Our Daily Bread Teen Introductory Edition

Our Daily Bread Teen Introductory Edition

s i d o If G , s u r fo n a c o wh t s n i a be a g us?

ROMANS 8:31

® TEEN INTRODUCTORY EDITION

H

ow are you at reading the Bible? Is it easy, hard or have you never really thought about it? Right now you are holding a copy of the Our Daily Bread Teen Introductory Edition. We’ve written this for you—wherever you are at with Jesus. You may know Him and enjoy reading the Bible. You may not. That’s OK; this book is for everyone! We want to help you read the Bible for yourself and find out more about who exactly Jesus is.

We hope that this book will help you get to know how much Jesus loves you and wants a relationship with you. If you enjoy these readings, then check out our latest full length Our Daily Bread Teen Edition at discoveryhouse.org.uk. Or download our TEEN365 app to read all the Teen Edition articles for free.

Come and explore the Bible’s message with us—and find out all about the God who invites you to be an important part of His family!

If you want to get in touch about the Our Daily Bread Teen Editions, or if you just want to find out a bit more about us, all our contact details are at the back of this book!

COVER PHOTO

© Paweł Czerwiński, unsplash.com Scripture taken from Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved. © 2020 Our Daily Bread Ministries® • Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA ourdailybread.org • europe@odb.org Printed in the United Kingdom.

Product Code: A4882

DAY 1

GETTING TO KNOW GOD Bible: Joshua 1:1-9

As I was with Moses, so I will be with you (V.5).

G

Reading

wen, a secondary school student working on her GCSE revision, woke up one morning with the thought, I don’t have time to read my Bible. I have to study, or I’m going to fail. But it’s okay, God understands. Immediately, she felt God tell her, No, Gwen. You don’t understand. Reading the Bible would be the most important thing Gwen did that day—building her relationship with God and reminding her to trust Him. When life becomes busy, reading the Bible may not feel like our first priority. But God is all we need. As we read the Bible we get to know Him better and see His faithfulness as He guided His people through challenges.

This reminds us to trust Him through the struggles we face as well.

God reminded Joshua of the importance of His words as He prepared him to lead His people into the Promised Land. He told Joshua to “keep this Book of the Law always on [his] lips; meditate on it day and night” (JOSHUA 1:8).

The original Hebrew word for “meditate” means “to mutter” or to “utter a sound”. It’s like God told Joshua to always speak His Word.

The Bible has lots of stories of God’s faithfulness to His people. Regularly reflecting on these stories helps us get to know God better so that when life JS is challenging, we’ll remember He loves us and is with us.

Thinking it over . . .

How can you spend more time meditating on and thinking about the Bible’s stories? Can you think of a situation where remembering God’s faithfulness might encourage you?

THERE’S ALWAYS TIME TO READ THE BIBLE.

WHEN SHARKS WON’T BITE

DAY 2

Bible: Proverbs 27:1-10

One who is full loathes honey from the comb (V.7).

I

Reading

was nervous. During a family holiday, we visited an aquarium where people were allowed to pet small sharks kept in a special tank. When I asked the staff if the creatures ever snapped at fingers in the water, she told me that the sharks had already been fed and then given extra food. They wouldn’t bite because they weren’t hungry.

What I learned about shark petting makes sense. And it’s something we find in the Bible too: “One who is full loathes honey from the comb, but to the hungry even what is bitter tastes sweet” (PROVERBS 27:7). Hunger can lead us to make bad decisions. I’m not talking about being hungry for food, but having the hunger that comes from emptiness. When we feel flat and empty, we’ll grab at anything to fill us up and make us feel better—even if it’s no good for us.

God wants more for us than a life driven by this kind of hunger. He wants us to be filled up with Jesus’ love so that we’ll live with peace and balance.

Knowing how much He loves us gives us a real confidence for every day. It helps us to make good decisions about what we will and won’t do—seeing things for what they really are, because we’re no longer hungry and desperate.

Only a relationship with Jesus gives true satisfaction. Let’s take a full hold on His incredible love for us so that we can be “filled to the measure of JBS all the fullness of God” (EPHESIANS 3:18-19).

Thinking it over . . .

What am I most hungry for in life? Why does Jesus fill me in a way that nothing else can?

THOSE WHO SEE JESUS AS THE BREAD OF LIFE WILL NEVER BE HUNGRY.

DAY 3

T BRUISED BUN NOT BROKE Bible: Isaiah 42:1-4

A bruised reed he will not break, and a smouldering wick he will not snuff out (V.3).

F

Reading

ran’s dad left when she was only eight and her mother committed suicide when she was fourteen. In her pain, Fran often fought with her foster parents, but they never gave up on her. When she was sixteen, Fran decided to trust Jesus because of their example of His love.

Fran believes that God has “done a great work in her” and sees how He loved her through the “gritted-teeth support, love and witness” of her foster family. Although she pushed them away, they loved her: “I think I must have been a real pain, but they didn’t give up on me,” she says.

In telling her story, Fran shares the words of Isaiah to show how God loves her. Isaiah told the Israelites they would lose their homes to the Babylonians and be taken away to a foreign country as prisoners (SEE ISAIAH 39:1-8). Yet through it all, God promised to comfort them and care for them in their difficulties. He would send His faithful Servant, Jesus, who would not break a “bruised reed” or put out a “smouldering wick” (42:3), meaning He would care for the weak, scared and helpless.

Though she was in great pain, Fran didn’t break. She took hold of God’s love through her foster parents. We too, whatever difficulties we may be going through, can trust that God will never crush us and will always care ABP for us.

Thinking it over . . .

How have you experienced someone’s ongoing love in your life, and how has that shaped you? How can you pass along God’s love to someone today?

THOUGH WE FACE TOUGH TIMES, GOD WILL NOT LET US BREAK.

DAY 4

OUR LIVING HOPE Bible: John 6:39-54

In his great mercy [God] has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1 PETER 1:3).

T

Reading

he morning after my mum died, I was reading the Bible and talking to God about my sadness. The reading for that day was John 6.

When I came to verse 39, God whispered comfort to me: “This is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all those he has given me, but raise them up at the last day” (JOHN 6:39). Mum’s spirit was with God already, but I knew that one day she would be raised back to unending life and given a new body.

As I kept reading, I noticed three other times in John 6 that Jesus said He will raise His people from the dead at the last day. He was repeating this truth to those who were listening long ago as well as to me that day.

The promise of resurrection will be complete when Jesus returns. “In a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable and we will be changed” (1 CORINTHIANS 15:52). After the resurrection, those who trust Jesus will be given brand new bodies and a welcome into His home (1 CORINTHIANS 3:12-15; 2 CORINTHIANS 5:9-11).

AC

What I’m thankful for . . .

Thank You, God, that Your home is my home. Thank You that my life, death and new life are safe in Your loving hands.

JESUS WILL COME FROM HEAVEN TO TAKE HIS OWN BACK HOME.

DAY 5

GOD SAVED MY LIFE Bible: John 8:42-47

When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies (V.44).

W

Reading

hen Aaron was fifteen, he began praying to Satan, the devil: “I felt like he and I had a partnership.” Aaron started to lie, steal and mistreat his family and friends. He also had bad nightmares: “I woke up one morning and saw the devil at the end of the bed. He told me that I was going to pass my exams and then die.” Yet when he finished his exams, he lived. Aaron explained, “It was clear to me that he was a liar.”

Hoping to meet girls, Aaron went to a Christian summer camp, where a man offered to pray for him. “While he was praying, I felt a sense of peace flood my body.” He felt something “more powerful and more freeing” than what he felt from Satan. The man who prayed told Aaron that God had a plan and that the devil was a liar. This man echoed what Jesus said of Satan: “He is a liar and the father of lies” (JOHN 8:44).

Aaron turned to Jesus from Satanism and now “belongs to God” (V.47).

He now spends his time sharing the difference following Jesus makes. He is living proof of God’s saving power: “I can say with confidence that God saved my life.”

God is the source of all that is good, holy and true. We can turn to Him ABP to find truth.

To pray about . . .

Thank you, Jesus, for saving us. Help us to fix our eyes on You, and save us from trials, temptations and evil.

GOD IS MORE POWERFUL THAN THE FATHER OF LIES.

DAY 6

THE TEN E L U R D N O C SE Bible: John 14:15-21

If you love me, keep my commands (V.15).

D

Reading

o you believe the Ten Second Rule? Apparently, if you trust some people, you can eat food that’s fallen on the floor as long as you get it in your mouth within ten seconds. The theory is that the bacteria from the floor won’t have started to grow on the food within ten seconds . . . It’s probably best not to try this at home!

There’s another ten second rule that I’ve come across recently: it’s about doing what God tells you to do straight away. If you see someone struggling, and feel a nudge from God to go over and help, we should do it right away, before we get the chance to change our minds. A ten second pause is all it takes for us to turn away from opportunities to show Jesus’ love.

Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands” (JOHN 14:15). We might think, I do love Him, but how can I be certain of what He wants me to do in certain situations? Jesus has given us what we need to better understand and follow the teaching in the Bible. He once said, “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another [helper] to help you and will be with you forever— the Spirit of truth” (V.16). It’s the Spirit, who is with us and in us, who helps us to know Jesus better and “keep [His] commands” (V.15). His nudges will help us know how and when to take action (V.17). He will help us to show our love ROR for God and His people (V.21).

THE HOLY SPIRIT GIVES US WHAT WE NEED TO FOLLOW JESUS.

DAY 7

HERE FOR YOU Bible: Deuteronomy 15:7-11

I command you to be openhanded towards your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land (V.11).

A

Reading

ll around the world people are helping the homeless in their towns in a very special way. Waterproof bags of clothes are hung up all over the place for people living on the streets to take and wear. The bags are labelled, “I’m not lost; I’m for you if you’re cold.”

The Bible also tells us how important it is to care for those who are in need in any way, instructing us to be “openhanded” towards them (DEUTERONOMY 15:11). Our instinct might be to ignore people who are struggling, trying to keep them away from us. But God challenges us to realise that we will always be surrounded by those who have needs—in our families, classes and clubs—so we need to be ready to show generosity, not a “grudging heart” (V.10). And Jesus says that when we give to others, we build up our treasure in heaven (LUKE 12:33).

Our generosity may not be noticed by anyone other than God. Yet when we give freely, we not only meet the needs of those around us, we also join in the fulfilling work of helping God look after His people.

Are we holding too tightly to what we have? Who can we help today?

KH

To pray about . . .

Help us, Father, to have open eyes and open hands to be ready to look out for others today!

OUR GENEROSITY SHOWS OUR CONFIDENCE THAT GOD WILL GIVE US EVERYTHING WE NEED.

DAY 8

JESUS CRIED Bible: John 11:17-37 Jesus wept (V.35).

A

Reading

friend whose young daughter was killed in a car crash told me: “I never cried before Natalie’s accident . . . Now I am always crying. The tears just slip out.”

Anyone who has suffered the loss of a loved one probably gets what she was saying. There is nothing we can do about the tears. But should we try to hold them in?

Jesus gives us the answer. Lazarus, a close friend of His, had died. When Jesus arrived at the home of Lazarus’ sisters, they were surrounded by friends who had come to be with them. Jesus saw Mary and Martha and their friends’ deep sadness, and He too was overcome. Feeling the pain of their loss, “Jesus wept” (JOHN 11:35).

Sadness, tears and pain are something we all have to get used to—even Jesus knew these things very well. His tears tell us that it’s okay if tears “just slip out”. And they remind us that the reason tears will come to an end in heaven is that: “ ‘[God] will wipe every tear from [our] eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has DB passed away” (REVELATION 21:4).

Want more . . . ?

Why not read How can I get through my grief? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingdeeper

HEAVEN—NO PAIN, NO NIGHT, NO DEATH, NO TEARS.

DAY 9

LOVE ON THE GO Bible: Matthew 25:31-45

Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me (V.40).

I

Reading

sat on the pier during a holiday, reading my Bible and watching some guys fishing. A man walked over. He glanced at me as he shuffled from one foot to another and said, “I’ve been in jail.” He pointed to my Bible and asked, “Do you think God really cares about people like me?”

Opening up Matthew 25, I read aloud that Jesus talked about His followers visiting people in prison.

“It says that? About being in prison?” He was totally amazed when I shared how God views kindness towards anyone as a personal act of love towards Himself (MATTHEW 25:31-45).

“I wish my parents would forgive me too.” He lowered his head. “I’ll be right back.” He returned and handed me his tattered Bible. “Would you show me where to find those words?”

I nodded. We read more of the Bible together and then I prayed for him and his parents.

At one point or another, we’ll all feel unloved, unwelcomed, in need and even physically or emotionally trapped in one way or another (VV.35-37). We’ll all need reminders of God’s loving care and forgiveness. We’ll also have chances to support others who struggle with these feelings. We can be a part of God’s XD rescue plan as we spread His truth and love wherever we go.

Thinking it over . . .

How can you be ready to love God by showing love to others today?

In what ways has God showed you love through others?

THERE WILL BE OPPORTUNITIES TO LOVE TODAY —ARE YOU READY?

DAY 10

IT’S ABOUT ME Bible: Psalm 118

The Lord has done this (V.23).

A

Reading

young guy took a course on preparing sermons and preaching. When he started, he was a bit full of himself. In one of the early classes, he gave a sermon which was full of passion. He sat down feeling pretty good about it. The teacher took a moment before giving any feedback. Then he said: “That was a powerful sermon. It was well thought through and moving. The only problem is that God was not the subject of a single one of your sentences.”

It’s a problem all of us struggle with at times. We easily become the main character in our story. And so our focus is on me, me, me. We realise that God is generally ‘in charge’, but we live like everything really depends on us.

The Bible tells us that God is the real main character of our lives. Even our trust of Him is done “in the name of the Lord”—in His power (PSALM 118:10-11). God gives us our salvation. God rescues us. God meets our needs. “The Lord has done this” (V.23).

So the pressure’s off. We don’t need to worry, compare, do more, work harder or sort ourselves out. God is in charge. We need only to trust and WC follow His lead.

Thinking it over . . .

When are you most likely to think you’re the main character in your life? How can you keep God as the very centre of everything?

GOD HAS THE LEAD ROLE.

DAY 11

NEW RELIGION Bible: Ecclesiastes 2:1-11

Life does not consist in an abundance of possessions (LUKE 12:15).

I

Reading

saw an interesting poster the other day. It was large and white with nothing on it but a woman’s red shoe with just five words: “Is shopping the new religion?”

Wanting more is a big pull for all of us. There’s so much stuff out there to get obsessed with; stuff we’re sure we really, really need! But does getting more stuff actually make us happy and satisfied?

Jesus answered that question with a firm and clear, “No!” During a conversation about having lots of stuff, He said, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions” (LUKE 12:15). Life must always be more than just a list of things we own.

King Solomon also tried to find satisfaction in stuff. He realised living a life like that was full of emptiness (ECCLESIASTES 2:1-17). If we have put our “abundance of possessions” at the centre of our lives, shopping may, in fact, have taken God’s place. Is shopping, or any other obsession, like a religion for you? Does it drive your life and what you think about?

