The Secret Chamber | A Digital Devotional July 2025 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 Wilfred J. Messiah, Senior Bishop, African Methodist Episcopal Church
Bishop Erika D. Crawford, 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
Tuesday | July 1, 2025
Luke 4:18
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed.”
The Heart That Breaks For Justice
In a world fractured by inequality and hardened by indifference, the Sacred Heart of Jesus beats with unwavering compassion. It is not a passive love; it is a love that moves, heals, and liberates. When Jesus declared his mission in the synagogue, He wasn’t offering comfort without confrontation. He was announcing a revolution of mercy.
To follow Christ is to allow our hearts to break for what breaks his: the cries of the landless, the hunger of the child, the silenced voice of the woman. In the secret prayer chamber, we are not only consoled but commissioned. Let us rise from our knees with hearts ablaze, ready to embody the Gospel in word and deed.
Pray: May our devotion not end in contemplation but overflow into prophetic action.
22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning together as it suffers together the pains of labor, 23 and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies.
The Earth Groans, and God Listens
(In honour of World Environment Day on June 5, 2025)
Creation is not silent. The forests stripped bare, the rivers choked with waste, the skies heavy with smoke all cry out with a voice that echoes through the heavens. And yet, in this groaning, there is a sacred labour. The earth is not dying it is birthing something new.
As people of faith, we are not bystanders to this travail. We are midwives of restoration. The Spirit calls us to listen deeply, act boldly, and hope fiercely. In the secret chamber of prayer, we are reminded that ecological justice is not a fringe concern it is central to the Gospel of reconciliation.
Pray: Let us rise with hearts attuned to the cries of creation, hands ready to plant, protect, and proclaim. For in healing the earth, we participate in God’s redemptive work.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; 3 he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Power in Presence
Life takes us through valleys dark, uneven places where we feel tired, stretched, and unsure. It’s easy to get so focused on the struggle that we forget who’s walking with us. Pain becomes loud. It can numb your heart and drown out truth. But the presence of God speaks louder and will recalibrate your soul and your life because there’s power in presence.
Psalm 23 reminds us that God isn’t just waiting for us on the other side God is with us in the middle of it. His presence provides rest, even before the breakthrough. His rod and staff protect and guide, even when clarity is hard to find. You may be surrounded by shadows, but you are not alone. God will restore your soul even while you’re still in the valley. God will lead you through it not just out of danger, but into peace.
So keep the faith. Be intentional about where you place your focus. Shift your eyes from the valley to the Shepherd. There’s power in presence.
Pray: Lord, even in dark valleys, help me to feel your nearness. Restore my soul, quiet my fears, and remind me that I am never alone. Amen.
Reverend Benjamin Pratt Shiloh AME Church Prosperity, South Carolina champ14wellness@gmail.com
Friday | July 4, 2025
Colossians 1:17
He himself is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
Facing Your Fears
Jesus is identified as the king who rules, sustains, and ensures the wellbeing of all in his kingdom that includes us as Bible believing Christians. Therefore, there is no fear, no worry, no trouble needs to cause us to fear.
When you pass through the trials and tribulations of life, Jesus will be with us, for he holds all things together. Trust him to face your fears. Hold him by his hand, for he will walk with you. Believe he withholds nothing from them that diligently seek him.
Pray: Lord, thank you for calming all of my fear.
Presiding Elder Mzwandile Daniel Jonqo, Zwai Highveld PE District, East Conference South Africa, 19th Episcopal District jonqozwa@gmail.com
Saturday | July 5, 2025
Daniel 6:16-17
16 Then the king gave the command, and Daniel was brought and thrown into the den of lions. The king said to Daniel, “May your God, whom you faithfully serve, deliver you!” 17 A stone was brought and laid on the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the signet ring of his lords, so that nothing might be changed concerning Daniel.
AnAngel In The Lions’Den
Daniel had been placed in a den of apex predators, those known as “king of the jungle” lions who were both ravenous and vicious. Daniel’s enemies, in conspiring to have him removed, failed to realize that Daniel’s God would fight Daniel’s battles and protect him from his enemies.
The man of God was cast into the lions’ den, and a stone was rolled across the mouth of the cave and sealed with the king’s signet ring. It appeared that Daniel’s fate was sealed. I imagine there are three lions in that den: Justice, Xenos, and the Destroyer. Justice devoured all who were righteous; Xenos devoured those who were strangers, foreigners, aliens; and the Destroyer demolished everything and everyone who were in its path. But also in that den, the text says that affirms that our sovereign God placed an angel who shut the lions’ mouths. Justice, Xenos, and the Destroyer were powerless against a sovereign God.
