was quiet for forty years in the days of Gideon.

29Then Jerubbaal the son of Joash went and dwelt in his own house. 

30 Gideon had seventy sons who were his own offspring, for he had many wives. 

31 And his concubine who was in Shechem also bore him a son, whose name he called Abimelech. 

32 Now Gideon the son of Joash died at a good old age, and was buried in the tomb of Joash his father, in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.

33 So it was, as soon as Gideon was dead, that the children of Israel again played the harlot with the Baals, and made Baal-Berith their god. 

34 Thus the children of Israel did not remember the Lord their God, who had delivered them from the hands of all their enemies on every side; 

35 nor did they show kindness to the house of Jerubbaal (Gideon) in accordance with the good he had done for Israel.

Journal:

• Where in my life do I currently feel exhausted but still called to keep moving forward
• Have I allowed discouragement or lack of support from others to affect my obedience to God
• What burdens have I been carrying in my own strength instead of giving to the Lord
• How can I intentionally depend on God’s strength in this season instead of my own

Less is more

And the Lord said to Gideon, “The people who are with you are too many for Me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel claim glory for itself against Me, saying, ‘My own hand has saved me.’ ~ Judges 7:2

Doesn’t it feel backwards when you’re facing something overwhelming and your instinct is to gather more, more help, more resources, more reassurance. You want to feel prepared and you want to feel secure. But what if the very thing you’re relying on is the thing God wants to reduce.

In Judges 7, Gideon starts with thousands of men, already feeling outnumbered by the enemy, but God says it’s too many. One by one, the number is reduced until only 300 remain. It doesn’t make sense in the natural. It feels risky, even exposed, but God wasn’t trying to make Gideon weaker. He was positioning him to see clearly that the victory would come from Him alone. Sometimes God removes what you think you need so you can discover what you actually have in Him.

Here are three truths to hold onto when God starts to reduce what feels necessary:

1. God reduces so you can rely on Him

God intentionally brought Gideon down to 300 men so there would be no confusion about where the victory came from. If Gideon had won with thousands, it would have been easy to take credit. With 300, it was undeniable Who deserved the glory.

When something in your life feels like it’s shrinking instead of growing, don’t assume it’s a setback. Maybe you expected more support, more opportunity, or more resources, and instead things feel limited. Instead of striving to fix it immediately, pause and ask, “God, what are You showing me to trust You with?”

If you’re stepping into something new and don’t feel fully equipped, lean into prayer and obedience instead of trying to control every detail. Sometimes God is removing your safety net so you can see His faithfulness more clearly.

2. God uses what seems unconventional

The strategy God gave Gideon didn’t look like a typical battle plan. No swords, no aggressive charge. Just jars, torches, and trumpets. It was unusual, unexpected, and completely dependent on God moving in the moment.

God’s direction in your life may not always look logical, but that doesn’t mean it’s wrong.
If you feel prompted to do something that doesn’t fit the normal pattern, don’t dismiss it too quickly.

If God nudges you to respond with kindness instead of defending yourself, or to give when it doesn’t make sense financially, trust that His way produces results you can’t manufacture on your own. Obedience may feel uncomfortable, but it opens the door for God to reach into the situation.

3. God goes before you to confirm His promise

Before the battle even began, God allowed Gideon to overhear a conversation in the enemy’s camp that confirmed the victory was already set. God knew Gideon needed that reassurance and provided it at the right moment.

God often gives you glimpses of confirmation along the way, but you have to be willing to listen.
If you’re feeling uncertain, pay attention to the ways God is speaking, through His Word, through others, or through a sense of peace in your spirit.

If you’ve been praying about a decision and suddenly the same message keeps showing up in different ways, don’t ignore it. Let it strengthen your confidence to move forward.

There have been many moments in my life where things didn’t come together the way I expected. One that stands out clearly happened about three years ago when we were scheduled to take a trip to Israel. I had prayed and sought the Lord diligently as we were deciding if the timing was right and if this was truly the direction He was leading us. By the time we made the decision to go, I had a clear sense that this was part of His plan.