King David prayed, “You open your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing” (PSALM 145:16). Only God is able to bring real satisfaction to our BC lives.

Want more . . . ?

Why not read Obsession—no big deal, right . . . ? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingatlife

YOU’RE RICH WHEN YOU ARE SATISFIED WITH WHAT YOU HAVE.

DAY 12

SMALL BUT SIGNIFICANT Bible: 2 Corinthians 1:8-11

On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers (VV.10-11).

T

Reading

he day started out like any other, but it ended as a nightmare. Esther and several hundred girls were kidnapped from their boarding school by a religious militant group. A month later all were released—except for Esther who refused to deny her trust in Jesus. As my friend and I read about her story and others who are being attacked for their faith, we were deeply moved. But we couldn’t help but wonder: Can we really make a difference through our prayers?

When writing to the Corinthian church, Paul shared about the trouble he went through in Asia. The attacks were so severe that he and his friends “despaired of life itself” (2 CORINTHIANS 1:8). Yet Paul was helped by the prayers of other Christians (V.11). Though the Corinthian church was many miles away from Paul, their prayers mattered and God heard them. And here is an amazing thing for us to think about: the all-powerful God has chosen to use our prayers to help Him complete His work and purposes. How cool is that?!

Today we can remember in prayer other Christians, wherever they are in the world, who are suffering for their relationship with Jesus. Will you join my friend and me in praying for those who are beaten, tortured and sometimes even killed for their trust in Jesus? Let’s pray for them to know God’s comfort and to be strengthened as they stand firmly with Jesus. PFC

Thinking it over . . .

Who can you commit to praying for by name this week?

OUR PRAYERS ARE AN IMPORTANT PART OF GOD’S WORK.

DAY 13

THE TORN CURTAIN Bible: Hebrews 10:10-23

We have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body (VV.19-20).

I

Reading

t was a dark and sad day near Jerusalem. On a hill just outside the city walls, a Man who’d been attracting crowds of followers for the past three years hung in shame and pain on a rough wooden cross. Many people cried in sadness and shock. The light of the sun no longer brightened the afternoon sky. And the terrible suffering of the Man on the cross ended when He cried out in a loud voice, “It is finished!” (MATTHEW 27:50; JOHN 19:30).

At that very moment, another sound came from the great temple across town—the sound of ripping fabric. Amazingly, without anyone touching it, the huge, thick veil (curtain) tore in two from top to bottom (MATTHEW 27:51).

The veil was there to separate the outer temple (where people were allowed) from the Holy of Holies (where God could be met with).

That torn curtain explained what Jesus’ death on the cross had done. A new way was now open to God! Jesus, the Man on the cross, had spilt His blood as our sacrifice—the one true sacrifice that could pay for our sin (HEBREWS 10:10). Now all who believe in Him can enjoy forgiveness and a new relationship with God (ROMANS 6:23).

In the darkness of His death we received the best news ever—an open door to be saved from our sins and to know God forever (HEBREWS 10:19-22).

DB Thank God for the message of the torn veil!

What I’m thankful for . . .

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your plan of salvation, which includes Jesus’ painful death in our place. Thank You that through Him we are brought back to You—in a relationship we’ll enjoy forever.

AS HIS CHILDREN, WE CAN COME TO GOD IN CONFIDENCE.

DAY 14

THE EMPTY BED Bible: Matthew 28:16-20

Go and make disciples of all nations (V.19).

I

Reading

was looking forward to returning to St. James Infirmary in Montego Bay, Jamaica. I wanted to see Rendell, who had trusted Jesus as his Saviour two years earlier. Evie, a teenager in the mission team I’d travelled with then, had shared Jesus with Rendell—which led to him turning to God himself.

But when I entered the men’s section of the home and looked towards Rendell’s bed, I found it was empty. I went to the nurse’s desk, and was told what I didn’t want to hear. He had passed away—just five days before I arrived.

I texted Evie the sad news. Her reply showed her strong trust in Jesus: “Rendell is celebrating with Jesus.” Later she said, “It’s a good thing we told him about Jesus when we did.”

Her words reminded me of the importance of being ready to lovingly share with others about who Jesus is. No, it’s not always easy to tell others about the One who will “be with [us] always” (MATTHEW 28:20). But when we think about the difference it made for us and for people like Rendell, perhaps we’ll be encouraged to be even more ready to “make disciples” wherever we go (V.19).

I’ll never forget the sadness of seeing that empty bed—and also the joy of DB knowing what a difference one teenager made in Rendell’s forever life.

Thinking it over . . .

What are some things you can do to introduce people to Jesus today?

As you share your life with Him, how does it encourage you to know Jesus is “with you always” (MATTHEW 28:20)?

SHARING THE TRUTH ABOUT JESUS IS URGENT WORK.

DAY 15

ARE YOU HONEST? Bible: Acts 5:1-14

The Lord [hates] lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy (PROVERBS 12:22).

O

Reading

ne magazine got more than 2,000 people to do a questionnaire about their honesty level. When asked, “How honest are you?” 48% said “very honest”, 50% said “kind of honest” and the other 2% said “not very honest”.

68% of those people admitted that they had stolen stuff from school or work. And 40% said that they would cheat on an exam if they knew they wouldn’t get caught.

Ananias and Sapphira must have thought they could get away with lying (ACTS 5:1-11). But they quickly found out differently. Peter challenged them and told them that they had lied to the Holy Spirit. They died immediately (VV.5,10).

At that time in the book of Acts, God knew it was important to keep His new church pure. He was going to use His people to transform the lives of others. But those Christians would lose their impact if it turned out they weren’t very honest—they’d just look like everyone else; nothing special. But because God kept the church honest and pure, the powerful story of Jesus kept spreading. “More and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number” (V.14).

Let’s be the kind of people who are “trustworthy” (PROVERBS 12:22) so we AC can be used by God to make Jesus known.

To pray about . . .

Father, please help me to check my words so that I only say what is true. I want my words and actions to please You and make Jesus known.

THERE ARE NO LEVELS OF HONESTY. YOU EITHER ARE OR YOU’RE NOT.

DAY 16

GOD’S LOVE Bible: Revelation 3:14-22

Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent (V.19).

Reading

I

t’s easy to think of God as a big, angry school teacher, looking for anyone to step out of line so He can land them in detention.

But that’s not what we see in the book of Revelation in His letters to the seven churches. They show God’s loving concern for people, even the ones who are messing up.

Jesus began many of these letters by talking about the good things His people had done. This shows us that when we do what is good and right, He sees and is pleased with us.

But Jesus is also concerned about the things we struggle with. His positive words in these letters were often followed by clear instructions for change. And while it’s not nice to hear Him say, “Yet I hold this against you” (REVELATION 2:4; SEE VV.14,20), it’s really important that He shows us what needs to be changed in our lives to keep us from going the wrong way.

This brings us to the point—repentance. When God told these churches to repent (to turn away from selfishness and back to following Him), He was showing His love for Christians who struggle. His goal was not to bring them down, but to bring them back to a close walk with Him. And don’t miss the fact that each letter ends with a specific promise for the “victorious” (V.7). God wants to celebrate and reward those who live in a JS way that pleases Him. What’s He saying to you today?

Notes

REPENTANCE BRINGS US BACK TO GOD.

DAY 17

CAST YOUR CARES Bible: Philippians 4:4-9

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you (1 PETER 5:7).

O

Reading

ne of the psalmists wrote, “Be still, and know that I am God” (PSALM 46:10).

Paul told the Philippians, “Do not be anxious” (PHILIPPIANS 4:6). And Peter reminded his readers to put all their worries on God (1 PETER 5:7).

How can we stop worrying and be “still”? Only through prayer and trust in our loving God (PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7). When we bring our worries to God and put them on His strong shoulders, we can step back from the things going on in our lives and simply rest with Him. This doesn’t mean that those who are “still” with God will never have things to stress about. This is about being able to have confidence and peace even in the stress and worry. Our problems don’t go away when we pray, but our focus is brought back to God, our Father who can and will keep us going and meet our needs.

Christians who stay calm when life is hard aren’t following a formula.

There is no ‘five steps to avoid worry’. They simply know who their God is, His love for them and His promise to be with them in everything.

If you’ve never taken time out to be still with God when you’re stressed, why don’t you give it a go. Talk with Him, read some of the Bible (maybe a Psalm) and turn your eyes away from the stress and back onto your God, DR Maker, Saviour and Provider.

Want more . . . ?

Why not read What are you worried about? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingdeeper

BECAUSE GOD CARES FOR US, WE CAN LEAVE OUR CARES WITH HIM.

DAY 18

SAFE ROOM Bible: Proverbs 18:9-12

The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe (V.10).

I

Reading

n some homes (normally posh homes), owners have safe rooms—special places where they can hide if someone breaks into the house.

In Proverbs 18:10, Solomon reminded God’s people that God is their ‘safe room’ and that they could find total security in Him. In verses 10 and 11, he described two different places people run when they’re in trouble: God or “wealth”. God is described as a “fortified tower”.

As a captured city might hide its people in a fortified tower, so too could the “righteous” run to God and find complete safety, no matter what.

On the other hand, many people think what they have or what they own keeps them safe. Solomon tried to tell his readers that money and stuff might make us feel in control, but we know we’re not really. The only place we’re really safe, even when the worst is happening, is with God Himself. He alone is in control.

What is your ‘safe room’? Is it the things you own? Your social media profiles? A person? All of these things can let us down—but God never will.

MW

What I’m thankful for . . .

Thank You, Father, for always being with me. Even in danger, in stressful places, in another part of the world or anywhere else, You are my safety.

GOD IS OUR SAFE ROOM.

DAY 19

FOLLOW THES INSTRUCTION Bible: Matthew 7:24-29

Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock (V.24).

W

Reading

hen I was a kid I loved building model planes. Every time I opened a new box, the first thing I saw was the instructions, but I didn’t think I needed them. In my mind I knew exactly what I was doing. Not until I had put a few pieces together did I realise I had skipped an important step, like putting the pilot in the cockpit.

It’s easy to think that we have no need for instructions for our lives, only to later realise that we’ve messed things up. Which is exactly why Jesus told us that following His instructions is the way for wise people to build a safe, solid and meaningful life (MATTHEW 7:24-29). He had just told the crowd to go the extra mile for people, to forgive enemies and to give up what they had so that they could look out for others first (5:39-44). But just hearing and knowing the instructions isn’t enough. The key is to follow them. “Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock” (7:24).

Those who don’t follow the instructions are, as Jesus put it, “foolish” (V.26). Forgiving people who don’t deserve it and looking after others before ourselves may seem like a silly way to build a life—but, take it from Jesus, it’s JS the best way.

Notes

TO BUILD A ROCK-SOLID LIFE, FOLLOW JESUS’ INSTRUCTIONS.

DAY 20

GOD’S G N I D N A T S R E D N U Bible: Job 12:13-25

To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his (V.13).

“H

Reading

onestly, I think going through really hard things in the past is helping me have peace about things now,” a friend said. She had realised that problems, issues and pain can teach us to rely on God so that when we go through difficulties again, we know better what it means to trust Him. Facing pain in the past helped her to handle the struggle of watching her mum battle cancer.

We won’t always understand why we’re going through difficult stuff.

This was the case for Job. Job faced suffering and loss that he just couldn’t explain. But even though he had big questions, Job said that “to God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his” (JOB 12:13). God is mighty: “What he tears down cannot be rebuilt” (V.14), “to him belong strength and victory” (V.16), “He makes nations great, and destroys them” (V.23). Throughout this list, Job never mentions God’s motives or explains why He does certain things! But it all builds on verse 13, “to God belong wisdom . . . and understanding.” Job had confidence in God. We may not understand what God is doing in our lives right now, but as my friend realised, we can still trust in Him. God loves us (1 PETER 5:7) and knows what’s best for us. “Wisdom and power; counsel and understanding JS are his” (JOB 12:13)!

To pray about . . .

God, help me to trust You, even when I don’t understand what You’re doing.

Thank You that You hold all wisdom and power.

EVEN WHEN WE HAVE BIG QUESTIONS, WE CAN TRUST IN GOD.

DAY 21

D E G A R U O C N E Bible: Romans 15:1-6

Each of us should please our neighbours for their good, to build them up (V.5).

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Reading

’m encouraged every time I visit the gym near our house. In that busy place, I’m surrounded by people who want to get fit and build muscle. I am a bit weedy compared to many of them, but posters all over the gym remind us not to judge or criticise. We’re all there for the same reason, no matter how big or small, fit or unfit.

Those of us who want to ‘get in shape’ with God, to grow in our trust of Him, can sometimes feel like we’re not as ‘spiritually fit’ as others in our churches or youth groups. They seem to know God better, can quote the Bible and say big, fancy prayers out loud. So we keep in the background— we’re afraid we’ll get told off for saying or doing the wrong stuff.

Paul gave us something that can help: “Each of us should please our neighbours for their good, to build them up” (ROMANS 15:2). And he also added advice to help us move along on our walk with God when he said, “The endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide [give us] hope” (V.4).

As we “accept one another” (V.7), instead of comparing ourselves with them, let’s trust our spiritual growth to God—to the work of His Spirit. And while we follow Him each day, let’s do our part to be encouragers in our youth groups. We may not know all the Bible, but we do know how important DB it is to help our friends stay close to Jesus.

To pray about . . .

Father, help me today to encourage others.

Guide me to say stuff that will help them go deeper with You.

ENCOURAGEMENT CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GIVING UP AND GOING ON.

DAY 22

THE FARM Bible: Luke 15:11-24

Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven (ROMANS 4:7).

D

Reading

uring one summer holiday, I worked on a local farm for a few weeks, getting a bit of work experience. One evening, tired and hungry after a long day, I drove the tractor into the shed. Acting like the hot shot I thought I was, I cranked the steering wheel hard left, stamped on the left brake and spun the tractor around.

The back of the tractor caught one of the legs holding up a 500 gallon petrol tank next to the shed. The tank hit the ground with the loudest boom I’ve ever heard. The petrol was everywhere.

The farmer stood nearby, watching.

I got off the tractor, stammered an apology, and—because it was the first thing that popped into my mind—offered to work the rest of the summer for free.

The old farmer stared at the wreckage for a moment and turned towards the house. “Let’s go have dinner,” he said.

A bit of a story Jesus told passed through my mind—a story about a young man who had done a terrible thing. He told his dad: “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.” He meant to add, “Make me like one of your hired servants,” but before he could get all the words out of his mouth, his dad stopped him. It was like he said, “Let’s go have dinner” (LUKE 15:17-24).

That’s a great picture of God’s amazing forgiveness and grace. We come DR to Him full of apologies and plans; but all He needs is for us to come.

What I’m thankful for . . .

Father, we celebrate Your awesome forgiveness. Thank You for the peace and freedom it brings us as we enjoy belonging to You.

HOW AMAZING TO BELONG TO THE GOD WHO FORGIVES ALL THINGS!

