Tag Archives: Christian Faith

Daily Christian Devotion

Walk By Faith With A Heart Of Gratitude

“Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.” Luke 17:19

Jesus, on His way to Jerusalem, passed between Samaria—the land of the socially outcast—and Galilee, His very own people. Along the way, He encountered ten lepers.

They stood at a distance and cried out for mercy and healing. Jesus told them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” At that moment, they still carried the marks of leprosy. Yet, as they moved in obedience, they were cleansed on the way.

Out of the ten, only one returned. When he realized he was healed, he came back praising God, fell at Jesus’ feet, and gave thanks. He was a Samaritan—a foreigner, an enemy of the Jews—yet he was the one who returned with a heart of gratitude. Jesus asked, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?” Then He said to the one, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”

This moment was not only about physical healing but about a deeper truth—faith. Faith is the only currency accepted in heaven. The Bible says, “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). The Word of God encourages us to walk in faith and not by sight.

The lepers had to move in faith even before they received their healing. Standing still in doubt would not have helped, but stepping forward in obedience brought their miracle. Most of the time, trusting people, places, or things will surely fail and disappoint us—but faith in Jesus Christ does the impossible, receives the unreachable, and accomplishes the undoable.

Just as the lepers had to move forward in obedience, we too are called to step out in faith in our own lives. Take that step of faith in your job. Take that step of faith in your decisions. When you do, you surrender the driver’s seat and allow Jesus Christ to take control of your situation and circumstances. When Jesus drives, the destination is certain—victory. He knows the road, the bumps along the way, and when to reroute. In the rain or the sunshine, you can rest in peace, for the Prince of Peace is right beside you.

Above all, the Bible encourages us to give thanks in all circumstances—not only in healing, not only in breakthrough, but also in seasons of despair and longing. Gratitude is a posture of the heart that pleases God. When you return to the Father with a grateful heart, you access the source of blessing itself. God delights in you when you acknowledge His sovereignty.

Even animals show gratitude—how much more should we, created in God’s image, cultivate this virtue that pleases Him.

Faith brings breakthrough, but gratitude makes you complete.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for reminding me that faith brings healing, but gratitude brings wholeness. Help me to take bold steps of faith in every area of my life, trusting that You know the way. Teach me to live with gratitude in all circumstances, so that my life may reflect Your goodness and bring glory to Your name.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Standard
Daily Christian Devotion

God Will Finish the Good Work He Started

Philippians 1:6

“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”

Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem were influential figures during the time of Nehemiah. When Nehemiah came with a small group to Jerusalem to rebuild the fallen walls, the task seemed impossible. The walls were in ruins, and the city looked beyond repair.

When Nehemiah inspected the damage, those three officials laughed and despised the very thought of restoration. But despite their mockery, Nehemiah and his team kept building—brick by brick, installing doors and windows, shaping the temple walls.

When the enemies saw that progress was being made, they became furious. They insulted the builders, mocking them, saying their wall was so weak that even a fox walking on it would cause it to collapse. But Nehemiah did not quit—he cried out to God and continued. Soon, the wall was rebuilt to half its height around the city.

Again, Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem plotted with anger, planning to fight against the workers and throw them into confusion. Once more, Nehemiah prayed for protection, and the people guarded the city as they built. The workers grew tired and discouraged, and threats of violence grew stronger. So Nehemiah encouraged them, declaring that God will fight for us. From then on, only half the men built while the others stood guard. Some built with one hand and held their weapon in the other. Everyone carried their weapon, ready to defend what God had called them to do.

Though challenges continued, Nehemiah’s team finished the wall, leaving only the gates. Again, the enemies tried to deceive Nehemiah, inviting him to a meeting to harm him. But Nehemiah prayed, committed his enemies into God’s hands, and pressed forward. Finally, the doors were set in place, the work was completed, and the enemies’ plans were utterly crushed. Their influence was broken, and God’s people rejoiced in His mighty hand.

Nehemiah was never intimidated by threats or politics. He was confident that what God had started, God Himself would finish.

