Day 260 - September 18, 2025

Scripture: Proverbs 12:1-28

Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,
    but whoever hates correction is stupid.

2 Good people obtain favor from the Lord,
    but he condemns those who devise wicked schemes.

3 No one can be established through wickedness,
    but the righteous cannot be uprooted.

4 A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown,
    but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.

5 The plans of the righteous are just,
    but the advice of the wicked is deceitful.

6 The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood,
    but the speech of the upright rescues them.

7 The wicked are overthrown and are no more,
    but the house of the righteous stands firm.

8 A person is praised according to their prudence,
    and one with a warped mind is despised.

9 Better to be a nobody and yet have a servant
    than pretend to be somebody and have no food.

10 The righteous care for the needs of their animals,
    but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.

11 Those who work their land will have abundant food,
    but those who chase fantasies have no sense.

12 The wicked desire the stronghold of evildoers,
    but the root of the righteous endures.

13 Evildoers are trapped by their sinful talk,
    and so the innocent escape trouble.

14 From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things,
    and the work of their hands brings them reward.

15 The way of fools seems right to them,
    but the wise listen to advice.

16 Fools show their annoyance at once,
    but the prudent overlook an insult.

17 An honest witness tells the truth,
    but a false witness tells lies.

18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords,
    but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

19 Truthful lips endure forever,
    but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

20 Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil,
    but those who promote peace have joy.

21 No harm overtakes the righteous,
    but the wicked have their fill of trouble.

22 The Lord detests lying lips,
    but he delights in people who are trustworthy.

23 The prudent keep their knowledge to themselves,
    but a fool’s heart blurts out folly.

24 Diligent hands will rule,
    but laziness ends in forced labor.

25 Anxiety weighs down the heart,
    but a kind word cheers it up.

26 The righteous choose their friends carefully,
    but the way of the wicked leads them astray.

27 The lazy do not roast[a] any game,
    but the diligent feed on the riches of the hunt.

28 In the way of righteousness there is life;
    along that path is immortality.

Observation:

“The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.” Proverbs 12:15

Application:

People who ignore good advice close themselves off to growth and improvement, while those who embrace constructive criticism show wisdom and continue to grow in understanding.

Prayer:

Lord, guide us to embrace the wisdom of the righteous and grow through Your Word, for it leads us to prosperity, generosity, and eternal life. Amen.

Day 259 - September 17, 2025

Scripture: Proverbs 11:1-31

The Lord detests dishonest scales,
    but accurate weights find favor with him.

2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace,
    but with humility comes wisdom.

3 The integrity of the upright guides them,
    but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.

4 Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath,
    but righteousness delivers from death.

5 The righteousness of the blameless makes their paths straight,
    but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness.

6 The righteousness of the upright delivers them,
    but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires.

7 Hopes placed in mortals die with them;
    all the promise of[a] their power comes to nothing.

8 The righteous person is rescued from trouble,
    and it falls on the wicked instead.

9 With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors,
    but through knowledge the righteous escape.

10 When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices;
    when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy.

11 Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted,
    but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.

12 Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense,
    but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.

13 A gossip betrays a confidence,
    but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.

14 For lack of guidance a nation falls,
    but victory is won through many advisers.

15 Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer,
    but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.

16 A kindhearted woman gains honor,
    but ruthless men gain only wealth.

17 Those who are kind benefit themselves,
    but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.

18 A wicked person earns deceptive wages,
    but the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.

19 Truly the righteous attain life,
    but whoever pursues evil finds death.

20 The Lord detests those whose hearts are perverse,
    but he delights in those whose ways are blameless.

21 Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished,
    but those who are righteous will go free.

22 Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout
    is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.

23 The desire of the righteous ends only in good,
    but the hope of the wicked only in wrath.

24 One person gives freely, yet gains even more;
    another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.

25 A generous person will prosper;
    whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.

26 People curse the one who hoards grain,
    but they pray God’s blessing on the one who is willing to sell.

27 Whoever seeks good finds favor,
    but evil comes to one who searches for it.

28 Those who trust in their riches will fall,
    but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.

29 Whoever brings ruin on their family will inherit only wind,
    and the fool will be servant to the wise.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life,
    and the one who is wise saves lives.

31 If the righteous receive their due on earth,
    how much more the ungodly and the sinner!

Observation:

“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25

Application:

We are blessed by God to share those blessings with others in the world. When we show generosity to those around us, we often find that generosity returns to us. It’s true that giving is more rewarding than receiving.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, remind us daily that every good gift comes from You. We can do nothing without Your blessings of life, breath, talents, opportunities, and all the factors that reflect Your grace. Help us to be generous, understanding that You are a faithful God, and it brings You joy when we mirror Your generosity. Amen.

Day 258 - September 16, 2025

Scripture: Proverbs 10:1-32

Proverbs of Solomon

10 The proverbs of Solomon:

A wise son brings joy to his father,
    but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.

2 Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value,
    but righteousness delivers from death.

3 The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry,
    but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.

4 Lazy hands make for poverty,
    but diligent hands bring wealth.

5 He who gathers crops in summer is a prudent son,
    but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.

6 Blessings crown the head of the righteous,
    but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.[a]

7 The name of the righteous is used in blessings,[b]
    but the name of the wicked will rot.

8 The wise in heart accept commands,
    but a chattering fool comes to ruin.

9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,
    but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.

10 Whoever winks maliciously causes grief,
    and a chattering fool comes to ruin.

11 The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life,
    but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.

12 Hatred stirs up conflict,
    but love covers over all wrongs.

13 Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning,
    but a rod is for the back of one who has no sense.

14 The wise store up knowledge,
    but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.

15 The wealth of the rich is their fortified city,
    but poverty is the ruin of the poor.

16 The wages of the righteous is life,
    but the earnings of the wicked are sin and death.

17 Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life,
    but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.

18 Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips
    and spreads slander is a fool.

19 Sin is not ended by multiplying words,
    but the prudent hold their tongues.

20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver,
    but the heart of the wicked is of little value.

21 The lips of the righteous nourish many,
    but fools die for lack of sense.

22 The blessing of the Lord brings wealth,
    without painful toil for it.

23 A fool finds pleasure in wicked schemes,
    but a person of understanding delights in wisdom.

24 What the wicked dread will overtake them;
    what the righteous desire will be granted.

25 When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone,
    but the righteous stand firm forever.

26 As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes,
    so are sluggards to those who send them.

27 The fear of the Lord adds length to life,
    but the years of the wicked are cut short.

28 The prospect of the righteous is joy,
    but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing.

29 The way of the Lord is a refuge for the blameless,
    but it is the ruin of those who do evil.

30 The righteous will never be uprooted,
    but the wicked will not remain in the land.

31 From the mouth of the righteous comes the fruit of wisdom,
    but a perverse tongue will be silenced.

32 The lips of the righteous know what finds favor,
    but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse.

Observation:

“Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.” Proverbs 10:12

Application:

Hatred in our hearts builds walls and hardens us, making it impossible to communicate with those we despise. But love, true love, conquers all evil and wrongdoing. Love builds bridges!

Prayer:

Lord God, You loved us even when we were unlovable, changing us through Your love to become more like You. Help us use the love You’ve given us to show kindness and grace to others in our lives, especially those with whom we disagree. Amen.

Day 257 - September 15, 2025

Scripture: Proverbs 4:1-27

Get Wisdom at Any Cost

4 Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction;
    pay attention and gain understanding.
2 I give you sound learning,
    so do not forsake my teaching.
3 For I too was a son to my father,
    still tender, and cherished by my mother.
4 Then he taught me, and he said to me,
    “Take hold of my words with all your heart;
    keep my commands, and you will live.
5 Get wisdom, get understanding;
    do not forget my words or turn away from them.
6 Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you;
    love her, and she will watch over you.
7 The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom.
    Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
8 Cherish her, and she will exalt you;
    embrace her, and she will honor you.
9 She will give you a garland to grace your head
    and present you with a glorious crown.”

