Resolute Podcast

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to David Sindelar from Roswell, GA. David, your partnership with us through Project23 is helping open ears and loosen tongues with the truth of the gospel. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 7:31-37: Then he returned from the region of Tyre and went through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, in the region of the Decapolis. And they brought to him a man who was deaf and had a speech impediment, and they begged him to lay his hand on him. And taking him aside from the crowd privately, he put his fingers into his ears, and after spitting touched his tongue. And looking up to heaven, he sighed and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.” And his ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly. And Jesus charged them to tell no one. But the more he charged them, the more zealously they proclaimed it. And they were astonished beyond measure, saying, “He has done all things well. He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.”— Mark 7:31-37 Jesus returns to the Decapolis—Gentile territory again. This time, a man is brought to him. He's deaf and mostly mute. And the people beg Jesus to lay his hand on him. What happens next is strange—and intimate. Jesus pulls him away from the crowd. He touches his ears. He touches his tongue. He looks up and sighs deeply. Then he speaks a single word: “Ephphatha”—Be opened. A word that the man didn't even hear and couldn't speak opened his ears and loosened his mouth. In an instant, everything changes. The man hears. The man speaks. His world expands from silence to sound. From isolation to community. This miracle isn't just about healing—it's about how Jesus heals. He doesn't heal from a distance. He gets close. He touches. He sighs. It's personal. It's intentional. And it's full of compassion. And the crowd? They can't stop talking: “He has done all things well.” That's still true. Jesus still does all things well. He doesn't just fix what's broken—he restores what's been lost. And he can do that in your life, too. Maybe your ears aren't physically shut today, but maybe you've shut your ears to the sound of God's voice. Maybe your mouth still works, but you've been silent when you should speak. Let Jesus touch those places. Let him open what's been shut. Let him loosen what's been stuck. Let him restore what's been silenced. Let him come close and touch you spiritually. Hear him say, "Be opened." Because when Jesus speaks “Be opened” over your life, you will never be the same. #BeOpened, #JesusHealsDeeply, #AllThingsWell ASK THIS: What part of my life feels spiritually “deaf” or “mute”? Where do I need Jesus to get personal with my pain? What have I been too afraid to speak aloud? Do I truly believe Jesus still does all things well? DO THIS: Take 10 minutes alone today and ask Jesus to touch the part of your life that feels shut down or stuck. PRAY THIS: Jesus, open the parts of me that have gone silent. Touch what I've hidden, and restore me to wholeness with your gentle power. Amen. PLAY THIS: “Same God” – Elevation Worship.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Ted Tulibaski from Perham, MN. Ted, your partnership with us through Project23 is helping open ears and loosen tongues with the truth of the gospel. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 7:24-30: And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not be hidden. But immediately a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard of him and came and fell down at his feet. Now the woman was a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. And he said to her, “Let the children be fed first, for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” But she answered him, “Yes, Lord; yet even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs.” And he said to her, “For this statement you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.” And she went home and found the child lying in bed and the demon gone.— Mark 7:24-30 Jesus enters Gentile territory—Tyre and Sidon—away from the Jewish crowds. He tries to lay low. But one woman finds him. A woman with no status in Jewish society. She was a Gentile. A Syrophoenician. An outsider by birth. According to every religious and social system—she didn't belong. She had no reason to approach a Jewish rabbi. No social footing. No spiritual leverage. But she had a desperate need—and a bold faith. And Jesus seems to test that faith with a hard statement: “It's not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs (Gentiles).” But instead of recoiling, she leans in. “Yes, Lord. But even the dogs (Gentiles) eat the crumbs under the table.” It's not a demand. It's a confession. She knows she doesn't deserve anything—but she still believes Jesus has more than enough to meet her needs. And that humility moves Jesus. Her faith—not her status—is what leads to healing. This is a challenge for all of us—especially in a culture obsessed with status, labels, platforms, and recognition. Jesus isn't impressed by credentials. He's not persuaded by accomplishments. He doesn't bend to social influence. He's moved by our faith—humble, honest, surrendered faith. So don't let your status—high or low—define your approach to God. Come like this woman. Come as you are. Come boldly, and believe that even the crumbs from Jesus are enough to change everything. #FaithOverStatus, #JesusRespondsToFaith, #SurrenderedFaith ASK THIS: Do I rely on status more than faith when approaching God? Where do I feel like an outsider spiritually or socially? How does this story challenge my pride? What “crumb” from Jesus am I afraid to ask for today? DO THIS: Come to Jesus today without pretense. Drop your credentials, your insecurities, and your excuses. Just come in faith. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I lay aside everything I think makes me worthy. I come in faith, believing You're more than enough for my deepest need. Amen. PLAY THIS: “Run to the Father” – Cody Carnes.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Aaron Knox from Cartersville, GA. Aaron, your partnership with us through Project23 is helping take the Word across cultural lines and into hearts that need hope. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 7:24-30: And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not be hidden. But immediately a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard of him and came and fell down at his feet. Now the woman was a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. And he said to her, “Let the children be fed first, for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” But she answered him, “Yes, Lord; yet even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs.” And he said to her, “For this statement you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.” And she went home and found the child lying in bed and the demon gone.— Mark 7:24-30 This encounter feels uncomfortable—at least at first. Jesus is in Gentile territory, far from Jewish crowds. And a Syrophoenician woman interrupts his rest. Her daughter is possessed. She's desperate. And Jesus' initial response sounds harsh: “It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” Dogs being a derogatory word for "Gentiles." But this isn't rejection. It's a test. Jesus often used parables and tension to expose faith—and this woman steps into that tension. Her reply is both humble and bold: “Even the dogs (the Gentiles) eat the crumbs.” She doesn't deny her unworthiness. She just believes Jesus has enough power for people like her. And that's the moment everything shifts. Jesus heals her daughter from a distance. No touch. No spectacle. Just a word. This moment isn't about geography—it's about grace. It's not about heritage—it's about heart. This woman broke every cultural rule to get to Jesus. She didn't belong by lineage, but she belonged by faith. Sometimes, we feel like outsiders, too. Too broken. Too far gone. Not spiritual enough. But Jesus responds to desperate faith, not spiritual credentials. So, what barriers have you let stand between you and Jesus? Pride? Past shame? A sense that you're not worthy? This woman didn't let cultural boundaries, religious expectations, or social discomfort hold her back. And Jesus didn't just heal her daughter—he honored her faith. Don't let that thing, or anything, keep you from falling at Jesus' feet. Jesus, I know I don't deserve anything—but even your crumbs are enough for me. Give me the boldness to bring you my full need. Amen. #DesperateFaith, #JesusCrossesLines, #EvenTheCrumbs ASK THIS: What has stopped me from pursuing Jesus with desperate faith? Do I believe Jesus has enough power for my need? Where have I let shame, culture, or fear keep me distant from him? What would it look like to throw myself at Jesus' feet today? DO THIS: Push through the discomfort and pray boldly for what you need. Don't let man-made lines keep you from Jesus. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I know I don't deserve anything—but even your crumbs are enough for me. Give me the boldness to bring you my full need. Amen. PLAY THIS: “Come to the Altar” – Elevation Worship.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Jeff Garwood from Daufuskie Island, SC. Jeff, your partnership with us through Project23 is helping others discover the truth that changes hearts. This study is for you today. Our text today is Mark 7:14-23: And he called the people to him again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.” And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?” (Thus he declared all foods clean.) And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.” — Mark 7:14-23 Jesus makes a powerful point here—but there's more going on beneath the surface. This Gospel account was dictated by Peter to Mark. And you can almost hear Peter's voice behind the detail: “(Thus he declared all foods clean).” Why does that matter? Because years later, Peter would receive a vision in Acts 10—when God dropped a sheet from heaven filled with animals considered unclean. And God said, “What God has made clean, do not call common.” That moment cracked Peter's heart open to the inclusion of Gentiles in the Gospel. But even then, Peter would struggle. In Galatians 2, Paul rebukes him for pulling away from Gentile believers. So when Peter recounts this scene in Mark 7, it's personal. Jesus didn't just change the rules—he changed Peter's heart. Jesus redefined purity as something internal, not external. And Jesus says the real issue isn't what goes into your mouth—it's what comes out of your heart. Sin doesn't enter through your fork—it flows from within. That list Jesus gives? It's a mirror. Pride. Envy. Deceit. Lust. It's not out there—it's in here. This isn't just convicting. It's freeing. Because you can't clean yourself with religion, rituals, or rules. You need a new heart. A Jesus-transformed heart. One that lives from the inside out. We all tend to clean the outside while ignoring the inside. We act polite but harbor bitterness. We appear holy, but we think impure thoughts. We perform well but never confess pride. Start paying attention to your heart. Don't just look at your actions—listen to your motives. Is your obedience flowing from love or from fear of being seen? Are you generous because you care—or because you want credit? Ask Jesus to do the heart surgery only he can do. Today, stop settling for behavior modification. Start praying for heart transformation. #InsideOutFaith, #HeartOverHabits, #PeterUnderstood ASK THIS: Where am I focused more on appearances than true heart change? What sin on Jesus' list hits closest to home right now? How have I tried to use tradition or morality to cover brokenness? Where do I need to invite Jesus to cleanse me from the inside? DO THIS: Spend five minutes today asking Jesus not just to clean your life—but to cleanse your heart. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I confess my sin isn't out there—it's in me. Cleanse my heart. I want to live from the inside out. PLAY THIS: “Clean” – Natalie Grant.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Mark Glover from Fulshear, TX. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your commitment helps us bring God's Word to those hungry for truth. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 7:9-13: And he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition! For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother'; and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.' But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, “Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban”' (that is, given to God)—then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do.” — Mark 7:9-13 Jesus confronts the religious leaders for turning God's commands into suggestions—and their preferences into law. The example he gives is a legal loophole they created to avoid caring for their parents. They'd declare their resources “Corban”—a word meaning “dedicated to God.” It sounded spiritual. But it was a smokescreen. They used it to avoid honoring their father and mother, a clear command from God. Here's the point: They used religion to excuse disobedience. They twisted the truth to protect and preserve their selfish way of life. And Jesus calls it what it is: "rejection of God's Word." This kind of thing still happens today. It's when we explain away obedience because it's too costly. When we spiritualize selfishness. When we hold to personal ideologies while ignoring biblical commands. When we protect our preferences to avoid making true spiritual sacrifices. Sometimes, we'd rather defend our tradition than deny ourselves. But in doing so, we trade God's authority for our own comfort. Have you built spiritual loopholes? Have you ever disguised disobedience with spiritual language? Are you submitting to God's Word—or just adjusting it to suit you? Guess what? Jesus doesn't want your spiritual gymnastics. He wants surrendered obedience. Father, show me where I've traded your commands for my comfort. Help me surrender my preferences so I can live in full obedience. Amen. #ObeyTheWord, #NoSpiritualLoopholes, #JesusOverTradition ASK THIS: Where am I tempted to explain away hard commands in Scripture? What personal traditions might be limiting my obedience? How do I use spiritual language to justify selfish decisions? What does it look like to honor God's Word fully this week? DO THIS: Identify one area where you're clinging to a personal preference over a biblical principle. Lay it down—and recommit to obeying God's Word without excuse. PRAY THIS: Father, show me where I've traded your commands for my comfort. Help me surrender my preferences so I can live in full obedience. Amen. PLAY THIS: “Here's My Heart” – David Crowder.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Ken Dunwoody from Atlanta, GA. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. You're helping us call hearts back to the Word. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 7:6-8: And he said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.' You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.” — Mark 7:6-8 This is a mic-drop moment from Jesus. He's not just correcting the Pharisees—he's exposing them. He quotes Isaiah, calling out their hypocrisy: “This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.” That's a hardcore call-out. These religious leaders sounded godly. They looked godly. But their hearts weren't close to God—they were far off, buried beneath the weight of practice, performance, and pride. Their worship was hollow. Their obedience, performative. Their leadership, off course. And their doctrine? Built more on man-made rules than God's revealed Word. And here's the warning for us: it's easy to drift into lip-service faith. We say the right words, but our hearts are disengaged. We quote Scripture, but don't surrender to it. We sing worship songs, but don't live worshipful lives. We know all the Christian lingo, but we don't love like Christ. It's possible to build a whole spiritual life that looks right—while being far from God. So ask yourself: — Am I more loyal to tradition than to truth? — Am I teaching others to do things God never commanded? — Do I sound faithful but live faithless? God doesn't want your performance—he wants your presence. He doesn't need spiritual noise—he wants spiritual nearness. He's after your heart. Not just your habits. #HeartBeforeHabit, #JesusNotJustWords, #FaithThatFeels ASK THIS: What spiritual practices have I been doing out of routine, not relationship? Have I substituted God's Word with man-made rules or traditions? Where is my heart far from God, even if my words sound close? How can I move from lip-service to true-hearted obedience? DO THIS: Pause today and examine your heart. Pray Psalm 139:23–24—ask God to reveal where you've drifted into routine and return to genuine worship. PRAY THIS: God, I don't want to honor you with words but deny you with my heart. Pull me close. Break down my traditions. Rekindle authentic worship. Amen. PLAY THIS: “Give Me Jesus” – Jeremy Camp

