As the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
To Ponder
It is clear from today’s passage that God sees his Word as 100% reliable: it always achieves what he intends it to achieve.
Furthermore, this passage helps us see that God doesn’t just “scatter” his Word and hope for the best. No, did you catch the last phrase in the reading? God sends his Word into the world (into our lives) with a very specific purpose.
God sent Jesus, the Word made flesh, into our world with a very special and specific purpose: to provide a way for us to be reconciled to God. And Jesus accomplished exactly what God desired!
Each day as we read his Word, God also sends that Word into our lives with a very specific purpose: to point us to Jesus; to grow us in relationship with him; to refine us; to guide us; possibly even to send us, speaking or enacting his Word to others.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that we can trust your Word to achieve what you want it to. Holy Spirit, open our hearts to keep humbly hearing and receiving your Word whole-heartedly, so that you can accomplish what you desire, in and through us.
Today’s devotion written by Julie Kitchen, Lifeway Epping
"Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another – showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God’s way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us."
To Ponder
“God-breathed” is an interesting way of describing Scripture. Throughout the bible, the breath of God (the creation of Adam; Jesus “breathing on them” when he appeared to his disciples after his resurrection etc) is associated with the Holy Spirit and life. The Holy Spirit is certainly at work through the living Word (as we pondered yesterday), and the work he does brings us life. In today’s verse we are given examples of ways in which the Holy Spirit works through Scripture: showing truth, exposing our rebellion (ouch!), correcting our mistakes, and training us to live God’s way. We need all of these!
It is a great encouragement to hear that despite our mistakes and rebellion, our tendency to believe lies and wander away from God, God declares that because of Jesus we are worthy of his Kingdom. So much so, that he has prepared Kingdom tasks for each of us, and he is using his Word to shape us so that we are ready and equipped for those tasks.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank you for accepting me because of Jesus. Thank you for seeing me as worthy of your tasks. Continue to grow and shape me through your Word so that I am fully equipped and ready. Open my eyes to recognize, and my heart to embrace, the tasks you have prepared for me today.
Today’s devotion written by Julie Kitchen, Lifeway Epping
"For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are."
To Ponder
How amazing is God’s Word!! I realise that I am probably speaking mostly to the converted here, but God’s Word IS “living and active” as it says in the NIV translation.
For those of you who enjoy the Fantasy genre of books or movies, you can probably imagine a book which is “living” or magic, in which the words change, depending on who is reading it. God’s Word is not magic. The words themselves do not change. However, the way it speaks to our hearts DOES change. The same words can speak differently to our hearts in different situations; Different parts of a verse or passage will challenge or encourage or speak to us at different times. If you are a reader of God’s Word, regularly or irregularly, I am sure that you will have experienced this too. This is the “living power” mentioned in today’s verse.
The truth that God’s Word “cuts deep” and “exposes us” sounds uncomfortable, something to avoid. However, it is my experience that when God needs to reveal something ungodly in our thoughts, attitudes or actions (and he often does!), he is a very gentle and accurate surgeon. We don’t need to fear his spiritual surgery. In fact, when we humbly receive his Word, the results are always a lighter spirit and a closer relationship with him.
Prayer
Holy Spirit, Thank you that your Word has living power. Keep drawing me to your Word. Open my heart to hear and receive the message that you need to speak to me today.
Today’s devotion written by Julie Kitchen, Lifeway Epping
"For these commands and this teaching are a lamp to light the way ahead of you. The correction of discipline is the way to life"
To Ponder
When this verse is read in the context of the previous verses, it can be seen that it refers to the commands and teaching of parents. Most of us will admit that, even when we disagree with our parents (and for many of us that happens a lot as teenagers, when we are starting to feel our own way in life, to hold our own opinions), our parents’ lived experience and advice or teaching is valuable for guiding us through life.
