.....fragile

Elijah was used to demonstrate God's power and call the people of Israel back to a life of worship. Elijah witnessed the miraculous and unequaled power of God as he prayed during his confrontation with the 450 prophets of Baal; "The fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, ... and also licked up the water in the trench" 1 Kings 18:38.

After this unquestioned answer to prayer, Elijah climbed to the top of Mount Carmel and prayed for rain; there had not been rain in the land for three years. Once again, Elijah witnessed the miraculous hand of God; "The sky grew black with clouds, the wind rose and a heavy rain came" 1 Kings 18:45. But within a few days of these great spiritual victories, Queen Jezebel vowed to have Elijah killed. As soon as Elijah heard of the Queen's threat, he became afraid and ran for his life into the desert.

"He came to a broom tree, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. 'I have had enough, Lord,' he said. 'Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.'"1 Kings 19:4

Elijah was a man who spoke directly with God and clearly witnessed His awesome power; yet, he fell into great despair when faced with this new adversity. Elijah experienced a wonderful victory, but it was quickly shattered.

What caused Elijah to become so discouraged? Had he already forgotten God's power? Had a few victories caused him to take his eyes off God and begin to rely on his own strength? Or was he just worn out from being on the front line of ministry? Whatever the cause, in his moment of greatest victory Elijah became the most vulnerable to attack and failure; "I have had enough, Lord."

When life is a struggle, we must pray and "trust in the Lord with all our heart" Proverbs 3:5. When life is running smooth, we must pray harder and trust even more. But when we experience victory and dance on top of the mountain - when we begin to feel strong and "self" assured - we must pray as if our very life depended on it and lean on the Lord as never before. Our moments of greatest vulnerability to enemy attack come when we begin to think we no longer require God's help. After the mountaintop, the broom tree is closer than we might think.

Let’s be reminded of our absolute dependence! ALL we accomplish is through the strength of Christ; "apart from Me you can do nothing" John 15:5. And as His promises are fulfilled in our lives, our journey must continue daily by faith. Let's keep our eyes on Jesus and reclaim the life of dependent devotion. Let's remain in His presence and guard against a fragile victory.

- steve troxel

.....bruised

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit Psalm 34:18

Giving a man his physical, a doctor noticed several dark, ugly bruises on his shins.

He asked, “Do you play hockey?” “No.”

“Soccer?” “No.”

“Any other physical sport?”

“None at all. I just play bridge with my wife.”

Whether it’s marriage, friendship, or family, even the strongest bonds can leave us with a few bruises. Not the kind that show on our skin, but the kind that linger in our hearts — a careless word, a misunderstood moment, or a time when someone we counted on didn’t come through. We've all been there. Relationships are a gift, but they can also be messy, fragile, and sometimes painful.

We don’t always talk about those kinds of hurts, but the truth is, even people with the best intentions can wound us — and we can wound them, too. No one gets through life unbruised. These emotional bruises don’t always fade quickly. They lie beneath the surface, sensitive to the touch. And yet, acknowledging those wounds is the first step toward healing.

David reminds us in Psalm 34, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” God isn’t distant when we’re hurting. He’s right there, not rushing us past the pain, but helping us walk through it with compassion.

Resilience doesn’t mean brushing off every hurt or acting like nothing gets to us. It means being honest with God and with others about what we feel — and then choosing to move forward with grace. It means being patient, offering forgiveness, and remembering that the people who hurt us may be carrying their own bruises too.

So if your heart feels a little bruised today, don’t minimize it or tell yourself to just “get over it.” Bring it to God. Let him remind you that your pain matters — and that healing is possible. Because growing stronger in our relationships isn’t about pretending we haven’t been hurt — it’s about allowing God to heal us and learning to love more deeply through the wounds.

Father, you know the bruises I carry — the ones no one else can see. You know the words that stung, the rejection that hurt, and the moments I didn’t feel understood. Thank you for being close to the brokenhearted. Please heal what’s been hurt. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....dig

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come 2 Corinthians 5:17

It was a little boy’s first time attending a funeral — he was just four years old — and his parents wanted to make sure he understood how to behave, especially once they arrived at the cemetery. Wanting to prepare him, his father knelt down and asked, “What’s the most important rule to remember while we’re here?” After a few seconds of serious consideration, he replied, “Don’t dig up the bodies?”

Spiritually speaking, many of us struggle with the same thing. We've buried things — guilt, shame, old sins, toxic habits, past wounds — and through Christ, we’ve been given new life. The “old self” was crucified with Him Romans 6:6, and we’ve been raised to walk in newness of life. But for some reason, we keep going back to the graveyard with a shovel.

We want to dig up what God has buried. We replay past mistakes, rehearse old conversations, and relive failures that Jesus has already forgiven.Why do we do this? Sometimes it's because grace feels too good to be true. Other times, it’s because the old stories are familiar, even if they’re painful. We find comfort in what we’ve always known. But God doesn’t want us living in a cemetery of regret.

Here’s the truth -- in Christ, you are no longer defined by your past. You are not the sum of your worst moments. You are not the labels others gave you — or the ones you gave yourself. You are a new creation. That graveyard is not your home, and that shovel isn’t your tool anymore.

So, when the past comes knocking, when shame comes calling, when you’re tempted to pick up that old shovel again — remember the wisdom of that 4-year-old: Don’t dig up what God has buried! Walk away from the grave. The tomb is empty, and so is your old identity. Christ has made all things new — including you.

