Blessed and Highly Favored of the Lord Copyright © 2009 Tommy R. Thornton & David A. Jett Visit our Website: www.crossgates.org All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission from Crossgates Baptist Church, except where noted in the text and in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews. For information, write Crossgates Baptist Church, 8 Crosswoods Road, Brandon, MS 39042. Credits Authors: Tommy R. Thornton & David A. Jett Editor: David A. Jett Copy Editors: Twila Windham, Carol J. Jones, Kim Rowlen, Janet Lombardo, Teresa Arnold, Jennifer Merchant, Melinda Hand Cover Art/Designer: Jennifer Merchant Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004 Tyndale Charitable Trust. All rights reserved. Scripture Order Readings were taken from THE ONE YEAR BIBLE copyright © 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1991, 1996, 2004 by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.
Blessed and Highly Favored of the Lord Thoughts from the Spiritual Journey of Tommy R. Thornton Edited by: David A. Jett
Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright Š 1996, 2004. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Crossgates Baptist Church 8 Crosswoods Road Brandon, MS 39042 www.crossgates.org
Acknowledgments We dedicate this book to the memory of Tom Thornton whose example of living life in the Spirit taught us that His children are truly Blessed and Highly Favored of the Lord. Thank you to Eloise Thornton and family for sharing with us the truths found in Tom’s Bible that made this book possible.
Foreword What you hold in your hand is the evidence and expression of life. This little book is not simply a compilation of sayings collected for enjoyment. Rather, it is the breath and heartbeat of the Spirit-filled life. In every statement you can hear the chest-pounding beat of the believer’s heart. On every page you can experience the inhale and exhale of the Spirit–life. What you hold in your hand, is the evidence and expression of life in the Spirit through Mr. Tom Thornton. I first met Tom and his wife, Eloise, in January 2008. I had been called as Senior Pastor of Crossgates Baptist Church and was desiring to understand what made this vibrant family of faith so full of life. During a lunch meeting with Tom and Eloise I soon learned the secret. Everything about them carried the fragrance of Christ. As Kathy and I drove away from our first meeting I told her, “That is why Crossgates is so full of life. I now know why the Lord called me here. I was made for these people.” On June 16, 1974, Tom came forward at the end of the service and became the first member to join the newly formed Crossgates Baptist Church. From its inception, Crossgates has desired to be a different kind of Baptist church. The desires to be theologically sound yet open to the move of the Holy Spirit presence in order to express the Spirit’s power–has become a hallmark of Crossgates. In October 2008, Tom went home to be with the Lord. Though our time together had been short, our kindred spirits formed a rich bond. To prepare for his home-going service, I asked Eloise if I could use his Bible in making preparations. To my delight, Tom’s Bible contained a rich treasury of how he lived his life. Scriptures were underlined and circled, notes were scribbled beside verses; but what were most intriguing was the spiritual insights at the tops of pages. Hundreds of them lined page after page in his Bible.
Watchman Nee often encouraged his people to have great experiences with Christ. These spiritual insights written by Tom in his Bible, express many of those great experiences with Christ he had over the years. As I read page after page, thought after thought, I was overwhelmed by the richness of his relationship with Jesus simple, yet profound; child-like, yet touching the heights of glory. I saw vibrancy and life rather than stuffiness and dryness. We have collected these spiritual insights from Tom’s Bible and offer them to you as a gift. They have been divided into categories for easy reference, but I encourage you to ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in an experience with Him that will draw you near the Father’s heart and form in you the Son’s character. May you too have great experiences with Jesus.
Blessings!
Bro. David Jett June 2009
On the Journey The apostle Paul told the believers in Galatia to “walk by the Spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.” (Galatians 5:16) It is interesting how many times in Scripture the Christian life is compared to a journey – a walk. In fact, the greatest challenge of the Christian life is that it is a DAILY walk! This book was compiled to assist you on the journey. As stated in the forward, the truths you will read throughout this book were collected from Tom’s journey. Each day he would read a portion of Scripture and then either write a prayer thought at the top of the page he was reading, or pray - believing a truth he had written earlier. Used in conjunction with the One Year Bible, this book will assist you in experiencing and expressing rich times with God. Each day you will read a truth collected from Tom’s Bible, along with a key verse found in your One Year Bible. As the Holy Spirit leads, you are encouraged to write your thoughts under the Today’s Equipping heading.
1
January 1
Truth
Pray for God to accomplish through you that for which He created you.
Key Verse
Genesis 1:27 (NLT) So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.
One Year Bible
Genesis 1:1-2:25 Psalm 1:1-6
Matthew 1:1-2:12 Proverbs 1:1-6
Today’s Equipping
January 2
Truth
Giving Christ first place in your life is merely giving Him His rightful place.
Key Verse
Matthew 3:1-2 (NLT) In those days John the Baptist came to the Judean wilderness and began preaching. His message was, “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.”
One Year Bible
Genesis 3:1-4:26 Psalm 2:1-12
2
Matthew 2:13-3:6 Proverbs 1:7-9
Today’s Equipping
January 3
Truth
When it seems there is no hope, it is because we are relying on human strength instead of God’s strength.
Key Verse
Psalm 3:3 (NLT) But you, O LORD, are a shield around me; you are my glory, the one who holds my head high.
One Year Bible
Genesis 5:1-7:24 Psalm 3:1-8
Matthew 3:7-4:11 Proverbs 1:10-19
Today’s Equipping
January 4
Truth
God sometimes calls on us to part with something especially near and dear to us to test the genuineness of our faith.
Key Verse
Matthew 4:19-20 (NLT) Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” And they left their nets at once and followed him.
One Year Bible
Genesis 8:1-10:32 Psalm 4:1-8
Matthew 4:12-25 Proverbs 1:20-23
Today’s Equipping
3
January 5
Truth
God is not merely concerned with what we do, but also with our motives for doing it.
Key Verse
Matthew 5:16 (NLT) In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
One Year Bible
Genesis 11:1-13:4 Psalm 5:1-12
Matthew 5:1-26 Proverbs 1:24-28
Today’s Equipping
January 6
Truth
Expressing the love of God is one of the Christian’s greatest privileges.
Key Verse
Matthew 5:43-45a (NLT) You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.
One Year Bible
Genesis 13:5-15:21 Psalm 6:1-10
4
Matthew 5:27-48 Proverbs 1:29-33
Today’s Equipping
January 7
Truth
Spiritual work that is not upheld in prayer will be weakened and eventually fail or fall short of God’s best.
Key Verse
Matthew 6:9-13 (NLT) Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one.
One Year Bible
Genesis 16:1-18:15 Psalm 7:1-17
Matthew 6:1-24 Proverbs 2:1-5
Today’s Equipping
January 8
Truth
Unless you have something good to say about someone, it’s best not to say anything.
Key Verse
Matthew 7:12 (NLT) Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.
One Year Bible
Genesis 18:16-19:38 Psalm 8:1-9
Matthew 6:25-7:14 Proverbs 2:6-15
Today’s Equipping
5
January 9
Truth
The Word of God is not only the life-giving power; it is also a life-keeping strength.
Key Verse
Psalm 9:9-10 (NLT) The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you.
One Year Bible
Genesis 20:1-22:24 Psalm 9:1-12
Matthew 7:15-29 Proverbs 2:16-22
Today’s Equipping
January 10
Truth
Christians who do God’s will can expect to receive eternal rewards.
Key Verse
Matthew 8:11 (NLT) And I tell you this, that many Gentiles will come from all over the world—from east and west— and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the feast in the Kingdom of Heaven.
One Year Bible
Genesis 23:1-24:51 Psalm 9:13-20
6
Matthew 8:1-17 Proverbs 3:1-6
Today’s Equipping
January 11
Truth
God gives His best to those who leave the choices to Him.
Key Verse
Genesis 26:4-5 (NLT) I will cause your descendants to become as numerous as the stars of the sky, and I will give them all these lands. And through your descendants all the nations of the earth will be blessed. I will do this because Abraham listened to me and obeyed all my requirements, commands, decrees, and instructions.
One Year Bible
Genesis 24:52-26:16 Psalm 10:1-15
Matthew 8:18-34 Proverbs 3:7-8
Today’s Equipping
January 12
Truth
The holiness of God reveals the vileness of sin.
Key Verse
Matthew 9:12-13 (NLT) When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.” Then he added, “Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’ For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.”
One Year Bible
Genesis 26:17-27:46 Psalm 10:16-18
Matthew 9:1-17 Proverbs 3:9-10
Today’s Equipping
7
January 13
Truth
Are you willingly serving the Lord?
Key Verse
Matthew 9:37-38 (NLT) He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.”
One Year Bible
Genesis 28:1-29:35 Psalm 11:1-7
Matthew 9:18-38 Proverbs 3:11-12
Today’s Equipping
January 14
Truth
A true servant of the Lord willingly follows his Master’s instructions.
Key Verse
Matthew 10:2-4 (NLT) Here are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (also called Peter), then Andrew (Peter’s brother), James (son of Zebedee), John (James’s brother), Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew (the tax collector), James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus, Simon (the zealot), and Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him).
One Year Bible
Genesis 30:1-31:16 Psalm 12:1-8
8
Matthew 10:1-23 Proverbs 3:13-15
Today’s Equipping
January 15
Truth
Our Lord’s love to us is inexhaustible.
Key Verse
Matthew 10:29-30 (NLT) What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered.
One Year Bible
Genesis 31:17-32:12 Psalm 13:1-6
Matthew 10:24-11:6 Proverbs 3:16-18
Today’s Equipping
January 16
Truth
When all else fails, we are aware of the everlasting arms of our heavenly Father.
Key Verse
Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT) Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”
One Year Bible
Genesis 32:13-34:31 Psalm 14:1-7
Matthew 11:7-30 Proverbs 3:19-20
Today’s Equipping
9
January 17
Truth
The most insignificant person is not insignificant in the eyes of God!
Key Verse
Matthew 12:6-8 (NLT) I tell you, there is one here who is even greater than the Temple! But you would not have condemned my innocent disciples if you knew the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’ For the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!
One Year Bible
Genesis 35:1-36:43 Psalm 15:1-5
Matthew 12:1-21 Proverbs 3:21-26
Today’s Equipping
January 18
Truth
Let us live each day in the reality that our lives are influencing others, whether it be for good or for bad.
Key Verse
Matthew 12:35 (NLT) A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart.
One Year Bible
Genesis 37:1-38:30 Psalm 16:1-11
10
Matthew 12:22-45 Proverbs 3:27-32
Today’s Equipping
January 19
Truth
Our faithfulness to God must never be compromised, regardless of the situation we may face.
Key Verse
Genesis 39:20-21 (NLT) So he took Joseph and threw him into the prison where the king’s prisoners were held, and there he remained. But the LORD was with Joseph in the prison and showed him his faithful love. And the LORD made Joseph a favorite with the prison warden.
One Year Bible
Genesis 39:1-41:16 Psalm 17:1-15
Matthew 12:46-13:23 Proverbs 3:33-35
Today’s Equipping
January 20
Truth
A Christian can lay up treasures in Heaven which no earthly power can destroy.