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Corey Dill from Auburn, ME. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your faithfulness is helping others find truth in God's Word. This study is for you. Our text today is Mark 7:1-5: Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands properly, holding to the tradition of the elders, and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.) And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” — Mark 7:1-5 Jesus is about to challenge a deeply embedded cultural and religious practice—and the collision is unavoidable. The Pharisees come down from Jerusalem, the religious epicenter. But instead of focusing on Jesus' message or miracles, they fixate on something petty: his disciples didn't wash their hands before eating. Now, this wasn't about hygiene—it was about ceremonial cleanliness. Over time, religious leaders added layer upon layer of rules—man-made rituals meant to “guard” God's law. But in guarding it, they buried it. They replaced heartfelt obedience with outward performance. That's the danger. Religion becomes a show. Tradition becomes a substitute for transformation. And here's where it hits home. We do this, too. — We go to church but don't listen. — We pray before meals but don't pray from the heart. — We read a verse a day but don't seek to apply it. — We volunteer, tithe, serve—but resist surrender. Why? Because those things are easier to manage than dealing with our motives, bitterness, pride, or hidden sin. They're visible. Comfortable. Controllable. But Jesus didn't die to give us clean habits—he died to give us clean hearts. So, what traditions are you clinging to while avoiding true obedience? Are there places where you've mistaken the routine for the relationship? God never asked for clean hands at the table—he asked for clean hearts before his throne. #HeartOverHabit, #JesusOverTradition, #CleanHeartsNotJustHands ASK THIS: Where am I relying on tradition instead of real relationship with Jesus? What habits have become heartless rituals in my life? Do I obey God from the heart—or just to be seen? When was the last time I confessed a hidden motive to God? DO THIS: Identify one spiritual routine this week you've been doing on autopilot—and ask God to reawaken your heart through it. PRAY THIS: Lord, I don't want empty religion. Wake up my heart. Make my obedience real. Strip away what looks good but lacks love. Amen. PLAY THIS: “Heart of Worship” – Matt Redman.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Bruce Bowler from Cedar Falls, IA. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your support is helping others reach for Jesus—maybe for the first time. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 6:53-56: When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and moored to the shore. And when they got out of the boat, the people immediately recognized him and ran about the whole region and began to bring the sick people on their beds to wherever they heard he was. And wherever he came, in villages, cities, or countryside, they laid the sick in the marketplaces and implored him that they might touch even the fringe of his garment. And as many as touched it were made well. — Mark 6:53-56 Jesus steps out of the boat in Gennesaret—and the people move fast. They recognize him. They run through towns and villages. They gather the sick, the broken, the weary—laying them out in streets and marketplaces. But what they want is simple. Not a lesson. Not a meeting. Not even a touch from his hand. “If we could just touch the fringe of his garment.” That's what they were after. Just the edge. The tassel. The outermost thread. Because they believed the power of Jesus extended even to the fringe. And it did. “As many as touched it were made well.” Faith doesn't always walk in with swagger. Sometimes, it crawls in with desperation. Sometimes, it's not bold enough to stand tall— but just enough to stretch out an arm. Faith reaches for the fringe. The people in this story knew they weren't worthy to ask for much. But they believed Jesus was more than enough. So they reached. And Jesus healed. It's the same today. You may not feel like your faith is strong. You may not feel like you have the words. You may not even feel worthy of asking. But Jesus still honors those who reach out to him. Even if all you can manage today is a whisper. A prayer through tears. A step toward the church. A breath of surrender. A call of repentance. That's faith. And Jesus sees it and responds to it. So wherever you are, however far off you feel—reach. The fringe of his robe still holds the fullness of his power. ASK THIS: When have you felt unworthy to approach Jesus? What does “reaching for the fringe” look like in your life today? How can desperation lead to deeper faith? Why do you think Jesus honors even small acts of faith? DO THIS: Take one small action today that symbolizes reaching for Jesus—pray, read one verse, confess, or ask for help. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I don't always feel strong or worthy, but I'm reaching for you anyway. Meet me in my weakness with your healing power. Amen. PLAY THIS: Touch the Hem of His Garment.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Henry Kunkel from West Islip, NY. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. You're helping others find peace in the middle of their storms. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 6:45-52: Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. And after he had taken leave of them, he went up on the mountain to pray. And when evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and he was alone on the land. And he saw that they were making headway painfully, for the wind was against them. And about the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them, but when they saw him walking on the sea they thought it was a ghost, and cried out, for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded, for they did not understand about the loaves, but their hearts were hardened. — Mark 6:45-52 After feeding thousands, Jesus sends the disciples ahead in a boat while he goes up the mountain to pray. They head out across the water, probably expecting a simple trip to the other side. But as night falls, things get difficult. The wind picks up. The boat stalls. And the disciples are stuck—rowing with everything they've got but making little progress. It's late, probably around 3:00 a.m. They're exhausted, confused, and afraid. And Jesus sees them stuck in the middle. But he doesn't shout from the shoreline or send instructions from the mountain. He walks out to them—on the water. But when they see him, they don't recognize him. They think he's a ghost. Fear takes over. And they cry out. But Jesus responds with calm assurance: “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” Right in the middle of the storm, he shows up. He gets into the boat with them. The wind dies down. Peace returns. It's a miracle and an important one. Jesus doesn't meet them at the beginning of the storm or the end of the storm. He meets them in the middle of it. When they are the most exhausted. When they are about to give up hope. And he still does that. Jesus doesn't always wait for the waves to settle or the skies to clear. Sometimes, he steps right into your chaos—right in the middle of your confusion and fear. Then he comes close. Not to condemn your fear but to calm your heart. And often, his presence is the peace you've been looking for all along. If you're weary, stuck, or straining against the wind—know this: He meets you in the middle. Not when it's over. Not when you've figured it out. But right in the thick of it. Are you in the storm today? Stop fearing, call out to him. Jesus, we call out for you in our storm. Come to us. Give us peace. Command our storm. Call it calm. Amen ASK THIS: Why did Jesus let the disciples struggle before coming to them? What does this moment teach you about how Jesus shows up in your life? Where do you feel like you're “rowing against the wind”? What would it look like to trust Jesus in the middle of it—not just when it's over DO THIS: Write down one area of your life that feels stuck or stormy. Take a few minutes today to sit quietly and ask Jesus to meet you in that space. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I'm tired of trying to row through this on my own. Thank you for coming close. Help me feel your presence and trust your peace, even in the middle of the storm. Amen. PLAY THIS: Peace be Still.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Bob & Shannon Maxiner from Lake Elmo, MN. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your support reminds us that Jesus is always more than enough. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 6:35-44: And when it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the hour is now late. Send them away to go into the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” But he answered them, “You give them something to eat.” And they said to him, “Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread and give it to them to eat?” And he said to them, “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.” And when they had found out, they said, “Five, and two fish.” Then he commanded them all to sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups, by hundreds and by fifties. And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the people. And he divided the two fish among them all. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and of the fish. And those who ate the loaves were five thousand men. — Mark 6:35-44 The sun was setting. The crowd was huge. And the disciples were doing the math. After a few quick calculations, they concluded that there was not enough. Enough time. Enough money. Enough food. It's a rational thought about the necessary rations. Five thousand men, not counting women and children. In a remote location. But Jesus challenges their rational logic with a divine line: “You give them something to eat.” And their scarcity mentality kicks in. “Are we supposed to spend two hundred denarii on bread?” “We only have five loaves and two fish.” The disciples only perceived natural impossibilities. Jesus perceived spiritual possibilities. Scarcity sees lack—but faith sees the Lord. Jesus tells them to organize the crowd. He blesses the bread. He breaks the fish. What wasn't enough in their hands becomes more than enough in his. “And they all ate and were satisfied.” Every need was met. No one went hungry. It cost nothing. They traveled nowhere. And there were twelve baskets of leftovers. This is what happens when we surrender scarcity to the Savior. Too many believers live day-by-day with a scarcity mentality. Not enough time. Not enough talent. Not enough experience. Not enough influence. Not enough faith. And so we play it safe. We hold back. We tell Jesus to “send them/it away.” However, Jesus never operates from a place of scarcity or lack. He's not concerned about how much you have—he's asking if you'll have faith, bring what you have, and give it to him. Because what feels insufficient to us becomes sufficient in Jesus's hands. So stop living with a scarcity mentality. Live by faith. Bring what you have. Let Jesus multiply and make it more than enough. ASK THIS: Why do you think the disciples focused on what they didn't have? What does this story teach us about God's provision? Where are you tempted to say, “It's not enough”? What would it look like to trust Jesus with that area today? DO THIS: Identify one area where you've been operating from a scarcity mindset. Write it down, bring it to Jesus in prayer, and trust Him to do more than you can see. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I confess I've been focused on what I lack. Today I choose to bring what I have to you. Help me trust that your hands are better than mine. Amen. PLAY THIS: "More Than Able" by Elevation Worship

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Terry White from Dodge City, KS. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. You're helping others find rest in Christ and strength in His Word. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 6:30-34: The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things. — Mark 6:30-34 The disciples return from their first mission trip—tired, drained, and hungry. They've been pouring themselves out in ministry. And Jesus sees it. “Come away by yourselves… and rest a while.” This is the heart of Jesus. He doesn't just care about the mission—he realizes they are the mission. He invites them to recover, to respire, to rest. But before they get to their quiet place, the crowd shows up. Not a few people—thousands. Uninvited. Unexpected. Undeterred. And Jesus? He sees the crowd. He knows what it'll cost. But he doesn't send them away. Looking past the obligation, he sees who they are: "sheep without a shepherd." Therefore, he teaches them. He puts down his plan and picks up their burden. Because with Jesus, compassion always overrides convenience. Recognize that Jesus and the disciples were tired. But compassion made space for the crowd. That's not soft leadership—it's spiritual maturity. And it's the kind of heart Jesus is forming in us. Let's be honest—most of us guard our convenience with everything we've got. We guard our calendars, our boundaries, our margin, and our entertainment. But sometimes the Spirit brings the “crowd” to the shore of your day. And the question is—will you see them as a problem or a person? Will you protect your comfort, or extend compassion? Compassion will cost you something. It always does. But it's how we love like Jesus. It's how we lead like Jesus. It's how we point people to Jesus. So today—who's the crowd in front of you? Stop seeing your colleagues, children, and spouse as an inconvenience. See them as an opportunity to soften your heart and have a heart of compassion like Jesus. ASK THIS: Why do you think Jesus invited the disciples to rest but still made room for the crowd? How did He balance compassion with leadership? Where are you tempted to protect convenience over showing compassion? What would it look like to allow compassion to override your plans this week? DO THIS: Think of one time recently when convenience won over compassion. Ask Jesus for the grace to make space—and love like He does next time. PRAY THIS: Jesus, give me your eyes to see people—especially when it's inconvenient. Teach me to love like you, even when I'm tired, interrupted, or busy. Amen. PLAY THIS: "God of Justice" by Tim Hughes.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Bobby McCalpine from Tahlequah, OK. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your courage to stand for truth is helping others do the same. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 6:14-29: King Herod heard of it, for Jesus' name had become known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him.” But others said, “He is Elijah.” And others said, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.” For it was Herod who had sent and seized John and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because he had married her. For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly. But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his nobles and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. For when Herodias's daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests. And the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it to you.” And he vowed to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half of my kingdom.” And she went out and said to her mother, “For what should I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist.” And she came in immediately with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” And the king was exceedingly sorry, but because of his oaths and his guests he did not want to break his word to her. And immediately the king sent an executioner with orders to bring John's head. He went and beheaded him in the prison and brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard of it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb. — Mark 6:14-29 This story is disturbing. John the Baptist is executed, not for a crime, but for telling the truth. He called out King Herod's sin—and it cost him everything. But John didn't flinch. He didn't soften the truth. He didn't adjust the message to protect himself. He spoke with clarity, conviction, and courage directly about the king's lack of integrity. John wouldn't trade conviction for approval. Herod, on the other hand, did. He liked listening to John. He respected him. He knew John was holy. But Herod was more concerned about his image than his soul. So when the moment came—when the crowd was watching, and the pressure was on—Herod made the trade. Approval over conviction. Comfort over repentance. And John lost his life because of it. This isn't just ancient history. It's a modern temptation. Today, people still trade conviction for approval: —to protect a platform —to avoid awkward conversations —to keep a job —to hold on to relationships —to stay liked But when we soften the message of Jesus to preserve our status, we don't just lose the truth—we lose our witness. The Gospel isn't ours to edit. It's ours to exalt—with boldness and love. Jesus said, “Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words... the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him.” They are strong words. But central ones. When we trade conviction for approval, we stop pointing people to the only One who can actually save them so we can try to save ourselves. So here's the question: Where are you tempted to soften, silence, or sidestep the truth to protect yourself? And what would it look like to follow John's example instead? ASK THIS: Why did Herod respect John but refuse to repent? Where do you feel tempted to alter or mute God's truth? What fear is holding you back from bold obedience? What would it look like to love others enough to speak the truth—even when it's costly? DO THIS: Name one place in your life where approval is tempting you to dilute conviction. Ask Jesus for courage to stay faithful to His message—no edits, no compromises. PRAY THIS: Jesus, help me love people enough to tell them the truth. I don't want to trade conviction for approval. Give me boldness to speak what you've spoken—clearly and faithfully. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Build My Life" by Pat Barrett.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Darrin Baker from Manhattan, KS. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your faith and generosity are helping send the Word to those who need it most. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 6:7-13: And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts— but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics. And he said to them, “Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there. And if any place will not receive you and they will not listen to you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.” So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent. And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them. — Mark 6:7-13 Jesus had just been rejected in his hometown. He could have pulled back from his mission due to this shame and embarrassment. He could have tightened the circle. Instead, he does the opposite. He expands it. He calls the Twelve and sends them out two by two. He gives them mission and authority but tells them to bring almost nothing with them. “Take no bread. No bag. No money.” No food. No clothes. No cash. That's not a preparation. That's complete trust. There are no extra supplies. There's no backup plan. This is just straight-up trust in Jesus. That's not how most of us operate. We want a safety net. We want to know the whole strategy. We want a sustainable five-year plan. But Jesus gives them something different. Something better: His mission. His message. His authority. His power. His presence. They weren't sent because they were ready. They were ready because they were sent. Because when Jesus sends, he sustains. That's the point of the moment. Jesus is not trying to deprive them—but trying to teach them dependence. He does not want them to depend on themselves but him. He is not going to make them influencers but use them for his influence and show even them that he is all the influence the world will ever need. And the result? They go. They preach repentance. They cast out demons. They anoint. They heal. Ordinary men do extraordinary things because they trust the one who sent them. The mission hasn't changed. Jesus still sends. And when He sends, He still sustains. This means you don't have to feel fully equipped to be effective. You just have to be willing to go and trust that Jesus will provide what you need along the way. ASK THIS: Why did Jesus tell the disciples not to take extra provisions? How does dependence shape our faith? Where might Jesus be sending you right now? What's one thing you need to trust Him to sustain in that area? DO THIS: Write down one area in your life where Jesus may be sending you—into a conversation, a relationship, a role, a moment. Step into it, trusting that where He sends, He sustains. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I often feel unprepared—but I know you are faithful. Help me take the next step with confidence, believing you will provide all I need. Amen. PLAY THIS: Same God.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Marvin Steele from Garland, TX. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your support helps people have faith in Jesus. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 6:1-6: He went away from there and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? How are such mighty works done by his hands? Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.” And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them. And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went about among the villages teaching. — Mark 6:1-6 Jesus returns to his hometown, Nazareth. This is where Jesus grew up, where he learned the trade of a carpenter, and where people watched him grow from a baby to a boy into a man. And now he's back. But not as a carpenter. But as a Lord. He's teaching with wisdom. He's performing mighty works. He's stepping fully into His divine calling. And what's the response? Listen to the skepticism: “Isn't this Mary's son? The carpenter? The kid we used to know?” They're amazed—but not expectantly and excitedly. They simply can't reconcile who Jesus is with who they remember he was. Familiarity breeds unbelief. They couldn't see the Messiah standing before them—because how they remembered him and formerly knew him for so many years. And because of that, Mark proclaims something staggering: “He could do no mighty work there… and he marveled because of their unbelief.” Let that sink in: Unbelief shut the door on what Jesus wanted to do. Not because he lacked power—but because the people lacked faith. Jesus doesn't force his way upon us, and he doesn't perform signs to show off to his skeptics. He responds to faith, not familiarity. And the warning of this scripture is simple. You can grow up around Jesus. You can hear his teaching every Sunday. You can know the stories, quote the verses, sing the songs—and still not have faith in him. Familiarity is not faith. Proximity is not surrender. Faith is seeing Jesus for who he truly is—and responding with awe, trust, and obedience. So today, the question isn't: “Are you familiar with Jesus?” The question is: “Do you have faith in Jesus?” #FaithOverFamiliarity, #PowerOfUnbelief, #JesusInNazareth ASK THIS: Are you truly seeing Jesus for who he is, or just as someone you've always known? How can familiarity with Jesus sometimes hinder your faith in Him? In what areas of your life do you need to move from knowledge of Jesus to faith in Him? What does it mean for you to respond with awe, trust, and obedience to Jesus? DO THIS: Take a moment to reflect on the areas of your life where familiarity with Jesus has replaced faith and trust. Ask God to reveal new aspects of His character to you today. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I don't want to merely know about You, I want to truly know You and trust You. Help me see You clearly and respond with faith, awe, and obedience today. Amen. PLAY THIS: King of Kings.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today's shout-out goes to Bob Smotherman from Temperance, MI. Bob, thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your support helps rewrite endings for so many. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 5:35-43: While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler's house some who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.” And he allowed no one to follow him except Peter and James and John the brother of James. They came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and Jesus saw a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. And when he had entered, he said to them, “Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But he put them all outside and took the child's father and mother and those who were with him and went in where the child was. Taking her by the hand he said to her, “Talitha cumi,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” And immediately the girl got up and began walking (for she was twelve years of age), and they were immediately overcome with amazement. And he strictly charged them that no one should know this, and told them to give her something to eat. — Mark 5:35-43 The crowd was still processing the healing of the woman. But before Jairus could take another step, his worst fear arrived: “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” It was over. Too late. Or so they thought. But Jesus hears the report and immediately speaks to Jairus: “Do not fear. Only believe.” That one sentence reframes everything. Jesus doesn't explain. He simply calls Jairus to trust—beyond the news, beyond the evidence, beyond the grief, beyond the noise. They arrive at the house, and the wailing has already begun. People mourning. People mocking. Jesus says, “She's not dead but sleeping,” and they laugh. But their laughter doesn't stop him. He clears the room. He takes her hand. And He speaks the words only Jesus could say: “Talitha cumi.” And she does. This is who Jesus is. He speaks life where others have accepted death. He walks into impossible rooms and rewrites the ending. He turns mourning into miracles. If you're holding onto grief, fear, or finality today. Remember, Jesus can rewrite the ending of any story. Hear his words again: “Do not fear. Only believe.” #OnlyBelieve, #JesusHeals, #MarkFive ASK THIS: What fear are you facing that Jesus wants to replace with faith? How do you respond when others mock your hope in Jesus? What areas of your life feel like they're beyond saving? How might Jesus be rewriting a story you've already given up on? DO THIS: Speak aloud the words of Jesus today—“Do not fear. Only believe”—and let them confront one specific fear you're facing. PRAY THIS: Jesus, when fear and doubt try to take over, help me hear Your voice above the noise. I choose to believe—even when others laugh, even when it seems too late. Amen. PLAY THIS: Graves Into Gardens.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today's shout-out goes to Kevin Ontiveros from Sylmar, CA. Kevin, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your support helps deliver healing to people. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 5:30-34: And Jesus, perceiving in himself that power had gone out from him, immediately turned about in the crowd and said, “Who touched my garments?” And his disciples said to him, “You see the crowd pressing around you, and yet you say, ‘Who touched me?'” And he looked around to see who had done it. But the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came in fear and trembling and fell down before him and told him the whole truth. And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease.” — Mark 5:30-34 This woman thought she could slip away unnoticed by Jesus. She had reached for healing, and it worked. The bleeding stopped. Her body felt whole. But Jesus wasn't finished. “Who touched my garments?” It's a strange question in the middle of a crowd. People were pressing in from all sides. But Jesus knew. He felt power leave him—and he wanted to know who received it. Not because he didn't know. But because he wanted her to know she wasn't invisible. She comes forward, trembling. She tells the truth. And Jesus doesn't scold her. He doesn't shame her. He gives her a name: “Daughter!” Not “woman with the issue of blood.” Not “unclean.” Not “interruption.” Daughter. That's what Jesus does. He doesn't just heal the body—he restores the soul. He gives a new name, a new identity, a new peace. You may come to Jesus because of some issue—but he will always give you more than you came for. If you've ever felt unseen, unnoticed, or unworthy—hear this: Jesus sees you. Jesus knows you. And Jesus calls you daughter... son... his. And if you come to him, he will give you a new life, which is always more than expected. Are you ready to come? And if you're ready to come—come all the way. Don't just reach for a quick fix or temporary relief. Come for the deeper healing only Jesus offers. Jesus, I come to you today. Heal me. Restore me. Make me whole, amen. #FaithRestores, #JesusSeesYou, #HealingInChrist ASK THIS: What does Jesus' question “Who touched me?” reveal about his character? Why do you think Jesus called her "Daughter"? Have you ever tried to receive from God without being seen? What healing do you need that only Jesus can provide? DO THIS: Today, tell Jesus the whole truth—come to him vulnerably, not just for healing, but for identity and peace. PRAY THIS: Jesus, thank you for seeing me when I feel unseen. I come to you for healing, restoration, and the new name only you can give. Amen. PLAY THIS: You Say.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today's shout-out goes to Jay T Patterson from Verona, MO. Jay, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your support helps deliver healing to people. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 5:25-29: And a great crowd followed him and thronged about him. And there was a woman who had had a discharge of blood for twelve years, and who had suffered much under many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was no better but rather grew worse. She had heard the reports about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his garment. For she said, “If I touch even his garments, I will be made well.” And immediately the flow of blood dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of her disease. — Mark 5:25-29 As Jesus walks with Jairus toward a dying daughter, another story unfolds in the crowd. A woman. Unnamed. Unnoticed. Twelve years of bleeding. Twelve years of suffering. Twelve years of disappointment. Twelve years of uncleanliness. She's spent everything she had—physically, financially, emotionally—and she's only gotten worse. By every account, she should have stayed home. She was considered physically and spiritually unclean. She wasn't supposed to be there. But faith doesn't wait for permission. She pushes through the crowd. Quietly. Carefully. She doesn't shout. She doesn't stop Jesus. She reaches out, thinking: “If I touch even his garments, I will be made well.” And in that moment—she is. The bleeding stops. The suffering ends. The healing begins. That's the power of quiet faith. It's not always loud or public. It doesn't always make headlines or draw attention. But it moves. It reaches. It touches Jesus. And Jesus responds. Sometimes, all you've got left—is a reach. But if you reach for the right One, that's all you'll ever need. What if the issue you're facing isn't about trying harder. But finally, reaching for Jesus? #FaithThatHeals, #TouchOfJesus, #Mark52529 ASK THIS: What have you been suffering with in silence? How have you reached for Jesus in your pain? What keeps you from pushing through the crowd today? Do you believe Jesus can respond to quiet faith? DO THIS: Push past the fear or shame today—pray boldly and reach out to Jesus with that one issue you've been hiding. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I come quietly but boldly, reaching for You with the pain I've carried far too long. Heal what doctors and efforts cannot—touch my life with Your power. Amen. PLAY THIS: “He Knows My Name” by Tasha Cobbs Leonard.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today's shout-out goes to Rick Morris from Bunnell, FL. Rick, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your support helps deliver God's Word to families across the globe. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 5:21-24: And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him, and he was beside the sea. Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, and seeing him, he fell at his feet and implored him earnestly, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well and live.” And he went with him. — Mark 5:21-24 Jesus returns to the Jewish side of the Sea of Galilee, and as usual, the crowds are already waiting. But this time, someone pushes through the crowd—not a leper, not a tax collector, not a fisherman. It's a father. And a synagogue ruler. His name is Jairus. He's a respected man. A religious leader. A person of status in the community. But on this day, none of that matters to him. The only thing on his mind is the life of his daughter—sick and close to death. Jairus doesn't send a servant. He leaves her bedside, falls at Jesus' feet, and begs: “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well and live.” This is more than desperation—it's faith. That's what faith does. It moves into and through imperfect conditions. It walks into uncertainty. It reaches through desperation—toward the only one who holds hope and healing: Jesus. Jairus didn't know how his request would be received. But he had heard about Jesus. And he knew Jesus was the only one who could help. And Jesus responds with mercy—he goes with him. Faith is often seen most clearly in our moments of desperation. The singular focus of our heart, mind, and soul in crisis directs everything toward the one object worthy of our trust. For Jairus, it wasn't a physician. It was the Miracle Worker from Nazareth. He fell at His feet—believing He could heal and save. Maybe today, you're carrying a desperate burden. Maybe it's not a daughter—but a decision. Maybe not a disease—but a disappointment. Don't carry it alone. Bring it to Jesus. Run to Him. Fall before Him. Ask boldly. And trust—He still walks with those who cry out in faith. #FaithInCrisis, #JesusHeals, #BoldBelief ASK THIS: What desperate burden are you carrying today? How does Jairus' faith challenge your own response to trials? Who or what do you usually run to in crisis? What might it look like to “fall at Jesus' feet” in your life? DO THIS: Run to Jesus today with your burden—don't delay. Speak to him out loud, laying your needs at his feet. PRAY THIS: Jesus, in my desperation, I bring my burden to You, trusting You alone can save. Strengthen my faith as I wait for Your mercy. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Run to the Father" by Cody Carnes.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today's shout-out goes to Cary Lemasters from Wellsville, OH. Cary, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your support helps deliver the Word where it's needed most. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 5:14-20: The herdsmen fled and told it in the city and in the country. And people came to see what it was that had happened. And they came to Jesus and saw the demon-possessed man, the one who had had the legion, sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. And those who had seen it described to them what had happened to the demon-possessed man and to the pigs. And they began to beg Jesus to depart from their region. As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. And he did not permit him but said to him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled. — Mark 5:14-20 The people come running because they've heard what happened and want to see it for themselves. And what they see shocks them. The same man who once lived naked in the tombs. The man who cried out night and day. The one who broke shackles and couldn't be subdued is now sitting. Clothed. Calm. In his right mind. It's such a radical transformation the crowd doesn't celebrate—they tremble in fear. The power of Jesus disturbs them more than the chaos of Legion. So they demand something tragic—they ask Jesus to leave. But not the man who was freed. He doesn't want Jesus to go without him. He begs to follow. But Jesus gives him a more important assignment: “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” And the man obeys. He tells his story. And people marvel. That's the power of a testimony. Theologians can argue. Skeptics can question. But no one can refute a changed life. This man didn't go to seminary—he came out of the tombs. And now he's a missionary to the very region that once feared him. That's what Jesus does. So—what has Jesus done for you that someone else needs to hear? You may not have a “Legion” story. But you do have a mercy story. Share it. Tell it. Live the mission. Don't keep it to yourself. God wants to use the story He's given you to preach the good news to others. You are the mouth he wants to use to tell the world about his mercy. #FromDarknessToLight, #MercyStory, #JesusSaves ASK THIS: What stands out most about the man's transformation? Why do you think the people were more afraid of Jesus than of Legion? How has God's mercy changed your life? Who in your life might need to hear that story? DO THIS: Write down your story—one moment or season where Jesus met you with mercy. Then, ask God to show you who needs to hear it this week. PRAY THIS: Jesus, thank you for the mercy you've shown me. Don't let me keep it to myself. Use my story to point others to your love and power. Amen. PLAY THIS: "My Story" by Big Daddy Weave.