5 Questions to Ask Yourself Today

Heart Happy

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As a mom, author, health coach, teacher, speaker, and homeschooler, my days are filled to the brim. I know what it’s like to try to manage the day-to-day of having a family while keeping up with writing deadlines, homeschooling lessons, co-op days, and supporting others on their health journey. But I also know the cost of running on empty—feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and disconnected from the joy that I should feel from all of these fulfilling things I am blessed to be able to do. That’s why I learned the importance of prioritizing self-care, health, and, most importantly, my relationship with God when managing my schedule.

5 Questions to Ask Yourself Today

Learning to Say No

I used to be THE WORST at saying no. If someone needed help at church, a babysitter, or a project done, I was the go-to person. I prided myself on accomplishing more than anyone I knew, but the cost was high. I was stressed, overwhelmed, and tired all the time. My expectations—and those I just assumed others had for me—felt like a crushing weight on my shoulders.

It wasn’t until my husband, John, stepped in that things began to change. After one particularly busy season, he sat me down and helped me reevaluate our schedule. Together, we had to make some hard choices; we had to learn to say no, not because we didn’t care, but because we realized that saying yes to everything was leaving us completely drained. We asked ourselves some important questions that helped us trim down our calendar and focus on what truly mattered.

Why Prioritizing Self-Care, Health, and Faith Matters

Before diving into those questions, it’s crucial to understand why self-care, health, and faith should be at the forefront of our schedules.

Self-Care: Taking time for self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. When we neglect to care for ourselves, we run on fumes, and that affects our ability to serve others. Jesus often withdrew to quiet places to pray and renew His strength (Luke 5:16). If Jesus needed that time, how much more do we need it?
Health: Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). When we take care of our physical health through proper nutrition, hydration, exercise, and rest, we honor God and keep our bodies ready to serve Him.
Faith: When our schedules are too full, our time with God can become something we scramble to ‘fit in’. Yet, it’s our relationship with Him that should be the foundation of everything we do. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and acknowledge Him in all our ways. When we prioritize time with God, we gain the wisdom and strength needed to navigate our days and the storms that inevitably come.

5 Questions to Change Your Schedule

When you find yourself overwhelmed by a full schedule, take a step back and ask yourself these five questions:

What things are vital?
These are the non-negotiables—time with God, care for your family, and activities that directly contribute to your well-being and calling. For me, this means my morning quiet time with the Lord, family meals, and my health coaching. These are foundational and help me to be who God has called me to be.
What things are important?
These are the things that add value to your life but might not be daily priorities. For example, church involvement, homeschool co-ops, or community activities. They are meaningful, but they shouldn’t crowd out the vital things. Make room for these in your schedule, but hold them loosely if they begin to overwhelm.
What things are optional and can be cut for a season?
Sometimes, activities and commitments are good but not necessary for this season. For me, this has looked like saying no to certain writing opportunities or volunteer roles. These aren’t bad things, but they can be put on hold when life becomes too hectic.
What things are we doing because we felt guilty for saying no?
Guilt is not a good motivator for taking on commitments. Reflect on what you’ve said yes to out of guilt rather than a genuine call or passion. Learning to say no is an act of trust—believing that God can work without you stepping into every need.
What great things are we missing out on because we’re saying yes to too many good things?
When we say yes to too many things, we may miss out on the great blessings God has for us, like quality time with family, moments of rest, or spontaneous acts of kindness. For me, it meant missing quiet moments with my kids or not having the mental space to dream big with God.

Finding Balance and Joy

Once John and I started applying these questions, our lives changed. We found more balance and joy, and we finally had time for the things that mattered most. I learned that when I prioritized self-care, my health, and my faith, everything else fell into place. Here’s how I’ve managed to maintain a balanced schedule:

Time with God: This is my foundation. Every morning, I spend time in God’s Word and in prayer. It sets the tone for my day and helps me keep my priorities in check.
Health: I make time for exercise and healthy eating. It might be a quick workout at home or a walk with the kids, but it’s important. Keeping my body healthy helps me have the energy and clarity to fulfill my responsibilities.
Rest and Renewal: I schedule downtime, whether it’s a quiet evening with a good book or a family movie night. Rest isn’t laziness—it’s a necessary part of living a fruitful life.
Focused Work Blocks: I set aside specific times for writing, health coaching, and homeschooling. By being intentional with my time, I get more done without feeling overwhelmed.
The ‘Intentional Yes’: I’ve learned to say yes to things that match my values and no to things that don’t. It’s freeing to focus on what truly matters and to let go of the rest!

