.....more

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation… I can do all this through him who gives me strength Philippians 4:11–13

At Thule Air Base in Greenland — where it was a brisk 20 degrees below zero — an Air Force cargo plane sat waiting. The crew, shivering and frustrated, couldn’t leave until the sewage tank was pumped out. The Airman assigned to the job didn’t seem to be in any rush.

The Aircraft Commander, freezing and fed up, chewed him out and threatened punishment. But the Airman calmly replied, “Sir, I have no stripes, it’s 20 below, I'm stationed in Greenland, and I’m pumping sewage. What are you going to do to punish me?”

You have to appreciate his perspective. Beneath his sarcasm is a powerful truth: sometimes life already feels like it’s dealt all the hardship it can. When you're knee-deep in sewage (or any other difficulty), it’s hard to imagine how things could get any worse. But that can also be the moment you realize just how little control others have over your peace.

Paul, writing from prison, understood that. He said, “I’ve learned to be content in any and every situation.” He knew what it was to be hungry and full, praised and punished, free and in chains. But through all of it, his strength and peace didn’t come from his circumstances — they came from Christ.

That’s the secret. When your identity and your joy are grounded in Jesus, no situation can shake you. Even if you’re standing in the muck, you can say with confidence, “What else can you throw at me? I know where my strength comes from.”

So, whether you’re soaring high right now or about to hit rock bottom, remember that your worth isn’t tied to your circumstances. It’s anchored in the One you belong to — and he is with you in every moment, offering strength for the hard days and grace for the tough assignments.

- alan smith

Father, thank you for being my strength in both the easy and the hard places. When I feel overwhelmed by my circumstances, remind me that my peace comes from belonging to you. Help me to find joy when life gets tough. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....soar

God often uses storms in our life to shape and mold us "to the likeness of His Son" Romans 8:29. James says that storms (or trials) are used to make us "mature and complete, not lacking anything" James 1:4. So when will all our storms end? Not until the process is complete. Not until we are called home to be with the Lord!

But there is certainly much more to our Christian walk than storm survival. As we mature and grow closer to our Heavenly Father, we will see more clearly His purpose and learn to actually rejoice during our times of difficulty. Rather than fight the wind, we will allow it to teach us and cause us to soar! The storms will continue to be a part of our life, but we will also experience seasons of great victory.

These seasons of victorious soaring WILL come! For they are as much a part of our journey as the storm. But they are equally a time of teaching - a time we must be reminded to keep our eyes on Jesus and trust the guidance of His Spirit.

The Israelites had wandered forty years in the desert and were now ready to cross into the promised land of Canaan. But Moses warned them to never stop praising and trusting God: "When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land He has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God" Deuteronomy 8:10-11. Moses warned that when we fail to trust God during the peaceful times of blessing, we tend to forget and quickly become susceptible to our sinful pride.

You may say to yourself, 'My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.' But remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms His covenant. Deuteronomy 8:17-18

We must continually "trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" Proverbs 3:5. We must trust as the storm approaches and as the waves threaten to sink our boat; but we must also trust as the wind and waves are calmed. In fact, we must focus on trusting Him even more when the storm ceases. In difficult times, we are continually reminded of our need for God, but times of blessing can cause us to trust our own ability...and forget.

God desires far more than to just be available during our times of great need. He desires to walk with us in an intimate relationship every moment of the day. Let's continue to trust Him while we are sailing through the storm. But as we victoriously rise up on the wings of eagles, let's also remember to praise Him and trust while we soar.

- steve troxel

.....criticism

If you listen to correction to improve your life, you will live among the wise. Those who refuse correction hate themselves, but those who accept correction gain understanding Proverbs 15:31–32

Winston Churchill exemplified integrity in the face of opposition. During his last year in office, he attended an official ceremony. Several rows behind him two gentlemen began whispering. "That's Winston Churchill." "They say he is getting senile." "They say he should step aside and leave the running of the nation to more dynamic and capable men." When the ceremony was over, Churchill turned and said, "Gentlemen, they also say he is deaf!"

Criticism. Nobody enjoys it. Even if it's done kindly, it still stings. And when it’s harsh or unfair, it can feel downright crushing. But criticism — even unfair criticism — can serve a useful purpose. We need to be humble enough to recognize that some criticisms are justly deserved. Even when critics are unkind and they exaggerate our failures, there may still be some truth in what they say. If we immediately become defensive, we might miss a valuable opportunity to grow.

Abraham Lincoln once heard that one of his cabinet members, Edwin Stanton, had called him a fool. Lincoln’s response was this: "Mr. Stanton is a wise man. If he said I am a fool, I had better look into the matter." That’s the kind of humility and maturity God calls us to. Instead of getting defensive or discouraged, we need to ask ourselves: Is there truth in what’s being said? If so, what can I learn from it? If not, how can I respond with grace rather than anger?

Even when the criticism is completely unfounded, it gives us a chance to practice patience, self-control, and forgiveness. Criticism doesn't have to tear us down. Rather, it should be a stepping stone to spiritual growth. It's an opportunity to learn what we're doing wrong and what we need to correct. It can sharpen our character, teach us humility, and help us become more like Christ.

May you “listen to correction to improve your life”, so that you can truly “live among the wise”.

- alan smith

Father, it’s not easy to hear criticism, but I know you can use it for good in my life. Help me to listen with a humble heart. Teach me to grow from correction and not be crushed by it. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....response

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger Proverbs 15:1

After three and a half hours of standing in long lines, filling out forms, and dealing with cranky clerks at the DMV, a man finally completed his task and decided to swing by a toy store to purchase a baseball bat for his son. He brought it to the register, and the clerk asked with a smile, “Cash or charge?” “Cash,” he snapped. Realizing how sharp his tone was, he quickly apologized and explained, “Sorry. I’ve just spent the entire afternoon at the DMV.” Without missing a beat, the clerk grinned and asked, “Would you like the bat gift-wrapped — or are you going back there?”