Key Verse
Matthew 13:45-46 (NLT) Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!
One Year Bible
Genesis 41:17-42:17 Psalm 18:1-15
Matthew 13:24-46 Proverbs 4:1-6
Today’s Equipping
11
January 21
Truth
God imparts His strength to those who remain faithful to Him.
Key Verse
Psalm 18:32-33 (NLT) God arms me with strength and he makes my way perfect. He makes me as surefooted as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights.
One Year Bible
Genesis 42:18-43:34 Psalm 18:16-36
Matthew 13:47-14:12 Proverbs 4:7-10
Today’s Equipping
January 22
Truth
Fellowship with Christ brings fullness of life that overflows with blessings for others.
Key Verse
Genesis 45:5 (NLT) But don’t be upset, and don’t be angry with yourselves for selling me to this place. It was God who sent me here ahead of you to preserve your lives.
One Year Bible
Genesis 44:1-45:28 Psalm 18:37-50
12
Matthew 14:13-36 Proverbs 4:11-13
Today’s Equipping
January 23
Truth
Life’s greatest satisfaction should come from knowing that we have pleased the Lord.
Key Verse
Psalm 19:14 (NLT) May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.
One Year Bible
Genesis 46:1-47:31 Psalm 19:1-14
Matthew 15:1-28 Proverbs 4:14-19
Today’s Equipping
January 24
Truth
Unwavering confidence in God brings a spontaneous spirit of gratitude and praise.
Key Verse
Psalm 20:7-8 (NLT) Some nations boast of their chariots and horses, but we boast in the name of the LORD our God. Those nations will fall down and collapse, but we will rise up and stand firm.
One Year Bible
Genesis 48:1-49:33 Psalm 20:1-9
Matthew 15:29-16:12 Proverbs 4:20-27
Today’s Equipping
13
January 25
Truth
Eternal destiny is determined by choice, not chance.
Key Verse
Matthew 16:24-25 (NLT) Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.”
One Year Bible
Genesis 50:1 - Exodus 2:10 Psalm 21:1-13
Matthew 16:13-17:9 Proverbs 5:1-6
Today’s Equipping
January 26
Truth
Nothing is too hard for God!
Key Verse
Exodus 3:14 (NLT) God replied to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. Say this to the people of Israel: I AM has sent me to you.”
One Year Bible
Exodus 2:11-3:22 Psalm 22:1-18
14
Matthew 17:10-27 Proverbs 5:7-14
Today’s Equipping
January 27
Truth
All other voices fade into insignificance as we obey the voice from heaven.
Key Verse
Exodus 4:11-12 (NLT) Then the Lord asked Moses, “Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say.”
One Year Bible
Exodus 4:1-5:21 Psalm 22:19-31
Matthew 18:1-20 Proverbs 5:15-21
Today’s Equipping
January 28
Truth
Our Lord will supply all our needs.
Key Verse
Psalm 23:1-2 (NLT) The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.
One Year Bible
Exodus 5:22-7:25 Psalm 23:1-6
Matthew 18:21-19:12 Proverbs 5:22-23
Today’s Equipping
15
January 29
Truth
God never forsakes one of His children.
Key Verse
Matthew 19:14-15 (NLT) But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left.
One Year Bible
Exodus 8:1-9:35 Psalm 24:1-10
Matthew 19:13-30 Proverbs 6:1-5
Today’s Equipping
January 30
Truth
Serving the Lord acceptably requires single-hearted love for Him.
Key Verse
Matthew 20:26-28 (NLT) But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.
One Year Bible
Exodus 10:1-12:13 Psalm 25:1-15
16
Matthew 20:1-28 Proverbs 6:6-11
Today’s Equipping
January 31
Truth
When we are weak in human strength, then we can rely on God’s all-sufficient strength.
Key Verse
Psalm 25:16-17 (NLT) Turn to me and have mercy, for I am alone and in deep distress. My problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all!
One Year Bible
Exodus 12:14-13:16 Psalm 25:16-22
Matthew 20:29-21:22 Proverbs 6:12-15
Today’s Equipping
February 1
Truth
Fears vanish as we trust God.
Key Verse
Exodus 14:13-14 (NLT) But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
One Year Bible
Exodus 13:17-15:18 Psalm 26:1-12
Matthew 21:23-46 Proverbs 6:6-19
Today’s Equipping
17
February 2
Truth
It is only by the grace of God that we are anything or can do anything of eternal value.
Key Verse
Psalm 27:1 (NLT) The LORD is my light and my salvation – so why should I be afraid? The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?
One Year Bible
Exodus 15:19-17:7 Psalm 27:1-6
Matthew 22:1-33 Proverbs 6:20-26
Today’s Equipping
February 3
Truth
We receive the joy of the Lord as we share his love with others.
Key Verse
Matthew 22:37-38 (NLT) Jesus replied, “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.”
One Year Bible
Exodus 17:8-19:15 Psalm 27:7-14
18
Matthew 22:34-23:12 Proverbs 6:27-35
Today’s Equipping
February 4
Truth
To enjoy God’s blessings and protection, we must remain faithful to Him.
Key Verse
Exodus 20:2-3 (NLT) I am the LORD your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery. You must not have any other god but me.
One Year Bible
Exodus 19:16-21:21 Psalm 28:1-9
Matthew 23:13-39 Proverbs 7:1-5
Today’s Equipping
February 5
Truth
Our love for God is in direct relationship to our love for others.
Key Verse
Exodus 22:22-23 (NLT) You must not exploit a widow or an orphan. If you exploit them in any way and they cry out to me, then I will certainly hear their cry.
One Year Bible
Exodus 21:22-23:13 Psalm 29:1-11
Matthew 24:1-28 Proverbs 7:6-23
Today’s Equipping
19
February 6
Truth
The weapons of our warfare are not carnal; they are mighty – but only through God.
Key Verse
Psalm 30:2-3 (NLT) O LORD my God, I cried to you for help, and you restored my health.You brought me up from the grave, O LORD. You kept me from falling into the pit of death.
One Year Bible
Exodus 23:14-25:40 Psalm 30:1-12
Matthew 24:29-51 Proverbs 7:24-27
Today’s Equipping
February 7
Truth
Spiritual victory is not dependent on human strength or reasoning.
Key Verse
Psalm 31:1 (NLT) O LORD, I have come to you for protection; don’t let me be disgraced. Save me, for you do what is right.
One Year Bible
Exodus 26:1-27:21 Psalm 31:1-8
20
Matthew 25:1-30 Proverbs 8:1-11
Today’s Equipping
February 8
Truth
God records every act of service done in His name – even a cup of water.
Key Verse
Matthew 25:40 (NLT) And the King will say, “I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!”
One Year Bible
Exodus 28:1-43 Psalm 31:9-18
Matthew 25:31-26:13 Proverbs 8:12-13
Today’s Equipping
February 9
Truth
The Lord is our strength and our shield.
Key Verse
Psalm 31:23-24 (NLT) Love the LORD, all you godly ones! For the LORD protects those who are loyal to him, but he harshly punishes the arrogant. So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD!
One Year Bible
Exodus 29:1-30:10 Psalm 31:19-24
Matthew 26:14-46 Proverbs 8:14-26
Today’s Equipping
21
February 10
Truth
All mankind is unworthy of God’s blessings, but He bestows His forgiving love upon all who believe in Christ.
Key Verse
Psalm 32:1-2 (NLT) Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the Lord has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived in complete honesty!
One Year Bible
Exodus 30:11-31:18 Psalm 32:1-11
Matthew 26:47-68 Proverbs 8:27-32
Today’s Equipping
February 11
Truth
The more we recognize our unworthiness, the more we appreciate God’s mercy and loving-kindness.
Key Verse
Exodus 33:19 (NLT) The Lord replied, “I will make all my goodness pass before you, and I will call my name, Yahweh, before you. For I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose.”
One Year Bible
Exodus 32:1-33:23 Psalm 33:1-11
22
Matthew 26:69-27:14 Proverbs 8:33-36
Today’s Equipping
February 12
Truth
We can trust our lives to the protective care of our Almighty God.
Key Verse
Psalm 33:18-19 (NLT) But the Lord watches over those who fear him, those who rely on his unfailing love. He rescues them from death and keeps them alive in times of famine.
One Year Bible
Exodus 34:1-35:9 Psalm 33:12-22
Matthew 27:15-31 Proverbs 9:1-6
Today’s Equipping
February 13
Truth
Christ willingly suffered death to make it possible for mankind to have fellowship with Him.
Key Verse
Matthew 27:54 (NLT) The Roman officer and the other soldiers at the crucifixion were terrified by the earthquake and all that had happened. They said, “This man truly was the Son of God!”
One Year Bible
Exodus 35:10-36:38 Psalm 34:1-10
Matthew 27:32-66 Proverbs 9:7-8
Today’s Equipping
23
February 14
Truth
Everyone can do something to help others come to know the Lord and read His Word.
Key Verse
Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT) Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
One Year Bible
Exodus 37:1-38:31 Psalm 34:11-22
Matthew 28:1-20 Proverbs 9:9-10
Today’s Equipping
February 15
Truth
Only that which pleases the Father will truly be profitable and bring lasting pleasure.
Key Verse
Mark 1:10-11 (NLT) As Jesus came up out of the water, he saw the heavens splitting apart and the Holy Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, “You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy.”
One Year Bible
Exodus 39:1-40:38 Psalm 35:1-16
24
Mark 1:1-28 Proverbs 9:11-12
Today’s Equipping
February 16
Truth
Not until a person realizes his need for cleansing from sin, will he look to Christ for spiritual healing.
Key Verse
Mark 1:40-41 (NLT) A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, begging to be healed. “If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean,” he said. Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. “I am willing,” he said. “Be healed!”
One Year Bible
Leviticus 1:1-3:17 Psalm 35:17-28
Mark 1:29-2:12 Proverbs 9:13-18
Today’s Equipping
February 17
Truth
God’s love never changes. Every good thing, as well as every chastisement, comes from His hand of love.
Key Verse
Psalm 36:5-6 (NLT) Your unfailing love, O LORD, is as vast as the heavens; your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the ocean depths. You care for people and animals alike, O LORD.
One Year Bible
Leviticus 4:1-5:19 Psalm 36:1-12
Mark 2:13-3:6 Proverbs 10:1-2
Today’s Equipping
25
February 18
Truth
Those who entrust their all to God receive His best.
Key Verse
Psalm 37:3-4 (NLT) Trust in the LORD and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
One Year Bible
Leviticus 6:1-7:27 Psalm 37:1-11
Mark 3:7-30 Proverbs 10:3-4
Today’s Equipping
February 19
Truth
Enjoying fellowship with God is dependent upon one’s attitude toward others.
Key Verse
Mark 3:33-35 (NLT) Jesus replied, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” Then he looked at those around him and said, “Look, these are my mother and brothers. Anyone who does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.”