Action Steps

Take a few minutes to answer these five questions for yourself. You might want to start with the last one first: What great things are you missing out on because you’re saying yes to too many good things? Be honest with yourself and allow God to guide you in reshaping your schedule.

Pray for Guidance: Ask God to show you what needs to change in your schedule. Trust that He will guide you to make decisions that are best for you and your family.
Make a List: Write down your current commitments. Identify what is vital, important, optional, guilt-driven, and what’s crowding out the great things.
Create Margin: Plan regular downtime for self-care, health, and time with God. Protect this time as you would any other important appointment!
Reevaluate Regularly: Schedules change, and so do seasons of life. Revisit these questions periodically to ensure you’re keeping to your priorities.

Remember, a fruitful and rewarding schedule isn’t about how much you can cram into your day. It’s about making room for what truly matters—your relationship with God, caring for your body, nurturing your soul, and loving those around you.

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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle

September 23
Malachi 2:1 – 4:6, Joel 1:1 – 3:21

Weary No More

As we reach the final chapters of the Old Testament, we encounter the prophet Malachi speaking to a weary people. The priests were unfaithful, offering blemished sacrifices and marrying women who worshipped other gods. God calls them out, asking why they cover His altar with tears while disregarding His commandments. It’s a reminder of the importance of sincere worship and devotion to God.

The Book of Malachi: A Call to Return

Malachi opens with God reminding Israel of His love, but the people doubt it. He contrasts His treatment of Israel with that of the Edomites, showing that His favor still rests on them. Yet, they continue to disrespect Him with their offerings and actions. God even challenges the priests, whose unfaithfulness leads others into sin.

God’s words are poignant: “You have wearied the LORD with your words.” The people have grown weary of waiting for God’s justice and of following His commands. In their weariness, they have strayed from the path of righteousness.

The Word of the Day: Weary

Weary: Exhausted in strength, endurance, vigor, or freshness.

Malachi speaks to a deep, spiritual weariness—an exhaustion that comes not just from physical exertion but from the soul’s struggle to stay true to God amidst life’s challenges. The Israelites were weary from their failures, their repeated disobedience, and their efforts to fulfill the law perfectly. They were drained, feeling the weight of their imperfections.

The Book of Joel: A Call to Repentance

Joel describes a devastating locust plague, symbolizing the destruction sin brings into our lives. Yet, amid this devastation, there’s a glimmer of hope. Joel calls the people to repentance, urging them to “return to the LORD your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.”

God’s response to genuine repentance is beautiful: He promises to restore what the locusts have eaten, to pour out His Spirit on all people, and to save everyone who calls on His name.

Finding Hope in Our Weariness

After 266 days of reading the story of the Israelites, it’s easy to feel weary. The cycle of disobedience, repentance, and God’s mercy repeats again and again. It reveals a profound truth: on our own, we cannot attain the righteousness required to dwell with a holy God.

But here’s the good news—God knows our weariness. He understands the exhaustion of striving to live up to His standards in our strength. And He has a plan. Tomorrow’s reading marks a turning point. God will no longer wait for humanity to rise to Him. Instead, He will come down to us in the person of Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of the law, and the source of true rest for our weary souls.

Application #1: Turning Weariness into Worship

When we’re exhausted by life’s trials and our failures, we can turn to God with sincere hearts. Joel’s call to repentance is a call to bring our weariness to God. Lay it all before Him—your struggles, doubts, and failures. Let Him restore and renew you. His promise of mercy and love is for everyone who turns to Him.

Application #2: Resting in God’s Unchanging Love

Malachi reminds us of God’s unchanging nature. While we are ever-changing and constantly failing, God remains steadfast. His love for us does not waver. In our weariness, we find rest in His unchanging love. Jesus is the fulfillment of this love, the One who invites us to find our rest in Him. When we place our burdens on Him, we discover that His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

September 24
Mark 1:1, Luke 1:1 – 4, John 1:1 – 18, Matthew 1:1 – 17, Luke 3:23 – 38, Luke 1:5 – 38

The Power of the Word

As we begin our journey into the New Testament, we’re immediately introduced to a profound concept: “The Word.” This Word isn’t just a phrase or a title; it’s a divine person with the power to transform lives. From the very start, the Gospels present Jesus not merely as a man but as “The Word”—eternal, divine, and full of life.

