The Daily Dose

The Power of a God-sized Vision

_{Then there arose a loud outcry. And the scribes of the Pharisees’ party arose and protested, saying, “We find no evil in this man; but if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him, let us not fight against God.” ~ Acts 23:9}

Today I want to talk about the power of a God sized vision.  Many times in life, God puts a thought or idea into a person’s heart.  The bible refers to it as a dream or vision.  When God gives a vision to an individual, it is guaranteed that it will be bigger than the person receiving the dream.  The reason is so that you will have to depend on God, step by step, to accomplish this plan.  It also ensures that you will have to have help and to grow in relationships with the people called to work on the mission with you.  However, when God does drop a direction in your heart, as you talk with Him about it, you will sense faith rising up and the energy you need to move forward on the plan.  Sometimes, you will have an idea that will require a time of prayer and preparation to get started.  Other times He calls you to start today, right where you are.  The key is in putting yourself into a quiet space and spending time listening to His voice within your heart to know just what your next step needs to be. 

In my case, I find myself often worrying about how I am going to do the next thing that is needed.  When that happens, I ask Him, “How am I going to do that?”  But I don’t make excuses, I wait and listen.  Each time I think of that step, I thank God that He has the answer and that He is getting it to me at just the right time.  It may take days before the answer comes or even months.  However, I know God is reminding me about it when the thought comes and that is my cue to pray about it some more by believing He is going to show me the answer and thanking Him that He is making it plain and clear to me.  God knows you and He knows me and what He really knows is how much time each one of us needs to start moving and He strategically plans that into the equation.

In today’s reading at the beginning of Acts chapter 23, Paul was brought before the chief priests and all their council so that the commander of the Roman guard could find out what the dispute was about the previous day.  Paul started out his defense by saying that he lived in all good conscience before God everyday.  This statement came the next day after he confessed all he had done to persecute the church the day before. It is clear from this statement that he had been forgiven and didn’t let his regrets and past sin hold him back from what God had called him to do.

This is often the place where people get stuck in life.  They get saved and into a right relationship with God through the blood of Jesus but cannot get out of the grip of past sin.  In reality, they are the ones gripping and holding on to the past, but God wants us all to let it go because He has cleansed each one of us in the blood of Jesus and washed away every stain of sin!  Before you are able to “see” where God is leading you in life, you have to be looking in the right direction and that is ahead.  Stop looking behind you at your past sin or the hurts you have experienced in life.  God is working all of those things for a good purpose now and that is to help others overcome their pasts.

As Paul continued to speak Acts 23, the people there came into a great argument.  So that finally one group decided that if Paul had a visitation from heaven whether an angel or God Himself, they did not want to try to fight against what God was doing.

This is usually what happens next to each one of us when given a God sized vision.  As we begin to share with others, they quickly see that the dream is much bigger than we can accomplish on our own, so they dispute and try to “talk some sense” into us.  These “nay sayers” will knock you right off your course if you listen to them.  Although it is not usually wrong to share what God has put in your heart, be selective and start out talking about the idea with those who will pray with you and be encouraging and especially if you do not know for sure if your dream has come from God or just your own imagination.

Next in the reading, Paul is rescued from the dispute and taken to a safe place.  You can also follow his example to withdraw to a place of prayer.  Create a safe secret space where you can spend quiet time with God each day and every time you are afraid or confused about what is next in the plan.  A place where you can find peace and rest for your soul.  A place to quiet the external voices and even the internal voices of doubt and unbelief that are talking over His inward voice.  This will take place every single day while working on the assignment and when it is accomplished, you will get in that secret place again for your next assignment.

Today I want to encourage you to ask your heavenly Father for a God sized vision for the coming year.  This is not setting a goal to become healthier or wealthier.  Although those are not bad goals, God’s assignments on your life will be something that impacts the people around you everywhere you go.  After you ask Him, begin to thank Him that His plan for your life is on the way and you are ready to receive it and walk it out with His empowerment.  Thank Him everyday for it until you realize what it is.  If you find yourself making excuses because of where you have come from, what you have done in the past or the lack of education you have had, turn those excuses over to Him and get rid of them!  Now you are ready to write down the plan when it comes and begin to pray for where and how to start.  Ask Him who to talk to about it and pray about it with.  Then begin to take steps as He brings them to your thoughts and heart and ask for His strength along the way.  Retreat often to thank Him for calling you and for staying close to you step by step.  When you do hear objections or unbelief, ask your loving heavenly Father to protect you from those thoughts and remind you of His grace to do big things for Him.  Make this coming year your best year yet by stepping into the mission God wants to do through your life!

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 22:30 – 23:1-10

30 The next day, because he wanted to know for certain why he was accused by the Jews, he released him from his bonds, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down and set him before them.

1 Then Paul, looking earnestly at the council, said, “Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.” 

2 And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth. 

3 Then Paul said to him, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! For you sit to judge me according to the law, and do you command me to be struck contrary to the law?”

4 And those who stood by said, “Do you revile God’s high priest?”

5 Then Paul said, “I did not know, brethren, that he was the high priest; for it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’ ”

6 But when Paul perceived that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, “Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee; concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead I am being judged!”

7 And when he had said this, a dissension arose between the Pharisees and the Sadducees; and the assembly was divided. 

8 For Sadducees say that there is no resurrection—and no angel or spirit; but the Pharisees confess both. 

9 Then there arose a loud outcry. And the scribes of the Pharisees’ party arose and protested, saying, “We find no evil in this man; but if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him, let us not fight against God.”

10 Now when there arose a great dissension, the commander, fearing lest Paul might be pulled to pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from among them, and bring him into the barracks.

 Journal:

• What dream or idea has God placed in my heart that feels bigger than me?
• What past regret or fear might be holding me back from moving forward?
• How can I create a quiet place to listen for God’s direction?
• Who in my life encourages my faith and can pray with me about this vision?
• What small step can I take today toward the plan God is showing me?

Citizenship

The commander answered, “With a large sum I obtained this citizenship.” And Paul said, “But I was born a citizen.” Acts 22:28

I was born a United States citizen. Today, many people take that for granted, but for me, it is an honor. I believe the words of the old patriotic song that say there is no greater land on earth. Being an American comes with many privileges and freedoms that others in the world do not have. I can live in peace, protect myself and my family, travel freely without harassment, and most importantly, worship God openly and gather with other believers in a house of worship.

In today’s reading, the apostle Paul had been arrested and was about to be examined under scourging, which was a brutal Roman punishment. But when Paul revealed that he was a Roman citizen, everything changed. The centurion immediately reported it to his commander, who told Paul that he had purchased his own citizenship at a great price. Paul responded that he had been born a citizen. That revelation shifted the entire situation, and Paul was removed from danger and placed under the protection of the Roman guard. Though Paul was Jewish, his dual citizenship gave him access to certain rights and protections that others didn’t have. He was wise to know what his rights were and bold enough to speak up when he needed them.

In the same way, if you have received salvation through Jesus, you also have dual citizenship. You may have been born in America, but when you were born again into the Kingdom of God, you became a citizen of heaven. That means you have access to heavenly rights and benefits right now in this life. Those benefits, however, can only operate effectively when you know what they are and walk in them.