DAY 23

GOD IS HERE Bible: Hosea 6:1-6

Let us acknowledge the Lord; let us press on to acknowledge him (V.3).

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Reading

ne of our fridge magnets reads: “Bidden or not bidden, God is present.” A modern version might read, “Whether we know it or not, God is here.”

Hosea, an Old Testament man who lived in the late eighth century bc (755-715), wrote something similar to God’s people. He encouraged the Israelites to “press on” (HOSEA 6:3) and come back to God because they had forgotten Him (4:1). As the people forgot God, they began to turn away from Him (V.12). And before long there was no room for God in their thoughts (SEE PSALM 10:4).

Hosea’s simple but powerful command to come back and know God reminds us He’s near and at work in our lives, in both the good times and the hard.

To recognise God at work might mean that, when we pass an exam (for example), we realise He gave us the skills, teachers and interest to work hard and do well. It means knowing He deserves our thanks in everything. It also means that when things don’t work out how we hoped, we know God is still in control and still directing our lives for His purposes.

When we turn to God and realise He is at work, we remember all things—good and bad, happy and sad, big and small—are in His hands. LS

To pray about . . .

Jesus, please forgive me for the times I forget You. Help me to remember You are always at work in my life.

GOD IS ALWAYS AT WORK.

DAY 24

I’M SORRY Bible: Colossians 3:12-17 Forgive as the Lord forgave you (V.13).

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Reading

wo guys became the worst of enemies. Collins made up a story that got McGee thrown in prison for four years, even though he’d done nothing wrong. So McGee decided he was going to find Collins when he got out and “hurt him”.

Meanwhile, Collins’ fake story was found out. He also got thrown in prison.

Here’s the amazing thing. Both men heard about Jesus while in prison and decided to trust Him for themselves.

A few years later, they both found out they were working together at the same Christian charity. Collins said, “I [told McGee], ‘Honestly, I have no explanation, all I can do is say I’m sorry.’ ” It was “pretty much what I needed to hear,” said McGee, who forgave him. The men were able to make up with each other because they both knew the power of God’s forgiveness (COLOSSIANS 3:13).

Now they are great friends. “We have this joint mission . . . of letting the world know that if you owe an apology to somebody, put your pride down and go say sorry,” said Collins. “And if you’re holding something against somebody, let go of the bitterness because it’s like drinking poison and hoping it’s hurting them.”

God wants all Christians to live in peace and unity together. If we have “a grievance against someone”, we can talk about it with God. He will help AK us to make up with them (COLOSSIANS 3:13-15; PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7).

To pray about . . .

Father, thank You for forgiving us. Help us to share Your forgiveness with others.

JESUS SETS US FREE TO FORGIVE.

DAY 25

ADOPTED Bible: Galatians 4:1-7

God sent his Son . . . that we might receive adoption to sonship (VV.4-5).

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Reading

’m glad when someone builds an orphanage for homeless kids. But I’m even happier when someone adopts one of them. To know you’ve been chosen by someone who wants to give you a home and a family—how good must that feel?

If you’re a child of God you already know, because it’s happened to you.

We couldn’t complain if God had only loved us enough to send His Son that we might “not perish but have eternal life” (JOHN 3:16). It would be enough for us. But not for God. He “sent his Son . . . to [buy us back]” so “that we might receive adoption to sonship” (GALATIANS 4:4-5).

Paul calls us “sons” because in his day sons would inherit their dad’s wealth. His point is that now everyone who puts their trust in Jesus, whether man or woman, becomes a “son” of God with equal and full rights of inheritance (V.7).

God does not just want to save you. He wants you. He has adopted you into His family, given you His name (REVELATION 3:12), and proudly calls you His child. You could not possibly be loved more, or by anyone more important.

You aren’t just loved by God. You are the child of God. Your Father loves you.

MW

What I’m thankful for . . .

Father, how amazing to call you my Dad! Thank you for saving me, and for wanting me.

YOU ARE MORE THAN SAVED. YOU ARE LOVED.

DAY 26

A GENTLE WHISPER Bible: 1 Kings 19:9-13

And after the fire came a gentle whisper (V.12).

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Reading

everal years ago, one head teacher invited everyone in the school to “power down” for a couple of hours after school. The kids weren’t that impressed about having to give up phone, movie and screen time. But for those hours after school, the pupils and teachers all sat together in the hall, singing praise songs and saying prayers.

Later, one of the students said it was, “a wonderful opportunity to calm down . . . a place to just tune out all of the extra noise.”

Sometimes, it’s difficult to escape “extra noise”. All the stuff going on around us can be very distracting. But when we are willing to “power down”, we begin to understand what it means to be still so that we can know God (PSALM 46:10). In 1 Kings 19, we discover as well that when Elijah looked for God, he did not find Him in the rushing wind or the earthquake or the fire (1 KINGS 19:9-13). Instead, Elijah heard God’s gentle whisper (V.12).

Extra noise is always going on at school and home. Family, friends and classmates are all doing stuff, sending us messages, inviting us out and making ‘noise’. It’s really important to be able to step back and find a time each day when it can be just us and God: no one else, no screens and no noise.

CHK Like Elijah, we are more likely to meet God in the stillness.

To pray about . . .

Dear God, help me to be still.

Fill me with Your peace as I spend time with You in prayer.

IT’S IN THE STILLNESS THAT WE’RE MOST LIKELY TO HEAR GOD’S GENTLE WHISPER.

DAY 27

POWER OF TOUCH Bible: Mark 1:40-45

Moved by compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him (V.41 NLT).

D

Reading

r. Paul Brand, a Christian doctor who went to work in India, saw the effects of leprosy for himself. Not only is it a terrible skin disease to have, but sufferers are cut off from their community. During an appointment, he touched a patient to reassure him treatment was possible. Tears began to pour down the man’s face. A nurse explained the tears to Dr. Brand, saying, “You touched him and no one has done that for years. They are tears of joy.”

Jesus met a man with leprosy (MARK 1:40). Because of his disease the Old Testament law said the man had to live outside his community, away from his friends and family. If the sick man accidentally found himself near to healthy people, he had to call out, “Unclean! Unclean!” so they could avoid him (LEVITICUS 13:45-46). As a result, the man may have gone months or years being totally alone.

Filled with loving concern, Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. Jesus had the power and authority to heal people with just a word (MARK 2:11-12). But because this man’s illness left him feeling cut off and rejected, Jesus’ touch showed the man that he was not alone but accepted.

Who can you reach out to today? Who needs to know they are not alone? Who needs a kind word or a bit of company? As God gives us the LS opportunities, let’s show His caring love to the people we meet.

To pray about . . .

Jesus, thank You for the personal way You reached out to care for hurting people. Help me to follow Your example and show Your love in my actions.

CARING FOR OTHERS MEANS MEETING THEM WHERE THEY’RE AT.

DAY 28

THIS IS A WARNING Bible: Deuteronomy 28:58-63

Just as it pleased the Lord to make you prosper and increase in number, so it will please him to ruin and destroy you (V.63).

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Reading

bought a birthday card from a Christian bookshop which said: “The Lord has rejoiced over you and has done such wonderful things for you” (DEUTERONOMY 28:63 TLB). It was such a great thought that I turned to the Bible passage to read more.

I found that the words printed on the card were only part of one sentence, taken from a section where God warned His people what would happen if they turned away from Him. The entire verse reads, “Just as the Lord has rejoiced over you and has done such wonderful things for you and has multiplied you, so the Lord at that time will rejoice in destroying you; and you shall disappear from the land” (DEUTERONOMY 28:63 TLB). Now that would be an odd birthday message!

That card reminded me how easy it is to select nice phrases from the Bible while ignoring what the rest of the passage says and its meaning.

Today’s Bible reading is a warning from God to His people. It is worth thinking about for what it is: a warning that rejecting God has terrible consequences.

The Bible has words of encouragement as well as words of warning. It’s DM important to read and learn from both in our walk with Jesus.

Want more . . . ?

Why not read How do you read the Bible? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingdeeper

THE MORE TIME WE SPEND IN THE BIBLE, THE CLOSER WE’LL WALK WITH JESUS.

DAY 29

FREEING TRUTH Bible: Ephesians 1:3-10

His glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves (V.6).

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Reading

Christian girl had been feeling down about herself. She was unhappy about her life in general, but she was especially fed up with how little she seemed to be growing in her relationship with God. One morning she looked at herself for a long time in the mirror. Then, very slowly, she said, “God, I thank You that I am myself and can never be anybody else.”

That was her moment of freeing self-acceptance. She realised that by God’s design she was an absolutely unique person, a human being who belonged to Jesus and could never be replaced or copied.

Do you give yourself a hard time because you aren’t as close to God as you think you ought to be? Do you see yourself as a second-rate Christian, falling short when you compare yourself to the rest of your youth group? Do you struggle to pray, to share Jesus, to get involved at church? We can move beyond self-rejection and enjoy self-acceptance when we put our lives in Jesus’ hands.

“In [Jesus] we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace” (EPHESIANS 1:7). We are accepted and chosen by Him (VV.4-6). If Jesus has accepted us, surely we can accept ourselves, as we are! He will do the work of bringing about change in VG us in His perfect timing. That’s the freeing truth.

JESUS’ FREE GIFT OF SALVATION FREES US TO ACCEPT OURSELVES.

DAY 30

EVERYTHING Bible: 2 Kings 5:1-3,9-15

Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel (V.15).

Reading

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s ancient Syria’s best military leader, General Naaman had everything: influence, money and power. Everything, that is, except for health!

Naaman was a leper (2 KINGS 5:1-3).

On the other hand, the servant girl in Naaman’s house had no options or power at all. As a prisoner from an army raid, she had been forced into a lifetime of slavery (V.2). But she did not let herself be overcome by anger or bitterness. Instead she knew that even though she had nothing, really she had everything: God Himself. And with her everything she served her new boss, Naaman.

This servant girl didn’t see the leprosy as God’s punishment but as a chance to point Naaman to a man of God in Samaria (V.3). Her advice led to Naaman’s complete healing. He said, “Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel” (V.15).

Today, many people seem to have everything they want. Whether we feel like one of them or not, we still have the everything that really matters: a relationship with God. Like Naaman’s servant girl, we can still choose to serve AL God and point others to Him—regardless of what we do or don’t have.

Notes

IF WE HAVE GOD, WE HAVE EVERYTHING.

DAY 31

GIVE THANKS! Bible: Psalm 92

It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High (V.1).

Reading

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salm 92 is a song of praise to God. It’s a great song to turn to if you’re having a rubbish day or just feeling a bit down.

The song starts with a reminder of how good it is to give God praise: “It is good to praise the Lord”. It does us good to turn from our worry and stressful thoughts to sing about God’s “love in the morning and [his] faithfulness at night” (PSALM 92:2). God loves us and is always faithful! He makes us happy (V.4).

Praise not only makes us happy, it focuses our minds for the ups and downs of life. Through praise we begin to understand something of God’s greatness in all that He does (VV.5-9). We get a perspective on life that is hidden from those who do not know God. The rest of the world may “flourish” and “spring up like grass” for a moment (V.7), but ultimately they will fade away.

Those of us who follow Jesus, however, are joined to the One who lives forever (V.8). We “flourish like a palm tree” and “like a cedar in Lebanon” (V.12); those trees are pictures of beauty and strength.

We have been “planted in the house of the Lord” (V.13). Our roots go down into the soil of God’s love and faithfulness. Let’s give thanks and praise DR to Him today, remembering all He is and all He has done!

Notes

WHEN WE WALK WITH GOD, WE CAN’T HELP BUT SING HIS PRAISES.

DAY 32

HE WANTS MORE Bible: John 17:1-8

This is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ (V.3).

Y

Reading

ou always sit in the row ahead of Sam in church. You smile and say hi when you spot him. You say, “See you next Sunday” when you leave. And that’s about it. But imagine if one morning you add a little conversation: “Sam, could you give me a hundred pounds?”

That’s kind of like the way many of us treat God. We have a Sunday-only relationship with Him until we need something. But God wants much more.

God wants us first of all to know Him as our Saviour. “This is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent” (JOHN 17:3).

After we become His children (1:12), God wants an ongoing conversation with us through each day. He wants us to grow with Him, get to know Him better and understand more of who we can be with His help. He doesn’t want to be a Sunday-friend or someone we only cry out to when we’re out of options. God wants us to have a personal relationship with Him. He also wants us to stick close with Him so we can follow Him and live with the peace and satisfaction His ways offer (1 JOHN 2:3).

God loves you and wants you to know Him. While He does answer our last-minute prayers, He also wants us to know Him and talk with Him as our CHK way of life.

Want more . . . ?

Check out ymi.today/do-you-read-your-bible-for-fun

KNOWING GOD CHANGES US.

DAY 33

FATHER, FORGIVE THEM Bible: Luke 23:32-38

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (V.34).

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Reading

twelve year old boy on a school trip to a museum stuck his wet chewing gum on a painting worth £1.5 million. The gum left a dark mark on the valuable artwork. Officials at the museum were unsure whether they would ever be able to remove it. The boy was suspended from school. “I don’t think he understood that what he did was so bad,” said a school teacher.

In Luke 23, Jesus prayed a powerful prayer for people who didn’t understand what they were doing. He asked His Father to forgive those who were putting Him to death (LUKE 23:34). They gave little value to God’s Son— beating Him, spitting on Him, hating Him and shoving a crown of thorns on His head. They drove spikes through His hands and feet and stabbed His side.

They didn’t understand how awful their actions were. But through the death of Jesus, God offers forgiveness to all who turn back to Him and believe— including Jesus’ murderers.

We all played a part in putting Jesus to death: He came to pay for the things we have done wrong. The good news is that God did this because He wants us back in His family. He forgives and removes the stain of sin, giving MW us a new life and future in Jesus.

Thinking it over . . .

Do you struggle to believe that anyone can be forgiven by God? Do you know anyone you think shouldn’t be able to benefit from Jesus’ death and resurrection? How does 1 John 1:8-2:2 challenge you?

NO ONE IS TOO BAD FOR GOD’S FORGIVENESS —BUT WE MUST TRUST JESUS.

DAY 34

BE A STAR Bible: Matthew 2:1-12

Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever (DANIEL 12:3).

Reading

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ots of us would love to be ‘stars’: popstars, football stars, reality TV stars . . . But a young Jewish prisoner rose to ‘stardom’ in a different way.

When Daniel and his friends were taken captive by an invading army, it was unlikely that they would be heard from again. But the godly young men soon stood out as intelligent and trustworthy.

When the king had a dream that his wise men could not understand or interpret, he sentenced them to death. After a night of prayer, God explained the dream and its meaning to Daniel. As a result, the king promoted Daniel to be his advisor (SEE DANIEL 2).

If the story ended there, it would be amazing enough. But some Bible teachers believe that Daniel’s role in Babylon made people aware of the promised Saviour who would be born in Bethlehem. Daniel’s teaching may have been the reason that 500 years later wise men from the East followed a star to find an infant King, worship Him and return to their country with the good news that God had come to earth (MATTHEW 2:1-12).