Mark, Luke, and John: Different Perspectives, One Word

Mark wastes no time getting to the action, diving straight into the “Good News about Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1). Mark is like the action verb of the Gospels, focusing on what Jesus did rather than what He said. Luke, on the other hand, gives us a meticulous account, explaining the origins and background of Jesus and John the Baptist in an orderly fashion. Then, we have John, whose Gospel opens with a poetic prologue, introducing Jesus as “The Word.”

The Word Defined

John 1:1-3 reveals, “In the beginning, the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.” This statement is both mind-blowing and foundational. Before anything existed—before time, space, or matter—the Word was there. The Word was not just present; He was with God and was God. This means that Jesus, the Word, shares the same essence as God the Father. He isn’t a lesser deity but fully divine, the Creator through whom everything came into being.

What Does “The Word” Mean for Us?

In our everyday lives, we might miss the divine presence amidst the noise and chaos. But “The Word” is right here, always active, always creating, always renewing. He is the light shining in the darkness, and no darkness can overcome it (John 1:5).

Word of the Day: Word

According to BibleStudyTools.com: God reveals something about himself through his spoken word, which is ultimately and perfectly personified in his Son, Jesus Christ.

Three Ways to Apply “The Word”:

Recognize the Word: In our daily hustle, we often overlook the divine. The Word is more than just ancient Scripture; He is the living presence of God among us. Let’s be mindful of His work in our lives and open our eyes to His presence.
Receive the Word: John tells us that those who receive the Word have the right to become children of God (John 1:12). By embracing Jesus—the Word made flesh—we open ourselves to a relationship with God that transforms our hearts and minds.
Live by the Word: The Word isn’t just a theological concept. He’s the living and transformative power of God. When we live by the Word, our lives reflect His light, and we become beacons of hope in a dark world.

Personal Takeaway:

When we accept the Word into our hearts, we’re not just adopting a belief system; we’re embracing a person—Jesus. And in Him, we find light, life, and truth. As we continue through the Gospels, let’s not just read the Word but receive Him. He has the power to turn our darkness into light and fill our lives with the hope that comes only from God.

Remember: “Your Word is truth.” – John 17:17

September 25
Luke 1:39 – 80, Matthew 1:18 – 25, Luke 2:1 – 40

Birth: The Dawn of Redemption

Birth is not just the beginning of life; it’s the culmination of promises, prophecies, and God’s providence. When we delve into the birth narratives of Jesus Christ, we aren’t just reading history; we’re uncovering the heartbeat of a loving God determined to bring redemption to His people.

Joy and Faith: Elizabeth and Mary

In Luke 1, we witness Elizabeth’s joy as she is filled with the Holy Spirit and recognizes Mary as the mother of her Lord. Despite the hardships and struggles the Jewish people faced, Elizabeth remained faithful, trusting in God’s promises. When she hears Mary’s greeting, the baby John leaps within her, and she exclaims, “God has blessed you above all women, and your child is blessed!” (Luke 1:42). This moment is more than a family reunion; it’s the fulfillment of God’s word. Elizabeth’s faith shows us that even in difficult times, God’s promises hold true.

Then, there’s Mary. Her song of praise, the Magnificat, reveals her deep faith and understanding of God’s work in her life. She recognizes her need for a Savior and glorifies God for His mercy and strength. As Charles Spurgeon beautifully said, “Mary rejoiced and gloried in God, though the child was not yet born. Brothers, there are some of you who cannot even sing over a mercy when it is born, but here is a woman who sings over an unborn mercy.” Mary’s faith was so strong that she could praise God for a promise not yet fully seen.

The Arrival of Jesus: An Unexpected Setting

In Luke 2, we move from promise to fulfillment. In the most humble of settings—a stable in Bethlehem—the Savior is born. He is wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger because there was no room at the inn. The King of kings enters the world, not in a palace but in a lowly manger. Shepherds, the least expected to receive such a grand announcement, are the first to hear the good news. An angel of the Lord tells them, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased” (Luke 2:14). They hurry to Bethlehem, becoming the first witnesses to God’s promise fulfilled.

