The Daily Devo by Vince Miller

Do you need provision from God in a present trial? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. We are in a new series on 1 Samuel and have just begun chapter one. The first chapter's theme is the six people who influenced Samuel's life: Elkanah, Peninnah, and today, Hannah. We are jumping down to verses 9-11. Hannah has slipped away from the family while in Shiloh and is headed to the Tabernacle by herself to pray. The text reads: After they had eaten and drunk in Shiloh, Hannah rose. Now Eli the priest was sitting on the seat beside the doorpost of the temple of the Lord. She was deeply distressed and prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly. And she vowed a vow and said, “O Lord of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your servant and remember me and not forget your servant, but will give to your servant a son, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life, and no razor shall touch his head.” — 1 Samuel 1:9-11 Two things about Hannah stand out to me: her character and her commitment. Character First, Hannah has remarkable character. This account presents her as a humble wife, mother, and follower who is faithful from beginning to end. She is faithful through emotional distress, doubt, and mistreatment. She never gives up on what she believes God can do in her baren situation. She is inspirational because many people would have given up on God by now. Even Sarah gave up. She laughed at God. But not Hannah. She makes another trip to the Tabernacle year after year, even though Peninnah disdains her and Eli degrades her. Some believers are not properly prepared for this part of the spiritual journey—the long waits. We wrongly believe that the spiritual life should be easy and we should get quick answers from God. But this is not how it always works. Sometimes, it comes with long waits. In these times, what is required is faithfulness. That is how Hannah models faithfulness in a very long period of distress. Commitment Second, notice Hannah's commitment to God in her vow. This is a great vow, and I will show you why. But first, let's make sure we understand what a vow is. In the Old Testament, a vow was a solemn promise made to God. It was made on three occasions: in response to a blessing received by God, in a desperate situation calling on God, or in an act of devotion to God. When we think about vows today, we typically think about marital vows, which don't have the same weight they used to because we have subtracted God from them. Vows were made to God. They were taken very seriously and permanently binding as a vow to God should be. When God makes a vow to man, he makes good on it, and when we make a vow to God, we should make good on it. There were a few examples of these in the Old Testament: Nazirite Vow: The Nazirite vow is described in Numbers 6:1-21. It involved a period of consecration during which an individual abstained from alcohol, avoided contact with the dead, and refrained from cutting their hair. This vow was often taken for a specific period as an expression of dedication and devotion to God. This vow appears a little later in this chapter. Jacob's Vow: After Jacob has a vision of a ladder reaching to heaven at Bethel (Genesis 28:10-22), he makes a vow to God, promising to give a tenth of all he receives and to worship God faithfully if God will be with him, protect him, and provide for his needs. Jephthah's Vow: Jephthah, a judge of Israel, makes an infamous vow to God (Judges 11:30-31), promising to sacrifice the first thing that comes out of his house if God grants him victory in battle. Unfortunately, he does win, and the first thing he sees exiting his home when he returns is his daughter, his only child. Hannah's Vow: In this text. Here's what I love about Hannah's vow. It is potent. It is the promise to give to God what Hannah has longed for her whole life. It is what is most precious to her that she doesn't presently have. Hannah vows to give up to God, the one thing she has always wanted. But she's not just giving up a child. She is agreeing to give up raising him. She is giving up her family continuity. She is giving her unconceived son to the Lord for a lifetime. That is a big deal. This is a potent vow, and she makes good on it. If you are paying attention to what I said, this sounds like God's covenant promise to Abraham in the divine son that was to come—his Son, Jesus. At least I hear echoes in her vow to God with God's vow to us. Then this happens: Then Eli answered, “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.” And she said, “Let your servant find favor in your eyes.” Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad. They rose early in the morning and worshiped before the Lord; then they went back to their house at Ramah. And Elkanah knew Hannah his wife, and the Lord remembered her. And in due time Hannah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Samuel, for she said, “I have asked for him from the Lord.” — 1 Samuel 1:17-20 I love this phrase: "And her face was no longer sad." Because you see, Hannah knows! She knows what's about to happen before she leaves the Tabernacle grounds. She knows that God is going to provide. Then she goes home and "knows" her husband, and soon after comes Samuel, her only son, whom she "asked for from the Lord." What makes this story incredible is how the long test and extended trial prove Hannah's character and reveal her commitment. Of course, God's provision in the end is awesome, but together, this makes for an amazing story even before we see all that this child Samuel is going to do. What you and I tend to want is God's provision. But we want his provision quick and easy. We want it without the test and the trials, which do nothing to give us the character and commitment we need to handle the provision that he wants to give. So consider this question today: What's your test or trial? Then, after you identify that trial, ask yourself: What character and commitment does God want for me? Then, finally, bring that character and commitment to God, and you will know the God that Hannah knew at that moment. Then go in peace and know the joy of the Lord today. #TrustInGod #FaithfulInTrials #PrayerfulPersistence ASK THIS: How can you emulate Hannah's unwavering faithfulness and commitment in your own life, especially during times of waiting and uncertainty? Reflecting on Hannah's story, what areas of your life require a deeper level of trust in God's provision, and how can you cultivate that trust through prayer and perseverance? DO THIS: Build your character and commitment in the trial. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to trust in Your provision and remain faithful in the midst of trials, just as Hannah did. Strengthen my character and commitment as I wait upon You, knowing that Your timing is perfect and Your promises are true. Amen. PLAY THIS: Whatever Your Plan Is.

