Country Joe

The Power of Corporate Prayer

When we listen, fast, and pray, we may see God work in ways we didn’t expect.

July 12, 2026

Related Scripture

2 Chronicles 20:1-30

Bible in a Year

Proverbs 16-18

2 Chronicles 20:1-30

When Jehoshaphat saw trouble looming, the first thing he did was turn to God. He proclaimed a fast throughout Judah, and people came from everywhere to seek the Lord together. By calling for both fasting and prayer, the king acknowledged that the crisis demanded complete dependence on God.

Though Jehoshaphat was king, he recognized his limitations and sought help. He could have relied on his position or military might, but instead he called on his people for prayerful support. Sometimes we feel uncomfortable asking others to pray for us, but one of the wisest things we can do in difficult times is to come before the Lord with other believers. The body of Christ depends on this kind of cooperation.

When the people of Judah gathered, God provided a solution through a prophet. Jehoshaphat was humble enough to listen and wise enough to follow (vv. 18-20). As a result, the Israelites were saved without drawing a weapon. Because their humble king listened, they witnessed God’s remarkable victory (vv. 22-30).

We must attune our ears to God’s voice. Sometimes He speaks through unexpected people and says things we don’t expect to hear. But He will provide solutions if we’re willing to heed His words.

Bible in One Year:

Proverbs 16-18

July 12, 2026

God’s Power

Cathy Fooshee (Kansas, USA)

Today's Reading

Job 26:1-14

Thought for the Day

Today I will listen for God’s voice.

Prayer Focus

To notice God’s presence all around me

Job said, “These are indeed but the outskirts of his ways, and how small a whisper do we hear of him! But the thunder of his power who can understand?” - Job 26:14 (NRSVUE)

"I was lying in bed one morning as a thunderstorm moved through my area. As I listened, the words of a favorite hymn about God’s display of power throughout earth came to mind and made me smile. I felt God was speaking God’s love for me in the sounds of the thunder. Each peal ushered me into our Creator’s calming presence.

As awe-inspiring as this storm was, there are other, quieter things God shares with me every day that speak also of God’s power, beauty, and love for me: the antics and giggles of my grandchildren as they explore this great big world, the strong hand that my husband always offers me as we take walks together, the miracle and beauty of a flower that blooms out of a tiny seed, and the sights and sounds of birds in nature. All are a testimony to a beautiful, creative, and powerful God whose greatest delight is relationship with us.

God speaks to us all day, every day if only we have ears to hear and eyes to discern God’s footprints in the sands of our lives." The Lord speaks to you. And He is very creative and has power that no one can match. God desires to be an active part in our lives.

Today's Prayer

"Lord of love, thank you for the many ways you speak your love to us every day. May our hearts be warmed as we recognize your presence." Amen.

Job 26:1-14

"'1 Then Job said: 2 How well you have helped the weak, saved those with frail arms, 3 advised one lacking wisdom, informed many with insight! 4 With whom have you spoken; whose breath was expelled from you? 5 The dead writhe, the inhabitants beneath the waters as well. 6 The grave is naked before God; the underworld lacks covering. 7 He stretched the North over chaos, hung earth over nothing; 8 wrapped up water in his clouds, yet they didn’t burst out below; 9 hid the face of the full moon, spreading his cloud over it; 10 traced a circle on the water’s surface, at the limit of light and darkness. 11 Heaven’s pillars shook, terrified by his blast. 12 By his power he stilled the Sea; split Rahab with his cleverness. 13 Due to his wind, heaven became clear; his hand split the fleeing serpent. 14 Look, these are only the outer fringe of his ways; we hear only a whispered word about him. Who can understand his thunderous power?" God's powers are highlighted in these verses. And what you read is only the beginning. I am blessed to know Him. Joe

What We Know in Times of Suffering

Scripture anchors us in truth when everything else feels uncertain.

July 11, 2026

Related Scripture

Lamentations 3:22-23

Psalm 103:19

Romans 8:28

Bible in a Year

Proverbs 13-15

Lamentations 3:22-23

The Lord reveals some things to us and leaves others shrouded in mystery. So we may not know why specific disasters occur, but there are biblical truths that assure us the Lord can be trusted even in times of great suffering. Because of Scripture, we can be certain that ...