Psalm 103 is a wonderful reminder of the benefits that belong to you as a citizen of heaven:

• God forgives and releases you from the punishment of all your sins and iniquities
• He heals all your diseases
• He redeems your life from destruction
• He crowns you with His lovingkindness and tender mercies
• He fills your life with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s
• He executes righteousness and justice for you when the enemy tries to oppress you

Even though these benefits belong to you, that doesn’t mean you will never face challenges in this fallen world. When difficulties do come your way, you must, like Paul, stand on your heavenly citizenship and take hold of your rights. You can remind the enemy that you are not bound by the laws of darkness but governed by the authority and promises of heaven. You may walk through the fire, but God’s Word promises that you will not be consumed.

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

1. Begin by studying the promises of God in His Word and take note of what belongs to you as His child.

2. Write down the benefits and blessings of being a citizen of heaven and thank God for them daily.

3. When challenges come, take your heavenly stand out loud with confidence.

4. Surround yourself with other believers who will help you stay grounded in your identity in Christ.

5. Pray for wisdom and strength to walk as a true ambassador of God’s Kingdom in every area of your life.

Today I want to encourage you to live with confidence in your heavenly citizenship. God has given you authority, promises, and benefits that cannot be revoked. When life tries to shake you or make you doubt your place, remember that you belong to the Kingdom of God. You have access to peace, healing, provision, and victory, not because of your earthly status, but because of your identity in Christ Jesus. Walk boldly as a citizen of heaven and watch God’s promises work powerfully in your life.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 22:22-30

22 And they listened to him until this word, and then they raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!” 

23 Then, as they cried out and tore off their clothes and threw dust into the air, 

24 the commander ordered him to be brought into the barracks, and said that he should be examined under scourging, so that he might know why they shouted so against him. 

25 And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion who stood by, “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman, and uncondemned?”

26 When the centurion heard that, he went and told the commander, saying, “Take care what you do, for this man is a Roman.”

27 Then the commander came and said to him, “Tell me, are you a Roman?”

He said, “Yes.”

28 The commander answered, “With a large sum I obtained this citizenship.”

And Paul said, “But I was born a citizen.”

29 Then immediately those who were about to examine him withdrew from him; and the commander was also afraid after he found out that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him.

30 The next day, because he wanted to know for certain why he was accused by the Jews, he released him from his bonds and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down and set him before them.

Journal:

• What does it mean to you personally to be a citizen of heaven?
• Which of the benefits from Psalm 103 stands out to you the most today?
• How can you remind yourself daily of your heavenly rights when challenges arise?
• What is one promise of God that you can stand on this week?

Clothed for His glory

_{The craftsmen made beautiful sacred garments of blue, purple, and scarlet cloth, clothing for Aaron to wear while ministering in the Holy Place, just as the Lord had commanded Moses. ~ Exodus 39:1}

Have you ever thought about what it means to be clothed in purpose? In Exodus 39, we see a beautiful description of how the priests’ garments were created. Every thread, color, and gem had meaning. The blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, the gold woven through the fabric, and the stones engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel were not just decorative details but they represented God’s presence, His holiness, and His care for His people. Nothing was ordinary about what they wore because their garments symbolized a sacred calling.

Most of the time, I feel unqualified for what God is calling me to do. I am always prepared to lead in ministry, yet I often wonder if I truly have what it takes. I don’t always feel “put together” enough, and at times, I am more aware of my flaws than my faith. One moment that continues to anchor me happened during morning prayer when I sensed the Holy Spirit whisper quietly in my heart, “You are clothed in My righteousness.” That memory has stayed with me and keeps me grounded whenever I feel overwhelmed or underqualified. Now I know that it’s not about my ability, but about His covering. Just like the priests in Exodus 39 were set apart by what they wore, God reminded me that He has already equipped me with everything I need to serve Him in whatever He calls me to do

This truth is just as real for you today. As a follower of Christ Jesus, you are clothed in His righteousness and purpose. You may not wear garments of gold and linen, but you carry the presence of God wherever you go. He has covered you with grace, strength, and wisdom for every assignment He gives you. The way you serve, love, and lead are all part of how He displays His glory through your life.

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

• Begin your day by thanking God for clothing you in His righteousness and purpose.
• When insecurity or doubt creeps in, remind yourself of who you are in Christ.
• Walk into every situation knowing that you are a representative of God’s presence.
• Use your gifts with confidence, trusting that God has prepared you for this moment.
• Surround yourself with others who help you stay focused on your identity in Him.

Today I want to encourage you to see yourself as clothed for His glory. You are not defined by your past or your imperfections, but by the grace and calling of God upon your life. Just as the priests in Exodus 39 were adorned with garments of purpose, you are covered in the beauty of His presence and equipped for every good work He has prepared for you. Step forward in confidence, knowing that you wear the covering of the One who called you.

Today’s scripture reading: Exodus 39

1 The craftsmen made beautiful sacred garments of blue, purple, and scarlet cloth—clothing for Aaron to wear while ministering in the Holy Place, just as the Lord had commanded Moses.

Making the Ephod

2 Bezalel made the ephod of finely woven linen and embroidered it with gold and with blue, purple, and scarlet thread. 

3 He made gold thread by hammering out thin sheets of gold and cutting it into fine strands. With great skill and care, he worked it into the fine linen with the blue, purple, and scarlet thread.

4 The ephod consisted of two pieces, front and back, joined at the shoulders with two shoulder-pieces. 

5 The decorative sash was made of the same materials: finely woven linen embroidered with gold and with blue, purple, and scarlet thread, just as the Lord had commanded Moses. 

6 They mounted the two onyx stones in settings of gold filigree. The stones were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel, just as a seal is engraved. 

7 He fastened these stones on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod as a reminder that the priest represents the people of Israel. All this was done just as the Lord had commanded Moses.

8 Bezalel made the chestpiece with great skill and care. He made it to match the ephod, using finely woven linen embroidered with gold and with blue, purple, and scarlet thread. 

9 He made the chestpiece of a single piece of cloth folded to form a pouch nine inches square. 

10 They mounted four rows of gemstones on it. The first row contained a red carnelian, a pale-green peridot, and an emerald. 

11 The second row contained a turquoise, a blue lapis lazuli, and a white moonstone. 

12 The third row contained an orange jacinth, an agate, and a purple amethyst. 

13 The fourth row contained a blue-green beryl, an onyx, and a green jasper. All these stones were set in gold filigree. 

14 Each stone represented one of the twelve sons of Israel, and the name of that tribe was engraved on it like a seal.

15 To attach the chestpiece to the ephod, they made braided cords of pure gold thread. 

16 They also made two settings of gold filigree and two gold rings and attached them to the top corners of the chestpiece. 

17 They tied the two gold cords to the rings on the chestpiece. 

18 They tied the other ends of the cords to the gold settings on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod. 

19 Then they made two more gold rings and attached them to the inside edges of the chestpiece next to the ephod. 

20 Then they made two more gold rings and attached them to the front of the ephod, below the shoulder-pieces, just above the knot where the decorative sash was fastened to the ephod. 

