DATE POSTED
Thursday, July 16, 2026, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa Apartment Homes, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
I would love for you to read today’s Scripture in your own personal Bible!

Proverbs 20:1 ~ Wine gives false courage; hard liquor leads to brawls; what fools men are to let it master them, making them reel drunkenly down the street! (TLB)

Luke 21:34-36 ~ “Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware, like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth. Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man.” (NLT)

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the verses referenced above, as they’ll help you better grasp the context of this devotional.

I believe that almost every reader can immediately think of a close family member, friend, or coworker whose life and family were devastated by alcoholism or drug abuse. Critics are always quick to remind us that substance abuse was a problem in Bible times, too. But let me be equally quick to remind us that the results of such indulgence were never something to be proud of, nor are they something we should want to imitate.

Some might wonder why Christians, in particular, strive for absolute abstinence from these mind-dimming influencers. To the world, these substances are accepted as a quick way to get into “party mode” or perhaps a temporary escape to dull deep-seated pain – a type of liquid or synthetic courage. But think of it this way: any wise business owner would refuse to hire a security guard who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A business owner needs a guard with a clear, unaltered mind—someone capable of recognizing and responding immediately to the first sign of danger. This illustration helps us understand Jesus’ words in Luke 21. He warned His followers not to allow their hearts and minds to become dulled by drunkenness, reckless living, or even the everyday worries of life. Instead, He commanded us to stay watchful, spiritually alert, and prayerful. Why? Because one day He will return, and He desires to find His people faithfully watching and ready.

Jesus is returning to take His bride, the Church, home to glory. Scripture outlines the clear signs that will precede His return. Just as the vigilant leaders of our nation stay highly alert to the movements of hostile countries, we too must remain vigilant to the signs pointing to the return of Christ. Today’s verses are urgent reminders for us to keep watch and be ready.

This readiness is exactly why we find churches standing in our neighborhoods today. God established His church to proclaim this very message. Before Christ, we were spiritually blind, indifferent to God’s warnings, and unconcerned about eternity. Satan delights when people dismiss God’s invitation with worldly habits and excuses. But through the faithful teaching of God’s Word, the Holy Spirit opens hearts to recognize their need for a Savior and the glorious hope found only in Jesus Christ.

Those who place their faith in Christ receive the wonderful promise of eternal life with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Yet salvation is not merely a decision that leaves us unchanged. The Bible tells us that we become new creations in Christ. Old desires begin to lose their grip, and our lives are increasingly shaped by the presence of the Holy Spirit living within us.

Let us not be fooled into making a decision for Christ only to continue living exactly as we always have, conforming to the ways of this world. After Christ, we become “new creations”—the old habits, mindsets, and worldly practices are left behind. Introducing drugs and alcohol into a holy body where the Holy Spirit resides is like pouring water into the gas tank of your car. The two simply do not mix, and they yield completely opposing results. Just as water will ruin your engine, introducing foreign agents into the temple of the Holy Spirit will bring sinful chaos to a soul meant to be filled with Jesus Christ.

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Today’s Challenge

Jesus Christ is sufficient for every need you face. Leave behind those habits, addictions, and influences that once held you captive and robbed you of the joy and peace God desires for you. Live each day in grateful obedience to His Word, trusting Him to strengthen you for every challenge.

There is no need to wait until Sunday or some future opportunity. God has given us this present moment, and He is always ready to receive those who sincerely call upon Him. If you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, come to Him today. Ask Him to forgive your sins, direct your path, and give you victory over the things that once controlled your life. Through the shed blood of Jesus Christ, all who believe in Him can receive forgiveness and the gift of eternal life (John 3:16; Romans 10:9-10). This is the most important personal decision anyone will ever make. Today, by placing your faith in Christ, you can move from having no hope to knowing the eternal Hope found only in Him.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me enough to warn me about the things that seek to control my heart and mind. Help me to remain spiritually alert, sober-minded, and fully surrendered to the leading of Your Holy Spirit. Give me the strength to leave behind every habit or influence that draws me away from You. If there is anything in my life that has become my master instead of Christ, please reveal it to me and give me the courage to lay it at Your feet. May my life reflect the new creation You have made me to be, and may I always be ready for the glorious return of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In His precious name I pray, Amen.

FOOTNOTE
If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please take advantage of the information provided on my page ‘To Know Jesus’. Alternatively, consider speaking with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I pray that one of God’s servants will pray with you and offer help and encouragement as you begin, or continue, your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals, please visit NuggetsFromGodsWord.org, or if you choose, subscribe to receive a daily email containing each new devotional, as you will also find that option on this page. Friends, I encourage you to find a Bible teaching church home near your residence and attend as frequently as possible. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk while you invite God to work through you to bless them. God is at work among His people! Please consider being a part of that while also growing in your faith as you worship with fellow believers!

DATE POSTED
Tuesday, July 14, 2026, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa Apartment Homes, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
I would love for you to read today’s Scripture in your own personal Bible!

Matthew 6:19-21 ~ “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. (NLT)

2 Corinthians 4:18 ~ So we do not look at what we can see right now, the troubles all around us, but we look forward to the joys in heaven which we have not yet seen. The troubles will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever. (TLB)

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the verses referenced above, as they’ll help you better grasp the context of this devotional.

As I meditated on these verses today, I couldn’t help but think about how much energy we put into preparing for our earthly future. We are taught to “save for a rainy day” and invest in pension funds so we can retire comfortably. Business owners wisely reinvest their profits to ensure company growth, multiply their financial options, or prepare for the day they finally step back from the grind.

