Category: Daily Devotions

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Daily Devotion – Willing Generosity

“In a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality … They gave of their own accord, begging us with much urging for the favor of participation in the support of the saints.” – 2 Corinthians 8:2-4 NASB

The churches of Macedonia had to endure afflictions and trials. They experienced stress and pressure and faced oppression and tribulation. They had many needs and struggled with poverty. It would have been understandable if they hoarded their resources and focused on themselves. But, instead, they demonstrated a remarkable spirit of generosity.

They focused on ways they could give to help others. They did not just give a little, but they gave above and beyond what Paul expected. And their actions were voluntary. They begged to be able to give!

What was their motive? They were generous and eager to give because they had dedicated themselves to the Lord. They were His and committed everything to Him. They were obedient to God’s commands to give generously to the work of the Gospel. They were willing to trust in Him for every need and every problem they faced.

The Bible urges us to be like these Macedonians. People in the world may be self-centered and only think about themselves. But God’s people should be sold out for Him. They should be sowing liberally into His Kingdom with their time, talents, and treasures – their “seeds.”

Seek every opportunity to give to God’s work. Don’t be reluctant, but give freely and with joy. Remember that He promises to multiply your gifts. Be confident that He will provide for your needs. Let Him use you to bless others and impact lives for His kingdom.

Prayer
Father, I desire to serve You with all my resources and abilities. I long to give to Your kingdom. I trust in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Extended Reading: 2 Corinthians 8
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Daily Devotion – Persistence

“Even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will get up and give him as much as he needs.” – Luke 11:8 NASB

Thomas Edison is considered one of history’s greatest inventors. Born on this day in 1847, he eventually held more than 1,000 patents for inventions with innovations ranging from the incandescent light bulb to the phonograph. Yet in his youth, he seemed destined for a life of failure.

One teacher told him that he lacked the intelligence to learn anything. He was fired from his first two jobs. He even failed as an inventor, making thousands of unsuccessful attempts at inventing the light bulb before eventually succeeding. But his persistence paid off!

Many can relate to Edison’s story. Some can’t seem to succeed at anything, leaving a record of disappointment. Others have been told that their plans can’t work, that they don’t have the necessary abilities. When doors close, they give up. But some, like Edison, persevere and are rewarded.

To encourage persistence, Jesus told a story about a man who went to a friend at midnight, asking for three loaves of bread. But the door was shut, and the family was in bed. The friend’s response: “I cannot get up and give you anything” (v. 7). But the man would not give up. Because of his persistence, the friend eventually gave him everything he needed.

As Jesus taught, ask and it will be given to you. Knock, and the door will be opened. Seek and you will find (Matthew 7:7). Stay persistent in your prayers and petitions.

Prayer

Father, I commit these issues to You: ________. I believe You for the answers. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Extended Reading

Luke 11

//Inspiration Ministeries//

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Daily Devotion – What We Regret

“For even though I did grieve you with my letter, I do not regret [it now], though I did regret it; for I see that that letter did pain you, though only for a little while.” – 2 Corinthians 7:8 AMPC

Looking back, Paul realized that he had caused pain by some things he had written to the Corinthian Christians. He didn’t enjoy hurting them in that way and even regretted some of the things he had written.

Yet he realized that what he wrote had been beneficial. Even though these believers were “pained” for a time, this led them to “repentance” (v. 9). God accomplished His purposes through what Paul had written.

All of us can relate to Paul’s struggle. We all, at times, say or do things that we later regret. Some of these words and deeds may, in fact, be used by God, and accomplish things for His Kingdom.

Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Spend a few moments thinking about your life. We spew hurtful words and actions all too easily. As you look back over the past, are there things that you regret saying or doing? Do you wish you had said or done things differently?

You don’t need to wallow in guilt, but it is important to learn from the past and act as God leads you. Ask Him to help you do the things that you wish you had done. If you have hurt people with your words, made mistakes, or committed sins, confess them, and ask for His forgiveness.

Don’t look back with regret. Allow God to help you to be faithful going into the future.

Prayer

Father, I don’t want to look back with regret. Give me Your priorities. Help me to stay faithful. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Extended Reading

2 Corinthians 7

//Inspiration Ministeries//

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Daily Devotion – Fragile Clay Jars

“We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves.” – 2 Corinthians 4:7 NLT

Paul confirmed this fact: Each of us will face various challenges. Some will be simple. Others will be complex. Some will be easy. Some difficult. We might have physical or financial needs or face stress on the job. We may experience conflicts in our relationships. Problems will continue even after we commit our lives to Jesus.

How do we react to this news? Unable to find solutions, we might feel like quitting or giving up. If we don’t reach our goals, we might feel discouraged or deserted or like failures. Our resources can seem too small. Our adversaries may seem too big.

