Inspirational and Bible Quotes.

[T.T.]

[lesbrewer]

Next Step of Love By: Lisa M. Samra






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




Today's Scripture & Insight :
1 John 3:16–18
What would cause someone to help a competitor? For a restaurant owner named Adrian, it was the opportunity to encourage other struggling local restaurant owners adapting to Covid regulations. Adrian knew firsthand the challenges of operating a business during a pandemic. Encouraged by another local business’ generosity, Adrian spent his own money to purchase more than two thousand pounds in gift cards to give away to his customers to use at other restaurants in his community. That’s an expression of love that’s not just words but action.

Building on the ultimate expression of love demonstrated by Jesus’ willingness to lay down His life for humanity (1 John 3:16), John encouraged his readers to also take the next step and put love into action. For John, to “lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters” (v. 16) meant demonstrating the same type of love exemplified by Jesus—and that would most often take the form of everyday, practical actions, such as sharing material possessions. It wasn’t enough to love with words; love required sincere, meaningful actions (v. 18).

Putting love into action can be hard because it often requires personal sacrifice or disadvantaging ourselves for another person. Enabled by God’s Spirit and remembering His lavish love for us, we can take the next step of love.





Reflect & Pray
How have you experienced love in action? How can you take the next step to love someone in a practical way?

Dear Jesus, help me to follow Your example and take the next step to demonstrate genuine love in my actions today.




SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
In 1 John 3, the author focuses on the concept of love lived out in practicality. Like Cain, a lack of love-in-action is comparable to hatred and murder (v. 15). Instead, the author appeals to the example of Jesus, whose act of laying down His own life demonstrates the kind of love we should live out as His children. But what does that love look like practically? The letter makes it very simple: care for the physical needs of fellow believers (vv. 17-18).

And lest we think that the words of 1 John 3 are only a recommendation, it’s important to remember that God took Israel to task—destroying their wealth and sending them into exile—in part because the wealthy failed to care for the needy among them (see Amos 5:11–12). God deeply cares for the poor and marginalized, and we demonstrate Christlike love when we show them that same care.

Jed Ostoich



1 John 3:16-18
King James Version
16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

17 But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?

18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.

[♣Emerald♣]

[lesbrewer]

Renaissance in Jesus By: Tim Gustafson






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Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.
John 12:24


Today's Scripture & Insight :
John 12:23–26
We know Leonardo da Vinci as the renaissance man. His intellectual prowess led to advances across multiple fields of study and the arts. Yet Leonardo wrote of “these miserable days of ours” and lamented that we die “without leaving behind any memory of ourselves in the mind of men”.

“While I thought I was learning how to live,” said Leonardo, “I was learning how to die.” He was closer to the truth than he may have realised. Learning how to die is the way to life. After Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem (what we now celebrate as Palm Sunday; see John 12:12–19), He said, “Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds” (v. 24). He spoke this about His own death but expanded it to include us all: “Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life” (v. 25).

The apostle Paul wrote of being “buried” with Christ “through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his” (Romans 6:4–5).

Through His death, Jesus offers us rebirth—the very meaning of renaissance. He has forged the way to eternal life with His Father.




Reflect & Pray
How do you measure the value of your life? How might you need to change those values?

Dear Father, I can find meaning and purpose nowhere else but in You.





SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
In the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), Jesus predicted His death at least three times. The first prediction followed Peter’s declaration of Jesus as the Messiah (reported in Matthew 16:21-23; Mark 8:31-32; Luke 9:21-22). The second and third instances are found in Matthew 17:22-23; 20:17-19; Mark 9:30-32; 10:32-34; and Luke 9:43-45; 18:31-34. These gospels all record Christ explicitly saying that He would die at the hand of the teachers of the law and would rise three days later.

The predictions in John’s gospel, however, are more subtle (12:7-8; 13:33; 14:25-29). In John 12:23-36, Christ’s death is predicted in somewhat poetic language. Jesus said that “the hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified” (v. 23) and that seeds need to die to produce more grain (v. 24). Each of the gospel writers recorded their stories for a deliberate purpose and to serve an intentional end.

