Kerusso Daily Devotional

Have you ever hunted and hunted for something—maybe your car keys, and you finally find them? The old saying goes (and it's very unhelpful!) that you find them in the last place you look.There's a lot of truth to that.It also is very relevant to our walk with Jesus. Often, we work really hard to solve our own problems, then we give in and ask Jesus for help.Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”As with every other promise in the Bible, the really cool thing about this is, it is true. The promises Jesus has made are literally true. So, for example, if you are looking for a solution to an impossible situation, ask Him. It works!Let's pray.Lord, forgive us for not placing our trust in you all the time. You are our sustainer, and we need to remember that. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

The Bible tells us that King Solomon was a very wise man. He ruled over his kingdom from Jerusalem, and built the famous Temple there.He was also very human.This son of King David eventually let his wealth and power go to his head, and he began to follow other religions and almost seemed to enjoy sinning. And yet God loved him. In his later years, Solomon realized how wrong he had been to rely on his own strength. And so scholars believe that's where the book of Proverbs was born. They come from a man weary of the cares of this life. A man ashamed of the mistakes he had made.Proverbs 3:5–6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all of your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”Proverbs is packed with amazing wisdom into right living, after perhaps one has been focused on other kinds of living.  Solomon learned the hard lessons as he fought his way back to a forgiving God whose mercies are eternal. That is a good lesson for us.Let's pray.Lord, your patience with us is humbling, and it is so appreciated. We thank you. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Do you feel like you're falling apart today? It's okay to say yes.Life is life, and we all have obstacles to overcome. Maybe your issue is ongoing, or maybe it's a sudden thing. But please think of it this way: Jesus is alive and He knows who you are—and He cares about you and your problems.Colossians 1:17 says, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”Jesus is not caught off-guard by problems in your life and most importantly, He truly cares for you and is able to help. Remember what the Bible says: Jesus holds everything together! And that includes you.If you're really struggling, tell Jesus. Then drink from the living water He provides. He was here at the beginning, He is present now, and He will be standing at the end of your road to welcome you home one day. Count on it.Let's pray.Lord, you've got all our stuff well in hand. God, help us remember that every day. It's in Jesus' name that we pray, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Do you find it hard to trust some people? Do you find it hard to trust anyone? Our society is full to the brim of people who have been hurt, wounded, and devastated. It puts up a wall and we live behind it in silence and fear.After the fall of Saddam Hussein in Iraq, the people of that captive country were free for the first time to tell their stories. One woman said that she had been driven nearly insane by the dictator's torture chambers, but when he was gone, someone shared the love of Christ with her. And her mind and spirit were restored. She said that for the first time in her life, she could now trust. It opened her heart to beauty and friendship and love. And most of all, she now loves her Savior with her whole, healed heart.Psalm 91:2 says, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Your situation might not be as extreme as our Iraqi sister, but if you have trust issues, take them to Jesus and tell Him with your whole hurting heart that you need Him. He will meet you where you are!Let's pray.Lord, your love heals all kinds of pain. We thank you that your mercies endure forever. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