Then, two weeks before we were scheduled to leave, everything changed. The nation of Israel declared a state of war with nearby countries. Travel shut down, the airport closed, and just like that our trip was canceled. I was deeply disappointed, especially because I felt so certain that God had led us there. Of course, we continued to pray for Israel and everything they were facing, but I still found myself asking why the Holy Spirit would lead us in that direction only for it to fall apart.

About two weeks later, as we were working through the refund process for the trip we had already paid for, the booking agent presented us with an alternative option. There was an opportunity to take an Apostle Paul tour through Greece. The trip included a cruise through several Greek islands, and one of the stops was the island of Patmos.

I was floored! Patmos had been on my heart years earlier, something the Lord had quietly placed there, but I had never seriously considered planning a trip around it. I remember thinking, who actually plans a trip to Patmos?

Even though the original plan didn’t turn out the way I expected, and I questioned if I had somehow missed it, I kept moving forward with what was in front of me. As I did, I began to see God’s hand in ways I couldn’t have arranged myself. What felt like a disruption was actually a redirection.

Looking back now, I can see it so clearly. God wasn’t confused and He didn’t change His mind. He was working out details that I couldn’t see at the time. If we hadn’t already paid for the trip to Israel, we wouldn’t even be looking at alternative trips at that time. What felt like a loss was actually part of a greater plan, one that was more personal and meaningful than I had imagined.

That experience showed me something I carry with me now. When God leads you, it doesn’t mean every step will look the way you expect. Sometimes things will be reduced, shifted, or rerouted, but that doesn’t mean you’re off track. It means He’s working all things together for a good outcome for those who love Him. Just like Gideon had to walk forward with less and trust God to bring the victory, I had to walk forward without all the answers and trust that God was working behind the scenes because He was.

Today I want to encourage you, if things feel smaller, slower, or more uncertain than you expected, don’t assume you’re off track. God may be removing what would distract you so He can show you what He can do. You don’t need more to step into what He’s called you to do, you need trust. What He’s placed in your hands right now is enough when He is the one leading you. Stay obedient, stay attentive, and watch how He brings victory in a way that only He can.

Today’s scripture reading: Judges 7

1 Then Jerubbaal (that is, Gideon) and all the people who were with him rose early and encamped beside the well of Harod, so that the camp of the Midianites was on the north side of them by the hill of Moreh in the valley.

2 And the Lord said to Gideon, “The people who are with you are too many for Me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel claim glory for itself against Me, saying, ‘My own hand has saved me.’ 

3 Now therefore, proclaim in the hearing of the people, saying, ‘Whoever is fearful and afraid, let him turn and depart at once from Mount Gilead.’ ” And twenty-two thousand of the people returned, and ten thousand remained.

4 But the Lord said to Gideon, “The people are still too many; bring them down to the water, and I will test them for you there. Then it will be, that of whom I say to you, ‘This one shall go with you,’ the same shall go with you; and of whomever I say to you, ‘This one shall not go with you,’ the same shall not go.” 

5 So he brought the people down to the water. And the Lord said to Gideon, “Everyone who laps from the water with his tongue, as a dog laps, you shall set apart by himself; likewise everyone who gets down on his knees to drink.” 

6 And the number of those who lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, was three hundred men; but all the rest of the people got down on their knees to drink water. 

7 Then the Lord said to Gideon, “By the three hundred men who lapped I will save you, and deliver the Midianites into your hand. Let all the other people go, every man to his place.” 

8 So the people took provisions and their trumpets in their hands. And he sent away all the rest of Israel, every man to his tent, and retained those three hundred men. Now the camp of Midian was below him in the valley.

9 It happened on the same night that the Lord said to him, “Arise, go down against the camp, for I have delivered it into your hand. 

10 But if you are afraid to go down, go down to the camp with Purah your servant, 

11 and you shall hear what they say; and afterward your hands shall be strengthened to go down against the camp.” Then he went down with Purah his servant to the outpost of the armed men who were in the camp. 

12 Now the Midianites and Amalekites, all the people of the East, were lying in the valley as numerous as locusts; and their camels were without number, as the sand by the seashore in multitude.

13 And when Gideon had come, there was a man telling a dream to his companion. He said, “I have had a dream: To my surprise, a loaf of barley bread tumbled into the camp of Midian; it came to a tent and struck it so that it fell and overturned, and the tent collapsed.”

