Your Nightly Scripture

Evening Scripture John, Chapter 12Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it. “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.” Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and believing in him. The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!”“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”“Blessed is the king of Israel!” Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written: “Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.” At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that these things had been done to him. Now the crowd that was with him when he called Lazarus from the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to spread the word. Many people, because they had heard that he had performed this sign, went out to meet him. So the Pharisees said to one another, “See, this is getting us nowhere. Look how the whole world has gone after him!” Now there were some Greeks among those who went up to worship at the festival. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, with a request. “Sir,” they said, “we would like to see Jesus.” Philip went to tell Andrew; Andrew and Philip in turn told Jesus. Jesus replied, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me. “Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!” Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and will glorify it again.” The crowd that was there and heard it said it had thundered; others said an angel had spoken to him. Jesus said, “This voice was for your benefit, not mine. Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” He said this to show the kind of death he was going to die. The crowd spoke up, “We have heard from the Law that the Messiah will remain forever, so how can you say, ‘The Son of Man must be lifted up’? Who is this ‘Son of Man’?” Then Jesus told them, “You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. Whoever walks in the dark does not know where they are going. Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light.” When he had finished speaking, Jesus left and hid himself from them. Even after Jesus had performed so many signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him. This was to fulfill the word of Isaiah the prophet: “Lord, who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?” For this reason they could not believe, because, as Isaiah says elsewhere: “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn—and I would heal them.” Isaiah said this because he saw Jesus’ glory and spoke about him. Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not openly acknowledge their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved human praise more than praise from God. Then Jesus cried out, “Whoever believes in me does not believe in me only, but in the one who sent me. The one who looks at me is seeing the one who sent me. I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness. “If anyone hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge that person. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world. There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; the very words I have spoken will condemn them at the last day. For I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken. I know that his command leads to eternal life. So whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say.” Evening Reflection Light changes things and brings life. Sunlight gives warmth and empowers growth. A candle at night helps us see where we’re going. Keeps us from falling into a pit. John 12 records Christ’s words in Jerusalem a few days before his crucifixion. First, Jesus teaches to walk in the light, or else darkness will “overtake” us, overwhelm us, steal and destroy us. A few verses later, Jesus claims to be the light, and this was his purpose: to be the light and save us from darkness. Darkness has no substance. It’s only the absence of light; darkness symbolizes death, emptiness. Further, Jesus equates light with the words he speaks. The “light” includes hearing the voice and instruction of he who is the Light. To be in the light, then, means obeying Jesus’ teachings. This goes beyond mere moral instruction. At the core, to follow the light begins with believing what he says about the Father, about himself, the Spirit, and us. From this relational reconciliation, living and loving in truth, our lives then exhibit right action. Our primary goal must be to draw near to Christ, the Light, and cling to him as a Person, hearing and obeying his voice of love to save us from the darkness that threatens to overtake us. This will take us down roads of adventure and battle, joy and sorrow, as we also become the light in a dark world, and the end will be absolute good because we were in him the whole time. Evening Prayer Heavenly Father,Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, as the Light. He has entered the darkness to save us. Draw me near to you and teach me to walk in your light so darkness won’t overtake me. Let your words guide my steps, transform my mind, and anchor my heart in truth. I choose to believe what you say about the Father, about yourself, and about who I am in you.Drive out every threatening shadow that disrupts my vision of you. Help me to take captive every thought that exalts itself against you and replace those lies with your truth. Give me the courage to obey your voice, even when the path leads to battles or sacrifice, knowing