The Daily Dose

In one accord

And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people. And they were all with one accord in Solomon’s Porch.  Acts 5:12

I’ve heard people say they don’t need to come together with other believers in a formal setting like weekend services or small groups. Comments like, “I like to worship God in my own way,” or “I feel closest to God when I’m out in nature by myself,” are common. Sometimes it’s because they’re uncomfortable around crowds or just prefer solitude. And while it’s absolutely okay to worship God alone or in the beauty of creation, Scripture shows us there’s something powerful about coming together.

In today’s passage, we see a glimpse of that power. The early church gathered with one heart and purpose, they were in one accord. This unity wasn’t just a casual agreement; it was a spiritual unity that created space for the Holy Spirit to move in powerful ways. At that time, the church was brand new. There were no denominations or divisions, just believers eager to meet, grow in their salvation, and be vessels for God’s Spirit to work through.

That same Holy Spirit is still moving today. And when we gather together in unity, God still shows up. We don’t come together just to “see what we get out of it.” The truth is, you’ll get out of it what you put into it. We’re called to show up with surrendered hearts, ready to encourage others, and open to receive what God wants to say, through worship, through the Word, and even through a conversation in the lobby. And when the message invites new people into the Kingdom, we have the opportunity to pray in agreement for their breakthrough.

There are some practical ways you can put this principle into action starting today.  They are:

• Make gathering a priority. Set a goal to attend weekend services consistently, even if you don’t always feel like it.
• Join a small group or Bible study. This is where deeper relationships and personal growth happen.
• Come ready to participate. Worship, take notes, pray during the message, and respond as God leads.
• Encourage someone. Look for someone who needs a kind word or a prayer, you never know how God will use you.
• Serve somewhere. Whether it’s greeting, helping with kids, or setting up chairs, your contribution matters.

Today, I want to encourage you to not underestimate the power of showing up. Come together with other believers, in one accord and expect the Holy Spirit to move. You’re not just a spectator; you’re a vital part of the body of Christ. Even your silent prayers can shift the atmosphere. The more we gather with others in unity, the more room we give the Holy Spirit to work in us and through us.

Start this weekend. Show up. Pray. Serve. Connect. Watch how God moves when we come together with open hearts and a shared hunger for more of Him.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 5:12-32

12 And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people. And they were all with one accord in Solomon’s Porch.

13 Yet none of the rest dared join them, but the people esteemed them highly.

14 And believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women,

15 so that they brought the sick out into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might fall on some of them.

16 Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed.

17 Then the high priest rose up, and all those who were with him (which is the sect of the Sadducees), and they were filled with indignation,

18 and laid their hands on the apostles and put them in the common prison.

19 But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said,

20 “Go, stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life.”

21 And when they heard that, they entered the temple early in the morning and taught. But the high priest and those with him came and called the council together, with all the elders of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.

Apostles on Trial Again

22 But when the officers came and did not find them in the prison, they returned and reported,

23 saying, “Indeed we found the prison shut securely, and the guards standing outside before the doors; but when we opened them, we found no one inside!”

24 Now when the high priest, the captain of the temple, and the chief priests heard these things, they wondered what the outcome would be. 25 So one came and told them, saying, “Look, the men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people!”

26 Then the captain went with the officers and brought them without violence, for they feared the people, lest they should be stoned.

27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest asked them,

28 saying, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!”

29 But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men.

30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree.

31 Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.

32 And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.”

Perfect conditions

_{He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap. ~ Ecclesiastes 11:4}

This is one of Jack’s and my favorite sayings. When the weather forecast predicts rain, wind, or less-than-ideal conditions, we just smile and remind each other, “Don’t worry about the weather but instead pray about God’s provision to get the plan accomplished, we’re still going to do what we planned for the day anyway.”

But it’s not just about the weather. This verse speaks to any decision we make that depends on external circumstances. I might make a plan, but when the time comes, it’s easy to find an excuse like maybe I don’t feel like it anymore, or something comes up with family or a friend, and I convince myself that anyone would cancel under these circumstances. It’s kind of a running joke with us, but deep down, it holds a reminder I often need: if I wait for everything to be perfect, I’ll never move forward in life.

Life rarely gives us perfect timing, perfect conditions, or perfect clarity. But God doesn’t need perfect, He just needs us to keep sowing seeds.

Today’s scripture reading is a powerful reminder that waiting on the “right” moment can keep us stuck. Watching the wind won’t plant the seeds. Staring at the clouds won’t bring the harvest. When we commit our ways to the Lord, He is always working, whether we see it or not. Even if it doesn’t look like things are moving, when we surrender our plans to Him, He’s working all things together for good.