Even in your life, you may face Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem. At first, they may remain quiet, but when they see your vision rising above them, they will begin to stir. They may laugh at you and mock your dreams, but when that does not stop you, they will plot in every way to distract you, discourage you, and even threaten you.

But remember this: keep building your vision with one hand, and hold the weapon of God’s Word in the other. Your enemies may try to magnify their threats, but God magnifies His promises. For them, your vision may look weak, but with God, it will stand strong.

Like Nehemiah, pray through the mockery, insults, and discouragement. Exalt God, and He will fight for you. Your vision, your passion, your family, your calling—will be built brick by brick.

While your enemies scoff, your God will complete the good work He started in you. In the beginning, you may only see dust and rubble, but be encouraged—it will end in glory.

Whatever your situation, don’t stop. Don’t stop trusting. Don’t stop believing. Don’t stop walking in relationship with God.

He who began the good work in you will surely bring it to completion.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for beginning a good work in my life. Strengthen me when I grow weary, and remind me that You will finish what You started. May every enemy plan be defeated, and may Your glory shine through the work of my hands. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Standard
Daily Christian Devotion

He Shall Make You Great

May God make you like Ephraim and Manasseh. In this way Israel made Ephraim greater than Manasseh.

Genesis 48:20

Joseph brought his two sons—the firstborn Manasseh and the younger son Ephraim—to his ill father Jacob, who was also known as Israel.

Jacob was very old, and though his eyes were dim, when he saw Joseph and his two sons, he found new strength and sat up in bed. Jacob had not seen Joseph for many years, nor had he witnessed the birth of Joseph’s sons, who were born in Egypt. His heart was overjoyed to see Joseph’s family. Out of that joy, Jacob took Ephraim and Manasseh as his own sons. In other words, these grandsons were adopted into Jacob’s family as if they were his own children.

These two sons were counted among the twelve tribes of Israel. Jacob proudly declared, “They are mine,” while reminding Joseph that any other children born to him would belong to Joseph alone. Then Jacob invited Joseph to bring his sons forward so that he could bless them before his death.

Joseph bowed before his father and carefully positioned his sons. He took Ephraim in his right hand and placed him toward Jacob’s left hand, and he took Manasseh in his left hand and placed him before Jacob’s right hand. Joseph arranged them this way so that Jacob’s right hand—the hand of greater blessing—would naturally rest upon the firstborn, Manasseh.

But Jacob had a different plan. He crossed his hands, placing his right hand on Ephraim, the younger, and his left on Manasseh. He then pronounced his blessing on Ephraim recorded in Genesis 48:15. Joseph was troubled by this sight and tried to correct his father, urging him to bless the firstborn properly. But Jacob refused and replied that he knew exactly what he was doing. However he blessed Manasseh also, but gave Ephraim the greater blessing, declaring that the younger brother would surpass the older.

Joseph the earthly father himself was not pleased to see his younger son receive the blessing of the firstborn, but it delighted the heavenly Father to make the younger greater than the older.

Yahweh highly favored Ephraim and crossed over the order of the firstborn to make him great. And in later days, even when Ephraim’s descendants were unfaithful, God’s love crossed over in mercy, crying out in Hosea 11:8, “How can I give you up, O Ephraim?”

This story shows us how God’s grace goes beyond what we deserve. “He has mercy on whomever He wills.” (Romans 9:18)

The Word of God reminds us that His grace is not limited. He can lift you from the pit and place you on the mountaintop. He can choose the smallest clan and make it into a great nation.

The eyes that once saw you as the least—God will cross over to make you great. The blessing on your life is not by luck or chance, but by the intentional hand of God. He is fully aware of the work He is doing in your life. You are on God’s mind, and His blueprint carries both you and your family.

The Lord’s hand will cross over every obstacle, every hindrance, to bless the least, the oppressed, the ignored, and the rejected.

Like Joseph, even if others try to push you aside or deny you your blessing, the Lord’s right hand will rest on you.

Ephraim received grace when his earthly father’s hands were crossed. And through the cross of Jesus Christ, our heavenly Father has given us even greater grace.

