Tag Archives: #salvation

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Do Not Minimize God in your situation

All things were created by Him and for Him… and in Him all things hold together.

—Colossians 1:16–17

I grew up in a culture where we carried photos of the gods we believed in. I made sure I always had the photo of Jesus—one in my backpack, one in my geometry box, and even one with my toughest subjects. I believed the picture would help me pass exams. I would kiss the photo, talk to it, and place it before me as I wrote my tests. Sadly, I failed over and over again.

Even as I grew older, the habit continued. I would sleep with the picture at my bedside and carry it in my pocketbook. I was even inspired by movies where Dracula or Satan would flee at the sight of a cross, a necklace with a cross, or even when someone lifted up a Bible. I believed the picture itself had power.

Whenever I faced a challenge, I would pull out the photo, thinking Jesus could help in that situation. But if the problem seemed impossible to me, I wouldn’t even bother taking the picture out—because in my mind, if it looked impossible to me, surely it was impossible for Jesus too. None of these actions really helped me, until one day the Holy Spirit revealed who Jesus truly is through the Word of God.

The picture of Jesus we see today is only an artistic representation—perhaps a guess of how a Jewish man might have looked—but it is nowhere near how the Word of God reveals Him.

Jesus Christ cannot be contained in a pocketbook, a drawer, a cupboard, or placed on a shelf. He is the God who has dominion over everything. “For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible… all things were created through Him and for Him.” (Colossians 1:16)

Every creature must bow and humble itself before Him. When Jesus speaks, it will come to pass. When He commands, it will stand firm.

Jesus Christ has power and authority over heaven and hell. The angels and the demons obey Him.

John’s vision describes Jesus this way: “The hairs of His head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. On His robe and on His thigh He has a name written: King of kings and Lord of lords.” (Revelation 1:14; 19:13,16)

This is the Jesus we serve—not an image, not a symbol, but the living, reigning King. And yet, how often do we try to shrink this sovereign, all-powerful God into something our tiny human minds can imagine? Can we ever truly perceive His majestic image?

Though we cannot wrap our minds around this magnificent God, when we believe in our hearts and confess with our mouths that Jesus is Lord, we will be saved. And through Him, we will see great things.

Do not minimize the nature of God when sickness seems incurable, when the doctors have given up, or when hope feels lost. Doctors go by facts, but our faith proclaims Jesus is the Healer and Great Physician.

Do not cling to the rulebook of man, but align yourself with the rulebook of God. Man lies and fails, but “the Word of the Lord endures forever.” (1 Peter 1:25)

The devil is not afraid of the physical book, the Bible. But when you confess and release the living Word of God written in the Bible, he trembles. The picture of a cross on the wall does not protect you. The wooden cross in your room has no power. But when you plead the blood of Jesus over your house, you are shielded. (Exodus 12:13)

The photo in your pocketbook does not carry God with you. But when you invite the Holy Spirit, the very presence of God goes with you wherever you go.

When you abide in His presence, you carry His power, and you can speak His Word over situations. The authority was already claimed for you at Calvary through the blood of Jesus.

So go boldly before the throne of the Father. Ask the impossible. Speak to the immovable. He will respond according to His will and in His perfect time. (Hebrews 4:16)

Instead of placing the Bible under your pillow, hiding it beneath your head, meditate on the Word of God. Get it into your heart and mind. Use it as a solution in your problems, as a weapon in your battles, and as medicine in your suffering.

I don’t carry the image of Jesus in my pocketbook anymore. Rather, I have drawn that image in my soul as the Word of God describes. I have never felt victorious like the life I am living today. Glory be to God.

You too—fall in love with the Word of God, and you will never fail.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, forgive me for the times I have minimized Your power and tried to contain You in my own understanding. Help me to treasure Your Word, confess it with faith, and walk in the authority of Your Spirit. May Your presence go with me wherever I am, and may Your Word be my strength, my shield, and my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Daily Christian Devotion

Resist The Strong Man

There is an ancient Japanese game called Sumo wrestling, where two players compete inside a clay ring. One opponent must push the other outside of the ring or tackle him to the ground for victory. In those days, most sumo wrestlers were heavy with a lot of body fat. But in one particular match, an athletic, well-built man faced a traditional sumo wrestler.

Naturally, one would expect the athletic man to win. Yet the traditional wrestler easily took him down and won the match.

This game was not only about how strong you looked, but about quick reflexes, incredible balance, and how long you could resist without being brought to the ground.

The Word of God tells you: “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). In Scripture, the devil is often portrayed as a strong man who rules the world through sin (John 12:31). He keeps you under his control through the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (1 John 2:16). Many of your downfalls come from these very things.