Do you feel small, like a nobody from nowhere? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. We are in a brand new series on 1 Samuel. As I mentioned yesterday, we will do an overview of the chapter on Mondays and then, for the following six days, a closer look at that chapter. The theme we are looking at in chapter one is the six people who influenced Samuel's life. The first of these is Elkanah, his father. What's interesting about Elkanah is that he is a nobody from nowhere. We know little about him and his father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather, all named in the text. Here are verses 1-3. There was a certain man of Ramathaim-zophim of the hill country of Ephraim whose name was Elkanah the son of Jeroham, son of Elihu, son of Tohu, son of Zuph, an Ephrathite. He had two wives. The name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other, Peninnah. And Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children. Now this man used to go up year by year from his city to worship and to sacrifice to the Lord of hosts at Shiloh. — 1 Samuel 1:1-3 What does stand out when we read this text is that Elkanah had two wives. This is such a glaring observation that we should probably address it. Many of you know he's not the only man in the Bible who had more than one wife. Several prominent men in the Old Testament, like Abraham, Jacob, David, Solomon, and others, had more than one wife. There were about three reasons for this: The first apparent reason is personal pleasure and power. Such was the case with Solomon and his over 700 concubines. Second, it's worth noting that in patriarchal societies, unmarried women faced significant challenges in providing for themselves. They were often uneducated and untrained and relied heavily on male family members like fathers, brothers, or husbands for support and protection. Unfortunately, when this was absent, it led to desperate measures, like turning to prostitution or slavery. Therefore, sometimes marriage was a way to rescue a woman, another reason some men had multiple wives. The third reason is the instance here. Elkanah and his first wife, Hannah, were unable to conceive. Therefore, they probably agreed to take another wife (which should sound familiar because Abraham and Sarah did the same thing). Thus, Elkanah took another wife for reasons of family continuity. What is interesting about polygamy is that the Bible does not expressly condemn it. But fellas, before you get any crazy ideas, the Bible is very clear about the prescription of a godly marital relationship: one man with one woman (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:4-6). Like Abraham and Sarah, Elkanah and Hannah inherited problems that stemmed from their lack of faith. That's the bottom line of this situation. They lacked faith in believing God would provide, so they provided for themselves, which is what we do sometimes. When we don't have faith trusting God to provide, we try to provide for ourselves. And when we provide for ourselves, we incur the problems of providing for ourselves and not letting God provide. As we will see further down in chapter one, they incurred family tension, sexual insecurities, competition, contention, and shame. With this in mind, I would like to point out one tiny detail about Elkanah worth our attention: He is an Ephrathite. This area was later known as Bethlehem and became the birthplace of two other great men. This means the Prophet Samuel, King David, and the Messiah were all born in the same tiny, seemingly insignificant town and were great men in the great story of God. I love it when God does stuff like this. I would not put it past God for all three men to be born in the same location. Believers too often fail to see the opportunity for greatness in the small events of our lives. I know I do. With small seeds of faith in insignificant places and from apparent unimportant people, God can produce incredible things. So, if you feel insignificant, inconsequential, like you are standing at an impasse, instead of taking matters into your hands, hold on in faith. Cast your concerns to God. He sees things you do not. Trust in him. Don't get in his way. Great things are birthed in small seeds of faith. God, we bring our small seeds of faith to you today. We confess that, at times, we act like Elkanah, taking matters into our own hands. We recognize that your divine sight sees things that we cannot. Instead of doing things our way today, we are choosing to do them your way—by faith. Strengthen our faith and show us your ways. Do great things with us and through us. Amen. #FaithInSmallBeginnings #TrustGodsTiming #FindingPurpose ASK THIS: How can Elkanah's story inspire us to trust God's timing and provision in our own lives, especially when faced with challenges or uncertainties? In what areas of our lives do we tend to take matters into our own hands, like Elkanah did, instead of relying on God's guidance and provision? How can we surrender those areas to God and walk in faith instead of self-reliance? DO THIS: Pray for faith this week. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me trust in Your timing and provision, even when I feel insignificant or lost. Guide me to surrender my doubts and fears to You, believing that great things can be birthed from small seeds of faith. Amen. PLAY THIS: Give Me Faith.

Is there a rivalry holding you back? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. We are in a brand new series on 1 Samuel, and we have just begun chapter one. The theme of the first chapter is the six people who influenced Samuel's life. The first is Elkanah, Samuel's father. The second is Peninnah, Samuel's second wife. Before we read the text, let's set the stage for Peninnah. We know little about her, but her actions in verses 4-8 reveal a lot about her character and the dynamics of her relationship with Hannah. On the day when Elkanah sacrificed, he would give portions to Peninnah his wife and to all her sons and daughters. But to Hannah he gave a double portion, because he loved her, though the Lord had closed her womb. And her rival used to provoke her grievously to irritate her, because the Lord had closed her womb. So it went on year by year. As often as she went up to the house of the Lord, she used to provoke her. Therefore Hannah wept and would not eat. And Elkanah, her husband, said to her, “Hannah, why do you weep? And why do you not eat? And why is your heart sad? Am I not more to you than ten sons?” — 1 Samuel 1:4-8 For context, it's crucial to note that during Elkanah's time, the place of sacrifice was in Shiloh, about fifteen miles north of their town. This was where the Tabernacle resided, as the Temple had not yet been constructed. This detail indicates Elkanah's devoutness, faithfully adhering to the command to go up to the Tabernacle for annual sacrifices. However, it's evident from the text that Elkanah shows favoritism toward Hannah over Peninnah. He seems unaware of the impact this has on their relationship, which is characteristic of many men. Sometimes, God-fearing men make decisions without considering their long-term effects. While Elkanah and Hannah likely decided together to find a concubine to bear children, they were evidently unprepared for the relational, emotional, and spiritual repercussions. One consequence is the escalating tension between the two wives, a complication of polygamy, with Peninnah becoming a rival, as the text describes. What strikes me about Peninnah's character is her propensity to provoke Hannah. She is mean-spirited, likely fueled by jealousy over Elkanah's greater love for Hannah. When love is unevenly distributed, it breeds contention and competition, leading to the kind of rivalry Peninnah incites. This contention escalated over time, taking an emotional and psychological toll on Hannah, evident in her bitter weeping and loss of appetite. It's intriguing how sin operates. When we act outside of God's will, sin's effects are insidious and far-reaching. One sinful act in a marriage can permeate every aspect of life, breeding bitterness, anger, regret, and sadness. And when someone in a marriage, like Peninnah, knows how to stoke that flame, it can rage into a consuming fire within us. If you are married and you feel this contention, don't add to it. What we need in marriage is not more rivalry and provoking. What Christian marriages need is more grace because we are both sinners who act sinfully and whose sin has a long-lasting effect. But back to the big picture. Samuel's family wasn't perfect. His father's sin led to a jealous wife who sowed rivalry within the family. Yet, despite this, God performed miracles, setting the stage for the birth of a new legacy. He opened Hannah's womb and gave them a biological child. Not just any child, but one of Israel's greatest prophets and judges. Maybe today, it's time for you to pray for the beginning of a new legacy—one beyond sin, rivalry, provoking, shame, and sadness. If so, come to the Temple, return to God, bring the sacrifice to him, and ask him to provide. Lord, we come before you, bringing all that we are—our sin and shame, our past, present, and future. We lay it all down at your feet. We humbly ask for your provision, knowing that we are unable to provide for ourselves. Amen. #InfluencesOfFaith #FamilyDynamics #GraceOverRivalry ASK THIS: Reflecting on the dynamics between Elkanah, Hannah, and Peninnah, how can we ensure that favoritism or comparison doesn't hinder our relationships with others, especially within our families? Considering the consequences of sin and rivalry within Samuel's family, what steps can we take to cultivate an atmosphere of grace and forgiveness in our own relationships, particularly in moments of tension or conflict? DO THIS: Mend any strained relationships. PRAY THIS: Lord, as I lay before you all that I am—my flaws, my struggles, and my hopes—I humbly ask for your guidance and grace to navigate the complexities of relationships with humility, forgiveness, and love. Amen. PLAY THIS: Lay It Down.

