Way Maker Devotional

In the book of Joshua, we encounter a powerful declaration of faith and commitment: "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15). This proclamation by Joshua serves as the foundation for the song "As For Me And My House," reminding us of the intentional choice we must make daily to honor and serve God in every aspect of our lives—especially within our families. In a world where distractions and competing priorities can easily pull us away from our core values, this song stands as a rallying cry for households to stand firm in faith. The message is simple yet profound: God's sovereignty extends to every corner of our homes, and we are called to lead our families with the same unwavering trust and obedience that Joshua displayed. The Sacred Call to Lead As Christians, we are given the responsibility to lead those in our care toward a deeper understanding of God's love and truth. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, spouse, or friend, this call to leadership transcends roles. "As For Me And My House" challenges us to examine the spiritual climate of our homes and to ensure that Christ remains at the center of our daily rhythms—through prayer, worship, and biblical instruction. The song echoes the sentiment that faith is not passive but an active choice. It's not simply a set of rules to follow but a lifestyle of grace and commitment to Jesus. It's about creating an environment where God is glorified and where His truth is lived out in love and service. Leading your family doesn't require perfection; it requires faithfulness. The Power of Unity in Christ One of the most beautiful aspects of the song is how it emphasizes unity in Christ within the household. A home built on Christ's foundation is one that flourishes in peace, love, and understanding. The lyrics serve as a reminder that when we commit to serving the Lord together as a family, we experience the fullness of His blessing and grace. In a culture that often encourages division and individualism, this song redirects our focus to the biblical mandate of unity. When our homes are centered on Christ, our relationships become healthier, our conflicts are resolved with grace, and our love for one another reflects the love God has for us. This unity becomes a powerful witness to the world of God's transforming power. Standing Firm in the Face of Opposition Joshua's declaration was made in a time when the Israelites faced numerous external pressures and temptations to follow other gods. Similarly, today's families encounter countless challenges and distractions that can pull us away from God's path. "As For Me And My House" encourages us to stand firm, even when society pushes us in a different direction. We are reminded to remain steadfast in our faith, boldly proclaiming that our homes belong to the Lord. A Prayer for Our Homes As we reflect on the message of this song, let us be intentional in making our homes places of worship, love, and spiritual growth. Let us pray for God's guidance in leading our families, asking for His strength to remain faithful and His wisdom to instill His truth in our hearts. Prayer: Lord, we dedicate our homes to You. Help us to lead our families with grace and faithfulness, always keeping You at the center. Let our homes reflect Your love and truth, and may we stand firm in our commitment to serve You, no matter the challenges we face. Amen. "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Let this be the anthem of our lives, not just a momentary decision but a lifelong commitment to honor God in every part of our family's journey.

In a world where accomplishments and personal success are highly valued, we often find ourselves measuring worth by what we can achieve, how we're perceived, or how much we can accumulate. It's easy to boast in the wrong things — our talents, careers, wealth, or influence. But the heart of the gospel teaches us a very different truth: all our boasting should be in Jesus alone. The song "All My Boast Is In Jesus" by Keith & Kristyn Getty reminds us of this eternal truth. It echoes the words of the Apostle Paul in Galatians 6:14, “But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” The Heart of Humility The song invites us to a posture of humility and surrender. Every line emphasizes that, as believers, we have nothing to offer of our own merit. Our salvation, our hope, our future—everything hinges on Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. In a world that says, "Look at me," this song teaches us to say, "Look at Him." Boasting in Jesus doesn't mean we live with a sense of self-deprecation or false humility. Instead, it means that our identity is fully wrapped up in who He is and what He has done for us. Our value is not in our performance but in the price that was paid for us. Boasting in Redemption One of the powerful aspects of this song is its emphasis on