The Daily Dose

Be of good cheer

They all saw Him and were troubled. But immediately He talked with them and said to them, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”  ~ Mark 6:50

What if the very thing that’s making your heart race is the place where Jesus is about to speak peace the loudest? In today’s world, it can be very easy to take on a spirit of fear. Just take a look at the latest headline or get a glimpse of what’s happening around us, and anxious thoughts will immediately try to rush in. You could easily justify the feelings of stress and apprehension because our world is definitely in a state of chaos. I know when I hear of the latest crisis, I can feel that question rise up, how is it ever going to change, or what can be done to make things better. At first glance, it can all appear hopeless.

But there is good news, and we do have hope. Our hope isn’t in people, and it isn’t in the government or world leaders. Our hope is in the Lord Jesus. He is the only One who can truly make a difference, and He is the only One who can bring lasting peace into our every day circumstances. Not only peace, but He brings good cheer and joy right in the middle of it all.

I’m reminded of this when I read today’s scripture. The disciples were in a tumultuous situation on the water. They were working hard to navigate despite everything coming against them. They were pushing through natural pressure from the wind, trying to keep the boat steady and avoid disaster. Then, in the middle of that struggle, they saw Jesus walking on the water, and fear overtook them because they didn’t recognize Him at first. But the moment Jesus spoke, everything shifted. His words brought peace, hope, and courage. He didn’t just calm the storm around them, He calmed the storm within them.

He will do the same for us today. We may not be out on a literal sea, but we face storms every day. The storms of life come through world conditions, difficult reports, and personal challenges. Yet Jesus still comes to us in the middle of it all, speaking the same truth, be of good cheer, it is I, do not be afraid. He is with you, and He will walk with you through whatever you’re facing. His presence brings peace, His voice brings clarity, and His nearness brings joy.

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

• Start your day with His words, read Mark 6:50 out loud and let it set the tone for your thoughts
• When fear tries to rise, pause and say, Jesus, I know You are here with me right now
• Turn off the noise for a few minutes each day, sit quietly, and welcome His peace into your heart
• Replace anxious thoughts with truth, remind yourself that your hope is in Jesus, not in circumstances
• Talk to Him honestly about what you’re facing, ask for wisdom, peace, and direction in every situation
• Choose joy on purpose, even in small ways, by thanking Him for His presence and faithfulness

Today I want to encourage you to lift your eyes above the waves and fix them on Jesus, the One who walks right into your storm and speaks peace over your life. You are not alone in what you’re facing, and you do not have to be afraid. His presence changes everything, and His voice still brings calm, courage, and joy. Be of good cheer, because He is with you, and that is more than enough for whatever comes your way.

Today’s scripture reading: Mark 6:45:56

45 Immediately He made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while He sent the multitude away. 

46 And when He had sent them away, He departed to the mountain to pray. 

47 Now when evening came, the boat was in the middle of the sea; and He was alone on the land. 

48 Then He saw them straining at rowing, for the wind was against them. Now about the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed them by. 

49 And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out;

50 for they all saw Him and were troubled. But immediately He talked with them and said to them, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” 

51 Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled. 

52 For they had not understood about the loaves, because their heart was hardened.

53 When they had crossed over, they came to the land of Gennesaret and anchored there. 

54 And when they came out of the boat, immediately the people recognized Him, 

55 ran through that whole surrounding region, and began to carry about on beds those who were sick to wherever they heard He was. 

56 Wherever He entered, into villages, cities, or the country, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged Him that they might just touch the hem of His garment. And as many as touched Him were made well.

 Journal:

• What fears have been trying to take hold of my thoughts lately
• Where do I need to invite Jesus into my current situation
• What does being of good cheer look like in my daily life right now
• How can I create space each day to hear His voice and receive His peace

Don’t settle in the middle

Then Joshua said to the children of Israel: “How long will you neglect to go and possess the land which the Lord God of your fathers has given you?” ~Joshua 18:3

Have you ever known something was yours, but still found yourself waiting, hesitating, or putting it off? Not because you didn’t believe it, but because stepping into it felt overwhelming, too uncertain, or just not the right time. It’s a difficult place to be, standing between promise and possession.

In today’s scripture reading, the land had already been given, yet seven tribes were still sitting back, not moving forward. The promise was there, but they were not moving forward to take possession. Joshua’s question cuts right through that hesitation, how long will you wait?

As children of God today, we can find ourselves in that same place. We know what God has spoken, we sense what He’s calling us into, but something holds us back. Comfort, fear, doubt, or even distraction can keep us from stepping fully into what’s already been made available to us. It’s important to recognize that God’s promises require participation. He gives, but we must go.

Here are three truths from this chapter that help move us from waiting to walking.

1.Delayed obedience still keeps you stuck

The tribes weren’t denied the promise, they were delaying stepping into it. Waiting too long can start to feel normal and even comfortable, but it was never meant to be permanent.

In your daily life, this can show up in simple but significant ways. Maybe you feel God prompting you to start something, speak up, forgive, or take a step of faith, and instead you keep pushing it off. You tell yourself you’ll do it later, when things settle down or when you feel more ready.

For example, maybe you’ve felt led to spend more intentional time with God, but your schedule is too full, so you keep delaying it. Days turn into weeks, and before you know it, you’re still in the same place spiritually. When you choose to act, even in small ways, like getting up earlier to spend ten minutes in the morning in prayer, you begin to move forward again. Obedience breaks stagnation.

2.God has already made provision for what He promised

The land wasn’t something they had to earn, it had already been given by God. Their role was to go in and take possession of it.

As God’s children, we sometimes live like we have to fight for what God has already provided through His promises. Peace, purpose, direction, and identity are already available, but we have to step into them.  He has already made available everything we need to step into all that He has for us. In your current circumstances, you might be facing uncertainty, wondering how things will come together. Instead of striving, you begin to trust that God has already gone before you.

For example, if you’re stepping into a new opportunity and feel unprepared, you remind yourself that God wouldn’t lead you there without equipping you. So instead of shrinking back, you move forward, trusting that what you need will meet you along the way right when you need it.

3.Movement activates clarity

Joshua instructed them to go out, survey the land, and then come back. There was movement required before everything was fully laid out.

We often want full clarity before we take just one step, but God often reveals more as we go. Waiting for perfect understanding can keep you from starting. In your life, this might look like feeling unsure about a decision or direction. You keep waiting for a clear answer, but nothing seems to come.

For example, instead of staying stuck, you take a step. You explore the opportunity, have the conversation, or begin the process. As you move, doors open, direction becomes clearer, and confidence grows. God meets you in motion.

For me, there have been many times when I was hesitant to step out in faith. Most of the time it was because I wasn’t sure if I was truly being called, or it was something I didn’t think I was even interested in. One particular time stands out when an opportunity opened up at work. I was comfortable where I was and didn’t feel ready to take on more responsibility. Honestly, I didn’t even pray about it. I was content, so I turned it down and kept going right where I was.

About two weeks later, I started to notice something felt off. I wasn’t hearing the Holy Spirit in my heart as clearly as I usually did. That concerned me, so I finally took time to sit quietly with Him and ask why I felt so disconnected. As I pressed in and listened, He gently brought that opportunity back to my mind.

I had already moved on from it, thinking it was done, but clearly it wasn’t. In that moment, I realized my hesitation had caused me to miss something He was leading me into. So I talked with Him honestly. I asked for strength and grace to step into it if it was still the right timing. Deep down, I still wanted everything to feel secure before I moved. I kept waiting for the perfect moment, the perfect confirmation, the perfect sense of peace.

But that moment never came the way I expected. What did come was a gentle nudge to move forward anyway, one step at a time. So, even though I felt unsure I took one step, then another and as I moved, things began to come together in ways I couldn’t have planned. What once felt overwhelming became manageable, and what felt unclear became purposeful. God didn’t give me the whole picture at once, but He was faithful in every faith step I took.

Today I want to encourage you, don’t settle in the middle of what God has already given you. If He’s placed something in your heart, if He’s spoken a promise over your life, or if you know there’s a step you’ve been putting off, now is the time to move forward. You don’t have to have everything figured out. You just have to be willing to take the next step. God is already there, waiting to meet you in it.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 18

1 Now the whole congregation of the children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the tabernacle of meeting there. And the land was subdued before them. 