Who are the people who have undeniably influenced your life? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. We are in a brand new series on 1 Samuel. As this is a rich and expansive story, I will provide a birds-eye view of the chapter each Monday, followed by six devotionals from that chapter for the next 31 weeks. This will allow us to explore the larger story at the beginning of the week and the smaller details for the remainder of the week. 1 Samuel is divided into three major parts that discuss three important men: Part One: The Story of Samuel (1 Samuel 1-8) Part Two: The Story of Saul (1 Samuel 9-14) Part Three: The Story of Saul and David (1 Samuel 15-31) But we begin in chapter one, and here are the first few verses: There was a certain man of Ramathaim-zophim of the hill country of Ephraim whose name was Elkanah the son of Jeroham, son of Elihu, son of Tohu, son of Zuph, an Ephrathite. He had two wives. The name of the one was Hannah, and the other was Peninnah. And Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children. — 1 Samuel 1:1-2 The story begins with Samuel's father and the events surrounding Samuel's birth. In chapter one, we read about six different people—six men and women with undeniable influence. Over the next few days, we explore the lives of these characters, each with a unique story and impact. For some, it was a positive and spiritual influence, and for others, not so much. Stay tuned as we uncover and discover their roles in this story. As I have already hinted, this book predominantly tells the story of Samuel, a man with incredible spiritual influence. But here's the immediate backdrop. It's about 1050 B.C. Leadership was a burning issue in the minds of the people of Israel. For over 200 years after entering the promised land, Israel went through intense social turmoil, bordering on chaos, a little like the social turmoil we are experiencing in our country today but far worse. Joshua was the man who led them from the Desert to the Promised Land, but as we learn, people were not listening or following God because spiritual drift does not take long. Just before 1 Samuel, we discover a sobering observation at the end of the Book of Judges: In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.—Judges 21:25. Israel was in the middle of a profound leadership crisis. But right on time, Samuel was born and emerged as one of the greatest Judges and Prophets in the history of Israel who would transition the nation from a Theocracy to a Monarchy led by three subsequent kings: Saul, David, and Solomon. Samuel would indeed be one of the great influencers in all of the Old Testament, but in chapter one, there are people who influenced him even before he was born. These people played a role in this story and had an influence, good or bad, on the events of his early life. We will look in detail at these people. But again let me ask that question, that I asked at the start: Who are the people who have undeniably influenced your life? There are people influencing you. Some positive and others negative. Their character, their attitudes, their lifestyles, their proximity, their choices, and their faith have an impact on you. So, who are you spending time with? At the same time, we are all leaders in some capacity, and we influence others. So the other side of this question is, how are you influencing the people around you? Does your character, attitude, lifestyle, proximity, choices, and faith positively impact those around you? As we read chapter one over the next week, I encourage you to take a personal assessment of those influencing you and the influence you have, and let's see what we learn and discover together from 1 Samuel 1. #InfluentialEncounters #ImpactfulConnections #UndeniableInfluences ASK THIS: Reflect on the positive influences in your life. How can you express gratitude to those who have shaped you for the better? Consider the negative influences you've encountered. What steps can you take to minimize their impact and surround yourself with more positive influences? DO THIS: Reflect on influence this week. PRAY THIS: Lord, thank you for the people you've placed in my life, both those who inspire me and those who challenge me. Help me to discern their influence wisely and to be a positive force in the lives of others. Amen. PLAY THIS: Jehovah.

Happy Mother's Day! And in due time Hannah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Samuel, for she said, “I have asked for him from the Lord.” — 1 Samuel 1:20 Today, we begin a new book of the bible, and it's fitting that today is Mother’s Day because 1 Samuel begins with a humble and obedient mother. Her name is Hannah. Hannah is one of two wives married to a man named Elkanah, and why a man would want two wives perplexes me. But anyhow, this man has two. Their names are Peninnah and Hannah. As we read chapter one, we discover that Peninnah had children, but Hannah had none. For this, Peninnah would relentlessly ridicule Hannah, which was mean and vicious and just one of many issues with having two wives (1 Samuel 1:6). Of course, this troubled Hannah to the point of emotional distress and loss of appetite (1 Samuel 1:7). Until finally, we discover that Hannah is pushed to her limits. She is at the Temple of the Lord by herself, weeping bitterly and praying in her distress (1 Samuel 1:10). As this is happening, insult is added to injury by a priest with absolutely no emotional intelligence that berates her, his name is Eli (1 Samuel 1:14). She begs him not to dismiss her. Then he offers Hannah this blessing in verse 17: Then Eli answered, “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.” — 1 Samuel 1:17 Of course, in time, she gave birth to a son—but not just any son—Samuel. Samuel was a prominent Old Testament leader known for his dual roles as a prophet and judge. He was dedicated to God's service from a young age. As a prophet, he played a crucial role in spiritually guiding the nation of Israel. He also anointed the first two kings in the monarchy, Saul and David. But Samuel also served as a judge, settling disputes and leading the nation in crisis. His influence was longstanding and profound because he bridged the transition from the period of the Judges to the period of the Kings. Samuel's integrity, wisdom, and devotion to God left a lasting legacy, shaping Israel's history and demonstrating the importance of faithfulness and obedience in leadership. But note the seed through which his massive influence was born. It was through a humble and obedient mother who endured ridicule, who suffered heartbreak, and who prayed earnestly and faithfully to God. So today, let’s celebrate mothers, the women of faith who inspire us to trust in God’s promises and obey his will. Happy Mother’s Day! #MothersDay #FaithfulMotherhood #HannahAndSamuel ASK THIS: Reflecting on Hannah's perseverance through ridicule and heartbreak, how can we apply her example of unwavering faith and persistence in our own challenges? Considering Samuel's influential role in Israel's history, how does his story inspire us to recognize the profound impact of godly motherhood in shaping future generations? How can we honor and support the mothers in our lives today? DO THIS: Celebrate and thank a faithful mother. PRAY THIS: Father, on this Mother's Day, I thank You for Hannah's steadfast faith and Samuel's impactful legacy. They remind us of the power of prayer and the influence of godly women. Bless all mothers today, and may they seek to be faithful to you just as Hannah was. Amen. PLAY THIS: A Mother Like You.

