Podcasts about pray lord

Open Your Eyes by Kirk Hunt And Elisha prayed, and said, “Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. 2 Kings 6:17 NKJV Read also: 2 Kings 6:8-23 The eyes of Elisha and his young servant saw the same thing. They were surrounded by the Syrian army.  Elisha's calm confidence lay in God's army of fire that “filled the mountain.”  Elisha prayed, “open his eyes.”  I pray that God will open your eyes. God's people see the sin, error, cruelty and selfishness. Too often we forget to look with spiritual eyes. Elisha did not deny the Syrians surrounded them. The prophet also saw that God's power exceeded the armed invaders. Angels stood near and ready to act at Elisha's word. Through God's power, a single man subdued an enemy host, and without inflicting a casualty. Open your eyes to God's power that fills your mountain. There is no good reason you cannot subdue an enemy host that opposes God's Kingdom. To the untrained eye, God's saints seem outnumbered and outgunned. I pray God will open your eyes to His power and wisdom that surrounds you. There are horses and chariots of fire ready to fulfill God's mission and purpose in your life. Do not deny what your natural eyes see. See, with spiritual eyes, the power and provision that God has prepared for your use. Subdue the enemies of God with mercy, then nourish them with grace. Think: What should you see with spiritual eyes? Pray: “Lord, help me to see Your solutions and salvation through spiritual eyes.” Copyright © February 2026, Kirk Hunt This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press. The post Open Your Eyes appeared first on CadreMen Press Devotionals.

Daily Anglican Prayer – Ash Wednesday Morning – 18th February 2026 Readings NRSVUE: Psalm 38.1-4, 18-21; Daniel 9.3-19; 1 Timothy 6.6-19. Led by Felicity Scott, an Anglican prayer minister in Queensland, Australia. The full prayer transcript is available by going to this episode on the Podcast website. https://dailyprayeranglicanprayerbookforaustralia.podbean.com Welcome to Wednesday Morning prayer. We proclaim the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ: GOD in his infinite mercy, forgives all sins, and through our baptism in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, we are given a rebirth into new life, free from the burden of all sin. ALLELUIA With faithfulness we respond to the good news: We acknowledge Christ our Saviour and accept with gratitude, that we are forgiven for all wrong doings, past and present. To honour the gift of forgiveness, we release our burden of guilt and rise up to live in the glory of God forever more. Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Blessed be God forever. Let us Pray. 1 Rejoice always pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus.      Glory to God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit:  as in the beginning, so now, and for ever. Amen.    2 The Opening Canticle, A Song of God's Grace Blessed are you,  the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ: For you have blessed us in Christ Jesus with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places,  You chose us to be yours in Christ, before the foundation of the world: That we should be holy and blameless before you.  In love you destined us to be your children, through Jesus Christ: according to the purpose of your will,  to the praise of your glorious grace: which you freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. Ephesians 1.3-6   3 The Opening Prayer The night has passed and the day lies open before us;  let us pray with one heart and mind.   Silence may be kept. As we rejoice in the gift of this new day,  so may the light of your presence, O God,  set our hearts on fire with love for you;  now and for ever.  Amen.   4 The Psalms as appointed. A pause is observed after each.   Psalm reading… Psalm 38 various;     5 At the end of the (last) pause there may follow We consecrate this day to your service, O Lord; may all our thoughts, words, and actions be well-pleasing to you and serve the good of our brothers and sisters; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.   6 One or two Readings from the Bible as appointed.   1st Reading Daniel 9:3-19 3 Then I turned to the Lord God to seek an answer by prayer and supplication with fasting and sackcloth and ashes. 4I prayed to the LORD my God and made confession, saying, “Ah, Lord, great and awesome God, keeping covenant and steadfast love with those who love you and keep your commandments, 5we have sinned and done wrong, acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and ordinances. 6We have not listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes, and our ancestors, and to all the people of the land. 7 “Righteousness is on your side, O Lord, but open shame, as at this day, falls on us, the people of Judah, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and all Israel, those who are near and those who are far away, in all the lands to which you have driven them because of the treachery that they have committed against you. 8Open shame, O LORD, falls on us, our kings, our princes, and our ancestors because we have sinned against you. 9To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, but we have rebelled against him 10and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God by following his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets. 11 “All Israel has transgressed your law and turned aside, refusing to obey your voice. So the curse and the oath written in the law of Moses, the servant of God, have been poured out upon us, because we have sinned against you. 12He has confirmed his words that he spoke against us and against our rulers, by bringing upon us a calamity so great that what has been done against Jerusalem has never before been done under the whole heaven. 13Just as it is written in the law of Moses, all this calamity has come upon us. We did not entreat the favor of the LORD our God, turning from our iniquities and reflecting on his fidelity. 14So the LORD kept watch over this calamity until he brought it upon us. Indeed, the LORD our God is right in all that he has done, for we have disobeyed his voice. 15 “And now, O Lord our God, who brought your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand and made your name renowned even to this day—we have sinned, we have done wickedly. 16O Lord, in view of all your righteous acts, let your anger and wrath, we pray, turn away from your city Jerusalem, your holy mountain; because of our sins and the iniquities of our ancestors, Jerusalem and your people have become a disgrace among all our neighbors.   17Now therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his supplication, and for your own sake, Lord, let your face shine upon your desolated sanctuary. 18Incline your ear, O my God, and hear. Open your eyes and look at our desolation and the city that bears your name. We do not present our supplication before you on the ground of our righteousness but on the ground of your great mercies. 19 O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, listen and act and do not delay! For your own sake, O my God, because your city and your people bear your name!”   Hear the word of the LORD. Thanks be to God 2nd Reading The first letter of Paul to Timothy 1 Timothy 6.6-19 6 Of course, there is great gain in godliness combined with contentment, 7for we brought nothing into the world, so that we can take nothing out of it, 8but if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these. 9But those who want to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and in their eagerness to be rich some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains. 11But as for you, people of God, shun all this; pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness. 12Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 13In the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who in his testimony before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you 14to keep the commandment without spot or blame until the manifestation of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15which he will bring about at the right time—he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords. 16It is he alone who has immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see; to him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen. 17 As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches but rather on God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, 19thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that really is life.   Hear the message of Christ. Thanks be to God.     7 The Canticle, We praise you O God: we claim you as Lord. All creation thanks you: The Father everlasting. To you all angels, all the powers of heaven: The cherubim and serafim sing in endless praise: Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of power and might: Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Father of majesty unbounded: Your true and only son, worthy of all praise, the Holy Spirit, advocate and guide. You, Christ, are the king of glory, the eternal son of the father. When you took our flesh to set us free: You humbly chose the virgin's womb. You overcame the sting of death: And opened the kingdom of heaven to all believers. You are seated at God's right hand in glory: We believe that you will come to be our judge. Come then, God, and help your people, bought with the price of your own blood: And bring us with your Saints to glory everlasting.   8 The belief and principle is said I believe in God, creator of heaven and earth, whose love and merciful forgiveness endures everlasting. I believe in Christ the saviour, whose example of love and compassion, taught us a restored way to live, in collaborative unity with all people. I believe in the Holy Spirit, whose divine guidance brings us together to be one with the Holy Trinity. Amen.   9 The Prayers Lord have mercy.  Christ have mercy.  God have mercy.      10 The Lord's Prayer and the Collect of the Day Our Father in heaven,  hallowed be your name,  your kingdom come,  your will be done,  on earth as in heaven.  Give us today our daily bread.  Forgive us our sins  as we forgive those who sin against us.  Save us from the time of trial  and deliver us from evil.  For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours  now and for ever. Amen.      Prayer of the Week following the last Sunday after epiphany Almighty God, You have given your only son to be for us, both a sacrifice for sin, And also, an example of godly life: Give us grace that we may always thankfully receive the benefits of his sacrifice, And also, daily endeavour to follow the blessed steps of his most holy life; Through the same Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy spirit, one GOD, now and for ever. Amen   11 Intercessions and Thanksgivings may be made according to local custom and need. Let us pray Wednesday prayers Lord, we give you thanks, that through your son Jesus Christ, you have shown us the way to live in your righteousness. You made us in your likeness, you gave your only son Jesus Christ who gave us forgiveness of sin, bring us together as one, different in culture but given new life in Jesus Christ. Reconciled, forgiven, sharing you with others as you have called us to do. We pray for reconciliation with you God and reconciliation with each other and ask for strength to remain in your presence in all we do. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Saviour God, we remember with love all those that have passed this week. We thank you for the faithfully departed and your servants in every age. We ask that our ancestors and all your saints may be brought to the joyful resurrection and the fulfilment of your glorious kingdom. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   God of justice, we ask for your help with ending domestic violence. We ask that you shine your heavenly light to guide people to live in peace with each other and make amends, by freeing their victims of abuse. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Loving God, today on this Ash Wednesday begins a period of inner reflection and examination. The days stretch before us and invite us inward to that silent, holy space that holds your Spirit. This special time beckons us to see our life through Christ's eyes and the truth and reality of your love incarnate. Give us the grace to enter the space of these days with anticipation of our meeting with you. And, when we open our soul to your presence, let your loving kindness flow over us and seep into the pockets of our hearts. We ask this for the sake of your love. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer     Blessed God, we ask your blessing for those listed on the Anglican cycle of prayer: The Diocese of West Tennessee – The Episcopal Church The Diocese of Northwest Australia: The Parish of Nundah The Springfield Anglican College, Springfield The hospital and Prison ministry chaplaincy teams All people joining in this prayer offering. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer     12 The Morning Collect Eternal God and Father,  by whose power we were created  and through whose love we are redeemed:  guide and strengthen us by your Spirit,  that we may give ourselves to your service,  and live this day in love to one another and to you;  through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.   13 The Lord be with you. And also with you.  Let us praise the Lord.  Thanks be to God.    May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant us to live in such harmony with one another in accord with Christ Jesus, that we may with one voice gratify our God and Father.  Amen. Romans 15.5-6   Music ‘Sing my Soul' by The Australian Voices & Graeme Morton, Composer Ned Rorem. A reminder disclaimer to the listener. The readings in the podcast may include ancient and old-fashioned sayings and instructions that we do not in any way condone as in use or to be used in today's modern world. The readings have not been modernised to reflect todays thinking, instead the readings remain from the old version of the NRSVUE bible. The podcast owners explicitly declare that each listener is responsible for their own actions in response to the bible readings and the podcast owners bare no responsibility in this sense.  

God’s Grace Is Sufficient by Kirk Hunt Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 NKJV The apostle prayed earnestly and sincerely. A man who had given his life in service to God, sought just this one thing to ease his existence. In response, God reminded Paul that He had already given him grace. It always grates my ears when someone says, “God did not answer my prayer.” God always responds. Too often, we do not like what He says. In our tears, or grief, or anger, we too often pray selfish prayers. In our blissful ignorance, we too often pray unastute prayers. We pray with limited sight and understanding. We cannot see the impact on generations to come, or souls we will never meet. God, who loves you, knows best. God, who loves them, is looking out for them, and you. So, in grace, Father-God provides an answer that is the best solution for you. The tears might still be there. The grief may still be in full effect. You may still have to wrestle with your anger. But you continue to operate in God's grace, and that is enough. “No,” is often a very loving answer. “Yes,” may include more challenge than you thought. Just be glad, that our omniscient, omnipotent God is pouring grace on you. Think: Where is God's grace already in your life? Pray: “Lord, help me to understand Your grace is enough for me.” Copyright © February 2026, Kirk Hunt This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press. The post God’s Grace Is Sufficient appeared first on CadreMen Press Devotionals.

Daily Anglican Prayer - Tuesday Morning – 17th February 2026 Readings NRSVUE: Psalm 106. 1-24; Jeremiah 22. 20-23.8; Jude 17-25. Led by Felicity Scott, an Anglican prayer minister in Queensland, Australia. The full prayer transcript is available by going to this episode on the Podcast website. https://dailyprayeranglicanprayerbookforaustralia.podbean.com Welcome to Tuesday morning prayer from the Anglican ‘A prayer book for Australia'. We proclaim the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ: GOD in his infinite mercy, forgives all sins, and through our baptism in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, we are given a rebirth into new life, free from the burden of all sin. ALLELUIA With faithfulness we respond to the good news: We acknowledge Christ our Saviour has already saved us and accept with gratitude, that we are forgiven for all wrong doings, past and present. To honour the gift of forgiveness, we release our burden of guilt and rise up to live in the glory of God forever more. Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Blessed be God forever. Let us Pray.   1c                                                              We will proclaim the name of the Lord Ascribe greatness to our God   Glory to God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit:  as in the beginning, so now, and for ever. Amen.    2 The Opening Canticle, God who is rich in mercy out of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead through our trespasses. made us alive together with Christ, and raised us up with him: and made us sit with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus that he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace:  in kindness towards us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2.4-7   3 The Opening Prayer The night has passed and the day lies open before us;  let us pray with one heart and mind.    Silence may be kept. As we rejoice in the gift of this new day,  so may the light of your presence, O God,  set our hearts on fire with love for you;  now and for ever.  Amen.   4 The Psalms as appointed. A pause is observed after each. Psalm     5 At the end of the (last) pause there may follow Lord, our God, our Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier: we ask you to cleanse us from all hypocrisy, to unite us to our fellow men and women, by the bonds of peace and love, and to confirm us in holiness; now and for ever.  Amen.     6 One or two Readings from the Bible as appointed.   1st Reading Hear the word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. 2nd Reading   Hear the message of Christ. Thanks be to God.   7 The Canticle, A Song of the Blessed Blessed are the poor in spirit:  for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Blessed are those who mourn:  for they shall be comforted.  Blessed are the meek:  for they shall inherit the earth.  Blessed are those who hunger  and thirst for what is right:  for they shall be satisfied.  Blessed are the merciful:  for mercy shall be shown to them.  Blessed are the pure in heart:  for they shall see God.  Blessed are the peacemakers:  for they shall be called the children of God.  Blessed are those who are persecuted  for righteousness' sake:  for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Matthew 5.3–10     8 The belief and principle is said I believe in God, creator of heaven and earth, whose love and merciful forgiveness endures everlasting. I believe in Christ the saviour, whose example of love and compassion, taught us a restored way to live, in collaborative unity with all people. I believe in the Holy Spirit, whose divine guidance brings us together to be one with the Holy Trinity.     9 The Prayers Lord have mercy.  Christ have mercy.  God have mercy.   10 The Lord's Prayer Our Father in heaven,  hallowed be your name,  your kingdom come,  your will be done,  on earth as in heaven.  Give us today our daily bread.  Forgive us our sins  as we forgive those who sin against us.  Save us from the time of trial  and deliver us from evil.  For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours  now and for ever. Amen.                  Prayer of the Week following the last Sunday after epiphany Almighty God, You have given your only son to be for us, both a sacrifice for sin, And also, an example of godly life: Give us grace that we may always thankfully receive the benefits of his sacrifice, And also, daily endeavour to follow the blessed steps of his most holy life; Through the same Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy spirit, one GOD, now and for ever. Amen   11 Intercessions and Thanksgivings may be made according to local custom and need. Let us pray   God, how great your healing hand that reaches out to those in need, how great your love for all your people. We ask you to bestow your healing on all people who are combating the illness of cancer. We thank you for your healing kindness for all your people. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Lord, we have been socially inept and continue to foster broken communities of lack, yet we remain in this state without taking necessary steps to change for the better. We ask you this day to stay with us, to help us and to guide us. We know we can do better, and we are asking you to be our guide, to guide the path you expect us to walk. Humbly, we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Lord, we thank you for your mercy towards us even though we continue to sin. Graduate us to live sinless lives, enabling our relationship with you to become one of trust and love. We thank you for your great teachings and want only to acknowledge your name as our saviour. Humbly, we Pray – LORD hear our prayer     God, we ask your blessing for those listed on the Anglican cycle of prayer:   The Diocese of East Tennessee – The Episcopal Church The Diocese of North Queensland: The Parish of North Pine: Little Angels Early Learning Centre, Tarragindi The Southport School, Southport:  The Prison and Hospital ministry chaplaincy teams All people joining in this prayer offering Humbly, we Pray – LORD hear our prayer     12 The Morning Collect Lord and heavenly father, you have brought us safely to this new day: Keep us by your mighty power, protect us from sin, guard us from every kind of danger, and in all we do this day direct us in the fulfilling of your purpose, Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.   13 The Lord be with you. And also with you.  Let us praise the Lord.  Thanks be to God.    May the Lord bless us and keep us; the Lord make his face to shine upon us and be gracious to us; the Lord lift up his countenance upon us and give us peace.  Amen. Numbers 6.24–26 Music ‘Sing my Soul' by The Australian Voices & Graeme Morton, Composer Ned Rorem. A reminder disclaimer to the listener. The readings in the podcast may include ancient and old-fashioned sayings and instructions that we do not in any way condone as in use or to be used in today's modern world. The readings have not been modernised to reflect todays thinking, instead the readings remain from the old version of the NRSVUE bible. The podcast owners explicitly declare that each listener is responsible for their own actions in response to the bible readings and the podcast owners bare no responsibility in this sense.

Sophisticated Faith by Kirk Hunt For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. 1 John 5:4 NKJV It had been a long day of work. Then a long night in school. Then a long trudge up three flights of stairs. My heavy load of text books and homework, were easily outweighed by my sour thoughts and concerns. My toddler son appeared suddenly at the top stair. He leapt to me, laughing with glee. My tired, downcast mood turned in a moment to terror and horror. The trusting boy did not worry about the three-story drop. My beloved son never concerned himself with the hard, slick, concrete stair steps. My precious child never considered how tired or stressed I might be. He leaped, in joy, because Dad always catches son. The books went helter-skelter. The papers went skittering. To this day, I cannot tell you what specific thoughts weighed so heavily on my mind and heart. All I can tell you is that my arms were suddenly, and gratefully, full of laughing child. Then in the next moment, the Holy Spirit spoke to me clear, clean, and warm: “Why don't you trust Me, like he trusts you?” I know and understand the promises of God through His Word. I have the Holy Spirit to coach me on where, and when, to leap. And I know God never has to drop anything to catch me. My knowledge, as a Godly man, gives me sophisticated faith. Real faith does not rely on human skills or questionable circumstances. Instead, we put our faith in our omnipotent God. I have learned to leap in joy, because Father-God always catches son. Think: Is your faith in God sophisticated? Pray: “Lord, help me to have child-like faith in You.” Copyright © February 2026, Kirk Hunt This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press. The post Sophisticated Faith appeared first on CadreMen Press Devotionals.