2 But there remained among the children of Israel seven tribes which had not yet received their inheritance.

3 Then Joshua said to the children of Israel: “How long will you neglect to go and possess the land which the Lord God of your fathers has given you? 

4 Pick out from among you three men for each tribe, and I will send them; they shall rise and go through the land, survey it according to their inheritance, and come back to me. 

5 And they shall divide it into seven parts. Judah shall remain in their territory on the south, and the house of Joseph shall remain in their territory on the north. 

6 You shall therefore survey the land in seven parts and bring the survey here to me, that I may cast lots for you here before the Lord our God. 

7 But the Levites have no part among you, for the priesthood of the Lord is their inheritance. And Gad, Reuben, and half the tribe of Manasseh have received their inheritance beyond the Jordan on the east, which Moses the servant of the Lord gave them.”

8 Then the men arose to go away; and Joshua charged those who went to survey the land, saying, “Go, walk through the land, survey it, and come back to me, that I may cast lots for you here before the Lord in Shiloh.” 

9 So the men went, passed through the land, and wrote the survey in a book in seven parts by cities; and they came to Joshua at the camp in Shiloh. 

10 Then Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the Lord, and there Joshua divided the land to the children of Israel according to their divisions.

11 Now the lot of the tribe of the children of Benjamin came up according to their families, and the territory of their lot came out between the children of Judah and the children of Joseph. 

12 Their border on the north side began at the Jordan, and the border went up to the side of Jericho on the north, and went up through the mountains westward; it ended at the Wilderness of Beth Aven. 

13 The border went over from there toward Luz, to the side of Luz (which is Bethel) southward; and the border descended to Ataroth Addar, near the hill that lies on the south side of Lower Beth Horon.

14 Then the border extended around the west side to the south, from the hill that lies before Beth Horon southward; and it ended at Kirjath Baal (which is Kirjath Jearim), a city of the children of Judah. This was the west side.

15 The south side began at the end of Kirjath Jearim, and the border extended on the west and went out to the spring of the waters of Nephtoah. 

16 Then the border came down to the end of the mountain that lies before the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, which is in the Valley of the Rephaim on the north, descended to the Valley of Hinnom, to the side of the Jebusite city on the south, and descended to En Rogel. 

17 And it went around from the north, went out to En Shemesh, and extended toward Geliloth, which is before the Ascent of Adummim, and descended to the stone of Bohan the son of Reuben. 

18 Then it passed along toward the north side of Arabah, and went down to Arabah. 

19 And the border passed along to the north side of Beth Hoglah; then the border ended at the north bay at the Salt Sea, at the south end of the Jordan. This was the southern boundary.

20 The Jordan was its border on the east side. This was the inheritance of the children of Benjamin, according to its boundaries all around, according to their families.

21 Now the cities of the tribe of the children of Benjamin, according to their families, were Jericho, Beth Hoglah, Emek Keziz, 

22 Beth Arabah, Zemaraim, Bethel, 

23 Avim, Parah, Ophrah, 

24 Chephar Haammoni, Ophni, and Gaba: twelve cities with their villages; 

25 Gibeon, Ramah, Beeroth, 

26 Mizpah, Chephirah, Mozah, 

27 Rekem, Irpeel, Taralah, 

28 Zelah, Eleph, Jebus (which is Jerusalem), Gibeath, and Kirjath: fourteen cities with their villages. This was the inheritance of the children of Benjamin according to their families.

Journal:

• Where in my life have I been waiting instead of moving forward
• What step of obedience have I been putting off that I can take today
• How can I begin to trust that God has already provided what I need for this season

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

Room for more

but the mountain country shall be yours. Although it is wooded, you shall cut it down, and its farthest extent shall be yours; for you shall drive out the Canaanites, though they have iron chariots and are strong. ~ Joshua 17:18

  What if the very place that feels like “not enough” is actually the doorway to more than you imagined? It’s easy to look at what’s in front of you and think, this won’t work, this isn’t enough, I need something easier. But in today’s scripture reading, the people of Joseph felt limited. They saw obstacles instead of opportunity. They wanted more land, but they didn’t want the challenge that came with it. Joshua’s had the powerful response and basically told them, you already have what you need, now go take it, clear it, and possess it.

As children of God today, we can fall into that same mindset. We pray for increase, favor, and breakthrough, but when it comes wrapped in effort, stretching, or unfamiliar territory, we often hesitate. But God has already placed promise inside of what looks like pressure.

Here are three truths to take from this chapter and live out right where we are:

1. You may have more than you think

The tribe of Joseph believed their portion wasn’t enough, but Joshua reminded them of their strength and capability. Sometimes we underestimate what God has already placed in our hands.

In your daily life, this can look like feeling unqualified at work, overwhelmed in your calling, or unsure if you can handle what’s in front of you. Maybe you’re raising a family, managing responsibilities, or stepping into something new, and you’re thinking, I don’t have enough time, energy, or ability.

But God has already equipped you. Instead of asking for something different, start using what you already have by faith? For example, instead of doubting your ability to lead that project, step in with confidence, trusting that God will guide you as you go. Don’t wait to feel ready, you move forward knowing He’s with you.

2. Growth often comes disguised as work

The land they were given had forests that needed to be cleared and enemies that needed to be driven out. It wasn’t ready made, it required effort.

We live in a world that loves quick results and easy paths, but God often works through process. That thing you’re walking through right now that feels like hard work, may actually be preparation for expansion.

Maybe you’re working on rebuilding something, your faith, your confidence, your relationships, or even your finances. It feels slow and maybe even frustrating, but every step you take is clearing ground for something greater.

For example, choosing to spend time in God’s Word when you’re tired, or showing kindness when it’s not returned, or continuing to believe when you haven’t seen results yet, that’s  how you clear the forest and over time, you’ll see that what once felt like work has become your testimony.

3. Don’t shrink back from what God has promised

Joshua didn’t tell them to settle, he told them to go further. To its farthest extent, it will be yours. That means there was more available, but they had to be willing to step into it. As God’s children, we’re not called to live small or hold back out of fear. Sometimes we limit ourselves because we’re comfortable or because we’re afraid of what it might take.

In your life, this could mean stepping out in faith in an area you’ve been avoiding. Maybe it’s sharing your story, starting something new, trusting God in a deeper way, or letting go of something that’s been holding you back.

For example, you may feel prompted to encourage someone, serve in a new way, or pursue something God placed on your heart a long time ago. Instead of overthinking it, you take that step. That’s how you begin to walk into the fullness of what God has for you.

I remember a time in my life when I felt like what I had in front of me just wasn’t enough. I was overwhelmed, unsure, and honestly a little afraid. I was on my own and had moved away from everyone I had know up to that point.  I carried so many concerns about provision, about the future, about whether I could really do what was required of me. It felt like I was standing in a forest with no clear path.

But little by little, I started trusting God with what I had. I took steps when I didn’t feel ready. I leaned into His Word and allowed it to strengthen me. Over time, what once looked impossible became something I could walk through with confidence. God didn’t just meet my needs, He expanded my capacity and showed me that there was more in me because He was with me.

Today I want to encourage you, what feels like not enough in your life right now may actually be the beginning of more. God has already given you ground to take, strength to use, and purpose to walk out. Don’t be discouraged by what looks like work or resistance. Step into it, trust Him in it, and watch how He expands your territory in ways you never expected.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 17

1 There was also a lot for the tribe of Manasseh, for he was the firstborn of Joseph: namely for Machir the firstborn of Manasseh, the father of Gilead, because he was a man of war; therefore he was given Gilead and Bashan. 

2 And there was a lot for the rest of the children of Manasseh according to their families: for the children of Abiezer, the children of Helek, the children of Asriel, the children of Shechem, the children of Hepher, and the children of Shemida; these were the male children of Manasseh the son of Joseph according to their families.

3 But Zelophehad the son of Hepher, the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh, had no sons, but only daughters. And these are the names of his daughters: Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. 

4 And they came near before Eleazar the priest, before Joshua the son of Nun, and before the rulers, saying, “The Lord commanded Moses to give us an inheritance among our brothers.” Therefore, according to the commandment of the Lord, he gave them an inheritance among their father’s brothers. 

