Anchor for My Soul E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2023

Seitenzahl: 377

Beschreibung

If you have ever been out boating, you know the importance of an anchor. Whether you're fishing or hanging out with friends, when you find a good spot, it's impossible to stay there without an anchor. An anchor stops you from being blown around at the mercy of the ocean. Jesus is an anchor for your soul. When you find yourself drifting aimlessly in a sea of doubt, he secures you in the certainty of his truth. If you're rocked by unforgiveness, he can lead you to the quiet waters of love and grace. If bitterness and hurt overflow, let Jesus secure your heart in a bay of healing waters and remove the weeds from your hull. As you meditate on these Scriptures, devotions, and prayers, may your heart find confidence in the one who holds you steady. The anchor of your soul will keep you from drifting with the shifting tides and winds. When storms come, place your security in the King of heaven and earth. He is faithful, and he will not fail you. Remain firmly planted in his love and peace. He will not let you go. Features: - High-grade faux leather provides durability and exquisite tactile appeal. - Heat debossing on faux leather darkens its color, giving the cover a two-tone appearance and creating indentation which shows off the intricate design and varied texture. - Metallic and matte foil finishing touches are elegantly placed to enhance certain features, capturing attention and adding class for an aesthetic appeal. - Sturdy Smyth-sewn binding stitches book signatures together creating durability and allowing pages to lay flat when open. Decorative head and foot bands are also added to further complement the overall design. - Matte art high quality paper with a smooth satin touch provides long-lasting vivid coloration and durability. - A beautiful satin ribbon marker conveniently keeps your place so you can quickly pick up where you left off.

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ANCHOR FOR MY SOUL

© 2023 by BroadStreet Publishing®

9781424565030

9781424565047 (eBook)

Devotional entries composed by Sara Perry.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked ESV are taken from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), Copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked CSB are taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. Scripture quotations marked NASB are taken from the New American Standard Bible, Copyright 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NCV are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked TPT are taken from The Passion Translation® of the Holy Bible. Copyright © 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission of BroadStreet Publishing®. All rights reserved.

Typesetting and design by Garborg Design Works | garborgdesign.com

Editorial services by Sarah Eral and by Michelle Winger | literallyprecise.com

Printed in China.

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WE HAVE THIS HOPE AS AN ANCHOR FOR THE SOUL, FIRM AND SECURE.