Just like we can’t see the wind or fully understand how a baby is formed in the womb, we don’t always see or understand how God is moving behind the scenes. But that doesn’t mean He isn’t at work.

Here are some ways you can start putting this principle into action today:

• Start where you are. Don’t wait for everything to feel “just right.”
• Pray, then take a step. Plant a seed, whether that means starting a conversation, beginning a project, encouraging someone, or showing up to serve.
• Don’t stop when it feels inconvenient. Verse 6 reminds us not to withhold our hand in the evening, keep sowing even when it’s late in the day or energy is low. You never know which seed God will multiply.
• Trust the process. Some of the most fruitful things in life come from the most unexpected moments.

This passage also reminds us to enjoy the days we’re given. Life is a gift. Don’t waste it waiting on “ideal conditions.” Light is sweet. Sunshine is beautiful. The good days and the hard ones are all part of the journey, and none of them are wasted when we walk in obedience.

So today, I want to encourage you to keep sowing. Keep trusting. Keep showing up. God knows exactly how to work with what you give Him. You don’t need to have it all figured out, just be faithful with what’s in your hands. The harvest will come, and on the other side of your obedience, someone else will be impacted for all eternity.

Today’s scripture reading: Ecclesiastes 11:4-8

4 He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap.

5 As you do not know what is the way of the wind, or how the bones grow in the womb of her who is with child, so you do not know the works of God who makes everything.

6 In the morning sow your seed, and in the evening do not withhold your hand; For you do not know which will prosper, either this or that, or whether both alike will be good.

7 Truly the light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to behold the sun;

8 But if a man lives many years and rejoices in them all, yet let him remember the days of darkness, for they will be many. All that is coming is vanity.

Keep on casting

Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days. ~ Ecclesiastes 11:1

Life can sometimes feel like we’re giving and giving with no sign of return. We pour out love, kindness, resources, prayers, and encouragement, and wonder if it’s making a difference. But today’s scripture reading reminds us to keep casting, to keep sowing good things even when we don’t immediately see results. God is faithful, and what you release in faith today can become tomorrow’s harvest.

Casting your bread upon the waters speaks of generosity, obedience, and trust. In biblical times, this phrase referred to sending out grain on trading ships, uncertain of what would return, but believing that something would. It’s a picture of faith in motion, of doing good, giving generously, and trusting God with the outcome.

Below are some ways that you can put this practice into action:

1. Give without waiting for recognition – Whether it’s a helping hand, a financial seed, or an encouraging word, don’t wait for the to be asked or recognized. Just give.
2. Be consistent in doing good – Keep showing up, keep loving, keep praying, even when it feels unnoticed. Faithfulness over time leads to fruitfulness.
3. Don’t try to control the outcome – It’s not your job to track how the blessing returns. Just trust that God sees and rewards even the unseen acts of obedience (Matthew 6:4).
4. Invest in others generously – Share your wisdom, time, and resources freely. You never know how your simple act of obedience today might impact someone’s eternity.
5. Prepare for uncertain seasons – Verse 3 reminds us that life has its storms. By continually casting seeds of faith and kindness, we prepare a harvest that will sustain us through hard times.

Take these steps today to get started:

• Pick one way to “cast” today.
• Write a note of encouragement, give a small gift, offer prayer, or speak life over someone.
• Don’t overthink it, just obey the prompting and remember: the reward might not come back immediately, but it will come back.
• Keep a journal of what you’re sowing because it will help you see God’s faithfulness over time.

Today I want to encourage you to keep on casting. Don’t grow weary in doing good. The seeds you sow in faith will return often, when you least expect it, in ways that only God could orchestrate. Your obedience matters. Your generosity matters. And your daily decision to trust God with the results matters. So, keep showing up. Keep pouring out. Keep casting your bread upon the waters. Because in God’s perfect time, what you’ve released will come back, not just as bread, but as multiplied blessings.. 

Today’s scripture reading: Ecclesiastes 11:1-3

1 Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days.

2 Give a serving to seven, and also to eight, for you do not know what evil will be on the earth.

3 If the clouds are full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth; And if a tree falls to the south or the north, in the place where the tree falls, there it shall lie.

