Daily Devotions

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. (Romans 12:11 NIV) Zeal. How often do you hear this word in everyday conversation? How would you define this word, and how can you apply this word to your spiritual walk? To be zealous for God could be interpreted as having a deep passion, eagerness, and devotion to Him and His work. It is an intense love that fuels our faith and drives us to live in obedience, serve wholeheartedly, and share His truth boldly. Scripture is filled with many examples of godly zeal. One striking figure is Elijah, who stood alone against the prophets of Baal, declaring, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty” (1 Kings 19:10). His unwavering commitment to God in a time of spiritual compromise shows the power of godly zeal. However, zeal must be guided by knowledge and wisdom. Apostle Paul speaks of the Israelites, saying, For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge (Romans 10:2). Passion without truth can lead to misguided actions. True zeal aligns with God’s Word, leading to righteousness and love rather than self-righteousness or destruction. Jesus himself demonstrated perfect zeal when He cleansed the temple, declaring, “Zeal for your house will consume me” (John 2:17). His passion was rooted in a deep love for the Father’s holiness. Likewise, our zeal should come from a heart that desires to glorify God, not for selfish ambition or personal gain. How do we keep our zeal for God alive? 1. Stay in God’s Word – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) 2. Pray Continually – “Never stop praying.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17 NLT) 3. Serve with joy – “Serve the Lord with gladness!” (Psalm 100:2) 4. Surround yourself with passionate believers – “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17) It is the season for college basketball tournaments, horse racing and all things spring. While we may enjoy these activities, let us be mindful of our zeal for them; and instead, channel our primary passion toward God and our spiritual growth. Brethren, let us be on fire for God, not just in moments of excitement but in steadfast, enduring faith. May our lives reflect a zeal that glorifies Him in all we do. Pray: Lord, ignite a passion in my heart to serve You faithfully. Let my zeal be rooted in Your truth and love. Amen. By George Donkor George and his wife, Christiana, are proud parents of Annajoy and Elijah. They love serving Jesus together and showing Him to the world around them.

I love just about everything that Jesus said. But I must admit there are some things that can make me uncomfortable, if I’m honest. Perhaps you feel that way too. One of those truths is found in John 14:6: Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Don’t get me wrong; I find great comfort in knowing that Jesus is the Way to come to the Father. It’s just that the reality that NO ONE can come to the Father except through Jesus makes me sad. There are millions and millions of people who have never heard of Jesus. There are thousands of unreached people groups. There are billions of people who believe in false religions. If I take Jesus at His word, then I am confronted with the terrible reality that most of the world is not going to spend eternity with the Father. On the contrary, they will be eternally separated from Him. This truth makes me cringe when I allow myself to be confronted by it. Jesus told us to make disciples of all people as we are going about our lives. We were commissioned by Jesus to go to all the nations “baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20). It’s been 2000 years since that small band of Jesus’ first followers heard those words; and yet, the world is lost. We have technology capable of sharing breaking news live throughout the world; and yet, billions are without Jesus. Today, dwell in the uncomfortable truth that no one comes to the Father except through Jesus. Ask God to show you who needs to know about Him. And share. By LaRaine Rice

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. All things were created through him, and apart from him not one thing was created that has been created. In him was life , and that life was the light of men. (John 1:1-4) The Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life , and the man became a living creature. (Genesis 2:7) Sin came into the world because of what one man [Adam] did. And with sin came death. So, this is why all people must die—because all people have sinned. (Romans 5:12) God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life . (John 3:16) Jesus, the Son, said: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10) “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life . (John 8:12) “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life . He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life . (John 5:24) Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life . No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6) And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true… He is the true God and eternal life . (1 John 5:20) I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore, choose life ! (Deuteronomy 30:19)  By LaRaine Rice

We are fortunate; there is a lot of truth floating around out there these days. In fact, it seems that we live in a time when everyone has their own truth, and we are to respect that truth. Even if it makes no sense or is partially based on lies. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could just know what the truth is about a matter? Once again, we are fortunate. We can know the Truth. Jesus calls Himself the Truth. Jesus did not claim to know truth. He didn’t state that He speaks truth. He said He is the Truth. 1 John 1:5 (Amplified) defines it like this: This is the message [of God’s promised revelation] which we have heard from Him and now announce to you, that God is Light [He is holy, His message is truthful, He is perfect in righteousness], and in Him there is no darkness at all [no sin, no wickedness, no imperfection] . When we are confused and uncertain of the truth, we can ask God. As Jesus promised the disciples, “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come” (John 16:13 ESV). Are there situations you face today that seem murky? Rely on the holy, pure light that is found in God alone. Are you confused by half-truths and what others consider their truth? Seek the Spirit of Truth. You are promised that “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32 ESV). Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness. (Ephesians 6:14 ESV) By LaRaine Rice

