The Secret Chamber: May 2024 Edition

The Secret Chamber | A Digital Devotional May 2024 Edition

The Secret Chamber, the Department of Church Growth and Development’s daily devotional guide, is herein recognized as an aid to worship; it is also made an official periodical of the Church and listed in The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in the annual report of the pastor on periodicals.

Bishop Adam J. Richardson, Senior Bishop, African Methodist Episcopal Church

Bishop Reginald T. Jackson, Commission Chair

The Reverend Dr. Marcellus A. Norris, Executive Director

African Methodist Episcopal Church Department of Church Growth and Development

The Reverend Dr. Susan Hillary Buckson, Copy Editor

The Reverend Jarrett Britton Washington, Graphic Editor

Scripture taken from Holy Bible, New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition, NRSVUE

The onset of growing Artificial Intelligence (AI) research, this edition provides a “ChatGPT Experience” to demonstrate how you might use AI as a resource to share encouragement with others. While AI programming provides a great shell, we recognize that nothing replaces our own voice in writing. Each Open AI ChatGPT experience included was enhanced by an actual person to fit the context of this edition. Visit https://openai.com to explore the possibilities.

Text generated by ChatGPT, April 20, 2024, OpenAI, https://chat.openai.com. Edited for style and content.

Wednesday | May 1, 2024

Isaiah 22:11

You made a reservoir between the two walls for the water of the old pool. But you did not look to him who did it or have regard for him who planned it long ago

Look To Him Who Did It

Isaiah speaks of Israel's future calamity at the hands of Babylon. God chastises them for their desperate attempts to deliver themselves by their own ingenuity. The greater tragedy was their inability to recognize that their troubles came from their God. It was his way of exposing their greatest need to turn to God and trust in God’s power and wisdom.

Do you sufficiently consider that trouble is meant to drive you into God's arms for safety? What if we begin to embrace trouble to earnestly thank God for trouble and its God-ordained purpose by looking "to him who did it?" When we do, we will find out the depth and breadth of God’s power of God.

Pray: God, thank you for the trouble in my life that turns my focus to you.

Reverend Reddit Andrews, III reddit.andrews@icloud.com St. Mary AME Church

Thursday | May 2, 2024

Psalm 46

1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea, 3 though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. Selah 4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. 5 God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns. 6 The nations are in an uproar; the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice; the earth melts. 7 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah

Finding Strength inAdversity

In moments of trouble, Scripture serves as a beacon of hope. The psalmist, in Psalm 46, reminds us that even in the midst of chaos, God is our refuge and strength. When troubles loom large, we find solace in God’s Word, which assures us of His steadfast presence. The storms of life may rage, but like a sturdy anchor, Scripture grounds us in the unwavering promises of God. It is in these trying times that we discover the depth of our faith and the resilience of our spirit. Let us lean into Scripture, drawing strength from its timeless truths, knowing that through every trial, God is with us, guiding us with His wisdom and comforting us with His love.

Pray: God, thank you for being my comfort when I am going through trials.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Friday | May 3, 2024

Mark 9:24

Immediately the father of the child cried out, “I believe; help my unbelief!”

Navigating Doubt with Faith

Doubt often creeps in during moments of trouble, challenging our beliefs and shaking the foundation of our faith. Yet, Scripture invites us to embrace our doubts with courage and seek God earnestly. In the Gospel of Mark, we encounter a father who cries out to Jesus to help his unbelief. This father’s plea echoes the inner turmoil of many of us when we are facing trials.

It is okay to wrestle with doubt, for in our vulnerability, we open ourselves to a deeper encounter with God. Through prayer and study, we can confront our doubts, allowing faith to emerge stronger and more resilient than before.

Pray: God, help me to grow stronger through my wrestling.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Saturday | May 4, 2024

Romans 8:28

We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.

Trusting in Divine Providence

We often question the purpose behind our suffering, yet, in our questioning, let us not forget God's sovereign control over all things. In Romans 8:28, we're assured that "all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose" Even in the darkest of times, God is orchestrating God’s divine plan for our lives. Though we may not always understand God’s ways, we can trust in God’s unwavering love and providence.

We can find comfort in knowing that our troubles are not in vain but are intricately woven into God's redemptive story. As we cling to God’s promises, we are reminded that God is faithful, and God’s plans for us are always for our ultimate good and God’s glory.