God is sovereign (Psalm 103:19). Nothing in heaven or on earth is outside His awareness and ultimate authority. Even when we don’t understand His ways, we can trust His character.

The Lord loves people and desires their salvation. Giving His Son for the salvation of the world proves beyond a doubt that He loves each person. His love remains constant, even when we can’t feel it or struggle to accept it.

God can bring redemption from tragedy. Though we can’t fully comprehend what He’s doing in each situation, He promises to work all things—even disasters—for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Suffering often awakens people to their need for God and stirs believers to deeper faith and compassion.

The One who loves us perfectly is present with us, working according to His purposes whether circumstances are dark or bright. Knowing this should fill us with hope, even in the midst of crisis. He is faithful, and His promises are true.

Bible in One Year:

Proverbs 13-15

July 11, 2026

God’s Unfailing Love

Sammy M. (Mombasa, Kenya)

Today's Reading

Romans 8:31-39

Thought for the Day

I know that nothing can separate me from God’s love.

Prayer Focus

Those doubting God’s love

"Paul wrote, I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38-39 (NRSVUE)

Today's Prayer

"Loving God, thank you for the assurance that nothing can ever separate us from your enduring love." Amen.

"In 2013 when my contract with an international non-governmental organization ended, I was completely overwhelmed. I felt like I was sinking. The future looked bleak. I was approaching my fiftieth birthday with no job prospects. I even started doubting God’s love for me.

One day I was watching a Christian program on TV when the speaker mentioned Romans 8:38. The words of that verse filled a void that I was feeling. They provided an assurance that absolutely nothing could separate me from God’s love. At that moment, my mistaken thought that God didn’t care about my predicament changed. I knew God’s love for me was unchanging.

It gave me the courage to continue.

Even today, over ten years later, when challenges come, this verse reminds me of God’s unshakable love and care. Whether I am facing life’s struggles, spiritual battles, or even death itself, God’s steadfast love for me is still unchanging." We cannot be seperated from God at any time. We may face difficulties and struggles, yet He is not going to change. We can always rest assured.

Romans 8:31-39

"31 So what are we going to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? 32 He didn’t spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. Won’t he also freely give us all things with him? 33 Who will bring a charge against God’s elect people? It is God who acquits them. 34 Who is going to convict them? It is Christ Jesus who died, even more, who was raised, and who also is at God’s right side. It is Christ Jesus who also pleads our case for us. 35 Who will separate us from Christ’s love? Will we be separated by trouble, or distress, or harassment, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 36 As it is written, We are being put to death all day long for your sake. We are treated like sheep for slaughter. 37 But in all these things we win a sweeping victory through the one who loved us. 38 I’m convinced that nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus our Lord: not death or life, not angels or rulers, not present things or future things, not powers 39 or height or depth, or any other thing that is created." Hardships may come and things may happen, but there is absolutely nothing that can remove us from God's love. We have Jesus by His side to advocate for us every single day. What better blessing is there than that? Joe

What Can We Learn From Disaster?

Within the disaster and in the aftermath, God is present and ready to restore.

July 10, 2026

Related Scripture

Isaiah 55:8-9

Matthew 5:45

Revelation 21:4

Bible in a Year

Proverbs 9-12

Isaiah 55:8-9

Whenever disaster strikes, questions spring to mind: Why does the Lord let bad things happen? Where is He in the midst of suffering?

These are ancient questions—Job asked them, as did the psalmists, and believers through the ages have likewise wrestled with them. Today’s passage reminds us that God’s thoughts and ways are higher than ours. This isn’t dismissive—it’s an acknowledgment that we live in a fallen world where natural laws operate, free will exists, and suffering touches everyone, both righteous and unrighteous (Matthew 5:45).

God is not the author of evil, nor does He orchestrate tragedy. Yet He is sovereign, which means nothing escapes His awareness or His purposes. This truth is at the heart of our faith: God grieves with us in our suffering even as He works redemptively within it. He doesn’t always intervene, but He is present in disaster’s aftermath, bringing comfort, strength, and restoration.

