Jesus You're All I Need ziparound devotional E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Serie: Ziparound Devotionals
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2022

Seitenzahl: 439

Beschreibung

Jesus is our source for everything. When we rely on him alone, our satisfaction in life increases and anxiety begins to subside. Comparisons cease. Unnecessary pursuits pause. And we begin to notice the little things. The things that matter. Life. Breath. Kindness. Stillness. Beauty. This is where we find deep connection with our loving Savior. As you quiet yourself before him and meditate on these Scriptures, devotions, and prayers, experience the goodness of his presence, and be refreshed with his perfect peace. When you recognize that Jesus really is all you need, other concerns fade. Hope dawns with the sunrise. Tender mercies fall fresh. Boundless joy springs up from a well within. And you find the strength to walk through each day with grace. 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. • This high-quality 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. • This 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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BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC.

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Jesus YOU’RE ALL I NEED

© 2022 by BroadStreet Publishing®

978-1-4245-6507-8

978-1-4245-6519-1 (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 (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. 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. 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 (NCV) are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NASB) are taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1972, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Lockman.org. Scripture quotations marked (NRSV) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are 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 (NKJV) are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (TPT) are taken from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017, 2018, 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission of BroadStreet Publishing. All rights reserved. thePassionTranslation.com.

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Contents

Introduction

January

January 1: Great Expectation

January 2: Hope Ahead

January 3: All Things New

January 4: Lend a Hand

January 5: Tender Surrender

January 6: Come Lord Jesus

January 7: Honor in Service

January 8: Perfect Ways

January 9: Stay Humble

January 10: Hope to the End

January 11: Building a Future

January 12: Greater Understanding

January 13: Gentle Wisdom

January 14: Self-Control

January 15: Trusting Peace

January 16: Transparency to Mercy

January 17: Never Alone

January 18: Good Plans

January 19: Humility Is Honorable

January 20: Mercy Is Coming

January 21: Stay Close

January 22: With You

January 23: Don’t Worry

January 24: Showers of Truth

January 25: God’s Greatness

January 26: Sheltering Embrace

January 27: Gentle Shepherd

January 28: Everlasting Creator

January 29: Supported by Love

January 30: What a Help

January 31: No Need to Worry

February

February 1: Strong Confidence

February 2: The Peace of Christ

February 3: No More Envy

February 4: Exalt Him

February 5: Already Pure

February 6: Abide

February 7: Nourished by Love

February 8: Sacrificial Care

February 9: He Sees Your Heart

February 10: Call Upon Him

February 11: Wordrous Works

February 12: Trust His Leadership

February 13: Fountain of Life

February 14: Love’s Experience

February 15: Sweet Words

February 16: Saving Belief

February 17: Take Heart

February 18: Blessed Trust

February 19: My Praise

February 20: No Matter What

February 21: Nothing Impossible

February 22: Easy to Discover

February 23: Gather Together

February 24: Don’t Be Hasty

February 25: Lost and Found

February 26: Wisdom to Patience

February 27: Prevailing Purpose

February 28: More Joy

March

March 1: Simply Come

March 2: Easy to Please

March 3: Jesus Relates

March 4: Unnecessary Weight

March 5: Pioneer of Faith

March 6: Don’t Be Afraid

March 7: Drink Deeply

March 8: Return and Wait

March 9: No More Judgment

March 10: Perfected in Weakness

March 11: Confident Hope

March 12: Paths of Peace

March 13: Above All Names

March 14: Do Not Worry

March 15: Follow Him

March 16: Above the Noise

March 17: Love’s Worth

March 18: Contentment Is Beautiful

March 19: Confident Help

March 20: Love Always

March 21: Forever the Same

March 22: What Remains

March 23: Follow the Leader

March 24: The New Way

March 25: Trust and Believe

March 26: Lots of Room

March 27: True Life

March 28: Ask Anything

March 29: Your Defender

March 30: He Is Coming

March 31: The Best Teacher

April

April 1: Claimed by God

April 2: Promises of Provision

April 3: Look Ahead

April 4: A Way in the Wild

April 5: Never Forgotten

April 6: Always Better

April 7: Source of All

April 8: Lamb of God

April 9: Opportunities for Joy

April 10: Never Abandoned

April 11: Rich Revelation

April 12: A Hindrance

April 13: Defender

April 14: Real Rest

April 15: No Greater Law

April 16: Fragrant Obedience

April 17: Taken Care Of

April 18: Childlike Innocence

April 19: Prayer Always

April 20: Unifying Love

April 21: Eternal Comfort

April 22: Live Love Out

April 23: Fullness in Christ

April 24: More Than Enough

April 25: All Around

April 26: Show Me

April 27: Seek His Face

