Dear Journey Family,
I’m so proud of each of you for taking this step in your faith and joining us for 21 days of prayer, devotion, and fasting! We believe that you will experience MORE of God over these next days together: more of His Peace, more of His Power, and more of His Presence. It’s my personal prayer for each of you that as you experience more of God, you are transformed to be more like Jesus and are empowered to live and love like Him. Don’t forget, you get out what you put into this experience. So, commit to it!
Commit to your fast each day, engage with this devotional written with prayer and care by the Journey Church staff, take time to pray and seek God’s face, and prioritize Sunday services and our weekly Living Room Worship Nights.
I love the fact that we get to do this TOGETHER! Remember, you are joining thousands of your fellow church family members as we start the year off right, seeking MORE OF GOD!
With Love and Prayer, Pastor Scott
DAY 1 | “Behold, I stand at the Door...”
BY JOSH RENE
READ
“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” - Revelation 3:20 (ESV)
THINK
In a world of hustle and bustle, instant gratification, fast food, health hacks, and quick fixes, this verse paints such a contrasting invitation to slow down, and relationally and intimately connect with the God of the universe.
Can you see it in your mind’s eye?
Jesus stands at the door of your heart, knocking, patiently waiting for you to let Him in. This is a profound expression of God’s love and desire for a relationship. He does not force Himself into your heart and life, but gently seeks entry and wishes to dine with you.
A mentor once told me, “There is no such thing as fast food!” It’s an oxymoron. Why? Because we all know that good food and the dining experience as a whole should take time. It’s imagery we see all through scripture. “The table” is a place of connection, relationship, nourishment, and rest. That’s what Jesus is offering to you in this passage. Think of his knocking not as a mere sound; but instead, a call to fellowship, healing, and transformation. This is important to see as well, He doesn’t just want a quick visit; He desires to stay, dwell, and engage in the rhythms of our daily lives.
But herein lies the tension; the choice to open the door rests entirely with us. Remember, Jesus is a true gentleman. He’s not going to barge in unwanted or uninvited. So why do we hesitate to open the door at times? Perhaps it’s fear—fear of change, of vulnerability, or of relinquishing control. Maybe it’s doubt, questioning if the knock we hear is real or if Jesus truly wants to enter a heart as “messy” as ours. Some of us may feel like we need to “tidy up” before He enters. Here’s the beauty of the invitation from Jesus, there is no prerequisite or condition that He requires to enter. He simply knocks as the One pursuing you.
ACT
So, the challenge to us would be, how are we going to respond to his knock and invitation today? Would you let Him in and enjoy the presence of your Savior at your “table” and in that place let Him transform your heart to be more like His.
PRAY
Jesus, today would you open my ears to your knock on my heart’s door? As I hear it, give me the faith and courage to open the door no matter what I might fear you would find inside. As you enter, allow me to have communion with you that would heal, nourish, and transform me to ultimately make me more like you.
DAY 2 | Lean on Grace
BY CONNOR MILLIGAN
READ
“So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.”
“For if you are trying to make yourselves right with God by keeping the law, you have been cut off from Christ! You have fallen away from God’s grace. But we who live by the Spirit eagerly wait to receive by faith the righteousness God has promised to us.” - Galatians 5:1; 4-5 (NLT)
THINK
The Galatian church had a problem they let false teachers infiltrate their community who began teaching them that the way to obtaining favor and right standing with God was through good behavior, adhering to old religious customs, and following the law of Moses to the letter. These false teachers emphasized human efforts, while rejecting God’s display of grace through the transformative power of the cross of Jesus Christ.
Paul takes extensive time to remind the people of Galatia that salvation only comes from the cross of Jesus. Here’s the beauty of God’s grace found in Jesus:
1. It’s God’s grace, found in Jesus, that reveals God’s love for us and plan for salvation.
2. It’s God’s grace, found in Jesus, that frees us from condemnation and forgives us of our sins.
3. It’s God’s grace, found in Jesus, that makes us righteous by removing our sin and replacing it with Christ’s righteousness.
That last one is really important. If you place your faith in Jesus, God sees you as righteous. How though? Jesus gives you His righteousness. He doesn’t demand that you work your way into right standing with God, but He transforms you by giving you a new nature through the Holy Spirit.
ACT
Ask yourself, are my good works and actions an overflow of and love to God? Or do I do good things to be seen and approved by God?
Submit to God your motives and actions and ask God to correct your view of Him. Then, ask God to lead you to receive His grace found in Jesus.
Finally, ask Jesus to help you love others as an overflow of the great love you have been shown by God.
