Come and See: The Highest Priority
2/1/26
The message reminds us that even when we stumble and fall, God's love and grace are not diminished. He is always ready to restore us, offering a path back to a fruitful and faithful life. This restoration is not about forgetting our mistakes, but about God's power to heal, forgive, and empower us to serve Him again. It's a testament to His enduring love and commitment to us, no matter our shortcomings. 
[35:13]
John 21:15-17 (ESV)
So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Shepherd my sheep.” He said to him a third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was sorry because he said to him a third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep.”
Reflection: Reflect on a time you felt you failed God or others. How might God be inviting you to experience His restorative grace in that situation today?
Our love for God is not solely measured by our feelings or declarations, but by our complete obedience to His commands. While it's natural to say we love Jesus, the deeper question is whether our actions align with that love. This devotional encourages us to examine our lives and see if our obedience reflects the depth of our affection for Him, recognizing that true love leads to a desire to follow His will completely. [38:30]
John 14:15 (ESV)
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”
Reflection: Consider one specific area where you find it challenging to obey God's commands. What might be hindering your complete obedience in that area?
Imagine sitting around a campfire with Jesus, sharing a moment of intimate conversation. This devotional invites you to envision such a scene, where Jesus asks you the profound question, "Do you love me?" This is not an accusation, but an invitation to a deeper connection and a reminder of His desire for a genuine relationship with you, built on love and understanding. [39:49]
John 21:12 (ESV)
Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord.
Reflection: If Jesus were to ask you, "Do you love me?" in a quiet, personal moment, what would be your immediate, honest response, and what might that response reveal about your current heart?
The scriptures highlight different Greek words for love, particularly "agape" (unconditional, divine love) and "phileo" (friendship, adoration). This devotional explores how our love for God might often be expressed as "phileo" love, especially when we are struggling. It reassures us that this love, though imperfect, is still precious to Jesus and sufficient for Him to use us in His service. [54:03]
John 21:16 (ESV)
He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Shepherd my sheep.”
Reflection: In what ways does your current capacity for "phileo" love (adoration, friendship) towards Jesus empower you to serve Him, even when you feel you cannot fully express "agape" love?
The core message emphasizes that Jesus must be our highest priority in all aspects of life. When He is truly at the center, our actions, our worship, and our service naturally align with His purposes. This devotional calls us to examine our lives and ensure that our commitment to Jesus is not just a part of our lives, but the very foundation upon which everything else is built. [01:00:23]
Philippians 3:7-8 (ESV)
But whatever gain I had, I counted loss for the sake of Christ. To this day I still regard everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.
Reflection: If Jesus is your highest priority, what is one practical adjustment you can make this week in your schedule or daily habits to reflect that priority more clearly?
Come and See: Love's Compelling Nature
01/18/26
It is a profound truth that God orchestrates our paths. There are no accidents in His divine plan, especially when it comes to drawing individuals to Himself and to His church. Each person's presence is a testament to His sovereignty, power, and loving provision. Trust in His perfect design, knowing that His Spirit makes no mistakes in guiding you.[06:33]
John 6:44 (ESV)
“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day."
Reflection: Where have you recently recognized God's intentional hand guiding your steps, perhaps in a way you initially overlooked?
Our minds are often battlegrounds where the enemy whispers lies, leading to strongholds and sinful behaviors. Yet, we are equipped with powerful weapons through God to demolish these arguments. It is a daily discipline to take every thought captive, bringing it under the authority of Christ. This ongoing process of repentance and renewal transforms our minds, releasing us from chains.[30:12]
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (ESV)
"For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,"
Reflection: What specific thought pattern or argument has recently tried to rise against the knowledge of God in your mind, and how can you intentionally take it captive today?
God is love, and His love for us is unconditional, unwavering, and deeply personal. This powerful, compelling force is meant to be the hallmark of genuine Christianity. It's not merely a sentiment but an active demonstration, showing itself through our interactions and responses, especially in times of crisis or difficulty. When we truly love one another, the world will recognize us as Christ's disciples.[46:03]
John 13:34-35 (ESV)
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Reflection: In what practical way can you demonstrate Christ's unconditional love to someone in your life this week, especially when it feels challenging?
Jesus Himself exemplified a life of service, not coming to be served but to give His life as a ransom. His love compels us to follow this example, actively serving and encouraging those around us. In a world filled with discouragement, a simple act of encouragement can be a profound expression of Christ's love. Let us strive to be a source of upliftment, reflecting His kindness to all who cross our path.[52:55]
Mark 10:42-45 (ESV)
"And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”"
Reflection: Who in your sphere of influence might be walking through a difficult season, and what specific act of service or word of encouragement could you offer them today?