Daily Anglican Prayer - Sunday Morning – 8th February Readings NRSV: Psalm 106.42-50; Isaiah 58.9b-14; Matthew 5:13-20 Led by Felicity Scott, a prayer minister in Queensland, Australia. The full prayer transcript is available by going to this episode on the Podcast website. https://dailyprayeranglicanprayerbookforaustralia.podbean.com Welcome to Sunday Morning prayer. We proclaim the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ: GOD in his infinite mercy, forgives all sins, and through our baptism in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, we are given a rebirth into new life, free from the burden of all sin. ALLELUIA With faithfulness we respond to the good news: We acknowledge Christ our Saviour has already saved us and accept with gratitude, that we are forgiven for all wrong doings, past and present. To honour the gift of forgiveness, we release our burden of guilt and rise up to live in the glory of God forever more. Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,  Blessed be God forever.   Let us Pray.   The Sentence of the day Fifth Sunday After Epiphany Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.                                           Matthew 5.16   1 This is the day that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.  Psalm 118.24 Glory to God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit:  as in the beginning, so now, and for ever. Amen.     3 The opening Canticle Oh come let us sing out to the Lord. let us shout in triumph to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his face with thanksgiving. And cry out to him joyfully in psalms. For the Lord is a great God. and a great king above all gods. In his hands are the depths of the earth. and the peaks of the mountains are his also. The sea is his and he made it. His hands moulded dryland. Come let us worship and bow down. And kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is the Lord our god. We are his people and the sheep of his pasture. Today if only you would hear his voice: “Do not harden your hearts as Israel did in the wilderness.” “When your forebears tested me.” “Put me to proof though they had seen my works.” “Forty years long I loathe that generation and said.” “It is a people who err in their hearts.” “For they do not know my ways.” “Of whom I swore in my wrath.” “They shall not enter my rest.”   3 The Opening Prayer The night has passed, and the day lies open before us;  let us pray with one heart and mind.    Silence may be kept. As we rejoice in the gift of this new day,  so may the light of your presence, O God,  set our hearts on fire with love for you;  now and for ever.  Amen.     4 The Psalms as appointed. A pause is observed after each. Psalm 106.42-50 42 Then was the wrath of the Lord kindled against his people: and he loathed his own possession; 43 He gave them into the hands of the nations: and their adversaries ruled over them. 44 Their enemies became their oppressors: and they were brought into subjection beneath their power. 45 Many a time he saved them: but they rebelled against him to follow their own designs and were brought down by their wickedness. 46 Nevertheless, he looked on their distress: when he heard their loud crying. 47 He remembered his covenant with them: and relented, according to the abundance of his loving-kindness. 48 And he caused them to be pitied: even by those that held them captive. 49 Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the nations: that we may give thanks to your holy name, and make our boast in your praises. 50 Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen. Praise the Lord.   5 At the end of the (last) pause there may follow Lord God, whose blessed Son rose in triumph and set us free: grant us the fullness of life he promised us, that through the Holy Spirit our hearts may possess him whom our eyes cannot see, the same Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.         6 One or two Readings from the Bible as appointed.   1st Reading Isaiah 58.9b-14 9 Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer;      you shall cry for help, and he will say, Here I am.  If you remove the yoke from among you,      the pointing of the finger, the speaking of evil, 10 if you offer your food to the hungry      and satisfy the needs of the afflicted, then your light shall rise in the darkness      and your gloom be like the noonday. 11 The Lord will guide you continually,      and satisfy your needs in parched places,      and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden,      like a spring of water,      whose waters never fail. 12 Your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt;      you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach,      the restorer of streets to live in.  13 If you refrain from trampling the sabbath,      from pursuing your own interests on my holy day; if you call the sabbath a delight      and the holy day of the Lord honourable; if you honour it, not going your own ways,      serving your own interests, or pursuing your own affairs; 14 then you shall take delight in the Lord ,      and I will make you ride upon the heights of the earth; I will feed you with the heritage of your ancestor Jacob,      for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.      The reading is followed by Hear the word of the LORD Thanks be to GOD 2nd Reading Matthew 5:13-20   13 ‘You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything but is thrown out and trampled underfoot. 14 ‘You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. 17 ‘Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfil. 18 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. 19 Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.   The reading is followed by Hear the message of Christ Thanks be to GOD.         7 The Canticle, The Song of Zechariah (Benedictus) Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel:  who has come to his people and set them free.  The Lord has raised up for us a mighty Saviour:  born of the house of his servant David.  Through the holy prophets, God promised of old:  to save us from our enemies, from the hands of  all who hate us,  To show mercy to our forebears:  and to remember his holy covenant.  This was the oath God swore to our father Abraham:  to set us free from the hands of our enemies,  Free to worship him without fear:  holy and righteous before him, all the days of our life.  And you, child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High:  for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,  To give his people knowledge of salvation:  by the forgiveness of their sins.  In the tender compassion of our God:  the dawn from on high shall break upon us,  To shine on those who dwell in darkness  and the shadow of death:  and to guide our feet into the way of peace.  Luke 1.68–79     8 The Apostles creed I believe in God, the Father almighty,   creator of heaven and earth.   I believe in Jesus Christ, God's only Son, our Lord,   who was conceived by the Holy Spirit   born of the virgin Mary.   suffered under Pontius Pilate,   was crucified, died, and was buried;   he descended to the dead.   On the third day he rose from the dead.   He ascended into heaven   and is seated at the right hand of the Father.   From there he will come to judge  the living and the dead.   I believe in the Holy Spirit,   the holy catholic church,   the communion of saints,   the forgiveness of sins,   the resurrection of the body,   and the life everlasting. Amen.   9 The Prayers Lord have mercy.  Christ have mercy.  Lord have mercy.    10 The LORDs prayer Our Father in heaven,  hallowed be your name,  your kingdom come,  your will be done,  on earth as in heaven.  Give us today our daily bread.  Forgive us our sins  as we forgive those who sin against us.  Save us from the time of trial  and deliver us from evil.  For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours  now and for ever. Amen.    10 The Collect of the Day Fifth Sunday After Epiphany Faithful God, you have appointed us your witnesses, to be a light that shines in the world: let us not hide the bright hope you have given us, but tell everyone your love, revealed in Jesus Christ the Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,  one God, for ever and ever. Amen.   Prayer of the Week Fifth Sunday After Epiphany Father of all, who gave your only-begotten Son to take upon himself the form of a servant and to be obedient even to death on a cross: give us the same mind that was in Christ Jesus, that, sharing in his humility, we may come to be with him in his glory; where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.   11 Intercessions and Thanksgivings may be made according to local custom and need.   Let us pray   God, we seek your wisdom and guidance in our governments. Lead those in power to make financial decisions that prioritise government spending for the greater good of the country's people. Guide them to make wise choices that align with bringing people out of poverty and into abundant living and grant us all discernment in distinguishing between needs and wants in the recognition of a life of abundance. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   God, your wisdom knows no bounds, grant we pray that we hear your spoken wisdom and bring the good news of Christ to all who have yet to hear it, so that we may bring forth fruit of good works to honour and praise your name. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   All seeing God, we ask you to grant mercy to us in abundance, we request and pray that you assist those with eye anatomy expertise to understand how to correct eye vision defects and imperfections and to understand how to successfully bring renewed sight to the blind. We ask this in Jesus' name. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Almighty God, we pray for peace and prosperity in our cities, and families. Today we remember the people of ISRAEL, we ask for Your peace to reign throughout their lands, give them abundant food and water. We pray that Israelites come together in harmony, setting aside differences and working towards a common good for all people. Let Your voice God, bring peace talks and be their guide in their actions and decisions. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Blessed God, we ask your blessing for those listed on the Anglican cycle of prayer: Sunday 8 February Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui The Diocese of Bunbury: The Parish of Morningside: Logan Multicultural Ministry Matthew Flinders Anglican College, Buderim All Hospital and Prison ministry chaplaincy teams All people joining in this prayer offering. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer     12 The Morning Collect Eternal God and Father,  by whose power we are created and by whose love we are redeemed.  guide and strengthen us by your Spirit,  that we may give ourselves to your service,  and live this day in love to one another and to you;  through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.   13 The Lord be with you. And also with you.  Let us praise the Lord.  Thanks be to God.    The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen.   2 Corinthians 13.14 Music ‘Sing my Soul' by The Australian Voices & Graeme Morton, Composer Ned Rorem. A reminder disclaimer to the listener. The readings in the podcast may include ancient and old-fashioned sayings and instructions that we do not in any way condone as in use or to be used in today's modern world. The readings have not been modernised to reflect todays thinking, instead the readings remain from the old version of the NRSVUE bible. The podcast owners explicitly declare that each listener is responsible for their own actions in response to the bible readings and the podcast owners bare no responsibility in this sense.  

The Blood Of Saints by Kirk Hunt I saw the woman, drunk with the blood of the saints and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus. And when I saw her, I marveled with great amazement. Revelation 17:6 NKJV “Drunk, after consuming the blood of Christians and the martyrs of Jesus.” This imagery is graphic. The vision is supposed to be allegorical. After the events of recent days, I see John's words all too vividly real. Too many see injustice and oppression then blame the victim(s). Or they go further and exalt in the pain and suffering of innocents. Hurting others is a joy and pleasure for some corrupt souls. The death and suffering of those seeking to do God's work, is like an intoxicating beverage to some people. I cannot know the spiritual status of the souls killed or wounded in Minneapolis in recent days and weeks. But they suffered death and injury while opposing injustice and oppression. The dead and wounded are not the villains. I cannot know the spiritual status of the souls who fired the shots in Minneapolis. But they caused the death and injury of men and women, out of all proportion to the threat they posed. The slayers are not the heroes. Consider your own actions in recent history. What do you support? What do you oppose? Consider that standing to the side supports the oppressors and furthers injustice. Think: Do I find joy or pleasure in the blood of saints and martyrs? Pray: “Lord, give me courage to oppose injustice and oppression.” Copyright © January 2026, Kirk Hunt This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press. The post The Blood Of Saints appeared first on CadreMen Press Devotionals.

Daily Anglican Prayer - Saturday Morning – 24th January 2026 Readings NRSVUE: Psalm 56,57; Jeremiah 7.21-8.3; James 1.16-27 Led by Felicity Scott, an Anglican Prayer minister in Queensland, Australia. The full prayer transcript is available by going to this episode on the Podcast website. https://dailyprayeranglicanprayerbookforaustralia.podbean.com Welcome to Saturday Morning prayer. We proclaim the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ: GOD in his infinite mercy, forgives all sins, and through our baptism in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, we are given a rebirth into new life, free from the burden of all sin. ALLELUIA With faithfulness we respond to the good news: We acknowledge Christ our Saviour has already saved us and accept with gratitude, that we are forgiven for all wrong doings, past and present. To honour the gift of forgiveness, we release our burden of guilt and rise up to live in the glory of God forever more. Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Blessed be God forever. Let us Pray.   1 God has shone in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.  2 Corinthians 4.6   Glory to God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit:  as in the beginning, so now, and for ever. Amen.    2 The Opening Canticle, A Song of Creation Bless the Lord all created things:  who is worthy to be praised and exalted for ever.  Bless the Lord all people of the earth:  who is worthy to be praised and exalted for ever.  O people of God bless the Lord:  bless the Lord you priests of the Lord,  Bless the Lord you servants of the Lord:  who is worthy to be praised and exalted for ever.  Bless the Lord all you of upright spirit:  bless the Lord you that are holy and humble in heart.  Bless the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit:  who is worthy to be praised and exalted for ever.  Song of the Three 35ff   3 The Opening Prayer The night has passed and the day lies open before us;  let us pray with one heart and mind.    Silence may be kept. As we rejoice in the gift of this new day,  so may the light of your presence, O God,  set our hearts on fire with love for you;  now and for ever.  Amen.   4 The Psalms as appointed. A pause is observed after each.   5 At the end of the (last) pause there may follow Creator God, whose praise and power are proclaimed by the whole creation: receive our morning prayers, we pray, and renew us in your service; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.   6 One or two Readings from the Bible as appointed.   1st Reading Jeremiah 7. 21-8.3   21 Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: Add your burnt offerings to your sacrifices, and eat the flesh. 22For in the day that I brought your ancestors out of the land of Egypt, I did not speak to them or command them concerning burnt offerings and sacrifices. 23But this command I gave them, “Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be my people; walk only in the way that I command you, so that it may be well with you.” 24Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but, in the stubbornness of their evil will, they walked in their own counsels and looked backward rather than forward. 25From the day that your ancestors came out of the land of Egypt until this day, I have persistently sent all my servants the prophets to them, day after day, 26yet they did not listen to me or pay attention, but they stiffened their necks. They did worse than their ancestors did. 27 So you shall speak all these words to them, but they will not listen to you. You shall call to them, but they will not answer you. 28You shall say to them: This is the nation that did not obey the voice of the LORD their God and did not accept discipline; truth has perished; it is cut off from their lips. 29 Cut off your hair and throw it away; raise a lamentation on the bare heights, for the LORD has rejected and forsaken the generation that provoked his wrath. 30 For the people of Judah have done evil in my sight, says the LORD; they have set their abominations in the house that is called by my name, defiling it. 31And they go on building the high place of Topheth, which is in the valley of the son of Hinnom, to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire—which I did not command, nor did it come into my mind. 32Therefore the days are surely coming, says the LORD, when it will no more be called Topheth or the valley of the son of Hinnom but the valley of Slaughter, for they will bury in Topheth until there is no more room. 33The corpses of this people will be food for the birds of the air and for the animals of the earth, and no one will frighten them away. 34And I will bring to an end the sound of mirth and gladness, the voice of the bride and bridegroom in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem, for the land shall become a waste.   JEREMIAH 8 1 At that time, says the LORD, the bones of the kings of Judah, the bones of its officials, the bones of the priests, the bones of the prophets, and the bones of the inhabitants of Jerusalem shall be brought out of their tombs, 2and they shall be spread before the sun and the moon and all the host of heaven, which they have loved and served, which they have followed, and which they have inquired of and worshiped, and they shall not be gathered or buried; they shall be like dung on the surface of the ground. 3Death shall be preferred to life by all the remnant that remains of this evil family in all the places where I have driven them, says the LORD of hosts.   Hear the word of the LORD Thanks be to GOD   2nd Reading James 1.16-27 16Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers and sisters. 17Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. 18In fulfilment of his own purpose he gave birth to us by the word of truth, so that we would become a kind of first fruits of his creatures. Hearing and Doing the Word 19 You must understand this, my beloved brothers and sisters: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger, 20for human anger does not produce God's righteousness. 21Therefore rid yourselves of all sordidness and rank growth of wickedness, and welcome with meekness the implanted word that has the power to save your souls. 22 But be doers of the word and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. 23For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; 24for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like. 25But those who look into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and persevere, being not hearers who forget but doers who act—they will be blessed in their doing. 26 If any think they are religious and do not bridle their tongues but deceive their hearts, their religion is worthless. 27Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world.   Hear the message of Christ Thanks be to GOD.   7 The Canticle, A Song of Redemption Christ is the image of the invisible God:  the first-born of all creation.  For in him all things were created:  in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible.  All things were created through him and for him:  he is before all things  and in him all things hold together.  He is the head of the body, the Church:  he is the beginning, the first-born from the dead.  For it pleased God that in him  all fullness should dwell:  and through him all things be reconciled to himself.  Colossians 1.15–20     8 The belief and principle is said I believe in God, creator of heaven and earth, whose love and merciful forgiveness endures everlasting. I believe in Christ the saviour, whose example of love and compassion, taught us a restored way to live, in collaborative unity with all people. I believe in the Holy Spirit, whose divine guidance brings us together to be one with the Holy Trinity.     9 The Prayers Lord have mercy.  Christ have mercy.  God have mercy.   10 The Lord's Prayer and the Collect of the Day   Our Father in heaven,  hallowed be your name,  your kingdom come,  your will be done,  on earth as in heaven.  Give us today our daily bread.  Forgive us our sins  as we forgive those who sin against us.  Save us from the time of trial  and deliver us from evil.  For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours  now and for ever. Amen.    Prayer of the Week on the Second Sunday after the epiphany Almighty God, By whose grace alone we are accepted And called to your service: Strengthen us by your Holy Spirit And make us worthy of our calling; Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen     11 Intercessions and Thanksgivings may be made according to local custom   Let us pray:   God, Great shepherd of your people, Energise our hearts with passion for your word and care for your people, that we may joyfully minister your sacraments to the glory of your name and the benefit of your people and your world. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   God of all nations and countries, thank you for your guidance of our evolution and advancement. We ask that you guide the leaders of nations into the ways of peace and justice, and in so doing, bringing about a world that we are proud to sojourn on. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Heavenly God our Father, how great you are that we are still here despite our trespasses and despite our lack of humility in your eyes. We pray that you continue to shine your light so we may follow you into a relationship of everlasting love with you and with one another. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Loving God, with one voice we lift up our hearts to thank you for our lives and vocations. Inspire us all to know and live our vocation. Bless us your family of Australia, help those you call to listen to the Holy Spirit voice, that they may fulfil your holy will and make all things new. Through Christ our Lord. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   God of Great and modern evolution, Draw us near to hear your word and instruction, let us know the ways in which we can revolutionise our actions to those that bring changes that benefit you God, benefit the earth and benefit the people. We pray that technological advances are brought near and that we are inspired to be in your presence. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer       Blessed God, we ask your blessing for those listed on the Anglican cycle of prayer: Saturday 24th January 2026 The Diocese of Sunyani – The Church of the Province of West Africa The Diocese of The Murray: The Parish of Kenmore-Brookfield: Anglicare SQ Kirami Residential Aged Care – Hervey Bay Anglican Schools Australia Management Committee and Member Schools All Prison and Hospital ministry chaplaincy teams All people joining in this prayer offering. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   12 The Morning Collect Lord and heavenly Father,  you have brought us safely to this new day:  keep us by your mighty power, protect us from sin,  guard us from every kind of danger,  and in all we do this day  direct us in the fulfilling of your purpose,  through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.   13 The Lord be with you. And also with you.  Let us praise the Lord.  Thanks be to God.    May the peace of God which passes all understanding keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.  Amen. Philippians 4.7 Music ‘Sing my Soul' by The Australian Voices & Graeme Morton, Composer Ned Rorem. A reminder disclaimer to the listener. The readings in the podcast may include ancient and old-fashioned sayings and instructions that we do not in any way condone as in use or to be used in today's modern world. The readings have not been modernised to reflect todays thinking, instead the readings remain from the old version of the NRSVUE bible. The podcast owners explicitly declare that each listener is responsible for their own actions in response to the bible readings and the podcast owners bare no responsibility in this sense.    

Testimony Now, Promise Later by Kirk Hunt And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise, God having provided something better for us, that they should not be made perfect apart from us. Hebrews 11:39-40 NKJV Despite victories such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Dr. King continued working to free all of America's citizens from injustice and discrimination. His earthly reward for seeking a better America? An assassin's bullet. Scripture summarizes the suffering and victories of Old Testament Prophets and Heroes in Hebrews 11. Those men and women did not live to see God's promises completed, but they did their part to fulfill their callings. Usually, at great personal cost or their very lives. Hebrews 11 rehearses the faithfulness and endurance of Old Testament saints. They fulfilled their calling and purpose, despite not seeing their victory in complete fullness. Hebrews 12 exhorts New Testament saints to be just as faithful and enduring. Christians of the Roman world often suffered and died but they eventually converted polytheistic pagans into devout Christians. With the continuing advantage of Jesus and the Holy Spirit, we should do as much. Echoing the faith and diligence of Old and New Testament saints, our faithfulness will require that we seek something better, regardless of the personal cost. Seek something better, no matter who is bothered or how they object. Your prize for delivering freedom or salvation will be God's eternal approval. Give your testimony now, receive His promise later. Think: Do your part whether or not you see the final victory. Pray: “Lord, help me to fulfill my calling from You, no matter how others object.” Copyright © January 2026, Kirk Hunt This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press. The post Testimony Now, Promise Later appeared first on CadreMen Press Devotionals.