5 Ten shares fell to Manasseh, besides the land of Gilead and Bashan, which were on the other side of the Jordan, 

6 because the daughters of Manasseh received an inheritance among his sons; and the rest of Manasseh’s sons had the land of Gilead.

7 And the territory of Manasseh was from Asher to Michmethath, that lies east of Shechem; and the border went along south to the inhabitants of En Tappuah. 

8 Manasseh had the land of Tappuah, but Tappuah on the border of Manasseh belonged to the children of Ephraim. 

9 And the border descended to the Brook Kanah, southward to the brook. These cities of Ephraim are among the cities of Manasseh. The border of Manasseh was on the north side of the brook; and it ended at the sea.

10 Southward it was Ephraim’s, northward it was Manasseh’s, and the sea was its border. Manasseh’s territory was adjoining Asher on the north and Issachar on the east. 

11 And in Issachar and in Asher, Manasseh had Beth Shean and its towns, Ibleam and its towns, the inhabitants of Dor and its towns, the inhabitants of En Dor and its towns, the inhabitants of Taanach and its towns, and the inhabitants of Megiddo and its towns—three hilly regions. 

12 Yet the children of Manasseh could not drive out the inhabitants of those cities, but the Canaanites were determined to dwell in that land. 

13 And it happened, when the children of Israel grew strong, that they put the Canaanites to forced labor, but did not utterly drive them out.

More Land for Ephraim and Manasseh

14 Then the children of Joseph spoke to Joshua, saying, “Why have you given us only one lot and one share to inherit, since we are a great people, inasmuch as the Lord has blessed us until now?”

15 So Joshua answered them, “If you are a great people, then go up to the forest country and clear a place for yourself there in the land of the Perizzites and the giants, since the mountains of Ephraim are too confined for you.”

16 But the children of Joseph said, “The mountain country is not enough for us; and all the Canaanites who dwell in the land of the valley have chariots of iron, both those who are of Beth Shean and its towns and those who are of the Valley of Jezreel.”

17 And Joshua spoke to the house of Joseph—to Ephraim and Manasseh—saying, “You are a great people and have great power; you shall not have only one lot, 

18 but the mountain country shall be yours. Although it is wooded, you shall cut it down, and its farthest extent shall be yours; for you shall drive out the Canaanites, though they have iron chariots and are strong.”

Journal:

• What areas of my life feel like “not enough” right now, and how might God be inviting me to see them differently
• What has God already placed in my hands that I can begin to use with greater faith
• Where is God asking me to take a step forward instead of holding back

Partial obedience

And they did not drive out the Canaanites who dwelt in Gezer; but the Canaanites dwell among the Ephraimites to this day and have become forced laborers. ~ Joshua 16:10

Have you ever settled for “almost”? Almost healed, almost free, almost walking fully in what God promised. It’s easy to convince yourself that partial progress is enough, especially when life feels busy or overwhelming. But God never designed His children to live in the “almost.” He calls us into fullness, even when it requires courage, obedience, and persistence.

In today’s scripture reading, the tribe of Ephraim received their inheritance, a promise fulfilled. Yet even in the middle of that blessing, they left something undone. They didn’t completely drive out what God had told them to remove and that decision stayed with them. It’s important to remember that God’s promises are secure, but our participation matters.

Here are some points to consider from this passage in Joshua.

1. God gives the promises, but we must walk it out to receive them

Ephraim was given land, yet they still had a responsibility to step in and take possession of it. God had already spoken, already made provision, and already gone before them. But they still had to move forward in obedience to experience what was promised.

In your daily life, this can look like God calling you into something new, maybe to start that ministry, take a new job, or step into a healthier mindset or lifestyle, but hesitation creeps in because it feels uncomfortable. You know what God said, yet you find yourself waiting for everything to feel easy before you begin.

A practical example of this truth could be when you feel led to pray more consistently, but your schedule feels full. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, you choose to get up ten minutes earlier to spend time with your Heavenly Father. That becomes your step of obedience, and God honors your willingness to move forward.

2. What we tolerate can limit what we fully experience

Ephraim didn’t completely remove the Canaanites. They allowed them to remain, even though it look like they kept theem under control. But partial obedience still has consequences.

As a child of God today, this can show up as allowing certain habits, thoughts, or influences to stay in your life when God has already shown you they don’t belong.

A practical example of this truth could be when you know a certain relationship drains your peace or pulls you away from God, but you keep it at a distance instead of releasing it completely. Over time, it still affects your growth. Choosing to fully let go creates space for God’s best.

3. God’s calling on your life is worth full obedience

Ephraim had a significant inheritance, but they didn’t fully step into all of it. God’s plans for you are bigger than what’s comfortable or convenient.

Today, walking in full obedience might mean trusting God in an area where you’ve been holding back.

A practical example of this could be when God has been nudging you to forgive someone. You’ve delayed because it hurts or would require humility. But when you choose to forgive, even in small steps, you begin to experience freedom you didn’t realize you were missing.

I remember a time in my life when I didn’t fully follow where I knew I was being called. I convinced myself it would be more beneficial to do things my way, thinking I could still reach the same outcome without taking the exact path God had shown me. At first, it seemed manageable, but over time, things began to unravel. The pressure of trying to hold everything together on my own became overwhelming, and I could feel that I wasn’t walking in the fullness of what God planned for me and everyone involved.

Deep down, I knew why. God had already been speaking clearly to my heart, but I chose to adjust His instructions instead of following them. I thought partial obedience would keep me close enough to His plan, but in reality, it was slowly leading me off course. That became a turning point for me.

So, I went back to the last thing He told me to do and made the decision to follow it, completely and without adding my own conditions. As I took those steps, one by one, I began to see His hand move in ways I hadn’t experienced before. Doors opened, provision showed up, and peace replaced the pressure I had been carrying.

Because of that experience I discovered something that I’ve held onto ever since. God always has the best in mind for me, and if I truly want to walk in it, it requires my full trust and complete obedience.

Today I want to encourage you, don’t settle for almost when God has promised you more. What He has spoken over your life is still true. Don’t let fear, comfort, or delay keep you from fully stepping into it. You are His child, and He has equipped you to walk in everything He’s placed before you.

Take a next step today by simple, going back to the last thing God placed on your heart and take one intentional action toward it. It doesn’t have to be big, it just has to be obedient. As you move, you’ll begin to see that He was already there, making the way, strengthening you, and confirming every promise along the journey.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 16

1 The lot fell to the children of Joseph from the Jordan, by Jericho, to the waters of Jericho on the east, to the wilderness that goes up from Jericho through the mountains to Bethel, 

2 then went out from Bethel to Luz, passed along to the border of the Archites at Ataroth, 

3 and went down westward to the boundary of the Japhletites, as far as the boundary of Lower Beth Horon to Gezer; and it ended at the sea.

4 So the children of Joseph, Manasseh and Ephraim, took their inheritance.

5 The border of the children of Ephraim, according to their families, was thus: The border of their inheritance on the east side was Ataroth Addar as far as Upper Beth Horon.

6 And the border went out toward the sea on the north side of Michmethath; then the border went around eastward to Taanath Shiloh, and passed by it on the east of Janohah. 

7 Then it went down from Janohah to Ataroth and Naarah, reached to Jericho, and came out at the Jordan.

8 The border went out from Tappuah westward to the Brook Kanah, and it ended at the sea. This was the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Ephraim according to their families. 

9 The separate cities for the children of Ephraim were among the inheritance of the children of Manasseh, all the cities with their villages.

10 And they did not drive out the Canaanites who dwelt in Gezer; but the Canaanites dwell among the Ephraimites to this day and have become forced laborers.

Journal:

• What is one area where I’ve been walking in partial obedience
• What has God already shown me that I need to fully act on
• What step can I take today to move closer to the fullness of what God has promised

Ask for more

She answered, “Give me a blessing; since you have given me land in the South, give me also springs of water.” So he gave her the upper springs and the lower springs. ~ Joshua 15:19

Have you ever settled for just enough when God was actually inviting you to ask for more?

