The Daily Dose

Don’t skip the counsel

_{Then the men of Israel took some of their provisions; but they did not ask counsel of the Lord.~ Joshua 9:14}

Have you ever made a decision that seemed completely right at the time, only to realize later that something was off because you never stopped to ask God?

In today’s scripture reading, the Israelites were stepping into promise, walking in victory, and seeing God move in powerful ways. Then the Gibeonites came with a plan. They pretended to be something they were not, and the Israelites believed them. Everything looked convincing and everything sounded right. But there was one thing missing, God’s people didn’t ask the Lord about how to respond to the offer. That one missed step led to a long-term consequence.

As children of God today, we can find ourselves in the same place. Opportunities, relationships, decisions, and even good things can come our way, and if we are not careful, we can move forward without ever pausing to seek God’s wisdom.

Here are three important truths we can take from this passage and apply to our daily lives.

1. Not everything that looks right is from God

The Gibeonites looked like they came from far away. Their story made sense and their appearance backed it up. But it was all a lie that led to deception.  In our lives, things can look good on the outside. A new opportunity, a new relationship, or even a new direction can seem right because it feels easy, appealing or even beneficial in the moment.

Create a habit in your life to pause before saying yes, even when something seems like a perfect fit. Take time to pray and ask God for discernment. You may be offered a new job that looks like a great step forward. The pay is better, the schedule seems ideal, and everything lines up naturally. Instead of rushing in, take time to ask God if this is truly His direction for you or just something that appears right on the surface.

2. Skipping God’s counsel can lead to unnecessary battles

The Israelites did not ask God, and they ended up in a covenant agreement they couldn’t undo.  Sometimes the challenges we face aren’t because God led us there or even something God allowed in our lives, but simply because we moved ahead without getting His instructions or approval.

Make seeking God your first response, not your last option. Invite Him into decisions before you act, not after things become difficult. You might respond quickly in a conversation when you feel hurt or misunderstood. Later, you realize your reaction created more tension. If you pause first and bring it to God, He can guide your words and protect your peace.

3. God can still bring purpose even when we miss a step

Even though the Israelites made a mistake, God still worked through the situation. The Gibeonites became servants, and God’s plan continued.  This is a reminder that even when we get it wrong, God is still faithful.  Surrendering the situation to God even after the mistake gives Him the entrance He needs to still make the best of circumstances.

Do not stay stuck in regret. Turn back to God, trust His grace, and allow Him to redeem the situation. You may have made a decision without seeking God and now feel the weight of it. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, bring it to Him. Ask for wisdom moving forward and trust that He can still work good through it.

I remember a time when I made a decision quickly because everything seemed to fall into place. It felt easy, and I took that as confirmation instead of actually bringing it before the Lord. But as time went on, I realized I hadn’t truly taken it to God and I found myself dealing with stress and complications that could’ve been avoided. When I finally slowed down and brought it before Him, He gave me clarity and peace about what to do next to move the situation in a better direction. That experience showed me how important it is to invite God into every decision, not just the difficult ones.

Today I want to encourage you to pause before you proceed, to invite God into every decision no matter how small it seems, and to trust that His wisdom will guide you in ways that protect your peace and lead you into His best, because when you seek Him first, you avoid unnecessary battles and walk confidently in the path He has prepared for you.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 9

1 And it came to pass when all the kings who were on this side of the Jordan, in the hills and in the lowland and in all the coasts of the Great Sea toward Lebanon—the Hittite, the Amorite, the Canaanite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite—heard about it, 

2 that they gathered together to fight with Joshua and Israel with one accord.

3 But when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and Ai, 

4 they worked craftily, and went and pretended to be ambassadors. And they took old sacks on their donkeys, old wineskins torn and mended, 

5 old and patched sandals on their feet, and old garments on themselves; and all the bread of their provision was dry and moldy. 

6 And they went to Joshua, to the camp at Gilgal, and said to him and to the men of Israel, “We have come from a far country; now therefore, make a covenant with us.”

7 Then the men of Israel said to the Hivites, “Perhaps you dwell among us; so how can we make a covenant with you?”

8 But they said to Joshua, “We are your servants.”

And Joshua said to them, “Who are you, and where do you come from?”

9 So they said to him: “From a very far country your servants have come, because of the name of the Lord your God; for we have heard of His fame, and all that He did in Egypt, 

10 and all that He did to the two kings of the Amorites who were beyond the Jordan—to Sihon king of Heshbon, and Og king of Bashan, who was at Ashtaroth. 

11 Therefore our elders and all the inhabitants of our country spoke to us, saying, ‘Take provisions with you for the journey, and go to meet them, and say to them, “We are your servants; now therefore, make a covenant with us.” ’ 

12 This bread of ours we took hot for our provision from our houses on the day we departed to come to you. But now look, it is dry and moldy. 

13 And these wineskins which we filled were new, and see, they are torn; and these our garments and our sandals have become old because of the very long journey.”

14 Then the men of Israel took some of their provisions; but they did not ask counsel of the Lord. 

15 So Joshua made peace with them, and made a covenant with them to let them live; and the rulers of the congregation swore to them.

16 And it happened at the end of three days, after they had made a covenant with them, that they heard that they were their neighbors who dwelt near them. 

17 Then the children of Israel journeyed and came to their cities on the third day. Now their cities were Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kirjath Jearim. 

18 But the children of Israel did not attack them, because the rulers of the congregation had sworn to them by the Lord God of Israel. And all the congregation complained against the rulers.

19 Then all the rulers said to all the congregation, “We have sworn to them by the Lord God of Israel; now therefore, we may not touch them. 

20 This we will do to them: We will let them live, lest wrath be upon us because of the oath which we swore to them.” 

21 And the rulers said to them, “Let them live, but let them be woodcutters and water carriers for all the congregation, as the rulers had promised them.”

22 Then Joshua called for them, and he spoke to them, saying, “Why have you deceived us, saying, ‘We are very far from you,’ when you dwell near us? 

23 Now therefore, you are cursed, and none of you shall be freed from being slaves—woodcutters and water carriers for the house of my God.”

24 So they answered Joshua and said, “Because your servants were clearly told that the Lord your God commanded His servant Moses to give you all the land, and to destroy all the inhabitants of the land from before you; therefore we were very much afraid for our lives because of you, and have done this thing. 

25 And now, here we are, in your hands; do with us as it seems good and right to do to us.” 

26 So he did to them and delivered them out of the hand of the children of Israel, so that they did not kill them. 

27 And that day Joshua made them woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and for the altar of the Lord, in the place which He would choose, even to this day.

Journal:

• What decisions am I currently facing that I need to bring before God
• Have I been relying on what looks right instead of seeking God’s direction
• What does it look like for me to make asking God my first response
• Is there a past decision I need to release to God and trust Him to redeem
• How can I build a daily habit of inviting God into every area of my life

Shake it off

And whoever will not receive you nor hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dust under your feet as a testimony against them. Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city!” ~ Mark 6:11

Have you ever carried something you were concerned or worried about far longer than you were meant to, only to realize it was quietly draining your peace the entire time? I talked about offense yesterday and how the people of Jesus’ hometown were offended because they thought they knew who Jesus was. They weren’t willing to admit that they could have been wrong or that maybe there was something they didn’t know about Him.

We have many opportunities in life to become offended, and we often take them. Maybe because of something that was said, or maybe it was something that was not said. Usually, we become offended because of some action that someone did that we did not feel was appropriate or the right way to handle something.

