Podcasts about prayer jesus

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260612dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him. Matthew 9:9 An Unexpected Invitation People often draw conclusions about others based on the people they associate with. And so, there may be people you don’t want to be seen with, so people don’t think less of you. Are you ever the one someone stays away from? That can really hurt, especially if the person avoiding you is someone people look up to, or someone from whom you crave acceptance and love. Jesus approached a man named Matthew one day. He was someone people usually avoided. Not just because he was a tax collector, and people didn’t want to pay taxes. But because tax collectors worked for the Roman Empire, which oppressed Israel. And tax collectors could demand more taxes than were required and keep the difference for themselves. Jesus approached Matthew that day. “Follow me,” he said. Jesus wasn’t showing him how to get to a location across town. Jesus was calling him to be his disciple, to join his traveling school of theology, to spend time with him, and be seen with him. Jesus went out of his way and risked his reputation for someone whose chosen career path had rightly branded him a sinner to be avoided. Moved by the unconditional love in Jesus’ invitation, Matthew got up and followed him. And he never looked back. In Jesus, Matthew didn’t find acceptance of sinful ways. Instead, he found forgiveness for every fault and failure. He found pardon for his past and the promise of belonging in the family of God. He found love without condition and mercy for the messiest of lives. No matter what you have done, no matter what others think of you, Jesus says to you, “Follow me. Know that God loves you and forgives you. Hold onto my mercy. I want you to be with me forever.” Follow him, and don't look back! Prayer: Jesus, in love you found me. I want to follow you. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260612dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him. Matthew 9:9 An Unexpected Invitation People often draw conclusions about others based on the people they associate with. And so, there may be people you don’t want to be seen with, so people don’t think less of you. Are you ever the one someone stays away from? That can really hurt, especially if the person avoiding you is someone people look up to, or someone from whom you crave acceptance and love. Jesus approached a man named Matthew one day. He was someone people usually avoided. Not just because he was a tax collector, and people didn’t want to pay taxes. But because tax collectors worked for the Roman Empire, which oppressed Israel. And tax collectors could demand more taxes than were required and keep the difference for themselves. Jesus approached Matthew that day. “Follow me,” he said. Jesus wasn’t showing him how to get to a location across town. Jesus was calling him to be his disciple, to join his traveling school of theology, to spend time with him, and be seen with him. Jesus went out of his way and risked his reputation for someone whose chosen career path had rightly branded him a sinner to be avoided. Moved by the unconditional love in Jesus’ invitation, Matthew got up and followed him. And he never looked back. In Jesus, Matthew didn’t find acceptance of sinful ways. Instead, he found forgiveness for every fault and failure. He found pardon for his past and the promise of belonging in the family of God. He found love without condition and mercy for the messiest of lives. No matter what you have done, no matter what others think of you, Jesus says to you, “Follow me. Know that God loves you and forgives you. Hold onto my mercy. I want you to be with me forever.” Follow him, and don't look back! Prayer: Jesus, in love you found me. I want to follow you. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260611dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Matthew 9:12-13 I Need a Doctor By God’s grace, I’ve been healthy for most of my life. There have been times in my life when I didn’t have a primary care doctor, and I didn’t really need one. There were no aches or pains, no signs of any problems. As I’ve grown older, I’ve recognized the need to at least visit my doctor for my yearly physical. They draw blood to check my glucose and cholesterol. They check my weight, my blood pressure, and a few other things. They sometimes order tests that are recommended just because of my age. Often, those visits and those tests don’t reveal a need for any further care. So, do I really need a doctor? Of course, those checkups would be needed if any problems were to show up without symptoms that caught my attention. Without those checkups, I wouldn’t be aware of the care that the doctor sometimes prescribes. Jesus says that the same is true of our spiritual life. When he was criticized for hanging around the sinners that most people looked down on, for spending time with those who were spiritually sick, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.” A doctor who isn’t honest about a risk or problem isn’t the doctor you want. The same is true spiritually. We need Jesus to come to us with his law and show us just how sick with sin we are. Our thoughts, words, and actions are infected with pride and lovelessness leading to certain death. We need to know that. But when he reveals the diagnosis, Jesus assures us that he provides the perfect and only antidote for our terminal sickness. In mercy, Jesus took the infection of our sin into himself to purify not only our blood but our whole being. He healed our wounded hearts by being wounded for us. He suffered the death that our sins brought about, so that the prognosis is reversed. Through Jesus, we will live forever. Prayer: Jesus, show me my deadly sinfulness and lead me to trust the life-saving antidote of your forgiving love. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260611dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Matthew 9:12-13 I Need a Doctor By God’s grace, I’ve been healthy for most of my life. There have been times in my life when I didn’t have a primary care doctor, and I didn’t really need one. There were no aches or pains, no signs of any problems. As I’ve grown older, I’ve recognized the need to at least visit my doctor for my yearly physical. They draw blood to check my glucose and cholesterol. They check my weight, my blood pressure, and a few other things. They sometimes order tests that are recommended just because of my age. Often, those visits and those tests don’t reveal a need for any further care. So, do I really need a doctor? Of course, those checkups would be needed if any problems were to show up without symptoms that caught my attention. Without those checkups, I wouldn’t be aware of the care that the doctor sometimes prescribes. Jesus says that the same is true of our spiritual life. When he was criticized for hanging around the sinners that most people looked down on, for spending time with those who were spiritually sick, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.” A doctor who isn’t honest about a risk or problem isn’t the doctor you want. The same is true spiritually. We need Jesus to come to us with his law and show us just how sick with sin we are. Our thoughts, words, and actions are infected with pride and lovelessness leading to certain death. We need to know that. But when he reveals the diagnosis, Jesus assures us that he provides the perfect and only antidote for our terminal sickness. In mercy, Jesus took the infection of our sin into himself to purify not only our blood but our whole being. He healed our wounded hearts by being wounded for us. He suffered the death that our sins brought about, so that the prognosis is reversed. Through Jesus, we will live forever. Prayer: Jesus, show me my deadly sinfulness and lead me to trust the life-saving antidote of your forgiving love. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260608dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:15-16 Mercy for the Worst Growing up with my siblings, I always wanted to be the best, to play sports better than they did, to ride my bike faster, to win at board games, and to get the best grades. It took some of the fun out of it when they weren’t interested in competing and didn't care if I won. As much as I might have liked competition, I don’t remember ever competing to be the worst. Who would want to claim that title? Even when I was little, and my parents would say, “Last one in bed is the rotten egg!” no one wanted to be last! In today’s verses, Paul, the author, calls himself the worst of sinners. This is not a badge of honor any of us wants to wear. Our normal tendency is to minimize our own sins and magnify the sins of others. I did or said that, but I had a good reason for it. I’m not perfect, but at least I didn’t do that. Why did Paul call himself the worst of sinners? As he looked back on his life, he saw a life riddled with rebellion against God. Even though he thought he was doing the right thing at the time, he had persecuted Christians before God called him to faith in Jesus. Even after he became a Christian, he continued to sin against God every day. There was no excuse. No hiding. He deserved God’s punishment. But he didn’t need to hide because he knew that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. None of us can save ourselves. Paul saw the mercy that God showed him as evidence of God’s mercy for all. He saw his own salvation as proof that Jesus can and will forgive anyone. That includes you and me. So, we can honestly and without fear admit, “I’m the worst of sinners, but Jesus came to save me.” Prayer: Jesus, thank you for coming into the world to save sinners—even me. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260608dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:15-16 Mercy for the Worst Growing up with my siblings, I always wanted to be the best, to play sports better than they did, to ride my bike faster, to win at board games, and to get the best grades. It took some of the fun out of it when they weren’t interested in competing and didn't care if I won. As much as I might have liked competition, I don’t remember ever competing to be the worst. Who would want to claim that title? Even when I was little, and my parents would say, “Last one in bed is the rotten egg!” no one wanted to be last! In today’s verses, Paul, the author, calls himself the worst of sinners. This is not a badge of honor any of us wants to wear. Our normal tendency is to minimize our own sins and magnify the sins of others. I did or said that, but I had a good reason for it. I’m not perfect, but at least I didn’t do that. Why did Paul call himself the worst of sinners? As he looked back on his life, he saw a life riddled with rebellion against God. Even though he thought he was doing the right thing at the time, he had persecuted Christians before God called him to faith in Jesus. Even after he became a Christian, he continued to sin against God every day. There was no excuse. No hiding. He deserved God’s punishment. But he didn’t need to hide because he knew that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. None of us can save ourselves. Paul saw the mercy that God showed him as evidence of God’s mercy for all. He saw his own salvation as proof that Jesus can and will forgive anyone. That includes you and me. So, we can honestly and without fear admit, “I’m the worst of sinners, but Jesus came to save me.” Prayer: Jesus, thank you for coming into the world to save sinners—even me. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260606dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Matthew 28:16-18 Jesus’ Plan Jesus came to this earth to fulfill the will of his heavenly Father. He carried out all that was necessary to save sinful, fallen mankind. When his work of redemption was complete, he returned to his glorious heavenly home. As Jesus left this earth, he wanted the good news of salvation to be spread throughout the whole world. Jesus' greatest desire is for people to hear about all that he accomplished for them, and by hearing the gospel, come to faith in him as their Savior from sin and death. Jesus did not plan to stay on earth and spread the gospel. He did not plan to send angels from heaven to do the work of evangelism. He planned to direct his believers to tell the good news of salvation. He wanted his followers to pass down the precious truth of eternal life from generation to generation until he returned to take all his believers to heaven with him. Jesus can carry out his plan because he has all authority in heaven and on earth. Jesus is King of all creation. Jesus is the supreme commander of his army of believers and directs the conquest of his gospel in every nation of the earth. With that authority, he commissions his followers to be his missionaries. There’s no question as to what Jesus wants us to do. There is no option. He enlists us in his service to proclaim the truth of salvation to everyone. Backed by the ultimate authority of the Son of God, we shall work faithfully and confidently to fulfill our mission to proclaim the name of Jesus who lived, died, and rose, because it is absolutely true that “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Prayer: Jesus, your name proclaims you to be the Savior of all people. Give me the strength to live to the honor of your name and help me share the glorious message of salvation with others. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260606dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Matthew 28:16-18 Jesus’ Plan Jesus came to this earth to fulfill the will of his heavenly Father. He carried out all that was necessary to save sinful, fallen mankind. When his work of redemption was complete, he returned to his glorious heavenly home. As Jesus left this earth, he wanted the good news of salvation to be spread throughout the whole world. Jesus' greatest desire is for people to hear about all that he accomplished for them, and by hearing the gospel, come to faith in him as their Savior from sin and death. Jesus did not plan to stay on earth and spread the gospel. He did not plan to send angels from heaven to do the work of evangelism. He planned to direct his believers to tell the good news of salvation. He wanted his followers to pass down the precious truth of eternal life from generation to generation until he returned to take all his believers to heaven with him. Jesus can carry out his plan because he has all authority in heaven and on earth. Jesus is King of all creation. Jesus is the supreme commander of his army of believers and directs the conquest of his gospel in every nation of the earth. With that authority, he commissions his followers to be his missionaries. There’s no question as to what Jesus wants us to do. There is no option. He enlists us in his service to proclaim the truth of salvation to everyone. Backed by the ultimate authority of the Son of God, we shall work faithfully and confidently to fulfill our mission to proclaim the name of Jesus who lived, died, and rose, because it is absolutely true that “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Prayer: Jesus, your name proclaims you to be the Savior of all people. Give me the strength to live to the honor of your name and help me share the glorious message of salvation with others. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