Daily Anglican Prayer - Sunday Morning – 18th January 2026 Readings NRSV: Psalm 40. 1-14; Isaiah 49.1-7; John 1.29-42 Led by Felicity Scott, a prayer minister in Queensland, Australia. The full prayer transcript is available by going to this episode on the Podcast website. https://dailyprayeranglicanprayerbookforaustralia.podbean.com Welcome to Sunday Morning prayer. We proclaim the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ: GOD in his infinite mercy, forgives all sins, and through our baptism in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, we are given a rebirth into new life, free from the burden of all sin. ALLELUIA With faithfulness we respond to the good news: We acknowledge Christ our Saviour has already saved us and accept with gratitude, that we are forgiven for all wrong doings, past and present. To honour the gift of forgiveness, we release our burden of guilt and rise up to live in the glory of God forever more. Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,  Blessed be God forever.   Let us Pray.   The Sentence of the day Christ the King / The Reign of Christ Jesus revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him.   1 This is the day that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.  Psalm 118.24 Glory to God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit:  as in the beginning, so now, and for ever. Amen.     3 The opening Canticle Oh come let us sing out to the Lord. let us shout in triumph to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his face with thanksgiving. And cry out to him joyfully in psalms. For the Lord is a great God. and a great king above all gods. In his hands are the depths of the earth. and the peaks of the mountains are his also. The sea is his and he made it. His hands moulded dryland. Come let us worship and bow down. And kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is the Lord our god. We are his people and the sheep of his pasture. Today if only you would hear his voice: “Do not harden your hearts as Israel did in the wilderness.” “When your forebears tested me.” “Put me to proof though they had seen my works.” “Forty years long I loathe that generation and said.” “It is a people who err in their hearts.” “For they do not know my ways.” “Of whom I swore in my wrath.” “They shall not enter my rest.”   3 The Opening Prayer The night has passed, and the day lies open before us;  let us pray with one heart and mind.    Silence may be kept. As we rejoice in the gift of this new day,  so may the light of your presence, O God,  set our hearts on fire with love for you;  now and for ever.  Amen.     4 The Psalms as appointed. A pause is observed after each. Psalm 40.1-14   5 At the end of the (last) pause there may follow Lord God, whose blessed Son rose in triumph and set us free: grant us the fullness of life he promised us, that through the Holy Spirit our hearts may possess him whom our eyes cannot see, the same Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.         6 One or two Readings from the Bible as appointed.   1st Reading Isaiah 49.1-7; 1 Listen to me, O coastlands; pay attention, you peoples from far away! The LORD called me before I was born; while I was in my mother's womb he named me. 2 He made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me a polished arrow; in his quiver he hid me away. 3 And he said to me, “You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified.” 4 But I said, “I have labored in vain; I have spent my strength for nothing and vanity; yet surely my cause is with the LORD and my reward with my God.” 5 And now the LORD says, who formed me in the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob back to him, and that Israel might be gathered to him, for I am honored in the sight of the LORD, and my God has become my strength— 6 he says, “It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the survivors of Israel; I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.” 7 Thus says the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel and his Holy One, to one deeply despised, abhorred by the nations, the slave of rulers, “Kings shall see and stand up princes, and they shall prostrate themselves, because of the LORD, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you.” The reading is followed by Hear the word of the LORD Thanks be to GOD     2nd Reading John 1.29-42 The Lamb of God 29 The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me.' 31I myself did not know him, but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.” 32And John testified, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. 33I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.' 34And I myself have seen and have testified that this is the Chosen One.” The First Disciples of Jesus 35The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, 36and as he watched Jesus walk by he exclaimed, “Look, here is the Lamb of God!” 37The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. 38When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?” 39He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o'clock in the afternoon. 40One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 41He first found his brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed). 42He brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You are to be called Cephas (seefus)” (which is translated Peter).   The reading is followed by Hear the message of Christ Thanks be to GOD.     7 The Canticle, The Song of Zechariah (Benedictus) Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel:  who has come to his people and set them free.  The Lord has raised up for us a mighty Saviour:  born of the house of his servant David.  Through the holy prophets, God promised of old:  to save us from our enemies, from the hands of  all who hate us,  To show mercy to our forebears:  and to remember his holy covenant.  This was the oath God swore to our father Abraham:  to set us free from the hands of our enemies,  Free to worship him without fear:  holy and righteous before him, all the days of our life.  And you, child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High:  for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,  To give his people knowledge of salvation:  by the forgiveness of their sins.  In the tender compassion of our God:  the dawn from on high shall break upon us,  To shine on those who dwell in darkness  and the shadow of death:  and to guide our feet into the way of peace.  Luke 1.68–79     8 The Apostles creed I believe in God, the Father almighty,   creator of heaven and earth.   I believe in Jesus Christ, God's only Son, our Lord,   who was conceived by the Holy Spirit   born of the virgin Mary.   suffered under Pontius Pilate,   was crucified, died, and was buried;   he descended to the dead.   On the third day he rose from the dead.   He ascended into heaven   and is seated at the right hand of the Father.   From there he will come to judge  the living and the dead.   I believe in the Holy Spirit,   the holy catholic church,   the communion of saints,   the forgiveness of sins,   the resurrection of the body,   and the life everlasting. Amen.   9 The Prayers Lord have mercy.  Christ have mercy.  Lord have mercy.    10 The LORDs prayer Our Father in heaven,  hallowed be your name,  your kingdom come,  your will be done,  on earth as in heaven.  Give us today our daily bread.  Forgive us our sins  as we forgive those who sin against us.  Save us from the time of trial  and deliver us from evil.  For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours  now and for ever. Amen.    10 The Collect of the Day Second Sunday after the epiphany. Bountiful God, whose son revealed his glory at Cana of Galilee: help us to believe and obey, so that, as our saviour promised, we may be filled with the wine of new life and show forth his joy and love;` who lives and reigns with you and the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen   Prayer of the Week Second Sunday after the epiphany. Almighty God, By whose grace alone we are accepted and called to your service: strengthen us by your Holy Spirit and make us worthy of our Calling; through Jesus Christ our Lord Amen   11 Intercessions and Thanksgivings may be made according to local custom and need.   Let us pray   God, we seek your wisdom and guidance in our governments. Lead those in power to make financial decisions that prioritise government spending for the greater good of the country's people. Guide them to make wise choices that align with bringing people out of poverty and into abundant living and grant us all discernment in distinguishing between needs and wants in the recognition of a life of abundance. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   God, your wisdom knows no bounds, grant we pray that we hear your spoken wisdom and bring the good news of Christ to all who have yet to hear it, so that we may bring forth fruit of good works to honour and praise your name. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   All seeing God, we ask you to grant mercy to us in abundance, we request and pray that you assist those with eye anatomy expertise to understand how to correct eye vision defects and imperfections and to understand how to successfully bring renewed sight to the blind. We ask this in Jesus' name. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Almighty God, we pray for peace and prosperity in our cities, and families. Today we remember the people of South Sudan, we ask for Your peace to reign throughout their lands, give them abundant food and water. We pray that African nations come together in harmony, setting aside differences and working towards a common good for all African people. Let Your voice God, bring peace talks and be their guide in their actions and decisions. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Blessed God, we ask your blessing for those listed on the Anglican cycle of prayer: All Hospital and Prison ministry chaplaincy teams All people joining in this prayer offering. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer     12 The Morning Collect Eternal God and Father,  by whose power we are created and by whose love we are redeemed.  guide and strengthen us by your Spirit,  that we may give ourselves to your service,  and live this day in love to one another and to you;  through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.   13 The Lord be with you. And also with you.  Let us praise the Lord.  Thanks be to God.    The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen.   2 Corinthians 13.14 Music ‘Sing my Soul' by The Australian Voices & Graeme Morton, Composer Ned Rorem. A reminder disclaimer to the listener. The readings in the podcast may include ancient and old-fashioned sayings and instructions that we do not in any way condone as in use or to be used in today's modern world. The readings have not been modernised to reflect todays thinking, instead the readings remain from the old version of the NRSV bible. The podcast owners explicitly declare that each listener is responsible for their own actions in response to the bible readings and the podcast owners bare no responsibility in this sense.  

Determination, Not Fear by Kirk Hunt God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Psalm 46:1-2 The crazy and chaos flows around and over you. The hellhounds snarl and howl in plain sight. Grip your spiritual weapon tightly, out of determination, not fear. Our help is all-powerful God and He is on the way. Do not accept difficulty and delay as God's absence or disapproval. Father-God sees you, knows your circumstances, and has a plan to bless and benefit you. He promised you salvation and victory, not ease or comfort. Face down in the muck, God is your strength. Fighting off your adversaries hand-to-hand, God is your protection. You will rise in triumph, because Father-God is your source. He promised. You may not like His timing, but God will be on-time. You make not care for the make or model, but it will be the perfect fit, form and function. Your temporary inconveniences will be forgotten as you stand in permanent victory. The momentary ugliness will not compare to the lasting beauty. Your bitter accusers will recoil from your all-mighty defender. He promised. Stand in determination and faith. Refuse to stay down in obedience to your calling and anointing. God's strength and protection are yours, and He will deliver. Think: No matter what is happening, God is my protection and power. Pray: “Lord, help me to face my circumstances in Your strength and security.” Copyright © January 2026, Kirk Hunt This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press. The post Determination, Not Fear appeared first on CadreMen Press Devotionals.

Readings NRSV: Psalm 31; Jeremiah 1; Colossians 1.1-8. Led by Felicity Scott, a prayer minister in Queensland, Australia. The full prayer transcript is available by going to this episode on the Podcast website. https://dailyprayeranglicanprayerbookforaustralia.podbean.com Welcome to Monday Morning prayer. We proclaim the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ: GOD in his infinite mercy, forgives all sins, and through our baptism in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, we are given a rebirth into new life, free from the burden of all sin. ALLELUIA With faithfulness we respond to the good news: We acknowledge Christ our Saviour and accept with gratitude, that we are forgiven for all wrong doings, past and present. To honour the gift of forgiveness, we release our burden of guilt and rise up to live in the glory of God forever more. Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Blessed be God forever. Let us Pray.   1 God's love has been poured into our hearts, through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.  Romans 5.5   Glory to God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit:  as in the beginning, so now, and for ever. Amen.    2 The Opening Canticle, A Song of God's Marvellous Acts I will sing a new hymn to my God:  O Lord you are great and marvellous,  you are marvellous in your strength, invincible.  Let the whole creation serve you:  for you spoke and all things came to be;  You sent out your Spirit and it formed them:  no one can resist your voice.  Mountains and seas are stirred to their depths:  rocks melt like wax at your presence;  But to those who revere you:  you still show mercy.  Judith 16.13–15   3 The Opening Prayer The night has passed, and the day lies open before us;  let us pray with one heart and mind.    Silence may be kept. As we rejoice in the gift of this new day,  so may the light of your presence, O God,  set our hearts on fire with love for you;  now and for ever.  Amen.   4 The Psalms as appointed. A pause is observed after each. Psalm 31 5 At the end of the (last) pause there may follow Creator Spirit, Advocate promised by our Lord Jesus: increase our faith and help us to walk in the light of your presence, to the glory of God the Father; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.   6 One or two Readings from the Bible as appointed.   1st Reading Jeremiah 1 1 The words of Jeremiah son of Hilkiah, of the priests who were in Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, 2to whom the word of the LORD came in the days of King Josiah son of Amon of Judah, in the thirteenth year of his reign. 3It came also in the days of King Jehoiakim son of Josiah of Judah until the end of the eleventh year of King Zedekiah son of Josiah of Judah, until the captivity of Jerusalem in the fifth month. 4Now the word of the LORD came to me saying, 5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” 6 Then I said, “Ah, Lord GOD! Truly I do not know how to speak, for I am only a boy.” 7But the LORD said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a boy,' for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and you shall speak whatever I command you. 8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, says the LORD.” 9 Then the LORD put out his hand and touched my mouth, and the LORD said to me, “Now I have put my words in your mouth. 10 See, today I appoint you over nations and over kingdoms, to pluck up and to pull down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.” 11 The word of the LORD came to me, saying, “Jeremiah, what do you see?” And I said, “I see a branch of an almond tree.” 12Then the LORD said to me, “You have seen well, for I am watching over my word to perform it.” 13The word of the LORD came to me a second time, saying, “What do you see?” And I said, “I see a boiling pot, tilted away from the north.” 14 Then the LORD said to me: “Out of the north disaster shall break out on all the inhabitants of the land. 15For now I am calling all the tribes of the kingdoms of the north, says the LORD, and they shall come, and all of them shall set their thrones at the entrance of the gates of Jerusalem, against all its surrounding walls and against all the cities of Judah. 16And I will utter my judgments against them for all their wickedness in forsaking me; they have made offerings to other gods and worshiped the works of their own hands. 17But you, gird up your loins; stand up and tell them everything that I command you. Do not break down before them, or I will break you before them. 18And I for my part have made you today a fortified city, an iron pillar, and a bronze wall against the whole land, against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests, and the people of the land. 19They will fight against you, but they shall not prevail against you, for I am with you, says the LORD, to deliver you.”   Hear the word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. 2nd Reading Colossians 1.1-8 Salutation Paul Thanks God for the Colossians   1Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2To the saints and faithful brothers and sisters in Christ in Colossae (coloseee) Grace to you and peace from God our Father. 3 In our prayers for you we always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 4for we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, 5because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. You have heard of this hope before in the word of the truth, the gospel 6that has come to you. Just as it is bearing fruit and growing in the whole world, so it has been bearing fruit among yourselves from the day you heard it and truly comprehended the grace of God. 7This you learned from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, 8and he has made known to us your love in the Spirit. Hear the message of Christ. Thanks be to God.   7 The Canticle, A Song of Isaiah ‘Behold, God is my salvation:  I will trust and will not be afraid;  ‘For the Lord God is my strength and my song:  and has become my salvation.'  With joy you will draw water:  from the wells of salvation.  On that day you will say:  ‘Give thanks to the Lord, call upon his name;  ‘Make known his deeds among the nations:  proclaim that his name is exalted.  ‘Sing God's praises, who has triumphed gloriously:  let this be known in all the world.  ‘Shout and sing for joy, you that dwell in Zion:  for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.'  Isaiah 12.2–6   8 The belief and principle is said I believe in God, creator of heaven and earth, whose love and merciful forgiveness endures everlasting. I believe in Christ the saviour, whose example of love and compassion, taught us a restored way to live, in collaborative unity with all people. I believe in the Holy Spirit, whose divine guidance brings us together to be one with the Holy Trinity.   9 The Prayers Lord have mercy.  Christ have mercy.  God have mercy.    10 The Lord's Prayer   Our Father in heaven,  hallowed be your name,  your kingdom come,  your will be done,  on earth as in heaven.  Give us today our daily bread.  Forgive us our sins  as we forgive those who sin against us.  Save us from the time of trial  and deliver us from evil.  For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours  now and for ever. Amen.    Prayer of the Week following the Sunday of the : Baptism of the LORD Almighty God, who anointed Jesus at his baptism with the Holy Spirit and revealed him as your beloved son, inspire us your children who are born again of water and the spirit, to surrender our lives to your service, that we may rejoice to be called your children, through Jesus Christ our Lord Amen       11 Intercessions and Thanksgivings may be made according to local custom and need.   Let us Pray Let us pray for the world and for the church. God, today is a Remembrance Day for the victims of the January 2010 Haiti earthquake. We remember the 300,000 lives that were lost in the earthquake and pray GOD that they have risen to dwell in your loving arms of safety. We pray that you guide and help us to prevent natural disasters today and in the future. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   God, your blessing on the people is loved by all, for which our gratitude knows no end. Grant, we pray, your saving blessing on all those experiencing times of trouble or strife, that they may receive the guidance of wisdom to lead them to a path of safety. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Almighty God, answer our prayer to bring about a change throughout the people, we ask for your grace to relay the wisdom to each man and each woman how to co-exist in peace and the will to do so, to continue to respect one another and teach their children to do so also. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Blessed God, we ask your blessing for those listed on the Anglican cycle of prayer: Monday 12 January The Diocese of Sodor and Man – The Church of England The Diocese of Grafton; The Parish of Hendra-Clayfield: St John's Anglican College, Forest Lake All Prison and hospital ministry chaplaincy teams All people joining in this prayer offering. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   12 The Morning Collect Eternal God and Father,  by whose power we are created  and by whose love we are redeemed:  guide and strengthen us by your Spirit,  that we may give ourselves to your service,  and live this day in love to one another and to you;  through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.   13 The Lord be with you. And also with you.  Let us praise the Lord.  Thanks be to God.    God did not give us a spirit of cowardice  but a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.  May we rekindle the gift of God within us.  Amen. see 2 Timothy 1.6–7   Music: Song name: Sing my soul, His wondrous love by Ned Rorem – Choir of St John's college, Cambridge & Andrew Nethsingha. A reminder disclaimer to the listener. The readings in the podcast may include ancient and old-fashioned sayings and instructions that we do not in any way condone as in use or to be used in today's modern world. The readings have not been modernised to reflect todays thinking, instead the readings remain from the old version of the NRSV bible. The podcast owners explicitly declare that each listener is responsible for their own actions in response to the bible readings and the podcast owners bare no responsibility in this sense.