Today’s scripture gives us both the answer and the solution when we are tempted to become offended. Jesus told the disciples to go out into other cities and minister there, giving them power. He instructed them not to take provisions with them, but to trust that the people they ministered to would take care of their needs. Then He made it clear that if their message and the power they carried were not received, they were not to hold on to hurt feelings or disappointment. Instead, they were to shake it off, and it would stand as a testimony.

That instruction still speaks to us today. When offense or any hurt and bitter feelings try to take hold of your heart, you are called to shake it off. It is not always easy. I recently realized I was heading toward offense and did not even recognize it until days later. That is how subtle it can be.

The first step to staying free from offense is recognizing when the temptation is coming. Offense often begins quietly, but its symptoms show up quickly. Peace begins to leave your heart. Your thoughts become consumed, even preoccupied with a situation. Fear tries to settle in, and questions start to rise about why it happened and how someone could act that way. Then comes the desire to share the situation with others, which often turns into complaining. In those moments, there is often a hesitation to go straight to God. Instead, there is a pull to analyze everything first.

When you begin to notice these warning signs, let them serve as an alarm. They are not there to condemn you, they are there to redirect you. Go to God and allow Him to restore your peace. From that place, you will have the strength to release resentment and disappointment before they take root.

Here are some practical ways to apply this passage and get started:

1. Pay attention to your peace, when it begins to leave, pause and ask God what is happening in your heart
2. Take your thoughts captive early, when you notice repeated thoughts about a situation, bring them to God in prayer
3. Choose prayer over discussion first, go to God before going to others so your heart can be settled in truth
4. Ask for forgiveness quickly, ask God to forgive you and the person involved, even if it feels difficult at first
5. Speak truth over your emotions, remind yourself that you are not called to carry offense, you are called to walk in freedom
6. Release it intentionally, picture yourself giving the situation to God and leaving it in His hands
7. Stay in His presence until peace returns, do not rush the process, allow Him to fully restore your heart

Today I want to encourage you to shake off the dust under your feet as a testimony against whatever or whoever is bringing offense toward you. Recognize the warning signs early and run to your heavenly Father for peace. Refuse to carry what He never intended for you to hold. As you release offense and choose His peace, you step out of the enemy’s trap and into the freedom, strength, and purpose God has prepared for you.Top of Form

Bottom of Form

Today’s scripture reading: Mark 6:7-13

7 And He called the twelve to Himself, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them power over unclean spirits. 

8 He commanded them to take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bag, no bread, no copper in their money belts— 

9 but to wear sandals, and not to put on two tunics.

10 Also He said to them, “In whatever place you enter a house, stay there till you depart from that place. 

11 And whoever will not receive you nor hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dust under your feet as a testimony against them. Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city!”

12 So they went out and preached that people should repent. 

13 And they cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them.

Journal:

• What situations have recently disturbed my peace, and how did I respond
• What early warning signs of offense can I recognize in my own life
• Have I been going to others before going to God, and how can I change that
• What would it look like for me to fully release this situation to God today
• How can I practice choosing peace the next time I feel offense rising

Stop your Unbelief

Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them.  And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching. ~ Mark 6:5-6

What if the very thing you are believing God for is being held back, not by His willingness, but by something quietly growing in your heart? Nothing stops the power of God in a life faster than unbelief. Unbelief is often more subtle than you think. It shows up as doubt, fear, or even the feeling that something is just too good to be true. When you begin to question what God has said or who He is, you step over the line into a place where faith is no longer leading.

In today’s reading, the passage says that Jesus could do no mighty work in His hometown. For a long time, I thought it was because there was no need there. But that just wasn’t the case. The very next verse reveals that it was because the people didn’t believe Him. They thought they already knew who He was, and in verse 3 it says they were offended.

Offense is often the root of unbelief, and it can quietly block what God wants to do in our lives. When offense takes hold, it begins to fill our thoughts and our hearts. We replay situations, we question motives, and we start to justify our feelings. Thoughts like how could this happen, or that’s not right, begin to take over. Before long, our focus shifts from God’s love and goodness to the situation.

Even as I was writing this, I realized I had recently walked through this myself. I became offended in a situation where I wasn’t given all the information about something that happened where I work. It was a confidentiality issue, and I felt like I deserved an explanation that was never given. Without realizing it, I became preoccupied with it. Instead of bringing it to God, I found myself talking about it with others, which only fed the offense. I felt justified, but that attitude was starting to come between me and my relationship with the Lord.

Thankfully, God is so gracious. He gently showed me where I was getting off track and drew me back to Him. I had to make the choice to let go of the offense and trust Him, even without answers. I realized that holding onto it was cutting off what God wanted to do in and through my life.

Here are some practical ways to start applying this truth in your daily life:

1. Ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart, take a few quiet moments and sincerely invite Him to show you anything that may be rooted in unbelief or offense
2. Pay attention to your thoughts, if you find yourself replaying situations or feeling frustrated, pause and bring those thoughts to God instead of  holding on to them and letting them fester
3. Choose prayer over conversation, when something bothers you, go to God first rather than discussing it with others, this helps stop offense from taking root
4. Release what you cannot control, trust that God sees what you do not see and knows what you do not know, even when you do not have all the answers
5. Take a step of faith, even if it feels small, choose to believe what God says and act on it, this strengthens your trust and pushes out unbelief

Today I want to encourage you to check your heart for anything that may be standing in the way of fully trusting God. Don’t assume it is not there, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal it. If He shows you offense or unbelief, quickly surrender it to Him and let it go. God’s desire is to move powerfully in your life, and as you release those things, you make room for His presence and His power to flow freely once again.

Today’s scripture reading: Mark 6:1-6

1 Then He went out from there and came to His own country, and His disciples followed Him. 

2 And when the Sabbath had come, He began to teach in the synagogue. And many hearing Him were astonished, saying, “Where did this Man get these things? And what wisdom is this which is given to Him, that such mighty works are performed by His hands! 

3 Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him.

4 But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house.” 

5 Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. 

6 And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching.

Journal:

• What thoughts or situations have been occupying my mind lately
• Is there any area where I may be holding onto offense without realizing it
• Have I been bringing my concerns to God first, or to others
• What is one step I can take today to choose faith over doubt
• What truth from God’s Word can I hold onto when I feel uncertain 

Victory after Setback

_{Now the Lord said to Joshua: “Do not be afraid, nor be dismayed; take all the people of war with you, and arise, go up to Ai. See, I have given into your hand the king of Ai, his people, his city, and his land. ~ Joshua 8:1}

Have you ever felt the weight of a setback so heavy that you felt like giving up?  Maybe the loss of progress made you question if you should even try again? It’s in those moment when you know what God said, but your last experience did not go the way you expected so you begin to doubt if it will ever happen. The disappointment lingers, the questions come, and fear tries to convince you that maybe this time will be the same. Yet right in that place, the Holy Spirit whispers, not condemnation, not doubt, but direction and encouragement.

In today’s scripture reading, there is a powerful moment where God calls His people forward after a painful defeat. He doesn’t leave them in their failure. He gives them a new strategy, renews their courage, and leads them into victory. This chapter is a clear example that as children of God, our setbacks are not the end of the story.

Here are three truths to hold onto when God calls you to get back up and move forward again:

1. God calls you forward, even after failure

Joshua had already experienced defeat at Ai in the previous chapter. It could have been easy to hesitate or shrink back, but God commanded clearly, do not be afraid, do not be discouraged. God did not define Joshua by the loss. He called him to get back up again and move forward with purpose.