Receive King Jesus into your heart, and you too will receive grace and abundance for your life.

Prayer

Lord, I thank You that Your hand crosses over to bless me, even when others try to set me aside. Thank You that Your favor is intentional, and Your grace is greater than my qualifications, my past, or my place in life. Place Your right hand upon me and my family, and let Your blessing flow through every area of our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Standard
Daily Christian Devotion

This House Will Be Blessed

“And the LORD blessed Obed-edom and all his household.”

2 Samuel 6:11

David gathered all the chosen men of Israel to carry the ark of the covenant from Abinadab’s house, which was on the hill. The ark of the covenant represents the dwelling place of the Lord. This was not just a wooden chest covered in gold, but the very symbol of God’s holy presence among His people.

They placed the ark on a new cart, driven by Uzzah and led by Ahio, the sons of Abinadab. The ark was transported with joyful noise and celebration.

But while they were on the way, the oxen stumbled. Uzzah reached out his hand to steady the ark of the covenant, and the anger of the Lord burned against him. God struck him down instantly because of his irreverence.

The death of Uzzah may seem unfair, but God had given Moses clear instructions on how the ark should be handled — with reverence and holy fear. The ark was to be carried by the priests on their shoulders using poles fitted into its rings. No one else was permitted to touch it.

David became afraid and decided not to take the ark to the city of David. Instead, it was redirected to the house of Obed-edom. The ark remained there for three months, and the house of Obed-edom was blessed because of the ark. Later, his descendants even became doorkeepers of the sanctuary, leaving a lasting legacy.

Before it was brought out of Abinadab’s house, the ark had been there for 21 years. Uzzah and Ahio grew up with it and became so familiar that they took the presence of God for granted. Even David disregarded the instructions, which cost Uzzah his life.

Obed received the ark with confidence, even after hearing of Uzzah’s death. For three months he honored the presence of God — offering sacrifices, shedding the blood of lambs, and worshiping the LORD with reverence. Because of this humble worship and obedience, Obed-edom and his household received mercy and were richly blessed in all they had and did.

The Lord questions His people in another place:

“A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am a father, where is my honor? And if I am a master, where is my fear? says the Lord of hosts to you

Malachi 1:6 ESV

Scripture is very clear — there is no compromise in the respect and honor we must give to Yahweh. The presence of the Lord brings fullness of joy, but dishonor brings fear and judgment.

When David saw the blessing upon Obed-edom, he corrected his error. This time he carried the ark as God commanded and brought it into Jerusalem with singing and dancing.

Now re-examine the honor you give to the Creator of heaven and earth. You may have known the Lord for years, even generations, but have you become so familiar that you take His presence for granted — like the house of Abinadab?

When the presence of God is treated lightly, He withdraws, leaving fear, uncertainty, and even loss. Scripture reminds us that only the blood of Jesus makes reconciliation with the Father possible.

The story of Obed is the great revelation that the blood of Jesus is the only mediator between us and God. The Father overlooks our sins and shortcomings only through the blood of His Son.

As you believe and claim the finished work of the cross, you are redeemed from the curse and the aftermath of sin. Receive Jesus Christ with complete confidence — His blood covers it all.

Worship Yeshua, the Lamb of God, in reverence, believing in your heart that He is the ultimate sacrifice for you and for your household. The presence of God is revived in every home that honors the name of Jesus.

Only the blood of Jesus can set right your past. God is giving you an opportunity by redirecting His presence into your house — receive Him with joy, and receive Him with due honor.

Prayer:

Father, we honor Your holy presence and welcome You into our homes and our lives. Help us never to take You for granted but to walk in reverence and awe of Your name. Cover us with the precious blood of Jesus, and may our households be blessed as we worship You in spirit and in truth. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Standard
Daily Christian Devotion

He will bring every secret thing into judgment.

Ecclesiastes 12:14 — “For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.”

Naboth was a common man who lived in Jezreel, near the palace of Ahab, the king of Israel. King Ahab desired Naboth’s vineyard so he could turn it into a vegetable garden. He offered Naboth money or even a better vineyard in exchange.