Happy Mother's Day! And in due time Hannah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Samuel, for she said, “I have asked for him from the Lord.” — 1 Samuel 1:20 Today, we begin a new book of the bible, and it's fitting that today is Mother’s Day because 1 Samuel begins with a humble and obedient mother. Her name is Hannah. Hannah is one of two wives married to a man named Elkanah, and why a man would want two wives perplexes me. But anyhow, this man has two. Their names are Peninnah and Hannah. As we read chapter one, we discover that Peninnah had children, but Hannah had none. For this, Peninnah would relentlessly ridicule Hannah, which was mean and vicious and just one of many issues with having two wives (1 Samuel 1:6). Of course, this troubled Hannah to the point of emotional distress and loss of appetite (1 Samuel 1:7). Until finally, we discover that Hannah is pushed to her limits. She is at the Temple of the Lord by herself, weeping bitterly and praying in her distress (1 Samuel 1:10). As this is happening, insult is added to injury by a priest with absolutely no emotional intelligence that berates her, his name is Eli (1 Samuel 1:14). She begs him not to dismiss her. Then he offers Hannah this blessing in verse 17: Then Eli answered, “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.” — 1 Samuel 1:17 Of course, in time, she gave birth to a son—but not just any son—Samuel. Samuel was a prominent Old Testament leader known for his dual roles as a prophet and judge. He was dedicated to God's service from a young age. As a prophet, he played a crucial role in spiritually guiding the nation of Israel. He also anointed the first two kings in the monarchy, Saul and David. But Samuel also served as a judge, settling disputes and leading the nation in crisis. His influence was longstanding and profound because he bridged the transition from the period of the Judges to the period of the Kings. Samuel's integrity, wisdom, and devotion to God left a lasting legacy, shaping Israel's history and demonstrating the importance of faithfulness and obedience in leadership. But note the seed through which his massive influence was born. It was through a humble and obedient mother who endured ridicule, who suffered heartbreak, and who prayed earnestly and faithfully to God. So today, let’s celebrate mothers, the women of faith who inspire us to trust in God’s promises and obey his will. Happy Mother’s Day! #MothersDay #FaithfulMotherhood #HannahAndSamuel ASK THIS: Reflecting on Hannah's perseverance through ridicule and heartbreak, how can we apply her example of unwavering faith and persistence in our own challenges? Considering Samuel's influential role in Israel's history, how does his story inspire us to recognize the profound impact of godly motherhood in shaping future generations? How can we honor and support the mothers in our lives today? DO THIS: Celebrate and thank a faithful mother. PRAY THIS: Father, on this Mother's Day, I thank You for Hannah's steadfast faith and Samuel's impactful legacy. They remind us of the power of prayer and the influence of godly women. Bless all mothers today, and may they seek to be faithful to you just as Hannah was. Amen. PLAY THIS: A Mother Like You.

Are you tired of all the pointless drama? We begin 1 Samuel tomorrow, so get your 1 Samuel Scripture Journal from the website so you can follow along. From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen. — Galatians 6:16-17 I love the allusion in the closing text. If I were to put this text in my own words, Paul is saying: If you want to see and know the marks of Jesus, let me take off my shirt for you. Five times, I have been beaten with 39 lashes. I have been shipwrecked. I have been stoned and left for dead. Your pointless ritual of cutting off a tiny piece of your foreskin does nothing for you. Instead, try enduring a beating for sharing the Gospel, and then you will know the Gospel. So stop bothering me with these petty issues and join me in real suffering by proclaiming the Gospel just as it is. For the Gospel has all the grace you need to endure every issue in this life. Church, I have loved reading this letter with you. But never forget Paul's point. Adding anything to the Gospel makes it no Gospel at all. Salvation is by faith alone, not by works so that no man can boast except in Christ Jesus alone. #DramaFreeLiving #GraceInSuffering #GospelCenteredLife ASK THIS: How can we distinguish between the petty dramas of life and the enduring truths of the Gospel in our daily experiences? Reflecting on Paul's words, what steps can we take to prioritize proclaiming the Gospel above getting entangled in trivial matters, and how might this shift in focus transform our lives and relationships? DO THIS: Don't add anything to the Gospel. PRAY THIS: Father, help me discern what truly matters amidst life's distractions, and empower me to boldly proclaim the Gospel with unwavering faith and grace-filled endurance. May Your Spirit guide me to live a life that reflects the marks of Jesus, bearing witness to Your transformative love in all I do. Amen. PLAY THIS: The Power of the Cross.

It's all for God. It's his mission, his people, and his glory, not yours. We are days away from beginning the book of 1 Samuel. So remember to visit our website and secure your copy of the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal. Pick it up so you're fully prepared to dive into this study. And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.— Galatians 6:16 As Paul closes this letter, he wants the Galatians to know that they don't get to have their way with God's story. It's God's story about Israel. They only get to tell the story as it is. While there are Judaizers who want to modify and adjust it to their liking, God does not like this. I have often repeated a maxim that echoes this idea. It goes like this: The church is God's people, on God's mission, for God's glory. I repeat this maxim to myself to remind myself, as a leader and other leaders, that God is the only leader. We are merely followers of God even though he might give us the task of shepherding a few sheep in our lifetime. But as Paul clarifies, this is the best way to walk. It's to walk by this rule because it is the only way to find the peace and mercy we want and need. Friend, this is the most peaceful way to live life. Let God be God. Live by his rules, and don't make up your own. Are you ready to submit to his rules again? God, we submit our lives to you today. We remember again that you are telling your story for your glory, not our own. Father, may we follow you all our days and walk in all your ways. Amen. #GodsMission #HisGlory #SurrenderToGod ASK THIS: How can you actively surrender your plans and desires to God today, trusting in His mission and His timing? In what areas of your life are you tempted to assert your own control instead of submitting to God's leadership? What steps can you take to align your priorities with His will? DO THIS: Proclaim it today: It's his mission, his people, and his glory, not yours. PRAY THIS: Father God, today I humbly submit my life to Your perfect plan, recognizing that Your mission and Your glory far surpass my own desires. Help me to walk in Your ways, finding peace and joy as I surrender to Your leadership and follow Your story for my life. Amen. PLAY THIS: Come and Rest.

Are you boasting about the wrong things? We are days away from beginning the book of 1 Samuel. So remember to visit our website and secure your copy of the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal. Pick it up so you're fully prepared to dive into this study. For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh.— Galatians 6:13 Paul is so familiar with twisted acts of legalism that he tells the Galatians (both Gentiles and Jews) how twisted the motives of legalism can be. Simply put, he says that some legalists will invade your churches and try to convince you to be obedient to the law, even though no one can be obedient to the law aside from Jesus, and then return to Jerusalem and boast about what they have done to you. This is insanity, but it's precisely what Paul says they will try to do, and he knows this is their motivation because he was a devout Jew before he became a follower of Jesus. But then he says this: But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. — Galatians 6:14-15 This is good, and here is why. What you boast about is what you care about. If you boast about the things of this world, then you care about the things of this world. But if you boast in the Lord, then you care about the things of the Lord. So let me give you a little life hack I have used to help retrain my mind, spirit, and soul. When people praise me for something I have done, I try to immediately deflect glory to God by responding with the phrase—"Praise The Lord!" Sometimes, at least in Christian circles, people dismiss this declaration as a little cliche. But for me, it is not. I use this statement to preach a truth to myself. You see, I need to be reminded that it is only by Jesus's redemption and salvation and the Spirit's gifts and power that I can do anything. So I proclaim this statement to preach this truth to myself when I am tempted to boast in myself. But by preaching this truth to myself, I am also preaching this truth to others that only the Lord is one that ever deserves praise. Thus, I am training myself while preaching to others, which is more than cliche; it's the truth. #BoastInTheCross #NewCreationInChrist #OvercomeLegalism ASK THIS: Reflect on a time when you were tempted to seek approval or boast about your achievements. How can you shift your focus to give glory to God in similar situations moving forward? Consider the phrase "Praise the Lord" as more than just a saying, but a declaration of where your worth lies. How can this practice help you and others focus more on God's work in your lives rather than personal accomplishments? DO THIS: Proclaim it today, "Praise the Lord!" PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to boast only in Your cross, recognizing that all my accomplishments are gifts from You. Teach me to redirect every praise back to You, grounding my identity and worth in Your gracious love. Amen. PLAY THIS: Praise.