In today’s scripture reading, we see the land being distributed, promises being fulfilled, and territory being claimed. But right in the middle of it, there is a powerful moment that can easily be overlooked. Achsah, the daughter of Caleb, did not just accept what she was given. She recognized that she needed something more to sustain it. So, she asked.

That simple act of asking shows us something about how we are meant to walk with God today. As His family, we are not called to live just barely getting by, spiritually dry, or hesitant to come before Him. We are called into a relationship where we trust Him enough to ask boldly and believe He cares about every detail of our lives, every day.

Consider this, what if the breakthrough you need is not just in what God has already given you, but in what you have not yet asked Him for?

Here are three truths in this passage that can change how you approach God in your daily life.

1. Recognize what you’ve been given but don’t stop there

Achsah had already been given land, which was a blessing in itself. But she understood that without water, the land could not fully produce.

In your life, you may already see areas where God has blessed you. But don’t stop there, instead ask Him how to walk in the fullness of what He has provided.

For example, you may have a job, but you feel drained, overwhelmed, or unsure of your purpose in it. Instead of just pushing through each day or even asking for new employment, you can begin asking God for wisdom, peace, and direction right where you are. You are not just meant to have the opportunity, you are meant to thrive in it.

2. Ask boldly with confidence

Achsah didn’t hesitate. She came forward and asked for what she needed. There was no apology in her request, only confidence that her father would listen and respond.

As a child of God, you have that same access. You don’t have to approach Him timidly or feel like your needs are too small or too much.

For example, if you are facing a difficult situation in your family, you can come to God and ask specifically for what you need. You can ask for peace in your home, wisdom in your conversations, and strength to respond with love. Bold prayers are not selfish when they are rooted in trust in Him. The Holy Spirit is in you to help and provide all that you need, but He waits for you to open the door by asking Him to reach into your daily activities.

3. Trust that He gives generously

Scripture says that Caleb gave her both the upper and lower springs. He didn’t just meet her need, he exceeded it.

This is a picture of how God responds. He isn’t limited in His ability to provide and He isn’t hesitant to bless His children.

For example, you may be praying for clarity in a decision. Not only can God give you direction, but He can also give you peace, confirmation, and the confidence to move forward. He doesn’t just guide you, He strengthens you along the way.

I remember a time in my life when I stepped into a new position of employment that was challenging and demanding. I had prayed for the job and believed that I had been given an opportunity, but something still felt incomplete. On the outside, everything looked like it should have been enough. But deep inside, I knew I needed more from God to walk it out the way He intended.

At first, I hesitated to ask. I questioned whether I should just be grateful and move on. For a while, I actually got caught up in complaining about the intensity of the profession. But that quiet prompting on the inside of my heart reminded me that I had asked for this placement and kept inviting me to be thankful and ask for what I needed each day to not only endure, but to excel and impact those around me.

When I finally did, something shifted. It wasn’t just that He answered, it was how He answered. He brought clarity where I had confusion, peace where I had pressure, and provision in ways I had not even considered. It reminded me that He is not just concerned with giving us something, He cares about sustaining us in it.

Today I want to encourage you to stop settling for what feels incomplete and begin asking God for the fullness of what He has for you. Take a moment today and bring one specific area of your life before Him where you need more than what you currently see. Ask Him boldly for wisdom, for provision, or for peace, and trust that He hears you and responds with generosity. You are not asking a distant God, you are coming to a loving Father who delights in giving you what you need to walk in His purpose.

Today’s scripture reading:

1 So this was the lot of the tribe of the children of Judah according to their families:

The border of Edom at the Wilderness of Zin southward was the extreme southern boundary. 

2 And their southern border began at the shore of the Salt Sea, from the bay that faces southward. 

3 Then it went out to the southern side of the Ascent of Akrabbim, passed along to Zin, ascended on the south side of Kadesh Barnea, passed along to Hezron, went up to Adar, and went around to Karkaa. 

4 From there it passed toward Azmon and went out to the Brook of Egypt; and the border ended at the sea. This shall be your southern border.

5 The east border was the Salt Sea as far as the mouth of the Jordan.

And the border on the northern quarter began at the bay of the sea at the mouth of the Jordan. 

6 The border went up to Beth Hoglah and passed north of Beth Arabah; and the border went up to the stone of Bohan the son of Reuben. 

7 Then the border went up toward Debir from the Valley of Achor, and it turned northward toward Gilgal, which is before the Ascent of Adummim, which is on the south side of the valley. The border continued toward the waters of En Shemesh and ended at En Rogel. 

8 And the border went up by the Valley of the Son of Hinnom to the southern slope of the Jebusite city (which is Jerusalem). The border went up to the top of the mountain that lies before the Valley of Hinnom westward, which is at the end of the Valley of Rephaim northward. 

9 Then the border went around from the top of the hill to the fountain of the water of Nephtoah, and extended to the cities of Mount Ephron. And the border went around to Baalah (which is Kirjath Jearim). 

10 Then the border turned westward from Baalah to Mount Seir, passed along to the side of Mount Jearim on the north (which is Chesalon), went down to Beth Shemesh, and passed on to Timnah. 

11 And the border went out to the side of Ekron northward. Then the border went around to Shicron, passed along to Mount Baalah, and extended to Jabneel; and the border ended at the sea.

12 The west border was the coastline of the Great Sea. This is the boundary of the children of Judah all around according to their families.

Caleb Occupies Hebron and Debir

13 Now to Caleb the son of Jephunneh he gave a share among the children of Judah, according to the commandment of the Lord to Joshua, namely, Kirjath Arba, which is Hebron (Arba was the father of Anak). 

14 Caleb drove out the three sons of Anak from there: Sheshai, Ahiman, and Talmai, the children of Anak. 

15 Then he went up from there to the inhabitants of Debir (formerly the name of Debir was Kirjath Sepher).

16 And Caleb said, “He who attacks Kirjath Sepher and takes it, to him I will give Achsah my daughter as wife.” 

17 So Othniel the son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb, took it; and he gave him Achsah his daughter as wife. 

18 Now it was so, when she came to him, that she persuaded him to ask her father for a field. So she dismounted from her donkey, and Caleb said to her, “What do you wish?” 

19 She answered, “Give me a blessing; since you have given me land in the South, give me also springs of water.” So he gave her the upper springs and the lower springs.

20 This was the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Judah according to their families:

21 The cities at the limits of the tribe of the children of Judah, toward the border of Edom in the South, were Kabzeel, Eder, Jagur, 

22 Kinah, Dimonah, Adadah, 

23 Kedesh, Hazor, Ithnan, 

24 Ziph, Telem, Bealoth, 

25 Hazor, Hadattah, Kerioth, Hezron (which is Hazor), 

26 Amam, Shema, Moladah, 

27 Hazar Gaddah, Heshmon, Beth Pelet, 

28 Hazar Shual, Beersheba, Bizjothjah, 

29 Baalah, Ijim, Ezem, 

30 Eltolad, Chesil, Hormah, 

31 Ziklag, Madmannah, Sansannah, 

32 Lebaoth, Shilhim, Ain, and Rimmon: all the cities are twenty-nine, with their villages.

33 In the lowland: Eshtaol, Zorah, Ashnah, 

34 Zanoah, En Gannim, Tappuah, Enam, 

35 Jarmuth, Adullam, Socoh, Azekah, 

36 Sharaim, Adithaim, Gederah, and Gederothaim: fourteen cities with their villages; 

37 Zenan, Hadashah, Migdal Gad, 

38 Dilean, Mizpah, Joktheel, 

39 Lachish, Bozkath, Eglon, 

40 Cabbon, Lahmas, Kithlish, 

41 Gederoth, Beth Dagon, Naamah, and Makkedah: sixteen cities with their villages; 

42 Libnah, Ether, Ashan, 

43 Jiphtah, Ashnah, Nezib, 

44 Keilah, Achzib, and Mareshah: nine cities with their villages; 

45 Ekron, with its towns and villages; 

46 from Ekron to the sea, all that lay near Ashdod, with their villages; 

47 Ashdod with its towns and villages, Gaza with its towns and villages—as far as the Brook of Egypt and the

48 And in the mountain country: Shamir, Jattir, Sochoh, 

49 Dannah, Kirjath Sannah (which is Debir), 

50 Anab, Eshtemoh, Anim, 

51 Goshen, Holon, and Giloh: eleven cities with their villages; 

52 Arab, Dumah, Eshean, 

53 Janum, Beth Tappuah, Aphekah, 

54 Humtah, Kirjath Arba (which is Hebron), and Zior: nine cities with their villages; 

55 Maon, Carmel, Ziph, Juttah, 

56 Jezreel, Jokdeam, Zanoah, 

57 Kain, Gibeah, and Timnah: ten cities with their villages; 

58 Halhul, Beth Zur, Gedor, 

59 Maarath, Beth Anoth, and Eltekon: six cities with their villages; 

60 Kirjath Baal (which is Kirjath Jearim) and Rabbah: two cities with their villages.

61 In the wilderness: Beth Arabah, Middin, Secacah, 

62 Nibshan, the City of Salt, and En Gedi: six cities with their villages.

63 As for the Jebusites, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the children of Judah could not drive them out; but the Jebusites dwell with the children of Judah at Jerusalem to this day.

