Tag Archives: daily encouragement

Daily Christian Devotion

Set your mind on things above

“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”

Colossians 3:2 ESV

A very famous Indian actress was once found dead in a hotel room in the world’s tallest building. A woman once celebrated for her beauty and grace was now reduced to a body prepared for autopsy. The media rushed to capture the first image of her face after death, but none succeeded. Her face remained hidden—veiled in mystery. Only during her funeral, once she was flown back to her hometown, was her face finally revealed—fully covered in makeup.

This woman had spent so much time, effort, and resources on her physical appearance. She was always careful about how she presented herself to the world. So even after her autopsy, her family ensured she looked beautiful.

But no matter how beautifully a body is decorated, one day it will still return to dust—buried, cremated, or eaten by worms.

We often live as though we will be here forever. But the truth is, even with long life and God’s grace, a person may live around 100 years. After a short time, even family may forget we existed. Time moves on. The world does not pause for anyone. The clock is ticking for every single one of us.

We care so much about how we look on the outside, yet many neglect the condition of the soul—the very part that remains long after this physical body fades.

This actress, who worked hard and gained fame, wealth, and influence—who invested so much in her outward beauty—still returned to dust. The industry she served, the people who adored her, and even her close family… slowly began to move on.

Yet the Bible says that those who belong to Jesus Christ will be transformed and live eternally with Him in glory (1 Corinthians 15:52–54).

Those who hear the truth and believe do not fear death—because Jesus Christ is the Hope of Glory.

So now the question stands before each of us:

Even if you gain the whole world but lose your soul—what have you truly gained?

(Matthew 16:26)

Scripture calls us to set our minds on eternity, not merely on this short earthly existence. Everything we possess today will one day belong to someone else—they may or may not preserve it the way we do. We work so hard to build a life that cannot follow us beyond the grave. We toil for something we see and enjoy for only a few years. Nothing here truly belongs to us.

But there is a place that lasts forever—a place prepared in heaven where there is no sorrow, no pain, no darkness, and no death (Revelation 21:4).

And there is only one way to that place:

Jesus Christ—the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Whoever believes in Him will have eternal life.

(John 14:6)

There is no karma in the Kingdom of God determining your eternity. Good works do not earn salvation. Only the blood of Jesus secures our place in heaven.

So, set your mind above to dwell in glory with Jesus for eternity.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, teach me to number my days and live with eternity in mind. Help me not chase what fades, but hold tightly to what lasts forever. Transform my heart and renew my soul. Draw me closer to You daily, that I may walk in truth, hope, and salvation. Amen.

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Daily Christian Devotion

Your Darkness Is Not Too Dark For God

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

John 1:5 (ESV)

It was one winter—cold, gloomy, and dark. During that time, I was a single mother living in a five-story apartment with my six-year-old child, and I had already slipped into deep depression. I was walking through loss, pain, shame, and betrayal, and the enemy began to take hold of my life both physically and emotionally. When darkness arrived around 4 PM, fear would start creeping in. Fear soon opened the door to anxiety, and panic attacks joined in as if they had formed an alliance against me.

I wasn’t sure what was in that apartment, but I could feel spirits moving in the room. I remember lying in bed and physically feeling as if I was fighting something evil. My daughter would wake every night around 11 PM complaining of stomach pain. This continued for months. I grew weaker—spiritually, emotionally, and physically. I no longer had the strength to resist the enemy.

My mother was with me during that season, helping me in practical ways, but I didn’t tell her what was happening spiritually. She could see my suffering, and she heard my daughter screaming in pain at night. I could hear whispers—words of hopelessness and discouragement spoken into my mind by evil spirits. I once told her, “Something feels twisted in my mind. I’m confused, and I can’t think straight.”

Thank God for a praying mother. I have seen her pray for me day and night.During those months, sleep felt impossible to reach. Anyone who has battled anxiety or panic attacks knows the torment of lying awake through the night.