JR Hudberg



John 12:23-26
King James Version
23 And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.

24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.

25 He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.

26 If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.

[T.T.]

[T.T.]

[lesbrewer]

Love God by Loving Others By: Elisa Morgan







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Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.
Matthew 25:40



Today's Scripture & Insight :
Matthew 25:31–40
The Alba family experienced the rare occurrence of birthing two sets of identical twins just thirteen months apart. How did they juggle their parental responsibilities as well as their jobs? Their community of friends and family stepped in. Grandparents on both sides took a set of twins during the day so the parents could work and pay the bills. One company gave a year’s supply of nappies. “We couldn’t have done it without our community,” they agreed. In fact, during a live interview, the co-host removed her microphone and ran after one renegade toddler, continuing the communal investment!

In Matthew 25:31–46, Jesus tells a parable to make the point that when we serve others, we serve God. After listing acts of service—including providing food to the hungry, drink to the thirsty, lodging for the homeless, clothes for the naked, and healing for the sick (vv. 35–36)—Jesus concludes, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (v. 40).

Imagining Jesus as the ultimate recipient of our kindness is true motivation to serve in our neighbourhoods, families, churches and world. When He prompts us to sacrificially invest in the needs of others, we serve Him. When we love others, we love God.




Reflect & Pray
How might you serve Jesus in your community today? How can you love God by loving others in your path?

Loving God, open my eyes to the needs of others around me so I can help meet them and love You better.




SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
In the parable typically referred to as “the sheep and the goats,” Jesus describes separating people when He returns as one would separate “the sheep from the goats” (Matthew 25:32). The two groups are separated based on their care of others. The group identified as “righteous” (v. 37) and the other group both address Jesus as “Lord” (vv. 37, 44). This would have reminded hearers of Christ’s words in Matthew 7:21 —that “not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”

Monica La Rose





Matthew 25:31-40
King James Version
31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:

32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:

33 And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.

34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:

36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?

38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?

39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

[T.T.]

[T.T.]

[lesbrewer]

Fruitful Believers in Christ By: Mike Wittmer





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Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit.
Mark 11:13


Today's Scripture & Insight :
Mark 11:12–20
Cindy was excited for her new job in a non-profit company. What an opportunity to make a difference! She soon discovered her co-workers didn’t share her enthusiasm. They mocked the company’s mission and made excuses for their poor performance as they looked elsewhere for more lucrative positions. Cindy wished she’d never applied for this job. What looked great from afar was disappointing up close.

This was Jesus’ problem with the fig tree mentioned in today’s story (Mark 11:13). It was early in the season, yet the tree’s leaves signalled it might have early figs. Nope. The tree had sprouted leaves, but it hadn’t yet produced fruit. Jesus cursed the tree, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again” (v. 14). By the next morning the tree had entirely withered (v. 20).

Christ once fasted forty days, so He knew how to go without food. Cursing the fig tree was not about His appetite. It was an object lesson. The tree represented Israel, which had the trappings of true religion but had lost the point. They were about to kill their Messiah, the Son of God. How more barren could they be?

We may look good from afar, but Jesus comes near, looking for fruit that only His Spirit can produce. Our fruit need not be spectacular. But it must be supernatural, such as love, joy and peace in hard times (Galatians 5:22). Relying on the Spirit, we can bear fruit even then for Jesus.




Reflect & Pray
What fruit do others see in you? How might you be more fruitful?

Holy Spirit, prune me so I might bear more fruit.




SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
The barren and withered fig tree, representing an unfaithful nation soon to be overrun by its enemies, is a common Old Testament image (Isaiah 28:4; 34:4; Jeremiah 8:13; Hosea 2:12; Joel 1:7, 12; Amos 4:9; Nahum 3:12; Habakkuk 3:17). Quite often, the centre of Israel’s faithlessness was its abuse of the temple services, and the prophets used a withered fig tree as a warning of the temple’s destruction. In fact, the passage quoted in Mark 11:17 is just such a text. Jesus quotes the prophet Jeremiah who condemns Judah for hypocritically thinking that temple attendance would expunge the guilt of her idolatry (see Jeremiah 7:2–4, 8, 11).