redemption. We once were lost, dead in our sins, without hope. But through Christ's sacrifice, we have been bought, washed, and made new. Our lives now stand as testimonies of His mercy and grace. Psalm 34:2 beautifully captures this heart of boasting: “My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad.” Boasting in Jesus means we declare His goodness not only to ourselves but also to others. It's an invitation for those around us to see the beauty and grace of God at work in our lives. A Call to Worship All My Boast Is In Jesus is more than just a song of personal reflection; it's a call to corporate worship. When we gather as the body of Christ, we are collectively declaring that our worth, our future, and our hope are not in what we've done but in what Christ has done. The song brings us back to the heart of worship: glorifying God for who He is and what He has done. It's a reminder that no matter our circumstances, Christ remains the foundation of our lives. In every season, we can boast in Him, trusting that He is faithful, good, and mighty to save. Reflection As you listen to or sing "All My Boast Is In Jesus," let it draw you into a deeper place of trust and worship. Ask yourself: Where have I been tempted to place my boast outside of Christ? How does understanding my redemption through Jesus impact how I live today? Who in my life can I share this message of hope and redemption with? May we live in the light of this beautiful truth: our boast is in Christ alone—in His grace, His mercy, and His love. Let this song be a declaration, a daily reminder, that Jesus is our everything, and it is in Him that we find true glory. “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to Your name be the glory, because of Your love and faithfulness.” – Psalm 115:1

In the cacophony of life's demands, expectations, and challenges, there are times when we may feel distant, unworthy, or too burdened to approach the throne of grace. The song "O Come All You Unfaithful" by Sovereign Grace beautifully captures the essence of God's invitation to every heart, irrespective of its state. "O come, all you unfaithful, Come, weak and unstable, Come, know you are not alone." These opening lines, reminiscent of a classic carol, echo a divine call to those who feel they've strayed too far, those battling insecurities, and those weighed down by life's uncertainties. It's a reminder that no matter our condition, God's arms are open wide, beckoning us to find solace and strength in Him. The key scripture from Matthew is a direct invitation from Jesus. In a world that continually pushes us to do more, be more, and achieve more, Christ offers an oasis of rest. But it's essential to understand the depth of this invitation: 1. An Invitation to All: Jesus didn't specify any prerequisites. Whether you feel on top of your spiritual game or distant and doubtful, His call is to everyone. Similarly, the song emphasizes, *"O come, all you questioners, searching for answers,"* highlighting that all seekers are welcome. 2. Promise of Rest: Not just physical rest, but a deep-seated soul rest. The burdens we carry—whether guilt, shame, anxiety, or the weight of our failures—can be exhausting. Jesus offers to trade these heavy burdens for His light and easy yoke. 3. A Journey of Learning: Jesus calls us to learn from Him. He, being the embodiment of humility and gentleness, offers lessons that aren't harsh or taxing but filled with grace and mercy. As the song progresses, we're reminded of the reason behind this divine invitation: "O come, all you broken and broke, Come, helpless and hurt, wounded and worn, Oh come, all you broken and broke, King Jesus, your Saviour adorns." This is the crux of the Gospel. Jesus, the King of kings, chose to adorn, or wear, our sins and brokenness on the cross, offering redemption, restoration, and hope. His sacrifice ensures that no one is too far gone, too broken, or too lost to be welcomed back into the Father's embrace. Today, as the lyrics of "O Come All You Unfaithful" echo in your heart, let them serve as a reminder of this open invitation. If you feel burdened by guilt, remember that His arms bore the weight of all sin on the cross. If you're grappling with doubt, remember His constant faithfulness, even in our faithlessness. Whether today finds you rejoicing in His presence or hesitant at the door, know that the invitation stands. With arms wide open, Jesus says, "Come." And in coming to Him, we find more than just rest; we discover unconditional love, boundless grace, and a peace that surpasses all understanding. In every season, may our hearts respond to this divine call, finding refuge, hope, and rest in the Savior who adorns and adores us.Matthew 11:28-30 - "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Amidst the storms of life, our souls cry out for stability and assurance. In the swirling winds of uncertainty, where do we anchor our hearts? The beautiful song "Firm Foundation" by Cody Carnes provides a poignant reminder of the unwavering foundation we possess in Jesus Christ. When everything else is shifting and unpredictable, Christ remains our steadfast anchor. The foundation of a building is of utmost importance. It's not the part that's typically celebrated or photographed, yet it's vital for the building's survival. It holds everything else up, determining the structure's strength and longevity. Similarly, in our spiritual lives, what we choose as our foundation determines our spiritual health, resilience, and growth. Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 3:11 draw attention to the only foundation worthy of our trust: Jesus Christ. As believers, we might occasionally get swayed by other "foundations" – our achievements, societal expectations, or even our emotions. These, however, are shaky grounds, bound to crumble under pressure. Christ alone is the enduring foundation. It's a melodic testimony of someone who has found a solid foundation in the midst of an ever-changing world. By building our lives on Christ, we don't merely find a foundation; we find *the* foundation that has stood the test of time, the foundation that was established before time itself. The word "foundation" evokes imagery of something robust, durable, and unshakeable. When you look at a skyscraper, you marvel at its height and beauty, but what keeps it standing tall against fierce winds and storms is its foundation buried deep within the earth. It's unseen but indispensable. Our relationship with Christ is similar. The outside world might only see our actions, our external expressions of faith, but it's our inner, often unseen relationship with Christ that gives us the strength to stand tall. So, how do we ensure we're building on this firm foundation? 1. Delve Deep into the Word: Just as a building's foundation is buried deep, our roots should sink deep into the Scriptures. Consistent engagement with God's Word provides us with wisdom and insight. 2. Constant Communication: A foundation strengthens when it's cared for. Our relationship with Jesus grows stronger through prayer, where we talk, listen, and lean into His presence. 3. Surround Yourself with Believers: Just as steel rods reinforce a foundation, fellow believers provide support, holding us accountable and encouraging our walk with God. As Cody Carnes sings, let's take a moment to introspect. What are we building our lives upon? If it's anything other than Jesus, it's time to re-evaluate and re-build. For in Christ, we find a foundation that's unshakeable, a Rock that remains steadfast amidst the harshest storms of life. Today, choose to stand firmly on the Rock that is Jesus. With Him as your foundation, you can face every challenge, navigate every storm, and emerge stronger and more resilient, a testimony to the world of the enduring love and strength of our Savior.1 Corinthians 3:11 - *"For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.

"A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing; our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing." These words from A Mighty Fortress Is Our God speak powerfully to the strength, protection, and sovereignty of God. This hymn, written by Martin Luther in the early 16th century, has been an anthem of faith for over 500 years, reminding believers to trust in the Lord as their refuge and strength in times of trial and adversity. The Story Behind the Hymn Martin Luther, a key figure in the Protestant Reformation, penned A Mighty Fortress Is Our God (originally in German as Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott) around 1529. The hymn was inspired by Psalm 46, which proclaims, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1). Luther lived during a time of great spiritual and political upheaval, when the message of justification by faith alone was taking root. This hymn was not just a song but a battle cry for those facing persecution and hardship for their faith. It speaks to the unshakable nature of God, who is our fortress in every storm and struggle. Set to a bold, majestic melody, A Mighty Fortress Is Our God became known as the "Battle Hymn of the Reformation." It gave hope to countless believers, reminding them that, no matter how fierce the enemy, God's strength and protection are far greater. Devotional Reflection The opening line of the hymn reminds us that God is not just a temporary shelter but a mighty fortress—a safe and impenetrable refuge where we can find protection and peace. Luther's hymn presents a vivid picture of God's power and defense, especially amid the flood of “mortal ills” that threaten to overwhelm us. Whether we face personal struggles, spiritual battles, or global turmoil, this hymn reassures us that God is in control and that He alone is our ultimate source of security. "For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe; his craft and power are great, and, armed with cruel hate, on earth is not his equal." In these verses, Luther acknowledges the reality of spiritual warfare. The devil, described here as the "ancient foe," is powerful and seeks to bring harm to God's people. However, we are not left to fight on our own. The hymn's triumphant message is that Christ has already defeated the powers of darkness. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus secured victory over Satan, sin, and death. The newly arranged version of A Mighty Fortress Is Our God by Travis Cottrell breathes fresh life into this classic hymn while maintaining its bold and reverent tone. With soaring orchestration and dynamic vocal arrangements, Cottrell captures the hymn's powerful themes of God's protection and strength. This new arrangement invites choirs and congregations to engage deeply in worship, drawing on the rich theological truths that have comforted and strengthened believers for centuries. A Call to Trust "Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing; were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God's own choosing." Luther's words remind us that our strength is not enough to face the challenges before us. If we rely on our own abilities or resources, we will surely fail. But when we trust in Christ, the "Man of God's own choosing," we stand victorious. Jesus is the one who fights on our behalf, and through Him, we are more than conquerors. The hymn's final stanza proclaims the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom: "His kingdom is forever." No matter how powerful the forces against us may seem, they cannot prevail against the eternal reign of God. This truth brings peace in the midst of chaos and hope in the face of uncertainty. We can rest in the knowledge that God's kingdom is unshakable, and He will reign forever. A Call to Worship As you sing or listen to this new arrangement of A Mighty Fortress Is Our God, take time to reflect on the ways God has been your fortress in the storms of life. Remember His faithfulness, power, and protection. In moments of fear or doubt, return to this hymn as a reminder that God is your stronghold and that nothing can stand against Him. This hymn calls us to a posture of trust and confidence in God. No matter what you are facing today, know that God is with you, defending you, and leading you into victory. His strength is made perfect in your weakness, and His kingdom is eternal. Prayer Lord, we thank You that You are our mighty fortress, our refuge, and strength in times of trouble. Help us to trust in Your power and protection, knowing that You are always with us. When the enemy seeks to bring us down, remind us that Christ has already won the victory. We place our trust in You, our unshakable refuge, and we give You all the glory. In Jesus' name, Amen. Travis Cottrell's new arrangement of A Mighty Fortress Is Our God blends modern worship elements with the hymn's classic structure, creating a powerful experience for choirs and congregations alike. As you worship with this hymn, let it strengthen your faith and deepen your trust in the God who is a fortress for His people—yesterday, today, and forever.

"He's the King of kings and the Lord of lords, that's my King! Do you know Him?" These powerful words, rooted in deep reverence and awe for the Lord, are a declaration of the greatness and majesty of Jesus Christ. That's My King, newly arranged by Travis Cottrell, is a song that captures the grandeur of Christ's kingship and invites us to boldly declare our loyalty, love, and devotion to the Savior. This song, based on the famous sermon excerpt by Dr. S.M. Lockridge, calls us to reflect on the many attributes of Jesus and to stand in awe of who He is. The Story Behind the Song The phrase “That's my King” comes from a well-known sermon delivered by Dr. S.M. Lockridge, a preacher from San Diego, California, in the 1970s. His passionate description of Jesus has resonated with millions of believers over the years. In the sermon, Dr. Lockridge paints a vivid picture of Christ's majesty, declaring that He is the King of kings, Lord of lords, and the supreme ruler over all creation. The sermon was not just a speech—it was an act of worship that called people to a deeper recognition of the Savior's lordship. The line, "That's my King," became an iconic phrase that encapsulates what it means to truly know and follow Jesus. It speaks to the heart of every believer who has experienced the transformative power of Christ and who can declare with conviction that Jesus is their King. Devotional Reflection The song That's My King draws directly from this legacy, taking the powerful message of Dr. Lockridge's sermon and transforming it into a vibrant, modern anthem of praise. With Cottrell's arrangement, this song invites choirs and worshippers alike to join in proclaiming Christ's supremacy. "He's