By staying close to God, going through everything with Him and trusting JAL all things to Him, we can also become stars like Daniel.

Notes

YOU LIGHT UP JESUS FOR THE WORLD TO SEE WHEN YOU GIVE HIM YOUR LIFE.

THE FORGOTTEN MAN

DAY 35

Bible: Matthew 1:18-25

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding (PROVERBS 3:5).

I

Reading

n the story of Jesus’ birth, one man is often forgotten. Joseph—the man God trusted so much that He placed His Son in his home to love and help Him grow. What a responsibility!

Joseph truly is the forgotten man in the story. Yet his job was an important part of God’s incredible plan. As we read the story of the birth of Jesus, we find that Joseph was good, honest, merciful, protective and brave.

But most of all—he did what God said. When the angel told him to take Mary as his wife, he obeyed (MATTHEW 1:24). And when the angel told him to escape to Egypt with Mary and Jesus, he did (2:13-14).

Just as Mary was carefully chosen to give birth to the Son of God, Joseph was deliberately chosen to look after Mary and Jesus. And trusting God, Joseph followed through on everything God asked him to do.

What is God asking of you today? Are you willing to commit yourself to do whatever He wants you to do?

We can learn much about following God from Joseph, the forgotten CHK man of Jesus’ story.

Thinking it over . . .

How easy or difficult do you find it to put God first in your everyday life?

In what areas do you find it hardest to do what God says?

Who can you talk with about this?

THE PROOF OF OUR LOVE FOR GOD IS THAT WE DO WHAT HE SAYS.

DAY 36

REFLECTION Bible: James 1:22-25

Do not merely listen to the word . . . Do what it says (V.22).

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Reading

ignored it for months. When the spot on my nose was still there after nearly a year, I finally asked a doctor to look at it. A few days later, I was told I had skin cancer and needed minor surgery to remove it. Even though the skin cancer was small and not life threatening, if I hadn’t taken action when I did, things might have ended up a lot worse.

I realised my actions (or lack of action) made me like the kind of person James describes who “immediately forgets what he looks like” after looking in a mirror (JAMES 1:24). The Bible is the mirror that shows us who we really are and how we’re really doing. When we see the Bible describe how our actions and thoughts fall short of God’s ways, but don’t bother to say sorry or “do what it says” (V.22), we’re not much different from someone who ignores signs of illness in their body.

We all want to be healthy. When the mirror of the Bible shows us a problem in our lives, we might want to ignore it, pretending we’re healthy and hoping it will go away on its own. But James says we’ll be happier if we listen to “the perfect law” that teaches us what God wants (V.25). God, help KH us to “do what it says”!

Thinking it over . . .

What has the mirror of the Bible shown you recently?

What are you going to do about it?

THE BIBLE IS A MIRROR FOR OUR HEARTS.

DAY 37

GREATER LOVE Bible: John 15:9-17

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends (V.13).

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Reading

olice officer Arnaud Beltrame found himself in the middle of a terrorist attack in France in 2018 and did the unthinkable—he offered his life for someone else. Seeing a hostage who’d been turned into a human shield, he asked to take her place. The terrorist let her go. But when the shooting started, Arnaud Beltrame was injured and later died. A church leader who knew the policeman explained he gave up his life because he followed Jesus.

He then read these words from Jesus: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (JOHN 15:13).

The words the church leader quoted were those Jesus spoke to His friends after their last meal together. He told His friends to “love each other as I have loved you” (V.12) and that the greatest love is to lay down one’s life for another (V.13). This is exactly what Jesus did the next day, when He went to the cross to save us from our sin—as only He could.

We may never have to give up our lives in the way Arnaud Beltrame did, but as we live in God’s love, we can serve others with everything we’ve got.

We can put aside our own plans and dreams, and put God’s love first, which is all about looking out for others and sharing Jesus with them.

How do you react to the story of Arnaud Beltrame? How can you put ABP others first today?

Want more . . . ?

Why not read How can we respond to terrorism? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingdeeper

JESUS LAID DOWN HIS LIFE FOR US.

DAY 38

BAD IDEA? Bible: Hebrews 10:22-39

Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings (V.22).

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Reading

he ex-athlete hadn’t done a good work-out for a long time. So he decided to make a change. On day one he did some push ups and went for a light jog. On day two he did more push ups, some sit ups and a longer run. On day three he repeated his exercises and added in a two mile run. On day four he woke up with a sore throat.

Then he did one more thing: he decided that working out was a bad idea. If all he got out of his effort was sickness, it wasn’t for him.

Let’s think about how this same thing can play out in our walk with God. When we realise we haven’t spent much time with God, we kick start a new routine of Bible reading and prayer each day. But less than a week in, some problem or issue comes up that knocks us down. What do we think? In a similar way to the ex-athlete, should we decide that putting effort into our relationship with God is a bad idea? No way!

We don’t pray and read the Bible to get a perfect, trouble-free life. We do it because it draws us closer to the God who loves us and leads us.

Knowing Him and becoming more like Jesus will not keep us out of trouble (2 TIMOTHY 3:12). But spending time with God (HEBREWS 10:22) is always a good DB idea—no matter what happens.

Want more . . . ?

Check out ymi.today/why-am-i-so-stuck-in-my-growth-as-a-christian

BAD STUFF WILL COME ALONG NO MATTER WHAT WE DO—SO LET’S STICK CLOSE TO GOD.

DAY 39

FINDING MYSELF Bible: 1 John 2:28-3:3

We know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is (V.2).

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Reading

ho am I? That’s the question an old stuffed animal asks himself in the book Nothing. Left in a dusty corner of an attic, the animal hears people call him “nothing” and thinks that’s his name: Nothing.

Meeting with other animals sparks memories. Nothing realises that he used to have a tail, whiskers and stripes. But it’s not until he meets a tabby cat who helps him find his way home that Nothing remembers who he truly is: a stuffed cat named Toby. His owner fixes him up, sewing on new ears, tail, whiskers and stripes.

Whenever I read this book, I think about my own identity. Who am I? John, writing to Christians, said that God has called us His children (1 JOHN 3:1).

We don’t fully understand that identity, but when we see Jesus, we will be like him (V.2). Just like Toby the cat, one day we will fully enjoy the identity we were meant to have as members of God’s family—which has been blurred by sin. For now, we can understand who we are in part, and we can recognise the image of God in each other. But one day, when we see Jesus, we will be perfect, not just looking like God’s children, but living like it too. We will be AP made new.

Thinking it over . . .

Where do I find my identity? According to the Bible, how does God view me?

Check out John 15:15, Galatians 3:23-29 and Ephesians 1:1-2:10.

GOD RESCUED US AND MADE US HIS OWN.

DAY 40

SEEN

BY GOD Bible: Genesis 16:7-14

She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me” (V.13).

M

Reading

y first pair of glasses opened my eyes to a bright and bold world. I’m short-sighted, meaning I can see things near to me just fine without my glasses on. But anything on the other side of a room or in the distance are a total blur. At twelve years old, with my first pair of glasses, I was shocked to be able to finally read what the teacher wrote on the whiteboard at the front of my class! I hadn’t realised how much I’d been struggling to see!

The slave Hagar ran away from Sarai’s unkindness. Hagar was a ‘nobody’ in her culture, pregnant and alone, running into a desert without help or hope. Seen by God, however, she was allowed, in return, to see Him. No longer an airy-fairy idea, God became real to her—so real that she gave God a name, El Roi, which means “You are the God who sees me.” She said, “I have now seen the One who sees me” (GENESIS 16:13).

Our seeing God sees each of us too. Are you feeling unseen, alone or like a nobody? God sees you and your future. In return, may we see Him in the Bible. He is our ever-present hope, encouragement, salvation and joy—both for today and for our future. Let’s thank Him today for His gift of letting us PR see Him, the one true and living God.

What I’m thankful for . . .

God, I’m just one person in a big world, but I thank You for seeing me —so that I may see You.

GOD KNOWS MY NAME AND SEES ME.

DAY 41

INSTEAD OF REVENGE Bible: Romans 12:17-21

If your enemy is hungry, feed him (V.20).

A

Reading

fter Jim Elliot and four other Christians were killed by Huaorani Indians in 1956, no one expected what happened next. Jim’s wife, Elisabeth, their young daughter and one of the other Christians’ sisters chose to live among the very people who killed their loved ones. They spent several years living in the Huaorani community, learning their language and translating the Bible for them. These women’s story of forgiveness and kindness showed the Huaorani how much God loved them—and many began to follow Jesus.

What Elisabeth and the other ladies did is an incredible example of answering bad with good, instead of trying to get even (ROMANS 12:17). Paul encouraged the church in Rome to show through their actions the change that God had brought into their own lives. What did Paul have in mind? They were to move on from trying to take revenge, and to actually show love to their enemies by meeting their needs and even looking after them.

Why do this? Quoting a wise saying from the Old Testament (PROVERBS 25:21-22), Paul said that the kindness shown by Christians to their enemies could win them over and bring them closer to trusting Jesus for themselves. Isn’t that the most important thing for everyone we know too, EPE whether they’re good or bad?

To pray about . . .

Father, loving those who hurt us is difficult, even impossible to live out in our own strength. Help us through Your Spirit to truly love our enemies, and use us to bring them to You.

WHAT WILL YOU DO TODAY TO SHOW GOD’S LOVE TO THOSE WHO HAVE HURT YOU?

DAY 42

OUR TORCH Bible: Psalm 119:105-112

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path (V.105).

I

Reading

meet with a friend most days to take an early morning walk. We spend that time together talking about God, what we’ve read in the Bible and encouraging each other. During summer, we walk to the song of bird’s singing. In winter, we wear hats, gloves and scarves and have torches to light up the gloom.

One morning as we walked, I shared a worry I had about what I should do in a tricky situation. My friend didn’t give me advice. She simply read a verse from the Bible: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (JAMES 1:5). Her words—God’s words—were a bright light in what felt like a dark time, guiding my footsteps like our torches lit up the darkness as we walked along. Though I still didn’t know exactly what to do, I was encouraged to ask God to guide my next steps.

The Bible doesn’t always tell us exactly what to do in every single situation. But if we stick to the Bible so we “[don’t] forget [God’s] law” (PSALM 119:109), and we give Him our praise, He will light up the way ahead, just KH as we need.

What I’m thankful for . . .

Father, the Bible guides me through even the darkest of days.

Thank You for always being with me.

THE BIBLE IS OUR TORCH FOR DARK DAYS.

DAY 43

GOD’S STRONG HANDS Bible: Genesis 32:22-30

So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak (V.24).

I

Reading

n Genesis, it seems that almost every person has big family issues. Jealousy, anger, fighting and lying all leave a trail of broken relationships. Even Noah, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob—held up as heroes of faith in Hebrews 11—have problems and make serious mistakes. But God doesn’t leave them that way.

Jacob tricked his older twin Esau, who then wanted to kill him (GENESIS 27:41). Before the brothers would face each other after twenty years, Jacob wrestled with God. When asked his name, the younger brother finally admitted who he was: “Jacob”—the trickster (32:24-27). That was an important turning point for him. When he admitted who he was to God, God gave him a new name: “Israel”. He had a new identity; a new purpose.

Because God doesn’t give up on us, we should not give up on ourselves.

The last person on earth we will forgive for messing stuff up is often ourselves. But, as one Christian speaker said, “Only in the gospel can people go on loving themselves. Wait on God! See what His strong hands will make out of your weaknesses.”

When we have turned back to Him, God can turn us around. When we have messed up, God can rebuild. “Jesus in the strong hands of God using my DM weaknesses for His purposes. This is the gospel.”

Want more . . . ?

Why not read Is it ever OK to not be OK? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingdeeper

WE ARE STRONG WHEN WE’RE IN GOD’S HANDS.

DAY 44

WHEN IN DOUBT Bible: Matthew 11:1-6

Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else? (V.3).

J

Reading

ohn the Baptist was stuck in prison and confused about Jesus. He may well have wondered: Is Jesus the promised Rescuer? Is He who I thought? Have I believed the right Person? Surely if Jesus is who He says He is, I shouldn’t have got thrown into prison?

Perhaps lots of big questions about God make their way through your mind as well: Is Jesus really the Saviour? Have my sins been forgiven? Can I trust the Bible? Will I be raised from the dead? Am I going to heaven? Is this all real or just a fake?

Most of us ask questions like these from time to time. I do—especially on those dark days when everything seems to be going wrong and there’s no happy ending in sight.

These questions are not a problem. We don’t have to pretend we have it all together. In fact, we need to do what John the Baptist did: bring our questions and doubts to Jesus. In His time and in His good way He will make us confident in who He is and what He is doing in our lives.

Jesus didn’t leave John to suffer with doubt. He sent a message of the miracles He had done and the good news He had shared (MATTHEW 11:4-6).

“God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’ So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid’ ” (HEBREWS 13:5-6). DM

Thinking it over . . .

What questions and doubts do you have for God? Who can you share them with at your church?

GOD IS BIG ENOUGH TO HANDLE AND ANSWER OUR DOUBTS.

DAY 45

WHAT CHANGED? Bible: Matthew 21:1-11

See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey (V.5).

J

Reading

esus ruined His own party. On Sunday, He entered Jerusalem as the triumphant King, welcomed into the city by crowds of people shouting, “Hosanna!” (MATTHEW 21:9) and waving palm branches (V.8). The rescuer, healer and wise speaker had come, and the crowd loved Him. What went wrong that week? What changed the “Hosannas” to “Crucify him” (27:22)? It started to go bad when Jesus told the people what they didn’t want to hear. Look at what He did. He threw the buyers and sellers out of the temple area saying, “ ‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it ‘a den of robbers’ ” (21:12). He taught that those who messed up could enter heaven before the religious people (21:31). He told the people to pay taxes (22:21). Then He told the religious leaders off for misleading everyone about God: “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees” (23:13-31).

But this is Jesus. The only perfect One. God in skin. He was not looking to get really popular. His job was to teach the truth and offer a new, forgiven life with God. And it cost Him His life.

Think about Jesus’ up-and-down week in Jerusalem. Then let’s thank Him for His perfection and His love—love that took Him all the way to the cross.

DB

What I’m thankful for . . .

Thank You, Jesus, that everything You went through on earth You went through for me. Thank You for showing us the way and for being the way.

THE NAIL-PIERCED HANDS OF JESUS SHOW US GOD.

DAY 46

PAYING BACK Bible: Luke 19:1-9

They must make full [payment] for the wrong they have done (NUMBERS 5:7).

W

Reading

hen he was putting the Oxford English Dictionary together, James Murray was given thousands of word definitions from Dr. William Chester Minor. They were always sent through the post and never handed in personally. James Murray was curious about this brilliant man, so he went to visit him. He was shocked to find that Dr. Minor was imprisoned in an asylum for the criminally insane!

Years earlier, while unwell, Dr. Minor had shot an innocent man who he thought had been attacking him. He was sorry for killing the man and began sending money to support the widow and her family. Dr. Minor was imprisoned for the rest of his life but he found ways to use his time for good, including helping complete the dictionary.