How much more so the teaching and commands of our Heavenly Father: He made us. He knows us. He understands our weaknesses: the struggles we face and the wrestle that we have with sin. And he knows our needs, particularly our need to be in relationship with Him. Our Heavenly Father provides his teaching and commands for us through his Word. His Word does light the way, making the right path clear.
When we choose to walk a different way to the one our Heavenly Father lights up for us, we will suffer the consequences, including a fractured relationship with our Father. These consequences are a form of discipline, and repentance (a U-turn) is needed to get us back on the correct path.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank you that you lovingly guide us through life. Thank you that you also allow consequences when we stray from your good path, so that we recognise the need to correct our route. Give us humility, to admit when we are wrong. Thank you for being ever ready to forgive us and welcome us back into relationship with you.
Today’s devotion written by Julie Kitchen, Lifeway Epping
“This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his testimony is true.… Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose even the whole world would not have room for the books.”
To Ponder
When we talk about the Bible being reliable, it’s not about every tiny detail lining up perfectly—it’s about God’s big-picture story. Take John’s Gospel—he’s basically saying, 'I saw it with my own eyes!' but also makes clear the Spirit guided what got written down (John 20:30-31). What we have isn’t random. Every story, every letter points us straight to Jesus’ work of salvation: the cross, the empty tomb, the hope we can’t find anywhere else.
Think about it like this—if I tried to write down everything Jesus did, the world couldn’t hold the books! (That’s actually in John 21:25!). But what we do have? It’s like God handpicked exactly what we need to know him and be changed by him. From Adam to Revelation, it’s about God making broken things whole through Christ.
And here’s the thing his Word is still works. Lives are still transformed by its message. When doubts creep in, we remember—the same God who kept His promises to Israel keeps his Word alive today. We don’t trust the Bible because it’s a magic answer book, but because it keeps pointing us back to the one who said, 'I am the Way' (John 14:6). It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about knowing the answer."
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of the bible—tested, true, and sufficient. Strengthen my trust in your Word, knowing it leads me to Christ, my rock and redeemer. Amen.
Today's devotion written by Nich Kitchen, LifeWay, Epping
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.”
To Ponder
Sometimes people wonder if the Bible can really be trusted because they hear about supposed contradictions or little differences in the ancient manuscripts. They point to these as proof that the Bible isn’t true. But the Bible’s reliability doesn’t come from humans being perfect—it comes from the one who inspired it. Jesus, the eternal Word, confirms its truth by fulfilling its promises and living out its message.
When doubts about the Bible’s accuracy come up, instead of getting caught up in arguments, we focus on the heart of the Bible: Jesus Christ. His resurrection is the ultimate confirmation that God’s Word is trustworthy (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). The same voice that created the universe still speaks life through His Word today. This message isn’t just about proving facts; it’s inviting us into a relationship with the triune God.
Yes, scholars acknowledge there are variations in ancient manuscripts, but over 99% are minor and don’t change what we believe at the core. We have to remember why the Bible exists—to clearly point us to Jesus, who is the answer to every question and doubt. When we talk with people who struggle to trust the Bible, we can follow Jesus’ example: ask gentle questions and share the good news. Just like the Word that called Lazarus out of the tomb, God’s Word still brings hearts to life today—and no human mistake can ever silence that voice.
Prayer:
Lord, give me courage and grace to speak your truth with gentleness. Strengthen my confidence in Jesus, the living Word, and let my words reflect his love and light. Amen.
Today's devotion written by Nich Kitchen, LifeWay Epping
Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and
broad the road that leads to destruction, and many enter
through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that
leads to Life, and only a few find it.
To Ponder
I am sure the deniers would somehow use this to say, “See,
Christianity is narrow!!” I also still have vivid memories of
Pastors in their black robes preaching hell and damnation from
the pulpit using this verse and me rushing to my grandfather
for his take on things. I guess they were just stories, but they
made those images less frightening.