you give resurrection and life. Fill me with you so I shine your light to others.In Jesus’ name,Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Philippians, Chapter 2 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me. I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon. But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him, because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me. Evening Reflection I was frustrated. No, honestly, I was beyond mad. Tired of those around me getting what I worked so hard to achieve. Not only that, but I was exhausted by insecurity and self-protection. Attempting to defend and prove myself, seeking validation in all the wrong places. Choosing the mind of Christ, especially when we’re facing comparisons, difficult relationships, pride, or struggles with self-worth, isn’t easy. Our natural mindset often centers and thrives on survival, recognition, and control. But is that what Paul describes in Philippians 2? Probably not. In Philippians 2, Paul calls the believers to adopt the mindset of Christ. Jesus had all authority, yet He chose a life of humility and servanthood because He knew that what was ahead would be better than anything He left behind. Unlike many in the world around Him, Jesus didn’t cling to status or security. He willingly humbled Himself, and His obedience ultimately led to sacrifice. There’s a misconception today that humility is self-hatred or making oneself invisible. Both couldn’t be further from the truth. The “mind of Christ” doesn’t mean thinking less of yourself, but rather finding your security and identity in Christ alone. It’s allowing us to love others freely, without comparing ourselves to them. Anxiety and insecurity will continue to tempt us towards these inclinations of comparison and self-protection, but Jesus models surrender, steadiness, and obedience rooted in trust. Her success doesn’t equate to your failure. Choosing this mindset daily is difficult, and we won’t do it perfectly. But over time, God can shape our hearts and produce real strength. Strength that looks gentler and more humble than the world. Strength that makes peace, compassion, and healthier relationships a priority. What mindset have you been carrying lately? Confess it to God and remind yourself of this truth: I must operate from my identity in Christ and not insecurity. Evening Prayer Dear God,Tonight, I release the pressure to prove myself. You gave your life so that I would be set free, but also to show me that my worth isn’t earned by what I do. Please renew my mind and shape my heart to look more like you. I love you, Jesus!Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Psalm 107 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south.Some wandered in desert wastelands, finding no way to a city where they could settle. They were hungry and thirsty, and their lives ebbed away. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He led them by a straight way to a city where they could settle. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. Some sat in darkness, in utter darkness, prisoners suffering in iron chains, because they rebelled against God’s commands and despised the plans of the Most High. So he subjected them to bitter labor; they stumbled, and there was no one to help. Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He brought them out of darkness, the utter darkness, and broke away their chains. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he breaks down gates of bronze and cuts through bars of iron. Some became fools through their rebellious ways and suffered affliction because of their iniquities. They loathed all food and drew near the gates of death. Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He sent out his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. Let them sacrifice thank offerings and tell of his works with songs of joy. Some went out on the sea in ships; they were merchants on the mighty waters. They saw the works of the Lord, his wonderful deeds in the deep. For he spoke and stirred up a tempest that lifted high the waves. They mounted up to the heavens and went down to the depths; in their peril their courage melted away. They reeled and staggered like drunkards; they were at their wits’ end. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people and praise him in the council of the elders. He turned rivers into a desert, flowing springs into thirsty ground, and fruitful land into a salt waste, because of the wickedness of those who lived there. He turned the desert into pools of water and the parched ground into flowing springs; there he brought the hungry to live, and they founded a city where they could settle. They sowed fields and planted vineyards that yielded a fruitful harvest; he blessed them, and their numbers greatly increased, and he did not let their herds diminish. Then their numbers decreased, and they were humbled by oppression, calamity, and sorrow; he who pours contempt on nobles made them wander in a trackless waste. But he lifted the needy out of their affliction and increased their families like flocks. The upright see and rejoice, but all the wicked shut their mouths.Let the one who is wise heed these things and ponder the loving deeds of the Lord. Evening Reflection As the day comes to an end, there’s something powerful about looking backward before looking ahead. Psalm 107 is one long reminder that God has always been faithful