There is a common metaphor of life being like a road, and with good reason. We are in essence walking a path in life, from beginning to end. For each person, the journey is at different times joyous, grueling, and full of wonder.2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”This week we're talking about walking by faith, something us as humans find difficult to do—especially when times get tough. Yet that is exactly the moment God uses to ignite our faith, and show us things we couldn't have seen before!In the Bible, there are many stories of people on journeys. Abraham, Hannah, Moses, and many more. If you've read any of those stories, you've noticed that God is with them every step. And sometimes the journey takes a long time…years.If you find yourself on a really hard road right now, remember that others have gone before you. They learned to trust God in tough times, and walk by faith.Let's pray. Lord, you are so good to us! You walk with us, and you carry us when necessary. We are grateful. Thank you, in Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Noah was far from perfect, but he was a humble man, and protective of his family. He stands out among fathers in the Bible as a man who remained loyal to God, in spite of the wickedness of the world around him.Doesn't that sound a lot like life today? Fathers who choose to follow a life of faith are surrounded by temptation and downright evil in this world, but God is pleased by our devotion, and He has a plan for each of us — even when circumstances are frustrating or difficult. Genesis 6:5–8 says, “The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. So, the Lord said, ‘I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.' But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.”The Bible tells us Noah, father of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, was a righteous man and walked faithfully with God. For this reason, God chose Noah to build an incredible ship—the ark—that would save not only mankind, but every variety of living creature on the earth—from peril.Sometimes, fathers feel like their job is a thankless one. They tackle the honey-do list on weekends, help with dinner, keep the kids in line, and help to wrangle them at bedtime...and maybe they don't hear ‘thank you,' or ‘great job,' often enough. But God knows everything you do for your family, from breadwinning to caretaking and everything in between, and He takes delight in your devotion to your family, and to Him.Deuteronomy 30:2–3 says, “And when you and your children return to the Lord your God and obey him with all your heart and with all your soul according to everything I command you today, then the Lord your God will restore your fortunes and have compassion on you and gather you again from all the nations where he scattered you.”Modern-day fathers can learn valuable lessons from Noah:God promises to bless and protect those who faithfully follow and obey him. A man who obeys the Lord will inspire faith in his children as well. Obedience is not a sprint but a marathon; It means a lifetime of faithful devotion, even (and especially!) when the going gets tough.Let's pray.Lord, thank you for calling out Noah's faithful obedience to you so many years ago, and for providing for the safety and provision of his entire family when the world had gone astray. Bless every father who hears this message, Lord, that they might grow closer in their walk with you, and inspire their children to follow in their footsteps. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Moses was the father of two sons, Gershom and Eliezer, and he also served as a father figure to the entire Hebrew people as they escaped from slavery in Egypt.He loved his people, and helped discipline and provide for them on their 40-year journey to the Promised Land. Imagine leading a frustrated, tired, hungry group of travelers through the desert—without air conditioning or handheld electronics—for four decades!So many aspects of Moses' life story seem larger-than-life, and he was indeed a hero of his time—but he was also merely a man. Moses' perseverance in the face of incredible challenges over the course of his life shows today's fathers that overwhelming tasks can be achieved when we stay close to God.Exodus 16:11–12 says, “The Lord said to Moses, ‘I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, ‘At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.'”The Israelites were afraid they would starve in the barren desert after fleeing Egypt, and complained to Moses that it would have been better if they had died by the Lord's hand in Egypt, where they had enough to eat— rather than to wander the desert without provisions. Imagine how frustrated Moses must have been! The Lord had miraculously saved the Israelites from slavery, and now they worried God wouldn't provide what they needed to survive.Through God's faithful guidance, Moses was able to shepherd the Israelites through 40 years of wilderness living. They quarreled with Moses. They accused him of leading them to disaster and ruin. They complained frequently—even after they had seen God's promises fulfilled. Yet still, Moses carried on. He brought every concern to the Lord, and with God's blessing and guidance, he was able to keep going.Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”Moses teaches fathers that with God, all things are possible. God answers prayer and desires intimate fellowship with every believer. No one can follow God's laws perfectly. We all need a Savior.Let's pray.Heavenly Father, sometimes parenting is exhausting! Thank you for the blessing of children, and we ask you to bless dads with patience to spare, and to make your presence known to tired dads in the trenches who need your wisdom, and your grace. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Picture what it would be like to lose everything in one fell swoop. Your house burns to the ground. The stock market plummets, and all your money is gone. Worst of all, your children fall ill and die. Suddenly, you've lost not only your material possessions but your family, too.When people refer to someone as having “the patience of Job,” they say that for a reason.Job was a man of immense wealth, the richest man in the region, and was the father of seven sons and three daughters he loved dearly. He was also a faithful servant of the Lord, and grateful for every blessing.In a terrible turn of events, Job lost his fortune in a single day. His crops, property, livestock, and servants were gone. Most devastating of all, Job lost his children. But Job didn't blame God. He accepted that God had a plan for him, and was patient as he waited for the Lord to reveal that plan. He knew that sometimes bad things happen to good people, and he continued to praise the Lord in the midst of trial.Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”Job lost everything, but he didn't take matters into his own hands to seek justice for what he had lost. He fell to his knees and worshipped the Lord, and then he was still. In the quiet of his soul, Job knew God had a plan, and in the end, God restored to Job twice as much as he had in the beginning.A godly man is patient.Let's pray.Lord, waiting is hard to do. Waiting for an answer. Waiting for resolution. Waiting for things to get better. Restore peace and patience as we grow in faith and learn to wait on you. We trust you. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Adam, a first-time father, looked down at his newborn son with love. Adam and his wife had made mistakes in the past and suffered greatly for it, but this child, their firstborn, was a chance to start fresh. The new family didn't have the support of friends or relatives, but they did their best, and figured it out as they went along.When the family was blessed with another son a few years later, they were so grateful to the Lord, and excited to watch their boys grow and play together. The family of four worked hard, loved God, and they were in it together. Sometimes, though, the sins of our past have a way of catching up with us.When Adam and Eve disobeyed God and were banished from the Garden of Eden, they plunged the world into sin. They couldn't have known at the time just how far-reaching the consequences of this event would be for their family—that their son Cain would one day grow jealous of his brother Abel's favor in the eyes of the Lord, and commit the very first murder.Adam, the first man and very first human father, has much to teach today's fathers about the consequences of our actions and the absolute necessity of obeying God. Micah 6:8 says, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”Lessons we can learn from Adam include:Obedience:God wants us to freely obey Him, to trust Him, and to submit to His love. A man who follows and obeys the Lord can be a child's first example of obedience.Integrity:Fathers with integrity know that nothing is hidden from God's sight. Even when no one is around, God sees our actions; men with integrity act accordingly. Responsibility:Godly fathers take responsibility for their own failures and shortcomings, rather than blaming others for their mistakes. The ability to accept responsibility is not a show of weakness, but a sign of strength.Let's pray.Heavenly Father, Adam, the first human father, had no blueprint for fatherhood. Thank you for the wisdom and knowledge we can glean from fathers before us in your Holy Word, the Bible. Uphold fathers, Lord, and open their eyes to your love, and your good plan for their family. Give them the support they need to follow you, and to humbly obey your commands. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

The story of the Prodigal Son is one we can all relate to. The Bible tells the story of a brash young man who leaves his home after asking for his inheritance. His loving father complies, and let's just say the son learns some valuable lessons on his travels.Eventually, he humbles himself and comes home; he needs his father and his family.It is really a story of Jesus and us.Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”We screw up sometimes. Maybe it's so bad we can't see a way back.That's when Jesus stretches out His arms and welcomes us home. He isn't as concerned with where we've been as He is with where we end up. His perfect love and forgiveness are the only real ointment for our self-inflicted wounds. If you think you've screwed up too much, or fallen too far, put that out of your mind and simply tell Jesus you need Him.Let's pray. Lord, your willingness to welcome us back to fellowship is something to behold. We are grateful for your grace. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

A lot of us like action movies. And if they have a faith theme or element, even better. The iconic film “Raiders of the Lost Ark” comes to mind. In fact, the wild ride taken by Indiana Jones really typifies what we're talking about this week: finding the grit to move beyond failure.As he pursues the famous Ark of the Covenant, Jones chases and fights Nazis, and his own doubts. Along the way, his physical and mental stamina are challenged like never before. Romans 5:3–4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”In a sense, Indiana was sorting out his faith, too, as he looked for the most famous relic of all time. For sure, in the end, he had enough evidence to believe in the God of the Bible.That's kind of the way faith is. We look at it with skepticism. Sometimes for years! But then something happens to us that we can't explain. Then we turn a corner on the street and there He is: Jesus.If you are wrestling with your faith, stop and go back to the source: think on who Jesus really is. Your Savior. Your path to glory will be worth it all!Let's pray. Lord, our journey to faith is not always smooth and straight. Thank you for sticking with us to the end. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Have you ever recorded minutes for a meeting? Whether you were taking notes at work or for a volunteer organization, such as the PTA at your child's school, taking minutes and reporting on them at a follow-up meeting is an important responsibility.What ideas were discussed?How were those ideas followed up on?Who, including yourself, agreed to complete certain tasks before the next meeting? And were those tasks completed on time, and correctly? Recording minutes looks pretty mundane from the outside, but this person ultimately holds colleagues accountable to their responsibilities.If someone was taking minutes on your life, what would those minutes say about you?Romans 14:12 says, “So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.”In this verse, Paul isn't talking about salvation; when you've given your heart to the Lord, He offers forgiveness and salvation freely. We can't earn or lose God's promise of eternal life for us. Salvation is a gift.Paul is talking about the judgment seat of Christ—a moment at the end of time when we will be accountable to Jesus for our actions. Did we create lasting value? Did we serve Him, and others, well? Were we ultimately responsible during our lifetime?As believers, our goal should be to leave lasting value, to impact others for eternity, and ultimately to take responsibility for the legacy we are leaving in the name of Jesus.A godly man is responsible.Let's pray.Lord, along with the gift of salvation comes the incredible responsibility of sharing the Good News with others. Thank you for loving us enough to sacrifice yourself for us, and for the gift of salvation. Help us each to be responsible for sharing that gift with others. We love you. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ means that we don't just sit in our houses and shut away the world.Scripture is an action item.Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”If the Bible is true—if God's story intersects with our story—then a hurting world is in need of a Savior. The pain many are enduring will have no end until they meet the God-Man, Jesus. He is our healer, and His glory fills the earth.We all have different personalities and various methods of engaging with others. But whatever personality God has given us, we are tasked with sharing the life-giving news of Jesus and His sacrifice.Get in the game and do that very thing! God has called you to share His salvation with anyone and everyone. Darkness can be oppressive. The Light has come!Let's pray. Lord, you showed up in our world at precisely the moment we needed you most. Help us tell others that eternal story. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

