Read – 1 Thessalonians 3|What does it say?
Paul talked more about his visit to the Thessalonians and rejoiced over their faith and love as reported by Timothy.

What does it mean?
Paul’s prayer in this chapter provides an excellent model for believers as they pray for themselves and for others. He thanked God for what He was doing in the lives of the new believers and prayed that the Lord would make their love increase and overflow. As he thought about the specific needs of the Thessalonians, he prayed that their hearts (mind, emotions, and will) would be strengthened spiritually so that they could live righteous lives until Christ returns. Their faithfulness was a source of personal joy to Paul and his companions.

How should I respond?
Do you struggle with how you should pray for yourself or others? Even Jesus’ disciples said, “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1). Try using Paul’s prayer for the Thessalonians to pray more effectively this week. Write down the names of close friends and family members and list ways you see God working in their lives, and then thank Him for those specific things. Pray for their spiritual fortitude as they face daily challenges. Throughout the day, follow Paul’s example and pray for situations that trouble you. The spiritual growth of those you pray for will be an endless source of personal joy.

Read – 1 Thessalonians 1|What does it say?
Despite severe suffering, the church at Thessalonica received God’s message with joy and became a model for other believers.

What does it mean?
No other words have the power to change lives as does the message of Jesus Christ. The Thessalonians experienced that change when they heard the gospel in the power of the Holy Spirit. As they responded to God’s gift of faith, their lives began to reflect new purpose, new motivations, and new priorities. In fact, there was such a transformation in their lifestyle that they set an example for other believers. No longer bowing down to worthless idols, they now devoted themselves to serving the true God and waiting expectantly for Christ’s return.

How should I respond?
How often do you hear, “Well, everybody else is doing it, so it must be okay”? Most Americans would think it absurd to bow down to an idol of wood or stone. But have you bowed down to the false beliefs of popular culture? How willing are you to stand alone for what you know is right? God gives His children the power to change – to show to the world a faith that works, a love that labors, and a hope that endures. What attitudes or actions do you need to turn from this week so that your life can be an example to follow? Choose to live as if Christ were returning today.

Read – Psalms 100-101

What does it say?
Those who know God as Creator can praise His goodness, love, and faithfulness. David sang of God’s love and justice and then vowed to conduct his business blamelessly.

What does it mean?
The Lord’s people should have a heart filled with joy when they worship Him. He is the Sovereign God and Creator who provides everything His people need. Overwhelmed with gratitude for God’s goodness, enduring love, and continuing faithfulness, David declared his intention to honor God by cleansing his home, his life, and his position of authority from any wickedness that might hinder further praise to God. As the psalmist lists God’s unchangeable attributes, his understanding of God becomes greater and greater; in turn, his desire to please God with his life becomes the cry of his heart.

How should I respond?
Believers today can enter the Lord’s presence at any time and at any place. As you draw near to the Lord today, express your praise by naming specific attributes (such as His goodness, love, holiness, and faithfulness) that declare who He is. Praising God with your whole heart creates the desire to please Him with every aspect of your life. As you consider His holiness, do you find a growing desire to live a holy life (I Peter 1:15-16)? What is pulling you away from having a heart completely centered on God? Things like ungodly choices in entertainment or a tendency to gossip hinder your ability to praise and honor the Lord. Stop right now for a time of self-examination to see if there are areas in your life that God needs to cleanse.

Read – Colossians 3

What does it say?
Paul wrote about the principles of holy living and addressed six types of individuals concerning these matters.

What does it mean?
Paul gives believers life principles regarding their affections, their attitudes, and their relationships with the people close to them. Now that believers have new life in Christ, they are to set their hearts and minds on things that matter for eternity. Believers need to get rid of the old nature’s attitudes and actions and put on qualities and responses that belong to the new nature. The words “take off” and “put on” reflect the process of getting dressed for the day. Believers should serve Christ in everything they do, including their interactions with family members, co-workers, and those in authority.

How should I respond?
For the believer who truly desires to walk by faith in Christ, the high standards presented in this chapter could seem overwhelming. Ask God where to begin – He knows the area in your life that needs immediate attention. What old attitude or habit do you need to “take off” today so that you can “put on” the new? Find a verse of Scripture that is directly related to your need, memorize it, and envision putting it on every day as you go through the physical process of getting dressed. Remember that you live continually in the presence of the King. Dress appropriately!

Read – Colossians 2

What does it say?
Paul gave warnings to two churches, one in Colosse and one in Laodicea.

What does it mean?
Everything that a person needs for salvation and growth in the Christian faith has been provided in Christ. The Colossian believers had received Christ by faith, and Paul urged them to continue to live by faith in Him alone. As the believer continues to follow and serve Christ, he increasingly learns how to handle life’s pressures and difficulties with the wisdom of Christ. Paul warned the Colossians about false teachers who would try to mislead them by erroneous teaching, which would lead them away from God’s truth.

How should I respond?
Ignoring danger signs can result in great physical harm. Likewise, ignoring spiritual danger signs can be harmful to the freedom you have in Christ. Where are you in danger of being misled in your spiritual life? If you have received Jesus Christ as your Savior, you have everything you need in Him. Getting to know Him through consistent study of God’s Word is the best protection against false teaching and wrong thinking. What percentage of free time do you spend in Scripture compared to time spent with television, social media, or sports? How much time will you set aside each day to know Christ better? His wisdom brings freedom and safety.

Read – Colossians 1

What does it say?
Paul opened his letter to the Colossian church with thanksgiving, prayer, and a discussion about Christ as the visible image of the invisible God.

What does it mean?
The central truth of the Christian faith is that Jesus Christ is God. In this first chapter of Colossians, Paul seems to answer the question he asked on the road to Damascus: “Who are You, Lord?” In dramatic point-by-point declarations, Paul explained the supremacy of Christ. Jesus Christ is the image of God, the Creator of all things in Heaven and on Earth, the One who holds all things together, and the head of the church. As both God and man, Jesus made possible the reconciliation between a holy God and sinful man through His death on the Cross.

How should I respond?
Many people view Jesus as just one of a number of great moral teachers. Some even say, “It doesn’t matter what you believe as long as you are sincere.” Actually, what you believe does matter. Will you take a few moments today to write down what God says concerning the Lord Jesus Christ from Colossians 1? Pray that the Holy Spirit will deepen your understanding of the supremacy of Christ. How does your life show that you personally know the Creator, Sustainer, and Ruler of all that exists? How will the knowledge of who He is make a difference in the way you think, talk, and act today?

Read – Philippians 4

What does it say?
Paul exhorted the Philippians to rejoice always, present their requests to God, think about praiseworthy things, and look to God to meet their needs.