All of these are sound, practical decisions – the kind of wisdom we gladly pass down to the next generation. Indeed, Before Christ, this material preparation seemed like the primary purpose of our lives. We saw no practical benefit in focusing on what comes after death because we had immediate needs to meet: families to feed, children to put through college, and a world we wanted to see. We were entirely consumed by the demands of the present.

But, thank God, Jesus sought us out.

He gently drew our attention to a reality far greater than what we can see. Before we met Him, we were caught in the relentless, daily drag of stress, worry, and financial pressure, never knowing what tomorrow might bring. In our weariness, we finally realized there had to be more to this life. Recognizing our deep need for a Savior, we opened our hearts to the truth that God has a much grander plan for us beyond our time on earth. That realization led many of us to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.

After Christ, we walk with an entirely new purpose. We now understand that this earthly life is only temporary. One day, we will stand in the presence of ultimate royalty: our King, God Almighty; His precious Son, who endured the cruelty of the cross for our eternal salvation; and the Holy Spirit, who guides us through the complexities of this world as we strive to live in obedience to Jesus.

This eternal hope completely shifts our priorities for today. To put it in worldly terms: If we were invited to spend time in the palace of a respected earthly king, we would likely learn everything we could about him, understand the customs of his kingdom, and prepare ourselves for the honor of standing in his presence.

How much more should we prepare to meet the King of kings!

Fortunately, preparing to meet our Heavenly Host is far less daunting. God has graciously provided His own “Instruction Book”—the Bible—so we can know His heart and understand what awaits us at His throne. Even now, we get to gather with fellow believers to celebrate Him and learn His ways, knowing how deeply He loves the Church as His bride.

Dear friends, we truly have a future that is “out of this world.” My prayer is that our hearts will not become consumed with the temporary treasures of this life but that we will invest ourselves in the eternal riches that neither moth nor rust can destroy. Nothing on earth compares with what God has prepared for those who love Him.

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Today’s Challenge

Continue to be a wise steward of the resources God has entrusted to you, but don’t allow temporary concerns to become your greatest investment. Stock markets rise and fall. Businesses succeed and fail. Retirement accounts fluctuate. Even our health can change in a moment.

But your eternal future in Christ is absolutely secure.

Today, fix your eyes on Jesus and allow eternity to shape your priorities. Invest daily in your relationship with Him through His Word, through prayer, and through faithful obedience. If you have never trusted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, there is no greater investment you could ever make.

The greatest question is not, “How well have I prepared for retirement?” but rather, “Am I prepared to meet my King?”

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that this world is not my permanent home. Help me to faithfully fulfill my responsibilities here while never losing sight of eternity. Guard my heart from becoming consumed with temporary treasures, and teach me to invest my time, my gifts, and my resources in what will last forever. Draw me closer to Jesus each day as I prepare to one day stand joyfully in His, and Your, presence. May my life always reflect eternal values rather than earthly ambitions. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.

FOOTNOTE
If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please take advantage of the information provided on my page ‘To Know Jesus’. Alternatively, consider speaking with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I pray that one of God’s servants will pray with you and offer help and encouragement as you begin, or continue, your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals, please visit NuggetsFromGodsWord.org, or if you choose, subscribe to receive a daily email containing each new devotional, as you will also find that option on this page. Friends, I encourage you to find a Bible teaching church home near your residence and attend as frequently as possible. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk while you invite God to work through you to bless them. God is at work among His people! Please consider being a part of that while also growing in your faith as you worship with fellow believers!

DATE POSTED
Monday, July 13, 2026, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa Apartment Homes, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
I would love for you to read today’s Scripture in your own personal Bible!

Psalm 1:1 ~ Blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked [following their advice and example], Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit [down to rest] in the seat of scoffers (ridiculers). (AMP)

Proverbs 13:20 ~ He who walks [as a companion] with wise men will be wise, But the companions of [conceited, dull-witted] fools [are fools themselves and] will experience harm. (AMP)

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the verses referenced above, as they’ll help you better grasp the context of this devotional.

Those of us who were blessed with godly parents can often look back and recognize how much they shaped the course of our lives. My parents genuinely wanted God’s best for me. One way they expressed that love was by carefully watching the friends I spent time with. As a child, I found that frustrating. I wanted the freedom to spend as much time with my neighborhood friends as I pleased. Looking back now, however, I realize they were protecting my heart, my character, and ultimately my future.

Looking back, this childhood scenario perfectly mirrors the spiritual reality of a life surrendered to the lordship of Jesus Christ. Just as loving parents set boundaries, a life After Christ, controlled by the Holy Spirit, stands in sharp contrast to a life Before Christ lived by one’s own rules and desires.

Before Christ, we lived exactly how we wanted. We hung out with friends who often led us down the wrong paths, even if it felt like innocent “fun” at the time. But as Proverbs 13:20 reminds us, we were choosing to be companions of the unwise. Psalm 1:1 declares that we were pulling up a seat with scoffers—those who mock truth and look down on others. Life BC was often filled with a careless drift, pulling us into close relationships with people who were struggling to survive morally and spiritually. Unfortunately, when people are spinning out of control, they often try to pull others down with them.

After Christ, everything begins to change.

When Jesus becomes Lord of our lives, He gives us new desires, new priorities, and a new destination. As we grow in Christ, we naturally begin to evaluate the influences around us. We still love those who do not know Christ, and we desire to point them to Him, but we also recognize the importance of surrounding ourselves with believers who encourage our walk with the Lord rather than weaken it.