But Naboth humbly refused. It was an inherited property, passed down from his fathers. To him, it was priceless.

Ahab returned home disappointed, sulking because he could not have what he wanted. His wife, Jezebel, learned of this and became furious. In her eyes, the king’s power should guarantee that he received anything he desired.

Jezebel devised a wicked plan. She wrote letters in Ahab’s name, sealed them with his seal, and proclaimed that Naboth had blasphemed against God and the king. She arranged for two scoundrels to falsely testify against him. Innocent Naboth was dragged outside the city and stoned to death. Ahab then seized Naboth’s vineyard.

They thought they could get away with this evil, but nothing escapes the eyes of the Lord. God sent the prophet Elijah to declare judgment: “In the place where dogs licked up Naboth’s blood, dogs will lick up your blood also. As for Jezebel, the dogs will devour her within the walls of Jezreel.” The Lord also decreed that Ahab’s descendants would be cut off—those who died in the city would be eaten by dogs, and those in the countryside would be eaten by birds.

Hearing this, Ahab humbled himself and repented before God. In His mercy, the Lord delayed the disaster—not in Ahab’s lifetime, but in his son’s days.

The prophecy was fulfilled. Ahab was killed in battle, and his chariot was washed in the pool of Samaria where dogs licked up his blood. Jezebel, as foretold, was thrown out of a window by her own servants, and her body was devoured by dogs. Eventually, the entire household of Ahab was annihilated—his line cut off completely—because he had sold himself to evil and allowed ungodly influence to rule his life. Jezebel was left with no descendants, her legacy ended in disgrace.

This stands as one of the most severe judgments in the Bible. It reveals God’s justice for the innocent and His vengeance for the oppressed. Be encouraged: God speaks for the voiceless and avenges the blood of the innocent.

At the same time, this story warns us of the destructive power of ungodly influence. Ahab, though king of Israel, married Jezebel, a pagan woman who corrupted the land. Through her influence came idolatry, the murder of prophets, unjust decrees, and wicked schemes.

We must be careful how we influence others.Nothing we do in secret is hidden from the Lord. Every ungodly plan, every corrupt influence, every injustice—it is all laid bare before Him. We serve a just God, who judges not only those who harm us but also us if we partake in ungodly practices.

Had Ahab been influenced by a godly wife and godly counsel, his story—and his lineage—would have been far different.

This is why the Holy Spirit is our best instructor, and the Word of God our guiding light. The Bible calls us to be the salt of the earth and a light to the world.

Let us remember: “You will be judged in the same way you judge others.” (Matthew 7:2)

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You that You see the cries of the innocent and avenge the blood of the oppressed. Help me to walk in integrity and truth, guarding my heart from ungodly influence. Keep me faithful to Your Word, and may I trust that You are the righteous Judge over every hidden thing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Standard
Daily Christian Devotion

Recover Everything That Belongs To You

David recovered all that the Amalekites had taken 1 Samuel 30:18

David, already rejected by the army he had been working with, came down to a place called Ziklag. and is means pressed down. This place was burned down and captured by the Amalekites. They not only took his possessions, but also his wives and children.

When David and the others with him saw the land in ruins and their families taken captive, they lifted up their voices and wept until they had no more strength to cry.

David was deeply distressed because the people around him were planning to stone him. Rejected and grieving, he had no one to comfort him. Therefore, he decided to comfort himself in the Lord.

David asked for the priestly garment and went before the Lord. He inquired of the Lord whether he should pursue the enemies, and God gave him approval. On the way, David found a messenger who led him to the place where his family was kept captive.

They fought the battle all day long, and the Bible says David recovered all that was taken from him—nothing was missing.

Although David later became a great king, he was not spared from betrayal, disappointment, and loss. Yet he set an example of how to handle seasons of despair and discouragement.

We also go through many “Ziklag” moments in our lives—situations that bring us down, cause us to lose hope, and leave us discouraged. But the Word of God reminds us, just as David did, to inquire of the Lord when we feel crushed.