14 Then his companion answered and said, “This is nothing else but the sword of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel! Into his hand God has delivered Midian and the whole camp.”

15 And so it was, when Gideon heard the telling of the dream and its interpretation, that he worshiped. He returned to the camp of Israel, and said, “Arise, for the Lord has delivered the camp of Midian into your hand.” 

16 Then he divided the three hundred men into three companies, and he put a trumpet into every man’s hand, with empty pitchers, and torches inside the pitchers. 

17 And he said to them, “Look at me and do likewise; watch, and when I come to the edge of the camp you shall do as I do: 

18 When I blow the trumpet, I and all who are with me, then you also blow the trumpets on every side of the whole camp, and say, ‘The sword of the Lord and of Gideon!’ ”

19 So Gideon and the hundred men who were with him came to the outpost of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch, just as they had posted the watch; and they blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers that were in their hands. 

20 Then the three companies blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers—they held the torches in their left hands and the trumpets in their right hands for blowing—and they cried, “The sword of the Lord and of Gideon!” 

21 And every man stood in his place all around the camp; and the whole army ran and cried out and fled. 

22 When the three hundred blew the trumpets, the Lord set every man’s sword against his companion throughout the whole camp; and the army fled to Beth Acacia, toward Zererah, as far as the border of Abel Meholah, by Tabbath.

23 And the men of Israel gathered together from Naphtali, Asher, and all Manasseh, and pursued the Midianites.

24 Then Gideon sent messengers throughout all the mountains of Ephraim, saying, “Come down against the Midianites, and seize from them the watering places as far as Beth Barah and the Jordan.” Then all the men of Ephraim gathered together and seized the watering places as far as Beth Barah and the Jordan. 

25 And they captured two princes of the Midianites, Oreb and Zeeb. They killed Oreb at the rock of Oreb, and Zeeb they killed at the winepress of Zeeb. They pursued Midian and brought the heads of Oreb and Zeeb to Gideon on the other side of the Jordan.

Journal:

• Where in my life does it feel like things are being reduced or stripped back
• What am I currently relying on that God may be asking me to release
• What step of obedience feels unconventional but keeps coming back to my heart
• How has God already given me confirmation that He is leading me forward

Who are you becoming

 And the Angel of the Lord appeared to him, and said to him, “The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valor!” ~ Judges 6:12

Have you ever felt completely unqualified for something you knew in your heart you were supposed to do. Not just unsure, but almost certain you were the wrong person. That tension between what you feel and what God is saying can feel uncomfortable, even confusing. It’s the place where excuses start forming and where you can begin to shrink back instead of step forward.

In today’s scripture reading, we find Gideon hiding in a winepress, trying to survive in a season of fear and oppression. Right there, in the middle of his hiding, God calls him something he clearly didn’t believe about himself, a mighty warrior. Not after he proved himself, not after he gained confidence, but right in the middle of his weakness.

That’s how God works. He speaks to who you are becoming, not just where you are right now.

Below are three truths that can help you recognize what God is doing in your life and how to respond when you feel unqualified.

1. God sees identity before you do

Gideon saw himself as the least, the weakest, the one who didn’t measure up. But God spoke directly to his identity, not his insecurity. God wasn’t confused about who Gideon was, Gideon was chosen and mighty.

When you hear God prompting you to step into something, pay attention to what He’s saying about you, not what you’re saying about yourself. If you feel led to speak up, serve, or lead, but your first thought is “I’m not good at that,” pause. Instead of agreeing with that thought, begin to say what God says. “God is with me. He will help me.” You may not feel like a “mighty warrior,” but obedience starts by agreeing with His perspective, not your fear.

2. God calls you in the middle of the process

Gideon wasn’t ready by human standards. He was hiding but that didn’t disqualify him, it was the exact place where God met him. God doesn’t wait for you to feel ready, He calls you and then walks with you as you grow into it.

You don’t have to have everything figured out before you say yes. Maybe God is prompting you to reach out to someone, take a step in ministry, or make a decision that feels bigger than you. Instead of waiting until you feel confident, take the next small step. If you feel led to encourage someone but you’re unsure what to say, send the text anyway. Trust that God will meet you in the action, not just in the planning.