That story serves as a reminder that when we’re tired, annoyed, or stressed out, we tend to carry that tension with us — and sometimes the next person we meet gets caught in the crossfire. The truth is, we can’t always control what happens to us, but we can control how we respond. Proverbs 15:1 reminds us, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." That little verse is packed with wisdom. Because the way we respond in tense moments can either defuse a situation or light the match that makes it worse.

Our lives are full of those “... days” — those moments when everything seems to go wrong, people are difficult, and we’re tempted to be short-tempered. But God invites us to a better way. He calls us to respond with gentleness and grace, not because people deserve it, but because that’s how God responds to us.

Jesus faced constant pressure, criticism, and confrontation. He was misunderstood, rejected, and insulted — and yet, time and again, he answered with compassion. His gentleness wasn’t weakness — it was strength under control. And that’s the same kind of strength he wants to shape in us.

So today, if the lines are long, the rules don’t make sense, and people are annoying, remember this: offer a gentle answer. You never know how that small moment of grace might change someone’s day — including yours

Father, thank you for being so patient and gentle with me. Help me to respond to others with that same grace, especially when I’m tired or frustrated. Teach me to be a calming presence in a chaotic world. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....real

Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation? Hebrews 1:14

Kids have a humorous way of seeing the world, especially when it comes to heavenly things. Listen to some of their thoughts on angels:

“I only know the names of two angels, Hark and Harold.” — Gregory, 5

“Everybody’s got it all wrong. Angels don’t wear halos anymore. I forget why, but scientists are working on it.” — Olive, 9

“My guardian angel helps me with math, but he’s not much good for science.” — Henry, 8

You have to smile. Kids might get a few of the details mixed up, but they manage to get the important things right — angels are real, angels help us, and heaven is closer and far more personal than we often realize.

The Bible tells us that angels are powerful, spiritual beings created by God to serve him and watch over us. They aren’t humans who “earned their wings” . Rather, they are "ministering spirits" — sent by God to help, guide, and protect those who belong to him.

Psalm 91:11 promises: "He will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways."

What an incredible thought! God cares about you so much that he fills your life with reminders of his protection, both seen and unseen. His angels may be invisible most of the time, but their presence is real. They stand as a quiet but powerful testimony that you are not alone.

So, learn something from those kids. They may not have all the facts correct, but here’s what they got right — a simple, confident trust that heaven is real, that help is near, and that God is always watching over us, even if we can’t see it. And maybe, just maybe, that childlike faith is exactly what we need, too.

 

Father, thank you for loving me so much that you would send your angels to help and protect me. Thank you even more for sending Jesus to save me. Help me to find joy in knowing that you are always near. In Jesus’ name, amen.

....more

Prayer is a vitally important part of our Christian walk, but it is often greatly misunderstood. Prayer is how we talk with our Heavenly Father. It can never be used to manipulate God or cause Him to do anything outside His perfect will. God is not ours to command; He is not obligated to grant our wishes!

Our attitude toward prayer reveals much about how we view God and the closeness of our relationship through faith in Jesus. If we continually wait for a crisis before we pray, we actually demonstrate a lack of love. A man may say he loves his wife, but if he only occasionally talks with her he reveals a shallow relationship. True love will always be reflected by a desire to spend time together. And if we lift our problems to God in prayer but also give Him our expected solutions, we demonstrate a lack of trust and reveal a misunderstanding of His sovereign nature and limitless ability.

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us Ephesians 3:20 The consistent message through all of scripture is that God is calling us to a closer relationship - calling us to love Him with ALL our heart, soul, mind and strength Mark 12:30. Therefore, our prayers MUST begin from a position of love. He wants us to continually know Him more and understand the true meaning of "My God will meet all your needs" Philippians 4:19, and "with God all things are possible" Matthew 19:26. He wants us to love Him and trust Him to provide!

It's foolish for us to limit God to our own understanding. He created the Universe and knew the end of time before the beginning. He can, and will, "perfectly" solve our problems. He is working all things together for the good and using all situations to conform us to the likeness of His Son Romans 8:28-29.

Through a proper attitude of prayer, we acknowledge and submit to God's sovereignty. We praise Him because we know He is able to do much more than anything we ask, and we submit because we know His understanding and purpose is perfect; "Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" Matthew 6:10. 

Our prayer is not a matter of "working things out" with God - not of wrestling until we obtain OUR solution - rather, prayer simply becomes submission to His direction and trust in His plan.

We must present ourselves as empty vessels and allow God to work through us each and every day. Let's love Him enough to "pray continually" 1 Thessalonians 5:17. Let's make our requests known, but then let's submit and humbly acknowledge that He can do immeasurably more.

- steve troxel

....clean

The term leprosy, as used in the Bible, actually refers to a whole variety of skin conditions ranging from rashes, to open sores, to various infectious diseases, and includes true leprosy as we know it today.

According to God's Law given through Moses, a person with leprosy was ceremonially unclean and not allowed to take part in any form of worship. They were to live in isolation or cry out "Unclean! Unclean!" as they walked about the community Leviticus 13. Lepers were strictly avoided since even accidental contact would cause a person to become unclean. Therefore, imagine the turmoil in the crowd as a leper boldly approached Jesus.

