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Give me your fear and I’ll give you my hand

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for John 3:30 (ESV)“Today’s reflection brings us to John 3:30—a verse that centers us on the importance of humility and exalting Jesus above all. By delving into this scripture, you’re embracing a mindset of decreasing self to allow Christ to shine through you. Let’s discover how this simple yet profound truth can transform your daily walk and draw you closer to God’s heart.”1. Read "He must increase, but I must decrease." John 3:30 (ESV)The Gospel of John, authored by the Apostle John, presents Jesus as the divine Son of God. Chapter 3 features John the Baptist, who acknowledges the supremacy of Christ as his ministry begins to fade. Speaking to his disciples, John the Baptist underscores a central truth: his purpose is to prepare the way for Jesus, emphasizing that Jesus’ influence and presence must grow as his own diminishes. This passage serves as a profound lesson in humility and the prioritization of Jesus in our lives.2. ExamineJohn 3:30 reveals the essence of humble service and the recognition of Jesus’ preeminence. It calls believers to willingly step aside, allowing Christ to take center stage in our hearts and actions. This verse encourages an ongoing transformation where our desires align with God’s purpose, showcasing a life truly grounded in His love and sovereignty.Jesus exemplified humility throughout His earthly ministry, serving others and living in perfect obedience to the Father’s will. He often spoke of the need to lay down one’s life for others and to follow Him in genuine servitude. John the Baptist’s statement invites us to embrace this selflessness, to reflect Jesus’ character in our daily lives.Main Themes: - Humility: The conscious choice to put God and others before ourselves. - Christ-Centered Living: Making Jesus the focal point of our aspirations and actions. - Service: Finding joy and fulfillment in pointing others toward Christ.Key Word Study: "Increase" (Greek: auxanō): To grow, to become greater. This word speaks to the continual expansion and prominence of Christ’s influence and authority in every aspect of life. "Decrease" (Greek: elattoō): To lessen, to diminish in importance. It refers to the intentional act of yielding one’s own desires and recognition so that Christ can be more fully revealed.3. ApplyReflective Questions: - In which areas of my life is my ego overshadowing Christ’s presence, and how can I allow Him to take precedence? - How might adopting a posture of humility impact my relationships and interactions today? - What practical steps can I take to ensure Christ is glorified through my actions and decisions?Christ-Centered Practical Steps: - Practice Humility: Begin your day by acknowledging areas where pride may have taken root. Commit these to God in prayer, asking for a heart that seeks His glory above personal gain. - Serve Others: Identify one way to serve someone selflessly today—a colleague, family member, or stranger. Let this act be motivated by love for Christ. - Share Christ’s Love: Speak of Jesus in your conversations today, whether by sharing His story with someone in need or offering encouragement that points back to His love.Real-Life Example: Consider a manager who chooses to recognize the efforts of their team rather than seek personal credit for a successful project. By humbly stepping back, they not only empower their team but also reflect the servant leadership Christ demonstrated.4. PrayDear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the example of humility found in Jesus and in John the Baptist. Forgive me for the times I let my own desires overshadow Your purpose. I ask for a humble heart that seeks to elevate You in all areas of my life. May my actions reflect Your love and lead others to know You. Empower me, Holy Spirit, to live a life that boldly proclaims Your greatness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Closing Reflection: “Visualize the sunrise slowly overtaking the night. As Christ increases in your life, like the dawning light, He brightens every shadowed corner of your heart. Embrace His growing presence today and let it illuminate your path, igniting a passion for His name.”Call to Action: Today, choose one area to step back and allow Christ’s light to shine clearer and brighter. Reflect His humility through acts of love and service, remembering that in every moment of decreasing self, you reveal the magnificence of God’s glory.