Adapted from Moving Mountains: The Practice of Persistent Prayer.

Guest Author



Mark 11:12-20
King James Version
12 And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry:

13 And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.

14 And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it.

15 And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves;

16 And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple.

17 And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.

18 And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy him: for they feared him, because all the people was astonished at his doctrine.

19 And when even was come, he went out of the city.

20 And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots.

[T.T.]

[lesbrewer]

Jesus, Our Substitute By: Marvin Williams






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Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.
1 Peter 3:18



Today's Scripture & Insight :
1 Peter 3:13–18
A wealthy twenty-year-old was drag-racing with his friends when he struck and killed a pedestrian. Although the young man received a three-year prison sentence, some believe that the man who appeared in court (and who subsequently served a prison sentence) was a hired surrogate for the driver who committed the crime. This type of thing has been known to occur in some countries where people hire body doubles to avoid paying for their crimes.

This may sound scandalous and outrageous, but more than two thousand years ago, Jesus became our substitute and “suffered once for [our] sins, the righteous for the unrighteous” (1 Peter 3:18). As God’s sinless sacrifice, Christ suffered and died once and for all (Hebrews 10:10), for all who believe in Him. He took the penalty for all our sins in His own body on the cross. Unlike a person today who chooses to be a substitute for a criminal to get some cash, Christ’s substitutionary death on the cross provided “hope” for us as He freely, willingly gave His life for us (1 Peter 3:15, 18; John 10:15). He did so to bridge the chasm between us and God.

May we rejoice and find comfort and confidence in this profound truth: only by the substitutionary death of Jesus can we—sinners in need—have a relationship with and complete spiritual access to our loving God.





Reflect & Pray
How has Christ’s substitutionary death changed your life? What does it mean for you to have access to God and eternal life because of His death on the cross?

Dear Jesus, thank You for dying in my place so that I might have access to God.




SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
In 1 Peter 3:13-14, the apostle encourages believers in Jesus to “do good,” even if they suffer for it. Believers in Christ aren’t to fear but are to trust in God and be prepared to witness for Him. Peter reminds us that Jesus suffered unjustly and died for our sins, “the righteous for the unrighteous” (v. 18). His was a once-for-all sacrifice. Whoever believes in Him as their Saviour and repents of their sins receives His forgiveness. Our salvation doesn’t guarantee we won’t suffer; today’s passage and other Scripture passages tell us something quite different. Jesus said, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first” ( John 15:18); also, “If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also” (v. 20). And Paul tells us, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12).

Alyson Kieda




1 Peter 3:13-18
King James Version
13 And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?

14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;

15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.

18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:

[T.T.]

[lesbrewer]

The Passion of Christ By: Alyson Kieda






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The punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5



Today's Scripture & Insight :
Isaiah 53:4–7, 10–12
Before Jim Caviezel played Jesus in the film The Passion of the Christ, director Mel Gibson warned that the role would be extremely difficult and could negatively impact his career in Hollywood. Caviezel took on the role anyway, saying, “I think we have to make it, even if it is difficult.”

During the filming, Caviezel was struck by lightning, lost forty-five pounds and was accidentally whipped during the flogging scene. Afterwards, he stated, “I didn’t want people to see me. I just wanted them to see Jesus. Conversions will happen through that.” While opinions about the film vary, clearly Caviezel and many others on set were deeply affected while they were making it.

The passion of Christ refers to the time of Jesus’ greatest suffering, from His triumphal entry on Palm Sunday and including His betrayal, mocking, flogging and crucifixion. Accounts are found in all four gospels.

In Isaiah 53, His suffering and its outcome are foretold: “He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed” (v. 5). All of us, “like sheep, have gone astray” (v. 6). But because of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, we can have peace with God. His suffering opened the way for us to be with Him.




Reflect & Pray
What aspect of Christ’s life most impacts you? How does His suffering affect you?

Precious Saviour, it’s hard to express how grateful I am that You suffered, died, and rose again for me. Thank You.



SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
The Song of the Suffering Servant we most often associate with Isaiah 53 actually begins in the previous chapter at verse 13. There, the servant is introduced as one who is wise and who will be “raised and lifted up and highly exalted” (52:13). If that final phrase sounds familiar, that’s because it’s one of Isaiah’s favourite ways to describe his encounters with Yahweh (God) Himself.

In Isaiah 6:1, the prophet recounts seeing the God of Israel in His temple “high [rum] and exalted [nasa’]”; in 52:13, the NIV translates the same two Hebrew words as “raised and lifted up.” Isaiah associates the exaltation of the Suffering Servant with the very person of Yahweh, looking ahead to the Son Himself, Jesus.

Jed Ostoich





Isaiah 53:4-7
King James Version
4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.

5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.


Isaiah 53:10-12
King James Version
10 Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.

11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.

12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

[T.T.]

[Linda]

[lesbrewer]

Jesus Christ Is Risen Today! By: Amy Boucher Pye






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He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
Matthew 28:6



Today's Scripture & Insight :
Matthew 28:1–10
Before Charles Simeon attended university in Cambridge, England, he loved horses and clothes, spending a huge sum on his attire yearly. But because his college required him to attend regular Communion services, he started to explore what he believed. After reading books written by believers in Jesus, he experienced a dramatic conversion on Easter Sunday. Awaking early on 4 April, 1779, he cried out, “Jesus Christ is risen today! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!” As he grew in his faith in God, he devoted himself to Bible study, prayer and attending chapel services.

On the first Easter, life changed for the two women who arrived at Jesus’ tomb. There they witnessed a violent earthquake as an angel rolled back the stone. He said to them, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said” (Matthew 28:5–6). Overjoyed, the women worshipped Jesus and ran back to tell their friends the good news.

Encountering the risen Christ isn’t something reserved for ancient times—He promises to meet us here and now. We might experience a dramatic encounter, such as the women at the tomb or as Charles Simeon did, but we might not. In whatever way Jesus reveals Himself to us, we can trust that He loves us.




Reflect & Pray
How has God shown Himself to you? How have you changed because of your encounter with Him?

Risen Jesus, thank You for coming and dying on the cross that I might have life eternal. I worship You.



SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Matthew’s resurrection account is stunning, particularly in its honesty. In addition to the joy of the women upon seeing the risen Jesus (28:8), we’re also told of the disciples’ unbelief (v. 17). When you weave together the resurrection accounts in the various gospels (and 1 Corinthians 15 ), it’s clear that Jesus had appeared to His disciples several times at this point, yet some still doubted. We might find a small measure of comfort in that. In spite of all Christ has done for us and the ways He’s proven Himself merciful and faithful, we still can struggle with doubts as they did. Like the father of the demonized boy, we find ourselves praying, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24).

Bill Crowder



Matthew 28:1-10
King James Version
28 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.

2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.

3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:

4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.

5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.

8 And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.

9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.

10 Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.

[T.T.]

[lesbrewer]

Meeting Together in Jesus By: Alyson Kieda






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[Don’t give] up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but [encourage] one another.
Hebrews 10:25



Today's Scripture & Insight :
Hebrews 10:19-25
When I went through an extended period of emotional and spiritual pain and struggle due to difficult circumstances in my life, it would have been easy for me to withdraw from church. (And sometimes I did wonder, Why bother?). But I felt compelled to keep attending each Sunday.

Although my situation remained the same for many long years, worshipping and gathering with other believers in services, prayer meetings and Bible study supplied the encouragement I needed to persevere and remain hopeful. And often I’d not only hear an uplifting message or teaching, but I’d receive comfort, a listening ear or a hug I needed from others.