the King of kings, He's the Lord of lords, that's my King!" As we reflect on this declaration, we are reminded of the many titles and attributes given to Jesus in Scripture. He is the King of kings (Revelation 19:16), the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), the Bread of Life (John 6:35), and the Light of the World (John 8:12). These are not just names but revelations of who Christ is. Every title reveals a different facet of His nature and His role in our lives. He is our Savior, our Redeemer, our Protector, and our King. In a world filled with chaos, confusion, and uncertainty, That's My King reminds us that Jesus reigns supreme. No matter what challenges or struggles we face, Christ remains seated on the throne. He is unchanging, unwavering, and utterly sovereign. This song is a call to worship—to fix our eyes on Jesus and acknowledge His authority over all things. A Call to Bold Faith "Do you know Him?" This question, echoing throughout the song, invites us to examine our relationship with Christ. It's one thing to know about Jesus, but it's another thing to truly know Him. To know Him as King means to submit to His authority, to trust Him with our lives, and to follow Him wholeheartedly. As believers, we can confidently declare that Jesus is our King—not just in word but in deed. We are called to live lives that reflect our allegiance to Him, to seek first His kingdom (Matthew 6:33), and to serve Him with joyful hearts. When we say, "That's my King," we are not just making a statement; we are making a commitment to follow Him in every area of our lives. Worship in Response This newly arranged version by Travis Cottrell breathes new life into the timeless truth of Christ's kingship. With its powerful orchestration and dynamic choir arrangements, this song leads us into a place of exaltation, lifting high the name of Jesus. As you sing or listen to That's My King, take time to reflect on the greatness of Christ's lordship over your life. Let the words inspire you to worship Him with all your heart, declaring that He alone is worthy of your praise and devotion. A Call to Worship As you engage with this song, let it move you to worship the King of kings. Picture Christ in His majesty, reigning over all creation. Consider His love, His sacrifice, and His power. Allow the words to stir in your heart a deeper awe and reverence for the One who is both your Savior and your King. Prayer Lord Jesus, we proclaim today that You are our King. We stand in awe of Your majesty and Your greatness. Help us to know You more deeply and to follow You more faithfully. As we declare that You are the King of kings, may our lives reflect that truth in every way. We give You all the glory, honor, and praise. In Your name, Amen. In Travis Cottrell's new arrangement of That's My King, this song becomes a vibrant, worshipful anthem for churches and choirs to declare the kingship of Jesus with boldness and joy. As you sing it, let it be a reminder of Christ's sovereignty and lordship over your life. May your heart overflow with praise as you declare, “That's my King!”

Shake off your captivityToday is the day we shall be freeBye bye bye byeBye bye bye bye Babylon Early on in the Old Testament, the Israelites were no strangers to captivity. They were captives in Egypt and were later held captive in Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar. For years, God used Babylon as a way to correct the Israelites when they had turned from Him. They had seen God do many miracles in their lifetime, and still they would rebel against Him. They were convinced that they knew best. Only in captivity in Babylon did they start to see the truth: Babylon wasn't just a place, it was a perspective –– a state of mind. They had been “free” before their captivity, but it hadn't been true freedom. Instead, they had chained themselves to sin and had chosen self-sufficiency. The king may have held them captive, but it was in this captivity that they learned real freedom is found, not in their circumstances, but in their relationship with God. It would only be once they came out of captivity with this new perspective that they could truly rejoice. For us today, “captivity” can look like trying to handle and manage life on our own. How many times have we looked at our situation and thought we were trapped? How many times have we felt caged by our past decisions or failures? It's time to say goodbye to Babylon. It's time to acknowledge that true freedom and peace aren't always found in a new setting, but in a greater awareness of His presence. Only He can bring you out of Babylon. Only He can grant true freedom. Are you willing to carry the lessons you learned in this season and follow Him into the next chapter He has for you? Based on the song Bye Bye Babylon by Elevation Worship. Original post by Elevation Worship available on YouVersion based on the live album - LION.