A man with leprosy came and knelt before Him and said, 'Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.' Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. 'I am willing,' He said. 'Be clean!' Immediately he was cured of his leprosy Matthew 8:2-3

Imagine the turmoil as many in the crowd scattered to get out of the leper's way. Some must have been calling out warnings, others delivering harsh rebukes. But even more important, consider the faith of the leper as he stepped forward. He knew he would face ridicule and scorn, but he had heard about Jesus and his faith propelled him to action.

Jesus looked past the ugliness of the man's condition and saw directly into his heart. In the heart, Jesus saw a beautiful man of faith reaching out to be made clean. He saw a heart which reflected the heart of king David; "Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin" Psalm 51:2.

Our sin creates an ugliness far greater than any skin disease. Sin caused man to be repulsive to God and totally separated from His presence. But while we were in this terminal state, God poured out His love; "While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" Romans 5:8.

No matter how bad we think we look - no matter how much sin is covering us and making us unclean - Jesus sees directly into our heart. No amount of sin can keep Him from rescuing those with a repentant heart and a desire to be cleansed.

If there is anything causing us to be separated from the presence of our Lord today - any past sin, any current temptations, or any lack of obedience - we must kneel before Him and seek forgiveness. Others may turn away and not understand, but Jesus stands ready to lovingly touch us with His outstretched hand and say, "Be Clean!"

- steve troxel

.....perspective

The path of a successful Christian walk is one of daily commitment to Christ and submission to the leading of His Spirit. Jesus said, "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me" Luke 9:23. Paul understood this commitment when he said, "I die every day" 1 Corinthians 15:31. Our old nature died when our heart was transformed by the Spirit of God. Yet, there remains an on-going death which occurs as we continue our walk and battle temptations from a world which seeks to pull us away from Christ.

Our daily commitment, denial, and "self-death" can become a painful burden if we focus on our present circumstances. Anytime our walk is characterized by self-pity, and our trials become viewed as the heavy cross we must bear for Jesus, we have missed the true joy and peace - the true success - that God desires for our life.

If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. 1 Corinthians 15:19

If our hope in Christ is only for today's protection and blessings, then we have grossly underestimated the power of the gospel. This limited view of a Christian life will always fall short of our expectations. Through faith in Jesus, we have been given eternal life! This means the life we now live must be viewed on an eternal time scale.

When we place our faith in the sacrifice of Jesus for the forgiveness of sin, our life begins anew. But this means far more than a fresh start. In an instant, EVERYTHING has changed. The burdens that were once so heavy must now be weighed against the magnificent glory of Heaven. And our "never-ending" trials must now be timed on the clock of eternity.

The world screams at us to focus on the here and now, on immediate gratification from what we can see and feel. It tells us life is short so fill it with sensual pleasures and tangible possessions. God's Word agrees that our earthly life is short; "A mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" James 4:14. But it also teaches that our spiritual life continues forever! "What is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" 2 Corinthians 4:18.

We have been given new eyes! Let's begin to view our life in the context of eternity and gain the greater hope and power this view can provide today. Let's carry our cross with greater joy, live with more peace and contentment, and experience new victories in life's many battles. Let's find true success as we evaluate all areas of our life from an eternal perspective.

- steve troxel

.....eternity

We need to consider our life on an eternal time scale and to weigh our current burdens against the eternal glory of Heaven. But there are many believers who are unable to gain strength or comfort from this view of life. Although they know the concept, they lack anything on which to base their hope.

This lack of tangible hope is unfortunate, but understandable. If our view of Heaven contains no real foundation, the thought of eternity will never make our troubles seem "light and momentary" 2 Corinthians 4:17. And while it's true that "faith is the substance of things hoped for" Hebrews 11:1, we still need some understanding or our faith will never generate the hope which can truly impact our life.

When Jacob was looking for a wife, he found Rachel. Jacob quickly fell in love and promised to work seven years in exchange for receiving Rachel as his wife.

So Jacob served seven years to get Rachel, but they seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her Genesis 29:20 Jacob worked hard for many years, but the hope of being with the one he loved eased any burden he might have felt. Jacob had a good understanding of the one he hoped for, and this brought him great comfort. He saw Rachel's beauty every day and was certainly permitted to talk with her often. He knew Rachel and probably spent many hours dreaming of her and holding her in his arms. There was undoubtedly a longing inside Jacob which he knew only Rachel could fill.

God gave His Son so we could be brought back to a full and right relationship with Him for all eternity. But God did not leave us with an empty view or ask us to cling to a blind hope. He allows us into His presence and gives us the ability to know Him NOW! We will never grasp all that Heaven has to offer until we see Him face to face. But God allows us to taste eternity if we will remove the competing distractions, draw near to His side, and ask for our hunger to be satisfied.

Let's dedicate our lives to knowing the One with whom we will spend eternity - the One on whom we base our hope. Let's commune with our Father in prayer and learn of His nature through His Word. Let's strive for an all-consuming love - a love complete with the empty ache which only His presence can fill. Let's rejoice, receive comfort and gain strength, as we draw near and are allowed a taste of eternity.

.....returned

After Joshua led the Israelites into the promised land, the nation was governed by a series of judges. The period of the judges lasted several hundred years and ended with the prophet Samuel. Samuel lived his entire life dedicated to God. In fact, Samuel's mother dedicated him to God before he was even born.

For many years Hannah and her husband had tried to have a child, but God did not allow her to conceive. The desire for a child continued for several years and became such a consuming portion of Hannah's life that she could think of little else; "In bitterness of soul Hannah wept much and prayed to the Lord" 1 Samuel 1:10.

Finally, Hannah's heart softened and she made a vow that if God would give her a son, "then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life" 1 Samuel 1:11. God honored Hannah's vow and she soon became pregnant. A few years after Samuel was born Hannah brought him to Eli, the priest.

