Before Christ vs After Christ (Presuming Tomorrow vs Trusting God’s Will)

On 2026-07-20 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Monday, July 20, 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 27:1 ~ Don’t brag about your plans for tomorrow – wait and see what happens. (TLB)

James 4:14-16 ~ Yet you do not know [the least thing] about what may happen in your life tomorrow. [What is secure in your life?] You are merely a vapor [like a puff of smoke or a wisp of steam from a cooking pot] that is visible for a little while and then vanishes [into thin air]. Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and we will do this or that.” But as it is, you boast [vainly] in your pretension and arrogance. All such boasting is evil. (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.

Perhaps one of the very first prayers many children learn is:

“Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take…”

It is a simple childhood prayer, yet it contains a profound truth that remains just as relevant throughout adulthood. None of us is promised tomorrow. Every breath we take is a gift from God, a truth reinforced by both of today’s Scripture passages.

Before Christ, it was easy to live as though tomorrow belonged to us. We confidently made plans, pursued our ambitions, and rarely paused to consider how fragile life truly is. Especially when we were younger, death seemed like something reserved for old age. Yet nearly everyone has experienced the sobering news of a friend, family member, or acquaintance whose life ended unexpectedly and far too soon. Such moments remind us that Solomon’s words are just as true today as when he first penned them: “Don’t brag about your plans for tomorrow.”

Sadly, many continue through life making careful plans for careers, finances, retirement, and countless earthly pursuits, while giving little thought to where they will spend eternity. Scripture lovingly but clearly warns that neglecting God’s gracious offer of salvation carries eternal consequences.

Praise God, someone prayed for me. I sincerely hope that parents, family members, friends, or fellow believers are faithfully praying for each of you as well. Through God’s amazing grace, we can know Jesus Christ personally and receive the assurance of eternal life. God’s Word promises that whoever believes in His Son will spend eternity with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit in our heavenly home.

What a wonderful difference Jesus Christ makes in our lives after salvation – After Christ! Through the convicting work and guidance of the Holy Spirit, we have been drawn into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He not only saves us but also gives us His Word as our daily instruction manual for living. There we learn how to love as He loved, serve as He served, forgive as He forgave, and walk in humble obedience to our Heavenly Father.

Living for Christ also means recognizing how brief this earthly life really is. James describes our lives as a vapor—visible for only a little while before disappearing. That perspective should shape the way we live each day. Like a vigilant soldier, we remain spiritually alert, knowing that Satan continually seeks to distract us from lives that honor God. We seek each day to walk faithfully, knowing that every moment is another opportunity to glorify Christ and lovingly point others to Him.

Rather than boasting about tomorrow, we now humbly say, “If the Lord wills.” Our plans remain in His hands, our hope rests in His promises, and our future is secure because of His grace.

TODAY’S CHALLENGE

Knowing Jesus as my Lord and Savior, and my future secure in the promises of God’s Word, I feel compelled to lovingly recommend my Savior to you today.

With Him, you are promised eternal life in Heaven. Without Him, you face the sobering reality of spending eternity separated from God. Only through a personal decision to follow Christ can your eternal destination be changed, and that decision must be made while you are alive today. Today can be your day of salvation. Turn to Christ while your heart is open to Him. Then, whether He grants you many more years or calls you home before this day is over, you can rest in the blessed assurance that Heaven awaits all who belong to Him. Then lovingly share that hope with someone else.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding me that every breath I take and every new day I receive is a gift from Your gracious hand. Forgive me for the times I have confidently planned my future without first seeking Your will or acknowledging that my life is completely in Your hands.

Teach me to live each day with humility, saying from my heart, “If the Lord wills,” as I surrender my plans, my dreams, and my future to You. Help me never to presume upon tomorrow but to faithfully serve You today, making every opportunity count for Your glory.

Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to secure my eternal future through His death and resurrection. Because of Him, I can face tomorrow—not with confidence in my own plans, but with confidence in Your unfailing promises.

Place within me a loving burden for those who have not yet trusted Christ. Give me courage to share the hope of the Gospel while there is still time, remembering that life is but a vapor. May my words, my actions, and my daily walk point others to the Savior who alone gives everlasting life.

May I live each day ready to meet You, faithfully doing Your will until You call me Home. 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!