When David looked around, there was no one to comfort him. Abandonment and blame from others only deepen the pain, but David turned to the only One who could truly help—the Author and Finisher of his faith.

Many times, we feel like giving up because the burden is too heavy. But even if you are the only one left to go before the Lord regarding your situation—your family, your job, or your health—the Word encourages you to do so.

Instead of staying pressed down, take time to encourage and comfort yourself in the Lord. If you don’t, no one else will, and you may even be surrounded by people who place blame on you for every misfortune.

As you go before the Lord, He will give you grace to handle your situation and He will fight for you. When you engage God in your battles, He becomes your victory.

You will not only be victorious—you will also recover everything you have lost: your joy, your blessings, your family and your peace.

Being pressed down and surrounded by unkind people is painful, but do not let despair rob you of what belongs to you. The battle belongs to the Lord, and He will be your shield and your strong rampart.

Prayer

Lord, when I feel pressed down, rejected, and overwhelmed, help me to turn to You for strength. Remind me that the battle belongs to You and that in You I can recover all that has been lost. Be my comfort, my shield, and my victory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Standard
Daily Christian Devotion

You are worth the price

“And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.”

Matthew 10:29–31 NLT

Sparrows were sold very cheaply in those days—one of the least expensive animals compared with bulls and rams. Their lifespan is only two to three years, yet they also play a role in the ecosystem. People often considered this bird of little value, but God does not forget even a single one of them. If He cares for the sparrows, how much more does He care for you? The Bible says you are worth many sparrows put together.

An inherited age-old house from your grandparents may not hold much monetary value to others, but to you it might be a priceless place of memories—worth fighting to preserve. Its financial value may be small, yet its true worth is unshakable because of who built it and the love that was poured into it. Value can rise or fall depending on who is looking, but worth remains the same, anchored in meaning and love.

Jesus is worthy of all—not because of human opinion, but because of His identity as the Son of God. And the astonishing truth is that you are worthy of all to Him. You carry the ultimate price tag: Jesus gave His life to ransom your soul.

Many of us struggle with identity and wonder if our lives have value. You may be valuable to a few people, but for many, value is measured by their own needs, the season they are in, or even by the clothes you wear. Value is not static; it changes.

In some homes, even parents can show favoritism between children, valuing them based on education or financial status. Some spouses value each other according to how much is brought to the table. Children may value parents only when needs are met. Friends may betray you for someone they see as “more valuable.”

These experiences can weigh you down and make you feel unseen, and over time you may start to believe that you are not talented enough, not loving enough, that your hard work is never enough—that you are never good enough to talk, walk, laugh, or live freely. These false labels that others create can make you forget who you were created to be and your purpose.

The Word of God encourages you today: King Jesus values you more than His own life, and God sees you as worthy to be saved. The homeless, the orphan, the abandoned, the poor, and the rich—all are worthy of God’s love. Do not forget that your very hairs are numbered; you are the apple of God’s eye. You are a royal treasure in the hands of the Almighty, and truly your Father’s delight, Above all He cares for you. In spite of your short time on this earth, you have a part and a purpose in the kingdom’s ecosystem.

If anyone treats you otherwise, it is time to rise up from the ashes. Shrug off your old feelings of unworthiness. Clothe yourself with strength and embrace the truth: you are so valued that you are seated with Jesus Christ in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6). Know your value, and know you are worth the price paid by heaven.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that my worth is not defined by people, circumstances, or seasons of life, but by Your love for me. Thank You for paying the highest price for my salvation through Jesus Christ. May I live each day with the confidence of being Your beloved child, created with worth, purpose, and destiny. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Standard
Daily Christian Devotion

Work for it, For The Lord Is With You

“And be strong, all you people of the land,’ says the Lord, ‘and work; for I am with you,’ says the Lord of hosts.”

Haggai 2:4 NKJV

The word of the Lord came through Haggai the prophet. God instructed the people of Israel to rebuild the temple, but they grew discouraged in the process of rebuilding.