In the morning, the king cried out, “O Daniel, has your God delivered you from the mouths of the lions?” And Daniel replied, “O king, live forever! My God, sovereign God, has placed an angel in the lions’ den who shut the lions’ mouths.” As God delivered Daniel, God will deliver you. God will place an angel in the lions’ den.
Pray: God, thank you for being with me and protecting me when I am in enemy territory.
Reverend Zenobia N Jefferson
Bethel AME Church Chicago, Illinois
znjefferson@att.net
https://www.facebook.com/BethelAMECChicago
Sunday | July 6, 2025
Romans 8:28
We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.
From Victim To Being Victorious
We know that in the name of Jesus we are victorious; however, sometimes the lifing of life makes us feel we are a victim. As we think about our Lord and Savior Jesus: remember on Friday Jesus was a victim; Jesus had nails in his hands, nails in his feet, a crown of thorns around his head. They beat my Jesus, they spit on him, mocked and taunted him; my Jesus who never sinned was a victim and in agony. When we fast forward to the third day, Jesus rose with all power and authority. From victim (as they thought) to being victorious.
In your life today you may be going through some challenges and feel victimized. I don’t know your situation, but there is someone who feels like a victim because you are having some health issues. You may feel like a victim because your spouse passed, and you feel all alone without your lover to share your life with; or other family member(s)/friend may have recently died and the reality of them not being present is heartbreaking. You’re being victimized as a governmental employee and you recently lost your job, you have to send out a weekly email explaining what you have done for the week, or they have asked you to take an early out with a severance pay for only a few months and you want to work. You may feel like a victim because your parent(s) are aging and sickly, you feel like a victim because your spouse isn’t loving you or treating you the way you want, your children are misbehaving or having adult problems. Your finances could make you feel like you’re victimized because you can’t afford all that you desire, and other life issues have you in a bad space, a victim.
Be encouraged my brothers and sisters joy comes in the morning. Romans 8:28 promises that that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
You may feel like a victim now but, believe our present sufferings/victimization are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. Romans 8:18.
Because of Jesus we will be victorious. The old revival praise and worship song lyrics come to my mind: In the name of Jesus, we have the victory!
Hold on, because of our Lord Jesus Christ, we have the victory, we win against death and its power, like Jesus, I promise you that when you trust in the Lord and let him take total control and fight all your battles you will go from being a victim to being victorious. When you seek the Lord, he will hear and answer you, just trust Jesus.
Pray: Lord, help me to seek you today when I am feeling victimized.
Reverend Pamela B Jones-Watford, M. Div., MPA St. Luke AME-Daugherty Accomac, Virginia pjdst@aol.com
Monday | July 7, 2025
Psalm 119:19
I live as an alien in the land; do not hide your commandments from me.
APilgrim’s Petition
I am meant to be a voice from the heavenly embassy within the American Empire. This is just a duty station.
Pray: Lord, may I never forget my true homeland; may I faithfully live under its constitution.
Reverend Reddit Andrews, III St. Mary AME Church Salters, South Carolina reddit.andrews@icloud.com
Tuesday | July 8, 2025 | Pentecost
Luke 5:5
Simon answered, “Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets.”
Get Ready For God’s Miracle
Get ready for a miracle from God. In Luke 5, Jesus used Peter's boat to teach the people from the shore. When his sermon was finished, Jesus told Peter to go and cast his nets into the deep, and he would catch a great quantity of fish. Peter was a professional fisherman; he had been fishing all night and had caught nothing. But when he heard the word of Jesus, he did not discuss it. Peter decided to obey and went back out and tried again.
The result was surprising for Peter and everyone else. He caught so many fish that his nets began to break. “They called to their friends in the other boat to come and help them. The friends came, and both boats were filled so full of fish that they were almost sinking.” (Luke 5:7).
Peter was blessed because he obeyed the word of Jesus. Because he obeyed, he had favor. But notice, the favor didn't stop there; he had so many fish that his colleagues, who were connected to him and happened to be there at that moment, took the overflow. When you are associated with someone who is blessed, someone who is favored, as they grow, you will grow.
God has already lined up the people you need for the new thing. Be ready to obey and open to see, accept and benefit from the anointing of God's anointed. It may not happen the way you expect, but I want to encourage you: God's way will be better, greater, more rewarding, more fulfilling.
Don't limit what's coming in the future to what you've seen in the past. God will do something wonderful in your future. God never does God’s greatest works in your yesterdays; they are always in your tomorrows.
Pray: Lord, thank you for doing your best work in my life tomorrow.
