Daily Manna

Daily Devotions from the Bible!

Tag: Psalms Page 15 of 26

Guarding Against Division!

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On 9 May 2024, Thursday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 16:17-19

In Romans 16:17-19, the Apostle Paul warns the believers in Rome about the danger of division and false teaching within the church. He urges them to be vigilant and to hold fast to the teachings of Scripture, resisting anything that threatens to undermine their faith.

Paul writes, “I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.” (Romans 16:17-19, NIV)

Paul’s words remind us of the importance of guarding against false teaching and division within the body of Christ. He encourages believers to stay rooted in the truth of God’s Word and to be discerning of those who seek to lead them astray.

Consider the story of the Berean Jews in Acts 17:10-12. When Paul preached the gospel to them, they listened eagerly but also examined the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul said was true. Their example of diligent study and discernment serves as a model for us today, reminding us to test all teachings against the standard of God’s Word.

As modern-day believers, we are called to follow the example of the Bereans, diligently studying the Scriptures and holding fast to the truth. Let us be vigilant against division and false teaching, standing firm in our faith and striving for unity in the body of Christ.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Help us to be vigilant against division and false teaching, and to hold fast to the truth of Your Word. Give us wisdom and discernment to recognize and reject anything that contradicts Your teachings. May we be united in our faith and steadfast in our commitment to following You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Empowered to Encourage!

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On 8 May 2024, Wednesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 15:14-16

In Romans 15:14-16, the Apostle Paul expresses his confidence in the believers in Rome, affirming their ability to encourage one another and spread the gospel. He reminds them of their calling as servants of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit for ministry.

Paul writes, “I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another. Yet I have written you quite boldly on some points to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles with the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:14-16, NIV)

Paul’s words affirm the believers’ capacity to encourage and instruct one another in the faith. He acknowledges their spiritual maturity and the role they play in advancing the kingdom of God. Paul himself sees his ministry as a stewardship of God’s grace, aimed at proclaiming the gospel to the Gentiles and bringing them into God’s family.

Consider the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch from Acts 8:26-40. Philip, guided by the Holy Spirit, encountered the eunuch reading from the book of Isaiah but struggling to understand its meaning. Philip explained the Scriptures to him, leading the eunuch to understand and accept the gospel message. This encounter demonstrates the empowering work of the Holy Spirit in equipping believers for effective ministry.

As modern-day believers, we are called to embrace our role as ministers of the gospel, empowered by the Holy Spirit to share God’s love and truth with others. Let us draw inspiration from the example of Philip and the believers in Rome, recognizing our competence and responsibility to instruct and encourage one another in the faith.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the empowerment of Your Holy Spirit, enabling us to serve You effectively. Help us to recognize our calling as ministers of the gospel and to encourage and instruct one another in the faith. May we be faithful stewards of Your grace, proclaiming Your truth and leading others into a deeper relationship with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Bearing with One Another!

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On 7 May 2024, Tuesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 15:1-4

In Romans 15:1-4, the Apostle Paul imparts wisdom to the believers in Rome, urging them to bear with the failings of the weak and to build up one another in love. He emphasizes the importance of unity and mutual encouragement, drawing inspiration from the example of Christ.

Paul writes, “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: ‘The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.’ For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” (Romans 15:1-4, NIV)

Paul’s words echo the selfless example of Christ, who bore the insults and burdens of humanity out of love. He calls believers to follow Christ’s example, seeking to uplift and encourage one another in their faith journey.

Consider the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis. Despite facing betrayal and hardship at the hands of his brothers, Joseph chose to forgive and reconcile with them. His example of grace and compassion demonstrates the transformative power of forgiveness and reconciliation.

As modern-day believers, we are called to emulate Joseph’s example, extending grace and understanding to those around us. Let us seek to bear with one another’s failings and build each other up in love, drawing inspiration from the enduring teachings of Scripture.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of Christ and the enduring teachings of Scripture. Help us to bear with one another’s failings and to build each other up in love. Give us the grace to forgive as we have been forgiven and the courage to extend grace and understanding to those around us. May our lives be a testimony to Your love and mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Don’t Judge!

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On 6 May 2024, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 14:13

In Romans 14:13, the Apostle Paul offers a profound exhortation to believers, urging them not to judge or stumble their brothers and sisters in Christ. This call to humility and compassion resonates deeply, challenging us to cultivate a spirit of grace and acceptance in our interactions with one another.