Pray: God, help me to trust your sovereign plan for my life.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Sunday | May 5, 2024

Jeremiah 29:11

For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.

Help Amidst Uncertainty

This verse is timeless and relevant to us today. Amid life's trials, uncertainties, and transitions, we can find solace in knowing that God is intimately involved in our lives. He is not aloof or indifferent to our struggles but deeply invested in our well-being.

Even when our circumstances seem bleak or our future uncertain, we can trust God's faithfulness. God has a purpose and a plan for each of us, designed to bring about our ultimate good and flourishing.

As we journey through life, let us cling to the promise of Jeremiah 29:11. Let us anchor our hope in God's steadfast character, knowing that God’s plans for us are infused with love, wisdom, and purpose. Hold fast to the assurance that God's plans for us are filled with hope and promise.

Pray: God, help me to trust you more fully and walk confidently in your will for my life today.

Mrs. Shamieka Sims Lancaster District Christian Education Director shamiekasims@gmail.com Ebenezer AME Church

Monday | May 6, 2024

Proverbs 3:5-6

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your paths.

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Trusting God requires a shift from relying solely on our own understanding to surrendering to His divine wisdom. God invites us to relinquish control and place our complete trust in God's sovereign guidance. Even when the road ahead seems uncertain, we walk by faith, confident that God is leading us with purpose and clarity. Trusting God is not always easy, but as we surrender our doubts and fears, we discover the joy and peace that come from resting in God’s faithful promises. And each day, God is faithful to us, so why not be faithful to God?

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Tuesday | May 7, 2024

Isaiah 41:10

do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.

Finding Peace in God’s Presence

Trusting God means finding solace in God’s presence, especially during times of uncertainty and turmoil. God’s constant companionship brings comfort and assurance, dispelling our anxieties and fears. Trusting God involves surrendering our worries, knowing that God is our ever-present help in times of need. As we cultivate a deeper intimacy with God through prayer and meditation on God’s Word, we experience the profound peace that transcends understanding, trusting that God is always with us, guiding us with God’s unfailing love.

Pray: God, help me grow deeper in my walk with you today.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Wednesday | May 8, 2024

Psalm 37:5

Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.

Resting in God’s Sovereignty

Trusting God means acknowledging God’s sovereignty over every aspect of our lives, even when circumstances seem beyond our control. Psalm 37:5 encourages us to commit our way to the Lord for one reason God is in control, orchestrating every detail according to God’s perfect plan. Trusting God involves surrendering our desires and plans to God’s will, confident that God knows what is best for us. Though we may not always understand God’s ways, we trust in God’s goodness and faithfulness. Even in the midst of trials, we rest in the assurance that God is working all things together for our good and God’s glory.

Pray: God, help me to trust your perfect timing and wisdom in all things today.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Thursday | May 9, 2024

Hebrews 6:19

We have this hope, a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters the inner shrine behind the curtain,

AnAnchor for the Soul

Hope is the anchor of our souls, steadfast and sure, grounding us in God's promises. Hope serves as a beacon of light, guiding us through darkness and uncertainty. It is the assurance that God is faithful and that God’s plans for us are filled with hope and purpose. Even when circumstances seem bleak, we cling to the hope found in Christ, knowing that through Christ, we, too, will overcome this world.

As we nurture our hope through prayer and meditation on Scripture, we are reminded that our hope is not in vain but is rooted in the unchanging character of our loving Creator.

Pray: God, thank you for always providing a steadfast beacon of hope in my life.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Friday | May 10, 2024

Psalm 33:22

Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.

Embracing Hope in theArms of Love

In the embrace of our loving Creator, hope blossoms like a radiant flower in the heart of every believer. We find solace in knowing that our lives are intricately woven by God’s hands and guided by God’s infinite wisdom and boundless love.

As we reflect on the beauty of creation, we see glimpses of God's love manifested in every sunrise, every gentle breeze, and every blooming flower. God’s love is not merely a concept but a tangible reality that sustains us through every trial and tribulation. In the embrace of God’s love, fear dissipates, and doubt fades away, replaced by a confident hope that rests securely in God’s unfailing promises.

Pray: God, help me to see the profound truth in your love for me today.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Saturday | May 11, 2024

Psalm 27:13

I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

ALight in the Darkness

Hope shines brightest in the darkest of times, illuminating the path ahead with God's unfailing love and promises. In moments of despair, hope whispers of God's presence, reminding us that God is our refuge and strength. As we hold fast to the hope found in God’s Word, we are reminded that our trials are temporary, but God’s love endures forever. Even when the world around us is filled with chaos and uncertainty, hope lights the way. With hope as our guide, we walk forward in confidence, knowing that the God of hope is with us every step of the way even when we cannot see the path.

Pray: God, thank you for always being a light in the midst of darkness.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Sunday | May 12, 2024

1 Corinthians 3:9-11

9 For we are God’s coworkers, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building.

10 According to the grace of God given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building on it. Let each builder choose with care how to build on it. 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ.

Divine Collaboration: Partnering with God in Purpose

As we journey through life, we are called to recognize our role as co-laborers with God. It is a partnership marked by surrender and trust, as we yield our will to God’s and allow God’s wisdom to guide our steps. In this divine collaboration, we discover that our limitations are transformed into opportunities for God's power to be made perfect in our weakness.

God's partnership with humanity is not dependent on our perfection but on our willingness to respond to God’s call. God meets us where we are, empowering us to contribute to God’s kingdom work in ways both big and small. Whether it is through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or the sharing of God’s love, God invites us to be God’s hands and feet in a world hungry for God’s presence.

Let us embrace the privilege of partnering with God, knowing that through our obedience and faithfulness, God’s purposes will be accomplished, and God’s kingdom will come.

Pray: God, help me to step boldly into the journey of divine collaboration with you today, trusting that with you by my side, all things are possible.

Reverend Dr. Alvin Edward Attah, Sr. alvinattah6@gmail.com

AME University, President 14th Episcopal District

Monday | May 13, 2024

Psalm 16:11

You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Encountering God’s Presence

In the stillness of our hearts, we encounter the presence of God, a sacred space where heaven meets earth. God's presence is not confined to grandiose displays but often reveals itself in the quiet whispers of our souls.

In moments of solitude and reflection, we feel God’s gentle touch, reminding us of God’s unwavering love and faithfulness. God’s presence brings comfort in times of sorrow, strength in moments of weakness, and joy in the midst of despair.

As we cultivate a deeper intimacy with God, we learn to recognize God’s presence in the ordinary moments of life. May we be ever mindful of God’s abiding presence, drawing near with grateful hearts, and finding rest in the assurance that God is with us always.

Pray: God, thank you for your desire for me to draw closer to you.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Tuesday | May 14, 2024

Colossians 3:17

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Finding God in the Ordinary

Even in the simplest of tasks, we can find opportunities to honor God and experience God’s presence. Whether it is washing dishes, commuting to work, or sharing a meal with loved ones, every moment is an invitation to encounter the sacred in the ordinary.

As we cultivate a posture of gratitude and awareness, we begin to see glimpses of God's grace and goodness in the seemingly mundane. Each ordinary moment becomes an opportunity to draw closer to God, to offer our lives as a living sacrifice, and to find joy in God’s presence.

May we embrace the ordinary moments of life with open hearts and attentive spirits, knowing that in the midst of the everyday, God is there, inviting us to experience God’s love and presence in profound ways.

Pray: God, help me to see you in the ordinary tasks of my day.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Wednesday | May 15, 2024

Psalm 95:6

O come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!

Responding to God’s Call

God's call to worship is an invitation to draw near, to lift our voices in praise and adoration. Worship is more than a Sunday ritual; it is a daily response to God's goodness and grace.

As we enter God’s presence with humility and reverence, we acknowledge God’s sovereignty and majesty. Whether in times of joy or sorrow, worship aligns our hearts with God’s, reminding us of God’s faithfulness and unfailing love. Let us heed God’s call and worship God wholeheartedly.

Pray: God, deliver me from the distractions of the day so my heart might worship you.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Thursday | May 16, 2024

John 4:23

But the hour is coming and is now here when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such as these to worship him.

Christ’s Exemplary Worship

In the life of Christ, we find the epitome of worship a perfect reflection of communion with the Father. Christ's worship was not confined to rituals but embodied a life surrendered to God's will. His every word and action exuded adoration and obedience to the Father. From the mountaintop sermons to the quiet moments of prayer, Jesus exemplified worship rooted in intimacy and authenticity.

