daily devotion

23
Nov
2024
Dressing Your Heart: Wearing God’s Character Daily

Dressing Your Heart: Wearing God’s Character Daily

God’s Chosen Wardrobe

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

Colossians 3:12

Every morning, you make choices about what to wear.

You consider the weather, your activities for the day, and the impression you want to make.

But have you ever thought about the spiritual clothes you put on?

Your Spiritual Identity

Before telling you what to wear, God reminds you who you are:

  • Chosen by God
  • Holy (set apart)
  • Dearly loved

This isn’t about earning God’s favor – you already have it. These spiritual clothes are your response to His love.

Divine Dress Code

Let’s look at each piece of your spiritual wardrobe:

Compassion

This is more than feeling sorry for someone. It’s allowing your heart to be moved to action when you see others hurting.

Kindness

Think of kindness as practical love in action. It’s choosing to be generous and helpful, even when it’s inconvenient.

Humility

This isn’t thinking less of yourself – it’s thinking of yourself less. It’s choosing to put others’ needs on the same level as your own.

Gentleness

Being gentle doesn’t mean being weak. It’s having strength under control, like a powerful horse responding to a light touch.

Patience

This is the ability to stay calm and gracious, even when others test your limits.

Making It Practical

Morning Routine

Just as you check the mirror before leaving home, try this spiritual check:

  • Am I wearing compassion in my attitudes?
  • Have I put on kindness in my plans for today?
  • Is humility visible in my interactions?
  • Will others experience my gentleness?
  • Is patience ready for the day’s challenges?

Real-Life Application

Think about one person who challenges you. Now, consciously choose to:

  • Look for reasons they might be struggling (compassion)
  • Do something helpful for them (kindness)
  • Listen to their perspective (humility)
  • Speak softly and carefully (gentleness)
  • Give them time to change (patience)

When It Gets Difficult

Remember, you’re not trying to manufacture these qualities on your own. They’re gifts from God that you’re learning to wear well.

When you struggle, return to the truth that you are chosen and deeply loved.

A Prayer for Your Day

“Father, thank You for choosing me and loving me. Help me dress myself in Your character today. When I’m tempted to put on judgment, criticism, or impatience, remind me of the beautiful clothes You’ve given me to wear. Amen.”

Remember, just as you wouldn’t leave home without clothes, don’t start your day without consciously putting on these spiritual qualities.

Which piece of God’s wardrobe do you most need to wear today?

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Humility, Love
20
Nov
2024
Walking in Light: The Power of Loving Others

Walking in Light: The Power of Loving Others

“Whoever loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble.”

1 John 2:10

Light of Love

Remember those nights when you needed a flashlight to navigate an unfamiliar room?

Love works exactly like that – it helps you see clearly, guiding you through life’s complicated spaces.

Understanding True Connection

This verse isn’t talking about a surface-level, casual kindness.

It’s describing a deep, intentional love that transforms how you see and interact with people around you.

Imagine wearing special glasses that help you see the best in others, even when it’s difficult.

Breaking Down the Truth

What this really means:

  • Love isn’t just a feeling
  • It’s a choice you make every day
  • It provides clarity in confusing situations
  • It protects you from spiritual pitfalls

Real-World Application

Think about your most recent challenging relationship.

Maybe it’s a coworker who frustrates you, a family member with different views, or a friend who disappointed you.

Love doesn’t mean agreeing with everything. It means choosing to see their humanity.

What Light Looks Like

Walking in light through love might mean:

  • Choosing understanding over being right
  • Offering grace instead of judgment
  • Seeing potential instead of limitations
  • Responding with kindness when it’s hard

Practical Love in Action

Start with small steps:

  • Send an encouraging text
  • Listen without planning your response
  • Assume the best about someone’s intentions
  • Forgive without expecting anything in return

The Stumbling Block Solution

Notice the verse says love prevents stumbling. When you’re focused on genuinely caring for others, you’re less likely to get tripped up by:

  • Petty arguments
  • Unnecessary conflicts
  • Negative thought patterns
  • Self-centered perspectives

A Personal Invitation

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being intentional. E

very moment offers a chance to choose love, to shine a little light in someone’s darkness.

Your Daily Challenge

Before you interact with anyone today, take a breath and ask, “How can I bring light into this moment?” Watch how it transforms your relationships.

Prayer

Father, teach me to love like You do. Help me see others through Your eyes of compassion. Give me the strength to choose love, even when it’s difficult. Let my life be a light that guides others. Amen.

Reflection Question

Where in your life do you need to replace darkness with the light of love today?

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Love
19
Nov
2024
Lasting Forever: Finding What Really Matters

Lasting Forever: Finding What Really Matters

“The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”

1 John 2:17

A Fresh Perspective

Have you ever cleaned out your closet and found something you just “had to have” a year ago?

Maybe it was a trendy outfit or the latest gadget that now sits forgotten.

This simple experience perfectly illustrates today’s verse.

Understanding the Temporary

Think about the things that grabbed your attention last year:

  • That must-watch TV show everyone talked about
  • The trending social media challenge
  • The latest phone model
  • The fashion styles everyone wore

Where are they now? Most have probably faded into yesterday’s news.

Heart of the Matter

Imagine building a sandcastle on the beach. No matter how magnificent it is, the tide will eventually wash it away.

That’s how John describes worldly desires – impressive for a moment but ultimately temporary.

What Really Lasts

But here’s the good news – you have an alternative.

God offers something permanent. When you align your life with His will, you’re investing in forever.

It’s like planting a tree instead of buying artificial flowers. One grows and lasts; the other looks good briefly but eventually fades.

Making Wise Choices

This verse isn’t saying you can’t enjoy life’s pleasures. Rather, it’s about priorities. Ask yourself:

  • Will this matter in five years?
  • Does this choice honor God’s purposes?
  • Am I investing in temporary satisfaction or eternal impact?

Your Daily Impact

Every day brings choices between the temporary and the eternal:

  • Choosing kindness over convenience
  • Picking integrity over immediate gain
  • Selecting service over self-interest

Practical Steps Forward

Start your day by asking, “What has eternal value today?” Maybe it’s:

  • Taking time to encourage someone
  • Making a decision based on truth rather than trends
  • Investing in relationships instead of just achievements

Food for Thought

You might be thinking, “But I need to live in the real world!” Absolutely true.

Following God’s will doesn’t mean ignoring daily responsibilities. Instead, it means handling them with eternal perspective.

Prayer

Father, help me see beyond what’s temporary. Give me wisdom to recognize eternal values in my daily choices. Thank you for offering me a part in what lasts forever. Guide my decisions today toward Your eternal purposes. Amen.

Reflection Question

What one temporary thing might you need to hold more loosely so you can grab onto something eternal?

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
18
Nov
2024
Called to Holiness: Your Purpose in God’s Plan

Called to Holiness: Your Purpose in God’s Plan

“For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life.”

1 Thessalonians 4:7

Understanding Your Call

Remember getting a phone call that changed your life? Maybe it was a job offer or important news from family.

Well, you’ve received an even more significant call – God’s invitation to holiness.

What Holiness Really Means

Let’s clear something up right away – holiness isn’t about walking around with a glowing halo or speaking in thee’s and thou’s.

Think of it more like a wedding ring. The ring is set apart for a special purpose – to show commitment and belonging.

That’s what holiness means – being set apart for God’s special purpose.

Breaking Down the Truth

The verse tells us two important things:

  • What we’re not called to (impurity)
  • What we are called to (holiness)

It’s like having a GPS with both warnings about wrong turns and clear directions to your destination.

Making it Real

Imagine you bought a beautiful new car. Would you use it to haul garbage?

Of course not! You’d use it for its intended purpose.

Similarly, God calls you to a life that matches your true purpose – reflecting His character.

Your Daily Walk

Holiness shows up in everyday moments:

  • How you respond to frustration
  • The way you treat others
  • Your choices when no one’s watching
  • Your thoughts and attitudes

Practical Steps

Start viewing your daily activities through the lens of holiness. Before making decisions, ask yourself:

  • Does this match who God called me to be?
  • Will this choice draw me closer to God’s purpose?
  • How can I honor God in this situation?

Good News

Here’s something wonderful – God doesn’t expect instant perfection. Holiness is a journey, not a destination. Each small choice to honor God is a step in the right direction.

Your Response

Maybe you’re thinking, “I’ve made too many mistakes.” Remember, God’s call isn’t based on your past performance but on His purpose for your life.

Every moment offers a fresh opportunity to respond to His call.

Real-Life Application

Think about your schedule today. Each appointment, task, or interaction is an opportunity to live out your calling to holiness. It might mean:

  • Speaking kind words when you’re tired
  • Choosing integrity when it costs you something
  • Showing patience in frustrating situations

Prayer

Father, thank you for calling me to a holy life. Help me understand what this means in my daily routine. Give me wisdom to make choices that honor You and strength to live according to Your purpose. Make my ordinary moments reflect Your extraordinary character. Amen.

Reflection Question

In what specific area of your life do you hear God calling you to greater holiness today?

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Holiness
17
Nov
2024
Finding Freedom: Escaping the Money Trap

Finding Freedom: Escaping the Money Trap

“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.”

1 Timothy 6:9

Understanding the Warning

Have you ever watched a nature show where an animal gets caught in quicksand?

The more it struggles to free itself, the deeper it sinks.

Paul’s warning about the desire for wealth works similarly – it’s a trap that can slowly pull you under.

A Modern Perspective

Think about your social media feed. How many ads promise “financial freedom” or a “path to quick wealth”?

These messages aren’t new – they’re just packaged differently than they were in Paul’s time. The trap remains the same.

The Real Issue

Notice that this verse isn’t about money itself – it’s about the burning desire to be rich.

It’s like the difference between enjoying a meal and being obsessed with food.

One is natural; the other becomes harmful.

Breaking It Down

The progression described here is important:

  • It starts with a want
  • Leads to temptation
  • Becomes a trap
  • Creates harmful desires
  • Ends in destruction

Your Daily Reality

Maybe you’re thinking, “I just want enough to be comfortable.” That’s natural.

But here’s the challenge – when is enough actually enough?

Without careful boundaries, the pursuit of “enough” can become an endless chase.

Practical Protection

Consider these steps to guard your heart:

  • Practice gratitude for what you have
  • Set clear financial boundaries
  • Find contentment in non-material blessings
  • Celebrate others’ success without envy

The Better Way

Instead of focusing on getting rich, try shifting your attention to becoming rich in:

  • Relationships
  • Kindness
  • Wisdom
  • Spiritual growth

Making It Personal

Think about your recent decisions. Have any been influenced by the desire for more wealth?

There’s nothing wrong with working hard or being successful, but check your motivations.

A Word of Grace

If you recognize yourself in this warning, don’t despair. Awareness is the first step toward freedom. God’s grace provides both the warning and the way out.

Closing Prayer

Father, help me examine my heart regarding wealth. Give me wisdom to recognize traps disguised as opportunities. Lead me toward true contentment and keep my desires focused on You. Thank you for providing all I need. Amen.

Reflection Question

What’s the difference between responsibly managing money and being caught in the trap of wanting to get rich? How can you maintain that balance in your life?

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration