Daily Manna

Daily Devotions from the Bible!

Tag: Daily devotionals Page 17 of 21

He Gave Up his Spirit!

By

On 29 March 2024, Friday

In Biblical, New Testament, Themed Devotions

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Matthew 27:45–50

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.

Gracious Father, as we contemplate the cross, we are humbled by your boundless love. Thank you for Jesus, who willingly gave up his spirit for us. May we never forget the price paid—the darkness, the cry, and the surrender. Help us live in the light of this sacrifice, forever grateful and transformed. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Sacrificial Love and Radical Hospitality!

By

On 26 March 2024, Tuesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 13:1-2

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.

Dear Lord, Thank you for the reminder to love one another and to show hospitality to strangers. Grant us the courage and compassion to reach out to those in need, knowing that in serving others, we serve you. May our lives be a reflection of your boundless love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Not forgetting All His Benefits!

By

On 24 March 2024, Sunday

In Biblical

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Psalm 103:1-2

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.

Dear Heavenly Father, We praise you with all our hearts for your faithfulness and goodness towards us. Thank you for the countless blessings you have bestowed upon us, seen and unseen. Help us to always remember your benefits and to approach you with hearts full of gratitude and praise. May our lives be a testament to your unfailing love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Faith of Israel Crossing the Red Sea!

By

On 21 March 2024, Thursday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Hebrews 11:29

Hebrews 11:29 (NIV) recounts the incredible act of faith displayed by the Israelites as they crossed the Red Sea: “By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to do so, they were drowned.”

The crossing of the Red Sea stands as a powerful testament to the miraculous intervention of God in response to the faith of His people. Despite the seemingly insurmountable obstacle before them, the Israelites trusted in God’s promise of deliverance and stepped out in faith.

Exodus 14:21-22 (NIV) describes the moment of the Red Sea’s parting: “Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.” This passage underscores the miraculous nature of God’s provision and the pivotal role of faith in experiencing His deliverance.

Consider the profound impact of the Israelites’ faith-filled obedience on their journey to freedom. Their willingness to trust in God’s leading, even in the face of seemingly impossible circumstances, resulted in their miraculous escape from bondage and oppression.

As we reflect on Hebrews 11:29, let us be inspired by the faith of the Israelites. May their example encourage us to trust in God’s promises and follow His leading, even when the path before us seems daunting. And may we experience the miraculous power of God’s deliverance in our own lives as we step out in faith.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of faith displayed by the Israelites as they crossed the Red Sea. Strengthen our faith, O Lord, that we may trust in Your promises and follow Your leading, even when the path before us seems daunting. May we experience Your miraculous deliverance in our lives as we step out in faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Choosing Faith Over Temporary Pleasures!

By

On 20 March 2024, Wednesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Hebrews 11:24-25

Hebrews 11:24-25 (NIV) speaks of Moses’s deliberate choice to follow God’s path rather than indulge in temporary pleasures: “By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.”

Moses’s decision to identify with his enslaved Hebrew brethren and endure mistreatment alongside them showcases profound faith and integrity. He willingly relinquished the luxuries of his royal upbringing for the sake of God’s people and the call of God upon his life.

In Matthew 16:26 (NIV) Jesus challenges His disciples, “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?” This verse emphasizes the transient nature of worldly pleasures compared to the eternal significance of following Christ.

Consider the timeless relevance of Moses’s example for believers today. In a world filled with fleeting pleasures and allurements, we are called to emulate Moses’s steadfast commitment to God’s purposes, prioritizing obedience to God above worldly acclaim or comfort.

As we reflect on Hebrews 11:24-25, let us examine our own hearts and priorities. May we be willing, like Moses, to forsake temporary pleasures and embrace the path of faithfulness to God, trusting in His promises and purposes.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, grant us the courage and conviction to prioritize faithfulness to You above all else, even when it means sacrificing temporary pleasures. Help us to follow the example of Moses, choosing obedience to Your will over the allurements of this world. May our lives be marked by unwavering faith and commitment to Your purposes. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Abraham’s Test of Faith!

By

On 18 March 2024, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Hebrews 11:17-19 (NIV)

Hebrews 11:17-19 (NIV) unveils the depth of Abraham’s faith through the sacrifice of his son Isaac: “By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though God had said to him, ‘It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.’ Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death.”

Abraham’s obedience in the face of unimaginable difficulty serves as a powerful example of unwavering faith. God’s command to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac tested the very essence of Abraham’s trust in God’s promises. Yet, Abraham demonstrated extraordinary faith, believing that God was able to fulfill His promises—even in the face of apparent contradiction.

One cross-reference that echoes the message of Hebrews 11:17-19 is Genesis 22:8 (NIV), where Abraham declares to Isaac, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” This passage reveals Abraham’s unwavering trust in God’s provision, even when the situation seemed dire.

Consider the profound implications of Abraham’s faith for our own lives. Like Abraham, we are called to trust in God’s promises, even when circumstances seem impossible. May we be inspired by Abraham’s example to hold fast to our faith in God’s faithfulness, knowing that He is able to fulfill His promises in ways that surpass our understanding.

As we reflect on Hebrews 11:17-19, let us pray for the strength to trust in God’s promises, even when they seem impossible. May our faith be unwavering, and may we be willing to obey God’s commands, knowing that He is faithful to His word.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, strengthen our faith and trust in Your promises, even when circumstances seem impossible. Help us to obey Your commands with unwavering obedience, knowing that You are faithful to fulfill Your word. May we, like Abraham, surrender our lives completely to Your will, trusting in Your provision and faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Come, Let Us Worship and Bow Down!