In your daily life, this may look like trying again in an area where you once struggled. Maybe you stepped out in faith, and it did not turn out how you hoped. It could be a relationship, a ministry opportunity, or even a personal goal. Instead of withdrawing, God may be prompting you to take a step forward again. When you hear His direction, choose obedience over fear. Trust that He is not sending you back empty handed, He is sending you forward with His promise.

2. God gives strategy for the victory

This time, God gave Joshua a clear plan to approach Ai different than before. There was an ambush, a positioning, a timing that mattered. Victory was not just about showing up, it was about following God’s plan and instruction.

For us today, this reminds us to seek God’s wisdom in every step. Sometimes we assume we can approach situations the same way every time and get different results, but God is leading with supernatural instructions that may not make sense, but will work every time. In your current circumstances, take time to pray and listen. If you are facing a challenge at work, in your family, or in your calling, ask God for His strategy. Then act on what He shows you, even if it feels unfamiliar. His way always leads to breakthrough.

3. God restores what was lost

In the previous defeat at Ai, Israel experienced loss and discouragement. But with the plan of God not only did they get the victory, but they also were able to take the spoils of the city. What was once a place of defeat became a place of reward and restoration.

This truth is so powerful for us. God can turn the very place where you experienced loss into a testimony of His faithfulness. Maybe you have lost confidence, peace, or even opportunities. When you walk with God and follow His lead, He has a way of restoring and even increasing what was taken. In your daily life, hold onto hope. What felt like a closed door will become the place where God shows His goodness in a greater way than you ever expected.

I remember when I first had the idea to begin writing the Daily Dose. At the time, I didn’t fully understand that it was something God had called me to do. I started without a clear plan and began writing randomly, and before long I felt overwhelmed and gave up after just a few days. About a year later, I began to recognize that this wasn’t just a passing idea, it was something God had placed in my heart with purpose. It wasn’t something I could simply choose to do or walk away from, it was connected to my calling, and until I embraced it, I felt a sense that I was not moving forward the way God planned for me. Even after stepping away, the idea never truly left me like I thought it would. I felt discouraged and questioned if I had heard Him correctly, and for a while I hesitated to step out again. But God gently reminded me that one outcome did not cancel His calling. As I spent time with Him, He began to show me a new approach and a clearer way to move forward. When I followed His lead this time, I saw things come together in ways I could not have planned on my own. What once felt like failure became a steppingstone into something far greater, and it deepened my trust in Him, reminding me that when God calls us, He is faithful to guide us every step of the way.

Today I want to encourage you, whatever setback you have faced does not disqualify you from the victory God has prepared. He is speaking courage over you, giving you direction and restoring what was lost. Do not let fear or discouragement keep you from stepping forward again. Trust His voice, follow His lead, and watch how He turns your past defeat into a powerful testimony of His faithfulness.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 8

1 Now the Lord said to Joshua: “Do not be afraid, nor be dismayed; take all the people of war with you, and arise, go up to Ai. See, I have given into your hand the king of Ai, his people, his city, and his land. 

2 And you shall do to Ai and its king as you did to Jericho and its king. Only its spoil and its cattle you shall take as booty for yourselves. Lay an ambush for the city behind it.”

3 So Joshua arose, and all the people of war, to go up against Ai; and Joshua chose thirty thousand mighty men of valor and sent them away by night. 

4 And he commanded them, saying: “Behold, you shall lie in ambush against the city, behind the city. Do not go very far from the city, but all of you be ready. 

5 Then I and all the people who are with me will approach the city; and it will come about, when they come out against us as at the first, that we shall flee before them. 

6 For they will come out after us till we have drawn them from the city, for they will say, ‘They are fleeing before us as at the first.’ Therefore we will flee before them. 

7 Then you shall rise from the ambush and seize the city, for the Lord your God will deliver it into your hand. 

8 And it will be, when you have taken the city, that you shall set the city on fire. According to the commandment of the Lord you shall do. See, I have commanded you.”

9 Joshua therefore sent them out; and they went to lie in ambush, and stayed between Bethel and Ai, on the west side of Ai; but Joshua lodged that night among the people. 

10 Then Joshua rose up early in the morning and mustered the people, and went up, he and the elders of Israel, before the people to Ai. 

11 And all the people of war who were with him went up and drew near; and they came before the city and camped on the north side of Ai. Now a valley lay between them and Ai. 

12 So he took about five thousand men and set them in ambush between Bethel and Ai, on the west side of the city. 

13 And when they had set the people, all the army that was on the north of the city, and its rear guard on the west of the city, Joshua went that night into the midst of the valley.

14 Now it happened, when the king of Ai saw it, that the men of the city hurried and rose early and went out against Israel to battle, he and all his people, at an appointed place before the plain. But he did not know that there was an ambush against him behind the city. 

15 And Joshua and all Israel made as if they were beaten before them and fled by the way of the wilderness. 

16 So all the people who were in Ai were called together to pursue them. And they pursued Joshua and were drawn away from the city. 

17 There was not a man left in Ai or Bethel who did not go out after Israel. So, they left the city open and pursued Israel.

18 Then the Lord said to Joshua, “Stretch out the spear that is in your hand toward Ai, for I will give it into your hand.” And Joshua stretched out the spear that was in his hand toward the city. 

19 So those in ambush arose quickly out of their place; they ran as soon as he had stretched out his hand, and they entered the city and took it, and hurried to set the city on fire. 

20 And when the men of Ai looked behind them, they saw, and behold, the smoke of the city ascended to heaven. So, they had no power to flee this way or that way, and the people who had fled to the wilderness turned back on the pursuers.

21 Now when Joshua and all Israel saw that the ambush had taken the city and that the smoke of the city ascended, they turned back and struck down the men of Ai. 

22 Then the others came out of the city against them; so they were caught in the midst of Israel, some on this side and some on that side. And they struck them down, so that they let none of them remain or escape. 

23 But the king of Ai they took alive, and brought him to Joshua.

24 And it came to pass when Israel had made an end of slaying all the inhabitants of Ai in the field, in the wilderness where they pursued them, and when they all had fallen by the edge of the sword until they were consumed, that all the Israelites returned to Ai and struck it with the edge of the sword. 

25 So it was that all who fell that day, both men and women, were twelve thousand—all the people of Ai. 

26 For Joshua did not draw back his hand, with which he stretched out the spear, until he had utterly destroyed all the inhabitants of Ai. 

27 Only the livestock and the spoil of that city Israel took as booty for themselves, according to the word of the Lord which He had commanded Joshua. 

28 So Joshua burned Ai and made it a heap forever, a desolation to this day. 

29 And the king of Ai he hanged on a tree until evening. And as soon as the sun was down, Joshua commanded that they should take his corpse down from the tree, cast it at the entrance of the gate of the city, and raise over it a great heap of stones that remains to this day.

30 Now Joshua built an altar to the Lord God of Israel in Mount Ebal, 

31 as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded the children of Israel, as it is written in the Book of the Law of Moses: “an altar of whole stones over which no man has wielded an iron tool.” And they offered on it burnt offerings to the Lord, and sacrificed peace offerings. 

32 And there, in the presence of the children of Israel, he wrote on the stones a copy of the law of Moses, which he had written. 

33 Then all Israel, with their elders and officers and judges, stood on either side of the ark before the priests, the Levites, who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord, the stranger as well as he who was born among them. Half of them were in front of Mount Gerizim and half of them in front of Mount Ebal, as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded before, that they should bless the people of Israel. 

34 And afterward he read all the words of the law, the blessings and the cursings, according to all that is written in the Book of the Law. 

