New Video Format Starts Tomorrow

EXCITING NEWS!

Starting tomorrow, August 7th, we are transforming our blog format to bring you an even more enriching experience. Instead of our usual daily typed posts, we will present "A Word from the Word" devotional in a dynamic 2 to 4-minute video format each day. 

Each day's post will still contain the features you're used to: such as our daily reading plan going through the entire Bible in three years, a key verse taken from that day's reading, and insightful and inspiring comments taken from the pages of Scripture.

We can't wait to share these uplifting messages with you in a new and engaging way. Stay tuned and be blessed!

The Word from the Word Team 

August 6 -- "Spiritual Nourishment: Eating God's Words"

 Today's Reading: Jeremiah 15

"Spiritual Nourishment: Eating God's Words"

Sometimes people say, "You’re going to eat your words," This is a curious phrase, meaning you’ll regret something you said and have to take your words back. When Jeremiah says he “ate” God’s words, he is alluding to something completely different. He is acknowledging that the Bible is not merely a book, but is the living, breathing revelation of God's heart and wisdom and that it has supernatural power that is able to nourish his soul.

The metaphor of "eating" God's words symbolizes a deep, personal engagement with and consumption of Scripture. Just as physical nourishment sustains our bodies, consuming God's Word spiritually nourishes our souls.  As Jesus told us, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God." (Matthew 4:4)

Take intentional steps to feast on God's Word daily. Open your Bible with a hungry heart, seeking the Holy Spirit’s anointing as you seek to understand and apply its truths. As you read, meditate on the verses, allowing them to permeate your thoughts and actions. Let the joy found in God's Word become the daily nourishment of your soul.

In a world filled with distractions and challenges, remember that God's Word is your sustenance. Delight in the Scriptures, for they are your source of joy, strength, and wisdom. Approach the Bible not as a duty, but as a privilege—a divine invitation to feast on the revelation of God and to know the very heart of your Creator. As you make God's Word a priority, you'll find that it transforms your perspective, renewing your mind and guiding your steps.

Let the Scriptures become "a lamp to your feet and a light to your path" (Psalm 119:105). Just as Jeremiah found delight and great joy in God’s words, may your journey be marked by the joyous discovery and application of God's timeless truths.

August 5 -- "The Lying Prophets"

 Today's Reading: Jeremiah 14

"The Lying Prophets"

In today’s passage, God confronts the false prophets who claimed to speak in His name but were delivering lies. The false prophets were essentially telling the people what they wanted to hear, creating a false sense of security and diverting attention from the need for repentance and obedience to God. This "feel-good" message was deceptive, as it ignored the reality of the people's spiritual condition and the consequences of their actions.

In a similar vein, contemporary false teachings might focus on prosperity, success, and positivity without addressing the essential aspects of repentance, humility, and obedience to God's Word. It serves as a cautionary reminder for believers to be discerning and anchored in the truth of Scripture rather than being swayed by messages that prioritize comfort and temporal pleasures over spiritual growth and obedience.

Jesus repeatedly warned about false prophets and deceptive teachings, emphasizing the importance of discernment and adherence to the truth. One notable passage is found in Matthew 7:15-20, where Jesus says: "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”

The apostle Paul, writing to Timothy, anticipates a time when people will seek teachers who align with their desires rather than embracing sound and truthful teachings. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (ESV): "For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears, they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths."

The ability to discern true from false prophets is crucial for every believer. As followers of Christ, we must be vigilant and discerning in our spiritual journey. Remember, the truth sets us free (John 8:32). Stay anchored in God's Word, seek His wisdom, and be discerning in all spiritual matters. The Lord is faithful, and He will lead us in the paths of righteousness.

August 4 -- "Clinging Like a Loincloth"

Today's Reading: Jeremiah 13 

"Clinging Like a Loincloth"

Just as a garment clings to the body, the Lord calls us to cling to Him. This imagery beautifully captures the intimate, essential relationship God desires with His people—a relationship of closeness, dependence, and unwavering commitment.

In Biblical times, a loincloth was a piece of cloth worn around the waist, often secured with a belt or tied in place. It was a close-fitting garment, essential for modesty and protection. The loincloth would cling snugly to the body, providing necessary coverage and comfort, and would be kept close to the skin for both practical and cultural reasons.

The clinginess of the loincloth pictures for us how tightly He wants us to cling to Him. God desires a deep, connected relationship with you! Although first written to the people of Israel and Judah, Jeremiah 13:11 applies just as much to us today as Christ followers as it did to them.

In this verse the Lord expresses His desire for us to be His distinctive people by embodying a unique relationship with Him that sets us apart in the world. Each element of this verse conveys a different aspect of what this relationship entails. “A people” signifies a communal identity defined by our covenant relationship with Him. “A name” means being recognized as His own, bearing His identity. “A praise” indicates that we are to live in such a way that our lives would bring Him praise and honor.  “A glory” means to display God's glory to the world, showing His power, majesty, and holiness through our relationship with Him.

Today, take time to reflect on your relationship with God. Are you clinging to Him as closely as you should? Make a conscious effort to draw nearer to Him in every aspect of your life. By doing so, you will honor His call to be His own, bearing the identity as a people, a name, a praise, and a glory.