We “love” all sorts of things. We love a friend's new hairdo. We love pistachio ice cream and travel to exotic places. Many times, the word itself loses all real meaning. It's like homemade chicken soup without the chicken…and without the soup. 1 John 3:16–18 says, “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.” The Divine Word helps us yet again. Here we learn that true love means doing for others. Get involved. Don't just say you love your community. Show the community your love.Cleanup projects, running errands for a shut-in, taking your niece to the movies because her mother is working two jobs: you know what to do. You know the opportunities.Think you love those around you? Show them.Let's pray.Lord, there is so much good to do in the world! Please show us opportunities every day, so that we can put action to our words. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

As humans, we compartmentalize things. It's in our nature to make lists, and rank priorities, and really box certain things in. We've got our work-life over here, and our family life over there, and our faith...somewhere else. And this can often lead us to confusion about which direction we're supposed to go.This confusion even extends to our faith. We wonder: when am I supposed to pray, and when am I supposed to take action on my faith?Psalm 34:1 says, “I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”When we get the Word deep in our hearts, we can have an answer to our personal questions. This sweet psalm tells us that we are to always remember the great gifts Father God bestows on us. His greatness is ever before us and in this way, we can worship Him all the time, no matter what we are doing.Learn to bless the Lord and praise Him as you do your job, as you fellowship with others, and even as you engage with people who don't believe what you believe. They need to see the love of Christ shining through you.Let's pray.Lord, we bless you and praise you with our words. Thank you, Father, for never ever forgetting us. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15. 

Humans tend to see the world from a me-me-me perspective: What can I get out of this situation? How can I benefit from this?It's the same with being thankful.Not that we shouldn't focus on all that God does for us. That's important—even critical. But when you think about it, who should benefit most from our gratitude?The answer is: others.When we thank others and recognize the effort they took to do something for us, we should train ourselves to understand how it impacts them, not us. Thank them, and be specific: it takes a good heart and a values-driven person to help others.The gratitude we express is a kind of glue that bonds us together, long after the ‘thank you' has been delivered.Ephesians 1:15–16 says, “For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.”Let's pray.Lord, help us even in our gratitude to think of the other person first, and not so much about what we gain. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Today's message is really about taking the long view. The human attention span is short, like really, really short. Between the world wars, Winston Churchill warned Europe that Hitler was a threat to the continent at least, but people ignored him. And then when the Nazis turned violent, the people turned to Churchill as their prime minister. Having led the country through another costly war to preserve freedom, Churchill was defeated for reelection in the last days of World War II. It's like the people had forgotten his priceless contribution to world peace. He knew the war would take a long time and that it would be costly, and the people wanted to avoid thinking about it, and even later wanted it over quickly. And that's rarely how life works. Churchill returned as Prime Minister in the 1950s, but his experiences show that people mostly want short-term solutions. Working for the long goal is rarely popular. Jeremiah 15:15 says, “Lord, you understand. Remember me and care for me, avenge me on my persecutors. You are longsuffering. Do not take me away. Think of how I suffer reproach for your sake.” Here God is reminding us that often, we're required to stay in it for the long haul. Nowhere is this more true than in the pursuits of peace and contentment. That kind of thing is not built quickly, and not surprisingly too many people don't stay with it, and they stumble along looking for solutions in the wrong places.If you're in a bad place today, you're going to have to start with basic steps. Talk to Jesus and tell Him you're struggling. Maybe you have a vague sense of depression and just can't locate the direct cause. Take the example of people who did understand the source of true happiness, and were committed to seeing it through no matter how long it took. Abraham knew the value of prayer, and he waited for decades to have a son. Hannah was also unable to have children, but she prayed and stayed faithful, and eventually, God gave her a child and she felt fulfilled. Joseph spent years in exile in prison because of his brothers' actions, but his faith didn't waver. He actually found his contentment in the middle of these trials, and eventually, God restored his family, and all he had lost.  If you're depressed or ground down from money worries, or facing some other huge challenge—go to God right now and tell Him you need peace for your soul. Tell him you fully trust Him and will wait with as much patience and faith as you can. It's then you start the clock ticking on your difficult circumstances, and while you wait, your heart will be at rest. Let's pray. Father, thank you for the good gifts that we already have. Help us be grateful for those things that sustain life. We fully trust you to bring about our delivery from life's circumstances at precisely the moment you have chosen. Sustain our spirits on this journey, Lord. In Jesus' name, amen.  Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

There is a famous story in the book of John and it involves an act of amazing grace by Jesus. It changed one man's life forever. As we discuss walking by faith this week, make sure these stories find their way deep into your memory.2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, and not by sight.”In our story, Jesus meets a man blind from birth. He tells His disciples that, incredibly, the man will be the catalyst for God's glory to be displayed to all who know him. Jesus then puts mud on his eyes and tells him to go wash in a nearby pool of water.When he does, for the first time in his life, he can see! Simple faith released a miracle that lives through the ages.Notice that the man listened to the instructions of Jesus, and then made the decision to believe Him. By doing so, a whole new world opened to him.Darkness disappeared into light. And that can happen for us, too.Let's pray. Lord, you teach us always to believe in simple faith. And when we do, good things happen! Thank you for that. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

