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Showing posts from January, 2025

Devotion: The Unshakable Foundation

  Devotion: The Unshakable Foundation Story: Sarah loved the little chapel on the hill. It had been a part of her life since childhood, its wooden pews and stained-glass windows standing as quiet witnesses to years of prayers, laughter, and tears. But now, after a long battle with illness, her grandfather—who had once been the chapel’s caretaker—was gone. The grief sat heavy in her chest. One afternoon, unable to shake the weight of loss, she walked up the hill to the chapel. As she approached, she noticed something unsettling—one of the foundation stones had shifted. The chapel, built on solid ground for decades, was now showing signs of wear. She knelt beside the stone, running her fingers over its worn surface, and whispered, “Things aren’t supposed to change like this.” Just then, an elderly man from the congregation, Mr. Bennett, walked up the path. Seeing her distress, he sat beside her. “You know,” he said, “this stone has been here longer than I have. And it may shift, but...

"An Unshakable Kingdom" – Scripture Writing Plan for February 2025

  That’s a wonderful idea! Below is a February 2025 Scripture Writing Plan based on the themes of your devotion—God’s unshakable kingdom, His eternal promises, and finding hope in seasons of change. Since February has 28 days in 2025, here are 28 daily scriptures to reflect on and write out: Theme: "An Unshakable Kingdom" – Scripture Writing Plan for February 2025 Week 1: God’s Kingdom is Unshakable Hebrews 12:28-29 – "Since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire.’” Psalm 46:1-2 – "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea." Isaiah 26:4 – "Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal." Matthew 7:24-25 – "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts the...

A Kingdom That Cannot Be Shaken

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  Devotion: "A Kingdom That Cannot Be Shaken" The Story: The autumn air was crisp as Ellie drove up the winding mountain road, her heart heavy with doubt. Every year, her family had gathered at their old cabin to celebrate the changing seasons, sharing meals and stories, bound together by tradition. But this year was different. Her father had passed away in the spring, and since then, everything felt uncertain—fragile. Now, the cabin stood quiet, missing the laughter and warmth that once filled its walls. Ellie’s mother had decided not to come, her brothers were busy, and her own faith felt shaken. Should traditions still matter when life keeps changing? she wondered. As she stepped onto the porch, she found an old, familiar notebook—her father’s journal, filled with reflections on Scripture. Flipping through the pages, one passage caught her eye: "One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully con...

Devotional: Finding Compassion in Unexpected Places

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  Certainly! Let's explore the Book of Ruth and how it can inspire us to embrace compassion and extend kindness to those in need. Devotional: Finding Compassion in Unexpected Places The Book of Ruth tells the story of a Moabite woman who, despite facing significant challenges, finds love, acceptance, and ultimately, redemption. Ruth, a foreigner facing hardship and loss, exemplifies unwavering loyalty, selfless love, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. In a world that often emphasizes division and fear of the "other," Ruth's story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and inclusivity. She chose love and loyalty over self-preservation, demonstrating that kindness and empathy can transcend cultural and social barriers. Ruth's journey, though filled with challenges, ultimately leads to her integration into a new community and her place in the lineage of King David, a pivotal figure in Jewish and Christian history. Her story highlights th...

Devotional: Finding Your Voice in a World of Expectations

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  Certainly, let's explore the Book of Esther through a lens that empowers women and challenges societal expectations. Devotional: Finding Your Voice in a World of Expectations The Book of Esther, often seen as a tale of a beautiful woman rising to power, can also be viewed as a story about the dangers of conforming to societal expectations and the importance of finding your own voice. Queen Vashti, though briefly mentioned, plays a pivotal role. Her refusal to parade herself before the king's drunken guests, defying his command, sent shockwaves through the Persian court. While some might see her defiance as an act of disobedience, we can also interpret it as a courageous stand against the objectification of women. Vashti refused to be treated as a mere object of male desire, asserting her own dignity and refusing to be a pawn in the king's egotistical game. Esther, while initially presented as the "replacement" for Vashti, ultimately becomes a powerful figure in ...