PRAY
God, thank you for extending to me grace, forgiveness, and right standing with you through the cross of Jesus. Help me today to not work for your approval, but rather help me to live knowing that you already love me and have forgiven me through the cross of Jesus. Help me by faith to receive and know the righteousness you give me, Jesus. Give me a heart of gratitude, love, and faith, and may my good works be a result of your great love for me. Fill me with your Holy Spirit and lead my life today. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
DAY 3 | He is With You
BY WES HEINE
READ
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” - Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
THINK
One of the most powerful promises in Scripture is that God goes before us. In Deuteronomy 31, Moses is preparing to leave the people of Israel, and he reassures them that, although he will not be with them physically, God will be with them always. God’s presence is constant, unwavering, and always reliable. He will never leave or forsake His people. This is a promise for every one of us no matter the circumstances.
For the Israelites, the wilderness journey was full of uncertainty, but God had already gone ahead to prepare the way. He would lead them, protect them, and equip them to face the challenges ahead. In the same way, God goes before us, whether we are facing big decisions, transitions, or challenging seasons of life. His presence is not just with us in the present, but He also prepares the path ahead of us.
It is easy to become afraid or discouraged when we don’t know what’s coming next, when we feel inadequate or alone. Yet God reassures us, just as He reassured the Israelites, that we do not face life’s challenges in our own strength. We have the One who has already gone before us, who promises to never leave us. His presence is the antidote to fear and discouragement.
When we trust that God is already at work ahead of us, we can step forward in faith, knowing that He is guiding our steps, providing what we need, and securing the future. Even when we can’t see the road clearly, we can trust in the One who knows the way.
ACT
Take a moment today to reflect on areas of your life where you feel uncertain or fearful. Remind yourself that God is not only with you in this moment but that He has already gone ahead of you. Pray and ask for the faith to trust in His preparation and His presence. Let go of the fear and discouragement, and step forward in confidence that God is leading you.
PRAY
Lord, thank You for the promise that You go before me and are always with me. Forgive me for the times I have allowed fear and discouragement to take hold. Help me to trust in Your presence and Your guidance. I choose to step forward in faith, knowing that You are with me every step of the way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DAY 4 | Satisfied in Him
BY JAMES MARTINEZ
READ
“O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast.” - Psalms 63:1-5 (NLT)
THINK
Have you ever experienced a quenching thirst? Living in Florida, I am sure the answer to that is yes. But have you ever been in that thirst and tried to satisfy it with something that isn’t water, where you drink, but the thirst remains?
In this Psalm, David expresses a longing and dependence on God while he is in the Judean Wilderness. The opening verse captures the essence of spiritual thirst: “O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water.” Here, David acknowledges his physical weakness, feeling the harshness of his surroundings. Yet, it is in this state of desperation that he recognizes his profound need for God.
In moments of physical weakness, whether due to exhaustion, illness, or life’s challenges, we often find ourselves longing for something greater. For something that will satisfy our thirst. David’s words resonate deeply: our souls’ thirst for God, the only source of true strength and sustenance. Just as our bodies require water to survive, our spirits crave the living water that only God can provide.
ACT
In this season of fasting, we can recognize our frailty. I believe it is through our weaknesses that we can invite God’s power into our lives and experience Him in ways we never have before. I encourage you to pray that you will experience God as the Living Water today. Take a moment to be still in His presence and allow His Spirit to fill and dwell within you. In doing so, you will come to understand and echo David’s words in verse 5, “You satisfy me more than the richest feast.” In God, we find all that we need.
PRAY
Heavenly Father, I am grateful that it is through my weaknesses that Your strength is revealed. Thank You for the satisfaction I find in You. I ask that Your presence fills my heart and that Your Spirit resides within me. May I experience Your fulfillment today and throughout all my days to come.
DAY 5 | If Only You Had Been Here
BY AMYE STILL
READ
“When Mary arrived and saw Jesus, she fell at this His feet and said, ‘Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died.’” - John 11:32 (NLT)
THINK
Have you ever had to rest in the waiting? Me too. There have been too many times in my life where I have felt like the wait was too long and the struggle was too hard. When I read the story of Lazarus, I am reminded of what God did in the lives of so many on that fateful day in Bethany.
Let me set it up for you. Mary and Martha had sent Jesus a memo that Lazarus was very sick. Instead of going straight to his bedside and healing him, Jesus waits until he’s dead. And when He gets there Mary falls at His feet and says something very pointed. “Lord, if only You had been here…” How many times have I made a similar statement to the Lord? A lot. Lord, where are you? Why didn’t You come right away? How much longer? When, God? When? Why, God? Why?
Here’s the thing, Mary knew Jesus as Teacher and Healer and now He wanted her to know him as Resurrector. Trials are going to come and when they do we need to ask the Lord, what are You trying to teach me through this? Chances are the Father is trying to reveal a new level of His character or a new attribute of His nature. We have to learn the lesson and level up with God, which is exactly what Mary did.