You've probably heard of the Ingalls family, or even met some of the clan through the Little House on the Prairie TV series, or beloved children's books about pioneer life in the 1860s by author Laura Ingalls Wilder.The story of the Ingalls family is inspiring, whether you watch it or read it. The fun and camaraderie shared by Charles, Caroline, Mary, Laura, and little Carrie is heartwarming, and makes many of us yearn for simpler times—before technology and the hurried expectations of modern life.In reality, the story portrayed in both the novels and television show isn't the whole story. The conditions of pioneer life were often harsh, and the situations families faced were dangerous. Starvation, violence, and death were all part of the history of the pioneers as well, and the darker themes of the Ingalls' life on the prairie were left out of the telling, in part to protect the children the books were intended for, and in part to preserve the memory of Laura Ingalls Wilders' parents, in whose memory she lovingly wrote her books.James 1:2–4 says, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”What sustained the Ingalls family in books and television, and in life, was their shared faith in God. The legacy of Little House on the Prairie shows us when we invest our hope in the Lord, no floods or winds, grasshoppers or blizzards, poverty, or scorching prairie fires can knock us from the path, or separate us from His love.Let's pray.Lord, thank you for believers who came before us. God, help us to place our faith firmly in you, and to find strength and courage in you alone. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Most of us feel a deep respect in our hearts for those who have sacrificed so that we can remain free. Loving those who have paid the ultimate price is just something we do as people. We pause to remember each year.Isaiah 56:5 says, “To them I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever.”God instituted the concept of maintaining memorials. He remembers, and so do we.Maybe you've had a brother or mother or cousin or uncle that never came home from war. Even before the American Civil War, our citizens were placing flowers at the graves of veterans. It's one way we can keep their sacrifices front-and-center, so that we don't forget and become complacent.This year on Memorial Day, stop to take time and pause. Do something tangible, like visit a cemetery. Ask an older relative to give you some insight into a family member who never came home. And then thank the Lord for that sacrifice.Let's pray.Oh Lord, We remember those who had paid with their lives. It's the least we can do, but we want to do more by keeping their memories alive in our hearts. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

When we think of bravery and self-sacrifice, we usually think of heroic acts during war. We focus on famous battles and epic outcomes. As we consider what it means to sacrifice for others, it's fitting that we spotlight a woman who gave up much to save many.John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.”Florence Nightingale was born into a rich family and lived in Tuscany. Not exactly a training ground for self-sacrifice!Florence, though, made a decision to dedicate her life to helping others. By making this choice, she gave up her own personal dreams.During the Crimean War, she made the rounds at night to check on wounded soldiers. Later, she used her writing skills to build support for better nursing techniques and hospital facilities. Today, she is known for her innovative ideas that saved countless lives.In this way, the girl born into wealth and a life of ease became a symbol of self-sacrifice. While traveling in Egypt once, she wrote to her sister that she felt “Called to God.” It was the perfect description of a woman who thought of others first, and last.Let's pray. Lord, please give us a heart for people like Florence Nightingale! Help us love others more than we love ourselves. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Most countries relish their histories…famous eras and the glory of battle and all that. Americans love this beautiful land, as well.But the Bible tells us the true source of our blessings. It points us to the One who made all things possible.Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”We are incredibly blessed in America for a lot of reasons. From sufficient food to freedom to make our own choices, we have so much. But do we always acknowledge the source of our blessings?Our forefathers did.George Washington's tomb at Mt. Vernon has Scripture etched into the stones. The Father of our country knew his heavenly Father!The Bible tells us that we should glory first in our great God. He is the one we owe our lives to. Every breath we take. We owe our Savior Jesus our eternal lives.It is to Him that all honor and glory belongs. As proud Americans, we stand on our faith. Of our almost limitless blessings, that is number one.To God be the glory!Let's pray. Lord, your mercies are available to us each day. As we get ready for a new day, help us to remember that You are our source. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

During the Civil War, Southern states relied on salt perhaps even more than their Northern counterparts. The commodity preserved various foods—such as fish—and allowed more people to eat and even keep food supplied for a rainy day.As the Union troops began capturing Confederate saltworks, the food supplies there literally began drying up. It was one of the things that led to the end of the war, as food supplies literally not only lost their taste, but their preservative qualities. Things got so bad in the last 18 months of the war that some people were reduced to eating tree roots and other non-food vegetation. Not exactly an appetizing meal!Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”As ambassadors for Christ, we must make sure that our salt does not lose its effectiveness. We must stay alert, so the enemy doesn't steal the zest which makes our boldness in sharing Christ effective. Doing so requires vigilance and much prayer, consistently.Let's pray.Lord, we must be on guard against the enemy, who wants to keep us from sharing your Good News. Help us stay alert at all times, so that our witness endures. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15. 

Matt Axelson was a smiling, sandy-haired native of California. In 2000, he entered the Army and became a Navy SEAL.Then 9/11 happened.In the sweltering summer heat of Afghanistan in 2005, Axelson's team was told to capture a senior member of the Taliban. Unfortunately, the team was betrayed by locals sympathetic to the Taliban, and the SEALs found themselves surrounded by upwards of 100 enemy fighters.During a fierce firefight, Axelson was hit in the head and chest, but continued fighting until the end. He died, along with two of his team. Matt's last words were, “Tell Cindy I love her.”He was thinking of his wife. Of his family. He was there in a tough place, far from the green, green grass of home.Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”The price for living in a wonderful country is high. It's very, very high.No matter our politics—because none of that really matters when we stop and think about heroes like Matt—we can honor them. We appreciate our heroes more than we can say.Let's pray.Lord, we thank you that one day you will wipe all tears from our eyes and death will be no more. In Jesus' name, amen. How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request. 