Many times, suicidal thoughts tried to take root. The enemy kept telling me that this was the end of my story—that the rest of my life would be lived in fear, anxiety, and torment. For a short time, I believed those lies. But thank God for the Holy Spirit—because He can pull anyone out of the darkest pit, even when it feels like there is no way out.

One night, I went into the bathroom and sat silently in a corner, crying and asking for help. The enemy whispered that I should jump from the fifth floor, but the voice of the Holy Spirit was gentle, comforting, and full of assurance. After wrestling for a long time, I chose to listen to the Holy Spirit. The blood of Jesus began to speak for me.

I was led to take communion from a packet that had been in my handbag for months. I believed again in the finished work of Jesus on the cross. I claimed the power of His blood over myself, over my daughter, and over that apartment. With fear still lingering, I grabbed my Bible and opened to John chapter 1. As I read, something shifted in the atmosphere. A light filled the room—not a physical lamp, but a divine presence. I knew someone holy was there.

The grip of darkness shattered. Peace replaced fear. The torment lifted. For the first time in many months, I slept soundly through the night and woke up refreshed.

Truly, my life was spared that night because the Spirit of God came through for me.

The next morning, my mother saw my face glowing. Everything began to change. My daughter stopped having stomach pain. Restoration accelerated. Fear and anxiety began losing their power as His light shined into every part of my life. His Word became a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

What a wonderful Father we have—a God who does not hand His children over to the enemy. Thank God for Jesus Christ, and thank God for the Holy Spirit.

When the light of the Living God touches a person, nothing remains the same.

We see this in Scripture. Saul was persecuting and killing Christians, yet on the road to Damascus, the Light of Heaven met him—and everything changed.

“Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him.”

Acts 9:3 (ESV)

That same Saul became Paul—used by God with the same intensity he once used against the church. His writings, inspired by the Holy Spirit, continue to strengthen and encourage millions today.

So today, this word brings hope: your darkness is never too dark for God. His presence brings life. His Spirit brings freedom. If you invite Jesus into your heart, believe His Word, and ask for the help of the Holy Spirit, nothing—not fear, not trauma, not depression, not generational bondage—can stop your deliverance.

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

John 8:36 (ESV)

Your life is a gift from God. You do not have to live in bondage. With whatever strength you have left, call on the name of Jesus—He is ready to set you free.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your light that breaks every chain of darkness. Thank You for Your blood that speaks healing, freedom, and life. Holy Spirit, fill every place where fear once lived. Let Your peace rule my heart and my home. Strengthen me to walk in the freedom You purchased for me. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

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Daily Christian Devotion

Holy Spirit, The great helper

And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever.”

John 14:16 ESV

It was a normal day of pick-up and drop-off for me. My apartment has multiple entrances, and the one closest to my building is tricky. The visibility toward the road is poor and prone to accidents, but it’s the route I usually take.

That day, as I was about to turn toward that entrance, something within me—now I know it was the Holy Spirit—prompted me to take a different exit. It felt unusual, and I almost ignored it because everything looked clear. But I couldn’t shake that gentle voice, so I obeyed and went the other way.

As I drove past my usual entrance, I was shocked to see that an accident had just taken place between a car pulling out of that very spot and another vehicle on the road. A few minutes earlier, I would have been right there. I was speechless. I knew instantly that the Holy Spirit had protected me. I thanked the Lord immediately because I knew I had been spared. The guidance and instruction of the Holy Spirit was spot on.

As I began to seek Jesus Christ more deeply, I started experiencing the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. He became my Helper and my closest friend. I ask His help in everything—how to pray, how to speak, what decisions to make, where to go, even how to carry myself. His fellowship is sweeter than any relationship on earth.

The Holy Spirit is the most important Person of the Trinity. He is the one-stop Helper for every need. There is nothing too small, too big, or too confusing for Him. His helpline is always open—24/7, 365 days. He answers every cry. He gives solutions no human intelligence can offer and counsel far beyond the wisdom of the world.