21 They attached the bottom rings of the chestpiece to the rings on the ephod with blue cords. In this way, the chestpiece was held securely to the ephod above the decorative sash. All this was done just as the Lord had commanded Moses.

22 Bezalel made the robe that is worn with the ephod from a single piece of blue woven cloth, 

23 with an opening for Aaron’s head in the middle of it. The opening was reinforced with a woven collar so it would not tear. 

24 They made pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and attached them to the hem of the robe. 

25 They also made bells of pure gold and placed them between the pomegranates along the hem of the robe, 

26 with bells and pomegranates alternating all around the hem. This robe was to be worn whenever the priest ministered before the Lord, just as the Lord had commanded Moses.

27 They made tunics for Aaron and his sons from fine linen cloth. 

28 The turban and the special head coverings were made of fine linen, and the undergarments were also made of finely woven linen. 

29 The sashes were made of finely woven linen and embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet thread, just as the Lord had commanded Moses.

30 Finally, they made the sacred medallion—the badge of holiness—of pure gold. They engraved it like a seal with these words: Holy to the Lord. 

31 They attached the medallion with a blue cord to Aaron’s turban, just as the Lord had commanded Moses.

32 And so at last the Tabernacle was finished. The Israelites had done everything just as the Lord had commanded Moses. 

33 And they brought the entire Tabernacle to Moses: the sacred tent with all its furnishings, clasps, frames, crossbars, posts, and bases;

34 the tent coverings of tanned ram skins and fine goatskin leather; the inner curtain to shield the Ark;

35 the Ark of the Covenant and its carrying poles; the Ark’s cover—the place of atonement;

36 the table and all its utensils; the Bread of the Presence;

37 the pure gold lampstand with its symmetrical lamp cups, all its accessories, and the olive oil for lighting;

38 the gold altar; the anointing oil and fragrant incense; the curtain for the entrance of the sacred tent;

39 the bronze altar; the bronze grating and its carrying poles and utensils; the washbasin with its stand;

40 the curtains for the walls of the courtyard; the posts and their bases; the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard; the ropes and tent pegs; all the furnishings to be used in worship at the Tabernacle;

41 the beautifully stitched garments for the priests to wear while ministering in the Holy Place—the sacred garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments for his sons to wear as they minister as priests.

42 So the people of Israel followed all of the Lord’s instructions to Moses. 

43 Then Moses inspected all their work. When he found it had been done just as the Lord had commanded him, he blessed them.

Journal:

• What has God clothed me with in this season?
• How can I walk in greater confidence knowing that He has equipped me for His purpose?

The Beauty of obedience

Next Bezalel used acacia wood to construct the square altar of burnt offering. It was 7-1/2 feet wide, 7-1/2 feet long, and 4-1/2 feet high. He made horns for each of its four corners so that the horns and altar were all one piece. He overlaid the altar with bronze. ~ Exodus 38:1-2

Have you ever wondered if the small, unseen things you do for God really matter? It’s easy to think that only the big moments or public acts of faith have impact, but Exodus 38 reminds us that every act of obedience holds value in God’s eyes. In this chapter, the Israelites continued to build the tabernacle, carefully crafting each piece exactly as the Lord had instructed. From the bronze altar to the courtyard, every detail mattered because it was part of a holy purpose.

I’ve always held positions where I served faithfully in what felt like a background role, and honestly, that’s where I’ve always been most comfortable. Week after week, I am happy to work behind the scenes, organizing, preparing, and supporting others, without much recognition and never really considering the importance of the work. It isn’t glamorous work, but I know it is needed. Over time, God has shown me that even those unseen moments mattered deeply to Him. Those quiet acts of service are like pieces of bronze in His greater structure. Just as every element of the tabernacle contributed to creating a place for His presence, my willingness to serve in the background is part of making space for God to move in the lives of others.

God still works this way today. He uses our faithfulness in the ordinary to build something extraordinary. Every time you serve, give, or show kindness, you are helping to establish a place for His presence to dwell. The altar in Exodus 38 represented worship, surrender, and sacrifice. In the same way, your obedience, no matter how simple or seemingly insignificant, becomes a form of worship when offered with a willing heart.

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

• Start by giving your daily work to God, no matter how routine it feels. Invite Him to use it for His purpose.
• Be faithful in what He has already placed in your hands. Small acts of obedience prepare you for greater opportunities.
• Offer your time, gifts, and resources with gratitude, not out of obligation. God values your willing spirit more than the size of your offering.
• Notice the ways God is using your efforts to touch others, even if you don’t see results right away. Trust that He is working through your obedience.
• Take a moment to thank God for the privilege of being part of His work. Every contribution matters to Him.

Today I want to encourage you to see your obedience as sacred. Whether your service is noticed or not, it is seen by God and carries eternal weight. Just like the builders of the tabernacle, your hands are helping to create a place where His presence can dwell. Keep building, keep serving, and keep offering what you have with a willing heart. God is taking every piece you bring and using it to form something beautiful for His glory.

Today’s scripture reading: Exodus 38

1 Next Bezalel used acacia wood to construct the square altar of burnt offering. It was 7-1/2 feet wide, 7-1/2 feet long, and 4-1/2 feet high. 

2 He made horns for each of its four corners so that the horns and altar were all one piece. He overlaid the altar with bronze. 

3 Then he made all the altar utensils of bronze—the ash buckets, shovels, basins, meat forks, and firepans. 

4 Next he made a bronze grating and installed it halfway down the side of the altar, under the ledge. 

5 He cast four rings and attached them to the corners of the bronze grating to hold the carrying poles. 

6 He made the poles from acacia wood and overlaid them with bronze. 

7 He inserted the poles through the rings on the sides of the altar. The altar was hollow and was made from planks.

8 Bezalel made the bronze washbasin and its bronze stand from bronze mirrors donated by the women who served at the entrance of the Tabernacle.

9 Then Bezalel made the courtyard, which was enclosed with curtains made of finely woven linen. On the south side the curtains were 150 feet long. 

10 They were held up by twenty posts set securely in twenty bronze bases. He hung the curtains with silver hooks and rings. 

11 He made a similar set of curtains for the north side—150 feet of curtains held up by twenty posts set securely in bronze bases. He hung the curtains with silver hooks and rings. 

12 The curtains on the west end of the courtyard were 75 feet long, hung with silver hooks and rings and supported by ten posts set into ten bases. 

13 The east end, the front, was also 75 feet long.

14 The courtyard entrance was on the east end, flanked by two curtains. The curtain on the right side was 22-1/2 feet long and was supported by three posts set into three bases. 

15 The curtain on the left side was also 22-1/2 feet long and was supported by three posts set into three bases. 

16 All the curtains used in the courtyard were made of finely woven linen. 

17 Each post had a bronze base, and all the hooks and rings were silver. The tops of the posts of the courtyard were overlaid with silver, and the rings to hold up the curtains were made of silver.

18 He made the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard of finely woven linen, and he decorated it with beautiful embroidery in blue, purple, and scarlet thread. It was 30 feet long, and its height was 7-1/2 feet, just like the curtains of the courtyard walls. 

19 It was supported by four posts, each set securely in its own bronze base. The tops of the posts were overlaid with silver, and the hooks and rings were also made of silver.