One Year Bible
Leviticus 7:28-9:6 Psalm 37:12-29
26
Mark 3:31-4:25 Proverbs 10:5
Today’s Equipping
February 20
Truth
Every believer can be assured that God can transform even the most hopeless situation. His Word has the answer for every need.
Key Verse
Psalm 37:39-40 (NLT) The LORD rescues the godly; he is their fortress in times of trouble. The LORD helps them, rescuing them from the wicked. He saves them, and they find shelter in him.
One Year Bible
Leviticus 9:7-10:20 Psalm 37:30-40
Mark 4:26-5:20 Proverbs 10:6-7
Today’s Equipping
February 21
Truth
As Christians we must live in the world, but we don’t have to live by its standards.
Key Verse
Leviticus 11:45 (NLT) For I, the LORD, am the one who brought you up from the land of Egypt, that I might be your God. Therefore, you must be holy because I am holy.
One Year Bible
Leviticus 11:1-12:8 Psalm 38:1-22
Mark 5:21-43 Proverbs 10:8-9
Today’s Equipping
27
February 22
Truth
I want to live this life like wearing an old coat; ready to shed it any time.
Key Verse
Psalm 39:4-5 (NLT) LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered— how fleeting my life is. You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand. My entire lifetime is just a moment to you; at best, each of us is but a breath.
One Year Bible
Leviticus 13:1-59 Psalm 39:1-13
Mark 6:1-29 Proverbs 10:10
Today’s Equipping
February 23
Truth
God moves on behalf of His people who continue to pray.
Key Verse
Psalm 40:1-2 (NLT) I waited patiently for the LORD to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.
One Year Bible
Leviticus 14:1-57 Psalm 40:1-10
28
Mark 6:30-56 Proverbs 10:11-12
Today’s Equipping
February 24
Truth
As God’s Word fills our thoughts each day, we become a living expression of His life.
Key Verse
Mark 7:14-15 (NLT) Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. “All of you listen,” he said, “and try to understand. It’s not what goes into your body that defiles you; you are defiled by what comes from your heart.”
One Year Bible
Leviticus 15:1-16:28 Psalm 40:11-17
Mark 7:1-23 Proverbs 10:13-14
Today’s Equipping
February 25
Truth
The meek are gentle toward others.
Key Verse
Psalm 41:1 (NLT) Oh, the joys of those who are kind to the poor! The LORD rescues them when they are in trouble.
One Year Bible
Leviticus 16:29-18:30 Psalm 41:1-13
Mark 7:24-8:10 Proverbs 10:15-16
Today’s Equipping
29
February 26
Truth
God created us in such a way that we can be truly happy only when we are praising our wonderful Lord.
Key Verse
Psalm 42:1-2 (NLT) As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God. I thirst for God, the living God. When can I go and stand before him?
One Year Bible
Leviticus 19:1-20:21 Psalm 42:1-11
Mark 8:11-38 Proverbs 10:17
Today’s Equipping
February 27
Truth
Unbelief bars access to God’s promises.
Key Verse
Mark 9:23-24 (NLT) “What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes.” The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!”
One Year Bible
Leviticus 20:22-22:16 Psalm 43:1-5
30
Mark 9:1-29 Proverbs 10:18
Today’s Equipping
February 28
Truth
The highest position in the church is that of a servant of Christ.
Key Verse
Mark 9:35 (NLT) He sat down, called the twelve disciples over to him, and said, “Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else.”
One Year Bible
Leviticus 22:17-23:44 Psalm 44:1-8
Mark 9:30-10:12 Proverbs 10:19
Today’s Equipping
March 1
Truth
It is our faith in God – not our strength or wisdom – that leads to victory.
Key Verse
Mark 10:15 (NLT) I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.
One Year Bible
Leviticus 24:1-25:46 Psalm 44:9-26
Mark 10:13-31 Proverbs 10:20-21
Today’s Equipping
31
March 2
Truth
The highest calling of God in Christ Jesus is that you may know Him and make Him known to others.
Key Verse
Mark 10:39-40 (NLT) Then Jesus told them, “You will indeed drink from my bitter cup and be baptized with my baptism of suffering. But I have no right to say who will sit on my right or my left. God has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen.”
One Year Bible
Leviticus 25:47-27:13 Psalm 45:1-17
Mark 10:32-52 Proverbs 10:22
Today’s Equipping
March 3
Truth
The power of God provides through us what we are unable to do for ourselves.
Key Verse
Psalm 46:1-3 (NLT) God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!
One Year Bible
Leviticus 27:14 - Numbers 1:54 Psalm 46:1-11
32
Mark 11:1-26 Proverbs 10:23
Today’s Equipping
March 4
Truth
As we read God’s Word with a desire to do His will, the Holy Spirit will teach us His ways.
Key Verse
Mark 12:17a (NLT) “Well, then,” Jesus said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.”
One Year Bible
Numbers 2:1-3:51 Psalm 47:1-9
Mark 11:27-12:17 Proverbs 10:24-25
Today’s Equipping
March 5
Truth
It is impossible to gain God’s best when our hearts are set on the things of the world.
Key Verse
Mark 12:33 (NLT) And I know it is important to love him with all my heart and all my understanding and all my strength, and to love my neighbor as myself. This is more important than to offer all of the burnt offerings and sacrifices required in the law.
One Year Bible
Numbers 4:1-5:31 Psalm 48:1-14
Mark 12:18-37 Proverbs 10:26
Today’s Equipping
33
March 6
Truth
Our true enjoyment of life is in direct relation to our desire to obey God’s Word.
Key Verse
Numbers 6:24-26 (NLT) May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace.
One Year Bible
Numbers 6:1-7:89 Psalm 49:1-20
Mark 12:38-13:13 Proverbs 10:27-28
Today’s Equipping
March 7
Truth
Christ is the pathway to life; all else leads to eternal death.
Key Verse
Mark 13:32-33 (NLT) However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. And since you don’t know when that time will come, be on guard! Stay alert!
One Year Bible
Numbers 8:1-9:23 Psalm 50:1-23
34
Mark 13:14-37 Proverbs 10:29-30
Today’s Equipping
March 8
Truth
The more our hearts are cleansed from sin, the more room there is for Christ, the Living Word.
Key Verse
Psalm 51:10-12 (NLT) Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from your presence, and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you.
One Year Bible
Numbers 10:1-11:23 Psalm 51:1-19
Mark 14:1-21 Proverbs 10:31-32
Today’s Equipping
March 9
Truth
All that we are as Christians is because of God’s grace through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Key Verse
Mark 14:23-24 (NLT) And he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. And he said to them, “This is my blood, which confirms the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out as a sacrifice for many.”
One Year Bible
Numbers 11:24-13:33 Psalm 52:1-9
Mark 14:22-52 Proverbs 11:1-3
Today’s Equipping
35
March 10
Truth
If the Lord were to come today, would you rejoice to see Him face to face?
Key Verse
Mark 14:61-62 (NLT) But Jesus was silent and made no reply. Then the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I AM. And you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God’s right hand and coming on the clouds of heaven.”
One Year Bible
Numbers 14:1-15:16 Psalm 53:1-6
Mark 14:53-72 Proverbs 11:4
Today’s Equipping
March 11
Truth
God will hear the cry of any repentant sinnerwho forsakes sin to follow the Savior.
Key Verse
Mark 15:25-27 (NLT) It was nine o’clock in the morning when they crucified him. A sign announced the charge against him. It read, “The King of the Jews.” Two revolutionaries were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left.
One Year Bible
Numbers 15:17-16:40 Psalm 54:1-7
36
Mark 15:1-47 Proverbs 11:5-6
Today’s Equipping
March 12
Truth
God, our wise and loving Father, comes in our moments of weakness to restore and strengthen us.
Key Verse
Psalm 55:22 (NLT) Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.
One Year Bible
Numbers 16:41-18:32 Psalm 55:1-23
Mark 16:1-20 Proverbs 11:7
Today’s Equipping
March 13
Truth
History is a witness to the importance of obeying God’s Word.
Key Verse
Luke 1:3-4 (NLT) Having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I also have decided to write a careful account for you, most honorable Theophilus, so you can be certain of the truth of everything you were taught.
One Year Bible
Numbers 19:1-20:29 Psalm 56:1-13
Luke 1:1-25 Proverbs 11:8
Today’s Equipping
37
March 14
Truth
Praise is the detergent which purifies faith and purges doubt from the heart.
Key Verse
Psalm 57:9-11 (NLT) I will thank you, Lord, among all the people. I will sing your praises among the nations. For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth.
One Year Bible
Numbers 21:1-22:20 Psalm 57:1-11
Luke 1:26-56 Proverbs 11:9-11
Today’s Equipping
March 15
Truth
Praise is the highest form of prayer because it combines petition with faith.
Key Verse
Luke 1:68 (NLT) Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has visited and redeemed his people.
One Year Bible
Numbers 22:21-23:30 Psalm 58:1-11
38
Luke 1:57-80 Proverbs 11:12-13
Today’s Equipping
March 16
Truth
Out of the bitterest experiences, God can perfect His will.
Key Verse
Luke 2:34-35 (NLT) Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, but he will be a joy to many others. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.”
One Year Bible
Numbers 24:1-25:18 Psalm 59:1-17
Luke 2:1-35 Proverbs 11:14
Today’s Equipping
March 17
Truth
God alone is the final authority on how we should live.
Key Verse
Luke 2:49 (NLT) “But why did you need to search?” he asked. “Didn’t you know that I must be in my Father’s house?”
One Year Bible
Numbers 26:1-51 Psalm 60:1-12
Luke 2:36-52 Proverbs 11:15
Today’s Equipping
39
March 18
Truth
We can trust our lives to the protective care of our Almighty God.
Key Verse
Psalm 61:1-2 (NLT) O God, listen to my cry! Hear my prayer! From the ends of the earth, I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the towering rock of safety.
One Year Bible
Numbers 26:52-28:15 Psalm 61:1-8
Luke 3:1-22 Proverbs 11:16-17
Today’s Equipping
March 19
Truth
There are problems to which no one but God has the full answer. Just trust Him.
Key Verse
Psalm 62:7-8 (NLT) My victory and honor come from God alone. He is my refuge, a rock where no enemy can reach me. O my people, trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge.
One Year Bible
Numbers 28:16-29:40 Psalm 62:1-12
40
Luke 3:23-38 Proverbs 11:18-19
Today’s Equipping
March 20
Truth
Only the Holy Spirit can prompt us to speak what will honor Him.
Key Verse
Luke 4:18-19 (NLT) The Spirit of the LORD is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the LORD’s favor has come.
One Year Bible
Numbers 30:1-31:54 Psalm 63:1-11
Luke 4:1-30 Proverbs 11:20-21
Today’s Equipping
March 21
Truth
It is impossible to praise the Lord and complain at the same time.
Key Verse
Psalm 64:9-10 (NLT) Then everyone will be afraid; they will proclaim the mighty acts of God and realize all the amazing things he does. The godly will rejoice in the LORD and find shelter in him. And those who do what is right will praise him.