John points out in John 11:2 that this is the very same, Mary who later poured the expensive perfume on the Lord’s feet and wiped them with her hair. Mary learned that Jesus was the Resurrection, so she found herself at Jesus’ feet once again only this time it wasn’t learning from Him or questioning Him about why He hadn’t come sooner. Mary found herself at the feet of Jesus this time anointing His feet for a purpose. In just a few days’ time He would walk on those feet to the cross and become the Savior of the world.
Is it possible to stay at the feet of Jesus even when we don’t see God moving in our circumstances? The answer is yes. Our hearts must stay at Jesus’ feet even when there is work to be done and faith to be walked out. We can remain in rest when all the world seems to be crashing down around us because at His feet is where we learn His character and we can take hold of His nature and trust that He is working all things for our good and His glory.
ACT
Take a moment to reflect on ways that you may have questioned the goodness of God and pray that he will remind you of His faithfulness.
PRAY
Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness and forgive me for the times I have questioned Your heart and character. Help me to walk in faith and strength knowing that You are who say You are and You will do what You say You will do. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAY 6 | Finding True Joy in His Presence
BY MAKAYLA SULLIVAN
READ
“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” - Psalm 16:11 (ESV)
THINK
Have you noticed how often we search for happiness outside of God? It’s easy to get wrapped up in pursuing things that promise satisfaction—whether it’s career success, relationships, entertainment, or just staying busy. Yet Psalm 16:11 reminds us that the deepest joy is only found in God’s presence. Here, David expresses a profound truth: when we draw close to God, we don’t just experience a fleeting sense of peace; we find fullness and lasting pleasure, something the world can’t give us.
When we come to Him, He fills us completely. This fullness isn’t just for special occasions; it’s available to us each and every day. Regardless if our season of life is thriving or we feel like we are barely holding on, God’s presence remains steady and life-giving through it all. He promises us that the closer we are to Him, the more we’ll experience a joy that isn’t shaken by circumstances.
I want you to ask yourself these questions: Am I seeking joy from things that can’t truly satisfy? Am I leaning on my own efforts instead of letting God fill me with His love and peace?
Let’s remember the truth is that God’s presence alone completes us. He knows the path we need to walk, and when we trust Him, we’ll find a joy and fulfillment that nothing else can provide.
ACT
Let’s reflect for a minute as we answer these questions: Am I seeking joy from things that can’t truly satisfy? Am I leaning on my own efforts instead of letting God fill me with His love and peace?
Spend a few quiet minutes in His presence, free from distractions. You don’t need the perfect prayer or a long list of words; just come as you are. Sit with Him, let go of your concerns, and allow His love to fill you. Remember, He is always near, ready to lead you along the path of life. True joy isn’t something we need to chase—it’s a gift we receive when we come close to Him. Lean into His presence now.
PRAY
Lord, thank You for inviting me to walk in Your presence. I want to know this fullness of joy You promise. So today, would You help me to turn away from things that don’t satisfy and draw closer to You. Teach me to find peace and joy in Your love alone and guide me along Your path of life. Amen.
DAY 7 | Unshakable Faith
BY RONALD PENA
READ
“If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” - John 15:7 (ESV)
THINK
The inner child in me automatically takes my mind to Clark Kent and Superman when I read this verse. Clark Kent would go about his normal life living as an average Joe working a 9-5. But as soon as he would put on that Superman suit he would have all the ability to conquer the world at his finger tips.
In all seriousness, as I meditate on this Scripture it actively reminds me that God wants my devotion to Him. As I pursue Him, He activates inside of me and gives me all of the desires of my heart. When I abide in Him, my super powers are turned on. What are those super powers you might ask? Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. You see, when we abide in Him and He in us, our faith will be unshakable. Is it possible to stay at the feet of Jesus even when we don’t see God moving in our circumstances? The answer is yes. Our hearts must stay at Jesus’ feet even when there is work to be done and faith to be walked out. We can remain in rest when all the world seems to be crashing down around us because at His feet is where we learn His character and we can take hold of His nature and trust that He is working all things for our good and His glory.
ACT
As you go about your day, find pockets of time to spend time with your Heavenly Father. Whether that be a spontaneous “Thank you God because you’re so good” or carving out 10 min to read scripture. Take some time each day to abide in Him.
PRAY
Dear God, I thank You for your goodness. I thank You because I know beyond the shadow of a doubt when I abide in You, you abide in me. I pray that as I pursue You daily, my faith may become unshakable because You are actively moving inside of me. I pray that Your perfect will may be done in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DAY 8 | Unleashing God’s Limitless Power in Our Lives
BY GEORGE BOTHA
READ
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.”
— Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)
THINK
This verse from Ephesians invites us to consider the boundless, limitless power of God. Often, we limit our vision to what we think is possible, confining our hopes, dreams, and prayers within what seems achievable by human standards. But God’s power is far greater than anything we can envision. He doesn’t just meet our expectations—He exceeds them beyond measure. Paul’s words in this verse challenge us to widen our perspective and to embrace a faith that trusts in God’s extraordinary capacity to act in ways that defy our understanding. Through His power at work within us, God can do immeasurably more, even through our smallest acts of faith and obedience. This power is not distant or impersonal but is intimately present within us. God works through us, not because of our abilities but because of His strength. When we face challenges that seem insurmountable, this verse encourages us to lean into God’s power, allowing Him to accomplish in us what we could never do alone.
ACT
Today, take a moment to identify an area in your life where you have been limiting God. Is there a challenge, a dream, or a relationship where you’ve settled for what seems realistic rather than asking God for the impossible? Invite God into that area, asking Him to reveal His power and do more than you could imagine. Write down this prayer or intention as a reminder to continually entrust that area to His boundless ability.
PRAY
Father, thank You for Your incredible power that is always at work within me. I confess that at times I limit You with my small expectations. Help me to trust in Your ability to do immeasurably more than I could ever ask or imagine. Give me the faith to dream bigger and to place my life in Your hands, believing that You can bring about change, healing, and hope beyond what I can see. Let Your power work in me and through me to bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DAY 9 | The Power of our Words
BY JONATHAN WELTER
READ
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” - Acts 1:8 (NKJV)
THINK
Words are powerful! Someone years ago thought that it was a good idea to put the words of Jesus in red in the Bible to honor them and make them easier to find. What is extra special about Act 1:8 is that these are the last recorded words of Jesus in the Bible before He ascended to Heaven. Think about that. At this point in history Jesus has died, was buried and resurrected and is now spending His last 40 days on earth meeting with His disciples and giving them some final instructions … and this is the last thing He tells them.
Notice the progression in the verse. First, we need to receive the Holy Spirit (what a gift!). Second, He gives us power. 2 Timothy 1:7, tells us we’ve been given a Spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. Lastly, we get to witness with extraordinary results.
Often we try to reverse the order and witness by our own power and authority. Witnessing is not showing what we can do for God. It is showing and telling everyone what God has done for us.
Think of it this way. The steam in a locomotive does not just exist to “toot” the whistle from time to time. The purpose of the steam is to power the engine that moves the train. So too, the gift of the Holy Spirit isn’t so you can toot your own horn from time to time. Jesus is saying the Holy Spirit comes upon people in order that the message of the Gospel might be moved throughout the world.
ACT
Jesus didn’t say, “you will witness.” He said, “you will be my witnesses”. This means our words should always point people back to the Lord, His goodness, and His truth. And it starts local for the disciples in Jerusalem just as He wants it to start “local” with you and then go out from there. And it doesn’t have to be complicated, we just need to tell people about what Jesus is doing in us and around us.
PRAY
Lord, thank you for giving us power when we received the Holy Spirit. Help guide us on our journey as we witness to others all that You have done for us.
DAY 10 | Whale Tattoos & Doubts Of Faith
BY MATT VOLKENS
READ
“I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance.” - Ephesians 1:15-18 (NLT)
THINK
I have a whale tattoo.
When you have a whale tattoo and you’re in a church context, you often get asked the question, “Is that for Jonah and the Whale!????”
To which my answer is: No.
The true meaning behind my whale tattoo is that whales are simple and powerful creatures, and a reminder of a lesson that God taught me.
I went through a season in life where things didn’t make sense. I was confused about what God was trying to do in me, through me, and around me. My life’s circumstances didn’t line up with who I knew God to be. Immediately that caused me to question who “God was”. But in a moment of stillness and reading, the Holy Spirit showed me a sentence that stuck with me: “You can trust the simplicity of the Gospel, and the power of grace.” To summarize that further, God was telling me: “trust My character”. In that moment, the Holy Spirit reminded me that I don’t need to make sense of my situation, I just need to rest in who I know God to be.
There is a confident hope accessible to His holy people, and it’s foundation is on the knowledge of Him. Another translation phrases that as “knowing Him personally”. The knowledge of God that gives confident hope is not a “head knowledge” that can be learned, it’s an understanding of His heart towards us, and who He is.
ACT
Who do you know God to be?
Take a moment to offer up any doubts, struggles, or trials you might be facing right now. Invite the Holy Spirit to call back a reminder of who you know God to be, offering it to a kind yet powerful Heavenly Father who loves you.
PRAY
“God, would You give me spiritual wisdom and insight so that I might grow in my knowledge of You. Would You give me the confident hope to rest in who You are despite what I’m going through today. Amen.
DAY 11 | The God Who is Above All Things
BY AUDREY ORTIZ
READ
“Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty. Everything in the heavens and on earth is yours, O Lord, and this is your kingdom. We adore you as the one who is over all things.” – 1 Chronicles 29:11 (NLT)
THINK
Toward the end of his life, King David is so thankful for God’s manifested power and might on his life and the people of Israel that he asks the people to bring offerings to build God a temple—a place where God could dwell; a place where He would be honored and worshiped. The people of Israel respond with such great generosity that David bursts out in praise and declares that to God belongs all:
• Greatness: For with His words alone, He created the whole universe!
• Power: For Him alone can part the sea and cause manna to fall from the sky!
• Glory: All worship belongs to Him for He alone is holy!
• Majesty: He alone is fully faithful, abounding in love, compassionate, truthful, and trustworthy!
• Splendor: He is the eternal God who is the same yesterday, today, and forever!
He goes on declaring the kingdom is the Lord’s and that He is above all things!
This is the God we serve; the God who loves us unconditionally and is for us! Most importantly, this is the God who lives inside of us! As believers and children of God, we can go into the throne room with confidence at any moment and ask God to move in our favor, trusting that He will come through with power and victory. And with the baptism of the Holy Spirit in our lives, we can see His power move through as we pray and bless others.
ACT
Our challenge for today is to take a deep breath and become aware of His powerful presence living inside of us. Let us ask the Father—the God of greatness, power, glory, majesty, and splendor—to fill us with the Holy Spirit. As we do this, our attitude and perspective will change to see God as David saw Him, above all things!
PRAY
Lord, forgive me for forgetting how wonderful and amazing You are; for forgetting that the same God, the Creator of the universe who is above all things, is the same God that lives in me. Make me aware of Your presence and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Open my eyes to see Your greatness, power, glory, majesty, and splendor as You infiltrate every area of my life, so that I may pray with confidence and faith to the God who is above all! In Jesus’ name, Amen!
DAY 12 | Armed with Resurrection Power
BY PAIGE LEUTWYLER
READ
“I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms.” - Ephesians 1:19-20 (NLT)
THINK
Right now, as you fast and pray, you may have found yourself wondering if God will really come through. We’ve all been there. It’s tempting to partner with doubt, especially when we can’t see the answer immediately. But let me remind you of something: You’re not praying empty prayers—you are tapping into dynamis—the same explosive power that yanked Jesus out of the grave. The very power that resurrected the dead, kicked down the gates of hell, and elevated Jesus to sit at God’s right hand is alive in you.
And here’s the best part: that power isn’t just for fleeting moments of inspiration. No. It’s living, breathing, and able to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think (Eph. 3:20). This isn’t passive strength you’ve been given—it’s the kind of power that moves mountains, heals bodies, and shifts atmospheres. It’s the kind of authority that arms you to step into battle, ready to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one (Eph. 6:16).
You’re not just standing there. You are standing firm—firm in the authority that Jesus already secured for you. That means you don’t wait for the “perfect moment” to speak God’s truth. You speak it now, with authority, because that’s the power He has given you.
And Jesus gave us His Holy Spirit so we could engage in His mission. As we await Christ’s return, let’s step boldly in power knowing God has chosen us as His vessels to bring His love, grace, salvation, and truth to the ends of the earth.
ACT
Identify one area in your life where you’ve been holding back—where maybe doubt, fear, or hesitation has crept in. Pray over this area, rebuking any spirit of timidity, and invite the Holy Spirit to fill you with boldness and truth.
PRAY
God, You are unstoppable. Thank You for the power of Your Holy Spirit— the same power that conquered the grave and brought Jesus back to life. Search my heart and expose any lies that are robbing me of your good plans. Teach me to speak boldly and stand firm in the authority You have given me. God, I’m ready to be used for Your glory. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
DAY 13 | Power in Weakness
BY MEL FRITH
READ
“But he answered me, ‘My grace is always more than enough for you, and my power finds its full expression through your weakness.’ So I will celebrate my weaknesses, for when I’m weak I sense more deeply the mighty power of Christ living in me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9 (TPT)
THINK
In a world that prizes strength, self-sufficiency, and success, weakness is often seen as something to be avoided or hidden. Yet, Paul teaches us an incredible truth in 2 Corinthians 12:9: God’s grace is always enough, and His power is made most perfect in our weakness.
Paul was no stranger to hardship—he faced beatings, imprisonment, and countless challenges. He also had a “thorn in the flesh,” something that kept him humble and dependent on God. When Paul asked God to remove this thorn, God’s answer wasn’t what he expected: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” God wasn’t interested in removing Paul’s weakness but in showing him how His grace could empower him in it.
This is a paradox that surprises the world: our greatest moments of strength come when we admit our weakness. The power of Christ becomes more evident when we surrender our efforts and allow God to work through our limitations. When we are weak, we are forced to rely on God’s strength, and in doing so, we experience His power in a deeper, more intimate way.
Instead of hiding our struggles, we can celebrate them because they create space for God’s power to shine through. When we are weak, God is strong. And in our weakness, we draw closer to Him, experiencing His grace in ways we could never experience in our own strength.