I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of Him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord 1 Samuel 1:27-28

When Hannah made her vow, she no longer desired a child to satisfy her own needs but truly desired to honor God by returning her son to Him. In turn, God blessed Hannah with five additional children after Samuel 1 Samuel 2:21. God did not bless Hannah because of her vow [we can never "bargain" with God]; rather, God blessed Hannah because her heart desired to glorify Him with her blessing.

We must learn to consider everything in our life from the same perspective as Hannah. We have created nothing of lasting value with our own hands. Everything we have - everything which defines who we are - is a precious gift from God. This includes our possessions, family, business, school, special skills, and talents. ALL we have is by the grace of God.

And just as it is prideful sin to take self-credit for God's many blessings, it is equally shameful to shun His gifts - to pretend they do not exist - and fail to use them for His glory. God always blesses with a purpose, and we live a shallow life if we ignore His gifts or use them solely for our own benefit and pleasure.

Let's bless our Heavenly Father by fully receiving His gifts, and then by giving back what we have so graciously been given. Let's praise Him and determine to use even the gift of our own life to bring Him glory and honor. God has showered us with many wonderful gifts, but they are ALL gifts to be returned.

- steve troxel

.....bottom

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. I Thessalonians 5:11

Teachers who work with ESL [English as a Second Language] students say that it’s always a joy. Some days are filled with progress and breakthroughs, other days with unintentional comedy. One student tried to compliment her teacher and said, “You teach English good.” Another, trying to express something heartfelt, told her, “I will always forget you.” And my all-time favorite was the student who looked at her teacher with complete sincerity and said, “I thank you from the heart of my bottom.”

Moments like that are precious. Because while the words may have missed the mark, the heart behind them hit the bullseye. And isn’t that true for so much of life? We stumble over our words in prayer. We try to encourage someone and later wonder if we’ve made things worse. We may not say or do things with eloquence — but we mean well. We want to please God and help others. We just fumble the delivery.

Here’s the beautiful truth: God sees our heart. He’s not grading us like an English teacher with a red pen. He’s listening for love. He’s looking for sincerity. And when he finds it — even in flawed, clumsy, unpolished words — he’s delighted. Just like that teacher didn’t correct her student’s “bottom-hearted” gratitude, God doesn’t reject our imperfect efforts. He welcomes them. When we try to encourage someone or offer thanks — even if it comes out wrong — God can still use it to lift someone up.

Because encouragement isn’t about being eloquent. It’s about showing love. Putting our heart into it.

So, don’t let fear of getting it wrong stop you from doing what you need to do. Say the thank-you. Send the note. Speak the blessing. Give the hug. Whether your words come out polished or clunky, God can turn them into something beautiful. After all, a sincere word — no matter how it’s phrased — can still change a heart. Sometimes, what matters most isn’t how we say it… but that we say it at all.

- alan smith

Lord, thank you for seeing past my imperfections and hearing the heart behind my words. Help me to speak love and encouragement today, even if I fumble through it. Use my small efforts to build others up and bring you joy. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

.....undivided

Do not worship any other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God Exodus 34:14

Technology can be helpful — until it’s not. Take James, for example. He tried to make a simple call using Siri on his iPhone:

James: "Siri, call my wife."

Siri: "Teresa Martin is not in your contacts."

James: "Teresa Stewart is my wife."

Siri: "I’ve added Teresa Stewart as your wife."

James: "Call my wife."

Siri: "Which wife?"

Yikes. That’s the kind of moment where you hope Siri doesn’t accidentally send a group text to both women… and your preacher. But that story points to a deeper spiritual truth: Loyalty in relationships matters. Especially when it comes to our relationship with God.

We live in a world of divided attention. We juggle family, work, hobbies, and appointments — and sometimes, we try to juggle God right along with everything else. But God isn’t content to be just another name in our spiritual contact list. He wants our full devotion — not out of insecurity, but because of who he is and the kind of relationship he wants to have with us.

The Bible says that God is a “jealous” God. Not in a petty way, but in a passionate way — the kind of jealousy a faithful spouse rightly feels when love is betrayed. And the truth is, our hearts can easily wander. We can give our attention and affection to all sorts of things: success, comfort, approval, entertainment, even good things like family or ministry. But when anything takes God’s place at the center of our hearts, we become like James’s confused phone — unsure who to call "Lord."

God doesn’t want to be one of many options in your spiritual contact list. He wants to be your one true love, your first call in time of crisis, your constant companion, and your trusted guide in every decision.

So, here’s a question to reflect on today: If your heart had a speed dial… who or what would be in the top spot? And maybe a better question: What would it look like to move God back to the number one spot?

- alan smith

Father, thank you for loving me with such passion and faithfulness. Forgive me when I let other things compete for first place in my heart. You are my one true love. Help me to put you above everything else. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....serve

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” Philippians 2:5-7

In September 1880, D.L. Moody, the famous American evangelist, held the first of the Northfield Bible Conferences in Northfield, Massachusetts. Invited to the bible conference were over 300 visitors and among those that came to the Northfield Seminary for the conference was a delegation from Great Britain. 

As was their custom, each English guest put his shoes outside his room to be cleaned by the hall servants overnight. But of course this was America and there were no hall servants. Walking the dormitory halls that night, Moody saw the shoes and determined not to embarrass his brothers.  So, he mentioned the need to some seminary students who were there, but met with only silence or pious excuses. Moody returned to the dorm, gathered up the shoes, and, alone in his room, the renowned speaker began to clean and polish the shoes. Only the unexpected arrival of a friend in the midst of the work revealed the secret. 

When the foreign visitors opened their doors the next morning, their shoes were shined. They never know by whom. Moody told no one, but his friend told a few people, and during the rest of the conference, different men volunteered to shine the shoes in secret. 