In Lakewood Music's song “Faithfulness,” the chorus resounds with the beautiful reminder:“Your mercies are new every morning, Your steadfast love will never end… Lord, how great is Your faithfulness.” These words echo the heart of Lamentations 3:22-23, which proclaims:"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." God's faithfulness is one of His most comforting and reassuring attributes. Whether we find ourselves in moments of joy or seasons of struggle, He is unchanging. His love is steadfast, His mercy is fresh each day, and His presence carries us through every trial. The song captures this with honesty, recognizing that every minute of our lives is part of His design, even the hardest moments. Every Hour, Every MinuteThe lyrics reflect the truth that every season—good or bad—serves a greater purpose in God's plan. The psalmist wrote in Psalm 31:15, “My times are in Your hands,” and similarly, Lakewood Music reminds us that God meets us in every trial and every battle with His grace. There is not a moment that slips from His sovereign care. What we often view as challenges are opportunities for God to display His unwavering goodness, even when we don't fully understand. Through It AllThe pre-chorus declares, “Through it all, You've been so, so good,” reminding us to reflect on our past and see how God has kept His promises. When we look back, we can see His goodness woven into the fabric of our lives. Sometimes His faithfulness is most evident in hindsight—those moments when we realize how He held us together when everything else seemed to fall apart. Mercies in the Morning, Hope in the EveningAs we move from morning to evening, the song reminds us that God's faithfulness does not waver. He offers new mercies each day, no matter what we've faced. When we wake, His love meets us afresh. When the day ends, we can rest in His unwavering presence. As Psalm 36:5 affirms, “Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the skies.” This hope will never fade, even as the day comes to a close. God's faithfulness is constant, and we can trust Him through all seasons, knowing that His love for us will never fail. Takeaway Thought:Wherever you find yourself today—whether in a trial or a season of blessing—take a moment to reflect on God's faithfulness. His mercies are new every morning, and His steadfast love never ends. Let this truth anchor your heart in hope, and trust that He is with you through it all.

There are moments in life when the path ahead seems daunting, the obstacles too great to overcome. Yet, in the midst of our challenges, the song Even Here, Even Now calls us back to the truth that we serve a God who is faithful to the end. The message of this song reminds us that God has moved mountains before and He will do it again. No situation is too great for Him to overcome. The opening verse declares, "There is nothing that my God can't do, I've seen Him move the mountains." This is a bold declaration of faith, rooted in the experiences we've had with God in the past. When we face "giants" in our lives, whether they are personal struggles, health crises, or moments of doubt, we can draw on the truth that God has already demonstrated His power. He doesn't need to prove Himself again—He has already conquered sin and death! And because of this, we can stand firm in the knowledge that He will continue to be faithful. The chorus echoes this assurance: "God didn't lead us this far to leave us where we are. Even here, even now, He'll finish what He starts." God's faithfulness is not limited by our circumstances. He hasn't abandoned us in our present situation. Instead, He promises to complete the work He began in us (Philippians 1:6). The very trials we face are opportunities for God to show His power once more. In the second verse, the focus shifts to God's resurrection power, reminding us that Jesus' victory over death is the ultimate testimony to God's ability to overcome the impossible. It's this resurrection power that gives us the strength and faith to face whatever comes next. Our hope is rooted in the victory of the cross, and it is this same power that will see us through our current challenges. The bridge of the song invites us to turn the present moment into holy ground, acknowledging God's presence right where we are. As we lift our praises to Him, the "walls come down." This image of walls falling reminds us of the story of Jericho (Joshua 6), where the seemingly impenetrable barriers came crashing down as God's people faithfully marched and praised. Just as He did then, God works in our lives as we continue to praise Him—even when the breakthrough hasn't yet come. The final tag repeats the truth that God is "faithful to the end." This is not just a hopeful sentiment; it is a truth deeply grounded in the character of God. He is unchanging, steadfast, and true to His word. So, even when we find ourselves waiting—whether for healing, provision, or direction—we can rest in the certainty that God will finish what He has started. If He has delivered us before, He will do it again. Today, wherever you find yourself—whether in the midst of victory or trial—know this: Even here, even now, God is with you. His faithfulness endures forever, and He will see you through to the end. Keep singing, keep believing, and let your praises rise, for God will move the mountains again.