April 28: Heavenly Things

April 29: Cloaked with Kindness

April 30: Pressing On

May

May 1: Overflowing Compassion

May 2: Keep Living

May 3: Living Water

May 4: Kind of Fruit

May 5: He Prays for Us

May 6: No Blame

May 7: Excel in Generosity

May 8: Walking in Light

May 9: No More Fear

May 10: Glorious Expectation

May 11: Spirit Help

May 12: God’s Design

May 13: Always Loved

May 14: Truly Free

May 15: Wonderful Counselor

May 16: Cheerful Giving

May 17: God Is Able

May 18: Whatever You Do

May 19: Highest Standard

May 20: Endless Possibilities

May 21: Kind and Fair

May 22: Take Charge

May 23: Walk in Integrity

May 24: Fullness in Life

May 25: A Way Out

May 26: Faith-Building Words

May 27: Build Others Up

May 28: The Shepherd’s Voice

May 29: Miracles of Mercy

May 30: Ask, Seek, Knock

May 31: Faithful Promises

June

June 1: Equipped by Truth

June 2: New Mercies

June 3: Unfailing Compassion

June 4: Because of Jesus

June 5: Here and Now

June 6: In His Hands

June 7: Forgiven

June 8: Infinite Understanding

June 9: Freed from Fear

June 10: River of Delight

June 11: Sure Steps

June 12: Openhearted Hospitality

June 13: Very Present

June 14: Feast on Joy

June 15: Abundantly Good Fruit

June 16: Delivered

June 17: Start Over

June 18: When I Am

June 19: Much More Valuable

June 20: Clothed in Grace

June 21: Rest Awhile

June 22: First Things First

June 23: Focus on Today

June 24: Clothed in Compassion

June 25: Never Cast Out

June 26: Still Training

June 27: Which Measure

June 28: Faithful God

June 29: Only Wisdom

June 30: Guiding Principle

July

July 1: Confidence Before God

July 2: Made Whole

July 3: In Light of Eternity

July 4: Eternal Focus

July 5: Liberty in Jesus

July 6: Provided For

July 7: Powerful Kingdom

July 8: Renewed by the Spirit

July 9: True Worship

July 10: Fixed Gaze

July 11: Opportunity to Change

July 12: Prince of Peace

July 13: Imitate God

July 14: Peace with God

July 15: Surrendered to Love

July 16: His Humanity

July 17: Comfort in Grief

July 18: Hopeful Expectation

July 19: Lifted Up

July 20: Don’t Hold Back

July 21: High Hopes

July 22: A New Song

July 23: Greater than Friendship

July 24: Encouragement and Strength

July 25: True Freedom

July 26: Words to Live by

July 27: Ask Him

July 28: Do Good

July 29: New in Christ

July 30: Never Stop

July 31: Love’s Law

August

August 1: Grace Is the Way

August 2: Secrets Revealed

August 3: Return to the Shepherd

August 4: Abide in Jesus

August 5: Kingdom Thoughts

August 6: Which Way

August 7: Firm Foundation

August 8: Don’t Let Go

August 9: Great Confidence

August 10: True Competence

August 11: Directed by Love

August 12: All Your Heart

August 13: Divine Guidance

August 14: No More Retaliation

August 15: Ever So Patient

August 16: Greater Scope

August 17: Sharing is Holy

August 18: Confident Assurance

August 19: Not Easily Offended

August 20: Respectful Reverence

August 21: Filled with Christ

August 22: What Love Looks Like

August 23: Lord of Peace

August 24: Wisdom to Thanksgiving

August 25: Strengthened by Power

August 26: Eternal Promise

August 27: Love Compels Us

August 28: Everything for Jesus

August 29: Wonderful Wisdom

August 30: Mercy over Judgment

August 31: Humility to Wisdom

September

September 1: Christ Above All

September 2: All in All

September 3: Heavenly Gifts

September 4: Powerful Message

September 5: Yes and Amen

September 6: Trust Leads to Hope

September 7: God Is with Us

September 8: He Is Able

September 9: Lacking Nothing

September 10: Pure Religion

September 11: Believe and be Blessed

September 12: Endless Mercy

September 13: Everyone Matters

September 14: Christ’s Reflection

September 15: How to Live

September 16: Continue On

September 17: Listen

September 18: Soil of His Love

September 19: God’s Gift

September 20: His Poetry

September 21: Spirit Understanding

September 22: Always Faithful

September 23: Brought Near

September 24: No More Arguing

September 25: Free to Live

September 26: Sweet Peace

September 27: Grace-Filled Endurance

September 28: Christ in Me

September 29: With God

September 30: Eyes on Him

October

October 1: Eyes of Faith

October 2: Compassionate One

October 3: It Is Handled

October 4: Kingdom of Love

October 5: Glorious God

October 6: Wealth of Wisdom

October 7: Goodness of God

October 8: Treasures of Revelation

October 9: Adopted in Love

October 10: Ask Freely

October 11: Guidance for Every Step

October 12: Grace Upon Grace

October 13: Fully Convinced

October 14: Power Over Fear

October 15: Honor the Lord

October 16: Rich in Kindness

October 17: Inexpressible Joy

October 18: Holy Power

October 19: The Everlasting One

October 20: Confession

October 21: Continue in Christ

October 22: Live in Harmony

October 23: He Will Deliver

October 24: God First

October 25: Good Fruit

October 26: Honored

October 27: Untold Blessings

October 28: Ushered In

October 29: Living Expression of Love

October 30: Perfect Patience

October 31: So Much Grace

November

November 1: Caring in Action

November 2: Transformed

November 3: Never Stop Growing

November 4: Power to Understand

November 5: The Time Is Now

November 6: Colony of Heaven

November 7: Open the Door

November 8: God Does More

November 9: Whatever You Do

November 10: Hope’s Portion

November 11: Sweet Peace

November 12: Confidence in Crises

November 13: No Hierarchy

November 14: Devoted to Gratitude

November 15: Humble Patience

