Today's Verse - Matthew 5:16

In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

—Matthew 5:16

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

As Christians, we are not called to isolate ourselves from culture. We are not called to be hermits detached from the lost world around us. Instead, we are to recognize that we are in this world of darkness to live as light — not as little candles tucked away in some inner bedroom, but as bright lights set on their stands so all can see their light. As Jesus' disciples, we are called to be a city on a hill whose lights can't be hidden. Of course, our goal is not to call attention to ourselves but to help others see the glorious grace of our Father so they will come to Jesus, who is the one, true Light of the World!

My Prayer...

Dear Heavenly Father, may my life bless others so they can see you and your love more clearly. In Jesus' name, I pray. 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 - Ephesians 5:15

Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.

—Ephesians 5:15

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Living with urgency doesn't mean living recklessly. It means living with holy abandon to honor God and with a holy passion to make each moment count for righteousness while knowing that we are at war against the evil powers (Ephesians 6:10-12). That means we must be intentional about our choices, taking care to use our moments wisely as we live a life of character, yielded to God, and different from the world around us because we are servants to Jesus.

My Prayer...

Fill me with wisdom, O God, that I may honor you with my choices and use of time each day. Protect me from the deceptive influences of the evil one, and grant me a holy and productive use of the time you bless me with each day. In the name of Jesus, my LORD, I pray. 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 - Amos 5:14

Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the LORD God Almighty will be with you, just as you say he is.

—Amos 5:14

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Many illicit and evil groups claim to have God on their side. Horrific things have been done under the disguise of a "Christian" movement. Jesus, however, told us we could recognize people by their fruit. Those who seek good and abhor evil, live with righteous character, and practice faithful love, justice, and mercy are the ones who have God with them. Let's make sure the visible holy qualities of God in us match our claim that God's presence and approval are in our lives!

My Prayer...

Thank you for your presence in my life, Almighty God and loving Father. Please forgive me for the times when I let sin and selfishness crowd you and your character out of my life and bring reproach to your name. Empower me with your Holy Spirit to live as your holy child while displaying your righteous character to the world. In Jesus' name, I ask and yearn to more perfectly reflect your righteous character, gracious compassion, faithful justice, and tender mercy. 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.