Are you the type of servant who is ready to serve others in any capacity? Today in prayer, thank Christ that He humbled Himself to be a servant and seek to follow the Lord’s example. 

“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” Matthew 20:26

- peter kennedy 

.....fire

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord Romans 12:11

A circus owner walked into a restaurant and noticed a crowd gathered around a table. On the table was an upside-down pot — and on top of the pot, a duck was tap dancing! Amazed, the circus owner offered to buy the duck. After some bargaining, he paid $10,000 for the duck and the pot, confident it would be the next big act under his big top.

Three days later, he stormed back into the restaurant, furious. "Your duck is a rip-off!" he shouted. "I put him on the pot in front of a huge audience, and he didn’t dance a single step!" The duck’s former owner calmly asked, "Did you remember to light the candle under the pot?"

Sometimes the same thing can happen in our walk with God. Just like that duck needed a little fire to get moving, we need a spark, too. And without the steady flame of spiritual fire, our passion cools. Our joy fades. We find ourselves going through the motions instead of dancing with delight.

In Romans 12, Paul gives us this challenge: "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord." In other words, don’t let your fire go out! Spiritual fire doesn’t stay lit on its own. It needs fuel. Just like that duck needed a little heat to move, we need regular time in God’s presence to stay energized. We need prayer, worship, truth from Scripture and encouragement from fellow believers. Without those things, our faith starts to cool down.

Trying to live for God without staying connected to God is like putting that duck on the pot and forgetting the flame.

So, if you’re feeling a little sluggish in your spiritual walk, maybe it’s time to check the fire under the pot. Spend some time with God. The flame may be small at first, but with the Spirit's help, it can grow again. And when we stay close to the fire, our hearts will begin to dance once again.

Lord, thank you for being the true source of my passion and energy. When I feel tired or stuck, remind me to turn back to you. Rekindle my heart with love for you and excitement to serve you. Keep me burning brightly for your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....forget

Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you. Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands Isaiah 49:15–16

A man was checking out a house he was interested in buying. When the owner came to the door, she looked at him and said, “Tom? I know you. We went to school together. I’m Susan. Don’t you recognize me?” He drew a complete blank. She disappeared for a moment, then came back with their old yearbook in hand. She pointed to her graduation photo — still nothing. Then she flipped the pages until she found his picture. Beneath it, he had written: “Susan, I will never forget you.”

There’s something humbling — and a little bit painful — about the way time affects our memory. This story is a reminder that no matter how sincere our promises may be, human memory is fragile. We forget names, faces, birthdays, and even people we once promised we would never forget. But here’s the good news: God’s memory doesn’t work like ours.

In Isaiah 49, God is speaking to his people who feel abandoned and forgotten. They cry out, “The Lord has forsaken me; my Lord has forgotten me” v. 14. Can you relate to that? Have you ever had a moment when you wondered if God really sees you — if he still cares?

But God replies with one of the most tender and powerful images in all of Scripture -- even if a mother could forget her child (an unimaginable thing), God says, “I will not forget you.”

Then he adds something even more profound: “I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.” That’s not just a sentimental promise. It’s a declaration of commitment and love that cost Jesus his life. His scars are proof that he remembers you — not just in thought, but in action.

You are not forgotten. You are not overlooked. You are seen, known, and cherished — every single day. Even when life is quiet and you feel invisible, you are held in the hands of a God who cannot forget you.

Father, thank you for never forgetting me. Even when I feel unnoticed or alone, remind me that I am always on your heart. Help me to trust your constant love, even when I can’t always feel it. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....away

The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good Proverbs 15:3

A 10-year-old boy was asked by his mother to do the dishes for the first time. After a lot of grumbling and complaining, he did them. He rushed through the task and darted back to the TV. Five minutes later, his mother stormed into the living room with a plate in her hand that had a big glob of food on it.

“Look at this dish!” she said. “Would you want to eat off this?!” With a sheepish grin, he shrugged and said, “No, but I figure there’s only a 1-in-5 chance I’ll get that plate…I’ll take my chances.”

That’s a pretty accurate picture of human nature. We’ve all been there. We try to get away with the bare minimum. We skip steps, cut corners, and convince ourselves that a little compromise isn’t a big deal. Deep down we think, “The odds of this catching up with me are pretty low… I’ll risk it.” We think no one will notice. And maybe people won’t. But God always does.

Proverbs reminds us that nothing escapes God’s attention — but that’s not something to fear. God isn’t watching from a distance, ready to scold us for every mistake. He’s watching like a loving Father, longing for us to grow into who he created us to be. He cares when we cut corners because he wants to call us into something better.

God isn’t fooled by a quick rinse or a surface-level clean-up, and he’s not satisfied with half-hearted efforts. What he desires is a deeper cleaning — the kind that reaches the hidden parts of our lives that we’ve labeled as “good enough.”

So instead of playing the odds, let’s give God our faithful obedience. Not because we’re afraid of getting caught, but because we’re loved too much to stay where we are. God doesn’t demand perfection — he simply asks for a heart that’s willing, honest, and ready to grow.

Let’s stop settling for “good enough” and give God our very best.

Father, thank you for seeing every part of me and loving me anyway. Help me to stop making excuses and taking shortcuts. Give me the strength to be honest and the willingness to give you my very best. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....honesty

Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ Ephesians 4:15

During a job interview, the conversation went something like this:

Interviewer: “What would you say is your greatest strength?”

Candidate: “Honesty.”

Interviewer: “And your greatest weakness?”

Candidate: “Honestly, it’s honesty.”

Interviewer: “I don’t think honesty is a weakness.”

Candidate: “I don’t care what you think.”