One Year Bible
Numbers 32:1-33:39 Psalm 64:1-10
Luke 4:31-5:11 Proverbs 11:22
Today’s Equipping
41
March 22
Truth
God can use the weakest, smallest, or the least likely in man’s eyes to perform His work.
Key Verse
Luke 5:27-28 (NLT) Later, as Jesus left the town, he saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at his tax collector’s booth. “Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said to him. So Levi got up, left everything, and followed him.
One Year Bible
Numbers 33:40-35:34 Psalm 65:1-13
Luke 5:12-28 Proverbs 11:23
Today’s Equipping
March 23
Truth
God is at work within each Christian, giving him a desire to obey.
Key Verse
Luke 6:5 (NLT) And Jesus added, “The Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath.”
One Year Bible
Numbers 36:1-Deuteronomy 1:46 Psalm 66:1-20
42
Luke 5:29-6:11 Proverbs 11:24-26
Today’s Equipping
March 24
Truth
Be careful how you react to those who are unkind to you.
Key Verse
Luke 6:27-28 (NLT) But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 2:1-3:29 Psalm 67:1-7
Luke 6:12-38 Proverbs 11:27
Today’s Equipping
March 25
Truth
Does my attitude today glorify God?
Key Verse
Luke 6:45 (NLT) A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 4:1-49 Psalm 68:1-18
Luke 6:39-7:10 Proverbs 11:28
Today’s Equipping
43
March 26
Truth
Children are not likely to obey their parents, if the parents themselves are not living in obedience to the will of God.
Key Verse
Deuteronomy 6:6-9 (NLT) And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 5:1-6:25 Psalm 68:19-35
Luke 7:11-35 Proverbs 11:29-31
Today’s Equipping
March 27
Truth
In all our circumstances, we should remember that God is preparing His own (you and me) for the promised inheritance.
Key Verse
Deuteronomy 8:10-11(NLT) When you have eaten your fill, be sure to praise the LORD your God for the good land he has given you. But that is the time to be careful! Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the LORD your God and disobey his commands, regulations, and decrees that I am giving you today.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 7:1-8:20 Psalm 69:1-18
44
Luke 7:36-8:3 Proverbs 12:1
Today’s Equipping
March 28
Truth
Determine today that you and your household will serve the Lord.
Key Verse
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 (NLT) And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the LORD your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul. And you must always obey the LORD’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 9:1-10:22 Psalm 69:19-36
Luke 8:4-21 Proverbs 12:2-3
Today’s Equipping
March 29
Truth
Let’s make every effort to encourage someone else to be ready to meet the Lord.
Key Verse
Luke 8:38-39a (NLT) The man who had been freed from the demons begged to go with him. But Jesus sent him home, saying, “No, go back to your family, and tell them everything God has done for you.” So he went all through the town proclaiming the great things Jesus had done for him.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 11:1-12:32 Psalm 70:1-5
Luke 8:22-39 Proverbs 12:4
Today’s Equipping
45
March 30
Truth
When you are tempted to complain, thank God for all His blessings and praise Him for all he allows to come into your life.
Key Verse
Psalm 71:22-23 (NLT) Then I will praise you with music on the harp, because you are faithful to your promises, O my God. I will sing praises to you with a lyre, O Holy One of Israel. I will shout for joy and sing your praises, for you have ransomed me.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 13:1-15:23 Psalm 71:1-24
Luke 8:40-9:6 Proverbs 12:5-7
Today’s Equipping
March 31
Truth
Faithfully reading and obeying God’s Word prepares our hearts for the Holy Spirit to work in and through us.
Key Verse
Deuteronomy 17:18-19 (NLT) When he sits on the throne as king, he must copy for himself this body of instruction on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the LORD his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 16:1-17:20 Psalm 72:1-20
46
Luke 9:7-27 Proverbs 12:8-9
Today’s Equipping
April 1
Truth
God can use the weakest, smallest, or the least likely in man’s eyes to perform His work.
Key Verse
Luke 9:48 (NLT) Then he said to them, “Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me also welcomes my Father who sent me. Whoever is the least among you is the greatest.”
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 18:1-20:20 Psalm 73:1-28
Luke 9:28:50 Proverbs 12:10
Today’s Equipping
April 2
Truth
Do the events in your life cause you to lose confidence in self and create a greater dependence upon God?
Key Verse
Luke 9:62 (NLT) But Jesus told him, “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.”
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 21:1-22:30 Psalm 74:1-23
Luke 9:51-10:12 Proverbs 12:11
Today’s Equipping
47
April 3
Truth
Relying on God always brings greater blessings than depending on human wisdom.
Key Verse
Luke 10:23-24 (NLT) Then when they were alone, he turned to the disciples and said, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you have seen. I tell you, many prophets and kings longed to see what you see, but they didn’t see it. And they longed to hear what you hear, but they didn’t hear it.”
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 23:1-25:19 Psalm 75:1-10
Luke 10:13-37 Proverbs 12:12-14
Today’s Equipping
April 4
Truth
Spiritual accomplishments are never obtained without a battle.
Key Verse
Luke 11:9-10 (NLT) And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 26:1-27:26 Psalm 76:1-12
48
Luke 10:38-11:13 Proverbs 12:15-17
Today’s Equipping
April 5
Truth
Let the Word of God guide you in every area of your life.
Key Verse
Luke 11:27-28 (NLT) As he was speaking, a woman in the crowd called out, “God bless your mother—the womb from which you came, and the breasts that nursed you!” Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.”
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 28:1-68 Psalm 77:1-20
Luke 11:14-36 Proverbs 12:18
Today’s Equipping
April 6
Truth
Surely the highest of all wisdom is to obey the Lord in all things.
Key Verse
Deuteronomy 30:19-20 (NLT) Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the LORD your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. And if you love and obey the LORD, you will live long in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 29:1-30:20 Psalm 78:1-31
Luke 11:37-12:7 Proverbs 12:19-20
Today’s Equipping
49
April 7
Truth
When we put God first in our lives, He will take care of our needs.
Key Verse
Luke 12:22-23 (NLT) Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing.”
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 31:1-32:27 Psalm 78:32-55
Luke 12:8-34 Proverbs 12:21-23
Today’s Equipping
April 8
Truth
If you were to die tonight, would you be prepared to meet the King?
Key Verse
Luke 12:39-40 (NLT) Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would not permit his house to be broken into. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 32:28-52 Psalm 78:56-64
50
Luke 12:35-59 Proverbs 12:24
Today’s Equipping
April 9
Truth
Christians who do God’s will can expect to receive eternal rewards.
Key Verse
Luke 13:18-19 (NLT) Then Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? How can I illustrate it? It is like a tiny mustard seed that a man planted in a garden; it grows and becomes a tree, and the birds make nests in its branches.”
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 33:1-29 Psalm 78:65-72
Luke 13:1-21 Proverbs 12:25
Today’s Equipping
April 10
Truth
Each child of God is uniquely gifted with abilities to serve and glorify Him in a way no one else can.
Key Verse
Deuteronomy 34:10-11 (NLT) There has never been another prophet in Israel like Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face. The LORD sent him to perform all the miraculous signs and wonders in the land of Egypt against Pharaoh, and all his servants, and his entire land.
One Year Bible
Deuteronomy 34:1 - Joshua 2:24 Psalm 79:1-13
Luke 13:22-14:6 Proverbs 12:26
Today’s Equipping
51
April 11
Truth
The person who lives to satisfy self cannot fulfill God’s purpose for his life.
Key Verse
Luke 14:33 (NLT) So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own.
One Year Bible
Joshua 3:1-4:24 Psalm 80:1-19
Luke 14:7-35 Proverbs 12:27-28
Today’s Equipping
April 12
Truth
Everything we do that has eternal value is the result of Christ who lives in us.
Key Verse
Luke 15:7 (NLT) In the same way, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away!
One Year Bible
Joshua 5:1-7:15 Psalm 81:1-16
52
Luke 15:1-32 Proverbs 13:1
Today’s Equipping
April 13
Truth
No one can serve two masters and succeed in making the best of two worlds.
Key Verse
Luke 16:13 (NLT) No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
One Year Bible
Joshua 7:16-9:2 Psalm 82:1-8
Luke 16:1-18 Proverbs 13:2-3
Today’s Equipping
April 14
Truth
God is more concerned with willingness than He is with eloquence.
Key Verse
Luke 17:10 (NLT) In the same way, when you obey me you should say, ‘We are unworthy servants who have simply done our duty.’
One Year Bible
Joshua 9:3-10:43 Psalm 83:1-18
Luke 16:19-17:10 Proverbs 13:4
Today’s Equipping
53
April 15
Truth
We need to give God our undivided attention. He has something important to say to us.
Key Verse
Luke 17:20-21 (NLT) One day the Pharisees asked Jesus, “When will the Kingdom of God come?” Jesus replied, “The Kingdom of God can’t be detected by visible signs. You won’t be able to say, ‘Here it is!’ or ‘It’s over there!’ For the Kingdom of God is already among you.”
One Year Bible
Joshua 11:1-12:24 Psalm 84:1-12
Luke 17:11-37 Proverbs 13:5-6
Today’s Equipping
April 16
Truth
We must always remember that God answers our prayers according to His timetable, not ours.
Key Verse
Luke 18:6-8 (NLT) Then the Lord said, “Learn a lesson from this unjust judge. Even he rendered a just decision in the end. So don’t you think God will surely give justice to his chosen people who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will grant justice to them quickly! But when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?”
One Year Bible
Joshua 13:1-14:15 Psalm 85:1-13
54
Luke 18:1-17 Proverbs 13:7-8
Today’s Equipping
April 17
Truth
How can we help but love and worship Him who gave Himself for our sins!
Key Verse
Psalm 86:11-12 (NLT) Teach me your ways, O LORD, that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you. With all my heart I will praise you, O Lord my God. I will give glory to your name forever.
One Year Bible
Joshua 15:1-63 Psalm 86:1-17
Luke 18:18-43 Proverbs 13:9-10
Today’s Equipping
April 18
Truth
Does your manner of life make others want to become followers of Christ?
Key Verse
Luke 19:9-10 (NLT) Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
One Year Bible
Joshua 16:1-18:28 Psalm 87:1-7
Luke 19:1-27 Proverbs 13:11
Today’s Equipping
55
April 19
Truth
Sin is always deceiving; for it leads a person into believing that something can be gained through wicked conduct.
Key Verse
Luke 19:45-46 (NLT) Then Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people selling animals for sacrifices. He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves.”
One Year Bible
Joshua 19:1-20:9 Psalm 88:1-18
Luke 19:28-48 Proverbs 13:12-14
Today’s Equipping
April 20
Truth
All who reject God’s Word will one day be judged by the very Word they have rejected.
Key Verse
Luke 20:17-18 (NLT) Jesus looked at them and said, “Then what does this Scripture mean? ‘The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone.’ Everyone who stumbles over that stone will be broken to pieces, and it will crush anyone it falls on.”