God never intended for us to fight our spiritual battles alone. He places godly people in our lives to encourage us, correct us when necessary, pray with us, and help us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. These are the friends who lovingly challenge us to become more like Christ every day.

Romans 8:31-39 beautifully reminds us of God’s unwavering commitment to His children. “If God is for us, who can be against us?” And again, “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Because God is for us, we can confidently choose relationships that strengthen our faith, even when that means leaving behind influences that once held us back.

The friends who help us love Jesus more are among God’s greatest earthly blessings.

Today’s Challenge

Take an honest look at the people who have the greatest influence in your life.

Do your closest friendships encourage you to know Christ more deeply, love others more sincerely, and pursue holiness more faithfully? Or are they pulling your heart back toward the life God has already rescued you from?

God is for you, not against you. Since He is committed to leading you safely home, be equally committed to surrounding yourself with people who will walk beside you, encourage you, and help you cross the finish line with your eyes fixed on Jesus Christ, your Lord and Savior.

May your life bring glory to Him here on earth, until the day you glorify Him face to face for all eternity.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me enough to guide every area of my life, including the friendships I choose. Forgive me for the times I allowed the wrong influences to shape my thoughts, attitudes, and decisions. Help me to love everyone as Jesus loves them, while also seeking the companionship of those who will encourage my walk with You. Give me wisdom to be a godly influence on others without allowing ungodly influences to pull me away from You. Surround me with faithful brothers and sisters who will help me grow, persevere, and finish the race well. May every relationship in my life ultimately bring glory to Jesus. In His precious name I pray, Amen.

FOOTNOTE
If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please take advantage of the information provided on my page ‘To Know Jesus’. Alternatively, consider speaking with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I pray that one of God’s servants will pray with you and offer help and encouragement as you begin, or continue, your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals, please visit NuggetsFromGodsWord.org, or if you choose, subscribe to receive a daily email containing each new devotional, as you will also find that option on this page. Friends, I encourage you to find a Bible teaching church home near your residence and attend as frequently as possible. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk while you invite God to work through you to bless them. God is at work among His people! Please consider being a part of that while also growing in your faith as you worship with fellow believers!

DATE POSTED
Sunday, July 12, 2026, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa Apartment Homes, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
I would love for you to read today’s Scripture in your own personal Bible!

1 Timothy 5:13 ~ …they also learn to be idle as they go from house to house; and not only idle, but also gossips and busybodies [meddlers in things that do not concern them], talking about things they should not mention. (AMP)

Ephesians 4:29 ~ Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (NIV)

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the verses referenced above, as they’ll help you better grasp the context of this devotional.

Some say that idleness is the devil’s playground, meaning that Satan will quickly fill the void where the things of God or meaningful activity belongs. When the Apostle Paul instructed young Timothy on how to establish, develop, and grow the early church, he knew from firsthand experience the tactics the enemy would deploy. Satan’s goal has always been to dampen spiritual success, disrupt unity, and hinder Kingdom work.

While we might assume these vulnerabilities only affect non-believers, the enemy actively works to introduce these same distractions within the church today. Why does this happen even among thriving congregations and mature believers? While we will understand the full mystery of this one day, sadly, these temptations have not disappeared. Satan still uses them today to discourage believers, divide churches, and hinder the work of Christ.

Too often, we can get so caught up in the music, the pastor, or the social circles at church that we lose sight of why we gather in the first place. Sometimes we become so focused on the music, the friendships, the personalities, or even the pastor that we fail to prepare our hearts to meet with God Himself.

In his letter, Paul recognized that these young widows had become vulnerable to idle talk and gossip. Despite everything we have learned and experienced After Christ, we must remain vigilant. It is remarkably easy to slip back into these old habits during home groups, casual hangouts, or fellowship over coffee.

In our lives Before Christ, we lacked godly authority, and nothing was off-limits in our conversation. Criticizing others, spreading rumors, or speaking carelessly often seemed harmless. Yet every careless word provided an opportunity for Satan to accomplish his work of division and discouragement.

After Christ, everything changes…
The Holy Spirit now lives within every believer. As Scripture affirms, we are “new creatures,” called to model our speech after the example of Jesus and live in obedience to His Word.

Does this mean we get it right every time? Unfortunately, no. As long as we live in this fallen world, Satan will continue to tempt us. But God has not left us defenseless. God anticipated this battle. In 1 John 4:4, He provides a powerful assurance: “Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.” The Holy Spirit gives us both the power and the wisdom to resist temptation. We are no longer controlled by our old nature. We can choose words that honor Christ instead of words that wound others.

As believers, our mandate from Ephesians 4 is clear: we must surrender to the voice of the Holy Spirit. Instead of participating in speech that tears others down, we are called to speak words that lift up, empower, and benefit those who listen.

Think about how practical this is. Instead of noticing something you dislike about another person’s appearance, look for something you can sincerely compliment. Perhaps it’s a smile, a kind spirit, a thoughtful act, or even a simple accessory they are wearing. Genuine encouragement reflects the heart of Christ.

The person standing before us is someone made in the image of God and someone for whom Christ died. A heart surrendered to Jesus is beautiful, regardless of outward appearance. When we choose encouragement over criticism, we reflect the love of the Savior we claim to follow.

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Today’s Challenge

Before speaking today, ask yourself one simple question:

“Will these words build someone up, or tear someone down?”

Satan delights in criticism, gossip, and division. Our Savior delights in grace, encouragement, and truth spoken in love. May we listen carefully to the voice of the Holy Spirit and choose words that honor Christ, strengthen His people, and point others to the hope found only in Him.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding me that my words reveal the condition of my heart. Forgive me for the times I have spoken carelessly, criticized others, or participated in conversations that did not honor You. Fill me afresh with Your Holy Spirit, and help me to speak words that encourage, strengthen, and bless those around me. Give me eyes to see people as You see them and a heart that longs to build others up rather than tear them down. May every conversation I have today reflect the love, grace, and truth of my Savior, Jesus Christ. In His precious name I pray, Amen.

FOOTNOTE
If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please take advantage of the information provided on my page ‘To Know Jesus’. Alternatively, consider speaking with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I pray that one of God’s servants will pray with you and offer help and encouragement as you begin, or continue, your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals, please visit NuggetsFromGodsWord.org, or if you choose, subscribe to receive a daily email containing each new devotional, as you will also find that option on this page. Friends, I encourage you to find a Bible teaching church home near your residence and attend as frequently as possible. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk while you invite God to work through you to bless them. God is at work among His people! Please consider being a part of that while also growing in your faith as you worship with fellow believers!

DATE POSTED
Saturday, July 11, 2026, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa Apartment Homes, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
I would love for you to read today’s Scripture in your own personal Bible!

Galatians 5:14-15 ~ For the whole Law [concerning human relationships] is fulfilled in one precept, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself [that is, you shall have an unselfish concern for others and do things for their benefit].” But if you bite and devour one another [in bickering and strife], watch out that you [along with your entire fellowship] are not consumed by one another. (AMP)

Colossians 3:12 ~ So, as God’s own chosen people, who are holy [set apart, sanctified for His purpose] and well-beloved [by God Himself], put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience [which has the power to endure whatever injustice or unpleasantness comes, with good temper]; (AMP)

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the verses referenced above, as they’ll help you better grasp the context of this devotional.

Have you ever heard someone say, “It must be the devil in them for the way they’re acting!”? Sadly, there are times when people simply choose to act however they please—toward whomever they please—and with little concern for the hurt they leave behind. We have all seen it, and if we’re honest, many of us have been guilty of it ourselves.

Then we see the opposite extreme. Those confined to a bed of affliction often become beautiful examples of humility because they are completely dependent on the care and kindness of others. Their circumstances remind us how much we all need one another.

As followers of Jesus Christ, we cannot rely on our fleeting feelings or changing circumstances. We must look to God’s Holy Word for guidance in every aspect of life, because within its pages, He declares the Father’s perfect will for His children. That is exactly why we preach, teach, and share devotionals like this one—to keep God’s truth fresh in our hearts.

In our verses from Galatians, Paul reminds us that God’s desire is for us to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. That kind of love is unselfish. It looks for ways to bless rather than criticize, encourage rather than condemn, and build up rather than tear down. Notice that this command comes without conditions. God doesn’t tell us to love only those who are kind to us or who love us in return.

Before Christ, we often lived by a different standard. If someone criticized us, we found a way to criticize them back. If they showed resentment toward us, we quickly found ways to show even more resentment in return. In our old, selfish lives, we were entirely on our own, carrying a critical spirit and operating strictly out of our own limited strength.

But before we try to make excuses for holding onto that old critical spirit, let’s remember Jesus. Think of what it must have been like for Him to love our old, sinful, and bitter selves. He chose to hang on a cross for us, knowing full well that He could have called down thousands of angels to rescue Him from the hands of mankind. Yet, He loved us in spite of our sinful minds, selfish desires, and broken lives.

After Christ, everything changes. Having committed ourselves to His lordship, that incredible love becomes our daily standard. We are faced with the exact same challenge to love the unlovable. This is where our verses in Colossians come in, perfectly reminding us how we can achieve such a monumental lifestyle.

We are God’s chosen children. He called us out of a life of sin and selfishness, and gave us a beautiful blueprint for how to live. Think of it this way: whenever you bump or hurt your knee, you immediately give it your full attention. You nurse it, protect it, and care for it until it is fully restored. When we love our neighbor like ourselves, we treat them the exact same way. We “nurse” them back into a sweet relationship, with kindness, lifting them up into a life of joy, encouragement, and peace.

To love another as we love ourselves means there is nothing we wouldn’t do for their spiritual good. It means we constantly look for ways to make them feel valued, cared for, and better prepared for the joys of eternity with our Master. Our ultimate goal should be to love others so purely that they are eventually convinced of one thing: it must be Jesus living and loving inside of them.

This is a challenge for every one of us. It certainly speaks to those who have not yet placed their faith in Christ, but it also speaks directly to those of us who call ourselves Christians. Our world has become increasingly critical, harsh, and divided. Yet God’s children are called to be remarkably different. Our daily aim is to look like Him. We cannot do this in our own strength; it requires complete obedience and a deep desire to let God duplicate Christ’s example through us. My prayer today is that each of you will join me in striving to be faithful Christ-followers. May our deepest desire be to please Him, especially by trading a critical spirit for a heart of kindness, loving others just as we love ourselves – just as He first loved us.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me when I was undeserving of Your grace. Forgive me for the times I have been quick to criticize rather than encourage, or harsh instead of kind. Help me to put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience each day. Fill my heart with Your love so completely that others will see Jesus in the way I speak, serve, and care for them. May I become an instrument of Your peace and encouragement in a world that desperately needs both. I ask all this in the precious name of Jesus, my Lord and Savior. Amen.

FOOTNOTE
If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please take advantage of the information provided on my page ‘To Know Jesus’. Alternatively, consider speaking with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I pray that one of God’s servants will pray with you and offer help and encouragement as you begin, or continue, your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals, please visit NuggetsFromGodsWord.org, or if you choose, subscribe to receive a daily email containing each new devotional, as you will also find that option on this page. Friends, I encourage you to find a Bible teaching church home near your residence and attend as frequently as possible. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk while you invite God to work through you to bless them. God is at work among His people! Please consider being a part of that while also growing in your faith as you worship with fellow believers!

