MONDAY

Reading for Today:
Mark 15:33-41
Galatians 5:1-12
Psalm 116
2 Samuel 20–21

Galatians 5:1-12
What holds you captive? Most of us would claim that nothing does. In reality, though, many of us—even those who claim Jesus as their Lord and Savior—aren’t completely free. For some, their past holds them captive, whispering lies into their ears about how they can never be forgiven for what they’ve done. For others, it’s an addiction that keeps them trapped. For some, it’s unforgiveness, bitterness, or anger. God doesn’t want us to be captive anymore, not since he’s paid the price for our freedom. Don’t keep wearing chains Jesus has already loosened.

TUESDAY

Reading for Today:
Mark 15:42-47
Galatians 5:13-26
Psalm 117
2 Samuel 22

Psalm 117
Psalm 117 has one very unique characteristic. It’s the shortest chapter in the Bible. It contains only two verses consisting of 29 words. This chapter, though short, teaches us two things. First, it gives us two reasons to praise God: his great love and his enduring faithfulness. No matter what might be going wrong in your life, these two characteristics of God remain firm. Second, this Psalm reminds us that we don’t have to use a lot of words in our prayers. God hears us whether we use 300 words or five

WEDNESDAY

Reading for Today:
Mark 16
Galatians 6
Psalm 118
2 Samuel 23–24

Galatians 6
Have you ever felt like what you’re doing doesn’t really matter? Maybe you work tirelessly with a child but see little progress. Maybe you pray and work hard for something you believe the Lord is calling you to do, but don’t see any tangible results. It’s easy to grow discouraged or bitter. It’s tempting at times to give up. Don’t stop doing good. Take heart. Galatians 6:9 reminds us that “we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Keep doing good and God will bring about a harvest.

THURSDAY

Reading for Today:
Luke 1:1-25
Ephesians 1:1-14
Psalm 119:1-8
1 Kings 1

1 Kings 1
David was a faithful servant of God. He was a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22). Sadly, as great as he was, he failed his children in many ways. First Kings 1 tells us that David never interfered with his son, Adonijah, when Adonijah made poor choices (v. 6). David was a great king, but not always a great father. Don’t allow your service to the Lord to distract you from other important roles God has given you. It’s possible to be both a great leader and a great parent if you keep your priorities in line

FRIDAY

Reading for Today:
Luke 1:26-38
Ephesians 1:15-23
Psalm 119:9-16
1 Kings 2–3

Luke 1:26-38
God doesn’t always use people who seem to be the most logical choice. Sometimes he uses those who seem to be the least logical choice. In this text, God chose to use a young girl named Mary. From a cultural perspective, Mary had several strikes against her. She was female. She was unmarried and poor. Nonetheless, Mary had what God required. She had a willing heart. That’s why God chose her. Today, don’t put God in a box. If he could use Mary back then, he can use you today.