- alan smith

Father, thank you for making me new. Forgive me when I return to the graveyard of my past and try to carry what you’ve already buried. Give me the courage to lay down the shovel, step away from the past, and live fully in the new life you have given me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....assurance

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love 1 John 4:18

Airman Jones was assigned to the military induction center where he was responsible for advising new recruits about their GI insurance. His captain soon noticed that Jones had an almost 100% success rate in selling policies — unheard of! Curious, the captain sat in on one of his briefings.

After explaining the basic benefits of the GI policy, Jones concluded his presentation with this:

“If you die in battle with GI insurance, your family gets $200,000. If you don’t have it, they get $6,000. Now — who do you think the government is going to send into battle first?” As a result, nearly everyone signed up! But why? It wasn’t out of loyalty, duty, or honor — it was out of fear. A desperate instinct to protect themselves. A desire to stay off the front lines.

Spiritually, we often do the same. We may go to church, read our Bibles, or serve in ministries — not because of our deep love for God, but because we’re afraid. Afraid of punishment. Afraid of guilt. Afraid of what might happen if we don’t. Outwardly, we look like devoted followers, but our motives are rooted in self-preservation, not love.

But God sees beyond our behavior. He knows why we do what we do. And according to 1 John 4:18, love — not fear — is meant to be the motivation for our service. Fear-based faith is incomplete. God doesn’t want a relationship that’s held together by fear of punishment. He wants one that’s rooted in love.

Fear makes us self-focused. Love makes us Christ-focused. Fear makes us constantly ask, “Have I done enough?” Love reminds us, “Jesus already did enough.” Fear tries to earn God’s approval. Love responds joyfully to God’s grace. Take a moment to examine your heart. Are you serving God out of fear — or out of love? Are you trying to protect yourself — or offering your life to the One who gave his life for you?

- alan smith

Father, I don’t want fear to drive my faith. I want to follow you because I love you, not because I’m worried about what might happen if I don’t. Shape my heart so that my service comes from gratitude and love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....others

Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else Galatians 6:4

A Texan farmer went to Australia. While touring a local ranch, he struck up a conversation with an Aussie farmer. The Australian proudly pointed out his golden wheat fields. The Texan said, “Back home we’ve got wheat fields twice that size.” They walked a bit more, and the Aussie showed off his herd of cattle. Again, the Texan chimed in, “We’ve got cattle twice as big as yours.”

Then, a group of kangaroos bounded across the field. The Texan blinked and asked, “What are those?”The Aussie grinned and said, “Don’t you have grasshoppers in Texas?”

It’s a funny moment — where pride gets humbled and comparison falls flat. And honestly, we’ve all had our “Texan farmer” moments. Times when we’ve looked at someone else’s success, possessions, or talents and smugly thought, “Mine’s better.” Or maybe the reverse: “I could never measure up.”

Comparison is sneaky. It may look like confidence, but it often comes from insecurity. And whether we feel superior or inferior, the end result is the same: it shifts our focus away from what really matters: the work God has called us to do.

That’s why Paul encourages us in Galatians 6:4 to “pay careful attention to your own work.” Not your neighbor’s. Not your coworker’s. Not the person who seems to have it all together on social media. Just your own.

Because God has given each of us a unique field to tend. When we’re fixated on someone else’s wheat, cattle -- or kangaroos -- we miss the beauty of what’s right in front of us. But when we focus on being faithful with what God has entrusted us, we find a deep satisfaction that comparison can never give.

So, the next time you’re tempted to measure yourself against someone else, remember the Texan and the kangaroos. God didn’t call you to be the best. He’s just asking you to be faithful with what he’s given you.

- alan smith

Father, help me to stay focused on what you’ve called me to do. Guard my heart from comparison and pride, and teach me to find joy in being faithful in the work you’ve given me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....peas

For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. James 2:13

A woman was arrested for stealing. When she went before the judge, he asked her, “What did you steal?” She replied, “A can of peaches.” The judge asked her why she had stolen them and she replied that she was hungry. The judge then asked her how many peaches were in the can. She replied, “Five.” The judge said, “Then I will give you five days in jail.”

Her husband stood up and asked the judge if he could say something. The judge said, “What is it?”

“She also stole a can of peas.” This story reminds us how easy it is to expose someone else’s faults, even in the name of “truth.” The husband may have thought he was being clever, but all he did was pile more guilt and shame on someone who was broken and needed forgiveness.

It’s a very real tendency: we often lean toward justice for others and mercy for ourselves. We want understanding for our bad days, but we’re quick to count the offenses of others — even the peas they hoped no one would notice.

But James 2:13 flips things around: “Mercy triumphs over judgment.” God doesn’t just tolerate mercy — he celebrates it. In a world eager to keep score, God calls us not to tally up wrongs or to keep adding to someone’s already heavy burden, but to live in a way that reflects his heart — full of kindness, patience, and grace.

Actions have consequences, accountability is important. But the heart of the gospel is not about keeping score — it’s about a mercy that forgives debts, heals wounds, and refuses to keep dragging up past mistakes. When someone in your life “steals a peach,” how do you respond? Do you bring up the peas too? Let’s resist the urge to make things worse and instead look for ways to make grace triumph over judgment.

Because in God’s courtroom, the final word isn’t judgment — it’s mercy.

Father, help me choose mercy over judgment. In a world quick to criticize and slow to forgive, help me to be someone who reflects your grace. Teach me to be gentle with others, even when they fall short — just as you are gentle with me. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

.....doors

As we continue our search for God's direction - patiently waiting and actively seeking His presence - we ought to rejoice with every single step He reveals. As we draw closer to Jesus, we will desire, more and more, to only take steps which are aligned with His will. Therefore, ANY direction from God, no matter which way He leads and no matter what method He uses to direct, should be a reason to rejoice.