What does it mean?
Paul concluded his letter with a presentation of Christ as the believer’s life power. This final chapter is packed full of promises with key conditions that Paul had seen to be true in his own life. The peace of God replaces worry when His children pray, and the God of peace goes with believers who submit their thoughts to Him. Paul had experienced both God’s power and provision for daily living and in his service to the Lord. God would meet the needs of the Philippian believers and guard their hearts and minds if they followed Paul’s sound advice.

How should I respond?
The promises of the Lord are true and trustworthy. However, not all of God’s promises are realized in our daily lives because we often miss the conditions under which they become reality. For instance, if you are filled with anxiety, then pray – but do so with thankful and joyful recognition of what God is already doing. Look back over the promises in today’s passage in an attitude of prayer. Ask God to convict you regarding any area where your heart and mind are not in full submission to Him. Follow Paul’s advice and experience God’s peace, power, and provision today.

Read – Philippians 3

What does it say?
Anything Paul previously considered gain, he now counted as loss compared to knowing Christ. He left everything behind and reached for the prize of the call of God.

What does it mean?
There was nothing about Paul’s old life that he missed. Everything that used to seem important or valuable seemed like rubbish compared to what he had gained by meeting Jesus Christ. He didn’t even think about those things anymore. His priorities were so rearranged that he only saw the call of God on his life, like a runner whose eyes were fixed on the finish line. Fulfilling the call of Christ on his life was the prize awaiting him. Jesus was the motivating factor of all Paul thought, said, and did.

How should I respond?
Your spiritual growth involves your past, present, and future. Think about your life before following Jesus – how has your thinking and integrity changed? Now think about the early days of being a Christian – how different are your priorities today? Continued spiritual growth means you will continue to give up certain attitudes and behaviors in order to follow the pattern Jesus sets for us (Phil. 2). What sacrifices has the Lord asked you to make? The call of God causes you to lose nothing of lasting value but gives you what’s most important – new life in Christ.

Read – Psalms 95-96

What does it say?
Sing for joy and bow down before the Lord with thanksgiving. Praise His name, proclaim His salvation, declare His marvelous deeds, and worship in the splendor of His holiness.

What does it mean?
Today’s psalms describe what true worship looks like. If a nation ever had reason to sing for joy or to declare their God as worthy of praise, it was Israel. Yet time after time, they repeated the sins of their fathers by turning to false gods and hardening their hearts to their Creator and Shepherd. Although they sang the words of these psalms regularly in the temple, they failed to do what the songs said – truly worship the Lord. A tender heart toward God is the result of recognizing His greatness, thanking Him regularly, submitting to His will, and looking for His imminent return.

How should I respond?
Participation in weekly worship services is great, but it doesn’t mean you’ve truly worshipped the Lord. Worship is a lifestyle that goes beyond singing on Sunday. It involves seeing exactly who God is, regardless of the circumstances He has allowed in your life. Like Israel, we live in God’s blessings, but we often stop short of complete submission to His Word. When you sense that happening, find a reason to thank and praise God immediately. As you turn your thoughts to Jesus in those moments, you’ll be reminded that worshipping Him is the reason we exist, and it is the one thing we will do for all eternity. Will you accept the psalmist’s invitation to worship the Lord today?

Read – Psalm 94

What does it say?
The wicked didn’t think God saw them, but the Creator knew their thoughts. The Law of the Lord helped the righteous to take a stand, but the wicked will be judged by it.

What does it mean?
Amidst psalms that praise God’s love and declare His glory, this passage calls for His vengeance. The writer pointed out the foolishness of those who perpetrate evil on God’s people. They acted as if the Creator were a lifeless man-made idol who couldn’t see their violent actions or hear their arrogant rants. In truth, every thought they had was laid bare before the Judge of the earth. God alone can punish the wicked, yet He looked for those who would take a stand against evil and proclaim righteousness and truth. Every wicked person will be cut off, and every evil act will be judged when Jesus returns.

How should I respond?
It can be frustrating to live in a world that acts as if God doesn’t exist, doesn’t see, or doesn’t care about what people do. Our society not only overlooks grievous sin, but also legalizes and rewards it. You may have become so discouraged that you’re ready to isolate yourself with other believers while waiting for Jesus to come back and right every wrong. But God is looking for believers willing to boldly and lovingly speak the truth while there’s still time for people to turn to Him. What evil in the world grieves your heart? How can you take a stand against it today and proclaim the truth of Scripture?

Read – Philippians 2

What does it say?
Believers should have the mind of Christ, doing all things humbly and without complaining.

What does it mean?
Paul presented Christ as the believer’s life pattern. Since the Philippian believers had chosen to follow Jesus, they were also called to have the same mindset as Christ. Even though He was Lord, Jesus lived with the attitude of a servant, looking out for the needs of other people. For these early believers, having that mindset meant living in faithful, humble obedience to God’s will. Paul demonstrated what that looked like by joyfully pouring out his life for the sake of the gospel and for the church of Jesus Christ.

How should I respond?
The mindset of our society is about as far from the mindset of Jesus as it can get. In general, people argue, complain, demand their own way, and put their own desires above everything else. If you claim to be a follower of Jesus Christ, then it makes sense to follow the pattern He set. Do you have a habit of helping and serving others, or do you tend to be oblivious to the needs of your neighbors and coworkers? How often throughout a day do you complain rather than pitch in to solve the issue? How will you model the mind of Christ today?

Read – Philippians 1

What does it say?
Paul said, ‘To live is Christ and to die is gain.’

What does it mean?
Paul opened his letter to the church in Philippi with a presentation of Christ as the believer’s life purpose. The gospel of Jesus Christ is the most important message anyone could hear or give. In Paul’s view, advancing the cause of Christ was his only reason for living. He urged the Philippians to follow his example, to stand firm and strive together for the faith of the gospel – even in the face of opposition and persecution. That mindset had led Paul to the conclusion that it was a privilege to suffer for Christ’s sake, if that’s what it would take for others to hear.

How should I respond?
The world is full of worthy causes that give people a sense of purpose, but nothing offers fulfillment like a life of faith and hope in Jesus Christ. He is the only purpose in life that continues beyond your life in this world. What is your purpose for living? Have you made telling the message of Christ the overarching priority of each day? Reflect on one or two things you could do for the sake of the gospel that you’re not currently doing. Strive today to be engaged with people as Paul was – let your life be worthy of the gospel of Christ.

Read – Ephesians 6

What does it say?
God’s people can be strong in the Lord and stand against forces of spiritual darkness when they put on the full armor of God.

What does it mean?
Paul warned the Ephesians to be prepared because Satan and his forces actively seek to oppose God’s people and hinder their mission. Sometimes persecution is overt and external, but sometimes it is covert and internal. The soldier described in verses 14-17 illustrates what a prepared Christian looks like. He is fully clad in God’s spiritual armor. Completely aware that the enemy might attack at any moment, he utilizes God’s divine weapons: the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, and prayer in the Spirit. The prepared Christian puts on the armor of God each day by faith, through prayer.