3. God is patient with your questions, but He still calls you forward

Gideon asked for signs. More than once. He wrestled with doubt and needed reassurance, yet God, in His kindness, responded. But even with the reassurance, the expectation remained the same, Gideon still had to step out in faith.

It’s okay to bring your questions to God, but don’t stay stuck in them. If you find yourself hesitating, ask God for clarity, then move when He answers. For example, if you’re unsure about a decision, pray, listen, and then take a step based on what you know or found in His Word. Don’t let overthinking keep you from moving forward in obedience.

I’ve had moments where I felt that same internal resistance. One time, I felt prompted to reach out to someone I hadn’t spoken to in a while. Everything in me wanted to ignore it. I told myself it wasn’t a big deal, that I could do it later. But that nudge didn’t go away. When I finally responded and reached out, I found out they were going through something heavy and needed encouragement right then. What felt small to me was significant to God. If I had continued to push it off, I would have missed that moment and there would have been no encouragement shared.

Today I want to encourage you to remember that God sees more in you than you currently see in yourself. He is not waiting for you to become ready, He is inviting you to trust Him right now. Just like Gideon, you may feel hidden, unsure, or even resistant, but God’s call on your life is still active. When He speaks, it’s not based on your limitations, it’s based on His purpose. Say yes in the small moments. Take the next step. Trust that He is with you, and that is more than enough.

Today’s scripture reading: Judges 6

1 Then the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord. So, the Lord delivered them into the hand of Midian for seven years, 

2 and the hand of Midian prevailed against Israel. Because of the Midianites, the children of Israel made for themselves the dens, the caves, and the strongholds which are in the mountains. 

3 So it was, whenever Israel had sown, Midianites would come up; also Amalekites and the people of the East would come up against them. 

4 Then they would encamp against them and destroy the produce of the earth as far as Gaza, and leave no sustenance for Israel, neither sheep nor ox nor donkey. 

5 For they would come up with their livestock and their tents, coming in as numerous as locusts; both they and their camels were without number; and they would enter the land to destroy it. 

6 So Israel was greatly impoverished because of the Midianites, and the children of Israel cried out to the Lord.

7 And it came to pass, when the children of Israel cried out to the Lord because of the Midianites, 

8 that the Lord sent a prophet to the children of Israel, who said to them, “Thus says the Lord God of Israel: ‘I brought you up from Egypt and brought you out of the house of bondage; 

9 and I delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians and out of the hand of all who oppressed you, and drove them out before you and gave you their land. 

10 Also I said to you, “I am the Lord your God; do not fear the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell.” But you have not obeyed My voice.’ ”

Gideon

11 Now the Angel of the Lord came and sat under the terebinth tree which was in Ophrah, which belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, while his son Gideon threshed wheat in the winepress, in order to hide it from the Midianites. 

12 And the Angel of the Lord appeared to him, and said to him, “The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valor!”

13 Gideon said to Him, “O my lord, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all His miracles which our fathers told us about, saying, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?’ But now the Lord has forsaken us and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites.”

14 Then the Lord turned to him and said, “Go in this might of yours, and you shall save Israel from the hand of the Midianites. Have I not sent you?”

15 So he said to Him, “O my Lord, how can I save Israel? Indeed my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house.”

16 And the Lord said to him, “Surely I will be with you, and you shall defeat the Midianites as one man.”

17 Then he said to Him, “If now I have found favor in Your sight, then show me a sign that it is You who talk with me. 

18 Do not depart from here, I pray, until I come to You and bring out my offering and set it before You.”

And He said, “I will wait until you come back.”

19 So Gideon went in and prepared a young goat, and unleavened bread from an ephah of flour. The meat he put in a basket, and he put the broth in a pot; and he brought them out to Him under the terebinth tree and presented them. 

20 The Angel of God said to him, “Take the meat and the unleavened bread and lay them on this rock, and pour out the broth.” And he did so.

21 Then the Angel of the Lord put out the end of the staff that was in His hand, and touched the meat and the unleavened bread; and fire rose out of the rock and consumed the meat and the unleavened bread. And the Angel of the Lord departed out of his sight.

22 Now Gideon perceived that He was the Angel of the Lord. So Gideon said, “Alas, O Lord God! For I have seen the Angel of the Lord face to face.”