35 There was not a word of all that Moses had commanded which Joshua did not read before all the assembly of Israel, with the women, the little ones, and the strangers who were living among them.

Journal:

• What setback have I allowed to hold me back from moving forward again
• Where might God be giving me a new strategy that I have not yet considered
• What is one step of obedience I can take today to move forward in faith
• How have I seen God bring restoration in my life before, and how can that encourage me now

When Hidden Things Block Forward Movement

Get up, sanctify the people, and say, ‘Sanctify yourselves for tomorrow, because thus says the Lord God of Israel: “There is an accursed thing in your midst, O Israel; you cannot stand before your enemies until you take away the accursed thing from among you.” ~ Joshus 7:13

Have you ever felt like you were moving forward with God, seeing progress, and then suddenly things felt stuck or even pushed backward? It’s confusing when you know God has called you forward, yet something seems to resist that forward momentum. In today’s scripture reading, the Israelites had just experienced a powerful victory at Jericho but then faced an unexpected defeat at Ai. What they didn’t realize right away was that something hidden had hindered their ability to move forward in the strength God had given them.

As God’s people in the world today, we are called to walk in freedom, authority, and purpose, but sometimes there are things beneath the surface that God, in His love, wants to bring into the light so we can continue moving forward without resistance.

Here are three points to help us understand that God is not trying to hold us back, He is calling us into greater freedom and victory.

1. Hidden things can hinder forward progress

The Israelites were confident after their victory over Jericho, but they were unaware that disobedience had taken place within the camp. What was hidden affected the whole community and led to defeat.

In our daily lives, this can look like attitudes, habits, or thought patterns that we try to ignore or justify. It may not be obvious to others, but it impacts our peace, our confidence, and our ability to move forward. For example, if you are stepping into a new opportunity but are quietly holding onto fear or comparison, it can affect how you show up. Bringing those thoughts and external feelings before God and allowing Him to deal with them opens the door for renewed strength and clarity.

2. God reveals in order to restore

When the issue was brought into the open, it was not to shame the people, but to restore their ability to stand strong. God gave clear direction so that the problem could be addressed and removed.

Today, when God begins to highlight something in your heart, it is not condemnation, it is care. He sees what is limiting you and wants to free you from it. For example, if you notice a pattern of believing you are not enough, and it keeps you from stepping fully into what God has for you, use that awareness is an reminder to bring it before your heavenly Father. You can bring that belief to God, replace it with His truth, and begin to walk in a new level of confidence.

3. Obedience restores strength and victory

Once the Israelites dealt with what God had shown them, they were able to move forward again in victory. Their strength was restored when they responded to God’s instruction.

In your faith walk, obedience may look like making a small but significant change. It could be choosing to forgive someone, letting go of something that no longer belongs in your life, or stepping forward into something God has been prompting you to do. For example, if God has been nudging you to trust Him in an area where you have been holding back, your yes to Him becomes the turning point that leads to renewed momentum.

When my life was starting to turn back to the Lord, I wanted to walk closely with God, but I was still carrying pieces of my past that I hadn’t fully released. There were thoughts and fears that I had grown used to, and I didn’t realize how much they were affecting me. The Holy Spirit, in His kindness, began to gently show me what I was still holding onto. It was not always comfortable, but it was necessary. As I brought those things before Him and chose to trust Him step by step, I began to experience a deeper level of freedom. I noticed a shift, not just in my circumstances, but in my peace and confidence. What once held me back no longer had the same influence, and I could move forward with a greater sense of purpose.

Today I want to encourage you, if something feels off or if progress seems stalled, don’t be discouraged. God is faithful and will show you anything that needs to be released so you can walk fully in what He has prepared for you. Nothing He reveals is meant to harm you, it is meant to heal you and move you forward into victory. Trust His process, respond to His leading, and know that He is committed to your growth and freedom.

Today’s Scripture Reading: Joshua 7

1 But the children of Israel committed a trespass regarding the accursed things, for Achan the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed things; so the anger of the Lord burned against the children of Israel.

2 Now Joshua sent men from Jericho to Ai, which is beside Beth Aven, on the east side of Bethel, and spoke to them, saying, “Go up and spy out the country.” So the men went up and spied out Ai. 

3 And they returned to Joshua and said to him, “Do not let all the people go up, but let about two or three thousand men go up and attack Ai. Do not weary all the people there, for the people of Ai are few.” 

4 So about three thousand men went up there from the people, but they fled before the men of Ai. 

5 And the men of Ai struck down about thirty-six men, for they chased them from before the gate as far as Shebarim, and struck them down on the descent; therefore, the hearts of the people melted and became like water.

6 Then Joshua tore his clothes and fell to the earth on his face before the ark of the Lord until evening, he and the elders of Israel; and they put dust on their heads. 

7 And Joshua said, “Alas, Lord God, why have You brought this people over the Jordan at all—to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? Oh, that we had been content, and dwelt on the other side of the Jordan! 

8 O Lord, what shall I say when Israel turns its back before its enemies? 

9 For the Canaanites and all the inhabitants of the land will hear it, and surround us, and cut off our name from the earth. Then what will You do for Your great name?”

10 So the Lord said to Joshua: “Get up! Why do you lie thus on your face? 

11 Israel has sinned, and they have also transgressed My covenant which I commanded them. For they have even taken some of the accursed things and have both stolen and deceived; and they have also put it among their own stuff. 

12 Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies, because they have become doomed to destruction. Neither will I be with you anymore, unless you destroy the accursed from among you. 

13 Get up, sanctify the people, and say, ‘Sanctify yourselves for tomorrow, because thus says the Lord God of Israel: “There is an accursed thing in your midst, O Israel; you cannot stand before your enemies until you take away the accursed thing from among you.” 

14 In the morning therefore you shall be brought according to your tribes. And it shall be that the tribe which the Lord takes shall come according to families; and the family which the Lord takes shall come by households; and the household which the Lord takes shall come man by man. 

15 Then it shall be that he who is taken with the accursed thing shall be burned with fire, he and all that he has, because he has transgressed the covenant of the Lord, and because he has done a disgraceful thing in Israel.’ ”

16 So Joshua rose early in the morning and brought Israel by their tribes, and the tribe of Judah was taken. 

17 He brought the clan of Judah, and he took the family of the Zarhites; and he brought the family of the Zarhites man by man, and Zabdi was taken. 

18 Then he brought his household man by man, and Achan the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, was taken.

19 Now Joshua said to Achan, “My son, I beg you, give glory to the Lord God of Israel, and make confession to Him, and tell me now what you have done; do not hide it from me.”

20 And Achan answered Joshua and said, “Indeed I have sinned against the Lord God of Israel, and this is what I have done: 

21 When I saw among the spoils a beautiful Babylonian garment, two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels, I coveted them and took them. And there they are, hidden in the earth in the midst of my tent, with the silver under it.”

22 So Joshua sent messengers, and they ran to the tent; and there it was, hidden in his tent, with the silver under it. 

23 And they took them from the midst of the tent, brought them to Joshua and to all the children of Israel, and laid them out before the Lord. 

24 Then Joshua, and all Israel with him, took Achan the son of Zerah, the silver, the garment, the wedge of gold, his sons, his daughters, his oxen, his donkeys, his sheep, his tent, and all that he had, and they brought them to the Valley of Achor. 

25 And Joshua said, “Why have you troubled us? The Lord will trouble you this day.” So all Israel stoned him with stones; and they burned them with fire after they had stoned them with stones.