HEBREWS 6:19 NIV

CONTENTS

Introduction

January

January 1: Wonderful Gift

January 2: Trustworthy Help

January 3: Love One Another

January 4: Empowering Presence

January 5: Of One Mind

January 6: In God Alone

January 7: Signs and Wonders

January 8: Raised Up

January 9: Blessings Cover Us

January 10: Goodness in Store

January 11: Go and Do

January 12: Cry Out

January 13: Authentic Ministry

January 14: Blessed Either Way

January 15: Favor of His Presence

January 16: Unoffendable

January 17: Ancient Paths

January 18: Hold On to Him

January 19: Messengers of Peace

January 20: Holy Expectation

January 21: Incredible Mercy

January 22: Abundant Source

January 23: Sabbath Rest

January 24: Held Firm

January 25: Easy to Please

January 26: Doing Right

January 27: Dwelling Places

January 28: Undivided Devotion

January 29: Freedom in Worship

January 30: Set Sail

January 31: Prayer of Restoration

February

February 1: Who Is Like Him

February 2: Sound Mind

February 3: Faithful Love

February 4: Rich in Mercy

February 5: When Troubles Come

February 6: Comfort of Kindness

February 7: Great High Priest

February 8: Safest Place

February 9: Just You Wait

February 10: Pervasive Peace

February 11: Even in Crisis

February 12: Restored Joy

February 13: Heart of Jesus

February 14: Deep Hope

February 15: Not Impossible

February 16: Witness of Faith

February 17: Touch His Robe

February 18: Tender Devotion

February 19: Kinsman-Redeemer

February 20: Faithful Leader

February 21: Good News

February 22: Even in Disappointment

February 23: Our Cornerstone

February 24: Anchor of Hope

February 25: Helpful Instructions

February 26: Personal Foundation

February 27: Glory Not Shame

February 28: Brought Near

March

March 1: Wholehearted Trust

March 2: Wait on Him

March 3: Persevering Hope

March 4: Building with Prayer

March 5: Law of Love

March 6: Living Sacrifice

March 7: Willing to Wait

March 8: Our Champion

March 9: Led into Love

March 10: Now Is the Time

March 11: Sing and Shout

March 12: Love Is Gentle

March 13: Such Tender Love

March 14: Room to Move

March 15: Secret Place

March 16: Cling to Him

March 17: Bold Freedom

March 18: Not Far Away

March 19: Restored and Raised

March 20: Lean on Him

March 21: Outgrowing Old Ways

March 22: Choosing Trust

March 23: God of All Comfort

March 24: Injustice

March 25: Bring Me Closer

March 26: Loosening Expectations

March 27: Miracles of Mercy

March 28: Always Available

March 29: Wonderful Destiny

March 30: Deepening Friendship

March 31: Like Mighty Waters

April

April 1: Rest in Hope

April 2: Satisfied by Presence

April 3: Patient Endurance

April 4: Close to His Heart

April 5: We Need Each Other

April 6: Infused with Strength

April 7: Breaking Through

April 8: Confident Freedom

April 9: Benefits of Discipline

April 10: Family of Faith

April 11: Strengthened by Grace

April 12: Poetry of God

April 13: Sacrificial Praise

April 14: Courageous Hope

April 15: Spirit of Belonging

April 16: Never Ignored

April 17: Fullness of Love

April 18: Enlightened

April 19: Only Hope

April 20: Led by Truth

April 21: What Reward

April 22: True Children

April 23: Unfastened Chains

April 24: Choose Life

April 25: Return to Him

April 26: Fully Accounted For

April 27: Expectations of Glory

April 28: Good God

April 29: Reliable Messengers

April 30: Help the Weak

May

May 1: Stronghold of Love

May 2: Dawn of Healing

May 3: Like You Promised

May 4: Shine Bright

May 5: No Matter What

May 6: Soul Worth

May 7: Kindness to All

May 8: Honorable Hope

May 9: Treasures of Wisdom

May 10: Intentional Pursuit

May 11: Wholehearted Living

May 12: Faith Rewards

May 13: Guard Your Heart

May 14: Wonderful Fruit

May 15: Obedience Reveals

May 16: Enduring Hope

May 17: Selah

May 18: Re-Created

May 19: Powerful Patience

May 20: Everlasting Life

May 21: Led by the Spirit

May 22: Time to Retell

May 23: Perfect Love

May 24: More to Discover

May 25: Our Only Way

May 26: Carried by God

May 27: Joy in Waiting

May 28: True Wisdom Acts

May 29: No Shame

May 30: Lift Holy Hands

May 31: Creative Energy

June

June 1: Preserved by Integrity

June 2: Holding You Back

June 3: Hospitable Hearts

June 4: Proven Authenticity

June 5: Banner of Love

June 6: Unshakeable Peace

June 7: Multiplied Measures

June 8: Woven In

June 9: Healing Fragrance

June 10: Tempered Strength

June 11: Covered and Confident

June 12: He Truly Understands

June 13: All for Freedom

June 14: A Taste

June 15: How Much Longer

June 16: Comforted by Christ

June 17: Keep Holding On

June 18: Living Stones

June 19: Not Lacking

June 20: For Your Sake

June 21: Reconciled

June 22: Keep It Close

June 23: Above All Else

June 24: Joyful Restoration

June 25: Earnest Hope

June 26: Foster Generosity

June 27: Nurture the Planted

June 28: Right Expectations

June 29: Savior Sustains

June 30: Stand Strong

July

July 1: Life Giving Word

July 2: Open-Handed Kindness

July 3: Hopes to Reality

July 4: Take Your Time

July 5: Fully Supplied

July 6: Looking at You

July 7: Right on Time

July 8: Heavenly Gifts

July 9: Live as Called

July 10: Protected by Mercy

July 11: Goodness of God

July 12: Look Forward To

July 13: Grace Strength

July 14: Choosing Trust

July 15: Against the Odds

July 16: Great Provider

July 17: Tenacious Love

July 18: Strong Character

July 19: Prisoners of Hope

July 20: Better than Guests

July 21: Trial as Opportunity

July 22: Always

July 23: Words That Heal

July 24: Resurrection Power

July 25: Reasons to Rejoice

July 26: So Much Love