America has always acknowledged God. Sometimes, though, our devotion to faith comes and goes. Sometimes we get too comfortable, and forget who keeps us upright every day.Psalm 115:1 tells us, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.”Whenever a person questions God's goodness, or the path He has set for us, it's good to go to the Bible. There, we find the answer to why we should honor our Lord.It's because He has loved us. He has been faithful to us.He deserves our notice. He is the One we should be all-in for, all the time.Remember the timeless Walt Whitman poem, in which he referred to the beloved President Lincoln as “O Captain, my Captain!” Whitman was honoring the man who saved the Union. The President rightly was seen as an important figure; after all, he gave his life for his country. But the Lord Jesus Christ is our real Captain, our General, for all time. He gave His life for each of us the world over.Glory to God! Let's honor Him every way we can.Let's pray.Lord, we have many examples from history of people who sacrificed and deserve our respect. To you, we give our full allegiance, now and forever! In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

There is a movement in our society for a return to simple living. We might not want to give up all of our technology—much of it is wonderful and helpful. But it is true we want to quiet our minds and find some peace. This week, we are talking about the simplest, sweetest truth around: Jesus Saves.With that knowledge in hand, we can all find peace that the Bible says is from another world.Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.” It seems we are moving at near the speed of light through this amazing Information Age. Constant access to that much information can bring with it tired minds and weary hearts, at times.With that said, wouldn't you like to be able to grab hold of the secret of life?We just read it. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth as a man, to take on our sin and pay the penalty for those sins. When He was crucified, God raised Him from the dead three days later. It is what believers call the Good News. You can believe it or not. Those of us who follow Jesus believe God has proven Himself many times over.We love our Jesus.Let's pray.Lord, you have given all of us the hope of a joyful eternity. Your Son's sacrifice has saved us, and we are eternally grateful for that. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

A common theme today is that people are just bone-tired of chaos, both public and private. It's exhausting sometimes dealing with bad relationships. Global problems are with us every day. We wonder when it will end. There is Good News for you, though. Literally Good News.1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”This is a message to us that we don't have to win the war ourselves. We don't have to win a battle. Don't have to take part even in a skirmish. Jesus has overcome it all. If you wonder how this can play out in practical terms, do this:Read this verse several times. Make the choice to believe it's true. Then just literally sit back and close your eyes for a little while and rest in the truth of God's Word.He is telling us that our faith overcomes all setbacks and difficulties. Our faith. Scripture tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for. We might not be able to see the end, but we trust God that He will be standing there. Choose to be a warrior for Christ, and let Him lead. That is what will make the difference. Let's pray. Thank you, Lord, for winning the war already. We worship you alone. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Tribes usually think a lot of themselves, exclusive groups are sometimes arrogant. Even whole nations can be this way. In the 19th century, several European countries felt they were the descendants of the first people in the world.  With religion, this can be infinitely worse with Christianity. Critics often say the exclusive nature of it is just unfair. They cite the Christian view that the only way to be reconciled to God is through Jesus Christ, and say that's degrading to people of other faiths, or those with no faith. Other worldviews claim to have truth and a few claim a superior view of the world, but none are quite like the Christian faith. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” All meaning all. That's the meaning of the verse. And this is offensive to a lot of people. Christianity, though, doesn't force itself on anyone, at least not in the modern world. It's been said that the Holy Spirit is a gentleman, meaning He won't force a person to yield to God. Instead, God offers grace to all who want it. Paul made it clear in particular that in order to be born again, one must believe in Jesus Christ. And rather than see this as exclusive, maybe we should change our perspective just a little and see how inclusive it really is. Many religions claim truth—but not absolute truth. Along with that, many believe all religions lead to God, but the totality of scripture tells us clearly that it is in Jesus that we find the truth, and satisfy the longing in our souls. In John 8:31–32, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. And then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” So you see, far from being a hateful, dominant view, the Christian faith shows people everywhere how to be free from sin. Not a workspace religion, but one that makes the very most of God's grace. And that is true truth. Let's pray. Father God, your Word is truth. In it, we discover who we are and what our relationship with you can be. Thank you that you haven't left us in the dark about our world, and the world beyond. In Jesus' name, amen.  Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Have you ever hunted and hunted for something, maybe your car keys, and you finally find them? The old saying goes (it's very unhelpful!) that you find them in the last place you looked. There's a lot of truth to that, though.It also is very relevant to our walk with Jesus. Often we work really hard to solve our own problems, then we finally give in and ask Jesus for help.Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”As with every other promise in the Bible, the really cool thing about this is, it is true. The promises Jesus has made are literally true. So, for example, if you're looking for a solution to an impossible situation, ask Him. It works!Let's pray. Lord, forgive us for not placing our trust in you all the time. You are our sustainer. We need to remember that. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Humans have limited understanding of our world and the world beyond; not that we're unintelligent—far from it. The Bible makes it clear that God gave man a sound mind, and from the beginning, people were capable of accomplishing amazing things. The construction of the great pyramids, modern scientific advances, and our knowledge of the cosmos is a testament to how much humans can know and achieve. We're even capable of presenting truth in various ways through art, teaching, and moral agendas, but man's abilities are finite. There is One, though, that claims all truth: the person Jesus Christ. John 1:17 says, “For the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” In other words, man has been capable over time of building structure and order in society. Around the time of Moses and the 10 Commandments and the laws that govern the Israelites, other cultures were doing somewhat similar things. The Code of Hammurabi, a set of Babylonian laws, helped create a functioning society, and in 1254, the Magna Carta, a set of English laws that was the forerunner of the Declaration of Independence, brought England out of the Dark ages. Yet the Bible is very clear that ultimate truth, the sum of all reality, is found only in Jesus Christ. It is in Him that we unlock the mystery of who we are as individuals. He knows each of us, and invites us into relationship with him. People all over the world follow their own set of rules. It's often said that truth is true if it's true for you, meaning of course that each of us has the right to follow his or her own reasoning. For example, to a person who frees himself from moral constraints, love can mean many things.  In 2 John 1:6 we read, “And this is love, that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you've heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.” Do you see the difference? We can tell ourselves anything; that love, for example, can have many definitions, but God tells us in His Word that true love is being obedient to our Creator. In the end, the world is full of philosophies and opinions of men. Some see truth differently, but only in the Bible do we find true truth. For Jesus Christ is the ultimate truth. Let's pray. Father God, the world can be a dangerous place. Help us to continue relying on you and as our ultimate source of truth so that we can make the best for us and our families. Your Word is our guide, Jesus' name, amen.  Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Hers is the greatest motherhood story of all time. You know who she is: Mary! Her story has been told many times, but how grateful we are that it's recorded in Scripture. Whatever God's reasons for choosing this particular woman to give birth to Jesus, we know that she must have loved the Lord with all her heart.And just think how her head and heart must have been spinning when the angel visited her and told her the special job God was going to give her!Luke 1:46–48 says, “And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.'” We know little about her beyond that, although we are given some fascinating details: she socialized with her Son, as we see at the wedding in Cana. And of course, she was with Him at His death. No mother should have to endure that, but Mary was very strong. Her toughness and love ring like a bell through time. We remember her way of finding patience and faith.Maybe the most amazing thing about her is that God trusted Mary with an initial secret that would have floored most people! She handled it, though. The mother of Jesus was ready when her time came.Let's pray.Lord, Mary, the mother of Jesus, shows us a great example of love. It is also a mystery of sorts for us, but we know that this amazing mother is experiencing supernatural joy, forever, in Heaven! In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Discovered in East Asia by British mineralogist Arthur Pain, the so-called “Painite” gemstone can be found in several colors, and the various hues seen as light hits them give an uncommon view.Incredibly, only 25 such stones exist today, and the value per gram works out to $9,000! Despite the fact that many people have never heard of it, Painite is the rarest of rare jewels. And for the longest time, only two had been found in the entire world. That kind of rarity stands out in a crowd. Proverbs 31:10 says, “She is far more precious than jewels.”Think of how rare and precious a true Proverbs 31 woman is. She is a woman remembered vividly, even with emotion, long after she goes to be with the Lord.Are you a mother beloved by your children? Do they think of you fondly? Does your husband honor you for your uncommon strength and love? Will friends seek you out when they can't turn to anyone else? If so, you are that rare gem. And you are loved indeed.Let's pray.Lord, help us be that rarest of jewels, one that points others to the light and majesty of Christ, forevermore. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