November 16: Always Rejoicing

November 17: Be Gentle

November 18: Children of God

November 19: Grace Given

November 20: Tell Him Everything

November 21: Everything for Wisdom

November 22: Choose Love

November 23: Important Matters

November 24: These Things

November 25: Life Goals

November 26: He Is Worthy

November 27: Secret of Contentment

November 28: Joy Ahead

November 29: Strength for the Day

November 30: He Understands

December

December 1: Live with Intention

December 2: Thanks in Everything

December 3: Ministry of Reconciliation

December 4: God over Others

December 5: Just Believe

December 6: The Kingdom Approach

December 7: Beyond the Basics

December 8: The Right Time

December 9: Help Each Other

December 10: He Will

December 11: Divine Strength

December 12: No Longer Bound

December 13: Resetting

December 14: Always Ready

December 15: Hidden in Faithfulness

December 16: Supernatural Healing

December 17: Hold On

December 18: Where Your Heart Is

December 19: Everlasting Treasure

December 20: Run After

December 21: Contented Living

December 22: Do Not Give Up

December 23: Firm Expectation

December 24: Perfect Portion

December 25: Remember

December 26: Words of Liberty

December 27: Consider It

December 28: Fountain of Wisdom

December 29: Loosen Your Grip

December 30: Trust Him

December 31: Sing Praises

Introduction

Jesus is our source for everything. When we rely on him alone, our satisfaction in life increases and anxiety begins to subside. Comparisons cease. Unnecessary pursuits pause. And we begin to notice the little things. The things that matter. Life. Breath. Kindness. Stillness. Beauty. This is where we find deep connection with our loving Savior.

As you quiet yourself before him and meditate on these Scriptures, devotions, and prayers, experience the goodness of his presence, and be refreshed with his perfect peace. When you recognize that Jesus really is all you need, other concerns fade. Hope dawns with the sunrise. Tender mercies fall fresh. Boundless joy springs up from a well within. And you find the strength to walk through each day with grace.

JANUARY 1

Great Expectation

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation.

1 PETER 1:3 NLT

When Jesus rose from the dead, he destroyed the grip that sin and death held over our souls. In Christ, we are free from the power of sin’s control. Paul clearly states in Romans that when we are born again into the family of God through faith in Jesus, the Messiah, we are free to live without fear, condemnation, or shame.

Are you living in the freedom that Christ has offered you? Do you have great expectation for what lies ahead? Though you will suffer through trials in this life, and your hope will be tested, there is one who never changes. Look to Jesus today. Spend time in his presence. Meditate on his love and kindness for you. Remember the words that he spoke to his followers. When you feel overwhelmed by injustice and evil in this world, look to the King of kings. He will rule and reign forever in his mercy. There is a better day coming, no matter what yesterday looked like. Set your eyes on the one who reigns above the chaos, and let your heart find hope in his faithfulness.

Lord Jesus, I look to you today for help, hope, and courage. Thank you for your mercy that holds me close in love and sets me free in joy.

JANUARY 2

Hope Ahead

“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death, sadness, crying, or pain, because all the old ways are gone.”

REVELATION 21:4 NCV

When we are bogged down by worry and our hearts are broken open by painful loss, it can be hard to imagine a reality without the tinge of distress. Our glorious hope is not in a fairy tale of a life. It is in Jesus making all wrong things right, and he will do it.

There is a new age ahead where the restoration of all things will be perfectly completed. When Jesus ushers us into the eternal reign of his glorious kingdom, we will no longer mourn. He will wipe every tear from our eyes. Death will be but a memory. All the old, worn-out ways will be gone, and we will live in the glory-filled light of his reality. What a day to look forward to! What an age to anticipate. May we be filled with hope as we look ahead to the fulfillment of all his promises.

Redeemer, I cast my anchor of hope into you. I trust that you will never lead me astray. Even amidst grief and painful situations, I have hope for the complete restoration you will bring. Draw near and revive my courage in you today.

JANUARY 3

All Things New

He who sits on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” And He said, “Write, for these words are faithful and true.”

REVELATION 21:5 NASB

There is nothing in this world that is not redeemable in Jesus. He makes all things new; it’s just what he does. What has yet to be transformed in the oil of his love will one day be renewed. There is no hardship or loss that is without hope, for the mercy of Jesus restores all things. Though he may not work in ways that we expect, his ways are better.

May we hold onto hope as we trust Jesus to do what only he can. He is faithful and true, and he will do everything that he has said he will. His promises are never voided. He is always full of mercy and can turn the rubble of our disappointment into a garden of his glory. If we cannot see it yet, let’s hold on. May we remember his unfailing nature as we trust him to get us through the brambles of this life. He knows what to do, and we can trust him to do it.