Word of the Day: Birth

Birth: The act or fact of coming into life, or of being born; generally applied to human beings; as, the birth of a son.

What Does This Birth Mean for Us?

God’s Unexpected Plans: The birth of Jesus reminds us that God’s ways are often unexpected. Mary and Joseph, humble and ordinary, were chosen for an extraordinary purpose. Jesus, the King of kings, was born in a stable, surrounded by animals and shepherds. This teaches us that God’s plans are often different from ours. When life takes an unexpected turn, remember that God’s ways are higher, and His plans are perfect.
Birth as a Beacon of Hope: Jesus’ birth signifies hope breaking into the darkness. Just as dawn follows the night, the arrival of Jesus brings light into the world. Whatever darkness you may be facing today—whether it’s fear, uncertainty, or despair—remember that Jesus’ birth is the promise of God’s light shining in the darkest places.
Birth Calls for a Response: The shepherds didn’t just hear the good news; they acted on it. They hurried to see Jesus and then spread the word about what they had witnessed. Similarly, the birth of Jesus calls for a response from us. How are we responding to Jesus in our lives? Is He the center of our decisions, our actions, our hearts?

Personal Takeaway

Reflecting on the birth of Jesus is more than remembering a historical event. It’s an invitation to embrace God’s unexpected plans, to find hope in His promises, and to respond with faith and action. Just like the shepherds, let’s hurry to the presence of Jesus, allowing His birth to transform our lives. Let this birth not just be a story we hear but a reality we live out every day.

September 26
Matthew 2:1 – 23, Luke 2:41 – 52, Mark 1:2 – 8, Matthew 3:1 – 12, Luke 3:1 – 18, Mark 1:9 – 11, Matthew 3:13 – 17, Luke 3:21 – 22

Beginnings: Embracing New Starts in Faith

The Arrival of the King: A Humble Beginning

Yesterday, we experienced the wonder of Jesus’ birth—prophecies fulfilled and long-awaited hopes realized. The story continues today with the visit of the wise men, who traveled from the East following a star that announced Christ’s birth. They brought gifts to honor the newborn King. But isn’t it interesting that these foreign astrologers were the ones to announce this miracle to the world? Martin Luther noted how remarkable it was that Christ was born among the Israelites, yet they first heard of it from “alien and heathen foreigners.” It’s a reminder that sometimes, God’s most profound revelations come in unexpected ways.

Herod, the reigning king, was troubled by the news. Known for his cunning and paranoia, he sought to destroy this new King by ordering the massacre of all baby boys under two. Yet, in the face of this darkness, we see God’s protection over Jesus. An angel warns Joseph to flee to Egypt, fulfilling the prophecy, “Out of Egypt I called my son.” Herod’s plans failed, and upon his death, Joseph and his family returned, settling in Nazareth.

When Jesus was twelve, we get another glimpse into His life. His family traveled to Jerusalem for Passover, and on the journey back, they realized Jesus wasn’t with them. They returned to find Him in the temple, amazing the elders with His understanding. Even at this young age, Jesus knew who He was and His purpose. Yet, He humbly submitted to His earthly parents, showing us that humility is a hallmark of God’s people.

The Voice in the Wilderness: John’s Bold Beginnings

We then shift to the ministry of John the Baptist. Mark’s gospel, the “action” gospel, dives right into the wilderness where John preached a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. John was not the typical preacher—he wore clothing made of camel’s hair and ate locusts and wild honey. But people from all around came to hear his message, confess their sins, and be baptized.

John’s call was simple but profound: “Prepare the way for the Lord.” He was laying the groundwork for Jesus, calling people to repent and turn back to God. His message was clear: something greater was coming. “I baptize you with water,” he declared, “but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

The Baptism of Jesus: A New Beginning

Then, Jesus came to the Jordan to be baptized by John. John hesitated, feeling unworthy, but Jesus insisted. This act wasn’t about repentance for Jesus. It was a declaration, the beginning of His public ministry. As Jesus emerged from the water, heaven opened, and the Spirit of God descended like a dove. A voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him, I am well pleased.” It was a powerful moment, showing the unity of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—at the beginning of Jesus’ journey.

Word of the Day: Beginnings

Beginnings: The point in time or space at which something starts.