In the arena called life, the devil—the so-called strong man—tries to take over the boundaries God has given you. His intention is only to make you stumble, fall, and lose your ground. That’s why you face continuous battles and trials in your life.

Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

The enemy may appear as a strong man, trying to defeat you through your weaknesses. But the Bible encourages you to resist lustful desires and fight the pride that rises in your heart. Lust of the flesh is not always adultery or immorality—it can also be a restless desire for what God has not given. It shows up when you compare yourself with others, crave their blessings, or take pride in your social and economic status.

The devil often disguises temptation so it doesn’t look like sin. It comes dressed in beauty, wrapped in luxury, and may even wear the image of love. It might begin as a small desire, a passion, or even just one social gathering. But if unchecked, it can take over and cause you to lose your ground.

Slowly, the enemy pushes you beyond God’s boundaries—trying to control your family, your business, and even your relationship with Him. But here is the good news: “Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4).

When the Holy Spirit comes upon you, He gives you power (Acts 1:8). With the shield of faith (Ephesians 6:16) and the strength of the Spirit, you can push back the enemy’s advances. Balance your life with the Word of God, resist the devil with the fear of the Lord, and you will stand victorious.

And if you’ve already been knocked down, do not despair. God is giving you another chance to rise up and fight. But remember—one day the final whistle will blow, and there will be no more chances to wrestle. If you give ground to the enemy, you will remain defeated. Choose wisely now. Stand firm in Christ, and you will overcome.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I thank You for reminding me that greater is the One who lives in me than the one who is in the world. Fill me with Your Spirit so that I may walk in victory and receive the crown of life You have promised. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Daily Christian Devotion

No One Shall Be Able To Stand Against You

“No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you.”

Joshua 1:5 ESV

Joshua grew up witnessing the hand of God over His people. From a young age, he was actively involved in helping Moses on the mission to lead the Israelites into the promised land.

Now that Moses was dead, Joshua was commanded to step up and take his place. Moses was known as a mighty man of wisdom, but now the mantle was falling on Joshua. Naturally, he might have been frightened or discouraged after the death of his mentor and leader. God spoke to Joshua multiple times, giving him courage and strength.

So many thoughts must have crossed Joshua’s mind as he considered taking Moses’ role. These were not easy people to lead. They were tough, often dissatisfied, ungrateful, and complaining. Managing them was a great task. Helping from behind the scenes was one thing, but being at the front lines brought a whole new level of stress.

The loss of a well-wisher and father figure may have left Joshua feeling emotionally weak. He had spent more time with Moses than with his own father. The absence of Moses’ voice, the lack of his gentle encouragement, must have weighed heavily on him.

But in that moment of grief, God stepped in to comfort and encourage Joshua: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid… for I will be with you wherever you go.” With that assurance, Joshua rose to the mission of leading God’s people.

What a great assurance from a great God! And this promise extends to you as well. You and Joshua are equal in God’s sight. He understands your season—whether joy, loss, grief, or transition.

You may be strong and capable, yet life may bring moments that drain your strength. You may have handled great responsibilities before, but now you may feel weighed down by insecurities, trauma, or the absence of encouragement you once relied on. Maybe you miss the voice or the embrace of someone who gave you strength.

But do not be discouraged. The Spirit of God is your greatest Comforter, and the Word of God reminds you of His promises: No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life, and the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go, and He will never leave you not forsake you.

The responsibilities you carry—the family you provide for, the business you manage, the project you are called to lead—will only draw out the best in you.

God told Joshua to take courage, to meditate on His Word day and night, and not to turn to the right or the left. When he obeyed, God promised him good success. The same instruction applies to us today for a successful life.

Joshua’s full potential was not revealed until he faced such a situation. In the same way, your disappointments, losses, and failures are shaping you to bring out your fullest potential.

Do not forget—no one will stand against you all the days of your life. In Christ, you are more than a conqueror.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for reminding me that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Remove every fear, every insecurity, and every doubt. I believe that in every battle I face, You are with me, and You will give me victory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Daily Christian Devotion

You Are No More Called Forsaken

“You shall no more be termed Forsaken,and your land shall no more be termed Desolate,but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her.”

Isaiah 62:4

Jesus was invited to one of the Pharisees’ houses. A Pharisee is someone involved in studying and interpreting the law given to Moses. These Pharisees were not big fans of Jesus, and most of them were against His teaching because they thought Jesus was blaspheming against the God of Abraham. The Bible even points out that they plotted against Him.

Someone from such an orthodox community inviting Jesus to dinner must have been a very secret act. If the other Pharisees knew about it, the one who invited Him would be in trouble or even cast out from the synagogue. He was risking his future to invite Jesus into his home.