26 Then they raised over him a great heap of stones, still there to this day. So the Lord turned from the fierceness of His anger. Therefore, the name of that place has been called the Valley of Achor to this day.

Journal:

• Is there anything God has been bringing to my attention that I need to release
• What thoughts or patterns have been quietly influencing how I move forward
• What step of obedience can I take today to experience greater freedom
• How can I invite God into the areas of my life that feel stuck

Waiting for your breakthrough

_{‘So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets. And it happened when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat. Then the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city. ‘ ~ Joshua 6:20}

What do you do when God gives you a promise, but your reality still looks unchanged? The people of Israel had finally reached Jericho, a city that stood as a barrier between them and what God had already said was theirs. The instructions God gave them did not look like a battle plan. There were no weapons raised, no immediate breakthrough, just walking, waiting, and trusting. It must have felt unusual, even uncomfortable, to obey when nothing seemed to be happening. Yet, God was not just bringing down walls, He was building faith in His people.

Below are some ways that God works to stretch our trust before He reveals His power.

1. Following God’s direction and plan unlocks what you cannot see yet

The Israelites were asked to follow specific instructions that did not make logical sense. They walked around the walls day after day, without visible progress. Their obedience was not based on what they saw, but on who God is.

In your daily life, this might look like continuing to pray for your family even when you do not see change, or staying committed to something God called you to when results feel delayed. Maybe God has asked you to step into something new, and it feels uncertain and uncomfortable. Choosing to obey in those moments builds trust in Him. For example, if God is leading you to be consistent in your time with Him, even when life feels busy, that simple act of obedience is positioning you for breakthrough.

2. God’s timing is intentional, not delayed

For six days, nothing seemed to happen. The walls did not crack, shift, or weaken in any visible way. But on the seventh day, everything changed. God was not late, He was working according to His perfect timing. What the people could not see was that He was also working on the other side of the wall. As they marched in obedience, God was allowing intimidation and fear to build in the hearts of their enemies, immobilizing them and rendering them ineffective against His people.

In your life, there may be areas where you feel like you have been waiting longer than expected. It could be a breakthrough in your career, healing in a relationship, or clarity in your next step. Waiting does not mean God is absent. There are things He is doing that you cannot yet see, both in you and around you. For example, if you have been believing for direction in a new opportunity, use this waiting time to grow, prepare, and trust that when the time comes, God will move in a way that is undeniable.

3. Your voice matters in your victory

When the moment came, the people were instructed to shout. Their praise was part of the process that led to the walls falling. God included their participation in the breakthrough.

In your daily life, your words carry power. What you speak in moments of pressure matters. Instead of agreeing with fear or doubt, choose to speak in agreement with what God has said. For example, if you are facing insecurity in a new role or responsibility, you can say, “God has equipped me for this, and He is with me.” Your voice becomes an expression of faith and praise, even before you see the outcome.

I remember a times in my life when I was walking closely with God but still carrying pieces of my past. There were moments when old fears would try to remind me of who I used to be, especially when I was not listening to God’s direction in my life. I had stepped into something new, but my mind had not been fully renewed yet. God began to show me that I did not have to struggle or figure everything out on my own. As I stayed consistent in trusting Him, even when I didn’t see immediate change, He began to provide, guide, and strengthen me. Little by little, those old mindsets lost their grip on my heart, and I started to walk in a new level of peace and confidence. It was not instant, but just like the walls of Jericho, breakthrough came as I kept moving forward in obedience on a consistent basis.

Today I want to encourage you to recognize that the walls in front of you are not stronger than the God within you. What He has promised, He is faithful to complete. Keep walking, keep trusting, and keep lifting your voice in faith, even when you do not see immediate results. Your obedience, your patience, and your faith are all part of the process God is using to bring victory in your life.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 6

1 Now Jericho was securely shut up because of the children of Israel; none went out, and none came in. 

2 And the Lord said to Joshua: “See! I have given Jericho into your hand, its king, and the mighty men of valor. 

3 You shall march around the city, all you men of war; you shall go all around the city once. This you shall do six days. 

4 And seven priests shall bear seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark. But the seventh day you shall march around the city seven times, and the priests shall blow the trumpets. 

5 It shall come to pass, when they make a long blast with the ram’s horn, and when you hear the sound of the trumpet, that all the people shall shout with a great shout; then the wall of the city will fall down flat. And the people shall go up every man straight before him.”

6 Then Joshua the son of Nun called the priests and said to them, “Take up the ark of the covenant, and let seven priests bear seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark of the Lord.” 

7 And he said to the people, “Proceed, and march around the city, and let him who is armed advance before the ark of the Lord.”

8 So it was, when Joshua had spoken to the people, that the seven priests bearing the seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the Lord advanced and blew the trumpets, and the ark of the covenant of the Lord followed them. 

9 The armed men went before the priests who blew the trumpets, and the rear guard came after the ark, while the priests continued blowing the trumpets. 

10 Now Joshua had commanded the people, saying, “You shall not shout or make any noise with your voice, nor shall a word proceed out of your mouth, until the day I say to you, ‘Shout!’ Then you shall shout.” 

11 So he had the ark of the Lord circle the city, going around it once. Then they came into the camp and lodged in the camp.

12 And Joshua rose early in the morning, and the priests took up the ark of the Lord. 

13 Then seven priests bearing seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark of the Lord went on continually and blew with the trumpets. And the armed men went before them. But the rear guard came after the ark of the Lord, while the priests continued blowing the trumpets. 

14 And the second day they marched around the city once and returned to the camp. So they did six days.

15 But it came to pass on the seventh day that they rose early, about the dawning of the day, and marched around the city seven times in the same manner. On that day only, they marched around the city seven times. 

16 And the seventh time it happened, when the priests blew the trumpets, that Joshua said to the people: “Shout, for the Lord has given you the city! 

17 Now the city shall be doomed by the Lord to destruction, it and all who are in it. Only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all who are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent. 

18 And you, by all means abstain from the accursed things, lest you become accursed when you take of the accursed things, and make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it. 

19 But all the silver and gold, and vessels of bronze and iron, are consecrated to the Lord; they shall come into the treasury of the Lord.”

20 So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets. And it happened when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat. Then the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city. 

21 And they utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and woman, young and old, ox and sheep and donkey, with the edge of the sword.

22 But Joshua had said to the two men who had spied out the country, “Go into the harlot’s house, and from there bring out the woman and all that she has, as you swore to her.” 

23 And the young men who had been spies went in and brought out Rahab, her father, her mother, her brothers, and all that she had. So they brought out all her relatives and left them outside the camp of Israel. 

24 But they burned the city and all that was in it with fire. Only the silver and gold, and the vessels of bronze and iron, they put into the treasury of the house of the Lord. 

25 And Joshua spared Rahab the harlot, her father’s household, and all that she had. So she dwells in Israel to this day, because she hid the messengers whom Joshua sent to spy out Jericho.

26 Then Joshua charged them at that time, saying, “Cursed be the man before the Lord who rises up and builds this city Jericho; he shall lay its foundation with his firstborn, and with his youngest he shall set up its gates.”

27 So the Lord was with Joshua, and his fame spread throughout all the country.

Journal:

• What is one area where God is asking me to trust Him, even though I do not see results yet
• Where have I been tempted to give up, and how can I choose obedience instead
• What truth from God’s Word can I begin to speak over my current situation
• How has God been faithful to me in past seasons that I can hold onto today

Marked for More

Then the Lord said to Joshua, “This day I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.” Therefore, the name of the place is called Gilgal to this day. ~ Joshua 5:9

Have you ever stepped into something new that God was doing in your life, yet still felt the weight of where you came from trying to follow you into it? It is a strange place to be, standing in a promise while still carrying thoughts, fears, or labels from the past.