We’ve all met someone like that, haven’t we? Someone whose "honesty" felt like getting hit with a brick. And if we're being honest... sometimes we've been that person! It’s easy to confuse being brutally honest with being faithfully honest, but the two aren’t the same.

The Bible never tells us to hide the truth. In fact, Paul tells us in Ephesians 4:15 that we should “speak the truth”. But he adds two crucial words: “in love”. Truth without love is harsh. Real Christian maturity brings the two together — honesty that doesn’t just say the right thing, but says it the right way.

Jesus was the ultimate example of this. He never lied. He never sugarcoated. But he also never used truth as a weapon to wound. Whether he was confronting the Pharisees, challenging his disciples, or comforting a broken sinner, he spoke hard truths, but always with the aim of bringing people closer to the love of God. It means pausing before we speak, asking God to check our motives, and making sure our words are filled with grace. It means recognizing that the goal isn’t to prove we’re right but to help someone else become more like Christ.

So today, be honest. But be gentle, too. Before you speak the truth, pause and ask yourself: Will this help or hurt? Is this about loving them or just making a point? Would I want someone to say it to me the way I’m about to say it to them?mWhen we balance our honesty with love, God can use our words to bring healing, hope, and change — and that’s the kind of honesty the world really needs.

Lord, help me to be a person who speaks the truth with love. Guard my heart against pride and my words against harshness. Use my honesty to build people up, not tear them down. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....control

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths Proverbs 3:5–6

A military science professor reviewing Air Force pilot crash reports found this gem:

"After catastrophic engine failure, I landed long. As I had no power, the landing gear failed to deploy and no braking was available. I bounced over the stone wall at the end of the runway, struck the trailer of a truck while crossing the perimeter road, crashed through the guardrail, grazed off a large pine tree, ran over a tractor parked in the adjacent field, and hit another tree. Then I lost control of the plane."

Then he lost control?? Clearly, things had gotten out of control long before he finally admitted it. But isn’t that a pretty good picture of how we live sometimes? We think we’re doing just fine — even while we’re bouncing off walls and leaving a mess behind us. We just grit our teeth and press on, thinking, "I’ve got this." We convince ourselves we’re still in control, even when it's obvious to everyone else  that we're not.

Here’s a hard truth for many of us to admit -- Life was never ours to control in the first place. God didn’t design us to be the self-sufficient pilots of our own lives. He designed us to trust him. When we insist on doing things our own way, we eventually find ourselves battered and bruised, wondering where it all went wrong. But when we finally let go — when we trust God and hand over the controls — he takes over with the kind of steady, loving guidance we were meant to rely on all along.

So, if you’re feeling the bruises from life’s collisions, you’re not alone. But you don’t have to keep pretending you’re in control. You can hand it over to the one who actually is. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.”

- alan smith

Father, thank you for your endless patience with me. I confess that I try to stay in control way too often, even when I’m crashing. Help me to surrender those parts of my life I’m trying to steer on my own and allow you to guide me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....together

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up Ecclesiastes 4:9–10

At a diet workshop, the leader began her lecture about the problems of dining out. She offered practical suggestions like ordering diet sodas, choosing broiled instead of fried foods, and asking for dressing on the side. Finally, she opened the floor for discussion: "What is the greatest problem you encounter when going out to eat?" Without missing a beat, one woman replied, "Running into you!"

Everyone laughed, but it’s true — having someone watching changes how we act! Accountability keeps us on track, especially when our willpower gets a little shaky.

The same is true in our spiritual lives. It's easy to think we’re doing fine when no one's around to see the shortcuts we take. We can tell ourselves, “I’m doing okay,” while quietly slipping into habits that pull us away from God. But real, lasting growth happens when we invite others into our journey.

Solomon reminds us that “two are better than one” because when one falls, the other can lift them up. God didn’t design us to go through life alone. We need people who will encourage us, challenge us when we get comfortable, and gently call us back when we start drifting.

Accountability isn’t about guilt — it’s about love. It’s about having people who care too much to let us settle for less than what God has called us to be.

What a blessing to have a friend who will check in on your spiritual life, a mentor who encourages you to keep pressing forward, or a small group that prays for you when you’re struggling! These are the people who will help us stay strong when life gets hard and our faith feels shaky.

So, don’t be afraid to let someone walk alongside you. Invite a trusted friend to encourage you, pray for you, and remind you of who you are in Christ. And be that kind of friend for someone else too — not with judgment, but with kindness, patience, and grace. Because when we walk together, we’re so much stronger.

- alan smith

 

Father, thank you for the people you have placed in my life to help me grow. Give me the humility to invite accountability. Help me to be a friend who encourages others and points them toward you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....buy

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8–9

A professor was giving a big test to his students. After everyone finished, they turned in their papers. But when he gathered them up, he noticed something odd — one student had paper-clipped a crisp $100 bill to his test with a note that said, "A dollar per point."

The next class rolled around, and the professor handed the tests back. When that student got his paper, he found a score of 36 marked on it with $64 in change attached! You have to admire the student's creativity, but it’s a great reminder of an important truth: you can’t buy your way to a better grade... and you can’t buy your way to God’s grace either.

Sometimes we fall into the trap of thinking that if we just do more — pray more, serve more, give more, “be better” — then maybe, just maybe, God will love us a little more. It's easy to view God’s grace as something we have to earn. But grace doesn’t work like that.

God’s grace isn’t for sale. It isn’t a reward for good behavior. It's a gift. And the thing about a gift is that it doesn’t depend on what you’ve done — it depends entirely on the heart of the giver.

God doesn't look at your résumé of good deeds to decide whether or not you’re worthy. He already decided you were worth loving when he sent Jesus to the cross. And he’s not standing over you like a professor with a red pen, grading your every move -- he’s a Father with arms open wide, ready to welcome you in.