Our walk with God is a daily choice to follow Him, to obey His commands, and to allow His light to penetrate any darkness. This faithful obedience, born out of love, leads to abundance, purpose, and joy. As we choose Him, we are invited to apprehend the immeasurable width, length, height, and depth of His love, becoming deeply rooted and grounded in His truth. This journey of understanding His fullness is lifelong and profoundly rewarding.[01:15:33]
Ephesians 3:17-19 (ESV)
"so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you sense God inviting you to make a conscious choice for faithful obedience, and what small step can you take this week to respond?
Come and See
The journey of faith often begins with a simple, personal invitation. In a world where traditional outreach methods may be less effective, the genuine invitation from one person to another still carries immense weight. Just as Andrew, having met Jesus, immediately sought out his brother Simon to share the incredible news, our personal encounters with Christ compel us to invite others. This act of sharing what we have found is a powerful way God grows His church and touches lives. It's a testament to the lasting impact of a heartfelt invitation. [43:34]
John 1:40-42 (ESV)
One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, "We have found the Messiah" (which means Christ). He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, "You are Simon the son of John. You shall be called Cephas" (which means Peter).
Reflection: Reflect on a time when someone's personal invitation significantly impacted your spiritual journey or led you to a deeper connection with God. Who is one person in your life God might be prompting you to extend a genuine invitation to this week, whether to an event, a conversation, or simply to "come and see" His work?
The path to faith isn't always immediate; sometimes it begins with honest skepticism. Nathaniel's initial question, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" reveals a common human tendency to doubt based on preconceived notions. Yet, Philip's simple, unwavering invitation, "Come and see," opened the door for Nathaniel to have a personal encounter with Jesus. This direct experience transformed his doubt into a profound declaration: "You are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel!" It reminds us that personal experience with Jesus is often the most powerful catalyst for belief. [01:00:44]
John 1:45-49 (ESV)
Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the Prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!" Nathanael said to him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!"
Reflection: Think about a time when your own doubts or preconceived ideas about God or faith were challenged and transformed by a personal encounter or a deeper understanding. What was the "come and see" moment that led you to a more profound belief in Jesus' identity?
A church alive with God's presence is a powerful magnet for those seeking truth and purpose. When God is actively working, transforming lives, and moving in miraculous ways, it creates an undeniable excitement that naturally spills over into invitations. This isn't about a perfect institution, but about a community where God shows up and shows off, where people are genuinely "fired up" for Jesus. Such a church is characterized by being biblical, blessed, caring, Christ-exalting, and growing, offering countless reasons to invite others to experience His goodness. It's a place where God's activity is evident and celebrated. [01:06:06]
Hebrews 2:4 (ESV)
while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.
Reflection: In what specific ways have you recently witnessed God's active presence or "God activity" within our church community, perhaps through a changed life, an answered prayer, or a moment of profound worship? How does seeing this activity fuel your own excitement and desire to share it with others?
The church is not meant to be passive or isolated; it is called to be an active force for God's kingdom in the world. This means pursuing Christ with dedication and becoming "great influencers" in our communities. Ministries like Hope Connect, which equip parents and teach biblical principles in schools, are tangible examples of how we can step out to serve and share the gospel beyond our church walls. By actively engaging with the needs of our community, we demonstrate God's love and provide opportunities for people to "come and see" His transformative power in action. This active engagement ensures a lasting legacy for future generations. [01:04:25]
Acts 1:8 (ESV)
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.
Reflection: Considering the various ways our church is actively engaging the community, such as the Hope Connect ministry, what is one practical step you could personally take this week to contribute to being a "kingdom influencer" in your own sphere of influence?
The ultimate invitation comes from your own life, your personal testimony of Jesus' work. Just as Andrew, Philip, and Nathaniel shared what they had personally experienced, you too are called to be a witness. Your story of God's faithfulness, goodness, and power is unique and compelling. It's about letting people see God's activity all over you, prompting them to ask, "What is going on in your life?" This personal witness, empowered by your own encounter with Jesus, is the most effective way to invite others to "come and see" Him for themselves. It's a daily commitment to share the hope you have found. [01:09:10]
John 1:39 (ESV)
He said to them, "Come and you will see." So they went and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour.
Reflection: What specific aspect of Jesus' faithfulness, goodness, or power in your own life would you most readily share with someone if God presented an opportunity to invite them to "come and see" Him this week? How might you prepare your heart to recognize and respond to such an opportunity?