The song Come Unto Jesus beautifully encapsulates the heartfelt invitation from Christ Himself. This invitation is not just to the religious or the righteous but to the weary, the broken, and the burdened. It's a call to find solace in the arms of the Savior. 1. The Sanctuary for the Weary: The world can be overwhelming. Our lives are often filled with challenges, heartbreaks, and moments of despair. But in the midst of this turbulence, there's an unchanging refuge in Jesus. The song reminds us that no matter how heavy our hearts or the burdens we carry, Jesus is mighty to heal. He stands ready to mend our wounds and renew our spirits. 2. The Comfort for the Straying: Many times, we may feel lost, wandering without direction or purpose. In these moments of uncertainty, Jesus offers Himself as the light, guiding us back to the path of righteousness and peace. His voice, gentle and reassuring, reminds us that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. 3. The Feast for the Hungry: Beyond our physical needs, there's a deeper hunger within our souls—a longing for purpose, love, and acceptance. Jesus invites us to partake of the Bread of Life, to drink from the cup of His everlasting promise. This feast isn't just about sustenance; it's about experiencing the unending grace and love of the Father. 4. The Call to Surrender: Jesus doesn't just offer rest; He offers a new way of life. It's a call to forsake our old ways, our worldly pursuits, and to take up our cross. In surrendering, we find life in its fullest measure—a life of purpose, joy, and eternal hope. 5. The Promise of Rest: The chorus of the song resounds with a simple yet profound truth: In Jesus, we find rest. Not just physical rest but a deep, soul-satisfying rest that the world cannot give. It's a rest that comes from knowing we are loved, accepted, and secured in Him. As we reflect on this song, let's remember that the invitation to come unto Jesus is not a one-time event. It's a daily call—a reminder that every day, in every circumstance, Jesus stands ready to offer His love, His grace, and His peace. Perhaps today you feel overwhelmed by life's burdens. Maybe you're wrestling with doubts, fears, or feelings of unworthiness. Whatever you're facing, hear the Savior's call afresh: "Come unto me." Lay down your burdens at His feet. Find rest in His love. Experience the joy, peace, and renewal only He can give. Today, may we respond to this loving invitation. Let's come unto Jesus, laying down our burdens, our worries, and our anxieties, and find true rest in His boundless love and grace.Matthew 11:28-30 - "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

The journey of faith is a continuous ebb and flow of drawing nearer to God, of letting our own desires and ambitions fade as the brilliance of Christ shines brighter within us. In the profound worship anthem Christ Be Magnified by Cody Carnes, we hear a heartfelt cry for the exaltation of Jesus in our lives, a desire that mirrors John the Baptist's declaration in John 3:30. The song begins with an earnest plea, *"Were creation suddenly articulate with a thousand tongues to lift one cry, then from north to south and east to west, we'd hear 'Christ be magnified!'”* These powerful words set the stage for a narrative that underscores the importance of Christ's preeminence in all things. John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus, embodied this sentiment. Though he had a significant ministry, drawing people from all over to the message of repentance, John always retained sight of his primary purpose: to point people to Christ. When his disciples felt a tinge of jealousy because Jesus was drawing bigger crowds, John's response was clear and humble: "He must increase, but I must decrease." How can we embrace this same posture in our daily lives, allowing Christ to be magnified in every situation? 1. Surrender Daily: Each day offers new challenges and new opportunities. By starting our day with a prayer of surrender, we signal to God our willingness to let Him lead. "Christ be magnified" is not just a phrase; it's a daily commitment. 2. Embrace Humility: John's willingness to play second fiddle to Jesus is a powerful lesson in humility. Recognizing that all gifts, talents, and opportunities come from God helps us use them to point others to Him rather than drawing attention to ourselves. 3. Seek His Glory, Not Yours: In every accomplishment, every praise, and every platform, our primary aim should be the glorification of Christ. As the chorus of the song resounds, *"Oh, Christ be magnified! Let His praise arise! Christ be magnified in me,”* let that be our genuine prayer in every season. The bridge of Christ Be Magnified offers a beautiful surrender: *"I won't bow to idols, I'll stand strong and worship You. And if it puts me in the fire, I'll rejoice because You're there too."* This mirrors the sentiment of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who refused to bow to King Nebuchadnezzar's golden image, confident that God was with them even in the fiery furnace. Being a Christian doesn't mean we'll escape challenges. In fact, there might be situations where standing up for Christ puts us in difficult positions. However, like the heroes of faith before us, our resolve should remain unshaken. For when we stand with Christ, we are in the best company. Today, as you hum or sing Christ Be Magnified, take a moment to introspect. Are there areas in your life where you've been increasing and Christ has been decreasing? It's never too late to realign. Let's allow this song to become the anthem of our hearts, a continuous prayer that in every moment, every situation, and every season, Christ would be magnified.John 3:30 - "He must increase, but I must decrease."