She's not very well known, even though she's in the Bible. But Jochebed…who's heard of her? Go ahead, raise your hands.This great woman deserves a bigger story in our culture, because she modeled what it means to act with bravery, and to value all life.Exodus 2:3 says, “But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile.”Jochebed, you see, was the mother of Moses. Knowing that Pharaoh had ordered all Hebrew baby boys to be killed, she hid her infant son in a basket among the reeds of the Nile. When Pharaoh's daughter found the boy, she felt sorry for him and took him in; and the rest, as they say, is history!It's been said that the love a mother has for her children is the strongest human bond. Long ago, a slave defied the empire and saved her son. He went on to change history. Sometimes we just have to step out in faith and be intentional about courage.Let's pray.Lord, this woman inspires us today. Thank you that the story of this sweet mother, Jochebed, was recorded for us. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to be close to Jesus when He was on the earth? It would have been amazing to be in His inner circle.We know of a remarkable woman, a family member, who would have been able to be around to watch that most amazing life unfold. Her name was Elizabeth. She was the aunt of Jesus, and she was also a mother, and this week we're talking about extraordinary mothers.We read in Luke that everyone thought that the time for Elizabeth to become a mother was past. In those days, people thought sin prevented pregnancy, so this godly woman went through great sorrow.But Gabriel, an angel, told her priest husband that she would conceive. She did, and later, when visiting her cousin Mary, felt her own son jump in her womb. Even he knew the significance of such a woman!Luke 1:13 says, “But the angel said to him: ‘Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.'”Elizabeth's son would be named John, and he would be given the privilege of introducing the world to the Man, Jesus. Both mothers would endure great tragedy in their lives, but would enjoy fellowship forever with them in glory.Elizabeth knew how to be steady during momentous times. A great lesson for all of us.Let's pray.Lord, sometimes you surprise us with great tasks. Help us to always be ready to stand when you call on us to do something great. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

If you've ever been fortunate enough to hold a newborn, you know what it's like to be thunderstruck by the delicate features. Everything is miniature. And then the eyes open…you're in love.Jeremiah 1:5 says, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.”A baby is a blessing and a gift from the Lord. All life is precious; it doesn't matter if the parents are famous or completely unknown and obscure. In that warm bundle is a whole lifetime waiting to unfold. Will he be adventurous? Will she run the country someday?Man is capable of much, but creating life as God creates will always remain outside the borders. Only a great and all-powerful God could give us such a beautiful life, and He makes each one of us truly unique.It is an inescapable fact that a human being, separate from everyone else in terms of physicality and emotions, becomes fully formed in its mother's womb. This is perhaps the greatest miracle in all the universe, and one deserving of our awe and respect.Let's pray.Lord, you form us in the womb, and you walk with us each step of the way through life. Thank you for your mercies and the grace that you freely give each of us. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

When Isaiah the prophet wrote, the birth of Jesus was still almost 800 years away. Yet there is good reason to believe key parts of the book of Isaiah are pointing to the coming Savior.Near the end of the book, we see this clearly.Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”It's reasonable to believe that this has dual meanings. One, the prophecy speaks of the wise men from the East seeing the star in the sky. And then, traveled to see the baby Jesus in Bethlehem.A second, longer view looks ahead far into the future, when Jesus will return to Earth and set up His Kingdom of righteousness.As believers, we know what it feels like when the spirit of God dwells in us. It's that glow God intends for us to share with others.Jesus has come! Your challenge is to share that Good News with all those you meet.Let's pray. Lord, your Gospel is our mission. God, give us endurance for our race! In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Are you like a lot of people when it comes to the instruction booklet with a new item? We stare at it and eventually just toss it, guessing we can just figure it out.Yeah…that usually ends like dropping a carton of eggs.The Bible is there for a reason. God's Word is healing and light and a guide for each of us. That's why it's important to read it, and meditate on the words.To the church at Philippi, Paul gave instruction from God, such as putting others before ourselves. Then the payoff.Philippians 2:15 says, “Shine...like the stars in the sky.”God's way is infinitely better. If we focus on the right things, our own needs are then met in ways too spectacular for us to imagine. Focus on others and sharing the Good News, and we stand out like stars in the night sky!Do life the right way: Read the instructions.Let's pray. Lord, you've shown us how to succeed in life and in the life to come. Help us share that with others. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

As followers of Jesus, we are meant to be witnesses. And Christ's majesty and power are meant to blanket our world. He is intimately aware of you, and where you are in life.Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”When we trust Christ—when we believe the Gospel—we're called to get in the game. If you've been changed, and if you believe that, sitting on such Good News doesn't make a whole lot of sense, does it? Are you guilty of failing to shine a light in a dark world?If you're a friend of God, just as the Bible says Abraham was long ago, you are to invite others to live in his healing light. The glory of the Lord rises on you each morning. Put your feet on the floor and share His glory with the people that you encounter.Let's pray. Lord, there are so many opportunities to share your love and your light with the world. God, give us the opportunities to do that, and give us the energy to seize them. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