In life, beginnings are filled with hope, anticipation, and a sense of purpose. Today’s readings remind us of several beginnings. We see the wise men acknowledging Jesus’ birth, the humble beginnings of Jesus’ life in Nazareth, John’s call for a new start through repentance, and Jesus’ baptism marking the start of His ministry. Each beginning in these narratives is God’s way of showing us that He is present in every new start, guiding and affirming us.

What Can We Learn from These Beginnings?

God Works Through Unexpected Ways: The arrival of the wise men, foreign astrologers, teaches us that God’s plans might unfold in ways we don’t anticipate. His light shines brightest in the most unexpected places.
New Beginnings Require Preparation: John the Baptist’s ministry was about preparing hearts for Jesus. Likewise, our fresh starts often need a heart of repentance and readiness to embrace what God is doing.
Beginnings Are Moments of Divine Affirmation: Jesus’ baptism was a moment when God publicly affirmed Jesus. In our own beginnings, whether in faith, relationships, or personal growth, God is there, whispering, “You are mine.”

Personal Takeaway: Embracing Your Fresh Start

Reflect on the beginnings in your own life. The excitement and anticipation that comes with starting something new—whether it’s a new job, a new relationship, or a fresh spiritual journey—are filled with God’s purpose. Like Jesus at His baptism, know that God is with you in your beginnings, affirming you, guiding you, and loving you through each step.

Ask God to Keep That Beginning Close

Beginnings are powerful. They set the tone and direction for what follows. Remember the thrill of starting a new goal, like training for a race or embarking on a new project. The journey can be tough, but the start is filled with hope. As you consider the beginnings in your life, remember that God is the ultimate beginning. He is the Alpha and Omega, the start and the end. Every new beginning with God is a reminder that He is writing a beautiful story in and through you.

September 27
Mark 1:12 – 13, Matthew 4:1 – 11, Luke 4:1 – 15, John 1:19 – 2:25

Disciples of the Word

Jesus in the Wilderness: A Lesson in Faith

In Mark 1:12-13 and Matthew 4:1-11, we find Jesus, freshly baptized, being led by the Spirit into the wilderness. There, for forty days, He faces temptation from the devil himself. This isn’t just a quick moment of temptation—it’s an extended period where Jesus is vulnerable, fasting and surrounded by wild animals. Yet, in every trial, He counters Satan’s words with Scripture, demonstrating the power of God’s Word.

Luke 4:1-15 echoes this narrative, emphasizing Jesus’ reliance on the Word of God. Despite hunger and the promise of worldly power, Jesus stands firm, rebuking Satan with scripture. After this intense spiritual battle, Jesus returns to Galilee, filled with the Spirit’s power, and begins teaching in the synagogues. This marks the start of His public ministry and shows us the importance of being grounded in Scripture.

John the Baptist and the First Disciples

In John 1:19-51, John the Baptist is approached by priests and Levites questioning his identity. He humbly points to Jesus, proclaiming Him as the Lamb of God. When Jesus passes by, two of John’s disciples leave him to follow Jesus, showing a willingness to pursue the greater calling. These men, Andrew and Simon (later called Peter), alongside Philip and Nathanael, become the first followers of Jesus.

John’s ministry sets the stage for Jesus, showing the power of discipleship. John prepares the way, but he knows his role is to direct others to Christ.

The First Miracle and Cleansing the Temple

Jesus performs His first miracle at the wedding in Cana, turning water into wine (John 2). This miracle isn’t just about solving a social faux pas; it’s about revealing His glory. His disciples witness this and believe, marking the beginning of their journey in understanding who Jesus is.

Later, during Passover in Jerusalem, Jesus cleanses the temple, driving out merchants and money changers (John 2:13-22). This act reveals Jesus’ zeal for God’s house and highlights the need for purity in worship. When questioned, Jesus speaks of His body as the temple, foreshadowing His death and resurrection. Many missed the deeper meaning of His words, showing us the importance of being true disciples—listeners and learners of Jesus’ teachings.

Word of the Day: Disciple – A follower or student of a teacher, leader.

Jesus exemplifies what it means to be a disciple of the Word. In the wilderness, He combats every temptation with Scripture. His deep knowledge of the Word fortifies Him against the devil’s schemes.

John the Baptist had his own disciples, but when Jesus came, John’s followers left him to follow the Lamb of God. This is the heart of discipleship: learning, following, and continually seeking Jesus. Today, we see the beginnings of Jesus gathering His disciples—those who would sit at His feet, absorb His teachings, and eventually carry on His mission.

