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, August 20, 2023, OpenAI, https://chat.openai.com. Edited for style and content.
The Secret Chamber | A Digital Devotional September 2023 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
Ephesians 3:20
Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine,
God IsAble
In Genesis 17:17-22 we note that God can do more than we ask or comprehend when God allowed 100year-old Abraham and 90-year-old Sarah to conceive and give birth to a son, Isaac.
In 2 Chronicles 25:1-12, King Amaziah counted 300,00 men of valor from Judah and employed 100,000 mighty men from Israel to go to war; however, a man from God told him not to use the Israelites, for God was not with Israel. He reaffirmed to the king, “for God has the power to help and overthrow...the Lord is able to give you much more than this.”
In 1 King 3:9-13, King Solomon asked God for “an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern between good and evil.” God exceeded Solomon’s expectation, gave him wisdom and an understanding heart and gave him what he did not ask for riches and honor."
Prayer: God, thank you for all things great and small that exceed my expectations.
Pastor Monique Summers, MAT, BS, AS Historic Saint Luke A.M.E. Church
Opelika, Alabama
https://www.facebook.com/SaintLukeAMEOpelika
ministermoniquesummers@yahoo.com
Saturday | September 2, 2023
I Kings 22:5
But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, “Inquire first for the word of the Lord.”
First Things First
The Lord knows all things, and therefore, we should seek the counsel of God first. If we listen to others above the Father, we are doing what others think is best for our lives and not God. If we do not seek God, we cannot walk out the purpose and plan God has for us. If we constantly seek the advice of family and friends we value their opinion more than God’s. I have a quote on my desk that reminds me to “be more concerned about what God thinks about you than what other people think.”
The word gives us the answer for every area of our lives, either directly or indirectly. God may use people to confirm a decision or provide peace, but our first resort should always be a posture of prayer, and after praying, we must wait for an answer. Then, once God answers, we must not second guess the counsel of the Holy Spirit by asking an earthly friend the same question. Remember, Jesus does not need a co-signer.
Prayer: God, help me to seek you for the wisdom I need today.
Rev. Joy W Yancy St. John AME Church Memphis, TennesseeIsaiah 11:1-9
1 A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. 2 The spirit of the Lord shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. 3 His delight shall be in the fear of the Lord. He shall not judge by what his eyes see or decide by what his ears hear, 4 but with righteousness he shall judge for the poor and decide with equity for the oppressed of the earth; he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. 5 Righteousness shall be the belt around his waist and faithfulness the belt around his loins. 6 The wolf shall live with the lamb; the leopard shall lie down with the kid; the calf and the lion will feed together, and a little child shall lead them. 7 The cow and the bear shall graze; their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. 8 The nursing child shall play over the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put its hand on the adder’s den. 9 They will not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain, for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.
Peace in a Political World
Secular society has always been manipulated by a dark, cruel world in complete disarray. From the beginning there was chaos. Yet, while we continue to see social injustices and political warfare flooding the airwaves and social media, we are seeing th same injustices flooding and emptying our sanctuaries. Our hope has been tainted by what our eyes have seen and our ears have heard.
In this passage, Isaiah speaks to the people of Israel, as the word of God is saying, that even in hopeless situations God is the light! Our voices, that spread the Good News are more powerful than the world. We have the responsibility to tell the world of a man who will restore peace in an unchanging world, who will guide us, and protect us, and even bring peace to animals that once preyed upon each other.
God sent Jesus to remind each of us that because Jesus has overcome the darkness and disarray of this world, so shall we.
Prayer: God, allow me to be full of the knowledge of the Lord to handle the chaos of the day.
Evangelist Megan La-Shaun Doctor St. Paul AME Church
Hollywood, South Carolina
amegirlonthemove@gmail.com
Monday | September 4, 2023
Matthew 22:39
And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’
Love Yourself as you Love Your Neighbor
Every Sunday, in most African Methodist Episcopal churches, the congregation is asked to stand and turn their focus to the “Summary of the Decalogue.” The Summary of the Decalogue says, “Hear what Christ our savior saith, Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind and love your neighbor as yourself.” Yes, we are constantly reminded to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. However, I cannot help but wonder if we are able to love our neighbor when most of us exhibit behaviors that show we do not even love ourselves.