Sounds like a great idea. People don’t want to miss God. If there are multiple ways to God, then everyone who wants to find Him can follow whatever path they choose and get to Him. All paths lead to God. Sounds like a good idea to a lot of people. But it doesn’t sound like a good idea to God. God wants to be found. He didn’t want to make it hard to find Him. So, He became a human, invited everyone to follow Him and instructed His followers to tell everyone else how to find Him. Problem solved. By God. God made a way. Jesus. He is the Way. So, why does this lie that there are multiple paths to God still exist? Simple. The Enemy of God does not want people to be reconciled to God. He confuses people just like he confused Eve. He pretends that there are ways to God. He distracts Christians and convinces them that they will sound judgmental if they say that there is only one Way to God. So, they remain silent in the world even while praising God with lifted hands at church. The very earliest followers of Jesus identified themselves as belonging to the Way (Acts 9:2; 19:9,23; 22:4; 24:14,22). Perhaps if we intentionally remembered that we are followers of the Way, we would remember Jesus’ instructions to point everyone to Him. Today, ask God to remind you that He is the Way and to give you the opportunity to tell other people that God made a Way to Him. By LaRaine Rice

Children are taught basic facts as they begin their education. The first letter of the alphabet is A. The primary colors are red, blue and yellow. One plus one is two. The basics are an important foundation for our education. At the Last Supper, Jesus shared such a basic fact: “ Don’t let your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me” (John 14:1 CSB). Read that again: · Don’t let your heart be troubled. · Believe in God. · Believe in Jesus. If there are earthquakes, fires, storms and countless natural disasters, don’t let your heart be troubled . If you strongly disagree with a political leader or platform, don’t let your heart be troubled . If the world seems to be in chaos, don’t let your heart be troubled. Believe in God. God created this world. God directs the “king’s heart” (Proverbs 21:1). God controls the clouds (Job 37:15). Believe in Jesus. Jesus calms storms (Mark 4:39). Jesus heals. Jesus conquered death. Faith is simple. It is not complicated. It should be childlike (Matthew 18:3). We make it complex. We take on worry. Ask yourself if you are troubled. Ask God to reveal areas where you lack faith. Child of God, don’t let your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe in Jesus.  By LaRaine Rice

There’s a story that during World War II, a young soldier carried a small pocket Bible his mother had given him. In a fierce firefight, a bullet struck his chest, but the Bible in his pocket absorbed the impact, saving his life. In this man’s life, that Bible became more than a keepsake—it was a powerful reminder of God’s protection and presence in his darkest moments. In a similar way, the sword of Goliath became a reminder for David of God’s care and protection over his life. As a young shepherd, David faced Goliath armed only with a sling and five stones. With reliance on the Lord, he triumphed, and Goliath’s sword became a trophy of that victory (1 Samuel 17:50-54). David later gave the sword to the priests, who kept it as a memorial of God’s deliverance. Years later, the sword reappeared at a critical moment in David’s life. Fleeing from King Saul and fearing for his life, David arrived at Nob, desperate, unarmed, and in need of food. When he asked the priest Ahimelech for a weapon, the priest told him, “The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom you killed in the Valley of Elah, is here; it is wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod.” David took the sword, saying, “There is none like it; give it to me.” (1 Samuel 21:9) In that moment, the sword wasn’t just a weapon—it was a divine reminder of God’s faithfulness. Years earlier, God had given David victory over Goliath, proving that His power could overcome any obstacle. The sword symbolized this for David and reminded him that God had equipped him for whatever challenges lay ahead. Do you have a physical object in your life that reminds you of God’s provision? It could be a worn Bible, a baptism certificate, or a note of encouragement given to you during a difficult time. These items can serve as reminders of this truth: “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). When you see that object, let it remind you of a specific moment when God met your need, provided for you in an unexpected way, or carried you through a challenge. Hold onto that memory as evidence of His faithfulness and as a promise that He will continue to supply everything you need. By Paky Kramer