Restorer, I put my hope in your unwavering love, and I will not look away from the goodness of your nature. I trust you to turn my mourning into dancing. I know you will weave your goodness into the broken threads of my life. Do it, Lord!

JANUARY 4

Lend a Hand

If you see that your neighbor’s donkey or ox has collapsed on the road, do not look the other way. Go and help your neighbor get it back on its feet!

DEUTERONOMY 22:4 NLT

We reveal the goodness of Jesus in our lives when we live in line with his compassion. He does not withhold help from those who need it. Do we? He does not turn away from the pleas of the poor. Can we say the same?

When a neighbor is in need, do we look for ways to help them? This could be anyone in our lives, from an acquaintance to a close friend. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus described love in action. Love does not discriminate based on ethnicity, class, or any other criteria; it looks for ways to help those who are suffering. May we be like Jesus and lend a helping hand whenever we are presented with the opportunity.

Generous Jesus, your love is practical. It serves those who are in need, and it lifts up those who are beaten down. It heals the sick, binds up the broken-hearted, and it saves those who are being attacked. May my heart always be ready to move in compassion, sacrificing time and resources to help those that I can. Help me to be like you.

JANUARY 5

Tender Surrender

Laying your life down in tender surrender before the Lord will bring life, prosperity, and honor as your reward.

PROVERBS 22:4 TPT

When we surrender our lives to the Lord, we allow him to direct us in his love. When we follow along the pathways of his peace, we will be moved outside of our comfort and our preferences. It is always worth it to follow him, no matter where we go.

If we allow the love of Christ to transform our hearts and minds, we will be moved by his compassion in practical ways. Instead of protecting ourselves in privilege, we will learn to lay down our own understanding and rights to fight for those of another. Rather than shoring up our lives and hoarding our resources, we will share what we have with others. It is in close connection with the Lord that we learn his values. When we yield our lives before him, he will bring us into his life, the abundance of his kingdom, and he will honor our sacrifice. Let us follow him.

Loving Lord, there is no one wiser, more compassionate, or more able than you to guide me in this life. I don’t want to live for my own pleasure or satisfaction alone. I want to live for you, reflecting your kindness in practical ways. Lead me, Jesus.

JANUARY 6

Come Lord Jesus

He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

REVELATION 22:20 NIV

As time draws on, we tend to forget what was important to us at the beginning. We start out with innocence and joy as children. We trust until we are given reason not to. We take things at face value, and yet we are able to imagine remarkable things.

As we grow older, it gets harder to trust. But Jesus is perfect in all his ways. Everything he does is right, good, and true. There is nothing that he has promised that he will not do. We learn to become like children again as we put our faith in God. As he faithfully meets us, our hearts learn to hope again. The one who said that he is coming back will not forget to return. Jesus is coming again, and we are closer to his return than we have ever been. May we join with the expectant ones as we say, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”

Lord Jesus, restore my hope in deeper ways as I continue to trust you. You are faithful, and no one can stop what you have set into motion Come quickly and make things right in you. You are my hope, and my future is in you. Come, Lord Jesus.

JANUARY 7

Honor in Service

“Who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves.”

LUKE 22:27 ESV

The rich and powerful may have everything that money can buy, but there is something that wealth cannot obtain. True peace, true serenity, and true satisfaction are all found in the mercy of Christ Jesus. No one can buy their way into hope. Jesus is the greatest man who ever lived, and he did not reside in a palace with servants to wait on him.

Jesus displayed the power of the Father’s love in the sacrificial service of his life and ministry. He did not demand a place of honor anywhere. He was humble. He had dinner with outcasts, and he washed the dirty feet of his friends. Does this sound like the God of the universe, the same King of kings who dwells in the everlasting throne room? How could we but love him when we realize that Jesus is worthy of every resource, every heart, and every nation? Jesus, who came to seek and save the lost. Jesus, who rubbed shoulders with stinky fishermen. Jesus, who knows us and loves us as we are. May we follow his lead and seek to serve rather than to be served.

Beautiful Jesus, I will never grow tired of knowing your love. You are indescribably good and merciful. I will follow your example today, and I will look for ways to serve those I might otherwise overlook. No one is unseen by you.

JANUARY 8

Perfect Ways

This God—his way is perfect; the word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.

2 SAMUEL 22:31 ESV

When troubles come, do we blame God? Do we wonder how he could send us into the lion’s den? God does not send us to our doom. There is so much at work in this world, full of free will and fallen nature, more than we can fully recognize. Even when we find ourselves in fiery furnaces, Jesus is with us.

He is a shield for those who take shelter in his embrace. Even when our bodies are battered and bruised, our souls can know the fullness of God’s overwhelming love within us. He speaks peace over us, and our hearts find rest. God’s ways are perfect; never forget it! When we are confused, let us also remember that there are other systems at work. Eyes of faith look to Jesus, no matter what. Let us press into the wisdom of his Word and ways, trusting that he will always be faithful to what he has promised to do.