One Year Bible
Joshua 21:1-22:20 Psalm 89:1-13
56
Luke 20:1-26 Proverbs 13:15-16
Today’s Equipping
April 21
Truth
The more our thoughts are occupied with Christ and His Word, the more we realize His presence.
Key Verse
Psalm 89:14-15 (NLT) Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne. Unfailing love and truth walk before you as attendants. Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship, for they will walk in the light of your presence, LORD.
One Year Bible
Joshua 22:21-23:16 Psalm 89:14-37
Luke 20:27-47 Proverbs 13:17-19
Today’s Equipping
April 22
Truth
One of the greatest contributions we can make to our children’s happiness is to teach them obedience to authority; first to God, then to parents and then to the laws of the land.
Key Verse
Joshua 24:15 (NLT) But if you refuse to serve the LORD, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the LORD.
One Year Bible
Joshua 24:1-33 Psalm 89:38-52
Luke 21:1-28 Proverbs 13:20 - 23
Today’s Equipping
57
April 23
Truth
God will take care of your tomorrows if you live for Him today.
Key Verse
Psalm 91:1-2 (NLT) Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.
One Year Bible
Judges 1:1-2:9 Psalm 90:1-91:16
Luke 21:29-22:13 Proverbs 13:24-25
Today’s Equipping
April 24
Truth
Have you remembered to praise and thank the Lord for the victories in your life today?
Key Verse
Psalm 92:1-3 (NLT) It is good to give thanks to the LORD, to sing praises to the Most High. It is good to proclaim your unfailing love in the morning, your faithfulness in the evening, accompanied by the tenstringed harp and the melody of the lyre.
One Year Bible
Judges 2:10-3:31 Psalm 92:1-93:5
58
Luke 22:14-34 Proverbs 14:1-2
Today’s Equipping
April 25
Truth
Walking in fellowship with the Lord often means suffering with Him.
Key Verse
Luke 22:41-42 (NLT) He walked away, about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”
One Year Bible
Judges 4:1-5:31 Psalm 94:1-23
Luke 22:35-53 Proverbs 14:3-4
Today’s Equipping
April 26
Truth
To be led by God’s Word is to be led by Truth.
Key Verse
Psalm 95:6-7 (NLT) Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the LORD our maker, for he is our God. We are the people he watches over, the flock under his care.
One Year Bible
Judges 6:1-40 Psalm 95:1-96:13
Luke 22:54-23:12 Proverbs 14:5-6
Today’s Equipping
59
April 27
Truth
Let us praise the Lord continually – whether we are waiting for Him to reveal His will or we are actively involved in carrying out His will for our lives.
Key Verse
Psalm 98:4-6 (NLT) Shout to the LORD, all the earth; break out in praise and sing for joy! Sing your praise to the LORD with the harp, with the harp and melodious song, with trumpets and the sound of the ram’s horn. Make a joyful symphony before the LORD, the King!
One Year Bible
Judges 7:1-8:17 Psalm 97:1-98:9
Luke 23:13-43 Proverbs 14:7-8
Today’s Equipping
April 28
Truth
May our eyes be open to see the ways of God behind the acts of God in our lives.
Key Verse
Luke 24:5-6 (NLT) The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee.”
One Year Bible
Judges 8:18-9:21 Psalm 99:1-9
60
Luke 23:44-24:12 Proverbs 14:9-10
Today’s Equipping
April 29
Truth
Because Christ died and rose again, we can live for all eternity with Him. What precious assurance!
Key Verse
Luke 24:46-47 (NLT) And he said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’”
One Year Bible
Judges 9:22-10:18 Psalm 100:1-5
Luke 24:13-53 Proverbs 14:11-12
Today’s Equipping
April 30
Truth
The greatest of all fools is the one who lives as if there were no God.
Key Verse
John 1:12-13 (NLT) But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.
One Year Bible
Judges 11:1-12:15 Psalm 101:1-8
John 1:1-28 Proverbs 14:13-14
Today’s Equipping
61
May 1
Truth
Each of us is in God’s plan; no one else can fill our place.
Key Verse
John 1:29-30 (NLT) The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! He is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘A man is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’”
One Year Bible
Judges 13:1-14:20 Psalm 102:1-28
John 1:29-51 Proverbs 14:15-16
Today’s Equipping
May 2
Truth
The Lord desires to release His people from the power of sin, but too many are willing to be captives of Satan.
Key Verse
Psalm 103:11-12 (NLT) For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.
One Year Bible
Judges 15:1-16:31 Psalm 103:1-22
62
John 2:1-25 Proverbs 14:17-19
Today’s Equipping
May 3
Truth
Has your attitude today been a reflection of God’s love toward you?
Key Verse
John 3:16-17 (NLT) For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.
One Year Bible
Judges 17:1-18:31 Psalm 104:1-23
John 3:1-21 Proverbs 14:20-21
Today’s Equipping
May 4
Truth
The eternal destiny of every person’s rest is in his acceptance or rejection of Jesus Christ.
Key Verse
John 3:35-36 (NLT) The Father loves his Son and has put everything into his hands. And anyone who believes in God’s Son has eternal life. Anyone who doesn’t obey the Son will never experience eternal life but remains under God’s angry judgment.
One Year Bible
Judges 19:1-20:48 Psalm 104:24-35
John 3:22-4:3 Proverbs 14:22-24
Today’s Equipping
63
May 5
Truth
Are you faithfully following the spiritual leader that God put in authority over you?
Key Verse
Ruth 1:16 (NLT) But Ruth replied, “Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.”
One Year Bible
Judges 21:1- Ruth 1:22 Psalm 105:1-15
John 4:4-42 Proverbs 14:25
Today’s Equipping
May 6
Truth
Think back on your life and recognize how the Lord has cared for you along the way.
Key Verse
Ruth 4:14-15 (NLT) Then the women of the town said to Naomi, “Praise the LORD, who has now provided a redeemer for your family! May this child be famous in Israel. May he restore your youth and care for you in your old age. For he is the son of your daughter-in-law who loves you and has been better to you than seven sons!”
One Year Bible
Ruth 2:1 - 4:22 Psalm 105:16-36
64
John 4:43-54 Proverbs 14:26-27
Today’s Equipping
May 7
Truth
Men of faith find ways to obey God and please Him; others settle for excuses.
Key Verse
John 5:19 (NLT) So Jesus explained, “I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself. He does only what he sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son also does.”
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 1:1-2:21 Psalm 105:37-45
John 5:1-23 Proverbs 14:28-29
Today’s Equipping
May 8
Truth
The rewards for both good and evil are everlasting.
Key Verse
John 5:24 (NLT) I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life.
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 2:22-4:22 Psalm 106:1-12
John 5:24-47 Proverbs 14:30-31
Today’s Equipping
65
May 9
Truth
Christ is not just the world’s Savior in the sweet by and by, but also in the here and now.
Key Verse
Psalm 106:13-14 (NLT) Yet how quickly they forgot what he had done! They wouldn’t wait for his counsel! In the wilderness their desires ran wild, testing God’s patience in that dry wasteland.
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 5:1-7:17 Psalm 106:13-31
John 6:1-21 Proverbs 14:32-33
Today’s Equipping
May 10
Truth
Only Jesus can forgive sin and restore us to fellowship with the Father.
Key Verse
John 6:35 (NLT) Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 8:1-9:27 Psalm 106:32-48
66
John 6:22-42 Proverbs 14:34-35
Today’s Equipping
May 11
Truth
Only Christ – the Living Water – can satisfy the longings of the human soul.
Key Verse
John 6:67-69 (NLT) Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?” Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God.”
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 10:1-11:15 Psalm 107:1-43
John 6:43-71 Proverbs 15:1-3
Today’s Equipping
May 12
Truth
Christians have much reason to rejoice, for we serve a risen Lord.
Key Verse
Psalm 108:3-4 (NLT) I will thank you, LORD, among all the people. I will sing your praises among the nations. For your unfailing love is higher than the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 12:1-13:23 Psalm 108:1-13
John 7:1-30 Proverbs 15:4
Today’s Equipping
67
May 13
Truth
You can give thanks to God today in every situation. Praise the Lord today regardless of your circumstances.
Key Verse
Psalm 109:30-31 (NLT) But I will give repeated thanks to the LORD, praising him to everyone. For he stands beside the needy, ready to save them from those who condemn them.
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 14:1-52 Psalm 109:1-31
John 7:31-53 Proverbs 15:5-7
Today’s Equipping
May 14
Truth
The vastness of the universe reveals God’s unlimited resources and matchless wisdom.
Key Verse
John 8:12 (NLT) Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 15:1-16:23 Psalm 110:1-7
68
John 8:1-20 Proverbs 15:8-10
Today’s Equipping
May 15
Truth
Those who seek the welfare of others find it for themselves.
Key Verse
1 Samuel 18:3-4 (NLT) And Jonathan made a solemn pact with David, because he loved him as he loved himself. Jonathan sealed the pact by taking off his robe and giving it to David, together with his tunic, sword, bow, and belt.
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 17:1-18:4 Psalm 111:1-10
John 8:21-30 Proverbs 15:11
Today’s Equipping
May 16
Truth
Our sins are always much greater than they appear to be.
Key Verse
John 8:34-36 (NLT) Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.”
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 18:5-19:24 Psalm 112:1-10
John 8:31-59 Proverbs 15:12-14
Today’s Equipping
69
May 17
Truth
How much of the Word do you make available for God to use in your life?
Key Verse
John 9:2-3 (NLT) “Rabbi,” his disciples asked him, “why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?” “It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him.”
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 20:1-21:15 Psalm 113:1-114:8
John 9:1-41 Proverbs 15:15-17
Today’s Equipping
May 18
Truth
Many lives are empty because God is not asked to fill them. Oh, the high cost of pleasing self, rather than God!
Key Verse
John 10:9-10 (NLT) Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 22:1-23:29 Psalm 115:1-18
70
John 10:1-21 Proverbs 15:18-19
Today’s Equipping
May 19
Truth
The tender voice of our Good Shepherd is still calling, “come unto me.”
Key Verse
John 10:27-28 (NLT) My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me.
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 24:1-25:44 Psalm 116:1-19
John 10:22-42 Proverbs 15:20-21
Today’s Equipping
May 20
Truth
God’s concern has always been that man turn from his sins and enjoy His protection and provisions.
Key Verse
John 11:25-26 (NLT) Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?”
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 26:1-28:25 Psalm 117:1-2
John 11:1-54 Proverbs 15:22-23
Today’s Equipping
71
May 21
Truth
Don’t be deceived by trusting in anything or anyone but the Lord Jesus Christ for your eternal salvation.
Key Verse
Psalm 118:8-9 (NLT) It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in people. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.
One Year Bible
1 Samuel 29:1-31:13 Psalm 118:1-18
John 11:55-12:19 Proverbs 15:24-26
Today’s Equipping
May 22
Truth
Behind every problem in a Christian’s life is our Creator’s wise, well designed plan for our benefit.
Key Verse
John 12:23-24 (NLT) Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives.”
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 1:1-2:11 Psalm 118:19-29
72
John 12:20-50 Proverbs 15:27-28
Today’s Equipping
May 23
Truth
True humility before God will always result in a demonstration of that humility before men.