Journal:

• Where in my life have I settled for just enough instead of asking God for more
• What specific need do I need to bring boldly before God today
• How can I begin trusting God not just to provide, but to sustain me in what He has given me

Give me this Mountain

Now, give me this mountain that the Lord spoke in that day; for you heard in that day how the Anakim were there, and that the cities were great and fortified. It may be the Lord will be with me, and I shall be able to drive them out as the Lord said. ~ Joshua 14:12

What if the very thing that looks too big, too late, or too difficult in your life is actually the place God is calling you to step into with bold faith?

In today’s scripture reading, we read about Caleb who stood in front of Joshua at eighty-five years old, not asking for something easy, not asking to slow down, but asking for a mountain. Not just any mountain, but one occupied by giants. While others might have settled into comfort or looked back at what had already been accomplished, Caleb looked forward with confidence in what God had promised.

Having bold faith like Caleb did all those years ago is still important today. In a world that often tells you to play it safe, stay comfortable, or lower your expectations, God calls His children to trust Him fully and step into what He has spoken, no matter how long it takes or how impossible it may seem.

As we look at Caleb’s life, consider these three powerful truths that can shape how you walk with God right where you are.

1. Hold on to what God has spoken

Caleb never let go of the promise God gave him, even though decades passed before he saw it come to life. Time did not weaken his faith. It strengthened it.

You can apply this truth in your daily life, by holding onto the things God has placed in your heart, even when you do not see immediate results. Maybe God gave you a vision for your family, your calling, or your future, and it feels like nothing is moving. Instead of letting doubt take over, keep bringing that promise back to Him in prayer and speak His promises over it.

For example, if you are believing for restoration in a relationship, you may not see change right away. But you continue choosing patience, forgiveness, and prayer, trusting that God is still working even when it feels quiet.

2. Don’t let your current circumstances redefine your confidence

Caleb acknowledged the giants. He did not ignore the challenge, but he also did not let it define the outcome. His confidence was rooted in God, not in what the outward circumstances.

In today’s world, it is easy to let what you see in the natural world speak louder than God’s promises. You might look at your finances, your health, or your situation and feel overwhelmed. But like Caleb, you can choose to let your confidence come from who God is, not what is in front of you.

You can put this principle into practice in your life when you are stepping into something new and feel underqualified. Instead of shrinking back, remind yourself that God equips those He calls. Take the step of faith, anyway, trusting that His strength will meet you there.

3. Stay strong through the process

Caleb said he was just as strong at eighty-five as he was at forty. That strength was not just physical. It was spiritual. He stayed steady in his faith through all his years of life.

Growth with God is not built in one minute. It is built through consistency, through showing up, through trusting and through continuing to believe even when the journey feels long.

Remember, if you have been praying about something for years, it can be tempting to grow tired or discouraged. But strength comes when you continue choosing to seek Him, continue choosing to trust Him, and continue choosing to follow His leading day by day.

I remember a particular time in my own life when I felt stuck. I felt like I had been holding onto a promise for so long that I started to question if I had actually heard God correctly. After much time had passed, circumstances had shifted, and it would have been easy to let go and settle for something less. But deep down, I knew what He had spoken to my heart.

There were moments I had to remind myself again and again that just because I did not see movement, it didn’t mean God wasn’t working. I had to keep choosing faith over what I felt. When I finally saw God begin to move in that situation, it was clear that He had been faithful all along. The waiting hadn’t been wasted, it had strengthened and grown me into the faith I needed for the next step in His plan.

Today I want to encourage you to hold onto what God has spoken, even if it feels delayed, even if it looks impossible, and even if others do not understand. The same God who empowered Caleb to take his mountain is the same God who is working in your life right now. Your waiting is not wasted, your faith is not unseen, and your promise is not forgotten. Take a moment today to write down one promise you believe God has given you, find a scripture that supports it, and begin praying over it daily with expectation. Stay steady, keep trusting, and be willing to say with confidence, “Give me this mountain.”

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 14

1 These are the areas which the children of Israel inherited in the land of Canaan, which Eleazar the priest, Joshua the son of Nun, and the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel distributed as an inheritance to them. 

2 Their inheritance was by lot, as the Lord had commanded by the hand of Moses, for the nine tribes and the half-tribe. 

3 For Moses had given the inheritance of the two tribes and the half-tribe on the other side of the Jordan; but to the Levites he had given no inheritance among them. 

4 For the children of Joseph were two tribes: Manasseh and Ephraim. And they gave no part to the Levites in the land, except cities to dwell in, with their common-lands for their livestock and their property. 

5 As the Lord had commanded Moses, so the children of Israel did; and they divided the land.

6 Then the children of Judah came to Joshua in Gilgal. And Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him: “You know the word which the Lord said to Moses the man of God concerning you and me in Kadesh Barnea. 

7 I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the Lord sent me from Kadesh Barnea to spy out the land, and I brought back word to him as it was in my heart. 

8 Nevertheless my brethren who went up with me made the heart of the people melt, but I wholly followed the Lord my God. 

9 So Moses swore on that day, saying, ‘Surely the land where your foot has trodden shall be your inheritance and your children’s forever, because you have wholly followed the Lord my God.’ 

10 And now, behold, the Lord has kept me alive, as He said, these forty-five years, ever since the Lord spoke this word to Moses while Israel wandered in the wilderness; and now, here I am this day, eighty-five years old. 

11 As yet I am as strong this day as on the day that Moses sent me; just as my strength was then, so now is my strength for war, both for going out and for coming in. 

12 Now therefore, give me this mountain of which the Lord spoke in that day; for you heard in that day how the Anakim were there, and that the cities were great and fortified. It may be that the Lord will be with me, and I shall be able to drive them out as the Lord said.”

13 And Joshua blessed him, and gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh as an inheritance. 

14 Hebron therefore became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite to this day, because he wholly followed the Lord God of Israel. 

15 And the name of Hebron formerly was Kirjath Arba (Arba was the greatest man among the Anakim). Then the land had rest from war.

Journal:

• What promise from God have I been tempted to let go of, and how can I begin to hold onto it again with faith
• What circumstances in my life have been speaking louder than God’s truth, and what scripture can I stand on instead
• In what area do I need to stay consistent and strong, even if I have not yet seen the outcome

Our Shepherd   

_{And Jesus, when He came out, saw a great multitude and was moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd. So He began to teach them many things. ~ Mark 6:34}

Have you ever felt like you were searching for direction, looking for answers, and not quite sure where to turn next?

That’s the same thing Jesus saw in the people when He looked at the crowd that had gathered to hear Him teach. He didn’t just see people, He saw hearts that were unsettled, searching, and in need of guidance. They were like sheep without a shepherd, vulnerable, wandering, and trying to find their way. In that moment, He didn’t turn them away and He didn’t tell them to come back later. Instead He was moved with compassion and stepped in to lead, to teach, and to care for them.

This passage brings to mind Psalm 23, where we are reminded that the Lord is our Shepherd. Yet here in Mark, Jesus recognizes that the people were living as though they had no shepherd at all. They were drawn to Him because something inside them knew He had what they were missing.