We must resist reducing God’s ways to formulas we can understand. When we cannot grasp His purposes, we anchor ourselves in what Scripture reveals: His faithfulness, His presence within the suffering, and His ultimate victory over all evil (Revelation 21:4). His ways may be higher than ours, but His heart toward us is unmistakably good.

Bible in One Year:

Proverbs 9-12

July 10, 2026

Are You a Comforter?

Jacie Conley (Oklahoma, USA)

Today's Reading

2 Corinthians 7:5-7

Thought for the Day

God can use me to uplift and comfort others.

Prayer Focus

Someone who needs my support

Giving and Receiving

"God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus." - 2 Corinthians 7:6 (NIV)

"'How much do you know about Titus? There’s a book in the Bible named after him, which is a letter written to him from Paul. Paul calls him “my true son in our common faith” (Titus 1:4). Titus was indeed special to Paul. He was a messenger for him and a travel companion. He also led several churches. (See 2 Cor. 8:23.) Titus was a comforter and help to many.

Reading about Titus makes me wonder, Am I a comfort to others? Second Corinthians 7:6 says, “God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus.” This verse calls attention to the divine nature of comfort, showing that God can work through individuals like Titus to bring solace to people. It’s a powerful reminder that we too can be used by God to comfort and uplift one another.

There are numerous ways to be a comforter. You can mail a card, make a call, or send a text to show others you are thinking of them. Perhaps someone is overwhelmed and could use a helping hand. You can run an errand for them or prepare a meal. The key is to be an extension of God’s comforting hand, finding your own unique ways to bring solace to those in need. Like Titus, each of us can be a comforter."' Be like Silas, bring comfort in all situations. There is always someone who can use a listening ear or a proverbial shoulder to cry upon.

Today's Prayer

"Dear God, help us to be a comfort to your people. Use us to help others in need." Amen.

2 Corinthians 7:5-7

"5 Even after we arrived in Macedonia, we couldn’t rest physically. We were surrounded by problems. There was external conflict, and there were internal fears. 6 However, God comforts people who are discouraged, and he comforted us by Titus’ arrival. 7 We weren’t comforted only by his arrival but also by the comfort he had received from you. He told us about your desire to see me, how you were sorry, and about your concern for me, so that I was even happier." Titus brought about the care and comfort needed by Paul and others. We can bless someone just by listening to them. Joe

God’s Presence in Times of Trouble

God meets us in heartache and grief, transforming pain into purpose

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July 9, 2026

Related Scripture

Psalm 32:1-7

Psalm 46:1-3

Psalm 46:7

Bible in a Year

Proverbs 5-8

Psalms 32:1-7

Some of the most precious verses in the Bible were penned when their writers were experiencing strife, grief, turmoil, or heartache. From an earthly perspective, we can’t always distinguish between what’s trouble and what’s a blessing—at times trouble results in some of God’s most wonderful blessings in our life.

David was able to write Psalm 32, not because he’d calmly sat on a hilltop somewhere, watching sheep and playing his harp. Rather, he could express those profound truths after undergoing both great heartache and God’s forgiveness. The joy David found in the Lord was sweeter because he had tasted bitterness.

The heavenly Father doesn’t always rescue us swiftly from trouble. Sometimes He allows us to walk through difficulty longer than we’d prefer, and we wonder, Lord, don’t You see what I’m going through? He does see. He knows when we’re at our wits’ end, when we’re hurt, and when we’re broken. So why does He allow these hard seasons to continue?

Often it’s because He’s working in ways we can’t yet see. Don’t forget that the Lord is always present in our times of trouble (Psalms 46:1-3, Psalm 46:7). The question we should ask ourselves is, Am I willing to trust Him and learn what He wants to teach me through this situation?

Bible in One Year:

Proverbs 5-8

July 9, 2026

Trusting God

Priscilla Clements (Florida, USA)

Today's Reading

Psalm 25:1-11

Thought for the Day

God doesn’t want me to waste my life being angry.

Prayer Focus

People celebrating sobriety

A Father’s Role

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

"I grew up with an alcoholic father and a mother who suffered from mental illness. My older sister, Linda, was the only family member I could rely on. I looked up to her in adulthood as well.