The author of Hebrews wrote, “[Don’t give] up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but [encourage] one another” (Hebrews 10:25). This author knew that when we face hardships and difficulties, we’ll need the reassurance of others—and that others would need ours. So this Scripture writer reminded readers to “hold unswervingly to the hope we profess” and to consider how to “spur one another on towards love and good deeds” (vv. 23-24). That’s a big part of what encouragement is. That’s why God leads us to keep meeting together. Someone may need your loving encouragement, and you may be surprised by what you receive in return.





Reflect & Pray
When have you felt encouraged after leaving a worship service? Why? Who needs your support and reassurance?

Loving God, help me not to give up meeting together with other believers, but to experience together Your peace and love.




SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
The author of the letter to the Hebrews is anonymous. Authorship theories over the years have ranged from Paul to Apollos to Luke and to others. What we do know about this important letter is that it was written to Jewish believers in Jesus who were experiencing persecution. The writer seems to be addressing a kind of spiritual fatigue that had these readers contemplating abandoning the faith. It’s in that context that the teaching of Hebrews 10 is best understood. As a faith community, they needed each other and the strength and support uniquely found in the body of Christ. More than just a wagging finger to admonish them to attend church, it was a strong encouragement that together they were stronger.

Bill Crowder




Hebrews 10:19-25
King James Version
19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,

20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;

21 And having an high priest over the house of God;

22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)

24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

[T.T.]

[lesbrewer]

Fear By: Chris Wale





Click here for the Audio Message




We will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.
Psalm 46:2




Today's Scripture & Insight :
Psalm 46
John Donne knew fear. The seventeenth-century church minister wrote many of his meditations when he was ill and seemingly on the threshold of death. “I should belie nature if I should deny that I feared this,” he admitted candidly.

During one season on his sickbed, it dawned upon Donne that life will always find a way to make us fearful. Illness, finances, work issues—really, the list is endless. Donne summed up the choice we face as follows: we either fear God or we fear everything else.

Donne’s reflection perfectly matches the psalmist’s: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea” (Psalm 46:1–2). Our fear of this world is transformed when we reverently fear the Lord. To ‘fear’ Him is to “be still, and know that [he is] God” (v. 10), ruling over every worry.

Imagine! The One who can melt the earth with the sound of His voice (v. 6) is our fortress today (v. 11). Donne realised that no trial or trouble—not even death—could ever stand against God. So, he wrote in his diary, “Give me, O Lord, a fear of which I may not be afraid.” This awesome fear of our almighty yet loving God melts all other fears. For He is our “ever-present help in trouble” (v. 1).




Reflect & Pray
What are you afraid of at the moment? How might a reverent fear of God lessen your fear of your circumstances and bring you peace?

Dear God, I thank You for being my fortress in times of trouble. Help me to set my awe and adoration upon You alone, for You are greater than anything I will ever face.



SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
In Psalm 46, the psalmist uses exaggeration to express his trust in the safety God provides. He tells of feeling safe in circumstances where safety is unimaginable. When the very ground under our feet is uncertain, the psalmist expresses confidence in the protection of the Lord. He isn’t saying, “Do not fear” because our circumstances are not fear-worthy, but because our God is bigger than our troubles. In uncertain times, He is stable. The mountains crumbling into the sea is a graphic image of the most stable land feature giving way. In what circumstances do you need to remember that God is constant and unchanging? How can you express your trust in Him as your refuge?

J.R. Hudberg



Psalm 46
King James Version
46 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

2 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

3 Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

4 There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.

5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.

6 The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted.

7 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord, what desolations he hath made in the earth.

9 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.

10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

11 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.

[T.T.]

[lesbrewer]

I Hear You, God! By: Xochitl Dixon






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The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice.
John 10:3


Today's Scripture & Insight :
John 10:1-11, 16
Baby Graham fussed and wiggled as his mother held him in her lap while the doctors inserted his first hearing aid. Moments after the doctor turned on the device, Graham stopped crying. His eyes widened. He grinned. He could hear his mother’s voice comforting him, encouraging him and calling his name.

Baby Graham heard his mother speaking, but he needed help learning how to recognise her voice and understand the meaning of her words. Jesus invites people into a similar learning process. Once we accept Christ as our Saviour, we become the sheep He knows intimately and guides personally (John 10:3). We can grow to trust and obey Him as we practise hearing and heeding His voice (v. 4).