One of the best benefits about flying at night is to look out the window and see all those lights against the black backdrop. The lights signal that a city or town is down there—a place where families live.    Our spiritual lives are the same way. This world has its share of darkness, but God looks down and sees His lights. He sees the good that says, “Love lives here.”   Matthew 5:14 says, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” We are told in Scripture that as believers, we have indescribable joy. Jesus Christ lives within us, lighting us from the inside out. With that gift comes responsibility: We don't have the option of staying hidden. When Jesus told His followers they were “the light of the world,” they understood what He meant, sitting there on the mountainside above the Sea of Galilee.   Many of them took this to heart, shining a light in the spiritual darkness and sharing the Good News every chance they got. Let's pray. Lord, help us to continually shine the light of your love and your Gospel in this world. In Jesus' name, amen.  Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Don't you love the nuances and uniqueness God put into this world? He created harmony and balance everywhere, including our individual “best time of the day” to be creative and productive.Some of us are up with the chickens, as they used to say. Others burn a candle late into the night. Whatever time is your time to connect in positive ways, God made you for His purpose. Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”Embrace your uniqueness! Just because your eyes don't focus until later in the morning—after cups, plural, of coffee—doesn't mean you won't hit the mark today.You were built for this, to be a light to others and to share the Good News of Jesus. So, rise up, whenever that is for you, and make a promise to God that you will get everything out of today that you are supposed to. Let's pray.Lord, you made us to be a light in a world that is all too often dark. Thank you for the opportunities to make a difference for you. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Have you ever been the new kid at school, or the latest hire at work? Maybe you've been first-time visitors at church after a big move, or the newest neighbors on the block. Being the new guy or gal may be a little nerve-wracking, but it's also an opportunity to reinvent yourself. It's a chance to cultivate new habits, and build a great reputation without the baggage of your old life weighing you down. When we accept Jesus into our heart, we receive a new life. It's a life that's filled with hope, purpose, and joy. But embracing this new life also means letting go of our old ways and the things that held us back before we met the Lord.2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” It's not always easy to change our habits and let go of the things that once defined us. But when we surrender to Christ, we receive a new identity in Him. We become new creations, free from the chains of our past.As believers, we're called to embrace the new life Christ offers us. God asks us to let go of our old ways, in order to be the person He created us to be. Following Him is both a gift, and a choice we make again and again. Let's pray. Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of new life! We don't have to be tied down by our old ways, or burdened by our former sins, because you have made us new. In Jesus' name, amen.  Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Do you know someone with a true boldness and eagerness to share Christ? Maybe you're that person. If so, great! Your boldness is seen by God, and it pleases Him. Sometimes though, it can be frustrating, honestly. If it seems like not enough people are really getting it, or the message isn't clicking. We want to see everyone find new life in Jesus! When we think about sharing the Good News, it's important to remember that God is responsible for the harvest. We just have to be willing to be sent as His ambassadors, and share His message. John 8:12 says, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'” When Jesus spoke those words, some people believed in Him right away. Others were angry with Him, and others argued.If you feel pressure to be leading everyone around you to Christ, relax. You are responsible for fulfilling Jesus' command to go make disciples for Him, but He'll take care of the numbers. This allows you to simply share His simple message. His spirit will speak through you, and He will light your path if you let Him. And work on the hearts of those you've shared the message with. Let's pray. Lord, there are so many people that need you. God help us with opportunities, and help us to be willing. We leave the results to you. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

No one is immune from burnout. It comes in our jobs, friendships, and even in our church life. Sometimes, even our hobbies become dry and tedious! But in Scripture, God gives us hope for the future. John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”Jesus is telling us that in Him alone is true life. He is always pointing us to the future, to a time when that dry creek bed will be filled forever.In Revelation 22, He showed John a river flowing with the water of life, crystal-clear and coming from the very throne of God.The whole picture is one of healing and new life. He promises us that this scene will be very real and very permanent! The key is what we read in John 7:38…we must choose to believe! If you long for a new start and a bright future, you will find everything you need and want in the person of Jesus Christ. The living water that He offers is perfect, and the supply is limitless. Jesus is the well that never runs dry.Let's pray.Lord, you are calling each of us to follow you and let you lead us to a place of perfect paradise. We eagerly look forward to joining you in your Kingdom. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Who, or what, are you living for? It's a big question. You might be considering your spouse or children. Maybe your career is a high priority. If you are an artist, writer, or musician, you might feel you live for the pursuit of creativity. Today, we want to remind you of the beautiful message in 2 Corinthians 5:15, which tells us Christ died for everyone so that those who receive new life through Him will no longer live for themselves, but for the Lord.It's easy to get caught up in our own lives and forget the bigger picture. We often focus on our own desires, wants, and needs, forgetting that we were created to glorify God. When we choose to make Christ the center of our lives, we find true purpose and fulfillment.2 Corinthians 5:15 says, “Christ died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.”Living for Christ means putting Him first in all areas of our lives. It means making Him the priority in our relationships, careers, finances, and even our thoughts. When we shift focus in this way, we become less concerned with our own desires and more concerned with following His will.Let's pray. Lord, we are bought and paid for by your blood, shed on the cross to purchase our salvation. Help us to focus not on our own desires, but on your good plan for us. In Jesus' name, amen.  Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Some scholars have believed that the suffering Job of the Bible was sort of a primate thinker who didn't really understand much about the life beyond this one. But that isn't true.Job 33:25–26 says, “Let their flesh be renewed like a child's; let them be restored as in the days of their youth—then that person can pray to God and find favor with him, they will see God's face and shout for joy; he will restore them to full well-being.”The Bible tells us elsewhere in Hebrews that God spoke to ancient man in a variety of ways. We know that Job did in fact know much about the life to come. And since he must have felt during his suffering period that every day was like Monday, he learned to trust God. He learned that God would see him through no matter his circumstances, and that Resurrection is coming. Just as Job had some understanding that the Messiah was coming, we know that Jesus did in fact defeat death. His victory over our greatest enemy is a wonderful promise of things to come!Let's pray.Lord, the terrible crucifixion of Jesus ended in the most spectacular way possible, with you raising Him to life. Thank you that we also share in that great gift. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Today, we're talking about the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Revelation 1:18 says, “I am the Living One. I was dead, but look, I am alive forever. I have power over death and hell.” Jesus died on the cross and rose again three days later; even death could not overpower Him. The miracle of His resurrection is life-changing for believers now, and forever. In John 11:25–26, Jesus said to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” This means that through faith in Jesus, we too can have eternal life—even after physical death. As believers, we have access to this resurrection power. This power is not only for the future, but also for the present. It gives us the ability to overcome any challenge or difficulty that we face in life. We can have hope even in the midst of trials, because we know that Jesus has overcome death and has the power to give us victory. Nothing we experience in this life is truly the end—because our souls are eternal.Whatever you face, remember that Jesus has the power to bring you out of it. Call on His name and believe in His resurrection power. Jesus is alive forever, and He brings life to any dead situation.Let's pray. Heavenly Father, we thank you for the resurrection power of Jesus Christ. Help us to always remember that we have access to this power and that through it, we can overcome any obstacle. Strengthen our faith and give us hope in every situation. In Jesus' name, we pray, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

