Thursday, February 29, 2024

Thursday, February 29, 2024
Matthew 7:3
Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?

We’re so quick to judge others based on their flaws, but too busy to see our own. What if you applied the same scrutiny to yourself that you apply to others? Jesus challenges you and I to stop looking outward, and instead, turn your gaze inward. To examine your motives, your thoughts, and your desires, and to acknowledge your strengths and flaws for what they are. As you strive to be more like Christ, be honest with yourself and with God about the things in your heart that need to change, praying always for grace and for His help moving forward.

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Wednesday, February 28, 2024
1 Samuel 16:7
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

Appearance is everything in our culture, especially on social media; but God doesn’t see it that way. When Samuel was searching for the next king of Israel, he encountered more than one impressive young man who looked the part. Yet, the Lord rejected all of them, selecting instead a young shepherd boy named David. He was a man after God’s own heart, and the Lord knew that the stature of the heart mattered more than the stature of the body. You don’t have to put on a face for Him, for the Lord sees not as man sees. Give Christ your heart, acknowledging that you aren’t picture-perfect, but praying in faith that He would forgive you and make you more like Himself.

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Luke 11:33
No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar or under a basket, but on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light.

Christ was meek, but not cowardly. He was humble, but He spoke the truth and didn’t back down. He was the Son of God, the brightest light on earth, and it would’ve been a waste for Him not to spread that light in a world that is drowning in darkness. With Christ in Heaven, a piece of the Holy Spirit now lives within all who believe, so that we can be His ambassadors. Until He returns, we have a responsibility not to hide under a “basket” of shame or fear. Instead, stand firm, proud of the God who rescued you from death, and bold enough to tell anyone about Him.

Monday, February 26, 2024

Monday, February 26, 2024
Psalm 119:37
Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.

What do you have your sights set on? Our focus should be on what really matters, but so often we get distracted by our phones, the media, the drama at work, and the pattern of everyday life. If you’re going to live in the world but not of the world, as Christ commands, pay attention to what you pay attention to. What you choose to focus on during your day makes all the difference in how you live it. Set your mind on the Lord, ask Him how He wants you to walk through today, and find fulfilment living out the purpose for which He made you.

Friday, February 23, 2024

Friday, February 23, 2024
Matthew 5:10
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

When Peter and John were dragged before the Sanhedrin, they were strictly warned not to teach in the name of Jesus. When they persisted, the Pharisees seized and reprimanded them again, this time with a beating. But instead of getting angry, fighting back, and cursing their enemies, the apostles gave thanks to God for what had happened. They were honored to be worthy of taking a beating for Jesus, knowing that there would be rewards beyond compare for them in heaven. You may never have to face physical persecution for Christ’s sake, but every ounce of persecution you do face will be remembered when you come into His kingdom.

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Thursday, February 22, 2024
Matthew 5:8
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

It’s difficult to have a pure heart; more difficult than you might think. Having a pure heart means having pure intentions, and often our intentions are more selfish than we’re willing to admit. Are you kind to others because you love them, or because you want them to think you’re a nice person? Do you pray to have a genuine connection with God, or to show off like the Pharisees did? To be pure in heart is simply this: to put Christ’s intentions above your own. To seek His will, no matter what it is, because there is nothing more important to you than Him.