Paul writes, “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” (Romans 14:13, NIV)

Paul’s words remind us of the importance of refraining from passing judgment on our fellow believers. Instead of critiquing or condemning others for their beliefs or practices, we are called to extend grace and understanding, seeking to build up rather than tear down.

Consider the early Christians, navigating diverse cultural and religious backgrounds within the early church. Despite their differences, they were called to love and support one another, recognizing the value of unity in Christ.

As modern-day believers, we are challenged to emulate their example, fostering a community marked by humility and compassion. Let us refrain from passing judgment on others and instead seek to encourage and uplift one another in our faith journey.

Heavenly Father, forgive us for the times we have been quick to judge others and have failed to extend grace and understanding. Help us to cultivate hearts of humility and compassion, that we may build up rather than tear down our brothers and sisters in Christ. Give us the wisdom to recognize the value of unity and the courage to extend grace in all our interactions. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Belonging to the Lord!

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On 5 May 2024, Sunday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 14:8

In Romans 14:8, the Apostle Paul reminds believers that whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. This powerful declaration underscores the ultimate sovereignty of God over our lives and calls us to live with unwavering devotion and purpose.

“For if we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” (Romans 14:8, NIV)

Paul’s words serve as a profound reminder of our identity and purpose as followers of Christ. Our lives are not our own; they belong wholly to the Lord. Whether in life or death, our allegiance is to Him alone.

Consider the early Christians, facing persecution and hardship for their faith. Despite the challenges they encountered, they lived with a steadfast commitment to Christ, knowing that their lives were in His hands.

As modern-day believers, we are called to emulate their example, living with a sense of purpose and dedication to the Lord. Our lives are to be lived for His glory, whether in times of joy or sorrow, abundance or lack.

Let us embrace the truth that we belong to the Lord, and may it inspire us to live each day with faithfulness and courage. Whether in life or death, may our lives be a testament to His grace and love.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of life and for the assurance that we belong to You. Help us to live each day with unwavering devotion and purpose, knowing that our lives are in Your hands. Give us the strength to live for Your glory, whether in times of joy or sorrow. May our lives be a reflection of Your grace and love to the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Unity and Acceptance!

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On 4 May 2024, Saturday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 14:1-3

In Romans 14:1-3, the Apostle Paul addresses the believers in Rome, urging them to welcome one another without passing judgment on disputable matters. This call to unity and acceptance resonates with believers today, challenging us to embrace diversity within the body of Christ.

Paul writes, “Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters. One person’s faith allows them to eat anything, but another, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them.” (Romans 14:1-3, NIV)

Paul’s words remind us to prioritize unity and love over disagreements on non-essential matters of faith. Instead of passing judgment on those with differing convictions, we are called to accept and welcome them into the family of believers.

Consider the early Christians, grappling with cultural and religious differences within the church. Despite their diverse backgrounds and practices, they were called to love and accept one another as fellow members of the body of Christ.

As modern-day believers, we are challenged to emulate their example, extending grace and understanding to those with differing beliefs and practices. Let us focus on what unites us—the saving grace of Jesus Christ—rather than what divides us.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the diversity within the body of Christ. Help us to embrace one another with love and acceptance, even in our disagreements. Give us hearts of humility and compassion, that we may prioritize unity over division. May Your love shine through us as we seek to welcome and accept one another as You have accepted us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Love Fulfils the Law!

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On 3 May 2024, Friday

In Biblical, New Testament

Scripture: Romans 13:11

In Romans 13:11, the Apostle Paul urges believers to wake up from spiritual slumber, for the hour of salvation is nearer than when they first believed. This call to spiritual awakening resonates through the ages, challenging us to live with a sense of urgency and purpose in our faith journey.

As the Apostle Paul addresses the believers in Rome, he imparts a profound truth that transcends time and culture. “And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.” (Romans 13:11, NIV)

Paul’s words serve as a wake-up call for believers, urging them to live with a sense of urgency and intentionality in their walk with Christ. The present moment is not to be wasted in spiritual lethargy but embraced as an opportunity for growth and transformation.

Consider the early Christians, living amidst persecution and uncertainty, yet steadfast in their faith and devotion to Christ. Their sense of urgency propelled them to live with passion and purpose, proclaiming the gospel boldly in the face of adversity.

As modern-day believers, we are called to emulate their example, awakening from spiritual slumber and embracing the reality of Christ’s imminent return. Let us live each day with a renewed sense of purpose, seeking to honor God in all that we do and proclaiming His love to a world in need.