DATE POSTED
Wednesday, July 8, 2026, and I was blessed to be at Westgate Blue Tree Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
I Trust that you will read today’s Scripture verses in your own personal Bible!

Luke 12:15 ~ Beware! Don’t always be wishing for what you don’t have. For real life and real living are not related to how rich we are.” (TLB)

Hebrews 15:5-6 ~ Stay away from the love of money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never, never fail you nor forsake you.” That is why we can say without any doubt or fear, “The Lord is my Helper, and I am not afraid of anything that mere man can do to me.” (TLB

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the verses referenced above, as they’ll help you better grasp the context of this devotional.

I once heard someone say, “Money isn’t everything, but it sure pays to have it!” While that saying may bring a smile, it also reminds us of a danger we all face. The pursuit of more—whether money, possessions, or status—can easily become our focus and lead us away from what truly matters.

This temptation isn’t limited to young people just beginning life, nor is it confined to older adults who hope to leave an inheritance for their families. It affects every generation. That is why God’s Word has so much to say about contentment.

Before Christ, many people naturally measure success by what they can accumulate. Young adults often admire those who appear wealthy, powerful, or influential, believing these things define a successful life. Without a relationship with God, they have no spiritual compass to point them toward the values He established for mankind. As a result, worldly success often becomes the goal.

The truth is, these attitudes don’t simply disappear with age. Unless we allow God to transform our hearts, we often carry the same desires throughout our lives. We continue comparing ourselves with others and believing that happiness is always found in having just a little more.

But God lovingly reminds us that real life isn’t measured by the size of our bank account or by the possessions we own. True success is found in a growing relationship with the One who created us. Jesus taught that life consists of far more than material wealth, and the writer of Hebrews reminds us of something far more valuable than riches: God’s promise that He will never leave us or forsake us.

What greater security could we possibly have than knowing our Creator walks with us every day? Through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, we have the assurance that God is with us through every joy, every disappointment, every victory, and every trial.

Will our lives After Christ appear as impressive to the world as the millionaire living in a mansion or the CEO leading a global corporation? Perhaps not. But our purpose has never been to impress the world. Our purpose is to please the One who holds today and tomorrow securely in His hands.

He is the One who never abandons us. He is preparing an eternal home for all who belong to Him. He is King over every king, Lord over every ruler, and sovereign over every authority. His love for us was so great that He willingly gave His only Son so that everyone who believes in Jesus Christ might have eternal life. Praise God forever!

So today, let us remember who we are. Through Christ, we are children of the King. Our worth is not determined by our possessions but by our relationship with our heavenly Father. The world may measure success by wealth, but God measures success by faithfulness.

If I were invited into an earthly palace, I would gladly take you with me. But there is an invitation that is infinitely greater. It would be my greatest joy to introduce you to the King of Heaven, where God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit await all who have placed their faith in Christ. My prayer is that today you can confidently say, without fear or doubt, “I am a child of the King.”

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that true riches are found in knowing You. Forgive me for the times I have compared myself with others or allowed material things to compete for my affection. Teach me to be content with the blessings You have already provided and to trust You for every need I will face tomorrow. Help me to find my identity, security, and joy in Christ alone. Thank You for Your promise that You will never leave me nor forsake me. May my life reflect gratitude, contentment, and unwavering faith in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

FOOTNOTE
If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please take advantage of the information provided on my page ‘To Know Jesus’. Alternatively, consider speaking with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I pray that one of God’s servants will pray with you and offer help and encouragement as you begin, or continue, your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals, please visit NuggetsFromGodsWord.org, or if you choose, subscribe to receive a daily email containing each new devotional, as you will also find that option on this page. Friends, I encourage you to find a Bible teaching church home near your residence and attend as frequently as possible. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk while you invite God to work through you to bless them. God is at work among His people! Please consider being a part of that while also growing in your faith as you worship with fellow believers!

DATE POSTED
Tuesday, July 7, 2026, and I was blessed to be at Westgate Blue Tree Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
I Trust that you will read today’s Scripture verses in your own personal Bible!

Proverb 24:28-29 ~ Don’t testify against your neighbors without cause; don’t lie about them. And don’t say, “Now I can pay them back for what they’ve done to me! I’ll get even with them!” (NLT)

Romans 12:19-20 ~ Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” (NLT)

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the verses referenced above, as they’ll help you better grasp the context of this devotional.

I once heard a pastor say that when we step away from the practices of society and live the way the Bible teaches, we quickly realize just how different we are. As God’s children, we are called to look entirely different from those who have no hope and who follow the ways of the world. While this doesn’t mean we should be disagreeable or hard to get along with, our scripture verses today clear up any confusion about how we should respond to conflict. Those who belong to God must strive to follow His teachings and His example, because the world is driven by a different master whose goal is to kill, steal, and destroy.

In Proverbs 24, we see a clear picture of our former life. Before Christ, we naturally looked for opportunities to get back at those who mistreated us. We might have felt that if we didn’t avenge ourselves, the payback wouldn’t be enough. After all, that’s what the world does—and what people have done since Bible days. I once had a friend who openly admitted what many of us secretly think: “I don’t just aim to get even; I aim to get ahead.”

