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Balaam and Balak: Proximity Does Not Equal Faithfulness
The story of Balaam and Balak is found in Numbers 22-24. This unusual narrative teaches us many practical lessons that are still relevant in today’s culture. Today, we’ll recap the story of Balaam and Balak and draw some lessons for our lives. I also invite you to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you create space for connecting with God daily. Let’s begin with a quick review of the story of Balaam and Balak. Balaam and Balak As the Israelites journeyed toward the Promised Land, King Balak of Moab became frightened by them. Not wanting to confront them in battle, he sent…
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9 Empowering Benefits of Fasting and Prayer
Fasting is one of the most overlooked spiritual practices in many contemporary Christian circles, but there are many benefits of fasting and prayer. The Bible describes different kinds of fasts for different lengths of time. Most often, fasting involves abstaining from food, but we can abstain from anything that brings comfort. We’ll look at more examples in today’s post. I’ll be the first to admit that fasting doesn’t come naturally or easily to me. Especially as someone who has struggled with unhealthy deprivation when it comes to eating, I’ve wrestled with fasting from food. Nevertheless, I haven’t given up on this discipline. I’ve also learned to fast from other comforts,…
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6 Lessons From the Woman at the Well
The afternoon blazes white overhead as perspiration streams down her brow. She carries her water jug to the well, choosing to come in the middle of the day to avoid conversations with others. She will forever be known as the woman at the well, the first person to whom Jesus revealed his identity as the Messiah. Today, we’ll take a closer look at this story and reflect on some practical lessons from the woman at the well. Before we begin, I invite you to read to the end of today’s post for a library of free devotionals to help you establish a rhythm of encountering the life-giving presence of God…
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How to Experience Freedom in Christ: 15 Bible Verses About Freedom in Christ
Throughout the past months, I’ve been on a journey of experiencing God’s healing in deep, soul-shaping ways. I’ve dealt with debilitating physical setbacks that have drastically changed my lifestyle. Meanwhile, God has been working in my heart. Through my physical suffering, I’ve learned more about true spiritual freedom in Christ. Today, we’ll explore 15 Bible verses about freedom and Christ and apply these Scriptures to our lives. Freedom in Christ is a liberation from the power of sin through the Holy Spirit. Everything God permits in our lives is meant to be a vessel of healing. Every challenge is meant to lead us to God in dependence, healing our souls…
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Don’t Waste Your Weakness: 15 Bible Verses About God’s Power
A strange paradox exists within the Kingdom of God: Our weaknesses are the precise areas where God displays his power in our lives. Today, we’ll explore what it might look like to lean into this truth. Let’s begin by turning to Scripture as we take a close look at 15 Bible verses about God’s power. Also, be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you draw near to God and find replenishment in his presence. 15 Bible Verses About God’s Power Here are 15 enlightening Bible verses about God’s power. Bible Verses About God’s Power 1. Colossians 1:16, ESV For by…
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The Warrior’s Prayer & 8 Ways to Put on the Armor of God
“What would you do differently if fear weren’t a factor?” a friend asked as we talked about our lives. The question lingered in my mind for months. Every time I felt fear arise within me, I considered her question. During that time, I also discovered a prayer that changed the way I perceived fear: the Warrior’s Prayer by Dr. David Jeremiah. The Warrior’s Prayer is a powerful prayer from Ephesians 6, which describes the “Armor of God.” For years, I heard Christians talk about “putting on the armor.” I knew the words of Ephesians 6, but I wasn’t sure how to “put on the armor.” Praying the Warrior’s Prayer is…
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Consequences of Bitterness in the Bible: Finding Freedom
We all face the temptation to let bitter roots grow in our hearts. Today, we’ll talk about the consequences of bitterness in the Bible and explore practical ways to find freedom. In Scripture, bitterness is described as a root that grows and spreads. If left unchecked, it hardens our hearts. Hebrews 12:15 warns, “See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no ‘root of bitterness’ springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled” (ESV). Bitterness is frequently associated with unresolved anger, resentment, and unforgiveness. It is the bad fruit of holding onto grudges and holding offenses against others. The Consequences of…
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How Does Satan Tempt Us? A Biblical Perspective on Temptation
True obedience is revealed when we are presented with opportunities to disobey. How does Satan tempt us? The Bible reveals three primary areas in which we are all tempted. Today, we’ll discuss these areas of temptation and explore Scripture to help us stand strong when we are tempted. Be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you resist the enemy’s attacks. How Does Satan Tempt Us? In Scripture, we see three common areas of temptation: physical desires, possessions, and pride. These are the three ways Satan tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden. He tempted Jesus in the wilderness using these…
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8 Prayers for Hope in Difficult Times
Instead of sitting in my usual chair beside the window, I recently went to the porch at daybreak. Something about being immersed in the morning light felt nothing short of redemptive. Opening my journal, I was reminded of a different season. The page offered prayers for hope in difficult times. Prayers for Hope in Difficult Times We’re not in the middle of a crisis right now, but as I read the prayers from years ago, was filled with hope for the long winter months ahead. Perhaps you need hope today as well. If so, here are eight prayers of hope to encourage you. Be sure to read to the end…
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Finding Joy in the Lord: 9 Biblical Tips
I’m bent over an industrial meat slicer—not thinking a thing in the world about finding joy in the Lord—when a phrase comes to mind: “Why do we often have to lose what we have to appreciate it?” I’m 21 years old, and I’m far from my home in Pennsylvania. I’m working in a deli in the middle of Alaska, saving money for next year’s college expenses, and hiking every time I get a free hour. I love Alaska. The view of endless mountains intrigues me. I love to watch the fireweed dance beneath the midnight sun and sit by the river that flows grey with glacial silt. This place meets…