God made a new spiritual covenant in the Old Testament that
was fulfilled with Jesus’ death and resurrection; it promises
forgiveness of sins, a new heart, and a profound knowledge
of God written on people’s hearts. This would replace the old
Covenant with its emphasis on law-keeping and animal sacrifices.
This covenant gives a grace-based relationship with God and
transforms people from within.
Our text doesn’t say we have to follow the narrow road, just
sets out the pros and cons.
God has also given us the gift of free will; each day we are
presented with choices in just about every aspect of our lives,
and some are tempting, but in our hearts, we know God’s will
and need to choose that narrow path. Its not always easy, can
lead to jibes and ridicule, but its end is worth every sharp stone
for the life of peace and joy that the Jesus way gives.
Once you are on a roll along that broad, road it becomes addictive;
you lose all perspective of right and wrong, just looking for that
next high. It gets you nowhere except further from God. I am so
grateful to God for sending someone to lead me away from that
road onto the one of peace and a relationship with God that
brings me great comfort and really doesn’t feel narrow at all.
Prayer
God, giver of grace and salvation, thank you for the gift of free will.
I pray that I value this wisely and, in your service, that I might be
your servant to help bring those who do not yet know you to have
faith and trust, and to know the joy of a relationship with you. Amen
Today's devotion written by Maureen Macpherson, LifeWay Newcastle.
There is no difference between Jew and Gentile –
The same Lord is Lord of all, and richly blesses all who call
on him, for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord
will be saved.
To Ponder
Our theme for this week is Christianity too narrow and the verses
Are to address what God has done for all people.
Christianity is not exclusive, everyone no matter what creed or
nationality is invited to become involved; God’s one desire is that
all people come to know him and receive his saving grace; it sounds
pretty simple and easy until we actually try to give this message
to family, friends, neighbours and others who are cynical
unbelievers.
When Paul was writing there was a very strong separation between
Jews and Gentiles but the text teaches us that regardless of race or
background God’s generous offer of salvation is extended to every
one, we are all richly blessed and saved when we call on the name
of the Lord. This is a universal promise first made in Joel 2:32, and
we know God is a faithful promise keeper.
When we call on the name of the Lord it should not be a superficial
act; in faith, we need to be humble and sincere as we call on him.
We need to make sure we are not just making empty gestures; true
Faith results in action and discipleship. It means accepting his work,
following his Spirit and ling under his lordship.
Prayer
Loving and patient God, I need to be reminded so often of things such
as you want all people to know you and your saving grace, we are all
equal in your eyes. In response to my faith and the peace and joy I
have in you, I trust in your promises and ask for your Spirit’s guidance
showing me where and when I am needed to help. Amen
Today's devotion written by Maureen Macpherson, LifeWay, Newcastle
Turn to me and be saved,
all you ends of the earth
For I am God, and there is no other.
To Ponder
What an invitation! This one God wants everyone to turn to him
and be saved, not just you and me but everyone from every tribe
and nation, right to ‘the ends of the earth!’
This invitation is made because God is the true and living God,
the only one who can provide salvation, a contrast to the other
nations and people worshiping false gods and idols.
The word ‘turn’ indicates a change in direction, looking
elsewhere, taking focus off ourselves and the things we put our trust
in, and completely focusing on God; trusting in him; depending on him to
rescue us, just as a drowning man looks to someone on shore for
rescue.
These words were written around 700bc but we are in just as
much of need of them today if we want to enjoy the true peace
and joy that comes from God alone.
We need to trust God because we need salvation from sin and
experience God’s grace.
Prayer
Lord God, from before time began, you were the one true God,
have remained so, and will be forever; I thank you for those people
you placed in my life to pass your story to me. Forgive me when
the pressures of daily living take my focus from you and I forfeit
the peace and joy loving and trusting you gives me. You want all
people and nations to know you are the one true God who alone
can give salvation. Lord, please show me how you need me to help
in this mission, strengthen my trust to follow your call. Amen
Today's devotion written by Maureen Macpherson, LifeWay Newcastle