Perfect One, I trust you more than my own meager understanding of the world and its ways. I rely on you to lead me in love, to protect me when troubles come, and to never, ever leave me. You will always come through.

JANUARY 9

Stay Humble

“Whoever makes himself great will be made humble. Whoever makes himself humble will be made great.”

MATTHEW 23:12 NCV

Have you ever been around someone who is so focused on building their reputation and achieving success that they step on everyone else in the process? This kind of competitive self-promotion may go far, but it does nothing for their soul or true satisfaction. They may find success and power in the realm of this world, but it will not last.

Instead of feeling the pressure to push our lives to the brink of possibility, why don’t we rest in the faithfulness of God to promote us in his timing? There is no reason to rush ahead or to try to find a shortcut to our dreams. In the process of becoming, we are refined in his love and learn to patiently trust that God will do what we never could on our own! Let’s remain humble and continue to do what is ours to do, right here and now. Jesus is our great reward. Knowing him will lead us into deeper satisfaction than we could ever find in money, fame, or status.

Humble Jesus, I want to follow your lead in my life. You laid down your glory to become a man and experience the weakness of humanity. I will not look for a better example, for you are full of perfect love. I trust you more than anyone else.

JANUARY 10

Hope to the End

“Keep your hope to the end and you will experience life and deliverance.”

MATTHEW 24:13 TPT

For context, this statement from Jesus is part of a warning that sin and lawlessness would increase as time went on, and not just in the world at large, but also in the body of believers. He warns that the holy passion of many will grow cold. Just because we have loved Jesus in our lives does not mean that our hearts could never harden toward love.

May we keep our hope anchored in the triumphant, merciful love of Jesus. There is life and deliverance, not only for our future, but also for our present. When we endure, learning to be patient in the love of Christ, humility will keep us close to his heart, keeping our hearts pliable in his compassion. Whatever questions we have, whatever concerns or confusions or doubts, may we bring them all to God, pushing even deeper into relationship with him. May we not allow the unknowns to drive us from his presence. He is our life source and our deliverer.

My Hope, there is no one else like you in all the world. Your love is incomparable. It soothes the pain of broken hearts, eases the tension of unknowns, and brings perfect peace to chaos. I trust you, I look to you, and I put all my hope in you.

JANUARY 11

Building a Future

Know that wisdom is the same for your soul; If you find it, then there will be a future, And your hope will not be cut off.

PROVERBS 24:14 NASB

There is a reason that wisdom is sought after. It is described as more valuable than the riches of this earth, more treasured than gold and rubies. It is full of loving leadership, calm confidence, and honest conviction. There is no better thing to search for in this life. There is a bright hope and brilliant future in finding wisdom.

Paul describes Christ as being the one “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3). Jesus is wisdom personified. In him, we find all the wisdom that brings us a bright future. He is the fullness of our hope that will never be cut off. May we look to the treasures of wisdom in Christ today, leaning into the revelational knowledge he reveals through his living Word and presence. There is nothing better in all the world. With the wisdom of Jesus as our guide, we can build a hopeful future on the foundation of his love.

Wise One, I will not waste a moment longer looking for better wisdom outside of you. Wherever the fruit of your Spirit is, there you are. Give me eyes to see you and ears to recognize your voice, no matter where it comes from. Lead me in your wisdom.

JANUARY 12

Greater Understanding

Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.

LUKE 24:45 ESV

Jesus is our greatest teacher. He has not stopped instructing us, and his wisdom is never outdated. He is as alive now as he was when he walked the earth, and we have fellowship with him through the Spirit. He is the one who opens our minds to understand the profound and simple truths of his gospel. Christ is with us, he is for us, and he is so much greater than we can imagine.

Is there something that you just cannot wrap your head around? Ask Jesus to open your mind in understanding. Ask him to reveal his wisdom. He is full of clarity and reliable revelation. He will not lead you astray. Everything he does is laced with love, and he draws you to himself with kindness. Today, may the peace of God fill your being as Jesus opens your mind to understand his Word and his nature in deeper ways.

Jesus, I know that you are full of wisdom. It is your revealing light that fills me with peace and understanding. Speak to me today. Expand my horizons as you reveal the goodness of your truth to me.

JANUARY 13

Gentle Wisdom

Use patience and kindness when you want to persuade leaders and watch them change their minds right in front of you. For your gentle wisdom will quell the strongest resistance.

PROVERBS 25:15 TPT

Harshly worded debates do not win people’s favor. Righteous indignation will not get us very far in bridging the gaps of understanding. Kindness paves the way for peace. Patience lends to calm discussions. Whatever it is that we want to communicate, approaching someone with gentleness and openness is the best way.

Love deescalates and disarms. Gentle wisdom presents the truth, wrapped up in love. It does not seek to control or manipulate. The love of Christ is expansive; there is always room for more. We do not need to deny another’s reality to verify the importance of our own. Gentle wisdom is reasonable, and it leaves space for others. In conversations and in conflict, may we be people who lead in love, with patience, kindness, and gentleness paving pathways of peace.

