God’s Overflowing Love for Us

On By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Saturday, April 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
Read Ephesians 1:6-8 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the Living Bible (TLB).

Now all praise to God for his wonderful kindness to us and his favor that he has poured out upon us because we belong to his dearly loved Son. So overflowing is his kindness toward us that he took away all our sins through the blood of his Son, by whom we are saved; and he has showered down upon us the richness of his grace—for how well he understands us and knows what is best for us at all times.

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.

In verse 1, Paul makes it clear that he is speaking to fellow Christians. If you are a believer, then God intends for you to take note of what He is saying through Paul in these verses—especially a few key truths.

Many feel a deep joy in knowing they belong to Jesus Christ, and rightly so. But notice this: even though God knows us completely—our thoughts, actions, words, and deeds—His kindness toward us still overflows. This kind of grace (unmerited favor) is difficult for us to fully grasp, because as humans, we tend to respond very differently. When others treat us wrongly, we often lean toward frustration or even revenge. Yet Jesus responds to us, His children, with grace and mercy.

We were reminded yesterday of how the world responded to the greatest gift ever given—God’s own Son. Jesus was treated like a criminal and crucified. But tomorrow is the “Super Bowl” of Christianity—the greatest celebration of all! My prayer is that each of you will gather with fellow believers in a Bible-teaching church to celebrate, giving thanks and praise to God for providing a way out of our sin, and rejoicing in the eternal home He has already prepared for us.

PRAYER
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for the greatest gift ever given to humanity and for the immeasurable love shown on Calvary, giving us the way to receive forgiveness for our sins and the promise of eternal life in heaven. As we prepare to celebrate the resurrection this weekend, may we remember the sacrifice You made and the hope we have through our risen Lord. Thank You for loving us far beyond what we deserve and for filling us with the hope of eternity. Help us to live each day in light of that hope, reflecting the love You showed while on earth, and never forgetting the blessings You pour out daily. We love You, Lord, and look forward to the day we are in Your presence forever! 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!

Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be Saved

On By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Friday, April 3, 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
Read Luke 23:40-43 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the Easy to Read Version (ERV).

40 But the other criminal stopped him. He said, “You should fear God. All of us will die soon. You and I are guilty. We deserve to die because we did wrong. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you begin ruling as king!” 43 Then Jesus said to him, “I promise you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the short chapter referenced above, as its verses, particularly vs 5-6, will help you better grasp the context of this devotional.

Some will criticize, assuming the worst and speaking hurtful words—unaware that such moments serve the enemy’s purposes. But praise God, others are determined to honor Him, to live as faithful representatives, and to follow His example for as long as they have breath on this earth.
Each of us will fall into one of these paths. My prayer is that we would daily seek God for hearts that are strong, steadfast, loving, and faithful—always pursuing righteousness and standing firm against anything that would draw us away from our commitment to our Lord and Savior.
And to those who have not yet believed, I humbly ask you to pause and reflect on the meaning of this day—Good Friday. It is a powerful reminder that God made a way for us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. Even the criminal beside Him, in his final moments, recognized that love and chose to believe. Life is uncertain for all of us, and tomorrow is never guaranteed.
Call out to God today. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ for your salvation. I long to see you in heaven—and that is only possible through Him. There is no other way, my friend.

PRAYER

Thank You, Jesus, for Your obedience and sacrifice on Calvary, providing the way for eternal life in heaven. I’m grateful for those who have accepted Your gift and for those still considering it. The criminal on the cross knew his death was near, yet even in his final moments, he believed in You. Each day, we lose friends and loved ones we never imagined were in their last moments. Please soften the hearts of those who delay and lead them to seek You before it’s too late. For believers, may we live rejoicing in Jesus our Savior and share that joy with others. Today could be our day, so Lord, have Your will and way in our lives for Your glory. 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!

Identified by Your Love

On By Ed AlgreenIn God’s Word, All have sinned, God Cares For Us, Acknowledge God, Awesome God, Accept Jesus NOWLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Thursday, April 2, 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
Read 1 John 4:7-11 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the (NLT).

…Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love – not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other.

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.

It’s easy to follow the crowd and mistake outward actions for a true relationship with God. But let us never forget—Jesus proved His love for us in the greatest way: while we were still sinners, He gave His life on the cross so we could have eternal life. We did nothing to deserve it, yet He loved us anyway.

As His children, we are called to reflect that same love. Not just in words or appearances, but in how we genuinely care for others—family, friends, and even those who may not return it.