What will it feel like to see Jesus—truly see Him—for the very first time? In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef shares the true account of William Montague Dyke, a blind man who longed to see his bride's face. After a risky surgery, he asked that his bandages be removed at the altar so his first sight would be her coming down the aisle. When he finally saw her, he whispered, “At last.” Dr. Youssef points to a far greater moment awaiting every believer: in heaven we won't first see the bride—we will see the Bridegroom. All our lives we've seen “through a glass darkly,” but the day is coming when we will behold Jesus face to face—and John tells us we will be transformed in that moment: “We shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2). The hope of Christ's return is a comfort to those who love Him and long for His appearing, but it is also a warning—and an invitation—to those who have not yet received Him. Jesus' promise still stands: “Yes, I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:20). Don't delay. Receive Him now—and He will receive you into heaven. Prayer: Jesus, may my love for You ever deepen as I understand the magnitude of my sin and the overwhelming redemptive power of Your love. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lambhas come, and his bridehas made herself ready” (Revelation 19:7). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Revelation for Today, Coming Soon: WATCH NOW|LISTEN NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

Send us Fan MailMorning Prayer (Jesus Chief Cornerstone; How Firm A Foundation; Voice; Unborn; Bold Proclamation of Truth) #pray #prayer #morningprayer #Jesus #God #HolySpirit #cornerstone #foundation #howfirmafoundation Thank you for listening, our heart's prayer is for you and I to walk daily with Jesus, our joy and peaceaimingforjesus.comYouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@aimingforjesus5346Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aiming_for_jesus/Threads https://www.threads.com/@aiming_for_jesusX https://x.com/AimingForJesusTik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@aiming.for.jesus

You were not given a tongue to gossip, criticize, or tear down.LINKS:Download How to Pray God's Word for Your ChildrenFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms A Prayer for Encouraging Others by Carol McLeod In today's episode by Carol McLeod walks us through what our tongue was made for. Using it for anything less? That might just grieve the Holy Spirit.Today's devotional will challenge you — in the best way. Reference: Hebrews 3:13 Prayer: Jesus, thank You for giving me a tongue and a heart. Help me to use both these tools as agents of encouragement and love. You have the best ideas, Jesus, and I want to partner with You in Your amazing plan for my life. I will embrace the role of being an encourager as a lifestyle. In Your Name I pray. Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Readings for Today's Homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/051926.cfmWhat does it really mean to glorify God the Father? Father Chris Alar, MIC, explains that glorifying God begins with obedience — not out of fear, but with the trust of a child who knows the Father loves him. Jesus reveals this perfectly on the Cross, where His total obedience opens the way for us to return to God. ★ Support this podcast ★

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260516dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters. Psalm 23:2 Our Good Shepherd Sheep can be easily spooked. A sudden noise can send them into a frenzy. These gentle creatures are not built to handle a lot of stress because they do not have a strong defense mechanism. Sheep are vulnerable and depend on their shepherd for protection. Like sheep, you and I don’t always feel like we’re built to handle some of the problems we’re facing. We can feel stressed and overtaxed. And the truth is that we are just as defenseless. Much of the stress in our lives is due to problems beyond our control. We may work hard, but cutbacks can still take away our job. We may eat right, but medical tests can still deliver troubling news. Thanks be to God that we are not on our own. We have a shepherd who protects us. Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd, was willing to lay down his life for his sheep (John 10:11). He is a Shepherd who did not remain dead but picked his life up again. This good and living Shepherd provides protection for his sheep. Jesus’ sheep were very nervous and fearful on that first Easter. His disciples met in secret behind locked doors. Then Jesus appeared and said, “Peace be with you!” (John 20:19). Jesus could offer the disciples peace because he was alive again. He paid the price for their sin by his death on the cross on Good Friday. The living Jesus restored their joy of salvation with his peace of sins forgiven. Jesus offers his peace to you and me as well. We may feel defenseless with the problems we are going through. But we are never alone. Our protector and Good Shepherd is always with us. Leading us to the green pastures of his Word, he fills us with comfort and confidence through his promises. As he satisfies us with the life-giving water of his Word, he strengthens our faith in him and gives us the peace that only he, our Good Shepherd, can give us. Prayer: Jesus, my Good Shepherd, lead me to a deeper understanding and a greater trust in your words. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260516dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters. Psalm 23:2 Our Good Shepherd Sheep can be easily spooked. A sudden noise can send them into a frenzy. These gentle creatures are not built to handle a lot of stress because they do not have a strong defense mechanism. Sheep are vulnerable and depend on their shepherd for protection. Like sheep, you and I don’t always feel like we’re built to handle some of the problems we’re facing. We can feel stressed and overtaxed. And the truth is that we are just as defenseless. Much of the stress in our lives is due to problems beyond our control. We may work hard, but cutbacks can still take away our job. We may eat right, but medical tests can still deliver troubling news. Thanks be to God that we are not on our own. We have a shepherd who protects us. Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd, was willing to lay down his life for his sheep (John 10:11). He is a Shepherd who did not remain dead but picked his life up again. This good and living Shepherd provides protection for his sheep. Jesus’ sheep were very nervous and fearful on that first Easter. His disciples met in secret behind locked doors. Then Jesus appeared and said, “Peace be with you!” (John 20:19). Jesus could offer the disciples peace because he was alive again. He paid the price for their sin by his death on the cross on Good Friday. The living Jesus restored their joy of salvation with his peace of sins forgiven. Jesus offers his peace to you and me as well. We may feel defenseless with the problems we are going through. But we are never alone. Our protector and Good Shepherd is always with us. Leading us to the green pastures of his Word, he fills us with comfort and confidence through his promises. As he satisfies us with the life-giving water of his Word, he strengthens our faith in him and gives us the peace that only he, our Good Shepherd, can give us. Prayer: Jesus, my Good Shepherd, lead me to a deeper understanding and a greater trust in your words. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Send us Fan MailMorning Prayer (Jesus is the way; Integrity Before God & People; Bible Study Groups; Recovery; Hope)Thank you for listening, our heart's prayer is for you and I to walk daily with Jesus, our joy and peaceaimingforjesus.comYouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@aimingforjesus5346Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aiming_for_jesus/Threads https://www.threads.com/@aiming_for_jesusX https://x.com/AimingForJesusTik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@aiming.for.jesus