Are you scared of the truth because you are trying to please people? We are days away from beginning the book of 1 Samuel. So remember to visit our website and secure your copy of the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal. Pick it up so you're fully prepared to dive into this study. It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh who would force you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. — Galatians 6:12 There are all kinds of reasons we do the things we do. Sometimes, the motive is clear, and other times, the motive is murky. Sometimes, we do it for the payoff, and sometimes, we do it to avoid the consequences. Either way, there is always a motive, regardless of how conscious we are of it. At the close of Galatians, Paul shines a bright light on the dark motives of the false teachers. Simply put, he points out that they were cowards. They were afraid of standing up for the Gospel truth, so they adjusted the truth to their liking. To avoid persecution by fellow Jews, they adapted the teaching to appease people who might be politically powerful and stand in opposition to the freedoms of the Gospel. Turn on the news, and you will see the exact same drama unfold today. Political parties are either motivated by personal payoffs or to avoid the consequences of political losses. Their motivations may appear a bit murky, but they are not. They either do it to secure their position or avoid losing it because their positions are the means of retaining power and money for themselves. But in Galatians, we are not talking about the government. Paul is addressing the church. This is the one place we assume our leader's motives will be truthful and righteous. It's the one place we hope will be free from impure motivation. Yet we learn that even spiritual leaders are not infallible. I am not, and neither is your pastor. At some point, even spiritual leaders become susceptible to fear—fear of loss, fear of opposition, or fear of standing up for the truth as it is written. There are certain texts of the Bible that I read that still disturb me. When I read them, they test me. This internal dialogue happens where, for a second, I think, "How should I say this? Should I say it stronger or softer? Is there a way to avoid this topic or the offense?" This still happens to me because the living Word always has something to say to our rapidly changing culture, and as a result, there is a strong temptation to adapt the Gospel to our liking to ensure we don't lose butts in the seats and bucks in our wallets. So today, the call of this text is for all of us to address our motivations. But I also would like to ask you to do something specific. Pray for me and all our pastors. Pray that our motivations as your spiritual leaders will always be pure and that the Gospel message will stand tall amidst the pressure to please people over preaching the Gospel truth. #FearOfTruth #GospelIntegrity #CourageousFaith ASK THIS: How can you discern whether your actions are motivated by a desire to please others or by a commitment to proclaiming the truth of the Gospel? What steps can you take to ensure that your motivations align with God's truth, even when faced with pressure to conform to societal expectations or avoid conflict? DO THIS: Test your motives and pray for your pastor's purity of motive. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me examine my motives honestly and courageously, choosing to stand firm in proclaiming Your truth even when faced with the temptation to please people. Guide me in aligning my heart with Your will so that Your Gospel may shine brightly through my words and actions. Amen. PLAY THIS: God Help Me.

There are some things you need to do yourself. We are days away from beginning the book of 1 Samuel. So remember to visit our website and secure your copy of the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal. Pick it up so you're fully prepared to dive into this study. See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. — Galatians 6:11 There is a lot of speculation about why Paul says this. The most likely explanation is that Paul had a secretary who wrote the letter for him as he dictated. Then, at the end of the dictation, he took the pen from the secretary and finished the letter himself so they knew it was authentic. So, what do you need to do today that must be authentically from you? Is there a task or issue that only you can do? Whatever that is, do it. But as you do it think about why only you can do it. Often, there is a divine reason. The reason could be as simple as there is something God wants to do in you as you do something for others. So take up your task and address that issue, but give care to how you do it because God is going to do something in you as do something for others. #AuthenticAction #DivineDesign #UniqueCalling ASK THIS: What tasks or responsibilities in your life do you often delegate or overlook because you think someone else could handle them better? How might embracing these tasks with authenticity lead to personal growth and deeper connection with God? Reflect on a recent situation where you felt hesitant or reluctant to take ownership of a task or issue. What insights did you gain from today's devotional about the importance of embracing tasks that are uniquely yours? How can you approach similar situations in the future with a greater sense of authenticity and purpose? DO THIS: Get it done and do it with care for His glory. PRAY THIS: Father, help me recognize the tasks that are uniquely mine and grant me the courage and wisdom to embrace them with authenticity, knowing that through them, You are shaping me into the person You created me to be. Guide my actions today, Lord, so that I may fulfill my purpose and grow closer to You in the process. Amen. PLAY THIS: Rapha.

Ever felt like giving up on doing good when the world weighs heavy? We are days away from beginning the book of 1 Samuel. So remember to visit our website and secure your copy of the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal. Pick it up so you're fully prepared to dive into this study. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. — Galatians 6:9-10 When we feel the weight of the world bearing down on us and witness conflicts within the church, it can be draining. This was the challenge faced by the churches in Galatia. External pressures coupled with internal disputes sowed seeds of exhaustion and frustration. Haven't we all experienced moments when we've had enough drama and just crave a break? Yet, it's precisely at these junctures that many believers grow tired of doing good. What's required is another act of kindness, motivated by the Spirit. Think of it like a critical moment in a football game—fourth down with just one yard to go, the game hanging in the balance. We're standing on the spiritual goal line, seconds ticking away, feeling weary, yet knowing we must execute one more crucial play—the most important one. Despite being behind, despite the internal squabbles on the team, we must deliver. The play needs to be solid and flawlessly executed. So, despite the burdens and conflicts you face today, hold firm. Do one more good deed because that deed might just tip the scales, leading to another small victory on the path of salvation—for you and your fellow believers. #DoGood #PerseveranceInFaith #RenewedStrength ASK THIS: Reflecting on your own experiences, when have you felt weary in doing good? How did you overcome that weariness, and what motivated you to continue pressing on? In what areas of your life do you currently feel the weight of weariness or frustration? How can you apply the encouragement from Galatians 6:9-10 to those situations, and what specific steps can you take to persevere in doing good despite the challenges? DO THIS: Do good yet again. PRAY THIS: Lord, grant me strength and perseverance to continue doing good even when I feel weary or discouraged, knowing that in due season, I will reap a harvest if I don't give up. Fill me with your Spirit, guiding me to be a beacon of kindness and love amidst the challenges I face today. Amen. PLAY THIS: Gratitude.