20 All the tent pegs used in the Tabernacle and courtyard were made of bronze.

21 This is an inventory of the materials used in building the Tabernacle of the Covenant. The Levites compiled the figures, as Moses directed, and Ithamar son of Aaron the priest served as recorder. 

22 Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, made everything just as the Lord had commanded Moses. 

23 He was assisted by Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, a craftsman expert at engraving, designing, and embroidering with blue, purple, and scarlet thread on fine linen cloth.

24 The people brought special offerings of gold totaling 2,193 pounds, as measured by the weight of the sanctuary shekel. This gold was used throughout the Tabernacle.

25 The whole community of Israel gave 7,545 pounds of silver, as measured by the weight of the sanctuary shekel. 

26 This silver came from the tax collected from each man registered in the census. (The tax is one beka, which is half a shekel, based on the sanctuary shekel.) The tax was collected from 603,550 men who had reached their twentieth birthday. 

27 The hundred bases for the frames of the sanctuary walls and for the posts supporting the inner curtain required 7,500 pounds of silver, about 75 pounds for each base. 

28 The remaining 45 pounds of silver was used to make the hooks and rings and to overlay the tops of the posts.

29 The people also brought as special offerings 5,310 pounds of bronze, 

30 which was used for casting the bases for the posts at the entrance to the Tabernacle, and for the bronze altar with its bronze grating and all the altar utensils. 

31 Bronze was also used to make the bases for the posts that supported the curtains around the courtyard, the bases for the curtain at the entrance of the courtyard, and all the tent pegs for the Tabernacle and the courtyard.

Journal:

• What small act of obedience is God calling me to today?
• How can I offer it with joy knowing it contributes to His greater work?

Crafted with Purpose

Next Bezalel made the Ark of acacia wood—a sacred chest 45 inches long, 27 inches wide, and 27 inches high. He overlaid it inside and outside with pure gold, and he ran a molding of gold all around it.  ~ Exodus 37:1-2

Have you ever noticed how God pays attention to details? From the colors of a sunset to the design of a snowflake, His craftsmanship is unmatched. In Exodus 37, Bezalel, a man filled with the Spirit of God, carefully builds the ark of the covenant, the table, the lampstand, and the altar of incense. Every piece was made with precision and care, exactly as God commanded. Nothing was random, nothing was rushed. It was sacred work, done with skill and intention.

There have been times in my life where I felt like I was in the middle of construction.  Even years where God was shaping me in ways I didn’t always understand. I remember serving in a role where I was unseen, doing tasks that felt small and insignificant. But as time went on, I began to see how those moments were building something inside me. Just like Bezalel’s craftsmanship, God was forming something valuable within me through my obedience in the small things. He was teaching me to pay attention to His details, to follow His design instead of my own.

The same is true for you. God is crafting something beautiful in your life. Even when it feels like the pieces don’t make sense, He knows exactly what He is building. Just as the ark and the lampstand had a purpose in the tabernacle, the work God is doing in you has purpose in His plan. Your obedience, your diligence, and your willingness to do what He asks, no matter how simple or unseen, are shaping something eternal.

Here are some practical ways to apply this passage:

• Take time each day to invite God into your work, whether it’s in ministry, at home, or on the job. Let Him guide your hands and heart.
• Do small tasks with excellence and care, knowing that faithfulness in the little things pleases God.
• Ask God to fill you with His Spirit like Bezalel so that you can carry out His work with wisdom, skill, and creativity.
• Be patient with the process. God’s craftsmanship takes time, and He is working even when you cannot see the full design.
• Look for opportunities to use your gifts to serve others. Your obedience could be the key that brings light or beauty into someone else’s life.

Today I want to encourage you to trust the work God is doing in and through you. Even the smallest act of obedience is part of His greater design. You are not just going through motions, you are being shaped by the Master Craftsman Himself. Let Him continue to form you with purpose and precision, knowing that when He finishes His work, it will be something beautiful and lasting.

Today’s scripture reading: Exodus 37

1 Next Bezalel made the Ark of acacia wood—a sacred chest 45 inches long, 27 inches wide, and 27 inches high. 

2 He overlaid it inside and outside with pure gold, and he ran a molding of gold all around it. 

3 He cast four gold rings and attached them to its four feet, two rings on each side. 

4 Then he made poles from acacia wood and overlaid them with gold. 

5 He inserted the poles into the rings at the sides of the Ark to carry it.

6 Then he made the Ark’s cover—the place of atonement—from pure gold. It was 45 inches long and 27 inches wide. 

7 He made two cherubim from hammered gold and placed them on the two ends of the atonement cover. 

8 He molded the cherubim on each end of the atonement cover, making it all of one piece of gold. 

9 The cherubim faced each other and looked down on the atonement cover. With their wings spread above it, they protected it.

10 Then Bezalel made the table of acacia wood, 36 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 27 inches high. 

11 He overlaid it with pure gold and ran a gold molding around the edge. 

12 He decorated it with a 3-inch border all around, and he ran a gold molding along the border. 

13 Then he cast four gold rings for the table and attached them at the four corners next to the four legs. 

14 The rings were attached near the border to hold the poles that were used to carry the table. 

15 He made these poles from acacia wood and overlaid them with gold. 

16 Then he made special containers of pure gold for the table—bowls, ladles, jars, and pitchers—to be used in pouring out liquid offerings.

17 Then Bezalel made the lampstand of pure, hammered gold. He made the entire lampstand and its decorations of one piece—the base, center stem, lamp cups, buds, and petals. 

18 The lampstand had six branches going out from the center stem, three on each side. 

19 Each of the six branches had three lamp cups shaped like almond blossoms, complete with buds and petals. 

20 The center stem of the lampstand was crafted with four lamp cups shaped like almond blossoms, complete with buds and petals. 

21 There was an almond bud beneath each pair of branches where the six branches extended from the center stem, all made of one piece. 

22 The almond buds and branches were all of one piece with the center stem, and they were hammered from pure gold.

23 He also made seven lamps for the lampstand, lamp snuffers, and trays, all of pure gold. 

24 The entire lampstand, along with its accessories, was made from 75 pounds of pure gold.

25 Then Bezalel made the incense altar of acacia wood. It was 18 inches square and 36 inches high, with horns at the corners carved from the same piece of wood as the altar itself. 

26 He overlaid the top, sides, and horns of the altar with pure gold, and he ran a gold molding around the entire altar. 

27 He made two gold rings and attached them on opposite sides of the altar below the gold molding to hold the carrying poles. 

28 He made the poles of acacia wood and overlaid them with gold.

29 Then he made the sacred anointing oil and the fragrant incense, using the techniques of a skilled incense maker.

Journal:

• What area of my life is God shaping right now?
• How can I trust His process even when I cannot see the full picture?