Personal Takeaway: Be a Disciple and Make Disciples

Being a disciple of Christ means immersing ourselves in His Word, surrounding ourselves with fellow believers, and being open to both encouragement and correction. It’s about sitting at the feet of Jesus and letting His words shape our lives.

But it doesn’t end there. We are also called to disciple others. This might be through raising your children and grandchildren in the faith, mentoring young believers, or leading a Bible study. We are all part of a spiritual lineage, learning from those who went before us and passing on what we’ve learned to others.

Think of it like this: We must be poured into by the Word, by a solid church community, and by seasoned believers so that we can, in turn, pour into others. The best disciples are those who are filled with God’s truth and are actively sharing that truth with others.

September 28
John 3:1 – 4:45, Luke 3:19 – 20

Cleansed by Water & Grace

Nicodemus: A Conversation about Rebirth

Today, we dive into a story many of us may “know” from Sunday School days—the story of Nicodemus in John 3. Nicodemus wasn’t just any man; he was a member of the Sanhedrin, a Pharisee, and a learned man of his time. But this was no simple visit. Nicodemus sought Jesus under the cover of night, curious about the miracles and signs he had witnessed. The conversation that followed challenged everything Nicodemus knew about faith and life. Jesus spoke of being “born again,” a concept that Nicodemus found perplexing. How can someone enter back into their mother’s womb? This was a new language—a spiritual language—that required him to remap his understanding of God.

It’s here that we find one of the most quoted verses in the Bible: John 3:16—”For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The depth of this conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus is rich, filled with spiritual truths about rebirth, God’s love, and eternal life. We can learn so much about our spiritual journey through these verses, so take time to delve deeper today.

John the Baptist: The One Who Prepares the Way

While Jesus is baptizing in the Judean countryside, John the Baptist is also continuing his ministry. When a debate arises among John’s disciples about purification, they notice that more people are now going to Jesus. John, however, doesn’t see this as a threat. Instead, he reminds them, “He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less” (John 3:30). John recognizes his role—to prepare the way for Jesus, not to overshadow Him. He declares, “He has come from above and is greater than anyone else” (John 3:31). This echoes the words from Isaiah: “My ways are above your ways, my thoughts are above your thoughts.” John knew his place in God’s grand design.

The Samaritan Woman: Living Water at the Well

In John 4, we see Jesus encountering the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. This interaction breaks many societal norms—Jews usually avoided Samaritans, and men rarely spoke directly to women in public. But Jesus initiates a conversation that leads to a life-altering revelation. He offers her “living water,” a metaphor for salvation and eternal life. Though the woman doesn’t immediately understand, she soon realizes that Jesus is the Messiah. Her encounter with Jesus leads to the transformation of many in her hometown. She leaves her water jar behind—a symbol of leaving her old life to embrace the new life Jesus offers.

John the Baptist’s Stand Against Herod

Meanwhile, in Luke 3:19-20, we see John the Baptist confronting Herod Antipas about his sinful actions, including marrying his brother’s wife. John’s courage and commitment to righteousness ultimately lead to his imprisonment. Despite the consequences, John stands firm in his faith, showcasing the boldness that comes with being a true disciple of God.

Word of the Day: Water – “Pour or sprinkle water over (a plant or area) in order to encourage plant growth.”

Water appears repeatedly in these passages, not just as a physical element but as a powerful symbol of spiritual cleansing, growth, and renewal. From Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus about being “born of water and the Spirit” to the “living water” offered to the Samaritan woman, water signifies more than just a basic need. It represents the cleansing of sin and the flow of divine grace.

God has used water time and again to show His power and to foreshadow salvation. Remember the beginning of creation? God’s Spirit hovered over the waters. Then there was the flood, which cleansed the world. The Israelites crossed the Red Sea—on one side they were slaves; on the other, they were free and on their way to the Promised Land. Even in the story of Naaman, who was healed of his disease by washing in the waters, we see this theme. Water is not just a means to quench our physical thirst or cleanse our skin; it is a symbol of spiritual healing, salvation, and growth.