July 27: This One Thing

July 28: Marvelous Mercy

July 29: Follow the Spirit

July 30: Armed with Strength

July 31: Lifestyle Matters

August

August 1: Our Intercessor

August 2: Promise of Power

August 3: Wonderful Advantages

August 4: With a Word

August 5: Ask Again

August 6: Sojourners

August 7: Imparted Inspiration

August 8: This Is the Way

August 9: Steadfast Faith

August 10: In Your Midst

August 11: Overflowing Vessels

August 12: Opposite Spirit

August 13: Get Ready

August 14: Unwavering Hope

August 15: Complete Victory

August 16: Released from Law

August 17: Influence

August 18: Ultimate Refuge

August 19: Diligently Seek

August 20: Personal

August 21: According to Mercy

August 22: Prayers for Mercy

August 23: Understand the Season

August 24: Worth Waiting For

August 25: Remember His Works

August 26: Starting Point

August 27: Mighty God

August 28: Contented Trust

August 29: Wise Kindness

August 30: Moved by Compassion

August 31: Sacred and Human

September

September 1: Created with Purpose

September 2: Joyous Mercies

September 3: Give Thanks

September 4: He Pays Attention

September 5: Grace That Builds

September 6: Continue in Faith

September 7: A Father’s Help

September 8: Spiritual Clothes

September 9: Lifted to Safety

September 10: Leave Your Worries

September 11: Wonderful Savior

September 12: Grounded in Wisdom

September 13: Slow to Anger

September 14: Doers of Good

September 15: Hope in Him

September 16: Trust His Timing

September 17: Christ in Us

September 18: Secret Place

September 19: Hold Fast

September 20: Confident Trust

September 21: Living Hope

September 22: Established by God

September 23: Refreshment

September 24: Fresh Portion

September 25: Inside Out

September 26: Take Care

September 27: All We Need

September 28: The Redeemed Speak

September 29: Praise Every Step

September 30: Already Said

October

October 1: Full Expression

October 2: Never Alone

October 3: It Is Done

October 4: Overlook Offenses

October 5: Trustworthy Fortress

October 6: Ripple Effects

October 7: Faithful Fruit

October 8: Calm Blessing

October 9: Come Alive

October 10: Remembrance

October 11: Walk in His Ways

October 12: Thankful Prayers

October 13: Take Heart

October 14: No One Like Him

October 15: A Creator’s Help

October 16: Oh the Goodness

October 17: Heart Longings

October 18: Unchangeable God

October 19: Never Forget

October 20: Drawn In

October 21: Overflowing Hope

October 22: Stand Firm

October 23: Direct Your Soul

October 24: Examples to Follow

October 25: Returned in Full

October 26: Even More

October 27: Can’t Wait

October 28: Completely Reliant

October 29: Until He Comes

October 30: Treasures of Darkness

October 31: Living Expression

November

November 1: Sun and Rain

November 2: Holy Endurance

November 3: Shepherd of Peace

November 4: Now and Forever

November 5: Demonstrated Love

November 6: Easy and Light

November 7: Look to Jesus

November 8: Faith Journey

November 9: Joyful Generosity

November 10: Sow Your Community

November 11: Faith Fruit

November 12: Not Silent

November 13: Give Your Heart

November 14: Redemption Life

November 15: Children of Peace

November 16: Inexpressible Goodness

November 17: Bless the Lord

November 18: Openhearted Living

November 19: Groaning of Creation

November 20: Overflow of Goodness

November 21: Kindness Relief

November 22: At Home

November 23: Records of Honor

November 24: Hopeful Plans

November 25: Motivation

November 26: No Created Thing

November 27: On Your Way

November 28: Seek and Find

November 29: Wonderful Deliverer

November 30: Renewed Strength

December

December 1: Peace of Mind

December 2: No More Delay

December 3: Answer the Call

December 4: Dwelling Life

December 5: Confident Peace

December 6: A Great Cloud

December 7: Gracious Acceptance

December 8: Arise in Fullness

December 9: Wisdom and Grace

December 10: Our High Priest

December 11: Life Giving Wisdom

December 12: Upheld by God

December 13: Hearts Fastened

December 14: Healing Words

December 15: United in Purpose

December 16: Expectant Hope

December 17: Practices of Prayer

December 18: Ever Present Grace

December 19: Our King Comes

December 20: Longing for Nearness

December 21: Eagerly Awaiting

December 22: Free from Accusations

December 23: Fruit of Patience

December 24: From the Father

December 25: Glory to God

December 26: Grounded Trust

December 27: Willing Surrender

December 28: Good Shepherd

December 29: All You Need

December 30: Secure Foundation

December 31: Fresh and New

INTRODUCTION

If you have ever been out boating, you know the importance of an anchor. Whether you’re fishing or hanging out with friends, when you find a good spot, it’s impossible to stay there without an anchor. An anchor stops you from being blown around at the mercy of the ocean.

Jesus is an anchor for your soul. When you find yourself drifting aimlessly in a sea of doubt, he secures you in the certainty of his truth. If you’re rocked by unforgiveness, he can lead you to the quiet waters of love and grace. If bitterness and hurt overflow, let Jesus secure your heart in a bay of healing waters and remove the weeds from your hull.

As you meditate on these Scriptures, devotions, and prayers, may your heart find confidence in the one who holds you steady. The anchor of your soul will keep you from drifting with the shifting tides and winds. When storms come, place your security in the King of heaven and earth. He is faithful, and he will not fail you. Remain firmly planted in his love and peace. He will not let you go.