Gentle Jesus, I am grateful for your wisdom that leads with gentleness. Teach me to be more like you. When I need to have hard conversations, may my heart remain humble as I use kindness and patience. I know that this is the best way.

JANUARY 14

Self-Control

If you live without restraint and are unable to control your temper, you’re as helpless as a city with broken-down defenses, open to attack.

PROVERBS 25:28 TPT

Restraint doesn’t sound like a fruit of the Spirit, does it? It is not one that we like to talk about very often. And yet, self-control is one of the clear indicators of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. When we can practice restraint, demonstrating strength of spirit to choose what we may not have on our own, it reveals the lordship of Christ within us.

There will be times when we are filled with anger. It is not wrong to experience this; Jesus himself was overcome with anger. It is what we do with that anger that determines the outcome. Though our tempers may flare, if we have restraint, then we can find ways to release anger in healthy ways. Even if anger is not an issue that we deal with, we all have areas where restraint should be used. Let us look at our lives to see where we need the help of Holy Spirit’s strength to empower us to practice self-control. He is an ever-present help.

Holy Spirit, thank you for your empowering presence that fills me with grace and strength to choose what I would not on my own. I know that there is limitless grace in fellowship with you. I rely on your help to cultivate this fruit.

JANUARY 15

Trusting Peace

You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.

ISAIAH 26:3 NKJV

When we fix our eyes on Jesus, we find that his love is immovable, and his faithfulness is sure and steady. He never changes, and he never will. He is full of loyal love that conquers all our fears. No lies can stand in the light of his truth. No shadows are found in his presence. He is full of shining glory, bringing clarity to all that is around him.

When our hearts waver with doubt, may we learn to look to Jesus. With every quiver and question, let us look to the one who is steadfast in mercy. He is strong to save, and not just those who know to look to him. He can disarm the wicked schemes of the enemy and bring new life out of the ashes of despair. There is nothing that he cannot do. Let us look to him and find the perfect peace of his confident love. May our trust grow deeper with every turn of our attention toward him.

Jesus, you are seated high above every king and ruler. Your power knows no end, and your kingdom is forever expanding. I long to know the deep, contented, confident trust of your uninterrupted affection. Increase my awareness of the ways you are working.

JANUARY 16

Transparency to Mercy

Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.

PROVERBS 28:13 ESV

There is liberation in our confession. Without the need to keep secret indignities under wraps, we share our errors of judgment and mistakes with trusted friends or counselors, and shame loses its hold over us. In confession, we reveal what was hidden in the shadows of our disgrace. In the light of truth, with humility and a desire to change, there is mercy and power to set us free.

When we hide our sins, they will only fester, leading to greater heartache and potentially the destruction of relationships. Why would we let fear rule us when Jesus has already set us free in his love? Let us be people of transparency: honest, humble, and full of grace toward one another. It is better to be open and accountable than it is to be driven by fear, secrecy, and denial. Let us live in the light, as Christ is in the light, and we will have nothing to fear at all.

Merciful Jesus, I confess that there are times I have let fear keep me stuck and small. Show me where I need to repair relationships with honesty and transparency. Keep my heart humble in your love. Lead me into greater freedom as I confess and forsake old mindsets and old ways that do not serve me well.

JANUARY 17

Never Alone

“I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

MATTHEW 28:20 NASB

Have you ever experienced loneliness even when surrounded by others? Perhaps you were full of grief that pushed you into the lonely, dark valley of death. Maybe you felt unseen and misunderstood. Perhaps living through a crisis isolated you in ways you never imagined, and you found yourself physically alone and lonelier than you had ever been before.

Jesus is the friend who sticks closer than family. He is loyal, he is present, and he is patient. He promised to be with us until the end of the age, and that promise still stands. There is not a moment that we are without the presence of God. Turn your attention to him, and you will discover that he is already near. May you experience the comfort of his companionship. May you know the overwhelming goodness of his nearness. He is with you, and he will never leave you—not even for a split second!

Emmanuel, I know that you are with me, but I need a fresh revelation of your nearness. Come closer, Lord, as I draw near to you. I need you!

JANUARY 18

Good Plans

“I say this because I know what I am planning for you,” says the LORD. “I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future.”

JEREMIAH 29:11 NCV

Jesus is a master planner. There are no mysteries to him, and there is nothing that he does not see clearly. Do we trust that his plans for us our good? Do we truly believe that he intends to give us a hope and a good future? If we struggle to believe that, may we press into his presence today and find encouragement in the unchanging nature of his love.

There is no mountain that he would not climb for us. There is no depth where his love does not reach us. Everything he does, he does with our good in mind. Though we may walk through trials of many kinds, he leads us through them all with love, always knowing where he is bringing us. May we trust, even when we struggle to understand, that God is for us. He will not fail in lavishing his love upon us, both now and in the future.

Faithful Lord, I trust you to guide me into your goodness even when I cannot see what is ahead. I trust your love to lead me. I trust your kindness to keep me. I trust your mercy to meet me. I trust you.

JANUARY 19

Humility Is Honorable

Pride will ruin people, but those who are humble will be honored.