Today’s scripture reading takes place right after the Israelites crossed the Jordan. They were finally standing in the Promised Land, but before they moved forward into battle or possession, God paused them. He did something unexpected. He called them to consecration, to covenant, and to an encounter. In that moment, He told them that the reproach of Egypt was rolled away. In other words, what once defined them no longer had permission to shape their future.

As children of God today, we often want to rush ahead into what is next, but God is just as concerned with who we are becoming as He is with where we are going.

Here are some important truths in this chapter to consider.

1. God removes what no longer belongs to you

The Israelites had been out of Egypt for years, but something of Egypt had still clung to them. God made it clear that this was a moment of separation. He didn’t want them to stumble under the weight of having an identity as slaves, but instead to walk as children of the Most High God.

In your daily life, this may look like God dealing with old mindsets, fears, or insecurities that try to follow you into the next part of His plan. Maybe you have stepped into a new opportunity, a new level of responsibility, or a deeper walk with God, but you still hear thoughts that say you are not enough or that you will fail. God is reminding you that those things no longer belong to you. Take some time with the Holy Spirit today and let Him minister freedom to your heart.

Be intentional with your thoughts. When those old patterns try to lead you, remind yourself of what God says about you. For example, if you find yourself doubting your ability to step into something new, pause and say, “God has called me to this, and He will equip me.” You begin to walk in freedom by agreeing with the truth of God’s Word and His plan, instead of the lies of your past.

2. Preparation often comes before possession

Before the Israelites took the land, they went through a process of consecration. It wasn’t comfortable, but it was necessary. God was preparing them to be ready and stronger for what was ahead.

In today’s world, we often want quick results, but God works through preparation. Maybe you are in a season that feels slow or even uncomfortable. It might feel like things are not moving as quickly as you hoped. But what if God is strengthening you, shaping your character, and building your faith so that you can sustain what He is about to give you?

Start embracing where you are right now instead of resisting it. For example, if you are waiting for a breakthrough in your career, use this time to grow your skills, deepen your relationship with God, and develop consistency. When the opportunity comes, you will be ready to step into it with confidence because God has already done the work in you.

3. Encounter with God gives clarity for your next step

At the end of the chapter, Joshua has a powerful encounter with the Commander of the Lord’s army. Joshua asks, “Are you for us or for our enemies?” and the answer shifts his perspective. The focus was not about God taking sides, but about Joshua recognizing God’s authority and positioning himself to be in agreement with God’s plan not His agenda.

In your daily life, this reminds us that clarity does not come from striving, it comes from encountering God. When you take time to seek Him, He gives you direction, peace, and confidence for what is ahead.

You can apply this by creating space for God in your everyday routine. For example, before making a big decision, pause and spend time in prayer. Ask God for wisdom. Instead of rushing ahead based on pressure or fear, allow His presence to guide you. You may not always get every detail, but you will have the peace you need to take the next step.

It’s no secret that I came out of a life of deep bondage. As I began to walk closely with the Lord, it became clear that He was bringing me into something new. During that time, I realized I was still carrying pieces of my old identity with me. Old fears, old titles, and past mistakes would try to resurface, especially from when I was divorced and a single mother. I felt the weight of those labels so heavily.

Even though God had already begun to establish new things in my life, there were moments when those old thoughts would try to convince me that I had to figure everything out on my own and that I wasn’t good enough to receive God’s help.

But God began to work in my heart in a deeper way. He showed me that I wasn’t meant to carry that weight anymore. As I continued to walk with Him, I saw Him provide, guide, and strengthen me in ways that replaced those old fears with trust. Most of all, He gave me a new name, a new identity, and a new life.

It didn’t happen all at once, but step by step, He removed what no longer belonged in my life and in my heart. I began to experience greater peace and confidence, not because everything was perfect, but because I knew He was leading me.

That shift in perspective became a turning point. I realized I wasn’t just stepping into something new I was becoming someone new in Him.

Today I want to encourage you to let God finish what He is doing in you. If He is removing something, trust Him. As He is preparing you, stay faithful. If He is calling you to come closer, make space for Him. You aren’t who you used to be, and you aren’t stepping into this next season alone. The same God who rolled away the reproach for the Israelites is working in your life, setting you apart, strengthening you, and leading you forward into everything He has prepared for you.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 5

1 So it was, when all the kings of the Amorites who were on the west side of the Jordan, and all the kings of the Canaanites who were by the sea, heard that the Lord had dried up the waters of the Jordan from before the children of Israel until we had crossed over, that their heart melted; and there was no spirit in them any longer because of the children of Israel.

2 At that time the Lord said to Joshua, “Make flint knives for yourself, and circumcise the sons of Israel again the second time.” 

3 So Joshua made flint knives for himself, and circumcised the sons of Israel at the hill of the foreskins. 

4 And this is the reason why Joshua circumcised them: All the people who came out of Egypt who were males, all the men of war, had died in the wilderness on the way, after they had come out of Egypt. 

5 For all the people who came out had been circumcised, but all the people born in the wilderness, on the way as they came out of Egypt, had not been circumcised. 

6 For the children of Israel walked forty years in the wilderness, till all the people who were men of war, who came out of Egypt, were consumed, because they did not obey the voice of the Lord—to whom the Lord swore that He would not show them the land which the Lord had sworn to their fathers that He would give us, “a land flowing with milk and honey.” 

7 Then Joshua circumcised their sons whom He raised up in their place; for they were uncircumcised, because they had not been circumcised on the way.

8 So it was, when they had finished circumcising all the people, that they stayed in their places in the camp till they were healed. 

9 Then the Lord said to Joshua, “This day I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.” Therefore the name of the place is called Gilgal to this day.

10 Now the children of Israel camped in Gilgal, and kept the Passover on the fourteenth day of the month at twilight on the plains of Jericho. 

11 And they ate of the produce of the land on the day after the Passover, unleavened bread and parched grain, on the very same day. 

12 Then the manna ceased on the day after they had eaten the produce of the land; and the children of Israel no longer had manna, but they ate the food of the land of Canaan that year.

The Commander of the Army of the Lord

13 And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, a Man stood opposite him with His sword drawn in His hand. And Joshua went to Him and said to Him, “Are You for us or for our adversaries?”

14 So He said, “No, but as Commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.”

And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped, and said to Him, “What does my Lord say to His servant?”

15 Then the Commander of the Lord’s army said to Joshua, “Take your sandal off your foot, for the place where you stand is holy.” And Joshua did so.

Journal:

• What is something from my past that God is asking me to release in this season
• Where might God be preparing me right now, even if I do not fully understand it
• How can I create intentional time to seek God’s direction in my daily life

Stones that Speak

Then he spoke to the children of Israel, saying: “When your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, ‘What are these stones?’ ~ Joshua 4:21

What if the moments you are walking through right now are meant to speak long after you have moved on from them? Not just for you, but for someone else who will one day need proof that God still moves, still provides, and still makes a way.

Today’s scripture reading shows us a powerful picture. God had just brought His people through the Jordan River on dry ground, something that seemed impossible just a few moments before. But instead of rushing ahead into the promise, God told them to stop and build a memorial with twelve stones. Why? He knew that because of their human nature there would be days when they would forget what He had done. He also knew there would be future generations who needed a visible reminder that God was faithful and always would be faithful.