So, whenever you’re down because you feel like you’re not measuring up, remember that you are not loved because you’ve got it all together, but because God is loving. You don’t have to bribe him. You don’t have to impress him. You just have to trust him. Allow his love to calm you and remind you that you are his — no price tag attached.

- alan smith

Father, thank you for loving me even when I feel unlovable. Thank you that I don’t have to buy your blessing or earn your approval. Help me to stop stressing and start resting in your love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....eyes

But my eyes are fixed on you, Sovereign Lord; in you I take refuge..." Psalm 141:8

My mother was lots of fun and often teased and played with my brothers and me. And there were times when we weren't quite sure whether she was just teasing or really serious.  When she would give us "the look" and say, "See my eyes?" then we would know she was serious!

Mother played the organ at church and the three of us kids sat on the front row. Since Daddy was preaching, he could not discipline us or really pay attention to us during the service. But like most women, my mother could do several things at one time, especially when it came to her children.

She would glance at us there on the front row, and if we were not behaving in church, we would get that "See my eyes?" look and know that this matter would be taken care of when we got home. I immediately straightened up!

No matter what was going on during the service - whether I was listening or singing, shaking hands or passing the offering plate - my eyes often wandered back to my mother to see if everything was okay.
And it so happens that this is exactly what God wants from us. To keep our eyes on him.   “But mine eyes are unto thee, O GOD the Lord: in thee is my trust; leave not my soul destitute.” Psalm 141:8

Over my lifetime, like most everyone, I've had hard times, frustrating times, times when I had no idea what to do next - what to say, how to act, where to turn. Sometimes I didn't even know what to pray.
My mother taught me that if I kept my eyes on her, I wouldn't get in trouble in church. And she also taught me that if I kept my eyes on Jesus, He would be my refuge so that I wouldn't "grow weary or lose heart."

No matter what else is going on around you ... whether you're in the middle of a terrible storm or everything is running smoothly ... whether you are sitting or standing, singing or listening, crying or laughing ... fix your eyes on Jesus so you will not grow weary or lose heart.
Always be where you can "see His eyes."
- lillian hinds

.....not

Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth 1 John 3:18

Dr. Harry Emerson Fosdick once shared this story from his childhood. One Sunday morning, as his father was heading out the door, he told Harry’s mother, "Tell Harry that he can cut the grass today, if he feels like it." Then, halfway down the walk, his father turned back and added, "And tell Harry that he had better feel like it."

How many times have we found ourselves waiting to feel like doing something good before we actually do it? We tell ourselves we need to feel inspired to read the Bible, feel joyful to help someone, or feel motivated to serve. But if we always waited for the perfect feeling, a lot of good things would never get done.

The truth is, action often comes before feeling. Starting is usually the hardest part, but once we take that first step, our attitude begins to shift. When we step out in faith — whether by serving someone, praying for a friend, forgiving someone who hurt us, or simply lending a hand — God meets us there. He not only works through us to bless others, but he works in us, reshaping our hearts along the way.

That’s why the apostle John reminds us not to love with words or good intentions alone, but "with actions and in truth." Love that just sits around waiting to "feel right" isn’t really love at all. Real love gets busy. Real love takes action.

So, if there’s something good you know you should do, don't wait until you’re in the perfect mood. Pick up the phone. Open your Bible. Lend that helping hand. Write that encouraging note. Say that prayer. Take that step. You might be surprised how often your heart follows when your hands take the lead — and how much your joy, your faith and your love will grow with every act of obedience.

Father, help me not to wait around for the perfect feeling before I act. Teach me to step forward in faith, knowing that you will shape my heart as I obey. Thank you for loving me not just with words, but with action — and help me to love others the same way. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....think

And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can’t draw fresh water from a salty spring James 3:10–12

A little boy went to his pastor’s house while the pastor was doing some carpentry. The boy watched the pastor intently while he worked. After several minutes of silence, the pastor looked at the boy and asked, “Son, are you here to pick up some carpentry tips?” “No,” the boy replied, “I just want to know what a preacher says when he hits his thumb with a hammer.”

People are watching us—not just pastors, but anyone who claims to be a follower of Christ. More specifically, they’re listening to us. They’re waiting to hear inconsistencies—words that fall short of being Christlike. What they really want to know is whether our faith comes from the heart. And the best way to find out what’s in someone’s heart is to listen to what comes out of their mouth. It’s a tough test, but a fair one, as James makes clear.

And it’s one that even some of the heroes of Scripture couldn’t pass. Isaiah was a great prophet of the Lord who saw an amazing vision of God on His throne, surrounded by angels Isaiah 6:1–4. And how did Isaiah respond? He cried, “It’s all over! I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips. Yet I have seen the King, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies”. As he saw God in His glory, Isaiah saw himself in his own sinfulness, and the thing he specifically became aware of was his words. Joseph, Moses, and Simon Peter faced similar struggles.

You may be wondering, If these men of God fought losing battles with their tongue, what hope do I have? Quite a bit, in fact. And you can start by remembering the acronym T.H.I.N.K. Before you speak, before you post, before you tweet, before you communicate, ask yourself five quick questions. One, is what I’m about to say True? Do you know it for a fact? Two, is it Helpful? The fact that something is true doesn’t mean it should be said. Saying, “You look like you’ve gained weight” may be true, but it’s probably not helpful. Three, is it Inspiring? Will it bring someone down or lift them up? Four, is it Necessary? Would it be better left unsaid? Five, is it Kind? Will it touch someone’s heart? Asking yourself these questions before you speak can save you a lot of trouble.