But everything changed when Jesus took hold of my life. My prayer is that you have experienced that same transforming relationship with Him. As I have grown closer to Christ, He has been teaching me to leave those old attitudes behind—the clever sayings, the desire for revenge, and the tendency to assume the worst about others. Instead, He has taught me to love, to look for the good in people whenever possible, and to remember that there is hope and eternal life for everyone who places their faith in Him.

After Christ, I have discovered that there is a new life ahead and a faithful Helper, the Holy Spirit, who walks beside me every day. He gives me strength to overcome old desires, habits, and feelings, and He faithfully leads me toward the goal of becoming more like Christ. Day by day, I am taught, loved, encouraged, and strengthened by my Savior, Jesus Christ, while living in joyful anticipation of spending eternity with God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

One of the greatest freedoms I have found is realizing that I no longer have to worry about making sure everyone receives what I think they deserve. Romans 12 reminds us that God is the final Judge. He sees everything, knows every motive, and will deal with every wrong perfectly. His justice is always fair, complete, and righteous – far better than anything I could ever accomplish on my own.

What a wonderful way to live! Before Christ, revenge seemed natural because we followed the ways of this fallen world and its evil ruler. But After Christ, we are called to trust the Lord completely, allowing Him to rule, reign, direct, and love us every day. There truly is no better life than one surrendered to Him. He not only holds the rest of this life securely in His hands, but He also promises an eternity in His glorious presence.

He’s my King. Is He yours? If you don’t know Him personally, I would be honored to point you to the One who changed my life forever. With God’s help, I’d be happy to show you how you can begin a personal relationship with Jesus Christ today.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for saving me and giving me a new heart through Jesus Christ. Forgive me for the times I have wanted revenge instead of extending grace. Help me to trust You to make all things right in Your perfect time. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I will respond to hurt with kindness, bitterness with forgiveness, and hatred with love. Teach me to reflect the character of Christ in every relationship and to leave justice in Your capable hands. Thank You for the peace and freedom that come from trusting You completely. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

FOOTNOTE
If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please take advantage of the information provided on my page ‘To Know Jesus’. Alternatively, consider speaking with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I pray that one of God’s servants will pray with you and offer help and encouragement as you begin, or continue, your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals, please visit NuggetsFromGodsWord.org, or if you choose, subscribe to receive a daily email containing each new devotional, as you will also find that option on this page. Friends, I encourage you to find a Bible teaching church home near your residence and attend as frequently as possible. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk while you invite God to work through you to bless them. God is at work among His people! Please consider being a part of that while also growing in your faith as you worship with fellow believers!

DATE POSTED
Monday, July 6, 2026, and I was blessed to be at Westgate Blue Tree Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Please read the following Scriptures in your own personal Bible.

Genesis 27:18-19 ~ So he went to his father and said, “My father.” And Isaac said, “Here I am. Who are you, my son?” Jacob said to his father, “I am Esau your firstborn; … (AMP)

2 Corinthians 8:21 ~ God knows we are honest, but I want everyone else to know it too. That is why we have made this arrangement. (TLB)

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the verses referenced above, as they’ll help you better grasp the context of this devotional.

When a person has no one to answer to and no awareness that God is all-seeing and all-knowing, it is easy to believe that whatever they do is known only to themselves. Whether their words are true or false, honest or dishonest, they often see little reason to consider how their actions may affect others, so long as they get what they want and stay one step ahead of everyone else.

A clear example of this is found in our Old Testament scripture. Jacob and his mother, Rebekah, did exactly what many do Before Christ. Operating completely out of a fleshly nature before knowing the Lord, they deceived an old, blind father to steal a blessing and inheritance intended for the eldest son, Esau.

Tragically, this same spirit of deception is still prevalent today. We constantly hear of devastating family splits where siblings, parents, and children choose to never speak again because of dishonesty rooted in selfish, ungodly choices. It breaks my heart to see so many wasted years of family unity, love, and fellowship thrown away because of a selfish sin—and because the wounded party finds it impossible to forgive, forget, and extend the cross-shaped love of Jesus.

But praise God, our lives After Christ look entirely different. After accepting His lordship, we are taught how to truly love, modeled after the perfect love of 1 Corinthians 13. Jesus demonstrated this love through total obedience to the Father, freely dying on the cross so that we could have a pathway to heaven.

As John 3:16 reminds us, anyone who believes in Him will enjoy eternal life. Consider the radical scope of that love: Jesus went to the cross for the unruly, disobedient men who physically nailed Him there; He went to the cross for the pastor with 50 years of faithful service; He went to the cross for the brand-new believer; and He went to the cross for the very people who hated Him enough to scream, “Crucify Him!”

When you are given the opportunity to prove whose you are, you must start where Paul did in 2 Corinthians 8:21. We must speak, act, and think like the Master at all times. We don’t just want to please God in secret; our obedience should visibly demonstrate to a watching world what it looks like to walk in the example of the Savior.

Think about it: If you claim to be honest before God but live dishonestly before a lost world, how are you advancing the Kingdom? On the flip side, if you try to prove you are a good, honest person to the world while having no regard for God, that honesty will be temporary at best. Eventually, the world will discover it was just a counterfeit act used to advance your own agenda.

So today, ask yourself: Are you living to advance the Kingdom of God, or your own kingdom? Will the world see the authentic love of Christ through your choices? If Jesus is truly Lord of your life, let us make every effort to reflect His truth and transparency. May He be glorified in our every word, thought, and action, God being our helper.