In John 19:30, we read about Jesus' final words on the cross, “It is finished.” These final words before death signify the completion of His work on earth, but this isn't the end of His story. Three days later, Jesus rose from the dead, triumphing over death and sin.As believers, we too have the assurance of victory over death and sin through the resurrection of Jesus. We can boldly face the challenges of life—even the most impossible-seeming situations—knowing that we have victory in Christ Jesus. What can you do today to live in the victory of our Savior's resurrection? Try adding weekly Bible reading to your schedule; meditating on God's Word, prayer, fellowship with other believers, and sharing the Good News with others—all of these are activities that bring us closer to the Lord. And remember, through the resurrection of Jesus, we have the power to overcome any obstacle that comes our way. Praise God!Let's pray. Oh Lord Jesus, thank you for your sacrifice on the cross. Because of you, we can live in victory, and not in fear. We are so grateful for what you've done for us. In Jesus' name, amen.  Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

No one can ever say life in this world isn't rich and varied. We take the good with the bad because honestly, we have to. Sometimes we win and sometimes we lose. But through it all, we keep going, because our King is up ahead encouraging us. On a dark day long ago, Jesus didn't look like a King. His life was ebbing away on the cross. His followers were distraught as they looked on. Their whole world literally passing away. But, thank God, we know what happened soon after. There is darkness in this world, but we can look ahead to the light waiting for us in eternity. Revelation 19:16 says, “On his robe and on his thigh, he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”The resurrection of Jesus Christ is history's greatest moment. Thousands of years of amazing events all bow to that moment in a cool garden. Because Jesus came to earth as a human being and then overcame death, we know that we, too, will live forever with Him.“He lives!” is the greatest word we'll ever receive, and it gives us, like His disciples, hope for the future.Let's pray.Lord, thank you for sending your Son to rescue us from a dark future. That is the Gospel itself, and we are forever grateful for it. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Have you been saved by Jesus? Salvation is the deliverance from sin and death that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus overcame sin and death, and gave us the opportunity to have eternal life.Revelation 1:18 says, “I am the Living One. I was dead, but look, I am alive forever. I have power over death and hell.”As believers, we can have confidence that our salvation is secure in Jesus Christ. No matter what happens during our temporary earthly lives, we can be sure of our eternal destiny. This knowledge gives us lasting peace, and hope that transcends our present circumstances.The power of salvation also gives us, through God's grace, the ability to overcome sin and withstand temptation. And by obedience to the Holy Spirit, we can daily try to live a life more like Jesus, and grow in our faith. If you haven't yet received the salvation that Jesus offers, we invite you to do so today. Simply believe in Jesus, ask forgiveness for your sins, and ask Him to be the Lord of your life. A personal relationship with Jesus Christ is a gift that lasts for all eternity. Let's pray. Dear Lord, thank you for the power of salvation that comes through faith in Jesus. Help us to live a life that is pleasing to you, and to share this message of hope with others. It's in Jesus' name that we pray, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

No one has ever been able to replicate human life, not in a lab or even theoretically. Humans are capable of much, but creating life is not on the list. And that's one of many reasons that God is so amazing. Think about this the next time you have an insurmountable problem: Jesus' physical body died on the cross. He was buried in a stone tomb, and three days later, God raised Him from the dead. And this is the one thing that gave the apostles their boldness in sharing the Gospel, a dangerous thing for a Roman subject. They saw Jesus after His resurrection, and knew that no one could separate them from an all-powerful God. Revelation 19:16 says, “On His robe and on His thigh, He has this name written: King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” Remember that for God—no miracle is too big or too small. He raised Jesus from the dead to complete His mission for all of us. Because He lives, your future is bright. Let's pray. Father God, in seasons of stress, it's a great comfort to know that you control everything and that nothing is too big for you. We want to share this Good News with the world. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

If you're working your way toward belief and away from doubt, by now you must assume that God exists. 2 Peter 3:9 says, “The Lord does not delay and is not tardy or slow about what He promises, according to some people's conception of slowness, but He is long-suffering or extraordinarily patient toward you, not desiring that any should perish, but that all should turn to repentance.” The cornerstone of the Christian faith is a belief that scripture is God's Word. Psalm 138:2 tells us that God has elevated the Word above His own name.So, we have the opportunity to tell God that we accept His promises. Luke 1:77 tells us that He has raised up Jesus “to give His people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins.” At some point, faith is just believing God. Some critics say that this is making an idol out of the Bible, it's called bibliolatry. But in fact, we learn who Jesus is and what He has done for us in Scripture. It is a conscious decision to embrace what God has told us. Acts 4:12 says, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” It really requires you to at least open your mind to the possibility that it's true. God's plan to reconcile people to Himself after sin entered the world, is a start. Decide to be bold. Lay aside your fears and doubts and find that rest you've been looking for.Matthew 11:28 says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” One of the great metaphors of the Bible is the strong hand or the strong arm of God that rescues us from danger. John 10:28 says, “I give them eternal life. They'll never be lost, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.” No one is saying that you will never have a shred of doubt again, but what we can know is that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God, as outlined in the Book of Romans. Jesus Christ is waiting for you, and you can be sure of that. Let's pray. Father, there are so many lonely people in the world, and they want to believe. You've put that in our hearts, God. Help them and help us, by your Spirit, know that they are loved, and that they can have an encounter with you. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.