Even the birds have ears

Do not curse the king, even in your thought; Do not curse the rich, even in your bedroom; For a bird of the air may carry your voice, and a bird in flight may tell the matter. ~ Ecclesiastes 10:20

When I was a little girl, I remember hearing one of my dad’s favorite sayings: “Even the birds have ears these days.” I didn’t fully understand it at the time, but as I grew older, I realized he would say that whenever one of his children repeated something we had overheard, especially if it involved gossip or criticism of others. It was his way of teaching us to guard our words, because once spoken, they couldn’t be taken back and somehow, they always had a way of getting around.

I never realized he got this saying from scripture, but this timeless wisdom in Ecclesiastes reminds us that our private thoughts, whispered frustrations, and careless complaints don’t always stay hidden. Even if we think no one hears, the ripple effect of our words can still travel, sometimes further than we ever intended. This passage warns us not just to refrain from saying certain things out loud, but to be cautious even in what we think, because our attitudes shape our speech, and our speech shapes our witness.

Here are some ways we can watch over our thoughts and words to ensure that they are always honoring to God and to others:

1. Guard Your Thoughts – Begin with awareness. What are you thinking about others when no one is around? Ask the Holy Spirit to renew your mind and give you grace-filled thoughts.
2. Pause Before Speaking – Practice the power of the pause. Before repeating something you’ve heard, ask yourself: Is this helpful? Is it kind? Would I say this if the person were in the room?
3. Speak Blessing, Not Cursing – Whether it’s leadership, coworkers, family, or even government officials, choose to bless with your words, even when it’s difficult. Remember, honoring others honors God.
4. Create Safe Speech Spaces – Surround yourself with people who hold you accountable to godly speech. Invite honest feedback and correction when your words begin to drift.
5. Pray Before You Process – Instead of venting first to others, take your frustrations to God. He can handle your honesty, and He’s the safest place to process your heart without causing collateral damage.

Below are a few hints to help you begin working on this today:

• Start small. Catch yourself the next time you’re tempted to complain, condemn or criticize in private.
• Replace that moment with a prayer or a word of encouragement.
• Keep a journal to track when you speak life and when you need to pause.
• Ask God daily to set a guard over your mouth (Psalm 141:3) and to purify your heart so that your words flow from a place of grace and wisdom.

Today I want to encourage you to remember that your words are powerful. Whether whispered in secret or spoken aloud, Ecclesiastes reminds us that even in the unseen places, our words have great weight. They shape atmospheres, influence opinions, and reflect the state of our hearts. But when we choose wisdom, when we fill our mouths with life-giving, gracious speech, we become safe people who build others up rather than tear them down. Let’s live in such a way that if the birds do carry our words, they’re carrying words of hope, honor, healing and life.

Let your words display the heart of Christ Jesus, because even the birds have ears.

Today’s scripture reading: Ecclesiastes 10:13-20

13 The words of his mouth begin with foolishness, and the end of his talk is raving madness.

14 A fool also multiplies words No man knows what is to be; Who can tell him what will be after him?

15 The labor of fools wearies them, for they do not even know how to go to the city!

16 Woe to you, O land, when your king is a child, and your princes feast in the morning!

17 Blessed are you, O land, when your king is the son of nobles, and your princes feast at the proper time— For strength and not for drunkenness!

18 Because of laziness the building decays, and through idleness of hands the house leaks.

19 A feast is made for laughter, and wine makes merry; But money answers everything.

20 Do not curse the king, even in your thought; Do not curse the rich, even in your bedroom; For a bird of the air may carry your voice, and a bird in flight may tell the matter.

 Gracious Words

A serpent may bite when it is not charmed; The babbler is no different. The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious, but the lips of a fool shall swallow him up; ~ Ecclesiastes 10:11-12

I don’t know exactly when it happened, but somewhere early in my life, I was deeply hurt by someone who repeated something I had shared in confidence. After that moment, I became extremely cautious about expressing my thoughts or emotions. I wore the mask of discretion and wisdom, but beneath it all was a heart that feared being hurt again. So I kept my feelings locked away and my voice silent in situations where I could have been helpful.

Over time, this habit had a dual effect. On one hand, it shaped me into someone who refuses to gossip or break confidence. I’ve understand the value of keeping trust sacred. But on the other hand, it also kept me from living fully open and free, especially with those I love and trust. I realized I wasn’t just protecting myself, I was limiting the power of my own words to bring life, healing, and connection.

Today’s scripture reading paints a vivid contrast between the words of the wise and the words of the foolish. The wise person’s words are gracious, seasoned with kindness, intentionality, and peace. But the fool’s words? They lead to destruction, careless, biting, and unbridled like a venomous snake. The truth is that the foolish talk themselves into trouble, but the wise speak in a way that builds up rather than tears down.