Reverend Headman Mputiki Manabalala Mangena Maake Mokone Memorial Polokwane District, Aganang Circuit 19th Episcopal District tkmanabalala@gmail.com
Wednesday | July 9, 2025
Hebrews 4:12
Indeed, the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Standing Firm On God’s Word
In a world filled with uncertainty, the word of God remains our steadfast foundation. When challenges arise and doubts loom large, we can confidently depend on God’s promises. Every verse acts as a lifeline, strongly reminding us that God's truth transcends our fleeting situations. Like a powerful sword, God’s word cuts through confusion, bringing clarity and guidance to our lives
When fear tries to deceive us, we can respond with the truth: God is our safe haven and our source of strength, always with us in difficult times. Reflecting on Scripture aligns our hearts with God’s purpose, strengthening our spirits against life's challenges.
Let us hold firm in our beliefs and adhere to the teachings of Scripture, letting them shape our thoughts and actions. By grounding ourselves in God’s word, we express our confidence in God’s character and steadfast love.
Pray: Lord, grant me the strength to stay true to your word in times of trouble. Allow your truths to reside within me and light my path. Strengthen my faith and fill my heart with peace as I trust in your promises.
Juanita Norris Saint James AME Church Monticello, Georgia jtnorris71@gmail.com
Thursday | July 10, 2025
Amos 5:4
For thus says the Lord to the house of Israel: Seek me and live
ACall To Justice
When justice is delayed, the soul must still seek God’s face.
A Call Beyond Rituals to Righteous Relationship
In 2025, amid the echoes of protest, policy shifts, and rising disparities in rural America God speaks to the faithful: “Seek me and live.” This is no mere spiritual suggestion; it is a divine imperative. In Amos’ day, people filled the temple with noise, yet their hearts neglected justice. Today, we sing, shout, and stream, yet if our churches are silent about injustice, we miss God. This call resounds not to abandon tradition, but to infuse it with truth. Seeking God means confronting systems, standing with the poor, and naming injustice in love.
Justice is Worship, and Living is Liberation
To seek God is not simply to kneel but to stand for our children’s futures, our elders’ dignity, and our community’s wholeness. Justice isn’t a political platform; it’s sacred worship. When the Church marches, feeds, speaks, and heals, it lives. This is the living faith Amos envisioned. In a time when our communities are overlooked, God sees, and God calls. We must become more than just being the Church We must become “A Just Church”. In seeking God, we find life. In doing justice, we become God's people.
Pray: Lord, help me to seek justice earnestly that I might live.
Reverend Dr. Kurbe Lenard Newsom, D. Min. St. James AME Church Warren, Arkansas pastornewsom@gmail.com
Friday | July 11, 2025
Amos 5:24
But let justice roll down like water and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.
Let Just Flow Like ARiver
A Prophetic Cry for Now
In 2025, injustice still raises its head racial divides, economic gaps, healthcare disparities, and educational inequity rage on. The prophet Amos spoke to a nation that had mastered religious ritual but neglected righteousness. God isn't seeking our noise without our neighbor. God is not interested in praise that ignore the poor. Justice is not optional. It is required.
The River God Requires
God compares justice to water rolling, rushing, refreshing. Rivers cleanse, carry, and cut through. Justice is not a drop or a drip it’s a flood. It changes landscapes. Let the Church not damn the flow. Let us tear down the levees of apathy and tradition that keep justice from flooding our streets, our schools, and our systems.
Our Holy Assignment
As heirs of Richard Allen’s witness and Harriet Tubman’s resistance, we are called not just to speak justice but to live it. Let our faith be heard in the halls of policy, in the pews of worship, and in the pulse of the people. Let justice roll not wait, not whisper, but roll.
Pray: Lord, stir each of our hearts. Strengthening our witness. Let us be the riverbed through which your justice flows.
Reverend Dr. Kurbe Lenard Newsom, D. Min. St. James AME Church Warren, Arkansas
pastornewsom@gmail.com
Saturday | July 12, 2025
Micah 6:8
He has told you, O mortal, what is good, and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God?
Walk it Like You Talk It: Justice, Mercy, and Humility
In a world of chaos, corruption, and confusion God still requires a holy walk, a merciful heart, and a justice-centered faith that speaks louder than politics.
Do Justice in Real Time
Justice isn’t a dream deferred; it’s a daily demand. In Real Time, when systemic racism is rebranded and voter suppression is repackaged, God still calls us to show up. Whether in city hall or the church pew, justice must be visible, vocal, and vigilant. God’s people cannot sit silently while the innocent are ignored.