By

On 17 March 2024, Sunday

In Biblical, Old Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Psalm 95:6-7

Psalm 95:6-7 (NIV) calls us into the presence of the Almighty with words that resonate with reverence and adoration: “Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care.”

These verses invite us to enter into a posture of worship—bowing down and kneeling before our Maker in recognition of His sovereignty and majesty. As we gather together on this Worship Day Sunday, let us heed the call to worship with humble hearts and grateful spirits.

One cross-reference that echoes the message of Psalm 95:6-7 is Philippians 2:10-11 (NIV), which states, “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” This passage emphasizes the universal call to worship and bow down before the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

Consider the awe-inspiring privilege we have to worship the God who created the heavens and the earth, the God who sustains us with His love and care. As we come together in worship, let us be mindful of His presence among us, and let us offer Him the honor and praise that He deserves.

As we reflect on Psalm 95:6-7, let us approach God with hearts filled with reverence and adoration. May our worship be pleasing to Him, and may our lives be a testimony to His goodness and grace.

Prayer: Gracious Father, we come before You with humble hearts, ready to bow down and worship You. Thank You for the privilege of gathering together as Your people to honor and praise Your holy name. May our worship be pleasing to You, and may Your presence fill this place as we lift our voices in adoration. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Noah’s Faithful Obedience!

By

On 16 March 2024, Saturday

In Biblical, New Testament

Daily Manna!

Scripture: Hebrews 11:7

Hebrews 11:7 (NIV) highlights the exemplary faith of Noah: “By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that is in keeping with faith.”

Noah’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith and obedience in the face of adversity. Despite the ridicule and disbelief of those around him, Noah remained steadfast in his trust in God’s word and obediently followed His instructions to build an ark.

One cross-reference that echoes the message of Hebrews 11:7 is Genesis 6:22 (NIV), which states, “Noah did everything just as God commanded him.” This passage emphasizes Noah’s unwavering obedience to God’s instructions, even when they seemed daunting or incomprehensible.

Consider the enormity of Noah’s task—to build an ark of colossal proportions in preparation for a flood of catastrophic proportions. Yet, in the midst of mockery and doubt, Noah remained faithful to God’s calling, trusting in His promise of deliverance.

As we reflect on Hebrews 11:7, let us draw inspiration from Noah’s example of faithful obedience. Like Noah, may we heed God’s warnings and obey His commands, even when they require us to step out in faith into the unknown. And may we trust in God’s faithfulness to fulfill His promises, knowing that He is faithful to those who trust in Him.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of Noah, who demonstrated unwavering faith and obedience in the face of adversity. Help us to trust in Your promises and obey Your commands, even when they seem daunting or incomprehensible. May our lives reflect the same faithfulness and obedience that characterized Noah’s walk with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Abel’s Offering of Faith!

By

On 15 March 2024, Friday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Hebrews 11:4

Hebrews 11:4 (NIV) offers a profound insight into the nature of faith through the example of Abel: “By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead.”

Abel’s story teaches us that true faith is not merely about outward actions, but about the condition of the heart. When Abel brought his offering to God, he did so with genuine faith and obedience, offering the best of his possessions as an expression of his love and devotion to God.

Genesis 4:4-5 (NIV) says “The Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor.” This passage highlights the importance of the heart attitude behind our actions, showing that God sees and evaluates the sincerity of our faith.

Consider the contrast between Abel’s offering and that of his brother Cain. While Cain’s offering may have been outwardly impressive, it lacked the sincerity and faith that characterized Abel’s offering. As a result, Abel’s offering was accepted by God, while Cain’s was rejected.

As we reflect on Hebrews 11:4, let us examine our own hearts and motives in our worship and service to God. Are we offering our best to Him with genuine faith and obedience, or are we merely going through the motions? Let us strive to emulate Abel’s example of true faith, offering our lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Abel, who demonstrated true faith and obedience in his offering to You. Help us to offer our lives to You with the same sincerity and devotion, trusting in Your goodness and faithfulness. May our worship be pleasing to You, and may we walk in faith all the days of our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Priceless Blood of Christ!

By

On 11 March 2024, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Hebrews 9:11-14

Hebrews 9:11-14 unveils the profound significance of Christ’s sacrifice, declaring, “He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.” These verses resonate with the weight of eternity, drawing us into the unfathomable depths of God’s love and grace.

As we contemplate the imagery of Christ as the High Priest entering the Most Holy Place, we are confronted with the stark reality of our sinfulness and the inadequacy of earthly sacrifices. Yet, in Christ, we find the perfect sacrifice—the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.

1 Peter 1:18-19 proclaims, “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” This passage underscores the priceless value of Christ’s blood as the means of our redemption, far surpassing any earthly wealth or offering.

Consider the weight of Christ’s sacrifice as He shed His blood for our sake. His blood, innocent and pure, paid the price for our sins, securing for us eternal redemption and reconciliation with God. It is a sacrifice of immeasurable love, freely given for the salvation of humanity.

As we meditate on Hebrews 9:11-14, let us bow in awe and gratitude before the cross of Christ. May we never take for granted the priceless gift of His blood, which washes away our sins and grants us access to the presence of God. And may we live each day in the light of His sacrifice, walking in the freedom and grace that His blood has purchased for us.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the precious blood of Your Son, Jesus Christ, which cleanses us from all sin and grants us eternal redemption. Help us to fully grasp the magnitude of His sacrifice and to live in the freedom and grace that His blood has purchased for us. May we never cease to marvel at Your unfailing love and mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Page 17 of 21

Previous

Next

Powered by WordPress & Theme by Anders Norén