PRAYER
Lord God, You are all-seeing and all-knowing, and nothing in my heart is hidden from You. Forgive me for the times I have let selfishness dictate my actions or compromise my honesty. I pray specifically for families today that have been torn apart by deception; bring conviction, healing, and supernatural forgiveness where human strength has failed. Help me to live a life of absolute integrity, just as Paul wrote, so that both You and the world around me see the transforming power of Your truth. Let my honesty be a billboard for Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

FOOTNOTE
If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please take advantage of the information provided on my page ‘To Know Jesus’. Alternatively, consider speaking with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I pray that one of God’s servants will pray with you and offer help and encouragement as you begin, or continue, your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals, please visit NuggetsFromGodsWord.org, or if you choose, subscribe to receive a daily email containing each new devotional, as you will also find that option on this page. Friends, I encourage you to find a Bible teaching church home near your residence and attend as frequently as possible. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk while you invite God to work through you to bless them. God is at work among His people! Please consider being a part of that while also growing in your faith as you worship with fellow believers!

DATE POSTED
Sunday, July 5, 2026, and I was blessed to be at Westgate Blue Tree Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Feel free to read the following Scriptures in your personal Bible.

Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 ~ As you enter the Temple, keep your ears open and your mouth shut! Don’t be a fool who doesn’t even realize it is sinful to make rash promises to God, for he is in heaven and you are only here on earth, so let your words be few. (TLB)

Psalm 89:6-7 ~ For who in the heavens can be compared to the Lord? Who among the divine beings is like the Lord, a God greatly feared and reverently worshiped in the council of the holy [angelic] ones, and awesome above all those who are around Him? (AMP)

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the verses referenced above, as they’ll help you better grasp the context of this devotional.

On a day when many will gather to worship the King of kings and Lord of lords, I thought this would be a fitting devotional to help us prepare our hearts for worship. You may remind me that you put on your Sunday best, maybe even take an extra shower, so you present yourself well before the people of God. Those things are certainly appropriate. But the Bible teaches us to prepare ourselves to meet the God of the universe in worship. Is your heart prepared for that?

Let’s remind ourselves what God’s Word teaches. As we accept Jesus as Lord and continue growing in our relationship with God through His Son, we learn more and more that His ways are not our ways. Because of who He is, we recognize our proper place whenever we come before Him. If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, let’s take a moment to reflect on where we came from.

Before Christ: You saw little need for Jesus or the local church, beyond the occasional wedding or funeral. When you did attend, you simply followed the example of others — you dressed as they dressed, behaved courteously, and tried to fit in. Church attendance felt more like learning proper etiquette than worship. You may not have known the hymns or songs, but you did your best to follow along.

You knew nothing of the warning found in Ecclesiastes 5, yet because you felt out of place, you naturally kept your words few. You may even remember asking someone from the church to visit and pray for one of your parents during a hospital stay. Still, you couldn’t understand why anyone would need a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Life seemed enjoyable enough without Him, and church simply didn’t seem necessary.

Then one evening everything changed. You sensed a quiet voice prompting you to consider the purpose of your life, and where you would spend eternity if your life ended that very night. When you shared those thoughts with the friend you had met at church, they assured you it was the Holy Spirit speaking to your heart, for sinful people do not naturally dwell on godly matters. That became your day of decision. You surrendered your life to Jesus Christ. Praise the Lord!

After Christ: Thank God you took that decision seriously. You wanted to learn the truths of God’s Word and develop a personal relationship with the Jesus you had accepted as Lord. Almost immediately, you experienced a wonderful sense of peace, purpose, and calm because you now belonged to Him. Your life felt complete, knowing that God loved you enough to sacrifice His own Son as the substitute for the sin that had separated you from Him.

Scriptures like Psalm 89 remind us that we are not alone in approaching God with reverence. Even the holy angels stand in awe of Him as they gather around His throne in worship.

My experience was much the same. Before Christ, my understanding of church was to dress neatly, remain quiet, sing only when everyone else sang, and respond only when directed through the liturgy. After accepting Christ, I began attending a much more expressive and interactive church. Because the style of worship was so different, I wanted to be certain I was still worshiping in a God-honoring, Bible-believing church.

As I studied God’s Word, I discovered that the style of worship is not the primary issue — the condition of the heart is. Psalm 89 reminds us who is worthy of our worship. God alone deserves our praise, honor, and reverence. True worship flows from a heart that loves Him, not merely from following the instructions of a pastor or worship leader.

That is why it is so important to prepare our hearts before we ever walk through the church doors. Worship is a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. If we worship Him privately at home and seek Him throughout the week, our public worship simply becomes an overflow of what He has already been doing in our hearts. Whether others worship exactly as you do is not the issue. Just be careful never to draw attention to yourself. We gather to give all praise, worship, honor, and glory to the Master of our lives and the Head of His church.

Never forget that our God reigns. He alone deserves to rule and reign in our lives. Worship is one of the ways we acknowledge His lordship and thank Him for His goodness, grace, and unfailing love. There is no greater love than the love we have been blessed to receive from our Savior.

If you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I pray these thoughts resonate with your heart, because they align with the truths of His Word. If you have not yet accepted Him as Lord, I pray this devotional helps answer some of the questions or concerns you may have had about church and worship.

Please take time to speak with a Bible-believing pastor, or feel free to respond to this email or post. I would be honored to pray with you and help answer any questions you may have about the voice of God speaking to your heart.

My friend, it is vitally important that you respond when God calls.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for the privilege of coming into Your presence through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Forgive us for the times we have entered Your house with distracted minds or unprepared hearts. Help us to remember that You are the sovereign God of heaven and earth, worthy of all honor, reverence, and praise.