How did He know they were without a shepherd? You can see it in what they were looking for. They followed Him even when He tried to step away to rest. They were hungry, not just for food, but for truth, for hope, for something real. They were restless, searching for answers they had not found anywhere else. Jesus met them right there, in their need.

Today, we are not without a Shepherd. We have the Good Shepherd, and His name is Jesus. When we truly trust Him and follow His voice, we don’t have to chase after every new message or look for someone else to lead us. We find peace in staying close to Him. He leads us beside still waters, restores our soul, and gives us rest even in the middle of life’s demands. When we walk through difficult seasons, we don’t have to be afraid because He is with us. He protects, He comforts, and He provides exactly what we need.

Here are some practical ways to live this out in your daily life to begin walking closely with your good Shepherd.

1. Start your day by inviting Jesus to lead you. Instead of rushing into your schedule, take a few moments to say, “Lord, lead me today. Show me where to go and what to do.” This simple step sets the tone for your day and keeps your heart open to His direction.
2. Stay close to His voice through His Word. Spend time reading scripture, even if it’s just a few verses. For example, you can read Psalm 23 and remind yourself that He is your Shepherd. As you hang on to His Word in your heart, you’ll begin to recognize His voice more clearly in everyday decision.
3. Stop chasing what doesn’t satisfy. If you find yourself constantly looking for answers in people, trends, or opinions, pause and turn back to Jesus. He is your source. When you feel unsettled, take that as a reminder to draw closer to Him instead of searching elsewhere.
4. Trust Him in uncertain moments. When you’re facing a decision or walking through a difficult situation, choose to trust that your Shepherd is guiding you. Even if you can’t see the full path, take the next step in faith, knowing He is with you.

I remember a time in my life when I felt unsettled and unsure of what to do next. I found myself looking for answers everywhere, asking people, overthinking decisions, and still feeling empty. It wasn’t until I slowed down and turned my focus back to Jesus those things began to change. As I spent time with Him, in His Word and in prayer, I began to sense His direction more clearly. The noise quieted, the confusion lifted, and I experienced a peace that I couldn’t find anywhere else. Those times remind me that I was never meant to figure life out on my own. I have a Shepherd who leads me, cares for me, and knows exactly what I need.

Today I want to encourage you to stop striving and start following your Shepherd. You are not alone, you are not without direction, and you are not meant to wander through life trying to figure it all out. Jesus sees you, He has compassion for you, and He is ready to lead you every step of the way. Stay close to Him, trust His voice, and let Him guide you into peace, provision, and purpose.

Today’s scripture reading Mark 6:30-44

30 Then the apostles gathered to Jesus and told Him all things, both what they had done and what they had taught. 

31 And He said to them, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. 

32 So they departed to a deserted place in the boat by themselves.

33 But the multitudes saw them departing, and many knew Him and ran there on foot from all the cities. They arrived before them and came together to Him. 

34And Jesus, when He came out, saw a great multitude and was moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd. So He began to teach them many things. 

35 When the day was now far spent, His disciples came to Him and said, “This is a deserted place, and already the hour is late. 

36 Send them away, that they may go into the surrounding country and villages and buy themselves bread; for they have nothing to eat.”

37 But He answered and said to them, “You give them something to eat.” And they said to Him, “Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread and give them something to eat?”

38 But He said to them, “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.” And when they found out they said, “Five, and two fish.”

39 Then He commanded them to make them all sit down in groups on the green grass. 

40 So they sat down in ranks, in hundreds and in fifties. 

41 And when He had taken the five loaves and the two fish, He looked up to heaven, blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to His disciples to set before them; and the two fish He divided among them all. 

42 So they all ate and were filled. 

43 And they took up twelve baskets full of fragments and of the fish. 

44 Now those who had eaten the loaves were about five thousand men.

Journal:

• What areas of my life feel unsettled right now, and how can I invite Jesus to lead me in those areas
• Am I looking to other people or sources for direction instead of going to my Shepherd first
• What is one practical way I can spend time with Jesus each day this week
• Where have I seen God guide me in the past, and how can that strengthen my trust in Him now

When the truth costs something

For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just and holy man, and he protected him. And when he heard him, he did many things and heard him gladly. ~ Mark 6:17

What do you do when doing the right thing makes your life uncomfortable, complicated, or even costly? This passage tells the intense story of John the Baptist, a man who stood firmly for truth even when it placed him in danger. King Herod was intrigued by John. He knew there was something different about him, something holy, something set apart. But instead of fully surrendering to truth, Herod lived divided, curious and compromised. That tension eventually led to a tragic decision, one that silenced the very voice God had sent to bring clarity.

As children of God living in today’s world, we are often faced with similar moments. We may not stand before kings, but we encounter pressure, opinions, and expectations that try to pull us away from the truth of God’s path. This story reminds us that God’s way is not always popular, but it is always powerful.

Below are three ways this passage speaks directly into our everyday lives and how we can walk it out with courage and faith.

1. Stand Firm in Truth, Even When It’s Uncomfortable

John the Baptist did not soften the message to make people comfortable. He spoke what was right in God’s eyes, even when it challenged authority.

In your daily life, this could look like choosing integrity at work when others are cutting corners. It may mean lovingly speaking truth in a relationship instead of avoiding conflict. It might even be as simple as not going along with conversations that dishonor others. When you choose truth, you may feel resistance, but you are also creating space for God’s power to move through your obedience.

Start small. If you’re in a situation where you feel pressure to compromise, pause and ask, “What honors God here?” Then take one step in that direction, even if your voice shakes.

2. Guard Your Heart Against Compromise

Herod listened to John, he was intrigued, even moved at times, but he never allowed the truth to transform his life. He kept one foot in conviction and one foot in compromise.

It is possible to hear truth regularly, through church, devotionals, or conversations, and still not let it change the way we live. That is a dangerous place to be.

When God brings conviction, act on it quickly. If you feel prompted to forgive someone, take that step. If you sense a need to change a habit, begin today. Following the Holy Spirit’s direction keeps your heart soft and sensitive to your heavenly Father.

3. Your Obedience Has Eternal Impact

John’s life may have seemed cut short, but his obedience fulfilled his assignment. He prepared the way for Jesus and pointed people toward truth.

You may not always see the full impact of your obedience, but every choice to follow God matters. Every act of faith plants seeds that God can grow in ways you may never fully see.

Be faithful where you are. Whether you are encouraging a friend, serving your family, or stepping out in ministry, trust that God is using your obedience for something greater than what is visible.

I remember early on in my life when I was afraid to fully follow through on what I knew God was placing on my heart. I did not even realize I was doing it at the time, but I was choosing my own way and not really acknowledging that God had a real plan for my life. There were so many moments when I felt that gentle nudge to help someone, but because it was not convenient or it didn’t feel popular in that moment, I would quietly say in my heart, “Maybe later.” Over time, I became less sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s voice, and that led me into struggles I was never meant to carry.

But when I finally made the decision to step out and do what was right, to say what needed to be said, even when it felt uncomfortable, everything began to change. It wasn’t easy, but it brought freedom, clarity, and growth, not only for me but for others too. Those moments showed me something I hold onto even now, obedience is never wasted. Even when it feels hard to do the right thing at the time, I know God is always working through every step of faith.

Today I want to encourage you to choose truth over comfort, obedience over approval, and faith over fear. Just like John, your life carries a message, and your willingness to stand firm can point others toward God in powerful ways. Even when the world feels loud and opinions feel overwhelming, your steady commitment to God’s truth will not go unnoticed. He sees you, He strengthens you, and He will use your obedience for His purpose.

This week, take one intentional step of obedience. Pay attention to that gentle nudge from the Holy Spirit and act on it right away. It could be reaching out to encourage someone, offering help, or speaking truth in love when you normally stay quiet. Don’t push it off or say “maybe later.” Say yes at that moment. As you do, you will begin to see how God moves through your willingness, and your sensitivity to His voice will grow stronger each day.

Today’s scripture reading: Mark 6:14-29

 14 Now King Herod heard of Him, for His name had become well known. And he said, “John the Baptist is risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him.”

15 Others said, “It is Elijah.”

And others said, “It is the Prophet, or like one of the prophets.”

16 But when Herod heard, he said, “This is John, whom I beheaded; he has been raised from the dead!” 

17 For Herod himself had sent and laid hold of John, and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife; for he had married her. 

