Daily Devotions from the Bible!

Month: March 2024 Page 1 of 4

Jesus is Risen!

Today’s Manna!

In Matthew 28:5-6 (NIV), we read of the miraculous moment when the women arrived at the tomb of Jesus, only to find it empty. They are greeted by an angel who delivers the astonishing news: “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.”

This passage encapsulates the heart of the Christian faith – the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the ultimate demonstration of God’s power over sin and death, and it brings hope and new life to all who believe. The empty tomb is not a symbol of defeat but of victory, not of despair but of hope.

Luke 24:5-6 say “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!” This declaration of the angel echoes throughout history, resonating in the hearts of believers across generations. It is a message of reassurance and joy, reminding us that Jesus conquered death so that we might have eternal life.

The resurrection is not merely a historical event; it is a present reality that transforms lives today. It offers hope to the hopeless, comfort to the grieving, and strength to the weary. Just as Jesus emerged victorious from the grave, so too can we overcome our own struggles and challenges with the assurance of His presence and power in our lives.

As we reflect on the profound significance of Christ’s resurrection, let us also consider its implications for our daily walk with Him. May we live in the light of this truth, knowing that we serve a risen Savior who offers us forgiveness, redemption, and everlasting life.

The Guard at the Tomb in Vain!

Today’s Manna!

Matthew 27:62-66 (NIV) depicts the aftermath of Jesus’ crucifixion, as the religious leaders approach Pilate, seeking to secure the tomb where Jesus was laid to rest:

In this passage, we witness the futile attempts of the religious leaders to thwart Jesus’ resurrection. Despite their efforts to secure the tomb with a seal and a guard, they could not prevent the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to rise again on the third day.

Psalm 16:10 in the New International Version (NIV) reads: “because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.” This prophecy foretells that God would not leave the psalmist, and by extension, the Messiah, in the realm of the dead, nor would His body experience decay. The fulfilment of this prophecy is found in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Despite His death and burial, Jesus’ body did not decay in the tomb. On the third day, God raised Him from the dead, demonstrating His victory over death and fulfilling the Messianic prophecy of Psalm 16:10.

This account serves as a powerful reminder of the sovereignty and power of God. No human scheme or obstacle can thwart His purposes or thwart His plans. Even in the face of opposition and disbelief, God’s promises remain sure and His plans cannot be thwarted.

As we contemplate this passage, let us take comfort in the certainty of God’s promises. Just as Jesus rose triumphantly from the grave, so too can we trust in His power to overcome every obstacle and bring about redemption and renewal in our lives.

He Gave Up his Spirit!

Today’s Manna!

Matthew 27:45–50 recounts the poignant moments of Jesus’ crucifixion on Good Friday:

“From noon until three in the afternoon, darkness came over all the land. About three in the afternoon, Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?’ (which means ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’). When some of those standing there heard this, they said, ‘He’s calling Elijah.’ Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. The rest said, ‘Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.’ And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.”

On this solemn day, we stand at the foot of the cross, witnessing the culmination of God’s redemptive plan. The darkness that enveloped the land mirrored the spiritual weight Jesus bore—the sins of humanity pressing upon him. In that moment, he uttered the anguished cry, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Jesus, the sinless Lamb, experienced separation from the Father, bearing our guilt and shame.

But there’s more. As the hours waned, Jesus yielded up his spirit willingly. His final breath was not a defeat but a triumphant surrender. He chose to lay down his life, fulfilling the ancient prophecies and sealing our salvation. The veil in the temple tore, granting us direct access to God. Jesus’ sacrifice bridged the chasm between heaven and earth, offering reconciliation to all who believe.

The Farewell Meeting!

Today’s Manna!

Matthew 26:17-30 recounts the events of the Last Supper, where Jesus shared a meal with His disciples in the upper room. This passage is rich with symbolism and significance, particularly in relation to the Lord’s Supper.

In the upper room, Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then He took a cup, gave thanks, and offered it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”

These actions were not just symbolic but prophetic. Jesus was preparing His disciples for what was to come – His sacrificial death on the cross. The bread represented His body, broken for us; the wine, His blood, shed for the forgiveness of our sins.

As we reflect on this passage during Passion Week, let us remember the profound love of Jesus. He knew what lay ahead, yet He chose to walk that path for our sake. The Lord’s Supper is a powerful reminder of His sacrifice and His promise of redemption.

Jesus Anointed at Bethany!

Today’s Manna!

John 12:1-8 (NIV) tells the story of Mary anointing Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume. This act of love and devotion was criticized by Judas, who saw it as a waste of resources that could have been used to help the poor. But Jesus defended Mary, saying, “Leave her alone… You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”

This passage is a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing and seizing the opportunities we have to show love and devotion to God. Mary understood the significance of Jesus’ presence and chose to honor Him in a way that was meaningful and sacrificial.

In Matthew 26:13 (NIV), Jesus says, “Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.” This cross-reference emphasizes the lasting impact of Mary’s act of devotion.