Daily Anglican Prayer - Sunday Morning – 11th January 2026 Readings NRSV: Psalm 29; Isaiah 42.1-9; Matthew 3.13-17. Led by Felicity Scott, a prayer minister in Queensland, Australia. The full prayer transcript is available by going to this episode on the Podcast website. https://dailyprayeranglicanprayerbookforaustralia.podbean.com Welcome to Sunday Morning prayer. We proclaim the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ: GOD in his infinite mercy, forgives all sins, and through our baptism in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, we are given a rebirth into new life, free from the burden of all sin. ALLELUIA With faithfulness we respond to the good news: We acknowledge Christ our Saviour has already saved us and accept with gratitude, that we are forgiven for all wrong doings, past and present. To honour the gift of forgiveness, we release our burden of guilt and rise up to live in the glory of God forever more. Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,  Blessed be God forever.   Let us Pray.   The Sentence of the day Christ the King / The Reign of Christ A voice came from heaven saying, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.'   1 This is the day that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.  Psalm 118.24 Glory to God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit:  as in the beginning, so now, and for ever. Amen.     3 The opening Canticle Oh come let us sing out to the Lord. let us shout in triumph to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his face with thanksgiving. And cry out to him joyfully in psalms. For the Lord is a great God. and a great king above all gods. In his hands are the depths of the earth. and the peaks of the mountains are his also. The sea is his and he made it. His hands moulded dryland. Come let us worship and bow down. And kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is the Lord our god. We are his people and the sheep of his pasture. Today if only you would hear his voice: “Do not harden your hearts as Israel did in the wilderness.” “When your forebears tested me.” “Put me to proof though they had seen my works.” “Forty years long I loathe that generation and said.” “It is a people who err in their hearts.” “For they do not know my ways.” “Of whom I swore in my wrath.” “They shall not enter my rest.”   3 The Opening Prayer The night has passed, and the day lies open before us;  let us pray with one heart and mind.    Silence may be kept. As we rejoice in the gift of this new day,  so may the light of your presence, O God,  set our hearts on fire with love for you;  now and for ever.  Amen.     4 The Psalms as appointed. A pause is observed after each. Psalm 29   5 At the end of the (last) pause there may follow Lord God, whose blessed Son rose in triumph and set us free: grant us the fullness of life he promised us, that through the Holy Spirit our hearts may possess him whom our eyes cannot see, the same Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.         6 One or two Readings from the Bible as appointed.   1st Reading Isaiah 42.1-9 1 Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. 2He will not cry out or lift up his voice or make it heard in the street; 3 a bruised reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice. 4 He will not grow faint or be crushed until he has established justice in the earth, and the coastlands wait for his teaching. 5 Thus says God, the LORD, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people upon it and spirit to those who walk in it: 6 I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I have taken you by the hand and kept you; I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations, 7 to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness. 8 I am the LORD; that is my name; my glory I give to no other, nor my praise to idols. 9 See, the former things have come to pass, and new things I now declare; before they spring forth, I tell you of them.   The reading is followed by Hear the word of the LORD Thanks be to GOD     2nd Reading Matthew 3.13-17 13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. 14John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” 15But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. 16And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw God's Spirit descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17And a voice from the heavens said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”   The reading is followed by Hear the message of Christ Thanks be to GOD.   A short Sunday homily In our new testament gospel reading this morning we hear that Jesus travelled to those that had gone before him, carrying the light. Through this act He acknowledges that John had already done good work.   John through listening and acting on GODs word had prepared the way. Through John's baptism of Jesus, Johns righteousness is acknowledged and his fulfilment to GOD complete.   During Jesus' baptism the holy spirit descends and He is transformed, joined now one with GOD through the holy heavenly spirit that alighted on him. Jesus is one in GODs name and His ministry commences.   As we go about our lives, let us all be like John preparing the way, acknowledging that our acts are a cog in the wheel, that brings GODs presence close to His people.   Amen   7 The Canticle, The Song of Zechariah (Benedictus) Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel:  who has come to his people and set them free.  The Lord has raised up for us a mighty Saviour:  born of the house of his servant David.  Through the holy prophets, God promised of old:  to save us from our enemies, from the hands of  all who hate us,  To show mercy to our forebears:  and to remember his holy covenant.  This was the oath God swore to our father Abraham:  to set us free from the hands of our enemies,  Free to worship him without fear:  holy and righteous before him, all the days of our life.  And you, child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High:  for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,  To give his people knowledge of salvation:  by the forgiveness of their sins.  In the tender compassion of our God:  the dawn from on high shall break upon us,  To shine on those who dwell in darkness  and the shadow of death:  and to guide our feet into the way of peace.  Luke 1.68–79     8 The Apostles creed I believe in God, the Father almighty,   creator of heaven and earth.   I believe in Jesus Christ, God's only Son, our Lord,   who was conceived by the Holy Spirit   born of the virgin Mary.   suffered under Pontius Pilate,   was crucified, died, and was buried;   he descended to the dead.   On the third day he rose from the dead.   He ascended into heaven   and is seated at the right hand of the Father.   From there he will come to judge  the living and the dead.   I believe in the Holy Spirit,   the holy catholic church,   the communion of saints,   the forgiveness of sins,   the resurrection of the body,   and the life everlasting. Amen.   9 The Prayers Lord have mercy.  Christ have mercy.  Lord have mercy.    10 The LORDs prayer Our Father in heaven,  hallowed be your name,  your kingdom come,  your will be done,  on earth as in heaven.  Give us today our daily bread.  Forgive us our sins  as we forgive those who sin against us.  Save us from the time of trial  and deliver us from evil.  For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours  now and for ever. Amen.    10 The Collect of the Day Baptism of the LORD Eternal God, At the baptism of Jesus in the river Jordan you proclaimed him your beloved son, and anointed him with the Holy Spirit: grant that all who are baptised into his name may keep the covenant they have made, and boldly confess him as Lord and saviour; who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen   Prayer of the Week on the Sunday of the Baptism of the LORD. Baptism of the LORD Almighty God, who anointed Jesus at his baptism with the Holy Spirit and revealed him as your beloved son, inspire us your children who are born again of water and the spirit, to surrender our lives to your service, that we may rejoice to be called your children, through Jesus Christ our Lord Amen   11 Intercessions and Thanksgivings may be made according to local custom and need.   Let us pray   God, we seek your wisdom and guidance in our governments. Lead those in power to make financial decisions that prioritise government spending for the greater good of the country's people. Guide them to make wise choices that align with bringing people out of poverty and into abundant living and grant us all discernment in distinguishing between needs and wants in the recognition of a life of abundance. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   God, your wisdom knows no bounds, grant we pray that we hear your spoken wisdom and bring the good news of Christ to all who have yet to hear it, so that we may bring forth fruit of good works to honour and praise your name. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   All seeing God, we ask you to grant mercy to us in abundance, we request and pray that you assist those with eye anatomy expertise to understand how to correct eye vision defects and imperfections and to understand how to successfully bring renewed sight to the blind. We ask this in Jesus' name. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Almighty God, we pray for peace and prosperity in our cities, and families. Today we remember the people of South Sudan, we ask for Your peace to reign throughout their lands, give them abundant food and water. We pray that African nations come together in harmony, setting aside differences and working towards a common good for all African people. Let Your voice God, bring peace talks and be their guide in their actions and decisions. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Loving God, on this day we remember Amelia Earhart's solo flight. Off the climb of her aviation triumph, we pray God, that you assist us with today's aviation progression. Brings us good fortune of technology evolution, that assists us to fly through the stars with ease, so that we may inspire a generation of future aviators who take flight to new levels and become aviators that we celebrate and remember. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Blessed God, we ask your blessing for those listed on the Anglican cycle of prayer: Sunday 11 January The Anglican Church in the Region of Central America The Diocese of Gippsland: The Parish of Hamilton: The Sudanese & South Sudanese Congregations in the Southern QLD Anglican Church The Goodna Anglican Welfare Ministries St Hilda's School, Southport: All Hospital and Prison ministry chaplaincy teams All people joining in this prayer offering. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer     12 The Morning Collect Eternal God and Father,  by whose power we are created and by whose love we are redeemed.  guide and strengthen us by your Spirit,  that we may give ourselves to your service,  and live this day in love to one another and to you;  through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.   13 The Lord be with you. And also with you.  Let us praise the Lord.  Thanks be to God.    The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen.   2 Corinthians 13.14     Music Credit: ‘Sing my Soul' by The Australian Voices & Graeme Morton, Composer Ned Rorem. A reminder disclaimer to the listener. The readings in the podcast may include ancient and old-fashioned sayings and instructions that we do not in any way condone as in use or to be used in today's modern world. The readings have not been modernised to reflect todays thinking, instead the readings remain from the old version of the NRSVUE bible. The podcast owners explicitly declare that each listener is responsible for their own actions in response to the bible readings and the podcast owners bare no responsibility in this sense.    

Heroes and Saints? by Kirk Hunt And what more shall I say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon and Barak and Samson and Jephthah, also of David and Samuel and the prophets: who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Hebrews 11: 32-33 The men and women written into Hebrews 11 are not paragons of virtue or perfection. Murder (David), fornication (Samson), cowardice (Gideon) and recklessness (Jephthah) is a partial list of crimes and errors of these men, documented in Scripture. Still, here they are, listed as faith heroes. God's men and women (saints) are not perfect. Character flaws are part of the makeup of both saints and sinners. Unlike the sinners, the saints are willing to do what it takes to move closer to God. Is it okay to be flawed? Of course not. Still, it is more common than anyone likes to admit. Real saints pursue God with everything they have, at the same time buffing out their own flaws. To review, heroes of faith are common folk with the same flaws as everyone else. What is the difference? Face down in the dirt and muck, they sincerely repent. Then they get back up, and pursue Him. No matter their shortcomings, they love and honor God, and pursue Him with all of the faith in their souls. Look in the mirror. There you are, flaws and all. God sees all of that, and more. Still, He loves you with infinite grace and unending affection. Are you, like myself and so many others, imperfect? Then you are in good company. Pursue God anyway. Saints may not be perfect, but they do not stop pursuing God. Think: The heroes of faith are common folk, like you, with uncommon faith. Pray: “Lord, help me to have faith that honors You.” Copyright © December 2025, Kirk Hunt This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press. The post Heroes and Saints? appeared first on CadreMen Press Devotionals.

Daily Anglican Prayer - Wednesday Morning - Christmas Eve – 24th December 2025 Readings NRSV: Psalm 130; 131; 133; Isaiah 27.2-13; Luke 1.67-69. Led by Felicity Scott, an Anglican prayer minister in Queensland, Australia. The full prayer transcript is available by going to this episode on the Podcast website. https://dailyprayeranglicanprayerbookforaustralia.podbean.com Welcome to Wednesday Morning prayer celebrating Christmas eve. We proclaim the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ: GOD in his infinite mercy, forgives all sins, and through our baptism in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, we are given a rebirth into new life, free from the burden of all sin. ALLELUIA With faithfulness we respond to the good news: We acknowledge Christ our Saviour and accept with gratitude, that we are forgiven for all wrong doings, past and present. To honour the gift of forgiveness, we release our burden of guilt and rise up to live in the glory of God forever more. Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Blessed be God forever. Let us Pray. 1 Rejoice always pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus.      Glory to God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit:  as in the beginning, so now, and for ever. Amen.    2 The Opening Canticle, A Song of God's Grace Blessed are you,  the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ: For you have blessed us in Christ Jesus with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places,  You chose us to be yours in Christ, before the foundation of the world: That we should be holy and blameless before you.  In love you destined us to be your children, through Jesus Christ: according to the purpose of your will,  to the praise of your glorious grace: which you freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. Ephesians 1.3-6   3 The Opening Prayer The night has passed and the day lies open before us;  let us pray with one heart and mind.   Silence may be kept. As we rejoice in the gift of this new day,  so may the light of your presence, O God,  set our hearts on fire with love for you;  now and for ever.  Amen.   4 The Psalms as appointed. A pause is observed after each.   Psalm reading… Psalm 130; 131; 133;     5 At the end of the (last) pause there may follow We consecrate this day to your service, O Lord; may all our thoughts, words, and actions be well-pleasing to you and serve the good of our brothers and sisters; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.   6 One or two Readings from the Bible as appointed.   1st Reading Isaiah 27.2-13 2 On that day: A pleasant vineyard—sing about it! 3 I, the LORD, am its keeper; every moment I water it. I guard it night and day so that no one can harm it; 4 I have no wrath. If it gives me thorns and briers, I will march to battle against it. I will burn it up. 5 Or else let it cling to me for protection; let it make peace with me; let it make peace with me. 6 In days to come Jacob shall take root; Israel shall blossom and put forth shoots and fill the whole world with fruit. 7 Has he struck them down as he struck down those who struck them? Or have they been killed as their killers were killed? 8 By expulsion, by exile you struggled against them; with his fierce blast he removed them in the day of the east wind. 9 Therefore by this the guilt of Jacob will be expiated, and this will be the full fruit of the removal of his sin: when he makes all the stones of the altars like chalkstones crushed to pieces; no sacred poles or incense altars will remain standing. 10 For the fortified city is solitary, a habitation deserted and forsaken, like the wilderness; the calves graze there; there they lie down and strip its branches. 11 When its boughs are dry, they are broken; women come and make a fire of them. For this is a people without understanding; therefore he who made them will not have compassion on them; he who formed them will show them no favor. 12 On that day the LORD will thresh from the channel of the Euphrates to the Wadi of Egypt, and you will be gathered one by one, O people of Israel. 13 And on that day a great trumpet will be blown, and those who were lost in the land of Assyria and those who were driven out to the land of Egypt will come and worship the LORD on the holy mountain at Jerusalem. Hear the word of the LORD. Thanks be to God 2nd Reading Luke 1.67-69. 67 Then his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied: 68 “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has looked favorably on his people and redeemed them. 69 He has raised up a mighty savior for us; in the house of his child David,   Hear the message of Christ. Thanks be to God.     7 The Canticle, We praise you O God: we claim you as Lord. All creation thanks you: The Father everlasting. To you all angels, all the powers of heaven: The cherubim and serafim sing in endless praise: Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of power and might: Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Father of majesty unbounded: Your true and only son, worthy of all praise, the Holy Spirit, advocate and guide. You, Christ, are the king of glory, the eternal son of the father. When you took our flesh to set us free: You humbly chose the virgin's womb. You overcame the sting of death: And opened the kingdom of heaven to all believers. You are seated at God's right hand in glory: We believe that you will come to be our judge. Come then, God, and help your people, bought with the price of your own blood: And bring us with your Saints to glory everlasting.   8 The belief and principle is said I believe in God, creator of heaven and earth, whose love and merciful forgiveness endures everlasting. I believe in Christ the saviour, whose example of love and compassion, taught us a restored way to live, in collaborative unity with all people. I believe in the Holy Spirit, whose divine guidance brings us together to be one with the Holy Trinity. Amen.   9 The Prayers Lord have mercy.  Christ have mercy.  God have mercy.      10 The Lord's Prayer and the Collect of the Day Our Father in heaven,  hallowed be your name,  your kingdom come,  your will be done,  on earth as in heaven.  Give us today our daily bread.  Forgive us our sins  as we forgive those who sin against us.  Save us from the time of trial  and deliver us from evil.  For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours  now and for ever. Amen.      The Prayer of the Week Christmas eve Almighty GOD, You make us glad with the yearly expectation of the birth of your Son Jesus Christ: grant that as we joyfully receive him for our redeemer, so we may with sure confidence behold him when he shall come to be our Judge; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit one GOD, now and forever. Amen.   11 Intercessions and Thanksgivings may be made according to local custom and need. Let us pray Traditional Christmas Eve Prayer Lord, On this holy night, we gather to celebrate the birth of your Son, Jesus Christ. As we come together with family and friends, may our hearts be filled with joy and gratitude. Thank you for the gift of salvation and the love that you have shown us through Jesus. Bless this time of fellowship and worship. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Family Blessing for Christmas Eve Loving God, As we gather as a family on this Christmas Eve, we thank you for the love that binds us together. Bless each member of our families and fill our homes with warmth and joy. May the spirit of Christmas bring us closer to you and to one another. We ask for your guidance and protection in the coming year. In Jesus' name, we pray. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   A Christmas Eve Prayer to Prepare Your Heart Lord GOD, on this Christmas Eve, we pause to prepare our hearts for a most beautiful celebration: Your birth and coming to earth as our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Clear our minds so we can focus on You and the joy You bring to us through Your gift of salvation. May the same thrill and anticipation that filled Mary, the chosen mother of Jesus, consume us and draw us close to You. May our spirits cry out, “Alleluia,” with the host of angels who first delivered the good news of great joy to humble, awe-struck shepherds that night so long ago—the news that would literally one day be heard around the world. Immanuel, God with Us, Prince of Peace, the Son of God, Messiah; may You fill our senses and hearts with awe and wonder on this special Christmas Eve. May this preparation night be a holy night as we once again receive and celebrate Your great gift to us this Christmas. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Ordinary Wednesday prayers Lord, we give you thanks, that through your son Jesus Christ, you have shown us the way to live in your righteousness. You made us in your likeness, you gave your only son Jesus Christ who gave us forgiveness of sin, bring us together as one, different in culture but given new life in Jesus Christ. Reconciled, forgiven, sharing you with others as you have called us to do. We pray for reconciliation with you God and reconciliation with each other and ask for strength to remain in your presence in all we do. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Saviour God, we remember with love all those that have passed this week. We thank you for the faithfully departed and your servants in every age. We ask that our ancestors and all your saints may be brought to the joyful resurrection and the fulfilment of your glorious kingdom. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   God of justice, we ask for your help with ending domestic violence. We ask that you shine your heavenly light to guide people to live in peace with each other and make amends, by freeing their victims of abuse. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Blessed God, we ask your blessing for those listed on the Anglican cycle of prayer: All Prison ministry chaplaincy teams All people joining in this prayer offering. Humbly, in faith we Pray – LORD hear our prayer     12 The Morning Collect Eternal God and Father,  by whose power we were created  and through whose love we are redeemed:  guide and strengthen us by your Spirit,  that we may give ourselves to your service,  and live this day in love to one another and to you;  through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.   13 The Lord be with you. And also with you.  Let us praise the Lord.  Thanks be to God.    May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant us to live in such harmony with one another in accord with Christ Jesus, that we may with one voice gratify our God and Father.  Amen. Romans 15.5-6   Music by Choir of St John's College, Cambridge. A reminder disclaimer to the listener. The readings in the podcast may include ancient and old-fashioned sayings and instructions that we do not in any way condone as in use or to be used in today's modern world. The readings have not been modernised to reflect todays thinking, instead the readings remain from the old version of the NRSV bible. The podcast owners explicitly declare that each listener is responsible for their own actions in response to the bible readings and the podcast owners bare no responsibility in this sense.  

Send Me by Kirk Hunt Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: “Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” Isaiah 6:8 NKJV After standing in the very presence of God, and being purified by Him, Isaiah is in full relationship with his creator. God's man answers God's call for volunteers with simplicity and confidence. It really is as simple as saying, “Send me.” Do not confuse simplicity with ease. Isaiah's message from God was not comforting or reassuring. His message came during some of the most difficult and war-torn years of Israel's history. Traditional sources say that Isaiah, like most of the Old Testament prophets, was murdered by his own countrymen. The important part is that when God called, Isaiah answered. God's man delivered God's word with courage and integrity.  Isaiah kept true to God's calling, regardless of the circumstances or the reception. If you have a full relationship with God, your response is simple. Your confidence is complete, in Him. Inconveniences, like martyrdom by your own nation, will not distract you. Christian man or woman, you have a calling in God. Like Isaiah, start in His presence. Let Him purify you in His love, and your obedience. Then, when He calls, answer in simplicity and confidence. The circumstances may be difficult. Their response may not be positive. It is all about your relationship with Him. If there is any doubt, stand again in His presence. Think: How will I respond when God calls? Pray: “Lord, when you call, please send me.” Copyright © December 2025, Kirk Hunt This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press. The post Send Me appeared first on CadreMen Press Devotionals.

You Are Touched by Kirk Hunt Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a live coal which he had taken with the tongs from the altar. And he touched my mouth with it, and said: “Behold, this has touched your lips; Your iniquity is taken away, And your sin purged.” Isaiah 6:6-7 NKJV Finite, imperfect, impure Isaiah stood in the direct presence of infinite, perfect, holy God. God's prophet cried out in dismay and alarm. God calmly caused his man to be made pure. Isaiah understood the gap between where he lived his life and the perfection of God. God did not excuse or accept the lesser state of the man He loved. Instead, God purified him on the spot. God loves you. And He is not afraid to meet you where you are. The question is, are you willing to be touched by God? Scripture points out the coal came live from the altar. Isaiah was pronounced purged, made clean, after he was touched. The Bible is silent about any burns or scorching of the prophet. Isaiah admitted his imperfect state, then held still while the angel and the live coal approached him. Whether or not he might be burned, he was willing to be touched by God. Holy God saw Isaiah's impure state, but loved him too much to let that stand. Isaiah loved God, and His touch, too much to run. As the hot ember approached, I'm sure images ran through Isaiah's mind. The scene that mattered most, rooted him in place. God's loving touch is worth it, regardless of the price. Think: You can be touched and made pure by God. Pray: “Lord, whatever it costs, please touch me with, and in, Your love.” Copyright © December 2025, Kirk Hunt This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press. The post You Are Touched appeared first on CadreMen Press Devotionals.