Hallowed Be Your Name Learning to Pray with Wonder, Confidence, and Peace Jesus does something deeply intentional in the Lord's Prayer. Before He teaches His followers to ask God for anything, He teaches them to remember who God is. Prayer is not meant to begin with panic, requests, or anxiety—it begins with worship. Coleton explains that when Jesus says, “Hallowed be Your name,” He is teaching us to fill our minds and hearts with the greatness, faithfulness, and power of God before we ever bring Him our needs. This message is an invitation to become people who truly pray—not mechanically, not cautiously, but with boldness, awe, confidence, and trust. “Our Father in Heaven” — Remember Who You're Talking To Matthew 6:9–13 “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name…'” Coleton begins by reminding the church why this prayer series matters so much to him personally. About ten years ago, he began pursuing a deeper prayer life because he wanted prayer to become more than a religious duty—he wanted to love it. During that journey, one quote changed the way he viewed prayer forever. Quote “Satan dreads nothing but prayer. His one concern is to keep the saints from praying. He fears nothing from prayerless studies, prayerless work, prayerless religion. He laughs at our toil, he mocks our wisdom, but he trembles when we pray.” — Samuel Chadwick That quote helped Coleton realize why prayer often feels difficult. The enemy is not intimidated by human strength, intelligence, or activity. He trembles at the power of God accessed through prayer. Prayer matters because God moves through it. Last week's focus in the series was the phrase “Our Father in heaven.” Jesus first teaches us that prayer begins by remembering who we are talking to: not a distant force, but a loving Father who welcomes His children. Now Jesus takes us one step further. “Hallowed Be Your Name” — Prayer Begins with Worship Coleton explains that “hallowed” means to treat God's name as holy, weighty, glorious, and worthy of worship. Quote “‘Hallowed be your name' means ‘let [your name] be regarded as holy.' It is not so much a petition as an act of worship; the speaker, by his words, exalts the holiness of God.” — Tremper Longman III Quote “Hallowing is an active kind of praying—honoring, adoring, and naming the greatness of God. While ‘Our Father' is a reminder of God's intimacy; ‘hallowed' is a reminder of His incomprehensible greatness.” — Tyler Staton Coleton explains that hallowing God's name looks like: Saying what is true about God Remembering what He has done Repeating what He has promised Declaring what is possible with Him This kind of prayer fills the heart with worship before requests are ever made. The Psalms Show Us What Hallowing Looks Like Psalm 44 — Remembering God's Power Scripture “With your hand you drove out the nations and planted our ancestors… it was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face…” — Psalm 44:2–3 The psalmist spends enormous time recounting God's past faithfulness. He talks about victories God gave, enemies God defeated, and promises God fulfilled. Coleton points out something fascinating: much of this prayer is telling God things He already knows. Why? Not because God needs reminding—but because we do. We forget who He is. We forget what He has done. We forget His power, His promises, and His faithfulness. Hallowing God's name recenters the soul. 1. Hallowing His Name Expands Our Vision of What Is Possible One of the main effects of worshipful prayer is that it stretches our faith. Quote “The wonderful thing about praying is that you leave a world of not being able to do something and enter into God's realm where everything is possible. He specializes in the impossible.” — Corrie ten Boom Coleton says many Christians pray extremely safe prayers: “Keep them safe.” “Help them have a good day.” “Bless this meal.” Those prayers are not wrong—but if we truly believe we are speaking to the God of the impossible, why do we so rarely ask Him for impossible things? Hallowing His name enlarges our imagination for what God can do. Hezekiah's Prayer — Worship Before Deliverance Scripture 2 Kings 19:14–19 King Hezekiah is surrounded by an enormous Assyrian army. Humanly speaking, defeat seems certain. But notice how he prays: “Lord, the God of Israel… you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth…” Before asking for rescue, Hezekiah hallows God's name. He reminds himself that Assyria may be powerful, but God rules every kingdom on earth. Only after worship does he ask for deliverance. Coleton explains that worship gave Hezekiah courage to pray boldly in an impossible situation. The Apostles in Acts 4 — Worship Produces Boldness Scripture Acts 4:24–30 After Peter and John are arrested and threatened, the disciples gather to pray. What is shocking is what they don't pray for. They do not pray for safety. They do not pray for persecution to stop. Instead they pray: “Enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders…” Why? Because they began by hallowing God's name. They remembered that God is sovereign, powerful, and able to use evil for good. Worship gave them courage. Even Jesus Prayed This Way Scripture Mark 14:36 “Abba, Father… everything is possible for you.” In Gethsemane, Jesus Himself begins by declaring what is true about the Father: everything is possible for Him. Coleton emphasizes that hallowing God's name even led Jesus to pray honestly and boldly. Hallowing Changes the Way We Pray Coleton gives vivid examples of what this can look like in everyday life. Instead of praying weak, hopeless prayers, we pray with remembrance: “You are the God who split the Red Sea—make a way for me.” “You heard Hannah's prayer after years of waiting—hear mine too.” “You turned Saul into Paul—change this person's heart.” “You used evil for Joseph's good—redeem this painful situation.” Hallowing God's name teaches us to pray according to God's character and history. Asking Big Things Honors God Quote “Our God is so good, gracious, and powerful that we can never ask or assume too much of him. We don't offend Him with large requests; we offend Him with small ones!” — J.D. Greear Coleton shares the story of Alexander the Great generously granting a soldier's extravagant request because the request honored both his wealth and generosity. In the same way, bold prayer honors God because it assumes He is both powerful and good. 2. Hallowing His Name Produces Peace, Rest, and Confidence Hallowing God's name does not only increase boldness—it also calms fear. Psalm 46 — Worship Leads to Fearlessness Scripture “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1 Then comes the result: “Therefore we will not fear…” — Psalm 46:2 The psalmist's peace flows from remembering who God is. Coleton explains that worship anchors the soul in unstable moments. Psalm 23 — David's Confidence Came from God's Character Scripture “The Lord is my shepherd…” Outcome: “I lack nothing.” Scripture “You are with me…” Outcome: “I will fear no evil.” David's peace was connected to his remembrance of God's presence and care. Coleton and Rainey's Story of Fear and Faith Coleton shares a deeply personal moment when someone falsely accused him and tried to get him fired. Sitting in the car devastated, he and Rainey began hallowing God's name together. They remembered: God sustaining their long-distance relationship God healing their relationship during difficult seasons God opening ministry doors unexpectedly God never once failing them As they remembered God's faithfulness, peace slowly replaced fear. Their conclusion became: “If God has been faithful before, He will be faithful again.” And God ultimately took care of them. Hallowing God's Name in Real Life Coleton gives practical examples of how worship reshapes fear: When Facing Enemies God used Saul's attacks to prepare David for kingship. No enemy can stop God's plan. When Struggling with Sin God promises grace greater than our failures. Scripture “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” When Worried About Provision Jesus said the Father cares for birds and flowers—and values His children far more. When Life Feels Chaotic God still reigns over nations and history. When Facing Death Jesus transformed death from ultimate loss into the doorway to eternal life. Hallowing His name teaches believers to trust God in every circumstance. Jesus Prepares Us Before We Ask Coleton points out something powerful in the Lord's Prayer: Jesus has not told us to ask for anything yet. Before requests come: We remember He is Father. We remember He is holy. We remember His power. We remember His faithfulness. Only then are we prepared to pray boldly and trustingly. Practical Ways to Practice Hallowing His Name 1. Begin Prayer with Worship Coleton encourages using worship music to shape the heart before praying. Songs mentioned: “Good Plans” — Red Rocks Worship “Same God” — Elevation Worship “Won't Stop Now” — Elevation Worship “Do It Again” — Elevation Worship “I Believe” — Charity Gayle “The Truth” — Megan Woods “Don't Fight Alone” — Jon Reddick 2. Remember God's Promises in Scripture The Bible teaches us what God has done before so we can trust what He will do again. Coleton emphasizes that Scripture fuels confident prayer. 3. Remember God's Faithfulness in Your Own Life Reflect on: Ways God provided Times He protected Seasons He healed Moments He restored Remembering past faithfulness strengthens present trust. 4. Practice Gratitude Coleton references One Thousand Gifts and how gratitude journals helped cultivate trust in God's faithfulness. The more we notice God's goodness, the easier it becomes to trust Him for impossible things. Closing Challenge Quote “Powerful prayer begins with adoration.” — Tyler Staton The heart of this sermon is simple but transformative: Jesus wants His people to pray with power. And powerful prayer begins by hallowing the name of God—remembering who He is, what He has done, and what is still possible with Him. Discipleship Group Questions Why do you think Jesus teaches us to worship before asking for things in prayer? How could that reshape your prayer life? What are some “safe prayers” you tend to pray? What impossible or faith-filled prayers might God be inviting you to begin praying? Which story or example from this sermon encouraged you the most personally, and why? Where have you seen God's faithfulness in your own past? How can remembering those moments strengthen your trust in your current season? What practical step can you take this week to begin “hallowing His name” more intentionally in prayer? Culture of Gospel Share this with someone in your life who doesn't know Jesus Christianity is not about pretending to be strong—it's about discovering that there is a God so loving, powerful, and faithful that you can bring Him your impossible situations and your deepest fears. Jesus teaches us that prayer is not talking into the dark, but speaking to a Father who hears, cares, and still changes lives today.  

