Daily Grace
Childlike Dependence on Jesus
“And he said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven’ ” (Matthew 18:3). When I first read this I thought of the innocence and playfulness of children. They really bring joy to our lives. In some...
Jesus Comes to Our Rescue
“ ‘Lord, have mercy on my son,’ he said. ‘He has seizures and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water. I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him.’ ‘You unbelieving and perverse generation,’ Jesus replied, ‘how long shall...
See Yourself as God Sees You
I know my weaknesses and I’m aware of the areas in which I struggle. Even the boldest of us is taunted by our spiritual enemy with words like, “Who do you think you are? Why would God ever use you? Look at your weaknesses.” Maybe you’ve never faced those challenges...
Stay Focused
“Peter said to Jesus, ‘Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.’ While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, ‘This is my Son, whom I...
Facing the Unknown Future
“When you see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, and the Levitical priests carrying it, you are to move out from your positions and follow it. Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before” (Joshua 3:3b-4a). As Joshua...
Move the Fence
Some people are easier to love than others. However, Jesus didn’t leave room for any of us to screen out people we don’t like. An amazing picture of God’s grace is that He loves everyone. Jesus died for us while we were sinners; He died for everyone. The gift of...
Following Jesus
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me’ ” (Matthew 16:24). This doesn’t mean Christians are to be down-in-the-mouth. Far from it. The New Testament says God gives us “richly all...
Knowing Who Jesus Is
“ ‘But what about you?’ he asked. ‘Who do you say I am?’ Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God’ ” (Matthew 16:15-16). There was drama as Jesus came to Caesarea Philippi with His disciples. It was essential for Him to know that His...
Jesus is a Light for Everyone
“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel” (Luke 2:29-32)....