This is a powerful reminder that our words are never neutral, they either inspire to give life or they oppress to diminish life.

Below are some things you can do to begin speaking gracious and wise words of life:

1. Pause Before You Speak
   Take a moment before responding, especially in emotionally charged conversations. Ask yourself, “Are these words gracious, necessary, and truthful?”
2. Pursue Wisdom Daily
   Spend time in Scripture and prayer, allowing God’s Word to shape your thoughts. Wisdom isn’t a moment, it’s a mindset cultivated over time.
3. Speak With Intention
   Let your words be filled with grace. Affirm others. Choose encouragement over sarcasm. Give correction wrapped in humility.
4. Practice Confidentiality
   Be someone others can trust. If someone shares something personal, don’t treat it like casual information. Steward their vulnerability with care.
5. Heal From the Past
   If fear or past hurt is holding you back from sharing truthfully and kindly, bring that pain to God. He restores broken trust and gives you courage to use your voice again.

Takes some steps today to get started by following the points below:

• Start your day with a wisdom prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your speech and your spirit.
• Keep a “word audit” journal. At the end of the day, look back on the conversations you engaged in. Were your words gracious, reactive, or healing?
• Memorize one verse about speech. (Like Proverbs 15:1 or Ephesians 4:29) Let Scripture renew your responses.

Today I want to encourage you to understand that your words carry power. Don’t underestimate what a single gracious sentence can do or how it can diffuse tension, restore peace, or remind someone of their worth. Let your words be guided not by fear or impulse, but by the Spirit of God within you.

Ecclesiastes reminds us that foolish speech is destructive, like an uncharmed serpent ready to strike. But the words of the wise are a balm, gracious, healing, and life-giving. Don’t just be careful with your words, be intentional. Let them reflect the wisdom, love, and grace of the One who gave you your voice in the first place.

Today’s scripture reading: Ecclesiastes 10:1-12

1 Dead flies putrefy the perfumer’s ointment, and cause it to give off a foul odor; So does a little folly to one respected for wisdom and honor.

2 A wise man’s heart is at his right hand, but a fool’s heart at his left.

3 Even when a fool walks along the way, he lacks wisdom, and he shows everyone that he is a fool.

4 If the spirit of the ruler rises against you, do not leave your post; For conciliation pacifies great offenses.

5 There is an evil I have seen under the sun, as an error proceeding from the ruler:

6 Folly is set in great dignity, while the rich sit in a lowly place.

7 I have seen servants on horses, while princes walk on the ground like servants.

8 He who digs a pit will fall into it, and whoever breaks through a wall will be bitten by a serpent.

9 He who quarries stones may be hurt by them, and he who splits wood may be endangered by it.

10 If the ax is dull, and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; But wisdom brings success.

11 A serpent may bite when it is not charmed; The babbler is no different.

12 The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious, but the lips of a fool shall swallow him up;

 The Quiet Power of Wisdom

I also saw under the sun this example of wisdom that greatly impressed me. ~  Ecclesiastes 9:13

There’s a quiet kind of power in having wisdom that often goes unnoticed in the noise of the world. Today’s scripture reading gives us a striking picture: a poor, wise man saves a city from destruction by his wisdom, but afterward, no one remembers him. His name is forgotten. His contribution is overlooked. Yet, his wisdom changed everything. That can feel familiar, right?

Maybe you’ve done the right thing, spoken with grace instead of anger, stood firm in truth while others mocked or ignored you, or offered help when no one else stepped up, only for it to go unnoticed or forgotten. But here’s what this passage helps me remember: wisdom doesn’t need applause to be powerful.

In a world loud with ego and self-promotion, godly wisdom often moves in quiet strength. It doesn’t always make headlines. It may not earn a trophy. But it can change lives, save situations, and influence the future far beyond what we can see.

Below are some ways we can apply wisdom in our life today.

1. Pursue Wisdom Daily
   Wisdom doesn’t come overnight. It’s built one decision at a time through seeking God’s truth, listening to His Spirit, and learning from life. Start with His Word, especially books like Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and James. Ask God daily for His wisdom, and He will give it generously (James 1:5).
2. Choose Influence Over Attention
   Don’t worry about being seen, focus on being faithful. You may never get credit for the wise choices you make, but their impact will echo in ways you may never fully know this side of heaven.
3. Speak Carefully and Strategically
   Verse 17 says, The quiet words of the wise are more to be heeded than the shouts of a ruler of fools. In tense conversations or moments of conflict, choose your words with care. A calm, thoughtful response can do more than loud persuasion ever will.
4. Honor the Quiet Heroes
   Notice the “poor wise people” around you, those who make a difference without demanding attention. Affirm them. Thank them. Sometimes our encouragement is the only recognition they receive, and it helps fuel their unseen faithfulness.
5. Value God’s Applause More Than Man’s
   When we know our wisdom is from Him, and our motives are to serve and glorify Him, we can rest even if the world forgets our name. Because God doesn’t.