As we reflect in the coming days, may our prayer be that our lives bring a smile to His face—that we love others as He has loved us: fully, selflessly, and unconditionally. And when it feels impossible, remember—Jesus will help us love His way if we simply ask.

PRAYER
Lord, You have shown us the way, and this weekend we reflect on the priceless gift You gave at Calvary. Yet, we often turn away even over small offenses. Help us remember that Satan constantly works to turn people from You and to discourage us from loving each other unconditionally and without prejudice. Continue to guide us in walking in Your ways so that those who encounter us see You in our lives and are drawn to know You personally. May You be lifted up and praised as a result of Your faithful children living out Your commands—this is my simple prayer today, oh Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.

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!

Focus on the joy ahead—present circumstances are temporary.

On By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Wednesday, April 1, 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
Read Hebrews 12:1-2 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the TLB.
… let us strip off anything that slows us down or holds us back, and especially those sins that wrap themselves so tightly around our feet and trip us up; and let us run with patience the particular race that God has set before us. Keep your eyes on Jesus, our leader and instructor. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterwards; and now he sits in the place of honor by the throne of God.

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.

Often, it’s incredibly difficult to see beyond the bubble of trouble, confusion, and even seemingly impossible circumstances we face daily. Yet these verses come from the “faith” chapter, reminding us that as children of God, we have a bright future ahead—one so glorious that our present struggles fade as we fix our hearts on the JOY to come.

The heroes of the faith lived this way, proving that this perspective truly works. If you knew you would be a millionaire next week, it would be much easier to endure today’s challenges. How much more, then, should the promise of eternal life in heaven with our Lord and Savior—the God of the universe—fill us with hope and JOY? It simply doesn’t get any better than that.

So be willing to say each day, “Come, Lord Jesus, come.” Click on those words and listen to a song that will encourage your heart.

God loves you, my friend—and so do I.

PRAYER
Thank You Lord Jesus for encouraging us with the hope of tomorrow – a time when we will be with You in glory forever! Without that hope, we may easily surrender each day because of our earthly challenges. But praise God, we have a future in heaven, everlasting joy in worship at Your feet. Future hope and greater prospects tend to give us hope and, with joy, we plow through our days here on earth, no matter how challenging they become. But we’re only human, so precious Lord, I ask that You give each reader a ‘heavenly’ mind that will help us think beyond our current circumstances. Let today, and each day that You allow us to remain here on earth, be filled with the hope of our eternal future in heaven with You. Thank You Lord for loving us so much that You gave, and so much that You promised us a bright future to enjoy with You. 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!

Reflecting on the Season

On By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Tuesday, March 31, 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
Isaiah 53:5-6 (MSG) … it was our sins that did that to him, that ripped and tore and crushed him—our sins! He took the punishment, and that made us whole.  Through his bruises we get healed. We’re all like sheep who’ve wandered off and gotten lost.  We’ve all done our own thing, gone our own way. And God has piled all our sins, everything we’ve done wrong, on Him, on Him.

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.

We love the idea of gifts so much that we can sometimes think the gift in the manger is what began everything. And while it’s true that Jesus had to be born for His life to have meaning for us, our focus today should go even deeper.

These verses remind us why we no longer bring sacrifices to the temple. Sin still requires a sacrifice – but Jesus became that sacrifice for us. Just as people then needed a Savior, a sacrificial Lamb, we need our Savior (Jesus) today more than ever.

No amount of good works – giving, helping others, or even attending church out of habit – can serve as a sacrifice acceptable to God. That’s why He sent His only Son, Jesus, so that we could be saved.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).

Salvation comes through belief—nothing we do can replace that or add to it.

I look forward to the day when all believers, you and I, will gather together at the feet of Jesus, worshiping and praising Him forever.

PRAYER
It is very challenging for us to even think of sacrificing, as our ancestors were led to do at the temple. But in our day of knowledge, we tend to think that we know how to best do this, or at least we simply ask artificial intelligence to give us directions! However, I praise You Lord Jesus for all that you did on Calvary so that I might have eternal life with You and The Father in heaven one day. Our verses today help us to turn our eyes towards Calvary and once again thank You for being our sacrifice – once and for all. My sincere prayer today is that this short devotional, and this special season in the church calendar, will open the eyes of many who have heard Your message, but never placed their faith and trust in Jesus. Please Lord, soften the hearts of all who will ponder the story again this year, and cause them to actually allow the sacrifice You made for us to impact their hearts to a point of surrender and to receive the gift of Eternal Life. I love You Lord, and I love and appreciate everyone who takes a moment to read these devotionals. Have Your will and way in their hearts and their lives this Easter season, please Lord Jesus. 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!