As Paul told the Christians in Corinth, we should not be surprised by these experiences. We aren’t superhuman or infallible but just earthen vessels, like fragile clay jars. Instead of having all the answers, we might feel perplexed about what to do or feel pressured to do the right thing.

These are moments when we become conscious of our weaknesses and our need for God. In fact, in those moments we should turn to Him, confident we can depend on Him. We need to realize that He has everything we need.

If you experience challenges or go through difficulties, remember that you can depend on God. Don’t be discouraged, afraid, or worried. And don’t feel defeated. Call on God right now. He will not leave you. You can trust in Him!

Prayer

Father, thank You for the victory I have through Jesus. I will not be defeated or discouraged but hope in You. I praise You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Extended Reading

2 Corinthians 4

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Daily Devotion – God’s Loving Kindness

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His lovingkindness is everlasting. Give thanks to the God of gods, for His lovingkindness is everlasting. Give thanks to the Lord of lords, for His lovingkindness is everlasting.” – Psalm 136:1-3 NASB

 This psalm hammers home one point: God’s “lovingkindness is everlasting.” The message, in fact, is repeated in each of the twenty-six verses. Reading through this psalm, we have the opportunity to think about God’s love and faithfulness twenty-six times.This Hebrew word can be translated in several different ways. It has a depth of meaning that tells us so much about God – His nature and His attitude toward us. It announces that He is kind toward us and that His kindness is great. His kindness is without measure or limit. Moreover, it is a loving-kindness.His lovingkindness is everlasting, as is clear from everything He does and from His very nature. He demonstrated His lovingkindness through His creation, for He is the One “who alone does great wonders” (v. 4).He proves His faithfulness and love through the ways He protects, guides, and blesses us. He demonstrates His mercy by remembering us even though we don’t deserve His blessing. And He has given us food, clothing, and shelter.Repeatedly, God has shown himself to be faithful. Confirming His true character, He demonstrates that He is dependable. His mercy and faithfulness are eternal. His love and lovingkindness last forever. And He has a tender affection for us.Think about all the ways God has been faithful to you! How has He shown you His mercy and lovingkindness? Stop and thank Him!PrayerFather, thank You for all You have done for me. Thank You that Your lovingkindness is everlasting. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Extended ReadingPsalm 136		 
  
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Daily Devotion – Emotionally Involved

 “I made up my mind not to make another painful visit … I wrote to you out of much affliction and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to cause you pain but to let you know the abundant love that I have for you.” – 2 Corinthians 2:1, 4 ESV

Paul cared about the believers in Corinth. This was not superficial compassion but a genuine concern. He expressed the depth of his feelings with words filled with emotion. Paul conveyed emotions such as sadness and gladness, pain and joy, suffering and rejoicing, anguish, and abundant love.Paul acknowledged that, during an earlier visit, he had caused the Corinthians pain. As he contemplated a new visit, Paul remembered what he had written previously, when he wrote out of the affliction and anguish of his heart with many tears. This shows the love he had for them. His feelings were intense.Many people go through life thinking about people like statistics. They don’t see souls for whom Christ died, but they focus on numbers instead. Some people may have a measure of concern for others but then forget about them easily. Their interest is shallow with little depth.Our lives change when we are transformed by God’s Spirit and controlled by the love of Christ (Colossians 3:12). Then our hearts will burn with compassion for others. We will see people through the lens of love. We will genuinely care about them. We will have a real concern for each person. Our feelings will be inspired by the Spirit, expressed through the heart.Allow God to give you genuine compassion for others – both friends and foes, saved and unsaved, neighbors, and people in other lands.PrayerFather, here are people I’ve had a hard time loving: _______. I commit them to You. Give me a real love for them and others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Extended Reading2 Corinthians 2
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Daily Devotion: The Power of Prayer

“You also joining in helping us through your prayers, so that thanks may be given by many persons on our behalf for the favor bestowed on us through the prayers of many.” – 2 Corinthians 1:11 NASB

Paul did many mighty things. He preached before multitudes, healed the sick, performed miracles, and founded churches. Yet he was not immune from discouragement or doubt. He, too, went through tough experiences. He experienced “afflictions”; he admitted that he and his companions were “burdened excessively, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life” (v. 8).

Through these ordeals, he emerged victoriously. And he wanted the Corinthians to know that they helped him achieve victory. How? Through their prayers. He knew many had prayed for him. He wanted them to know that their prayers made a difference.

How easily we can take prayer for granted. We can look at world conditions and wonder if prayer really matters. We can think about needy people, suffering and in trouble, and not feel motivated to pray for them.

But Paul’s testimony proves that prayer is powerful. Prayer makes a difference. As Paul experienced, prayer can help open doors and convict people of sin. Through prayer, we can see miracles performed and lives changed. Through prayer, we can share the burdens of those in need and be an instrument in meeting those needs.