During his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, Paul received specific direction from Jesus; "get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do" Acts 9:6. A few years later, the Holy Spirit specifically directed Paul to begin his first missionary journey; "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them" Acts 13:2.

Midway through his second journey, God directed Paul with peace and assurance: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you" Acts 18:9-10. And at the end of his third journey, Paul once again received specific direction; "And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem" Acts 20:22.

God often leads us by opening doors and lighting a path for us to follow. But there are also many times when God directs by simply telling us where NOT to go.

Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to Acts 16:6-7

Paul was still walking with God - still being directed by His Spirit - but now God's direction was in the form of closed doors. Paul never appeared to get discouraged when God closed a door; he simply allowed himself to be redirected toward whatever door God opened.

So much of our Christian growth is a process of relinquishing control and trusting God to completely direct our life. He alone is in control of the doors; "What He opens no one can shut, and what He shuts no one can open" Revelation 3:7. It is a mixture of pride and foolishness that causes us to continually push on doors which God has closed.

Our Heavenly Father is constantly guiding and calling us to trust Him more. He opens doors which require us to step through in faith and closes doors which require us to patiently wait. His guiding hand is always a reason to rejoice, even when we are lovingly guided by closed doors.

- steve troxel

.....down

We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

In a chemistry class, the professor held up a silver coin and asked the students what would happen if he dropped it into a glass of acid. One student quickly replied, “Nothing — the coin won’t dissolve.”

Surprised, the professor asked, “How can you be so sure?”

The student smiled and said, “Because if it would, you wouldn’t drop it in.”

Life can sometimes feel like we’re being dropped into acid as we face circumstances that feel overwhelming — health struggles, financial stress, broken relationships, uncertainty about the future. But just like that professor knew the coin wouldn’t be harmed, God knows you won’t be destroyed either — because he’s holding you.

The apostle Paul knew what it was like to feel squeezed by life. In 2 Corinthians 4, he writes about being “afflicted,” “perplexed,” “persecuted,” and “struck down.” That’s real hardship. But Paul doesn’t stop at the pain. He insists that we are not crushed, not driven to despair, not forsaken, and not destroyed. Why? Because God is with us through it all. His presence doesn’t always remove the struggle, but it does carry us through it. He doesn’t promise an easy path, but he does promise that we won’t walk it alone.

You feel today like the weight is just too much -- but you’re not being crushed. You might not understand what’s happening or why — but you’re not hopeless. You might feel knocked down -- but that doesn’t mean you’re out for good. God won’t drop you into something you can’t get through with his help.

So, don’t let the struggle convince you that you’re defeated. You’re still standing — and that alone is a sign that God is working in you. What feels like pressure may be the very thing needed to strengthen your faith, build your character, and demonstrate God's power in your life.

So, hang in there. Your situation may feel uncertain, but God’s presence is sure.

- alan smith

 

Father, thank you for being my strength when I’m overwhelmed. Remind me that I’m not alone, not forgotten, and not defeated. Help me to trust that you are at work in every difficult circumstance, and that I’m still standing because you’re holding me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....stranger

Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up Deuteronomy 6:7

A young boy looked at his mom and said, “When I grow up, I’m going to marry you.”

His older sister quickly jumped in: “You can’t marry Mommy.”

“Okay,” he said. “Then I’ll marry you.”

She laughed and shook her head. “You can’t marry someone in your own family.”

The boy frowned, clearly puzzled. “You mean I have to marry a total stranger?”

Moments like these reveal how kids are always thinking, wondering, and trying to make sense of the world around them. And as parents, these moments are golden opportunities — not just to laugh, but to lead. The way we respond to their questions — even the silly ones — matters more than we realize.

Deuteronomy 6 reminds us of the responsibility we have in shaping young lives: “Impress [God’s commands] on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home… when you lie down and when you get up.” Teaching our kids about God isn’t reserved for Sunday mornings or formal devotion times. It takes place in the everyday rhythms of life — bedtime chats, car rides, trips to the store, and yes, those unexpected and hilarious conversations over breakfast.

When a child brings up love, marriage, or friendship, we have a chance to gently guide their understanding. We can help them see that love is more than feelings, marriage is a promise, and God’s design for relationships is good and wise.

But more than what we say, it’s how we live that will leave the biggest impression. They’re not just learning about God from us; they’re learning what life with God looks like.

So, the next time your child says something off-the-wall, smile. But don’t miss the opportunity. Use it to plant a seed of truth, show a glimpse of God’s love, and shape their heart just a little more. You're not just raising a child. You're training a man or woman of God.

- alan smith

Father, thank you for the gift of children and the everyday moments you give me to influence their hearts. Give me eyes to see the teachable moments and words that reflect your truth. May my life point them to you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....questions

Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known Jeremiah 33:3

Susan, a curious six-year-old, asked her parents lots of questions. One day, her mother, exhausted from the nonstop inquiry, said, “Have you ever heard that curiosity killed the cat?”Susan said, “No.”

“Well, there was a cat, and he was very inquisitive. One day, he looked into a big hole, fell in, and died.”

Susan paused for a moment, then asked, “What was in the hole?”

We laugh because we recognize it. That desire to know more, to understand, to keep asking — it’s built into us from the time we’re little. But somewhere along the way, many of us are taught to not ask any questions, especially when it comes to matters of faith. So we don’t.

We worry about appearing to be ignorant or unspiritual. We’re afraid of being labeled a doubter or a troublemaker. Previous attempts to ask questions may have been shut down, ignored, or met with hostility. So we keep quiet.

But God doesn’t shut the door on our questions. In Jeremiah 33, God says, “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” God wants us to seek, to wonder, to ask the deep and even uncomfortable things. He’s not threatened by your curiosity. He’s not disappointed by your confusion. In fact, he delights in a heart that is reaching out to know more about him.