In the Old Testament, God spoke through the prophets. In the New Testament, Jesus—God in the flesh—spoke directly to people. Today, believers in Jesus have access to the power of the Holy Spirit, who helps us understand and obey God’s words which He inspired and preserved in the Bible. We can communicate directly with Jesus through our prayers as He speaks to us through Scripture and through His people. As we come to recognise God’s voice, which is always in alignment with His words in the Bible, we can cry out with grateful praise, “I hear You, God!”




Reflect & Pray
How has God used the Scriptures to reveal Himself to you this week? How can you speak His wisdom to others who need comfort or encouragement today?

I hear You, God! Please help me receive and share the truth and love You reveal to me as I read the Bible.



SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
References to God as shepherd, including the well-known Psalm 23, are found throughout the Old Testament. Jacob says God has been “my shepherd all my life” and calls Him “the Shepherd, the Rock of Israel” (Genesis 48:15; 49:24).

In the New Testament, Jesus says He is “the good shepherd [who] lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11), and those who listen and respond to His voice are His sheep (vv. 3-5). In Hebrews 13:20, the author calls Christ the “great Shepherd of the sheep.” Peter refers to Him as “the Shepherd and Overseer of [our] souls” (1 Peter 2:25). As God’s sheep, we’re to listen to our Shepherd and respond in obedience ( John 10:27).

Alyson Kieda





John 10:1-11
King James Version
10 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.

2 But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.

3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.

4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.

5 And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.

6 This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.

7 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.

8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.

9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.

10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.



John 10:16
King James Version
16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.

[T.T.]

[lesbrewer]

In God’s Arms By: Leslie Koh






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I will be with him in trouble.
Psalm 91:15




Today's Scripture & Insight :
Psalm 91:1-2, 14-16
The sound of the drill terrified five-year-old Sarah. She leaped out of the dentist’s chair and refused to get back in. Nodding understandingly, the dentist told her father, “Daddy, get into the chair.” Jason thought he was meant to show his daughter how easy it was. But then the dentist turned to the little girl and said, “Now, climb up and sit in Daddy’s lap.” With her father now cradling her in his reassuring arms, Sarah relaxed completely, and the dentist was able to continue.

That day, Jason learned a great lesson about the comfort of the presence of his heavenly Father. “Sometimes, God [chooses not to] take over what we have to go through,” he said. “But God was showing me, ‘I will be there with you.’ ”

Psalm 91 speaks of the comforting presence and power of God that gives us the strength to face our trials. Knowing that we can rest in His powerful arms gives us great assurance, as does His promise to those who love Him: “He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble” (v. 15).

There are many unavoidable challenges and trials in life, and we will inevitably have to go through pain and suffering. But with God’s reassuring arms wrapped around us, we’ll be able to bear our crises and circumstances, and let Him strengthen our faith as we grow through them.




Reflect & Pray
What trials are you going through now? How can you remind yourself that God is always with you?

Gracious Father, thank You for Your reassuring presence in my circumstances. Please help me through them, knowing that You’re always with me.




SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Psalm 91 includes three names for God in the first two verses: Elyon—“Most High” (v. 1), Shaddai—“Almighty” (v. 1), and Yahweh—“Lord” (v. 2). These names reveal who God is. After rescuing his nephew Lot, Abraham is blessed by the “God Most High” (Elyon, Genesis 14:19). Later, when God establishes His covenant with Abraham (17:1-5), God claims the name Shaddai, “God Almighty” (v. 1).

It’s when God meets Moses on Horeb, “the mountain of God” (Exodus 3:1), that He names Himself Yahweh, containing the verb “I am” (v. 14), rendered in English as “the Lord” (6:3). He used other names with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, but not Yahweh. This new name marks the beginning of God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery.

Psalm 91 moves the reader through these names—“Most High,” “Almighty,” and then "I am,” reminding us of God’s protection, provision, and deliverance long ago and calling us to trust that same God today.