to His people. Throughout the chapter, we meet people in very different situations. Some wandered in the wilderness, unsure where to go. Some sat in darkness, weighed down by the consequences of their choices. Others found themselves overwhelmed by sickness or caught in storms so fierce they thought they would surely perish. Yet every story follows the same beautiful pattern: “They cried out to the Lord in their trouble…”“And He delivered them.” Again, and again. The circumstances changed, but God’s character never did. As I read this chapter, I can’t help but think about my own life. There have been seasons where I felt like I was wandering, wondering if God still saw me. There have been prayers I repeated for years, days when disappointment felt heavier than hope, and moments when I wasn’t sure how God could possibly bring beauty from what I was experiencing. Maybe you’ve had seasons like that, too. The beautiful thing about Psalm 107 is that it doesn’t pretend life is easy. It acknowledges that God’s people experience wilderness seasons, storms, waiting, fear, loss, and uncertainty. Looking back, I can see so many moments when God answered prayers I thought He had forgotten. I can also see prayers He answered differently than I expected, only to discover later that His way was infinitely better than mine. There were doors He lovingly kept closed, detours that protected me, and seasons of waiting that shaped my heart more than immediate answers ever could have. Perhaps that’s why the psalm repeatedly urges God’s people to give thanks. Not because life has been perfect. But because God has been faithful. And giving thanks keeps our hearts in a posture of remembering God is good, rather than being tempted to go into a state of discontentment or complaining. Gratitude doesn’t require us to ignore the difficult chapters of our story. Instead, it invites us to recognize that God’s goodness has been woven through every chapter—even the painful ones. As you prepare for sleep tonight, take a moment to remember your own story. Think about the prayers God has answered, the strength He provided when you thought you had none left, the relationships He restored, the doors He opened, and even the hardships through which He faithfully carried you. The same God who delivered His people throughout Psalm 107 is the same God who walks with you today. And He is just as faithful tonight as He has always been. Evening Prayer Dear Father,Before I close my eyes tonight, I simply want to thank You. Thank You for every time You’ve met me in my own wilderness. Thank you for carrying me through storms I never thought I would survive and for remaining close when life felt uncertain. Forgive me for the times I become so focused on what I’m still waiting for that I forget to remember all You’ve already done. Open my eyes to the countless ways You’ve been faithful throughout my life. As I rest tonight, fill my heart with gratitude instead of discontentment and with trust instead of fear. Help me wake up tomorrow with a deeper confidence that the God who has carried me through every chapter before will continue to lead me in every chapter still to come.In Jesus’ name,Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture James, Chapter 1James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations:Greetings.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. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. Evening Reflection We often think of tests and trials like those undertaken in school or the DMV. A test rates our ability, knowledge, or skill. Tests are designed for us to prove ourselves. Based on our performance, we earn the grade or the license we desire. Importantly, tests are essentially binary. Regardless of the range of letter grades or the number of demerit points, tests boil down to two options: we either pass or we fail. Does God test us in the same way? Does God give us heavenly exams to prove our worth? Is God stretching us just to see what kind of stuff we are made of? If we think this, then we can so easily condemn ourselves. We think that if we fail the test, we disappoint God and prove that we are not worth God’s time. It’s true that scripture talks a lot about God testing us, but God’s tests are not meant to judge whether we will pass or fail. God tests us to give us the opportunity to experience God’s presence and power. A test is the invitation to rely on God’s strength, not to prove our own. This is why we consider it Joy – because, as hard as the time might be, the difficult situations we face become places where we come to know the love of Jesus, and the power of the Spirit that upholds us. Tests and trials become the fodder for deeper faith and lasting perseverance. Are you going through a time of testing? Are you facing a situation where you don’t know what to do, where to go, or what decision to make? What if, worrying about your lack of stillness or strength, you turned your attention to the Lord? What if you aren’t being asked to do it all, but to let God work through you? Evening Prayer Gracious God,If you are Lord of heaven and on earth, why do I often feel that the weight of the world is on my shoulders? As I rest this night, I give to you my day, with all my decisions and tasks, my hopes and my worries. I give to you the work that I have accomplished, but also the work that stretches me past my own ability. I give you my questions and my doubts.Lord, I thank you for your guidance. I thank you for the places where I am empowered to work, where the talents you have given me can shine. But I also thank you for those places where I feel tested and tried – for in those places I turn to you. Help me to look to you in all things, and in every work, every task, every event, give you glory.This I pray in Jesus name.Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Psalm 91Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. “Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” Evening Reflection At times, it’s easy for us to feel overlooked, taken for granted, or cast aside by those around us. Whether it’s by a spouse, friend, parent, child, co-worker, or even a pastor at times, we can feel forgotten. Many of us believe that once we marry, have children, or achieve professional success, we’ll never feel forgotten again. Yet, so often, many of us discover that we were sadly mistaken, that being in the limelight fades, and those we thought loved us the most are now far away. Still, in those times when we feel forgotten, Psalm 91 reminds us that we can turn to God, knowing He never forgets us. Although others we thought would always be there for us may be distant, He keeps us close, watching over and protecting us, shielding us with His faithfulness. As Isaiah 49:15-16 reassures us, “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands; your walls are ever before Me.” Whereas others may ignore our calls, like a mother harkens her ears to her newborn child, He listens and answers us, staying near and with us through troubles and the darkest of nights. During these times, we can rest in His care, safe and secure from the chaos of the day and the fear of night. God is our ever refuge and fortress, covering us with His feathers, hiding us under His wings, and commanding His angels to encamp over us, wherever we go. Evening Prayer God,Thank you for keeping me close to You, for not ever forgetting me, even when it seems like everyone around me has forgotten. Help me remember that You are near, so that I turn towards You, calling out to You and reaching towards Your loving arms, which are open to me. Whenever I feel left by the wayside, Lord, lead me to rest in Your tender care over my heart and my life, remembering that You are forever here for me.Amen Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture James, Chapter 5Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you. Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you. Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. All you need to say is a simple “Yes” or “No.” Otherwise you will be condemned. Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins. Evening Reflection There is an old story about a man hiking on a mountainside. Suddenly, he slips and falls, but manages to grab a tree root sticking out. He cries out to the Lord – “Save me, Lord.” He hears a voice that says, “It is I, the Lord. I am here for you. Do you trust me? Truly trust me?” The man yells, “Of course, Lord, I trust you!” The answer came back – “Then let go.” Without any doubt, trusting – truly trusting - in times of healing can be one of our biggest challenges, right alongside the illness of a loved one. The Lord’s command to us is the very same as to the hiker – “Let go.” In 2022, I was diagnosed with bladder cancer, a type of heart failure, and macular degeneration – all within six weeks of each other. My wife and I had no choice but to move forward one step at a time, trusting the Lord – and praying. We had to learn to live out what we said we believed – otherwise, what would our testimony be worth? Yes, there are certainly more events in our lives that can require healing than simply severe illness. Loss of a loved one. Betrayal. Crushed dreams. Unexpected job loss. And so many more. But whatever the circumstance from which you are healing, leaning into the Lord, trusting in Him, is always the answer. James tells us to be patient and persevere in the face of suffering – and to pray. Staying close to God is the key to perseverance – meaning, we are never away from God, and God is always near to us. We can trust that God will get us through and get us home. Our faith - our trust - in the Lord is invaluable and irreplaceable. We may not always understand His ways, but when things go wrong, as they sometimes will, that trust will see us through even the most difficult of circumstances. He is always there for us and always will be. What more could we ask? Evening Prayer Father,Thank you for always being there for me. Thank you for your strength in the difficult times of my life. When I am feeling weak, please help me renew my trust in you. I won’t always understand or know what lies ahead, but I know you will be there with me, and I know you will walk with me through this.Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Isaiah, Chapter 32See, a king will reign in righteousness and rulers will rule with justice. Each one will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in the desert and the shadow of a great rock in a thirsty land. Then the eyes of those who see will no longer be closed, and the ears of those who hear will listen. The fearful heart will know and understand, and the stammering tongue will be fluent and clear. No longer will the fool be called noble nor the scoundrel be highly respected. For fools speak folly, their hearts are bent on evil: They practice ungodliness and spread error concerning the Lord; the hungry they leave empty and from the thirsty they withhold water. Scoundrels use wicked methods, they make up evil schemes to destroy the poor with lies, even when the plea of the needy is just. But the noble make noble plans, and by noble deeds they stand. You women who are so complacent, rise up and listen to me; you daughters who feel secure, hear what I have to say! In little more than a year you who feel secure will tremble; the grape harvest will fail, and the harvest of fruit will not come. Tremble, you complacent women; shudder, you daughters who feel secure! Strip off your fine clothes and wrap yourselves in rags. Beat your breasts for the pleasant fields, for the fruitful vines and for the land of my people, a land overgrown with thorns and briers— yes, mourn for all houses of merriment and for this city of revelry. The fortress will be abandoned, the noisy city deserted; citadel and watchtower will become a wasteland forever, the delight of donkeys, a pasture for flocks, till the Spirit is poured on us from on high, and the desert becomes a fertile field, and the fertile field seems like a forest. The Lord’s justice will dwell in the desert, his righteousness live in the fertile field. The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever. My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest. Though hail flattens the forest and the city is leveled completely, how blessed you will be, sowing your seed by every stream, and letting your cattle and donkeys range free. Evening Reflection It was only Tuesday, but I didn’t know how I was going to make it through the rest of my week. With a million thoughts in my mind and 200 items on my to-do list, I was exhausted, overstimulated, and anxious. Riddled by fear and what-ifs, I craved relief, stability, and the end of my tasks. Have you ever been in this place? Sometimes, no matter how calm life may appear on the outside, our heads and hearts grow too loud. Racing thoughts, fear of the future, and emotional numbness consume us. And this is the picture I see refuted in Isaiah 32. While Isaiah paints a picture of safety, refuge, strength, justice, and restoration, he also offers beautiful imagery. A future where we find: shelter from the wind refuge from the storm streams in the desert shade in a thirsty land The reality of this imagery is that God’s presence brings all of these things and more. He brings steadiness in seasons of chaos. And because He lives within us, we can have power over our greatest fears. This doesn’t mean that our anxiety or struggles will magically cease, but it does mean that we can find eternal rest for our souls. Anxiety often keeps us hyper-alert and emotionally exhausted. But trust in God doesn’t mean immediate peace; it’s choosing to trust in His character even when the anxiety doesn’t cease. “Fearful hearts will know and understand” because God gently calms our confused and worried minds over time. Quietness isn’t pretending everything is okay; it’s learning who we anchor ourselves in. Friends, God doesn’t shame exhausted people. He becomes our refuge, strength, and everything we need. Even when everything around us and within us seems loud, His presence is strong enough to hold us steady. What storms have been overwhelming you lately? Talk to God honestly about this in a prayer. Evening Prayer Dear God,Help me trust that even in this place, I can find peace and rest in you. Still my soul, calm my racing mind, and remind me that I do not carry my burdens alone. I love you, Jesus.Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Living Differently in a World That Pushes BackYour Nightly Scripture Evening Scripture Luke, Chapter 6One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and his disciples began to pick some heads of grain, rub them in their hands and eat the kernels. Some of the Pharisees asked, “Why are you doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?”Jesus answered them, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? He entered the house of God, and taking the consecrated bread, he ate what is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.” Then Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”On another Sabbath he went into the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was shriveled. The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal on the Sabbath. But Jesus knew what they were thinking and said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Get up and stand in front of everyone.” So he got up and stood there. Then Jesus said to them, “I ask you, which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?”He looked around at them all, and then said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He did so, and his hand was completely restored. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law were furious and began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus. One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles: Simon (whom he named Peter), his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called the Zealot, Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.He went down with them and stood on a level place. A large crowd of his disciples was there and a great number of people from all over Judea, from Jerusalem, and from the coastal region around Tyre and Sidon, who had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases. Those troubled by impure spirits were cured, and the people all tried to touch him, because power was coming from him and healing them all. Looking at his disciples, he said:“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. Blessed are you when people hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man. “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their ancestors treated the prophets.