When the greedy tax collector Zacchaeus heard Jesus’ teaching, he chose to give back more than he had stolen from others. “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount” (LUKE 19:8). The love and generosity of Jesus challenged Zacchaeus to help those he had hurt.

Have you upset anyone? What can you do to help make things right?

DF

To pray about . . .

Father, please help me to say sorry to the people I’ve hurt and to use my time for the good of others.

MAKING THINGS RIGHT WITH PEOPLE WE’VE HURT SHOWS HOW WE’VE BEEN CHANGED BY JESUS.

DAY 47

THE BAD MATHS OF JESUS Bible: Matthew 18:23-35

The servant’s master took pity on him, cancelled the debt and let him go (V.27).

F

Reading

rom childhood we are taught how to get by in school and the world in general: “You get what you pay for”; “The early bird gets the worm”; “No pain, no gain”. I know these rules well because I often live by them. I work hard to get my own way; I like to win; I know my rights; I don’t let people walk over me. I want people to get what they deserve.

But Jesus’ stories about God’s generosity teach a totally different way.

No one could ever have paid off the huge debt a servant had managed to get himself stuck with in Matthew 18 (MATTHEW 18:23-24). “Ten thousand bags of gold” was around 200,000 years’ wages today! And that’s the point of the story: the debt the servant owed was unforgivable. Even so, the master “took pity on him, cancelled the debt and let him go” (V.27).

The more I think about this story, the more I want to use the word “ridiculous” to sum up Jesus’ maths! I think Jesus gave us these stories to make us realise our ‘get even’ ways don’t work. We need to step into God’s world of infinite love and forgiveness. That’s the only way to see things change.

If I’m ready to listen, the gospel tells me that I did not get what I deserved. I deserved punishment from God for my own unforgivable debt, but I got forgiveness—like the servant—all the same. I deserved anger and got love. I deserved prison and got freedom. I deserved hell and instead have PY a place ready for me in heaven.

NO ONE GETS WHAT THEY DESERVE IN GOD’S FAMILY.

DAY 48

IT LOOKS BAD Bible: Psalm 12

“Because the poor are plundered and the needy groan, I will now arise,” says the Lord (V.5).

K

Reading

ing David looked out at the world and felt very down about what he saw.

He didn’t need a smartphone or social media news feed to tell him about all the pain and suffering.

He looked around and saw that “no one is faithful any more; those who are loyal have vanished from the human race” (PSALM 12:1). In his world, everyone spoke “lies to their neighbour; they flatter with their lips but harbour deception in their hearts” (V.2).

We might think that the world around us looks pretty bad—classmates bullying each other, families breaking apart, friends gossiping about us, the news telling us about terrorists and disasters round the world. What we learn from David is that it’s always been this bad.

But David’s words also give us hope. Check out his reaction to the bad news he talked about. In the very first word of his psalm, he turned to God and cried, “Help” (V.1)! Then he told God all about the bad stuff he saw and the needs he had.

And God answered. God promised that because He rules well, He would give protection and safety (VV.5-7).

When you’ve been brought down by stuff that’s going on in the world or in your own life, bring it straight to God. Call out to Him: “Help!” Three thousand years after David, God is still, and always will be, in control. DB

WE HAVE NOTHING TO BE AFRAID OF, BECAUSE GOD IS IN CONTROL.

THE MOST DEPRESSING DAY

DAY 49

Bible: Exodus 6:1-9

Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid” (MATTHEW 14:27).

S

Reading

cientists have worked out that the most depressing day of the year is in the third week of January. It’s cold, dark and wet. Everyone is back to school or work after holidays. And everyone feels low.

Long ago in Egypt, God’s people had big hopes that Moses would rescue them from slavery. But their hopes were dashed when Moses’ good intentions led to even worse work conditions. Instead of getting freedom, the people were worked even harder by slave drivers. They had to make the same amount of bricks with less stuff to make them from.

Moses said to God, “Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has brought trouble on this people, and you have not rescued your people at all” (EXODUS 5:23). As Moses and the Israelites were about to learn, God’s rescue plans sometimes don’t kick in until the very last minute—when all we’ve got left is God. If things seem to be going from bad to worse for you, making you feel low and depressed, remember that God always hears and answers us—but it’s in His time, not ours. He will show Himself to be strong, loving and with JAL you every step of the way.

To pray about . . .

Father, I need Your comfort and love. Things are so hard at the moment.

Please remind me through the Bible and my Christian friends and teachers that You are with me, love me and are all I need.

WHEN YOU FEEL HOPELESS, TURN TO THE GOD OF HOPE.

DAY 50

BASIC NEED Bible: John 4:7-15

My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus (PHILIPPIANS 4:19).

F

Reading

rom our first breath until our last, we only have a few crucial needs to stay alive. Without oxygen, we would be dead in minutes. We must have food and water. Our bodies need sleep when we’re tired. And in bad weather, we need a warm place to chill in. So, while we are needy, we don’t actually have that many real needs.

But when it comes to our wants, we have loads! New smartphones, the latest online games, holidays abroad, a new relationship, to get more attention at school . . . All things that, if we’re not careful, quickly become needs as far as we’re concerned.

But what about our other real needs we forget about? Like our need for Jesus every single day? And our need for God to guide us and teach us from the Bible? And our need for His peace, strength and comfort? When we feel like we’re missing something in life, we often turn to our wants and think: If only I had more of . . . But really we should be turning to our needs first and checking they are all being met.

Jesus told one woman about the water He had that would become “a spring of water welling up into eternal life” (JOHN 4:14). He had what she truly needed—what Peter later called “the words of eternal life” (6:68).

Have we been ignoring Jesus? “Man shall not live on bread alone” (LUKE 4:4). Have we been forgetting to put our need for God ahead of our wants? “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things VG will be given to you as well” (MATTHEW 6:33).

WE HAVE ONE MAIN NEED: JESUS.

BETTER THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE!

DAY 51

Bible: Revelation 21:1-8

“What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”—the things God has prepared for those who love him (1 CORINTHIANS 2:9).

A

Reading

teacher at a Bible school saw that his students thought heaven sounded boring. They weren’t that bothered by it.

So, to stir their imaginations, he asked them these questions: “Do you wish you would wake up tomorrow morning to find out that the person you loved the most loved you even more? Wake up hearing the best song ever written? Wake up to the new day and see only fun, exciting opportunities ahead? Wake up without feeling guilty about anything at all? See to the very core of yourself, and like everything there? Wake up breathing God as if He were air? Loving to love Him? And loving everybody else you meet?”

When he asked those questions, the students all lifted their hands. If that’s what heaven is going to be like, and even more so, it’s hard to not want to be there!

“I am going there to prepare a place for you,” Jesus told His friends (JOHN 14:2). We all want the same thing really: to be in that safe, loving, perfect, exciting, happy home forever. It is a place of fantastic peace. And VG the best thing will be Jesus Christ Himself!

What I’m thankful for . . .

Father, thank You for the promise of heaven. When I’m feeling down, or I forget where I’m heading, remind me just how good being with You will be!

HEAVEN WILL BE BETTER THAN YOU CAN POSSIBLY IMAGINE.

DAY 52

TWO COPPER COINS Bible: Mark 12:41-44

They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on (V.44).

Reading

J

esus sat in the temple near the money boxes and watched as people walked by and gave money to the temple (MARK 12). Some made a show of it, perhaps so others could see how much they had given. But then a poor woman came by and threw in two “copper coins” (MARK 12:42).

A copper coin was the least valuable coin in Israel. So the widow’s gift was very small, more or less nothing in most people’s eyes. But Jesus saw what others did not see. She had given “all she had to live on” (MARK 12:44).

The widow wasn’t trying to draw attention to herself. She was simply doing what she was able to do. And Jesus noticed!

We mustn’t forget that Jesus sees all that we do, though it may seem very small. It may be nothing more than helping a kid out in class, sitting with a friend who’s upset or quietly praying for our family. But these things are definitely not nothing to God. Jesus said, “Watch out! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven . . . Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will DR reward you” (MATTHEW 6:1-4 NLT).

Notes

GOD LOOKS AT THE GIVER, NOT THE GIFT.

DAY 53

LUKEWARM Bible: Revelation 3:14-22

I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot.

I wish you were either one or the other! (V.15).

T

Reading

he city of Laodicea had a water problem. One nearby town had amazing hot springs and another had cold, clear water. Laodicea, however, was stuck in the middle with lukewarm water that tasted awful. Not hot. Not cold. Just gross.

Given their water problem, the words of Jesus to the Laodicean church in Revelation 3 must have stung. Jesus told them off for being “neither cold nor hot” (REVELATION 3:15). And when He thought of them, He felt like spitting them out of His mouth (V.16)—just like their drinking water.

What was their problem? They didn’t need anything but themselves (or so they thought). The Laodiceans had so much stuff that they had forgotten how much they needed Jesus (V.17).

When we say we have everything we need, but Jesus isn’t at the top of the list, He is deeply hurt. Having lots of stuff distracts us from focusing on the things we really need that only He can give. If you’d rather follow the celebrities than Jesus, if you spend hours on your social media but only minutes in the Bible, then you’re spending your time in the wrong places.

Jesus offers something much, much better (V.18). He’s knocking at the door JS to your life (V.20). Let Him in. He will give you all you really need!

To pray about . . .

Jesus, I’m so sorry for putting other things above You. Help me to make You number one in my life.

WE ALWAYS HAVE ENOUGH WHEN GOD IS AT THE CENTRE OF OUR LIVES.

DAY 54

NAILED TO THE CROSS Bible: Colossians 2:9-17

You were dead in your sins . . . God made you alive with Christ.

He forgave us all our sins (V.13).

I

Reading

t was a powerful church meeting. Our pastor talked about Jesus carrying our sins and dying in our place to take our punishment. He asked if anyone still felt guilt over things they had done wrong in the past, and whether we felt blocked from enjoying the forgiveness of God. He told us to write the sin or sins on a piece of paper, walk to the front of the church and nail the paper to the cross that was placed there. Many went forward, and you could hear the banging of nails for several minutes.

That didn’t give us forgiveness, of course, but it was a reminder that Jesus had already taken those sins on Himself as He hung on the cross and died.

That’s what Paul taught the church at Colosse. The people were being misled by false teachers who said Jesus wasn’t enough for them to be made new with God. But Paul explained that Jesus paid the full price for our sins.

He said, “Having cancelled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; [Jesus] has taken it away, nailing it to the cross” (COLOSSIANS 2:14).

If we admit where we’ve gone wrong to God, He will forgive (1 JOHN 1:9).

We don’t need to hold on to the guilt. Our sins have been nailed to the cross; AC they’ve been taken away. Jesus has forgiven them all.

What I’m thankful for . . .

Jesus, I stand amazed that You would die for me, for my every mistake and mess. Thank You.

JESUS HAS PAID IN FULL FOR EVERY WRONG.

DAY 55

LOVE ALWAYS TRUSTS Bible: 1 Corinthians 13

[Love] always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres (V.7).

I

Reading

saw a friend of mine looking out for someone I thought wasn’t very trustworthy. I thought my friend was being taken in, and I was afraid he would be left feeling used in the end.

When I told him how I felt, he replied, “When I stand before God, I hope He’ll say of me that I’ve loved too many, rather than too few.” I’ve never forgotten his words.

Paul insists that “[love] always protects, always trusts” (1 CORINTHIANS 13:7).

Love “always trusts” in people. It can see they are God’s people, no matter how broken they may be. It believes that God can take the most unattractive and messed up person and turn them into an example of God’s generosity and kindness.

I’m not saying we should be doormats to everyone we meet—but we do need to be givers and ready to serve anyone. Sure, we need to be wise about dangerous people. And sometimes tough love (like telling our friends truths they don’t want to hear) may be the best way to care for them. Yet we mustn’t be too uptight and guarded. Love is about learning to open up our lives a little more to let people in.

“If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in DR heaven is perfect” (MATTHEW 5:47 NLT).

LOVE IS TREATING OTHERS LIKE JESUS WOULD.

DAY 56

UNANSWERED PRAYERS Bible: Luke 7:1-10

I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel (V.9).

W

Reading

hy does it feel like some of our prayers never get answered? I’ve heard some people say it’s because we don’t have enough faith—enough trust in God. But that isn’t what Jesus said. In Luke 17:6 He taught that even if we have the tiniest amount of faith, we have the power to tell a tree to move and plant itself in the sea—and it will. In other words, the answers to our prayers don’t only rely on how much faith we have.

Luke tells us about a Roman soldier with “great faith” (LUKE 7:9). His trust in God was first shown when he asked Jesus to make his dying servant better (V.3). Then it was shown when he recognised that Jesus could heal his servant anytime, anywhere. The soldier did not ask Jesus to do things his way.

Faith doesn’t just trust what God does, but who God is. When it feels like God isn’t answering us it might be that God is doing things in a different way.

He knows best what we need and when. Or it may be that our timing is not His timing, or He has some far greater plan in mind. Let’s remember, even Jesus prayed to His heavenly Father, “Not my will, but yours be done” (LUKE 22:42). Do we have the soldier’s great trust in who Jesus is—a trust that CPH lets God do His work in His way?

Want more . . . ?

Why not read Why doesn’t God answer me? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingdeeper

GOD’S ANSWERS ARE WISER THAN OUR PRAYERS.

DAY 57

DANGEROUS FREEDOM Bible: Galatians 5:1-21

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh (V.13).

F

Reading

reedom is dangerous in the hands of anyone who doesn’t know how to use it. That’s why criminals are shut in prisons with steel bars and concrete barriers. Or think about a campfire that is allowed to spread in a dry forest. It quickly becomes a blazing inferno.

Nowhere is this more obvious than in the Christian life. We are free from the Old Testament law’s penalty and its power to call us guilty. Stress, anxiety and guilt are replaced by peace, forgiveness and freedom. But here is where we often fail. We sometimes use our new freedom to live selfishly. We start to do what we want because we’ve already got our place in heaven booked.

The proper use of freedom is “faith expressing itself through love” to serve each other (GALATIANS 5:6,13). When we rely on God’s Spirit and focus our energies on loving God and helping others, our selfishness that causes so much pain will be kept in check by God (VV.16-21). So let’s always use our freedom to spend more time helping others out, rather than making more of a mess.

Like a raging fire, freedom without limits is dangerous. But when lived DDH within the Bible’s teaching, it’s great for everyone.

Notes

FREEDOM DOESN’T GIVE US THE RIGHT TO DO WHAT WE WANT, BUT TO DO WHAT GOD WANTS.

DAY 58

ARMED Bible: Ephesians 6:10-18

Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes (V.11).

P

Reading

aul wrote these words towards the end of his life: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 TIMOTHY 4:7).

Years earlier, Paul had told the other Christians to put on the armour of God that would help them to stand firm in their daily battles and problems.

He knew the importance of wearing that armour every day.