18 Because John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.”

19 Therefore Herodias held it against him and wanted to kill him, but she could not; 

20 for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just and holy man, and he protected him. And when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.

21 Then an opportune day came when Herod on his birthday gave a feast for his nobles, the high officers, and the chief men of Galilee. 

22 And when Herodias’ daughter herself came in and danced, and pleased Herod and those who sat with him, the king said to the girl, “Ask me whatever you want, and I will give it to you.” 

23 He also swore to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half my kingdom.”

24 So she went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask?”

And she said, “The head of John the Baptist!”

25 Immediately she came in with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.”

26 And the king was exceedingly sorry; yet, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he did not want to refuse her. 

27 Immediately the king sent an executioner and commanded his head to be brought. And he went and beheaded him in prison, 

28 brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother. 

29 When his disciples heard of it, they came and took away his corpse and laid it in a tomb.

Journal:

• What is one area in my life where I feel pressure to compromise, and what would it look like to choose truth instead
• Is there something God has been prompting me to act on that I have been delaying
• How can I take one step of obedience today, even if it feels uncomfortable
• Where have I seen God use my obedience in the past to impact others

Still more to possess

Now Joshua was old, advanced in years. And the Lord said to him: “You are old, advanced in years, and there remains very much land yet to be possessed. ~ Joshua 13:1

Have you ever reached a place in life where you thought, “I’ve done enough, I’ve come far, maybe this is it”? It can feel like you’ve poured out your strength, walked through battles, and carried responsibilities for so long that the idea of more feels overwhelming. In today’s scripture reading, God speaks something unexpected to a seasoned leader. He acknowledges Joshua’s age, but He also reminds him that there is still more ahead. More promise, more purpose, more territory to step into.

As a child of God today, it is easy to believe that a certain age defines our limits. Maybe you feel like you missed your moment, or that your best days are behind you. But God doesn’t measure your life by your timeline. He measures it by His promises and your purpose and your not done until you have finished your mission.

Here are three important reminders that will help you walk confidently in what God still has planned for your life.

1. God sees both where you are and what is still ahead

God didn’t ignore Joshua’s reality, but He acknowledged it.  He said “You are advanced in years.” Yet He immediately followed it with truth by adding, “There is still much land to possess.” God sees your weariness, your past, your current season, and He still speaks purpose over your future.

In your daily life, this looks like choosing not to disqualify yourself. Maybe you have been in the same job for years and feel overlooked. Instead of settling into frustration, you begin to ask God where He is leading you next. You stay open, you grow, and you trust that He is not done writing your story.

2. Unfinished does not mean unsuccessful

Joshua had led Israel through miraculous victories, yet there was still land unconquered. That did not mean he failed. It meant God’s plan was bigger than one season.

Sometimes we look at our lives and focus on what is incomplete. A dream that has not happened yet, a prayer that seems unanswered or a relationship that is still healing. But unfinished is often where faith grows the strongest.

This can show up when you are raising a family and do not see immediate results. You are praying, guiding, and loving, yet things are not perfect. Instead of feeling defeated, you recognize that God is still working. You stay consistent, knowing that your obedience today is part of a greater story.

3. God’s promises extend beyond one generation

In this chapter, God begins to outline the inheritance for the tribes. The promise was not just for Joshua. It was for the people, for their future and for what would continue after him.

Your obedience today impacts more than just you. It reaches your children, your community, and people you may never meet. What God is doing in your life carries forward.

This might look like choosing to live out your faith boldly at work or in your family. Even when it feels unnoticed, you are planting seeds. A kind word, a prayer or a moment of integrity can shape someone else’s path in ways you may never fully see.

I’m at a point in my life where I find myself thinking more often about what God still wants to do through me. If I’m honest, there are moments when I feel the quiet pressure of the culture around me. It has a way of suggesting that at a certain age, you’re supposed to slow down, step back, and begin to fade into the background. It subtly whispers that your most impactful years are behind you, that it’s time to sit down and let someone else run the race.

If I’m not intentional about staying on God’s path and purpose for my life, I can start to believe that. I’ve caught myself wondering, have I reached my limit, is there anything left for me to do, have I already seen the best of what God had for my life?

But every time those thoughts try to settle in, God meets me there with truth. He lovingly reminds me that my story isn’t ending in this place. He hasn’t brought me this far to set me aside. Instead, He continues to open doors I never expected, creates opportunities that stretch me, and grows my faith in ways that go beyond what I thought was even possible at this stage of my life.

In my heart I know that what culture calls winding down, God often calls stepping deeper in. What feels like the edge of my strength has actually become the starting point of a deeper trust in Him for my future. I don’t have to have it all figured out, I just have to stay willing and available.

There is still more He wants to do in me, and there is still more He wants to do through me. I’m choosing to believe that my age is not a limitation, it’s a platform for His faithfulness to be seen in even greater ways.

Today I want to encourage you, no matter where you find yourself or what age you are, there is still more to possess. God is not finished with your life. The same God who brought you this far is still leading you forward. Do not let weariness convince you that your purpose has expired. There is still territory with your name on it, still promises waiting to unfold, and still impact for you to make as His child.

Your next step is simple, but powerful. Ask God to show you one area where He is calling you forward, then take a step of faith in that direction this week. It might be saying yes to something new, revisiting a dream you laid down, reaching out to someone, or stepping into a place you once felt unqualified for. You don’t have to conquer everything at once. Just take the next step He places in front of you and trust Him to lead you into all that still remains.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 13

1 Now Joshua was old, advanced in years. And the Lord said to him: “You are old, advanced in years, and there remains very much land yet to be possessed. 

2 This is the land that yet remains: all the territory of the Philistines and all that of the Geshurites, 

3 from Sihor, which is east of Egypt, as far as the border of Ekron northward (which is counted as Canaanite); the five lords of the Philistines—the Gazites, the Ashdodites, the Ashkelonites, the Gittites, and the Ekronites; also the Avites; 

4 from the south, all the land of the Canaanites, and Mearah that belongs to the Sidonians as far as Aphek, to the border of the Amorites; 

5 the land of the Gebalites, and all Lebanon, toward the sunrise, from Baal Gad below Mount Hermon as far as the entrance to Hamath; 

6 all the inhabitants of the mountains from Lebanon as far as the Brook Misrephoth, and all the Sidonians—them I will drive out from before the children of Israel; only divide it by lot to Israel as an inheritance, as I have commanded you. 

7 Now therefore, divide this land as an inheritance to the nine tribes and half the tribe of Manasseh.”

8 With the other half-tribe the Reubenites and the Gadites received their inheritance, which Moses had given them, beyond the Jordan eastward, as Moses the servant of the Lord had given them: 

9 from Aroer which is on the bank of the River Arnon, and the town that is in the midst of the ravine, and all the plain of Medeba as far as Dibon; 

10 all the cities of Sihon king of the Amorites, who reigned in Heshbon, as far as the border of the children of Ammon; 

11 Gilead, and the border of the Geshurites and Maachathites, all Mount Hermon, and all Bashan as far as Salcah; 

12 all the kingdom of Og in Bashan, who reigned in Ashtaroth and Edrei, who remained of the remnant of the giants; for Moses had defeated and cast out these.

13 Nevertheless the children of Israel did not drive out the Geshurites or the Maachathites, but the Geshurites and the Maachathites dwell among the Israelites until this day.

14 Only to the tribe of Levi he had given no inheritance; the sacrifices of the Lord God of Israel made by fire are their inheritance, as He said to them.

The Land of Reuben

15 And Moses had given to the tribe of the children of Reuben an inheritance according to their families. 

16 Their territory was from Aroer, which is on the bank of the River Arnon, and the city that is in the midst of the ravine, and all the plain by Medeba; 

17 Heshbon and all its cities that are in the plain: Dibon, Bamoth Baal, Beth Baal Meon, 

18 Jahaza, Kedemoth, Mephaath, 

19 Kirjathaim, Sibmah, Zereth Shahar on the mountain of the valley, 

20 Beth Peor, the slopes of Pisgah, and Beth Jeshimoth— 

21 all the cities of the plain and all the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, who reigned in Heshbon, whom Moses had struck with the princes of Midian: Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba, who were princes of Sihon dwelling in the country. 