May the Lord bless you and keep you as you draw near to Him. May His love and grace surround you, and may you cling to Him with unwavering faith, finding your identity and purpose in His presence.

August 3 -- "A Sober Warning to the Nations"

 Today's Reading: Jeremiah 12

"A Sober Warning to the Nations"

Today’s verse highlights the importance of listening to God’s instructions and the consequences of disobedience. It reminds us that our faithfulness and obedience to God are crucial for our spiritual well-being and for the health of our community and our nation.

In this passage, God is speaking through the prophet Jeremiah, addressing the nations and their response to His word. The context here is a warning of the destruction that follows persistent rebellion against God. God’s desire is for nations and individuals to turn to Him, listen, and obey His commandments. Although this is a sober warning, it is also a message of opportunity—an invitation to embrace the life-giving words of God.

As a nation, we face numerous challenges and decisions that test our values and priorities. God calls us, as individuals and as a society, to align our actions with His word. This means advocating for justice, showing compassion to those in need, and upholding Biblical values and moral integrity. When our nation listens to God’s guidance, it paves the way for true prosperity and peace. Our collective obedience can influence policies, community actions, and cultural shifts towards righteousness.

If we persist in ignoring God's instructions, we risk facing the consequences of our disobedience. This could manifest in social unrest, moral decay, a loss of God's blessings and protection, and being “plucked up” as a nation.

As followers of Christ, we must collectively turn to God and seek His guidance in our national and personal lives. We must encourage our fellow citizens and political leaders to do the same. This involves prayer, repentance, and a commitment to living according to His principles. As citizens, we must advocate for godly values in our communities, support leaders who uphold Biblical principles, and engage in actions that reflect God’s love and justice. By doing so, we can help steer our nation towards a path of righteousness and God’s blessing.

August 2 -- "Commander of Heaven's Armies"

Today's Reading: Jeremiah 11

"Commander of Heaven's Armies"

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by challenges, big or small? Wouldn’t it be great to have an all-powerful army on your side during these challenges? Today’s passage speaks of God's role as the "Lord of Hosts." This title highlights our Lord’s unmatched authority and power to bring about justice and victory.

The title "Lord of Hosts" means “Commander of Heaven’s Armies.” This title not only signifies God's supreme rule but also His leadership over the vast celestial armies. This imagery of God as the Commander of Heaven's Armies underscores His omnipotence and His ability to mobilize His forces to accomplish His divine purposes. As the Commander, He orchestrates every detail, ensuring that His will is executed perfectly. Jeremiah's acknowledgment of God in this role reassures us that no power on earth or in heaven can thwart God's plans. He judges righteously, discerning the true intentions of the heart and mind, which makes His judgments fair and trustworthy.

What does this mean for us today? When we face battles—be they spiritual, emotional, relational, or physical—we can find immense strength in knowing that our God commands the armies of heaven. This means that we are never alone in our struggles. Just as God was with Jeremiah, He is with us, ready to deploy His heavenly forces on our behalf. We can rest assured that the Commander of Heaven's Armies is aware and active. Trusting in His righteous judgment and mighty power allows us to navigate life's challenges with confidence and peace.

So, what should we do? We are called to align ourselves with God's command. This involves committing our battles to Him, just as Jeremiah did. Rather than taking matters into our own hands, we should seek God's guidance and rely on His strength. Pray fervently, trust in His righteous judgment, and release your need for control. Remember, the Commander of Heaven's Armies is fighting for you, and His justice will prevail.

August 1 -- "Our Masterful Creator"

 Today's Reading: Jeremiah 10 

"Our Masterful Creator"

How often do you stop to think about how amazing our world is?  Just open your eyes – it's like a giant adventure waiting to be explored! Jeremiah, the Hebrew prophet, reminds us in chapter 10 that everything around us isn't some random accident. It's a masterpiece, designed with love and power by the one and only God!

Sometimes, life gets busy, and we forget who's behind the dazzling sunrise, the delicate flower blooming, or the incredible creatures roaming the Earth. But guess what? Each tiny detail, from the vastness of the sky to the intricate relationships we have, is a whisper of God's creativity and amazing control. So, today, let's take a deep breath and appreciate it all!

 Think about the vastness of space, where galaxies stretch out for unimaginable distances. Or the way plants convert sunlight into energy. Or the adaptations of animals to their environment and the delicate balance of ecosystems. From the majestic peaks of mountains to the colorful coral reefs beneath the waves, our world is full of stunning beauty.  A sunrise, a rushing waterfall, a field of wildflowers - these things can inspire awe and wonder. They all point to a very clever design and a Master Designer. Every beautiful thing in creation is a reflection of His incredible majesty!

Remember, just like God formed the entire world with wisdom, He also has a wise and fantastic and beautiful plan for your life, filled with meaning and purpose!  So, let the wonder of God's handiwork fill you with awe and appreciation for His control over everything.  Feel free to surrender your worries to the One who stretched out the heavens with His mighty hand. He's a constant force, and He wants to guide your steps.

Remember, the same amazing God who designed this entire cosmos cares deeply about every detail of your life. Now, go out there and explore His amazing creation with a happy heart, knowing He's with you every step of the way!