In his life for Jesus, Paul had been whipped, beaten, stoned and imprisoned. He was often hungry, thirsty, cold and tired (2 CORINTHIANS 11:22-28).

Strapping on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit (the Bible) allowed Paul to stand against all the lies, guilt and pain the devil threw at him (EPHESIANS 6:14-17). With God’s armour on, we too are fully covered and ready for whatever today brings. What is this armour? Our relationship with God! He “is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold” (PSALM 18:2).

Today might be a tough one. So make sure you’ve talked with God, fixed your eyes on Him and put on the armour He’s given you. He will keep us VG standing.

Want more . . . ?

Why not read What is the armour of God? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingdeeper

GOD’S ARMOUR IS MADE FOR YOU, BUT YOU MUST PUT IT ON.

DAY 59

WHAT WE CAN DO Bible: Philippians 2:1-11

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus (V.5).

E

Reading

ven though stuck in his bed, ninety-two year old Morrie Boogaart knitted hats for the homeless. He had reportedly made more than 8,000 hats in fifteen years. Instead of focusing on his health or limits, Morrie did what he could to put the needs of others above his own. He said that his work made him feel good and gave him a purpose. He said, “I’m going to do this until I go home to God”—which happened days later. Though most of the people wearing his hats won’t know his story, Morrie’s simple act of love is now inspiring people across the world.

We too can look past our problems and weaknesses to put others first and copy Jesus’ love (PHILIPPIANS 2:1-5). God in skin—the King of kings—took on the “very nature of a servant” in total humility (VV.6-7). Giving His life—the ultimate sacrifice—He took our place on the cross (V.8). Jesus gave everything for us all “to the glory of God the Father” (V.11).

As followers of Jesus, we can show love and care for anyone we meet today. Even if we think we don’t have much to offer, we can be like Morrie and just do what we can. If we’re ready to do that, then we can be sure that XD God will use us today to make Jesus known.

What I’m thankful for . . .

Father, thank You for reminding us that we can make a difference when we’re simply loving others with our words and actions one day at a time.

WE CAN SHOW JESUS’ LOVE BY DOING WHAT WE CAN TO SERVE OTHERS.

DAY 60

CONNECTING WITH GOD Bible: Psalm 63:1-8

Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you (V.3).

I

Reading

listened as a Christian speaker shared how he had met Jesus and understood how great His love is. As a young boy, he lost his mum suddenly in a car accident. Because of this, he closed himself off to everyone else—including God. Several years later he finally trusted Jesus as his Saviour and began to learn about what it means to follow Him. Yet his relationship with God in those days was, as he said, “side by side rather than face to face. Important, but not close.”

Do you ever feel that way? You talk to God a little bit, read His words in the Bible, but don’t feel an exciting, close connection with Him like David wrote about in Psalm 63. That speaker offered two ways to enjoy a close, growing relationship with Jesus.

Live honestly. Open up to God about the pain you feel, the mess you’ve made and the needs you have. “Come near to God and he will come near to you” (JAMES 4:8; SEE ALSO 1 JOHN 1:9).

Take time to read what the Bible says about God’s love for you. “Your love is better than life” (PSALM 63:3; SEE ALSO PSALM 139 AND EPHESIANS 1:3-6). Being in a close relationship takes time and effort—even when it’s with God. Let’s AC give our relationship with God our attention today.

Thinking it over . . .

How often do you spend time alone with God? Do you turn off your phone when you’re talking with Him? Is there ever any time when He has your focused attention?

CONNECTING WITH GOD MEANS DISCONNECTING FROM EVERYTHING ELSE FOR A WHILE.

DAY 61

NO GRUDGEST AFTER SUNSE Bible: Psalm 4:1-5

Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry (EPHESIANS 4:26).

A

Reading

boy got into a fight with his brother. The whole thing left him in a bad mood. When his brother wanted to make things right, he didn’t listen. In fact, he wouldn’t speak to his brother all day.

Bedtime came, and their mum said to the boy, “Don’t you think you should forgive your brother before you go to sleep? Remember, the Bible says, ‘Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry’ ” (EPHESIANS 4:26).

The boy looked confused. He thought for a few moments and then asked, “But how can I keep the sun from going down?”

He reminds me of us. Sometimes we get angry at people and hold grudges. We know we should forgive people and make things right—but we just don’t want to. So we bury our feelings down really deep and ignore what the Bible says.

Sure, we can’t change how another person feels or what they do, but we can pay attention to our own attitude towards them. The Bible says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (EPHESIANS 4:32). We must do our bit; we can at least offer to start over, even if they then say no.

No, we can’t keep the sun from going down. But we can keep it from setting on our anger. And that means we must be ready to forgive and do our RDH best to work things out with each other.

Want more . . . ?

Why not read How can I deal with my anger? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingdeeper

FOR EVERY MINUTE YOU ARE ANGRY, YOU LOSE SIXTY SECONDS OF HAPPINESS.

DAY 62

THE QUIET EXAMPLE Bible: 1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1

Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ (V.1).

W

Reading

hen a ten year old watched her school football team for the first time, she was impressed. She noticed one of the girls on the team and how hard and how well she played. Although the girl on the pitch had no idea of the impact she was making, she challenged that little girl to train harder and try to be a better player herself.

This kind of quiet influence should be happening in our churches. Paul set the tone for us when he told his readers to “follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 CORINTHIANS 11:1). As we get involved in our church, or as we spend time with others outside the church, we often have no idea how closely we are being watched—we’re always setting an example to someone, even if we don’t realise it. But if we, as Paul said in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “do [everything] for the glory of God,” others will see our love, our patience, our kindness and all of the other ways we put Jesus first. Quietly, without any fuss, we can help someone else decide to come closer to Jesus as well.

Aware that others may be watching, let’s make sure we’re doing everything DB for Jesus. Who knows who may be watching and learning from us!

To pray about . . .

God, help me to follow Jesus’ example wherever I am and whoever I am with.

Please use me today to bring others closer to You.

A GOOD LEADER IS SOMEONE WHO DOESN’T JUST KNOW THE WAY BUT ALSO SHOWS THE WAY.

WORSHIPPING WITH QUESTIONS

DAY 63

Bible: Psalm 13

I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation (V.5).

“A

Reading

re we nearly there yet?” I used to hate long drives. I’d always yell that out from the back of the car, even if it had only been five minutes since I last asked!

But it’s not just on long journeys that we ask this kind of question. We feel like yelling “Are we nearly there yet?” to God when things are hard and we’re trying to get through difficult problems. Am I nearly at the end of this mess? When are You going to step in and answer me?

This was the case for David in Psalm 13. Four times in two verses, David—who felt forgotten, alone and defeated—cried out “How long?”

“How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” (PSALM 13:1). Psalms like this one seem to give us permission to come to God with questions of our own, even in our times of praise and worship. After all, what better person to talk to during stressful times than God? We can bring our struggles with illness, school, exams, friends and family to Him. Worshipping God doesn’t stop when we have questions. The allpowerful God of heaven wants and welcomes us to bring our big questions to Him. And when we do, it’s another form of worship—it shows we respect, love and trust Him enough to want to talk things over with Him. And perhaps like David, in time, our questions will be transformed into AJ deeper trust and praise (VV.3-6).

What I’m thankful for . . .

Father, thank You that I don’t have to stop worshipping when I have questions; I can worship You with my questions.

GOD HEARS AND WELCOMES OUR PRAISE AND OUR QUESTIONS.

DAY 64

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D O G S I O H W Bible: Exodus 34:1-9

The Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love . . . Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished (VV.6-7).

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Reading

hat’s going on with God in the Old Testament? He’s so angry and violent.

If He’s not flooding the earth then He’s blowing up entire civilisations or telling His people to invade enemy cities. Yet after about a 400 year break, once the Old Testament has finished, Jesus arrives. And everything feels different. “God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him” (JOHN 3:17). What?! Where did that come from? Did God switch personalities? Or is the New Testament run by a new God entirely?

God has always been God from before the beginning; He hasn’t changed. God describes Himself as merciful and gracious, but “he does not leave the guilty unpunished” (NUMBERS 14:18).

Those who only see God as an angry and demanding judge don’t want to go anywhere near Him. Those who see God as a kind-hearted granddad just get bored by Him and assume He’ll let everyone into heaven.

That’s why we need the whole of the Bible to help us understand the real depth of who God is. He is “the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love . . . Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished” (EXODUS 34:6-7).

Where do we make sense of God’s love and His judgement? On the cross CW where Jesus took on all God’s judgement for us, out of His great love.

Want more . . . ?

Why not read Is God the same in the Old and New Testament? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingdeeper

GOD IS GOD ALONE.

DAY 65

ASKING FOR HELP Bible: Mark 10:46-52

“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him (V.51).

H

Reading

er message arrived late in the evening, after a long day. I was tired and couldn’t be bothered to open it. I had been helping look after someone in my family who was very ill. I didn’t have time for anything else.

The next morning, however, when I tapped my friend’s message open, I saw this question: “Can I help you in any way?” Feeling embarrassed, I started to answer no. Then I took a deep breath to pause. I realised that her question sounded familiar.

That’s because Jesus asked it. Hearing a blind beggar call out to Him, Jesus stopped to ask this man, named Bartimaeus, a similar question: Can I help? Or as Jesus said: “What do you want me to do for you?” (MARK 10:51).

The question is amazing. It shows Jesus wants to help us. But first, we’re invited to admit that we need Him—a humbling step. The beggar Bartimaeus was needy, poor, alone, hungry and without much hope. But wanting a new life, he simply told Jesus his most urgent need. “Rabbi,” he said, “I want to see” (V.51). Jesus healed him straightaway.

My friend’s question needed an honest, direct answer too. So I told her my most urgent need: prayer for the challenging days I was facing. Do you know your most urgent need today? When a friend or someone at church asks if they can help, share your need. And always share it with God. These EM things aren’t meant to be kept hidden.

To pray about . . .

Father, I am needy. I want to share my problems with You now.

Help me to humbly ask for support from others as well.

GOD OPPOSES THE PROUD BUT SHOWS FAVOUR TO THE HUMBLE. JAMES 4:6

DAY 66

MARY’S REACTION Bible: Luke 1:46-55

My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour (VV.46-47).

H

Reading

ow do you feel when God tells you to do something? Or you know you need to make a stand for Him in a situation—like saying no to a friend’s invite or looking out for the kid in class who’s always being picked on? Do you feel sick? Or stressed? Do you try to find a way out?

I love Mary’s joyful reaction to the news that she would be the mum of God’s chosen Saviour. If anyone had reason to freak out, it was her. She was a teenager, unmarried and not in a part of the world that treated teenage pregnancies well. God had put her in a really stressful place.

But Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour . . . For the Mighty One has done great things for me” (LUKE 1:46-49).

Wow! Mary was caught up in everything God was doing; her focus was on Him, His faithfulness and His plan.

How did she manage to keep this focus when her life was about to change forever? Mary was thankful for her own salvation (V.47). And she looked back over God’s care for His people throughout history, praising Him for His mighty power (V.51). Mary also thanked God, knowing her daily needs were met by Him (V.53).

What’s God leading you to do today? No matter what opportunity or challenge that comes along, we can react like Mary. Let’s remember all that God has done for us and is doing in our lives, then we’ll be ready to move LS forward with Him too with praise and excitement.

Thinking it over . . .

Why not make a list of all the things God has done for you recently?

And think about who you could share it with.

WHEN GOD TELLS US TO ACT, WE DON’T NEED TO BE AFRAID.

DAY 67

EXPECT DELAYS Bible: Proverbs 16:1-3,9

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps (V.9).

A

Reading

re you kidding me? We were already late. But the road sign ahead said: “Expect Delays.” Traffic was coming to a standstill.

I expect things to work on my timeline; I don’t expect problems.

This is the same for our walk with God too. Not many of us actually plan for things to go wrong or slow us down. We don’t plan to go through tough times with God. We expect things to run smoothly. But we all know how quickly things come along to knock us down. Delays happen.

Solomon never saw a sign that said, “Expect Delays.” But in Proverbs 16, he compares our plans with God’s. I heard one person describe the teaching of the chapter like this: “People make big plans, but God has the last word.”

Solomon makes his point very clear where he adds that even though we “plan our course . . . the Lord establishes [our] steps.” In other words, we have ideas about what’s supposed to happen, but sometimes God has another way He wants us to go.

But I often forget this truth! I set my own path, sometimes forgetting to ask God what His plans are. I then get annoyed when interruptions come up.

Instead of getting cross or stressed when the unexpected happens, we could, as Solomon teaches, grow in simply trusting that God guides us, step by step. Let’s keep talking to God about our plans, ask for His leading and let AH Him redirect us as He wants.

To pray about . . .

Father, I struggle when I face unexpected problems and issues.

When I start getting frustrated, help me to trust You instead.

LET’S TRUST GOD TO GUIDE OUR WAY.

LOOKING OUT FOR T S E L L A M S E H T

DAY 68

Bible: Luke 14:15-23

God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things (1 CORINTHIANS 1:28).

T

Reading

he video showed a man kneeling next to a busy road. A fire in a nearby farmer’s field had got out of control and was burning all along the bushes and trees by the side of the road. The man was clapping his hands and shouting for something to come to him. What was it? A dog? Moments later a bunny hopped into the picture. The man scooped up the scared rabbit and ran to safety.

How did such a tiny rescue make it as a big news story? That is why.

There is something gripping about care shown to even the tiniest things. It takes a big heart to make room for the smallest creature.

Jesus said the kingdom of God is like a man who gave a big feast and made room for everyone who was willing to come. Not just the movers and shakers but also “the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame” (LUKE 14:21). I’m thankful that God takes a big interest in the weak and the ‘nobodies’ of the world, because otherwise I’d have no shot. Paul said, “God chose the weak things of this world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things . . . so that no one may boast before him” (1 CORINTHIANS 1:27-29).

How big must God’s heart be to save a small person like me! Whilst I’ve known Him, how large has my heart grown to be? I can easily tell, not by how I impress the ‘popular people’, but by how I look out for the ‘nobodies’—as MW He does.

To pray about . . .

Father, please help us to love others the way You do, no matter how ‘small’ they seem.

GOD LOVES THE LOWEST PEOPLE, AND SO MUST WE—BECAUSE SO ARE WE.

DAY 69

STILL THE KING Bible: Psalm 74

Rise up, O God, and defend your cause (V.22).

O

Reading

ne news report called it “the single deadliest day for Christians in decades”. The violent and bloody attack on Christians in their church was just too horrible to believe. When we hear and see stories like this from around the world, we just can’t understand what’s going on. But we can find some help from others who know this kind of pain well.

Most of the people of Jerusalem were in exile or had been killed when Asaph wrote Psalm 74. Writing in his pain and sadness, he described the destruction of the temple at the hands of the invaders. “Your foes roared in the place where you met with us,” Asaph said (PSALM 74:4). “They burned your sanctuary to the ground; they defiled the dwelling place of your Name” (V.7).