ACT
Identify one area in your life where you’ve been holding back—where maybe doubt, fear, or hesitation has crept in. Pray over this area, rebuking any spirit of timidity, and invite the Holy Spirit to fill you with boldness and truth.
PRAY
Father, thank You for Your grace that is always sufficient. Help me to embrace my weaknesses and trust that Your power is at work in me. I want to experience Your strength in my struggles and rely on Your grace every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DAY 14 | God’s Power to Take Care of You
BY ALBERT ESTEVEZ
READ
“Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?” - Matthew 6:26-27 (NLT)
THINK
In this verse, Jesus uses the example of birds to remind us of how much God cares for us. Birds don’t worry about where their food will come from or how they will be taken care of—they trust God to provide for them every day. And God loves you even more than the birds! If He can take care of them, He will definitely take care of you too.
Sometimes we can worry about many things in life, trying to control everything. But Jesus tells us that worrying doesn’t help. It doesn’t change anything or make things better. Only God has the power to take care of us and handle everything we worry about. When we trust in His power, we don’t need to carry our worries alone. God loves us, and He is strong enough to handle anything we face.
ACT
Think about something you’ve been worrying about. Take a moment today to give that worry to God. Tell Him, “I trust You to take care of this!” Remember, God is powerful enough to handle it, and He promises to care for you.
PRAY
Dear God, thank You for always taking care of me. I know You are powerful, and You love me. I don’t want to worry about the things I can’t control. Please help me trust You with everything I’m worried about. Thank You for being so strong and loving. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DAY 15 | Perfect Peace
BY JONATHAN MCQUITTY
READ
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
THINK
In our fast-paced, often uncertain world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges we face. Anxiety and worry have a way of creeping into our hearts, clouding our thoughts, and stealing our peace. Whether it’s about our health, finances, relationships, or the future, these concerns can consume us if we let them. But in Philippians 4:6-7, Paul offers a comforting and transformative command: “Do not be anxious about anything.”
This might sound impossible when we’re in the middle of stressful situations. But Paul doesn’t just tell us to stop worrying; he gives us a way to overcome anxiety—through prayer. He encourages us to bring every concern, no matter how big or small, before God. In “every situation,” we are to present our requests with a heart of gratitude, trusting that God not only hears us but is already at work on our behalf.
The act of praying with thanksgiving shifts our focus. Instead of fixating on our problems, we begin to recognize God’s faithfulness and provision in the past. This reminder strengthens our faith and allows us to approach God with confidence, knowing that He is good and He cares about every detail of our lives.
As we surrender our worries to God in prayer, Paul promises something beautiful:”...the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” This peace isn’t the absence of trouble, but the presence of God amidst it. It’s a peace that goes beyond our circumstances and reasoning. It doesn’t always make sense, but it is deeply comforting and reassuring. It’s the kind of peace that shields us, like a guard standing watch over our hearts and minds, keeping us grounded in God’s love.
In those moments of anxiety, we can choose to take a deep breath and pray. We can trust that God will give us His peace—peace that calms our fears and quiets our restless thoughts. This peace doesn’t come from understanding the situation, but from trusting the One who holds the situation in His hands.
So, let us turn to God in prayer today, with thanksgiving in our hearts, and experience the peace that only He can provide.
ACT
Set aside five minutes today to pause and bring a specific concern to God in prayer. Begin by reflecting on His faithfulness in your life and thanking Him for the ways He has carried you through past challenges. Share your concerns with Him, trusting in His guidance, provision, and promises. Allow the peace that surpasses understanding to wash over you as you spend time in His presence.
PRAY
Lord, thank You for Your presence. Thank You that You never leave me or forsake me. Even in the middle of life’s most difficult challenges, I know that You are with me, for me, and will walk me through the valley. Go before me today and remind me of Your presence in every moment. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DAY 16 | Trust & Peace
BY CHERISE MARTINEZ
READ
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” - Romans 15:13 (NIV)
THINK
In this verse, Paul offers a beautiful blessing to the believers in Rome. It’s a prayerful encouragement, but also a reminder of the abundance of peace and hope that God desires for His people. Notice that the peace spoken of here is not simply the absence of conflict or stress. It is a deep, inner peace that comes from trusting in God. This peace doesn’t depend on external circumstances but on the trust we place in God’s promises.
The verse also emphasizes joy. True peace is often accompanied by joy, and it is rooted in hope—hope that is founded on the character of God and His unchanging faithfulness. This hope doesn’t just make us feel better temporarily; it overflows, touching those around us. The Holy Spirit, who is at work within us, empowers this overflow of peace and hope.
Paul’s words serve as both a blessing and a challenge. As believers, we are called to trust in God in every situation, to experience His joy and peace, and to let that overflow into the world. The peace that God gives us is not meant to be kept to ourselves; it’s meant to be shared. It’s a peace that goes beyond understanding, a peace that guards our hearts, and a peace that reflects the presence of God in our lives.