JANUARY

Though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.

COLOSSIANS 2:5 ESV

JANUARY 1

WONDERFUL GIFT

The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

ROMANS 6:23 NLT

God does not condemn us in our sin; he liberates us in his love. Where sin has a hold of us, we can offer it to Jesus and humbly submit to his leadership in our lives. He takes the heavy yoke of our burdens and lifts the weight of our circumstances as we come to him.

Don’t hesitate a moment longer to come to Christ. Come with all your questions and disappointments. He wants to lighten your burden, and he can handle any weight. He won’t let you down. His love reaches out to cover you no matter how you feel today. Receive the gift of his presence, his grace, and the gift of eternal life he offers you.

Jesus, you are the Son of God and my Savior. I surrender to your love, for it is better than life. Lift the heavy weight of my worries from my mind and body as I come to you.

JANUARY 2

TRUSTWORTHY HELP

They called to you for help and were rescued.

They trusted you and were not disappointed.

PSALM 22:5 NCV

No matter the situation you are in today, God can help you through it. He is more powerful than the fear you feel; his love is stronger than the threats you face. He is faithful to see you through. You can rely on him to help you in your time of trouble. Call on him, and he will answer. Seek him, and you will find he is closer than you imagined.

Whether or not you have reliable help in the people around you, God is faithful. Look to the testimony of those who have gone before you. Remember what God has already done. He is the same loyal and powerful God. He does not change.

Jesus, I trust you to come to my aid. I call on you as many times as it takes. I won’t stop turning to you, for you are my Savior and trustworthy help in time of trouble.

JANUARY 3

LOVE ONE ANOTHER

Beloved, let’s love one another; for love is from God, and everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.

1 JOHN 4:7 NASB

We can give the love we receive. Love without conditions, regret, or manipulation pours over and into us through the presence of God’s mercy in our lives. His love always reaches toward us and never recedes. Best of all, we don’t have to do a thing to earn it.

Jesus said to his disciples in John 13:35: “By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.” We love because he first loved us. The love of Christ transforms us and fuels our love for one another. Even when our love runs dry, we can choose to act in kindness to one another and fill up on the kindness God ceaselessly offers us.

Loving Lord, there is no one like you. You never ask us to do anything you haven’t done first. Fill me with your love and transform my relationships in your powerful mercy as I partner with you.

JANUARY 4

EMPOWERING PRESENCE

Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God.

2 CORINTHIANS 3:5 ESV

“Our true competence flows from God’s empowering presence” (2 Corinthians 3:5 TPT). We don’t have to rely on our limited resources of strength as our measure of competency. The powerful presence of God is both our source and sufficiency. We need never do a thing without him.

No matter how ill-equipped you feel today, God has limitless grace to offer you. His strength empowers you as you lean on his presence. You can turn your attention to him no matter how busy you are. All it takes is a subtle reorienting of your thoughts, and he comes rushing to meet you. Look to him for all you need; he has more than enough to share.

Faithful Father, thank you for the promise of your graceful strength and persistent presence in my life. I lean on your wisdom, leadership, and help today. Every time I turn my attention to you, reveal yourself to me. I need you.

JANUARY 5

OF ONE MIND

Brethren, farewell. Become complete.

Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace;

and the God of love and peace will be with you.

2 CORINTHIANS 13:11 CSB

Unity doesn’t happen by accident. We can’t outsource it to someone else. It’s the work of relationship. When we seek to repair damaged trust, we build bridges instead of walls by being vulnerable and taking responsibility for our imperfections.

As you think about your relationships, perhaps there is one you know needs repair work. Maybe you owe them an overdue apology. Perhaps you need to offer forgiveness even if only in your heart. It takes intentionality, humility, and lived-out love to truly be unified and at peace with others. This is the work we are called to as Christ’s followers.

Merciful God, thank you for the example of Christ. He set the standard for what your love looks like. I humble myself before you, and I ask for your help to choose love over judgment in my relationships. Give me courage to be vulnerable and humble. I trust you will.

JANUARY 6

IN GOD ALONE

There is only one strong, safe, and secure place for me; it’s in God alone who gives me strength for the battle.

PSALM 144:1 TPT

The Bible describes God as a place of shelter, security, and strength. He is a firm foundation as described by Jesus in the parable of the builders. The psalmists declare him a rock of refuge. He upholds us and gives us strength as Isaiah 41:10 clearly states.

Life is not easy, nor is it without its battles. In hard times, God is both our refuge and source of strength. We run into his presence and find rest. Best of all, Jesus invited us. “Are you weary, carrying a heavy burden? Come to me. I will refresh your life, for I am your oasis…you will find refreshment and rest in me” (Matthew 11:28-29). As Moses and the Israelites sang in Exodus 15:2, God is our strength and song. What a glorious promise for our weary hearts.