How should I respond?
Most of our spiritual failures come from failing to take Satan’s strategies seriously. We need to anticipate his attacks and be prepared by trusting in God’s promises, seeking truth in the Bible, behaving rightly, and praying regularly. Being prepared doesn’t mean that you won’t face persecution, but it does mean that when it comes, you’ll be ready to stand firm in your faith. Take a minute to think about what areas of your life are most vulnerable to spiritual attack. Will you bring those things to the Lord in prayer every day this week? He‘ll give you strength for the battle if you commit to putting on His armor.

Read – Ephesians 5

What does it say?
God’s holy people ought to imitate God, living as wise children of light.

What does it mean?
Throughout this chapter Paul emphasized that believers should have the mark of God on every aspect of their lives. Living consistently in the light of Christ will lead His followers to naturally imitate Him as they submit to the Holy Spirit. The pattern of a believer’s thoughts and reactions should be the opposite of what comes naturally to an unbeliever, who still makes decisions in spiritual darkness. Paul compared living in obedience to God with wisdom, and living outside of His will with foolishness. God’s people have the ability and responsibility to live in ways that please their Creator.

How should I respond?
Living to please other people can be exhausting. What pleases them one day can suddenly change, leaving you guessing as to how to make them happy. Living to please the Lord, however, is liberating and productive. His expectations are clearly laid out and they never change. Not only that – He supplies the example and power to live a God-pleasing life that produces spiritual fruit. Which dark or foolish things from your former way of life have crept into your way of thinking, talking, or behaving? Ask God right now to flood your mind with light and expose every dark corner. The Holy Spirit can empower you to live as God’s child of light. Will you submit to Him today?

Read – Ephesians 4

What does it say?
Paul urged the Ephesians to live in a manner worthy of the name of Jesus Christ.

What does it mean?
Paul had just reminded the Ephesian believers that no one deserves God’s love (Eph. 2:3-4), but now that they had received His grace and forgiveness, their lives should be commendable as followers of Jesus Christ. He described exactly what that looked like in everyday life. Since all believers share the same Father, Savior, and Spirit, they ought to do whatever is needed to live lovingly, peacefully, humbly, and patiently with one another – just as God, for the sake of Christ, is loving, forgiving, and patient with His children. Mature Christians learn to discard any attitude or behavior that reflects their old way of life and truly desire to respond to one another with compassion.

How should I respond?
We talk a lot about the grace of God, and rightly so. Sometimes though, we refuse to give to others what we have so freely received from the Lord. That kind of Christianity is not worthy of the name of Christ. God’s love, forgiveness, and patience with us are never-ending and fill us with peace beyond understanding. He wants us to extend the same compassion to others that He has extended to us – no matter who they are. Think of the people who have really hurt you or who are difficult to be around and pray for them every day this week. Ask God to work in your heart so that you will respond to them in the same way He has responded to you – with grace, forgiveness, and love.

Read – Psalm 92

What does it say?
Fools cannot comprehend the thoughts of the Lord Most High, but the righteous person praises His love and faithfulness. He reigns eternally in majesty, strength, and holiness.

What does it mean?
As the burnt offering was prepared on the Sabbath, God’s people were reminded of His majesty and holiness, which appropriately caused them to sing His praises, proclaim His greatness, and consider the things He had done on their behalf. Some of His works were more difficult to understand; but if they could have fully comprehended God, He would not have been the infinite, eternal, all-powerful God they worshiped. Because His thoughts were more profound than theirs, God’s people could place their lives in his loving hands at the start of each day and look back on His faithfulness as the day ended.

How should I respond?
Sometimes God’s ways and purposes are clear, and at other times we struggle to understand. Why would we worship a god we could fully comprehend? We can trust the Lord precisely because His thoughts are deeper and His ways are higher than ours. When you consider how much God loves you (John 3:16), it becomes second nature to surrender your day into His hands each morning. Watch for God’s hand in your life today so you can thank Him at the close of the day. Praising the Lord’s faithfulness and love acknowledges who He is, even when you can’t fully understand His actions.

Read – Psalm 91

What does it say?
The psalmist lived in the shelter of the Most High and rested in the shadow of Almighty God. He acknowledged and called upon God, who promised to be with him in trouble.

What does it mean?
God made unique promises to the nation of Israel; some of those are evidenced in today’s passage. Imagine having such divine protection that there was no need to fear plagues, pestilence, or enemy attacks – as long as they lived in obedience to the Lord Almighty. His promises covered them like the wings of a mother hen over her chicks. The anonymous author of this psalm lived securely in those promises. He didn’t have to run to the Lord when trouble came; he was already abiding in Him when difficulty arose. God didn’t keep him away from all trouble but promised to be with him in the midst of it.

How should I respond?
Jesus never promised His followers lives of ease in exchange for living to please Him; He said quite the opposite actually. Christians through the ages have been persecuted for their faith in Christ. Even today you probably know a godly, faithful believer who has suffered from severe illness or some other tragedy. We do, however, have the promise that the Lord hears us when we pray (1 John 5:14-15) and is with us through every difficulty we face (Matt. 28:20). It’s possible to rest unafraid in His peace, knowing that nothing can touch your life unless your loving Lord permits it. Are you abiding in Him today?

Read – Ephesians 3

What does it say?
Paul was given the mission of delivering and explaining the good news of salvation to all people – even the Gentiles – so they might know the extent of God’s power and love.

What does it mean?
Back in the days when Paul’s letter was written to the Ephesians, God revealed that His grace and power were open to all people who put their faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. The same resources that were available through the Holy Spirit to strengthen the hearts of Jewish believers were also given to Gentile believers. Although it is not deserved by anyone, including Paul, God’s grace is given freely. The depth of God’s love for the world is beyond human comprehension. Paul was blessed to share this good news with all people everywhere as God sent him.

How should I respond?
Our concept of love, no matter how well developed, is rather small in contrast to the great and powerful love of God. Would it bother you to know that God loves the person you like the least and even wants to forgive the person who has hurt you the most? We are no more deserving of God’s love and grace than the people who we think are guilty of the worst sins. Are you willing to tell them about God’s love and forgiveness and even invite them to church? Christ has given His followers the inner resources through His Spirit to love as He loves. Look for ways to share the good news of God’s love today.

Read – Ephesians 2

What does it say?
God built His church with Jesus as the cornerstone.

What does it mean?
God took His people from the Jews and Gentiles and made both groups one in order to build His church, just as a bricklayer would build a house on a firm foundation with each brick laid carefully in alignment with the cornerstone. Jesus is the true and trustworthy cornerstone, so believers can line up according to His example. The church is built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets with God’s people carefully placed to form one strong and sturdy building. When Paul wrote this letter, it was common for Jews not to associate with Gentiles, but Paul reminded both groups that they are one in Jesus’ church.