Sermon Summary Title: Fall on Your Knees Speaker: Nick Lugg Context: A Christmas message exploring the true cost and response required by the coming of Jesus. Overview: In this message, Nick Lugg challenges the congregation to move past the sentimental traditions of Christmas and confront the reality of who Jesus is. Referencing the line "Fall on your knees" from O Holy Night, the sermon asks a central question: "What is Jesus worth to you?" Key Themes: Response is Mandatory: Just like the Shepherds, Wise Men, and King Herod, no one can remain neutral to Jesus. His presence demands a response—either worship or resistance. Worship as Surrender: True worship isn't just singing songs; it is a life posture of "falling on your knees." Nick uses the imagery of the 24 Elders in Revelation casting down their crowns to illustrate surrendering our status, identity, and security to God. Jesus is Central, Not an Add-on: The sermon warns against treating Jesus like an "interior decorator" who just enhances our existing lives. Instead, He often comes as a "wrecking ball," dismantling our wrong priorities to rebuild us on a better foundation. The Call to Re-evaluate: Listeners are urged to identify what "crowns" they are holding onto—career, reputation, comfort, or sin—and to determine if those things are worth more to them than Jesus. Audio Transcript [00:00] Nick Lugg: Good morning. Congregation: Good morning. Nick Lugg: Happy Christmas. Not quite there. We, um... Oh look, it's there. Because it's Christmas we are going to do PowerPoint. Now, this is not my primary skill set, so it's a bit like rubbing your stomach, patting your head, and standing on a beach ball all at the same time. So I'm hoping to remember to press the button at the right time. [00:26] Our prayer and our desire all the time—and always has been every Christmas—is to enjoy the Christmas season, to enjoy the atmosphere, to enjoy all that Christmas is to us. But at the same time, by God's grace, crack it open and get to the reality of what God is wanting to say to us each and every time. We can't be reduced to people that just do traditions. That just do, um, repeat—you know, we just get on rinse and repeat every year. Same thing: bring out the same songs, do the same things, go through the same motions. Because God has always got something fresh to say to us. [01:05] And that's why we've had this mini-series over Christmas where we've, uh... the eagle-eyed amongst you will know that it's been related to the carol O Holy Night. The first one—I think they were slightly in the wrong order, but it doesn't matter because we've got grace—but the first one Johnny spoke was "A weary world rejoices." And then I think Andy, uh, last week was speaking on "The thrill of hope." [01:32] And it's just those... just those lines have so much relevance and so much resonance for us in the world that we live in and the lives that we are leading. A weary world rejoices. But yet, and behind everything that we seek to do as a church, and everything we seek to begin, is to bring that thrill of hope. But as the curtains open, and as heaven is drawn back, and as we begin to see all that is going on behind Christmas, there is also the response, which is: Fall on your knees. [02:07] And the question this morning: What is Jesus worth to you? What is Jesus worth to me? That if we don't come out of Christmas with a greater sense... You know, we've sung these majestic carols—Adore, come let us adore, let's worship Him, and all the other lines that I've forgotten. You know, they—but they are majestic, honestly. But... you know, we adore Him. But if we don't actually adore Him, if we don't actually wrestle with the question: What does, therefore, it mean that He's worth to me? How does His coming—Christmas, the coming of Christ—how does His coming impact my life? How does it change the shape and the way that I think and the way that I act and the way that I live this life that He's given me? [02:54] What is Jesus worth to me? Oh look... [clicks clicker]. So the real story of Christmas, we say it every year, it's not sentimental, is it? But it's one of humility. Anonymity. Struggle. And the telling and the retelling of the story of Mary and Joseph and all that they went through doesn't really ever quite connect and communicate what it must have been like for them to experience what they experienced. [03:22] There was pain. Discomfort. Fear. Anxiety, no doubt. Stress. Uncertainty. Tears. Maybe there were short tempers. There were... there were all sorts of things going on that we would instantly relate to, and yet we don't see on the Christmas cards. But it's into that world, not the Christmas card world, that Jesus came. Jesus came to our world. We might think, "Well, it was all right, you know, Christmas was just so lovely and everything was just so beautiful and there was like shining tinsel and angels and shepherds and it's all so peaceful and everything else on the Christmas cards." But what about us? What about Sheffield? What about Jordanthorpe, Batemoor? What about where I live? What about my background? What about my world? Jesus came into that world. [04:15] And everyone who encountered Jesus had to respond. And the question for us today is the same. As we ask "What is Jesus worth to me?", how do I respond to Him? How do I respond to the fact that He has come? Not just come to the world, not just come to all people—He's come into my life. How do I respond, therefore, to this majestic appearance? [04:42] He's the Son of God. [Struggles with clicker] Is that the one? This is where it all goes wrong, you see. Anyway, it don't matter... [Adjusts slides]. He comes on the margins of society. He's ignored by society. He's unnoticed by society. He's born away from comfort and privilege. The Bible tells us in Philippians that He, though being in very nature God, He didn't consider equality with God something to be grasped, but He came down, took on the very nature of a servant. He took the opposite of what we would think somebody of His power and authority had. [05:22] I was... saw an article or a video report about Air Force One—the President of the United States' plane. You know how when it flies around, all the preparations and all the protection that it has, you know, fighter jet escorts and all of that. None of that for Jesus. But even as a baby, before He ever taught anything, before He said anything—He just cried like babies do—before He healed anyone, before He performed a miracle, He provoked profound responses. [05:54] You know, the first miracle we read about was when He turned water into wine at a wedding. He was an adult. But before all of that, the story of Christmas is about the responses that people made to who He was. Not what He did. Who He is is what makes a difference in our lives and causes us to respond. [06:14] And so we have the Shepherds. Ordinary people. Caught in their routines. But shaken awake by God to say: "Good news of great joy for all the earth, a Savior is born." Pointing the way to Him. And so they got up from their routine, they got up from their humdrum existence, and they left everything to go and see Him, to go and worship Him. [06:37] The Wise Men. Men of influence and education. They were willing to travel hundreds of miles and bring costly gifts because He was worth it. That's not an easy thing to do. It's not easy to travel. You might think it's easy... you know, even traveling these days, going to Zambia or going to Nepal, it's a... it's a consideration. Even just sitting still doing nothing on a plane. Let alone getting on a camel and going hundreds and hundreds of miles. But they considered that they needed to respond to what they had heard and what they had seen. [07:11] There was King Herod. He was a king with wealth and power and influence and all the things that the world could give him. And yet he saw Jesus as a threat and said He's worth eliminating. He wanted... he responded to Jesus. There's no neutrality. One baby, three responses, but everyone responds. There is no neutrality when it comes to Jesus. When He comes into our world, there is no neutrality for us today. When He comes into... we have to respond. We have to ask: What does His coming demand of me? What is He worth to me? What do I do... what do I do about His coming? [07:51] Jesus demands a response. His very presence draws a response from our hearts. Or it should do. Because there is no neutral. No matter how much we want to live in neutral gear. No matter how much we want to be observers and spectators of all of this and just say, "Oh well, you know, we'll see how it goes." Jesus demands a response. And His very presence forces a collision with our priorities. He comes into our hearts. [08:19] I remember that experience. I've given my testimony before, but I remember how I was like a spectator. I was somebody who was beginning to think, when I was 17 years old, and thinking, "Oh yeah, I think I believe in Jesus. I think He's real. I think..." and I went through all of that process for a year. But at that moment that I asked Him to come into my life—BANG—there was that explosion. Things happened. Everything changed shape in my life, in my priorities, in my understanding, in the values. All of that had to be reassessed. [08:50] When Jesus comes into our world, everything has to be reassessed. When He steps into someone's world... when He steps into your world... you cannot carry on as before. I cannot carry on just as before. Everything that we hold dear. Everything that we love. Everything that shapes our identity, that makes us say, "Well this is who I am." Jesus confronts it. He collides with it. Causes it to change shape permanently and forever. [09:20] Not just an emotional moment where we just say, "Oh I think I believe in Jesus now." But actually He physically comes... and He comes into our hearts, He changes the shape of everything from the inside out. Everything that commands our time, our energy, our attention has to be reassessed in the light of Jesus coming. All of it challenged by that one question: Is it worth more to me than Jesus? [09:44] I remember when I was on a mission trip one time in Russia—in the old Soviet Union actually, I can say it now, we had to keep it secret in those days. But, um, we went and there was somebody that was really taken with the Gospel message and they were listening to it all. And they were saying to the person who was sharing with them, they said, "But if I become a Christian though, do I have to... do I have to stop smoking?" And the person was like getting into a bit of a twist, you know, "Oh well, you know, God understands us and God doesn't judge..." and trying to explain it all. [10:14] And then there was this evangelist guy that was with us who was much more to the point. He just came in and said, "Yes. You do." He said, "And if you ask me if I believe in Jesus, do I have to stop wearing blue jeans? I tell you: Yes, you do." He said, "Because it's not about the smoking, it's not about the blue jeans, it's not about the whatever. But the very fact that you're asking that question means that there is a confrontation with what you want. With what you hold dear. Is it worth more to you than Jesus? Give it up! Change it! Change shape!" That's what happened at Christmas. Jesus came into our lives. And so those little questions that come in the light of Jesus... they should become irrelevant. "Can I still do this? Can I still do that?" Why are you asking those questions? Jesus is worth more than all of it. [10:59] And so we have to reassess our priorities. That's what happened at Christmas. So the Shepherds left their livelihood. They left... presumably they left the sheep... couldn't have taken all the sheep to see Jesus, could they? The Wise Men gave their treasure. Herod protected his throne. And we do the same. When Jesus comes, we have to respond. Either we worship, or we resist. There is no neutrality. [11:27] Worship is more than a song. "For a song in itself is not what you have required." And the rest of it. It's not just what happens on a Sunday, is it? We enjoy it. We enjoy the worship. We enjoy our singing. But we call it "worship," we label it "worship," and yet there is so much more to worship. Worship is not an event. Worship is not 30 minutes. Worship is a life posture. It's a life position. It's a life decision that says: "Come what may, Jesus, you are worth it. You are worth my life. You are worth everything I have, everything I can give you." [12:02] I remember a friend of mine who was on mission in India, and he took a team to India. And these sort of young, enthusiastic people that were there, and they encountered a church that was quite different to the type of lively, charismatic church they were involved in. And yet this church was full of people that had been imprisoned for their faith, had been beaten up for their faith, had been through all sorts of struggle. And this bright-eyed young evangelist person said to the guy who was leading the team, he said, "They don't seem to know much about worship, do they?" [12:35] And he said, "Well, it depends what you mean by worship. If you mean music and singing and songs, then maybe they don't know... you know, all of that. But there's an awful lot that they do know about giving their entire life for Jesus and saying: You are worth everything that I can give you." Worship says you are more than anything else in my life. The old carol says: "What can I give Him, poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb. If I were a wise man, I would do my part. Yet what can I give Him? Give Him my heart." [13:12] So there isn't anything we can give that impresses Jesus. There isn't anything that He says, "Oh, I think I quite like..."—whether it's our blue jeans or our cigarettes or whatever. It's not about what we give up in that sense. But what we give Him. We give Him our trust. We give Him our obedience. We give Him our love. We give Him our hearts. And that is a whole life thing. That's something that brings a change from the start, and it goes through year after year after year. It's where Christianity is not a flash in the pan. It's not something that we do for a season and then we move on to something else. It's that if truly Jesus has come into our hearts, things have changed. Our priorities have changed. Our vision has changed. Our values have changed. Everything changes and it can't change back. [13:58] But our hearts are shaped, aren't they, by our culture. By comfort. By self-protection. And so we're tempted to use Jesus as an add-on. As a "life enhancer." Someone who fits in with our lives. Instead of someone who rearranges our lives. We treat Him a bit like an interior decorator. Comes in and, you know, tells us what color curtains to have and how to enhance the arrangement of our furniture to give us the best energy and all of that sort of thing. And yet, when He turns up with His hard hat on and a crane with a wrecking ball to come and knock the whole thing down, we don't like that. [14:38] His arrival demands more. And so the only response that we can give Him is to fall on our knees. One day in eternity, scripture says, the 24 Elders fall down and worship. They lay their crowns before the throne. They lay their crowns. In many translations, they take their crowns and they cast them. They throw them. They throw them down at the feet of Jesus. Why do they do that? Why the crowns? Because the crown is a symbol. The crown is a symbol of their identity. Their status. Their achievements. Their authority. Whatever gives their life value in the eyes of others. [15:20] We love it, don't we? Medals and gongs and crowns and uniforms and achievements and things that we can say about who we are and what we've done and what we've achieved. All of that constitutes our crown. And yet when they were in the presence of Jesus, they fell down and worshipped and they lay their crowns before the throne. Say: "Everything that I am, Lord God... have it. Whatever I think I am, You take it, Lord. Because it's... YOU are worth more than that." [15:52] Fall down on your knees. Nothing I have. Nothing I achieve. Nothing that defines me comes close to the value of Jesus. And that's what falling on our knees means. So we let Him question what we hold onto. We let Him reorder what we value. Rather than let's have a discussion about it—"Lord, I think, you know, do a trade, do a deal. Maybe I can keep some of this... you can have this, but I'll have that." It's a complete, radical reorganization, reordering of everything that is valuable to us. [16:26] There are things that define our lives wrongly. Things that we would say about ourselves if somebody asked us, "Well this is what I am. This is why I am like I am. This is what has made me to be like I am." And we settle into that because we think, "Well, this is me. This is just how I am made. This is how I am wired." What if Jesus comes in and dismantles the things that wrongly define us? What if He wants to reshape and rebuild and change our outlook and change our vision of ourselves and change our vision of others and change our vision of the world? He can do that. And He does that as He comes into our hearts. [17:03] Let Him replace our plans with His purposes. What is it that You want, Lord, in my life? What is it that You want in our life? What is it that You want for us as a church? Jesus. Because You are worth it. Whatever we think that we might be or we might achieve or we might... what status we might have... we lay it all before Jesus and say we fall on our knees before You, Lord. Have Your way among us. Fill us, God, with Your Spirit. Not only just to give us an experience that blesses us, but an experience that changes us from the inside out. That reshapes us. That demolishes us and rebuilds us. [17:42] Let Him confront our comforts. The things that give us security. The things that we hold onto. All of those things. Like I said, He's not an interior decorator. Someone making suggestions to make life better. But our worship says: "Do whatever You need to do, Lord, because I am Yours." [18:02] And so, as we fall on our knees, we re-evaluate what we treasure. Ask yourself a question: What in my life currently holds a higher value than Jesus? It's a tough question. And it's not coming from the pulpit saying "Ask yourself!"—pointing back at me—ask yourself. There's so much that takes place in our lives, so much that is established in our lives that is... takes the place of Jesus. So re-evaluate what we treasure. Our comfort. Our time. Our reputation. Our resources. A career. Relationship. Control. A painful identity I don't want to let go of. A sin that I cling to. [18:50] All of that can form a crown. That Jesus demands a response. That we know that we are holding onto those things, but when we come into His presence, we know there has to be a response. There is no neutrality. There's no "Oh, well I think I'll take it or leave it" or "I think I'll wait until next month and see how I feel then." No. When we meet Jesus, there has to be that change. There has to be that response. There has to be that worship. [19:14] And so, take one thing today that has become a crown you hold tightly and consciously place it before Jesus. What is it in your life this morning that you know... Ask God to reveal to you, to show you, what is it that you hold that you can actually... that you need to throw before Him? You need to surrender it. And tell Him: "Jesus, You are worth more than this. All my life I've held onto this thing. All my life this has defined me. All my life this has been the one thing that I don't want to let go of. But Jesus, You are worth more than all of that. And I lay it before You today." There's an opportunity today to lay these things before the feet of Jesus. [19:54] Secondly, reorient our priorities around Him. What are our priorities in life? Does our lifestyle reflect the value of Jesus? The one we adore? The one we sing about? What about the application of that worship? Do we adore Him so much so that our decisions honor Him? Our schedule and our priorities reflect His importance? Our giving, our serving, our obedience demonstrate that He is worth it? Not only to Him, but to anybody that looks at our lives, they say, "No, this person values Jesus more than anything." [20:30] Does our worship cost us anything? Or is it just convenient? Those who responded to Jesus right back at the beginning, in the beginning of the Christmas story—their worship cost them. It took something out of them. It tired them. It stressed them. It pained them. But it was worth it because they were coming to Jesus. [20:53] And so think about an area of life where Jesus has been an add-on. Where we've just invited Him and said, "I like the fact that You're in my life, Jesus, and perhaps You can help me. Give me a little bit of power here and there just to help me through a few things, over a few humps. But don't get too much involved. Don't get too nosey into what's going on. Because I think... I think You know Your place, Jesus." Is He an add-on? Or is He central? [21:18] That's the challenge as we go forward. Not about "Can we raise enough money for 146?" or "Can we, you know, what do we do about this or that?" What's the practical things to do with the growth of a church? It's about as we grow as a community, will we actually have Him in the center of everything that we are and everything that we do? Will He be our first and our last thought in every decision that we make? How does this honor Him? How does this reflect His worth? How does this reflect His value? Because then the church will grow with people that will also know that Jesus is the priority. Jesus is the center. Jesus is the focus. [21:55] And thirdly, reopen our heart to encounter Him. Some of these questions can be at the first stage of our faith... you know, "What's Jesus worth?" But in actual fact, you can have that radical encounter with Jesus, you can have that moment where you know that you've given your all to Him... but five years, ten years, fifteen years down the line, things can look different. You can get jaded. You can get settled into "routine Christianity." Familiar. Predictable. Safe. Christmas is familiar, predictable, safe. But Jesus is coming. Jesus comes into our lives and challenges our priorities. [22:38] And so He's calling us to meet Him again. And for those of us that have become dulled and routine and predictable and safe, there is still that call from Jesus to say: Will you actually reorient? Will you actually re-evaluate? Will you actually reopen your heart to encounter me again? Not emotionally or artificially, but deeply. Pray: "Lord, show me Your worth again. Disrupt me if You must. Call me out of my routine and lead me back to worship." [23:09] And so there's a challenge. Will you worship Him now—today, this morning—and will you worship Him forever? Because it's not sentiment, it's transformation. Christmas is sentimental. It pulls at our emotions. It pulls at our nostalgia. If you ever spend any time on Instagram, these videos come up of what it used to be like in the 80s... I know some of you are thinking "What's the 80s?" But they were good. Christmas was good. It was sentimental and it was emotional and you've got all sorts of childhood memories from there. Probably go a little bit back before the 80s as well, but we won't go there. [23:49] But Christmas is sentimental. But Jesus is transformational. The coming of Jesus transforms. He didn't come to give us sentiment. He didn't come to give us emotion. He's not Father Christmas. But He did come to change everything. And so when the Shepherds saw Him, they ran to Him. When the Wise Men saw His worth, they knelt before Him. When the Elders see His worth, they throw their crowns down in front of Him. And when we see Him, what do we do? Fall on our knees. [24:26] And so today the question isn't simply "Do you believe in Jesus?", but "What is He worth to you?" Will you worship Him not just now, but forever? Will you lay your crown before Him? Will you allow His presence to rearrange your life? Reshape you. Not just now, but forever. For the rest of your life. And into eternity. That Jesus will be worth it. What a terrible thing to just touch the surface of what it means to know Jesus and then arrive in eternity and think, "Oh, that's what it was all about." That we would know Jesus now. This Christmas, may we truly see Him. And when we see Him, fall on our knees. Amen. [25:12] Nick Lugg: Jonathan, are you there? Oh, you're there. The worship team can come back, please.