“You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.” John 14:17 ESV

The Holy Spirit longs to dwell in you, to guide you, and to help you walk in victory. The Word encourages us today that God is pouring out His Spirit in abundance. He is not after your silver or your gold—He desires a heart willing to receive Him.

If you allow Him, He will strengthen you in your weaknesses. He intercedes for you with groanings too deep for words, praying the very will of God over your life.

You don’t have to spend a penny or perform rituals to receive Him. You cannot buy His presence. Your works, sacrifices, and religious efforts do not earn the Holy Spirit. He is drawn to your love for the Father through Jesus Christ and your desire to make Him your closest friend.

Even your best friend in the world has limitations. They cannot heal your mind, restore your emotions, or give you lasting peace. But when the Holy Spirit comes, He brings strength, power, comfort, and wholeness.

It is better to seek Him than to run after kings. He makes you whole and answers you with complete, perfect help.

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, thank You for being my Helper and my closest friend. Teach me to listen to Your voice, to walk with You, and to trust Your leading every day. Fill me afresh and guide me into the Father’s perfect will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Daily Christian Devotion

Pain is a blessing

“We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair.”

— 2 Corinthians 4:8 (ESV)

Many years ago, a group of people affected by leprosy would visit our home before Christmas, New Year, or Easter to seek alms and some help. They lived on the outskirts of our town, separated from others because their condition made them outcasts in society.

They came year after year, though their group grew smaller each time as some passed away. As a young girl, these visits often filled me with fear. I remember one particular visit vividly—a young father with leprosy came with his little son. My mother asked him about his friend who used to accompany him during previous visits.

With sadness in his eyes, he replied that his friend had been bitten by a rat one night while sleeping on the streets. Because he had lost sensation in his feet, he didn’t realize it until he began to bleed heavily. By the time others found him, he was taken to a government hospital—barely alive, having lost too much blood.

Though leprosy is now nearly eradicated in most parts of the world, that story remains deeply etched in my memory. It taught me something profound: what a blessing it is to feel pain. Without the experience of pain, we are only diminishing rather growing .

Leprosy is a disease caused by bacteria that damage the nerves and interfere with the body’s ability to sense pain. Because of this, those affected cannot feel touch, injury, or even severe wounds. How easily we take for granted the gift of pain—the very thing that protects us from harm.

Pain, though unpleasant, is a sign of life. It protects us, refines us, and often points us toward healing. Think of children who sometimes cry with leg pain during their growth spurts—it’s not to harm them, but to help them grow stronger.

In the same way, every one of us must face seasons of growing pains—emotional, spiritual, or physical. There is no truly successful person who has not walked through pain. Pain anchors us to our roots, deepens our faith, and shapes our character.

Job’s story reminds us of this truth. He was afflicted, mocked by friends, insulted by his wife, and lost everything—his wealth, fame, and family. Yet through it all, Job held firmly to his faith and declared, “I know that my Redeemer lives.” In the end, God restored him and blessed him with a double portion.

The Word of God assures us that your pain will not end in defeat. Your pain has a purpose—it draws you closer to God, strengthens your faith, and equips you to bring healing to others.

Scripture says that God is near to the brokenhearted. He hears the cry of the lonely, defends the widow, and cares for the fatherless. You are never alone in your pain. God will never allow you to endure more than you can bear. Whatever you are facing—whether through family struggles, friendships, loss, or illness—God will use it for His glory.

So remember, when God is on your side, even though you are afflicted on every side, you will not be crushed, perplexed, or driven to despair. This pain will turn out for your good.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of pain that reminds us we are alive and that You are near. Help me to see purpose in every trial and to trust that You are working all things for my good. Strengthen my heart, deepen my faith, and let my pain bring healing and hope to others.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Daily Christian Devotion

Believe and Be Free

When Jesus saw that the crowd of onlookers was growing, he rebuked the evil spirit. ‘Listen, you spirit that makes this boy unable to hear and speak,’ he said. ‘I command you to come out of this child and never enter him again!’”