Rock of Refuge, you are my strong, safe, and secure place of rest in a crazy world that never stops. You are my oasis. You offer me the strength of your presence and powerful love, and I am undone by your mercy. Thank you.

JANUARY 7

SIGNS AND WONDERS

God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.

HEBREWS 2:4 NIV

God added his witness and power to the ministry of those Jesus sent out in his name. Today, we know God is at work in the ministry of others by the outpouring of his Spirit upon and through them. He does not confirm people through power and privilege but through surrendered hearts and the power of his Spirit.

The fruit of God’s work is clearly laid out for us in Galatians 5. The work of the Spirit is an inner work in our hearts, divine love in all its expressions, and mysterious signs and wonders that can’t be explained. His powerful miracles are merciful acts of kindness that align with his character. He is wonderful, and he has not stopped working in and through his people.

Jesus, you are the same today as you were when you walked this earth. Your nature has not changed and neither has the Father’s. I surrender to your love.

JANUARY 8

RAISED UP

He lifts the needy out of their suffering and makes their families multiply like flocks.

PSALM 107:41 CSB

God is a faithful and good provider. The same God who owns “the cattle on a thousand hills” (Psalm 30:10) watches over and supplies the needs of those who call on him. It doesn’t matter how little we have; God has more than enough to provide. He blesses those who rely on him. We, in turn, get to partner with his heart and bless others with the overflow of our resources.

God raises up the lowly. He lifts the poverty-stricken out of despair. He calls us to represent his love through sacrifices and generosity instead of ignoring the needy around us. Think of how God has helped you and provided for you; commit to showing that same help in the name of his love.

Lord, you are good to all. Your love knows no bounds, and it is not weak. Thank you for continuing to provide for me. As I partner with you, I choose to be generous like you.

JANUARY 9

BLESSINGS COVER US

Jesus turned to his disciples and said, “God blesses you who are poor, for the Kingdom of God is yours. God blesses you who are hungry now, for you will be satisfied. God blesses you who weep now, for in due time you will laugh.”

LUKE 6:19-21 NLT

When we talk about God’s blessings, we often picture the material: finances, relationships, and increase. However, when Jesus spoke of blessing, he spoke of what we can’t put our fingertips on: the kingdom of God, satisfaction, and laughter. The experience of his grace meeting us where we are is the blessing of his presence.

Take a look at your life at the moment. Where there are challenges, blessings also wait for you. Where there is disappointment, holy hope is ready to break through. Where there is pain, God offers healing. Instead of recoiling from hard things, let’s press in and find where God meets us in it.

Jesus, thank you for offering your presence at all times and in all circumstances. You are my source of hope, courage, and peace. You are all I need, and everything I long for finds its full expression in you.

JANUARY 10

GOODNESS IN STORE

This is why the Scriptures say:

Things never discovered or heard of before, things beyond our ability to imagine—these are the many things God has in store for all his lovers.

1 CORINTHIANS 2:9 TPT

God is not done working his miraculous mercy in our lives or in this world. He faithfully weaves his powerful love through the ins and outs of our stories. Nothing is irredeemable. God has more goodness in store for us than we could imagine. Everything he does is with wisdom, love, and offers the abundance of life.

When you are in a waiting season, longing for breakthrough, shift your eyes to the faithfulness of God. Put today’s verse to memory. There is more coming than we can comprehend, and the future is full of his mercy, kindness, joy, and peace. No matter the unforeseen challenges you come up against, none of it is a surprise to God. We can find comfort as we trust him.

Faithful One, thank you for never giving up on me. I’m so glad your purposes prevail no matter the interruptions they may face. I choose to trust you, for you are loyal to your promises, and you are good to me.

JANUARY 11

GO AND DO

The expert on the law answered,

“The one who showed him mercy.”

Jesus said to him,

“Then go and do what he did.”

LUKE 10:37 NCV

In the parable of the good Samaritan, Jesus illustrated that caring for others is more important than the particulars of our religious doctrine. Caring for others and showing them kindness, love, and mercy illustrates that we are God’s children. The one who loves us more than we can imagine gave everything when his Son lived, died, and was resurrected for our freedom and salvation.

It is a good litmus test of our compassion to recognize when we are trying to excuse ourselves from living out the love of Christ in practical ways. True compassion stops and helps those in need. It does not pass by and make judgments or excuses. It does the loving thing; it springs to action. May we go and do the same by living out the practical, merciful kindness of our Savior.

Lord, as I look to you today, transform my heart in your mercy. Open my understanding to how long, high, deep, and wide your love truly is, and help me meet needs where I can today.

JANUARY 12

CRY OUT

LORD my God,

I cried to You for help,

and You healed me.