Jed Ostoich




Psalm 91:1-2
King James Version
91 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.


Psalm 91:14-16
King James Version
14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

[T.T.]

[T.T.]

[lesbrewer]

Uncountable Blessings By: Tanya Marlow








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Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.
Genesis 15:5


Today's Scripture & Insight :
Genesis 15:1–5
Aged nineteen, I travelled in Zimbabwe and spent a memorable night camping out under the stars in the middle of the African bush. While I expected to identify a few more constellations than I’d seen in European cities, nothing could have prepared me for the impact of that night sky. I gaped in wonder—it was as if the heavens had become a dark sieve with light pouring through the holes.

I often think of that scene when I read about God telling Abram to count the stars. Despite his considerable blessings, Abram was despairing at his lack of legacy. All he wanted from God was the reassurance that he would have at least one child who would continue his line (Genesis 15:2–3). God confirmed that he would indeed have a son and heir (v. 4). But then God said something even more remarkable: Abram’s descendants would be as many as the uncountable stars (v. 5).

Abram was asking God for a candle of hope. But God replied with millions of shining lights. When we pray, we can often think our requests are too much for God. This passage challenges that attitude: what if our hopes are not too big, but too small? God’s goodness to us is abundant, and His blessings are multitudinous. May this realisation spur us on as we come before God’s throne of grace today.




Reflect & Pray
What problems in your life do you secretly believe are too much for God? Look up at the night sky as Abram did: how does this inspire you to pray?

Dear God, who can do more than we ask or imagine, give me the courage to come to You with every issue in my life, trusting in Your extravagant goodness.

[T.T.]

[lesbrewer]

Five Good Things By: Sheridan Voysey






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Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Psalm 107:1




Today's Scripture & Insight :
Psalm 107:1-9
According to research, people who are intentionally grateful for what they have report better sleep, fewer symptoms of illness and more happiness. Those are impressive benefits. Psychologists even suggest keeping a “thankfulness diary” to improve our wellbeing, writing down five things we’re grateful for each week.

Scripture has long promoted the practice of gratitude. “Everything God created is good” (1 Timothy 4:4), and the Bible has called us to recognise God’s gifts and to thank Him for them. Psalm 107 lists five things Israel could be especially grateful for: their rescue from the desert (Psalm 107:4-9), their release from captivity (vv. 10-16), healing from disease (vv. 18-22), safety at sea (vv. 23-32) and their flourishing in a barren land (vv. 33-42). “Give thanks to the Lord,” the psalm repeats, for these are all signs of God’s “unfailing love” (vv. 8, 15, 21, 31).

Do you have a notepad handy? Why not write down five good things you’re grateful for now? It might be the meal you just enjoyed, special people in your life or, like Israel, God’s rescues and provision in your life to date. Give thanks for the birds singing outside, the smells from your kitchen, the comfort of your chair, the murmurs of loved ones. Each is a gift and a sign of God’s unfailing love.




Reflect & Pray
Why do you think Scripture so often calls us to be thankful? What five good things are you grateful for today?

Father God, I’m grateful for every good thing You’ve brought into my life. And most of all, I’m grateful for You.




SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Psalm 107 is a carefully constructed poetic display of the might and mercy of God in the lives of those menaced by various life challenges. It begins with a call to worship God (v. 1), for He’s redeemed us: “Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe” (v. 2). The word redeemed translates the Hebrew ga’al. This rich word means “to redeem,” “to act as kinsman-redeemer” (to do the part of a kinsman). The word is first used in Genesis 48:16 where Jacob, at the end of his adventurous, complicated life, referred to God as “the Angel who has delivered [redeemed] me from all harm.” Biblically and historically, God is our redeemer. All those who place their trust in Jesus, God’s Son, for forgiveness of sins are redeemed and rescued from God’s wrath.

Arthur Jackson



Psalm 107:1-9
King James Version
107 O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;

3 And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south.

4 They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in.

5 Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them.

6 Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses.

7 And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation.

8 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

9 For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.