Throughout the Bible, we see faithful people asking bold questions — Abraham asking God how the promises would come true, Job pouring out his anguish, the disciples constantly trying to make sense of Jesus' teachings. God didn't turn any of them away. God doesn’t shame us for being curious. He wants us to ask. He wants us to seek. He wants us to dig deeper.

So don’t be afraid to ask, “What’s in the hole?” Don’t silence your questions or hide your doubts. Bring them to God, the one who knows all things and is never threatened by your curiosity.

- alan smith

Father, thank you for being a God who welcomes questions. Help me not to hide my wonder, confusion, or doubt, but to bring it all to you. Teach me to seek you with a curious heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....think

Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him Proverbs 26:12

During a visit to a mental asylum, a visitor asked the director how they determine whether someone should be institutionalized. The director explained, “We fill up a bathtub, then we offer the patient a teaspoon, a teacup, and a bucket and ask them to empty the tub.”

The visitor, confident in his reasoning, replied, “Ah, I get it — a normal person would use the bucket, because it holds the most water.” The director replied, “Actually, a normal person would pull the plug. Do you want a bed by the window or by the heater?”

How often do we assume we have the right answer — only to realize we completely missed the point?

Our pride can blind us, especially when we’re convinced we’re being clever. We rush in with our “big buckets,” ready to fix everything with sheer effort or the best tools available — but sometimes we don’t need more effort or better tools. We need insight. And that kind of insight often comes when we admit that maybe — just maybe — we don’t know everything.

The Bible reminds us that humility is the foundation of true wisdom. Solomon says, “Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” That’s a hard truth, but an important one. Thinking we already have it all figured out can keep us from growing, listening, and learning — especially from God.

The good news is that God doesn’t expect us to have all the answers. He’s not looking for perfect problem-solvers. He’s looking for people who are willing to be taught. People who are humble enough to ask for help and to trust his perspective above their own.

So, the next time you find yourself grabbing the biggest bucket you can find to solve a problem, ask yourself if you’re overlooking something obvious. More importantly, ask God to guide you. Because sometimes, we need to stop thinking we’ve got things figured out and start looking up.

- alan smith

Father, forgive me when I assume I already know what’s best. Teach me to approach life with humility and a willingness to learn. Help me to lean not on my own understanding, but to trust in your wisdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....struck

A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones Proverbs 17:22

During a high school science class, the teacher was covering a lesson on electricity and storms. She asked the class a question: “Does anyone know the first sense you lose when struck by lightning?” One student raised his hand and said, “Your sense of humor?”

He’s not wrong! Life can hit hard sometimes. Maybe not quite like lightning, but close: a sudden illness, a broken relationship, a job loss, or even just the relentless stress of daily life. And one of the first things we often lose in the middle of all that? Our joy. Our sense of humor.

But Solomon reminds us, “A joyful heart is good medicine.” God doesn’t ask us to ignore our pain or fake a smile. He’s not expecting us to be constantly upbeat or to put on a brave face when everything feels like it’s falling apart. But he is reminding us that joy is powerful. It heals in ways that go beyond what we can measure.

Joy and faith are often linked in the Bible. Think of Paul and Silas, who sang hymns in prison after being beaten and locked up Acts 16:25. They weren’t singing because their situation was great. They were singing because they knew God was still with them.

Laughter doesn’t mean everything is fine. It means we remember who holds our future, even when today feels dark. Maintaining a sense of humor is a quiet act of faith. It says, “This isn’t the end of my story. God is still good, even when life isn’t.”

So, if life has struck you like lightning lately, don’t let go of your joy. Don’t underestimate the power of a light-hearted moment, a joke, or a deep belly laugh with a friend. These aren’t distractions from faith; they’re sometimes evidence of it.

God made us for joy. And even in the midst of our pain, laughter can remind us that the story isn’t over yet — and that we are on the road to healing.

Father, thank you for filling my life with joy. Thank you for the gift of laughter and the reminder that you are with me even during the storms. Help me to not lose my sense of humor — even when the lightning strikes. In Jesus’ name, amen.

....worth

 

For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? Mark 8:36

A man walked into a convenience store, put a $20 bill on the counter, and asked the clerk for change. When the cash drawer was opened, he pulled a gun and demanded all the money. The clerk handed over the cash, and the man bolted — forgetting his $20 on the counter.

How much did he get away with? Fifteen bucks. That’s right, he lost five dollars!

It’s easy to laugh at how ridiculous that is, but if we’re honest, we’ve all made trades like that in our own lives. We’ve let go of something truly valuable chasing after something we thought would be better, only to realize later that it wasn’t worth it.

Jesus understood this tendency. In Mark 8, he asked this question: “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” It’s a reminder that not every opportunity is worth taking. What’s the point of chasing success, approval, money, or pleasure if it costs you the most important part of who you are?

Our culture constantly tells us what we should want: more stuff, more followers, more comfort, more control. And sometimes we go after those things, thinking they’ll satisfy — but they never do. In the process, we risk neglecting our character, our faith, our relationships, and our purpose. We trade the eternal for the temporary.

But Jesus invites us to a better way — to a life that may look upside-down to the world, but is right-side-up in the kingdom of God. A life where surrender leads to freedom, where service brings joy, and where losing our life for his sake is actually how we find it.

So, before you trade away your time, your values, or your walk with God for something that seems appealing, stop and ask: Is this really worth it? Will this leave me better off — or like that thief, will I end up with less than I started with?