My Eyes See by Kirk Hunt And the posts of the door were shaken by the voice of him who cried out, and the house was filled with smoke. So I said: “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, And I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, The Lord of hosts.” Isaiah 6:4-5 NKJV The Temple structure shook with the sound of a single voice. 81,000 cubic feet of space filled with smoke, in a moment. With his own human eyes, Isaiah saw the Shekhinah, the physical manifestation of God in the human world. In the presence of Holy God, Isaiah realizes that he, and all of Israel, are tainted. Suddenly, Isaiah understands. He is a finite, imperfect, impure man in the direct presence of infinite, perfect, holy God. That moment in the Shekhinah should be like standing on the surface of The Sun. God's mercy, and love for Isaiah, preserves him. God is infinite, perfect, holy and omnipotent. He is also loving, merciful and eager for contact with all of His sons and daughters. His omnipotence allows him to remain holy and pure, even when He kisses and hugs His impure and tainted children. God wants us to see Him, with our own eyes. He wants us to know Him, personally and deeply. Look past the distractions and obstructions of circumstances. Walk past the opinions and comments of other people. Infinite, perfect, holy and omnipotent God wants to spend time, just with you. Think: When last did you truly see and spend time with God? Pray: “Lord, help me in my direct and personal relationship with You.” Copyright © November 2025, Kirk Hunt This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press. The post My Eyes See appeared first on CadreMen Press Devotionals.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Charles Olaughlin from Shelbina, MO. Your commitment through Project23 helps deliver God's Word daily with clarity and conviction. This one's for you. Our text today is Judges 15:1-2 "After some days, at the time of wheat harvest, Samson went to visit his wife with a young goat. And he said, 'I will go in to my wife in the chamber.' But her father would not allow him to go in. And her father said, 'I really thought that you utterly hated her, so I gave her to your companion. Is not her younger sister more beautiful than she? Please take her instead.'" — Judges 15:1-2 Picture Samson walking up to his wife's home. He's holding a goat—his version of flowers and chocolates—ready to make things right. Maybe he's nervous. Maybe he's hopeful. But when he arrives, the door slams shut. Her father blocks the way: "She's gone. I gave her to another man. But hey—her younger sister's prettier. Take her instead." That's not just rejection—that's betrayal. That's humiliation. Samson was replaced. You've probably felt it too. Maybe not from a father-in-law who rejected you, but from someone who once promised loyalty, love, or friendship. A spouse who walked away. A friend who ghosted. A parent who didn't show up. A boss who passed you over. Betrayal makes you feel small, discarded, unwanted. Know this: people's betrayal doesn't define your worth, because God's faithfulness never wavers. When rejection strikes, our first instinct is to spiral into anger, bitterness, or even revenge. Samson will go there in the verses ahead. But God offers another way: let betrayal drive you into His arms. He is the Friend who never leaves. The Father who never abandons. The Bridegroom who never breaks covenant. That wound of betrayal may always leave a scar, but it does not decide your story. God's promise does: "I will never leave you nor forsake you" — Hebrews 13:5. So don't let rejection name you. Let God's faithfulness claim you. ASK THIS: Who has betrayed you in a way that still stings today? How has rejection shaped the way you see yourself? Do you believe God's faithfulness is stronger than people's failures? What step can you take today to release bitterness and rest in His promises? DO THIS: Write down the name of someone who betrayed or rejected you. Pray: "Lord, heal what they broke, and help me trust You more than I trust people." Read or say Hebrews 13:5 three times today as a reminder that God never abandons you. Share this truth with someone else who's wrestling with rejection. PRAY THIS: Father, You know the sting of betrayal better than anyone. When others fail me, remind me that You never will. Heal my wounds and anchor my worth in Your faithfulness. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Faithful Now."

He Saw The Lord by Kirk Hunt In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple. Isaiah 6:1 NKJV As Isaiah turned a corner, he saw the Temple. The gold overlaid on the doors and walls reflected the bright, midday sun like a mirror. As he drew closer, the intricate and detailed carvings of angels, palm trees and open flowers on the walls and doors became visible. He sighed and trudged on. Isaiah walked past the Bronze Altar and the atoning sacrifices being offered. He could see and hear as the devout brought their gifts and sacrifices to the priests. The sights, sounds and smells of the Court all pointed to man's efforts to reconcile with God. He shrugged his shoulders and shuffled further. The prophet passed between the massive bronze pillars, Jachin (“He will establish”) and Boaz (“In Him strength”) and entered the Holy Sanctuary. The beauty and symbolism of the Temple furniture and architecture were familiar to Isaiah. The prophet had seen it all, many times before. He yawned and took his usual place before the Gold Altar. There, in a familiar place and during a memorized routine, something unique happened. The beauty and magnificence of the Temple building faded before His glory. The sanctity and reverent atmosphere of the Temple gave way to His presence. Suddenly, and without warning, Isaiah came face-to-Shekhinah with God. Isaiah, familiar with Scripture and the worship of God, staggered in awe and astonishment. We do not know how sincere and devout Isaiah was, or was not. Like you, he needed a direct and real relationship with Jehovah. When he truly saw God for himself, his life changed. Think: Do you truly see God? Pray: “Lord, help me to have a direct and true relationship with You.” Copyright © November 2025, Kirk Hunt This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press. The post He Saw The Lord appeared first on CadreMen Press Devotionals.

Daily Anglican prayer - Monday morning – 24th November 2025. Readings NRSV: Psalm 56; 57; 2 Kings 23.4-15; Mark 1.29-39. Led by Felicity Scott, an Anglican prayer minister in Queensland, Australia. The full prayer transcript is available by going to this episode on the Podcast website. https://dailyprayeranglicanprayerbookforaustralia.podbean.com Welcome to Monday Morning prayer. We proclaim the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ: GOD in his infinite mercy, forgives all sins, and through our baptism in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, we are given a rebirth into new life, free from the burden of all sin. ALLELUIA With faithfulness we respond to the good news: We acknowledge Christ our Saviour and accept with gratitude, that we are forgiven for all wrong doings, past and present. To honour the gift of forgiveness, we release our burden of guilt and rise up to live in the glory of God forever more. Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Blessed be God forever. Let us Pray.   1 God's love has been poured into our hearts, through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.  Romans 5.5   Glory to God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit:  as in the beginning, so now, and for ever. Amen.    2 The Opening Canticle, A Song of God's Marvellous Acts I will sing a new hymn to my God:  O Lord you are great and marvellous,  you are marvellous in your strength, invincible.  Let the whole creation serve you:  for you spoke and all things came to be;  You sent out your Spirit and it formed them:  no one can resist your voice.  Mountains and seas are stirred to their depths:  rocks melt like wax at your presence;  But to those who revere you:  you still show mercy.  Judith 16.13–15   3 The Opening Prayer The night has passed, and the day lies open before us;  let us pray with one heart and mind.    Silence may be kept. As we rejoice in the gift of this new day,  so may the light of your presence, O God,  set our hearts on fire with love for you;  now and for ever.  Amen.   4 The Psalms as appointed. A pause is observed after each. Psalm 5 At the end of the (last) pause there may follow Creator Spirit, Advocate promised by our Lord Jesus: increase our faith and help us to walk in the light of your presence, to the glory of God the Father; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.   6 One or two Readings from the Bible as appointed.   1st Reading Kings 23. 4-15; 4 The king commanded the high priest Hilkiah, the priests of the second order, and the guardians of the threshold to bring out of the temple of the Lord all the vessels made for Baal, for Asherah, and for all the host of heaven; he burned them outside Jerusalem in the fields of the Kidron and carried their ashes to Bethel. 5He deposed the idolatrous priests whom the kings of Judah had ordained to make offerings in the high places at the cities of Judah and around Jerusalem, those also who made offerings to Baal, to the sun, the moon, the constellations, and all the host of the heavens. 6He brought out the image of Asherah from the house of the Lord, outside Jerusalem, to the Wadi Kidron, burned it at the Wadi Kidron, beat it to dust, and threw the dust of it upon the graves of the common people. 7He broke down the houses of the illicit priests who were in the house of the Lord, where the women did weaving for Asherah. 8He brought all the priests out of the towns of Judah and defiled the high places where the priests had made offerings, from Geba to Beer-sheba; he broke down the high places of the gates that were at the entrance of the gate of Joshua the governor of the city, which were on the left at the gate of the city. 9The priests of the high places, however, did not come up to the altar of the Lord in Jerusalem but ate unleavened bread among their kindred. 10He defiled Topheth, which is in the valley of Ben-hinnom, so that no one would make a son or a daughter pass through fire as an offering to Molech. 11He removed the horses that the kings of Judah had dedicated to the sun at the entrance to the house of the Lord, by the chamber of the eunuch Nathan-melech, which was in the precincts; then he burned the chariots of the sun with fire. 12The altars on the roof of the upper chamber of Ahaz that the kings of Judah had made and the altars that Manasseh had made in the two courts of the house of the Lord he pulled down from there and broke in pieces and threw the rubble into the Wadi Kidron. 13The king defiled the high places that were east of Jerusalem, to the south of the Mount of Destruction, which King Solomon of Israel had built for Astarte the abomination of the Sidonians, for Chemosh the abomination of Moab, and for Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. 14He broke the pillars in pieces, cut down the sacred poles, and covered the sites with human bones. 15 Moreover, the altar at Bethel, the high place erected by Jeroboam son of Nebat, who caused Israel to sin—he pulled down that altar along with the high place. He burned the high place, crushing it to dust; he also burned the sacred pole.   Hear the word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. 2nd Reading Mark 1.29-39 Jesus Heals Many at Simon's House 29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30Now Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told him about her at once. 31He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up. Then the fever left her, and she began to serve them. 32 That evening, at sunset, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed by demons. 33And the whole city was gathered around the door. 34And he cured 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. A Preaching Tour in Galilee 35 In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed. 36And Simon and his companions hunted for him. 37When they found him, they said to him, “Everyone is searching for you.” 38He answered, “Let us go on to the neighboring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also, for that is what I came out to do.” 39And he went throughout all Galilee, proclaiming the message in their synagogues and casting out demons.   Hear the message of Christ. Thanks be to God.   7 The Canticle, A Song of Isaiah ‘Behold, God is my salvation:  I will trust and will not be afraid;  ‘For the Lord God is my strength and my song:  and has become my salvation.'  With joy you will draw water:  from the wells of salvation.  On that day you will say:  ‘Give thanks to the Lord, call upon his name;  ‘Make known his deeds among the nations:  proclaim that his name is exalted.  ‘Sing God's praises, who has triumphed gloriously:  let this be known in all the world.  ‘Shout and sing for joy, you that dwell in Zion:  for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.'  Isaiah 12.2–6   8 The belief and principle is said I believe in God, creator of heaven and earth, whose love and merciful forgiveness endures everlasting. I believe in Christ the saviour, whose example of love and compassion, taught us a restored way to live, in collaborative unity with all people. I believe in the Holy Spirit, whose divine guidance brings us together to be one with the Holy Trinity.   9 The Prayers Lord have mercy.  Christ have mercy.  God have mercy.    10 The Lord's Prayer   Our Father in heaven,  hallowed be your name,  your kingdom come,  your will be done,  on earth as in heaven.  Give us today our daily bread.  Forgive us our sins  as we forgive those who sin against us.  Save us from the time of trial  and deliver us from evil.  For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours  now and for ever. Amen.    Prayer of the Week following the last Sunday after pentecost Christ the King / The Reign of Christ Stir up,we pray you, O Lord, the wills of your faithful people, that they, plenteously bringing forth the fruit of good works, may by you be plenteously rewarded; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.       11 Intercessions and Thanksgivings may be made according to local custom and need.   Let us Pray Let us pray for the world and for the church. God, how great your majesty abounds before us. We thank you for all your generosity. May the peace and blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ be abundant across all nations and countries forever more. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Holy God divine and merciful, your blessing on the people is loved by all, for which our gratitude knows no end. Grant, we pray, your saving blessing on all those experiencing times of trouble or strife, that they may receive the guidance of wisdom to lead them to a path of safety. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Almighty God, hear our prayer to bring about a change throughout the people, we ask for your grace to relay the wisdom to each man and each woman how to co-exist in peace and the will to do so, to continue to respect one another and teach their offspring to do so also. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   Blessed God, we ask your blessing for those listed on the Anglican cycle of prayer: Monday 24 November The Diocese of Riverina – The Anglican Church of Australia The Diocese of The Murray: The Parish of Aspley-Albany Creek: Anglicare SQ Meilene Court Retirement Village (Bundaberg) Anglican Schools Australia Management Committee and Member Schools All Prison and hospital ministry chaplaincy teams All people joining in this prayer offering. Humbly we Pray – LORD hear our prayer   12 The Morning Collect Eternal God and Father,  by whose power we are created  and by whose love we are redeemed:  guide and strengthen us by your Spirit,  that we may give ourselves to your service,  and live this day in love to one another and to you;  through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.   13 The Lord be with you. And also with you.  Let us praise the Lord.  Thanks be to God.    God did not give us a spirit of cowardice  but a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.  May we rekindle the gift of God within us.  Amen. see 2 Timothy 1.6–7   Music by John Keys – Anglican Chant Canticle organ accompaniments. Song name, Sing my soul, His wondrous love by Ned Rorem – Choir of St John's college, Cambridge & Andrew Nethsingha. A reminder disclaimer to the listener. The readings in the podcast may include ancient and old-fashioned sayings and instructions that we do not in any way condone as in use or to be used in today's modern world. The readings have not been modernised to reflect todays thinking, instead the readings remain from the old version of the NRSV bible. The podcast owners explicitly declare that each listener is responsible for their own actions in response to the bible readings and the podcast owners bare no responsibility in this sense.

When life feels mundane or unfulfilling, it’s easy to seek joy and satisfaction in circumstances, possessions, or people. But as our daily prayer and reflection on Psalm 37:4 reminds us, true joy is found not in what we have, but in who we have — the Lord Himself. In this reflective devotional, Emily Rose Massey explores what it really means to “delight” in the Lord. The original Hebrew conveys the idea of being soft, pliable, and dependent — a heart that takes pleasure in God alone and trusts His ways above all else. To delight in the Lord is not a suggestion, but a command — one that calls us to find our ultimate satisfaction in Him. As we do, something beautiful happens: our desires begin to change. The more we enjoy and depend on God, the more our hearts align with His. Our ambitions, affections, and prayers begin to reflect His will instead of our own. When we take joy in God for who He is — not just what He can do for us — He fills our lives with peace, contentment, and purpose. Even in seasons of waiting or monotony, delighting in the Lord draws us into deeper intimacy with Him and reshapes our hearts to desire what truly matters. Today's Bible Reading:“Delight yourself also in the Lord,and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4, NKJV

It’s easy to express gratitude when life feels full and blessings are obvious. But what about when our kindness is rejected or our good intentions are met with anger? In today’s prayer and devotion, Rachael Adams, host of The Love Offering, reminds us that gratitude is not dependent on others’ responses — it’s rooted in our relationship with God. After an act of compassion was met with hostility, Rachael wrestled with disappointment and confusion. Yet this moment mirrors a deeper truth seen in the story of Jesus healing the ten lepers (Luke 17:11–19). Only one returned to thank Him — and though all received healing, only the grateful one experienced the fullness of spiritual restoration. God invites us to live with hearts of thankfulness, not for what we receive in return from others, but because of who He is and all He has done for us. Gratitude aligns our hearts with God’s goodness, reminding us that every act of kindness is ultimately an act of worship. Today's Bible Reading:“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” – Colossians 3:16–17

Family traditions are powerful threads that connect generations — reminders of who we are, where we’ve come from, and how God has worked in our story. In today’s prayer devotional, Rachael Adams, host of The Love Offering, reflects on her grandmother “Munder” and the beautiful ways her faith and love continue to shape family gatherings even after she’s gone. Through recipes, celebrations, and stories, Rachael’s family keeps alive both her memory and the message of God’s goodness. In Scripture, God Himself established holy days and traditions so His people would continually remember His faithfulness. These rhythms of remembrance weren’t just rituals — they were living testimonies passed from one generation to the next. As we create and continue our own family traditions, we, too, can honor God by making Him the center of our celebrations. May this prayer inspire you to celebrate God’s work in your life, preserve your faith heritage, and intentionally pass it on — so that future generations will know and love the Lord. Today's Bible Reading:“This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the LORD—a lasting ordinance.” – Exodus 12:14

Adam and Dave are broadcasting from the heart of Assisi, Italy—knee-deep in pilgrimage vibes with St. Francis, St. Clare, and the whole crew. They break down the "establish" pillar of fatherhood (you know, the third leg of protect-provide-establish) and get talk about turning your home into fertile soil where your family's faith thrives. Recorded right after a providential run-in with a fan who spotted Adam's voice in the wild—shoutout to Kel from Illinois!Key Highlights:Pilgrimage Gold: Fresh off praying at St. Francis' tomb and St. Clare's incorrupt body. Plus, stories of Francis dodging death in the Holy Land because even the Saracens couldn't handle his holiness. Spiritual overload = total win.The Father's Job: Establish a Culture: Forget the 30-something basement-dwellers—it's time to till that family soil like a pro vintner. They riff on winery chats: Every plot's different, climates change, so adapt your strategy. Build traditions around high feasts (Christmas Nativity read-aloud before gifts? Yes!), guard your wife's prayer time, and echo that husband-wife holiness down to the kids.Resilience Like the Saints: One bad call ruins your day? No. Channel St. Clare ("No suffering bothers me!") and blind-but-joyful St. Francis. Practice gratitude, God's-will-be-done prayers, and bounce back fast—'cause your mood sets the home tone.Focus or Bust: Saints win by laser-focus on holiness. Ditch the noise (X, YouTube, endless projects). Adam's hack: Stopwatch your day. Shocking how 25 minutes of "deep work" gets hijacked by texts. Apply it home—clock real presence with kids over fence-painting busywork.Adam's Four Pillars to Cultivate Christian Life:Silence – God's language. Train kids to quiet appetites at home so they can apply it at Holy Mass.Reverence – Rebel against irreverence. Yes sir/ma'am, genuflect at churches, dress sharp for Mass—builds love for the Eucharist.Hard Work – Outpace 90% by pushing past "I can't." Sports, chess, prayer, fasting—saints weren't smarter, just tougher.Charity – The supernatural crescendo. Serve without quid pro quo (Catechism 2223). Punch in pure love, St. Nick-style.Grandpa Power: You're the tradition custodian! Give "state of the union" fireplaceside talks like Adam's grandpa—wisdom from the trenches and the hilltop.Soul-Crafting Close: Italian churches are stunning, but one holy soul outshines 'em all. You're the craftsman for your wife's and kids' souls—steward God's talents like your life depends on it (spoiler: it does).Action Steps for Catholic Dads:Tonight: List 3 family traditions to start (feast-focused first).Tomorrow: Stopwatch 1 hour of undistracted kid-time. No phone.This Week: Guard your wife's prayer slot—strictly.Pray: "Lord, till my home soil for saints."