Gentleness isn't weakness. It never was.It takes far more strength to stand tall, refuse revenge, and turn the other cheek than it does to slap back.LINKS:Read with us in April! Download Growing in GentlenessConnect with Christie ThomasFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms A Prayer to Use our Power Gently with Christie Thomas Jesus is called both the Lion of Judah and the Lamb of God — not one or the other. He had the power to destroy his enemies at any moment. He chose the cross anyway. Not because he was weak. Because he had a mission greater than winning the moment.And that same power? It lives in you."Worthy is the lamb who was slaughtered to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength." — Revelation 5:12What would change today if you chose gentleness from a place of strength instead of silence? Reference: Matthew 5: 39-41 Prayer: Jesus, you are lion and lamb, powerful and gentle. Please teach us to use our power gently. In Jesus' name, Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Words are powerful. They can shrink us, define us, and follow us for years — long after the person who said them has forgotten they ever spoke.But the same tongue that tears down can learn to build up.LINKS:Read with us in April! Download Growing in GentlenessConnect with Christie ThomasFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms A Prayer for Gentle Tongues with Christie Thomas The same mouth that wounds can become, as Proverbs says, a tree of life.That's not wishful thinking. That's the Spirit at work. "A gentle tongue is a tree of life." — Proverbs 15:4What would it look like today to speak words that give life instead of take it? Reference: Ephesians 4:29 Prayer: Jesus, I’m sorry for the times when my words have been foul, hurtful, bitter, or harsh toward others and toward myself. Thank You for Your incredible, unmerited forgiveness. Please help me to speak gracious words that build others up and give grace to those who hear instead of words that only make me feel better for the moment. In Jesus’s name, amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

She didn't lead with her theology. She led with her ears. When we truly listened to our friends — their doubts, their questions, their view of the world — that gentleness can create an opening that no argument ever could.LINKS:Read with us in April! Download Growing in GentlenessConnect with Christie ThomasFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms A Prayer for Gentle Evangelism with Christie Thomas Peter didn't just tell us to be ready to share our hope. He said do it with gentleness and respect. The how matters just as much as the what.You can't argue someone into faith. But you might just love them there. "Do it with gentleness and respect." — 1 Peter 3:15Who in your life is waiting for you to listen before you speak? Reference: 1 Peter 3:14-16 Prayer: Jesus, You are the hope inside me! Please forgive me for the times I haven’t been ready to give a defense with gentleness and respect. Help me learn to speak clearly about the hope You’ve given me and please also help me to share it with others through gentleness. Give me the bold, compassionate love needed to point others to You. In Jesus’s name, amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Instead of quarreling, he walked away — twice — and trusted God to make space for him. And God did. LINKS:Read with us in April! Download Growing in GentlenessConnect with Christie ThomasFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms A Prayer to Stop Biting and Devouring with Christie Thomas Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do isn't win the argument. It's choose gentleness and let God fight for us. "For now the Lord has made space for us, and we will be fruitful in the land." — Genesis 26:22 Where is God asking you to walk away from a quarrel and trust Him with the outcome?

The religious leaders were ready to throw stones. Jesus bent down and wrote in the dirt. Jesus didn't have to be gentle. But He chose it. LINKS:Read with us in April! Download Growing in GentlenessConnect with Christie ThomasFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms A Prayer to Show Gentleness to Others by Christie Thomas When they finally walked away, it was just Jesus and the woman — face dirty with dust and tears, waiting for the punishment she thought she deserved. Instead, he said: "Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more." And that gentleness? It changes people. Just like it changed her. This week, who in your life needs you to put down the stone and offer grace instead?

Jesus got accused of working for the devil. David got pelted with rocks and curses while fleeing for his life. And neither of them fought back.How? LINKS:Read with us in April! Download Growing in GentlenessConnect with Christie ThomasFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms A Prayer for Gentleness in Criticism by Christie Thomas They trusted themselves to the one who judges justly. In today's episode by Christie Thomas, we're talking about what it looks like to respond to criticism, insults, and rejection with genuine gentleness — and why it might be the most powerful thing you can do. The ending of my phone call story might surprise you. Reference: 1 Peter 2:21-23 Prayer: Jesus, thank You for suffering for me and leaving an example so I can follow in Your steps. Please help me to keep my retorts and insults to myself and reshape my mind so I can completely trust myself to You, who judges justly. In Jesus’s name, amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Feeling overwhelmed? Carrying more than you were meant to hold? LINKS:Read with us in April! Download Growing in GentlenessConnect with Christie ThomasFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms A Prayer to Feel our Burdens Lifted by Christie Thomas In today's episode, we talk about what Jesus really meant when He said, “Come to me… and I will give you rest.” What if you were never meant to do the heavy lifting on your own?This conversation is a gentle reminder that Jesus doesn’t add to your burdens—He helps carry them. Take a few minutes to listen, breathe, and be reminded: you are not alone in what you’re carrying. Reference: Matthew 11:28-30 Prayer: Jesus, you are so gentle but so strong. Thank you for carrying the burden for us and for helping us to live our lives well. As we take a minute to give our burdens to you, thank you that you take them. And I pray that we would feel that you are lifting them. In Jesus' name, amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if rest isn't something you find — it's someone you return to? LINKS:Read with us in April! Download Growing in GentlenessConnect with Christie ThomasFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms A Prayer to Receive Help from Our Gentle Partner by Christie Thomas In Matthew 11, Jesus doesn't hand us a yoke and say "get to work." He steps in beside us, already wearing it, and says, "walk with me."When we're weary and burdened, we don't have the bandwidth to be gentle, patient, or present for the people who need us most. But we don't have to white-knuckle it alone.In this episode, we're sitting with Matthew 11:28-30 and exploring what it really looks like to give Jesus your burdens — and let him actually carry them. Reference: Matthew 11:28-30 Prayer: Jesus, forgive me for trying to carry all my burdens on my own, instead of letting You help me. I give You the burden of my sin and the other things that weigh me down and I choose to let You help me with these burdens. Thank You for being my Helper and for Your easy and light burden. In Jesus’s name, amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Daily Dose of Hope April 15, 2026   Scripture: Colossians 4   Prayer:  Jesus, Oh, how we need you! We need you to work within us and through us.  Change our hearts, O Lord, so that we can bring glory to you. More of you, less of me. Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  We are journeying through Paul's letters and now we find ourselves in Paul's ninth letter, when we look at them chronologically.    Our reading today is Colossians 4.  This last chapter of Colossians begins with a word to slave owners to treat their slaves in a way that was fair and right. Please note that Paul's mention of slavery is in no way supportive of it.  I've said this before but it bears repeating.  Slavery was a reality in the Roman Empire. Paul's discussion of loving others as Jesus loved them and his focus on people being equal in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28), suggest his disapproval of the institution. Among those in the early church, slaves were treated as brothers and sisters in Christ.   Paul does offer a last bit of advice on Christian living to the church at Colossae. He reminds the Colossians that three things are crucial: prayer, wisdom, and grace-filled speech/communication.  First, their lives were to be devoted to prayer. This isn't too different from his command to the Thessalonians to pray without ceasing. A devoted prayer life includes a lifestyle of prayer, rooted in both gratitude and vigilance. I love how he asks them to pray for open doors to share the Gospel message, specifically that God would provide opportunities for Paul to share the Good News of Jesus wherever his life journey took him.   Then, there is this focus on wisdom. Remember, Paul is encouraging them to stay away from the false teachers and immerse themselves in Godly wisdom. Wisdom provides the right atmosphere for the Christian walk. We must be wise in what we allow ourselves to ingest into our minds and bodies, wise in our talk, and wise in our actions. This is so critical because it's our everyday, walking around lives that are the strongest witness to those outside the church.   Finally, there is an emphasis on grace-filled speech and communication. Oh, how our mouths get us into trouble over and over again. My guess is it wasn't too different 2000 years ago.  Paul implores them to speak words of grace which are also "salty," words that make a difference but also words that are well-seasoned, not offensive, effective. Words can build up and words can tear down. Paul is saying to use words that effectively build up the Kingdom of God. Those who follow Jesus need to be intentional and careful in what and how they speak.  We could just as easily have this same discussion today. Without even thinking too much about it, Christians are so careless with what they say and do. Certainly, the foundation of transformation is a devoted prayer life, to which Paul alludes. When we are vigilant about prayer, when we develop a lifestyle of prayer, then we are less careless in the other areas of our lives. We are wiser, we are more grace-filled in speech and actions. It's possible that if every single person at New Hope made an intentional commitment to maintain a devoted, vigilant lifestyle of prayer, then Jesus could surely change the world through us. Certainly, our church would be transformed in pretty incredible ways!   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260414dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” John 20:21–23 Sent with the Spirit’s Power Twice, Jesus said, “Peace be with you.” Then he added, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” The peace Jesus gives is not stagnant. It inspires people who have found peace to now offer it to others in Jesus’ name. Notice what empowered Jesus’ disciples: “He breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.'” The same Lord who breathed life into Adam now breathes new life into fearful disciples. Resurrection life becomes missionary life. And what is the core of their mission? Forgiveness. “If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven. If you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” This is astonishing authority. Christians do not invent forgiveness; they deliver what Jesus purchased. The peace Jesus spoke in that locked room now travels through the mouths of believers into the ears of sinners. When a believer in Jesus declares, “I forgive you in Jesus’ name,” it is not wishful thinking. It is the living Jesus applying the forgiveness he purchased and won. Receive from the risen Jesus the power of forgiveness. Receive from the risen Jesus the power to forgive. You are sent to bring peace to people in this world—not necessarily across oceans, but across rooms, across tables, across ordinary conversations. You carry the message that death has been defeated and sins are forgiven. “Peace be with you!” Prayer: Jesus, breathe your Spirit into me. Fill me with your peace and send me to share the forgiveness you have won. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