- alan smith

Father, help me to value the things you’ve given me more than what the world offers. Give me the wisdom to know when a trade isn’t worth it, and the courage to walk away from anything that would cost me more than it’s worth. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....timing

God's direction and timing is always perfect and always with a purpose - but it is often with a purpose we may not initially see or understand. Even when we earnestly ask for direction through prayer and the study of His Word, God's answers are usually not what we expect and are often perceived as slow in arriving. However, His direction and timing still remain, always perfect and always with a purpose.

God called Abraham to follow Him when Abraham was already seventy-five years old. Though advanced in years, God blessed Abraham with great abundance and soon promised he would have many descendants; I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust, then your offspring could be counted Genesis 13:16.

Although this was a wonderful promise from God, it certainly did not seem possible. Not only was Abraham an old man, but his wife, Sarah, had never been able to have children and was now long past the normal child bearing years. Therefore, when Sarah failed to become pregnant - when God's promise was apparently going to be unfulfilled - she formulated a plan to "help" God.

The Lord has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my maidservant; perhaps I can build a family through her Genesis 16:2

Since this was an accepted practice and seemed like a reasonable way to fulfill God's promise, Abraham agreed. Not surprisingly, great tension soon developed between Sarah and her maidservant. This tension increased when Ishmael was born and even continues today with the unfortunate hostilities we see in the region of the Middle East. Abraham clearly heard the call and promise of God, but he became impatient with God's timing and resorted to a worldly solution.

It was another thirteen years before God fulfilled His promise through the birth of Isaac. These were thirteen long years of waiting and wondering if God had forgotten...but God's direction and timing is always perfect and always with a purpose. With Abraham one hundred years old and Sarah ninety, the birth of Isaac left no doubt that God was in complete control and guiding the events in Abraham's life.

In a very real sense, we are foreigners in this place and time; "Aliens and strangers on earth" Hebrews 11:13. We will never understand how all the pieces fit together until we stand before the Creator of the Universe. 

Until then, 

we must continue to love and worship Him with all our heart. 

We must continue to seek His face and ask His guidance for every step. 

We must continue to follow His direction and patiently trust His timing.

- adapted from steve troxel

.....buy

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward Psalm 127:3

After a long day of wrangling his wild kids, a weary dad finally snapped. Turning to his sister, he said, “I think I’m going to sell them.”

“You’re crazy,” she replied.

“For thinking of selling them?”

“No,” she said. “For thinking anyone would buy them.”

Every parent knows the feeling. There are moments when our children feel more like a challenge than a blessing. They test boundaries, try your patience, and somehow manage to ask 43 questions before breakfast. But even on the hardest days, God reminds us that children aren’t a burden — they’re a gift.

Solomon tells us in Psalm 127, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” That means our children — whether biological, adopted, fostered, or simply young people we influence — are not interruptions to our lives. They’re opportunities for joy. They may drain our energy, but they also fill our hearts in ways we never imagined.

Yes, raising them can be hard — really hard. God doesn’t bless us with perfect children, and he doesn’t expect us to be perfect parents. What he gives us is relationship — the daily, messy, holy task of shaping hearts, planting seeds of faith, and offering grace as we go. Our children aren’t the only ones growing. We’re growing too — in patience, humility, selflessness, and love.

There will be days when your home seems more like a zoo than a sanctuary. Days when your living room looks like a toy explosion and getting the kids to bed feels like herding cats. But even in the noise and chaos, God wants you to see past the mess and catch a glimpse of his handiwork.

So, no — you wouldn’t actually sell them (and no one would buy them anyway). Because deep down, you know they are worth every challenge. Their laughter, their questions, their love — it’s all a part of the reward. It’s a holy, exhausting, joy-filled blessing.

Lord, thank you for the gift of children — with all their energy, joy, and even mischief. Help me to see them through your eyes: as blessings, not burdens. Give me the strength to lead them well, the grace to grow with them, and the joy to treasure every moment. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....quit

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens... a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away Ecclesiastes 3:1,6

There was a retired man who played solo rounds of golf nearly every afternoon. Every day, he would return to the clubhouse, and the golf pro would ask him, “How’d you shoot today, Ed?” “Another perfect par,” Ed would always say with a grin.

The pro was doubtful — no one shoots par every day — but he didn’t want to challenge a loyal customer. So, one day, he decided to join Ed for a round. From the start, Ed’s game was rough — sliced drives, missed putts, and long holes. Then, on the 13th hole, Ed finally hit a clean shot straight down the fairway. He walked to his ball, picked it up, and headed back to the clubhouse. “Wait,” said the stunned pro. “That was your best shot yet!”

Ed smiled. “That was shot number 72. Another perfect par!”

He knew when to quit!

Sometimes, quitting isn’t about giving up — it’s about letting go of the illusion that we have to keep pushing just to prove something. Relationships, jobs, habits, even ministry efforts — sometimes we’re holding on to something long past its season. Because quitting feels like failure, and failure feels like weakness.

But Ecclesiastes reminds us that there is “a time to give up.” Life has God-ordained rhythms, and it takes maturity to recognize when a season has ended. Knowing when to stop and trust God with the next step is an act of faith. Even Jesus walked away from some situations. Not because he gave up, but because he knew when it was time to move on.

We need to understand that faithfulness doesn’t always mean holding on. Sometimes it means stepping back. We’re not called to do everything forever — we’re called to follow God's lead, even if that means closing a door we once thought we'd walk through forever.

- alan smith

Father, give me the wisdom to know when to persevere and when to let go. Help me to not confuse quitting with failure, but to see it as obedience when you’re leading me in a new direction. Teach me to trust you in the letting go as much as in the holding on. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....ifs

Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you 1 Peter 5:7

There’s a moment of panic that’s hard to describe — your stomach drops, your brain spirals, and you suddenly imagine worst-case scenarios. That’s what happened to Tom, a mechanic doing some work at the Air Force Academy.