PROVERBS 29:23 NCV

Pride keeps people from admitting their weaknesses. It prevents them from growth. How can they grow in understanding if they think they already know all there is to know? Pride is not admirable; it is a hindrance to love. Any hindrance to love is not from God, and it is not the way of Christ.

The way of Jesus is the humble path. It is marked by laid-down love. It sacrifices what it has for those who have nothing. It is offensive to those who want vengeance. It is not the easy path, but it is simple. Love promotes humility, and humility promotes love. May we be people who choose the unpretentious path of Jesus, following his loving lead in all areas of our lives. In relationships, in work, in communicating with all kinds of people, those who choose the humble way will be honored.

Humble Jesus, I cannot assume to know how great your love is, yet it is the power of transformation, life, and peace. It is the foundation I build my life upon. I choose to follow you, no matter the cost to my pride and preferences. I know that your ways are always better than mine.

JANUARY 20

Mercy Is Coming

The LORD wants to show his mercy to you. He wants to rise and comfort you. The LORD is a fair God, and everyone who waits for his help will be happy.

ISAIAH 30:18 NCV

In the light of God’s mercy, there is joy and peace. When the space between promises and fulfillment lingers longer than we hope, how do we cope? Do we cling to trust, finding courage in God’s faithfulness wherever we can? Jesus is so very patient in love. He does not withhold what we need when we need it. He is close in the graceful strength of his Spirit.

Is there an answer that you have been waiting on? Is there an unknown looming overhead like a cloud, blocking the sun’s rays? Whatever it is that you are longing for in hope, Jesus is near. He is going to continue to lead you along the pathways of his goodness. May you find more strength and courage than you can imagine in the persistent presence of his peace. He rises to comfort you. He covers you in the shadow of his wings. He is just, and he is fair. Wait for his help, for he will come through for you.

Lord, I know that you are merciful and just. You will make all wrong things right and restore what has been taken from me. I trust you to do it. Come close, Lord, and be my comfort and my courage.

JANUARY 21

Stay Close

To choose life is to love the LORD your God, obey him, and stay close to him. He is your life, and he will let you live many years in the land, the land he promised to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

DEUTERONOMY 30:20 NCV

When we look at how the choice of living life to its fullest is described in this passage, how do our choices line up? When we choose to love the Lord, surrendering our hearts and lives to him, we offer him first place above every other. His Word is the final word, and it is full of wisdom to guide us. When we choose to obey him, knowing that his ways are always full of his loving intent, we demonstrate trust in his unfailing character.

Staying close to the Lord is done in relationship. We love him, we know him, and we respond to him. This is an active knowing, not taking his presence for granted. We can choose in any moment to move toward him. He is always openhearted toward us when we humble our hearts before him. He is our life source, and we can trust him to lead us into his promised goodness.

Lord Jesus, I choose to cultivate your life in mine. I yield my heart to you; I open my hands in surrender. Teach me, guide me, and fill me with your presence. I long to stay close to you, living by the rhythm of your heartbeat.

JANUARY 22

With You

“Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

DEUTERONOMY 31:6 NKJV

With Jesus as our advocate, defender, and ready help in every trial and trouble, there is no reason to let fear overrun us. There is nothing that we need to fear in him. He is our Savior, and he is our Redeemer. God himself goes with us into every battle, and he won’t ever leave us to fight on our own.

Whatever you are facing today, take courage! Grab hold of the trust you have in his faithfulness. Let his grace strengthen your feeble faith. He will not let you down, and he will not let you fall. Trust him to hold you up when your knees grow weak. He is strong, he is dependable, and he is with you.

Lord My God, refresh my heart in the confidence of your present help today. Wash over me with the tangible strength of your love. I need you more than I can say! As I walk through my day, remind me of how close you are in every situation and conversation. You are my help and my hope.

JANUARY 23

Don’t Worry

The LORD himself will go before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forget you. Don’t be afraid and don’t worry.

DEUTERONOMY 31:8 NCV

Worry is like an ill-fitting cloak that does not serve us well. It may give the illusion of covering us when it actually hinders our freedom of movement and makes us vulnerable to the elements in the gaps it cannot conceal. The all-consuming love of Jesus is a safe shelter. There is room to move around without fear of outside elements or of our vulnerabilities being used as targets. There is assurance in his presence.

It is the presence of Jesus that goes before us. He does not lead us into any situation where he has not already been. He moves ahead of us, clearing the way and leading us in his light. He will never turn away or leave us to waste away in our weakness. He does not forget us. Therefore, throw off the worry you have been carrying and run into the shelter of his love. There is no need to fear here.

Lord Jesus, you have been my leader, and you will continue to be. I throw off the old cloak of worry and offer you all my fears. Usher me into the peace of your perfect love even now as I look to you. I will not worry with you as my guide and my companion.

JANUARY 24

Showers of Truth

Let my teaching fall on you like rain; let my speech settle like dew. Let my words fall like rain on tender grass, like gentle showers on young plants.

DEUTERONOMY 32:2 NLT

The words of Jesus are like spring rain soaking into dry soil. They bring refreshment and healing. His gentle words feed our souls with all that we need to grow in his love. He is our living water and our daily bread. He is all that we need, and he is full of goodness.