Key Verse
John 13:14-15 (NLT) And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 2:12-3:39 Psalm 119:1-16
John 13:1-30 Proverbs 15:29-30
Today’s Equipping
May 24
Truth
The very nature of love compels us to give of ourselves for the sake of others.
Key Verse
John 13:34-35 (NLT) So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 4:1-6:23 Psalm 119:17-32
John 13:31-14:14 Proverbs 15:31-32
Today’s Equipping
73
May 25
Truth
Material prosperity has kept many from seeking spiritual prosperity.
Key Verse
Psalm 119:36-37 (NLT) Give me an eagerness for your laws rather than a love for money! Turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through your word.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 7:1-8:18 Psalm 119:33-48
John 14:15-31 Proverbs 15:33
Today’s Equipping
May 26
Truth
When God gives you a task to do, remember that He is with you.
Key Verse
John 15:5 (NLT) Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 9:1-11:27 Psalm 119:49-64
74
John 15:1-27 Proverbs 16:1-3
Today’s Equipping
May 27
Truth
No matter how strong our temptations may be, God’s grace is sufficient to help us overcome them.
Key Verse
John 16:33 (NLT) I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 12:1-31 Psalm 119:65-80
John 16:1-33 Proverbs 16:4-5
Today’s Equipping
May 28
Truth
God no longer lives in a tabernacle; He dwells within the heart of every believer.
Key Verse
John 17:21 (NLT) I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me. .
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 13:1-39 Psalm 119:81-96
John 17:1-26 Proverbs 16:6-7
Today’s Equipping
75
May 29
Truth
It is the obedient one who enjoys God’s presence.
Key Verse
Psalm 119:105-106 (NLT) Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. I’ve promised it once, and I’ll promise it again: I will obey your righteous regulations.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 14:1-15:22 Psalm 119:97-112
John 18:1-24 Proverbs 16:8-9
Today’s Equipping
May 30
Truth
No, the Isaacs and Esaus cannot defeat the purposes of God.
Key Verse
John 18:36 (NLT) Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world.”
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 15:23-16:23 Psalm 119:113-128
76
John 18:25-19:22 Proverbs 16:10-11
Today’s Equipping
May 31
Truth
Read God’s Word with willingness and the desire to accept His wisdom and reproof.
Key Verse
Psalm 119:137-138 (NLT) O LORD, you are righteous, and your regulations are fair. Your laws are perfect and completely trustworthy.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 17:1-29 Psalm 119:129-152
John 19:23-42 Proverbs 16:12-13
Today’s Equipping
June 1
Truth
Christ, the Living Word, can transform your life.
Key Verse
John 20:30-31 (NLT) The disciples saw Jesus do many other miraculous signs in addition to the ones recorded in this book. But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in him you will have life by the power of his name.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 18:1-19:10 Psalm 119:153-176
John 20:1-31 Proverbs 16:14-15
Today’s Equipping
77
June 2
Truth
Praise the Lord for who He is and what He has done for us.
Key Verse
John 21:25 (NLT) Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 19:11-20:13 Psalm 120:1-7
John 21:1-25 Proverbs 16:16-17
Today’s Equipping
June 3
Truth
Let us freely offer our praise to God continually.
Key Verse
Psalm 121:1-3 (NLT) I look up to the mountains— does my help come from there? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth! He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 20:14-21:22 Psalm 121:1-8
78
Acts 1:1-26 Proverbs 16:18
Today’s Equipping
June 4
Truth
God’s spirit can perfect his strength in the weakest believer.
Key Verse
2 Samuel 22:33-34 (NLT) God is my strong fortress, and he makes my way perfect. He makes me as surefooted as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 22:1-23:23 Psalm 122:1-9
Acts 2:1-47 Proverbs 16:19-20
Today’s Equipping
June 5
Truth
We can trust our lives to the protective care of our Almighty God.
Key Verse
Psalm 123:2 (NLT) We keep looking to the LORD our God for his mercy, just as servants keep their eyes on their master, as a slave girl watches her mistress for the slightest signal.
One Year Bible
2 Samuel 23:24-24:25 Psalm 123:1-4
Acts 3:1-26 Proverbs 16:21-23
Today’s Equipping
79
June 6
Truth
Don’t wait until the difficulty is over to praise the Lord.
Key Verse
Psalm 124:6-7 (NLT) Praise the LORD, who did not let their teeth tear us apart! We escaped like a bird from a hunter’s trap. The trap is broken, and we are free!
One Year Bible
1 Kings 1:1-53 Psalm 124:1-8
Acts 4:1-37 Proverbs 16:24
Today’s Equipping
June 7
Truth
The highest calling of God in Christ Jesus is that you may know Him and make Him known to others.
Key Verse
Acts 5:38-39 (NLT) So my advice is, leave these men alone. Let them go. If they are planning and doing these things merely on their own, it will soon be overthrown. But if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God!
One Year Bible
1 Kings 2:1-3:2 Psalm 125:1-5
80
Acts 5:1-42 Proverbs 16:25
Today’s Equipping
June 8
Truth
The first step to attaining true wisdom is reading God’s Word.
Key Verse
1 Kings 3:9-10 (NLT) Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours? The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom.
One Year Bible
1 Kings 3:3-4:34 Psalm 126:1-6
Acts 6:1-15 Proverbs 16:26-27
Today’s Equipping
June 9
Truth
The promises of God give assurance that He is our all-sufficient Guardian.
Key Verse
Psalm 127:1 (NLT) Unless the LORD builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the LORD protects a city, guarding it with sentries will do no good.
One Year Bible
1 Kings 5:1-6:38 Psalm 127:1-5
Acts 7:1-29 Proverbs 16:28-30
Today’s Equipping
81
June 10
Truth
We experience true freedom when we follow the leading of the Lord as revealed in His Word.
Key Verse
Psalm 128:1-2 (NLT) How joyful are those who fear the LORD— all who follow his ways! You will enjoy the fruit of your labor. How joyful and prosperous you will be!
One Year Bible
1 Kings 7:1-51 Psalm 128:1-6
Acts 7:30-50 Proverbs 16:31-33
Today’s Equipping
June 11
Truth
Victory over satan has been won by our Lord, who died for our sins.
Key Verse
1 Kings 8:57-58 (NLT) May the LORD our God be with us as he was with our ancestors; may he never leave us or abandon us. May he give us the desire to do his will in everything and to obey all the commands, decrees, and regulations that he gave our ancestors.
One Year Bible
1 Kings 8:1-66 Psalm 129:1-8
82
Acts 7:51-8:13 Proverbs 17:1
Today’s Equipping
June 12
Truth
The holiness of God reveals the vileness of sin.
Key Verse
Psalm 130:3-5 (NLT) LORD, if you kept a record of our sins, who, O Lord, could ever survive? But you offer forgiveness, that we might learn to fear you. I am counting on the LORD; yes, I am counting on him. I have put my hope in his word.
One Year Bible
1 Kings 9:1-10:29 Psalm 130:1-8
Acts 8:14-40 Proverbs 17:2-3
Today’s Equipping
June 13
Truth
Our relationship with God can grow dearer as we trust Him during times of trials, suffering, and problems.
Key Verse
Acts 9:15-16 (NLT) But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.”
One Year Bible
1 Kings11:1-12:19 Psalm 131:1-3
Acts 9:1-25 Proverbs 17:4-5
Today’s Equipping
83
June 14
Truth
Peace comes to those who joyfully submit to God and His Word.
Key Verse
Acts 9:31 (NLT) The church then had peace throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, and it became stronger as the believers lived in the fear of the Lord. And with the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, it also grew in numbers.
One Year Bible
1 Kings 12:20-13:34 Psalm 132:1-18
Acts 9:26-43 Proverbs 17:6
Today’s Equipping
June 15
Truth
Let me praise God continually.
Key Verse
Psalm 133:1-2 (NLT) How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron’s head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe.
One Year Bible
1 Kings 14:1-15:24 Psalm 133:1-3
84
Acts 10:1-23 Proverbs 17:7-8
Today’s Equipping
June 16
Truth
As we are controlled by the indwelling Holy Spirit, we become pleasing to God.
Key Verse
Acts 10:34-35 (NLT) Then Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right.”
One Year Bible
1 Kings 15:25-17:24 Psalm 134:1-3
Acts 10:24-48 Proverbs 17:9-11
Today’s Equipping
June 17
Truth
Make the most of each opportunity to bring glory to the Lord.
Key Verse
Psalm 135:13-14 (NLT) Your name, O LORD, endures forever; your fame, O LORD, is known to every generation. For the LORD will give justice to his people and have compassion on his servants.
One Year Bible
1 Kings 18:1-46 Psalm 135:1-21
Acts 11:1-30 Proverbs 17:12-13
Today’s Equipping
85
June 18
Truth
What a privilege to know that the living Christ is in our midst.
Key Verse
Psalm 136:1-2 (NLT) Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods. His faithful love endures forever.
One Year Bible
1 Kings 19:1-21 Psalm 136:1-26
Acts 12:1-23 Proverbs 17:14-15
Today’s Equipping
June 19
Truth
Be watchful for opportunities to serve the Lord.
Key Verse
Acts 13:2-3 (NLT) One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Dedicate Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.” So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way.
One Year Bible
1 Kings 20:1-21:29 Psalm 137:1-9
86
Acts 12:24-13:15 Proverbs 17:16
Today’s Equipping
June 20
Truth
All who are set free by Christ’s blood are free indeed.
Key Verse
Acts 13:38-39 (NLT) Brothers, listen! We are here to proclaim that through this man Jesus there is forgiveness for your sins. Everyone who believes in him is declared right with God—something the law of Moses could never do.
One Year Bible
1 Kings 22:1-53 Psalm 138:1-8
Acts 13:16-41 Proverbs 17:17-18
Today’s Equipping
June 21
Truth
The beauty of the Christian is the presence of God who dwells within and radiates without.
Key Verse
Psalm 139:13-14 (NLT) You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous— how well I know it.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 1:1-2:25 Psalm 139:1-24
Acts 13:42-14:7 Proverbs 17:19-21
Today’s Equipping
87
June 22
Truth
God is our strength in times of trouble.
Key Verse
Psalm 140:12-13 (NLT) But I know the LORD will help those they persecute; he will give justice to the poor. Surely righteous people are praising your name; the godly will live in your presence.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 3:1-4:17 Psalm 140:1-13
Acts 14:8-28 Proverbs 17:22
Today’s Equipping
June 23
Truth
Our daily actions, attitudes, and conversations will express the thoughts of our hearts.
Key Verse
Psalm 141:3-4 (NLT) Take control of what I say, O LORD, and guard my lips. Don’t let me drift toward evil or take part in acts of wickedness. Don’t let me share in the delicacies of those who do wrong.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 4:18-5:27 Psalm 141:1-10
88
Acts 15:1-35 Proverbs 17:23
Today’s Equipping
June 24
Truth
Trusting in the Lord’s unsearchable ways is better than hoping in men’s predictable ways.