How should I respond?
Have you ever thought about how diverse God’s family is? He has children of different ages living on every continent and coming from different backgrounds. God wants us to break down barriers and to work together as a unified group to carry out the work and life of His church. How willing are you to work side by side with people who are different from you to accomplish the work of God? Will you reach across the wall of separation that could divide you socially and show the love of God to your neighborhood and community? As you do, Christ’s church will be strong and sturdy.

Read – Ephesians 1

What does it say?
Paul told the Ephesian Christians of God’s past, present, and future blessings accomplished through the loving power of His beloved Son, Jesus Christ.

What does it mean?
It is astounding to think of how much God has loved and provided for His children throughout history. Before He created the world, the sovereign God purposed to provide redemption through the death of His Son and adoption into His family for those who believe. He paid the adoption fees, so to speak, so believers could have an eternal family and home. His followers are blessed, both now and in the future, by God’s power – first given to Jesus upon His successful mission and then shared with Christians throughout all eternity. Never has a family’s inheritance been so extensive.

How should I respond?
If you are a follower of Christ, then you are adopted into His family. God has become your heavenly Father. What are the quality traits of a good father? Think about that for a few minutes, and write down some of them. Now use this list as an outline to talk to God about those particular things today. As you continue to talk to Him about these things each day, you’ll begin to understand them more deeply on a spiritual level. This, in turn, will help you to hold your heavenly Daddy’s hand as you walk through your life together with Him. What aspect of God as your Father do you need most today? Tell Him.

Read – Galatians 6

What does it say?
Some Jewish Galatians were trying to convince Gentile Christians to be circumcised.

What does it mean?
Even in the early church, there were divisions among Christians. One group was referred to as the “Circumcision Party.” They seem to have been intimidating new Gentile Christians by compelling them to undergo circumcision. Paul exposed their efforts as a shallow attempt to gain converts to their party. Paul made clear throughout this letter, and especially in v. 15 of this chapter, that circumcision is a matter of the flesh and was no longer a requirement as a follower of God. After Christ’s death on the Cross, what mattered was that they live differently than before.

How should I respond?
It’s sad when there are divisions in a church or between groups who claim to follow Christ. We come to church, in part, to encourage one another and build each other up (1 Thess. 5:11). All too often, though, divisions arise and cause harm within a body of believers and within the church of Jesus Christ. What differences might have caused a division between you and another follower of Jesus? What caused the division – theology, methodology, personality, Christian liberty, etc.? This week, be open to discussion; ask questions and be willing to listen. Study Scripture so you know why you believe what you believe. Differences between believers don’t have to cause division.

Read – Galatians 5

What does it say?
God’s children should no longer live according to the desires of the flesh, but according to the things of the Spirit.

What does it mean?
The Galatians that felt compelled to follow God by trying to keep every part of the law were actually thinking and living according to the flesh – on a lower plane, so to speak. Believers are called to think and live on a higher, a God-centered plane. While living according to the flesh and its natural desires leads toward sinful thoughts and actions, living by the Spirit supernaturally produces the character of Christ within His followers. That fruit is evidenced by a proper attitude toward God and the proper treatment of others. God’s children should think and live according to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

How should I respond?
Consider the nine words that describe the fruit of the Spirit in today’s passage: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Which ones come easy to you? Now identify one or more that you find more difficult to live out. Think about how God exhibits those qualities to you personally. Ask Him to help you improve in the areas where you are weak so His character is reproduced in and through you. Which of these words will describe you as you follow the leading of His Holy Spirit today?

Read – Psalms 90

What does it say?
Because God is eternal, a thousand years is like a day to Him. Moses wanted to live his days wisely and to experience God’s love for as many days as he remained.

What does it mean?
Psalm 90 opens the Fourth Book of Psalms, which begins the songs of Israel’s days spent wandering in the wilderness. Because of their rebellion, God refused to allow anyone over the age of twenty to enter the Promised Land (Num. 13-14). All of their sins were laid bare before the Lord. For forty years they moved from place to place watching each adult eventually succumb to death. Moses wanted God’s eternal perspective on how to live out his remaining time on Earth. Even wandering in the wilderness could bring satisfying and joyful days if they were marked by God’s love and compassion.

How should I respond?
Life is short, and many of its days are filled with challenges, difficulty, and heartache. Despite that, you can live a fulfilling life if you live each day with God’s eternal perspective in mind. He sees your life from beginning to end and knows how the puzzle pieces of your life fit together for His purposes. Nothing that you say or do is hidden from Him. Reading His Word teaches you how to live wisely and how to live well so you can also live each day to please Him. As you learn to trust God, you’ll finding lasting satisfaction in His love, despite what the day may bring. No matter how many years you live, they are marked one day at time. Will you live wisely and well today?

Read – Psalms 89

What does it say?
The psalmist sang of the Lord’s love and faithfulness because of the covenant He established through the line of David. Who can compare with the Lord?

What does it mean?
The backdrop of this psalm is the Babylonian exile. Jerusalem lay in ruins as her wicked king was taken captive. Yet the psalmist starts by declaring God’s love and faithfulness. God’s covenant with David’s descendants was not dependent on their faithfulness to Him, but on His divine nature. In the same way, the psalmist’s faith was not dependent upon his circumstances, but was anchored in God’s character. Israel’s immediate future was bleak, but they were under the care of their awesome, strong, powerful, righteous, just, and loving God. Although it felt as if God had revoked His covenant, He had not. Its ultimate fulfillment will be the reign of Jesus as King Eternal.

How should I respond?
Emotions are tricky; they can take us from delight to despair in a matter of minutes, but what’s happening to you or around you doesn’t affect God’s unchanging character. Look back over Psalm 89; highlight the names and qualities of God in this passage. Which aspect of His character is particularly meaningful to you today? Which name for Him do you need to call on in light of your current situation? Remember, your circumstances and feelings may fluctuate, but God’s faithfulness does not.

Read – Galatians 4

What does it say?
The Galatians were like slaves to the law before God adopted them into His family.

What does it mean?
Paul used metaphors to explain two different types of relationships – father and child versus master and slave. Before following Christ, the Galatians lived like slaves to the Mosaic Law and its many detailed requirements. As slaves they had no freedom, and their lives were measured by their adherence to the law. After they put their faith in Jesus, God adopted them into His own family and treated them like sons. A good father loves his children for who they are in relation to him and does not treat them like slaves. Oddly, the Galatians seemed to want to return to their slavery and lack of freedom.