At the beginning of this passage, Solomon is deeply impressed by what he calls a “great example of wisdom.” Not because it made headlines, but because it made a difference. That’s the kind of legacy we’re invited to live. Not for fame or recognition, but to be used by God in powerful, even if quiet, ways.

So today I want to encourage you to Live wisely, speak gently, love deeply, and trust God with the results. You may not always be seen, but you will always matter.

And your wisdom that is rooted in Him, can be the very thing that saves a situation, a relationship, or a city.

Today’s scripture reading: Ecclesiastes 9:13-18Top of Form

13 This wisdom I have also seen under the sun, and it seemed great to me:

14 There was a little city with few men in it; and a great king came against it, besieged it, and built great snares around it.

15 Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city. Yet no one remembered that same poor man.

16 Then I said: “Wisdom is better than strength. Nevertheless the poor man’s wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard.

17 Words of the wise, spoken quietly, should be heard rather than the shout of a ruler of fools.

18 Wisdom is better than weapons of war; But one sinner destroys much good.”

It’s Cancelled

He cancelled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. ~ Colossians 2:14

Have you ever had to cancel something? Maybe a meeting, a reservation, or an appointment? What happened? Once you canceled it, it didn’t happen. You didn’t show up and go through it anyway, because you already canceled it. The only trace of it might be a memory or a calendar reminder, but it never came to pass.

That’s exactly what today’s verse tells us Jesus did with our sin. He canceled the entire record of charges against us. Every mistake, every failure, every regret, nailed to the cross and taken away. That means your guilt, your shame, your punishment are all gone. Not pending, not postponed, cancelled. Erased as if they never happened.

Just like a canceled appointment never makes it into reality, your appointment with judgment was wiped from the schedule. Jesus paid the price so you don’t have to. That’s not just good news, it’s freedom.

So what does that mean for you and me today?  Below are some ways to help us remember that Jesus cancelled our debt and the penalty is paid in full:

1. Replace guilt with gratitude – When guilt creeps in, pause and thank Jesus out loud:
   “Thank You, Jesus, for canceling my debt. I receive Your forgiveness today.”
2. Renew your mind daily – Read Colossians 2:11–15 often. Write verse 14 on a sticky note or put it as your phone background. Let truth replace false guilt.
3. Release the shame – Ask yourself: “Am I carrying a weight that Jesus already nailed to the cross?” Then surrender it in prayer. Speak it out:
   “I refuse to carry what Christ has already carried for me.”
4. Remind yourself: it’s cancelled – Literally say it. When the enemy tries to bring up thoughts about your past or your failure, respond out loud with faith:
   “That’s cancelled. My slate is clean in Jesus.”

If you’ve never received His debt cancelling gift and invited Jesus into your life as your Savior and want that sin debt cancelled forever, today is your day. Pray this from your heart:

Pray: God in Heaven, I know I’m a sinner and I need a Savior. I want my sin debt cancelled and to walk in the new life You’ve planned for me. Please forgive me for my sins, cleanse me from my past, and make me new. I believe Jesus died for me and that You raised Him from the dead. Today, I accept and confess Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I now have a right relationship with You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me live the life You’ve created me for. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today I want to encourage you that the cross wasn’t just a moment in history, it was the moment your debt was canceled forever. You are not who you used to be. You are not what you’ve done. You are forgiven, redeemed, and made new.

Colossians 2:14 reminds us that Jesus didn’t just reduce the charges, He erased the record completely. So, live like it’s true. Let go of guilt. Walk in freedom. Rejoice in grace. And when doubt tries to bring up the past, just smile and say:
“It’s cancelled forever.”

Today’s scripture reading: Colossians 2:11-15

11 In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ,

12 buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.

13 And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses,

14 having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.

15 Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.

Focus on the details

“He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’ ” ~ Luke 24:6-7

Today, we celebrate Resurrection Sunday, the day Jesus walked out of a borrowed tomb and conquered death once and for all. This past week, many of us have reflected on Jesus’ final days: the betrayal, the brutal beating, the mocking crowd, the cross He carried, and the suffering He endured. We’ve thought about His final words, the sealed tomb, and the silence of those three days.