We've been getting gentleness wrong! It's not about being quiet. It's not about being a pushover. LINKS:Read with us in April! Download Growing in GentlenessConnect with Christie ThomasFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms A Prayer to Live with Humility by Christie Thomas According to Jesus, gentleness is actually about trust — being so confident in God's goodness and control that you stop obsessing over your own needs and rights.That changes everything about how we parent, how we work, and how we treat people online.This week's episode by Christie Thomas digs into what Jesus actually meant when he called himself gentle and lowly — and what it looks like for us to live that way too. Reference: Matthew 11:29 Prayer: Jesus, I praise You because You are gentle and lowly, not obsessing about Yourself or what’s best for You, but considering our interests as even more important than Yours. I confess I don’t usually live like this and often don’t even want to live like this. Please change my heart and help me to trust in Your goodness and control over every situation. In Your name, amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260414dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” John 20:21–23 Sent with the Spirit’s Power Twice, Jesus said, “Peace be with you.” Then he added, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” The peace Jesus gives is not stagnant. It inspires people who have found peace to now offer it to others in Jesus’ name. Notice what empowered Jesus’ disciples: “He breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.'” The same Lord who breathed life into Adam now breathes new life into fearful disciples. Resurrection life becomes missionary life. And what is the core of their mission? Forgiveness. “If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven. If you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” This is astonishing authority. Christians do not invent forgiveness; they deliver what Jesus purchased. The peace Jesus spoke in that locked room now travels through the mouths of believers into the ears of sinners. When a believer in Jesus declares, “I forgive you in Jesus’ name,” it is not wishful thinking. It is the living Jesus applying the forgiveness he purchased and won. Receive from the risen Jesus the power of forgiveness. Receive from the risen Jesus the power to forgive. You are sent to bring peace to people in this world—not necessarily across oceans, but across rooms, across tables, across ordinary conversations. You carry the message that death has been defeated and sins are forgiven. “Peace be with you!” Prayer: Jesus, breathe your Spirit into me. Fill me with your peace and send me to share the forgiveness you have won. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260413dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. John 20:19-20 Behind Locked Doors The doors were locked. The disciples were scared. The next knock on the door might be Roman soldiers sent by Jesus’ enemies to finish the job and make sure every last disciple of Jesus was silenced for good. But then—without knocking—Jesus came and stood among them. “Peace be with you.” This peace knows everything is the way it should be. Hiding behind locked doors was not going to manufacture calm and peace in the disciples. So, Jesus came to them. The living, breathing, crucified-and-risen Jesus stood in the middle of their anxiety and declared peace—everything is as it should be. I’m alive. You’re forgiven. Peace be with you. Not only did he declare peace to them, but he also gave them the proof they needed. He showed them his hands and side. The proof of his love remained visible. His wounds had not vanished. The proof of his presence was no longer in doubt. You may feel isolated in your doubts, guilt, or fear of the future. Yet the risen Jesus does not wait for you to manufacture peace on your own. Through his Word, he stands among his people today. And he still says, “Peace be with you.” When we are afraid, Jesus doesn’t say, “Calm yourselves.” He says, “Look at me. See the wounds that won your freedom.” The same body that hung on the cross now stands alive. The penalty of sin was paid. Death was undone. Peace with God has been won. The peace Jesus gives is not based on our feelings, but on Jesus’ promised presence, power, and love for us. Jesus proved his love for us when he died on the cross for us. He proved his power when he conquered death. Jesus lives, so our souls trust that Jesus makes everything the way it should be. “Peace be with you!” Prayer: Jesus, fix my eyes on your wounds, that I may have peace in the certainty of your victory. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260413dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. John 20:19-20 Behind Locked Doors The doors were locked. The disciples were scared. The next knock on the door might be Roman soldiers sent by Jesus’ enemies to finish the job and make sure every last disciple of Jesus was silenced for good. But then—without knocking—Jesus came and stood among them. “Peace be with you.” This peace knows everything is the way it should be. Hiding behind locked doors was not going to manufacture calm and peace in the disciples. So, Jesus came to them. The living, breathing, crucified-and-risen Jesus stood in the middle of their anxiety and declared peace—everything is as it should be. I’m alive. You’re forgiven. Peace be with you. Not only did he declare peace to them, but he also gave them the proof they needed. He showed them his hands and side. The proof of his love remained visible. His wounds had not vanished. The proof of his presence was no longer in doubt. You may feel isolated in your doubts, guilt, or fear of the future. Yet the risen Jesus does not wait for you to manufacture peace on your own. Through his Word, he stands among his people today. And he still says, “Peace be with you.” When we are afraid, Jesus doesn’t say, “Calm yourselves.” He says, “Look at me. See the wounds that won your freedom.” The same body that hung on the cross now stands alive. The penalty of sin was paid. Death was undone. Peace with God has been won. The peace Jesus gives is not based on our feelings, but on Jesus’ promised presence, power, and love for us. Jesus proved his love for us when he died on the cross for us. He proved his power when he conquered death. Jesus lives, so our souls trust that Jesus makes everything the way it should be. “Peace be with you!” Prayer: Jesus, fix my eyes on your wounds, that I may have peace in the certainty of your victory. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260412dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. John 20:19-20 Then Jesus Stepped Into the Room How secure are you? Is your job safe, or is there a lay-off coming? How about your health? Or what if you had a serious car accident, or your home caught on fire, or what if …? These are important questions, but in reality, almost laughingly insignificant in comparison to, “What is my relationship to God?” Or to put it a different way, “When I die, where will I go—to heaven or hell?” Now these questions simply have to be answered, or there will be a nagging sense of worry, emptiness, and insecurity. The problem is, as we look into our heart and mind, we’re not helped. Have we been perfectly patient with those around us, shown perfect love to them, always been an example of Christ-like love? Or do we see in ourselves a rash of impatience, unkindness, selfishness? Ouch, more insecurity. Jesus’ disciples understood insecurity. There they were, locked in the room, with no idea what was going to happen next, with no idea where their life was going to go. And then? Then Jesus stepped into the room. And what did he do? He showed them his hands and side. There, on his nail-pierced hands, was proof that the disciples were forgiven, that Jesus had fully paid for all their sins, and that they stood at one with God. It wasn’t, “Don’t worry, be happy, the sun will come out tomorrow.” No, it was far deeper. It was, “See here—in my hands and side—the proof that I love you! The proof that your sins are forgiven and you’re on the way to heaven!” Jesus’ hands and side say the same thing to you and me: “You are forgiven. You are loved. You are on the way to heaven!” Prayer: Jesus, my risen Savior, often I’m nervous and afraid. Forgive me. Focus my attention on your nail-scarred, risen hands, that I might see clearly that my sins are forgiven, and that I’m at peace with you. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260412dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. John 20:19-20 Then Jesus Stepped Into the Room How secure are you? Is your job safe, or is there a lay-off coming? How about your health? Or what if you had a serious car accident, or your home caught on fire, or what if …? These are important questions, but in reality, almost laughingly insignificant in comparison to, “What is my relationship to God?” Or to put it a different way, “When I die, where will I go—to heaven or hell?” Now these questions simply have to be answered, or there will be a nagging sense of worry, emptiness, and insecurity. The problem is, as we look into our heart and mind, we’re not helped. Have we been perfectly patient with those around us, shown perfect love to them, always been an example of Christ-like love? Or do we see in ourselves a rash of impatience, unkindness, selfishness? Ouch, more insecurity. Jesus’ disciples understood insecurity. There they were, locked in the room, with no idea what was going to happen next, with no idea where their life was going to go. And then? Then Jesus stepped into the room. And what did he do? He showed them his hands and side. There, on his nail-pierced hands, was proof that the disciples were forgiven, that Jesus had fully paid for all their sins, and that they stood at one with God. It wasn’t, “Don’t worry, be happy, the sun will come out tomorrow.” No, it was far deeper. It was, “See here—in my hands and side—the proof that I love you! The proof that your sins are forgiven and you’re on the way to heaven!” Jesus’ hands and side say the same thing to you and me: “You are forgiven. You are loved. You are on the way to heaven!” Prayer: Jesus, my risen Savior, often I’m nervous and afraid. Forgive me. Focus my attention on your nail-scarred, risen hands, that I might see clearly that my sins are forgiven, and that I’m at peace with you. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