“But woe to you who are rich, for you have already received your comfort. Woe to you who are well fed now, for you will go hungry.Woe to you who laugh now, for you will mourn and weep. Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets.“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” He also told them this parable: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit? The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.“No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.” Evening Reflection Oftentimes, as American Christians, we read the Bible and consume Christian content, but still can miss out on the power that these things should have on how we live our lives. Our Christian life can feel more like checking extra items on a very full to-do list than something we are compelled to embody because of the love of Christ that lives in us. We have to be careful not to just go through the motions, but to allow the truth of the gospel to truly define how we live. When we live with a joyful salvation, our lives begin to stand out. When the world is filled with despair, we can shout out confidently that the best is yet to come. When trials enter our stories, we can rely on the peace that surpasses understanding. When the world says anything goes, we can find comfort in the guardrails the Bible lays out for our lives. When the world wants to push us down, we can turn the other cheek. None of the ways we live differently is due to our strength. Every choice to show our enemy the love of Christ is empowered by God’s life-giving Spirit. The power is the thing we miss out on when we see faith as more of a chore than a joy. The power of the Holy Spirit is what helps us live differently in this dark and chaotic world. As you seek to live as Christ instructs us to do in Luke 6 as a person who loves their enemies, that doesn’t judge others, that is filled with wisdom, is humble, and honors God, remember the Holy Spirit is there to empower you even when the world pushes back. He gently leads us closer to Christ. The spirit teaches us God’s better way. Dial into the Holy Spirit so you don’t miss what he’s doing in your life right now. Evening Prayer Father,I thank you that your way is better. Help me to do more than go through the motions of my faith. Let your love be what compels me to be different. Help me to be sensitive to your Holy Spirit, relying on the Spirit’s gentle leadership as I seek to follow you. Renew in my heart the joy of my salvation. Give me the strength I need to stand strong when the world pushes back.Amen. Want More? 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Evening Scripture Ephesians, Chapter 2 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)— remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. Evening Reflection The opening of our passage tonight reminds us that we were once dead in our sins and disobedience, and the desires of our flesh only begot more death. But God, who is rich in mercy and grace, has saved us in all of our dirt and mess because of His great love! What a good God! As believers, we must fight the thought that it’s by our own merit or good works that we earn our salvation or keep us in God’s grace. Our culture says, “Be better”, “keep hustling”, and "accomplish more.” If we're not careful, we will quickly take the same approach in our relationship with God, treating our devotion time as a checklist and serving out of guilt and obligation. Paul made it clear, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Let’s pause and take a moment to soak this truth in: grace is a gift, not something to be earned. Are you living your day-to-day striving for approval or living in the peace of God’s love and grace? Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” God’s grace to save us wasn’t just so He could add our names to the Book of Life. He saved us for a purpose to fulfill as believers. We each have a calling to tell others about the life-changing grace we’ve experienced. I’m so grateful for the influence and courage that other people in my life had to tell me about Jesus! This is a great time to remind you: you do have purpose. Sometimes it’s easy to forget our purpose in the midst of day-to-day, ordinary life. But that is the purpose! Remembering God in all of His faithfulness, connecting with Him daily, and surrendering to how the Lord wants to use you each day. If you’re in a season where a whole lot of nothing is happening, perhaps with the dreams He’s put on your heart or certain prayers haven’t yet been answered, keep rooted in Jesus. Paul reminds us, “For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit” (Ephesians 2:18). In God’s house, you have a role and part to play! Don’t lose sight of the One who has called you, but tonight, relish in His great love, mercy, and grace. You are chosen, called, and designed to shape the kingdom. Be refreshed, in Jesus’ name! Evening Prayer Lord,Thank you for the access I have through the Spirit because of Jesus. Tonight, I acknowledge your great mercy and grace in my life. I’m so grateful you sought after me and saved my life, Lord! I pray for a refreshment in my vision, purpose, and hope. I want to listen to your will and obey what you’ve called me to. May my heart and spirit be sensitive to yours. Father, restore my heart as I rest tonight, and when I start a new day tomorrow, help me see the people around me with great care and opportunity to point to you. I pray that my heart and actions reflect my testimony and that you would give me the courage to share it with others. You’ve changed my life, Jesus, and I want others to know freedom and peace. I pray this in the name of Jesus,Amen. Want More? 