From the Daily Dose Journal Series

Next Steps

“You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.”  Matthew 26:2

As a leader, I’m often encouraged to help others discover and take their next steps in their walk with God. Whether it’s baptism, joining a small group, or serving in ministry, these steps help deepen their faith and connection with God. Recently, I’ve realized that I, too, need to be consistently taking next steps, not only in my faith but in all areas of life.

Today’s passage highlights Jesus’ next step. He speaks to His disciples, saying, “You know,” as if reminding them of something He had already shared. He was preparing them for what was to come, that was His betrayal, crucifixion, and ultimate fulfillment of His mission. Despite the difficulty, Jesus knew His assignment and remained steadfast, walking each step with purpose and obedience.

On this side of the Scriptures, we see the bigger picture. But in that moment, the disciples didn’t understand. They couldn’t comprehend how God was working, yet they, too, had next steps: to continue the ministry Jesus began, to witness His resurrection, and to carry the gospel to the world.

Like the disciples, we also have next steps to take, but thankfully, ours are not as excruciating as Jesus’. However, they are still vital. God’s plan for the world relies on His people partnering with Him. Each of us has a role to play in His mission, a place to be active in His body. Whether by supporting global efforts to share the gospel or showing the love of God in our own neighborhood.

Your Next Step

What is God asking you to do today? Whether in your church, community, family, or career, seek His guidance. Here’s how you can take action:

  1. Pray for Clarity
    • Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal your next step and make it clear.
  2. Identify Opportunities
    • Look for ways to grow spiritually, serve others, or make a difference in your sphere of influence.
  3. Take Action
    • Commit to one tangible step this week. Whether it’s joining a ministry, volunteering, or simply sharing God’s love with someone in need.

Today I want to encourage you that Jesus completed His assignment down to the last detail, and He calls us to do the same. Let’s press into Him, trust His leading, and take our next steps with faith and courage and make 2025 the best year of your faith walk, ever.

Today’s scripture reading: Matthew 26:1-5

 1 Now it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, that He said to His disciples,

2 “You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.”

3 Then the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders of the people assembled at the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas,

4 and plotted to take Jesus by trickery and kill Him.

5 But they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar among the people.”

Published by L. Lyden

Lynette is an author who uses her gifts and influence to encourage and promote aspiring writers. Her Daily Dose blog has been an outlet for her to encourage readers to walk closer to God each day. She is a wife, mother and grandmother who loves spending time and going on special outings with her family.

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