This is the one time each year when we slow down enough to focus deeply on the details of what Jesus endured for us. Why? Because these details matter. They are reminders of the great price He paid so we could be free, not just from sin, but from an eternity separated from God. Without Jesus, our future would be hopeless. But because of Him, we have life, victory, and purpose.

But what about tomorrow?

When Monday comes, will we shift our attention back to the latest crisis, headlines, and conversations driven by fear? Will we obsess over every detail of the world’s problems while forgetting the details of our Savior’s promises?

Why does our focus have to change?

Why not keep our hearts anchored in the details of Heaven? Why not carry the joy of the resurrection with us beyond this weekend?

Think about it this way. What if you spent as much time this week learning about God’s Word as you do watching the news?
What if you focused on what Jesus accomplished instead of what the world says is falling apart?
What if your conversations were filled with the truth of God’s promises instead of fear and speculation?

Instead of shifting our focus back to life as usual, keep these ideas as your main perspective:

• Sin has been defeated.
• Death has been defeated.
• Sickness, anxiety, worry, and fear have all been defeated.
• Victory belongs to Jesus and to those who are in Him.

Jesus didn’t go to the cross just to give us hope after death. He died and rose again so we could live in victory right now, today. The work of salvation wasn’t partial. It was complete. Evil doesn’t get the final word, resurrection does.

Below are some practical ways to keep your focus on God’s details this week:

1. Start your day in the Word – Read Luke 24:1–12 and reflect on what Jesus did, not just historically, but personally for you.
2. Speak truth out loud – When you’re tempted to fear, declare:
   “Jesus is risen. I already have the victory.”
3. Shift your conversations – Bring Jesus into your everyday talk. Share what God is doing more than what the world is saying.
4. Journal your focus – Write down one detail each day about Jesus’ character, His promises, or His finished work. Keep your eyes on Him.

The angel’s words to the women at the tomb still speak to us today:
“He is not here, but He is risen!”

Jesus kept His promise. He rose, just like He said He would. If He kept that promise, He’ll keep every other one too. So don’t turn your attention back to the defeated things. Fix your eyes on the One who overcame it all.

Today I want to encourage you that Victory is not a future hope, it’s a present reality. Focus on the details that matter. Focus on your risen Savior and let’s start living like we believe it.

Today’s scripture reading: Luke 24:1-12

1 But very early on Sunday morning the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared.

2 They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance.

3 So they went in, but they didn’t find the body of the Lord Jesus.

4 As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes.

5 The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive?

6 He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee,

7 that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.”

8 Then they remembered that he had said this.

9 So they rushed back from the tomb to tell his eleven disciples—and everyone else—what had happened.

10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and several other women who told the apostles what had happened.

11 But the story sounded like nonsense to the men, so they didn’t believe it.

12 However, Peter jumped up and ran to the tomb to look. Stooping, he peered in and saw the empty linen wrappings; then he went home again, wondering what had happened.

Behold your Lamb

_{Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male of the first year.  It is the LORD’s Passover. ~ Exodus12:5, 11}

As we are approaching resurrection day, I want to take a moment to focus on why we celebrate this spring holiday. We call it Easter, but at its heart, we are celebrating the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Most of us know that Passover was fulfilled when Jesus was crucified, He paid the debt for our sin so that we could receive true freedom. Then, three days later, He rose from the grave, defeating our enemy and His once and for all.

Let’s focus for a moment on the significance of Passover itself. This was a holy day celebrated by the Jewish people to remember how God delivered them from slavery in Egypt under Moses’ leadership. But it wasn’t just a memorial, it was prophetic. Each Passover pointed forward to the Messiah who would come to free not just one nation from physical bondage, but all of humanity from spiritual bondage to sin.

In Exodus 12, we read about the sacrificial lamb who’s blood was required to cover sin each Passover. It had to be a male without blemish, and it was the responsibility of the high priest to examine it and determine if it was acceptable. The people traveling to Jerusalem weren’t focused on how much sin needed covering, they were focused on whether their lamb would pass inspection. Their hope was in the perfect lamb, not in their own imperfect heart.

This is where it all connects for us today. God has given us a Lamb, His Son, Jesus, who was examined and found spotless. Pilate himself declared, “I have found no fault in this man.” (Luke 23:14). Jesus, the Lamb of God, was the perfect, sinless sacrifice. Unlike the annual animal sacrifices, His death didn’t just cover sin, it eradicated it. His sacrifice restored the authority that was lost in the Garden of Eden and made a way for us to walk in fellowship with God again.

