Your Nightly Scripture

Evening Scripture Psalm, Chapter 121 I lift up my eyes to the hills.From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord,who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot be moved;he who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, he who keeps Israelwill neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper;the Lord is your shade on your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day,nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all evil;he will keep your life. The Lord will keepyour going out and your coming infrom this time forth and forevermore. Evening Reflection What a beautiful gift we find in the penning of Psalm 121. It gives us an invitation to breathe easier and rest our weary hearts into the hands of our Creator. We’re given several promises from the Lord. He tells us that when we look to Him, we will find help. Our feet will not be moved unless He permits it. He does not ever take His eyes off of you and me. He is our keeper; our safest place. He keeps the harsh conditions of this world from scorching us. He watches with perfect care and intention from morning till night. He shields us from evil. The schemes of the enemy have no place where His hands are holding us. He is the galvanized steel plate that blocks the fiery darts blasted by the evil one. He covers our coming and going, which means we are taken care of entirely. He has every detail under complete control. There is not a moment of misstep when it comes to the Father. He is fully good and the most trustworthy. Whatever it is that you’re carrying tonight, your Father wants you to bring it to His feet. He calls you to surrender to Him as He fulfills His role as Helper, Comforter, and Provider. And though the circumstances may not change, when we find ourselves at His feet, we find an assurance of His presence. The author of Psalm 121 tells us two stories. One is of a man who loved the Lord and found himself in a difficult place, yet followed His Father for the way out. The other is a story written about our perfect Creator. Each paints a picture of the reality of this life. We need to follow the Lord always. We need to trust His way forward and His way out of trials. Most of all, we see that God is willing and able to do all good things through every facet of our life. Evening Prayer Father, Thank you for being faithful and trustworthy. Your Word reminds us that we not only can depend on you, but fully devote our lives to you. You make ways forward when it feels there is no way out. You remind me that you delight in my coming to your feet. Holy Spirit, please help me lay down all my cares and concerns at your feet. Please help me in areas where my trust falls short and when my worry gets the best of me. Thank you, Father, for sending Jesus to take my place and be my Savior. 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 Hebrews, Chapter 12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,because the Lord disciplines the one he loves,and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined — and everyone undergoes discipline — then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed. Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. See that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights as the oldest son. Afterward, as you know, when he wanted to inherit this blessing, he was rejected. Even though he sought the blessing with tears, he could not change what he had done. You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm; to a trumpet blast or to such a voice speaking words that those who heard it begged that no further word be spoken to them, because they could not bear what was commanded: “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned to death.” The sight was so terrifying that Moses said, “I am trembling with fear.” But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks. If they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from him who warns us from heaven? At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken — that is, created things — so that what cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our “God is a consuming fire.” Evening Reflection Where do look when life gets hard? Where do we place our focus? If you’re like me, too often we look to our own strengths. Actually, I focus more on what I can’t do more than what I can do. I focus on my inabilities, my frailty, or my failing. When life turns difficult, and I need to persevere through a time of trial or struggle, the things that keep me stuck glare at me. I criticize and condemn myself for all the ways that I am not as strong as I think I should be, as smart as I pretend to be, or as put together as I seem to be. Hebrews 12 reminds us that the life of faith can be difficult. One of the most important elements that we see in Scripture is that it presents to us a realistic look of the life of faith. Life can be hard; there is no sugar coating this. We need not pretend that this isn’t the case, or that the perfectly faithful somehow rise to a life devoid of hardship. No. Life can be filled with struggles and trials where we feel stretched beyond our capabilities. But while this is an important truth for us, more important is this: We are not alone. We are to fix our eyes on Jesus, the one who walks before us, guiding our way. Nothing in life can overtake his presence in our lives, and his power at work in us. Instead of looking to all the ways you may feel out of your depth, turn your eyes to Jesus. Fix your gaze on him. Because as you follow his lead, placing your footsteps in his, there is nothing you can’t walk through. There is nothing you can’t overcome. Evening Prayer Tonight’s prayer is taken from the Lyrics of the Hymn “Turn your eyes upon Jesus” written by Helen H. Lemmel in 1922. O Soul, are you weary and troubled? No light in the darkness you see? There is light for a look at the Saviour, and Life more abundant and free. Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in his wonderful face. And the things of earth with grow strangely dim, in the light of his glory and grace. 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 Exodus, Chapter 14Then the Lord said to Moses, “Tell the Israelites to turn back and encamp near Pi Hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea. They are to encamp by the sea, directly opposite Baal Zephon. Pharaoh will think, ‘The Israelites are wandering around the land in confusion, hemmed in by the desert.’ And I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and he will pursue them. But I will gain glory for myself through Pharaoh and all his army, and the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord.” So the Israelites did this.When the king of Egypt was told that the people had fled, Pharaoh and his officials changed their minds about them and said, “What have we done? We have let the Israelites go and have lost their services!” So he had his chariot made ready and took his army with him. He took six hundred of the best chariots, along with all the other chariots of Egypt, with officers over all of them. The Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt, so that he pursued the Israelites, who were marching out boldly. The Egyptians—all Pharaoh’s horses and chariots, horsemen and troops—pursued the Israelites and overtook them as they camped by the sea near Pi Hahiroth, opposite Baal Zephon. As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the Lord. They said to Moses, “Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? Didn’t we say to you in Egypt, ‘Leave us alone; let us serve the Egyptians’? It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!”Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on. Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground. I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they will go in after them. And I will gain glory through Pharaoh and all his army, through his chariots and his horsemen. The Egyptians will know that I am the Lord when I gain glory through Pharaoh, his chariots and his horsemen.” Then the angel of God, who had been traveling in front of Israel’s army, withdrew and went behind them. The pillar of cloud also moved from in front and stood behind them, coming between the armies of Egypt and Israel. Throughout the night the cloud brought darkness to the one side and light to the other side; so neither went near the other all night long.Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.The Egyptians pursued them, and all Pharaoh’s horses and chariots and horsemen followed them into the sea. During the last watch of the night the Lord looked down from the pillar of fire and cloud at the Egyptian army and threw it into confusion. He jammed the wheels of their chariots so that they had difficulty driving. And the Egyptians said, “Let’s get away from the Israelites! The Lord is fighting for them against Egypt.” Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over the sea so that the waters may flow back over the Egyptians and their chariots and horsemen.” Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and at daybreak the sea went back to its place. The Egyptians were fleeing toward it, and the Lord swept them into the sea. The water flowed back and covered the chariots and horsemen—the entire army of Pharaoh that had followed the Israelites into the sea. Not one of them survived.But the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left. That day the Lord saved Israel from the hands of the Egyptians, and Israel saw the Egyptians lying dead on the shore. And when the Israelites saw the mighty hand of the Lord displayed against the Egyptians, the people feared the Lord and put their trust in him and in Moses his servant. Evening Reflection Humans are firm believers in the laws of this world. We are quick to assert that something is impossible. There is no doubt in our minds that gravity will keep us on Earth, or our lungs will convert the atmosphere into life on our behalf. As we grow, we observe the laws of nature, and we respect them. They set order in an otherwise chaotic world. God set these laws in motion. He is the one who tells the waters of the oceans to stop, for waves to crash, and land to begin. The predictability of nature is a comfort; it helps us understand the bounds of this existence and make sense of our humanity. There are times when we are too quick to see only limitations. While God set our world in motion, we cannot forget that He also has the power to miraculously intervene when He sees fit. This was the case with the Israelites, who had been trapped in slavery for much too long. God became impatient with their oppression and made a way for his people to find freedom. God sent plagues that defied the rules of nature to show his power and might. Eventually, the Pharaoh reluctantly let the Israelites go, but even after bearing witness to God’s great power and wrath, he still sent his Chariots after the escaping crowds of people. God once again made the impossible possible, pulling back the waters of the sea so his people could escape. Are you waiting for God to pull back the waters on your behalf? Do you anticipate God doing the impossible so you can make it to the Promised Land? Or have you given up hope, lacking the faith of a mustard seed that can move mountains? It’s easy to lose hope. To believe what others have always said about you. To succumb to your circumstances. God invites us to trust him in all things, believing that he will make our path straight (Proverbs 3:5-6). You are invited to watch with anticipation as God makes a way when you and others cannot see one. Evening Prayer God,We believe that you are greater than the laws of nature. That you can do abundantly above and beyond all we could think, ask, or imagine. We do not give up hope, but we trust that you are working even when we can’t see it yet. In our moments of despair, remind us of the Israelites who you saw, you loved, and you moved the sea so they could find freedom. Move my sea, Jesus, make a way for me. Help me find my Promised Land.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 1 Peter, Chapter 2Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good. As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,” and,“A stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.” They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for. But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls. Evening Reflection I remember being picked last in middle school gym class. At least, for some sports. I was thin and clumsy, tall and gangly, so I would get picked last for football or softball. The New Testament shares how God chose us first. Not based on our ability or how cool we were, but on his love for us and his intrinsic valuation of us. In one sense, God chooses the things or people this world considers “weak” and “poor” over the rich and strong (1 Corinthians 1:27). Good news indeed. Those who follow Jesus respond to how he first called us; he chose us in Christ before time began (Ephesians 1:4, 2 Timothy 1:9). God chose us for a purpose, to live as Christ and enjoy a relationship with the Father eternally; Peter outlines the ways to live as the chosen. Ultimately, our goal remains to focus on Jesus and obey him, using him as the model. Being in Christ, and Christ in us, we’ve been empowered to live like Jesus—as a living stone, a priest of God, rejected by humanity, accepted by the Father, praising God with our mouth, living free from sin and vice and self, serving others with love, and persevering through suffering and rejection. To live chosen, we exhibit the character of the Living One within us. Submitting to God as such a living sacrifice, we will endure to receive our Kingdom resurrection. Evening Prayer Heavenly Father,You chose me in Christ before the foundation of the world, not because of my strength but because of your love. I praise you that I’m not forgotten or overlooked, but chosen and precious in your sight.Help me to rest in your grace and Spirit to be a living stone, built into your spiritual house, and a faithful priest who intercedes and lives as a continual sacrifice for you. Shape my heart to reflect Jesus in his humility, obedience, and love. Help me turn from sin, self, and then live in freedom. You have already accepted me. Let my life express your praises. Form Christ in and through me as I walk in your purpose each day.In Jesus’ name,Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Proverbs 28The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a ruler with discernment and knowledge maintains order.A ruler who oppresses the poor is like a driving rain that leaves no crops.Those who forsake instruction praise the wicked, but those who heed it resist them.Evildoers do not understand what is right, but those who seek the Lord understand it fully.Better the poor whose walk is blameless than the rich whose ways are perverse. A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.Whoever increases wealth by taking interest or profit from the poor amasses it for another, who will be kind to the poor.If anyone turns a deaf ear to my instruction, even their prayers are detestable.Whoever leads the upright along an evil path will fall into their own trap, but the blameless will receive a good inheritance.The rich are wise in their own eyes; one who is poor and discerning sees how deluded they are.When the righteous triumph, there is great elation; but when the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding. Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.Blessed is the one who always trembles before God, but whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble.Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a helpless people.A tyrannical ruler practices extortion, but one who hates ill-gotten gain will enjoy a long reign.Anyone tormented by the guilt of murder will seek refuge in the grave; let no one hold them back. The one whose walk is blameless is kept safe, but the one whose ways are perverse will fall into the pit.Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies will have their fill of poverty.A faithful person will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished.To show partiality is not good— yet a person will do wrong for a piece of bread.The stingy are eager to get rich and are unaware that poverty awaits them. Whoever rebukes a person will in the end gain favor rather than one who has a flattering tongue.Whoever robs their father or mother and says, “It’s not wrong,” is partner to one who destroys.The greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the Lord will prosper.Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe.Those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses.When the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding; but when the wicked perish, the righteous thrive. Evening Reflection Jesus found it important to warn us about temptations. We are bombarded every day with messages and images that tantalize and provoke us. Sexual and material lusts and the pride of life (1 John 2:16) can be strong forces. Jesus told Peter to “watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation.” (Matthew 26:41) Even in the Lord’s Prayer, we are taught to pray about temptation. Yet, despite our very best efforts, every one of us experiences temptation. Let’s face it, if Jesus could be tempted, we certainly know we can and will be. But what happens when we are? Certainly, some temptations are much stronger and more difficult to resist than others – but what about those times we are leaning into them? Ready to give in? When the evil one attacks, we respond by following Jesus’ example. The psalmist tells us, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (119:11) While we may not memorize scripture word for word, we know in our hearts what it tells us; we know what we can lean into, because His word is buried in our hearts. Armed with His Spirit and the truth of His word, we are equipped to handle whatever temptations may come our way. Paul promises that no matter what trials and temptations may come our way, God will never allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear – and He will always provide a way out. (1 Corinthians 10:13) Proverbs 28 tells us the importance of integrity and of righteousness when we resist temptation - and it warns that those who are wicked will face consequences. It teaches us to seek wisdom from the Lord and guidance to help us travel through what will assuredly come our way. When we find ourselves overwhelmed by temptation, we can turn to God in prayer, and He will be there for us because He is faithful. Amazing Grace's daily devotional recently stated that “Sin makes us stupid. Victory over the power of sin will come only as we lean on the strength and wisdom of Christ.” Evening Prayer Oh God,I know you are always there for me. I know you see the temptations I am facing. Remove this temptation from me, Lord – but if you do not, please let your Spirit do His work in me and help see me through it.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 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.