PSALM 30:2 NASB

It is not a personal failure to be weak or need help. It’s part of our humanity. God does not expect perfection from us; he wants us to lean on him for what we don’t have. We can be honest with God and with ourselves about our weaknesses. He will never shame or punish us for our transparency because he is gracious and full of mercy. After all, his kindness is what leads us to repentance.

Instead of hiding from God in our pain or dismissing it, let’s cry out to our gracious Father for help. He is good to us, and he knows exactly what we need in every moment. Never will he leave or forsake us. Every turning of our hearts toward him is welcomed with open arms. How wonderful he is to us.

Mighty God, thank you for coming to my rescue every time I cry out to you. I’m grateful I don’t have to pretend to be in a better place than I am. You meet me in the middle of my mess and heal me. Hallelujah!

JANUARY 13

AUTHENTIC MINISTRY

We have proved ourselves by our lifestyles of purity, by our spiritual insights, by our patience, and by showing kindness, by the Spirit of holiness and by our uncritical love for you.

2 CORINTHIANS 6:6 TPT

Paul was aware of the power of a person’s values and ministry and how it can influence the effect of the gospel on those who witness it play out. How we live matters. How we treat people matters. How we approach challenges matters. Though we cannot be expected to be perfect, integrity keeps us moving on the path of honesty, love, and grace.

How will people know you are trustworthy? By the way you live. How you show up in relationships, how reliable you are, and the openness and humility of your heart all matter. Instead of getting caught up in what a successful ministry looks like, focus on the foundation of your character and how you treat everyone around you.

Jesus, thank you for leading by example when you walked this earth. Your ministry always exemplified the mercy and power of God. It was not exclusive or cold, and I want to live the same extravagant kindness in my life. Help me, Lord.

JANUARY 14

BLESSED EITHER WAY

“You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out.”

DEUTERONOMY 28:6 NKJV

When we submit our lives to the Lord, he blesses us with his presence. As we come and go, he leads us. He is with us every step of the way. Whether you find yourself in a new situation or the same old routine, turn your attention to God’s nearness. The greatest blessing we have in life is God himself.

Through Christ, we have been welcomed into right relationship with the Creator of the universe. Nothing can keep his love from pouring over us. Instead of counting our blessings through the levels of ease we have, let’s look at the persistent and powerful presence of God no matter the circumstances we face.

Faithful One, knowing you is the greatest blessing I have. Your Spirit is my source of life, hope, joy, and peace. You are the fullness of love. No matter where I am, with you I am blessed.

JANUARY 15

FAVOR OF HIS PRESENCE

The LORD was with Joseph and extended kindness to him. He granted him favor with the prison warden.

GENESIS 39:21 CSB

It’s important to know the context of today’s verse. Joseph had just been falsely accused of trying to seduce his master’s wife. When presented with this information, his master had Joseph put in jail. In light of the situation, “The Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love.”

No matter what people say about you, God knows your heart. He knows what is true and what is false. In just or unjust punishment, he won’t leave you alone. He will be with you just as he was with Joseph. He will pour out his steadfast love on you. Look to him, for he is your help, your defender, and your hope.

Lord, thank you for knowing the truth even when others can’t see it. When I feel misunderstood, I lean on your presence. When I feel overlooked and when I am unjustly ridiculed, you see me and accept me. Thank you for the powerful favor of your presence.

JANUARY 16

UNOFFENDABLE

When one of your godly ones corrects me or one of your faithful ones rebukes me, I will accept it like an honor I cannot refuse.

It will be as healing medicine that I swallow without an offended heart.

Even if they are mistaken, I will continue to pray.

PSALM 141:5 TPT

It is honorable to humbly receive correction and investigate the heart in light of it. Defensiveness is a gut reaction to criticism, yet if we remain humble, we can entertain even the most off-base rebuke with an honest gaze and see whether there is any truth to it. When our hearts remain unoffendable, correction becomes a tool of strength, and we can let go of what does not apply to us.

“Even if they are mistaken,” David said, “I will continue to pray.” Can you join your voice to his and choose to remain open to others’ viewpoints? Even if they get it wrong, your prayers will not be in vain. You can let it go knowing you did the work of self-reflection with an open heart. If you are not sure, go to the trusted ones who know you best. Ask for their perspective and allow them to speak the truth to you in love. A humble heart is an unoffendable one.

Jesus, thank you for knowing me through and through. I will not take correction for granted. I trust you to show me which corrections have merit.

JANUARY 17

ANCIENT PATHS

Thus says the LORD: “Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls.”

JEREMIAH 6:16 ESV

The ancient paths are the ones laid by God himself. As we follow his wisdom, he leads us on “the good way.” Isaiah 30:21 says, “And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.” When we listen for God’s voice, we will hear wisdom’s guidance.