Advent of Peace
12/14/25
When life feels complicated, the most faithful move is often to pause and ask for God’s nearness. You don’t have to outrun your limitations; you can ask, “Lord, if You don’t go with me, I won’t go.” His presence is what sets His people apart—He knows you by name and delights to be with you. Pray boldly today: “Show me Your glory,” and watch how His presence steadies your steps. Let your home, your work, and your conversations carry the fragrance of a God who walks with you. May you be marked, not by hurry, but by holy dependence on the One who goes before you [17:54]
Exodus 33:15–18: Moses said, “If You will not go with us, don’t send us forward. Only Your presence can show the world that we have found favor and belong to You.” The Lord replied, “I will do what you ask, for you have found favor with Me, and I know you by name.” Then Moses pleaded, “Please let me see Your glory.”
Reflection: Where do you need to slow down until you are sure God is going with you, and how will you ask Him today to show you His glory in that specific place?
The first Christmas was anything but calm—political pressure, fearful leaders, and a crowded town with no room. Yet right there, heaven announced a peace that does not wait for circumstances to settle. Peace came wrapped in flesh and laid in a manger, and now peace reigns in the face of King Jesus. This is a peace for those He favors—those who trust Him and are known by name. Welcome His peace into the noise of your day; it is stronger than the chaos around you. Let every anxious corner of your heart hear heaven’s song again [30:12]
Luke 2:13–14: Suddenly a vast crowd of angels appeared, praising God: “Glory to God in the highest places! And on earth, peace rests on those He welcomes as His own.”
Reflection: What is one specific moment this season that feels least peaceful, and how will you invite the peace of King Jesus into that moment this week?
Before grace reached you, you were not just restless—you were at odds with God. Through Jesus, you are declared right with God by faith, and the war within can finally quiet. He replaces inner turmoil with hope and a deep, steady peace that the world cannot produce. Remember the day He saved you and the relief that followed; let that memory nourish today’s trust. If you have not yet trusted Him, know that His peace is offered to you even now. Receive afresh the gift that changes everything on the inside [35:12]
Romans 5:1: Since we have been made right with God by faith, we now live at peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Reflection: Think of one inner conflict Jesus calmed when He saved you; how will you bring a current anxiety under that same peace this week?
God’s peace does not promise a life without storms; it promises a Savior within them. Tears may come, memories may ache, and holidays can magnify both sorrow and joy—but Jesus walks with you through it all. He holds your hand, carries you when needed, and steadies you step by step. His companionship turns graveside winters into places where hope quietly warms the heart again. Choose one simple way today to notice His nearness—a prayer, a hymn, a call to a friend. Let the Prince of Peace be the One who defines your day [40:54]
Matthew 28:20: Be sure of this: I am with you every day, right up to the very end of the age.
Reflection: What specific grief or pressure surfaces for you right now, and what small practice will help you recognize Jesus walking with you in it this week?
The Table reminds us that peace was purchased at a great cost—His body given, His blood poured out. As you remember, let the Spirit examine your heart; confession clears space for fresh joy. This is not about earning favor but about receiving again what grace already secured. Renew your commitment to walk closely with Jesus and to carry His peace into a restless world. Let your words, service, and worship proclaim His death until He comes. May your life become a living “Amen” to His finished work [49:17]
1 Corinthians 11:23–26: On the night He was betrayed, the Lord Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and said, “This is My body for you; remember Me when you eat it.” In the same way He took the cup: “This cup is the new covenant sealed with My blood; whenever you drink it, remember Me.” Every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are announcing the Lord’s death until He returns.
Reflection: Before you come to the Table (or remember the cross), what one concrete confession or step of obedience will you take this week, and when will you take it?
Advent of Hope
12/07/25
Hold tightly to the truth that anchors every season: Jesus is faithful and his promises stand. When life shakes loose what once seemed secure, grip the gospel with steady hands and refuse to let go. This is not a passive wish but an active holding—an intentional, stubborn trust in the One who keeps his word. [48:32]
Hebrews 10:23 (ESV)
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.
Reflection: What is one specific worry or loss this season that tempts you to loosen your hold on Christ, and what is one concrete way (a scripture you will memorize, a person you will ask to pray with you, or a habit you will start) to “hold fast” to the confession of hope this week?
You were made to hear from God; He still speaks into ordinary moments. Practice the discipline of quieting your heart so you can distinguish his voice from the clamor—go, lie down, be still, and when he calls answer, “Speak, for your servant hears.” Cultivate a listening posture this week and watch how small obedience opens the door for fresh direction. [27:50]
1 Samuel 3:8–10 (ESV)
8 Then Eli perceived that the Lord was calling the boy. 9 Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down; and if he calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant hears.’ ” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. 10 And the Lord came and stood, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.”