When willing hearts go beyond

Moses gave them the materials donated by the people of Israel as sacred offerings for the completion of the sanctuary. But the people continued to bring additional gifts each morning. Finally, the craftsmen who were working on the sanctuary left their work. They went to Moses and reported, “The people have given more than enough materials to complete the job the Lord has commanded us to do!” ~ Exodus 36:3-5

 Have you ever been so moved by something that you couldn’t help but give more than was asked of you? There is a deep joy that comes from giving when your heart is stirred by love, gratitude, or purpose. In Exodus 36, we see a powerful example of what happens when God’s people respond with that kind of willingness. The Israelites were bringing so many offerings for the building of the tabernacle that Moses had to tell them to stop giving because there was more than enough. What a beautiful problem to have, hearts so stirred by God that generosity overflows.

I remember a time when I was serving in a project at church, and we were gathering volunteers for an outreach event. Initially, we weren’t sure if we would have enough people or resources to pull it off. But as word spread, more and more people began to show up ready to help. Some brought food, others brought supplies, and others just showed up with willing hearts and hands. It reached a point where we had more than we needed, and we were even able to bless another ministry with the overflow. It was such a vivid reminder that when God stirs hearts, He doesn’t just provide the bare minimum, He provides overflow.

That same principle applies to every area of life. Whether it’s your time, your gifts, or your resources, when you respond to God’s prompting, He multiplies what you bring. You may not feel like you have much to offer, but when it’s placed in God’s hands, it becomes more than enough. Your willingness to give, serve, and step out in faith creates space for God’s provision to flow through you to others.

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

• Start by asking God to show you where He is stirring your heart to give or serve. Be open to His leading even if it seems small.
• Offer what you have with joy, not out of obligation. Remember, it’s not the amount that matters but the heart behind it.
• Look for opportunities to be part of what God is building around you, whether in your church, your community, or your family.
• Encourage others to participate too. Sometimes your willingness can spark faith in someone else.
• Keep your heart sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s promptings. The more you respond, the more you’ll see His abundance at work.

Today I want to encourage you to give from a willing heart, not because you have to, but because you want to be part of what God is doing. When your heart is stirred by His purpose, you’ll discover that what you offer is never too small. God has a way of multiplying it beyond what you could imagine, bringing more than enough for His work to be accomplished.

Today’s scripture reading: Exodus 36

1 “The Lord has gifted Bezalel, Oholiab, and the other skilled craftsmen with wisdom and ability to perform any task involved in building the sanctuary. Let them construct and furnish the Tabernacle, just as the Lord has commanded.”

2 So Moses summoned Bezalel and Oholiab and all the others who were specially gifted by the Lord and were eager to get to work. 

3 Moses gave them the materials donated by the people of Israel as sacred offerings for the completion of the sanctuary. But the people continued to bring additional gifts each morning. 

4 Finally the craftsmen who were working on the sanctuary left their work. 

5 They went to Moses and reported, “The people have given more than enough materials to complete the job the Lord has commanded us to do!”

6 So Moses gave the command, and this message was sent throughout the camp: “Men and women, don’t prepare any more gifts for the sanctuary. We have enough!” So the people stopped bringing their sacred offerings. 

7 Their contributions were more than enough to complete the whole project.

8 The skilled craftsmen made ten curtains of finely woven linen for the Tabernacle. Then Bezalel decorated the curtains with blue, purple, and scarlet thread and with skillfully embroidered cherubim. 

9 All ten curtains were exactly the same size—42 feet long and 6 feet wide. 

10 Five of these curtains were joined together to make one long curtain, and the other five were joined to make a second long curtain. 

11 He made fifty loops of blue yarn and put them along the edge of the last curtain in each set. 

12 The fifty loops along the edge of one curtain matched the fifty loops along the edge of the other curtain. 

13 Then he made fifty gold clasps and fastened the long curtains together with the clasps. In this way, the Tabernacle was made of one continuous piece.

14 He made eleven curtains of goat-hair cloth to serve as a tent covering for the Tabernacle. 

15 These eleven curtains were all exactly the same size—45 feet long and 6 feet wide. 

16 Bezalel joined five of these curtains together to make one long curtain, and the other six were joined to make a second long curtain. 

17 He made fifty loops for the edge of each large curtain. 

18 He also made fifty bronze clasps to fasten the long curtains together. In this way, the tent covering was made of one continuous piece. 

19 He completed the tent covering with a layer of tanned ram skins and a layer of fine goatskin leather.

20 For the framework of the Tabernacle, Bezalel constructed frames of acacia wood. 

21 Each frame was 15 feet high and 27 inches wide, 

22 with two pegs under each frame. All the frames were identical. 

23 He made twenty of these frames to support the curtains on the south side of the Tabernacle. 

24 He also made forty silver bases—two bases under each frame, with the pegs fitting securely into the bases. 

25 For the north side of the Tabernacle, he made another twenty frames, 

26 with their forty silver bases, two bases under each frame. 

27 He made six frames for the rear—the west side of the Tabernacle— 

28 along with two additional frames to reinforce the rear corners of the Tabernacle. 

29 These corner frames were matched at the bottom and firmly attached at the top with a single ring, forming a single corner unit. Both of these corner units were made the same way. 

30 So there were eight frames at the rear of the Tabernacle, set in sixteen silver bases—two bases under each frame.

31 Then he made crossbars of acacia wood to link the frames, five crossbars for the north side of the Tabernacle 

32 and five for the south side. He also made five crossbars for the rear of the Tabernacle, which faced west. 

33 He made the middle crossbar to attach halfway up the frames; it ran all the way from one end of the Tabernacle to the other. 

34 He overlaid the frames with gold and made gold rings to hold the crossbars. Then he overlaid the crossbars with gold as well.

35 For the inside of the Tabernacle, Bezalel made a special curtain of finely woven linen. He decorated it with blue, purple, and scarlet thread and with skillfully embroidered cherubim. 

36 For the curtain, he made four posts of acacia wood and four gold hooks. He overlaid the posts with gold and set them in four silver bases.

37 Then he made another curtain for the entrance to the sacred tent. He made it of finely woven linen and embroidered it with exquisite designs using blue, purple, and scarlet thread. 

38 This curtain was hung on gold hooks attached to five posts. The posts with their decorated tops and hooks were overlaid with gold, and the five bases were cast from bronze.

Journal:

• Where is God stirring my heart to give or serve right now?
• What can I offer today that could make a difference in someone else’s life?

Willing hearts, willing hands

All whose hearts were stirred and whose spirits were moved came and brought their sacred offerings to the Lord. They brought all the materials needed for the Tabernacle, for the performance of its rituals, and for the sacred garments. ~ Exodus 35:21

Have you ever felt that stirring inside your heart, that quiet nudge to give, serve, or contribute in a way that feels bigger than yourself? Exodus 35 paints a powerful picture of what happens when God’s people respond to that inner stirring with open hands and willing hearts.

In this chapter, Moses gathered the Israelites and invited each of them to bring offerings and use their skills to build the tabernacle, the place where God’s presence would dwell among them. What stands out is not just what they gave, but how they gave. The people didn’t give out of pressure or obligation; they gave because their hearts were moved by love for God.