10 Listen, my son, accept what I say,
    and the years of your life will be many.
11 I instruct you in the way of wisdom
    and lead you along straight paths.
12 When you walk, your steps will not be hampered;
    when you run, you will not stumble.
13 Hold on to instruction, do not let it go;
    guard it well, for it is your life.
14 Do not set foot on the path of the wicked
    or walk in the way of evildoers.
15 Avoid it, do not travel on it;
    turn from it and go on your way.
16 For they cannot rest until they do evil;
    they are robbed of sleep till they make someone stumble.
17 They eat the bread of wickedness
    and drink the wine of violence.

18 The path of the righteous is like the morning sun,
    shining ever brighter till the full light of day.
19 But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness;
    they do not know what makes them stumble.

20 My son, pay attention to what I say;
    turn your ear to my words.
21 Do not let them out of your sight,
    keep them within your heart;
22 for they are life to those who find them
    and health to one’s whole body.
23 Above all else, guard your heart,
    for everything you do flows from it.
24 Keep your mouth free of perversity;
    keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
25 Let your eyes look straight ahead;
    fix your gaze directly before you.
26 Give careful thought to the paths for your feet
    and be steadfast in all your ways.
27 Do not turn to the right or the left;
    keep your foot from evil.

Observation:

“Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.” Proverbs 4:13

Application:

By following God’s teachings in His Word, we grow in wisdom, knowledge, and love for the Lord. Seeking God’s wisdom is essential to our lives. Jesus encourages us to seek God first, along with His Kingdom and righteousness, and everything else will be provided to us.

Prayer:

Lord, guide us to grow in wisdom by following Your counsel in Your Word. Help us, as Your children, to seek Your guidance daily, so we may walk with You moment by moment, letting Your Word be the lamp to our feet and the light to our path. Amen.

Day 256 - September 14, 2025

Scripture: Proverbs 3:1-35

Wisdom Bestows Well-Being

3 My son, do not forget my teaching,
    but keep my commands in your heart,
2 for they will prolong your life many years
    and bring you peace and prosperity.

3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
    bind them around your neck,
    write them on the tablet of your heart.
4 Then you will win favor and a good name
    in the sight of God and man.

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
    and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways submit to him,
    and he will make your paths straight.

7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
    fear the Lord and shun evil.
8 This will bring health to your body
    and nourishment to your bones.

9 Honor the Lord with your wealth,
    with the firstfruits of all your crops;
10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
    and your vats will brim over with new wine.

11 My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline,
    and do not resent his rebuke,
12 because the Lord disciplines those he loves,
    as a father the son he delights in.

13 Blessed are those who find wisdom,
    those who gain understanding,
14 for she is more profitable than silver
    and yields better returns than gold.
15 She is more precious than rubies;
    nothing you desire can compare with her.
16 Long life is in her right hand;
    in her left hand are riches and honor.
17 Her ways are pleasant ways,
    and all her paths are peace.
18 She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;
    those who hold her fast will be blessed.

19 By wisdom the Lord laid the earth’s foundations,
    by understanding he set the heavens in place;
20 by his knowledge the watery depths were divided,
    and the clouds let drop the dew.

21 My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight,
    preserve sound judgment and discretion;
22 they will be life for you,
    an ornament to grace your neck.
23 Then you will go on your way in safety,
    and your foot will not stumble.
24 When you lie down, you will not be afraid;
    when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
25 Have no fear of sudden disaster
    or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked,
26 for the Lord will be at your side
    and will keep your foot from being snared.

27 Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,
    when it is in your power to act.
28 Do not say to your neighbor,
    “Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you”—
    when you already have it with you.
29 Do not plot harm against your neighbor,
    who lives trustfully near you.
30 Do not accuse anyone for no reason—
    when they have done you no harm.

31 Do not envy the violent
    or choose any of their ways.

32 For the Lord detests the perverse
    but takes the upright into his confidence.
33 The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked,
    but he blesses the home of the righteous.
34 He mocks proud mockers
    but shows favor to the humble and oppressed.
35 The wise inherit honor,
    but fools get only shame.

Observation:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Application:

Our thoughts are not the same as God’s thoughts, and our ways are not like God’s ways. That’s why a wise person chooses to follow the Lord’s teachings, which remain constant through time—yesterday, today, and forever. By doing so, we gain wisdom, and our lives are enriched by the Lord’s guidance.

