Today's Verse - Philippians 1:19

...I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.

—Philippians 1:19

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Paul is possibly facing death in a Roman prison. By faith, however, he knows that his life and future are securely in the LORD's hands. The Holy Spirit will empower him to be what he needs to be in the face of persecution, hardship, and even martyrdom. The Spirit will also work all things together for his ultimate deliverance (Romans 8:28). He will be delivered from prison and death to serve others or delivered through prison and death into the presence of the LORD he loves. Either way, he awaits and expects deliverance! Why? Because his life and future are secure in Jesus (Colossians 3:1-4).

My Prayer...

O LORD, God Almighty, please give me the courage to never waver in my confidence in your deliverance. In addition, dear Father, I have several beloved friends who are fighting for their lives with physical problems. Please bless them with your deliverance, whether through your healing that restores them to full health or through your grace that ensures their future with you as they pass from this life into the presence of Jesus (Philippians 1:19-24). Either way, Father, I am confident you will deliver them through your triumphant Son, Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.

Today's Verse - Proverbs 10:29

The way of the LORD is a refuge for the righteous, but it is the ruin of those who do evil.

—Proverbs 10:29

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Answer honestly! What is your source of security, hope, and protection? The way of the LORD is a refuge, a strength, and a place of security! Let's make sure we live our lives knowing that God's commands and demands for our righteousness are for our protection as well as his glory. Let's use obedience to God as our refuge and recognize that to ignore the call and word of the LORD is to invite ruin.

My Prayer...

Please, dear LORD, use the Holy Spirit to help me more perfectly find your will and have the courage to build my life around it. I don't want to follow false voices, nor do I want to be tempted away from your truth and righteousness. May your will not only be my delight, but also my refuge. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Today's Verse - Proverbs 3:1-2

My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity.

—Proverbs 3:1-2

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Those who are older are not as respected in Western cultures today as they once were, or as the elders are in some other cultures. The Bible repeatedly reminds us of our NEED to honor those who are godly and who have gone before us. Whether the father behind this passage is the physical father of the person receiving the instruction or he was the teacher of this student seeking wisdom, either way, the principle is the same. We have much to learn and much to gain from heeding the voices of those who have served God for many years through many trials and opportunities, and have proven themselves wise and faithful.

Video Commentary...

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My Prayer...

Loving God and Almighty Father, thank you for those wise people in my life who have shared your wisdom and their experience with me. Please help them know how much I appreciate their investment of love and guidance in me, and please use me to do the same for those who come after me. In Jesus' name, I pray, and I especially thank you for those who have shared their wisdom with me. Amen.