23 Then the Lord said to him, “Peace be with you; do not fear, you shall not die.” 

24 So Gideon built an altar there to the Lord, and called it The-Lord-Is-Peace. To this day it is still in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.

25 Now it came to pass the same night that the Lord said to him, “Take your father’s young bull, the second bull of seven years old, and tear down the altar of Baal that your father has, and cut down the wooden image that is beside it; 

26 and build an altar to the Lord your God on top of this rock in the proper arrangement, and take the second bull and offer a burnt sacrifice with the wood of the image which you shall cut down.” 

27 So Gideon took ten men from among his servants and did as the Lord had said to him. But because he feared his father’s household and the men of the city too much to do it by day, he did it by night.

Gideon Destroys the Altar of Baal

28 And when the men of the city arose early in the morning, there was the altar of Baal, torn down; and the wooden image that was beside it was cut down, and the second bull was being offered on the altar which had been built. 

29 So they said to one another, “Who has done this thing?” And when they had inquired and asked, they said, “Gideon the son of Joash has done this thing.” 

30 Then the men of the city said to Joash, “Bring out your son, that he may die, because he has torn down the altar of Baal, and because he has cut down the wooden image that was beside it.”

31 But Joash said to all who stood against him, “Would you plead for Baal? Would you save him? Let the one who would plead for him be put to death by morning! If he is a god, let him plead for himself, because his altar has been torn down!” 

32 Therefore on that day he called him Jerubbaal, saying, “Let Baal plead against him, because he has torn down his altar.”

33 Then all the Midianites and Amalekites, the people of the East, gathered together; and they crossed over and encamped in the Valley of Jezreel. 

34 But the Spirit of the Lord came upon Gideon; then he blew the trumpet, and the Abiezrites gathered behind him. 

35 And he sent messengers throughout all Manasseh, who also gathered behind him. He also sent messengers to Asher, Zebulun, and Naphtali; and they came up to meet them.

36 So Gideon said to God, “If You will save Israel by my hand as You have said— 

37 look, I shall put a fleece of wool on the threshing floor; if there is dew on the fleece only, and it is dry on all the ground, then I shall know that You will save Israel by my hand, as You have said.” 

38 And it was so. When he rose early the next morning and squeezed the fleece together, he wrung the dew out of the fleece, a bowlful of water. 

39 Then Gideon said to God, “Do not be angry with me, but let me speak just once more: Let me test, I pray, just once more with the fleece; let it now be dry only on the fleece, but on all the ground let there be dew.” 

40 And God did so that night. It was dry on the fleece only, but there was dew on all the ground.

Journal:

• What has God been prompting me to do that I’ve been hesitant to respond to
• What thoughts or excuses do I tend to believe when I feel unqualified
• What would it look like for me to take one small step of obedience today
• Where have I seen God meet me after I chose to step out in faith

The song after the battle

Then Deborah and Barak the son of Abinoam sang on that day, saying: “When leaders lead in Israel, when the people willingly offer themselves, Bless the Lord! ~ Judges 5:1-2

What if your breakthrough isn’t just about the victory, but also about the praise that comes out of you as a result of it? Today’s scripture reading is a powerful song of victory sung by Deborah and Barak after God delivered Israel. It wasn’t just a celebration, it was a declaration. It told the story of what God had done, who stepped up in faith, and who held back. It reminds us that God moves through willing hearts, and every person has a part in His plan.

As children of God today, we’re still called into that same kind of partnership with Him. He is moving, He is calling, and He is looking for those who are willing to step forward in faith, even when it feels uncomfortable or uncertain.

Here are three powerful truths from this chapter and how they can shape our daily lives:

1. Willing hearts make room for God to move

Judges 5:2 highlights those who willingly offered themselves. God didn’t force anyone, He worked through those who said yes.  In your daily life, this might look like choosing to step into something you feel unqualified for. Maybe it’s praying with someone, leading a small group, or simply speaking encouragement when you feel hesitant. When you say yes, even in small ways, you give God space to work through your life.

For example, you might feel a nudge to check on a friend who’s been on your heart. It would be easy to ignore it, but choosing to reach out could be exactly how God brings comfort into their life. Your willingness matters more than your perfection.