I remember a time when God stirred my own heart in a similar way. I was about to get a new vehicle, and instead of trading in the one I currently had or trying to sell it, I felt the Holy Spirit prompting me to give it to a friend in need. The car had been with me for quite a while, and though it had plenty of miles, it still ran well. After discussing it with my husband, we handed him the keys, his gratitude was overwhelming. He took care of that car as if it were the most precious thing in the world. Seeing his joy and relief was such a blessing that it reminded me that obedience is never just about the act itself, but about what God does through it. In that moment, I realized that God didn’t just use what we gave to meet someone else’s need, He also used it to grow something inside of me. That experience showed me that when you step forward with a willing heart, God multiplies what you offer in ways you could never plan.

This truth still applies today. Whether you’re in ministry, at work, in your home, or in your community, God invites you to use what’s already in your hand. He doesn’t look for perfection, He looks for willingness. Like the Israelites, your gifts, whether big or small, become part of something sacred when they’re offered with love and obedience.

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

• Start by asking God to show you what’s already in your hand. It might be a skill, a resource, or a connection you’ve overlooked.
• Look for opportunities to serve where there is need. Sometimes your greatest impact starts in the simplest acts of obedience.
• Give with joy, not reluctance. Trust that what you offer, when surrendered to God, carries eternal value.
• Partner with others in your community or church. The tabernacle was built through unity, not isolation.
• Pray daily for a willing heart that stays open to God’s leading.

Set aside time today to ask God, “What can I bring?” Write down what He places on your heart, and take one small step toward obedience. Whether it’s giving your time, sharing encouragement, or using a gift you’ve been hesitant to offer, start where you are.

Today I want to encourage you to see your willingness as an act of worship. God isn’t asking you for what you don’t have; He’s asking you to bring what’s already in your hand. Just like the Israelites, your obedience can help create spaces where His presence dwells and lives are changed. When your heart is stirred and your spirit is willing, what you bring becomes holy in His sight.

1 Then Moses called together the whole community of Israel and told them, “These are the instructions the Lord has commanded you to follow. 

2 You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day must be a Sabbath day of complete rest, a holy day dedicated to the Lord. Anyone who works on that day must be put to death. 

3 You must not even light a fire in any of your homes on the Sabbath.”

Offerings for the Tabernacle

4 Then Moses said to the whole community of Israel, “This is what the Lord has commanded: 

5 Take a sacred offering for the Lord. Let those with generous hearts present the following gifts to the Lord:

gold, silver, and bronze;

6 blue, purple, and scarlet thread; fine linen and goat hair for cloth;

7 tanned ram skins and fine goatskin leather; acacia wood;

8 olive oil for the lamps; spices for the anointing oil and the fragrant incense;

9 onyx stones, and other gemstones to be set in the ephod and the priest’s chest piece.

10 “Come, all of you who are gifted craftsmen. Construct everything that the Lord has commanded:

11 the Tabernacle and its sacred tent, its covering, clasps, frames, crossbars, posts, and bases;

12 the Ark and its carrying poles; the Ark’s cover—the place of atonement; the inner curtain to shield the Ark;

13 the table, its carrying poles, and all its utensils; the Bread of the Presence;

14 for light, the lampstand, its accessories, the lamp cups, and the olive oil for lighting;

15 the incense altar and its carrying poles; the anointing oil and fragrant incense; the curtain for the entrance of the Tabernacle;

16 the altar of burnt offering; the bronze grating of the altar and its carrying poles and utensils; the washbasin with its stand;

17 the curtains for the walls of the courtyard; the posts and their bases; the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard;

18 the tent pegs of the Tabernacle and courtyard and their ropes;

19 the beautifully stitched garments for the priests to wear while ministering in the Holy Place—the sacred garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments for his sons to wear as they minister as priests.”

20 So the whole community of Israel left Moses and returned to their tents. 

21 All whose hearts were stirred and whose spirits were moved came and brought their sacred offerings to the Lord. They brought all the materials needed for the Tabernacle, for the performance of its rituals, and for the sacred garments. 

22 Both men and women came, all whose hearts were willing. They brought to the Lord their offerings of gold—brooches, earrings, rings from their fingers, and necklaces. They presented gold objects of every kind as a special offering to the Lord. 

23 All those who owned the following items willingly brought them: blue, purple, and scarlet thread; fine linen and goat hair for cloth; and tanned ram skins and fine goatskin leather. 

24 And all who had silver and bronze objects gave them as a sacred offering to the Lord. And those who had acacia wood brought it for use in the project.

25 All the women who were skilled in sewing and spinning prepared blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and fine linen cloth. 

26 All the women who were willing used their skills to spin the goat hair into yarn. 

27 The leaders brought onyx stones and the special gemstones to be set in the ephod and the priest’s chest piece. 

28 They also brought spices and olive oil for the light, the anointing oil, and the fragrant incense. 

29 So the people of Israel—every man and woman who was eager to help in the work the Lord had given them through Moses—brought their gifts and gave them freely to the Lord.

30 Then Moses told the people of Israel, “The Lord has specifically chosen Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. 

31 The Lord has filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts. 

32 He is a master craftsman, expert in working with gold, silver, and bronze. 

33 He is skilled in engraving and mounting gemstones and in carving wood. He is a master at every craft. 

34 And the Lord has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach their skills to others. 

35 The Lord has given them special skills as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple, and scarlet thread on fine linen cloth, and weavers. They excel as craftsmen and as designers.

Journal:

• What has God placed in your hand that He may be calling you to use for His glory?
• How can you take one step today toward offering it with a willing heart?

An Encounter

And since I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of those who were with me, I came into Damascus. ~ Acts 22:11

Have you ever had a moment that changed everything? A moment when you knew God was real and that He was calling you into something greater than you could ever imagine? Encounters with God come in many forms. Sometimes they are powerful and dramatic, and other times they are quiet and deeply personal.

Chances are, when you received salvation, you made that choice because you encountered the Holy Spirit. It may not have been as dramatic as the apostle Paul’s experience on the road to Damascus, but you experienced Him in a way that touched your heart. I know this is true because God’s Word says that we are drawn to salvation by His Spirit.

I remember the day I received salvation and how real His presence felt to me. It was as though every fear and question faded in that moment. I have had many encounters since that day. Each time I slow down, sit quietly, and spend time with Him, He meets me there. He reminds me that He is leading my steps, even when I can’t see what’s ahead.

Paul’s encounter with Jesus forever changed his life. From that moment on, he carried the message of Christ everywhere he went. He experienced God’s presence again and again, in the prison with Silas when the chains fell off, in the middle of the storm on his way to Rome, and even when he prayed for relief from the messenger of Satan and heard the Lord say, “My grace is sufficient for you.” Yet, even with all those moments, Paul always returned to his first encounter on the road to Damascus. That story became his testimony, the one he shared over and over again. It was the message that opened the hearts of thousands to believe in Jesus.

Your story may not look like Paul’s, but it carries the same power. Each encounter you’ve had with God is part of your testimony. When you share how He met you, saved you, guided you, or delivered you, the Holy Spirit uses your words to draw others to Him. No one can take away what you’ve experienced or even debate it, because you know in your heart that it’s real. Your story carries the evidence of His love and faithfulness in your life.

Here are some ways you can get started sharing your testimony:

• Take time to remember when you first encountered God and how that moment changed your life.
• Write down the details of that day or season so you can clearly share it with others.
• Ask God for opportunities to share your story this week, whether in conversation, through a message, or even on social media.
• Listen for the prompting of the Holy Spirit when someone around you needs encouragement and be bold to share.
• Thank God for every way He has revealed Himself to you since that first encounter.