By Michael A. Youssef, Ph.D. Read John 13:1-17. The cross wasn't a last-minute tragedy—it was the central purpose of Jesus' earthly life. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef shows how Jesus lived with unwavering clarity about His mission: to finish the work the Father gave Him. From the wedding at Cana to His final meal with the disciples, Christ repeatedly referred to the coming “hour”—the hour of His sacrifice, when He would finally declare, “It is finished.” You'll see this focus unfold in three powerful moments: Cana (John 2): Even at His first miracle, Jesus points beyond the celebration to the cross—“My hour has not yet come.” Feast of Tabernacles (John 7): In the face of rising opposition and threats, Jesus remains steady because His time is under the Father's control. The Upper Room (John 13): On the eve of betrayal and crucifixion, Jesus washes His disciples' feet, modeling humble love because He knows the hour has arrived. Dr. Youssef reminds us that Jesus embraced the cross as the Father's will—and as His joy—so that sinners could be saved. As you listen, you'll be invited to marvel again at the wonder of God's love: He did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all. Prayer: Jesus, thank You for Your incredible love that led You to the cross in obedience to the Father. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father” (John 13:1). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon It Is Finished: WATCH NOW | LISTEN NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

Who crucified Jesus? Was it Judas, the priests, Pilate—or the crowd? In today's MY Devotional, Dr. Michael Youssef reveals the deeper Truth: Jesus chose the cross. He went deliberately, willingly, and resolutely—not as a victim of circumstance, but as the Savior on mission. Every person who has ever lived inherited a spiritual debt and then added to it, but God, in mercy, provided a way out. On the cross, the Son of God paid what we could never pay, so that every repentant sinner who comes to Christ by faith can be set free. Drawing from Philippians 2:5–11, Dr. Youssef highlights the humility of Jesus—God in the flesh—who became obedient to death, even death on a cross. And as Jesus suffered, He prayed words that still astonish us: “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34). This wasn't forced surrender; it was love in action—love that satisfied God's justice and opened the door to eternal life. If you're searching for true peace, lasting security, and a clean conscience before God, this episode points you to the only source: the crucified and risen Christ. Do you know the forgiveness and love of God? Prayer: Jesus, Your love overwhelms me. I cannot fully fathom it; it humbles and sustains me. You are my Rock and my Redeemer. I long to live for You, the lover of my soul. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.  “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon The Folly and the Power of the Cross, Part 2: LISTEN NOW| WATCH NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

Join Autumn Miles in this heartfelt Easter episode as she delves into the profound significance of Holy Week. Reflecting on the themes of grace and redemption, Autumn shares personal insights and biblical teachings that highlight the transformative power of grace over sin. Through an exploration of scripture, she passionately discusses the role of Jesus as the ultimate high priest, whose sacrifice offers eternal hope and forgiveness. This episode is a spiritual journey that encourages listeners to embrace the gift of grace and the promise of salvation. Tune in for an inspiring message that resonates with the true essence of Easter.ORDER HOLY GHOSTED HERE! https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Ghosted-Teaches-Surviving-Spiritual/dp/1636415431 Bible ReferencesJohn 1, 16, 17Links from the showBOOKS: www.autumnmiles.com/resourcesSPEAKING: www.autumnmiles.com/speakingMERCH: autumnmiles.square.siteIf you are interested in becoming a sponsor of the show, send us an email at hello@autumnmiles.comIf you have a suggestion for the ministry, a question for Autumn, a testimony to share, or other inquiry for the Autumn Miles Ministries, click here and fill out the form, or send us an email at hello@autumnmiles.com Join us on social media!Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheAutumnMiles/Instagram: www.instagram.com/autumnmiles/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AutumnMilesClick here to join our weekly and monthly newsletters and get updates on our podcast and exclusive content!If you feel led to give to the Autumn Miles Ministries, click here to donate. Thank you for supporting Autumn Miles Ministries!

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260329dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: “Say to Daughter Zion ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.'” The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!” Matthew 21:4-9 The Heavenly King Took Our Place It is a sad reality that you and I sin against our God every day. Because we sin, we don’t deserve to be in heaven in the presence of God for all eternity. And the alternative is not pretty. But God loves us, his creation, and took action to change what we deserved because of our disobedience. God, the ruler of all things, sent his Son, Jesus, into the world to be among us for a purpose. Instead of being an earthly king, Jesus lived a humble life and kept all of God’s laws for us. Then, even though innocent, he suffered and died for us. After three days, Jesus rose from the grave to show his power over death and the devil for us. Now you and I, by faith, can look forward to spending eternity in heaven because of our perfect substitute, Jesus. Because of what our King Jesus has done for us, we can shout with the crowd on the first Palm Sunday, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” In our excitement, we exclaim, “Blessed is he who came in the name of the Lord!” Prayer: Jesus, may your Spirit work in me the joyfulness to praise you for being my substitute and assuring me of heaven with you forever. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260329dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: “Say to Daughter Zion ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.'” The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!” Matthew 21:4-9 The Heavenly King Took Our Place It is a sad reality that you and I sin against our God every day. Because we sin, we don’t deserve to be in heaven in the presence of God for all eternity. And the alternative is not pretty. But God loves us, his creation, and took action to change what we deserved because of our disobedience. God, the ruler of all things, sent his Son, Jesus, into the world to be among us for a purpose. Instead of being an earthly king, Jesus lived a humble life and kept all of God’s laws for us. Then, even though innocent, he suffered and died for us. After three days, Jesus rose from the grave to show his power over death and the devil for us. Now you and I, by faith, can look forward to spending eternity in heaven because of our perfect substitute, Jesus. Because of what our King Jesus has done for us, we can shout with the crowd on the first Palm Sunday, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” In our excitement, we exclaim, “Blessed is he who came in the name of the Lord!” Prayer: Jesus, may your Spirit work in me the joyfulness to praise you for being my substitute and assuring me of heaven with you forever. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

For more information about Lent and how to participate, visit victory.church/lent