How should I respond?
We tend to misunderstand the true meaning of spiritual freedom. Freedom in the Lord is not permission to act and live any way you choose. Instead, it is living by faith in Christ. Outside of Christ, you didn’t have any way to consistently combat sinful desires, but once you became a child of God, you gained the freedom to choose what is right through the power of the Holy Spirit. Why, then, would you ever choose to subject yourself to sin’s restraints on your life? God the Father has set you free from sin’s power. How will your life reflect your relationship to Him as your heavenly Father today?

Read – Galatians 3

What does it say?
People who lived under the Law of Moses were cursed; then Jesus took away that curse on the cross. People no longer live under the Law, but by faith.

What does it mean?
No one has ever been able to perfectly adhere to the Law (Rom. 3:10-11). To stumble in even one point of the Law means to be guilty of breaking it all (James 2:10), and those who break the Law are under a curse (Deut. 27:26). However, Jesus took away the curse associated with sin by His sacrifice on the cross. Those who trust in Jesus and receive Him have changed lives – lives that demonstrate faith in Him and thankfulness for what He has done. Believers do not do good things in order to be morally perfect, but to show love and gratitude to God.

How should I respond?
You don’t have to do good deeds to offset the bad; Jesus took away the guilt of your sin on the Cross. That thought should flood your heart with gratitude. How can you express that gratitude to the Lord by doing something nice for someone today? Jesus even instructed His followers to do their good deeds privately (Matt. 6:3-4), which guards against actions motivated by pride instead of obedience. What word best describes the condition of your heart right now – grateful or prideful? When you do good things simply out of love for God and gratitude for your salvation, you become more like His Son.

Read – Galatians 2

What does it say?
Paul opposed Peter, who had separated himself from Gentile Christians out of fear.

What does it mean?
Many rules in the Law of Moses addressed ritualistic cleanliness, including instructions for Jews to be separated from Gentiles because they followed pagan beliefs. But even though Jesus had come to show grace to both Jews and Gentiles, a few Jewish Christians still had a mental block against associating too closely with the Gentile Christians. Peter and some of the Jewish believers in Antioch were afraid of what believers from Jerusalem would think if they saw them eating with Gentile brothers and sisters in Christ. Paul confronted Peter about the hypocrisy of his actions.

How should I respond?
Is there someone in your church you hesitate to be seen with – someone with an immoral past, someone who dresses differently, or someone who worships differently? Our Sunday mornings often become rituals, in which we talk to the same people, sit with the same people, and leave with the same people. Why not break a social barrier or two? Introduce yourself to others who are outside of your comfort zone. Ask them how they are doing; then listen – really listen – and really care. God loves all believers just as much as He loves you. Will you love them that way too?

Read – Galatians 1

What does it say?
Paul assured the Galatian Christians that they had been saved by God’s grace, not by how carefully they held to the Law of Moses. Jesus Himself revealed the gospel to Paul.

What does it mean?
For about 1500 years, God’s people measured their morality in terms of how well they adhered to the Law of Moses. However, no one was able to obey every detail of the law fully. The intent of the law was to teach God’s people about Him and His holiness so they could reflect Him and His holiness in all areas of their lives. Paul tried to help them understand that God’s forgiveness wasn’t based on their performance; it came through His Son, Jesus, who took the punishment for their sins. Many of the Christians with a Jewish background, however, kept looking for ways to be justified by obeying the law.

How should I respond?
Even today we might think we can please God if we’re just good enough. The Bible tells us, however, that we all fall short of God’s standard (Jer. 17:9; Rom 3:23). If you are a follower of Christ, spend a few minutes thanking God for the love and forgiveness that Jesus showed on the cross when He took away God’s anger toward your sin. Learning to abound in thankfulness rather than drown in guilt will help you to have the right perspective on your relationship with God. Think of the good things you do as acts of gratitude to the God who already accepts you because you received His Son.

Read – 2 Corinthians 13

What does it say?
Paul encouraged the church at Corinth to examine whether or not they had true faith.

What does it mean?
Paul wasn’t trying to give the Corinthians doubts regarding their salvation. He was, however, warning those in Corinth who had put their faith in the false doctrine being taught. He encouraged a period of self-examination and testing regarding the sincerity of their faith. The standard by which they were to measure themselves was truth, which is found in God’s Word and was observable in the life of Christ. For believers, such an examination should show evidence of Christ-like character and a desire to grow in their faith.

How should I respond?
We’re prone to taking long looks in the mirror to determine what about our physical appearance needs attention. But when was the last time you examined yourself spiritually? Like the Corinthians, you need to be sure you have a true relationship with Christ, not just head knowledge about Him. What evidence of Jesus do you see in your life? Is your lifestyle consistent with the teachings of Scripture? Take a moment right now to look in a spiritual mirror. Do you see yourself as you truly are? Godly character will continue to develop as you read and apply the truth of God’s Word to your life.

Read – Psalms 87

What does it say?
Psalm 87 praises Jerusalem as the city God loves. The writer of Psalm 88 cried to God for deliverance from a life-threatening affliction.

What does it mean?
These psalms stand in stark contrast to each other. The first joyously celebrates Jerusalem as the center of the world and the pride of the people born there, while some have called Psalm 88 the saddest of all the psalms. The last verse of each chapter best illustrates the contrast. Psalm 87 ends with God as the source of the psalmist’s joy, and Psalm 88 ends with darkness as the writer’s only friend. It seems he had suffered a life-threatening illness for most of his life, probably leprosy. Yet, the underlying foundation of his prayer is faith in the Most High, who established Jerusalem.

How should I respond?
Followers of Christ are not immune to unimaginable heartache. Life-threatening illness, the death of a child, and prolonged unemployment happen to believers and non-believers alike. But just like the contrast in today’s psalms, there should be a marked difference in how a Christian handles suffering. Do you have a foundation of faith that drives you to your knees before the Lord? Stop now and talk honestly with God about whatever situation may be overwhelming you. Even when all you can see is darkness, the Lord can be your hope and source of joy.

Read – Psalms 86

What does it say?
Because of God’s comfort and abounding love, David trusted God to hear, answer, strengthen, and guard him. He asked for an undivided heart full of praise.

What does it mean?
It’s uncertain which enemy David was facing when he wrote this psalm, but it’s clear that the personal attack he was under drove him to God. His psalm reveals deliberate focus on the One he was praying to rather than the people and circumstances he was praying about. He found strength and comfort in the Word of God, quoting more than 20 passages from other psalms. He desired more than relief from the trial; David wanted to be closer to the Lord when the ordeal was over than when it began.

How should I respond?
What unexpected setback or unrelenting adversity are you facing right now? The very thing causing you frustrating days and sleepless nights might be a means to greater intimacy with the Lord. The trials of life tend to bring our flaws to the surface because they are harder to control or keep hidden under intense pressure. Will you allow God to show you those things so you can emerge from this difficult time stronger spiritually? Rather than turn away from God in anger, turn to His Word for strength. Mark the passages that He uses so that you, like David, can look back and say, “Lord, you have helped and comforted me.”