When Linda was diagnosed with breast cancer, I prayed every day that God would heal her. When cancer took her life at the young age of forty-one, I was so angry with God. I spent the next twelve years following in my father’s footsteps, drinking to help ease the heartache I felt in losing Linda. It wasn’t until I came very close to being charged with driving under the influence that I knew something had to change. I walked into a 12-step meeting, and though it wasn’t easy, I became sober and have kept my sobriety for the last fifteen years.

By studying the Bible and listening to many sermons along the way, I came to the realization that God did not take my sister from me — cancer did. My life is so much better today without alcohol, and God has blessed me with financial stability and a healthy lifestyle. We don’t have all the answers, but God does. We must learn to trust God even hen things don’t go as we wish. God is truly our friend and never our enemy, even in times of deepest grief." God can be trusted. Follow how He directs you and overcoming huge roadblocks can turn the trajectory of your life around.

Today's Prayer

"Dear Father, help us to trust in you always." Amen.

Psalm 25:1-11

"1 I offer my life to you, LORD. 2 My God, I trust you. Please don’t let me be put to shame! Don’t let my enemies rejoice over me! 3 For that matter, don’t let anyone who hopes in you be put to shame; instead, let those who are treacherous without excuse be put to shame. 4 Make your ways known to me, LORD; teach me your paths. 5 Lead me in your truth—teach it to me because you are the God who saves me. I put my hope in you all day long. 6 LORD, remember your compassion and faithful love they are forever! 7 But don’t remember the sins of my youth or my wrongdoing. Remember me only according to your faithful love for the sake of your goodness, LORD. 8 The LORD is good and does the right thing; he teaches sinners which way they should go. 9 God guides the weak to justice, teaching them his way. 10 All the LORD’s paths are loving and faithful for those who keep his covenant and laws. 11 Please, for the sake of your good name, LORD, forgive my sins, which are many!" Ask to be shown the paths of the Lord. All of His paths provide love and He is forever faithful to you. Bless those who are faithful to their Lord. Joe

Understanding God’s Promises

Every trial carries the potential for the Lord to teach us something new.

July 8, 2026

Related Scripture

Psalm 19:7-11

James 1:6-7

1 Samuel 13:8-14

Proverbs 19:15

Bible in a Year

Proverbs 1-4

Psalms 19:7-11

Yesterday we noted that to understand divine promises, believers must consider the whole counsel of God. For example, the Lord’s commitment to supply our needs connects to other parts of Scripture that show how we cooperate with His provision:

We trust God to provide (James 1:6-7). God’s trustworthiness is clear throughout Scripture and in believers’ lives. When we trust Him confidently instead of doubting, we’re better able to recognize and receive what He wants to give.

We wait upon His timing (1 Samuel 13:8-14). Rather than wait for Samuel to arrive, King Saul took matters into his own hands by making a pre-battle sacrifice. Though his army won the battle, Saul’s impatience cost him God’s favor and eventually the throne. When we manipulate circumstances or rush ahead of God’s timing, we often miss His best.

We accept responsibility (Proverbs 19:15). We should be alert and ready to participate in our Father’s plan. If we want to discern His direction, we must seek Him through prayer and study of His Word.

God knows our needs and has committed Himself to meeting them. Our responsibility is to trust Him and be patient. Then we can rest, knowing He will provide in His way and His time.

Bible in One Year:

Proverbs 1-4

July 8, 2026

Run to Win

Wayne Greenawalt (Wisconsin, USA)

Today's Reading

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Thought for the Day

I will persevere in the course Christ has set for me.

Prayer Focus

Runners

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." - 1 Corinthians 9:24 (NIV)

'“One kilometer to go,” shouted the timekeeper as I crossed the mark in a 5-kilometer run. I was tiring, but I kept my eyes on the finish line and my mind focused on winning the prize. I was running for the reward that comes with being first to cross the finish line. I had trained months for this day.

Early on, others passed by me, but I had kept to my own pace. Thoughts of quitting entered my mind as I tackled the hills. The last hundred yards were the hardest. My breathing was heavy and my legs ached. But the cheers of people along the roadside spurred me on. I finished strong and won first prize.