Reflection: When did you last stop everything and simply wait on God’s voice for five minutes? This week choose one specific time and place to lie down before the Lord and ask him one clear question—what will you ask him, and when will you do it?
The past may accuse, but the gospel declares there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ. You are not catalogued by failure but covered by grace; the legal sentence has been removed. Let that truth reframe how you face shame and self-condemnation—stand in the freedom bought by Christ and live with confidence. [55:09]
Romans 8:1 (ESV)
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Reflection: Name one shame or label from your past that still feels fresh in your mind; how would your daily thoughts and choices change if you truly believed there is now no condemnation for you in Christ?
God did more than forgive; he erased the record that stood against us and nailed it to the cross. The penalty is removed, the charge is gone—your slate is cleared by his work, not your effort. Receive that forgiveness as a present reality and let it reshape how you live, relate, and hope today. [57:00]
Colossians 2:13–14 (ESV)
13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. He set this aside, nailing it to the cross.
Reflection: What concrete step will you take this week to stop carrying a past debt—write a letter of confession and prayer, speak with a trusted believer, or publicly thank God for his forgiveness—and when will you do it?
You no longer live for yourself—Christ lives in you, and your life is now animated by him. When the present is painful or the future uncertain, rehearse the reality: the Son of God loves you and gave himself for you, and his life in you changes how you respond. Let that identity shape daily choices so you live by faith, not by fear. [58:24]
Galatians 2:20 (ESV)
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Reflection: Identify one area where you tend to “live by self” (anger, control, people-pleasing, anxiety); what is one small, specific habit you will practice each morning to remind yourself that Christ lives in you and you will live by faith instead?
The Spirit Filled Life: When God Moves In, pt 2
11/23/25
When God moves into a believer’s life, everything changes—old patterns are left behind, and a new birth takes place. This transformation is not about achieving perfection, but about a genuine shift in desires, attitudes, and actions. The Spirit-filled life is marked by a visible difference; it is impossible to encounter Jesus and remain unchanged. The believer’s body becomes a temple of the Holy Spirit, and life on this side of heaven gains new meaning and purpose as we live out God’s best for us, rehearsing for eternity with Him. [38:04]
Ephesians 5:18-21 (ESV)
"And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you see the greatest need for God’s transforming power, and how can you invite the Holy Spirit to fill that space today?
A Spirit-filled life overflows with worship—not just on Sundays, but every day. True worship is not about personal preference or performance, but about adoring Jesus and giving Him praise from the heart. Whether through psalms, hymns, or spontaneous spiritual songs, worship is an expression of joy and gratitude that flows from a heart touched by God. Even if you feel you can’t sing well, remember that your heart is the instrument God desires, and your melody is for Him alone. [48:25]
Psalm 51:10-12 (ESV)
"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit."
Reflection: What is one way you can intentionally express adoration to Jesus in your daily routine, regardless of your circumstances or musical ability?
A grateful heart is a hallmark of the Spirit-filled life. Instead of grumpiness or unappreciation, believers are called to give thanks always and for everything, even when it’s difficult. This spirit of appreciation transforms gloomy days and tough situations, allowing God’s light to pierce through. Jesus Himself modeled thankfulness in all circumstances, and as we follow Him, we are never truly alone—He is with us, working all things for our good and shaping us to be more like Him. [54:42]
Romans 8:28-29 (ESV)
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers."
Reflection: Who is someone in your life you can thank or encourage today, and how might expressing appreciation to them reflect the heart of Christ?
Spirit-filled living produces an attitude of accommodation—willingly and lovingly submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ. This mutual submission is not about losing value or rights, but about following Jesus’ example of service and humility. In the early church, believers submitted to one another by worshiping, learning, and serving together, not wanting to miss what God was doing among them. When we submit to each other, we experience the fullness of community and the blessing of both serving and being served. [01:02:11]
2 Corinthians 4:5 (ESV)
"For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake."
Reflection: Is there someone in your church or community you find it difficult to serve or submit to? What is one practical step you can take this week to humbly serve or support them?
The Spirit-filled life is ultimately Christ living His life through us. We are called to surrender our rights and desires, being crucified with Christ so that He may live in and through us. This surrender is not about losing identity, but about gaining the fullness of life that comes from letting Jesus shape our actions, attitudes, and relationships. As we yield to Him, our lives become a pleasing aroma to God, marked by worship, gratitude, and loving service to others. [01:03:59]
Galatians 2:20 (ESV)
"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
Reflection: What is one area where you are holding onto your own way instead of letting Christ live through you, and how can you surrender that to Him today?