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260321dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion As [Jesus] went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. …” Having said this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing. John 9:1-7 Why? Often, when we see someone struggling or suffering, we wonder: Why? Why is that man homeless? Why is that woman sick? Why does that family fight so much? Whenever we see unpleasant situations—whatever they might be—we wonder why. Jesus speaks about sin’s connection to struggles and suffering in the case of the man who was born blind: “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” he said. Not every hardship is caused by a particular sin. The struggles and sufferings that many people experience are beyond their control. So why was he blind? That man was blind for two reasons. The first reason was because he was born in a sinful and cruel world. The impact of sin is terrible and enormous. It can be sickening and distressing. Suffering is the result of living in this sinful world, but Jesus teaches that not every experience of suffering in our lives is due to a particular sin we have committed. The second reason this man was blind is far more beautiful. He was born blind so that God could work through him. Jesus saw him and had mercy on him. He reached out to the man and healed his physical malady. Through this miracle Jesus revealed his power as the Son of God to give sight and heal. This is why God sent his Son. Sin destroys but Jesus restores. Prayer: Jesus, I know that, by nature, I am blinded by sin. Thank you for reaching out and healing me from my blindness through your Son and your Word. Open my eyes that I might see Jesus as the light of the world. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260321dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion As [Jesus] went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. …” Having said this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing. John 9:1-7 Why? Often, when we see someone struggling or suffering, we wonder: Why? Why is that man homeless? Why is that woman sick? Why does that family fight so much? Whenever we see unpleasant situations—whatever they might be—we wonder why. Jesus speaks about sin’s connection to struggles and suffering in the case of the man who was born blind: “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” he said. Not every hardship is caused by a particular sin. The struggles and sufferings that many people experience are beyond their control. So why was he blind? That man was blind for two reasons. The first reason was because he was born in a sinful and cruel world. The impact of sin is terrible and enormous. It can be sickening and distressing. Suffering is the result of living in this sinful world, but Jesus teaches that not every experience of suffering in our lives is due to a particular sin we have committed. The second reason this man was blind is far more beautiful. He was born blind so that God could work through him. Jesus saw him and had mercy on him. He reached out to the man and healed his physical malady. Through this miracle Jesus revealed his power as the Son of God to give sight and heal. This is why God sent his Son. Sin destroys but Jesus restores. Prayer: Jesus, I know that, by nature, I am blinded by sin. Thank you for reaching out and healing me from my blindness through your Son and your Word. Open my eyes that I might see Jesus as the light of the world. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260320dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Jesus heard that they had thrown [the formerly blind man] out, and when he found him, he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” “Who is he, sir?” the man asked. “Tell me so that I may believe in him.” Jesus said, “You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you.” Then the man said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshiped him. John 9:35-38 Giving Sight to the Blind Imagine what it would be like: being blind all your life and then suddenly you can see; going from living in utter darkness to having powerful and colorful light instantly pouring into your eyes! Ironically, that kind of newly discovered light must be blinding. But those who have come to trust in Jesus as their Savior from sin and death don’t need to imagine what this must be like, because they once lived in the most dreadful darkness, the dark shadow of sin and death. What’s worse, the apostle Paul once described those who once lived in unbelief as people who “were dead in your transgressions and sins” (Ephesians 2:1). Being spiritually blind is bad enough. Being spiritually dead seems like an unescapable sentence. But that’s why Jesus comes, to give sight to the blind and raise the dead. Already 700 years before his birth, the prophet Isaiah described Jesus’ work this way: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned” (Isaiah 9:2). And Jesus himself explained why he comes to sinners like you and me, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). While it was indeed a miracle for Jesus to give sight to the blind man—until that day the man had never seen—the far greater miracle was when Jesus granted him the eyes of faith. He asked the man, “Do you believe in the Son of Man,” the Messiah? “Who is he, sir,” the man responded. “Tell me so that I may believe in him.” Jesus replied, “You have now seen him.” Then the man said, “Lord, I believe.” Through his powerful Word, Jesus also shows himself to us, giving sight to the blind and life to the dead. Let us also say, “Lord, I believe!” Prayer: Jesus, help me always see your perfect love and salvation. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260320dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Jesus heard that they had thrown [the formerly blind man] out, and when he found him, he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” “Who is he, sir?” the man asked. “Tell me so that I may believe in him.” Jesus said, “You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you.” Then the man said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshiped him. John 9:35-38 Giving Sight to the Blind Imagine what it would be like: being blind all your life and then suddenly you can see; going from living in utter darkness to having powerful and colorful light instantly pouring into your eyes! Ironically, that kind of newly discovered light must be blinding. But those who have come to trust in Jesus as their Savior from sin and death don’t need to imagine what this must be like, because they once lived in the most dreadful darkness, the dark shadow of sin and death. What’s worse, the apostle Paul once described those who once lived in unbelief as people who “were dead in your transgressions and sins” (Ephesians 2:1). Being spiritually blind is bad enough. Being spiritually dead seems like an unescapable sentence. But that’s why Jesus comes, to give sight to the blind and raise the dead. Already 700 years before his birth, the prophet Isaiah described Jesus’ work this way: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned” (Isaiah 9:2). And Jesus himself explained why he comes to sinners like you and me, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). While it was indeed a miracle for Jesus to give sight to the blind man—until that day the man had never seen—the far greater miracle was when Jesus granted him the eyes of faith. He asked the man, “Do you believe in the Son of Man,” the Messiah? “Who is he, sir,” the man responded. “Tell me so that I may believe in him.” Jesus replied, “You have now seen him.” Then the man said, “Lord, I believe.” Through his powerful Word, Jesus also shows himself to us, giving sight to the blind and life to the dead. Let us also say, “Lord, I believe!” Prayer: Jesus, help me always see your perfect love and salvation. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260318dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man’s eyes was a Sabbath. Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. “He put mud on my eyes,” the man replied, “and I washed, and now I see.” Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others asked, “How can a sinner perform such signs?” So they were divided. John 9:13-16 A Rulebreaker The Third Commandment could not be clearer: “Remember the Sabbath Day by keeping it holy.” But to avoid all confusion, God went on to explain, “Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work” (Exodus 20:9-10). So, Jesus is a rulebreaker, right? He worked on the Sabbath! He made mud, put it on a blind man’s eyes, and told him to wash in the Pool of Siloam, all of which led to this man seeing for the first time in his life. Some of the Pharisees could not help but conclude, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” This wasn’t the first time Jesus had generated a heated debate by healing someone on the Sabbath. From the earliest days of his earthly ministry, Jesus was causing his opponents to have serious bouts of consternation as they tried to square Jesus’ claims of being the Son of God and the promised Messiah with his apparent refusal to obey God’s holy law. But was it a refusal? Hardly. It was a fulfillment! Jesus once explained, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27). His point was simple: of course, God wants us to honor him by resting from our labor at some point every week to hear and ponder his saving Word. But he also calls us to put his Word into practice by regularly demonstrating love for our neighbors in need. The Christian life is not an either/or proposition. It’s an everyday both/and way of life! Our Savior never overturns God’s Word. Instead, he fulfills it. Perfectly. Prayer: Jesus, empower me to be like you more and more every day. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260318dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man’s eyes was a Sabbath. Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. “He put mud on my eyes,” the man replied, “and I washed, and now I see.” Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others asked, “How can a sinner perform such signs?” So they were divided. John 9:13-16 A Rulebreaker The Third Commandment could not be clearer: “Remember the Sabbath Day by keeping it holy.” But to avoid all confusion, God went on to explain, “Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work” (Exodus 20:9-10). So, Jesus is a rulebreaker, right? He worked on the Sabbath! He made mud, put it on a blind man’s eyes, and told him to wash in the Pool of Siloam, all of which led to this man seeing for the first time in his life. Some of the Pharisees could not help but conclude, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” This wasn’t the first time Jesus had generated a heated debate by healing someone on the Sabbath. From the earliest days of his earthly ministry, Jesus was causing his opponents to have serious bouts of consternation as they tried to square Jesus’ claims of being the Son of God and the promised Messiah with his apparent refusal to obey God’s holy law. But was it a refusal? Hardly. It was a fulfillment! Jesus once explained, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27). His point was simple: of course, God wants us to honor him by resting from our labor at some point every week to hear and ponder his saving Word. But he also calls us to put his Word into practice by regularly demonstrating love for our neighbors in need. The Christian life is not an either/or proposition. It’s an everyday both/and way of life! Our Savior never overturns God’s Word. Instead, he fulfills it. Perfectly. Prayer: Jesus, empower me to be like you more and more every day. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260317dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing. John 9:6-7 Even Jesus Uses Tools My wife will tell you. I’m not handy. Putting a tool in my hands can be a dangerous prospect, because I'm more likely to make the problem worse, not better. Tools are just not my thing. With some household projects, it might be wiser to give me a magic wand to wave than a hammer to swing, since the best chance for success would have to involve some miracle. Jesus doesn’t need tools to fix things. The Bible makes that abundantly clear. He’s God, so he can do what he wants and can fix every problem without lifting a finger or batting an eye. But here’s the thing: often, Jesus uses tools to accomplish his saving will. We see that truth plainly illustrated in John, chapter nine. When Jesus encountered a man born blind, he could have given him sight without saying a word or moving a muscle. But he didn’t. Instead, “he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes.” Then he said, “Go, wash in the Pool of Siloam.” What happened? John tells us that “the man went and washed, and came home seeing.” In other words, Jesus used tools—spit, mud, words, and washing—to accomplish the glorious task of giving sight to the blind. And he does the same for us! No, Jesus may never need to give or restore our physical sight to us. But he longs to bless us with the spiritual sight of saving faith and to sharpen it daily. But he doesn’t do either of those things without using tools. Instead, he uses the water of Holy Baptism and the wheat and wine of Holy Communion, combined with his powerful Word, to create and sustain faith in his people. He could have decided to do it differently, but he doesn't. He uses tools. Which means what? That he would have us use those same tools. Through them alone, Jesus gives saving sight to the blind! Prayer: Jesus, inspire me to use your Word and sacraments faithfully and to share your saving Word with others. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260317dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing. John 9:6-7 Even Jesus Uses Tools My wife will tell you. I’m not handy. Putting a tool in my hands can be a dangerous prospect, because I'm more likely to make the problem worse, not better. Tools are just not my thing. With some household projects, it might be wiser to give me a magic wand to wave than a hammer to swing, since the best chance for success would have to involve some miracle. Jesus doesn’t need tools to fix things. The Bible makes that abundantly clear. He’s God, so he can do what he wants and can fix every problem without lifting a finger or batting an eye. But here’s the thing: often, Jesus uses tools to accomplish his saving will. We see that truth plainly illustrated in John, chapter nine. When Jesus encountered a man born blind, he could have given him sight without saying a word or moving a muscle. But he didn’t. Instead, “he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes.” Then he said, “Go, wash in the Pool of Siloam.” What happened? John tells us that “the man went and washed, and came home seeing.” In other words, Jesus used tools—spit, mud, words, and washing—to accomplish the glorious task of giving sight to the blind. And he does the same for us! No, Jesus may never need to give or restore our physical sight to us. But he longs to bless us with the spiritual sight of saving faith and to sharpen it daily. But he doesn’t do either of those things without using tools. Instead, he uses the water of Holy Baptism and the wheat and wine of Holy Communion, combined with his powerful Word, to create and sustain faith in his people. He could have decided to do it differently, but he doesn't. He uses tools. Which means what? That he would have us use those same tools. Through them alone, Jesus gives saving sight to the blind! Prayer: Jesus, inspire me to use your Word and sacraments faithfully and to share your saving Word with others. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260313dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion They said, “Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?” The LORD answered Moses, “Go out in front of the people . . . I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink.” Exodus 17:3,5-6 Water from a Rock If you grew up in a home like mine and you complained about your food, you heard your parents say something like this: “There are starving children in Africa who would love to have that food.” Whether the reasoning was sound, the point was that we should be thankful for what we had instead of complaining. The temptation to be dissatisfied with what we have has plagued humanity for almost as long as this world has existed. But what if it is a basic need that seems to be missing? The nation of Israel was in the wilderness. No running water. No cool springs, pools, or streams to draw water from. We can live without food, but water is essential. Didn't God care enough to provide? But God wasn’t ignoring their need. With a miracle, he would show that he was the one who provided for them. He told Moses to strike a rock with his staff, and water flowed out of that rock for them to drink. How patient God was with them. How patient God is with us. We grumble and complain; yet he patiently continues to provide just what we need every day. The greatest gift he provides is another Rock. The Bible later comments on this time period and says, “They all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ” (1 Corinthians 10:3-4). Jesus was always with them, and he is always with us, too. In his word of grace, he gives us the essential water for our spiritual lives. Through that living water that flows from Jesus, we are rescued from the wilderness we deserve because of our sins. And we are kept alive to dwell with our God, whose patient love for us always provides everything we need and more! Thanks be to God! Prayer: Jesus, forgive my grumbling and lack of trust. Pour out your living and life-giving water to quench my thirsty soul. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260313dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion They said, “Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?” The LORD answered Moses, “Go out in front of the people . . . I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink.” Exodus 17:3,5-6 Water from a Rock If you grew up in a home like mine and you complained about your food, you heard your parents say something like this: “There are starving children in Africa who would love to have that food.” Whether the reasoning was sound, the point was that we should be thankful for what we had instead of complaining. The temptation to be dissatisfied with what we have has plagued humanity for almost as long as this world has existed. But what if it is a basic need that seems to be missing? The nation of Israel was in the wilderness. No running water. No cool springs, pools, or streams to draw water from. We can live without food, but water is essential. Didn't God care enough to provide? But God wasn’t ignoring their need. With a miracle, he would show that he was the one who provided for them. He told Moses to strike a rock with his staff, and water flowed out of that rock for them to drink. How patient God was with them. How patient God is with us. We grumble and complain; yet he patiently continues to provide just what we need every day. The greatest gift he provides is another Rock. The Bible later comments on this time period and says, “They all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ” (1 Corinthians 10:3-4). Jesus was always with them, and he is always with us, too. In his word of grace, he gives us the essential water for our spiritual lives. Through that living water that flows from Jesus, we are rescued from the wilderness we deserve because of our sins. And we are kept alive to dwell with our God, whose patient love for us always provides everything we need and more! Thanks be to God! Prayer: Jesus, forgive my grumbling and lack of trust. Pour out your living and life-giving water to quench my thirsty soul. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260310dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” John 4:17-18 Dehydration Jesus met a woman at a well outside of her village one day. They started talking, and before long, her whole life was out in the open. He knew all about her. She couldn’t pretend to be someone she wasn’t. Her past sins and her current sinful living arrangement were no longer secrets. She had made excuses and rationalized her behavior in the past. However, that didn’t bring any real relief to the condition of her soul. What Jesus said revealed that she was spiritually dehydrated. What Jesus said revealed how desperately she needed living water. What proof of spiritual dehydration would Jesus point out in your life? What sins for which you’ve made excuses? What sins did you hope were hidden or forgotten? Would he mention a disregard for marriage in the way you live each day? Would he point to choices about how you spend your time or money that don’t put God first? Would he ask questions that reveal grudges you don’t want to let go of or anger that you let fester in your heart? Would he uncover lies you have told or hurtful things you have said? In his Word, Jesus uses the commands of the law to awaken in us a spiritual thirst that no amount of effort or excuses can satisfy. He shows us that what naturally wells up in us is filthy sludge that can only lead to death and not the pure, clean water that leads to eternal life. Jesus himself is the pure living water we need. He entered the wasteland of our world and found spiritual refreshment every day in God’s Word. Then he hung on a cross, thirsty not just from the physical toll of crucifixion but from the spiritual dehydration of our sins that he took as his own. Now he refreshes us with the promise that our sins are forgiven. Our guilt is gone. He revives us with his mercy. Through his death and resurrection, he gives us new life that will never end. Prayer: Jesus, give me living water every day in the promise of your forgiveness. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260301dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion [Jesus said] “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” John 3:14 A Sure Cure Bronze has been known to cure snake bites. At least it did in 1500 B.C. God’s people figured their God was taking longer than he should to get them from Egypt to the Promised Land. So, they complained about his leadership, just like they had been complaining for the last forty years. This time, God allowed them to experience a little bit of life without him. Immediately poisonous snakes in the wilderness started to bite people, and many died. The people were sorry for their sinful disobedience against God and pleaded for the snakes to be taken away. God directed Moses to make a snake out of bronze and hang it on a pole. God promised, “Anyone who is bitten can look at it and live” (Numbers 21:8). It seemed ridiculous, but it worked. Snake-bitten people who looked at the bronze snake did not die. How could bronze be an antidote for venom? God's promise made that piece of bronze cure a snake bite. We have our own “snake bites.” We lose our temper and hurt the people we love. We trade news about people we know—news that wounds reputations. Make no mistake—these “snake bites” are more deadly than those snakes in the wilderness. Our sinful disobedience leads to eternal death in hell. Our heavenly Father gives us a stronger cure than bronze. He put his Son on a pole—a cross. God promises that his death takes away the poison of sin. By looking at Jesus and believing in him, we will not die but live forever in heaven. Jesus, the Son of Man, was lifted up on a cross. Because of him, your sins are forgiven. Because of him, you have life with God—now and forever! Prayer: Jesus, thank you for being the sure cure for my sins. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.