Think about these things:
Do I love myself when I refuse to go to the doctor every year and get a physical exam?
Do I love myself when I see a warning on the cigarette pack that says “may be hazardous to your health” but I smoke anyway?
Do I love myself when I choose to stay in a mental, or physical, or emotionally abusive relationship?
Do I love myself when I have been diagnosed with illnesses that I can cure by eating better but I refuse to work on changing my diet?
Do I love myself when I keep getting larger and larger knowing my weight gain is not healthy and will eventually cause me some serious health issues?
Do I love myself when I overdrink alcohol and use drugs regularly?
Do I love myself when I habitually disobey God’s laws and choose to live in habitual sin?
We will never, ever show love to our neighbors until we truly can love ourselves and show our love by our actions.
Prayer: God, help me to make choices that demonstrate my love for myself.
Rev. Dr. Marietta Ramsey
Bethlehem AME Church
Baltimore, Maryland
ramseyetta1@gmail.com
Tuesday | September 5, 2023
Psalm 55:22
Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
Resting in God’s Care
We are invited to trust that God's sustenance is sufficient. Just as a gentle stream supports the weight of a drifting leaf, our cares find rest in God’s unwavering strength.
The promise that God will never let the righteous be shaken underscores the unshakable foundation of faith. When we surrender our worries to God, we discover that our footing remains firm even when the ground trembles around us. Our righteousness is not born of our own merits, but through the grace and love of our Creator.
Embrace the profound truth that God's sustaining power is available to you. Let go, entrusting your cares to the One who upholds the universe. In this release, you will find peace and assurance, knowing that your Heavenly Father is always by your side, offering strength to carry you through each moment.
Prayer: God, thank you for providing peace and assurance in your presence.
Wednesday | September 6, 2023
Mark 12:31
The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”
God Commands Self-Love
Everyone is valuable to the Lord. But our self-worth is rooted in the fact that we have a relationship with God. We need to care for ourselves, how can we continue to show up for others when we are empty.
Love of self is essential to God’s plan for every believer. God wants us to exercise proper care for ourselves, which helps us relate to God. If we dislike ourselves, we may feel unworthy of God’s love. But divine love teaches us to see ourselves the way God sees us, as God’s beloved children, each with unique gifts and talents. No matter what your circumstances may be love yourself God made no mistake in your creation.
Prayer: God, allow me to love myself as you have commanded me to do so.
Shamieka Bernice Johnson Sims Ebenezer AME Church Winnsboro, South Carolina Lancaster District Christian Education Director shamiekasims@gmail.comMatthew 13:53-58
53 When Jesus had finished these parables, he left that place. The Rejection of Jesus at Nazareth 54 He came to his hometown and began to teach the people in their synagogue, so that they were astounded and said, “Where did this man get this wisdom and these deeds of power? 55 Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? 56 And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?” 57 And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “Prophets are not without honor except in their own hometown and in their own house.” 58 And he did not do many deeds of power there, because of their unbelief.
Ain’t That?
When God has done or is doing something strikingly different in your life, there will be someone somewhere in the crowd of onlookers saying, “Ain’t that (insert your name here)?” Plainly visible in this passage is Jesus’ home crowd dis(mis)sing Jesus. In verses 53-56, they questioned Jesus’ wisdom and took their shovels of words, unearthed Jesus’ family tree, examined its branches asking, “Is not this…” Perhaps more colloquially, Ain’t that…? With judgmental statements and thoughts, they discounted who Jesus really was. They rendered Jesus’ wisdom and ministry invalid and questionable because of who they believed Jesus to be. Wouldn’t it have been welcoming if Jesus’ “homies” affirmed this rich addition to Mary and Joseph’s legacy? However, this is usually not so in one’s hometown or familiar surroundings, declares Jesus in verse 57.
We miss so much because we are stuck in the “ain’t that” mentality. We lose so much because we are hardwired to believe that some in our immediate space, community, or church are of lesser value. Likewise, how wasteful our stewardship of what God has deposited in us, and how destructive our unbelief in what God could do in and through us.