We no longer need to worry if we’ve “blown it” one too many times. Our focus is not on the how badly we have sinned, but on the perfection of our Lamb. God no longer looks at our faults, He looks at the Lamb who was slain, and He sees the debt paid in full. This is the ultimate expression of His love: He spared no expense. He gave His very best. He gave Jesus.

“Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” – John 1:29

Hopefully, this truth helps you to see your life and your heart before God in a different light.  If you have been tried to be a good person to make you worthy of a relationship with your heavenly Father in the past, you now know that it is not because of you but because of Jesus that you can enter into a personal relationship with Him.  Below are some ways that you can reinforce this thought in your life:

1. Shift your focus – Stop focusing on your failures, and start focusing on your Savior. Your hope isn’t in how “good” you are; it’s in the Lamb that was already found perfect.
2. Live forgiven – If you’ve received Christ, walk confidently in that forgiveness. Don’t carry shame for sins already covered by His blood.
3. Celebrate intentionally – This resurrection season, take time to truly thank Jesus for what He’s done. Reflect, worship, and express gratitude.
4. Share the message – There are people all around you who think their sins are too great. Remind them: it’s not about how bad the sin is; it’s about how perfect the Lamb is.
5. Receive His gift – If you’ve never made Jesus the Lord of your life, now is the perfect time. You don’t have to clean yourself up first, just come as you are and receive the gift of forgiveness and eternal life.

Pray: God in heaven, I know I’m a sinner and I need a Savior. I want to turn away from my sinful life and live the life You have planned for me. Please forgive me for my sins, cleanse me from my past, and make me new. I believe Your Son, Jesus, died for me and that You raised Him from the dead. Right now, I accept, confess, and proclaim Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Savior—to be Lord of my life from this day forward. I now have a right relationship with You, my Father. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and empower me to walk in the plans You have for my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today I want to encourage you that as you read today’s Scripture in Luke 23:13–25, think about this truth: Jesus was examined, and He was found innocent, not for His sake, but for ours. He was rejected so we could be accepted. He was crucified so we could live. And He rose again to prove that the Lamb’s sacrifice was enough.

So this week, and always, keep your eyes on the Lamb. Celebrate His resurrection but also remember the price He paid during Passover to be your perfect sacrifice. Don’t live in guilt or striving, live in thanksgiving and trust. The Lamb has already passed inspection and through Him, so have you. Remember, You are free. You are forgiven. You are loved.
Behold your Lamb!

Today’s scripture reading:  Luke 23:13-25

13 Then Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests, the rulers, and the people,

14 said to them, “You have brought this Man to me, as one who misleads the people. And indeed, having examined Him in your presence, I have found no fault in this Man concerning those things of which you accuse Him;

15 no, neither did Herod, for I sent you back to him; and indeed nothing deserving of death has been done by Him.

16 I will therefore chastise Him and release Him”

17 (for it was necessary for him to release one to them at the feast).

18 And they all cried out at once, saying, “Away with this Man, and release to us Barabbas”—

19 who had been thrown into prison for a certain rebellion made in the city, and for murder.

20 Pilate, therefore, wishing to release Jesus, again called out to them.

21But they shouted, saying, “Crucify Him, crucify Him!”

22 Then he said to them the third time, “Why, what evil has He done? I have found no reason for death in Him. I will therefore chastise Him and let Him go.”

23 But they were insistent, demanding with loud voices that He be crucified. And the voices of these men and of the chief priests prevailed.

24 So Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they requested.

25 And he released to them the one they requested, who for rebellion and murder had been thrown into prison; but he delivered Jesus to their will.

Just one more step

Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus. ~  Luke 23:26

When we think of Jesus’ journey to the cross, our minds often go to the agony in the Garden of Gethsemane. The place where Jesus, overwhelmed with sorrow and the weight of what was to come, sweat drops of blood as He prayed. That moment was filled with deep anguish, and yet it was also marked by an unwavering surrender: “Not My will, but Yours be done.”

But there’s another moment in the story that often gets overlooked. One that is equally powerful and deeply human. As Jesus carried His cross toward Calvary, His body gave out. He had been beaten, scourged, crowned with thorns, and mocked. His physical strength had limits. At that breaking point, someone was called to help. His name was Simon of Cyrene.

This one verse reminds us of a profound truth: Even Jesus accepted help to fulfill His purpose. He knew where He needed to go, and He knew what had to be done, but in His humanity, when He could no longer take another step, God provided someone to help carry the load.