Instead of rushing through decisions today, ask the Lord to guide you. Look for his leadership and walk in the ways he offers. There is rest in going his way. There is soulful satisfaction in following the wisdom of his instructions. He will not lead you astray.

Loving Lord, I want to walk in your ways in everything I do today. Speak to me, direct me, and lead me to rest. I will follow you, for you are trustworthy, you know better than I do, and your love permeates everything you do and ask me to do.

JANUARY 18

HOLD ON TO HIM

If you carefully observe all these commands I am giving you to follow—to love the LORD your God, to walk in obedience to him and to hold fast to him—then the LORD

will drive out all these nations before you, and you will dispossess nations larger and stronger than you.

DEUTERONOMY 11:22-23 NIV

Jesus said the whole of the Law and Prophets hang on two commandments: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind [and] Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-40). When we love God with everything we are, we walk in obedience to his ways.

When we love someone, we turn to them in the joy and celebrations of life as well as the pain and suffering. The same can be true of our relationship with God. As we love him, we turn to him. We hold on to him through the hills and valleys of life. He is our sufficiency and strength, and his love is our covering and comfort.

Lord, you are my beloved God. I walk in obedience to your ways and your voice, and I hold fast to you.

JANUARY 19

MESSENGERS OF PEACE

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns!

ISAIAH 52:7 NLT

In Christ, we find peace with God. We don’t have to strive to be worthy of his love. He freely offers us the powerful liberation and shelter of his mercy. Through his invitation, we are welcomed into the presence of the Father. The mantle of Christ’s resurrection life covers us, and we can come boldly before the throne of grace.

The message of the gospel is one of peace, hope, and joy. It is a homecoming call and an invitation to come alive in the powerful love of the Father. There is no better news than this! May we be bearers of the goodness of God by deliberately sharing the kindness of his heart and the power of his transformative love.

Jesus, you aren’t called the Prince of Peace for nothing. You are full of goodness, grace, and mercy, and I willingly receive your love. May I offer it without hesitation to those around me.

JANUARY 20

HOLY EXPECTATION

We look away from the natural realm and we focus our attention and expectation onto Jesus who birthed faith within us and who leads us forward into faith’s perfection. His example is this: Because his heart was focused on the joy of knowing that you would be his, he endured the agony of the cross and conquered its humiliation, and now sits exalted at the right hand of the throne of God!

HEBREWS 12:2 TPT

Where our focus is fixed, our expectations follow. When we spend our time fixated on the problems of this world, it’s hard to hold on to hope. When we can’t see the light shining outside the dark circumstances of our lives, it’s difficult to ward away worry and anxiety.

As we focus our attention on Jesus, the perfection of his love lights up the expectations of our hearts. Jesus’ joy was knowing we would be his. Read that again: the joy set before Jesus, even in going to the cross, was knowing that we would be his. Now that we belong to him, he sets the bar of expectation.

Jesus, I fix my eyes on you above all the chaos and fear. Flood my heart, mind, and soul with the light of your love.

JANUARY 21

INCREDIBLE MERCY

God will choose the one to whom he decides to show mercy; his choice does not depend on what people want or try to do.

ROMANS 9:16 NCV

We can’t co-opt or manipulate God’s love. We can’t choose who receives it and who doesn’t. For example, Jesus reached out to outcasts. He healed those society rejected and overlooked. He spent time with sinners and did not join in the exclusivity of the religious leaders of his time. This made the leaders angry, but they couldn’t stop him.

The incredible mercy of God flows freely from his heart to all he chooses. Instead of trying to control it, let’s allow it to expand our compassion. We must leave room for God to move as he wills. The same love he chooses to pour out also leads us to greater understanding of who God is. It is more powerful than the systems of this world.

Generous God, thank you for the power of your mercy that breaks strongholds, brings freedom to captives, and redeems what seems lost. You are incredible, and I love you.

JANUARY 22

ABUNDANT SOURCE

He will be the stability of your times,

A wealth of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge;

The fear of the LORD is his treasure.

ISAIAH 33:6 NASB

In transition, God is our constant source of stability. He offers us the treasures of his salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. Fear of the Lord is the key to this. As we submit to Christ, we honor his leadership, love, and sacrifice. He is the anchor in stormy times. He is our steady and immovable foundation.

Everything we need finds its fulfillment in the Creator. Though we get glimpses and tastes of our longing met in this life, he is the purest longing of all. He is the perfect Father and our most loyal friend. He is a faithful provider and our true comfort. In him is an abundance of what we seek, so let’s run into his presence for all we need today.

Source, I look to you for what I lack today. Fill my cup, be my rock-steady foundation, and keep me close to your strong love. Thank you.