We are no different today. Life moves fast. Answers come, prayers are fulfilled, and before we know it, we are on to the next challenge and the next request to our heavenly Father. But He is still calling us to remember what He brought us through in the past.

Before we move forward, let’s look at what these stones mean for us today.

1. Remember what God has already done

It is easy to focus on what is not happening yet and forget what we have already come through. The Israelites could have quickly celebrated and moved on, but God instructed them to pause and remember.

In your daily life, this might look like writing down answered prayers, keeping a journal, or even pausing during your day to thank God for something specific He has done. Maybe you once prayed for peace in your home, and now there is calm where there used to be tension. Maybe you were once worried about provision, and God came through in a way you did not expect. When new challenges come, those memories become your strength. Instead of saying, “Will God come through,” you begin to say, “God has done it before, and I know He will do it again.”

2. Let your story become someone else’s encouragement

God did not tell them to build the stones just for themselves. He said their children would ask about them. Their testimony would become a teaching tool and a message of God’s faithfulness to coming generations.

In today’s world, people are searching for something real. They do not need perfect people, they need honest stories. When you share how God carried you through a hard season, it gives someone else hope. Maybe a friend is struggling with fear, and you share how God helped you overcome anxiety. Maybe someone feels alone, and you remind them how God met you in your lowest moment. Your story and your testimonies are often the very thing that helps someone else keep going.

3. Build reminders in the middle of your breakthrough

The stones were gathered from the middle of the Jordan, the very place where God made a way. That detail matters. They did not wait until everything was completely settled, they marked the moment right there.

Sometimes we wait until everything is perfect before we acknowledge God’s hand, but there is power in recognizing Him right in the middle of your struggle. Maybe you are not fully through your situation yet, but you can already see God moving. You can say, “This is hard, but God is sustaining and helping me.” You can celebrate small victories. You can thank Him for progress. Those moments become anchors for your faith when the road feels long.

Many of the circumstances that I live in every day are a testimony of God’s faithfulness. There was a time in my life when I carried so much fear, especially as a single mother. I worried about how I would provide, how I would protect my children, and whether I would have the strength to step into something new when God was calling me forward. Those were not easy days. There were moments when I questioned if I had what it took, and moments when the unknown felt overwhelming. But as I began to follow His direction and trust His plan, one step at a time, I started to see Him show up in ways I never expected.

Each new step became a marker. Doors opened that I couldn’t have opened on my own. Provision came right when it was needed most, not always early, but never late. Peace would settle in during moments that should have been filled with anxiety. Strength would come when I felt like I had none left to give. From my blessed marriage to my blended family, even my ministry employment and the very home I live in, these are not just parts of my life, they are living reminders of God’s hand on every detail. My children and grandchildren can now see through my life and my surroundings a living example of what it means to trust God and walk in His faithfulness.

These markers have become memorial stones for me and those around me. They represent the prayers I cried out, the direction I received from the Holy Spirit, and the faith it took to keep moving forward when I could not see the full picture. Looking back now, I can clearly see that God was leading every step, even when I didn’t recognize it in the moment. Because He has proven Himself faithful in the hard times, I carry a deeper trust in Him today for my current struggles. I know that whatever I face, He will continue to lead, provide, and make a way.

Today I want to encourage you to start building your stones. Do not rush past what God is doing in your life right now. Take notice. Remember the prayers He has answered. Share your story with someone who needs hope. Mark the moments where He has made a way, even if you are still walking it out. The same God who parted the Jordan is working in your life, and your testimony will speak not only to you, but also to others who need to know that He is still faithful.

Today’s scripture reading: Joshua 4

1 And it came to pass, when all the people had completely crossed over the Jordan, that the Lord spoke to Joshua, saying: 

2 “Take for yourselves twelve men from the people, one man from every tribe, 

3 and command them, saying, ‘Take for yourselves twelve stones from here, out of the midst of the Jordan, from the place where the priests’ feet stood firm. You shall carry them over with you and leave them in the lodging place where you lodge tonight.’ ”

4 Then Joshua called the twelve men whom he had appointed from the children of Israel, one man from every tribe; 

5 and Joshua said to them: “Cross over before the ark of the Lord your God into the midst of the Jordan, and each one of you take up a stone on his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the children of Israel, 

6 that this may be a sign among you when your children ask in time to come, saying, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ 

7 Then you shall answer them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord; when it crossed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. And these stones shall be for a memorial to the children of Israel forever.”

8 And the children of Israel did so, just as Joshua commanded, and took up twelve stones from the midst of the Jordan, as the Lord had spoken to Joshua, according to the number of the tribes of the children of Israel, and carried them over with them to the place where they lodged, and laid them down there. 

9 Then Joshua set up twelve stones in the midst of the Jordan, in the place where the feet of the priests who bore the ark of the covenant stood; and they are there to this day.

10 So the priests who bore the ark stood in the midst of the Jordan until everything was finished that the Lord had commanded Joshua to speak to the people, according to all that Moses had commanded Joshua; and the people hurried and crossed over. 

11 Then it came to pass, when all the people had completely crossed over, that the ark of the Lord and the priests crossed over in the presence of the people. 

12 And the men of Reuben, the men of Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh crossed over armed before the children of Israel, as Moses had spoken to them. 

13 About forty thousand prepared for war crossed over before the Lord for battle, to the plains of Jericho. 

14 On that day the Lord exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel; and they feared him, as they had feared Moses, all the days of his life.

15 Then the Lord spoke to Joshua, saying, 

16 “Command the priests who bear the ark of the Testimony to come up from the Jordan.” 

17 Joshua therefore commanded the priests, saying, “Come up from the Jordan.” 

18 And it came to pass, when the priests who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord had come from the midst of the Jordan, and the soles of the priests’ feet touched the dry land, that the waters of the Jordan returned to their place and overflowed all its banks as before.

19 Now the people came up from the Jordan on the tenth day of the first month, and they camped in Gilgal on the east border of Jericho. 

20 And those twelve stones which they took out of the Jordan, Joshua set up in Gilgal. 

21 Then he spoke to the children of Israel, saying: “When your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, ‘What are these stones?’ 

22 then you shall let your children know, saying, ‘Israel crossed over this Jordan on dry land’; 

23 for the Lord your God dried up the waters of the Jordan before you until you had crossed over, as the Lord your God did to the Red Sea, which He dried up before us until we had crossed over, 

24 that all the peoples of the earth may know the hand of the Lord, that it is mighty, that you may fear the Lord your God forever.”

Journal:

• What are three specific things God has done in my life that I do not want to forget
• How can I intentionally remind myself of God’s faithfulness during difficult moments
• Who in my life needs to hear part of my story, and how can I share it with them

An Atmosphere for Producing Results

_{And they ridiculed Him. But when He had put them all outside, He took the father and the mother of the child, and those who were with Him, and entered where the child was lying. ~ Mark 5:40}

What you allow around you can determine what God is able to produce through you. Have you ever received a direction from God and felt that excitement rise up inside of you, knowing you are about to take a step of faith? Then almost immediately, you share it with someone close to you, and instead of encouragement, you are met with the many reasons why it won’t work.

Most of the time, they are not trying to hurt you. They believe they are helping. But they are not considering that you are following the leading of the Holy Spirit and that God already has a plan in place for you to follow.

This is exactly what Jairus experienced when he brought Jesus to his home. By the time they arrived, the atmosphere was filled with grief because his daughter had died. The people were sincere in their sorrow, but when Jesus said she was only sleeping, they ridiculed Him. They were convinced they knew better.