— Mark 9:25 NLT

One day, the Jewish leaders were arguing with the crowd. When they saw Jesus, they all ran up to Him and greeted Him. Jesus asked the crowd, “What is this argument about?” One man responded, saying that his son was possessed by a spirit that had made him mute since childhood. Whenever the spirit seized him, it tormented him physically, often throwing him into fire or water to destroy him. The father pleaded with Jesus to have compassion on them—“if you can.”

Jesus quickly replied, “Anything is possible if you believe.” The man cried out, “I believe! Help my unbelief!” Then Jesus rebuked the spirit that made the boy unable to hear and speak, commanding it to come out and never enter him again. The spirit screamed, threw the boy into another violent convulsion, and left him. Jesus then took the boy by the hand and helped him stand on his feet.

Earlier, the boy had been brought to Jesus’ disciples, but they could not cast out the demon. When they asked why, Jesus explained that certain kinds can only be driven out by prayer and fasting.

The Word of God encourages us that Jesus is here to cast out every spirit that has been tormenting us for a long time. The enemy works hard to keep us powerless by making us voiceless. He does not always appear in scary clothes with horns and sharp teeth—sometimes he comes dressed in designer clothes, looking beautiful /handsome, carrying a fancy job title, coming from a respected family, or even from our own family, appearing as a friend, a believer, or a neighbor.

The first thing the oppressor seeks to do is to silence us, preventing us from speaking out. When we are muted, he overpowers us and throws us under his control. He uses weapons like shame, fear, and loss to keep us silent—so he can keep causing chaos in our lives. When we go through this silent torment, unable to express ourselves, our bad attitudes and behaviors often surface as the overflow of our emotional suffering.

Many times, we cannot help ourselves. To others, we may simply become a topic of gossip, a matter to talk about. That is why our inner circle matters most. When we cannot believe for our own deliverance, like the father believing for his son, God places people around us to believe, pray, and plead on our behalf. The Bible also calls us to do the same—to stand in the gap and intercede for those who are helpless and voiceless.

The father only complained that his son was mute, but Jesus not only opened his mouth—He also opened his ears. This shows us that Jesus knew being deaf to the Word of God leads to losing the power to speak. Therefore, in His deliverance, He restores us completely—spirit, soul, and body.

So be alert, be vigilant, and stay rooted in fasting and prayer. The enemy comes only to steal, kill, and destroy—but the Good News is this: Jesus has come to give us life, and life in abundance (John 10:10). He loves us so much that He willingly gave up His Spirit so we could walk in freedom.

May the Lord open deaf ears to hear His voice and loosen mute tongues to speak. Even in times of exhaustion and humiliation, Jesus will hold your hand, lift you up, and help you stand on your feet again.

Believe in Him and accept the free gift of freedom. God will turn the story of your muteness into a lasting memory of deliverance.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for being the One who silences the enemy and opens our mouths to speak. Where we have been muted by fear, shame, or oppression, set us free today. Hold our hand, lift us up, and let our lives become a testimony of Your deliverance. In Your mighty name, Amen.

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Christ, Uncategorized

For such a time as this… Act

“Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?” – Esther 4:14 (NLT)

Queen Esther was a Jew, an orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, who cared for her as his own daughter. In God’s providence, Esther was chosen to participate in the royal selection process to become queen of Persia. The Bible tells us that Esther was very beautiful, and she found favor with everyone around her. After months of preparation—both physical and mental—Esther won the king’s favor and was crowned queen.

Though she now lived in the palace, Mordecai continued to watch over her, faithfully staying at the city gate. He advised her to keep her Jewish identity hidden, trusting God’s timing and plan. From her orphaned childhood to her royal throne, God’s favor was upon her.