Key Verse
Psalm 142:1-2 (NLT) I cry out to the LORD; I plead for the LORD’s mercy. I pour out my complaints before him and tell him all my troubles.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 6:1-7:20 Psalm 142:1-7
Acts 15:36-16:15 Proverbs 17:24-25
Today’s Equipping
June 25
Truth
Spiritual strength is imparted as we remain faithful.
Key Verse
Acts 16:25 (NLT) Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 8:1-9:13 Psalm 143:1-12
Acts 16:16-40 Proverbs 17:26
Today’s Equipping
89
June 26
Truth
God created man with a heart so unique that nothing less than fellowship with God can really satisfy him.
Key Verse
Psalm 144:3-4 (NLT) O LORD, what are human beings that you should notice them, mere mortals that you should think about them? For they are like a breath of air; their days are like a passing shadow.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 9:14-10:31 Psalm 144:1-15
Acts 17:1-34 Proverbs 17:27-28
Today’s Equipping
June 27
Truth
When you love the Lord with all your heart, love for others will be a natural overflow.
Key Verse
Psalm 145:8-9 (NLT) The LORD is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. The LORD is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 10:32-12:21 Psalm 145:1-21
90
Acts 18:1-22 Proverbs 18:1
Today’s Equipping
June 28
Truth
When you make a promise, God expects you to keep your word.
Key Verse
Psalm 146:5-6 (NLT) But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the LORD their God. He made heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them. He keeps every promise forever.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 13:1-14:29 Psalm 146:1-10
Acts 18:23-19:12 Proverbs 18:2-3
Today’s Equipping
June 29
Truth
Our faith is like a muscle – it grows with exercise, gaining strength over time.
Key Verse
Psalm 147:10-11 (NLT) He takes no pleasure in the strength of a horse or in human might. No, the LORD’s delight is in those who fear him, those who put their hope in his unfailing love.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 15:1-16:20 Psalm 147:1-20
Acts 19:13-41 Proverbs 18:4-5
Today’s Equipping
91
June 30
Truth
Quietness and confidence in the midst of trials are the result of our faith in Christ and the certainty of the Scriptures.
Key Verse
Psalm 148:13 (NLT) Let them all praise the name of the LORD. For his name is very great; his glory towers over the earth and heaven!
One Year Bible
2 Kings 17:1-18:12 Psalm 148:1-14
Acts 20:1-38 Proverbs 18:6-7
Today’s Equipping
July 1
Truth
God satisfies all who allow Him to do so. Praise springs naturally from the heart that is grateful for God’s blessing.
Key Verse
Psalm 149:3-4 (NLT) Praise his name with dancing, accompanied by tambourine and harp. For the LORD delights in his people; he crowns the humble with victory.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 18:13-19:37 Psalm 149:1-9
92
Acts 21:1-17 Proverbs 18:8
Today’s Equipping
July 2
Truth
Our greatest satisfaction comes through living for the Lord.
Key Verse
2 Kings 22:1-2 (NLT) Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years. His mother was Jedidah, the daughter of Adaiah from Bozkath. He did what was pleasing in the LORD’s sight and followed the example of his ancestor David. He did not turn away from doing what was right.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 20:1-22:2 Psalm 150:1-6
Acts 21:18-36 Proverbs 18:9-10
Today’s Equipping
July 3
Truth
Is your life wrapped up in the things of the world, or have you committed yourself to serve and worship the Lord?
Key Verse
Psalm 1:1-2 (NLT) Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 22:3-23:30 Psalm 1:1-6
Acts 21:37-22:16 Proverbs 18:11-12
Today’s Equipping
93
July 4
Truth
Rebellion against God is “exceedingly sinful.”
Key Verse
Psalm 2:1-2 (NLT) Why are the nations so angry? Why do they waste their time with futile plans? The kings of the earth prepare for battle; the rulers plot together against the LORD and against his anointed one.
One Year Bible
2 Kings 23:31-25:30 Psalm 2:1-12
Acts 22:17-23:10 Proverbs 18:13
Today’s Equipping
July 5
Truth
God’s grace is sufficient to sustain us in every situation – regardless of its severity or duration.
Key Verse
Psalm 3:3-4 (NLT) But you, O LORD, are a shield around me; you are my glory, the one who holds my head high. I cried out to the LORD, and he answered me from his holy mountain.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 1:1-2:17 Psalm 3:1-8
94
Acts 23:11-35 Proverbs 18:14-15
Today’s Equipping
July 6
Truth
Every trial gives us an opportunity to draw closer to God and to make us more like the person He wants us to be.
Key Verse
Psalm 4:3 (NLT) You can be sure of this: The LORD set apart the godly for himself. The LORD will answer when I call to him.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 2:18-4:4 Psalm 4:1-8
Acts 24:1-27 Proverbs 18:16-18
Today’s Equipping
July 7
Truth
Obedience to God’s Word and dependence upon the Lord through prayer gives us strength in times of testing.
Key Verse
Psalm 5:1-2 (NLT) O LORD, hear me as I pray; pay attention to my groaning. Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for I pray to no one but you.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 4:5-5:17 Psalm 5:1-12
Acts 25:1-27 Proverbs 18:19
Today’s Equipping
95
July 8
Truth
Christ’s resurrection is the assurance of victory over death for all who are saved.
Key Verse
Acts 26:22b-23 (NLT) I teach nothing except what the prophets and Moses said would happen— that the Messiah would suffer and be the first to rise from the dead, and in this way announce God’s light to Jews and Gentiles alike.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 5:18-6:81 Psalm 6:1-10
Acts 26:1-32 Proverbs 18:20-21
Today’s Equipping
July 9
Truth
God carefully takes note of every thought and intent of the heart.
Key Verse
Psalm 7:9-10 (NLT) End the evil of those who are wicked, and defend the righteous. For you look deep within the mind and heart, O righteous God. God is my shield, saving those whose hearts are true and right.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 7:1-8:40 Psalm 7:1-17
96
Acts 27:1-20 Proverbs 18:22
Today’s Equipping
July 10
Truth
The vastness of the universe reveals God’s unlimited resources and matchless wisdom.
Key Verse
Psalm 8:3-4 (NLT) When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers— the moon and the stars you set in place— what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 9:1-10:14 Psalm 8:1-9
Acts 27:21-44 Proverbs 18:23-24
Today’s Equipping
July 11
Truth
Remember that God never forsakes His children.
Key Verse
Psalm 9:9-10 (NLT) The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O LORD, do not abandon those who search for you.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 11:1-12:18 Psalm 9:1-12
Acts 28:1-31 Proverbs 19:1-3
Today’s Equipping
97
July 12
Truth
Are you taking advantage of every opportunity to tell others about Christ?
Key Verse
Romans 1:16 (NLT) For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 12:19-14:17 Psalm 9:13-20
Romans 1:1-17 Proverbs 19:4-5
Today’s Equipping
July 13
Truth
Every Christian has a personal “world” to which he is responsible for showing and telling God’s saving power.
Key Verse
Romans 1:20 (NLT) For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 15:1-16:36 Psalm 10:1-15
98
Romans 1:18-32 Proverbs 19:6-7
Today’s Equipping
July 14
Truth
Fears vanish as we trust God.
Key Verse
Psalm 10:17-18 (NLT) LORD, you know the hopes of the helpless. Surely you will hear their cries and comfort them. You will bring justice to the orphans and the oppressed, so mere people can no longer terrify them.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 16:37-18:17 Psalm 10:16-18
Romans 2:1-24 Proverbs 19:8-9
Today’s Equipping
July 15
Truth
Are we so busy expecting recognition and praise from others that we fail to praise Him?
Key Verse
Romans 2:29 (NLT) No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit. And a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 19:1-21:30 Psalm 11:1-7
Romans 2:25-3:8 Proverbs 9:10-12
Today’s Equipping
99
July 16
Truth
Restoration is always available to those who repent.
Key Verse
Romans 3:21-22 (NLT) But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 22:1-23:32 Psalm 12:1-8
Romans 3:9-31 Proverbs 19:13-14
Today’s Equipping
July 17
Truth
Have you placed your faith in Christ, our living Redeemer?
Key Verse
Romans 4:2-3 (NLT) If his good deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have had something to boast about. But that was not God’s way. For the Scriptures tell us, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.”
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 24:1-26:11 Psalm 13:1-6
100
Romans 4:1-12 Proverbs 19:15-16
Today’s Equipping
July 18
Truth
Faith is our response to God’s ability.
Key Verse
Romans 5:1 (NLT) Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 26:12-27:34 Psalm 14:1-7
Romans 4:13-5:5 Proverbs 19:17
Today’s Equipping
July 19
Truth
Since we are greatly influenced by those with whom we associate, we need to choose friends who will lead us closer to the Lord.
Key Verse
Romans 5:19 (NLT) Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous.
One Year Bible
1 Chronicles 28:1-29:30 Psalm 15:1-5
Romans 5:6-21 Proverbs 19:18-19
Today’s Equipping
101
July 20
Truth
All who love the Lord should exemplify obedience and submission to God.
Key Verse
Romans 6:22-23 (NLT) But now you are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. Now you do those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 1:1-3:17 Psalm 16:1-11
Romans 6:1-23 Proverbs 19:20-21
Today’s Equipping
July 21
Truth
Empowered by God’s spirit, we are able to do His will.
Key Verse
Romans 7:6 (NLT) But now we have been released from the law, for we died to it and are no longer captive to its power. Now we can serve God, not in the old way of obeying the letter of the law, but in the new way of living in the Spirit.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 4:1-6:11 Psalm 17:1-15
102
Romans 7:1-13 Proverbs 19:22-23
Today’s Equipping
July 22
Truth
Have you been to Jesus for His cleansing power? Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?
Key Verse
Romans 8:1-2 (NLT) So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 6:12-8:10 Psalm 18:1-15
Romans 7:14-8:8 Proverbs 19:24-25
Today’s Equipping
July 23
Truth
Oh, how much we need to become more aware of the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
Key Verse
Romans 8:11 (NLT) The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 8:11-10:19 Psalm 18:16-36
Romans 8:9-25 Proverbs 19:26
Today’s Equipping
103
July 24
Truth
Our Lord’s love to us is inexhaustible.
Key Verse
Romans 8:38-39 (NLT) And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 11:1-13:22 Psalm 18:37-50
Romans 8:26-39 Proverbs 19:27-29
Today’s Equipping
July 25
Truth
God loves me so much He can’t keep His eyes off me!
Key Verse
2 Chronicles 16:9a (NLT) The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 14:1-16:14 Psalm 19:1-14
104
Romans 9:1-24 Proverbs 20:1
Today’s Equipping
July 26
Truth
Have you been born into God’s spiritual family?
Key Verse
Romans 10:9 (NLT) If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 17:1-18:34 Psalm 20:1-9
Romans 9:25-10:13 Proverbs 20:2-3
Today’s Equipping
July 27
Truth
Our faith is strengthened as we obey God’s Word – the source of faith.