ACT
Today, make an intentional effort to cultivate trust in God. Begin by recognizing areas of your life where you might be relying on your own strength rather than trusting in God’s provision. Are there places where you feel anxious or unsettled? Bring those to God in prayer, choosing to trust Him more fully. Then, allow the peace you receive from God to overflow to others. Just like Paul, we too can reach out to those around us that need encouragement, a listening ear, or a reminder of the peace available to them through faith in Christ.
PRAY
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being the God of hope, joy, and peace. I trust that You are at work in my life, filling me with the peace that only You can provide. Help me to surrender my worries and anxieties to You, knowing that You are faithful and trustworthy in every circumstance. I ask for your peace to overflow in my heart, so that it might touch the lives of those around me. Fill me with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit, and let that hope be a light to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DAY 17 | The Gift of Peace
BY CALEB FRITH
READ
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” –John 14:27 (NIV)
THINK
Peace is something we all long for, especially in a world filled with uncertainty, conflict, and stress. But the peace Jesus offers is unlike any peace the world can give. It’s not based on circumstances, nor is it temporary. Jesus’ peace is a deep, unshakable peace that comes from His presence in our lives.
When Jesus spoke these words in John 14:27, He was preparing His disciples for the trials they would face after His departure. He knew they would be anxious, troubled, and afraid. Yet, He promised them peace— His peace—a peace that would sustain them even in their darkest moments.
Jesus’ peace isn’t a mere absence of conflict or worry. It’s a peace that transcends understanding, a peace that guards our hearts and minds when everything else feels uncertain. The world offers a kind of peace based on good circumstances, but the peace Jesus offers is rooted in His character and His promises. It’s a peace that remains even in the storm.
Jesus urges us not to let our hearts be troubled or afraid. We don’t need to be ruled by anxiety or fear because He has given us His peace to carry us through. When we trust in His presence, we can walk through the trials of life with calm assurance, knowing He is in control.
ACT
Identify areas of your life where you’re feeling troubled or afraid. Bring those concerns to Jesus and ask Him to fill you with His peace. Remember, His peace is a gift that doesn’t depend on your circumstances, but on His presence.
PRAY
Jesus, thank You for the gift of peace. I confess that often my heart is troubled, and fear creeps in. Help me to rest in the peace You’ve promised. When anxiety arises, remind me that Your peace transcends all understanding. I choose to trust in You today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DAY 18 | Gratitude: The Path to Peace
BY TAYLOR VOLKENS
READ
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me— put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” - Philippians 4:8-9(NIV)
THINK
As humans, peace is not our natural response to the worries this world can present— and neither is gratitude.
I don’t know about you, but when I’m feeling anxious or overwhelmed, my knee-jerk reaction isn’t to focus on the rainbows and butterflies or write in my gratitude journal with a glowing smile.
For me, a more natural response lies somewhere between the scenes in Forrest Gump where sweet little Jenny falls to her knees in the middle of a cornfield and prays that God would make her into a bird and “fly far, far away” and where Forrest is running for his life through the jungle, dodging enemy fire while frantically flailing as he goes.
Maybe you can relate.
As Christians, we sometimes make having peace look tidy and simple —it’s a gift and a promise after all! Yet, I have found more often than not that peace is found in the trenches and is something we have to actively fight for.
If you are anything like me, you may be feeling a little discouraged at the idea of having to fight for one more thing. Life is hard! We are exhausted! And frankly, how on earth do we even fight for peace? Where do we start?
Gratitude.
Gratitude is our weapon in the fight for the peace that God has promised us.
When we focus our hearts on the truth of who God is and what He has done for us, we position ourselves toward peace! When we shift our focus off of what is overwhelming, uncontrollable, or hard and onto what is good, beautiful, and true, our hearts and minds become attuned to all of the good around us. When we seek to fill our lives with gratitude, we will inevitably find peace and live in the promise God has for us.
ACT
List three things you are grateful for and verbally thank God for them (and smile)! When negative or worry-filled thoughts present themselves throughout the day, remind yourself of the gratitude list you made earlier (or come up with new things!).
PRAY
Father, thank You for the promise of peace You have given us! I thank You that we can live with eternal hope and peace. Help me fix my eyes on You, God, and focus my heart on everything I have to be grateful for! Amen.
DAY 19 | Your Imagination Holds the Key to your Peace
BY GINA HAGLUND
READ
“He will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” - Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV)
THINK
The word for mind is the Hebrew word ‘yetser.’ It can be defined as the imagination that forms one’s reality. The imagination can be filled with good or evil. What we focus our mental capacities on will be evidenced by how we live. When we think on the things of God, our attitude, language, posture and ultimately health will be impacted for the good. The fruit of the Spirit will be a natural byproduct of our lives (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness and self-control). We will be a welcome presence in any room and likely feel a sense of consistent and unhindered peace.