Yet the psalmist found hope even as he wrestled with what had happened—showing that we can do the same. “But God is my King from long ago,” Asaph said. “He brings salvation on the earth” (V.12). This truth helped Asaph to praise God’s mighty power even though He didn’t seem to be doing anything at that moment. “Have regard for your covenant,” Asaph prayed.

“Do not let the oppressed retreat in disgrace; may the poor and needy praise your name” (VV.20-21).

When terrible things seem to be happening without an end in sight, God’s love and power are in no way held back. With Asaph, we can TG confidently say, “But God is my King.”

To pray about . . .

Father, with Asaph we pray for You to be made known.

Show Yourself strong and loving. Rise up and defend Your people.

GOD WILL DEFEND HIS PEOPLE.

DAY 70

A CONSTANT HELPER Bible: John 14:15-26

[The Holy Spirit] will remind you of everything I have said to you (V.26).

A

Reading

fter a spinal injury left Marty paralysed, he decided to go back to university to earn his degree. Marty’s mum, Judy, helped him along the way. She sat with him through every lecture and study group, making notes and keeping him going. She even helped him onto the platform when he was handed his degree certificate. What might have been impossible became a reality with the constant help of his mum.

Jesus knew His friends would need a similar kind of support after He left the earth. When He told them He was about to leave, He said they would get a new kind of connection with God through the Holy Spirit. This Spirit would be a helper for every second of every day—a teacher and guide who would not only live with them but also be in them (JOHN 14:17,26).

The Spirit would give Jesus’ friends help from God, keep them going through everything and give them the confidence to talk about Jesus to everyone. In difficult moments the Spirit would remind them of everything Jesus said to them (V.26): do not let your hearts be troubled; love one another; I am the resurrection and the life.

Are you facing something that’s too hard to deal with on your own? You can rely on the Spirit to be with you all the time. God’s Spirit working in you JBS will keep you going and bring Him the glory He deserves.

What I’m thankful for . . .

Dear God, thank You for the Holy Spirit living in me. Help me to rely on Your Spirit each day.

WITH GOD’S ALMIGHTY SPIRIT IN US, WE NEVER NEED TO SAY, “I CAN’T.”

DAY 71

CHANGING SIDES Bible: Ephesians 2:1-10

But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions (VV.4-5).

I

Reading

n the 1700s, John Newton went to sea with his dad on a trading ship. Soon after his dad retired, Newton was forced to work on a warship. Living in awful conditions, he ran away and later began to work on a slave ship that was setting sail for Africa.

Newton hardened himself to the horrific slave trade, and eventually he became captain of his own slave ship. On 10 May 1748, however, his life was changed forever. His ship was hit by a violent storm. Just as it seemed that they would sink, Newton cried aloud, “Lord, have mercy upon us!”

That night in his cabin, he began to talk to God for the first time. He realised he needed God, not just in the storm, but for everything. While in West Africa he trusted Jesus for himself, and then everything changed. He left the slave trade and actually became a church leader. He is most remembered for his much-loved hymn “Amazing Grace”, which is often sung in churches even today.

God’s Spirit shows us the sin in our lives and gives us the power to change from death to life (EPHESIANS 2:4-5). When we trust Jesus for ourselves, we switch teams—everything changes. God does for us what we are unable DF to do in our own strength. He makes us “alive with Christ” (V.5).

Want more . . . ?

Why not read Can I switch teams? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingatlife

HE HAS RESCUED US FROM THE KINGDOM OF DARKNESS AND TRANSFERRED US INTO THE KINGDOM OF [JESUS]. COLOSSIANS 1:13 NLT

DAY 72

LOVE AND PEACE Bible: Psalm 16:1-11

You will not abandon me to the realm of the dead . . . You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence (VV.10-11).

I

Reading

t always amazes me the way love and peace—powerful, unexplainable peace (PHILIPPIANS 4:7)—can somehow fill us even in our deepest pain. I experienced this at my dad’s memorial service. As a long line of sympathetic people passed by offering kind words, I was relieved to see a good friend.

Without a word, he simply wrapped me in a big hug. His quiet understanding filled me with the first feelings of hope during that difficult day, a powerful reminder that I wasn’t as alone as I felt.

Joy, as David describes it in Psalm 16, isn’t just a decision to bottle up pain during hard times; it’s more like a gift we can’t help but have when we hide in our good God (VV.1-2).

We could react to the pain that loss brings by distracting ourselves.

Sometimes we think other things, people or stuff will keep the pain at bay.

But sooner or later we’ll find that trying to avoid our pain only brings deeper pain (V.4).

Or we could turn to God, trusting that the life He’s already given us— even in its pain and even when we don’t understand it—is still good (VV.6-8).

And we can rest with Him, knowing He will carry us through our pain and MB give us real joy that nothing will be able to take away (V.11).

What I’m thankful for . . .

Father, thank You for the way You hold us in both our happiness and pain.

Help us to turn in trust to You when things are hard.

GOD’S LOVE CARRIES AND HOLDS US THROUGH OUR PAIN.

DAY 73

PERMANENT Bible: 2 Corinthians 2:17-3:3

You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts (V.2).

A

Reading

t school I once wrote an essay about how much money was being spent on a sport’s ground in our local area—and how that money could have been spent better to help the community. My teacher liked it and told me to send it to the local newspaper. And they printed it as a guest column! I was really excited to see my writing in the paper. Today . . . well, that article is long forgotten.

We all want to do stuff that will last. Whether it’s writing, painting, acting or anything else. We want to do something that will put our names in the history books; something that will remind the world that we were here.

But so few people actually manage this. So should we give up?

When Paul wrote letters on specific issues to local churches, he probably had no idea his words would be kept for us 2,000 years later. Yet God still uses those letters to encourage and instruct us today. Sure, that shows Paul’s writing was very valuable, but think about this: even if God hadn’t used him to write those letters, Paul’s work would still have had unending value. “You yourselves are our letter,” he wrote to the Corinthian Christians, “written on our hearts, known and read by everyone” (2 CORINTHIANS 3:2). The people—not what got printed—were what mattered most.

So be encouraged! As we live for Jesus and look out for His people, anything we do will make a difference that will last. We are never forgotten TG

by Him.

To pray about . . .

Remind me today, Father, of how much people matter to You. Help me live

by Your ways, not my own.

WHEN WE LIVE FOR GOD, WHAT WE DO LASTS FOREVER.

DAY 74

WELCOMING STRANGERS Bible: Deuteronomy 10:12-19

You are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt (V.19).

W

Reading

inters in one of the poorest countries in Europe (which I visited recently) can be hard, with deep snow and freezing temperatures making life even more difficult. But Christians there try to make others feel welcome by creating footpaths in the snow that lead to their homes. These paths invite neighbours and strangers to a place of warmth and welcome in a land where the weather and a lack of money can keep people apart.

These Christians live out the welcome that God wanted His people, the Israelites, to show. He instructed them “to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul” (DEUTERONOMY 10:12). How could the Israelites live out this command? The answer comes a few verses later: “You are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt” (V.19). By welcoming strangers, they would be serving and loving God; and in caring for them, they would show their trust in Him. Our lives might be very different from the Israelites, but we too can live out our love for God by being welcoming. Whether through inviting classmates we don’t know that well to come over, or just making time for others during ABP school, we can show God’s welcome wherever we go.

Notes

CHRISTIANS SHOW GOD’S LOVE THROUGH THE GIFT OF WELCOME.

DAY 75

SILENCE PLEASE Bible: Psalm 46

Be still, and know that I am God (V.10).

O

Reading

ur world is noisy. There’s a lot going on. But one news site says scientists have found a way to make total silence: “Scientists have shown off the blueprint for a ‘sound cloak’, which could make wearers [cut off from] all sound waves.

The technology could be used to build sound-proof homes, silent school halls or, perhaps more worryingly, stealth warships.

When we want a quiet place for our time with God, we may wish we had a ‘sound cloak’ to block everything and everyone out for a bit. But even if we could silence everything else, the noises within us of worry and stress would still distract us. We are told: “Be still, and know that I am God” (PSALM 46:10).

But how do we get to this point of stillness?

God understands our problem and has given us His own sound cloak. It involves swapping our cares for His peace. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7).

As we place our worries in God’s loving, powerful hands, we find a DF quietness that only He can give.

Notes

GOD GIVES PEACE WHEN WE REST QUIETLY IN HIM.

DAY 76

CUTTING LIKE A KNIFE Bible: Proverbs 12:17-22

The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing (V.18).

O

Reading

ur tongues can be like a Swiss Army knife when it comes to the variety of ways that we cut, hurt and bring each other down. The writer of Proverbs says, “The words of the reckless pierce like swords” (PROVERBS 12:18).

We’re often at our worst when we’re annoyed, irritated, tired or stressed. We get worn down by stuff and so our words get meaner. And as we cut with our words, we hurt our friends and upset our family. It’s no wonder that the list of things that God hates includes, “a person who stirs up conflict in the community” (PROVERBS 6:16-19).

How do we avoid ‘stirring’ things up? For starters, we need to watch what we say. Gossip and bad-mouthing people are out, and words that bring people down instead of encouraging them are also a no go. Boasting, lying and all the other ways we use words to put ourselves first need to be got rid of as well. In their place, words that show love and forgiveness, kindness and truth should be our go-to, in any situation. After all, where would we be if Jesus hadn’t spoken words of forgiving love to us?

So, put the ‘knife’ away and use your words to help others and show JS Jesus to them.

Thinking it over . . .

When are your words most likely to be unkind or cutting?

What can you be doing to make sure that you keep using kind words, even when you’re not at your best?

OUR WORDS CAN BUILD UP OR CUT DOWN.

DAY 77

BUSY Bible: Matthew 11:25-30

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (V.28).

P

Reading

eople who are trying to be friendly at church sometimes ask, “Are you keeping busy?” The question seems OK, but in my mind it can feel like pressure. If I can’t rattle off a list of things I’m doing and involved with, I feel as if I’m admitting that I’m not worth much.

But does God value us based on what we do and how busy our weeks are? Does He add up every school trophy we’ve won to work out our final worth? Does He reward us for being able to say we’re tired and too busy to really look after ourselves?

One of the first verses I learned as a kid was Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” It didn’t mean much to me at the time because I didn’t understand weariness. But now I often feel the need to keep pace with my friends, so I’m doing as much as them and won’t be left behind.

But followers of Jesus don’t have to live like that. When He set us free from sin and selfishness, He also set us free from having to prove ourselves.

He alone sets our value—children of God! Doing stuff and winning awards may make us feel important, but what makes us really important to God is simply that He loves us more than we can imagine. Because of His love, He is at work in us, making us look more JAL and more like Jesus each day (ROMANS 8:28-30).

OUR VALUE IS NOT MEASURED BY WHAT WE DO BUT BY WHAT GOD HAS DONE.

DAY 78

WHO’S WORTH IT? Bible: Luke 10:25-37

But a Samaritan, as he travelled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him (V.33).

O

Reading

ne of our big problems with caring for others is trying to work out if they deserve it. Who’s worth the effort?

Jesus told a story to answer that question, or as someone else put it: “Who is my neighbour?” (LUKE 10:29). Who’s worth me taking the time out to care for them?

Jesus told a story about a Jewish man who travelled on the dangerous road from Jerusalem to Jericho. As he walked, he was attacked, mugged, beaten and left for dead. A couple of religious leaders (the ‘good guys’) passed him, but they walked by on the other side, not wanting to help. But a Samaritan came along and took care of the wounded stranger.

Jesus’ listeners would have gasped at this because Jews hated Samaritans. The Samaritan could have also walked on by, because the man was a Jew. But he did not limit his kindness to those he thought were worth it. Instead, he saw a human being in need and decided to help him.

Are you limiting your kindness to the people you think are worth your time and attention? As followers of Jesus, let us find ways to show love to all MW people, especially to those we wouldn’t normally spend time with.

Thinking it over . . .

Who do you ignore or ‘pass by’ in your class?

How could you show them love today?

OUR LOVE FOR JESUS IS SHOWN IN OUR LOVE FOR OTHERS.

DAY 79

WHERE DO I START? Bible: Luke 11:1-10

I call on the Lord in my distress, and he answers me (PSALM 120:1).

A

Reading

few years ago, my family were driving down the motorway when the car died. We pulled over to the side of the road, got out of the car, and opened the bonnet. As everyone looked at the engine I thought, A fat lot of good this does any of us. We know nothing about cars. We don’t even know where to start!

That’s how we might sometimes feel about prayer: Where do I start?

That’s what Jesus’ friends wanted to know when they said to Him, “Teach us to pray” (LUKE 11:1). The best place to look for guidance is in the example and teaching of Jesus. Two questions you may have are: Where should we pray? Jesus prayed in the temple, in the desert (LUKE 4), in quiet places (MATTHEW 14:22-23), in the Garden of Gethsemane (LUKE 22) and on the cross (23:34,46). He prayed alone and with others. Look at His life, follow His example and pray wherever you are.

What should we pray? In the prayer that Jesus taught, He told us to ask that God’s name be honoured and that His will be done in our lives. Let’s ask for Him to lead us. And ask Him for our daily needs, for forgiveness and for help with the things we struggle with (LUKE 11:2-4).

So if you’re looking for a good place to start, follow the example of AC Jesus.

Want more . . . ?

Why not read What is prayer? online at ourdailybread.org/lookingdeeper

IF JESUS NEEDED TO PRAY, HOW CAN WE DO LESS?

DAY 80

MORE THAN BREAD Bible: John 6:25-36

Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill (V.26).

T

Reading

he people in John 6 wanted to live off Jesus. It wasn’t that they loved Him and wanted to follow Him; they wanted Him for what He could give them—food and good health! When Jesus fed the huge crowd with just a handful of fish and bread loaves, for them, it just proved what they could get out of Him. Jesus also knew that behind their interest in Him was their hope that He would become a different kind of king, so He “withdrew” from them (JOHN 6:14-15). The next day they looked for Him and found Him (VV.22,25-26). So they continued to follow Him because of what they thought He could give them. But Jesus turned the tables and told them that He was the Bread of Life (VV.32-33). They wanted a better life from Him, but He told them He came to offer them unending life (V.40). Only those who trust Jesus can find real satisfaction—now and forever.

Follow Jesus, not just because He can get you stuff and fix problems, but because He can satisfy your biggest need! He is our “bread” and meaning.

He alone leads us well through life. He alone gives us a secure future in MW heaven.

To pray about . . .

Jesus, I’m sorry I sometimes get side-tracked by just thinking about what I want You to do for me. Help me to focus again on who You are, Your love and Your purposes.

DON’T FOLLOW JESUS FOR WHAT HE CAN DO, BUT FOR WHO HE IS!

DAY 81

ENJOYMENT ?

OR ADDICTION Bible: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20

“I have the right to do anything,” you say . . . but I will not be mastered by anything (V.12).

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Reading

ow many hours a week do you spend on your phone? How many of those hours are just all about Instagram? And when does enjoyment of these things become addiction? When does it become too many hours?