I'll Praise You … On The Mountain "Praise God from whom all blessings flow." "The Praise and Worship Band will be coming up to lead us." "Praise The Father, Praise The Son." We often talk about praising God. In fact, we often use the word “praise” in Christian circles. But what does that truly mean? And what does that truly look like? A quick Google search will show you that there are at least eight documented words for “praise." Hallah, Yadah, Barak, Tehillah, Zamar, Todah, and Hallelujah. Each has a different connotation – some religious and some not – but each carries a special weight. And if there are eight words for praise, that means that there must be at least eight ways to praise, right? Yadah is worshiping with extended hands. Barak is denoting blessing, often seen at the beginning of a prayer. Tehillah is to sing a song of praise. So, how do we know what it looks like to truly praise the Lord? Let alone, praise Him anywhere? We look to His scriptures and the ways that we have been taught to praise God! Today, we will focus on praising God from the mountaintop, when everything is good and well with our souls. In Luke 17, we get to read about a miraculous event that took place when Jesus healed 10 men of leprosy. Our Savior was on His way back to Jerusalem when 10 men called out to Him, asking for pity: “They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, 'Jesus, Master, have pity on us.'" (Luke 17:12) Now, if someone had leprosy during that time and it had gone away, they would have to go to a priest to be examined and pronounced “clean” before they could re-enter society. So, this is what Jesus commanded them to do. They went in faith before even experiencing healing, and then, on their way, they were fully cleansed. What a wonderful miracle, right? Yes! But the story doesn't stop there. Verse 15 tells us, “One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him - and he was a Samaritan.” (Luke 17:5) Samaritans were hated by Jews during that time because they regarded them as “half-breeds. They were seen as lesser than, and all around dirty. In fact, most Jews would never even step foot in Samaria (hence the scandal of Jesus talking to the Samaritan woman). But, as we know now, Jesus came for all His children. And, as our Savior will point out in this story, this Samaritan was the only one to return to praise God. He recognized the power of Jesus and wanted to praise the God from whom it came from. So He did, and Jesus blessed him saying, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well,” (Luke 17:19). What a declaration! The word for praise in this particular chapter is doxazó, meaning to bestow glory upon. It's a beautiful word showing the beauty of the Samaritan's worship. But he was only one of 10. The truth is, oftentimes we can be a lot more like the nine who never came back to praise Jesus than the one who did. We don't do it on purpose, but sometimes when we experience a blessing or a miracle, we are so enthralled in it that we forget to lift our eyes to the One who gave it to us. However, let this be a challenge to each of us not to forget about God on the mountaintop. After all, He guided us there. He walked with us there. And He probably even carried us to the top of it. Take a moment to listen to “Praise You Anywhere” by Brandon Lake and reflect: Is there a mountaintop or blessing that you have forgotten to praise God for? If so, take the time to praise Him now. Based on the song Praise You Anywhere by Brandon Lake. Original post by Essential Music available on YouVersion.