Gracious Father, we thank You for the gift of salvation and the hope we have in Christ’s return. Help us to awaken from spiritual slumber and live with a sense of urgency in our faith journey. May we seize each moment as an opportunity to honor You and proclaim Your love to the world. Strengthen us to live with passion and purpose, until the day of Christ’s glorious return. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Submitting to the Government!

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On 2 May 2024, Thursday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 13:1-7

In the epistle to the Romans, the Apostle Paul imparts wisdom on the believers in Rome, urging them to submit to governing authorities. His words carry timeless relevance, echoing through the ages to guide us in our relationship with earthly authorities.

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.” (Romans 13:1-7, NIV)

Paul’s exhortation reminds us that earthly authorities are established by God Himself. While imperfect, they serve a purpose ordained by Him. Submission to authority is not merely a matter of compliance but of honoring God’s sovereignty. By respecting and obeying earthly authorities, we demonstrate our trust in God’s divine order.

Consider the early Christians, living under Roman rule, yet remaining steadfast in their commitment to Christ. Their submission to earthly authorities did not compromise their allegiance to God but served as a testimony to His sovereignty.

As modern-day believers, we are called to emulate their example, honoring and respecting the authorities placed over us. Let us pray for wisdom and discernment to navigate our relationship with earthly authorities, always mindful of our ultimate allegiance to God.

Gracious Father, we acknowledge your sovereignty over all earthly authorities. Grant us wisdom and humility to submit to those placed over us, recognizing their role as your servants. Help us to honor and respect them, even amidst challenges and disagreements. May our lives reflect your grace and truth as we navigate our relationship with earthly authorities. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Overcoming Evil with Good!

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On 1 May 2024, Wednesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Coming Soon!

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 12:17-21

In Romans 12:17-21, Paul provides a profound roadmap for navigating the complexities of human relationships, particularly in the face of adversity. He urges believers not to repay evil for evil but to overcome evil with good. This timeless wisdom resonates through the ages, offering guidance on how to live a life reflective of Christ’s teachings.

When we encounter hostility or injustice, our natural inclination may be to retaliate in kind. However, Paul challenges us to transcend this impulse and respond with kindness and compassion. By refusing to succumb to the cycle of retribution, we disrupt its power over us and demonstrate the transformative nature of love.

Paul’s exhortation to “live at peace with everyone” is a call to humility and empathy. It reminds us that every individual is deserving of respect and dignity, regardless of their actions towards us. By choosing reconciliation over resentment, we embody the reconciling love of Christ and foster unity within our communities.

Furthermore, Paul reminds us that vengeance ultimately belongs to the Lord. Rather than seeking retribution, we are called to trust in God’s justice and relinquish our desire for personal vindication. In doing so, we free ourselves from the burden of bitterness and allow God to work in the hearts of both ourselves and our adversaries.

Ultimately, Paul’s message is one of radical love and unwavering faith. By embracing the challenge to overcome evil with good, we participate in God’s redemptive work in the world. As we extend forgiveness, show kindness, and seek peace, may we reflect the light of Christ in all we do.

Gracious God, empower us to live out the teachings of Romans 12:17-21 in our daily lives. Help us to respond to adversity with love and grace, trusting in Your divine wisdom and justice. Grant us the strength to overcome evil with good, that Your kingdom may be advanced and Your name glorified. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Bless and Do Not Curse: Reflecting Christ’s Love!

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On 29 April 2024, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 12:14

In Romans 12:14, Paul implores believers to bless those who persecute them, a radical call that echoes the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. This command challenges us to embody Christ’s love, even in the face of adversity and hostility.

To bless those who persecute us goes against our natural instincts. It requires supernatural strength and grace, which we find in Jesus Christ. He modeled this perfectly during His earthly ministry, enduring insults, mockery, and ultimately crucifixion without retaliating or cursing His enemies. Instead, He prayed for their forgiveness, saying, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).

When we bless those who persecute us, we emulate Christ’s selfless love and demonstrate the transformative power of His grace. It’s a radical response that breaks the cycle of hatred and vengeance, offering reconciliation and healing instead. Our willingness to bless others, even when they oppose us, reflects the depth of our commitment to follow Jesus.

Dear Lord, give us the strength to bless those who persecute us, just as Jesus did. Help us to love our enemies and pray for those who mistreat us. May our lives be a testimony to Your grace and mercy, shining brightly in a world filled with darkness. Empower us to reflect Your love in all that we say and do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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