Consider the story of a woman who, despite her limited resources, donated a large portion of her income to her church. Many criticized her, saying the money could have been better spent. But like Mary, she understood the value of expressing her love for God in a tangible way.

Sacrificial Love and Radical Hospitality!

Today’s Manna!

Hebrews 13:1-2 (NIV) beckons us into the depths of sacrificial love and radical hospitality: “Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”

In a world often plagued by division and self-interest, these words pierce through the darkness, reminding us of the transformative power of love and hospitality. It’s a call to extend kindness not just to those we know but also to strangers, for in doing so, we might unknowingly encounter messengers of God’s grace.

Matthew 25:35 parallels Hebrews 13:1-2, emphasizing the importance of showing hospitality to strangers as a tangible expression of our love for God. It underscores the idea that our acts of kindness towards others, especially the marginalized and forgotten, are acts of service to Christ Himself.

Consider the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) who showed compassion to a wounded stranger on the roadside. His actions teach us that true love and hospitality know no bounds and extend even to those who may be culturally or socially different from us.

As we reflect on Hebrews 13:1-2 and its parallel in Matthew 25:35, may our hearts be stirred to love sacrificially and to extend hospitality generously, for in doing so, we open ourselves to divine encounters and participate in God’s redemptive work in the world.

Living in Holiness and Peace!

Today’s Manna!

Hebrews 12:14 (NIV) implores us with these words: “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”

In this verse, we’re reminded of the dual call to pursue both peace and holiness. Peace with others reflects the character of Christ and fosters unity within the body of believers. Holiness, on the other hand, is essential for our relationship with God and our ultimate destiny of seeing Him face to face.

Cross-reference: 1 Peter 1:15-16 (NIV) – “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.'”

1 Peter 1:15-16 echoes the call to holiness found in Hebrews 12:14, emphasizing that our pursuit of holiness is rooted in the character of God Himself. As God’s chosen people, we are called to reflect His holiness in every aspect of our lives.

As we strive to live out Hebrews 12:14 and 1 Peter 1:15-16, let us remember that our pursuit of peace and holiness is not merely a matter of personal preference but a reflection of our identity as children of God. May we seek reconciliation with others, extend grace and forgiveness, and strive for purity and integrity in all that we do.

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Not forgetting All His Benefits!

Today’s Manna!

Psalm 103:1-2 (NIV) begins with a powerful declaration: “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”

In these verses, we are called to praise the Lord with our entire being and to remember all the blessings He has bestowed upon us. It’s a reminder to lift our voices in gratitude for His goodness, faithfulness, and abundant provision in our lives.

Psalm 100:4 (NIV) – “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” Psalm 100:4 emphasizes the importance of approaching God with thanksgiving and praise. It reminds us that gratitude is the key to entering into His presence and experiencing His goodness in our lives.

As we reflect on Psalm 103:1-2 and its cross-reference, let us cultivate a heart of thanksgiving and praise. Let us not forget the countless blessings God has poured out upon us, both big and small. In times of joy and abundance, may we remember to praise Him, and in times of trial and difficulty, may we still offer Him our gratitude, knowing that He is always with us, working all things together for our good.

Fix Your Eyes on Jesus!

Today’s Manna!

Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV) encourages us with these words: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

In these verses, we are reminded of the journey of faith as a race, one that requires endurance, perseverance, and a fixed focus on Jesus Christ. Just as athletes train diligently, casting aside anything that slows them down, we are urged to cast off the weights of sin and distractions that hinder our spiritual progress. We are called to fix our eyes on Jesus, who endured the cross and overcame all obstacles for the joy set before Him.

As we navigate the ups and downs of life, facing trials, temptations, and opposition, let us remember the example of Jesus, who endured suffering and shame for our sake. He is not only the pioneer but also the perfecter of our faith, leading us through every challenge and refining us into His likeness. When we feel weary or discouraged, may we look to Jesus and draw strength from His unfailing love and unwavering commitment to us.

Conquering Jericho Through Faith!

Today’s Manna!

Hebrews 11:30 (NIV) celebrates the triumph of faith as the Israelites conquered the city of Jericho: “By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the army had marched around them for seven days.”

The conquest of Jericho stands as a testament to the power of faith and obedience to God’s commands. Despite the seemingly impregnable walls surrounding the city, the Israelites trusted in God’s promise of victory and followed His instructions without wavering.

Joshua 6:20 (NIV) describes the climactic moment of Jericho’s fall: “When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city.” This passage underscores the miraculous nature of God’s intervention in response to the Israelites’ faith-filled obedience.

Consider the incredible faith demonstrated by the Israelites as they marched around Jericho’s walls for seven days, trusting in God’s promise to deliver the city into their hands. Their unwavering obedience and perseverance paved the way for God’s miraculous intervention and the ultimate victory.

As we reflect on Hebrews 11:30, let us draw inspiration from the faith of the Israelites at Jericho. May their example encourage us to trust in God’s promises and obey His commands, even when the obstacles before us seem insurmountable. And may we experience the miraculous power of God’s intervention as we walk in faith and obedience.

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