Today I want to encourage you to share your story of salvation with someone around you. Tell others how God’s great love has transformed your life and brought you peace and purpose. Let them know that He wants a relationship with them too. Every time you share your encounter with Jesus, you plant a seed of faith in someone’s heart, and you strengthen your own relationship with Him in the process. God will use your story in ways you may never see, but Heaven will record every word that points someone closer to Him.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 22:1-21

1 “Brethren and fathers, hear my defense before you now.” 

2 And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, they kept all the more silent.

Then he said: 

3 “I am indeed a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, taught according to the strictness of our fathers’ law, and was zealous toward God as you all are today. 

4 I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women, 

5 as also the high priest bears me witness, and all the council of the elders, from whom I also received letters to the brethren, and went to Damascus to bring in chains even those who were there to Jerusalem to be punished.

6 “Now it happened, as I journeyed and came near Damascus at about noon, suddenly a great light from heaven shone around me. 

7 And I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?’ 

8 So I answered, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.’

9 “And those who were with me indeed saw the light and were afraid, but they did not hear the voice of Him who spoke to me. 

10 So I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Arise and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all things which are appointed for you to do.’ 

11 And since I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of those who were with me, I came into Damascus.

12 “Then a certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good testimony with all the Jews who dwelt there, 

13 came to me; and he stood and said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.’ And at that same hour I looked up at him. 

14 Then he said, ‘The God of our fathers has chosen you that you should know His will, and see the Just One, and hear the voice of His mouth. 

15 For you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard. 

16 And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.’

17 “Now it happened, when I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, that I was in a trance 

18 and saw Him saying to me, ‘Make haste and get out of Jerusalem quickly, for they will not receive your testimony concerning Me.’ 

19 So I said, ‘Lord, they know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and beat those who believe on You. 

20 And when the blood of Your martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by consenting to his death, and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.’ 

21 Then He said to me, ‘Depart, for I will send you far from here to the Gentiles.’ ”

 Journal:

• What was my first encounter with God like, and how did it change my life?
• Who in my life needs to hear my story of salvation?
• How can I prepare to share what God has done for me in a natural, loving way?

Disappointed

And all the city was disturbed; and the people ran together, seized Paul, and dragged him out of the temple; and immediately the doors were shut. ~ Acts 21:30

Have you ever been in the middle of a misunderstanding? What about in a place of trying to do the right thing only to be misunderstood and even having those you respect speak against you in some way? It can be very disappointing and also discouraging.

I have been in this position at times in my life. One particular instance was when a co-worker was feeling pressure from another department about a request she was given. When she was questioned about it, she put the blame of the additional cost on me because I was new. I didn’t try to defend myself, but I did feel betrayed by the whole situation. It really wasn’t a big deal, but I think if it ever happens again, I will take that person to the side and gracefully talk about it. Not to defend myself, but to bring honesty and trust back to the relationship.

In today’s passage, Paul was actually suffering a much worse scenario. He had gone back to Jerusalem and reported to the elders of the Church. They gave him instructions on what to do to be sure others did not have the wrong idea about him ministering to the Gentile nations he had just come from. He did all the right things and made sure to follow the directions explicitly, only to have a mob come against him, not even considering the steps he was following so he would not offend anyone. He actually found himself right in the middle of a riot, and not only that, but his life was being threatened before he even had a chance to defend himself or explain his position.

In life, it is possible to find yourself in predicaments that are no fault of your own, but you still have to maintain a right heart and attitude. Even when others are behaving badly, you still answer for your own response. It is never justified based on other people’s actions. Your response is still to follow God’s Word and the Holy Spirit’s direction. As you read on in the book of Acts, you will see Paul face greater obstacles than ever before in his life. Through it all, he kept his focus on his mission and continued to encourage the churches even though he was wrongly imprisoned and taken before Caesar. Paul did not let his outward circumstances determine his inward heart posture. He was determined to complete his assignment no matter what was happening around him.

What about you? Do you let the voices of doubt and unbelief knock you off the course you have been called to? Maybe you are not even sure if you are on that journey yet. You can decide today to answer His call and begin to step into your life plan that God has for you.

Here are some steps you can take today to get started:

• Keep your heart right even when misunderstood. God sees your motives.
• Choose to respond with grace and peace instead of reacting in frustration.
• Seek God’s direction before speaking or acting when falsely accused.
• Pray for those who misunderstand you. It frees your heart from bitterness.
• Stay focused on your purpose even when circumstances are unfair.

Spend time in prayer asking God to help you respond in love when wrongly accused. Read a chapter of Acts each day to strengthen your faith and endurance. Journal how you see God working through difficult moments. Find a trusted person of faith to pray with you about your calling. These will help you keep your heart and attitude in line with God’s plan for your life.

Today I want to encourage you tostay steadfast when misunderstood. God is not unaware of what you face, and He will defend you in His timing. Your part is to walk in truth, humility, and perseverance. When you keep your eyes on Him, even misunderstandings can become divine opportunities for His light to shine through your life.  If you have never received His gift of salvation, do it today by praying the prayer below.  Jesus will come into your life and change you from the inside out.

Pray: God in heaven, I know I’m a sinner and I need a Savior.  I want to turn away from my sinful life to the life You have planned for me.  Please forgive my sins, cleanse me from my past, and make me new today.  I know Your Son, Jesus died for me.  I believe in my heart that You raised Him from the dead.  At this very moment, I accept, confess, and proclaim Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior . . . to be Lord of my life from this day forward.  I now have a right relationship with God my Father through this salvation in the blood of Jesus. I thank You for giving me Your Holy Spirit to guide me and to empower me to accomplish the things You have planned for my life in Jesus’ name, Amen

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 21:26-40

26 Then Paul took the men, and the next day, having been purified with them, entered the temple to announce the expiration of the days of purification, at which time an offering should be made for each one of them.

27 Now when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews from Asia, seeing him in the temple, stirred up the whole crowd and laid hands on him, 

28 crying out, “Men of Israel, help! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against the people, the law, and this place; and furthermore he also brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place.” 

29 (For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian with him in the city, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)

30 And all the city was disturbed; and the people ran together, seized Paul, and dragged him out of the temple; and immediately the doors were shut. 

31 Now as they were seeking to kill him, news came to the commander of the garrison that all Jerusalem was in an uproar. 

32 He immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down to them. And when they saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. 

33 Then the commander came near and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and he asked who he was and what he had done. 

34 And some among the multitude cried one thing and some another.

So when he could not ascertain the truth because of the tumult, he commanded him to be taken into the barracks. 

35 When he reached the stairs, he had to be carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the mob. 

36 For the multitude of the people followed after, crying out, “Away with him!” 

37 Then as Paul was about to be led into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I speak to you?”

He replied, “Can you speak Greek? 

38 Are you not the Egyptian who some time ago stirred up a rebellion and led the four thousand assassins out into the wilderness?”

39 But Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus, in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city; and I implore you, permit me to speak to the people.”