Before Christ vs After Christ (Quick Riches vs Faithful Stewardship)

On 2026-07-19 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Sunday, July 19, 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 28:20, 22 ~ The man who wants to do right will get a rich reward. But the man who wants to get rich quick will quickly fail.
Trying to get rich quick is evil and leads to poverty. (TLB)

2 Corinthians 9:6, 11 ~ But remember this—if you give little, you will get little. A farmer who plants just a few seeds will get only a small crop, but if he plants much, he will reap much.
Yes, God will give you much so that you can give away much, and when we take your gifts to those who need them they will break out into thanksgiving and praise to God for your help. (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.

Although stewardship is perhaps one of the least preached or taught subjects in many church circles, it remains a vital part of God’s Word. I believe it is intentionally designed to give us a proper perspective on who truly owns everything on this earth. The God who created us placed us here with absolutely nothing, yet He is entirely willing to give us everything we need to flourish as His children. In His Word, God teaches us how to proceed from a state of having nothing to living a successful life that blesses Him and everyone He places around us. Just as with human laws, God is clear about the dangers of disobedience and the pitfalls of circumventing His principles to follow the enemy’s leading. Conversely, He gives us profound reason to celebrate when we obey Him and strive to mirror His generosity here on earth.

To properly evaluate our obedience to God, we must briefly reflect on what our goals were before we accepted Jesus as our Savior—in our Before Christ days. Back then, we had no spiritual plumb line or guidance other than what Satan drove us to see in the worldly success of the rich and famous. Unfortunately, the evil one blinded us to the hidden failures and deep grief that often accompany sudden wealth—realities that prove God’s Word right, as warned in passages like our Proverbs 28 verses. Because we saw people of all ages achieve rapid financial success, we may have assumed it was a plan worth duplicating in our lives.

However, this does not mean wealth itself is wrong. Many godly men and women in Scripture were blessed materially. Neither does faithful stewardship mean a believer should never save, invest wisely, or prepare responsibly for the future. Rather, I believe God wants us to remember that He has a specific, beautiful plan for our lives. It is just as He declared to His people in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” When we reject His plan and try to force our own affairs through short-sighted means, we inevitably invite failure and increase distance from God, just as Proverbs 28:22 warns. God’s way may not always be the quickest, but it is always the safest and the most rewarding.

If the worldly path leads to an empty, unsuccessful future, we must naturally study God’s Word to determine how to attain His favor and walk in unity with Him. After Christ, this path becomes beautifully evident. We are no longer just learning about His plans; our hearts are truly prepared to follow them in joyful obedience.

Having spent my entire working career in the financial industry, I find one comparison especially meaningful. Before Christ, if someone accumulated wealth, they were often encouraged to seek the advice of a financial advisor. After Christ, I came to realize that my greatest Financial Advisor has always been God Himself. Long before any earthly advisor existed, God had already written the perfect financial principles into His Word. No investment strategy, financial institution, or market guarantee can equal the wisdom, security, and faithfulness of following His plan.

The world may question why believers give generously to the work of God’s kingdom through offerings, missions, and tithes. Some may even view such giving as foolish. But God sees our giving as an act of obedience intended for our ultimate benefit and growth! Our scripture from 2 Corinthians 9 reminds us that when we sow generously in obedience, God is entirely faithful to return a generous harvest to us. Having worked in the financial industry all my working life, I can personally assure you: there are absolutely no earthly guarantees, or market promises bold enough to match God’s amazing promises and security. No secular institution can protect, maintain, or grow what is entrusted to it the way God guards a life surrendered to Him.

TODAY’S CHALLENGE:

Isn’t it exciting how God shows us that stewardship is a lifestyle, not just a line item in our bank account? While we should be diligent and wise in managing our practical resources on earth, it is only through God’s amazing grace that we become more than conquerors – both in this life and for eternity. Today, commit to trusting Him completely with your finances and your future, keeping eternity firmly in view. Let us live ready to meet our Master, secure in the knowledge that He is in full control of our days on earth and stands ready to welcome us into His presence forever.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for every blessing You have entrusted to me. Forgive me for the times I have looked to the world for security instead of trusting in You. Teach me to be a faithful steward of my time, talents, opportunities, and finances. Help me to give generously, serve joyfully, and live with eternity always before me. May my life reflect that You are the Owner of all I have, and I am simply Your grateful servant. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Before Christ vs After Christ (Following the Crowd vs God-Fearing)

On 2026-07-18 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, July 18, 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 1:10 ~ My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them. (NIV)

Proverbs 3:7 ~ Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord [with reverent awe and obedience] and turn [entirely] away from evil. (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.

This comparison between life before Christ and life after Christ is not merely about distinguishing unbelievers from believers. It is also a reminder that, although we belong to Christ, we still live in a world that constantly seeks to influence our thoughts, values, and decisions.

One principle that has helped me over the years is this: whenever I sense myself leaning—even slightly—toward following the crowd instead of following God, I make every effort to immediately seek His face and ask Him to redirect my heart. I want my life to reflect His ways rather than the world’s ways. I believe this is the essence of what Proverbs 3:7 teaches when it speaks of fearing the Lord. It is not a fear of punishment, but a reverent awe that leads us to trust Him, obey Him, and turn away from evil.

Before Christ, many of us were guided by parents, friends, or people who appeared popular, successful, or accepting. We naturally followed those who seemed to have the answers, even though the path they offered often led us away from what may have been God’s plan for us. Without Christ, we simply lived according to the world’s standards because we knew no better.

My own story was somewhat different. I was raised in church by God-fearing parents who did their absolute best to point me toward God. Yet, in those early years, my behavior was driven more by a healthy fear of my parents than a reverent fear of God; I had no personal allegiance to Him or His will.

Parents, may I lovingly encourage you never to stop praying for your children. Pray that they will hear God’s voice calling them to salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ. God hears those prayers.

In spite of the powerful attractions and fleeting fun of the world, God directed me to the right place at the perfect time in His divine plan. He even placed a messenger—an angel—in my path to encourage me to make a decision. I accepted Jesus as my Savior and Lord in 1988. Despite the world’s constant efforts to distract me over the decades, I still stand today in total awe of Him, led by His Holy Spirit, and ready for the day He calls me home.

Dear friend, this is not a fairy tale. This is the transforming power of God. What He has done in my life, He is able to do in yours. He can break the grip of this world, replace it with a heart that longs to please Him, and give you the assurance of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

The simplest way I can describe the difference is this: After Christ, everything changed. It was as if a true conscience came alive within me—a deep, permanent awareness of the God who sacrificed His only Son for my sins. This loving God didn’t just save me; He assured me of a new identity. I am no longer a wanderer following a crowd; I am a son of the King of kings, clothed in spiritual royalty!

TODAY’S CHALLENGE

I have no doubt that God can do the exact same work in your life, dear one. In John 3:16, Jesus reassures us that He died so that whosoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life.

Please don’t settle for merely following the crowd. God has wonderful plans for your life, but He patiently waits for you to open your heart to Him. He alone can perform the miracle of giving you new life through Jesus Christ—a life that begins today and continues throughout eternity. My prayer is that you will willingly lay aside the empty attractions of this world and embrace the immeasurable joy of walking with Christ. There is no greater life than one lived in reverent awe of God, faithfully following Him until the day He welcomes you home. The crowd may influence your direction, but only Christ can transform your destination.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, Thank You for saving us, changing us, and giving us a brand-new identity in Christ Jesus. Lord, we confess that the pull of this world can be strong, and the temptation to simply “follow the crowd” is always present. We ask for Your Holy Spirit to give us a sharp awareness and a quick conviction the moment our steps begin to lean away from Your path.

We lift up our children and the next generation to You today. Please speak to their hearts with a voice so distinct and powerful that they cannot ignore Your call to salvation. Break the subtle attractions of worldly pleasure in their lives, and replace them with a deep, reverent awe of You.

Help us to leave the fleeting standards of this world behind and serve You faithfully until You call us home to glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Before Christ vs After Christ (Controlled by the World vs. Controlled by the Spirit)

On 2026-07-16 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, 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.

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.

Before Christ vs After Christ (Temporal vs Eternal Values)

On 2026-07-14 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, 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.

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.

Before Christ vs After Christ (Choice of Friends)

On 2026-07-13 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

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.

Before Christ vs After Christ (Gossip vs Edifying Speech)

On 2026-07-12 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

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.

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.

Before Christ vs After Christ (A Critical Spirit vs Christ-like Kindness)

On 2026-07-11 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, 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.

Before Christ vs After Christ (Covetousness vs Contentment)

On 2026-07-08 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, 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.

Before Christ vs After Christ (Revenge vs Returning Good for Evil)

On 2026-07-07 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, 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.