The best place to start “T.H.I.N.K.-ing” is with your spouse (or, if you’re not married, with the people closest to you). You may need to explain that you’re trying to make the love in your heart more evident in the way you speak.

Some of you might say, “Greg, if I were to apply those questions to everything I say, I’d end up saying nothing.”

....aging

Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life Proverbs 16:31

A census taker knocked on a lady’s door, clipboard in hand. She answered every question without hesitation — except one. When he asked her age, she firmly refused to answer. “But everyone tells their age to the census taker,” he insisted. She raised an eyebrow and asked, “Did Miss Maisy Hill and Miss Daisy Hill tell you their ages?”

“Of course,” he replied. “Well,” she snapped, “I’m the same age as they are.” With a shrug, the census taker wrote down, “As old as the Hills.”

This story reminds us how sensitive we can be about growing older. We live in a world that celebrates youth and dreads aging. So, when birthdays seem to come faster and faster, and we find ourselves wondering where the years have gone, we feel like gray hair and wrinkles are things we should hide.

But God sees aging differently. In his eyes, growing older isn’t a curse — it’s a blessing. Proverbs calls gray hair “a crown of glory.” In God's eyes, growing older isn’t something to be ashamed of — it’s something to be grateful for. Each passing year, each new line on your face, each gray hair on your head tells the story of a lifetime lived in God’s grace.

Our culture may try to convince us that staying young is the ultimate goal, but God values the wisdom that comes with time. Think about the lessons you've learned through the prayers you've prayed, the storms you've survived, and the faith you’ve built along the way.

So, whether you’re just finding your first gray hair or you've been wearing your “crown” for a while, know that your age is not something to hide. It’s a living testimony to God’s goodness, a beautiful reminder that he’s been with you through every high, every low, and everything in between.

Today, take a moment to thank God for every birthday, every wrinkle, and every lesson he’s taught you along the way. But remember — it’s not just about counting the years behind you. It’s about making the years ahead count for him. Your story isn’t finished yet!

- alan smith

Father, thank you for being with me through every season of my life. Help me to see aging not as a burden but as a beautiful reminder of your faithfulness. Teach me to use my years to honor you and to encourage others along the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.........overwhelming

“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary.” Luke 10:41-42

How many stressed-out mothers does it take to change a light bulb? Just one. And why only one? Because no one else in the house seems to notice — or care — that the light bulb has burned out. They’d sit in darkness for three days before realizing it. And if, by some miracle, they figured it out, they’d spend another two days looking for the light bulbs — the ones that have been kept in the same cupboard for the past seventeen years!

And if they did find them? The chair they used to change the bulb would stay smack-dab in the middle of the room... with the crumpled bulb wrapper underneath it... because apparently, no one else knows how to throw away trash either!

Sound a little too familiar? It’s funny because it’s true. But underneath that humor lies a very real feeling: the feeling of being overwhelmed, underappreciated, and alone in dealing with the responsibilities of daily life.

Life can often feel exactly like that overworked, frazzled mom. The mess is everywhere. The work never ends. And it feels like no one else even sees it, much less helps out.

Maybe you’ve been there. Maybe you are there. If so, you're in good company. In Luke 10, Jesus visited a home where Martha was feeling exactly the same way -- stressed, frustrated, and exhausted. Martha felt that all the work being done to show hospitality was being dumped in her lap, and she wanted her sister Mary to help out. Martha wasn’t wrong for wanting things to get done. It was important. But in the rush and the stress, she lost sight of what mattered most — being with Jesus.

Yes, the light bulbs need changing. The dishes need washing. The laundry needs to be done. Life doesn’t stop. But before we let the endless tasks overwhelm us, Jesus gently calls us to slow down and take some time to sit with him. Because in the end, it’s not about having a perfect house, a finished checklist, or even a well-lit room. It’s about finding peace right in the middle of the mess, because Jesus is there with us.

Father, when I feel overwhelmed and unappreciated, remind me that you are near. Help me to slow down, rest at your feet, and find peace in your presence, even on those days when the laundry’s piling up. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

.....strike

Moses was chosen by God to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt. Through Moses, God demonstrated His awesome power and holiness. At the time, there was no one closer to God than Moses. However, even with this wonderfully close relationship, Moses still struggled at times with trusting God.

After being led out of Egypt, the people often brought their complaints to Moses. On one occasion, the people complained about their lack of drinking water; "Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to this terrible place?" Numbers 20:5. When Moses entered the presence of God with this concern, he was given clear direction for solving the problem: "Gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water" Numbers 20:8.

Moses gathered the people as he was told. But rather than simply speaking to the rock, Moses tried to accomplish God's work with a method of his own choosing.

"'Listen, you rebels, must we bring you water out of this rock?' Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank." Numbers 20:10-11

Moses had seen God's power and knew how much He hated disobedience; yet, at this moment, Moses did not follow God's command. Moses may have become prideful while leading the Israelites through the desert; "Must WE bring you water out of this rock?" Or, he may have thought God needed help from the same staff used to turn the Nile river into blood and part the Red Sea. Either way, his disobedience stemmed from a lack of trust in God - trust is always related to obedience!

God still loved Moses and will fellowship with him for all eternity, but his failure to obey was severely punished; "Because you did not trust in Me enough to honor Me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them" Numbers 20:12. God's perfect plan for Moses clearly included a trip into the Promised land; but, even after 40 years of faithful leadership, Moses' lack of trust caused him to miss out on God's very best.

God knows our needs, and His plan is for us to trust Him and walk with Him as we are conformed to the image of His Son. Let's listen intently for His direction and then fully obey. Let's take the steps to ensure all we do in our ministry - all we do in our family and in every area of our life - is done to bring Him glory and honor. Let's trust Him and His ways with ALL our heart, and always remember...don't strike the rock!