2. Your response matters more than your position

In the song, some tribes stepped up to help, while others stayed behind. The difference wasn’t ability, it was response.  In your life today, it can be easy to think that impact is reserved for certain people, but God is looking at your heart, not your title. In your current season, your response to His prompting carries weight.

For example, you may feel like what you have to offer is small, maybe it’s your time, your prayers, or your kindness. But choosing to act on what God places in front of you can shift more than you realize. It’s not about doing everything, it’s about doing your part.

3. Remembering God’s faithfulness strengthens your future

Judges 5 is a song that remembers. It recounts what God did so the people would not forget His power and provision.  In your life, taking time to remember what God has already done builds confidence for what’s ahead. When you face new challenges, you won’t feel as shaken because you’ve seen His faithfulness before.

For example, when you’re walking through a difficult situation, remind yourself of a time God came through for you. Speak it out, write it down, revisit it often. It will strengthen your faith and steady your heart when things feel uncertain.

This has happened many times in my own life. It has particularly shown up when God opened opportunities within the women’s and small group ministries at my church. He started asking me to step forward in ways that felt uncomfortable and even inconvenient. I didn’t always feel ready, and sometimes I questioned whether I was really the right person for the job or if I could actually make a difference. But as I chose to be willing, even in small steps, I began to see Him move in big ways I never expected. Looking back now, I can clearly see that those moments of saying yes were not just about obedience, they were about growth, trust, and learning to depend on Him more deeply.

Today I want to encourage you to be willing, to say yes when God prompts your heart, and to remember that your response matters. Just like in Judges 5, God is still moving through those who offer themselves. As you step forward, don’t forget to lift your own song of praise when you see His faithfulness. Your willingness can become part of a greater story of victory, faith, and purpose, and your praise will remind you and others that it was God who brought you through.

Today’s scripture reading: Judges 5

1 Then Deborah and Barak the son of Abinoam sang on that day, saying:

2 “When leaders lead in Israel, When the people willingly offer themselves, Bless the Lord!

3 “Hear, O kings! Give ear, O princes! I, even I, will sing to the Lord; I will sing praise to the Lord God of Israel.

4 “Lord, when You went out from Seir, When You marched from the field of Edom, The earth trembled and the heavens poured, The clouds also poured water;

5 The mountains gushed before the Lord, This Sinai, before the Lord God of Israel.

6 “In the days of Shamgar, son of Anath, In the days of Jael, The highways were deserted, And the travelers walked along the byways.

7 Village life ceased, it ceased in Israel, Until I, Deborah, arose, Arose a mother in Israel.

8 They chose new gods; Then there was war in the gates; Not a shield or spear was seen among forty thousand in Israel.

9 My heart is with the rulers of Israel Who offered themselves willingly with the people. Bless the Lord!

10 “Speak, you who ride on white donkeys, Who sit in judges’ attire, And who walk along the road.

11 Far from the noise of the archers, among the watering places, There they shall recount the righteous acts of the Lord, The righteous acts for His villagers in Israel; Then the people of the Lord shall go down to the gates.

12 “Awake, awake, Deborah! Awake, awake, sing a song! Arise, Barak, and lead your captives away, O son of Abinoam!

13 “Then the survivors came down, the people against the nobles; The Lord came down for me against the mighty.

14 From Ephraim were those whose roots were in Amalek. After you, Benjamin, with your peoples, From Machir rulers came down, And from Zebulun those who bear the recruiter’s staff.

15 And the princes of Issachar were with Deborah; As Issachar, so was Barak Sent into the valley under his command; Among the divisions of Reuben There were great resolves of heart.

16 Why did you sit among the sheepfolds, To hear the pipings for the flocks? The divisions of Reuben have great searchings of heart.

17 Gilead stayed beyond the Jordan, And why did Dan remain on ships? Asher continued at the seashore, And stayed by his inlets.

18 Zebulun is a people who jeopardized their lives to the point of death, Naphtali also, on the heights of the battlefield.

19 “The kings came and fought, Then the kings of Canaan fought In Taanach, by the waters of Megiddo; They took no spoils of silver.