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today's shout-out goes to John & Cindy Brannum from Sioux Falls, SD. John & Cindy, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your support helps deliver the Word where it's needed most. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 5:6-13: And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. And crying out with a loud voice, he said, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me.” For he was saying to him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” And Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “My name is Legion, for we are many.” And he begged him earnestly not to send them out of the country. Now a great herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, and they begged him, saying, “Send us to the pigs; let us enter them.” So he gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out and entered the pigs; and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the sea. — Mark 5:6-13 Jesus steps onto the shore, and the man possessed by demons does something shocking—he runs toward Jesus. But as soon as he gets close, the demons take over. They fall. They scream. They beg for mercy. This is how evil responds to the holy—it bows in the presence of God. There's no battle. No contest. This isn't two equal forces clashing—it's total authority confronting total darkness. Jesus commands the spirit to come out. Then he asks for the demon's identity: “What is your name?” The answer is chilling: “My name is Legion, for we are many.” Literally—thousands of demons. And still, Jesus doesn't flinch, falter, or fear. It's as if he's handled situations like this a hundred times before. Then Legion pleads with Jesus. He begs for mercy—because they know they've encountered the all-powerful God, something even the disciples have yet to fully understand. They plead for dispersion rather than destruction. They beg Jesus to send them into a field of swine. There are all kinds of theories about why the pigs—but the simplest answer is this: The time for complete demonic defeat had not yet come. Jesus's mission was first to redeem mankind from the bondage of sin—before destroying evil entirely. So, Legion is cast into the pigs. And the entire herd rushes down the hillside and drowns in the sea. I believe many people today feel overwhelmed by darkness—whether internal or external. And too often, we try to manage it, medicate it, or manipulate it. But Jesus doesn't ask us to control the darkness. He asks us to surrender it—so He can confront it. If Jesus can cast out thousands of demons with a single word, he can confront the darkness you face today. So stop trying to manage the situation. Let Jesus confront it. Let him remove it. And let him cast it far from you—deep into the sea. #JesusOverDarkness, #Mark5, #SpiritualWarfare ASK THIS: Where do you feel darkness creeping into your life? Are you trying to manage what Jesus wants to remove? What does Legion's response reveal about Jesus' authority? How can you invite Jesus to confront your hidden struggles? DO THIS: Identify one area of darkness you've tried to manage and surrender it to Jesus in prayer today. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I confess the darkness I've tried to manage alone. I surrender it to You—cast it out and replace it with Your peace. Amen. PLAY THIS: “Break Every Chain” by Jesus Culture.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today's shout-out goes to Cory Baron from North Oaks, MN. Cory, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your commitment is helping others step out of darkness and into the light. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 5:1-5: They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the Gerasenes. And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones. — Mark 5:1-5 Jesus and his disciples land in Gentile territory—on the far side of the sea. And the moment they step out of the boat, they're met by a man. But not just any man. He's a strange man who lives among the dead. He's naked. Bleeding. Tormented. Possessed by a legion of demons. (A legion was about 6,000—so this was a case of extreme demonization.) We read that no one could bind him. Not with ropes. Not even with chains. He had legion-like strength—and a soul consumed by suffering. So he lived alone. Crying out. Cutting himself. Unreachable. Unrestrained. Unhealed. This is what evil does. When we give ourselves over to it, evil isolates. It dehumanizes. It pulls us away from people—and pushes us further from peace. But notice—Jesus went out of his way to reach this far-out man. He crossed a violent sea to reach a violent man in a foreign land. To reach an outcast, everyone else had given up on. Jesus doesn't move away from the broken. He moves toward them. Maybe today you feel like this man—alone, tormented, ashamed. Or maybe you've written someone off, thinking they're too far gone. You're wrong. No one is too far from Jesus—not you, not them. Because Jesus can reach anyone, anywhere, at any time. Today, if you've drifted—come back to Jesus, the one who came for you. And if you've given up on someone—don't. Pray that God would send someone who represents Him to move close. Or ask Him if that someone is you. #TheDaily #Mark5 #JesusHeals #NoOneTooFarGone #FreedomInChrist #ComeBackToJesus ASK THIS: What does this man's condition reveal about the power of evil? How does Jesus' arrival in this scene reflect His character and mission? Have you ever felt unreachable—or believed someone else was? What would it look like for Jesus to step into that place today? DO THIS: Think of one person (maybe it's even you) who seems beyond hope—and pray specifically for Jesus to move toward them in power, just as He did for the man among the tombs. PRAY THIS: Jesus, thank you for stepping into places no one else would. Help me believe you can reach anyone—including me. And help me not to give up on those who still need your touch. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Rescue" by Lauren Daigle.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today's shout-out goes to William Hanson from Bagley, MN. William, thank you for your support of Project23. I pray this study will give you peace in your storm today. Our text today is Mark 4:35-41: On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” — Mark 4:35-41 It started as a simple boat ride across the lake. But halfway through, everything changed. A sudden storm. Water crashing in. Panic is setting in. And where's Jesus? Peacefully asleep—on a cushion. That image alone speaks volumes: Jesus, undisturbed, while chaos rages. The disciples, frantic, ask the question many of us whisper when life gets hard: “Do you not care?” But Jesus does more than care—he commands. He stands up, rebukes the wind, and speaks peace over the storm: “Peace! Be still!” And just like that, the elements of life obey. The storm stops. Here's the kicker: the storm outside wasn't the biggest one. The real storm was inside them—fear, doubt, forgetfulness. And Jesus quiets that, too, with a question that echoes into our own lives: “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” The storms of life are inevitable. But panic is optional when Jesus is in your boat. Because the One who commands the sea also calms the soul. And the more we walk with him, the more we learn: Jesus may not always stop the storm before it hits—but he always brings peace in the middle of it. Lay the storm in your soul on the cushion of Jesus. You know you can't control your present storm. But he can. #FaithInTheStorm, #PeaceBeStill, #Mark43541 ASK THIS: What fears rise in you when life feels out of control? How have you seen Jesus bring peace in past storms? Why do you think Jesus asked, “Have you still no faith?” What does it mean for you to rest like Jesus—even in chaos? DO THIS: Speak the words “Peace, be still” over one area of your life today—and trust Jesus to meet you in it. PRAY THIS: Jesus, when fear fills my heart, remind me that you are present and powerful in every storm. Help me trust your peace more than I fear the waves. Amen. PLAY THIS: Still.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today's shout-out goes to Daniel Gifford from Marrietta, GA. Daniel, thank you for believing in the slow, steady work of God's Word. Because of your support of Project23, others are learning to walk by faith. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 4:30-34: And he said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.” With many such parables he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it. He did not speak to them without a parable, but privately to his own disciples he explained everything. — Mark 4:30-34 Jesus gives us yet another picture of the kingdom of God—and this one flips expectations. He says the kingdom is like a mustard seed. Small. Insignificant. Easy to miss. One of the tiniest seeds you could hold between your fingers. But when planted, it grows. And not just a little. It becomes the largest plant in the garden. Big enough for birds to land in and build their nests. Remember, Jesus isn't giving us a lesson in agriculture. He's describing spiritual hope. The kingdom doesn't always start loud or impressive. It often begins in hidden places. In quiet faithfulness. In small decisions. In the unseen crevices of our lives. God does massive things through small beginnings. This is how the kingdom grows in your heart. This is how it expands in a community. This is how it breaks into a home, a workplace, a school, a nation. Not with a splash—but with a seed. And when that seed takes root, it grows beyond expectation. It creates space for others. It becomes something only God could grow—out of something no one else noticed. So if your faith feels small today—good. That's exactly what God uses. Your "mustard seed" may not look like much, but when surrendered, it becomes a tree of grace. #MustardSeedFaith, #KingdomGrowth, #Project23 ASK THIS: Where in your life has God started something small that you're tempted to overlook? What “mustard seed” decision could you plant today? Are you expecting growth in a way that might miss how God actually works? How has God used your smallest act of faith to bless someone else? DO THIS: Plant one small, intentional act of faith today—something quiet, consistent, and surrendered to God. PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for using the small things I offer for your great purposes. Grow your kingdom in me, even when I can't see it. Amen. PLAY THIS: Do It Again.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today, we're thanking Michael Greiner from Dallas, TX. Your faithfulness in supporting Project23 is planting seeds in countless lives. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 4:26-29: And he said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground. He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how. The earth produces by itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.” — Mark 4:26-29 In this short parable, Jesus gives us another window into the nature of the kingdom of God. He describes a farmer who scatters seeds and then continues his life. He scatters. He sleeps. He wakes. He repeats. Meanwhile, something unseen is happening within the soil. The seed grows—but the farmer doesn't fully comprehend how. Jesus puts it plainly, “The seed sprouts and grows—he knows not how.” Jesus is explaining how the kingdom works. God does something unseen long before we see visible results. The seed is scattered, but growth is gradual—first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain. It's not instant. It's not showy. But it's happening. When the time is right, there is a harvest to enjoy. This parable is a gentle reminder of the difference between our duty and God's duty. We scatter the seed, but only God gives the growth. Our job is to scatter the truth we've been given generously. We are called to sow the Word everywhere we go. We scatter it in how we act and what we say. At home. At work. At school. At play. And sometimes, you may feel like this is less than productive. Like you are wasting your time and wasting the seed. But don't forget—sometimes God is doing something below the surface you can't yet see. Something you might actually miss. He might be nourishing a seed in your friend, in your spouse, in your son, in your daughter, in a grandchild that might bear fruit down the road. It might bear a harvest you never get to witness. So don't give up. Keep scattering. Believe that God is doing something you merely cannot see. And anticipate the harvest. Because with God, no faithful seed is ever wasted. #KingdomGrowth, #ScatterSeedFaithfully, #Mark4Devotional ASK THIS: Where in your life do you feel tempted to give up sowing? What “seed” might God be growing below the surface right now? How can you be more intentional in scattering God's Word this week? Do you trust that God brings the harvest in His timing? DO THIS: Keep sowing God's Word—even when you see no results. PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for working in ways I cannot see. Help me to stay faithful in sowing your truth and trust you with the results. Amen. PLAY THIS: Seasons.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today, we're thanking Kim Sheffield from San Jose, CA. Kim, your support through Project23 helps others see the light of Christ in Scripture—day by day. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 4:21-25: And he said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret except to come to light. If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” And he said to them, “Pay attention to what you hear: with the measure you use, it will be measured to you, and still more will be added to you. For to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.” — Mark 4:21-25 Jesus moves from seeds and soil to lamps and light. He asks the room a simple question: "Who lights a lamp and hides it under a basket or under a bed?" The question is rhetorical, and the answer is obvious—"Nobody does that!" That would defeat the purpose. But then Jesus connects that lamp to truth—to revelation, understanding, and obedience. God's truth isn't meant to be tucked away or kept in private. His truth is meant to shine. Jesus then says: “For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest.” In other words, God reveals truth so it can be shared. He uncovers things not to conceal—but to display. And when he illuminates your life, he expects you to live in the light of understanding and share that understanding. He expects you to use it. Then He presses in further: “Pay attention to what you hear.” With the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. That's both encouragement and warning. The more open you are to the Word, the more light you'll receive. But the more you ignore it, the easier it is to lose even what you had. Truth is a gift given—but it's also a responsibility to bear. We're not just called to hear it and consume it. We're called to live it and share it. So, what are you doing with the light you've been given? Are you hiding it in fear? Are you keeping it to yourself? Or are you projecting and proclaiming it for others to see? #LiveTheLight, #Mark4Devotional, #Project23 ASK THIS: What truth has God recently illuminated for you? How are you using what you've heard from Scripture? Are you guarding the light—or giving it away? What would it look like to “pay attention” to God's Word today? DO THIS: Take one truth God has revealed to you—and share it boldly with someone today. PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for revealing your truth to me through your Word. Help me not to hide it, but to live and share it boldly today. Amen. PLAY THIS: Shine On Us.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And a big shout-out to James Walker from Laredo, TX. James, thank you for being a vital part of Project23. Because of you, we're helping people across the world receive and respond to the Word of God. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 4:13-20: And he said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? The sower sows the word. And these are the ones along the path, where the word is sown: when they hear, Satan immediately comes and takes away the word that is sown in them. And these are the ones sown on rocky ground: the ones who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy. And they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away. And others are the ones sown among thorns. They are those who hear the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.” — Mark 4:13-20 The disciples asked Jesus to explain the parable—and he did. No mystery. No guessing. Just clarity to those who ask, seek, and knock. He told them that the seed is the Word of God. And the soil? That's our hearts. What makes this parable so powerful is that it doesn't just explain how to grow—but why so many don't. Some hear the Word and Satan snatches it away before it can even sink in. Some hear and respond quickly—but without roots, they wither under pressure. Some let the Word grow—but it gets choked out by anxiety, money, distractions, and desires. Some—only some—receive the Word deeply, producing a harvest far beyond their own ability. The prevalence and prominence of the Word is never the problem. The condition of our hearts is always the problem. And this parable isn't about four different kinds of people. It's about four different kinds of hearts and their responses. And if we're honest, we've probably been all four in our lives. Sometimes we're hard. Sometimes we're shallow. Sometimes we're distracted. Sometimes—we're finally open, and the Word bears fruit. So the personal and probing question is: What kind of soil is my heart today? And here's the good news: soil can change. The Spirit can till, soften, clear, and prepare your heart again. You just have to ask. Are your ready to ask? Spirit, soften my calloused heart to the seed of truth. Multiply your Word and truth through me. May I bear a bountiful harvest. Amen. #HeartCheck, #GoodSoil, #FruitfulFaith ASK THIS: Which soil type best describes your heart right now—and why? What tends to choke out the Word in your life the most? How can you build stronger spiritual roots? What fruit have you seen when the Word takes deep root in your life? DO THIS: Write down one thing that's currently choking or distracting you from fully receiving God's Word. Then pray and ask God to help you clear it out. PRAY THIS: God, I want to be good soil. Help me uproot what's shallow, hardened, or distracting. Let your Word go deep—and bear lasting fruit in my life. Amen. PLAY THIS: Clear the Stage.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And here is a shout-out today to Steve & Susan Webb from Apple Valley, MN. Thank you for your partnership in Project23. You're helping others hear the Word and respond to it. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 4:10-12: And when he was alone, those around him with the twelve asked him about the parables. And he said to them, “To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables, so that “‘they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand, lest they should turn and be forgiven.'” — Mark 4:10-12 After teaching the Parable of the Sower, Jesus has a moment alone with the Twelve and a few close followers and they proceed to ask him about the meaning of the parables. And what Jesus says next stops us in our tracks: “To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God… but for those outside, everything is in parables.” It sounds almost backward. Shouldn't Jesus be trying to help people understand the truth? Yes—but he is also revealing a deeper reality. Parables don't just teach truth—they test the heart. To those who are spiritually hungry, they invite. To those who are spiritually calloused, they conceal. Then Jesus, quotes from Isaiah the prophet. An ancient text where God tells the prophet that many will hear and not understand, see and not perceive. Not because God is ever unclear—but because people's hearts are closed to God's message. This is a sobering reminder that spiritual understanding isn't merely intellectual—it's formational. Notice the disciples didn't understand everything either. You will see their confusion about Jesus and the things he did and said all the way through the story. But they did something others didn't do—they asked. They leaned in. They stayed close to Jesus. And because they drew near, Jesus drew them deeper. Jesus wasn't hiding the truth from people. He was inviting those who wanted the truth to come closer. And he still is. If you feel confused about things God says in his Word—don't walk away. Lean in. Ask questions. Listen again. Keep listening to me every day. Take notes. Dig deeper. The difference between seeing and perceiving… hearing and understanding… is the willingness to stay close to Jesus even when we are confused and seeking clarity. So, in your life today, is there a place you feel a little confused about what Jesus is doing? Don't lean out. Lean in. #LeanInToJesus, #SpiritualHunger, #Mark4Devotional ASK THIS: What do Jesus' words reveal about spiritual hunger? When have you felt confused about God but kept listening? Why do some understand God's Word and others don't? How are you currently leaning in to stay close to Jesus? DO THIS: Stay close to Jesus by asking one honest question in prayer today about something you don't understand in his Word. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I don't always understand what you're doing, but I choose to lean in rather than walk away. Open my heart to see and hear your truth. Amen. PLAY THIS: Speak To Me.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And here is a shout-out today to Ben Gandy from Hugo, MN. Ben, thank you for being part of Project23. Because of your faithfulness, we get to plant the Word of God in more lives every day. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 4:1-9: Again he began to teach beside the sea. And a very large crowd gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat in it on the sea, and the whole crowd was beside the sea on the land. And he was teaching them many things in parables, and in his teaching he said to them: “Listen! Behold, a sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured it. Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and immediately it sprang up, since it had no depth of soil. And when the sun rose, it was scorched, and since it had no root, it withered away. Other seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no grain. And other seeds fell into good soil and produced grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.” And he said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”— Mark 4:1-9 Jesus sits in a boat, teaching a crowd so large He has to back away from shore to be seen and heard. He launches into a story—a parable—that has echoed across history: A sower went out to sow. Some seeds land on the path. Some seeds hit the rocky ground. Some seeds fall among thorns. Some seeds land on good soil—and multiply. It's simple imagery, but Jesus isn't giving a farming lesson. He's giving a heart lesson. And this isn't a story merely about the Sower—or even the Seed. It's a story about the soil. Jesus is spading the soil of the heart of all mankind, asking: What kind of soil is your heart? Is it hard and unreceptive, like the path? Shallow and emotionally reactive, like the rocky ground? Distracted and overgrown with worry, like the thorns? Or soft and ready—like the good soil that produces lasting fruit? You see, the Seed is always good. The Word of God never fails. But the condition of the heart determines the harvest. And here's the good news of this parable: the soil of your heart doesn't have to be fixed in the hardened state. It can be plowed. Broken up. Prepared again. So if your heart's been hardened by disappointment… Or shallow from busyness… Or choked by distraction… Let Jesus work your soil. Let his pick axe, plow, and grader work on your heart. Soften it to him and let him produce results in and through you. Today—don't just hear the Word. Listen to it by changing your heart to him. #HeartCheck, #GoodSoil, #ParableOfTheSower ASK THIS: Which type of soil best describes your heart right now? What has hardened, distracted, or shallowly rooted your spiritual growth? Are you actively allowing God to break up and prepare your heart? What fruit have you seen when you've responded with a soft heart? DO THIS: Ask God to reveal one area of your heart that needs softening—and surrender it to him today. PRAY THIS: Father, break up the hard places in my heart and prepare me to receive your Word. Help me listen with surrender and grow lasting fruit through your Spirit. Amen. PLAY THIS: Word of God Speak.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. And a big shout-out today to Jared Gatti from Prinsburg, MN. Jared, thank you for being a part of our family through Project23. You are making a difference for the Gospel. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 3:31-25: And his mother and his brothers came, and standing outside they sent to him and called him. And a crowd was sitting around him, and they said to him, “Your mother and your brothers are outside, seeking you.” And he answered them, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And looking about at those who sat around him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother.” — Mark 3:31-35 Jesus was teaching inside a packed house. People are all tuned in. Then word came that his mother and brothers were outside looking for him. But, remember—his family had just tried to stop him earlier in the chapter. Some of his family even said he was out of his mind. It seems here they were trying to intervene again. So someone interrupts the moment and says his family's outside. But Jesus doesn't rush out. Instead, using good Socratic method, he interjects a question that reframes spiritual family: “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And then he looks at the crowd sitting at his feet—the learners, the listeners, the faithful—and says: “Here are my mother and my brothers. Whoever does the will of God is my family.” When Jesus says this, he isn't rejecting his earthly family. He's expanding the definition of family altogether. He is declaring that the deepest connection in the kingdom isn't physical family—it's spiritual family. It's not shared DNA—it's shared devotion. Thus he reframes family around the Father and thus reframes family. The ones closest to Jesus aren't always the ones with blood ties—but those who listen to God and do his will. In the kingdom of God, Christ's blood is thicker than biological blood. His blood paid the price for our sins and brought us into a spiritual family that takes precedence over our biological family. And here's the beauty of it—Jesus isn't just stating a fact. He's offering an invitation to you. You don't have to be born into the right family, earn the right status, or carry the perfect spiritual record. Jesus invites you into his family. Right now. Through faith in him—his life, death, and resurrection—you can be forgiven, adopted, and called his own. If you've never said "yes" to that invitation, say it today. Just write the words "I choose Jesus" in the comments below. Trust in Jesus. Follow him. Be called brother... sister... family. And if you already belong to him—live like it. Keep walking in obedience to your Father. Because family doesn't just hear his Word—we do his will. #FamilyInChrist, #KingdomConnections, #Mark335 ASK THIS:

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. And a big shout-out today to Michael Forte from Astoria, OR. Michael, thank you for being a part of this movement through Project23. You are making a difference for the Gospel. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 3:28-30: “Truly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the children of man, and whatever blasphemies they utter, but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin”—for they were saying, “He has an unclean spirit.” — Mark 3:28-30 This text contains one of the most sobering statements Jesus ever made. He begins with an incredible promise: “All sins will be forgiven… even blasphemies.” There's real hope in that. No sin is too big for God to redeem. No past is too messy. But it's followed by a serious warning: “Whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness.” So, what is this unforgivable sin? Understanding the context is key. The religious leaders were witnessing Jesus perform undeniable works of God—and claiming they came from Satan. They weren't confused. They were willfully rejecting the truth. They were crediting the Spirit's power to the enemy himself. That's not simple disbelief—it's deliberate rejection. Persistent hardness. A refusal to acknowledge the Spirit's witness about Jesus. This warning isn't for the tender believer who fears they've lost salvation. It's a line drawn for those whose hearts have completely closed themselves off to the truth—after seeing it clearly. The unforgivable sin isn't a moment of doubt—it's a life of denial. It's not a stumble—it's a hardened stand. So if you're worried you've committed the unforgivable sin—you haven't. That concern is evidence the Spirit is still working on your heart. But this is a warning worth heeding. We need to stay soft to the Spirit at all times. When He convicts—listen. When He draws—respond. Because the longer we resist, the easier it is to grow calloused. We all have the tendency to slide into judgmentalism and legalism—attitudes that resist the Spirit and reject the grace of the Father and the Son. So listen when the Spirit calls today. Don't harden your heart. Keep saying "yes" to the voice of God. ASK THIS: When has conviction prompted you to respond or resist? What attitudes or beliefs tend to harden your heart against the Spirit? How do you recognize the Spirit's gentle voice in your daily life? In what areas do you need to say yes to the Spirit's prompting? DO THIS: When the Spirit convicts you today, repent immediately to keep your heart soft. PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for forgiving every sin through Jesus. Keep my heart soft to the Spirit and help me say yes when he convicts me. Amen. PLAY THIS: Softly and Tenderly.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. And a big shout-out today to Jon David from Evansville, IN. Jon, thank you for being a part of this movement through Project23. You are making a difference for the Gospel. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 3:27: But no one can enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. Then indeed he may plunder his house. — Mark 3:27 Today's verse comes right in the middle of a tense moment. Jesus is facing false accusations from the scribes that he's casting out demons by the power of Satan. And Jesus, in calm authority, responds with a short parable—a one-sentence story packed with power: “No one can enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man.” Jesus isn't just defending himself with a theoretical example. He's describing what he came to do. What he is going to do—on the Cross. In the imagery, the “strong man” represents Satan. The “house” represents this broken, sin-stained world. And the “plunder”? That's people—souls held captive under the weight of sin and spiritual darkness. What we discover in this bit of cryptic text is that Jesus didn't just come to teach, inspire, or heal. He came to invade enemy territory. To bind the "strong man." To rescue the "plunder" that had been stolen. That is a bold declaration and a prophetic statement about his mission in one sentence. You see, Jesus doesn't negotiate with darkness as the scribes suggested—he overpowers it. And he still does. We don't fight for victory—we fight from it. Why? Because the strong man has been bound. Jesus tied him up at the cross and walked out of the tomb three days later with the keys in hand. So why do you still live like you're a prisoner to sin? So many believers are still walking around like they're stuck in the strong man's house—afraid, anxious, ashamed—when the one who broke in is already leading them out. You are not bound anymore. Sin doesn't own you. Fear doesn't rule you. The accuser has been silenced. So, walk free today. The Stronger Man has come. Live in victory and fight from his victory. ASK THIS: What does the image of the “strong man” reveal about spiritual conflict? How has Jesus already overcome this enemy? Are there areas where you still feel bound by something Jesus already defeated? What would it look like to walk in freedom this week? DO THIS: Name one area where you've been living like a prisoner. Declare today that Jesus has already broken that chain—and ask Him for the faith to walk free. PRAY THIS: Jesus, you are the Stronger One. Thank you for rescuing me from the enemy's grip. Help me live today like someone who's truly free. Amen. PLAY THIS: Rescue Story.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. And a big shout-out today to Jon Carr from Richmond, VA. Jon, thank you for being a part of this movement through Project23. You are making a difference for the Gospel. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 3:20-26: Then he went home, and the crowd gathered again, so that they could not even eat. And when his family heard it, they went out to seize him, for they were saying, “He is out of his mind.” And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem were saying, “He is possessed by Beelzebul,” and “by the prince of demons he casts out the demons.” And he called them to him and said to them in parables, “How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, but is coming to an end. But no one can enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. Then indeed he may plunder his house. — Mark 3:20-26 Jesus couldn't even sit down to eat. I bet he feels like a mother of three at home without a husband who wants to lock herself in the bathroom to get five minutes of peace. I bet he felt like a manager who skips lunch to survive back-to-back Zoom calls. I bet he felt like a dad in the carpool line, answering work emails while refereeing a sibling war in the backseat. The house was full. The crowds wouldn't stop pressing in. But as the ministry was growing, so was the resistance. Even his own family thought he'd lost his mind. And the religious elite? They were now making accusations that went far beyond criticism. They said he was "possessed." Let that settle in for a moment. Jesus wasn't just misunderstood—he was accused of being aligned with Satan himself. Then Jesus speaks. But instead of defending himself with anger or argument, he pronounces a simple truth—one that cuts through both confusion and conspiracy: “If a house is divided against itself, it cannot stand.” It's a familiar phrase. One we quote often in politics. An adage we reference frequently in leadership. But Jesus wasn't talking about politics or corporate leadership. It was a reference to spiritual authorities. The claim itself was a logical fallacy—suggesting that a fallen creature like Satan could empower the One who casts him out. That demonic spirits serve the One who casts them out. The point Jesus was making was: You can't belong to two kingdoms. You can't walk in two directions. You can't claim spiritual power and ignore spiritual alignment. Because division doesn't just weaken things. It destroys them. That's true for nations. That's true for families. That's true for churches. That's true for hearts. When we live with divided loyalties—when we try to follow Jesus while clinging to sin, pride, or worldly thinking—we slowly collapse from within. Divided hearts drift. Whole hearts stand. Jesus calls us to wholeness—unity of heart, mind, and life. He invites us to live fully surrendered. To live all in for him. He's not asking for perfection. But he doesn't want your half-hearted allegiance. He wants all of you. A heart divided won't stand. But a life fully surrendered? That's where the kingdom of God breaks in with power. #DividedHouseCannotStand, #BindTheStrongMan, #WholeHeart ASK THIS: Where in my life have I allowed divided loyalties to weaken my faith? What “strong man” am I letting control my actions and decisions? How can I take practical steps today to bind that stronghold? What would wholehearted surrender to Jesus look like in my daily life? DO THIS: Examine one area of your life where you're divided and take steps today to surrender it fully to Jesus. PRAY THIS: Lord, I confess the divisions in my heart and ask you to bind every stronghold that opposes you. Fill me with undivided devotion to follow you fully each day. Amen. PLAY THIS: Undivided.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. And a big shout-out today to Jeffrey Brewer from Festus, MO. William, thank you for being a part of this movement through Project23. You are making a difference. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 3:13-19: And he went up on the mountain and called to him those whom he desired, and they came to him. And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach and have authority to cast out demons. He appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder); Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. — Mark 3:13-19 Jesus went up a mountain, away from the crowds, and called a group of disciples to himself. Not to witness his miracles—but to be with him. That's where all true Christian mission begins: with presence, not performance. After all, Christian mission has Christ in the name. Jesus calls them in before he sends them out. Don't miss that basis. Before they ever preached a sermon or cast out a demon. Before they healed. Before they traveled. Before they led. Before they were sent. Jesus called them in to be with him. It's easy to miss that in a world that celebrates productivity. We often think God is most pleased when we're doing something for him. But Jesus modeled that relationship with him always comes before responsibility for him. We must experience his transformation from within to accomplish his duty without. Jesus's mission always starts with this: sit with him—then step out for him. Our mission is rooted in presence, not performance. It's about being formed by the one we follow—not just doing ministry in his name, or worse, doing it in our own strength and slapping his name on top. For example, consider the men mentioned in this text today. They were ordinary disciples, like you and me. There was nothing extraordinary about them. Except for the fact that they had been with Jesus and he empowered them to extraordinary things because of him. They were not impressive men. Not one of them. But they did extraordinary things. Take John Mark, for example. There was nothing extraordinary about him. He bailed on Paul, and then Paul refused to take him on another mission trip. In this Gospel, he writes down the story of Jesus told by Peter, who was very impulsive and even denied Jesus. Today, we hold an extraordinary book in our hands because men like the ones listed here have been with Jesus. Today, focus more on being with Jesus than doing for him. Let that time fuel the work he wants to do with you—and through you—tomorrow. ASK THIS: How has your busyness overshadowed your time with Jesus? What keeps you from simply being with Jesus before serving? In what ways do you rely on your strength instead of his? Who are you seeking to impress—Jesus or others—and why? DO THIS: Sit quietly with Jesus for ten minutes today before doing any task for him. PRAY THIS: Lord Jesus, thank you for calling me into your presence before sending me out. Help me rest in your nearness so I can serve from your strength. Amen. PLAY THIS: Abide.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. And a big shout-out today to William Beaumont from Hampton, FL. William, thank you for being a part of this movement through Project23. You are making a difference. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 3:7-12: Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the sea, and a great crowd followed, from Galilee and Judea and Jerusalem and Idumea and from beyond the Jordan and from around Tyre and Sidon. When the great crowd heard all that he was doing, they came to him. And he told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, lest they crush him, for he had healed many, so that all who had diseases pressed around him to touch him. And whenever the unclean spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” And he strictly ordered them not to make him known. — Mark 3:7-12 Jesus withdraws from the synagogue in our last text, but he doesn't withdraw from the growing mission. Word has spread. People are coming from every direction. Not just from one region (Galilee) but from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, Tyre, and Sidon. These were regions far and wide, Jewish and Gentile alike. And the scene gets chaotic. Mark describes it as "crushing." It was "mob-like." The crowd is so massive and enthusiastic that Jesus tells his disciples to keep water transport ready—just in case things they need to make a quick escape. Thus, Mark reveals that following Jesus wasn't always safe at times. It wasn't always peaceful. But it was always revealing. Why were they coming? Well, one part of the crowd came because they had heard what Jesus was doing. The healings. The power. The miracles. And they came—not necessarily because they understood who Jesus was—but because they wanted something from Jesus. They wanted relief, not necessarily repentance. They wanted his power but not necessarily his presence. But notice how those possessed by unclean spirits respond. The demons in them recognized Jesus. They fell before him and declared, “You are the Son of God.” They, unlike others, understood his identity, power, and authority, and they submitted to him. One group of people seeks what Jesus can do. The other group of people surrenders to who Jesus is. So today, ask yourself: Do you only come to Jesus when you seek something or to fully surrender to the King? ASK THIS: Why do I approach Jesus—seeking relief or fully surrendering to his lordship? Have I valued what Jesus does more than who he is? In which areas of my life am I holding back submission to Jesus? How can I shift from using Jesus to genuinely following him? DO THIS: Do this: Before you reach for Jesus' help again, pause and offer him not just your needs but your full submission. PRAY THIS: Lord Jesus, I come to you both for healing and for heart‑change. Teach me to lay down my agenda and fully submit to your authority. Amen. PLAY THIS: Need A Favor.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are working our way through the entire Bible in what we call Project23. If you want to read more about this or get behind it, you can read about Project23 at the link in the description today. I would love to give a shout-out today to David Weiss from Stillwell, KS. Thanks for being a partner with the ministry. We cannot do what we do without the faithful support of families like yours. This is for you today! Today, we're looking at Mark 3:1-6: Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there with a withered hand. And they watched Jesus, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man with the withered hand, “Come here.” And he said to them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?” But they were silent. And he looked around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart, and said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. The Pharisees went out and immediately held counsel with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him. — Mark 3:1-6 Jesus walked into the synagogue, but not everyone came to worship. Imagine that worshippers came to test the teacher. They weren't there to be taught—but to trap the teacher. They also weren't concerned with the disabled man standing nearby. They were there looking for a reason to accuse Jesus. But Jesus didn't back down, and he did not change course. In fact, it did not seem to affect his presence or approach. Jesus calls the disabled man forward—right through the cold stares of the religious elite. And what could've been a moment of confrontation becomes a moment of clarity and compassion. Calling the man to him, Jesus asks one probing question: “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm?” Then silence. No one said a word. And that silence broke Jesus's heart. Jesus looked at them—not with fear (as we might) but with disappointment and grief because their hearts had grown so hard. They had become so obsessed with rules they'd forgotten how to be merciful, compassionate, and loving. Then Jesus turned to the man and said, “Stretch out your hand.” And the man did. He didn't argue or hide. He simply obeyed. And in that moment, what was physically broken was made whole. Jesus didn't just heal a hand—He exposed every heart. You see, Jesus didn't just restore one man's hand. He revealed the hearts of every man in the room. One man was open to healing—and let himself be changed. The others, especially the religious elite, resisted any change at all. Their minds and hearts were darkened. Therefore, one man was left healed. The others left plotting a scandalous murder. But here's the issue: It is easy to spot legalism in others, and it's harder to see where that legalism lives in us until we are "plotting" to murder others with our attitude and actions. So here's my question to you today: Do you have a hard heart to the healing that Jesus wants to provide? Jesus is here, and he's inviting you to lay down your hard heart and receive deep healing. He's still saying: “Stretch out your hand and be made new.” ASK THIS: What stands out most to you in Jesus' question to the crowd? Why do you think silence grieved Him more than words? Where do you see the difference between a hard heart and a humble one? What's one thing Jesus may be asking you to stretch out in trust today? DO THIS: Bring one part of your life that feels weak or hidden into the light. Name it. And offer it to Jesus today in prayer. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I don't want to live with a hard heart. Soften me. Heal what's broken. Give me the courage to stretch out my weakness in faith. Amen. PLAY THIS: Healer.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. Don't forget today we drop a chapter review of Mark 2 on The Weekly Vince Miller Show; check that out. It will add some perspective on Jesus by looking at Chapter 2 from a slightly higher level. I would love to give a shout-out today to Joseph Myall from Klamath Falls, OR. Thanks for being a partner with the ministry. We cannot do what we do without the faithful support of families like yours. This is for you, Joseph! Today, we're looking at Mark 2:23-28: One Sabbath he was going through the grainfields, and as they made their way, his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. And the Pharisees were saying to him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?” And he said to them, “Have you never read what David did, when he was in need and was hungry, he and those who were with him: how he entered the house of God, in the time of Abiathar the high priest, and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and also gave it to those who were with him?” And he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath.” — Mark 2:23-28 Jesus and his disciples were walking through a field on the Sabbath, and they casually picked grain to eat. It was a simple, innocent act. An everyday moment. However, the religious leaders turned it into a legal trap and dispute. To them, the issue was not their present physical hunger but religious rebellion. The religious leaders had built layers of tradition over centuries around God's commands—so many that they'd lost sight of the heart behind the law. Jesus answers with an account they'd all remember: David, while running for his life, was also hungry and desperate and ate not merely grain in a field but the sacred bread from within the Temple. It wasn't sanctioned, yet God didn't condemn him. Because sometimes, mercy takes precedence. Then Jesus offers a correction they didn't expect: “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” In other words, the Sabbath isn't a burden—it's a blessing. A time for rest, renewal, and remembering who provides everything we need. Then, Jesus takes his point to a whole new level. He claims authority not just to interpret the Sabbath but to own it: “The Son of Man [Jesus] is Lord even of the Sabbath.” This wasn't about rules—it was about who rules. Jesus was declaring that true spiritual rest isn't found in rules. Rest is found in Him. and of course, they missed the point he was making. Just like they did, we miss the point: We still fall into the same trap. We turn faith into performance. We hustle for approval. We keep spiritual scorecards. But Jesus invites us to something entirely different—not a religion to prove, rules to follow, but a relationship to enjoy. Spiritual rest isn't earned. It's received. And real rest begins when we trust that his work—not ours—is what makes us right with God. #LordOfTheSabbath, #SabbathRest, #MercyNotRules ASK THIS: Why do you think the Pharisees had such a hard time letting go of their rules? In what ways do you find your worth in performance instead of God's presence? What would it look like for you to receive Sabbath as a gift, not a burden? Where is Jesus inviting you to stop striving and simply rest? DO THIS: Set aside 10 minutes today to stop and rest in God's presence. No agenda, no noise. Just be still and let Jesus remind you that you're not defined by what you do—but by who He is. PRAY THIS: Jesus, thank you for being my rest. Teach me to slow down, to trust your provision, and to find peace in your presence—not my performance. Amen. PLAY THIS: Run To The Father.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in the Gospel of Mark. Visit the website and purchase the Scripture Journal for this study so that you can follow along with us. I would love to give a shout-out today to Shawn Ryan from Currituck, NC. Thanks for being a partner with the ministry. We cannot do what we do without the support of faithful individuals like you. This is for you, Shawn! Today, we're looking at Mark 2:21-22: No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the patch tears away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins—and the wine is destroyed, and so are the skins. But new wine is for fresh wineskins.” — Mark 2:21-22 Today, Jesus continues teaching about the new life that he brings with him using two pictures that would've been familiar to everyone listening: cloth and wineskins. He makes two points: You can't sew new cloth onto old cloth without creating a larger tear. You can't pour new wine into brittle old wineskins without making a bigger mess. The reasoning and application won't work in natural life, and it especially won't work in the spiritual life. This is because a little bit of something new in your spiritual life will not improve your old spiritual life. It may worsen the situation. What you need is not a spiritual touch-up. You need a whole new Spirit. This is what Jesus came to reveal. And that is what he is teasing out here, which eventually will be revealed after his death, resurrection, and ascension. You can't fit the life Jesus offers into any of the old frameworks you used to live by. If you try to do this, it will tear and burst. What you need is a whole new way of life. You need a new mind. A new heart. A new spirit. Which will change how you think, feel, and act. If you've been trying to squeeze a little bit of Jesus into an old way of thinking, feeling, and acting, you need to know it's not going to work. Eventually, your spiritual life will tear and burst. You cannot treat Jesus like an accessory or add-on. You must let him build something new in you from the ground up. Because Jesus is not interested in patch jobs. Jesus offers total transformations. So, what "old wineskin" (hurt, habit, hangup) are you still trying to use in Jesus' "new wine" life? #newwinenewlife, #spiritualtransformation, #mark2 ASK THIS: What old patterns in your life don't fit with the new life Jesus offers? Why do you think it's so tempting to cling to "old wineskins"? Where do you need fresh vision, fresh trust, or fresh obedience today? How can you live more fully in the new life Jesus offers? DO THIS: Identify one old habit, mindset, or attitude you know Jesus is calling you to leave behind. Write it down—and pray for the courage to release it today. PRAY THIS: Jesus, you came to make me new, not just better. Give me the courage to release the old ways that can't contain the life you want to pour into me. Amen. PLAY THIS: New Wine.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in the Gospel of Mark. Visit the website and purchase the Scripture Journal for this study so that you can follow along with us. Today, we're looking at Mark 2:18-20: Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. And people came and said to him, “Why do John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day. — Mark 2:18-20 People didn't know what to do with Jesus. He wasn't following their religious routines. He wasn't fasting like the Pharisees or even like John's disciples. To the watching crowd, it seemed like Jesus was breaking the rules. But Jesus wasn't breaking rules or ignoring tradition—he was living by God's rule while fulfilling God's plan. In a way, this appeared new to many onlookers. But it wasn't new. It was just lived out completely and perfectly, and not in the way people expected. Then he answered their question using an image they would understand: a wedding feast. No one fasts when the groom is standing in the room. You celebrate. You feast. You enjoy the moment. Jesus was showing them something revolutionary: The Bridegroom was here. The celebration had started. The feast had begun. There would be a time for fasting again, but that time wasn't now. Right now, they were standing in the presence of God made flesh—and that demanded a response of joy. Jesus showed us a better way. No rituals. No checklists. Just joy. Because the bridegroom was here and rose again. Feast. Laugh. Worship. Live every moment in the celebration of his presence. Let that joy fuel your day—and everything you share with others. #BridegroomHere, #FeastNotFast, #Mark2 ASK THIS: How might I shift from religious routine to genuine joy in Jesus today? What “feast” can I create to celebrate Christ's presence in my life? When have I mistaken rituals for relationship in my faith journey? How will I prepare my heart to fast when the bridegroom is away? DO THIS: Today, choose joy over obligation—celebrate Jesus' presence with a smile, song, or shared meal. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I rejoice in your presence as my bridegroom and find freedom in celebrating you. Help me feast on your grace today. Amen PLAY THIS: House of the Lord.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in the Gospel of Mark. Visit the website and purchase the Scripture Journal for this study so that you can follow along with us. I am giving a shout-out today to Rock Woods from Roseburg, OR. Thank you for being a monthly partner in Project23 and helping us share the Gospel with millions as we work our way through the entire Bible. Today, we're looking at Mark 2:15-17: And as he reclined at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners were reclining with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. And the scribes of the Pharisees, when they saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors, said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” And when Jesus heard it, he said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” — Mark 2:15-17 Jesus didn't come for the perfect. He came for the broken. While the religious elite judged from a distance, Jesus pulled up a chair—shared a meal with people everyone else wrote off. He didn't dodge messy lives. He walked straight into them. When the Pharisees complained, Jesus shut it down with one bold line: “Those who are well don't need a physician—only the sick do. I didn't come to call the righteous, but sinners.” He wasn't excusing a sinner's sin. He was calling them out of it. But first, he met them where they were—over a table, in real conversation, starting with grace and leading to a challenge. Jesus' table was—and still is—a place of invitation and transformation. And it's wide open for you. Will you come to the table and eat? And if you know Jesus, act like him. Carefully consider with whom you are meeting with and eating with today. Who needs to see Jesus' love through the way you live and love? #graceatthetable, #dailydevotional, #callofsinners ASK THIS: Who in your life feels unwelcome at your table? When have you judged rather than joined someone in their struggle? How can you extend grace before pointing out faults today? What's one small way you can meet someone “where they are”? DO THIS: Invite someone you'd normally avoid to lunch or coffee this week and offer them compassion and direction, not only correction. PRAY THIS: Lord Jesus, thank you for meeting me in my mess and offering to heal before I ever had it together. Give me the courage to pull up a chair for others and love them with your grace. Amen PLAY THIS: Come As You Are.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in the Gospel of Mark. Visit the website and purchase the Scripture Journal for this study so that you can follow along with us. I am giving a shout-out today to Tony Wendt from Neenah, WI. Thank you for being a monthly partner in Project23 and helping us share the Gospel with millions as we work our way through the entire Bible. Today, we're looking at Mark 2:13-14: He went out again beside the sea, and all the crowd was coming to him, and he was teaching them. And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. — Mark 2:13-14 Levi wasn't looking for Jesus. He was busy doing what he always did—collecting taxes, padding his pockets, ripping off his own people. He was despised by people. Rejected by locals. Labeled a traitor. The guy nobody thought Jesus would want, Jesus wanted. Jesus walks right up to him and says two words that changed everything: "Follow me." No elaborate speech. No warning to his present posse. No preconditions to the call. Just a command that cuts through the shame, guilt, and isolation. And Levi responds. Immediately. He doesn't overthink it, unlike many others. He doesn't argue with a man he doesn't even know. He just gets up and goes. That's what happens when Jesus calls. He sees beyond your past. He sees beyond your reputation. He calls you to leave your booth behind—whatever old life you've been sitting in—and walk into a brand-new identity. If you're wondering whether Jesus could ever want someone like you, remember Levi. You're exactly the kind of person Jesus came to call. So, what booth are you still sitting in today? It's time to leave it behind, get up, and follow Jesus. #FollowMe, #NewIdentity, #Project23 ASK THIS: What old identity have you been clinging to that Jesus is calling you to leave behind? How would you respond if Jesus said "Follow me" to you right now? What fears keep you seated instead of standing up to follow? Who in your life needs to hear that Jesus calls outsiders like Levi? DO THIS: Identify one “booth” you're stuck at—some place where shame, fear, or comfort is keeping you seated. Stand up. Take one step today toward following Jesus more fully. PRAY THIS: Jesus, thank you for seeing me when others overlook me. Give me the courage to leave behind anything that holds me back from following you. Amen PLAY THIS: I Thank God.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in the Gospel of Mark. Visit the website and purchase the Scripture Journal for this study so that you can follow along with us. I am giving a shout-out today to Rob Reed from Perham, MN. Thank you for being a monthly partner in Project23 and helping us share the Gospel with millions as we work our way through the entire Bible. Today, we're reading Mark 2:6-12: Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, “Why does this man speak like that? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus questioned within themselves, said to them, “Why do you question these things in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, ‘Rise, take up your bed and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic— “I say to you, rise, pick up your bed, and go home.” And he rose and immediately picked up his bed and went out before them all, so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!” — Mark 2:6-12 It looked like a healing story. It sounded like a healing story. But Jesus was doing way more than healing legs—He was forgiving sins. The scribes caught it. And they hated it. "Who does this man think he is? Only God can forgive sins!" Exactly. That's the whole point. Jesus reads their minds. Calls them out. He forces the issue: Which is easier to say—"your sins are forgiven" or "get up and walk"? From a human view, both are impossible. But for Jesus? He can do both. So he does both. He heals the body to prove his authority over the soul. Jesus isn't just a good teacher, a moral man, or a first-century miracle worker. He's God. In the flesh. With authority over everything. And when Jesus speaks—things happen. Sins are stricken. Muscles are strengthened. Religious officials are irritated. Crowds stand in wonder. Because Jesus doesn't just fix external symptoms—he fixes the internal problems with the soul. So, are you experiencing external symptoms of internal problems? Bring them to Jesus. He goes beyond healing. He heals everything. #AuthorityOfChrist, #ForgivenAndHealed, #MarkStudy ASK THIS: What secret doubt or sin have you been hiding from others—and from God? How does Jesus' ability to read your heart change how you approach him in prayer? In what area of your life do you need both forgiveness and tangible healing? What step of faith can you take today to trust Jesus' authority over your soul? DO THIS: Identify one hidden struggle in your heart and bring it to Jesus today—confess it, trust his forgiveness, and believe for healing. PRAY THIS: Lord Jesus, I lay my hidden sins and deepest hurts before you. Forgive me, heal me, and reveal your authority in every part of my life. Amen PLAY THIS: Gratitude.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in the Gospel of Mark. Visit the website and purchase the Scripture Journal for this study so that you can follow along with us. I want to give a shout-out today to Robert Jassey from Double Springs, AL. Thank you for being a monthly partner in Project23 and helping us share the Gospel with millions as we work our way through the entire Bible. Today, we're reading Mark 2:1-5: And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no more room, not even at the door. And he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and when they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” — Mark 2:1-5 The room was packed. People crowding every inch, spilling out the door. But that didn't stop these four men. They showed up carrying a friend who couldn't walk—and when the door was blocked, they didn't turn around. They climbed the roof. Tore it open. Lowered him down right in front of Jesus. Because real faith doesn't wait for perfect conditions. It finds a way. Jesus saw it. He didn't just see a paralyzed man—He saw their faith. Not faith spoken. Faith acted out. Faith with sweat on its forehead and dirt under its fingernails. Faith that refuses to quit until it collides with Jesus. And what does Jesus do? He says something unexpected: "Son, your sins are forgiven." Before He heals the body, He heals the soul. Because that's how Jesus works—He goes after the real issue first. If you're waiting for the “right time” to come to Jesus, stop. If you're waiting for your "life to get cleaned up before you act," stop. Faith tears the roof off whatever stands between you and Jesus. Right now, take action and tear off your roof by praying this simple prayer with me, and watch as Jesus provides you with the real healing you need. Jesus, I don't know all the right steps to take. But I know this prayer is a step in the process. Receive this prayer as my step of faith in you. I am trusting that you will provide me with the healing I really need. Amen. If you prayed this prayer with me, and this is the first time you've taken this step, let me know in the comments by typing: "I choose Jesus!" #FaithInAction, #RoofTearingFaith, #SoulHealing ASK THIS: What's one "crowd" standing in the way of you getting closer to Jesus? How does the boldness of these four men challenge your view of faith? Where have you been waiting for perfect conditions instead of taking action? Are you seeking Jesus for surface needs—or for soul-deep healing? DO THIS: Identify one excuse you've been using to stay stuck spiritually. Name it. Then, today—take one bold, imperfect step toward Jesus anyway. PRAY THIS: Jesus, break down anything that stands between me and you. Give me a faith that's not afraid to rip the roof off if that's what it takes.  Amen. PLAY THIS: Same God.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in the Gospel of Mark. Go to the website and grab the Scripture Journal for this study so you can study along with us. I want to give a shout-out today to Tim Steinke from Menasha, WI. Go Packers! Thank you for being a monthly partner in Project23 and helping us share the Gospel with millions as we work our way through the entire Bible. Today, we're reading Mark 1:21-45: And they went into Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath he entered the synagogue and was teaching. And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes. And immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit. And he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God.” But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying out with a loud voice, came out of him. And they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, “What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” And at once his fame spread everywhere throughout all the surrounding region of Galilee. And immediately he left the synagogue and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon's mother-in-law lay ill with a fever, and immediately they told him about her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her, and she began to serve them. That evening at sundown they brought to him all who were sick or oppressed by demons. And the whole city was gathered together at the door. And he healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons. And he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. And Simon and those who were with him searched for him, and they found him and said to him, “Everyone is looking for you.” And he said to them, “Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also, for that is why I came out.” And he went throughout all Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out demons. And a leper came to him, imploring him, and kneeling said to him, “If you will, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him and said to him, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. And Jesus sternly charged him and sent him away at once, and said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded, for a proof to them.” But he went out and began to talk freely about it, and to spread the news, so that Jesus could no longer openly enter a town, but was out in desolate places, and people were coming to him from every quarter. — Mark 1:21-45 Jesus walks into the synagogue and doesn't just teach—He commands. His words land differently. Not like the scribes. Not recycled thoughts or secondhand opinions. Jesus speaks with authority, and it stuns people. It's the kind of authority that silences demons and heals sickness with a touch. This is power and compassion, side by side. He speaks, and spirits flee. He touches, and sickness disappears. He lifts a woman by the hand—and she rises, healed, and starts serving. Jesus isn't just full of authority—He uses it to serve, not dominate. He doesn't flex to impress. He acts to restore. That's the kind of King He is. And word spreads. Fast. People start crowding the door. Sick, desperate, oppressed—everyone wants a moment with Jesus. But here's the key: the ones who encountered Him didn't just get relief, they experienced release. Not just healed from something—but freed for something. When Jesus shows up, things change. People don't stay the same. So, here's the question: Have you allowed his authority to change you? Not just inspire you—but actually disrupt, heal, and transform you? #JesusHeals, #SpiritualAuthority, #FaithOverFear ASK THIS: What do you notice about the way Jesus uses His authority? How does His power give you comfort instead of fear? Where do you need healing or freedom today? What's stopping you from bringing that to Jesus right now? DO THIS: Surrender an area of your life where you've been resisting Jesus' authority—ask Him to transform it today. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I don't just want to admire your power—I want to be changed by it. Heal what's broken in me, and lead me in freedom. Amen. PLAY THIS: Same Power.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in the Gospel of Mark. Go to the website and grab the Scripture Journal for this study so you can study along with us. Our shout-out today goes to Tim Salvesen from Carver, MN! Thank you for being a monthly partner, Tim. You rock my face off. I hope you enjoy this devotional today. Today, we're reading Mark 1:16-20: Passing alongside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him. And going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, who were in their boat mending the nets. And immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants and followed him. — Mark 1:16-20 Jesus didn't give these men a detailed plan. He didn't give a lecture or a checklist. He gave a simple, life-altering invitation: “Follow me.” No resume required. No spiritual degree. Just ordinary fishermen—busy working, heads down, doing life. Jesus walks up and flips their world upside down with two words. And here's the wild part—they dropped everything. Nets. Boats. Family. Comfort. Security. Gone in an instant. Because when Jesus calls, obedience can't be delayed. He didn't just invite them to believe something—He invited them to become something. "Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men." He wasn't offering a career change. He was offering transformation. A new mission. A new identity. That's what following Jesus always does. It interrupts. It costs. But it also creates. He doesn't call you to a better version of yourself—He calls you into a whole new purpose. And notice the pattern: He calls. They respond. No stalling. No excuses. No “let me check my schedule.” Just immediate obedience. That's the power of Jesus' voice—it cuts through the noise and speaks straight to the soul. So, what do you need to drop to become someone different in Jesus today? #FollowJesus, #RadicalObedience, #FishersOfMen ASK THIS: What is Jesus asking me to drop in this season? Do I respond to Jesus immediately or with hesitation? How does my identity change when I follow Jesus fully? Am I more focused on comfort or on His calling? DO THIS: Drop the one thing today that's delaying your full obedience to Jesus. PRAY THIS: Jesus, give me the courage to drop what's familiar and follow you without delay. Make me into who you've called me to be. Amen. PLAY THIS: I Have Decided to Follow Jesus.