How much better the world would be if we remember that despite our “ain’t that or ain’t I,” God sees something useful in them, and in us.
Prayer: God, help me see all of myself and others as valuable today.
Carlene L. Douglas Kairos Ebenezer AME Church
Tennessee
Leviticus 16:9-10
9 Aaron shall present the goat on which the lot fell for the Lord and offer it as a purification offering, 10 but the goat on which the lot fell for Azazel shall be presented alive before the Lord to make atonement over it, that it may be sent away into the wilderness to Azazel.
No More Scapegoats
A scapegoat is something or someone blamed for the wrongdoings or faults of others. Once a year, the people of Israel brought to the Tabernacle two goats without spot or blemish. Aaron, the high priest, sacrificed one goat as a sin offering and sprinkled its blood in the Most Holy Place.
A second goat, as an atonement for sin, was the scapegoat over whose head Aaron confessed all the wrongdoings of the people. The scapegoat was then led into the wilderness outside the city gates. It bore the iniquities of the people upon itself and carried the sins far away.
Praise God, there are no more sin offerings and scapegoats required year after year! The Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is the once-offered, perfect, sufficient sacrifice and atonement for the sins of the world! Sins washed away by the blood of the crucified Jesus! Transgressions removed as far as the east is from the west! Now no condemnation! To God be the Glory!
Prayer: God, thank you for the precious gifts of salvation and eternal life through Jesus Christ.
Presiding Elder Colleen P. Gibson, M.Div. North Memphis District Memphis, Tennessee cpgib@msn.com
Saturday | September 9, 2023
Luke 15:8-9
8 “Or what woman having ten silver coins, if she loses one of them, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’
Seeking the Lost
Have you ever “turned the house upside down” looking for something that was lost? The woman in Jesus’ parable lost one of her ten valuable coins. She lit a lamp so light would shine in every corner. She swept away dust which may have covered the coin. She was determined to keep searching until she found her precious possession.
Thank God that Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, came shining into our lives! His blood washed away our sins and He came to seek and to save that which was lost!
Like the woman in the parable, the church must seek the lost as our priority. The coin did not know it was lost. Some inside, like the coin, and many outside of the church house do not realize they are lost. The church ought to celebrate the conversion of each person who “once was lost, but now is found”!
Prayer: Lord, thank you for coming to seek, find, and save me when I was lost. Amen.
Presiding Elder Colleen P. Gibson, M.Div. North Memphis District Memphis, Tennessee
cpgib@msn.com
Proverbs 2:6
For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;
The Pursuit of Wisdom
Wisdom, a treasure beyond measure, is a gift from God that illuminates our paths and guides our choices. Just as a lighthouse steers ships away from rocky shores, wisdom directs us towards the shores of righteousness and understanding.
Proverbs 2:6 reminds us that "the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." This divine wisdom is not solely an accumulation of knowledge, but a deep discernment of how to apply that knowledge for good. It is a beacon that helps us navigate the complexities of life with clarity and purpose.
The pursuit of wisdom is a journey that requires humility and a teachable heart. James 1:5 assures us that if we lack wisdom, we need only ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault. To seek wisdom is to acknowledge our need for God's guidance in every facet of our lives.
In a world filled with noise and distractions, wisdom calls us to pause, reflect, and seek the higher truths. It reminds us to weigh our decisions against eternal principles, rather than fleeting desires. As we seek wisdom, we draw closer to the heart of God, for He is the source of all true understanding.
Prayer: God, grant me wisdom to walk in your truth.
ChatGPT Experience
Monday | September 11, 2023
Proverbs 12:18
Rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
The Power of Words
Have you ever created conflict by saying something you did not mean to say? It is easy to let an errant word or unintended comment slip. But even though they were not planned, they can be destructive. When you were young, you probably heard, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.” Anybody who has ever felt the need to say those words is probably saying it to hide their wounds. Words can break a bone. Words can totally undo people, yet we often neglect the power of words.
Yet, while our words can do much damage, they can also do good. Wise words are described in the Bible as having the ability to heal. The speech of the upright delivers (the wicked). (Proverbs 12:6). Anxiety weights down the human heart, but a good word cheers it up. (Proverbs 12:25).
God does not expect you always to have the right words. But if you seek God, God will give you the right things to say (Matthew 10:19-20). And as you seek to reveal God’s power through your words, you can begin to make an impact on others. Be encouraged!
Prayer: God, help me to use words of love with intention today.
Rev. Chestine Sims, Jr. St. John AME Church
Pine Bluff, Arkansas chestinesims@gmail.com
Luke 40:4
Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain.
What a Ride!
The Six Flags in Jackson, New Jersey, is the home of the tallest and fastest roller coaster in North America: The Kingda Ka. Riders leave the station going from 0 to 128 miles per hour in a jaw-dropping 3.5 seconds. This upside-down U-shaped track bolts up 90° 456 feet high then plummets down in a 270degree spiral, topped off with a 129-foot camel hump. The ride is so violent that those that board are not allowed to ride with loose articles.
Life is like riding the Kingda Ka: sometimes fast and furious: full of ups and downs; twists and turns, ins and outs, humps and level plains but in the midst of this rollercoaster called life, God has promised to raise every valley, make every mountain and hill low, straighten crooked pathways, and polish rough places smooth. What a promise! It’s time to get on board! What a ride!
Prayer: Lord, thank you for never leaving me alone to ride life by myself.
Rev. Dr. Pamela R Rivera Austin Capital District Austin, TexasWednesday | September 13, 2023
Psalm 107:1
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.
Are You Thankful?
Richard Smallwood wrote an anthem of praise called “Total Praise.” The song is a testament to how we recognize the goodness of God through all circumstances. The Bible uses many synonyms for praise, and they overlap and include words such as praise, thanksgiving, gratitude, and worship.
Psalm 107 is a word written to people who had been redeemed from the hand of the adversary and gathered from a strange land. How often do you take time to praise the thank God for his goodness? The only reason we have churches is to praise God and thank him for his goodness despite your circumstance?
May I remind you today that if you are a grateful believer, grateful that God delivered you from something, you will not mind giving God “total praise.”
Are you thankful today? Be encouraged.
Prayer: God, help me to focus on praising you no matter what life brings my way today.
Rev. Chestine Sims, Jr. St. John AME Church Pine Bluff, Arkansas
chestinesims@gmail.com
Matthew 6:33
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Embrace the Journey
There is so much pressure on this journey to live the "perfect" life. We often waste countless hours worrying about what we may be lacking and ways to live up to societal expectations, that we miss that a perfect life does not exist. There is no magic pill, magic wand, or secret formula. There is no quick fix, only long-term solutions. The key is to live, learn, and, most of all, trust God.
Instead of living a life of worry, the Lord wants us to trust him to provide everything we truly need. Matthew 6:33 says we should seek and go after God above everything. The Lord is always available to us, but we need to do our part to find him. We must consciously choose to turn toward God instead of anxiety, worry, or anything else. Life can be complex; stay committed and encouraged. Embrace the journey.
Prayer: Thank you God, for every day of life’s journey.
Rev. Kini L. Spady St Paul and Browns Temple AME Churches Fayetteville, Tennessee spadyk@gmail.com
Friday | September 15, 2023
Luke 6:38
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap, for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.
Giving: Essential for Life
Giving is a discipline that must run through every part of our walk with God. Like water to the man in the desert, giving is the most important issue of our lives. Without it, spiritual life cannot exist.
Consider salvation. We become Christians by giving giving up our confidence in any other route to God. No one comes to the Father except through Jesus (John 14:6). Within the Body of Christ, we have a responsibility to give. The Scriptures command us to provide material goods to those in need and love one another.
Giving is essential to family life. As parents and spouses, we must give time, discipline, a listening ear, love, and affection.The idea of giving is far more than the money we tithe. Someone once said, Giving is not God’s way of raising money; it’s God’s way of raising children. Be encouraged!
Prayer: God, thank you for giving me a heart to give.
Rev. Chestine Sims, Jr. St. John AME Church Pine Bluff, ArkansasChestinesims@gmail.com
Ephesians 6:11a
Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil
The Armor of God
Have you ever read the story of David and Goliath in 1st Samuel 17? If yes, do you remember how King Saul gave David his armor, but David said, “I cannot, because I am not used to this”? (1 Samuel 17:3139) The armor King Saul was offering had been made for him, not David, and probably did not fit David. In addition, David felt that it was not the armor that would help him win the battle. David knew the battle was not his but the Lord. In fact, this is verified in verse 47 when David says, “And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saves not with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s.”
Every time I read this story it reminds me of Ephesians 6:11. Paul admonishes us that if we put on all of God’s armor when we go through the trials and tribulations of life and must battle the devil, if we have all our armor on, we will have the power to stand through anything and everything. If you find yourself crying and complaining every day and you are a believer, check out your armor.
Prayer: God, help me to trust the strength of the armor that you have supplied.
Rev. Dr. Marietta RamseyBethlehem AME Church Baltimore, Maryland ramseyetta1@gmail.com
I John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
God’s Forgiveness
We are God’s children but often we sin and are disobedient to the laws of God. “If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar and God’s word is not in us” (I John 1:10). For the Bible says all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)
We might be sinners, but our scripture tells us “If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Yet can we receive forgiveness if we never pray and confess our sins? Can we experience God’s love, and grace, and mercy if we never confess our sins and repent? If we never tell God, we are heartily sorry do we want to be forgiven? We must confess and repent and work hard, as well, at not doing the same sins over and over, and over again.
As born-again believers in the body of Christ, we must admit we are sinners, confess our sins regularly, repent, and work hard not to commit the same sins day, after day, after day. Why? Because when we do God will be faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteous. Hallelujah! Amen!
Prayer: God, I am grateful for your forgiveness.
Rev. Dr. Marietta Ramsey Bethlehem AME Church Baltimore, MarylandMonday | September 18, 2023
Proverbs 27:17
Iron sharpens iron, and one person sharpens the wits of another.
The Blessings of Unity in the Community
In the tapestry of life, the threads of community weave a beautiful and harmonious pattern. Just as each thread plays a crucial role in forming a masterpiece, so do individuals in a community. In unity, there is strength, support, and shared growth.
God has designed us for companionship and connection. When we come together with open hearts, we create a haven where love, empathy, and understanding flourish. The bonds we build in community reflect the divine bond we share with our Creator.
Through shared experiences, we learn, grow, and find solace in one another. In times of joy, our laughter resonates in a chorus of celebration. In times of sorrow, our tears become a testament to the power of empathy and togetherness.
Let us cherish the gift of community, nurturing it with kindness and compassion. As we gather, let us remember that we are instruments of God's grace, supporting and uplifting each other through life's journey. In unity, we honor the divine presence that dwells within our connections, and in doing so, we reflect the very essence of God's boundless love.
Prayer: God, help me to cultivate a community that connects us in love.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
9 Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up the other, but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help.
United in the Heart and Purpose
In the tapestry of life, community stands as a testament to the beauty of shared journeys. Just as a garden thrives when tended by many hands, so does our spirit flourish when nurtured by the bonds of togetherness.
God created us as social beings, craving connection, and companionship. In community, we find a reflection of His divine design a network of hearts interwoven with care and understanding.
Within a community, we experience God's love through the hands and hearts of those around us. In times of rejoicing, our laughter multiplies. In moments of trial, our burdens are lightened by shared empathy and prayer.
Let us cherish the gift of community, fostering an environment where each person is valued and supported. As we gather, let us embrace the richness of diversity and the power of unity, for in doing so, we honor God's desire for His children to walk together in love and harmony.
Top of Form
Prayer: God, help me to create a community that demonstrates value for all people.
Wednesday | September 20, 2023
Romans 1:20
Ever since the creation of the world God’s eternal power and divine nature, invisible though they are, have been seen and understood through the things God has made. So they are without excuse
Revealing the Creator’s Majesty in Nature’s Symphony
Nature is a tapestry woven by the hands of God, a masterpiece that testifies to His boundless creativity and power. From the towering mountains to the delicate petals of a flower, every element of creation harmonizes to tell a story of divine artistry.
Each sunrise whispers of new beginnings, each forest breeze carries a message of renewal, and every starlit night unveils the grandeur of an infinite Creator. Nature invites us to slow down, to observe, and to connect with the Creator's heart through the wonder it inspires.
In the busyness of life, let nature be a sanctuary of reflection and praise. It teaches us patience, humility, and the delicate balance of ecosystems. Just as God cares for the smallest sparrow, so does God provide for our needs.
Prayer: God, help me to head the lessons of creation and be good stewards of it.
Thursday
Psalm 1
1 Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked or take the path that sinners tread or sit in the seat of scoffers, 2 but their delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law they meditate day and night. 3 They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither. In all that they do, they prosper.4 The wicked are not so but are like chaff that the wind drives away.5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous, 6 for the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.
The Right Path
Blessed is the one who, like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, finds their delight in the law of the Lord. Just as the roots of a tree drink deeply from the life-giving flow, so does a heart rooted in God's Word draw strength, wisdom, and nourishment.
Psalm 1 paints a picture of a life that flourishes in obedience to God's teachings. It reminds us that those who meditate on God’s word day and night are like trees that yield fruit in due season. Their leaves do not wither, and their endeavors prosper, for they are guided by the light of divine truth.
Choosing the path of righteousness, these individuals stand apart from the ways of the ungodly. They do not follow the counsel of the wicked, nor do they walk in the path of sinners. Instead, they find their delight in the Word, allowing it to shape their thoughts, actions, and aspirations.
Prayer: God, help me to make healthy choices about who I allow in my circle.
Matthew 11:1-6
11 Now when Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and proclaim his message in their cities. Messengers from John the Baptist 2 When John heard in prison what the Messiah was doing, he sent word by his disciples 3 and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?” 4 Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, those with a skin disease are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them. 6 And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me.”
When the Unthinkable Happens
The secret to any successful television show, the ones you like, is the script. What script have you been writing for your life?
In Matthew 11, John the Baptist, who was in prison facing death, and after spending a year in jail, sent his disciples to ask Jesus, "Are you the Messiah we have been waiting for, or should we keep looking for someone else?" Before John went to prison, he knew exactly who Jesus was. He paved the way for Him to come. But suddenly, after a year in prison, he is entertaining doubt.
The text gives the motive for John's concern. "When John had heard in prison about the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples to question Him. In other words, in John's thinking, Jesus was not behaving like the Messiah. I imagine John's disciples had told him, "Well, crowds are flocking to Jesus. But He is not like you; instead of bringing forth the judgment you spoke of, he is preaching mercy and forgiveness, and He even goes to parties and eats with tax collectors and sinners." In John's thinking, Jesus had veered off script.
Even though John may have died with unanswered questions in his mind, we, too, will have unanswered questions down here. But isn't it wonderful to know that "by and by when the morning comes when the saints of God have gathered home, we will tell the story of how we've overcome; We will understand it better by and by. A day is coming when our questions will be answered, and we will understand it better. Be encouraged!
Prayer: God, help my continue to seek you for answers. Rev.
Chestine Sims, Jr. St. John AME Church Pine Bluff, Arkansas
Saturday | September 23, 2023
Matthew 11:28-30
28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 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. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Surrendering Burdens to God’s Peace
Life's demands can often weigh heavily on our hearts, causing stress and anxiety to take root. In these moments, remember Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 to come to him with your burdens. As we relinquish our worries to Jesus, his peace, which transcends understanding, will guard our hearts and minds.
Prayer: God, help me to receive your perfect peace.
I Corinthians 6:19-20
19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God, and that you are not your own? 20 For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body.
Honoring God Through Health and Wellness
Our bodies are remarkable gifts from God, vessels through which we experience life's wonders. Just as a steward cares for a precious treasure, we are called to honor God by nurturing our physical well-being.
Prioritizing health is an act of stewardship and worship. As we make mindful choices about nutrition, exercise, rest, and self-care, we demonstrate gratitude for the gift of life. By keeping our bodies strong and healthy, we equip ourselves to serve God and others more effectively.
In the journey towards health, remember that our bodies are vessels for God's love and light. By caring for them, we create an environment where God's presence can shine brightly, enabling us to glorify God in all we do.
Prayer: God, help me balance my spiritual, mental, and emotional well-being.