20 They fought from the heavens; The stars from their courses fought against Sisera.

21 The torrent of Kishon swept them away, That ancient torrent, the torrent of Kishon. O my soul, march on in strength!

22 Then the horses’ hooves pounded, The galloping, galloping of his steeds.

23 ‘Curse Meroz,’ said the angel of the Lord, ‘Curse its inhabitants bitterly, Because they did not come to the help of the Lord, To the help of the Lord against the mighty.’

24 “Most blessed among women is Jael, The wife of Heber the Kenite; Blessed is she among women in tents.

25 He asked for water, she gave milk; She brought out cream in a lordly bowl.

26 She stretched her hand to the tent peg, Her right hand to the workmen’s hammer; She pounded Sisera, she pierced his head, She split and struck through his temple.

27 At her feet he sank, he fell, he lay still; At her feet he sank, he fell; Where he sank, there he fell dead.

28 “The mother of Sisera looked through the window, And cried out through the lattice, ‘Why is his chariot so long in coming? Why tarries the clatter of his chariots?’

29 Her wisest ladies answered her, Yes, she answered herself,

30 ‘Are they not finding and dividing the spoil: To every man a girl or two; For Sisera, plunder of dyed garments, Plunder of garments embroidered and dyed, Two pieces of dyed embroidery for the neck of the looter?’

31 “Thus let all Your enemies perish, O Lord! But let those who love Him be like the sun When it comes out in full strength.” So the land had rest for forty years.

Journal:

• Where is God asking you to be willing right now, even if it feels uncomfortable
• What is one small step you can take today to respond to His prompting
• Can you recall a time when God was faithful to you, and how can that strengthen you today
• Are there areas where you’ve been holding back, and what would it look like to step forward in faith 

Leaven

Then He charged them, saying, “Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” ~ Mark 8:15

What if the smallest influence in your life is shaping you more than you realize?

You may remember hearing as a child that who you spend time with is who you begin to imitate. Another saying that was once commonly used was, one bad apple can spoil the whole bunch. It might take time, but it’s true. When you stay connected to unhealthy influences, they can slowly seep into your heart. Even when your intention is to help someone, it can backfire if you’re not guarding your own heart and paying attention to what’s trying to take root in it.

In this passage, Jesus warned His disciples to be aware of the leaven of the Pharisees. This was the most religious group of their day, the very people you would expect to point others toward God. Yet something had taken these leaders off course. Over time, their teachings had become distorted. They were focused on rules and traditions, and they had lost sight of love, grace, and compassion.

Jesus wanted His disciples to understand that following Him wasn’t about becoming rigid or judgmental. It was about growing in mercy, love, and truth. He brought them with Him as He ministered to people, not only so they could learn, but also so they could walk in accountability and stay grounded. Even as the Son of God, He modeled the importance of staying connected and guarded in heart and mind.

Galatians 5:9 reminds us that a little leaven leavens the whole lump. In other words, small influences matter. What we allow into our thinking and our hearts will eventually shape our actions and our attitudes. Jesus was preparing His disciples for the time when they would need to stand strong together, encouraging one another and staying rooted in truth.

That same encouragement is for us today. We’re not called to live with a mindset that measures ourselves against others or tries to earn righteousness through works. We’re called to love people, extend grace, and walk in humility. At the same time, we’re called to be wise about what we allow to influence us.

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

• Take an honest look at your closest influences, consider the conversations, attitudes, and environments you’re regularly part of
• Spend time in God’s Word daily, even if it’s just a few minutes, let His truth shape your thinking
• Ask the Holy Spirit to help you recognize anything that’s pulling your heart away from love, grace, and truth
• Choose one relationship that encourages your faith and invest more time there this week
• If there is a relationship that consistently drains you or pulls you down, begin to create healthy boundaries
• Find a small group, Bible study, or community where you can grow, be encouraged, and stay accountable
• Speak life and encouragement over others, this shifts your heart toward compassion instead of criticism

If you’re not sure where to begin, start simple. Open your Bible, invite God into your day, and ask Him to guard your heart. Then take one step to connect with someone who will encourage your walk with Him.

Today I want to encourage you to guard your heart with intention, to choose influences that strengthen your faith, and to allow God’s truth and love to grow in you so deeply that it overflows into every relationship and every place you go.

Today’s scripture reading: Mark 8:11-21

11 Then the Pharisees came out and began to dispute with Him, seeking from Him a sign from heaven, testing Him. 

12 But He sighed deeply in His spirit, and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Assuredly, I say to you, no sign shall be given to this generation.”