As Jesus reclined at the table, a sinful woman—likely a prostitute—heard that Jesus was in the Pharisee’s house. She showed up with an alabaster jar of perfume. She knelt before Jesus and began to wet His feet with her tears, wiped them with the hair of her head, kissed His feet, and anointed them with the perfume.

The Pharisee who invited Jesus wondered to himself, “If this man were a prophet, He would have known what kind of woman she is, and He would not have allowed her to touch Him.” But Jesus knew his thoughts and told Simon a story: the one whose larger debt is forgiven will love more than the one who had a smaller debt forgiven.

This woman showed deep love for Jesus. Out of compassion, Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven. Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” Those who were at the table began to wonder, “Who is this who even forgives sins?”

The story shows that Jesus came for sinners like you and me. The sinful woman’s heart was searching—maybe for true love, maybe for someone who could understand her, someone who truly knew her. When she saw Jesus, her search ended in repentance.

She surrendered everything she held as her identity. The expensive perfume, which was a statement of wealth and also used to lure men into immorality, she poured at His feet. Her hair, which was considered a woman’s glory, she let down to wipe His feet.

As she brought down everything she had, she found forgiveness at the feet of Jesus. Her tears were tokens of gratitude, her kisses on His feet showed that she had finally found the Lover of her soul. This woman traded all she had at the feet of Jesus.

Whatever you search for—love, forgiveness, hope, or a future—in the presence of Jesus you will find a remedy for your misery, healing for a broken soul, and peace in the middle of chaos.

But Jesus cannot fix what you still hold back. That alabaster jar—your pride, your glory, your desires, your identity—has to be broken as an expression of repentance. In that breaking begins the new chapter of your life.

This next chapter will be unlike anything you could have imagined, beyond what your heart could have received, because it is written by the sovereign hand of God.

God is close to the brokenhearted. If you are broken by people, by circumstances, or by situations, be encouraged—God will work all things out for your good.

Your name will no longer be labeled by your past, but will be renamed as Child of the Most High.

Your life will no longer remain desolate and forsaken, but will be fully restored and made new.

Prayer

I come before You with my brokenness, my failures, and my search for meaning. Help me to trade everything I hold onto for the life You have prepared for me. Thank You for calling me not forsaken, but Your delight, and for giving me a new name as Your child. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Daily Christian Devotion, Uncategorized

Time Has Come For God To Show Mercy

“You will arise and have mercy on Zion; For the time to favor her, Yes, the set time, has come.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭102‬:‭13‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Joseph, the second-youngest of the 12 brothers, had his low and high moments in life. This phase of his life was when he was falsely accused and imprisoned.

During his prison time, Joseph was confined with two others—a cupbearer and a baker.

One night, both the cupbearer and the baker had dreams with different interpretations but at the same time.

The next day, both of their countenances looked troubled. Joseph inquired and asked, “Why do your faces look downcast?”

They replied, saying they had a dream, but there was nobody to interpret it. Joseph insisted that they share the dreams, for interpretation belongs to God.

Joseph interpreted correctly that the cupbearer would be restored back to office in three days, while the baker would be hanged in three days. Joseph requested the cupbearer to kindly remember him, because he was wrongly imprisoned.

After a couple of years, Pharaoh had dreams that troubled his spirit. Pharaoh sent for magicians and all the wise men in the land to interpret the dreams, but none could interpret them for him. During such a time, the cupbearer, who had been restored to Pharaoh’s office, remembered the young Hebrew boy and his gift of interpreting dreams.

He recommended Joseph to Pharaoh. Pharaoh’s servants, by his instruction, brought Joseph out of the prison.

Joseph groomed himself, changed his clothes, and appeared before Pharaoh.

Joseph once again revealed God’s plan for Egypt by interpreting the dreams correctly. Pharaoh was impressed and put Joseph in charge of handling the horrific famine, which needed a wise man to manage. Joseph gave brilliant ideas to handle the famine, and the people had enough for themselves and were able to share with others as well. Joseph was promoted as a second in command in Egypt.

This Hebrew boy Joseph had really faced enough troubles since his youth. He was a victim of jealousy. He narrowly escaped being murdered, was sold as a slave to a faraway place he knew nothing about, was later falsely accused of moral failure, and then was thrown into prison.

It seemed to be a very long journey of rejection, pain, and humiliation. Yet in all of this, Joseph had the favor of God. When the time came for God to show mercy on Joseph, God brought people under the same prison roof, disturbed someone else’ with a dream, and exalted Joseph’s gift for a divine breakthrough.

God’s favor reached not only common men but also leaders in authority, bringing Joseph out of the pit. The Bible even describes the prison as a pit, for in those days it was likely built that way.