This temple once stood in glory during the time of Solomon. Solomon spared nothing—money, material, or manpower—in building its grandeur. It was a magnificent memory for the people of Israel and for nations around them. Kings and queens came from distant lands and marveled at its splendor.

But now the temple lay in ruins and rubble because of the sin and unfaithfulness of God’s people. In their discouragement, the message of the Lord came through the prophet Haggai to the governor, the high priest, and the remnant of the people, instructing them to be strong and to continue the work with the assurance of His presence, and with the promise that the latter temple would be more glorious than the former one.

The people’s discouragement came from comparison. Even if they poured their heart and soul into rebuilding, this temple would never seem as glorious as Solomon’s. That comparison killed their desire to do what God had commanded.

But the Lord’s message to them was to build it anyway, with the assurance that He would be with them.

In your own life, you may have faced mountains and valleys. At one time, your life may have been so glorious that others wished they had what you had. Your ministry may have been thriving. Your business successful. Your family blessed. In such seasons, praising and honoring God, sharing His love, and spreading His Word was easier—and you enjoyed doing it.

But now, perhaps you find yourself in a valley, walking in darkness, searching for your way through a forest of discouragement. The people who once stood by you have disappeared from your life. Those who celebrated your business, ministry, or family now avoid you. The family that once stood as a testimony for many may now feel broken. All you see are ruins and rubble—the shattered pieces of your life.

Yet in this very season, God calls you to rebuild your altar of praise and restore your temple of worship. He wants you to work again in the ministry He placed in your hands. He is asking you to use the skills and talents He has given you.

Remember how God used you in the past—in your workplace, family, church, and community. Now the Word of the Lord reminds us to be strong, to be encouraged, to work for His kingdom, and not to be discouraged, with the assurance that He will be with us in all that we do.

And here is His promise: the latter part of your life will be more blessed than the former. It may not look as you expect, but others will clearly see that God’s presence is with you.

When God is on your side, you will see your family united, your business blessed, your ministry growing. You will thrive. In this season, you will impact more people positively than you did when you were standing on the mountain.

The temple was rebuilt after almost 70 years of destruction. When its foundation was laid, the older generation who had seen Solomon’s glorious temple wept aloud, while the younger generation shouted for joy. So it will be in your life—the young and old will rejoice at the work of God in you.

Therefore, consider your ways (Haggai 1:7). Refocus on your calling. Kill comparison. Break free from the scars of your past. Work for the Lord, for He is with you.

Your latter days will be more glorious than the former.

Prayer:

Lord, strengthen me to do the work You have placed in my hands. Help me not to be crushed by comparison or discouraged by ruins, but to trust in Your presence and promises. May my latter days bring glory to Your name and become a testimony of Your faithfulness. Amen.

Standard
Daily Christian Devotion

No Good Thing Will Be Withheld

“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.”

Psalm 84:11 ESV

Cornelius was a man from Caesarea, serving as part of the Roman regime. The Bible describes him as a God-fearing and generous man, along with his household. Though he seemed open to worshiping any god that was introduced to him, the title God-fearing points to his belief in a supreme power above everything.

The Roman army was always hated and feared by the Jewish people. Yet Cornelius stood out as a man who was kind, helpful, and good to both his own people and the Jewish community. He was one of the most respected Roman soldiers among those who were otherwise seen as oppressors.

In Acts 10, we read that Cornelius had a devoted time of prayer, and one day an angel appeared to him in a vision, calling him by name: “Cornelius.”

“And he stared at him in terror and said, ‘What is it, Lord?’ And he said to him, ‘Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God.’”

Acts 10:4 ESV

The angel gave Cornelius instructions to send for Peter. When Peter arrived, he shared the message of salvation with Cornelius and his household. Their search for the true God ended that day. The message of the cross and the love of Christ led them all to give their lives to Jesus, and they were baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

The great message revealed through Cornelius is that God does not show favoritism. When your ways are upright, God finds His way into your life.

Many people today have a deep search for God. They know there is a supreme power above them. Their hearts naturally desire to do good, help others, and live uprightly. Yet, even while searching, they never cease to do good for those around them.