Jesus didn’t give up when it got hard. He didn’t turn away from the cross when His body could no longer bear the weight. He simply took one more step, and then another. He was determined to finish the mission that God had sent Him to fulfill, and He did. It was at that point when Jesus could have said, “That’s all I got, I cannot take another step. I cannot get up and move any further on this path. I have been beaten until there is no strength left in this body, and I will lay down here and die.”

I’m sure He could have died right there if He hadn’t gone on. However, He was determined to make it to His destination. There was nothing that was going to hold Him back from getting to the place He was assigned to be. No setbacks, no roadblock and no heart ache. He set His eyes on the top of that hill at Calvary and thought within Himself: just a little further, just another step. I imagined at that point He was probably down on hands and knees fixated on that spot where He was to be crucified for me. He was obsessed with getting there for us all, to carry away our sin, our sickness, our disease, and our pain and suffering. Thank you, LORD Jesus, for being determined to succeed in the purpose for the breath You were given here on earth. Your purpose was to be beaten, suffer, die, be buried, get the keys of hell and death, raise up from the dead, and ascend into Heaven to be with your Father at His right hand, to be the head of His church, to rescue us from an eternity of suffering and separation from You.

We all face moments in life when the weight of our journey becomes too heavy. Whether it’s the burden of responsibility, the sting of grief, the ache of disappointment, or the pressure of waiting on God’s timing, it can be overwhelming. Like Jesus, we may reach a point where we feel like we can’t take another step. But that’s not the time to quit. It’s the time to look to God for help and determine to accomplish His plan with His strength and grace.

Just one more step. That’s all He asks of us. The next step of faith, one more prayer. One more moment of faith. One more act of obedience. He promises that you won’t carry it alone He has sent you help.

If you are in a place today that you are feeling too weak and tired to take the next faith step, here are some things you can do to renew your strength:

1. Acknowledge When You’re Tired
   Jesus didn’t hide His suffering, and you don’t have to either. Be honest with God and those around you when you feel weary. Vulnerability is not weakness; it’s an open door to strength.
2. Accept Help
   Just like Simon helped Jesus, God places people in your life to walk with you. Lean on your spiritual family. Let others pray for you, encourage you, or even help carry the load when you’re overwhelmed.
3. Keep Moving Forward
   Don’t wait for all your strength to return before you take the next step. Sometimes breakthroughs come after you move. Remember, small steps still lead forward.
4. Stay Focused on the Finish Line
   Jesus had His eyes fixed on Calvary, not because of the pain, but because of the purpose. Hebrews 12:2 says He endured the cross “for the joy set before Him.” Keep your eyes on your purpose, not the pain.
5. Surrender Daily
   Each morning, echo Jesus’ words: “Not my will, but Yours be done.” Make it a habit to invite God into your plans, your work, your decisions, and your relationships.

If you’re not sure what God’s plan is for your life, ask Him. He promises in Jeremiah 29:13, “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” Start by setting aside quiet time each day to pray, read His Word, and listen for His direction. Write down what He shows you and take small steps forward as He leads.

If you’ve never received the gift of salvation, there’s no better time than now. God has already done the work and Jesus finished it on the cross. All that’s left is for you to respond. Pray this prayer from your heart:

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 me for my sins, cleanse me from my past, and make me new. I believe Your Son, Jesus, died for me, and 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. I thank You for saving me and giving me eternal life. I now have a right relationship with You, my Father in heaven. Please give me Your Holy Spirit to guide me and empower me to walk in the life You have planned for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today I want to encourage you to let Jesus’ determination inspire your own. He didn’t stop at the garden. He didn’t quit on the road. He pressed forward, step by step, wound by wound, until your freedom was secured. He didn’t carry the cross to make you feel guilty. He carried it to give you the victory.

So, if today feels heavy, take heart. Jesus knows exactly what it feels like to walk that road, and He will help you carry your cross. Don’t give up. Take just one more step.

The same God who gave Jesus strength in His weakest moment will give you strength too.

Today’s scripture reading: Luke 23:26-43

26 Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.

27 And a great multitude of the people followed Him, and women who also mourned and lamented Him.

28 But Jesus, turning to them, said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children.

29 For indeed the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore, and breasts which never nursed!’

30 Then they will begin ‘to say to the mountains, “Fall on us!” and to the hills, “Cover us!” ’

31 For if they do these things in the green wood, what will be done in the dry?”

32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death.

33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left.

34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” and they divided His garments and cast lots.

35 And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God.”

36 The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine,

37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.”

38 And an inscription also was written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.”

40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation?

41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.”

42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”

43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”