He was approached by a guard asking if their new security dog could sniff around his truck. Tom agreed — confident, of course, that he had nothing to hide. But, almost immediately, the dog latched onto a scent and jumped into the truck bed sniffing furiously. Tom got nervous. Did someone plant something in my truck? Am I about to be arrested? A few minutes later, the guard returned and said, “Sorry... our dog ate your lunch.”

All that anxiety… for nothing. It’s unsettling to realize how quickly our thoughts can spiral. One moment we’re fine, and the next we’re mentally preparing for disaster. We get a text that says “Can we talk?” and we brace ourselves for bad news. A friend is quieter than usual, and we think they’re upset with us. The car makes a funny noise and we imagine a thousand-dollar repair. We’re professionals at catastrophizing -- jumping from calm to crisis in seconds.

But Peter, someone who knew a thing or two about panic (remember the time he stepped out of the boat and sank in a storm?) gives us this comforting instruction: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” He doesn’t say, “Cast only the big stuff” or “Wait until you’re sure it’s serious.” He says, “All of it.” God invites us to hand every bit of it over to him. He doesn’t roll his eyes and say, “That’s not a big deal.” He just says, “Let me carry it. I care.”

So, the next time your thoughts start spiraling and your chest tightens over something that might go wrong, take a breath. Say a prayer. Remind yourself that God sees you and cares deeply about what you’re facing. Don’t let the “what ifs” win!

- alan smith

Father, thank you for caring about the things that weigh me down — even when they turn out to be smaller than I thought. Help me to give my worries to you and to trust that you’re in control. Calm my racing thoughts and replace my panic with your peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....diversity

For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others Romans 12:4-5

It has been said that the reason the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines squabble among themselves is that they don't speak the same language. For example, take a simple phrase like, "Secure the building." Given that instruction,

The Army will put guards around it.

The Marines will kill everybody inside and make it a command post.

The Navy will turn out the lights and lock the doors.

The Air Force will take out a 5-year lease with an option to buy.

While humorous, this illustrates that each branch has its strengths -- even if their methods differ — yet they all work toward a common goal.

The body of Christ is similar. Though we are different, we each play an essential role in God’s kingdom. We have different methods of approaching ministry or outreach. One person may serve in a quiet, behind-the-scenes role while another leads from the front. One teaches, another prays, and yet another uses their gifts of mercy or hospitality to bless others. Our differences don’t make us weaker — they make us stronger when we work together with one purpose: to glorify God and fulfill his calling.

In Romans 12, Paul reminds us that even though we are many members, we belong to one body. Each part, with its own role, is crucial to the effectiveness of the whole. Just as a military with different branches can still achieve the same mission, the church, though made up of individuals with varying gifts, can still unite to accomplish the mission God has set before us.

It’s easy to become frustrated when others don’t see things the way we do. But instead of seeing our differences as obstacles, let’s learn to view them as opportunities to learn, grow, and collaborate. God has placed us together with a purpose, and his plan is bigger than our preferences.

- alan smith

Father, thank you for the beautiful diversity in your body. Help me to celebrate the differences that make us stronger and more effective in carrying out your mission. May we work together in unity, each playing our part to bring glory to your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....mess

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind… Romans 12:2

A woman brought home a new plaque for her kitchen. It read in bold letters, “Prayer changes things.” She proudly hung it above her sink — a simple but powerful reminder during her daily routine.

Her husband came home, glanced up at the plaque, and said, “Take that down, please.” She was surprised. “Why? Don’t you believe in prayer?”

He replied, “Yes, but I don’t like change.”

There’s more truth in his statement than we might want to admit. Let’s be honest — many of us are perfectly fine with the idea of prayer, as long as it doesn’t disrupt our routines, confront our habits, or challenge the way we think. We love the idea of prayer as comfort, encouragement, even rescue. But transformation? That’s harder.

We often pray for God to change our situations, but we resist when God begins changing us. But real, honest prayer invites change. Not just around us, but within us.

Paul wrote in Romans 12, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” That word transformed is the same word we get metamorphosis from, when we pray and walk with God, we don’t just get a spiritual touch-up — we’re being entirely reshaped.

It’s uncomfortable at times because change means surrender. It might mean letting go of bitterness, forgiving someone we’re not ready to forgive, or stepping into a role we don’t feel qualified for. It might mean confronting a sin we’ve tried to ignore or reordering our priorities in ways that inconvenience us.

The next time we catch ourselves clinging tightly to what’s familiar, let’s remember what we’re really saying when we pray. We’re not just offering God a wish list — we’re opening ourselves up to the work of the Holy Spirit. And yes, that means change. But it’s the kind of change that leads to a more Christlike life.

So, hang the plaque, Pray and let God change what needs to be changed — including you.

Father, forgive me when I resist the change you want to bring into my life. When I’m tempted to cling to what’s comfortable, remind me that you are shaping me for something better. Transform my heart and help me to grow into who you’ve created me to be. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....really

We know that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin Romans 6:6

There’s an old joke about two hunters in the woods. One of them suddenly collapses, and his buddy, in a panic, calls 911. “I think my friend is dead! What should I do?”

The calm voice on the other end says, “First, let’s make sure he’s dead.”

There’s a pause… then a loud BANG.

The hunter comes back on the line and says, “Okay, now what?”