Love Mercy in a Mean World
Kindness is not weakness. Mercy is our spiritual protest against a cancel culture and cutthroat capitalism. To love mercy is to forgive, to uplift, and to embody grace where hate once lived. Jesus didn’t just talk mercy He walked it among the outcasts. So must we.
Walk Humbly with a Holy God
Humility isn’t hiding it’s holy posture. It’s knowing that our justice-seeking and mercy-loving are only powerful when grounded in God. In a selfie-driven society, we don’t self-promote we Godpromote. We walk not ahead of God but with God step by step, heart in hand.
Pray: Lord, teach us to do justice boldly, love mercy deeply, and walk humbly beside you today.
Reverend Dr. Kurbe Lenard Newsom, D. Min. St. James AME Church Warren, Arkansas pastornewsom@gmail.com
Sunday | July 13, 2025
Matthew 6:14a
14 “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, 15 but if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Let It Go
Many of us find it difficult to forgive those who have hurt or disappointed us. We become a hostage to the pain and at times refuse to communicate with the person who caused the pain. This often leads to anger, resentment, other conflicts. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus taught on forgiveness. He reminds us that when we forgive our heavenly father forgives us. He also reminds of our unwillingness to forgive leaves our relationship we God damaged. It’s like having a flat tire on your automobile. If you do not get the tire repaired, you can go anywhere. If you try to travel with a flat tire, you can do more damage to the rim. Like with a flat tire we are either limited in our ability to move forward or we cause further damage.
R.T. Kendall said, “The ultimate proof of total forgiveness takes place when we sincerely petition The Father to let those who have hurt us off the hook, even if they have hurt not only us, but also those close to us.” It’s time to let it go.
Pray: Lord, increase my willingness to forgive those who hurt me. Give me courage and strength to let it go.
Reverend Dr. Roy P. Jones, Jr. St. James AME Church Titusville, Florida roy.jonesjr67@yahoo.com www.stjamesametitusville.org
Monday | July 14, 2025
Jeremiah 29:13-14
13
When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, 14 I will let you find me, says the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.
Bouncing Back FromAdversity
We will have adversity. We will experience obstacles and challenges that may cause damage or setbacks. However, there is always the possibility that we can bounce back. It takes faith, prayer, perseverance and resilience to bounce back.
One of the most successful golfers of all time, Tiger Woods went through a public scandal and a career-threatening injury. However, Woods was determined to bounce back. He demonstrated resilience and focus by winning the Masters in 2019. Ben Hogan won six major golf titles after a nearly fatal car accident. He was able to bounce back, showing resilience despite his adversity.
When we seek God wholeheartedly, God is willing and able to help us bounce back from adversity. Just as God ended the captivity of Israel and restored their fortunes, God can do the same for us.
Pray: Lord, thank you for hearing our cries and coming to our rescue. Give us the bounce back power to overcome adversity in Jesus Name.
Reverend Dr. Roy P. Jones, Jr. St. James AME Church Titusville, Florida roy.jonesjr67@yahoo.com www.stjamesametitusville.org
Tuesday | July 15, 2025
Judges 6:12-15
12 The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, “The Lord is with you, you mighty warrior.” 13 Gideon answered him, “But sir, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all his wonderful deeds that our ancestors recounted to us, saying, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?’ But now the Lord has cast us off and given us into the hand of Midian.” 14 Then the Lord turned to him and said, “Go in this might of yours and deliver Israel from the hand of Midian; I hereby commission you. ” 15 He responded, “But sir, how can I deliver Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.”
God Sees Your Potential
There are times when you might feel forsaken, doubtful, or hopeless. Even in times like these, God sees your value, know your strengths, cares about you and will be with you. God has an assignment for you. Embrace your assignment and trust God through the process.
Gideon is described as a mighty man of valor by the Angel of the Lord. However, Gideon expresses doubt and insecurity. God sees what we cannot see. God knows our potential and God promise that God will be with us like God was with Gideon.
Pray: Lord, thank you for seeing what we cannot see.
Reverend Dr. Roy P. Jones, Jr. St. James AME Church Titusville, Florida
10 And the Lord restored the fortunes of Job when he had prayed for his friends, and the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. 11 Then there came to him all his brothers and sisters and all who had known him before, and they ate bread with him in his house; they showed him sympathy and comforted him for all the evil that the Lord had brought upon him; and each of them gave him a piece of money and a gold ring. 12 The Lord blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning, and he had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand donkeys.
Don’t Lose Hope: God Restores
Our misfortunes can disrupt our lives. Our losses may be overwhelming. We can be knocked off our feet due to tragedy. However, God has made a unique investment in us. God still has plans for us. What we are going through is only a test. Don’t lose hope. God restores.