22 The children of Israel also killed with the sword Balaam the son of Beor, the soothsayer, among those who were killed by them. 

23 And the border of the children of Reuben was the bank of the Jordan. This was the inheritance of the children of Reuben according to their families, the cities and their villages.

24 Moses also had given an inheritance to the tribe of Gad, to the children of Gad according to their families. 

25 Their territory was Jazer, and all the cities of Gilead, and half the land of the Ammonites as far as Aroer, which is before Rabbah, 

26 and from Heshbon to Ramath Mizpah and Betonim, and from Mahanaim to the border of Debir, 

27 and in the valley Beth Haram, Beth Nimrah, Succoth, and Zaphon, the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon, with the Jordan as its border, as far as the edge of the Sea of Chinnereth, on the other side of the Jordan eastward. 

28  This is the inheritance of the children of Gad according to their families, the cities and their villages.

Half the Tribe of Manasseh (East)

29 Moses also had given an inheritance to half the tribe of Manasseh; it was for half the tribe of the children of Manasseh according to their families: 

30 Their territory was from Mahanaim, all Bashan, all the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, and all the towns of Jair which are in Bashan, sixty cities; 

31 half of Gilead, and Ashtaroth and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan, were for the children of Machir the son of Manasseh, for half of the children of Machir according to their families.

32 These are the areas which Moses had distributed as an inheritance in the plains of Moab on the other side of the Jordan, by Jericho eastward. 

33 But to the tribe of Levi Moses had given no inheritance; the Lord God of Israel was their inheritance, as He had said to them.

Journal:

• What areas of my life have I assumed were complete, but God may be saying there is still more
• Where have I been focusing on what is unfinished instead of trusting God’s ongoing work
• How can I take one step of faith this week toward something God has placed on my heart

Remember What God has Already Done

And these are the kings of the country which Joshua and the children of Israel conquered on this side of the Jordan, on the west, from Baal Gad in the Valley of Lebanon as far as Mount Halak and the ascent to Seir, which Joshua gave to the tribes of Israel as a possession according to their divisions,  ~ Joshua 12:7

Have you ever moved so quickly into the next challenge that you forgot to stop and remember what God already brought you through? Today’s scripture reading is a chapter that could easily be overlooked. It is a list of defeated kings, one after another. At first glance, it may seem repetitive, but this is actually a powerful reminder. Each name represents a victory. Each victory represents God’s faithfulness. God made sure His people paused long enough to remember.

As children of God today, we are often focused on what is ahead, what is not finished, or what still feels uncertain. But there is strength, confidence, and encouragement that comes when we take time to remember what God has already done in our lives.

Below are three truths from this chapter to carry into our daily walk.

1. Remembering past victories builds present confidence

Every king listed in Joshua 12 was once a real battle. In the moment, each one required faith, courage, and trust in God. Looking back, they became a testimony. When we remember what God has already done, it strengthens our faith for what we are facing now and in the future.

Take time to recall specific moments where God came through for you. Let those moments remind you that He is still faithful. You may be facing a new challenge that feels overwhelming. Instead of focusing only on the pressure, think back to a time when God made a way for you before. Let that memory remind you that He has not changed.

2. What once felt impossible can become a testimony

Those kings once represented fear and opposition. Now they were simply part of a list of victories. The things that once felt impossible in your life can become part of your testimony.

Do not let your current struggle define your future. Trust that God is working even when you don’t see it yet. You may be walking through a difficult season in your family, your health, or your finances. It may feel heavy right now, but this is not the end of your story. God is able to turn this into something that strengthens you and encourages others.

3. God’s faithfulness is consistent through every season

Joshua 12 doesn’t highlight one victory, it highlights many. This shows that God’s faithfulness was not a one time event, it was consistent no matter what they faced. In your life, God is not just faithful once, He is faithful again and again.

Look for patterns of God’s faithfulness in your life. Recognize how He has carried you through different seasons. You may notice that every time you have faced uncertainty, God has provided in some way. When you begin to see that pattern, it builds trust that He will continue to do it again.

I have seen this in my own life in so many ways. One area that stands out is the faithfulness of my heavenly Father in the lives of our children. I find myself continually thanking Him for how He has walked with them through every season. Through struggles, uncertainty, and moments that felt overwhelming, He never left them, He strengthened them, encouraged them, and gently drew them closer to Him in their faith.

There were times when what they were facing felt too heavy to carry, moments where as a parent I wished I could take it all on myself. But God was already there, carrying what we couldn’t. He met them in those hard places and sustained them in ways only He can.

Now, when I look back, I can clearly see His hand in every step. What once felt heavy has become part of my testimony and theirs. Those moments that once brought concern now serve as reminders of His goodness and faithfulness.

Taking time to remember these things builds my confidence in Him. It reminds me that He will continue to be faithful in whatever comes their way, and that we are never stepping into the unknown alone. God has already gone before us, and He will faithfully walk us through whatever lies ahead.

Today I want to encourage you to pause and intentionally remember what God has already done in your life, to let those past victories strengthen your faith for where you are right now. Take time to write them down, revisit the moments where He made a way, where He provided, where He sustained you, and where He carried you through what once felt impossible.

As you do, allow those memories to build confidence in your heart. The same God who was faithful then is still working in your life today. Nothing you are facing now is beyond His reach or outside of His care. Every battle you have faced and every victory you have seen stands as a reminder that His faithfulness has never failed you, not once, and it never will.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 12

1 These are the kings of the land whom the children of Israel defeated, and whose land they possessed on the other side of the Jordan toward the rising of the sun, from the River Arnon to Mount Hermon, and all the eastern Jordan plain: 

2 One king was Sihon king of the Amorites, who dwelt in Heshbon and ruled half of Gilead, from Aroer, which is on the bank of the River Arnon, from the middle of that river, even as far as the River Jabbok, which is the border of the Ammonites, 

3 and the eastern Jordan plain from the Sea of Chinneroth as far as the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea), the road to Beth Jeshimoth, and southward below the slopes of Pisgah. 

4 The other king was Og king of Bashan and his territory, who was of the remnant of the giants, who dwelt at Ashtaroth and at Edrei, 

5 and reigned over Mount Hermon, over Salcah, over all Bashan, as far as the border of the Geshurites and the Maachathites, and over half of Gilead to the border of Sihon king of Heshbon.

6 These Moses the servant of the Lord and the children of Israel had conquered; and Moses the servant of the Lord had given it as a possession to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh.

7 And these are the kings of the country which Joshua and the children of Israel conquered on this side of the Jordan, on the west, from Baal Gad in the Valley of Lebanon as far as Mount Halak and the ascent to Seir, which Joshua gave to the tribes of Israel as a possession according to their divisions, 

8  in the mountain country, in the lowlands, in the Jordan plain, in the slopes, in the wilderness, and in the South—the Hittites, the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites:

9 the king of Jericho, one; the king of Ai, which is beside Bethel, one; 

10 the king of Jerusalem, one; the king of Hebron, one; 

11 the king of Jarmuth, one; the king of Lachish, one; 

12 the king of Eglon, one; the king of Gezer, one; 

13 the king of Debir, one; the king of Geder, one; 

14 the king of Hormah, one; the king of Arad, one; 

15 the king of Libnah, one; the king of Adullam, one; 

16 the king of Makkedah, one; the king of Bethel, one; 

17 the king of Tappuah, one; the king of Hepher, one; 

18 the king of Aphek, one; the king of Lasharon, one; 

19 the king of Madon, one; the king of Hazor, one; 

20 the king of Shimron Meron, one; the king of Achshaph, one; 

21 the king of Taanach, one; the king of Megiddo, one; 

22 the king of Kedesh, one; the king of Jokneam in Carmel, one; 

23 the king of Dor in the heights of Dor, one; the king of the people of Gilgal, one; 

24 the king of Tirzah, one—all the kings, thirty-one.

Journal:

• What are some specific victories God has brought me through in the past
• How can remembering those moments strengthen me in my current situation
• What feels impossible right now that I need to trust God with
• Where have I seen God’s faithfulness repeated in my life
• How can I intentionally remind myself of God’s goodness this week