How important is the Ascension of Jesus to your faith?In Acts 1:9–11, we read of Jesus being lifted up, taken into glory, and promised to return in the same way. The Ascension isn't just a footnote in redemptive history—it's a crucial moment that shows us:- Jesus' sacrifice was accepted by the Father.- Jesus is reigning right now as King.- Jesus has poured out His Spirit to empower our mission.- Jesus will return in glory to vindicate His people.✨ Two Things to Think About:How does Jesus' Ascension give you courage in a world that often opposes your faith?Where in your life do you need to rest in the reality that Jesus is reigning right now?

Life today is overflowing with constant noise and endless responsibilities — from work demands to family schedules, to the never-ending stream of emails and notifications. It’s easy to feel stretched too thin, constantly pulled in competing directions. In today's devotional and prayer, Heidi Vegh reminds us that the key to balance isn’t found in managing every detail perfectly, but in surrendering our days to God. Matthew 6:33 calls us to seek first His Kingdom — to make God our priority before anything else. When we start our mornings with Him, we allow His Spirit to order our steps, giving us peace in the middle of chaos. Balance doesn’t mean doing everything; it means doing the right things, with God’s guidance. Sometimes His answer may be to rest instead of striving, to connect with a friend instead of checking one more task off the list. When we make room for holy interruptions, we find the kind of balance our souls truly crave. Today's Bible Reading: “But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His Kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right attitude and character of God), and all these things will be given to you also.” – Matthew 6:33 (AMP) Key Takeaways Balance begins with priorities — seeking God first each day. Surrendering control allows God to redirect our days according to His will. The Holy Spirit provides gentle nudges and guidance when we feel overwhelmed. True balance comes not from doing it all, but from living aligned with God’s purposes. Let’s Pray Lord, life is busy and overwhelming, and I need balance. I surrender my plans, to-do lists, and ideals into Your hands. Guide me with Your Spirit, reminding me to start each day with You. Show me what to lay down, what to pick up, and how to create space for rest. Thank You for caring about every detail of my life and for promising to order my steps when I seek You first. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Calls to Action Start your morning tomorrow with a Scripture reading and prayer before touching your phone. Ask God throughout the day: “What’s the next right thing?” and trust His nudge. Subscribe to Your Daily Prayer and share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement to slow down and seek God first. Resources & Mentions 10 Ways to Find Balance in a Busy Life – Crosswalk.com 5 Tips for Creating Quiet Time with God in a Noisy World – Crosswalk.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Many of us ask for healing and expect a Band-Aid. But God doesn't just patch what's broken—He rebuilds it better. Healing isn't the absence of scars. It's the presence of wholeness. And wholeness is your birthright in Christ.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.” — Isaiah 58:12 (ESV)You weren't just meant to survive pain—you were created to thrive beyond it. God's desire is not just to mend the broken places but to restore them with purpose, strength, and legacy.Some of you have carried emotional, spiritual, even physical wounds for years. Maybe the pain has faded, but the identity attached to that wound hasn't. You still think of yourself as the “one who was abused,” or “the one who failed,” or “the one who was left.” But listen—God doesn't call you by your scars. He calls you by your future.You are a repairer. You are a restorer. Your healing isn't just for you—it becomes a path for others to walk. That's the beauty of divine wholeness. Your past doesn't cancel your purpose—it fuels it.This kind of healing doesn't come by ignoring your pain or pretending it didn't happen. It comes by surrendering the pieces to the Master Craftsman—piece by piece—until the story of your life reveals His fingerprints.So walk boldly. Live fully. Love freely. Because when God restores, He restores completely.Question of the Day:What area of your life are you still living wounded in, even though God is offering you wholeness?Mini Call to Action:Take five minutes today and declare out loud: “I am no longer broken. I am healed and whole in Christ.”Let's Pray:Lord, I give You every shattered part of me. Make me whole again—not by erasing my past, but by redeeming it. Let me be a restorer to others. Thank You that healing is my portion. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!You weren't just saved from something—you were restored for something. Walk in the wholeness that reflects the One who made you new.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Guilt is a cruel master. It whispers you're unworthy, reminds you of failures, and demands that you carry shame like a badge. But there's a difference between conviction and condemnation—and one leads to healing, the other to bondage. Jesus didn't die so you could stay buried under guilt. He died to lift you out.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” — Romans 8:1 (ESV)Let's get this clear: Guilt has a voice—but it's not God's voice. The Holy Spirit convicts, yes—but never to crush. Conviction says, “This needs to change, and I'll help you do it.” Guilt says, “You are the mistake, and you'll never be free.”Maybe you've repented—but you still carry guilt like a shadow. Maybe you think your past disqualifies you from peace, ministry, or joy. But the cross was not a partial payment—it was full and final. When Jesus said, “It is finished,” He meant it.You are not what you did. You are not the person you were. You are not the wounds you inflicted or the ones you received. You are in Christ—and in Him, guilt has no claim.But here's the key: you must agree with God. As long as you agree with guilt, you'll stay bound by it. But when you agree with grace, healing flows.There's a freedom waiting for you—not someday, not if you try harder—now. Because Jesus bore your guilt on His back… so you could walk in confidence, forgiveness, and peace.Question of the Day:What guilty memory or mistake are you still letting define you—despite Jesus already forgiving it?Mini Call to Action:Say this aloud: “I am not condemned. I am clean in Christ. Guilt has no authority over me.”Let's Pray:Lord, I give You my guilt. The stuff I keep reliving. The shame I keep feeding. Wash me again in Your truth. I receive Your freedom and reject every lie that says I'm still bound. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Guilt ends where grace begins. Walk in the full forgiveness that Jesus bled to give you.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Bitterness doesn't announce itself. It creeps in quietly—like a shadow in the heart. A memory, a wound, an unresolved offense. You thought you were over it… but every time their name comes up, your chest tightens. That's not healing. That's a prison. And today, we're unlocking the door.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.” — Ephesians 4:31 (ESV)Bitterness is slow poison. It doesn't explode—it corrodes. It leaks into our joy, our relationships, even our ability to hear God clearly. And yet, so many believers try to live holy while nursing hurt.Bitterness doesn't mean you're weak—it means you're still wounded. But holding on to it won't protect you. It will infect you. And the enemy loves to use it to keep you stuck.God doesn't just tell us to forgive—He tells us to uproot bitterness completely. Why? Because it grows. Hebrews 12:15 calls it a root—and if left unchecked, it defiles many. That means it spreads, it multiplies, and it damages more than just you.Letting go of bitterness isn't pretending it didn't happen. It's trusting that justice belongs to God—and choosing to walk in mercy, not misery. It's an act of strength, not surrender.You weren't built to carry resentment. You were designed to reflect grace. And grace doesn't coexist with bitterness—it drives it out.So today, get honest. Who are you still angry with? What name still causes a sting? That's your signal—not for revenge, but for release.Question of the Day:What bitter root is God inviting you to pull up today so healing can grow?Mini Call to Action:Write their name on a piece of paper, pray over it, then tear it up. Declare out loud, “Bitterness ends here. I choose peace.”Let's Pray:Lord, I don't want to live bound by bitterness. I release every offense, every hurt, every name I've been holding onto. Heal my heart, uproot the poison, and plant Your peace instead. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Bitterness is a burden you don't have to carry anymore. Drop it. Burn the list. Let grace go to war on your behalf. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Endurance. It's not a flashy word. It doesn't make headlines. But in the Kingdom of God, it's everything. Jesus didn't say, “The one who starts with passion will be saved,” or “The one who knows the most prophecy charts.” He said—the one who endures. Today we're talking about grit. Godly perseverance. The kind of faith that stays standing when the storm doesn't stop.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” — Matthew 24:13 (ESV)The end times aren't a sprint. They're a long, narrowing path of perseverance. And the deeper we get into them, the clearer this becomes—this is about faithfulness, not flashiness.Endurance doesn't always look impressive. Sometimes it looks like worship through tears. Sometimes it's choosing to forgive when bitterness feels easier. Sometimes it's praying the same promise for the hundredth time, even when it still hasn't come to pass.Jesus warned that many would fall away. Why? Because the pressure will intensify. Persecution. Betrayal. Offense. False prophets. Lawlessness. And because of that—Jesus said—the love of many would grow cold.But not yours.Why? Because endurance isn't a personality trait—it's a spiritual weapon. It's fueled by the Spirit of God. It's birthed in prayer, nourished by the Word, and tested in the furnace.God isn't looking for perfect. He's looking for faithful. Not the most talented. The most trusted. Not the most polished. The most persistent.So if you're tired, you're not alone. But don't give up. The finish line is closer than it's ever been. And those who endure—those who keep their lamps lit and hearts anchored—will see the reward no eye has imagined.Question of the Day:What's one area of your life where endurance feels hard—but you know God is asking you to press on?Mini Call to Action:Find one verse today that fuels your perseverance—write it down, memorize it, and speak it out loud every time you feel like giving up.Let's Pray:Lord, give me the strength to endure. When I'm weary, refresh me. When I'm tempted to quit, remind me why I started. And when the fire burns hot, walk with me through it. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Endurance isn't glamorous—but it's eternal. Stay steady. Stay faithful. You're closer to the crown than you think.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Prophecy isn't meant to terrify us. It's meant to anchor us. While the world trembles with uncertainty, we have a future secured in promises that cannot be broken. God has already told us the end of the story—and it ends with Jesus victorious and His people standing in glory.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” — Revelation 19:10b (ESV)Jesus is the center of prophecy. Every end-time vision, every revelation, every warning—it all points to Him. And that's where our hope must be rooted.When you read through prophetic Scripture, don't stop at the beasts or the bowls or the battles. Look deeper. See the Lamb. See the victory. See the promise that those who endure to the end will reign with Him.Hope in prophecy isn't wishful thinking. It's assured expectation. God does not change. What He promised Abraham, what He revealed to Daniel, what John saw in Revelation—it's all unfolding just as He said.The enemy wants you focused on fear. God wants you focused on fulfillment—on the promises that are yes and amen in Christ.And here's the beauty: prophetic hope doesn't just comfort you in the future. It strengthens you in the present. It reminds you that the chaos around you is not the final word. Jesus is.Prophecy doesn't paralyze—it empowers. It lifts your eyes. It readies your heart. And it reminds you that the Kingdom is unshakable… and you belong to it.Question of the Day:Which prophetic promise gives you the most hope in today's uncertain world?Mini Call to Action:Write down one promise from Scripture about Christ's return. Tape it somewhere visible. Let it refocus your eyes today.Let's Pray:Lord, thank You that every prophetic word finds its fulfillment in You. Help me to stand on Your promises, not my fears. Remind me that the future is secure—because You hold it. Amen.Let's Get To Work!This world isn't spiraling—it's fulfilling prophecy. And you weren't made to cower. You were made to hope, to endure, and to point others to the One who's coming soon.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Today, we're diving into a topic that's been on the minds of many believers, especially those who study biblical prophecy: the signs of Jesus' return and their role in today's world. What does the Bible say about these signs? How do current events align with prophetic Scripture?Our springboard for today's discussion is:“So also, when you see all these things, you know that he is near, at the very gates.” — Matthew 24:33 (ESV)Jesus never told us to guess the day of His return. But He did command us to watch. And not just watch—but understand. Just like leaves on a fig tree reveal summer is near, the signs we're seeing today are no coincidence.Earthquakes. Wars. Nations rising against nations. False messiahs. Global unrest. Jesus wasn't giving us headlines—He was giving us a heartbeat. A rhythm. A signal that the end is not random—it's purposeful.You see, prophecy isn't about fear—it's about preparation. God doesn't reveal the end to scare His people but to prepare His bride. We're not called to look away—we're called to stay alert, grounded, and full of faith.If the signs are everywhere—and they are—then the real question is: Are we listening?Some mock. Some yawn. Some scroll past prophecy like it's background noise. But the spiritually awake will recognize the hour. They will tune out the noise of fear and tune in to the whisper of the Spirit.Question of the Day:What signs around you seem to echo Jesus' words in Matthew 24?Mini Call to Action:Today, open your Bible and read all of Matthew 24 aloud. Then ask the Holy Spirit to show you how those words apply to what's happening around you right now.Let's Pray:Lord, help me not to fall asleep in this prophetic hour. Help me to recognize the signs, not with fear, but with holy anticipation. Make me watchful, ready, and full of faith. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!God's not hiding His plan—He's revealing it. The question is, are your eyes open?My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

There's something powerful about light. It exposes, yes—but it also heals. It brings clarity. It brings safety. And when we choose to live our lives in the light of God's truth, we no longer need to hide. In Christ, you don't have to fake it. You don't have to be perfect. You just have to be real. That's what today is all about: standing in the light.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.” — 1 John 1:7 (ESV)We live in a world of filters—curated images, polished versions of ourselves, and carefully managed impressions. But God invites us into something deeper: authenticity. He's not interested in your mask. He wants your heart.To walk in the light means to walk in truth. It means living a life that's not afraid of exposure, because you're already covered by grace.And here's what happens when you stand in the light:* Shame loses its grip.* Sin gets stripped of secrecy.* Fellowship becomes real, not performative.There is healing in the light. The enemy works in shadows—he thrives in hiddenness. But the moment you step into the light of God's presence, he loses his grip.You don't have to walk alone. You don't have to hide your scars. Jesus already saw them—and He still chose you.This verse reminds us that light leads to cleansing. Not just a clean slate—but a transformed heart.So today, be brave enough to stand fully in the light. God's not waiting with condemnation—He's welcoming you with open arms.Question of the Day:What part of your life needs to step out of the shadows and into God's healing light?Mini Call to Action:Take one step today: confess, open up, or pray honestly about something you've kept hidden. Let the light in.Let's Pray:Lord, help me walk in Your light with boldness and humility. I don't want to hide anymore. Thank You that Your blood cleanses me and Your truth sets me free. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Freedom doesn't come from hiding. It comes from standing in the light—and knowing you're still loved.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Confidence isn't about puffing out your chest or having all the answers. Real confidence flows from knowing whose you are—even when you don't feel strong. Today is about walking with boldness—not arrogance—and standing in the strength that comes from God alone. Because when the Lord is your helper, you've got all you need.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“So we can confidently say, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?'” — Hebrews 13:6 (ESV)Let's be honest—most of us wrestle with self-doubt at some level. We second-guess our decisions. We fear rejection. We wonder if we're equipped for what God's asked us to do.But here's the truth: confidence in the Kingdom isn't self-confidence—it's God-confidence.It's not about what you can do on your own—it's about what He can do through you.When you know the Lord is your helper, you walk differently. You speak with authority. You obey even when it's uncomfortable. Why? Because your strength isn't anchored to your own ability—it's rooted in a God who doesn't fail.Think about David standing before Goliath. He wasn't confident in his sling—he was confident in his God. His faith made him bold. Your identity in Christ is your license to walk with your head high and your feet firm.Confidence comes when you stop looking at yourself and start looking to Jesus.So, when you step into a room, remember—you're not walking in alone. God is with you. His Spirit lives in you. His Word guides you.That's more than enough.Question of the Day:Are you relying on your own strength—or walking in the confidence that comes from God being your helper?Mini Call to Action:Today, take one bold step you've been hesitating on. Speak, move, or act—not in fear, but in faith. The Lord is with you.Let's Pray:Lord, I choose to walk in confidence—not because of who I am, but because of who You are in me. Help me to trust You more deeply and act with courage today. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Stop shrinking back. Your confidence comes from a Helper who's never lost a battle.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