Prayer:

Lord, emblazon Your words upon our hearts so that we may be transformed by Your Word as You guide us in Your Ways, Your Truth, and the Life You have planned for us—plans to prosper us and give us hope and a future. Amen.

Day 255 - September 13, 2025

Scripture: Luke 18:1-7

The Parable of the Persistent Widow

18 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. 2 He said: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared what people thought. 3 And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’

4 “For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care what people think, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually come and attack me!’”

6 And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. 7 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?

Observation:

Jesus tells the story of a persistent widow and a judge who neither feared God nor cared about people. Despite the judge’s indifference, he eventually granted the widow justice, not out of righteousness but simply to stop her from bothering him. If even such a judge could grant justice, how much more will God, who is entirely good, provide justice to His people?

Application:

Be persistent in prayer to God, never giving up, and trust that He will answer your prayers. When you remain in constant prayer, God joins you in your prayers and reveals His will for your life. Through prayer, we experience God’s true presence.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank You for being a faithful and loving God who hears our prayers and, in the process, reveals Yourself to us, transforming us along the way. Amen.

Day 254 - September 12, 2025

Scripture: Luke 15:11–32

The Parable of the Lost Son

11 Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them.

13 “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14 After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.

17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father.

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’

22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.

25 “Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. 27 ‘Your brother has come,’ he replied, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’

28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’

31 “‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’” (NIV)

Observation:

In the third of Jesus' parables about being lost, He tells the story of a wealthy father whose youngest son asks for his share of the inheritance to live life on his own terms. The father divides the estate between his two sons, with the oldest receiving a double portion as the new head of the household. The younger son wastes his share on reckless living and, finding himself destitute, takes a job in a land where even workers struggle to survive. Desperate and hungry, he realizes that even the servants on his father's estate live better than him. He prays for God's forgiveness and rehearses asking his father to take him back as a servant. Instead, the father joyfully welcomes his lost son home and throws a celebration. When the older son, working in the fields, learns of the party, he feels upset and complains to his father. The father responds, "My son, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found." (Luke 15:31-32)

Application:

The three parables we read over the past two days highlight the joy of finding what was lost. They culminate in the powerful story of the lost son, who comes to his senses and returns home. Similarly, God celebrates in the presence of angels when a lost sinner repents and comes back to Him. We should join in that celebration when someone turns to Jesus for salvation—because at that moment, there's a party happening in heaven.

Prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for revealing God's heart for the salvation of the lost. Help us to join you in this mission, so we can share the gospel message of salvation by trusting in Your deliverance. May we partner with You in this vital work. Amen..

Day 253 - September 11, 2025

Scripture: Luke 15:1-10

The Parable of the Lost Sheep

15 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”

3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.

The Parable of the Lost Coin

8 “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins[a] and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (NIV)

Observation:

Jesus responds to the mutterings of the Pharisees and teachers of the law by sharing three parables about the lost. The first is about a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to find the one that is lost. The second is about a woman who, after losing one of her ten coins, turns her house upside down to find it. In both stories, there is a celebration when the lost is found. Similarly, Jesus explains that there is rejoicing in the presence of angels over one sinner who repents. (Luke 15:10)

Application:

If there’s a celebration in the presence of angels in heaven, who else would be celebrating but God Himself? This reminds us that helping the lost to be found is a top priority in God’s plan. We should do everything we can to help God rejoice.

Prayer:

O Lord, guide us to celebrate with You as we take part in Your plan of salvation, spreading the Gospel by being faithful witnesses in all we do. Help us to share the grace You have given us by telling our stories of faith to everyone we meet. Amen.

Day 252 - September 10, 2025

Scripture: Luke 14:7–24

7 When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honor at the table, he told them this parable: 8 “When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honor, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited. 9 If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, ‘Give this person your seat.’ Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important place. 10 But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, ‘Friend, move up to a better place.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all the other guests. 11 For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

12 Then Jesus said to his host, “When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. 13 But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, 14 and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”

The Parable of the Great Banquet

15 When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.”

16 Jesus replied: “A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. 17 At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’

18 “But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.’