Personal Takeaway: Embrace the Living Water

Like Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman, we often find ourselves thirsty—searching for meaning, understanding, and salvation. Jesus offers us the “living water,” a source that never runs dry. This water purifies, heals, and brings forth growth. Are we, like the Samaritan woman, ready to leave behind our old jars and embrace the new life Jesus offers? Let’s allow His living water to flow through us, cleansing us from sin and nourishing our souls so we can grow in Him.

September 29
Mark1:14 – 15, Matthew 4:12 – 17, Luke 3:23, John 4:46 – 54, Luke 4:16 – 30, Mark 1:16 – 20, Matthew 4:18 – 22, Mark 1:21 – 28, Luke 4:31 – 37, Mark 1:29 – 34,Matthew 8:14 – 17, Luke 4:38 – 41, Mark 1:35 – 39, Luke 4:42 – 44, Matthew 4:23 – 25

Proclamation of the Kingdom

Oh, it’s time that we’ve all been waiting for—the time the Jews have been waiting for. Jesus’ public ministry has started, and He was 30 years old. Jesus announced, “The time promised by God has come at last…The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!” He preached repentance and the call to turn to God. He journeyed through Galilee, Nazareth, and Capernaum, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy by bringing light to those in darkness.

As word of Jesus spread, He traveled to Cana—where He had turned water into wine. Here, a government official from Capernaum traveled over 20 miles to plead with Jesus to heal his son. After some conversation, Jesus sent him back home, saying his son was alive. Jesus didn’t need to touch him to heal him. For this second miracle, His word was more than enough. As scholar John Gill noted, “Such power went along with the words of Christ as not only cured the son at that distance, but also the father of his unbelief.” His word alone was enough to heal and to bring faith.

Jesus then journeyed to Nazareth. On the Sabbath, He read from Isaiah, declaring that He was the fulfillment of that prophecy. His words caused an uproar, and the people forced Him out of the temple to the edge of a cliff, but He calmly walked through the crowd. Later, Jesus called Simon and Andrew to follow Him, promising to make them “fishers of people.” James and John joined soon after. In Capernaum, Jesus’ teachings and miraculous healings, including driving out an evil spirit, left people in awe. News of Him spread quickly.

Word of the Day: Proclamation
A public or official announcement, especially one dealing with a matter of great importance.

Application #1:

Consider the sheer weight and wonder of the word “proclamation.” In the scriptures we’ve journeyed through, Jesus didn’t simply live; He proclaimed. Every action, teaching, and healing was a powerful declaration of the Kingdom of God. He was unapologetic, unrelenting, and unwavering in His proclamation of truth.

Now, think about your life. How often do you find opportunities to proclaim? Not by standing on street corners with loudspeakers but through the daily moments where your life can be a testament to God’s grace. Each of us has a platform—our workplace, home, community groups, or even a casual conversation. With that platform comes an opportunity and responsibility to proclaim the transformative love of Christ.

Remember the Samaritan woman at the well? Her encounter with Jesus led her to proclaim to an entire village, resulting in many believing in Him. She wasn’t a scholar or a prophet. She was a woman with a checkered past, yet her testimony was powerful. You might feel unqualified to proclaim, but God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called. Your experiences, trials, victories, and even defeats can be channels of proclamation if you allow them to be.

This week, consider how you can live a life of proclamation:

Intentionality: Begin each day by asking, “Lord, where can I proclaim your goodness today?” Be it a kind gesture, a word of encouragement, or sharing your personal testimony.
Authenticity: Genuine proclamation doesn’t stem from perfect lives but from redeemed ones. Share your flaws, struggles, and how God’s grace meets you.
Sensitivity: Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading. Sometimes, proclamation might mean speaking up; other times, it might mean listening intently, showing love, or helping.
Prayerful Dependence: Constantly lean on God for wisdom and strength. The most profound proclamations often come when we’re entirely dependent on Him.

Your proclamation of hope, love, and redemption is essential in a world inundated with information, voices, and messages. You carry a story—a message that someone needs to hear. So, proclaim boldly, lovingly, and continuously, for in doing so, you step into the very heart of Jesus’ mission on earth.

Application #2:

Proclamation is also a clear declaration of something. The Word of God is a clear declaration of God’s truths, His words, His story, and His redemption story. It declares salvation from sin, eternal life, and the most important relationship we could ever have.

Think of all we read today. Even the demon proclaimed that Jesus was holy and pure. How much more, then, should we proclaim His goodness and truth?