As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate His example, offering our lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). Let us follow in the footsteps of our Savior, worshiping the Father with reverence, humility, and unwavering devotion.

Pray: God, help my life demonstrate my heart’s desire to worship you.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Friday | May 17, 2024

Psalm 37:4

Take delight in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.

The Desires of the Heart

Our hearts are not mere vessels of longing; they are the sanctuaries where God's Spirit dwells, shaping our desires to align with God’s perfect plan. As we delight in God immersing ourselves in God’s presence, God’s Word, and God’s love our desires begin to mirror God’s own.

God does not promise to fulfill every fleeting whim but to grant the desires birthed from a heart intimately connected to God’s own. In the crucible of worship and communion, our hearts are transformed, and our deepest desires become reflections of God’s desire for our lives

Pray: God, help me to align my desires with your will for my life.

Experience (Edited)

ChatGPT

Saturday | May 18, 2024

Psalm 9:10

And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.

Trusting God with Your Heart

Trusting God with our hearts can be a daunting task, especially in a world filled with uncertainty and disappointment. Trusting God with our hearts means relinquishing control and surrendering our fears and doubts to God’s sovereign care. It is a daily choice to place our confidence in God’s unfailing love and faithfulness, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

As we entrust our hearts to God, God gently heals our wounds, restores our hope, and guides us along the path of righteousness. God’s love is steadfast, God’s promises sure. Let us take comfort in knowing that the One who created our hearts is also the One who holds them securely in God’s hands. Trust God, and watch as God transforms your heart with perfect peace and joy.

Pray: God, thank you for being a God in whom I can put all of my trust.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Sunday | May 19, 2024

Leviticus 19:18

You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against any of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord

Interacting with Difficult People does not Need to be Difficult

God responds to us with love and kindness because God genuinely loves us. We know we do not always deserve it. Therefore, when we interact with difficult people, we are to be loving and kind. Also, we can listen to them without defending our actions. It will let them know you value what they are saying whether you agree with what they are saying or not. Then we are to be prayerful and listen to guidance of the Holy Spirit of God. All this hinges on our relationship already established with God.

We have the responsibility to be loving, by returning anger with a kind word and responding to others the way we want others to respond to us. Knowing where we are in our relationship with God and standing on this confidence, empowers us with assurance, no weapon formed against us shall prosper and God is the greatest defender and protector of those, who dare to believe.

Lastly, we are to be the Jesus, those hurting and angry need to meet. We are kind not just because God commands us to be kind, but because we are the living examples of the nature of God. God is Love. Therefore, We are Love.

Pray: God, help me to be genuine in my kindness toward others today.

Reverend Nettie Ranel ranelnettie@gmail.com Mary Springhill AME Church, Pastor

Monday | May 20, 2024

1 John 3:18

Little children, let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth.

Love inAction

Love is not merely a feeling but a deliberate choice to extend grace and kindness to others. Our love for others should manifest in tangible acts of compassion and service. Just as Jesus demonstrated God’s love through selfless deeds, we are called to follow Jesus’ example. Whether it is lending a listening ear to a friend in need, offering a helping hand to a stranger, or forgiving those who have wronged us, our actions speak volumes about the love that dwells within us.

As we embrace the opportunity to love others through our actions, we become vessels of God's love, reflecting God’s heart to a world in need. Let us seek out ways to show love in practical ways, knowing that every act of kindness has the power to transform lives.

Pray: God, help me to be a genuine example of your love.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Tuesday | May 21, 2024

John 13:34-35

34 I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Love as God Loves

God’s love for us is boundless and unconditional, transcending our faults and failures. In John 13:34-35, Jesus commands, “ a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Loving others as God loves us requires humility, forgiveness, and sacrificial giving. It means seeing others through the lens of compassion and treating them with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or beliefs. When we love others with the same selfless love that God has shown us, we become living testimonies of God’s grace and mercy. Our love becomes a beacon of hope in a world marred by division and strife, drawing others into the embrace of God’s unfailing love.

Pray: God, teach me to love as you have loved.

Experience (Edited)

ChatGPT

Wednesday | May 22, 2024

Romans 12:13

Contribute to the needs of the saints; pursue hospitality to strangers.