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. A shout-out today goes to David and Patti Fredrickson from Lake City, MN. Thank you both for your kind email, for be grateful listeners, and for becoming month partners. We cannot do this without you. Be like the Fredrickson's and listen daily with your spouse! Today we premiere the next lesson in my newest study for men, titled Blacksmith's Discipline. If you'd like to join me for this click the link to receive notifications and purchase the study book that accompanies the study today. We have four more weeks to go. Today, we're reading Mark 1:12-13: The Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. And he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. And he was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him.— Mark 1:12-13 The moment Jesus is baptized—He's launched into battle. No time to bask in the glory of that voice from heaven. No pause. No pat on the back. The same Spirit that descended like a dove drives him into the wilderness. And what waits for him there? Satan. Temptation. Wild animals. Isolation. It's easy to think that following God should lead to peace, comfort, clarity. But here—obedience leads Jesus into hardship. Before Jesus ever preached a word, He had to fight a war. This wilderness moment matters. Jesus steps into the mess of temptation not because He had to—but because we do. He willingly walks into the fire so He could stand in it with us. He faces Satan head-on, not as a show of power, but as a statement of solidarity. The Son of God chose to suffer first. And Mark tells it fast—just two verses. No dialogue. No breakdown of the temptation. Just this: He was tempted, He endured, He was not alone. God doesn't abandon us in the wilderness—He strengthens us there. You may feel like you're walking through your own desert right now. Maybe you're facing temptation, loneliness, or attack. But take this to heart: Jesus has walked that road, and He's walking it with you now. #WildernessFaith, #JesusFightsFirst, #Mark11213 ASK THIS: What “wilderness” are you currently facing? How do you typically respond to spiritual battles? What does this passage teach you about God's presence in trials? In what ways can you rely more on the Spirit during temptation? DO THIS: Walk into your wilderness today with confidence—Jesus has already been there, and He's walking with you now. PRAY THIS: Jesus, thank you for walking into the wilderness before me. Help me to see your presence in my hardest moments and trust your strength in my weakness. Amen. PLAY THIS: Battle Belongs.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in the Gospel of Mark. Go to the website and grab the Scripture Journal for this study so you can study along with us. Our shout-out today goes to Phillip "William" Beckwith from Greer, SC. Thanks for being a monthly partner. We cannot do what we do here without the support of faithful donors like you. I love you brother. Today, we're reading Mark 1:9-11: In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” — Mark 1:9-11 Jesus didn't need to be baptized. Yet, he did. He stepped into the waters of baptism to identify with us. He didn't come to be served but to serve, to walk through the same trials and experiences we face. And his baptism marked the start of his public ministry, but we see here it also served as a resounding affirmation from the Father. As Jesus came out of the water, the heavens were torn open, the Spirit descended like a dove, and the Father's voice thundered, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased." This was profound on two levels. First, it revealed Jesus's identity as the Son of God, marked by divine approval. Second, it displayed the full Trinity in action: the Father speaking, the Son being baptized, and the Spirit descending. But there's more. Jesus didn't come just to receive the Father's approval. He came to restore our relationship with the Father. The voice that said, “You are my beloved Son” is now extended to us. The Father adopts us into his family through Jesus. The same Spirit that descended on Jesus is available to empower us today. Jesus's baptism is a reminder that the Father delights in his children and that he equips us with his Spirit to live out our calling. You see, this moment wasn't just for Jesus. It was done as an example and declaration for all who would follow him. We are invited into an immersive relationship with the Father. Public baptism declares we are confirmed, secured, and empowered by the Father. If you haven't made the decision to follow Jesus, today is the day to turn to him. Jesus came to restore your relationship with your Father and empower you to live for him. Will you accept that invitation today? You see, the Father is not distant or disengaged. He is actively involved in our lives, calling us to be his children. Just as Jesus was affirmed and empowered in his identity as the Son of God, we too are called to walk in our new identity as sons and daughters of the King. Don't do this life alone without the Heavenly Father. He has done everything to call you home. If today is the day for you to come home. Write "I choose Jesus," in the comments below. #BelovedByTheFather, #Mark1Devotional, #IdentityInChrist ASK THIS: Why do you think Jesus chose to be baptized? How does the Father's voice shape your view of God? Do you live from approval or for approval? What does it mean to you to be called God's beloved child? DO THIS: Make your identity in Christ your foundation—live from the Father's affirmation, not for it. PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for calling me your beloved. Empower me by your Spirit to live boldly in my new identity. Amen. PLAY THIS: Who You Say I Am.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in a brand new book of the Bible. Go to the website and grab the Scripture Journal for this study so you can study along with us. Shout out today to JT Sherrod on YouTube, who recently made a strong recommitment. He said he is renewing his commitment and is "Okay if this costs him everything." JT is awesome. Be like JT people. Live all in. Today, we're looking at Mark 1:4-8: John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And all the country of Judea and all Jerusalem were going out to him and were being baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel's hair and wore a leather belt around his waist and ate locusts and wild honey. And he preached, saying, 'After me comes he who is mightier than I, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit. — Mark 1:4-8 John the Baptist is an unforgettable figure. His appearance alone was enough to make people take notice—dressed in camel's hair and eating locusts! But John's message wasn't about his strange attire or his odd diet; it was about preparing the hearts of the people for the arrival of the Messiah. He called them to repentance, to turn away from their sin, and to seek forgiveness. It was a message of renewal, of returning to God's design for their lives. There's something profound about the way John humbly points to Jesus. He doesn't seek the spotlight; instead, he steps aside to make way for the true Savior. John recognizes his place—he is not worthy to untie the sandals of the one who is to come. This is a powerful reminder for us: It's not about making ourselves famous but about pointing others to the One who is truly worthy. John knew his role, and it wasn't to take center stage; it was to prepare the way for Jesus to be revealed. John's message of baptism is also a message of transformation. While he baptized with water, Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit, a deeper, more lasting change. This is the promise of a new life, one that is marked by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. The gospel isn't just about an external cleansing; it's about an internal, heart-deep change that only God can bring. You're invited into this transformation—not just to confess your sins but to be baptized with the Holy Spirit, receiving the power to live a new life in Christ. John didn't just preach a message of repentance; he preached a message of hope. He pointed to Jesus, who would not only forgive but empower. Just as John prepared the people for Jesus' arrival, we, too, are called to prepare our hearts and lives to receive this transformative power. Don't settle for an outward change when God wants to bring a deep, inner transformation. Take time today to reflect on areas of your life where you need true transformation—not just an external change, but an internal one. What areas of sin or struggle do you need to turn away from and invite the Holy Spirit to renew? #BaptismOfTheHolySpirit, #JohnTheBaptist, #TransformationInChrist ASK THIS: What areas of your life need true, heart-deep transformation? How can you point others to Jesus without seeking the spotlight? In what ways can you prepare your heart for Jesus' transformative power? How does John the Baptist's humility inspire your walk with Christ? DO THIS: Reflect on areas of your life that need internal transformation and invite the Holy Spirit to renew you. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me recognize the areas of my life that need transformation. Empower me through your Holy Spirit to live a life that points others to you, with humility and obedience. Amen. PLAY THIS: Spirit of the Living God.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in a brand new book of the Bible. Go to the website and grab the Scripture Journal for this study so you can study along with us. Shout out today to Fred Jackson, from Elk Grove, CA, and his bride, who listen every day. I met Fred recently at the Men of Honor Conference at Creekside Church, and he came up and introduced himself, confessing that he had put together that the guy he had been listening to every day was standing on the stage! I love it. Today, we're looking at Mark 1:1-3: The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in Isaiah the prophet, “Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way, the voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight,'” — Mark 1:1-3 Everything changes with the arrival of the gospel. It isn't just news—it's history in the making. Mark opens his account with a statement that turns everything upside down: "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God." These aren't just the first words of a book—they are the first words of hope for the entire world. Jesus didn't just arrive; He was sent with a purpose. The gospel has always been part of God's plan. Mark goes on to show us that this wasn't a random event. It was the fulfillment of centuries-old prophecies. The messenger—John the Baptist—was sent to prepare the way. But preparation isn't just about getting things ready on the outside; it's about making our hearts ready for Jesus. John's call to make straight paths for the Lord is a challenge for us today. Is your heart prepared? Are you ready to receive the gospel, or are there roadblocks and distractions in the way? The gospel doesn't just come to inform; it comes to transform. The question isn't just whether we've heard the gospel—it's whether we've allowed it to reshape our lives. The starting point for all of this is simple: Jesus is the Son of God, and he's here to change everything. This isn't just a story about someone else's faith. This is a call to action for us. The question is: How are you preparing the way for Jesus in your life? Maybe it's time to clear out some clutter, repent of old habits, or make space for God to move in new ways. John the Baptist's message wasn't just for those in the wilderness—it's for us, too. Prepare your heart for the Lord, and let the gospel change you. #PrepareTheWay #GospelTransformation #HeartOfRepentance ASK THIS: What are the "roadblocks" in your life that prevent you from fully receiving the gospel? How can you prepare your heart today for Jesus to transform your life? Is there any area of your life that needs repentance to make room for God? How does the message of John the Baptist challenge your current relationship with God? DO THIS: Clear the clutter from your life and heart to make space for Jesus to move in new ways. PRAY THIS: Lord, I open my heart to you today. Clear the path and make my heart ready to receive the transformative power of your gospel. Amen. PLAY THIS: Prepare The Way.

Welcome to The Daily, where we go through the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. Tomorrow, we start the Gospel of Mark. Go to the website and grab the Scriptural Journal for this study so you can study along with us. Today, we're looking at Ecclesiastes 12:13-14: The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil. — Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 This is the moment everything has been building toward. After all the searching, testing, questioning, and reflecting—Solomon ends with one clear, uncompromising truth: Fear God. Keep His commandments. This is not just a good idea. It's not a nice suggestion. It's the whole duty of humanity. Solomon's not talking about fear that paralyzes—but a fear that rightly places God above all else. It's reverence. Awe. Weight. A deep awareness that God is holy, sovereign, and not to be ignored. And with that reverence comes obedience. Not out of guilt, but from a heart that understands who God is and what He deserves. Why? Because one day, we'll stand before Him. Every secret thing—every word, motive, thought, and action—will be laid bare. The life we lived, the choices we made, the paths we walked—they all matter. And that's why this final word hits so hard: Solomon isn't just summarizing a book—he's giving us a compass for life. In a world full of distractions and noise, this is clarity. In a life filled with vapor, this is substance. Fear God. Obey His Word. That's the whole book. #FearGod, #ObeyHisWord, #EternalPerspective ASK THIS: What does it mean to “fear God” in your daily life? Which of God's commandments are you struggling to obey right now? How would you live differently if you truly believed every secret thing will be judged? What distractions are pulling you away from a God-centered life? DO THIS: Write down one area where you need to realign your life with God's commands—and act on it today. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to live with reverent fear of You. Teach me to love and obey Your Word with all my heart. Amen. PLAY THIS: Jesus Paid It All.

Welcome to The Daily, where we go through the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in the last chapter of Ecclesiastes. That means today, we are 1 day away from starting the Gospel of Mark. Go to the website and grab the Scriptural Journal for this study so you can study along with us. Today, we're looking at Ecclesiastes 12:9-12: Besides being wise, the Preacher also taught the people knowledge, weighing and studying and arranging many proverbs with great care. The Preacher sought to find words of delight, and uprightly he wrote words of truth. The words of the wise are like goads, and like nails firmly fixed are the collected sayings; they are given by one Shepherd. My son, beware of anything beyond these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh. — Ecclesiastes 12:9-12 These verses show Solomon's passion as a teacher. He didn't just live wisely—he worked to pass wisdom on. He studied, he sifted, he selected each word carefully. Not to impress, but to guide. Not to sound clever, but to offer truth. He compares wisdom to a goad—a sharp stick used to keep animals on the right path. And also to nails—firmly fixed, anchoring truth into the soul. Good wisdom doesn't just entertain—it moves you. It stabilizes you. It sets your course. And Solomon says something profound here: these collected sayings were given by one Shepherd. Even though Solomon penned them, the true Author behind them is God. He's the One trying to lead us home. But then comes a warning. "Beware of anything beyond these." So Solomon isn't anti-learning. He's not dismissing scholarship or curiosity. He's warning us not to drown in the endless search for knowledge while missing the truth already in front of us. Too many people spend their lives chasing new ideas but never living out the truth they already know. There are a lot of voices out there. A lot of opinions. A lot of books. But not all words are equal. Some distract. Some deceive. But the words that come from the Shepherd? They lead us home. #WiseWords, #ShepherdsVoice, #Ecclesiastes12 ASK THIS: What truth from Scripture have I learned but still struggle to apply? In what areas of life am I chasing knowledge but missing obedience? How can I better recognize the voice of the Shepherd in a noisy world? What's one way I can anchor wisdom more deeply in my heart this week? DO THIS: Choose one piece of wisdom from Scripture today—and live it out. Don't just read truth. Apply it. PRAY THIS: Father, help me to value Your wisdom above the noise of the world. Anchor my heart in Your truth and lead me home. Amen. PLAY THIS: The Lord Will Provide.