In time, an official in the palace plotted to destroy all the Jewish people. When Mordecai learned of this, he urged Esther to intercede with the king on behalf of her people. At first, she hesitated—knowing that appearing before the king uninvited could cost her life. But Mordecai reminded her, “If you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place… And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14).

Strengthened by faith, Esther called for three days of fasting and prayer. She chose courage over fear, determined to do the right thing even if it meant death. God honored her obedience, granting her favor with the king, and through her boldness, the Jewish people were saved from destruction.

There may have been many women more qualified by worldly standards, but God chose Esther. Out of countless others, His hand of favor rested on her to fulfill a greater purpose. And Esther did not keep this favor to herself—she used it to rescue her people.

The word of God encourages that the favor and blessings we receive are not meant to be hoarded but shared. God places us in unique positions—not for our comfort alone, but to act on behalf of the helpless, to speak for the voiceless, and to defend those who cannot defend themselves.

If we close our hearts to the needs of others, we should not be surprised when God withholds favor from us. For Scripture reminds us, “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Matthew 7:2).

Today, may we embrace the opportunities God gives us to show mercy and favor. Who knows? Perhaps you, too, are where you are for such a time as this.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the favor and help we have received. Give us the grace and boldness to show favor to others and to speak up for them. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

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Christ, Hope, Uncategorized

Move Forward With Your Identity

“You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.” 1 Samuel 17:45

David was a shepherd boy who usually brought food to his brothers in the army every day. One day, he happened to see Goliath, the giant, who came out day after day for forty days, exposing the inability of the Israelite army to defeat him. All the soldiers were humiliated by the giant, but David volunteered to fight him.

He expressed his willingness to face Goliath. King Saul tried to convince him that the giant had been a warrior since his youth. But David did not accept Saul’s words. Instead, he laid down his “CV,” explaining how he struck down lions and bears and rescued sheep from their mouths. He went on to describe his skills and how he defended himself when the beasts turned against him.

For David, fighting Goliath was just another act of courage, like when he was shepherding. He believed that the same God who gave him victory in rescuing and defending his flock would also be with him as he faced this giant. David was not intimidated—whether by a terrifying animal or a mighty warrior. He knew the weapons he had were powerful enough, with God’s help, to bring down Goliath.

Somehow, David convinced King Saul. Saul gave him his tunic, his coat of armor, and a bronze helmet. David tried them on, but he could not walk properly with the sword and armor. He declined Saul’s defense mechanisms and instead took his staff, five small stones, his shepherd’s bag, and a sling in his hand.

David prepared himself for battle and was content with what he had because his trust was in Almighty God.

Then, the tall, fully armored giant stepped forward with his shield to defend himself against the unarmed shepherd boy. Goliath saw David as a healthy, handsome young man but mocked him, saying he would soon become food for the birds. But while Goliath saw a boy, God saw a warrior and the future king of Israel.

The first thing Goliath noticed was David’s simple weapon, his staff, and he threatened him. But David responded that while Goliath came against him with sword, spear, and javelin, he came against Goliath in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel.

Long story short, David marched forward with boldness. He placed a stone in his sling, released it, and struck Goliath on the forehead. The giant fell face down, and David cut off his head with Goliath’s own sword.

David won the battle with his own identity—his shepherd’s dress and shepherd’s tools. He was uncomfortable carrying Saul’s identity as a warrior.

Today, the Word encourages us that God has been preparing, molding, and equipping you for your battles. We carry an identity in the Kingdom of God. Instead of trying to wear someone else’s identity or handle situations the way others do, embrace who you are, the gifts you have, and where God has placed you. Trust Him, for He is the greatest weapon. Take courage with what you are equipped with—the battle is not yours but the Lord’s.

The same God who has rescued, protected, and guarded you in the past is still faithful and powerful to give you victory in every giant-like situation.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for all that You have been building in me. Give me the courage to face the battles ahead of me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

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