Are you living in eternal life now? Remember to visit our website and secure your copy of the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal. This valuable resource will help you prepare for our upcoming sessions and ensure you're fully prepared to dive into this study. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. — Galatians 6:8 When Paul talks about sowing to the Spirit leading to eternal life, it adds a significant theological twist here at the end of the letter. It challenges his explanation up to this point that eternal life is solely a result of faith and not human works. However, Paul isn't negating faith by adding to it human works; instead, he's revealing the inseparable connection between faith and works. Sowing to the Spirit is living a life of faith, where every action, decision, and sacrifice is motivated and empowered by the Holy Spirit. It's not focused on outward actions for the sake of outward actions but on the heart posture driving those actions. When we sow to the Spirit, we entrust our lives to God's guidance and surrender to his will, allowing him to shape and direct our choices. Therefore, "eternal life" in this text doesn't just refer to life after death. It's also about experiencing the fullness of eternal life with the Spirit in the here and now. Sowing to the Spirit leads to this abundant life that transcends earthly circumstances and extends into eternity. So, sowing to the Spirit isn't about earning salvation through our works; instead, it's about living out the salvation we've already received by faith. Our works are the natural outflow of our faith, evidence of our relationship with God. Through this faith-filled living, empowered by the Spirit, we truly experience the richness of eternal life. Therefore, Paul's message is twofold. First, continue to walk by faith, allowing the Spirit to guide and empower you in every aspect of life. Second, persevere in doing good, knowing your faith-filled actions have eternal significance and impact. It's not about striving to earn God's favor but about responding to the Spirit with faith, where every act of kindness and generosity reflects his grace at work within us. So do this today. Live in eternity now. #SowToTheSpirit #SpiritLedLife #EternalHarvest ASK THIS: How can you discern if your actions are being sown to the Spirit or to the flesh? What practical steps can you take to ensure your decisions align with God's will and reflect a Spirit-led life? Reflect on a recent decision or action you've taken. How might approaching similar situations with a mindset of sowing to the Spirit impact your choices and outcomes? DO THIS: Live in eternity now. PRAY THIS: Father, guide me to sow seeds of faith, love, and obedience, trusting in Your Spirit's leading as I navigate life's challenges and opportunities. May my actions reflect Your grace and bring forth a harvest of eternal significance, honoring Your name and glorifying Your kingdom. Amen. PLAY THIS: One Day.

Are you reaping the benefits of spiritual nourishment? Remember to visit our website and secure your copy of the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal. This valuable resource will help you prepare for our upcoming sessions and ensure you're fully prepared to dive into this study. Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. — Galatians 6:6-7 Let's start by recognizing that this verse speaks about what I do. My profession is, to some degree, like any profession. There should be this reciprocating effect, including sowing and reaping. The problem is that sometimes people justify not rewarding a pastor financially because they feel their only reward should be an eternal reward. But this is not the case. Pastors need sustenance, too, which comes not only in the form of a pat on the back. Paul addresses this not only here but also in 1 Timothy 5:18. His statement here to Timothy and the Ephesians church reads: For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer deserves his wages.” — 1 Timothy 5:18 The picture is of a muzzled ox. Why is this important? Because in Deuteronomy 25:4, God established a law for how farmers leveraged animals for their advantage. He understood that people would abuse even the rights of animals by working them to death for their benefit. And that they would become so selfish that they would muzzle them so that they could not "slow down" even for a quick bite. What Paul is pointing out here is that Pastors deserve their wages and that we are sometimes so selfish that we don't realize that our selfishness is a burden to pastors as well. Remember that this whole text is about burdens, and your pastor bears more than average. He is shepherding and bearing the burdens of the body continually. So don't add a more significant burden to his life by withholding the one thing you can give that he should reap. So give generously today to the pastors who have sown great things in your life. #SupportSpiritualLeaders #SowGenerosity #PastoralCare ASK THIS: How can you practically support your pastor or spiritual leader beyond financial means, demonstrating appreciation for their dedication and service? Reflect on a time when someone's teaching or pastoral care significantly impacted your life. How can you show gratitude and reciprocate their investment in your spiritual growth? DO THIS: Don't hold back. PRAY THIS: Father, grant me a heart of generosity to honor and support those who faithfully teach and shepherd me. Help me to recognize the value of their labor and to sow seeds of gratitude and provision into their lives. Amen. PLAY THIS: Surely.

Do you have a heavy burden or is it only a little load? Remember to visit our website and secure your copy of the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal. This valuable resource will help you prepare for our upcoming sessions and ensure you're fully prepared to dive into this study. But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. For each will have to bear his own load. — Galatians 6:4-5 If you read the previous text and then read this one, you will feel like there is this apparent discrepancy. However, this is quickly resolved when we realize that Paul used two different words to refer to two situations. The word translated “burdens” from verse two refers to a "heavy load with an oppressive weight" that someone must carry for a long way. But the word “load” in verse five is a different word, which refersto a traveler's backpack. So, hopefully, you sense Paul's point. There are burdens and loads. There are burdens that require help from others, and then there are loads that you need to carry. In other words, you must empower yourself with discernment, understanding the weight and how much help you really need. Every believer in life has macro-burdens and micro-burdens. Some things concern believers together politically, economically, ideologically, sociologically, and theologically. And then there are things that only we can bear alone: marital problems, career challenges, sin issues, and health concerns. The key here is striking a balance. Not being so independent that we don't seek help from the church when it's needed and not being so dependent, we expect the church to solve all of our consequential needs. This balance is what makes us a supportive and thriving community. So, what's your burden today? Is it macro or micro? Is it heavy or light? Is it a big burden or just your backpack to bear? Discern the difference because some in the community have enormous burdens they need help with, and your load shouldn't take time and attention away from that. Besides, sometimes your burden is God's way of keeping you humble and trusting in him, and you might have to carry this backpack to the threshold of the pearly gates. #BurdensAndBackpacks #CommunitySupport #BalanceInFaith ASK THIS: Reflecting on your current challenges, do you tend to lean more towards seeking help from others or carrying your burdens independently? How can you strike a healthy balance between independence and community support in facing these challenges? Consider a recent burden or load you've been carrying. How might viewing it through the lens of discernment and trust in God's guidance change your perspective on its weight and significance in your life? DO THIS: Discern your burden from your load. PRAY THIS: Father, grant me the wisdom to discern between burdens that require community support and loads I must carry alone, and help me find balance in seeking both independence and assistance. May I trust in Your guidance and lean on Your strength as I navigate life's challenges, knowing that You are always with me. Amen. PLAY THIS: Burdens.