19 “Another said, ‘I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.’

20 “Still another said, ‘I just got married, so I can’t come.’

21 “The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.’

22 “‘Sir,’ the servant said, ‘what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.’

23 “Then the master told his servant, ‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full. 24 I tell you, not one of those who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.’” (NIV)

Observation:

After noticing guests at a banquet competing for the best seats of honor, Jesus advises that when invited to a feast, you should choose the lower seat instead of the higher one. He explains that those who try to exalt themselves will be humbled, while those who humble themselves will be exalted. (Luke 14:11)

Application:

Jesus advises us not to think too highly of ourselves, but to remain humble in all things, recognizing that we are sinful and in need of God’s grace. By understanding our need for grace, we can embrace humility in every situation and find blessings through it.

Prayer:

Lord, we know we are unworthy and that we fall short of Your glory. Please, through the power and presence of Your Holy Spirit, help us remember that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus, not by our own efforts. Teach us to be thankful for Your amazing grace in every moment of life. Amen.

Day 251 - September 9, 2025

Scripture: Luke 13:18-3

The Parables of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast

18 Then Jesus asked, “What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to? 19 It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds perched in its branches.”

20 Again he asked, “What shall I compare the kingdom of God to? 21 It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough.”

The Narrow Door

22 Then Jesus went through the towns and villages, teaching as he made his way to Jerusalem. 23 Someone asked him, “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?”

He said to them, 24 “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. 25 Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Sir, open the door for us.’

“But he will answer, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.’

26 “Then you will say, ‘We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.’

27 “But he will reply, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from. Away from me, all you evildoers!’

28 “There will be weeping there, and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but you yourselves thrown out. 29 People will come from east and west and north and south, and will take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. 30 Indeed there are those who are last who will be first, and first who will be last.” (NIV)

Observation:

Jesus explains the Kingdom of God through parables, starting with the mustard seed, a tiny seed that grows into a large tree. He also uses the parable of yeast or leaven, which is often associated with sin or evil, but here he describes a woman mixing yeast into 60 pounds of flour, causing the dough to rise as it spreads throughout. Lastly, Jesus urges us to enter the Kingdom of God through the narrow door, saying, “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to” (Luke 13:24).

Application:

When Jesus gives advice, it's crucial to listen and act on it. He stresses the urgency of striving to enter the Kingdom of God, a message not to be taken lightly. It's not about earning our way into heaven, but by following Jesus' guidance and putting our faith into action, we are blessed with the Kingdom of Heaven through our faith in him, the narrow door. Then we can join the heavenly feast, where the first may be last, and the last may be first. Enter the Kingdom through the narrow door, which is faith in Christ Jesus.

Prayer:

Father God, may we open our hearts to hear Your voice and guidance. Let our ears stay attentive to Your call, and may we trust in You to live our lives under the shelter of Your grace. Amen.

Day 250 - September 8, 2025

Scripture: Luke 12:22-40

Do Not Worry

22 Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. 23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. 24 Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! 25 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? 26 Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?

27 “Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 28 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith! 29 And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. 30 For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31 But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.

32 “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Watchfulness

35 “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, 36 like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. 37 It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. 38 It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the middle of the night or toward daybreak. 39 But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. 40 You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” (NIV)

Observation:

After reflecting on the story of the rich fool who hoarded his abundant harvest for himself instead of being generous towards God and others, Jesus encourages his followers not to worry about food or clothing. Instead, he advises them to focus on storing up heavenly treasures by showing generosity to those in need. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Luke 12:34)

Application:

Don't worry, but be kind and generous to God and to those in need whom we can help. By doing so, we will have treasure in heaven, where moth and rust cannot destroy, and thieves cannot break in and steal.

Prayer;

Lord, forgive us when we focus only on ourselves. Instead, inspire us to cultivate generous hearts, using the gifts you have given us to be a blessing to everyone we encounter.

Day 249 - September 7, 2025

Scripture: Luke 12:13-21

The Parable of the Rich Fool

13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.”

14 Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” 15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”

16 And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’

18 “Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. 19 And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”’

20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’

21 “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.” (NIV)

Observation:

“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” (Luke 12:15b)

Application:

In the game of Monopoly, when the game ends, all the properties, money, and even the playing pieces are put back into the box. All the material gains you accumulate during the game are returned, and no one keeps anything. Similarly, our lives on earth are not about the material possessions we acquire but about being rich in our relationship with God and our fellow human beings.

Prayer:

Lord God, guide us through the gift of Your Holy Spirit to live generously, sharing with others and honoring You. Help us recognize that every good gift comes from You and that our blessings are not solely for ourselves but to be a blessing to those around us, all to You9r glory. Amen.

Day 248 - September 6, 2025

Scripture: Luke 12:1-12

Warnings and Encouragements

12 Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 3 What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.

4 “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. 5 But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. 7 Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

8 “I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God. 9 But whoever disowns me before others will be disowned before the angels of God. 10 And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.

11 “When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, 12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.” (NIV)

Observation:

“There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.” (Luke 12:2-3) Nothing under the sun or spoken in secret escapes God’s knowledge. This thought used to terrify me because, as a sinner in need of God’s grace, I dreaded anyone knowing my sinful actions. But everyone else is also a sinner in need of grace. In the end, there’s no one left to idolize except the one who is truly God.

Application:

Trust in God and the grace given through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Live your life openly, letting the Holy Spirit guide you on the right path. Don’t fear the judgment of others; instead, hold reverence for God, who knows you completely, and align yourself with His ways.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, You know everything about us! You know the plans You’ve made for us, plans to bring hope and a future. Guide us as Your forgiven and reconciled children to walk humbly with You, following the Holy Spirit’s lead in all things, so we can fulfill the plans You’ve prepared for us, all for Your glory. Amen.

Day 247 - September 5, 2025

Scripture: Luke 11:37-54

Woes on the Pharisees and the Experts in the Law

37 When Jesus had finished speaking, a Pharisee invited him to eat with him; so he went in and reclined at the table. 38 But the Pharisee was surprised when he noticed that Jesus did not first wash before the meal.

39 Then the Lord said to him, “Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. 40 You foolish people! Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also? 41 But now as for what is inside you—be generous to the poor, and everything will be clean for you.

42 “Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone.

43 “Woe to you Pharisees, because you love the most important seats in the synagogues and respectful greetings in the marketplaces.

44 “Woe to you, because you are like unmarked graves, which people walk over without knowing it.”

45 One of the experts in the law answered him, “Teacher, when you say these things, you insult us also.”

46 Jesus replied, “And you experts in the law, woe to you, because you load people down with burdens they can hardly carry, and you yourselves will not lift one finger to help them.

47 “Woe to you, because you build tombs for the prophets, and it was your ancestors who killed them. 48 So you testify that you approve of what your ancestors did; they killed the prophets, and you build their tombs. 49 Because of this, God in his wisdom said, ‘I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and others they will persecute.’ 50 Therefore this generation will be held responsible for the blood of all the prophets that has been shed since the beginning of the world, 51 from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah, who was killed between the altar and the sanctuary. Yes, I tell you, this generation will be held responsible for it all.

52 “Woe to you experts in the law, because you have taken away the key to knowledge. You yourselves have not entered, and you have hindered those who were entering.”

53 When Jesus went outside, the Pharisees and the teachers of the law began to oppose him fiercely and to besiege him with questions, 54 waiting to catch him in something he might say. (NIV)

Observation:

“Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone.” (Luke 11:42)Jesus is calling out the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, not for following the law, but for doing so without love in their hearts for God and His people, and for neglecting justice.

Application:

Let the love of God and love for others guide the law we follow. While all other aspects of the law are important, if we enforce it without love in our hearts for God and others, and fail to seek justice for the oppressed, we fall short of the true purpose.

Prayer:Dear Lord, inspire us to love You with all our hearts and minds and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Guide us to seek justice and mercy for the oppressed, so we may honor You with our lives and actions. Amen.

Day 246 - September 4, 2025

Scripture: Luke 11:24-36

24 “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ 25 When it arrives, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. 26 Then it goes and takes seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first.”

27 As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, “Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you.”

28 He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

The Sign of Jonah

29 As the crowds increased, Jesus said, “This is a wicked generation. It asks for a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah. 30 For as Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, so also will the Son of Man be to this generation. 31 The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with the people of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon’s wisdom; and now something greater than Solomon is here. 32 The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and now something greater than Jonah is here.

The Lamp of the Body

33 “No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light. 34 Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are healthy, your whole body also is full of light. But when they are unhealthy, your body also is full of darkness. 35 See to it, then, that the light within you is not darkness. 36 Therefore, if your whole body is full of light, and no part of it dark, it will be just as full of light as when a lamp shines its light on you.” (NIV)

Observation:

“Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are healthy, your whole body also is full of light. But when they are unhealthy, your body also is full of darkness. See to it, then, that the light within you is not darkness.” (Luke 11:34-35)

Application:

What you focus on with your eyes shapes your entire being and actions If you direct your attention to the good things God has placed in the world, your body will be filled with light. But if you focus on deceitful or evil things, darkness will consume you, even if you think you're embracing light. When your eyes are fixed on the wrong things, your actions will naturally follow that path. Focus on the good and valuable things in life, focus on heavenly things, and your body will be filled with light, leading you to do good with your life.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, guide us, Your children, to focus on what honors You. Through the gift of Your Holy Spirit, help us concentrate on what is good and meaningful, so we may live lives oriented toward heaven. Amen.

Day 245 - September 3, 2025

Scripture: Luke 11:14–28

Jesus and Beelzebul

14 Jesus was driving out a demon that was mute. When the demon left, the man who had been mute spoke, and the crowd was amazed. 15 But some of them said, “By Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he is driving out demons.” 16 Others tested him by asking for a sign from heaven.

17 Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them: “Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and a house divided against itself will fall. 18 If Satan is divided against himself, how can his kingdom stand? I say this because you claim that I drive out demons by Beelzebul. 19 Now if I drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your followers drive them out? So then, they will be your judges. 20 But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.

21 “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe. 22 But when someone stronger attacks and overpowers him, he takes away the armor in which the man trusted and divides up his plunder.

23 “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.

24 “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ 25 When it arrives, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. 26 Then it goes and takes seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first.”

27 As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, “Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you.”

28 He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” (NIV)

Observation:

When Jesus was finished teaching the crowd who had witnessed Jesus healing many people and driving out demons, some accused Jesus of driving out demons by the power of Beelzebul. After Jesus had effectively refuted their thinking, “… a woman in the crowd called out, ‘Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you.’ He replied, ‘Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.’” (Luke 11:27-28)

Application:

Jesus highlighted two key aspects of faith. The first is the ability and desire to listen to God’s Word. The second is the commitment to act on it by obeying His teachings and following Him.

Prayer:Dear Lord, empower us through the presence of Your Holy Spirit within us to hear and embrace Your word. Help us to listen to You as faithfully as an obedient child listens to their parents. Grant us the desire to follow Your Word wholeheartedly, so we may become who You want us to be. Amen..

Day 244 - September 2, 2025

Scripture: Luke 11:1-13

Jesus’ Teaching on Prayer

11 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”

2 He said to them, “When you pray, say:

“‘Father,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come.
3 Give us each day our daily bread.
4 Forgive us our sins,
    for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.
And lead us not into temptation.’”

5 Then Jesus said to them, “Suppose you have a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; 6 a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have no food to offer him.’ 7 And suppose the one inside answers, ‘Don’t bother me. The door is already locked, and my children and I are in bed. I can’t get up and give you anything.’ 8 I tell you, even though he will not get up and give you the bread because of friendship, yet because of your shameless audacity he will surely get up and give you as much as you need.

9 “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

11 “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for[f] a fish, will give him a snake instead? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (NIV)

Observation:

“Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.
And lead us not into temptation.’” (Luke 11:4)

Application:

A key part of the Lord’s Prayer that we often recite by memory is “forgive us as we forgive.” Do we truly understand what we’re asking? Essentially, we are asking God to forgive us in the same way we forgive others. This means that if we desire forgiveness, we must also extend it to others. It’s all about reconciliation and restoring relationships. God forgives us to build a relationship with us, and Jesus reminded His disciples that their mission was to reconcile a lost world to God. This is accomplished through repentance and forgiveness.