Paul likens the Christian life to a race. We are to run the course set before us with purpose and perseverance. In order to run with vigor, we must practice the spiritual disciplines of prayer, worship, and Bible study. We will all give account to Christ and be rewarded for how we have lived. When I stand before Christ, I want to receive his commendation and receive the rewards for a life of faith and obedience."' Continue you in the race of life with all that you have. Depend on prayer, attending worship and reading the Bible as it gives us great power to run this life with Faith.

Today's Prayer

"Dear Lord, help us to run with vigor the course of life so that we honor you and receive our eternal reward." Amen.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

"24 Don’t you know that all the runners in the stadium run, but only one gets the prize? So run to win. 25 Everyone who competes practices self-discipline in everything. The runners do this to get a crown of leaves that shrivel up and die, but we do it to receive a crown that never dies. 26 So now this is how I run—not without a clear goal in sight. I fight like a boxer in the ring, not like someone who is shadowboxing. 27 Rather, I’m landing punches on my own body and subduing it like a slave. I do this to be sure that I myself won’t be disqualified after preaching to others." In life , we always want to win. Run with determination and fight for all the things you feel that you deserve due to your faith. Joe

Our Unmet Needs

God is faithful in keeping His promises—and faithful even when we’re awaiting their fulfillment.

July 7, 2026

Related Scripture

Philippians 4:19-20

Psalm 81:10-12

1 John 5:3

Bible in a Year

Psalms 145-150

Philippians 4:19-20

God has made many promises throughout Scripture, yet sometimes their fulfillment seems delayed. So we pray, wait, and question.

When our Father doesn’t meet our expectations, we often look outside ourselves for the reason. But it’s important to understand that while God’s love is unconditional, many of His promises have conditions attached. Philippians 4:19, for example, is a promise that the Lord will supply all of a believer’s needs. Scripture shows that obedience plays a role in how we experience God’s provision (Psalms 81:10-12). Persistent disobedience can create barriers in our relationship with Him. Restoring that connection begins with repentance.

Taking a promise out of its biblical context can lead to misunderstanding what God has actually said. Expecting Him to fulfill a conditional promise when we’re not meeting its requirements sets us up for disappointment.

The good news? God’s expectations aren’t burdensome (1 John 5:3). What He asks is that we love, honor, and obey Him—not to earn His favor, but because relationship requires participation. As we walk faithfully with Him, we discover He is faithful to meet our needs.

Bible in One Year:

Psalms 145-150

July 7, 2026

Lavished on Us

April McIntyre (England, United Kingdom)

Today's Reading

Ephesians 1:1-10

Thought for the Day

Where do I notice God’s grace in my life?

Prayer Focus

Young children

"In [Jesus Christ] we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us." - Ephesians 1:7-8 (NIV)

"I gazed up at the man in the ice cream van as he handed me the cone. It was huge, heaped with several scoops of ice cream. It had a chocolate wafer pushed into the middle, drizzles of red syrup, and a generous sprinkling of nuts. In those childhood days money was scarce and treats were limited, so this extravagant ice cream was something I never forgot.

Though I am now in my sixties, whenever I read the opening of the letter to the Ephesians about the riches of God’s grace being “lavished” upon us, excitement rises in me like a small child with a huge ice cream. I am overwhelmed by God’s love that blesses in so many ways: cleansing and empowering us, offering us acceptance and life in all its fullness. Such blessings are given not because we have worked hard or achieved something but simply because God loves us. We are God’s children, adopted into God’s family, chosen and called to follow Jesus. Whatever we have done or not done, however anxious, unworthy, or daunted by the future we may feel, God’s love and lavish grace are always there for us. All we need to do is reach out and express our thanks." God's love is showered on us every day. Blessings come because of His love and desire to make our lives grand. His lavish amount of grace remains with us each day.

Today's Prayer

"Generous God, thank you for pouring out the lavish riches of your grace upon us today." Amen.

Ephesians 1:1-10

"1 From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will. To the holy and faithful people in Christ Jesus in Ephesus. 2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Bless the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! He has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing that comes from heaven. 4 God chose us in Christ to be holy and blameless in God’s presence before the creation of the world. 5 God destined us to be his adopted children through Jesus Christ because of his love. This was according to his goodwill and plan 6 and to honor his glorious grace that he has given to us freely through the Son whom he loves. 7 We have been ransomed through his Son’s blood, and we have forgiveness for our failures based on his overflowing grace, 8 which he poured over us with wisdom and understanding. 9 God revealed his hidden design to us, which is according to his goodwill and the plan that he intended to accomplish through his Son. 10 This is what God planned for the climax of all times: to bring all things together in Christ, the things in heaven along with the things in Heaven along with things on Earth." The Lord shows us grace over flowing. He brings it together in perfection with Christ. Blessings are ours to receive. Joe

July 6, 2026

God Cares

Jack Ward Tallman (Texas, USA)

Today's Reading

1 Peter 5:6-9

Thought for the Day

I am empowered to help others because God helps me.

Prayer Focus

People with limited mobility

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." - 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

"An MRI revealed that the excruciating pain in my shoulder was due to a problem with some vertebrae in my spine. I elected to have surgery, but when I came out of surgery I could not move my arms or legs. I was a quadriplegic.

After receiving treatment at three different rehab centers, my wife found an opening for me at a skilled nursing facility. It was a relief to both of us to be in a place that provided such a high level of care.

I’ve made slow progress, and today I’m able to use both arms and move my left leg. I can feed myself and perform other limited tasks.

I am a Christian psychotherapist, and I’ve been on staff as a pastor at two large churches. I’m used to being the one who offers help, so accepting help has been quite a challenge for me. The verse above from First Peter has played over and over in my mind during this time.

With the encouragement of the chaplain at the nursing facility, I agreed to lead one service a month with the help of my wife. In doing so, I’ve realized it’s truly more blessed to give than to receive. It’s an honor to be able to extend encouragement. My daily prayer is to encourage others who have experienced similar challenges." Encouragement is need by all of us. The example , above, shows someone who was active in their profession, yet a quick change happened. Progress is made when the person has determination and is supported by others.

Today's Prayer

"Dear Lord, may we use our life experiences to help others and point them to you as the source of strength to meet life’s challenges." Amen.

1 Peter 5:6-9

"6 Therefore, humble yourselves under God’s power so that he may raise you up in the last day. 7 Throw all your anxiety onto him, because he cares about you. 8 Be clearheaded. Keep alert. Your accuser, the devil, is on the prowl like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith. Do so in the knowledge that your fellow believers are enduring the same suffering throughout the world." Let the Lord care for your anxious times, and stay in your faith and resisting the evil one who might lead you off course. We can be blessed even in struggles. Remain focused on Jesus. Joe

The Basis for Discernment

As we engage with Scripture, God reveals who we are and who He’s called us to be.

July 6, 2026

Related Scripture

Hebrews 4:12-13

Romans 8:29

Bible in a Year

Psalms 139-144

Hebrews 4:12-13

Spiritual discernment is the ability to see life from a godly vantage point. One of the primary ways we develop this perspective is through Scripture—God’s reliable revelation of Himself. Throughout the Bible, He shows us who He is and how He works. Though the stories took place centuries ago, the principles remain relevant, offering discernment and guidance for today.

God’s Word is living and active (Heb. 4:12). The words don’t simply sit on the page; they illuminate our heart and reveal our thoughts and motives. When we approach Scripture with an open spirit, God gently brings to light things we might not see on our own—hidden motives, blind spots, and areas where we need to grow.

Spiritual discernment involves seeing not just our circumstances but also ourselves from God’s perspective. As we regularly spend time in His Word, we gain insight into who we really are and who He’s calling us to become.

Have you been avoiding deeper engagement with Scripture? If so, remember this: When God reveals something in us that needs attention, His purpose is always restorative—helping us become healthier, freer, and more like Christ (Romans 8:29). That kind of insight is a gift worth embracing.

Bible in One Year:

Psalms 139-144

The Basis for Discernment

As we engage with Scripture, God reveals who we are and who He’s called us to be.

July 6, 2026

Related Scripture

Hebrews 4:12-13

Romans 8:29

Bible in a Year

Psalms 139-144

Hebrews 4:12-13

Spiritual discernment is the ability to see life from a godly vantage point. One of the primary ways we develop this perspective is through Scripture—God’s reliable revelation of Himself. Throughout the Bible, He shows us who He is and how He works. Though the stories took place centuries ago, the principles remain relevant, offering discernment and guidance for today.

God’s Word is living and active (Heb. 4:12). The words don’t simply sit on the page; they illuminate our heart and reveal our thoughts and motives. When we approach Scripture with an open spirit, God gently brings to light things we might not see on our own—hidden motives, blind spots, and areas where we need to grow.

Spiritual discernment involves seeing not just our circumstances but also ourselves from God’s perspective. As we regularly spend time in His Word, we gain insight into who we really are and who He’s calling us to become.

Have you been avoiding deeper engagement with Scripture? If so, remember this: When God reveals something in us that needs attention, His purpose is always restorative—helping us become healthier, freer, and more like Christ (Romans 8:29). That kind of insight is a gift worth embracing.

Bible in One Year:

Psalms 139-144

July 6, 2026

God Cares

Jack Ward Tallman (Texas, USA)

Today's Reading

1 Peter 5:6-9

Thought for the Day

I am empowered to help others because God helps me.

Prayer Focus

People with limited mobility

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." - 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

"An MRI revealed that the excruciating pain in my shoulder was due to a problem with some vertebrae in my spine. I elected to have surgery, but when I came out of surgery I could not move my arms or legs. I was a quadriplegic.

After receiving treatment at three different rehab centers, my wife found an opening for me at a skilled nursing facility. It was a relief to both of us to be in a place that provided such a high level of care.

I’ve made slow progress, and today I’m able to use both arms and move my left leg. I can feed myself and perform other limited tasks.

I am a Christian psychotherapist, and I’ve been on staff as a pastor at two large churches. I’m used to being the one who offers help, so accepting help has been quite a challenge for me. The verse above from First Peter has played over and over in my mind during this time.

With the encouragement of the chaplain at the nursing facility, I agreed to lead one service a month with the help of my wife. In doing so, I’ve realized it’s truly more blessed to give than to receive. It’s an honor to be able to extend encouragement. My daily prayer is to encourage others who have experienced similar challenges." Encouragement is need by all of us. The example , above, shows someone who was active in their profession, yet a quick change happened. Progress is made when the person has determination and is supported by others.

Today's Prayer

"Dear Lord, may we use our life experiences to help others and point them to you as the source of strength to meet life’s challenges." Amen.

1 Peter 5:6-9

"6 Therefore, humble yourselves under God’s power so that he may raise you up in the last day. 7 Throw all your anxiety onto him, because he cares about you. 8 Be clearheaded. Keep alert. Your accuser, the devil, is on the prowl like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith. Do so in the knowledge that your fellow believers are enduring the same suffering throughout the world." Let the Lord care for your anxious times, and stay in your faith and resisting the evil one who might lead you off course. We can be blessed even in struggles. Remain focused on Jesus. Joe

Seek Spiritual Discernment

Discernment, which is a gift from God, aligns our perspective with His truth.

July 5, 2026

Related Scripture

Proverbs 2:1-7

1 Corinthians 2:12-13

Bible in a Year

Psalms 132-138

Proverbs 2:1-7

At one time or another, we all feel confused, uncertain, or misled. In those moments, spiritual discernment becomes invaluable. The ability to see life from a godly perspective helps us navigate decisions with confidence. Through His Spirit, we can better distinguish between right and wrong, good and best, truth and error.

Instead of relying solely on appearances or human reasoning, we can invite the Holy Spirit to help us see the reality of each situation as God does. This doesn’t mean abandoning common sense or wise counsel, but it does mean including God’s perspective as we evaluate our choices.

The Father gives each of His children the capacity for spiritual discernment, yet many believers don’t realize this gift is available to them. They do their best with the wisdom and knowledge they have but miss out on the deeper insight God offers. When we don’t actively cultivate discernment through time with Him, this gift can remain undeveloped.

A discerning spirit begins with a humble, teachable attitude (1 Corinthians 2:12-13). If you’ve been handling decisions primarily through your own wisdom, acknowledge this to God. Then ask Him to reveal His viewpoint. As you practice inviting Him into your decision-making, your spiritual discernment will grow.

Bible in One Year

Psalms 132-138