Jobs lost all his wealth, his children and suffered severely from sickness. We see that after all job went through God restored him and gave him double the amount he lost. Noticed, Job was restored after he prayed for his friends. When people falsely accuse you, misjudge you and misinterpret your hardship just pray for them. Your restoration is on the way.
Pray: Lord, have mercy on me and give me the strength, wisdom and patience to endure today.
Reverend Dr. Roy P. Jones, Jr. St. James AME Church
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. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 As for the things that you have learned and received and heard and noticed in me, do them, and the God of peace will be with you.
Don’t Let It Get To You
We all experience stress in our lives. Stress could be caused by health issues, monthly bills, relationship issues, traffic, problems on the job, unemployment or the loss of a loved one. Because the mind and body are so closely linked, these constant worries can take a toll on a person’s health. While we can’t eliminate all sources of stress, we can learn how to reduce stress and build resilience. We must learn to set boundaries.
We must learn to break down large tasks, prioritize, and schedule our time effectively to feel more in control. Study, prayer, meditation, exercise and saying no to certain invitations and tasks have been helpful for me. A healthy-minded person is more likely to turn challenges and potential failures into opportunities and success.
Pray: Lord, give me strength, wisdom and courage to overcome stress in the name of Jesus.
Reverend Dr. Roy P. Jones, Jr. St. James AME Church Titusville, Florida roy.jonesjr67@yahoo.com www.stjamesametitusville.org
Friday | July 18, 2025
John 12:7
Jesus said, “Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial.
She Poured What She Could Not Keep
Let me say this clearly Mary wasn’t just breaking a jar. She was breaking expectations. In a house filled with men disciples, thinkers, followers she was the only one who actually saw what was coming. The others were eating. Talking. Trying to make sense of Jesus' journey. But Mary? She had already discerned the truth.
This wasn’t perfume for applause. This wasn’t about being dramatic or doing “too much.” This was prophetic love. This was radical discernment in action.
She anointed Jesus, not as a gesture of religious ritual, but as a holy interruption. She moved ahead of the timeline. She gave Jesus his flowers before the tomb ever opened.
Mary’s act reminds us that resurrection doesn’t cancel the cross it confirms it. Pentecost doesn’t come without a burial. And sometimes, before the Spirit can fall, the oil must flow. This is the road we walk now from the poured-out jar to the poured-out Spirit.
Mary didn't wait for Pentecost to show up in obedience. She didn’t wait for a liturgy or a sanctioned moment. She gave what she had when she had it before death, before glory, before public affirmation.
And Jesus saw her.
In a world (and yes, still in some churches) that doubts a woman’s prophetic power unless it’s dressed in titles or theology degrees, Jesus did what others wouldn’t: He affirmed her act, defended her discernment, and dignified her offering.
Because the gospel has always been shaped by those who pour what they cannot keep mothers, daughters, elders, caregivers, church mothers, and quiet warriors who give in ways that don’t make headlines but still shake heaven.
Here is a liberating truth: There will always be someone who questions how you worship, how you give, or how you show up. But like Mary, you don’t need permission. You just need to pour what God has placed in your hands.
Today’s Hope: If God gave it to you pour it. Even if they whisper. Even if they critique. Even if they wouldn’t do it the same way. You don’t worship for their approval. You worship from your conviction. And somewhere on the road between the cross and Pentecost, your obedience is preparing the way.
What sacred act are you being called to offer before the world sees the need for it? Where are you being led to pour without explanation just trust? Who do you need to affirm today, the way Jesus affirmed Mary?
Pray: Lord, help me to live break expectations today.
Darryl J. Brackeen, Jr. Bethel AME Church Wilmington, Delaware darryljamesbrackeenjr@gmail.com
Saturday | July 19, 2025
Matthew 28:19-20
19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit 20 and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
Go, Teach,And Baptize
No instructions could be clearer than those which Jesus gave in Matthew 28:19-20. These commands don’t just say what to do but it gives the entire “who, where, when, and actions to take for making disciples.
First it says to simply “Go.” Go means to literally make an effort to proceed in a specific direction. In this case the where is “all nations” of the world, all meaning all. The next step is to teach in all nations concerning the saving power and authority of Jesus Christ and while teaching baptize the hearers and learners in the names of God which are the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. The last thing is to teach that which Jesus has commanded and be assured that as we go, he will be with us. These things are to be done even in the midst of those who doubt [Matthew 28:17].
We must focus on the “Go, Teach and Baptize” and not on those who doubt for if we focus on those who doubt we may become discouraged and never begin the journey of making disciples.
Pray: Lord, help me to focus on the goal and not the doubts.