Embrace the Humility in Elevating Christ

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for Romans 8:18 (ESV) Hope Through Future Glory“By choosing to delve into Romans 8:18, you are embracing the promise of better things to come, grounded in God’s eternal hope. This passage invites you to see beyond current trials to the glory that awaits. Let's discover how this scripture can inspire hope, connect us to Christ, and shape our daily lives.”1. Read &nbsp; "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." Romans 8:18 (ESV)The Apostle Paul wrote Romans to explain the gospel's profound truths. Chapter 8 speaks of life in the Spirit and the future hope of redemption and glory. Written to Roman Christians who faced persecution, this chapter emphasizes the Spirit's assurance and the certainty of God’s promises. For modern readers, it serves as a reminder that present struggles pale in comparison to the future God has planned.2. Examine &nbsp;Romans 8:18 reassures believers that current trials are temporary, whereas the glory God promises is eternal and incomparable. It emphasizes the fleeting nature of earthly suffering in light of God’s eternal promises, inviting a trust in His ultimate plan.Jesus endured suffering and the cross, looking beyond present pain to the joy of redemption (Hebrews 12:2). His journey exemplifies the truth in Romans 8:18, motivating us to focus on eternal hope.Main Themes: &nbsp; - Suffering and Glory: Current hardships are real but transitory compared to the eternal glory in Christ. &nbsp; - Hope in Promise: This verse assures us of future glory, encouraging perseverance. &nbsp; - Perspective Shift: Challenges should be viewed through the lens of eternity and God’s promises.Key Word Study: &nbsp; "Consider" (Greek: logizomai): To count or deem. Paul uses this term to encourage a deliberate choice to view suffering through faith in God's promise. &nbsp; "Glory" (Greek: doxa): A state of high honor. Here it refers to the future splendor and divine presence believers will experience.3. Apply &nbsp;Reflective Questions: &nbsp; - Where in my life am I focusing too much on present sufferings? &nbsp; - How can I remind myself daily of the glory to come? &nbsp; - How can this verse encourage me when facing trials?Christ-Centered Practical Steps: &nbsp; - Reframe Challenges: When you encounter difficulties, take a moment to remember God’s promises. Write them down and carry them with you as reminders of the glory ahead. &nbsp; - Cultivate Eternal Perspective: Set aside time each day to reflect on and thank God for His eternal promises, deepening your faith and perspective. &nbsp; - Encourage Others: Share a testimony with someone experiencing hardship, highlighting how God’s future glory offers hope.Real-Life Example: Consider a parent struggling with financial worries. Instead of being overwhelmed, they meditate on Romans 8:18, focusing on God’s faithful provision and their family’s spiritual journey. This shift from present struggle to eternal perspective brings hope and resilience, positively influencing their family.4. Pray &nbsp;Dear Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your promise of future glory that far exceeds present challenges. Forgive me for when I lose sight of Your eternal plans amid suffering. Help me trust in Your faithfulness and find hope and strength in Your promises. Lord, empower me through Your Spirit to focus on Your eternal perspective and encourage others on this journey. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Closing Reflection: Imagine your life as a vast landscape, with every trial you face as a valley leading to a peak where God’s glory shines brighter than any momentary struggle. Today, walk confidently through the valleys, for they lead to a place of divine revelation and eternal joy.Call to Action: Today, choose to share a message of hope with someone who needs encouragement. Let the light of God’s promises guide you and inspire others, reaffirming the glory that transforms every hardship into a stepping stone towards His eternal love.

Hope Through Future Glory

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for Matthew 6:11 (ESV) Finding Sustenance in God's Provision"Today’s reflection brings us to Matthew 6:11, a gentle reminder of our daily dependence on God’s provision. By engaging with this scripture, you’re acknowledging that every need, both physical and spiritual, can be met by trusting in God’s faithful care. Let's explore how this verse can nourish your spirit and guide your steps in reliance on Him."1. Read "Give us this day our daily bread." Matthew 6:11 (ESV)The Book of Matthew, written by the Apostle Matthew, presents Jesus as the promised Messiah and King. In chapter 6, part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches on various aspects of righteous living. Matthew 6:11 is a line from the Lord’s Prayer, a model of how to pray, emphasizing dependence on God for daily needs. This verse highlights the truth that God is a loving provider, and it encourages believers to seek Him daily with trust.2. ExamineKey Message: Matthew 6:11 teaches us to recognize our dependence on God for our daily sustenance. It reflects a spiritual posture of humility and trust, acknowledging that all good gifts come from His hand. This truth liberates us from anxiety about the future, inviting us to live one day at a time in God’s grace.Connection to Jesus: Jesus often demonstrated reliance on God, whether in His own prayers or through miracles that provided for physical needs, like feeding the 5,000. His life was a testament to God’s provision, and through His resurrection, He became the Bread of Life, offering eternal sustenance.Main Themes: - Dependence on God: Trusting God for our daily needs fosters a relationship where faith grows. - Thankfulness: Recognizing God’s provision encourages a grateful heart. - Daily Trust: Emphasizing daily reliance helps prevent anxiety about the future.Key Word Study: "Bread" (Greek: artos): While it refers to physical sustenance, it also symbolizes all that is necessary for life and, by extension, spiritual nourishment, reminding us that God cares for the whole person.3. ApplyReflective Questions: - In what areas of my life am I trying to control outcomes instead of trusting God? - How can I cultivate a daily practice of thanking God for His provision? - What steps can I take to remind myself of God’s faithfulness each day?Christ-Centered Practical Steps: - Start a Gratitude Journal: Each day, write down one thing you’re thankful for, acknowledging God’s provision. - Practice Daily Prayer: Begin each day by praying the Lord’s Prayer, focusing on today’s needs rather than tomorrow’s worries. - Trust in Action: When tempted to worry about the future, pause and review a past instance of God’s provision, letting it strengthen your faith.Real-Life Example: Consider a family facing financial uncertainty. By choosing to pray each morning for "daily bread," they found peace in small, unexpected blessings—a reduction in bills, a kind gift from friends, or fresh opportunities for provision. Their gratitude became contagious, inspiring others to trust in God's everyday miracles.4. PrayDear Heavenly Father, Thank You for being my Provider and for meeting all my needs each day. Forgive me when I take Your gifts for granted or try to control my circumstances. Help me to live one day at a time, trusting in Your faithful love. Teach me to see Your hand in both the small and big moments of provision. Fill my heart with gratitude and peace through Jesus, the Bread of Life. Amen.Closing Reflection: Imagine setting your table with God’s provision each morning, each piece a reminder of His love and care. Every day, look for the spiritual bread He offers—a word of encouragement, an opportunity to serve, or a moment of quiet reflection. Let His provision nourish you, reminding you of His unfailing presence.Call to Action: Today, choose to recognize and give thanks for one specific way God has met your needs. Whether shared in prayer with family or silently acknowledged in your heart, let gratitude be your response to His faithful provision.

"Give us this day our daily bread."

<h3>Psalm chapters 9 &amp; 10</h3>Conflicts, trials, and temptations. King David experienced them all and became our example of responding to difficult circumstances. &nbsp;As you read these two chapters, think about your own adversities.In Psalms 9, David proclaims his gratefulness to the Lord. “I will praise You.” “I will tell of Your marvelous works.” “I will be glad and rejoice in You.” “I will sing praise to Your Name.” vs 1,2 &nbsp;His praise springs out of God’s past faithfulness. “You have maintained my cause.” “You have rebuked the nations.” “You have destroyed the wicked.” “You have blotted out their name forever.” “You have not forsaken those who seek You.” &nbsp;Vs 4,5David’s confidence for his future is rooted in God Himself. He prophesizes, “You shall endure forever.” You shall judge the world in righteousness.” “You shall administer judgment.” “You will be a refuge for the oppressed.” Vs 7-10Why does he praise the Lord? So that everyone will know who his God is and what He does.For God’s people, David’s praise is evangelistic. I “declare His deeds among the people… so that I may tell of all Your praise in the gates of Zion.” Vs 11, 14For their enemies, his praise predicts their fate. “… all the nations that forget God are snared by the works of their hands and will be turned into hell. Vs 16-17. &nbsp;David’s praise warns them so that they will know “they are mere men,” and that the Lord is over all. Vs 19,20. &nbsp;In the early Greek and Latin, Psalms nine and ten were one Psalm. Both chapters address David’s response to adversity. &nbsp;In chapter nine, he reacts to trouble by praising God and in chapter ten, he prays in despair.When he sees the ways of the wicked, he allows his feelings to overshadow his trust in God. As David puts voice to his emotions, his previous praise, “You have not forsaken those who seek You.” turns into “Why do You stand afar off, O Lord? Why do you hide in times of trouble?” Ps 10:1&nbsp;After thirteen verses of anguished prayer, David remembers the Lord and returns to praise. &nbsp;&nbsp;Like David, our emotions teeter-totter with our faith, depending on the day or circumstance. And Like David, we flip between praise and prayer. &nbsp;The difference between the two is in what we talk about.When we praise, we talk about the Lord, what He has done in the past, what He’s doing now, and what He will do in the future. Praise feeds our faith.When we pray, we talk about ourselves and what we want Him to do for us. The enemy brings circumstances to separate us from God and uses shame to stop our conversations with the Lord. But our Father already knows all about it and wants us to come to Him with everything. Prayer feeds our relationship.Keep talking!

A Journey through the Book of Psalms

Silhouette of Unrecognizable Male Salvation Prayer

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for Psalms 118 (ESV) Discovering God’s Steadfast Love and Enduring Faithfulness“Today’s exploration of Psalm 118 invites us into a rich reflection of God’s enduring love and faithfulness. By engaging with this inspiring scripture, you're delving into a testament of trust and triumph over adversity, guided by the steadfast presence of God. Let’s uncover the wisdom within this Psalm and see how it can illuminate your life today.”1. Read"Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! Let Israel say, 'His steadfast love endures forever.'" Psalms 118 (ESV)Psalm 118 is part of the Hallel, a series of psalms (113-118) sung during Jewish festivals like Passover. Traditionally ascribed to King David, this psalm is a triumphant declaration of God’s deliverance and mercy. It celebrates victory over adversaries and affirms the enduring love of God—inviting all Israel, the house of Aaron, and those who fear the Lord, to declare His everlasting kindness. Particularly, this psalm resonates with anyone seeking assurance of God’s presence as they navigate life’s challenges.2. ExamineKey Message: Psalm 118 rejoices in God’s goodness and unwavering love. It emphasizes gratitude, highlighting that divine kindness is eternal despite life’s uncertainties. This Psalm reassures believers that God’s love is a constant pillar they can rely on, inviting us to give thanks amidst triumphs and trials.Connection to Jesus: Jesus quoted Psalm 118:22, "The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone," when describing His role and mission (Matthew 21:42). This connection underscores how Christ embodies God’s faithfulness, becoming our foundation. Through His life and resurrection, Jesus exemplifies the fulfillment of divine promises and the everlasting covenant of love with humanity.Main Themes:Gratitude: Acknowledging God’s goodness encourages a heart of thankfulness.Steadfast Love: God's unwavering compassion endures through every season.Deliverance: Trusting in God’s victory over fears and struggles. Key Word Study:"Steadfast Love" (Hebrew: hesed): This term conveys a sense of loyalty and unchanging kindness, highlighting the eternal covenantal relationship between God and His people."Cornerstone" (Referenced from 118:22): This metaphor signifies strength, unity, and the foundational role Christ plays in both individual lives and the wider spiritual community.3. ApplyReflective Questions:How often do I pause to give thanks to God for His goodness and steadfast love?In what areas of my life do I need to trust more fully in God’s unwavering love and deliverance?How can I incorporate gratitude into my daily routine to enhance my spiritual growth? Christ-Centered Practical Steps:Cultivate Gratitude: Begin a daily gratitude journal. Each day, write down three things you’re thankful for, focusing on God’s steadfast love and faithfulness in your life.Embrace Assurance: Recall a time God delivered you from a difficult situation. Share this story with a friend or family member as a testament to God’s goodness.Live Foundation: Reflect on areas in your life where you can strengthen your reliance on Christ as your cornerstone—perhaps in decision-making or in times of uncertainty. Real-Life Example: Consider someone facing a significant life change—like moving to a new city. By reflecting on past instances of God’s faithfulness, they choose to trust Him with this new chapter, giving thanks for the community and opportunities ahead. Their gratitude not only bolsters their faith but also inspires those around them to recognize God’s enduring love.4. PrayDear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your unfailing goodness and love that surpasses all understanding. I confess that, at times, I forget to acknowledge Your constant presence in my life. Help me to embrace a heart of gratitude, rooted in the assurance of Your steadfast love. Strengthen my trust in You, Lord, and guide me to live out Your truth daily. May my life reflect the hope and foundation I have in Christ Jesus, my cornerstone. In His mighty name, I pray. Amen.Closing Reflection: “Envision your heart as a temple filled with the light of God’s love, where each thankful thought is a candle illuminating the space within. As you carry this light today, remember that you are grounded in Christ the cornerstone, secure and steadfast in His love.”Call to Action: Today, choose to express gratitude in a tangible way—reach out to someone to express thanks or spend a moment in nature appreciating God’s creation. Trust in His steadfast love as you embark on new endeavors with hope and courage.

Discovering God’s Steadfast Love and Enduring Faithfulness

Once upon a time, long ago, there was nothing but darkness. But God had a special plan to create something amazing! On the very first day, God said, "Let there be light!" And just like that, bright light appeared, separating day from the night. God was happy with what He made and called it "good."On the second day, God created the sky to divide the waters below from the waters above. The sky was wide and blue, and God loved what He saw.The third day was very special. God gathered the waters together so dry land could appear, and He called the land "Earth" and the waters "Seas." Then, He made plants, flowers, and trees of every kind to grow on Earth. Everything was beautiful and green, and God smiled because it was good.On the fourth day, God made the sun to shine in the day and the moon and stars to twinkle at night. Now the sky was even more beautiful with all the sparkling stars, and God was pleased.The fifth day was filled with life as God made creatures to swim in the seas and birds to fly in the sky. Dolphins jumped, fish swam, and birds sang—all part of God's wonderful plan.Then, on the sixth day, God created animals to live on the land—big and small, wild and tame. Finally, God made people, a man and a woman, in His own image. He gave them the special job of taking care of the world and all the creatures in it. God saw all that He had made, and it was very good.On the seventh day, God rested, happy with all His wonderful creations. And that's how the world began!Moral of the Story: God’s Amazing Creation God created everything with love and care. We should appreciate the beautiful world He has given us and take care of it.In Summary: God’s Amazing Creation The Bible tells us that God created the world in seven days, starting with light and ending with humans. He made everything beautiful and good. This story reminds us of God’s amazing power and love. ActivityCreation Collage Craft**Materials Needed:** - Construction paper (various colors) - Scissors - Glue sticks - Cotton balls - Colored pencils or crayons - Star stickers - Leaf stickers or actual small leaves**Instructions:**1. **Create the Background:** Choose a piece of blue construction paper as the sky and a piece of green paper for the land. Glue the green paper at the bottom of the blue paper to make the ground.2. **Add the Sun, Moon, and Stars:** Cut out a yellow circle for the sun and a white circle for the moon. Glue them onto the sky. Stick star stickers around the moon.3. **Make Ocean and Land Animals:** Cut out shapes to represent fish and birds from other colors like orange or red. Glue them in the sea and sky areas. Use crayons to draw animals like lions and sheep on the land.4. **Add Plants:** Stick leaf stickers on the land or glue actual small leaves. You can also draw trees and flowers using crayons.5. **Sky Touches:** Use cotton balls to create clouds in the sky.6. **Final Touches:** Let everything dry, then present your beautiful creation collage that shows the wonderful world God made!## Reflection Questions1. What do you think is the most amazing thing God created? 2. How can we take care of the plants and animals in God's creation? 3. Why do you think God wanted to rest on the seventh day? How do you like to rest?

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Embrace the Humility in Elevating Christ

Hope Through Future Glory

"Give us this day our daily bread."

A Journey through the Book of Psalms

Discovering God’s Steadfast Love and Enduring Faithfulness

Bible Stories for Kids - God's Creation