Today, recognize the power of prayer in your life. Do not allow your heart to be filled with doubt. Do not hesitate or delay. Pray with intensity and conviction. Know that your prayers make a difference in the lives of other people and the world. Remember, God answers prayer!

Prayer

Father, I commit these situations to You: _______. I believe You for the answers. Thank You for being faithful. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Extended Reading

2 Corinthians 1

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Daily Devotion – Burdens and Stress

“We were crushed and overwhelmed, and we thought we would never live through it … But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead.” – 2 Corinthians 1:8-10 NLT

Paul faced circumstances in which he felt crushed and overwhelmed. He found it difficult to endure pressure this great. Although a mighty man of God, things had gotten so bad that he thought he would “never live through it.”

Through these experiences Paul realized that God was teaching him a valuable lesson: He needed to rely on God and not on himself.

As he realized his own weaknesses, he could learn to depend on God. Paul realized that God can raise the dead. In other words, His power has no limits. He can do what seems impossible. If we trust Him, He can rescue us, provide for us, and turn hopeless situations into victories.

Paul also realized the power of prayer. He was rescued because the Corinthians prayed for him. He knew many people would give thanks “because God has graciously answered so many prayers” (v. 11).

Today, you may face situations in which burdens and pressures seem overwhelming. The Bible urges you to remember that God can use these experiences to help you mature in your faith. In your flesh, you may be weak, but He can give you overcoming strength and everything you need.

Keeping praying. Keep turning these situations over to God. Encourage others to pray for you as you pray for others. Realize that God can “raise the dead.” Remember, with Him, nothing is impossible. Put your trust in Him.

Prayer

Father, I face situations that seem overwhelming. I turn them over to You. Thank You that I can trust in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Extended Reading

2 Corinthians 1

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Daily Devotion – Wherever I Roam

“You generation, look to the word of the Lord. Have I been a wilderness to Israel, or a land of thick darkness? Why do My people say, ‘We are free to roam; we will no longer come to You'”? – Jeremiah 2:31 NASB

Growing up in Sweden, Carl Rosenius realized that many of his countrymen did not have a personal relationship with Jesus. This even was true of some church leaders. Many approached their beliefs as a religious obligation, even a political necessity.

Never ordained, Rosenius became a lay preacher, committed to helping people find a personal relationship with Jesus. He also edited a monthly publication that stressed the importance of faith.

He packed many of these principles into the hymns he composed. Born on this day in 1816, he described the friendship believers can have with Jesus in a hymn called “Whereso’er I Roam.”

No matter where he traveled, he knew that Jesus was a Friend ever with him “to cheer me, warning, comforting as none else could.” But more than a friend, Jesus was his Shepherd, ready to guide and provide for him and rescue him if he went astray.

That Friend supplied every need. In his flesh, he might have felt lonely at times, but Rosenius realized that Jesus “is ever near.” He promised, “I am with you always.” Such an amazing Friend!

His prayer was that Jesus would help him through life’s desert and give him the perspective to realize that “this life is fleeting.” He was confident that someday he would see Jesus face-to-face and “cry with joy, ‘My Lord and God!’” Remember that Jesus is with you. He loves you. He is your dearest Friend.

Prayer

Father, thank You that You are with me wherever I go. I trust in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Extended Reading

Jeremiah 2

//Inspiration Ministeries//

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Daily Devotion – Wisdom and Discernment

“When wisdom enters your heart, and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, discretion will preserve you; understanding will keep you, to deliver you from the way of evil, from the man who speaks perverse things.” – Proverbs 2:10-12 NKJV

Few politicians in history have been as crafty as the man we know as Talleyrand. Born in Paris on this date in 1754, his full name was Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, prince de Bénévent. As Talleyrand, he left an astonishing record of political survival fostered by habitual manipulation, often playing both sides of issues.

An ordained priest, he was instrumental in the French Revolution, but after being expelled from France, he lived for a time in Great Britain and the US. Somehow he gained favor again in France and returned to his homeland, where he became a leader in Napoleon’s government.

When Napoleon fell, Louis XVIII became king. Once again, Talleyrand rose to prominence as foreign minister of the new government until forced to resign. Then, continuing his shrewd scheming, he eventually helped bring Louis-Philippe to the throne, becoming influential. Again.

Today, many, like Talleyrand, seek to manipulate people for their own benefit. We find them in politics, business, and every segment of society.

The Bible describes how people like this have crooked ways and walk in devious paths. Yet we all can find ourselves influenced by these manipulators. We need to be on guard, armed with God’s wisdom and discernment, and sensitive to His Spirit.

The Bible promises that God can help you recognize deception and keep from being trapped and tricked by schemers. Seek Him for discernment. Make sure to base your life and decisions on His Word.

Prayer

Father, I need Your help. I cry out for wisdom and discernment. Help me to be on guard against those whose ways are devious. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Extended Reading

Proverbs 2