God honors such hearts. The Bible says that He does not withhold any good thing from those who walk uprightly. The greatest gift of all—salvation through Jesus Christ—was given to Cornelius and his household because of his sincere search for God and his generous heart.

Having Jesus Christ as your portion is the greatest gift heaven can release to you. Cornelius did not resist the message Peter preached. His heart immediately recognized that the emptiness inside could only be filled by Jesus. While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell on all who were gathered—whether they had believed in Christ before or not.

The same God who sent an angel to guide Cornelius toward salvation will also meet you and your household. You may know someone—or perhaps you are the one—who walks uprightly and is God-fearing. Take courage: God will find His place in a heart that is humble and honorable.

Without God’s hand, no one can truly do good. Being good and doing good reflect the nature of God, but your life only finds true meaning when you allow Jesus into your heart. Christ completes your life and satisfies the longing inside.

To all who walk uprightly, the Word of God promises: “No good thing will He withhold.” You will receive every good portion from heaven, with Jesus Christ as the greatest treasure.

Keep praying. God will find His way into the hearts of upright people, and salvation will come to their household.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us through Cornelius that You do not show favoritism but look at the heart. Teach us to walk uprightly, to live generously, and to keep our hearts open to You. May our prayers and good works rise before You as a memorial. Bless our households with salvation, and let Your Spirit fall afresh on us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Standard
Daily Christian Devotion

Choose The Good Portion

“But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

Luke 10:41-42 ESV

Mary and Martha, the two sisters of Lazarus from Bethany—Lazarus being a very close friend of Jesus—welcomed Him into their home. When Jesus was invited to their house, it was a joyful celebration for them. Martha, known for her hospitality, was busy moving around, preparing food, and cooking. She wanted to impress Jesus and make Him feel special. She gave her very best through physical effort, serving with all her heart and joyfully performing her duties.

On the other hand, Mary chose to sit at the feet of Jesus, gazing at His beauty and eagerly listening to His words. Martha became frustrated and complained to Jesus, saying that Mary was doing nothing but sitting there. She even asked Jesus to tell Mary to help her.

But Jesus gently answered Martha, pointing out that she was anxious and worried about many things, while Mary had chosen the better part—one that would not be taken away from her. Jesus acknowledged that what Mary chose was greater than what Martha was doing. Martha wanted to give her best to Jesus, but Mary wanted to receive the best from Him.

Jesus showed that Martha was caught up in worldly activities, while Mary laid aside distractions to enjoy His presence. Mary understood that this moment was precious—every minute spent at His feet was worth more than anything else.

God desires the same from us. Honoring and serving Him through actions is good, but what He truly longs for is our heart and our devotion. The Bible reminds us that God does not ultimately delight in sacrifices or offerings but in a heart fully surrendered to Him.

Anything that takes us away from devotion is a mere distraction. Serving God with all our strength can bring us joy, but being still and worshiping Jesus will give us peace.

When we are busy with God’s outward service, we are working for Him, but when we seek Jesus, we are communing with Him. The Bible says it is better to listen than to speak. Listening is a complete surrender of oneself, honoring the presence of someone greater. It shows respect for the one speaking and a willingness to receive. Above all, when Jesus is speaking, it is like drinking wisdom directly from the source itself.

King David beautifully declared:

“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

Psalm 16:11 ESV

David, though he was a mighty king with wealth, strength, and wisdom, knew that nothing compared to the presence of God.

The world and its cares often leave us anxious, fearful, and uncertain. But when our focus shifts to God, His Word strengthens us, His love drives out fear, and His fellowship fills every lack. The enemy constantly seeks to distract us from focusing on God, but we must examine our lives, remove worldly distractions, and devote time to fellowship with Him.

Balance your life—serve God, but also sit at His feet and seek His presence. This is the “good portion” that God acknowledges, and it will never be taken away from you.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, help me to lay aside my distractions and worries, and choose the better portion—time in Your presence. May my heart always delight in Your Word, and may I never lose the peace and fullness that comes from Your presence. Amen.

Standard