Radical Hospitality

Hospitality is more than just opening our homes; it's about opening our hearts to others, welcoming them with genuine warmth and acceptance. Like Abraham who welcomed strangers into his home with open arms (Genesis 18:1-8), we are called to extend hospitality to those around us. Whether it is offering a meal to a neighbor, inviting a newcomer into our community, or lending a helping hand to the marginalized, our hospitality reflects God's inclusive love. As we practice radical hospitality, we create spaces of belonging and connection where all are valued and accepted. Let us embrace the call to love others through radical hospitality, knowing that in doing so, we mirror the love of our Heavenly Father who welcomes us into His family with open arms.

Pray: God, help me to be a reflection of your love.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Thursday | May 23, 2024

Proverbs 27:17

Iron sharpens iron, and one person sharpens the wits of another.

Unity in the Community

When we come together in harmony, we reflect the beauty of God's design for God’s people. In community, we find support, encouragement, and accountability. It is a place where we can share our joys and sorrows, knowing that we are not alone in our journey. Just as iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17), our interactions with fellow believers refine and strengthen us, shaping us into the likeness of Christ.

Today, cherish the gift of community and strive to cultivate unity and love among our brothers and sisters in Christ. As we walk together in fellowship, may our lives be a testament to the transformative power of God's love working through His people.

Pray: God, thank you for the testimonies of faith found in community.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Friday | May 24, 2024

Galatians 6:2

Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

Bearing OneAnother’s Burdens

Community provides a safe space where we can share our burdens and lighten each other's loads through love and support. When we walk alongside one another in times of need, we embody the love of Christ, who Himself bore our sorrows on the cross. Whether it is offering a listening ear, providing practical assistance, or offering prayers of intercession, our acts of compassion demonstrate God's love in tangible ways.

As members of the body of Christ, let us be quick to extend a helping hand to those in our community who are struggling. By bearing one another's burdens, we fulfill the law of Christ and create a culture of compassion and care within our community.

Pray: God, help me to create a culture of compassion and care around me.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Saturday | May 25, 2024

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing.

Building Each Other Up

Our words and actions have the power to uplift and inspire those around us. By offering words of encouragement, affirming someone's strengths, or celebrating their achievements, we play a vital role in nurturing a culture of positivity and growth within our community. Today, be intentional about building others up, recognizing the unique gifts and talents that each person you encounter brings to the table.

By fostering an environment of encouragement and support, we create a thriving community where individuals are empowered to reach their full potential in Christ.

Pray: God, help me be an encouragement to others.

ChatGPT

Experience (Edited)

Sunday | May 26, 2024

Mark 1:45a

But he went out and began to proclaim it freely and to spread the word

Make Some Noise for Jesus

Some of the most peaceful sounds to our ears are our favorite genre of music, laughter, the voice you love on the other end of the phone, or just the simple sound of the rain or a flowing stream. That is good noise.

The young man who Jesus healed in our scripture lesson from Mark shows us the exciting effect Jesus can have on us when we put our trust in Him and see the results of our trust. In this case, the man was healed of leprosy. The scripture does not say how long the man suffered, but just one day of suffering can seem like an eternity. When this man experienced the healing power of Jesus, he became so excited that he disregarded the command Jesus gave him to be silent about the miracle. But can we, as believers, be silent when we experience the power of God’s ability to perform miracles on our behalf?

Although Jesus admonished him to tell no one about his miracle, the man could not keep it to himself. He gladly broadcast the blessing he received. This tells us that although we may be shy, fearful, hesitant, or plain scared, we should not keep our testimony to ourselves. We must boldly make some noise about how God has blessed us. We should be compelled to make good noise about Jesus!

Pray: God, thank you for giving me something to shout about.

Reverend Dr. L. Terri Strong terristrong3082@gmail.com

Mt. Sinai AME Church, Pastor Arlington, Tennessee www.mountsinaiamec.com

Monday | May 27, 2024

Revelations 12:11

But they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they did not cling to life even in the face of death.

Testifying to God’s Grace

Testifying is not just recounting our experiences; it is proclaiming the goodness of God in our lives. Whether through words, actions, or a transformed lifestyle, our testimonies shine as beacons of hope in a world desperate for light.