Reverend Dr. Terri Strong
Mt. Sinai African Methodist Episcopal Church Arlington, Tennessee terristrong3082@gmail.com www.mountsianiamec.com
Sunday | July 20, 2025
2 Corinthians 5:16-21
16 From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view, even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we no longer know him in that way. 17 So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; look, new things have come into being! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. 20 So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ: be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake God made the one who knew no sin to be sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
Reconciliation
Reconciliation is the art of restoring what once was. When something is restored, its foundation remains, yet it emerges renewed. We often need to mend friendships or family bonds, hoping the reasons for our disconnection haven’t caused irreparable harm.
God grants us the strength to let go of our past and welcome a fresh start through the gift of salvation, which guides us on our journey to become our best selves. Transforming into a new creation can feel overwhelming, particularly when those around us cling to their memories of who we used to be. This journey toward renewal requires not only inner faith but also the courage to face the uncertainty of change while navigating the challenges posed by the perceptions of others. Embracing this transformation involves shedding old habits, redefining our values, and consistently striving to embody the person we aspire to be.
The wonderful truth is that God grants us a divine inviting us to become ambassadors for Christ. His selfless sacrifice allows for our renewal. When we sing “Give Me a Clean Heart,” we ask God to renew our hearts for God’s purpose. The traits that once distanced us from God no longer define us. Let’s celebrate God’s name for the art of reconciliation.
Pray: God, thank you for giving me a path, through Jesus, to be reconciled unto you.
Ms. Latrellis Octavia Dent Macon Conference Christian Education Director/DOLA Alternate Lay Member of the AMEC Judicial Council Fambro Chapel AME Church Macon, Georgia octavia78978@gmail.com
Monday | July 21, 2025
Ecclesiastes 4:9
Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their toil.
There Is Strength In Partnership
Beloved, it's never about oneself. Almighty God created us to be in relationships; we were born from the beginning to be in fellowship with others. The Lord said, "It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make a helper as his partner." (Genesis 2:18). Remember, it is God who strengthens our partnerships. One of us can only chase a thousand to flight, but two can chase ten thousand to flight; where two or more of us are gathered in God’s name, God is right there, in the midst, ready to help us triumph.
I challenge you to trust God and offer encouragement and support to others. Watch God's fingers immediately start to move on your behalf to fulfill your hopes and desires. When you sow seeds of hope and faith into the lives of others, it moves Almighty God's heart because God is a profoundly relational God, and God loves fellowshipping. The fact of the matter is that selfishness is not suitable for the soul, body, and mind, but we all would agree that good fellowshipping will help you get through any condition in your life.
Standing alone, you can be attacked and defeated and may not even get through the process, but two persons who partner together can stand back-to-back and conquer any condition. There's power in togetherness, and there's no danger in God's grace.
Pray: Lord, help me to prosper in healthy relationship with others today.
Reverend Joanna S. Coe St. Stephen AME Church Loris, South Carolina
jcoe@sc.rr.com
Tuesday | July 22, 2025
Isaiah 32:15
until a spirit from on high is poured out on us, and the wilderness becomes a fruitful field, and the fruitful field is deemed a forest.
The Power Of Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is powerful and what is impossible can be possible with the holy spirit that's why we hear from Isaiah 32 v 15 that until the spirit shall be poured on us the wilderness shall be fruitful and the fruitful field shall be counted for a forest this shows that when we allow the holy spirit to be upon us , some changes occurs for such as successes, prosperity etc. because the holy spirit is always at work, you may face different challenges but then you cannot defeated because the holy spirit join with your spirit to fight the battles. And we hear the story of Samson in the book of Judges that when Samson saw the lion the holy spirit entered him and he became so powerful and he killed it with his hands like a goat. You can see that it was the holy spirit that made him strong, and he had no fear. If we allow the holy spirit to be upon us we will be able to overcome everything because the holy spirit is untouchable and the Holy Spirit cannot be killed because has the power.
Pray: Lord, thank you for dealing with all of our challenges, protecting us, and giving us what we lack.
Miss Safira Kambanizithe Christ Our Redeemer Zomba, Malalawi safiragulule@yahoo.com
Wednesday | July 23, 2025
2 Corinthians 12:9
but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” So I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
Finding Strength In Weakness
In times of weakness, it’s natural to feel discouraged or overwhelmed. Yet, God reminds us that God’s strength shines most brightly when we feel weak. Our limitations are an opportunity for God to reveal God’s power and grace in our lives. When we surrender our struggles to God, we allow God’s strength to work through us, giving us the courage to keep moving forward. God has a plan for each of us, even when we can’t see it clearly. Sometimes, God’s timing doesn’t match our expectations, leading us to feel anxious or uncertain. But God invites us to trust in God’s perfect timing and God’s plans for our lives. When we surrender our timelines to God, we can find peace in knowing that God is in control and is working all things for our good.