Monday | September 25, 2023
Mark 6:31
31 He said to them, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.
Restoring with Sabbath Moments
Amidst the rush of life, God ordained rest through the Sabbath. Take time to pause and reconnect with Him, allowing His presence to renew your spirit. Mark 6:31 reminds us that Jesus invites us to "come away... and rest a while." In these moments, stress dissipates as we draw near to the source of true peace.
We face many challenges every day that seek to derail our peace, but these challenges allow us to experience the blessed assurance that God provides moments of rest for our souls.
Prayer: God, thank you for reminding me to rest.
Tuesday | September 26, 2023
Proverbs 22:6
Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray.
Nurturing Tender Hearts
Raising children is a sacred calling that invites us into a journey of love, patience, and growth. Just as a gardener tends to young plants with care, parents nurture the tender hearts and minds entrusted to them by God.
Parenting offers opportunities to exemplify grace, compassion, and understanding. Just as God extends His unwavering love to us, we're called to model that love for our children. Through our actions and words, we teach them about forgiveness, humility, and empathy.
The journey is not without its challenges. Patience is cultivated as we navigate tantrums, questions, and the teenage years. In these moments, leaning on God's guidance becomes paramount. God equips us with the wisdom to make decisions that align with God’s plans for our children's lives.
Parents shape the future by shaping the hearts of the next generation. Let us approach this sacred task with prayerful hearts, seeking God's wisdom, and nurturing our children's spirits with a love that mirrors the love our Heavenly Father has lavished upon us.
Prayer: God, protect the well-being of parents as they shape our future.
Philippians 4:6-7
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
CastingAnxiety Through Prayer
Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us not to be anxious, but to present our requests to God with thanksgiving. Prayer is a lifeline when stress threatens to overwhelm us. As we lift our concerns to God, God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds, assuring us of God’s constant presence.
When we are anxious about what threatens to overwhelm us, let us remember that God hears us and is yet working on our petitions. So, let us thank God in advance for our peace.
Prayer: God, help me to thank you amid my anxious situations.
Finding Refuge in His Presence
In this verse, the psalmist beautifully captures the essence of unwavering faith and trust in God. By keeping our focus fixed on the Lord, we find a refuge of strength and stability amidst life's storms. Just as a ship needs a steady compass to navigate rough waters, our spiritual journey requires a constant gaze upon God.
When we place God at our right hand, we acknowledge His presence as our constant companion. This positioning signifies His support, guidance, and protection. With the Almighty by our side, fear and doubt lose their power to shake us. His presence bolsters our confidence, reminding us that we are not alone.
As we traverse life's unpredictable path, let Psalm 16:8 be a reminder that focusing on the Lord and embracing His presence provides an unshakable foundation. By fixing our eyes on Him, we find strength, peace, and an unwavering source of hope that transcends every circumstance.
Prayer: God, help me to center my thoughts, actions, and aspirations of the day on you.
Matthew 6:25-34
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 And which of you by worrying can add a single hour to your span of life? 28 And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, 29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. 30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you you of little faith? 31 Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ 32 For it is the gentiles who seek all these things, and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 “So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
Delighting in God’s Provision
If God tends to the smallest creatures and adorns the flowers with splendor, how much more will God provide for us? Jesus encourages us to shift our focus from anxiety to the Kingdom of God and his righteousness. By seeking God’s ways first, we align ourselves with divine purposes and find that our needs are met beyond our expectations.
In a world consumed by the pursuit of worldly possessions, these verses call us to recalibrate our priorities. As we entrust our concerns to God, we are freed from the weight of unnecessary worry.
Prayers: God, help me to recognize your abundant provision.
Saturday | September 30, 2023
Psalm 46:10
“Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations; I am exalted in the earth.”
Restoring Through Stillness
Amid life's chaos, these words resonate as a call to pause, to quiet the clamor within and around us. In stillness, we find a sacred space to encounter the Divine. This verse reminds us that acknowledging God's sovereignty brings serenity. It is an invitation to release control and trust in His supremacy. As we yield to God’s exalted presence, we discover peace in surrender, and our souls echo the reverence that resounds across the universe.
Amid the chaos, carve out moments of stillness to be in God's presence. Allow God’s peace to wash over you.
Prayer: God, help me to walk in the sanctuary of your calm.