Are you deceived by the myth of self-sufficiency? Don't forget to visit our website and secure your copy of the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal. This invaluable resource will equip you for our upcoming sessions, ensuring you're fully prepared to delve into the Word of God! For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. — Galatians 6:3 Self-sufficiency is an arrogant myth. There is no such thing as self-sufficiency in the church. We all have burdens! Every one of us, from the oldest member to the youngest member, from the newest believer to the oldest believer, from staff members to occasional attenders, has burdens that cannot be borne by ourselves. This is precisely why Jesus came. Jesus came and bore the weight of all our burdens and left us with the Spirit so that we could bear each other's burdens. But as soon as we think "we are something" or can handle it alone, we are deceived. Thus, we will reject the Spirit and the relief found in the church. So, to those of you who have been told: You've got this. You're strong enough. You can manage. You have the strength. You can tackle it alone. You're capable. You're self-sufficient. You can take care of it. You're able to handle it on your own. You can get over it. Not one of these statements is true. If you are a believer, they are the farthest thing from the truth. To believe them is to live in self-deception. You need Jesus, his Spirit, and a Christ-fearing body of believers who can help you bear the burdens in your life. #BearingEachOthersBurdens #CommunityStrength #RejectingSelfDeception ASK THIS: Reflect on a time when you believed you could handle a burden alone. How did that experience impact your relationship with God and your community of believers? In what ways can you actively seek support and share burdens with others in your church community this week? DO THIS: Offload your burdens or lighten the load for a needy brother today. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to recognize the deception of self-sufficiency and embrace the truth of my need for You and the community of believers. Grant me the humility to seek support and share burdens with others, as I trust in Your strength to sustain me. Amen. PLAY THIS: This Is Your Church.

1. Step One Walking: Is Slow & Long "But I say, walk by the Spirit." (Galatians 5:16) Scripture References: Exodus 16:4, Leviticus 18:4, Jeremiah 44:23, Ezekiel 5:5-6, Deuteronomy 6:4-9 2. Step Two Walking: Done in Behavior & Desire "and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." (Galatians 5:16) Scripture Reference: Sermon on the Mount 3. Step Three Walking: Is A Battle To The Death "For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit..." (Galatians 5:17) "And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires." (Galatians 5:24) Scripture Reference: Personal anecdote about overcoming anxiety 4. Step Four Walking: Grafted Into Jesus + His Spirit "And those who belong to Christ Jesus" (Galatians 5:24) Scripture Reference: John 15 5. Step Five Walking: Raises New Fruitful Desires & Outcomes "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control..." (Galatians 5:22-23) Scripture Reference: Illustration of fruitful trees. 6. Step Six Walking: Involve Watching Our Pride "If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another." (Galatians 5:25-26)

Do you have a burden that needs bearing? Remember to go to the website and grab the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal today so you are ready to go when we begin! Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. — Galatians 6:2 One of the beautiful aspects of the church is the presence of those who've walked the same paths as you. They've been entangled in the same traps you're caught in now. The church is filled with men who've faced marriage struggles, financial setbacks, career challenges, health problems, and the snares of repetitive sin. Just like you, they've been trapped and found their way out. They've gained spiritual insight through their mistakes and can assist you in finding deliverance and freedom from your current trap. You need these men, and they need you. They can direct you to freedom, and you're their opportunity for ministry, reminding them to remain in freedom. But to break free from your trap, you must humble yourself and make your way to church. Then, you'll need to connect with a brother who's walked the same road as you and share your burden with him. Next, you must listen and take to heart any good and godly advice you receive. And as you make progress, you'll be called to help others shoulder the burden you've carried and lead them to the victory and freedom you've discovered. In doing so, you're fulfilling the law of Christ. Just as Christ bore our burdens, you're bearing the burdens of others to direct them to the ultimate burden-bearer—Jesus, who carries all burdens and grants us freedom from every sin's entrapment. #CommunityOfFreedom #BearingEachOthersBurdens #WalkingTogetherInFaith ASK THIS: How can you actively seek out a fellow brother in Christ who has faced similar challenges to yours, and how can you initiate a conversation to share burdens and offer support? Reflecting on your journey of overcoming past traps and snares, how can you now step into a role of mentorship and support for others struggling in similar ways? DO THIS: Offload your burdens or lighten the load for a needy brother today. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me humbly seek out fellow believers who can walk alongside me, share my burdens, and offer godly wisdom and support. Guide me as I, in turn, extend my hand to others, bearing their burdens with love and pointing them toward the freedom found in You. Amen. PLAY THIS: Cast Your Burden.

Do you feel stuck? Do you need to get unstuck? Remember to go to the website and grab the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal today so you are ready to go when we begin! Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. — Galatians 6:1 One of the great things about the church is that it is filled with people who have walked the same path. There have been many times when I have been stuck in life, only to have a fellow believer who's been there offer invaluable help—coaching, guiding, and praying for me. Many Christians think they can go it alone, but the truth is, you can't. Eventually, you'll need others, just like I have, and the best part is, they'll need you, too. But as this text points out, it needs to be the right believer. It needs to be a believer who has been down the path, who knows the right steps to take, and who knows the right way to say it because they are attentive to the same issues in their lives. The wrong direction, given the wrong way, only tightens the trap and worsens the transgression. So, if you feel "caught" today, stop trying to resolve that issue alone. Turn to a believer who knows the way out, and you both will find freedom. #BreakFreeTogether #CommunityOverIsolation #StuckNoMore ASK THIS: Have you ever hesitated to reach out for help when feeling stuck or trapped? What barriers do you face in seeking support from fellow believers? Reflect on a time when you received valuable guidance or support from a fellow believer during a challenging period. How did their involvement impact your journey, and how can you extend similar support to others in need? DO THIS: Walk the tightrope and give attention to your pride. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me recognize when I need support from fellow believers and give me the humility to seek their guidance and encouragement in times of struggle. Grant me the wisdom to offer the same compassion and assistance to others on their journey towards freedom and growth. Amen. PLAY THIS: Stuck.