It’s a dark joke, but it has an important spiritual lesson buried in it. In Romans 6:6, Paul tells us that our “old self” was crucified with Christ. Not improved. Not tucked away in storage for future use. Crucified. That’s strong language. It means the old version of you — the one ruled by sin, shaped by pride, driven by selfish desires — is meant to be done away with completely. Buried. Gone.

But let’s be honest: we sometimes treat our “old self” more like a patient in recovery than someone who’s been laid to rest. We say we’re following Jesus, but we still keep parts of the old life on life support -- anger that simmers, bitterness we refuse to let go of, habits we’ve grown comfortable with, temptations we flirt with.

And the result? We end up living as if Jesus only partially saved us — enough to forgive our sins, but not enough to set us free from them.But Jesus didn’t die just to clean us up a little. He died to make us new. To give us a new heart, a new mind, a new way of being. That means letting the old self truly die.

So, here’s the question: Is there any part of the old you that’s still hanging around? A grudge you won’t let go of? A sin you’ve quietly accepted? A mindset that looks more like the world than the kingdom of God?

Make sure the old you is really dead.

- alan smith

Prayer:

Father, thank you for the gift of new life in Christ. Give me the courage to let go of anything that belongs to my old self, and the grace to live fully as the new creation you’ve made me to be. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....action

His perfect plan will continually call us to actively take a step of faith. We often see the call of God as accompanied by a perceived risk. The risk we see may be in terms of finances, rejection, or failure, but there is always an element of the unknown in God's call which requires us to trust and increase our faith. We should note that when we follow God's call, the true risk only exists in our mind.

Following God's call may require sacrifice and painful perseverance followed by seasons of doubt and frustration. There may even be severe trials and hardships along His path. But despite our physical circumstances, the middle of His plan is the safest and most secure place to walk. Walking in His perfect plan is eternally safe and secure, but it will continually call us to actively take steps of faith, one after the other.

When the tax collector came for the "two-drachma" tax, Jesus gave Peter very interesting instructions on how to obtain the necessary funds. Go to the lake and throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for My tax and yours Matthew 17:27

With all the power of Creation at His disposal, Jesus could have produced any number of coins and made them readily available. Yet, with the tax collector waiting by the door, Peter was told to excuse himself and take a fishing line down to the lake. Why go through all this trouble with the fish?

Our walk with Christ involves a long process of developing and growing our faith. It would have taken very little faith for Peter to pick a coin off the table and pay the tax. He was therefore given the "opportunity" to take a step which would strengthen his faith as he trusted Jesus and not his own understanding Proverbs 3:5-6. Peter's faith grew, and therefore his closeness with Jesus, as he obeyed and cast out his fishing line.

Jesus is able to fully meet all our needs Philippians 4:19. But He loves us enough to lead us to specific action; "faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead" James 2:17. The specific actions or accomplishments are never really the issue; rather, it is the growth in our relationship with Jesus which is important. Our faith becomes alive, and we grow closer every time we obey, follow, and take the step!

What is Jesus asking of us today? Many are facing some very hard decisions. We don't understand why God is calling, and we can't see how His plan will fit together. His call is probably nothing as absurd as the coin in the fish, but the message in His call is the same; He is saying, "Trust Me and love Me with all your heart!" When our Savior calls, we must be prepared to follow, because, when He calls, we will always be given the opportunity for action.

.....animals

But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind Job 12:7–10

A nursery school teacher once chauffeured a station wagon full of kids when a fire truck raced past, sirens blaring. In the front seat of the fire truck sat a Dalmatian. The children began debating why the dog was there.

One said, “They use him to keep crowds back.”

Another replied, “No, he’s just for good luck.”

A third chimed in confidently, “They use the dog to find the fire hydrant.”

Though good guesses, their answers were all incorrect. But they do raise an interesting question: Of what use are all the animals to us?

In our modern world, we often think of animals in terms of their utility — what they can do for us. Dogs guard us and protect us, cats control pests, cows and chickens feed us, bees pollinate crops. And while all these roles are real and valuable, the Bible paints a richer picture. Animals serve an even greater purpose -- they reflect the wisdom, creativity, and provision of God.

In Job 12, Job invites us to see animals not just as tools, but as teachers. The created world — every bird, beast, and bug — declares something true about its Maker. Not with words, but with patterns, instincts, and design. “Ask the animals,” Job says, “and they will teach you.”

Consider the way a dog sits patiently by its master, or how birds rise with the sun to sing. Think of the way ants work together in unity, or how deer leap with grace through the forest. Each and every creature teaches us something about the divine nature.

God didn’t just make animals to serve us; He made them to speak to us — if we’ll listen.

- alan smith

God of all creation, thank you for the animals you’ve placed in our world. Teach me to learn from them and to see your hand in all living things. May I be filled with a sense of awe at your creativity and power. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....listening

Whoever has ears, let them hear Matthew 11:15

In a second-grade classroom, the teacher read a story about a little girl who flew around the world in a magical hot air balloon. The book described all the incredible places she visited — ancient castles, exotic jungles, deserts full of camels, and big bustling cities. Toward the end of the story, the book mentioned how the little girl saw one of America’s most iconic landmarks -- the Statue of Liberty.

After the story, the teacher turned to the class and asked, “Can anyone remember something the little girl saw on her journey?”

Hands shot into the air. “Camels!” said one student. “A jungle!” shouted another. And then one boy—very confidently—yelled out, “The Spatula Delivery!”

Close… sort of. It's amazing how often we hear what we expect to hear, not necessarily what’s actually being said. Whether it’s in conversations, sermons, or even in our time with Scripture, we can sometimes miss the real message because we’re not truly listening. We’re assuming, skimming, or distracted.