When we look at the fruit of our words, they inevitably fall short of the life-giving sustenance of Christ, but there is no shame in that. In the best ways possible, God is not like us. He does not lie or manipulate with his words. He does not spin tales or degrade us. He does not condemn or humiliate us. His words and teachings are full of mercy and kindness. Everything he says is for our good and our growth. May we open up to him more today, like flowers to the sun. He is our light, our life, and our strength.

Gentle Jesus, I am so grateful that you are kind. You are better than anyone else I have ever known. You never tell a lie. I trust you more than I trust myself. I lean into you. Teach me your ways, and I will grow strong in your love.

JANUARY 25

God’s Greatness

“I will proclaim the name of the LORD; ascribe greatness to our God!”

DEUTERONOMY 32:3 ESV

God is not just good. He is great! Creator of the universe, master of every trade, the one who was, who is, and is to come—these are only a few of the ways we can ascribe God’s greatness to him. How is he known in the earth? How is he known throughout Scripture? How do we know him to be?

Let’s lift his name with gratitude today. Jehovah Jireh. How has he provided for you? Alpha and Omega. There is no space of time without him. Messiah. The Lamb of God who was slain. Adonai. The Lord and master of all things. He is the Lord who heals, the Lord who leads, and the Lord who never leaves. He is mighty to save, and there is nothing that he cannot do. He is the Lord of our peace and the Lord of our righteousness. He is worthy of all our praise and adoration.

Yahweh, I have known you as my good Father, my faithful friend, and my loving Savior. I also know you are greater than I can comprehend. You are so worthy of all glory. I lift up your name today, and I will make known who you are, for there is no one else like you.

JANUARY 26

Sheltering Embrace

The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.

DEUTERONOMY 33:27 NIV

Wrapped up in the eternal embrace of God’s love, his everlasting arms hold us tight. No matter what we are going through, his mercy surrounds us. There is not a moment where we are left without his victorious compassion covering us. We are saturated in the oil of his kindness.

Lay down your worries and regrets and find rest in the powerful arms of your good Father. He has not changed his mind about you, and he never will. He loves you just as much as he loves Jesus, his own Son. He did not hold anything back to win you over, and he will not withdraw his compassion now. He is as full of loving kindness as he has ever been, and you are the object of his affection. Take comfort in his embrace. Let the peace of his powerful mercy soak into your soul.

Eternal One, thank you for covering me in your love so completely. I am undone and somehow fully put together in your presence. I love you more than I love anything else in this life. I rest in you, faithful Father.

JANUARY 27

Gentle Shepherd

He takes care of his people like a shepherd. He gathers them like lambs in his arms and carries them close to him. He gently leads the mothers of the lambs.

ISAIAH 40:11 NCV

God’s leadership does not drive us like a cruel master who demands more of their servants than they can give. He is a loving father. We need look no further than at the life of Jesus to see what a loving leader God is. He is not demanding, and he is not abusive. He is gentle, strong yet humble, and he is caring. He takes note of the littlest details of our lives, and he concerns himself with what concerns us.

The Lord is a gentle shepherd. He gathers his lambs close to his chest, and he gently leads his sheep to green pastures. If this is not how we have known the leadership of Jesus in our lives, then perhaps we need a fresh vision of who Jesus is. Spend time in the gospels, looking for how he related to, and fellowshipped with, those who followed him. There is a rich tapestry of love in Jesus and his life.

Shepherd of My Soul, lead me, and I will follow. I listen for your voice as I go about my day. I lean into your wisdom when I sense it, and I will not turn away from you. You are so good.

JANUARY 28

Everlasting Creator

“Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.”

ISAIAH 40:28 NIV

Though the demands of life deplete our energy and resources, God never grows tired or weary. He doesn’t get burned out by the endless demands of people’s expectations. He is not on edge at the end of a long day, week, month, or year. He is always full of loyal love and mercy. His resources are endless, and he does not need a break from even the most exhausting situation or person.

What a relief it is that we can come to him with our burdens, our desires, our longings, and our frustrations at any moment. He will never turn us away or ask us to come back later. He always has time and space for us. He is full of life-giving wisdom for every possibility and unknown that we face. We can trust him fully, for he is faithful and never changes. Let’s not censor ourselves with him, and let’s not stay away for fear of being too much. He longs for unhindered connection with us, and that is always our invitation through his Spirit.

Everlasting Jesus, I won’t stay away from you today. Thank you for always meeting me with overflowing mercy, kindness, and strength. Even as you correct me, I am strengthened in your life-giving love. Thank you!

JANUARY 29

Supported by Love

“Don’t worry, because I am with you. Don’t be afraid, because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you; I will support you with my right hand that saves you.”

ISAIAH 41:10 NCV

God is a strong support who bolsters us in our weakness. There is no need that overwhelms him. He is more than able to hold us and keep us. He is our help whenever we need it. However miniscule or overwhelming our lack feels to us, there is nothing too insignificant to him. There is nothing that intimidates him.