Read – 2 Corinthians 12

What does it say?
God allowed Paul’s thorn in the flesh to keep him humble.

What does it mean?
No one really knows what Paul’s thorn in the flesh was; we just know that he pleaded with God three times to take it away. No doubt, Paul felt he could serve the Lord more fully without this hindrance. It’s important to note that God did answer Paul’s prayer – the answer was, “No.” Two life-transforming truths appear in verses 7-10. First, God’s grace and comfort are sufficient in suffering. Next, God’s strength is complete in human weakness. Paul would experience God’s supernatural strength and comfort, keeping him completely dependent on Christ.

How should I respond?
We can each identify with Paul because his “thorn” isn’t named. What has God allowed in your life that keeps you humble? God doesn’t expect you to be great, He expects you to depend on him greatly. In what area are you relying on your own strength? When you admit weakness, you can be strong and rest completely in Christ’s strength. Aspects of God’s character revealed during difficulty and suffering can be learned no other way. You might not be up to the task before you, but Jesus is!

Read – 2 Corinthians 11

What does it say?
Paul warned the Corinthian church about false apostles and teachers who were pulling them away from the truth of Christ.

What does it mean?
Paul painted a picture of himself as a father and the Corinthian church as a daughter he’s nurtured for her groom, Christ. The false teachers were deceptively wooing the church with a false gospel while pretending to represent Christ. They started by maligning Paul, attempting to drive a wedge between him and the church. These men were following the tactics of Satan, who masquerades as an angel of light, to make what’s wrong seem right. The Corinthians were gullible enough to believe anything if someone claimed to preach in the name of Jesus.

How should I respond?
Satan is the master deceiver. He can’t claim followers of Christ for himself, but he can affect your thinking and keep you busy through distraction. He mixes lies with truth in order to lure you away. That’s why it’s important to study Scripture and know truth so you can recognize error when you hear it. What false teachers do you recognize today? What half-truth, compromise, or rationalization are you being tempted to believe? Determine to be a student of God’s Word, because a gullible Christian will be an ineffective Christian.

Read – 2 Corinthians 10

What does it say?
Paul defended his apostleship against the lies of Judaizers by depending on spiritual weapons, not worldly tactics.

What does it mean?
False apostles had cleverly poisoned the thinking of some Corinthians. Paul recognized that the effort to discredit him as an apostle was actually a spiritual battle opposing the message of Christ. He defended his apostleship against the lies of Judaizers, but he did not use worldly tactics. Paul urged the Corinthians to depend on spiritual weapons, such as prayer and God’s Word, and to remove anything that elevated itself against God. Every thought must be brought into submission to Christ.

How should I respond?
Spiritual strongholds in your life start as a thought, then build. The only way to make every thought obedient to Christ is by saturating your mind with Scripture and staying close to God through prayer. In what area do you have faulty thinking? What mental temptation are you currently facing? Ask God to protect your mind and guide your thoughts to truth. Place 2 Corinthians 10:5 and Romans 12:2 on index cards where you’ll see them every day. You can’t reach your spiritual potential until the battle for your mind is won.

Read – 2 Corinthians 9

What does it say?
Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.

What does it mean?
The Corinthians could easily relate to Paul’s farming illustration because it was common sense – you reap whatever you sow. Instead of talking about how much they should give, Paul discusses their attitude and motivation. Cheerful, gracious giving is a response to experiencing God’s grace. True generosity stems from grace, not obligation or a desire for praise. Recognizing that God is the supplier of all that’s needed to sow and reap generously results in His receiving thanks and praise from both the giver and the receiver.

How should I respond?
Generosity doesn’t look the same from person to person because your situation is different from the person next to you. It’s the motivation for your gift, not the amount, which determines whether or not it’s gracious. Do you think about how you will look or benefit from giving? How have you been generous with your time, resources, and knowledge of God this week? Ask God for the grace to trust Him to meet all of your needs and the grace to exercise your faith by scattering what He’s given you. Who will praise God this week because of your gracious giving?

Read – 2 Corinthians 8

What does it say?
The Macedonian believers and the Lord Jesus Himself modeled sacrificial giving. Paul said that financial giving is related to the grace of God.

What does it mean?
Several principles about giving can be taken from this passage. First, generosity isn’t connected to outer circumstances; the Macedonians gave out of their poverty because they first gave themselves to God. Secondly, giving is an act of grace. The grace shown to the believer by the death of Christ is the motivation for gracious giving. In love, He gave all He had. Next, the amount given is not as important as the desire to give and the willingness to follow through. As always, God is concerned with the heart. Finally, the manner in which money is handled should honor God and be above reproach.

How should I respond?
It’s difficult to feel generous while juggling to take care of your own finances. But giving financially to the local church and believers in need is the responsibility of every Christian. How has God been gracious to you this year? This week? Today? Have you, in turn, given yourself completely to Him? You can’t rightly surrender what’s in your hands until you’ve surrendered your heart. How can you be generous to someone in need today? Developing the grace of giving will benefit you as much as it does the receiver of the gift.

Read – Psalms 84, 85

What does it say?
The psalmist yearned to be in the house of the living God, who blesses those who trust in Him. He asked God to revive His people, show unfailing love, and grant salvation.

What does it mean?
Today’s psalms offer insight into how God’s people should respond to His character. Reading these chapters in reverse order offers an interesting perspective. The writer of Psalm 85 was profoundly grateful for God’s forgiveness, love, and faithfulness; but he also understood that God’s righteousness demanded judgment on sin. Restoration requires repentance. Now look back at Psalm 84. When God’s people lived to please Him instead of themselves, they had an intense desire to worship in His house. Praising God with other worshippers revived the psalmist’s spirit and gave him strength to trust the Lord. Responding in obedience to God’s righteous, holy character meant living under His blessing rather than under His wrath.

How should I respond?
Our society has reduced God to a handful of character traits like love, compassion, and kindness. It’s become culturally acceptable to create the kind of God you want to believe in as long as you’re tolerant of someone else’s view. However, that tolerance does not extend to those who have Judeo-Christian views. The problem with this philosophy is the unchanging character of God. He is just as holy and righteous today as He has ever been. Does your view of God include His whole character or just the traits that you find pleasant? Living in submission to who God truly is will give you a desire to please Him and praise Him with other believers. As you read the Bible, ask God to correct any misconceptions you may have about Him.

Read – Psalms 82, 83

What does it say?
God will preside as Judge over the earth. Asaph called on the Lord to not be silent or still, but to show Himself as the Lord Most High.

