Devotions are available after 3:15 on the date they are released. To watch a “Thought for the Day”, click on the pictures below.
Gabriel and Mary
The angel Gabriel appeared to Zacharias with a miraculous message, but he struggled to believe it. Six months after John the Baptist was conceived, Gabriel appeared again—this time to a young woman named Mary. He announced that she would bear a child, the long-awaited Messiah. Though Mary was a virgin and engaged to be married, she chose to embrace Gabriel’s message with faith and humility, trusting in God’s plan despite the extraordinary circumstances.
To delve deeper into this powerful moment of divine revelation and Mary’s faithful response, watch today’s video based on Luke 1:26-35. Discover how God’s plan for salvation unfolded through her willing heart.
Gabriel’s Promise Disbelieved
Luke 1:11-22
Before the arrival of Jesus, God promised that a special messenger would be born to prepare the way for the Messiah. This messenger was to be none other than John the Baptist. One day, while the priest Zacharias was carrying out his sacred duties in the temple, the angel Gabriel appeared to him with an extraordinary message: despite his advanced age and his wife Elizabeth’s inability to conceive, they would have a son.
However, Zacharias struggled to believe the promise, doubting the angel’s words. His disbelief led to an unexpected consequence that would serve as a sign of God’s power and purpose.
To explore this remarkable moment of divine intervention and its profound implications, watch today’s video based on Luke 1:11-22.
An Accurate Account
Each of the four Gospels was written with a unique purpose and audience in mind, highlighting different aspects of Jesus’ life and ministry. The Gospel of Luke stands out as a detailed and orderly account, written specifically to a man named Theophilus, whose name means “lover of God.” Luke’s goal was to provide certainty and a clear understanding of the events surrounding Jesus, ensuring that Theophilus—and by extension, all readers—could grasp the truth about who Jesus is and what He accomplished.
To delve deeper into this fascinating introduction to Luke’s Gospel, watch today’s video based on Luke 1:1-4.
A Proper End
The other day, I overheard a man at the store exclaim in frustration, “When is it going to change?” I’m not sure what he meant, but it’s a question many of us have probably asked at some point.
Life often feels uncertain, but Scripture reminds us that God has a purpose for everything, even when we don’t understand it. Proverbs 16:4 says: “The Lord works out everything to its proper end.”
What does it mean to trust that God is working things out for His purpose? How do we respond with humility when life feels out of control? To explore these questions, watch today’s video and be encouraged by the wisdom of Proverbs.
Always Right
I’ve had the challenging task of refereeing many church disagreements over the years. One thing I’ve noticed time and time again is this: both sides usually believe, with all their hearts, that they are right—and that the other side is entirely wrong.
It’s human nature, isn’t it? We often see our own perspective as pure and justified while questioning the motives of others. But Scripture reminds us of a deeper truth.
Are our motives aligned with God’s will, or are they driven by pride, fear, or personal preference? How often do we commit our plans to the Lord and seek His wisdom before taking a stand?
To dive deeper into this topic and discover how we can approach disagreements with humility and grace, watch today’s video based on Proverbs 16:2-3. Let’s learn how to navigate conflict in a way that honors Christ and fosters unity.
A Powerful Practice
Do you take a moment to pray before you speak? I’ve found this to be a powerful practice, especially when preparing for difficult conversations or meetings. I used to attend many meetings, some of which were highly contentious. Before stepping into those rooms, I would pause and pray—for wisdom to guide my words and actions, and for the strength to reflect Christ in every interaction.
This simple habit transformed how I approached those moments. Instead of speaking from frustration or fear, I sought to align my heart with God’s purpose. It reminded me that while we make plans, the Lord directs our words and actions.
If you’d like to explore this idea further, join me in today’s video, where we reflect on Proverbs 16:1.
: “To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.”
New Year Checkup, Part 1: Am I Generous to Others?
As we step into a new year, it’s a good time for self-reflection. Let’s start with a quick check-up: Are you living generously, showing mercy, and caring for others out of your love for the Lord? Or are your actions driven by self-interest and a focus on personal gain? True generosity flows from a heart aligned with God’s wisdom and purposes. Proverbs 11:16-18 reminds us that kindness and righteousness bring lasting rewards, while selfishness leads to emptiness. To explore this further and challenge your perspective, watch today’s video devotion based on this powerful passage.
New Year Checkup, Part 2: What Am I Pursuing?
As the new year unfolds, it’s the perfect opportunity to take a step back and evaluate your goals and priorities. What are you truly pursuing in life? Are you striving for righteousness and the things that lead to life, or are you chasing after fleeting desires that could lead you astray?
Proverbs 11:19-21 challenges us to reflect on the outcomes of our choices. Those who pursue righteousness find life and honor, but those who chase sin and selfishness face destruction. Take a moment to ask yourself the tough questions: Are my goals aligned with God’s will? Am I pursuing what truly matters in the light of eternity? For deeper insights and encouragement, watch today’s video devotion based on this powerful passage. Let’s start the year on the right path together.
January 2, 2025
New Year Checkup, Part 3: What Do You Desire?
As you step into the New Year, take a moment to reflect on your heart’s true desires. Ask yourself, “What do I long for most?” Are your desires rooted in goodness, reflecting a heart that seeks God’s will, or are they shaped by selfish ambitions and temporary pleasures?
Proverbs 11:23 reminds us that the desires of the righteous lead to good things, while the hopes of the wicked end in disappointment and wrath. Our desires reveal the direction of our lives—what we yearn for often determines the path we take. Start this year by aligning your heart with what pleases God. Let your desires reflect His goodness and His plans for your life. To dive deeper into this important question, watch today’s video devotion based on this thought-provoking passage. Let’s begin the year with a heart focused on what truly matters.