I love what Jesus did next. He put them all outside.

That was bold. It was not even His house. These were likely friends and relatives of Jairus, people he had known for years. Some may have been offended, some may have felt hurt, and I’m sure they questioned why Jairus allowed it.

But Jesus was not concerned about their opinions because He was protecting the environment of faith for a miracle.

It was not about needing quiet or about being annoyed with the wailing. It was about the unbelief that was in the heart of those at Jairus’ house. Jesus refused to allow doubt, negative words, and opposing attitudes to interfere with what God was about to do.

Scripture shows us that what we are holding onto in our hearts matters. Even Jesus could do no mighty works in His own hometown because of unbelief, (See Matthew 13:58). That tells us something powerful. Our heart, our attitude, and the voices we allow around us play a significant role in the release of God’s power into our circumstances.

If you want to walk fully in what God is leading you to do and what He wants to do in your life, there will be times you must make a choice. You can’t hold onto the opinions of others and expect to move forward in faith at the same time.

There are moments when you will have to quiet the outside voices so you can stay focused on what God has already promised you. Sometimes that means creating distance from doubt. Sometimes it means not sharing everything too soon and sometimes it means choosing to believe God even when no one else understands.

If you keep surrounding your faith with unbelief, it will be harder to move forward. But when you protect what God has placed in your heart, you open up the way for Him to move.

Here are some ways to get started today:

1. Pay attention to the voices you are listening to, ask yourself if they are building your faith or feeding your doubt
2. Be wise about who you share God given direction with, choose people who will encourage your obedience
3. Limit conversations that pull you away from what God has spoken, even if they sound reasonable
4. Strengthen your confidence by going back to the Word and reminding yourself of His promises
5. Take one step of obedience today, even if it feels small, movement builds momentum

God is not asking you to isolate yourself from people, but He is asking you to guard what He is doing in you and through you. There is too much at stake to let doubt have a voice in your decisions.

Today I want to encourage you to protect the word God has spoken over your life, to quiet every voice that contradicts His truth, and to step forward in faith with confidence, knowing that when you trust Him fully, you are creating the space for Him to produce results that only He can bring.

Today’s scripture reading: Mark 5:35-43

35 While He was still speaking, some came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?”

36 As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not be afraid; only believe.” 

37 And He permitted no one to follow Him except Peter, James, and John the brother of James. 

38 Then He came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and saw a tumult and those who wept and wailed loudly. 

39 When He came in, He said to them, “Why make this commotion and weep? The child is not dead, but sleeping.”

40 And they ridiculed Him. But when He had put them all outside, He took the father and the mother of the child, and those who were with Him, and entered where the child was lying. 

41 Then He took the child by the hand, and said to her, “Talitha, cumi,” which is translated, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” 

42 Immediately the girl arose and walked, for she was twelve years of age. And they were overcome with great amazement. 

43 But He commanded them strictly that no one should know it, and said that something should be given her to eat.

Journal:

• What has God recently placed on your heart that requires a step of faith
• Are there any voices or opinions that have caused you to hesitate or question what God said
• Who in your life encourages your faith and helps you move forward in obedience
• What is one step you can take today to protect and act on what God has spoken to you
• How can you strengthen your focus on God’s truth when doubt tries to enter your thoughts

Press into God

When she heard about Jesus, she came behind Him in the crowd and touched His garment. For she said, “If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well.” ~ Mark 5:27-28

Most times in life the breakthrough you’ve been praying for is closer than you think, and all it takes is one determined step of faith to reach it?

I can’t even imagine what the woman in today’s scripture reading must have been going through. She was sick for twelve long years. The passage says she suffered through many treatments from many physicians. In that time, those treatments were often harsh, painful and even medieval. Not only that, but this woman spent all of her time and everything she had just for the chance to be made well, and instead of improving, she only grew worse.

After twelve years, it must have seemed like all hope was gone. On top of everything, she was considered unclean. The law required her to stay away from others because she was seen as contagious. She was isolated, worn down, and likely exhausted in every way. She was an outcast of society, but then she heard about Jesus.

When that happened, something shifted in her perspective and suddenly she had a glimmer of hope. Not a weak hope, not a maybe, but a deep conviction inside. So much so that the scripture says she kept saying, “If I can just touch His clothes, I will be made well.” She didn’t say it once and move on. She said it again and again until it took root in her heart. She continued to say it until she got to Him. What she heard about Jesus, she repeated to herself until faith came alive inside of her, then she acted on it.

She pushed through the crowd. Weak, tired, and probably in pain, she made her way toward Him. She didn’t wait until she felt better. She didn’t wait for perfect conditions. She moved forward in faith right in the middle of her struggle.

She reached out and touched the hem of His garment, which indicated that she was probably crawling through the immense crowd because of her weakened condition.

In that moment, everything changed. Jesus felt power leave Him. Out of all the people pressing in around Him, only one person drew that power. Why? Because only one reached out in faith that He would heal her.

Jesus said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace and be healed of your affliction.”

It wasn’t the crowd or the proximity. It was her faith. She heard, she spoke, she believed, and she acted.

The part I love in this account is that even though she didn’t feel strong or look qualified, she wasn’t even supposed to be there. But none of that stopped her. Her condition didn’t disqualify her, and her feelings didn’t define her. Her faith led her and moved her to the place of her salvation and healing.

How often do we do just the opposite when we don’t feel well or get discouraged when things seem too hard.  Instead we usually pull back, wait or hesitate, using the weakness as an excuse rather than an opportunity to get closer to Him. But this woman pressed in. She made a decision that her answer was found in Jesus, and nothing was going to keep her from getting to Him.

Maybe today, your faith just needs to be redirected. Not in what you see, not in how you feel, but in who He is and what He has already said.

Here are some ways you can get started today:

1. Find a promise in God’s Word that speaks directly to your situation, write it down, and keep it in front of you daily.
2. Speak that promise out loud consistently, not just once, but until it settles deep in your heart and changes your circumstances.
3. Make time to be in His presence, through prayer, worship, or being in a place where His Word is taught and don’t isolate.
4. Take a step of faith even if you don’t feel ready, action strengthens what you believe in your heart.
5. Stay consistent, even when you don’t see immediate results, faith grows through persistence

Faith comes by hearing, and sometimes that means hearing yourself repeat out loud what God has already said.

Today I want to encourage you to press into God with bold, unwavering faith. Don’t let your circumstances, your feelings, or your past experiences hold you back. Just like the woman who reached for Jesus, you can reach for Him right where you are. Keep speaking His promises, keep moving toward Him, and trust that His power is still available to meet you in your moment of need.

Today’s scripture reading:  Mark 5:25-34

25 Now a certain woman had a flow of blood for twelve years, 

26 and had suffered many things from many physicians. She had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse. 

27 When she heard about Jesus, she came behind Him in the crowd and touched His garment. 

28 For she said, “If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well.”

29 Immediately the fountain of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of the affliction. 

30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in Himself that power had gone out of Him, turned around in the crowd and said, “Who touched My clothes?”

31 But His disciples said to Him, “You see the multitude thronging You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?’ ”

32 And He looked around to see her who had done this thing. 

33 But the woman, fearing and trembling, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him and told Him the whole truth. 

34 And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction.”

Journal Questions

• What area of your life do you need to press into God for right now
• What promise from God’s Word can you begin speaking over your situation
• What has been holding you back from taking a step of faith
• What is one action you can take today to move closer to Jesus
• How can you stay consistent in building your faith through hearing and speaking His Word