Prepare our hearts before we ever step into a place of worship. May our songs, prayers, and acts of praise flow from a heart that genuinely loves and adores You, rather than from routine or obligation. Teach us to worship You not only on Sundays but every day of our lives, allowing our private worship to overflow into our public worship.

May our lives continually acknowledge that You alone reign as Lord. We humbly surrender ourselves to Your will and ask that You shape us into faithful worshipers who bring glory to Your holy name.

In the precious name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

FOOTNOTE
If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please take advantage of the information provided on my page ‘To Know Jesus’. Alternatively, consider speaking with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I pray that one of God’s servants will pray with you and offer help and encouragement as you begin, or continue, your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals, please visit NuggetsFromGodsWord.org, or if you choose, subscribe to receive a daily email containing each new devotional, as you will also find that option on this page. Friends, I encourage you to find a Bible teaching church home near your residence and attend as frequently as possible. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk while you invite God to work through you to bless them. God is at work among His people! Please consider being a part of that while also growing in your faith as you worship with fellow believers!

DATE POSTED
Saturday, July 4, 2026, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa Apartment Homes, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
You are encouraged to read today’s Scripture verses in your own personal Bible.

Proverbs 10:5 ~ He who gathers during summer and takes advantage of his opportunities is a son who acts wisely, But he who sleeps during harvest and ignores the moment of opportunity is a son who acts shamefully. (AMP)

Proverbs 6:6-8 ~ Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise! Though they have no prince or governor or ruler to make them work, they labor hard all summer, gathering food for the winter. (NLT

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the verses referenced above, as they’ll help you better grasp the context of this devotional.

I find it mind-boggling that the answers to so many of today’s challenges and questions that puzzle children, parents, and even those in authority—can be found right in the very Bible God has given us. His Word provides instruction for proper conduct, success in life, and the kind of character that He approves of, and that also earns the respect of others.

Yet isn’t it interesting that, much like the old joke about men trying everything before asking for directions or help, many people will try every possible solution before turning to God’s Word? Why is it that we often go to the Bible only when life seems chaotic and completely out of control?

Before Christ — This kind of thinking is exactly what we might expect from someone who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. They are making decisions with little or no guidance from God, relying primarily on their own understanding, opinions, or feelings. Those who develop a habit of putting things off or choosing comfort over responsibility often carry those same habits into adulthood, affecting their families, careers, and every area of life.

The Bible gives us examples of both wise and foolish preparation. Consider Egypt during the years before the great famine. Had it not been for the godly wisdom God gave Joseph to store grain during the years of abundance, countless people would have starved, and Egypt’s livestock would have perished. God revealed the coming famine through Pharaoh’s dreams, and Joseph acted diligently instead of procrastinating.

We see similar principles today. Certain crops produce abundantly during one season but cannot survive throughout the entire year. Businesses in many cities know that tourism or seasonal residents will dramatically increase at certain times of the year. Wise employers and employees prepare well in advance because they know what is coming. There is no time for laziness when opportunity is just around the corner. If only we can be that diligent about the final disposition of our souls.

After Christ — For those of us who have accepted Jesus as Lord, everything should change. Our faith in Jesus should lead us to seek God’s will each day and faithfully carry out whatever He places before us.

Consider God’s lesson through Solomon about the ants in Proverbs 6. They may seem like insignificant little creatures, yet God points to them as examples of wisdom. Without anyone standing over them, they faithfully prepare during the summer for the needs of winter.

In much the same way, we are called to be diligent in the Lord’s work. Jesus has promised that He will one day return for His bride—the Church—and although we do not know the day or the hour, we are to be ready. God has also made it clear that every person must come to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior to enter His eternal kingdom. That’s our ONLY pass into heaven.

Knowing this, we cannot afford to procrastinate. Those of us who know Christ have the privilege and responsibility of sharing the good news with those we love and those God places in our path. Just as the ants prepare for what lies ahead, we should encourage others to prepare for eternity while there is still time.

May I lovingly ask you to examine your own heart today. Where do you stand with Jesus? We know that He will return for His own, and that day could come at any time according to God’s perfect plan.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as Lord over your life? If not, why wait? Knowing that one day each of us will stand before the One who knows every thought, word, action, and motive, today is the day to choose and take action. Please allow me to encourage you to follow the example of the ants. Don’t procrastinate.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, Thank You for giving us Your Word, which teaches us how to live wisely and faithfully. Forgive us for the times we have procrastinated, delayed obedience, or allowed comfort and distractions to keep us from doing what You have called us to do. Please help us to be diligent like the ants You pointed us to in Proverbs. Give us willing hearts that seek Your direction each day and faithful hands that carry out Your work without hesitation.

Lord, remind us that time is precious and opportunities to serve You and share the Gospel will not last forever. Help us never to put off what You have asked us to do today. May we live each day prepared for Your return and eager to help others prepare for eternity as well.

If there is anyone reading this who has not yet accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, I pray that today would be the day you surrender your life to Jesus and experience the joy, peace, and hope that only He can give.

May our lives reflect diligence, faithfulness, and a deep desire to honor You in all we do. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.

FOOTNOTE
If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please take advantage of the information provided on my page ‘To Know Jesus’. Alternatively, consider speaking with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I pray that one of God’s servants will pray with you and offer help and encouragement as you begin, or continue, your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals, please visit NuggetsFromGodsWord.org, or if you choose, subscribe to receive a daily email containing each new devotional, as you will also find that option on this page. Friends, I encourage you to find a Bible teaching church home near your residence and attend as frequently as possible. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk while you invite God to work through you to bless them. God is at work among His people! Please consider being a part of that while also growing in your faith as you worship with fellow believers!