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Evening Scripture Psalm 104Praise the Lord, my soul.Lord my God, you are very great; you are clothed with splendor and majesty.The Lord wraps himself in light as with a garment; he stretches out the heavens like a tent and lays the beams of his upper chambers on their waters. He makes the clouds his chariot and rides on the wings of the wind. He makes winds his messengers, flames of fire his servants. He set the earth on its foundations; it can never be moved. You covered it with the watery depths as with a garment; the waters stood above the mountains. But at your rebuke the waters fled, at the sound of your thunder they took to flight they flowed over the mountains, they went down into the valleys, to the place you assigned for them. You set a boundary they cannot cross; never again will they cover the earth. He makes springs pour water into the ravines; it flows between the mountains. They give water to all the beasts of the field; the wild donkeys quench their thirst. The birds of the sky nest by the waters; they sing among the branches. He waters the mountains from his upper chambers; the land is satisfied by the fruit of his work. He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate—bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens human hearts, oil to make their faces shine, and bread that sustains their hearts. The trees of the Lord are well watered, the cedars of Lebanon that he planted. There the birds make their nests; the stork has its home in the junipers. The high mountains belong to the wild goats; the crags are a refuge for the hyrax. He made the moon to mark the seasons, and the sun knows when to go down. You bring darkness, it becomes night, and all the beasts of the forest prowl. The lions roar for their prey and seek their food from God. The sun rises, and they steal away; they return and lie down in their dens. Then people go out to their work, to their labor until evening. How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number— living things both large and small. There the ships go to and fro, and Leviathan, which you formed to frolic there. All creatures look to you to give them their food at the proper time. When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are satisfied with good things. When you hide your face, they are terrified; when you take away their breath, they die and return to the dust. When you send your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the ground. May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in his works— he who looks at the earth, and it trembles, who touches the mountains, and they smoke.I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. May my meditation be pleasing to him, as I rejoice in the Lord. But may sinners vanish from the earth and the wicked be no more. Praise the Lord, my soul. Praise the Lord. Evening Reflection This evening, spend a few moments outdoors or looking outside through a window to notice the magnificence of your surroundings. Take in the shape of the clouds as God’s “chariot.” See God robed and glorious in the light of the setting sun. Marvel at the moon. How its gravitational pull keeps the Earth steady and the seasons constant. Listen for the song of a bird, singing its Creator’s praises. This is God’s work, created to be our home. Breathe deeply, observe intently, and listen carefully to all that God has provided. The Almighty, Sovereign God commands nature. He cares for and nourishes His creatures, from the weakest to the wildest of animals. Even when those who are made in His image are wild at heart, He satisfies their needs. He brings springtime rains to grow crops, and summer sun to send a harvest. Our heavenly Father is gracious and attentive to all our daily needs, our worries, and our safety. He is attentive in every moment, whether we are awake or asleep. Meditate on God’s goodness tonight. The continuity of our lives is in the hands of our Creator. We do not need to strive or succumb to fear. Just as the psalmist begins Psalm 104 with praise and ends with praise, so too, make praise your last words before you sleep and your first words as you wake. Evening Prayer Lord God,Creator of everything, I look out my window and see the beauty of Your bountiful creation. I never want to miss listening to Your creation praising You—the beauty of the birds’ evening chorus, the gentle rustle of leaves, the bubbling of a fresh mountain stream. I breathe slowly and deeply, letting my thoughts of Your majesty and might calm my soul. Your words and Your wisdom speak life into my weary heart. Thank You for Your faithful provision that makes my heart sing with joy and wonder. I praise You with my being. May I praise You with my words every night and every morning. You are my place of rest.In Jesus’ name.Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.