JANUARY 23

SABBATH REST

There remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God.

HEBREWS 4:9 ESV

When God created the earth and everything in it, he purposefully included rhythms of rest for both nature and humanity. We were never meant to burn ourselves out working all the time. We need space in our lives to enjoy life.

Whether you find rest in nature, wandering through city streets, or reading a book on a quiet day, be sure to include time to recharge in your schedule. It isn’t just a suggestion; it is necessary for our wellbeing. Be intentional when carving out time to simply be and enjoy what is available to you.

Creator, thank you for the beauty of your earth I enjoy. Thank you for putting rhythms of rest into place from the very beginning. Help me resist the pressure to be productive all the time. I was made to enjoy life as much as I was to work.

JANUARY 24

HELD FIRM

The king trusts in the LORD,

And through the mercy of the Most High he shall not be moved.

PSALM 21:7 NKJV

When we put our trust in the Lord, he holds us firm with his never-ending love. Even when we walk through dark valleys of suffering, his love covers and carries us through. We cannot escape it, and we cannot lose it.

In Romans 8, Paul put it this way: “I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God” (8:38-39). Meditate on this today. No matter what you are going through, God’s love has a firm hold on you.

Lord God, thank you for the incredible reach of your love that finds me no matter where I am. I can’t be separated from it, and I am eternally grateful. Flood me with the power of your mercy as I look to you today.

JANUARY 25

EASY TO PLEASE

“Simply join your life with mine. Learn my ways and you’ll discover that I’m gentle, humble, easy to please. You will find refreshment and rest in me.”

MATTHEW 11:29 TPT

The invitation Jesus offers us is wonderfully liberating. When we join our lives to his, we discover how easy he is to please. We discover his character as we learn his ways. He is gentle and humble. He offers rest and refreshment to our souls. He does not put demands on us, and he welcomes us into a reciprocal relationship.

How convinced are you that Jesus is this good? How long has it been since you experienced the life-giving relief of his love? However long or short it’s been, you have the opportunity in this moment to receive the overflowing kindness of his presence. Every moment is a chance to get to know him more. Join your life to his and you will find true refreshment and rest in him.

Jesus, your love is incredible. I look to you today for the relief and refreshment my soul longs for. Wash over me with the waterfalls of your grace and reveal how wonderful you are.

JANUARY 26

DOING RIGHT

Trust in the LORD and do what is good;

dwell in the land and live securely.

PSALM 37:3 CSB

When we trust the Lord, our actions will follow suit. We choose to walk in the light of his ways and do what is right in integrity and love. Wisdom directs us to fix our hearts on the promises of God. As we do, we find security in his faithfulness. He is reliable and true, and he does not fail to follow through on his Word.

Knowing that God is faithful propels us to act in kind. We do good according to God’s law of love because we know it is the highest standard. His character will not change, and his ways won’t fail. Let’s do the right thing, no matter the temptation to cut corners, because the one who directs us in wisdom is faithful and true.

Father, I trust you. Your nature doesn’t shift or change with the times. You are faithful, just, and true. I choose to follow your ways over the shortcuts of the world that only want to get ahead. Your ways are better, and in the end, I won’t regret being true to you.

JANUARY 27

DWELLING PLACES

In him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

EPHESIANS 2:22 NIV

When God sent the Holy Spirit, he decided to make his home in his people. That means every person submitted to Christ is being altered into a dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. He lives in each of us and transforms us from the inside out.

What does it mean to know that the Holy Spirit wants to make himself at home within you? The power of God—the same power that healed diseases, turned water to wine, fed thousands with a single meal, and raised Christ from the dead—is accessible within your very spirit. Yield to him and ask him to move in mighty ways as you go about your day.

Holy Spirit, you are welcome in me. Transform me from the inside out, and may your love cleanse my mind, soul, and body. I want to see from your perspective and walk according to your wisdom. I am yours; do what you want to do.

JANUARY 28

UNDIVIDED DEVOTION

Don’t think for a moment that you know it all, for wisdom comes when you adore him with undivided devotion and avoid everything that’s wrong. Then you will find the healing refreshment your body and spirit long for.

PROVERBS 3:7-8 TPT

If we want to experience the healing refreshment our bodies and souls long for, wisdom is key. How do we find wisdom? By adoring God with undivided hearts and offering him our devotion. He is worthy and responsible with our affection. We don’t have to have it all figured out. In fact, wisdom is found in admitting that we don’t know and by trusting that God does.

Instead of trying to micro-manage outcomes, let’s surrender the need to know how it will turn out. A beautiful and radical hope is born in surrender. As we let go of the illusion of our capabilities, we can fall back on the faithfulness of God who never changes.