That’s why Jesus so often said, “Whoever has ears, let them hear.” He wasn’t stating the obvious — everyone has ears. He was issuing a challenge: Are you really listening? Are you open? Are you willing to hear something that might stretch you, correct you, or move you in a new direction?

Think about how often we skim over a familiar Bible verse and think, “Yeah, I’ve heard that before,” without pausing to ask, “What is God trying to say to me right now?” Or how often do we hear someone’s words but miss their heart? We assume we know what they mean before they finish.

Listening — real listening — is a spiritual discipline. It takes humility. It takes patience. And it takes intention. Spiritual growth begins when we learn to slow down, be fully present, and tune in — whether we’re in prayer, reading Scripture, or sitting across the table from a friend who just needs to be heard.

And when we really listen, we start hearing what matters most… and that can change everything.

- alan smith

Lord, help me to hear — not just with my ears, but with my heart. In a world full of noise, give me the wisdom to slow down and really listen to your Word, to others, and to the nudges of your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....greater

In one of the last messages Moses gave to the people of Israel, he told them to obey all the commands of God and to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength" Deuteronomy 6:5. 

About fifteen hundred years later, Jesus referred to this as the greatest of all commandments and then added: "And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commands" Matthew 22:39-40. The commands to love God and love others summarize how God desires us to live. On the evening before He was crucified, Jesus gave His disciples a final command.

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends John 15:12-13 In this command, we are not all being called to physically die for one another; this one-time action would actually be relatively easy compared with the true meaning of His command. The general call from Christ is for us to daily "lay down" our lives by dying to our self gratification and considering the needs of others more important than our own Philippians 2:3-4. And as opposed to a one-time event for a select individual, we are being called to daily lay ourselves down for ALL - even when others are not deserving...even when they have not earned our love.

We are commanded to love as God first loved us. His love was with total commitment and sacrifice; "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son" (John 3:16). His love was with absolute compassion and forgiveness; "God demonstrated His love in this! While we were still sinners Christ died for us" Romans 5:8.

The Apostle John spent almost 60 years pondering the words of his Savior and then concluded that love was the one characteristic which identifies us as a true believer; "We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers. Anyone who does not love remains in death" 1 John 3:14.

Yes, we are to love as Jesus loved. This means we should love without consideration of economic, social, or ethnic class. We should love cross gender, cross race, cross culture, and EVEN cross religion! Without ever compromising the message of Truth, we must begin to view others through the eyes of Jesus, remove the barriers, and make the time to truly love. Let's begin to open our heart to those in need. Let's learn to lay down our life and love with a greater love.

- adapted from steve troxel

 

.....wrong

When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment John 16:8

Adam Thompson of Cincinnati, Ohio, was the first American to fill a bathtub.   Doctors who heard of it predicted rheumatism and inflammation of the lungs.   Some cities banned the new 'bathtub exercise'. Today a home is not complete without a bathtub or shower. The crowd was wrong. 

England once had a law forbidding anyone to drive a vehicle faster than four miles an hour without a person going before them with a red flag. Today we have vehicles capable of more than one hundred times that speed. The crowd was wrong.

Westinghouse was called a fool for daring to think that he could stop a train with wind. Now Westinghouse air brakes are being used the world over.   Again the crowd was wrong.

"What is Radium?" the crowd jeered at Madame Curie. Today it is a valuable asset in fighting disease. The crowd was wrong.  

For eleven years Goodyear and his wife worked on vulcanizing rubber.  Everyone laughed at them, but today millions ride on Goodyear tires. The crowd was mistaken.

Publishers told Zane Grey that he had no writing ability. But his books are still being read today.  The crowd was wrong.

Being wrong can be a serious matter, and that applies particularly to our relationship with God.  Too much is at stake.  We can be wrong about many things. The world can be wrong about things - it has been through the ages.   However, we dare not be wrong about Jesus.  God offers us eternal life through Jesus Christ.   He so loved the world that He gave His only Son, and whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.

- ron clarke

.....follow

When Jesus walked on the earth, He called a few select people to follow Him as He ministered. There was something irresistible about His call, something that opened eyes to a new reality and caused a radical change.

If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self? Luke 9:23-25

Peter, James and John were partners in a small fishing business on the Sea of Galilee. This was their source of support for themselves as well as their families. Yet when they heard the call to become "fishers of men," they eagerly responded; "So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed Him" Luke 5:11.

Matthew (Levi) was a tax collector - a Jew appointed by the Roman government to collect taxes from his Jewish brothers. As a tax collector, Matthew made a good living, but he walked away from his life of security when Jesus called: "'Follow Me,' Jesus said to him, and Levi got up, left everything and followed Him" Luke 5:27-28.

In the Old Testament, Abraham moved his entire household to follow God without even knowing where he was being sent Genesis 12:1-5. Moses, at eighty years old, left the peaceful life of tending flocks to follow God's call to confront Pharaoh Exodus 3. And Elisha completely destroyed his old way of life when Elijah called: "He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people. Then he set out to follow Elijah" 1 Kings 19:21.

Answering the call to follow will always require a change, but the change may not be in physical location, profession, or status. The change may not always bring hardship. King Solomon followed God and was the richest man on earth. Joseph followed God and was the second most powerful man in Egypt. There is definitely a change involved with taking up our cross and following, but the real change occurs in the heart. It's a change where we learn "the secret of being content...whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want" Philippians 4:12. It's a change where we leave our old values and priorities and find complete fulfillment in Christ.

As we draw closer to our Heavenly Father, we will find His call to be irresistible. We will learn the freedom and power of daily being led by His Spirit. And, as with many others who have gone before, we will NEVER regret answering the call to leave everything and follow.

- steve troxel