What does it mean?
These psalms indicate two threats to God’s people – one from within and one from without. The judges presiding over Israel oppressed the poor instead of administering justice, which shook the foundations of Jewish society from within. Psalm 83 shifts to a vast external threat – a coalition of nations seeking to wipe the name of Israel from the face of the earth. Both threats were of great concern to the psalmist, who prayed in great detail against each threat and pointed out God’s unique ability to save them. He alone can administer perfect justice and righteously rule over the world. Both psalms ultimately look to the day when Christ will return as Judge and King.

How should I respond?
The world we live in presents constant threats. Criminals steal our identity, corrupt leaders deprive us of justice, and terrorists rob our peace of mind. It can be hard to look forward with a sense of hope if your security is based on anything or anyone other than Christ. Only Jesus – the righteous Judge and King – can give you peace of mind as you face each day. How often do you take your personal concerns to the Lord in prayer? Praying specifically takes time, but God cares about each detail that burdens you. What threat to your peace of mind do you need to take to Him right now?

Read – 2 Corinthians 7

What does it say?
Paul, contrasting godly repentance with worldly sorrow, urged the Corinthians to seek God’s holiness.

What does it mean?
Paul’s previous letter to the Corinthian church had been sternly worded regarding sin in their congregation. He was relieved to hear that they had taken the letter to heart and truly repented. Worldly sorrow is simply feeling regret; but godly repentance is true sorrow over sin and results in a change of mind, heart, and action. Sorrow over sin is essential to salvation, but repentance is also necessary for disobedient believers to restore intimacy with God.

How should I respond?
God uses various means to point out sin in our lives. You may feel conviction while reading Scripture, listening to preaching or teaching at church, or seeing the same sin repeated in your children. How do you react when God reveals sin in your life? Do you become defensive, regretful, or truly sorry for disobedience to God? Stop right now and ask God to reveal any attitude or behavior from which you need to repent. Agree with God that a change is needed and follow through.

Read – 2 Corinthians 6

What does it say?
Paul endured many hardships as a servant of God. He warned the Corinthians not to partner with unbelievers.

What does it mean?
Paul gave the Corinthians a familiar picture of two animals yoked together to work a field. A farmer would never yoke an ox and a donkey together; they have different instincts and natures and wouldn’t work together to plow his field. Likewise, Christians are to be separated to God, but not completely isolated. Christians are Christ’s ambassadors to an unbelieving world. The Corinthians had gone to the opposite extreme, allowing intimate relationships with non-believers to influence them. Divided loyalty made it difficult for the Corinthian church to fulfill God’s mission.

How should I respond?
Who is your best friend? What influence has that person had over decisions you’ve made this week? There’s a difference between casual friends and your inner circle. Every Christian should have non-Christian acquaintances. You can’t influence people you refuse to associate with. But those you confide in have influence over you. What friendship is hindering your spiritual life? Has a business partnership or dating relationship caused you to compromise your beliefs or behavior? Ask God for discernment in your relationships and commit to separating yourself for His purpose.

Read – 2 Corinthians 5

What does it say?
Paul knew that leaving his earthly body would mean standing in the presence of the Lord. Whether in the body or away from it, his goal was to please the Lord.

What does it mean?
Paul was a tentmaker by trade. He saw similarities between tents and his own body: imperfect, deteriorating, and temporary. But the new body in Heaven will never decay or show signs of weakness. As he traveled, Paul faced more than his share of life and death situations, yet he didn’t fear death itself. He had full confidence that, for him, dying was a doorway to his heavenly home and glorified body. He not only lived for the eternal, he also looked forward to it.

How should I respond?
You don’t have to be very old to feel the effects of aging and the terminal nature of the human body. You, or someone you love, may face physical pain or challenges on a daily basis. Take comfort in knowing that this body is only a temporary dwelling. Does the thought of what happens after death distress or assure you? For the Christian, there’s no need to fear dying. Do you, like Paul, have confidence that you’ll be in God’s presence a moment after death? If so, you too can look forward to trading in every ache and pain you experience to have a body like Jesus – for eternity!

Read – 2 Corinthians 4

What does it say?
Human bodies are clay jars into which God has placed the knowledge of His glory.

What does it mean?
Clay jars were ordinary, everyday containers – easily cracked and broken. The value was in the content of the vessel, not the container itself. Paul describes himself as a weak vessel with no power of his own to accomplish God’s will. Even though Paul felt the wear and tear of his temporary, earthly body, he was confident of an inward and permanent renewal of his spirit. God proved His power was at work in the midst of Paul’s suffering. His eternal viewpoint on difficulty resulted in true humility, allowing God to receive the glory for Paul’s accomplishments in this life.

How should I respond?
What current pressure is causing your “jar” to crack? Without cracks, there’s not a chance for God to display His supernatural power in the face of suffering or everyday troubles. As you see God working in your circumstances, let His light shine through your pain or suffering by telling someone what He has done. It’s not easy to view the hard things of life as temporary, but that’s exactly what they are when compared to eternity. God’s power is displayed in the ordinary lives of flawed people. Be one of His cracked pots today.

Read – 2 Corinthians 3

What does it say?
Under the old covenant the letter of the law brings death, but with the new covenant the Spirit brings life.

What does it mean?
Outside influences were pressuring the Corinthians to live by Jewish religious practices and ceremonies in addition to faith in Christ. But salvation couldn’t be attained through the law because it requires perfect obedience in every point, a human impossibility. They didn’t understand that the practices of the old covenant were symbolic, preparing them for the coming of Christ and salvation by grace. God’s law, written on their hearts by the Holy Spirit, brought eternal life and made them a reflection of God’s glory. If the law was glorious, how much more is God’s work of grace through the Holy Spirit?

How should I respond?
Bank tellers are trained to look for and recognize counterfeit bills. Likewise, Christians have to be aware of counterfeit teachings and beliefs. What have you tried to add to faith in Christ to gain God’s acceptance? Relying on religious traditions and practices for God’s approval is counterfeit Christianity. Your church attendance, charitable giving, and service to the Lord are not a condition of your salvation but rather a result. Legalism promotes doing, whereas grace focuses on being. Legalism pressures you to act like other Christians; grace gives you the freedom to be conformed to the image of Christ. How will you reflect Jesus this week?

Read – Psalms 81

What does it say?
Asaph sang of how God rescued Israel from slavery in Egypt. God commanded that they have no other god, but they would not submit to Him.

What does it mean?
Asaph invited Israel to gather in Jerusalem for a feast and to celebrate the Lord’s goodness to them in the past. The joy of remembering how He rescued their forefathers from Egypt was quickly overshadowed by the consequences of their disobedience. When they did not listen, God allowed them to go their own way. As a result, they failed to live under His blessing and protection. The feast was a time of reflection. Sadly, Israel had to look back with regret, but God’s faithfulness has no end. He still desired to bless Israel and give them victory – if only they would listen and obey.

