Today's Verse - 1 John 4:4

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

—1 John 4:4

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

The world can often be a hostile place for believers. God wants us, his spiritual children, to know they are never alone. God lives in us through his Spirit. We can be assured, therefore, that no matter what spirit someone else may have, the Holy Spirit of God is greater, more powerful, and more glorious. The victory is ours because God's presence in us is greater than any force we will ever face. Our victory is assured over all forces, powers, spirits, and opponents. This is a key promise made to us in our baptism because we share with Jesus in death, burial, and resurrection, which means we share in his victory over sin, death, evil, and hell (Colossians 2:12-15; 3:1-4). Yes, the one who is in us is greater than the one who is in the world!

Video Commentary...

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My Prayer...

Dear Father, please give me the confidence, boldness, and conviction of your promises. I want to live boldly for your glory and according to your will. Thank you for assuring me of your victory by allowing me to participate in Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection and assuring me of my participation in his glory. Thank you for empowering me to have this victorious life through your Spirit, who lives within me. To you belong all glory, majesty, and praise. In Jesus' name. Amen.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

Today's Verse - Isaiah 41:13

For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.

—Isaiah 41:13

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Life crashes in, and we wish we could be children again. Then, maybe, we would have someone to take care of us and protect us from our uncertainties and fears — let us hold their hand and lead us through the mess. Into our confused and chaotic world, God's faithfulness comes to us as a promise. Like a loving parent with a frightened child, God reaches down and takes hold of our hand spiritually. He comforts us with his precious words, "Don't be afraid. I'm here with you. I will help." Even when the LORD may seem distant, the echo of this promise can remind us that we are never alone or forgotten (Hebrews 13:5-6; Romans 8:32-39).

My Prayer...

Abba Father, whose presence and help are always near, please help me have faith that you are there. I believe in this, but at times, dear LORD, I need your help to overcome my doubts and fears. I confess that you have seemed distant at difficult times, and I have felt alone. Please remind me through your Spirit of your nearness and your care. In my moments of struggle and doubt, please make your presence known. I believe, but please help my unbelief.* In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

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* The cry of a father to Jesus as the man struggles to believe Jesus can heal his tormented son — Mark 9:24.All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

Today's Verse - Isaiah 41:10-11

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish.

—Isaiah 41:10-11

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Not only does God's blessing rest on us, but his presence also goes with us. We can never be in a place where he is not with us (Psalms 139:1-24). His presence and power will uphold us and strengthen us. No matter what may happen in our physical bodies or with our physical worlds, God has given us the ultimate triumph over every enemy and all wickedness in Jesus. Even Jesus' doubters and enemies will worship our LORD, kneel at his feet, and recognize that our faith is not only appropriate but it is also victorious (1 Thessalonians 1:1-10, Philippians 2:9-11). Hallelujah!

My Prayer...

Thank you, dear Father! You are not only the God of the heavens but also the God of my heart. You know me inside and out as you care for me through every step I take. You hear my cries for help and mercy. You share my struggles and burdens. You hear my thoughts, songs, and shouts of praise. Please deliver me from every physical and spiritual enemy and give me the boldness to stand firm in my faith in you. In Jesus' name, I ask this. Amen.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.