Everything we consume by our senses passively or intentionally will influence the ‘imagination’ or structural integrity of your mind. When we allow negativity, gossip, slander, obscene images or coarse language into our mind, it will result in an eventual lack of peace or dis-ease in our bodies. The key to living a life filled with peace is through intentionally fixing our minds and imaginations on the things of God. This is going to take a steadfast, committed and focused effort but is so worth it.
No matter what chaos is stirring around you, bad news, diagnosis or suffering is swirling around you, make a choice to fix your mind and imagination on God through the reading of the Word, worship or encouragement of a trusted like-minded friend and you will keep in perfect peace.
ACT
Take some time to reflect on what your imagination has been fixed on this week. Is it the news? Work or relationship stress? Create a plan for the rest of this week to intentionally fix your mind on God—His Word, worship, fellowship. Create a playlist of worship songs to play throughout your day, speak this verse out loud when stressors arise. Use alarms or notifications on your phone to do ‘peace checks’ throughout your day and adjust your focus accordingly.
PRAY
Father, thank You that You have made a way for me to live in peace. Forgive me for being distracted by the things of this world. Make me sensitive to Your Spirit, that I may cast aside any imagination that sets itself up against You so that I may live in constant peace.
DAY 20 | Waiting On My Miracle
BY JESSE ALLEN
READ
“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us” - Romans 5:3-5 (ESV)
THINK
I was at a conference recently where I received a phone call from a family friend 5 minutes before the opening event started. I was told that their mother, who was influential in my upbringing, would be brought to end of life care to end her long battle with cancer. All of this hit me because my father was in the middle of his own battle against cancer. I walked back into the venue as the opening video played and showed testimony after testimony of the Lord healing people of sicknesses, including cancer. Without control of my own mouth I found myself saying out-loud; “Well that’s not my reality right now”. As the video ended, we went into worship singing “the joy of the Lord is my strength” and I became absolutely undone because I realized that even though my reality didn’t match what I was praying for, that the Lord was still working.
Have you ever had your own moment where your reality didn’t match your prayers? This verse in Romans reminds us that trials are not meaningless but are tools God uses to make us grow. Paul tells us that suffering produces perseverance, which shapes our character and deepens our hope in Christ. This hope is not wishful thinking but a confident assurance, anchored in the love of God poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. When challenges come, we can trust that God is refining us, drawing us closer to Him, and filling us with His presence.
ACT
If you are experiencing suffering in this season, take time today to ask the Lord for His joy to help you find endurance. Ask Him to purify you through this season. Remind yourself that He cares about your situation and wants to walk through it with you.
PRAY
Thank You Jesus that you are not a distant God that watches from afar, but a Savior that is close to those who are hurting. As I wait for my miracle, would Your presence be enough for me right now. Fill me with peace and hope. Help me know Your love through Your Holy Spirit.
DAY 21 | Finding Rest in a Restless World
BY CANDACE HEINE
READ
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” - Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)
THINK
Have you ever returned from a vacation wondering if you should move there? Have you scrolled through job postings, thinking a new role might reignite your passion? These feelings echo a deep restlessnessan unfulfilled longing for peace and purpose amid life’s overwhelming demands.
Restlessness is “lacking rest, or the inability to be content.” It often signals discontent with our lives or choices. We ask questions like: “Is this all there is?” “How do I escape the busyness I’ve created?” “What if I’m not passionate about the life I have?”
Beneath these questions is a desire for peace within ourselves, our circumstances, and ultimately with God. This inner restlessness is nothing new. Even in the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve were surrounded by God’s provision and presence. The serpent convinced them to believe they needed “more” than God offered, resulting in humanity’s first experience of longing.
We often think that securing everything we want will finally grant us rest, but this mindset traps us in a cycle of striving and dissatisfaction. St. Augustine understood this well when he wrote, “Lord, You have made us for Yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in You.”
Jesus offers us an alternative to this cycle. By coming to Him, we trade our restlessness for His peace – a calm not reliant on perfect circumstances but rooted in trust. His promise isn’t to remove our burdens but to carry them alongside us.
True rest comes from entrusting our lives to God, believing He knows what’s best and has already provided all we need in Christ. Jesus’ rest is more than a temporary comfort; it’s a lasting peace that frees us from constant striving.
ACT
Take time today to rest in His presence, allowing Him to lift your burdens. Jesus offers us more than a fleeting comfort—He offers us true rest for our souls.
PRAY
Lord, I come to You seeking the true rest only You can give. Teach me to trust in Your love and let go of my striving. Calm my heart and remind me that peace is found in Your presence. Thank You for lifting my burdens and offering rest for my soul. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