How should I respond?
We’ve trivialized sin to the point that it’s hard to recognize the devastation it has caused nationally and personally. Movies and television shows glorify what God condemns and even make it seem amusing. However, sin is not trivial. The sins of the world cost Jesus His life. Stop right now and consider how the warning in today’s passage needs to impact your life. Has your conscience been desensitized to sins that are considered socially acceptable? Remember, if Satan can get you to laugh at it, then he can get you to live with it. Will you pray for personal and national revival today?

Read – Psalms 79

What does it say?
Asaph begged God to be merciful and forgive Israel for the glory of His name. He asked the Lord to return to His people so they might be revived and restored.

What does it mean?
Psalm 79 was sung each spring at Passover, and Psalm 80 was sung in the fall during the Feast of Tabernacles. Both psalms recount the devastation of Jerusalem and the defilement of the Lord’s temple – probably regarding the Babylonian invasion and captivity of God’s people. These psalms served as annual reminders that God doesn’t allow sin to go unnoticed; it had devastating consequences on their land, their people, and their worship. Ultimately, Israel’s restoration will come through the man God raised up – the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Only He can save those who call on His name.

How should I respond?
We’ve trivialized sin to the point that it’s hard to recognize the devastation it has caused nationally and personally. Movies and television shows glorify what God condemns and even make it seem amusing. However, sin is not trivial. The sins of the world cost Jesus His life. Stop right now and consider how the warning in today’s passage needs to impact your life. Has your conscience been desensitized to sins that are considered socially acceptable? Remember, if Satan can get you to laugh at it, then he can get you to live with it. Will you pray for personal and national revival today?

Read – 2 Corinthians 2

What does it say?
To believers, the gospel is the fragrance of life. To those outside of Christ, it has the smell of death.

What does it mean?
Verse fourteen is an analogy of Christ as a Roman general leading his followers through the city, burning incense to signify victory. The smell was either sweet or a stench, depending on one’s loyalty to the general and his cause. Likewise, one’s response to Jesus results in either life or death. For followers of Christ, life on Earth leads to eternal life in Heaven. But the gospel of Jesus also means future judgment for unbelievers, leaving the aroma of death. Paul doesn’t view his responsibility to preach the gospel as a profession, but as a God-given task and privilege.

How should I respond?
What kind of inner reaction do you have while hearing or reading about the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus? If you are a follower of Christ, you feel acceptance and gratitude rather than condemnation. Your response to the message of Jesus is the single most important decision you’ll ever make. How have you responded? When you stand before Jesus, He will be either your victorious general or your judge. Like Paul, it is every believer’s privilege to tell the story of Jesus. To whom is God prompting you to share the gospel?

Read – 2 Corinthians 1

What does it say?
Paul praised God as the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. He trusted God for future deliverance because He had delivered him before.

What does it mean?
Rather than being exempt from suffering, followers of Christ have a source of great comfort in the midst of it. Experiencing trouble in life gives opportunity to trust in God. God’s consolation increases as the difficulty increases. Believers who accept God’s comfort have a greater capacity to extend that same comfort to others. Paul had personally experienced God’s assuring presence in the most difficult circumstances imaginable. But rather than question why God had allowed such hardship, Paul placed his hope entirely in God for deliverance.

How should I respond?
Trouble is just part of life (Job 5:7), but you can experience indescribable peace in the midst of sorrow by being open to God’s comfort. What circumstance is currently bringing you pain? How has it driven you to trust God more? How could you use difficulty from your life to help someone else through a tragedy or hardship? If you’ve experienced cancer, unemployment, or the loss of a spouse, then you can empathize with someone facing the same thing today. The more you allow God to comfort you, the more He’ll use you as a source of His comfort.

Read – 1 Corinthians 16

What does it say?
Paul closed his first letter to the church in Corinth by discussing a believer’s responsibilities regarding money, time, and people.

What does it mean?
Paul opened this chapter with the expectation that followers of Christ contribute financially to the expenses of the church and help those in need. The fact that the collection was taken on the first day of the week, Sunday, indicates that giving is an act of worship. Paul approached the use of his time as seriously as he did money. He prayed for God’s direction as he made plans and waited to see “if the Lord permits.” He then mentioned seven friends and co-workers by name. Paul valued his friends and encouraged their service for the Lord, which connected them to him and each other.

How should I respond?
Today’s church still has the same three resources as Paul: money, time, and people. It’s important to pray about the handling of these assets. How has reading the Bible influenced the way you spend time and money? Impulsive decisions can needlessly complicate your schedule and reduce what you can contribute to God’s work. What opportunities has God given you to mentor someone as Paul did Timothy? Every possession, relationship, and moment of life is given by God to use for His purpose. Today, how can you be a careful steward of all God has given you?

Read – 1 Corinthians 15

What does it say?
Believers will be resurrected one day just as Jesus was raised from the dead.

What does it mean?
Enemies of Christianity were claiming that Jesus hadn’t been raised from the dead even though witnesses of His resurrection were still alive. Without the bodily resurrection of Christ, there can be no eternal salvation. Adam’s sin in the Garden of Eden plunged all mankind into sin, which brought death. But Christians have no need to fear dying. Placing one’s faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus gives victory over sin and death. The resurrection of Christ is neither a lie nor a legend; it is the greatest fact of all history and secures the future resurrection of all believers.

How should I respond?
Americans spend millions of dollars on products to fight aging and improve their bodies. But everyone succumbs to time and faces the eventuality of death. How does reading this passage about a heavenly future change your view on your own mortality? If the thought of death frightens you, examine whether or not you have acknowledged the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus for your salvation. How does His resurrection give you hope and strength to face today’s challenges? The reality of the resurrection of Jesus allows you to live with purpose and look forward to a victorious future.

Read – 1 Corinthians 14

What does it say?
Everything said and done within the church should edify and strengthen the body.

What does it mean?
It’s important to understand the gifts of prophecy and tongues in order to get a better idea of what Paul is saying in this chapter. There are two different examples of tongues in the New Testament. In Acts 2, God gave the Apostles the gift of languages in order for unbelievers from many nations to hear the gospel in their own “tongue.” It was a sign that God had empowered the message. In Corinth, many believers were speaking in a prayer language that had to be interpreted in order to be understood. Chaos developed because so many people were speaking in tongues at one time. Paul prefers the gift of prophecy, the ability to clearly communicate the message of Christ. God is the God of peace, not confusion. The message of Jesus must be presented clearly in order to strengthen the church and draw others to follow Christ.

How should I respond?
As an orchestra warms up, each musician plays a different portion of the piece of music, making it impossible for a listener to detect the melody. The conductor’s direction brings harmony and understanding to the same piece. Likewise, God never desires chaos and conflict within His church. How are you contributing to order and peace in your church? How can you clearly communicate God’s character and purpose to those in your home, school, or community? Are you contributing to the melody or just making noise?