Have you truly killed those passions and desires? I want to shout out to all my brothers from Family Community Church in San Jose, California. We had a great time yesterday, and I pray this time of restoration was a blessing for you. Also, remember to go to the website and grab the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal today so you are ready to go when we begin! And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. — Galatians 5:24 The word that stands out to me in this text is the word crucified because crucifixion is violent. Crucifixion is still one of the most brutal forms of execution in all of history. If you have ever seen Mel Gibson's "The Passion of Christ," you might remember how chilling and brutal this scene was. Crucifixion involves nailing a victim to a wooden cross, leading to a slow death from asphyxiation, exhaustion, and shock. The excruciating pain arises from both the piercing of nails and the prolonged agony as the body struggles to breathe while suspended. Victims must push on the nails in their feet and pull on those in their wrists to inhale, intensifying the torment. Crucifixion was always public, heightening the psychological suffering. This combination of physical agony, prolonged torment, and public shame makes it a fierce and disturbing form of execution. Now, apply this imagery in the way Paul does here. He says if we belong to Jesus, we have (past tense) crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. And herein lies the core problem with believers who struggle with repetitive patterns of sin. They attempt to change by altering their behaviors. And there is nothing wrong with altering behaviors if you also nail, crucify, kill, and drain the very life from the source of those behaviors, which is your old fleshly passions and desires. Thus, we are left with a very pointed question. What desire is still living that you need to kill? Is it a sexual desire? A drive for retribution? Is it a passion for wealth and success? A desire for control? Whatever it is, you better be killing it, or it will be killing you. #CrucifyDesires #KillSin #SpiritualTransformation ASK THIS: Reflect on a desire or passion in your life that you know is contrary to God's will. What steps can you take today to begin crucifying that desire and aligning your heart with God's purposes? Think about a repetitive pattern of sin you struggle with. How can you go beyond merely modifying your behavior to truly crucifying the root of that sin, allowing God's transformative power to bring lasting change in your life? DO THIS: Kill one old desire that needs to be killed. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to truly understand the depth of what it means to crucify my fleshly desires, and empower me to take decisive action in aligning my heart with Your will. Grant me the strength and courage to put to death those passions that hinder my walk with You, so that I may experience the fullness of freedom and life in Christ. Amen. PLAY THIS: The Passion of Christ (Crucifixion Scene)

GET THE 1 SAMUEL JOURNAL HERE: 👉🏼 https://bit.ly/1SamuelJournal Are you feeling weighed down by the expectations of others or limited by your inadequacy? We are going to be starting a new book of the Bible soon. We are transporting back in time to the story of three men: Samuel the Prophet and Kings Saul and David. The book of 1 Samuel tells the story of Israel's transition from a theocracy to a monarchy, marked by intrigue, betrayal, and divine intervention. Through the lives of Samuel, Saul, and David, it vividly illustrates the complexities of leadership, the consequences of disobedience, and the continuing faithfulness of God amidst human sin. So go to the website and grab the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal today so that you are ready to go when we begin! But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. — Galatians 5:18 Living by the Holy Spirit means living in freedom—but it's not freedom to do whatever you want whenever you want. It is freedom from being a slave to obedience by laws, which reduced obedience to precepts that try to win God's approval. Paul reminds us that as followers of Christ, our primary guide is not the old way but a new way—not walking by the Law but walking by the Spirit. We are no longer confined to a static checklist of do's and don'ts. Instead, we enjoy a dynamic relationship with God. When we allow the Spirit to lead us, we step into a new experience of boundless freedom. But this newfound freedom is not the absence of rules; it is the presence of someone far greater—a life lived with the power and person of the Holy Spirit. It's about being led by the Spirit in every decision, every relationship, and every aspect of our lives. When we surrender to his guidance, we discover a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends the old way and earthly constraints. Yet many new believers, and even those of us who have been followers for a while, don't discover the wonder of the Holy Spirit's power and person. We live lives led by other "spirits," like the spirit of others' expectations, the spirit of our own inadequacies, the spirit of our past, and the spirit of personal effort. But none of these spirits lead to freedom. That is a life lived in bondage to the wrong spirit that leads to slavery. Today, you are called to a life of freedom. A life free from the spirits that hold you back. You are called to be led by the person and power of the Holy Spirit. So, instead of heeding the whispers of those other spirits, make a choice today. Choose to listen to the Holy Spirit. Choose to live a life of freedom. Holy Spirit, lead us today. Silence the other voices and their whispers. I choose to be led by only you today. Amen. #SpiritLedLiving #FreedomInChrist #BreakTheChains #HolySpiritGuidance #LiveInFreedom ASK THIS: Reflect on a time when you felt weighed down by the expectations of others or limited by your own inadequacies. How did this impact your decisions and actions? What steps can you take today to break free from these constraints and live more fully in the freedom of the Holy Spirit? Consider the voices or "spirits" that often influence your thoughts and actions—the expectations of others, feelings of inadequacy, past experiences, or personal efforts. How can you discern the voice of the Holy Spirit amidst these competing influences? What practical steps can you implement to intentionally listen and respond to the leading of the Holy Spirit in your daily life? DO THIS: Invite the Spirit to speak more clearly to you. PRAY THIS: Holy Spirit, I surrender my heart to Your guidance today, freeing me from the weight of expectations and inadequacies. Lead me into the boundless freedom You offer, guiding every step and decision with Your wisdom and power. Amen. PLAY THIS: Spirit of the Living God.

Do you sense the war that's raging within you? Our call out today goes to all the men from Texas I spent time with this weekend at Rough Creek Lodge & Resort. I love you guys. Thanks for hosting me at this incredible location. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. — Galatians 5:17 This verse describes one of the harsh realities that often rudely awakens many new believers. We learn that Jesus's free gift of eternal life doesn't free us from our temporal struggles. Within us continues to rage an ongoing war. The war within is a specific battle, one of the desires. One is a longing to fulfill our human desires, and the other is the longing of the Spirit and his desires. It's important to clarify that this is not a war between our flesh and our spirit. Rather, this is a war between our flesh and His Spirit, which by nature infers victory is within our reach. You see, at the moment of our salvation, our eternal address was changed, but we were also given a divine gift, the Holy Spirit, who now resides within us. The Holy Spirit is the person of God who possesses the power of God. He equips us to combat the desires of our flesh as we await our ultimate salvation. Without the Holy Spirit, we would lead a life of daily defeat. But with the Spirit, we can engage in a daily battle. By learning to walk by the Spirit (as Paul mentioned in the previous verse), we can discover a path that leads to satisfaction in God, not in the flesh. This means that we can experience day-to-day victory when we obey the Spirit's will and desires. So today, if you feel like a war is raging inside you. You are right. There is one. It's a battle between your fleshly desires and God's will for you. To overcome this, you are going to have to do some things differently, which Paul is going to make clear in the coming verses. But for now, do this. Start by recognizing your will and the Spirit's will. Differentiating and discerning between these two wills is the first step to waging and winning the war within. #WarWithin #SpiritualBattle #FleshvsSpirit ASK THIS: How can you actively discern between your own desires and the prompting of the Holy Spirit in your daily decisions and actions? What practical steps can you take today to align your will with God's will, thus gaining victory in the ongoing battle within your soul? DO THIS: Start discerning the Spirit's will. PRAY THIS: Father, grant me the wisdom and strength to discern and overcome the desires of my flesh, as I surrender to the leading of Your Holy Spirit within me. Guide me in walking faithfully on the path of victory over the internal battles that wage within my soul. PLAY THIS: Whatever Your Plan Is.