13 And He left them, and getting into the boat again, departed to the other side. 

14 Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, and they did not have more than one loaf with them in the boat. 

15 Then He charged them, saying, “Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.”

16 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “It is because we have no bread.”

17 But Jesus, being aware of it, said to them, “Why do you reason because you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive nor understand? Is your heart still hardened? 

18 Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember? 

19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments did you take up?”

They said to Him, “Twelve.”

20“Also, when I broke the seven for the four thousand, how many large baskets full of fragments did you take up?”

And they said, “Seven.”

21So He said to them, “How is it you do not understand?”

Journal:

• What influences in your life are shaping your thoughts and attitudes the most right now
• Is there any area where you’ve noticed negative patterns slowly taking root
• Who can you invite into your life for encouragement and accountability
• What is one step you can take today to fill your heart more with God’s truth and love

Three days and nothing

“I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now continued with Me three days and have nothing to eat. Mark 8:2

Have you ever gone three days without food? Most people today struggle to go even three hours without something to eat. Even missing one or two meals can leave your body feeling weak and unfocused. Hunger has a way of getting your attention quickly.

In this passage, Jesus noticed the crowd had been with Him for three days without food, and His heart was moved with compassion. He understood their need because He lived in a human body too, yet He never made provision for Himself first. His focus was always on others. What stands out is that even after witnessing Him feed five thousand with just a few loaves and fish, the disciples were still unsure of how provision would come again.

The people stayed anyway to hear Jesus. They didn’t leave to meet their natural needs first. They were drawn by something deeper. They were hungry for the Word. Some may have come for miracles, but many stayed because being near Jesus mattered more than their physical discomfort.

That kind of hunger challenges me. It makes me consider if I still press in like that today? Do I pursue His presence with that same intensity, even when it costs me something? There is a strength that comes from being with Him that goes beyond what food can provide. Yes, He fills me spiritually, but there are also times when saying no to the flesh creates space for Him to move in greater ways.

His power was present then to heal, restore, and provide, and it’s still present today. Nothing about His compassion has changed.

Here are some simple ways to step into this kind of hunger and connection with Him

• Set aside one meal this week to spend intentional time in prayer and the Word
• Start small, choose a specific time of day and guard it like an appointment
• Turn off distractions, put your phone away, and give Him your full attention
• Read a short passage and ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you personally through it
• Pray honestly, share your needs, your struggles, and your gratitude
• Listen closely and allow quiet moments for Him to impress things on your heart
• Ask God to give you compassion for others and look for opportunities to encourage someone

If you are not sure where to start, begin with just ten minutes. Sit with Him, open your Bible, and invite Him into that time. Consistency matters more than length. As you make space for Him, you will begin to notice His strength rising in you.

Today I want to encourage you to press in even when it feels inconvenient, to choose His presence over comfort, and to trust that He will meet you there with strength, provision, and compassion. Just like the crowd who stayed with Him, you will find that what you receive from Him far outweighs anything you set aside.

Today’s scripture reading: Mark 8:1-10

1 In those days, the multitude being very great and having nothing to eat, Jesus called His disciples to Him and said to them, 

2 “I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now continued with Me three days and have nothing to eat. 

3 And if I send them away hungry to their own houses, they will faint on the way; for some of them have come from afar.”

4 Then His disciples answered Him, “How can one satisfy these people with bread here in the wilderness?”

5 He asked them, “How many loaves do you have?”

And they said, “Seven.”

6 So He commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground. And He took the seven loaves and gave thanks, broke them and gave them to His disciples to set before them; and they set them before the multitude. 

7 They also had a few small fish; and having blessed them, He said to set them also before them. 

8 So they ate and were filled, and they took up seven large baskets of leftover fragments. 

9 Now those who had eaten were about four thousand. And He sent them away, 

10 immediately got into the boat with His disciples, and came to the region of Dalmanutha.

Journal:

• What is one thing that often pulls your attention away from spending time with God
• How can you create space this week to prioritize time with Him
• When have you experienced God’s strength in a time when you felt empty or worn out
• Who in your life needs the compassion of Jesus right now, and how can you lead them toward Him