40 So when he had given him permission, Paul stood on the stairs and motioned with his hand to the people. And when there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, saying,

Journal:

• When was a time I felt misunderstood or falsely accused? How did I respond?
• What can I learn from Paul’s example about keeping my heart right under pressure?
• How can I show grace to someone who has disappointed me this week?
• What is one step I can take to stay focused on my purpose despite misunderstanding?

Restoration

_{The Lord replied, “Listen, I am making a covenant with you in the presence of all your people. I will perform miracles that have never been performed anywhere in all the earth or in any nation. And all the people around you will see the power of the Lord, the awesome power I will display for you. ~ Exodus 34:10}

Have you ever felt like you needed a fresh start with God? Maybe you’ve made mistakes, lost focus, or drifted away from what you knew He asked of you. In Exodus 34, God calls Moses back up the mountain after Israel’s failure with the golden calf. The tablets had been broken, the people had rebelled, and yet God invited Moses into His presence again to restore what was lost. This moment reveals something powerful about God’s nature and that is that He does not give up on His people.  He always desires restoration!

I have had times in my life when I needed a second chance too. There were moments when I felt like I had messed up what God entrusted to me, and I wondered if He would still want to use me. But as I spent time in prayer and worship, God reminded me of His grace. I realized that His presence doesn’t condemn me, it renews me. Just like Moses, I had to go back to the mountain, so to speak, and spend time alone with Him to regain clarity, peace, and confidence in His purpose for my life. Through that time, I saw how God can take what feels broken and make it new again.  He always gets me back up on my feet again and heading in the right direction!

The same is true for you. If you have ever felt distant from God or unworthy of another chance, know that His covenant promises still stand. He is ready to meet you again in the secret place, to write His Word on your heart, and to show His glory in your life. God’s presence transforms everything it touches. Moses came down from the mountain with a face that shone with the radiance of being near God. When you spend time in His presence, you too will carry His light wherever you go.

Here are some ways you can get a fresh start today:

• Set aside quiet time each day to meet with God. Even a few minutes of prayer or worship can renew your heart.
• Ask God to reveal any area where you need a fresh start and trust Him to bring restoration.
• Spend time reading and meditating on His Word, allowing it to renew your mind and strengthen your faith.
• Look for opportunities to extend grace to others the same way God has extended grace to you.

Today I want to encourage you to go back to your own “mountain” and seek the presence of God again. He is not finished with you. His covenant is unbroken, His mercy is unending, and His power is still working in your life. The same God who renewed His promise to Israel will renew His strength in you. The more time you spend with Him, the more His glory will shine through you for others to see.

Today’s scripture reading: Exodus 34

1 Then the Lord told Moses, “Chisel out two stone tablets like the first ones. I will write on them the same words that were on the tablets you smashed. 

2 Be ready in the morning to climb up Mount Sinai and present yourself to me on the top of the mountain. 

3 No one else may come with you. In fact, no one is to appear anywhere on the mountain. Do not even let the flocks or herds graze near the mountain.”

4 So Moses chiseled out two tablets of stone like the first ones. Early in the morning he climbed Mount Sinai as the Lord had commanded him, and he carried the two stone tablets in his hands.

5 Then the Lord came down in a cloud and stood there with him; and he called out his own name, Yahweh. 

6 The Lord passed in front of Moses, calling out, “Yahweh! The Lord! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.

7 I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected—even children in the third and fourth generations.”

8 Moses immediately threw himself to the ground and worshiped. 

9 And he said, “O Lord, if it is true that I have found favor with you, then please travel with us. Yes, this is a stubborn and rebellious people, but please forgive our iniquity and our sins. Claim us as your own special possession.”

10 The Lord replied, “Listen, I am making a covenant with you in the presence of all your people. I will perform miracles that have never been performed anywhere in all the earth or in any nation. And all the people around you will see the power of the Lord—the awesome power I will display for you. 

11 But listen carefully to everything I command you today. Then I will go ahead of you and drive out the Amorites, Canaanites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites.

12 “Be very careful never to make a treaty with the people who live in the land where you are going. If you do, you will follow their evil ways and be trapped. 

13 Instead, you must break down their pagan altars, smash their sacred pillars, and cut down their Asherah poles. 

14 You must worship no other gods, for the Lord, whose very name is Jealous, is a God who is jealous about his relationship with you.

15 “You must not make a treaty of any kind with the people living in the land. They lust after their gods, offering sacrifices to them. They will invite you to join them in their sacrificial meals, and you will go with them. 

16 Then you will accept their daughters, who sacrifice to other gods, as wives for your sons. And they will seduce your sons to commit adultery against me by worshiping other gods. 

17 You must not make any gods of molten metal for yourselves.

18 “You must celebrate the Festival of Unleavened Bread. For seven days the bread you eat must be made without yeast, just as I commanded you. Celebrate this festival annually at the appointed time in early spring, in the month of Abib, for that is the anniversary of your departure from Egypt.

19 “The firstborn of every animal belongs to me, including the firstborn males from your herds of cattle and your flocks of sheep and goats. 

20 A firstborn donkey may be bought back from the Lord by presenting a lamb or young goat in its place. But if you do not buy it back, you must break its neck. However, you must buy back every firstborn son. “No one may appear before me without an offering.

21 “You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must stop working, even during the seasons of plowing and harvest.

22 “You must celebrate the Festival of Harvest with the first crop of the wheat harvest, and celebrate the Festival of the Final Harvest at the end of the harvest season. 

23 Three times each year every man in Israel must appear before the Sovereign, the Lord, the God of Israel. 

24 I will drive out the other nations ahead of you and expand your territory, so no one will covet and conquer your land while you appear before the Lord your God three times each year.

25 “You must not offer the blood of my sacrificial offerings together with any baked goods containing yeast. And none of the meat of the Passover sacrifice may be kept over until the next morning.

26 “As you harvest your crops, bring the very best of the first harvest to the house of the Lord your God. “You must not cook a young goat in its mother’s milk.”

27 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Write down all these instructions, for they represent the terms of the covenant I am making with you and with Israel.”

28 Moses remained there on the mountain with the Lord forty days and forty nights. In all that time he ate no bread and drank no water. And the Lord wrote the terms of the covenant—the Ten Commandments—on the stone tablets.

29 When Moses came down Mount Sinai carrying the two stone tablets inscribed with the terms of the covenant, he wasn’t aware that his face had become radiant because he had spoken to the Lord. 

30 So when Aaron and the people of Israel saw the radiance of Moses’ face, they were afraid to come near him.

31 But Moses called out to them and asked Aaron and all the leaders of the community to come over, and he talked with them. 

32 Then all the people of Israel approached him, and Moses gave them all the instructions the Lord had given him on Mount Sinai. 

33 When Moses finished speaking with them, he covered his face with a veil. 

34 But whenever he went into the Tent of Meeting to speak with the Lord, he would remove the veil until he came out again. Then he would give the people whatever instructions the Lord had given him, 

35 and the people of Israel would see the radiant glow of his face. So he would put the veil over his face until he returned to speak with the Lord.

Journal:

• What area of me life do I need God to renew today?
• How can I make time to meet with Him and allow His presence to refresh my heart?