You don't train during the battle—you train before it. You don't sharpen your sword once the enemy shows up—you sharpen it in the quiet place, where no one sees but God. Every soldier knows: preparation is everything. And God, our Commander, is not just with us in the fight—He's training us for it.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle.” — Psalm 144:1 (ESV)David didn't become a warrior the moment he faced Goliath. He was trained in the wilderness—fighting lions and bears when no one was watching. The battlefield was just where the private training became public.And the same is true for you.God trains you in the secret place. In the early morning prayer. In the Scriptures you memorize. In the worship you offer when no one else hears. Every moment in His presence is sharpening your spirit, strengthening your grip, and preparing your hands for war.You don't wait until the marriage is falling apart to learn how to fight for it. You don't wait until fear floods your heart to discover how to stand. You don't wait for an attack to learn how to pray. Training happens now.Your daily discipline is your daily weapon.And here's what's beautiful—God is the One doing the training. You don't have to figure this all out alone. He's shaping your character, forging your faith, and making sure that when the fight comes—you're not empty-handed.So don't resent the quiet seasons. Don't overlook the little battles. That daily obedience? That consistent time in the Word? That's warrior training.Question of the Day:Are you training for battle—or just reacting when it comes?Mini Call to Action:Commit 15 minutes today to prayer or Scripture—not out of routine, but as training. Ask God to sharpen you for the battles ahead.Let's Pray:Lord, thank You for training me. Forgive me when I've waited for war to prepare. Teach me to take my quiet time seriously, to let You build strength in me today for what may come tomorrow. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Victory starts in private. Show up for training. God is shaping a warrior.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Pressure doesn't mean you're losing—it often means you're getting closer to breakthrough. The enemy doesn't waste his ammo on someone going nowhere. So if you're feeling pressed, stretched, or surrounded, it might just mean you're standing exactly where God wants you. Now the question is—will you stay there?Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” — 1 Corinthians 16:13 (ESV)Paul wasn't writing a motivational slogan—he was delivering a command to the weary, the under fire, and the under pressure.Be watchful.Keep your eyes open. The enemy is subtle—he slips in through offense, temptation, busyness, even good things that distract you from God things.Stand firm.This isn't the time to retreat. When the pressure increases, the call isn't to run—it's to plant your feet. Faith doesn't mean you don't feel the weight. It means you don't collapse under it.Act like men.Be courageous. Show up when it's uncomfortable. Speak truth even when it costs you. Fight for your family, your faith, your future.Be strong.But not in your own strength. In the Lord's. In His might. When yours runs out, His keeps going.Here's the truth: pressure exposes where your faith is rooted. If your roots go deep, the storm may bend you—but it won't break you. And when you stand firm under pressure, you don't just survive—you witness. You show others what it looks like to remain when it would be easier to run.Question of the Day:Where are you tempted to give up under pressure—and what truth will you plant your feet on today?Mini Call to Action:Write out 1 Corinthians 16:13. Post it somewhere visible this week. Every time pressure rises, read it aloud and stay grounded.Let's Pray:Lord, strengthen me when pressure mounts. Help me to stand when I feel like sitting down, to believe when it's easier to doubt. I choose to hold the ground You gave me. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Pressure doesn't define your faith—your stance does. Hold the line. God is with you.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Discouragement isn't a feeling—it's a weapon. And the enemy knows how to use it well. If he can't destroy you, he'll try to deflate you. If he can't shut you up, he'll try to wear you out. But God didn't call you to live under a cloud of heaviness. He called you to war for your joy.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation.” — Psalm 42:11 (ESV)David knew what it meant to feel discouraged. He wasn't pretending here. He wasn't smiling through the pain or posting something inspirational to mask the hurt. He got honest with his soul—and then he spoke back to it.That's what spiritual warfare looks like on the inside.Discouragement creeps in subtly: a prayer unanswered, a delay you didn't expect, a voice in your head that says, “What's the point?” And before you know it, your strength is gone, your shield is down, and hope feels out of reach.But listen—hope is a weapon, and praise is your war cry.When discouragement hits, don't rehearse it. Don't replay every disappointment. Don't build a shrine to what hasn't happened yet. Instead, talk back. Remind your soul of what God has done, who He is, and what He's still doing behind the scenes.Faith doesn't ignore discouragement. Faith confronts it.There will be days when victory looks like just standing. And that's okay. Just don't sink. Stand, speak, praise, and press in. Joy isn't the absence of pain—it's the presence of God in the middle of it.Question of the Day:Where has discouragement tried to silence your praise—and how will you speak back today?Mini Call to Action:Take five minutes and write down three things God has done for you—then thank Him out loud for each one. Praise is your comeback.Let's Pray:Lord, when discouragement comes, remind me to fight back with hope. Help me speak truth to my soul. Stir up gratitude and joy in the middle of my struggle. I choose to trust You—even in the tension. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Don't let discouragement drain your fire. Hope loud. Praise louder.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Strongholds don't look like battles. They feel like beliefs. Thought patterns. Habits that seem too big to break. But here's the truth: what feels permanent in your mind is often just a well-defended lie. And the Word of God wasn't given to just comfort you—it was given to tear that lie down.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.” — 2 Corinthians 10:4 (ESV)A stronghold is any area in your life where the enemy has set up camp through deception. It may have started with pain… but it grew because of agreement. You believed something long enough that it built walls around your heart and mind.Maybe it sounds like:* “I'll never change.”* “God must be punishing me.”* “I'm always going to struggle with this.”Those aren't just passing thoughts. Those are spiritual fortresses the enemy hides behind.But here's what God says: You've been given weapons. And they are not weak. They are mighty through God to demolish strongholds—brick by brick, lie by lie.You don't fight strongholds with willpower. You fight them with truth. You confront them with Scripture. You tear down arguments with the authority of Christ.When you identify the lie, you take it captive. You don't entertain it anymore. You don't rehearse it. You replace it.And when you replace it with God's Word, the walls start to fall. Freedom becomes real. That inner war loses its grip.No matter how long the stronghold has stood, it's not stronger than the name of Jesus. Today, you can start pulling it down.Question of the Day:What lie have you been believing that needs to be dismantled with truth today?Mini Call to Action:Write down one stronghold—then find a verse that directly confronts it. Speak that verse every day this week.Let's Pray:Lord, I no longer want to live behind lies. Expose every stronghold and fill those spaces with Your truth. Your Word is my weapon, and I trust You to lead me to freedom. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Every stronghold has a weak spot—and the Word of God is your wrecking ball.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Most of us know how to pray after the attack hits. We beg for rescue. We plead for peace. But there's a deeper calling in warfare prayer—one that doesn't just respond to battle, but initiates it. Offense isn't arrogance. It's spiritual obedience that says, “I'm not waiting for the enemy to hit me. I'm moving in first—with authority.”Our springboard for today's discussion is:“The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” — James 5:16 (ESV)Too often we treat prayer like a last resort. But in the kingdom of God, prayer is air support—and it's how we take ground. There's a boldness that rises when you understand that prayer isn't just emotional comfort—it's strategic warfare.Defensive prayer says, “Lord, protect me from what's coming.”Offensive prayer says, “Lord, go before me. Crush the enemy's schemes. Tear down strongholds.”You pray with insight—not just reaction. You call things into alignment before they spiral. You speak promises over your family, clarity over your mind, and truth into the atmosphere.And here's the key: righteousness. Not perfection—but right-standing with God through Jesus. That's what gives your prayers power. Not fancy words. Not emotional highs. Just raw, Spirit-filled faith.When you pray offensively, you stop begging—and start declaring. You remind the enemy of his place. You wield Scripture like a sword. You don't ask for victory—you pray from victory.You were never meant to live on the run. You were born to advance the Kingdom.Question of the Day:What's one area where you've been praying defensively—and how can you shift to praying offensively?Mini Call to Action:Choose one Scripture. Speak it boldly in prayer today—not from fear, but from victory. Don't ask for permission. Take ground.Let's Pray:Lord, ignite a warrior spirit in me. Teach me to pray with power, with clarity, and with confidence in Your promises. Let my prayers move heaven and shake hell. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Stop reacting—start advancing. Victory belongs to those who pray like it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

You can't fight what you can't identify. One of the enemy's greatest strategies is staying hidden—twisting situations, manipulating thoughts, and making his attacks feel like “just life.” But once you learn to recognize his patterns, you stop reacting in the flesh and start responding in the Spirit.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” — 1 Peter 5:8 (ESV)Spiritual warfare doesn't always look like Hollywood drama. It often shows up in subtle ways: discouragement that sneaks in unexpectedly, division in relationships, confusion about God's voice, and anxiety that feels like it came from nowhere. That's not coincidence—that's strategy.Satan is a deceiver, not a creator. He can't make anything new—he only distorts what already exists. He'll take God's truth and twist it. He'll take your weakness and exploit it. He'll use fear, shame, and distraction to steal your joy and silence your prayers.That's why Peter tells us to be watchful—not paranoid, but spiritually alert. We must train our minds to recognize when a battle is not just physical or emotional—but spiritual. That moment of hopelessness after a breakthrough? That temptation right after a victory? Those aren't random. They're tactical.But here's the good news: the moment you recognize the enemy, you've already taken the first step toward victory. Because now you can fight with discernment. You can pray with purpose. You can rebuke lies with truth.And most importantly—you don't fight alone.Question of the Day:Where have you seen patterns of attack in your life that might be more spiritual than circumstantial?Mini Call to Action:Take 10 minutes today and ask the Holy Spirit to show you one area where the enemy has been at work undetected. Write it down—and speak truth over it.Let's Pray:Lord, open my eyes to see where the enemy is working in my life. Give me discernment and spiritual clarity. Teach me to stand alert, to pray boldly, and to trust fully in Your victory. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!You're not just surviving life—you're a soldier in a battle. And the first step to winning? Spot the enemy before he strikes.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Spiritual weariness doesn't always announce itself with a crash—it often creeps in like a slow leak. You still go through the motions. You still show up. But deep inside, you're drained. You've prayed, fasted, fought, believed… and now you're just tired. And the temptation to let go feels stronger than ever.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:9 (ESV)God never denied that weariness would come. In fact, Paul's words here acknowledge the very real weight of doing good in a broken world. But the promise is powerful: if you don't give up… you will reap.That's not hype. That's harvest. God sees what you've planted in prayer. He sees what you've carried in silence. He sees every tear, every late-night intercession, every quiet act of obedience. And He's not ignoring it. He's growing something underneath the surface that you can't yet see.But in seasons of exhaustion, you don't need to “do more”—you need to hold tighter. Not to your own strength. Not to your routines. To Him.Sometimes, clinging to God looks like resting in His Word when you can't feel His presence. Sometimes, it looks like crying out instead of shutting down. Sometimes, it looks like letting others carry you for a while.You're not weak for being weary. You're human. And the Father knows your frame. He's not waiting for you to impress Him—He's asking you to lean on Him.So today, take one more step. Not because you feel strong, but because He is. And because in due season… you will reap.Question of the Day:What part of your life feels the heaviest right now—and how can you cling tighter to God instead of letting go?Mini Call to Action:Take five minutes today to speak Galatians 6:9 over your weary heart. Then text or call someone to pray with you. Don't carry it alone.Let's Pray:Lord, I'm tired. But I'm not giving up. Help me to hold on when everything tells me to let go. Breathe new strength into me. Help me trust the harvest that I can't yet see. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Weariness may come—but so will the harvest, if you don't quit.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Disappointment is a silent thief. It doesn't always show up loudly—but it lingers. It questions your prayers. It clouds your joy. It slowly erodes your confidence in God's goodness. Maybe you didn't get the healing, the breakthrough, the answer you begged God for. And now you're left wondering: Can I really trust Him again?Our springboard for today's discussion is:“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” — Lamentations 3:22–23 (ESV)Jeremiah wrote these words while looking at a destroyed Jerusalem—smoke rising, hope scattered, grief pressing in from every side. And yet, even there, he said: God's mercy is new. His love hasn't stopped. His faithfulness remains.That kind of trust doesn't come from having all the answers—it comes from knowing the heart of God. You may not understand why something happened. But you can choose to believe who God still is.Disappointment invites you to harden your heart. To play it safe. To believe, “If I don't expect much, I won't get hurt again.” But faith doesn't grow behind walls—it grows in surrender. The same hands that held your loss can hold your future. The same God who didn't answer the way you hoped still holds every moment of your life in His care.To trust again doesn't mean forgetting what happened. It means choosing not to let disappointment define your relationship with God. It means choosing to open your heart again to the One who can heal it.It's okay to start small. A whispered prayer. A song sung through tears. A decision to say, “Lord, I still believe—help my unbelief.”Question of the Day:Where in your life has disappointment made it hard to trust God—and what would it look like to give that place back to Him?Mini Call to Action:Write down one area where hope has been hard. Then write this beneath it: “His mercies are new every morning.” Let that be your declaration today.Let's Pray:Lord, I bring You my disappointment—not to hide it, but to heal it. I want to trust You again. Teach me how. Show me Your faithfulness in a fresh way. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Disappointment is real—but it's not your final chapter. God is still writing.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

When hardship strikes, it feels like everything unravels—our plans, our peace, even our confidence in what God promised. But this is exactly when His Word matters most. In times of crisis, we don't cling to what we feel—we cling to what He has said.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” — Romans 8:28 (ESV)This verse isn't a cliché—it's a cornerstone. Paul didn't write it from a place of comfort. He wrote it as someone who had been beaten, imprisoned, shipwrecked, betrayed, and misunderstood. And yet, his conviction remained unshaken: God works all things—even suffering—for good.That doesn't mean everything feels good. It doesn't mean every moment is easy. But it means nothing is wasted.Your hardship might feel random, but it's not. Your pain may seem senseless, but in God's hands, it has purpose. He redeems what looks ruined. He transforms what feels hopeless. He rewrites stories with endings we never saw coming.When God makes a promise, He's not speaking from your perspective—He's speaking from eternity. He sees the full picture. He knows how this chapter connects to the next. And even in your deepest sorrow, His Word stands firm.This is why we need His promises hidden in our hearts before the storm hits. Because in the middle of the storm, emotions scream—but truth sustains.If you're in hardship today, don't just survive it. Anchor yourself in what God has said.Question of the Day:What promise from God do you need to hold onto right now—despite what you're feeling?Mini Call to Action:Write down Romans 8:28 on a card or in your phone. Every time discouragement rises, read it aloud. Let God's Word reshape your focus.Let's Pray:Lord, thank You that nothing in my life is wasted. Even in hardship, You are working. Help me to trust Your promises when I can't see the outcome. Remind me that You are faithful. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!When the pain is loud, let the promises of God be louder.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Sickness shakes us. Loss devastates us. When the body begins to fail or when someone we love slips from our arms, our theology gets tested. It's in these moments that faith either crumbles—or deepens. And it all depends on where we anchor our hope.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.” — 2 Corinthians 4:16 (ESV)Paul doesn't minimize suffering—he reframes it. He reminds us that while the body grows weaker, God is doing something powerful in the unseen places. In the hospital bed. In the quiet hospice room. In the slow fading of strength. God is not absent—He's active, renewing us from the inside out.Illness is never easy. Whether you're the one fighting or the one watching a loved one suffer, the pain is real. The questions are real. The weariness is heavy. But the promise of God is this: you do not have to lose heart.Your value is not measured by physical ability. Your faith is not invalidated by emotional struggle. Your strength is not found in your muscles—it's in your spirit, and God is the One renewing it day by day.Loss may take someone from your life, but it cannot take the promises of eternity. Healing may not come how you prayed—but God's presence will never fail to show up.We walk by faith—not by what we see, not by what we feel, but by the truth that Jesus is still the Healer, the Comforter, and the Resurrection and the Life.Question of the Day:How is God inviting you to trust Him right now—in your weakness, or in your grief?Mini Call to Action:Take a few minutes today to speak 2 Corinthians 4:16 out loud. Declare it over your body, your mind, or someone you love who's suffering.Let's Pray:Lord, I bring my weakness and my pain to You. I choose to trust Your hand when I don't understand Your plan. Renew me from the inside out. Give me strength for today and hope for eternity. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!The body may break, but the Spirit never stops rising.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Grief is sacred. It's not weakness. It's not faithlessness. It's the natural outpouring of love when something or someone is lost. But for those who belong to Christ, grief carries a companion—hope. And that hope changes everything.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“But we do not want you to be uninformed… that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:13 (ESV)The Bible doesn't say we shouldn't grieve. It says we don't grieve like the world does—like those without the promise of redemption, resurrection, or reunion. Our grief is real, but it is not final.When death strikes, when relationships are lost, when dreams are buried—we feel it deeply. Jesus did too. He wept. He felt sorrow. He bore it. But He also conquered it.To grieve with hope means we bring our sorrow to the foot of the cross and say, “Even in this… I will trust You.” It means we don't rush the pain, but we also don't drown in it. We feel, we mourn, we cry—but we do so tethered to a truth greater than our tears.Hope whispers that God sees our pain. Hope declares that eternity is real. Hope reminds us that even what's been taken can one day be restored.If you're grieving today, you're not alone. God is close to the brokenhearted. He's near in the pain. He's listening. And He will not waste one ounce of your sorrow.Question of the Day:Where do you need to invite hope back into your grief?Mini Call to Action:Light a candle today. Let it represent the light of hope in your sorrow. As it burns, pray for God's comfort and the promise of restoration to rise in your heart.Let's Pray:Lord, I bring my grief to You. I don't hide it. I don't deny it. But I ask You to fill it with Your presence and anchor it with Your hope. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Grief may visit, but hope refuses to leave.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Healing and Wholeness: The 18-Inch Journey from Head to Heart “The glory of God is man fully alive.” —St. Irenaeus “God does not love some ideal version of you. He loves you—with your particular history, wounds, and desires.” This episode takes you on what may be the most important journey of your life: the 18 inches from the head to the heart. Through the story of Blaise Pascal's mystical night of fire, the gentle wisdom of Harvey's Elwood P. Dowd, and the wisdom of the Church, we explore what it means to become an integrated person—one who lives not in fragmentation, but in communion. We are not just minds or spirits—we are embodied, emotional, historical persons. And while trauma, generational wounds, and spiritual lies may have fractured our inner life, God is drawing us back into wholeness. This is not a journey of perfection, but of integration—of learning to live fully alive. You'll hear about: The role of the family in shaping our early spiritual imagination The wounds that distort identity and the lies we carry into adulthood How emotional maturity, spiritual direction, and community lead us to healing How God re-parents us through His Word, His Church, and His sacraments This episode is an invitation to courageously face the inner story you've believed—and to let God write a new one with you. Reflection & Journaling Questions for Prayer   Where in my life do I live more from my head than from my heart? Where do I hide behind intelligence, control, or performance rather than love, vulnerability, and trust? Have I made the 18-inch journey from being right to being real? What would it mean to let go of needing to prove myself and instead seek communion? What were the spoken or unspoken rules in my family growing up? (“Don't feel,” “Be perfect,” “Never be weak,” etc.) What emotions were welcomed in my childhood? What emotions were avoided or punished? What role did I play in my family system? (Hero, invisible one, peacekeeper, rebel…) How does that still shape me today? What is one lie I have believed about myself? (“I am only loved if…”; “I must always… to be safe.”) Ask: Where did I learn this? What is the truth that God wants to speak there? What pattern have I inherited from my family or past that I want to bring into the light of Christ? Pray: “Lord, show me where You were when I felt unseen.” Which of life's tasks—work, friendship, or love—do I tend to avoid? Ask: Where do I need more courage to live generously and not self-protect? Do I see emotional strength as a way to protect myself or to give myself away? What would it mean to see my strength as a gift for others? What private logic or internal script still shapes how I see myself, God, and others? Bring one of those to prayer. Ask: “Jesus, walk with me through the rooms of my childhood. What do You want to show me?”  

There are moments in life when nothing seems to add up. You've prayed, obeyed, sought the Lord—and still, the outcome doesn't make sense. Doors close that you thought were open. Answers delay. Pain lingers. The roadmap you thought you had suddenly disappears. And it's in those moments that the question rises: Can I still trust God when I don't understand Him?Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” — Proverbs 3:5–6 (ESV)God never promised that our understanding would always align with His direction. He simply said, “Trust Me.” That means we choose faith over clarity. We walk in obedience even when we can't explain the terrain.When life doesn't make sense, that's not the time to back away—it's the time to press in. Trust is most powerful when it's hardest to give. That's where real surrender begins. Not when the path is easy, but when the path is unclear.Choosing to trust in chaos means we stop trying to control everything. It means we quit writing our own outcomes and start resting in the One who sees the end from the beginning.God doesn't ask you to understand—He asks you to follow. And He promises to direct the path. Not always the shortest. Not always the smoothest. But always the one that leads you closer to Him.When life stops making sense, anchor yourself in what never changes—His character, His promises, His faithfulness.Question of the Day:What part of your life right now feels confusing—and how can you submit that place to God's direction today?Mini Call to Action:Write down Proverbs 3:5–6 and say it out loud every time your mind starts chasing answers God hasn't given yet.Let's Pray:Lord, I choose to trust You. Even when it doesn't make sense. Even when the path feels unclear. Help me release control and follow where You lead. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Clarity may come later—but trust is for right now.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

There are few things more disorienting than feeling like God is silent. The heavens feel closed, your prayers seem unanswered, and your spirit longs for even the faintest whisper. Many of us know what it's like to cry out in pain, only to be met with what feels like divine stillness. But even in silence, God is not absent.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” — Psalm 13:1 (ESV)David, the man after God's own heart, wasn't afraid to express deep frustration and anguish in his relationship with the Lord. He didn't hide his heart—he brought it fully before God. That kind of honesty is part of what faith looks like in times of silence.When God seems quiet, it's tempting to believe the worst—that He has left, that He's uninterested, or that your prayers don't matter. But silence is not the same as absence. Often, God is doing His deepest work in your life in the quiet spaces—strengthening your roots, building trust, refining your heart.The silence stretches us. It tests whether we will lean into His Word even when His voice seems still. When fresh direction doesn't come, go back to the last thing He told you. Stay rooted in Scripture. Remember His faithfulness in past seasons.Trust grows in the quiet. Obedience deepens. Spiritual maturity takes shape not just in what we hear—but in how we respond when we don't.Question of the Day:What does faith look like for you right now when you feel like God is silent?Mini Call to Action:Write down Psalm 13:1. Reflect on David's honesty and courage. Let it give you permission to bring your full heart to God today.Let's Pray:Lord, when I can't hear You, help me trust You. Strengthen my faith in the quiet. Teach me to lean on what is true, not just what I feel. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!God's silence is not His absence—keep walking with Him anyway.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe