Posts with the category “daily-devotion”

Seeking Signs
by Ed Newton on April 27th, 2024
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." - Matthew 7:7    Life is full of decisions—big ones, small ones, and everything in between. And in those moments of uncertainty, it's natural to seek guidance, to ask for a sign that will point us in the right direction. But here's the thing: when we ask God for a sign, He is faithful to answer. Th...  Read More
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Going All In
by Ed Newton on April 26th, 2024
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." - Proverbs 16:3    Imagine for a moment what your life could look like if you went all in on God's plan for your life. Picture it: six months from now, a year from now, two years from now. Will you look back with satisfaction, knowing that you pursued God's very best for your life? Or will you look back with regret, wishing yo...  Read More
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The Sacrifice of Pursuing God's Best
by Ed Newton on April 25th, 2024
"Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'" - Matthew 16:24    In our journey of pursuing God's best, we've explored the importance of seeking it and the necessity of waiting for it. But there's another aspect to consider: the sacrifice required to obtain it. God desires to give us His best, but often, it comes a...  Read More
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Waiting for God's Best
by Ed Newton on April 24th, 2024
"But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint." - Isaiah 40:31    In the hustle and bustle of life, patience is often in short supply. We live in a world of instant gratification, where waiting feels like wasted time and delayed desires can lead to frustration. But when it comes...  Read More
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Chasing After God's Best
by Ed Newton on April 23rd, 2024
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." - Matthew 6:33    Life is full of choices. Some are big, some small, but all with the potential to shape our future. And in a world that offers so many options and opportunities, it can be tempting to settle for what seems good in the moment, rather than holding out for God's best. But I want you...  Read More
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Passing on Wisdom
by Ed Newton on April 22nd, 2024
"The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin." - Proverbs 10:8   Life is a journey of learning and growth—a journey where we not only seek wisdom from those who are older and wiser than us but also have the opportunity to impart wisdom to those who are younger and less experienced. Just as we benefit from the counsel of mentors, we also have a responsibility to be mentor...  Read More
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Learning from the Wise
by Ed Newton on April 21st, 2024
"Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise." - Proverbs 19:20   Life is full of lessons—some learned the hard way, through trial and error, and others learned through the guidance and wisdom of those who have gone before us. And while there's certainly value in learning from our own experiences, there's something to be said for surrounding ourselves ...  Read More
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The Power of Community
by Ed Newton on April 20th, 2024
"Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." - Hebrews 10:24-25   Life was never meant to be lived in isolation. God designed us for community—for relationships that challenge us, support us, and encourage us in our faith jo...  Read More
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Loving God Above All
by Ed Newton on April 19th, 2024
"If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple." - Luke 14:26    The word "hate" can be jarring, especially when we hear it in the context of our relationships with others. But when Jesus tells us to hate our family members and even our own lives, He's not advocating for actual hatred....  Read More
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Is God Your #1 Priority?
by Ed Newton on April 18th, 2024
"You shall have no other gods before me." - Exodus 20:3   Let's talk about priorities. We all have them—those things that take precedence in our lives, that occupy the top spot on our to-do lists and in our hearts. But here's the question: is God truly your #1 priority? It's a question worth thinking about, isn't it? Because here's the truth: God doesn't share His place. He doesn't settle for seco...  Read More
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Hope Beyond Trials
by Ed Newton on April 17th, 2024
"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." - Revelation 21:4    Life on this earth is filled with trials and tribulations. We face pain, suffering, and heartache on a daily basis. But as followers of Christ, we have a hope—a hope that transcends our present circumstances and points us toward a f...  Read More
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Growing Every Day
by Ed Newton on April 16th, 2024
"And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." - 2 Corinthians 3:18    Life is a journey of growth, of transformation, of becoming more like Christ with each passing day. But here's the thing: that journey never ends. As long as we're on this earth, God is always at w...  Read More
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Purpose in Pain
by Ed Newton on April 15th, 2024
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." - James 1:2-3   Pain is a part of life. It’s a painful truth, isn't it? Whether it's physical, emotional, or spiritual, we all experience pain in one form or another. And in those moments, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, discouraged, even de...  Read More
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Finding Purpose in the Hard Times
by Ed Newton on April 14th, 2024
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28   Life isn't always a smooth journey on a straight path. Sometimes, it feels more like a winding road full of twists and turns, ups and downs. And let's be honest—those rough patches, those difficult circumstances, they're not exactly what we signed up for, ri...  Read More
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Divine Appointments
by Ed Newton on April 13th, 2024
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11    Have you ever found yourself in a place that seemed completely unexpected or unfamiliar? Maybe it was a new job opportunity that required you to relocate, a chance encounter that led to a life-changing relationship, or a mission trip that to...  Read More
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Divine Connections
by Ed Newton on April 12th, 2024
"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." - Proverbs 27:17    Have you ever stopped to think about the people God has placed in your life? From family and friends to colleagues and acquaintances, each person has a unique role to play. But here's the beautiful truth: none of these connections are accidental. God strategically places people in our lives for specific purposes. Think ab...  Read More
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A Personal Message from God
by Ed Newton on April 11th, 2024
"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." - John 10:27   Have you ever felt like the words of Scripture or the messages you hear in church were meant for someone else? Maybe you've thought, "That's a great message for him or her, but it doesn't really apply to me." It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that way, but let me remind you of something important: God's messag...  Read More
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Speak Up
by Ed Newton on April 10th, 2024
"Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted." - Galatians 6:1   In a world that often champions individualism and self-reliance, it can be easy to adopt a mindset of "I'll do me, and you do you." Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to something greater—a community of beli...  Read More
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The Power of Deliberate Choice
by Ed Newton on April 9th, 2024
"But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve..." - Joshua 24:15   Life is filled with moments that require us to make deliberate choices—decisions that shape our character, define our priorities, and determine our destiny. Whether it's choosing forgiveness, taking action on a command from God, or simply obeying His Word, our response of...  Read More
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Extending Forgiveness
by Ed Newton on April 8th, 2024
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." - Ephesians 4:32   As recipients of God's boundless forgiveness, we are called to extend that same grace to others, even when it seems undeserved. Forgiveness is not about excusing or condoning someone's actions; rather, it is a reflection of the mercy and love that God has shown us. In Ephesians 4...  Read More
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Endless Mercy in Every Moment
by Ed Newton on April 7th, 2024
"As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us." - Psalm 103:12   Too we often find ourselves tangled in the threads of sin and shame, feeling unworthy of the love and mercy of our Heavenly Father. Yet, in His infinite grace, God extends forgiveness to us—time and time again—removing our transgressions as far as the East is from the West. The truth is, we ca...  Read More
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Protecting Against Irreversible Consequences
by Ed Newton on April 6th, 2024
"The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty." - Proverbs 22:3   In life, there are moments when we stand at a crossroads, facing choices that have the power to alter the course of our lives forever. It's in these critical moments that guardrails become essential—a safeguard against veering off the path and plunging into irreversible consequences. While Go...  Read More
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Balancing Community
by Ed Newton on April 5th, 2024
"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." - Psalm 119:105   In life, we often encounter situations where the line between right and wrong may blur, and the path ahead seems uncertain. In these moments, setting guardrails becomes essential—a deliberate decision to establish boundaries that protect us from veering off course and straying into danger. The Bible provides us with numerous ...  Read More
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Breaking Strongholds of Addiction
by Ed Newton on April 4th, 2024
"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." - John 8:36   Addiction is a formidable foe, a stronghold that grips the soul and enslaves the spirit. Despite countless efforts to break free from its chains, many find themselves trapped in a cycle of despair and hopelessness. But there is hope—hope found in the liberating power of God's love and grace. For those struggling with addiction, ...  Read More
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Seeking Wisdom
by Ed Newton on April 3rd, 2024
"The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding." - Proverbs 4:7   Wisdom is often regarded as one of the most valuable treasures we can possess. It guides our decisions, shapes our character, and leads us on the path of righteousness. As followers of Christ, we are called to seek wisdom diligently and to constantly strive to grow wiser in our daily liv...  Read More
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Setting Guardrails
by Ed Newton on April 2nd, 2024
"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." - Psalm 119:105   In life, we often encounter situations where the line between right and wrong may blur, and the path ahead seems uncertain. In these moments, setting guardrails becomes essential—a deliberate decision to establish boundaries that protect us from veering off course and straying into danger. The Bible provides us with numerous ...  Read More
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Surrounding Yourself with Believers
by Ed Newton on April 1st, 2024
"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." - Proverbs 27:17   In the journey of faith, the company we keep plays a significant role in shaping our spiritual growth and development. Just as iron sharpens iron, surrounding ourselves with fellow believers can sharpen and strengthen us in our walk with God. Friendships are a precious gift from the Lord, but their significance goes beyond...  Read More
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Choosing Wisely in Relationships
by Ed Newton on March 31st, 2024
 "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?" - 2 Corinthians 6:14   In matters of the heart, it's essential to heed the wisdom of Scripture, especially when it comes to being unequally yoked. This term refers to the imbalance that arises when believers enter into relationships with unbeliever...  Read More
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Choosing God's Best Over Temporary Pleasures
by Ed Newton on March 30th, 2024
"He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin." - Hebrews 11:25   In the journey of life, we often encounter temptations that promise immediate gratification but lead to long-term consequences. The story of Samson serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of choosing God's best over temporary pleasures. Despite being called to a li...  Read More
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The Destructive Grip of Lust
by Ed Newton on March 29th, 2024
"Do not lust in your heart after her beauty or let her captivate you with her eyes." - Proverbs 6:25   The story of Samson serves as a cautionary tale about the danger of being consumed with lust. Samson, known for his incredible strength, fell victim to the allure of forbidden desires, leading to his eventual downfall. From the beginning, Samson's life was marked by a pattern of indulgence and re...  Read More
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Obedience Despite Differences
by Ed Newton on March 28th, 2024
"So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves. But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin." - Romans 14:22-23   In our journey of faith, we encounter situations where God may forbid something for us that H...  Read More
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Choosing Obedience Over Temptation
by Ed Newton on March 27th, 2024
"Reject every kind of evil." - 1 Thessalonians 5:22   In a world filled with temptations and distractions, it can be easy to succumb to the allure of forbidden things. Society often portrays certain behaviors or indulgences as desirable or glamorous, painting a picture of pleasure without consequence. However, as believers, we are called to heed God's commands and avoid what He has forbidden, no m...  Read More
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Displaying Your Faith
by Ed Newton on March 26th, 2024
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:16   Have you ever noticed how eager people are to show off their new possessions? Whether it's a shiny new car, a beautiful home, or a PS5, we can't help but share our excitement with others. But what about our faith? When Jesus works in amazing ways in our lives...  Read More
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God Sees You
by Ed Newton on March 25th, 2024
"You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways." - Psalm 139:1-3   Do you ever feel unseen? Do you ever wonder if anyone truly understands the depths of your pain, the weight of your struggles, or the desires of your heart? In those moments, it's ess...  Read More
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Removing the Tape
by Ed Newton on March 24th, 2024
"The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty." - Proverbs 27:12   Let me share a personal story that taught me a valuable lesson about heeding life's warning signs. It all started with a car—a Toyota Sequoia, to be exact. I was thrilled with my purchase, but little did I know the challenges that awaited me. Driving my new Sequoia, I couldn't ignore the dee...  Read More
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Gratitude for God's Faithfulness
by Ed Newton on March 23rd, 2024
"And Jephthah made a vow to the Lord: 'If you give the Ammonites into my hands, whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the Lord's, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering.'" - Judges 11:30-31   Have you ever found yourself in a desperate situation, bargaining with God, promising to fulfill a vow if He comes through for you? It'...  Read More
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From Knowledge to Obedience
by Ed Newton on March 22nd, 2024
"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." - James 1:22   As believers, we are blessed with an abundance of resources to grow in our knowledge and understanding of God's Word. We have access to countless books, sermons, podcasts, and devotionals—all aimed at deepening our understanding of Scripture and strengthening our faith. And while it is important to study...  Read More
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The Beauty of Serving Others
by Ed Newton on March 21st, 2024
"Serve one another humbly in love." - Galatians 5:13   In a world that often celebrates self-promotion and personal gain, the call to serve others stands as a radical and countercultural invitation. Yet, it is precisely in serving others that we find true fulfillment and purpose. But how can we practically live out this call to service in our everyday lives? Serving others doesn't always require g...  Read More
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Following the Model of Jesus
by Ed Newton on March 20th, 2024
"Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." - Matthew 20:26-28   In a world that often measures greatness by power, influence, and authority, the Bible presents a different perspective on leadership—one rooted in servanthoo...  Read More
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Embracing God's Training Ground
by Ed Newton on March 19th, 2024
"Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand." - Isaiah 64:8   In the shadows of Tob, away from the spotlight and the noise of the world, God cultivates and shapes us into the people He has destined us to become. Just as the potter molds clay on the wheel, God refines us in the quiet moments of our lives, reworking and sculpting us according...  Read More
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