Eternal Life – Where Do You Stand?

On By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, Eternal Life, Eternity, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Thursday, October 30, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Branson, MO 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
Read John 5:24 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the The Voice (VOICE).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I hope you’ve taken a moment to read the verse referenced above, as it will help you better grasp the context of this devotional.I believe we can all agree that if there is One who created this world and everything in it, then there must also be a purpose behind that creation. For those of us who trust in the inspired Word of God—the Bible—we believe that God made us in His image so that we could know Him, represent Him, and live in a way that reflects His love. Those who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior can live with the joy of knowing that when this earthly life ends, we will be welcomed into the presence of God—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—for all eternity. This is what Scripture calls eternal life, and our focal verse today reminds us and confirms this beautiful truth.

Still, we know that not everyone shares this belief. Some have chosen to follow knowledge and  ideas apart from God’s Word, trusting in human reasoning rather than divine truth. But when we do that, we risk living separated from the very One who created us and longs to draw us close to Himself. God’s desire is that no one would be lost but that everyone would come to know Him personally.

More than fifty years ago, I accepted Jesus as my Savior and Lord. Looking back, I’m more certain now than ever before that:

  1. There is only one true and living God.
  2. God created me in His image so I could know Him and reflect Him here on earth.
  3. God exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—three in one.
  4. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, born of a virgin, so that all who believe in Him would be forgiven and made new.
  5. As a child of the King, and through the truth of His Word, prayer, and worship, we can walk daily in the assurance that our sins are forgiven and that our God is greater than anything or anyone this world could ever offer.

Friends, each of us must make that decision for ourselves. We can’t rely on anyone else’s faith—not our parents, not our spouse, not even the most faithful friend. No good deeds or generosity can replace a heart that has personally surrendered to Jesus.

So today, I encourage you to pause and ask: Have I accepted Jesus as my Savior? If not, He is waiting with open arms. My prayer is that you will make that choice and experience the peace and joy that comes from knowing Jesus.

One day, I hope to kneel beside you at the feet of Jesus, worshiping together for all eternity. That’s not a selfish wish—it’s the overflow of God’s love in me, a love that wants His very best for you.

The choice is yours, dear friends. Choose Jesus today—and make God’s heart glad.

PRAYER
Lord You are good to me, so, so, good! I thank You for Your goodness and for looking out for my fellow believers and I, especially while dealing with the challenges we face here on earth. In being reminded through this verse today about the eternal benefits of knowing You as Lord, I am excited to share this awesome news with everyone, especially those who have yet to accept this wonderful truth. Please Lord, soften the hearts of all who read this devotional and allow the spirit of God to minister to them. May this be a day of decision for many who are reminded of Your love and Your provision of eternal life in heaven for Your children. 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!

Remember Him

On By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s Word, Obedience, RememberLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Sunday, October 26, 2025, 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
Read Ecclesiastes 12 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the New Living Translation (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 was struck today by the message I believe God wanted to impress on my heart as I read Scripture. I’m praying that He helps me remember His goodness—and that, as I share this with you, my faithful followers, you too will hear a word from the Lord.

When God repeats something in His Word, it’s for a reason. Repetition draws our attention to what He’s calling us to see and understand. In today’s passage, Solomon sums it up perfectly in verse 13. I love how the Amplified Bible puts it:

“Fear God [worship Him with awe-filled reverence, knowing that He is almighty God] and keep His commandments, for this applies to every person.”

God wants us to grasp this truth early in life: the sooner we surrender our minds and hearts to Him, the more He shapes us to live as He intended—for His glory.

Think of a child who listens, respects, and follows their father’s teachings. Imagine the pride of that father as he sees his child succeed and reflect the very values he taught. But it all begins with the child’s willingness to surrender—to trust their father’s wisdom over their own desires. Without that, the child is easily shaped by TV, peers, or the world’s shifting beliefs.

For those of us who believe in God and seek to read, listen to, and obey His Word, we know this truth stands firm: God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The message He gave our ancestors still echoes today—“Remember Me.”

Notice how often those two words appear in this short chapter. God is urging us to remember, to think of Him in everything, and to live out His guidance daily.

This reminder matters even more when we see the confusion in the lives of those who don’t know Him—people chasing empty desires, careless about what pleases God or blesses others. That’s why it’s vital for us, especially as adults and mentors, to take our influence seriously. As Solomon notes in verse 11, our words and actions are like cattle prods—tools meant to guide the younger ones God has placed under our care.

My prayer is that God helps me remember Him and represent Him in all I do—and that you will do the same.
May God be glorified in and through us all.

PRAYER
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for Your creation, Your unconditional love, and Your daily guidance. You have placed people in our path and within our circle of influence to learn from our example and hear our counsel as we strive to represent You here on earth.

Lord, may those who cross our path see and experience You through us. Bless us to reflect You faithfully in all we say and do. Stir our hearts to pray daily for our family—especially the younger ones—because we long to see them come to know You and live for You.

Come, Lord Jesus, and receive Your church—Your ready children who eagerly await eternity with You and the Father. 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!

Living with the Fear and Respect of God

On By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, Fear, God Cares For Us, God’s Word, Honor, RespectLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Sunday, August 17, 2025, 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
Read 1 Peter 1:17-25 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the Living Bible (TLB).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
By taking a moment to read the verses referenced above, you will be better equipped to grasp the context of this devotional.

Peter was addressing Jews scattered among the Gentiles, yet the truth of his words remains deeply relevant for Christians today. Much like pastors observing their congregations today, Peter may have recognized a tendency among his people to take their relationship with God for granted. We sometimes fall into the same mindset—believing that since salvation secures our eternal place with Christ, nothing further is expected of us on earth.

However, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Peter reminds us in this passage that once we are saved, we are to live with reverent fear of the One who redeemed us—until the day we meet Him face-to-face in Heaven.

Think of it in terms of family life: we know our parents love us unconditionally, yet out of respect and love we seek to honor their rules and guidance. To ignore them would be to disregard both their authority and their God-given role in raising us. In the same way, when we surrender our lives to Jesus, we should not assume that belonging to Him frees us from responsibility. God expects obedience to His Word and attentiveness to His voice as He teaches us truth.

That obedience is coupled with relationship. Imagine telling a friend your child always follows the rules, yet never speaks to you—it would hardly feel like a healthy relationship. Likewise, our walk with God requires communication. Meditating on His Word opens the door to learning what God would have us do in accordance with His will for us. Prayer allows us to share our gratitude, praise, joys, and needs with Him. A true relationship thrives only through a two-way connection.

So, how is your relationship with God today? If it feels less than it could be, let Peter’s words serve as a reminder to draw nearer. Click on the Scripture reference above and read the short passage again, and ask the Lord to show you how to deepen your love, reverence, and obedience to Him. One of the greatest ways we can honor Christ is by living in faithful submission to His Word, allowing it to enrich and transform our lives.

Without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, all of the above will seem strange to you, so I would encourage you to seek the Lord today and ask God to open your eyes to all I have shared above. No matter your circumstances, Jesus paid the price for your sin on Calvary. Receive Him today dear friend, and be belled with His gift of eternal life!

PRAYER
Thank You, loving Savior, for all You have done for us. You endured judgment from the Jewish leaders, the suffering of the cross at Calvary, and the mockery of those who sought to destroy You. Though the cup before You was not one of joy, You surrendered fully to the will of Your Father in Heaven, honoring Him in perfect obedience. You did this because of our sin, to provide the only way of forgiveness, so that we might stand in righteousness before the Father when He calls us home.

It was all for us, Lord, and we thank You from the depths of our hearts. Please place Your hand upon all who are saved, strengthening us daily with boldness to stand firm in our faith—so firmly that others may be persuaded of Your saving grace and the promise of eternal life. For those who have not yet received the free gift You offer, we ask that You soften their hearts, so that when You call them, they will freely surrender to You.

Eternity draws nearer with each passing day. Please help the unsaved to choose without delay, securing their place in Heaven with You, the Father, and the Holy Spirit, forever. For we long to have them join us when together we kneel in reverence at Your feet. 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!

What Do You Want from Jesus? Discover Your Deepest Needs

On By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, Compassion, Faith, God Cares For Us, God’s Word, HealingLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Wednesday, August 6, 2025, 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
Read John 5:1-9 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the Living Bible (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.

At first glance, it may seem like I’m about to highlight a gospel of riches for believers. However, I’m always intrigued by the account of Jesus asking a lame man what he wants, even though it’s evident the man can’t walk. This man might also be poor, as his inability to walk likely prevented him from working. Yet, Jesus wanted to hear the man’s deepest needs and desires.

Consider this, dear friends: many of us attend church each week, but have we ever pondered why? If Jesus asked if we wanted salvation, healing, or a closer relationship with Him, would we have an answer? The blind man had been sick for 38 years and made his way to the healing pool daily. Why didn’t he ask someone to help him into the water? Similarly, we attend church hoping for salvation but never invite Jesus into our hearts.

The Bible tells us that Jesus poured out His grace on the Samaritan woman at the well, who then introduced her town to Jesus. When Jesus healed the lame man, he rejoiced and shared the good news. Jesus has so much more in store for us if we speak up and tell Him our desires. Our needs are unique, but God’s power is limitless. Don’t just attend worship; share your heart with Jesus. Worship Him with purity and boldness, and tell Him your needs. He cares for you and, at the right hand of the Father, He petitions for you daily. As we step out in faith, others will follow if they see our relationship with Jesus.

PRAYER
“Thank You, Lord Jesus, for Your love and mercy. Despite my unworthiness, You endured the cross so that I might enjoy heaven. You healed a man burdened for 38 years, showing Your cared for him. Similarly, You see our needs and hear our cries for mercy. Teach us to look to You for every need and to trust in Your wisdom and Your power. I surrender all to You and wait for Your mercy. Bless those who read this devotional and also need Your help. 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!

Experiencing God’s Guidance Through Obedience

On By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s Word, ObedienceLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Thursday, July 31, 2025, 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
Read Jeremiah 35:18-19 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the Good News Translation (GNT).

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 I had the best parents, but as I read this chapter today, I couldn’t help but compare the way my parents disciplined vs the way God handled it in our key verses today. What an awesome, patient and just God we serve! Consider God’s unexpected strategy: He used Jeremiah to arrange a hospitality-filled meeting with the Rechabite clan. Their unwavering obedience to their ancestor became a profound object lesson for Judah and Jerusalem.

Imagine the world’s reaction to believers today if God’s directives were followed with such radical obedience, even when it defies human logic!  There is no evidence that Jeremiah questioned God about why such a meeting was necessary or how he should conduct the meeting, he just did it. The methods Jeremiah used as a gracious host seem very comparable to our meetings today, for we strive to make our guests comfortable with an adequate supply of food and drink. But at the conclusion of this meeting, can’t you imagine Jeremiah scratching his head and wondering ‘what just happened?’, or ‘was that a productive meeting?’. In similar cases, we may question whether we misunderstood God’s instructions.

But fast forward to the message God gave to Jeremiah to share with the people in vs 12 and following. It was at this point that Jeremiah would have seen the purpose in his meeting with the Rechabite clan, for this encounter formed the basis for Jeremiah to explain how his people should respond to God in similar fashion to the practice of the Rechabite family.

Friends, if we trust God to orchestrate our lives, then full obedience to His calling is essential. But how do we do this? We don’t hear God giving us our direction for the day while we’re eating breakfast! Let me remind you that when one accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit takes up residence inside of us to be our Guide, Encourager, and our Protector from the evil one. For the believer who is in daily communion with God, reading and meditating on His Word, and communicating with God in prayer and devotion, God will achieve His purpose in our lives. When we recognize God, and fully depend on Him, He will make Himself known to us in ways we could never imagine. Can we explain and understand this fully? No, but if we sincerely believe that the Bible is true, then we know we can trust what it says. If God said it, we must believe that He is in control of what is going on and that He will direct our path to enable dedicated, committed representatives of the most high God here on earth. I have a personal experience I could give you of how God used an unexpected move by our family to save the lives of two other relatives in the years that followed. Let me encourage you to stop the busyness of life and reflect on your Christian walk. Use your experiences as confident assurance to encourage you on your journey knowing that Jesus is your Lord and the One who directs your path. Let it be an example to others in search of a trusted Father who loves His children and will guide their steps also, if they truly place their faith, trust and devotion in Him.

PRAYER
Oh Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, consider all that You have created, orchestrated, sacrificed, loved, guided and protected, who am I to be worthy of such a Savior, such a Lord and Almighty God? You knew what Jeremiah needed in order to reenforce his confidence to tell Your people of their sin, and of the God who is awesome in power and strength for their every need. This reminds me, and I believe it will reenforce Your goodness to Your people today as well. You know what we need, yet You are patient in our weakness and You wait to hear us in our humility come to the foot of the cross to bare ourselves of our guilt and shame due to our sin, guilt and unworthiness. Please Lord, do it again. Remind us daily of Your awesome power and that You have Your eye on us, just as You do the smallest sparrow. Please give us boldness to share Your touch on our lives so that others might want to know and experience our Lord, for we are reminded that there will come a day when the saved on earth will gather at Your feet for all eternity! Oh what a glorious day that will be. Thank You Jesus, for Your cleansing blood that washes all our sins away! 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!