When he was gone, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will glorify the Son in himself and will glorify him at once.” (John 13:31-32) In this poignant moment, Jesus speaks to His disciples about the events that will soon unfold—the betrayal, crucifixion, and ultimate resurrection. This moment marks a pivotal transition in the narrative of the Gospel. It signifies that the culmination of Jesus’ earthly ministry is at hand; and through His death, burial, and resurrection, both He and God the Father will receive glory. Jesus’ death on the cross was the ultimate act of love and sacrifice. It was through this act that He bore the sins of humanity, fulfilling the divine plan of salvation. His resurrection affirmed His victory over sin and death, demonstrating His divine authority and the promise of eternal life for all who believe. In this, Jesus is glorified as the Savior who not only suffered but triumphed over the grave. The glorification of Jesus also reflects the glory of God the Father. By sending His Son to die for humanity, God revealed His immense love and justice. The resurrection showcased God’s power, affirming His sovereignty over life and death. In glorifying Jesus, God the Father is glorified, as it is through Jesus that the fullness of God's nature is revealed—His mercy, grace, and holiness. Understanding the glorification of Jesus and the Father has profound implications for believers today. It calls for a response of gratitude, worship, and commitment. The sacrificial love demonstrated by Jesus should inspire believers to live lives that reflect His character. This means embracing a life of service, humility, and love towards others, just as Jesus exemplified. Moreover, the resurrection offers hope and assurance. In a world filled with challenges, uncertainties, and suffering, the promise of resurrection reminds believers that death is not the end. It encourages a perspective rooted in hope, knowing that God’s power is at work in every situation. As followers of Christ, the challenge is to glorify God in our own lives. This can be achieved through acts of kindness, sharing the Gospel, and living out our faith authentically. When believers embody the love of Christ, they reflect His glory to the world around them. Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for the glory revealed through His death and resurrection. Help each believer to live in a way that honors You and reflects Your love to others. May our lives be a testament to the hope and victory found in Christ. Amen. By Jim Connell Jim is the founder of Lexington Rescue Mission, and authors JesusIsLordBlog.com, FaithAnswersPress.net, and FAQs of Faith (a mobile app)

Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. (John 12:1-3) In this beautiful passage, we witness a profound act of devotion by Mary, the sister of Lazarus. As Jesus reclines at the table, Mary approaches Him with a jar of pure nard, an expensive perfume. Her act of anointing Jesus’ feet is not merely a gesture of hospitality; it is a powerful expression of love, reverence, and recognition of His impending sacrifice. Mary’s act of devotion is significant for several reasons. First, it demonstrates her deep understanding of Jesus' identity and mission. Mary recognizes that Jesus is more than a teacher; He is the Messiah, worthy of honor and sacrifice. The extravagant nature of her offering—using a costly perfume—highlights the value she places on Jesus. This was not a mere token gesture; it was a heartfelt response to the love and grace she had received from Him. Moreover, Mary’s act challenges societal norms. In a culture where women were often relegated to the background, Mary steps forward boldly, using her hair to wipe Jesus’ feet, a sign of humility and surrender. This act of devotion speaks volumes about her character and her willingness to serve Jesus in the most intimate way possible. Mary’s anointing of Jesus serves as a powerful lesson for believers today. It invites reflection on the nature of true devotion. Are believers willing to offer their best to Jesus, regardless of societal expectations or personal sacrifice? (Judas questioned the value of Mary’s act, but Jesus defended her.) The act of pouring out the perfume symbolizes the pouring out of one’s life in service to Christ. What “expensive” offerings can you bring to the Lord—whether that be time, resources, or talents? Mary’s example encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with Christ and to express their love through acts of service and worship. Dear Lord, thank You for the example of Mary and her profound act of devotion. Help each believer to recognize the value of offering their best to You, regardless of the cost. May our lives be filled with acts of love and service that glorify Your name. Teach us to prioritize our relationship with You and to respond to Your grace with extravagant love. Amen. By Jim Connell Jim is the founder of Lexington Rescue Mission, and authors JesusIsLordBlog.com, FaithAnswersPress.net, and FAQs of Faith (a mobile app)