Pray: Lord, thank you for your grace that sustains me.
Reverend Vernon H Peters Allen Memorial AME Church Brooklyn, New York www.allenmemorialamec.org vpeters225@aol.com
Thursday | July 24, 2025
Isaiah 40:28
Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.
The Weight Of The World Is Not Our Portion
When we face dilemmas that shake our financial, educational, environmental, spiritual, social, mental, and political well-being, it feels like an earthquake in the depths of our very soul. The interruption is so great that it causes the brain to be jolted, the heart to skip a beat, the knees to become weak, a lump to form in the throat and pause the ability to swallow, and even provoke tears to flow like a river down our faces in horror.
My beloved, we serve a God that does not change. In Isaiah 40:28, we are reminded that our God is everlasting and unsearchable. We cannot always understand as we search high and low to find immediate answers to our many questions. God, why did this happen? God, how did this happen? God, when will this end? God, where are you? God, can you not see the trouble we are in?
No matter what interruptions, changes, or disappointments we face, we know that our God, does not change. Malachi 3:6 says, “For I the Lord, do not change…” (NRSV). We must wait on the Lord! “…but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31, NRSV). Wait on the Lord. Be of good courage and while you wait; commit to regular prayer, fasting, and Study of the word of God. Meditate day and night on the word of God. Then be a doer of the word as God directs through the Holy Spirit. Do not rely on mental assent or your intellectual common sense, and pontification. These are no match for our God who has all truths.
No mere mortal person can save a people, a nation, a world. Only Jesus can save. There is no need for despair. No matter what we face in this life, it pales in comparison to the joy we will experience. The joy of the Lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10). My beloved, this is why the weight of the world is not our portion. We do not need to be heavily laden by the things of this world, it is not our portion.
Just like eagles, who ride the wind currents without tiring themselves out, we can ride on God’s strength. It means we don’t have to rely on our own power to get through hard times; we can lean on God.
Pray: Lord, thank you for being burden bearer and a heavy load sharer.
Reverend Rosetta Swinton
S. W. Mulanje District
Malawi Central Africa 20th Episcopal District missionary4life51@gmail.com
Friday | July 25, 2025
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.
Hold On To God’s Great Compass
Follow God’s direct and very accurate holy directions. God's Compass is a very sure thing to take you where you need to go. God has the plan that will lead you to your destiny. So, talk with God as you walk with God on this earthly journey. Look ahead to bright and blessed days. With God's directions, we will never get lost, and we will reach the best future destination planned and reserved for God’s children.
Pray: Lord, help me to follow your guidance in all things today.
Mrs. Helen Harmon Rowley The New Allen Memorial AME WMS Franktown, Virginia honeybea39@msn.com
www.newallen.org
Saturday | July 26, 2025
Psalm 121:1
I lift up my eyes to the hills from where will my help come?
Look Up
Lift up your head and the King of Glory will come in. As long as you are not looking up and you are discouraged, with no joy, no passion, and no zeal, the King of Glory will not come. So, just forget past mistakes and move forward looking ahead to great things. Keep looking up with hope and faith to allow our Most High God to come in and make a way where there is no way. Your best days are ahead. Hallelujah!
Pray: Lord, keep my focus lifted toward your goodness.
Mrs. Helen Harmon Rowley
The New Allen Memorial AME WMS Franktown, Virginia honeybea39@msn.com
www.newallen.org
Sunday | July 27, 2025
Psalm 86:12
I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever.
Praise The Lord
We serve a marvelous God who delights in hearing from us. God rejoices whenever God hears from us. So, let's praise God over and over again on this brand-new day that God has given us. Don't let the rocks cry out for you today when you are blessed with a voice to speak for yourself. Show God that you love God. A simple "Hallelujah" or "Thank you" will mean a lot to our Heavenly Father. If you can't be a Drum Major, be a Cheerleader. Just praise the Lord!
Pray: Lord, help me to lift my voice to glorify you today.
Mrs. Helen Harmon Rowley
The New Allen Memorial AME WMS Franktown, Virginia honeybea39@msn.com www.newallen.org
Monday | July 28, 2025
Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
The Gift of God’s Word
Life can often feel like a maze of some sort. We never really know the direction that it will take us. As we embark upon this journey called “life,” it becomes clear that a road map, instructions or directions of some sort is much needed. We begin to realize that guidance is needed and necessary, and there are benefits when accepting it from our Lord.