Every life carries a unique story a narrative of redemption, restoration, and grace. As we share our testimonies, we invite others to encounter the same life-changing power that we have experienced. Our stories become conduits for God's love, drawing others into a deeper relationship with God.

Boldly testify to God's goodness, not only in times of triumph but also in moments of struggle and doubt. For it is in our weaknesses that God’s strength shines brightest, and in our brokenness, God’s grace abounds. As we share our testimonies, may we point others to the One who is the author and finisher of our faith.

Pray: God, lead me to someone who needs to hear my testimony today.

Tuesday | May 28, 2024

Acts 4:13

Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were uneducated and ordinary men, they were amazed and recognized them as companions of Jesus.

Stepping Out in Boldness

Boldness for Christ is not about self-confidence or eloquence but rather it is about reliance on the power of the Holy Spirit working within us and allowing God to use us to proclaim God’s truth and love to a world in need.

In a culture that often values conformity over conviction, boldness sets us apart as witnesses for Christ. It emboldens us to speak up for justice, to reach out in love to the marginalized, and to share the hope we have in Christ with those who are lost.

Let us be like Peter and John, unafraid to speak the name of Jesus boldly, knowing that God is with us always. As we step out in boldness, may we trust in the promise of Philippians 1:20, "It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be put to shame in any way but that by my speaking with all boldness Christ will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death.”

Pray: God, give me holy boldness to speak up, stand up, and show up today.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Wednesday | May 29, 2024

Psalm 66:16

Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will tell what he has done for me.

Faithfulness and Goodness

Testimonials are powerful declarations of God's faithfulness and goodness in our lives. When we share our stories of answered prayers, miraculous interventions, and personal transformations, we not only glorify God but also encourage and strengthen others in their faith journeys. In Acts 1:8, Jesus tells His disciples, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses." Our testimonials are a manifestation of this promise testimonies of the Holy Spirit's work in us and through us. As we testify to God's faithfulness, we become living testimonies of God’s grace, inviting others to experience the same life-transforming power. So, let us boldly proclaim what God has done for us, knowing that our testimonies have the potential to ignite faith and spark revival in the hearts of those who hear them.

Pray: God, help me to declare be a willing witness to your faithfulness and goodness.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Thursday | May 30, 2024

Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations; I am exalted in the earth.”

Finding Stillness Amidst Distractions

Distractions come in many forms pressing responsibilities, incessant notifications, wandering thoughts that threaten to drown out the still, small voice of God. They hinder our ability to listen, to discern God’s guidance, and to fully experience God’s peace.

But in the silence, we find a sanctuary for our souls. It is in these moments of intentional stillness that God speaks most clearly, offering comfort, wisdom, and renewed strength. As we learn to quiet our hearts and tune out the noise, we discover the profound beauty of communion with our Creator.

It is important that we learn to cultivate a habit of seeking God in the midst of chaos, in order to find rest for our souls and strength for the journey ahead. We find that in the stillness.

Pray: God, help me to simply stop and be still when things become trying today.

ChatGPT Experience (Edited)

Friday | May 31, 2024

Hosea 2:14

Therefore, I will now allure her and bring her into the wilderness and speak tenderly to her.

When God Chooses the Desert for Us

Distractions keep us from giving our undivided attention to the messenger, but God also has God’s way of taking us aside to get our undivided attention. For Paul, it was Arabia for three years; for Moses, it was 40 years in the desert; for Joseph, it was 13 years in Egypt; for David, it was many years of running from King Saul.

God knows our stubborn human heart. God knows that if God is to accomplish God’s deepest and best work, God must take us aside into a proverbial desert, to get our attention in order to give us the privilege to be used in God’s Kingdom. It is in the desert God changes us and removes things that hinder us. God forces us to draw deep upon God’s grace. But the desert is only a season in our life. No season lasts forever. When God has accomplished what God wants in our lives in the desert, God will bring us out.

God has given each of us a mission to fulfill that can only be fulfilled after we have spent adequate time in preparation in the desert. Do not fear your desert, for it is here we will hear God’s voice like never before. It is where we will have the idols of our life removed. It is here we begin to experience the reality of a living God like never before.

Pray: God, thank you for removing me from distraction so that I can prepare for the road ahead.

Reverend Dr. K. Michael Bouie pastorbouie@me.com