God’s favor in the set time kept pushing Joseph forward until he received his crown and God received the glory. The door God opened for him was never shut again.The God who showered mercy on Joseph will also shower mercy upon us.

You may be a victim of jealousy, or you may be someone your parents wished they never had. Maybe you are hated and humiliated by your own siblings like Joseph.The journey of your life may seem clueless, filled with tears, and hopeless about how the future will look.

Although everything around you looks strange and foreign, be encouraged—you did not make it this far without the favor of God. A set time has come for God to show favor on the house of Zion. At this time, the intervention of God will even nullify common sense of how things should work out.

The seasons will be favorable to you. Distance will not defile the plan of God. God will realign situations in such a way that you are positioned to receive the full portion of His favor.

Like the cupbearer, God will bring help under your roof to lift you. For Joseph, sharing the dream that revealed God’s plan once put him in the pit. God used the same mode to bring him out of the prison and placed him among princes. God will also do the same for you.

We serve the same God that Joseph served. God, in His sovereignty, is ready to show mercy to you and your household through Jesus. As you wait upon Jesus and continue to love Him and honor Him in your situation, at the set time all the prison doors will open for you to walk out, possess, and embrace exaltation.

Get ready to groom yourself and be clothed in the glory of God. God will open a door that no man can shut.

Prayer

Lord, I thank You for Your favor that never fails. Just as You lifted Joseph from the pit to the palace, lift me out of every place of rejection and hopelessness. Open the doors that no man can shut, and let my life bring glory to Your name. 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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Daily Christian Devotion

Be available with your Little Strength

The LORD turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” Judges 6:14

Gideon, came from the smallest tribe, Manasseh, and he was the youngest in his family. During his day, the people of Israel were overpowered by the Midianites. They made dens in the mountains and caves to escape from their enemies. The Midianites came after the Israelites’ crops and livestock. They were numerous in number and left Israel with only a few things to take back home. God allowed this because of their unfaithfulness and sin. Yet when they cried out to God for help, He sent a promising word to deliver His people.

One day Gideon was beating out wheat in the winepress to hide from the enemy. The angel of the Lord met this lowly person and called him, “Mighty man of valor. The Lord is with you.”

This man Gideon lived much of his life with disappointment and inadequacy. When the angel called him a warrior, it was contradictory to what people used to call him. His very name, Gideon, means “woodcutter.” He could not believe what the angel had spoken over him. In those ancient days, the youngest were considered least in authority and inheritance rights. It is natural for anyone to be in disbelief, considering where they came from and what they were capable of doing. The equation did not make sense when the angel called him a warrior.

But God overruled Gideon’s doubts and confirmed his calling. Judges 6 records powerful incidents where God Himself answered Gideon’s requests for confirmation. The Spirit of the Lord came upon Gideon and the people with him as they encamped against the Midianites.

Gideon brought 35,000 soldiers to fight, but God told him to reduce the number. God knew that if Israel won with such a large army, they would boast in their own strength. So Gideon sent home the fearful, cutting the number to 22,000. Still, that was too many. God gave Gideon a selection process until only 300 men remained.

This weakest clan, with the least mighty man—Gideon—was now ready to face a vast army. God said, “You are good to go. I have given this mighty army into your feeble hands.”

That night, God told Gideon to rise and go down to the enemy camp. Along with Purah, Gideon approached and overheard two Midianite soldiers sharing a dream and its interpretation: Israel would defeat them. Strengthened by this word, Gideon worshiped.

With his small force, Gideon advanced and surrounded the enemy from three sides. During the change of guard, they broke jars, lifted torches, and blew trumpets. The camp was thrown into confusion. The Midianites turned their swords against one another and fled in terror. Gideon and his men pursued them and defeated them, along the very route the Midianites once used to torment Israel.

The Word of God brings encouragement today: God can use you regardless of who you are or where you come from. He calls you a warrior. People may label you with names that make you feel inferior, but I encourage you to overhear only what God says—you are valiant.

It is okay to doubt. It is okay to feel weak. God will send you a word to strengthen you. He is not asking, “Can you do it?” He is saying, “I am sending you.” Your weakness doesn’t matter, because God Himself will be your defense and fortress. The question is, are you ready to be used by Him?

When you make yourself available, God will show up for you. With the little strength, the little talent, and even the little faith you have, He will use you to chase a vast army. As you step forward into His calling, He will send confusion into the enemy’s camp and clear your path so you can continue His work.

Your beginning may look humble, like a woodcutter, but your ending will be that of a victorious warrior. Start with the little strength you have—for isn’t it God who is sending you?

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for reminding me through Gideon’s story that You see me not as I am, but as who You have called me to be. I choose today to make myself available for Your calling. Use me, Lord, even with my little strength, for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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