Psalm 119:105 teaches us the gift that we have in God’s word as we embrace the life we have been blessed to live in Christ Jesus. It reminds God’s people to embrace the blueprint of life, and the opportunity to consistently seek God through God’s word daily. It reiterates to us that God’s word will light our path, lead us in life, and guide us as we seek to fulfill his purpose and plan for our life. If we have questions throughout life’s journey; God can and will provide answers, and they can be found within the contents of God’s word.
Oftentimes, the pathway to God’s promises may seem unclear, but God has provided Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth for us to follow. However, it is up to us, as disciples of Jesus Christ, to follow what’s been provided.
Today, make the decision to not only seek God through his word, but to follow the contents of God’s word as he provides revelation concerning how we should not only live in life, but how we can live our very best life in Christ Jesus.
Pray: Lord, help me to make righteous decisions today.
Tanya R. Garrett St. Peter AME Church Clarksville, Tennessee
t.garrett5525@gmail.com
Tuesday | July 29, 2025
Psalm 65:8
Those who live at earth’s farthest bounds are awed by your signs; you make the gateways of the morning and the evening shout for joy.
Shout For Joy
My Creator is jealous for me. He makes the gateways of the morning and the evening shout for joy. God loves us so much, and he created us to experience joy. Children seem to be so carefree and naturally know how to always experience joy. They take delight in the smallest of things. As adults, we sometimes take life too seriously. Amid our responsibilities, we may wonder where our joy has gone. Then I remember how God loves me, and I know that joy is never lost. Sometimes we lose sight of it. After deciding to laugh and play, I returned to my natural state of joy. As I enjoy a nice walk on a pleasant day, sit inside reading a book, or listen to music on a not-so-pleasant day, I smile inside and outside. I remember how great our God is and my joy bubbles up and overflows.
Pray: Creator God, Thank you for providing joy unspeakable. As we trust you, may our joy be complete, and we experience your perfect peace.
Reverend Joy W Yancy
St. John AME Church Memphis, Tennessee stjohnamememphis@gmail.com www.stjohnamememphis.org
Wednesday | July 30, 2025
Isaiah 43:1-3
1 But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. 3 For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I give Egypt as your ransom, Cush and Seba in exchange for you.
Living The Claimed Life
My God, My God! Oh, how I love the sound of those words. There are many words to describe God: Provider, Savior, Redeemer, Justifier, and Creator, to name a few. There are so many names for God as well: Elohim, El Rohi, Emmanuel, Adonai, Abba, Abhir, Kadosh. As my praise for you goes forth today, let it be prefaced by one word... My! My Abhir, My Shalom, My Abba. As I pass through the waters today, I will not be afraid because You. Are. Mine!
Pray: Lord, thank you for being my personal savior and Lord!
Reverend Beverly J Abram Bethel AME Church Buffalo, New York abram.bj@gmail.com www.bethelbflo.org
II
Thursday | July 31, 2025
Corinthians 13:11-13
11 Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Be restored; listen to my appeal; agree with one another; live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. 12 Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you. 13 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you.
Faithful In The Ordinary
We often celebrate the big moments in our faith journey the Goliath-slaying moments. But David's victory over Goliath didn't come out of nowhere. It was built on a foundation of faithfulness in ordinary, everyday moments.
Before David ever faced Goliath, he faced lions and bears. In the mundane task of shepherding, he learned courage, responsibility, and trust in God. These experiences, hidden from public view, prepared him for his public victory.
Our walk with God is similar. It's easy to think that serving God is all about the big, dramatic moments. But more often, it's about faithfulness in the ordinary. It's about developing our relationship with God in the quiet moments, when no one is watching. It's about being diligent in our daily tasks, trusting that God is using them to shape us.
Some days, our faith journey might feel boring or repetitive. We might face silence from God, unanswered prayers, or everyday struggles. But these moments are crucial. They're the training ground where our faith is strengthened, and our character is formed. Remember, every day isn't about slaying Goliath. Some days are about tending sheep, dodging difficulties, or simply persevering. But in all these moments, God is present, and God is working.
Today, embrace the ordinary moments of your faith journey. Be faithful in your daily tasks, your regular prayer times, your routine acts of kindness. Trust that God is using these moments to prepare you for whatever is planned.
Pray: Divine Creator, help me to be faithful in the ordinary moments of my life. Help me to see your presence and your work in my daily routines.
Reverend Dr. Roderick Dwayne Belin President/Publisher
AME Sunday School Union AMEC Publishing Company Nashville, Tennessee belin@amecpublishing.com www.iamame.org