I guess good and bad aren’t really measured in hours anyway. It’s not about how long we spend on our phones, but why we spend so much time on them. One guy recently explained: “When we keep doing something even though it’s bad for us, it generally shows we’re addicted.” Is there anything in your life that meets that description? Does your Instagram account only bring you sadness as you compare yourself with others? Yet you just can’t help but keep going back to it . . .

Paul warned about excusing what we do (especially if it’s bad for us) as just enjoyment, saying, “ ‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say . . . but I will not be mastered by anything” (1 CORINTHIANS 6:12). His words can guide us as we look at the grey areas in our lives, like our phones. Using our phones is absolutely fine. But being “mastered” or controlled by them is not.

It takes humility to admit that our enjoyment of anything has become an addiction. But if you realise there’s something in your life that’s taking over, talk to God about it—and share it with someone in your church. Don’t DM just let it get worse; now is the time to act.

Want more . . . ?

Why not read Just once more—and then I’ll quit . . . online at ourdailybread.org/lookingdeeper

JESUS CAN SET US FREE FROM ANYTHING THAT’S GOT US TRAPPED.

DAY 82

NOT FUNNY Bible: Philippians 1:12-20

Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted (2 TIMOTHY 3:12).

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Reading

s I was walking through a shopping centre, I came to a T-shirt stand. As I browsed the different tops, I noticed one with an upsetting message. It read, “So Many Christians, So Few Lions.” I know it would make quite a lot of people smirk. But that T-shirt, talking about a time when Christians were thrown to the lions in the Colosseum in Rome, wasn’t funny to me at all.

Being attacked for our trust in Jesus is no laughing matter. In fact, for many of us it is very real and very painful. No, we’re not thrown to the lions, but we are laughed at by friends, rejected by family and maybe even beaten up by the school bully.

Paul wrote, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted [attacked]” (2 TIMOTHY 3:12). Persecution is going to happen in some way to all of us, which makes it a very serious thing for us to think about. In fact, at this very moment Christians around the world are really suffering in Jesus’ name.

What can we do about it? Firstly, we can pray that God will comfort them in their suffering. Secondly, we can support anyone we know who’s having a hard time because of their walk with Jesus. Thirdly, we can pray now for bravery should we face persecution. When Paul was put in jail for his BC faith, his bravery kept many others going (PHILIPPIANS 1:14).

To pray about . . .

Father, You know everyone who is suffering today for following You; please give them Your strength and comfort.

And help me to be ready for whatever comes my way.

PERSECUTION ISN’T AN IF, BUT A WHEN. SO LET’S PRAY ABOUT IT.

DAY 83

COLLECTORS Bible: Matthew 6:19-21

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth . . . But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven (VV.19-20).

Reading

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love collecting football stickers each football season. It’s a fun hobby. Most of us like collecting—we like owning things, getting more films, music, clothes, games. It’s a bit uncomfortable to think that once we die, everything we own will become someone else’s. We can’t take anything with us—in the end, it counts for nothing.

Jesus had something to say about this. Speaking to His friends, He said: “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal” (MATTHEW 6:20).

Heaven’s treasures will never lose their worth. They can never be lost or stolen. And just think—we can actually build them up! How? Through love and kindness. Through leading others to Jesus. By caring for those in need.

By living in the ways of Jesus.

In the gospel of Mark, we read that Jesus tested a rich young ruler when He asked him to sell all that he had, give it to the poor and follow Him. The ruler’s reaction showed what he really valued: his stuff (MARK 10:21-22).

It’s easy to be focused on what we own and have, but when we make the choice to follow Jesus, He’ll show us the joy of collecting heavenly JS treasure. Nothing on earth can compare!

Notes

HOLD TIGHTLY TO WHAT LASTS FOREVER AND LOOSELY TO WHAT WILL SOON BE LOST.

DAY 84

TOUGH AND LOVING Bible: Psalm 37:30-40

Consider the blameless, observe the upright; a future awaits those who seek peace. But all sinners will be destroyed; there will be no future for the wicked (VV.37-38).

“E

Reading

very fool is quick to quarrel” (PROVERBS 20:3). “The name of the wicked will rot” (10:7). “Whoever hates correction is stupid” (12:1).

Is it right for the Bible to call people fools, wicked and stupid? Isn’t God all about love and kindness? After all, God is love. God is kindness. He created this world so that we could know Him and enjoy Him. Yet God reminds us that in His love He does not overlook the selfishness of our thoughts and actions. Those verses from Proverbs can remind us that while God is love, He has great expectations for us. Life is tougher than it needs to be for those who keep ignoring Him and doing things their own way.

Each harsh word in those proverbs has an opposite—an alternative that gives God’s preferred way to live. “It is to one’s honour to avoid strife” (20:3).

“The name of the righteous is used in blessings” (10:7). “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge” (12:1).

There’s always a choice in this life. Live God’s way and enjoy knowing Him personally—or live for yourself and get in a mess. That’s the truth about DB living in God’s world. Which do you choose?

To pray about . . .

Father, please help me to make good choices today.

I want to stick close to You and do things Your way.

THERE’S ONE BIG CHOICE TO MAKE IN LIFE: JESUS OR ME ?

DAY 85

LOVE Bible: 1 Corinthians 13 Love never fails (V.8).

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Reading

uring a church meeting, our church leader asked us to read 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 out loud, and swap the word “Jesus” in wherever it read: “love”.

It seemed so natural to say, “Jesus is patient, Jesus is kind. Jesus does not envy, Jesus does not boast, Jesus is not proud . . . Jesus does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth . . . Jesus never fails.”

Then he said, “Read the passage aloud and say your name instead of Jesus.” We laughed nervously. “I want you to begin now,” he said. Quietly, feeling ashamed I said the words that felt so untrue: “David is patient, David is kind. David does not envy, David does not boast, David is not proud . . .

David never fails.”

The exercise made me ask myself, How am I stopping God from showing His love through me? Do I think that other things, like what I achieve, are more important than love? Paul said that from God’s perspective things like speaking well, understanding the Bible, being generous and serving are worthless if they’re not done in love (1 CORINTHIANS 13:1-3).

God wants to show His amazing love for others through us. Will we allow DM Him to do it?

Thinking it over . . .

When you read the description of love in 1 Corinthians 13, which bits do you struggle with the most?

Why not talk to God about these things today.

LIVING LIKE JESUS IS LOVING LIKE GOD.

DAY 86

” S ’ D R O L E H T “ Bible: Isaiah 44:1-5

The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children (ROMANS 8:16).

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Reading

etting ‘inked’ is really popular wherever you look. Some tattoos are so small that you barely notice them. Others—from athletes to actors to people in the street—have covered whole arms and legs with pictures, words and patterns. The trend seems like it’s here to stay. The tattoo industry netted over £2 billion in a single year recently—and just under another £50 million for all the removal work people then wanted.

No matter how you may feel about tattoos, Isaiah 44 gives a picture of people writing something on their hands: “The Lord’s” (ISAIAH 44:5). This ‘selftattoo’ ends a section of the Bible all about God’s care for those He had chosen (V.1). They could count on His help (V.2); and their land and children would enjoy His generosity (V.3). Two simple, powerful words, “The Lord’s”, show that God’s people knew they were His and that He would take care of them.

Those who come to God through trusting Jesus can confidently say of themselves, “The Lord’s!” We are His people, His sheep, His children, His inheritance, His home. These are the things we hold on to in the ups and downs of life. While we may have no physical mark or tattoo, we can be sure that we have been “marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit” (EPHESIANS 1:13). We can be sure we belong to Him (SEE ROMANS 8:16-17).

AJ

What I’m thankful for . . .

Father, the truth of Your love and care are all around me and Your Spirit lives within me. Thank You!

HOW CAN THE TRUTH THAT YOU BELONG TO GOD CHANGE HOW YOU LIVE?

DAY 87

STICKFIGURE LESSON Bible: 2 Corinthians 10:1-11

What we are in our letters when we are absent, we will be in our actions when we are present (V.11).

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Reading

friend of mine was leading our Bible study group. She started by drawing a stick figure on a sheet of paper. She wrote over it, “The private self”.

Then she drew a big circle around the figure, and named it “The public self”.

Her point was simple: we can be very different people depending on if we are with others or just on our own.

I paused during her lesson and wondered, Am I the same person in public that I am in private?

Paul wrote letters to the church in Corinth to encourage them and also challenge them about how they were living. As he neared the end of this letter (2 CORINTHIANS 10), he talked directly to the people who said he was different in private and in public. They said he was bold in his letters but weak in person (10:10).

While Paul knew a lot and could teach well, he didn’t always speak well.

“My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words,” he had written earlier, “but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power” (1 CORINTHIANS 2:4). But his later letter showed he was the same person in public and private, “Such people should realise that what we are in our letters when we are absent, we will be in our actions when we are present” (2 CORINTHIANS 10:11).

Are you the same person at school compared to the one you are at home when you’re alone in your bedroom? Are you the same person in prayer as EM the one chilling at a friend’s house?

To pray about . . .

Dear God, help me to be myself first to You in private, that I might then be the same person in public: Your child.

WHO ARE WE WHEN WE THINK NO ONE IS WATCHING?

DAY 88

HIDE AND SEEK Bible: Genesis 3:1-10

But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” (V.9).

“H

Reading

e’s going to find me,” I thought. I felt my little heart beat faster as I heard my five year old cousin’s footsteps round the corner. He was coming closer. Five steps away. Three. Two. “Found you!”

Hide and Seek! Most of us remember playing the game as little kids. Yet sometimes in life the worry of being found (or found out) isn’t fun, but terrifying. Run and hide. People may dislike what they see.

Living in this messed up world, and sometimes doing stupid things, we often end up playing a mixed up game of Hide and Seek with God. It’s more like a game of pretending to hide—because either way, He sees all the way through to our messy insides. We both know it, though we like to pretend He can’t really see.

Yet God continues to call to us: “Come out. I want to see you, even the stuff you’re hiding.” It’s similar to what He said to Adam and Eve, the first people to ever hide from Him: “Where are you?” (GENESIS 3:9). It was a warm invitation formed in a challenging question. God hadn’t lost Adam and Eve. He asked the question because He wanted them to ask it themselves—and realise they were in the wrong place and needed to come back to Him. It may seem far too risky to show God all of ourselves. But there, within the safety of our Father’s care, any of us, no matter what we’ve done or JB failed to do, can be fully known and loved

Thinking it over . . .

Read Psalm 32. Why was David hiding from God (PSALM 32:5)? And what did that lead to (VV.3-4)? What does it mean for God to be our “hiding-place” (V.7)?

DON’T HIDE FROM GOD—HIDE IN GOD!

DAY 89

A REFRESHER COURSE Bible: Exodus 33:1-11

You cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live (EXODUS 33:20).

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Reading

s God hidden? Is God silent? Is God unfair? Those questions troubled God’s people as they walked through the desert, even though they saw God looking after them every day and heard Him speak.

Today many treat God like a big, magic genie. We give Him a list of stuff we want sorting, then leave Him to it. If He doesn’t do it, we get mad and walk away from Him because He obviously doesn’t care. We could use a refresher course from the Old Testament to remind ourselves of how awesome God is.

One Christian author wrote, “The worst things I ever did came at a time when I lost my awe for God. . . . I quietly (and insanely) decided that God didn’t care and most likely wouldn’t get too involved if I were to ignore His commands.”

That same author said he realised living for God wasn’t a formula or a step-by-step plan. It is a relationship between a Father and child. But the Father is the awesome, mighty God of the universe! That should make us stop in amazement. It should make us very quiet before God, wanting to hear what He has to say and following Him as He sets the pace, not us. He is far, far greater than we are.

As God’s children, we may “approach God’s throne of grace with confidence” (HEBREWS 4:16). But let us remember just who God is and stay in awe of the One who calls us His children without us having to do anything.

PY

WORSHIPPING GOD MEANS REALISING HOW AWESOME HE IS.

DAY 90

TAKE ONE STEP Bible: Deuteronomy 30:15-20

Love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him (V.20).

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Reading

ne shopping centre posted colourful signs along the staircase that said: “Taking the stairs protects your heart.” Over six weeks the number of people who chose to walk up the stairs instead of taking the lift more than doubled. Researchers say that every step counts!

The Bible is filled with ‘signs’ telling us to do what God says and follow Him with everything we’ve got. Just before His people entered the Promised Land, He said to them: “I have set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction . . . Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life, and he will give you many years in the land” (DEUTERONOMY 30:15,19-20).

So often we hope our lives will change through something big happening.

In reality the only way we change is one step at a time, and every step counts. Today, let’s pay attention to the signs and take a step along the road DM with God.

Thinking it over . . .

What have you been learning about God recently?

How can this be another step along the road of walking with Him, getting to know Him better and becoming more like Jesus?

FOLLOW GOD ONE STEP AT A TIME.

FOCUS ARTICLE

CHANGING S R E Y A R P Y M CHANGED MY LIFE

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’ve noticed something about the way we sometimes pray: we ask God to come and join in what we’re doing.

Over and over again, I hear people asking for God to get involved in their studies, family life, dating and so on.

I’m the same. My prayers were often, “God, be involved in my life. Make this thing I’m doing work out OK”—until I heard a message at church one Sunday.

That day, the speaker talked about the importance of making ourselves available to what God is doing. That’s when it hit me. Though my usual prayers seemed humble and God-centred, in reality, I was acting as if my life were a stage that belonged only to me. I was the leading character, while God was just the guest I invited in for a few acts. My prayers placed God in the position of a helper, instead of the leader of my life.

The Bible reminds us that we are created for God’s purposes and praise (ISAIAH 43:7), all things serve Him (PSALM 119:91), and that “we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (EPHESIANS 2:10).

God is the owner and main character of our lives—He plays the starring role. Whether we can ‘feel’ Him or choose to involve Him, His place in our lives is certain and never changing. It’s our own limitations and shortsightedness that makes it sometimes feel like God is not here with us.

Realising this led me to change the way I pray.

Instead of asking for Him to come close and get involved, I ask Him to help me be more open to His leading and plans.

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Instead of asking Him to arrange things the way I want them to be, I ask Him to help me live my life for Him and what He’s doing.

Instead of asking Him to be involved in my life, I ask Him to involve me in His rescue mission in this world.

Interestingly, after changing the way I prayed, I found my prayers answered quickly—especially the one where I asked to be involved in God’s mission.

Someone I didn’t know offered me an opportunity to write as part of a youth ministry. Without hesitation, I said yes. It was so exciting to see God answering my changed prayers!

I am now involved in youth work where I use my writing to make God known. It is amazing to see the answers of my changed prayers.

“Take delight in the Lord,” says the psalmist, “and he will give you the desires of your heart” (PSALM 37:4). What I have found is the “desires” of my heart have changed. I no longer just want stuff for me, and for God to make it happen. I want the things God wants. I want to know Him better and better, and for my friends and family to trust Him. God loves to answer our prayers as we make Him the centre of who we are, matching our prayers up to His ways, His desires and what He’s doing as the main character in our lives (JOHN 15:7). ymi.today/changing-my-prayers-changed-my-life

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