Prayer:

Lord God, as we pray to You and seek Your forgiveness, help us to remember that we must also forgive others in our lives so we can reconcile and restore relationships. In doing this, we honor You, who has forgiven us even when we know not what we do. Amen.

Day 243 - September 1, 2025

Scripture: Luke 8:1-18

The Parable of the Sower

8 After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; 3 Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.

4 While a large crowd was gathering and people were coming to Jesus from town after town, he told this parable: 5 “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path; it was trampled on, and the birds ate it up. 6 Some fell on rocky ground, and when it came up, the plants withered because they had no moisture. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up with it and choked the plants. 8 Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown.”

When he said this, he called out, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.”

9 His disciples asked him what this parable meant. 10 He said, “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to others I speak in parables, so that,

“‘though seeing, they may not see;
    though hearing, they may not understand.’

11 “This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God. 12 Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. 13 Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. 14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. 15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop. (NIV)

Observation:

“But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.” (Luke 8:15)

The sewer in Jesus parable is God who spreads the seed of His Word everywhere on all soils of every condition. So the Good News of the Gospel is available to all people. But the one who has a heart toward God and who listens to incorporate God’s Word into their own lives are the ones who will embrace the Word of God and bear fruit for the kingdom of God.

Application:

What is the condition of your spiritual soil. Do you have a heart bent toward God and God’s Word? The spiritual soil that is well tilled by reading and studying God’s Word is like the good soil that receives the seed and allows that seed to grow. Are You attending to your spiritual garden? Are you tilling your soil to receive God’s seed? Are you watering that seed with daily devotion? Are your growing in your understanding of God’s Word with prayer?

Prayer:

Lord, help us as Your children to tend to our spiritual gardens, so we may grow in wisdom and knowledge of Your Word. Guide us to become all You desire us to be, bearing fruit for the Kingdom of God. Amen.

Day 242 - August 31, 2025

Scripture: Romans 13:1–14

Submission to Governing Authorities

13 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.

6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

Love Fulfills the Law

8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,” and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

The Day Is Near

11 And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh. (NIV)

Observation:

“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.  The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,” and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”  Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” (Romans 13:8-10)

Application:

As Paul writes to the Romans, love is the fulfillment of the law. If we love God with all our heart and mind and love our neighbor as ourselves, we won't break any of the other commandments. As Jesus said, all the laws and the prophets rest on these two commandments.

Prayer:

Lord God, thank You for Your love for us as Your children. Inspire us through Your Spirit to keep an attitude of love toward everyone we meet and interact with.

Day 241 - August 30, 2025

Scripture: Romans 12:1–21

A Living Sacrifice

12 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Humble Service in the Body of Christ

3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

Love in Action

9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
    if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (NIV)

Observation:

In Romans chapter 11, after writing about God’s grace in Jesus Christ, Paul warns the Gentiles not to think too highly of themselves, reminding them that they are merely grafted branches into the root of Jesse. He explains that the Jews have been temporarily blinded so that the fullness of the Gentiles can be achieved. However, he assures that one day their eyes will be opened, they will recognize Jesus as their Messiah, and all of Israel will be saved.

When I first read this I was thrilled, because I wanted Israel, the chosen people, to understand that Jesus really is their Messiah, and then I turned the page to read, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2) This is my life verse upon which I view the world and my role in it.

Application:

Understanding that God does not waste anything and that His will is perfect for everyone’s lives, it makes sense to present ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This allows us to embrace God’s will for us. By living in tune with the Spirit of God, we discover that His plans and purposes for our lives suit us perfectly, like a well-tailored outfit. After all, He knows the plans He has for us—plans to prosper us, give us hope, and provide a future. So, as the customs and values of this world change, we should renew our minds through God’s Word and the Spirit’s guidance, allowing us to experience His work in our lives as He guides our path and our decision making..

Prayer:

Dear Lord, the world’s customs and values keep changing, but Your Word remains constant—yesterday, today, and forever. Help us to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to You. May we find rest in Your Word and guidance through the Spirit as You lead our hearts and minds to embrace Your Word as truth. Amen.