Podcasts about kerusso

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When you think of ships, whether you're thinking of the Titanic, pirate ships of yore, or trading vessels crossing the vast ocean to bring goods and services from one country to another, you probably picture them with an anchor—a heavy metal hook designed to catch on the ocean floor and keep a boat or ship in place.Wikipedia says this about anchors: There are two main types of anchors: temporary and permanent. A permanent anchor is called a mooring block and is not easily moved. A temporary anchor can be moved and is carried on the boat. When people talk about anchors, they are usually thinking about temporary anchors.Hebrews 6:19 says, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”When you think about your personal relationship with Jesus Christ, what kind of anchor binds you to your Lord and Savior? Is it a permanent anchor—not easily moved? Or is it a temporary anchor, dependent more on where you want to steer the ship, carried aboard your boat until you feel like a temporary stop?God wants the hope we've found in Jesus to be a permanent fixture in our lives; our faith is meant to hold us steady and secure as we follow Him, being a constant source of reassurance in every circumstance—not a temporary stopping place.So, think about that anchor…is it permanent, or is it temporary?Let's pray.Lord, whether we're sailing calm seas or fighting to keep our heads above water in the midst of a storm, you are with us. You are truly the anchor for our souls. Help us to remember to moor ourselves to you, instead of following our pride and settling for a temporary anchor. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

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

Many Christians wrestle with doubt, but who wants to admit that their foundational beliefs are not so firm? Not long ago, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, openly admitted that he's questioned if God is real. When the head of the Church of England says something like that, it makes news.But something interesting came from Welby's honesty. He revealed his humanity. It turns out that the Archbishop lost a baby girl in a car accident many years ago, and when he was a teenager, he had to take care of his alcoholic father. He's human with human difficulties. We are human, and we struggle sometimes.  Can we be honest? While a lifetime of doubt is dangerous, periods of doubt simply mark one as being human, but faith can help us overcome doubt.In the Bible, we read in Hebrews 11:1, “Now, faith is the subject of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11 continues with many examples of faith in action, and at its core, the Christian faith means we believe God sent Jesus Christ to pay the penalty for our sins on the cross, and that God raised Him from the dead. While mountaintop faith is exciting, and it makes us feel good, no one experiences that all the time. Sometimes it's difficult to believe certain things in the Bible. Sometimes we don't feel faith in our lives.It's important to remember that simply expressing doubt can lead to healing and a more faithful future. If you're a struggling believer or a questioning skeptic, this subject is one of the most important you'll ever wrestle with. Stay tuned.Let's pray. Father God, often we push down thoughts that are painful or uncomfortable. We don't have to do that with you, Lord. Even doubts about our faith are conversations that we can start with you, and we're grateful for that. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

In all the world, there are almost countless ways people try to find God. Some people are drawn to the mystical, while others chase after the practical. Does it work?God knew we would all look to fill the void in our spirits, the one put there when man first sinned. He also already knew what our escape route would be, the path back to Him.Romans 10:9–10 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” The so-called “Roman Road” is in reality a face-to-face with the Living God. Jesus Christ Himself is our aim, and our benefactor. He loved us so much that He offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin. It's very simple really. God accepted the sacrifice and raised His precious Son from the dead. Now, it is there waiting for us to accept that great and priceless gift.Let's pray.Lord, we complicate things sometimes, but your salvation is a simple choice, and it is free. Blessed be your name forever and ever! In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Have you ever had the pleasure of waking up in a cozy cabin…after you've let the fire go out from the night before? If you don't get out of bed and put more wood in, the squirrels or raccoons aren't going to do it for you!Much more serious is the tendency to get lazy about the fire inside us to share the love of Christ. After so many years of being a Christian—especially living in a free country—sharing the Gospel can be put on the back burner.Romans 12:11–12 says, “Never let the fire in your heart go out. Keep it alive. Serve the Lord. When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful.”Do you see what God is urging us to do in Scripture? He says to never let the fire go out! Never doesn't mean sometimes, when we're tired or annoyed about something. This is too important to mess up. Remember that Jesus saved you. More than likely, through someone keeping their own inner fire going, they saw you through the eyes of compassion. Let's pray.Lord, give us a passion for the souls of all people, at all times. And help us be ready to share Christ with them. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Kerusso exists to tell people about the Good News of Jesus Christ, but somehow in our information-jacked world, culture has moved further away from understanding who the most famous person in history really is. Millions of books and articles have been written about a carpenter who lived in the Middle East 2000 years ago, and Jesus has been identified as anything from a desert mystic to God Himself.Historically, He was born into a Jewish family in Judea at the time the Roman Empire controlled the area. Born in Bethlehem and raised in Nazareth, Jesus was 30 before He gained a reputation as a great teacher. But He was much more than that. The Bible tells us that He was sent into the world by God the Father, to stand in our place and take the penalty for our sin.According to Genesis, man defied God's template for living and because He is holy, God requires that someone is accountable for sin. Had Jesus not entered the world, we'd be left without a way to reconcile with God. Long story short, Jesus Christ is much more than just a wise teacher. He's also the Son of God. The Bible also tells us Jesus is one with the Father. Remember, when Moses encountered God in the burning bush, he asked God how to identify Him to the people. And God replied, “I am who I am.”And that was in the Old Testament. In John 8:58, in the New Testament, Jesus tells the people, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” Jesus Christ is a divine being. And John 1:29 says, “The next day, John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.'” This description of Him is not embraced by most people around the world. The Bible tells us that man's heart is wicked. It isn't like billions are rushing to churches so that they can have their sins forgiven. The human mind and heart don't want to focus on the messier side of the gospel. We're imperfect. We sin. And our sin is an offense to God. Who wants to hear that? We don't want to be told that we're not good. We want to be told we're good and worthy of God's love.And the Good News, the gospel in the person of Jesus Christ, is that we have the pathway to be like Him. Romans Chapter Eight tells us that it is God's desire that we become like Jesus, and that's a goal worth reaching for. Let's pray.Father, thank You for providing us with your word, that tells us exactly who Jesus is and what His life means to us. You could have abandoned us to sin, but You didn't. The praise and the glory belong to You alone. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Some of the greatest stories of believers down through time have involved those who really studied God's Word. These people have gone before us to show us the way. From Charles Spurgeon to a missionary mother in China, daily study of the Word, and prayer, prepared them to mentor entire generations.Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”We also read in Romans 10 that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. We have to do it, so that others know how. And remember, there is no substitute for spending time in God's Word.In order to properly train an apprentice, you need to obviously be prepared and adept. Anything less leads to weak faith, or no faith at all. This is what the Great Commission, sharing the Gospel, has always been about: Duplicating disciples. Grounding your own faith in the Bible, and then imparting that to others. That is the essence of true iron sharpening iron.Let's pray.Father God, keep us about your work by daily reminding us to spend time with You in Your Word. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Sweat was pouring off Peter as he moved to protect Jesus. As Roman soldiers held the one who had been labeled a heretic, Peter drew a sword and cut off a soldier's ear. And he was stunned when Jesus told him to put the sword away. You see, Jesus knew infinitely more than Peter or anyone else. He knew the end from the beginning, and He knew He had an agenda to see through to the end. Peter couldn't see that, and impulsively He moved to change the facts on the ground.And that's so typical of us as humans. The authentic Christian wants to do something to fix things or change the world. The theologian Francis Schaeffer wrote a whole book titled How Should We Then Live on the role of a Christian in the modern world. And there are arguments over whether America is still a Christian nation, or whether postmodernism has won the day.But what does the Bible say about being a witness in the world? Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Notice it doesn't say engage. We're in fact told not to become like the world in all its anti-God stuff. Yet we also know one of the last things Jesus said to His disciples before He ascended into heaven was that we should go into all the world and make disciples. The Apostle Paul made an interesting observation in 1 Corinthians 9. He said that he was free from conformity to the world. It had nothing he coveted. But that he chose to be a servant to all, so that his example might win some to Christ. In Hebrews 13, we're told to practice hospitality. And this echoes many Old Testament passages, too. The idea is a believer is to be an example of what life with God looks like in hopes it will draw unbelievers. And this must be done with sincerity, though. Especially in our jaded modern culture. First Corinthians 10 tells us whatever we do, do it for the glory of God alone.To sum up, the Bible tells us to absolutely live in this world and be appealing to people. But to do all this while holding onto our convictions. Balancing being a Gospel witness, while also being seen as personable, is the approach for our modern world. Let's pray.Father God, you've given us direction for all that we do. Help us to continually have a burden for the lost and to always remember we're to be salt and light for a hurting world. It's in Jesus' name we pray, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Sharing our faith should be exciting to us. It is exciting. When we consider the free grace God gave us through His Son, telling others about Jesus should be on our priority list every day. For whatever reason, many find it very awkward to talk to others about Jesus. We can talk about just about anything else, though. That's why it's crucial that we look at sharing the Gospel as an intentional thing we do.  Intentionality is a great way to overcome our hesitancy, and let's be honest, sometimes fear keeps us from sharing. Truth is, each personality requires a customized approach to sharing about Jesus. Some are outgoing and others are shy. A blogger for God TV has written that he admired a friend who told every seatmate on every plane he'd been in about Jesus.The blogger went on to write that, “Even if my fellow passengers desperately wanted to know Christ, they likely couldn't even get my attention with a jackhammer drill or a pie in the face.” Kind of funny…and also kind of sad. Also very common. Matthew 16:24 says, “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'” So, if we're looking for ways to overcome our mediocre Gospel sharing, what can we do? Let's look at a few tips. The first is prayer. Get honest with God and tell Him you're not so great at evangelism. I mean, He already knows, anyway. Ask Him specifically to give you both opportunities and an intentional plan for communicating the best news anyone will ever hear.Two—plan, think ahead. Are you a person who's good at conversation? Go over a mental checklist that provides you with enough scripture and short sentences to make your pitch when the time comes. However, if you're not outgoing, maybe you're a writer. Consider communicating with a card to let the person know you're thinking about him or her. Play to your strengths, not your weaknesses. Number three, listen before you talk. How many times do we jump into a conversation or meeting without taking a breath? Train yourself to be quiet for a bit until you hear where the other person is coming from. You'll learn about your friend or acquaintance, and you can then think through the best way to approach them about the saving gift of Jesus. But also, don't just wait for your turn to talk. Hear them. Meet them where they are, and listen to the Holy Spirit to see how you can speak Jesus into that person's life.  Very few of us are Billy Graham. That doesn't mean we can't share the gospel. Somebody's depending on it. Let's pray.Father, whatever our personality and our experiences, give us a passion for loving unbelievers and caring about their well-being. The world is full of diversity. Help us embrace that. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Spring is the season of new life. As we finish up our series on the Psalms, we come to the most famous one of all.Psalm 23:1–2 says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.” This psalm contains some of the most famous words ever written. It has everything: beautiful language, a man's raw honest heart for God, and a universal theme of love that God has for all people.It echoes in the universe.Think of the picture that God is painting here for us.We are bone weary, but He has actually made a place for us to rest in a garden. We hear the flowing water. We are refreshed inside and out. And He is with us. Do yourself a favor this spring. Memorize every line of the 23rd Psalm. Put it in your heart so that when you're in that dark valley, you will remember that the one true God loves you absolutely and completely.Goodness and mercy follow you. Close your eyes and sit in the cool grass. He is with you.Let's pray.Lord, you are the Great Shepherd who provides a sanctuary for us. Thank you, thank you for making a place of safety for us as we go through life. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Does your love for God make your heart sing?The psalms, many of them, were written as songs of worship. King David in particular loved to sing praises to His Lord. Whether he was tending his flock under a night sky, or sitting in his palace in Jerusalem, David had a heart for the Lord.Psalm 104:1 says, “Praise the Lord, my soul. Lord my God, you are very great; you are clothed with splendor and majesty.”In this kind of worship, we feel especially close to God. It is then we focus on His majesty and His power. We feel close to Him, and we're able to speak freely with Him.This kind of intentional meditation on Higher Things also puts us in our place, and we mean that in the best sense of the phrase. Hierarchy in true religion is very important, and when we consider that the God we sing praises to loves us eternally, and always wants the best for us, well—it releases us to worship God with all of our being. And it is then we are free.Take time today to praise the Lord for who He is, not forgetting the great things He has done for you. Because…He is very great!Let's pray.Lord, you are awesome in ways that we can barely understand. Even with those limitations, God, we love you with abandon. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Watching little kids perform on stage at school or at church is the best, isn't it? It can be quite entertaining. There are always a couple of shy violets, but many of them sing their hearts out, fidgeting with excitement and performing actions to accompany the songs with gusto.If Grammy awards were doled out based on sheer enthusiasm, kids in elementary and Sunday School programs would probably win every year. They simply can't contain the feelings in their hearts when it's time to make a joyful noise.Psalm 111:1 says, “Praise the LORD. I will extol the LORD with all my heart…”The word “extol” means to praise enthusiastically; to go into raptures about, to rave about, to delight over, or to sing the praises of. Imagine if every time we thought about our great God, we fell into raptures of delight—the same way those boisterous kids do when they break into song. Now, that would be something to see!Let's pray.God, you are worthy of our gratitude, our admiration, and our praise. Thank you for every good thing in our lives, and Lord remind us to bring every ounce of joy to our praise for you. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Nothing is more basic to life than creation itself. The Bible tells us that God alone has the power to truly create, and the beauty of language in Psalm 139 explains this fully. Some believe the psalmist was writing in part about the creation of Adam.Psalm 139:1–3 says, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”The writer of the Psalms marvels at the ways in which God understands each of us intimately, and is present everywhere Are you aware that God loves you with a supernatural love? He created you to be a singular presence in the world…what we call “unique.” You might feel sometimes that you are worthless, or that no one cares. But that's not so.The Creator of the Universe, in that vast space, took time to make only one of you. You are precious to Him and you should never forget it, even when things look depressing.God sees you when you sit in that chair and when you get up. He knows what you're thinking and what's in your heart.You are on His mind.Let's pray.Lord, it's comforting knowing that you are with us in each moment of our day. Help us to live in that moment. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

One of the greatest gifts God has given us is the collection of songs known as “Psalms,” originally written as music for worship, especially in the Temple in Jerusalem. Today, we celebrate them as prayers for the most part, and they give us a beautiful picture of who God is.Psalm 1:6 says, “For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.”Traditional authorship is assigned mostly to King David, who loved to worship God with music and even dancing. His heart was open to God, and this inner life could be seen by anyone; this earthly king worshiped the King of kings.In this introductory psalm, we read about the contrast between those who love God and those who don't. And we are encouraged to “meditate” on His Word every day.Our God is the great God, and loves each of us more than we can even imagine.That love is a song in your heart.Let's pray.Lord, your love for us is eternal and we are so blessed to receive it, as David did, all the days of our lives. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

One reason people use for rejecting the claims of Christ is that there somehow isn't enough evidence to prove that the events in the New Testament actually happened. In other words, some say the Bible isn't true.We're talking about the life of Jesus this week. So, what is the true story?Luke 19:10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.” There are more than 25,000 ancient copies of the books of the New Testament, in various languages. There are only a handful of accounts of Hannibal crossing the Alps 200 years before Christ was born. Yet no one doubts that it happened.There are plenty of reasons to believe the biblical accounts of history are true. The apostles gave up their lives claiming that Jesus lived and was resurrected from the dead. That narrative says salvation comes through Jesus, and He is the path to being reconciled to God and eternal life.But only one thing matters: What do you believe?Let's pray. Lord, your Word promises us that Jesus saves us from our sins. We thank you that you provided a way of escape from judgment for us. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.