Key Verse
Romans 10:17 (NLT) So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 19:1-20:37 Psalm 21:1-13
Romans 10:14-11:12 Proverbs 20:4-6
Today’s Equipping
105
July 28
Truth
The worship, love, and loyalty due Christ, cannot be shared with man.
Key Verse
Romans 11:33 (NLT) Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways!
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 21:1-23:21 Psalm 22:1-18
Romans 11:13-36 Proverbs 20:7
Today’s Equipping
July 29
Truth
The mind, body, and spirit of every Christian should bring honor to a loving and holy God.
Key Verse
Romans 12:1 (NLT) And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 24:1-25:28 Psalm 22:19-31
106
Romans 12:1-21 Proverbs 20:8-10
Today’s Equipping
July 30
Truth
I want to live this life like wearing an old coat; ready to shed it any time.
Key Verse
Romans 13:12 (NLT) The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 26:1-28:27 Psalm 23:1-6
Romans 13:1-14 Proverbs 20:11
Today’s Equipping
July 31
Truth
Every person has an influence on others; either to encourage and bless or to hinder.
Key Verse
Romans 14:19-20 (NLT) So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up. Don’t tear apart the work of God over what you eat. Remember, all foods are acceptable, but it is wrong to eat something if it makes another person stumble.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 29:1-36 Psalm 24:1-10
Romans 14:1-23 Proverbs 20:12
Today’s Equipping
107
August 1
Truth
Our attitude, words, and actions should be a testimony to others that we want our lives to be controlled by God.
Key Verse
Romans 15:5-6 (NLT) May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 30:1-31:21 Psalm 25:1-15
Romans 15:1-22 Proverbs 20:13-15
Today’s Equipping
August 2
Truth
Our life is like a raging sea until we turn to the Lord, who is able to bring about sweet peace.
Key Verse
Psalm 25:20-21 (NLT) Protect me! Rescue my life from them! Do not let me be disgraced, for in you I take refuge. May integrity and honesty protect me, for I put my hope in you.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 32:1-33:13 Psalm 25:16-22
108
Romans 15:23-16:9 Proverbs 20:16-18
Today’s Equipping
August 3
Truth
The Lord knows those who trust in Him and will bless them accordingly.
Key Verse
Psalm 26:2-3 (NLT) Put me on trial, LORD, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and my heart. For I am always aware of your unfailing love, and I have lived according to your truth.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 33:14-34:33 Psalm 26:1-12
Romans 16:10-27 Proverbs 20:19
Today’s Equipping
August 4
Truth
Be diligent and ever prepared for Christ’s return.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 1:7-8 (NLT) Now you have every spiritual gift you need as you eagerly wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be free from all blame on the day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns.
One Year Bible
2 Chronicles 35:1-36:23 Psalm 27:1-6
1 Corinthians 1:1-17 Proverbs 20:20-21
Today’s Equipping
109
August 5
Truth
As we daily read God’s Word, our confidence in the Lord’s power and protection will increase.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 1:18 (NLT) The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God.
One Year Bible
Ezra 1:1-2:70 Psalm 27:7-14
1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5 Proverbs 20:22-23
Today’s Equipping
August 6
Truth
Your spiritual growth is dependent on the amount of time you spend with the Lord in reading His Word.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 2:12 (NLT) And we have received God’s Spirit (not the world’s spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us.
One Year Bible
Ezra 3:1-4:23 Psalm 28:1-9
110
1 Corinthians 2:6-3:4 Proverbs 20:24-25
Today’s Equipping
August 7
Truth
God will always supply His willing servants with the ability necessary to perform the work He has given them to do.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 3:7-8 (NLT) It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work.
One Year Bible
Ezra 4:24-6:22 Psalm 29:1-11
1 Corinthians 3:5-23 Proverbs 20:26-27
Today’s Equipping
August 8
Truth
God in His mercy has provided a way for even the vilest sinner to be saved.
Key Verse
Psalm 30:2-3 (NLT) O LORD my God, I cried to you for help, and you restored my health. You brought me up from the grave, O LORD. You kept me from falling into the pit of death.
One Year Bible
Ezra 7:1-8:20 Psalm 30:1-12
1 Corinthians 4:1-21 Proverbs 20:28-30
Today’s Equipping
111
August 9
Truth
The Christian who serves the Lord acceptably will have a desire to be clean in body and spirit.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 5:12-13 (NLT) It isn’t my responsibility to judge outsiders, but it certainly is your responsibility to judge those inside the church who are sinning. God will judge those on the outside; but as the Scriptures say, “You must remove the evil person from among you.”
One Year Bible
Ezra 8:21-9:15 Psalm 31:1-8
1 Corinthians 5:1-13 Proverbs 21:1-2
Today’s Equipping
August 10
Truth
To reject the Bible as the standard for one’s life is to reject God Himself.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NLT) Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body.
One Year Bible
Ezra 10:1-44 Psalm 31:9-18
112
1 Corinthians 6:1-20 Proverbs 21:3
Today’s Equipping
August 11
Truth
Lord, please apply the oil of your Spirit to my mind; both at the conscious and the sub-conscious levels of my thought life. Enable me to act and react as You would.
Key Verse
Psalm 31:23-24 (NLT) Love the LORD, all you godly ones! For the LORD protects those who are loyal to him, but he harshly punishes the arrogant. So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD!
One Year Bible
Nehemiah 1:1-3:14 Psalm 31:19-24
1 Corinthians 7:1-24 Proverbs 21:4
Today’s Equipping
August 12
Truth
Talking to our Heavenly Father in prayer is vital to living a victorious Christian life.
Key Verse
Psalm 32:6-7 (NLT) Therefore, let all the godly pray to you while there is still time, that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment. For you are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory.
One Year Bible
Nehemiah 3:15-5:13 Psalm 32:1-11
1 Corinthians 7:25-40 Proverbs 21:5-7
Today’s Equipping
113
August 13
Truth
It is for God’s glory that we were created.
Key Verse
Psalm 33:2-3 (NLT) Praise the LORD with melodies on the lyre; make music for him on the ten-stringed harp. Sing a new song of praise to him; play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy.
One Year Bible
Nehemiah 5:14-7:73a Psalm 33:1-11
1 Corinthians 8:1-13 Proverbs 21:8-10
Today’s Equipping
August 14
Truth
Are you setting your hope in things of this world or in the precious promises of God’s Word?
Key Verse
Psalm 33:20-22 (NLT) We put our hope in the LORD. He is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, for our hope is in you alone.
One Year Bible
Nehemiah 7:73b-9:21 Psalm 33:12-22
114
1 Corinthians 9:1-18 Proverbs 21:11-12
Today’s Equipping
August 15
Truth
In the midst of temptation, determine in your heart that you will remain faithful to God.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 10:13 (NLT) The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
One Year Bible
Nehemiah 9:22-10:39 Psalm 34:1-10
1 Corinthians 9:19-10:13 Proverbs 21:13
Today’s Equipping
August 16
Truth
Tell someone today what great things the Lord has done for you.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 10:31-33 (NLT) So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Don’t give offense to Jews or Gentiles or the church of God. I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don’t just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved.
One Year Bible
Nehemiah 11:1-12:26 Psalm 34:11-22
1 Corinthians 10:14-33 Proverbs 21:14-16
Today’s Equipping
115
August 17
Truth
We can thank God that He always gives His best when it is best for us.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 11:11-12 (NLT) But among the Lord’s people, women are not independent of men, and men are not independent of women. For although the first woman came from man, every other man was born from a woman, and everything comes from God.
One Year Bible
Nehemiah 12:27-13:31 Psalm 35:1-16
1 Corinthians 11:1-16 Proverbs 21:17-18
Today’s Equipping
August 18
Truth
It is one thing to serve God, but quite another thing to show compassion to those who are less fortunate than we.
Key Verse
Psalm 35:27 (NLT) But give great joy to those who came to my defense. Let them continually say, “Great is the LORD, who delights in blessing his servant with peace!”
One Year Bible
Esther 1:1-3:15 Psalm 35:17-28
116
1 Corinthians 11:17-34 Proverbs 21:19-20
Today’s Equipping
August 19
Truth
The unity of believers can be compared to a great orchestra of many instruments that produces beautiful harmony.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 12:12-13 (NLT) The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ. Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles, some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptized into one body by one Spirit, and we all share the same Spirit.
One Year Bible
Esther 4:1-7:10 Psalm 36:1-12
1 Corinthians 12:1-26 Proverbs 21:21-22
Today’s Equipping
August 20
Truth
Expressing the love of God is one of the Christian’s greatest privileges.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 13:13 (NLT) Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.
One Year Bible
Esther 8:1-10:3 Psalm 37:1-11
1 Corinthians 12:27-13:13 Proverbs 21:23-24
Today’s Equipping
117
August 21
Truth
God will always keep the promises of His Word.
Key Verse
Psalm 37:25-26 (NLT) Once I was young, and now I am old. Yet I have never seen the godly abandoned or their children begging for bread. The godly always give generous loans to others, and their children are a blessing.
One Year Bible
Job 1:1-3:26 Psalm 37:12-29
1 Corinthians14:1-17 Proverbs 21:25-26
Today’s Equipping
August 22
Truth
Spiritual strength is imparted as we remain faithful.
Key Verse
Psalm 37:30-31 (NLT) The godly offer good counsel; they teach right from wrong. They have made God’s law their own, so they will never slip from his path.
One Year Bible
Job 4:1-7:21 Psalm 37:30-40
118
1 Corinthians 14:18-40 Proverbs 21:27
Today’s Equipping
August 23
Truth
Christ, the Bread of Life, is the Sustainer of every believer.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 15:21 (NLT) So you see, just as death came into the world through a man, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man.
One Year Bible
Job 8:1-11:20 Psalm 38:1-22
1 Corinthians 15:1-28 Proverbs 21:28-29
Today’s Equipping
August 24
Truth
Christ, the Living Word, can transform your life.
Key Verse
1 Corinthians 15:54b-57 (NLT) Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
One Year Bible
Job 12:1-15:35 Psalm 39:1-13
1 Corinthians 15:29-58 Proverbs 21:30-31
Today’s Equipping
119
August 25
Truth
How slow we are to express gratefulness for the amazing love of our God.
Key Verse
Psalm 40:5 (NLT) O LORD my God, you have performed many wonders for us. Your plans for us are too numerous to list. You have no equal. If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds, I would never come to the end of them.
One Year Bible
Job 16:1-19:29 Psalm 40:1-10
1 Corinthians 16:1-24 Proverbs 22:1
Today’s Equipping
August 26
Truth
We receive the joy of the Lord as we share His love with others.
Key Verse
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NLT) All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
One Year Bible
Job 20:1-22:30 Psalm 40:11-17
120
2 Corinthians 1:1-11 Proverbs 22:2-4
Today’s Equipping
August 27
Truth
When we are weak in human strength, then we can rely on God’s all-sufficient strength.
Key Verse
2 Corinthians 1:21-22 (NLT) It is God who enables us, along with you, to stand firm for Christ. He has commissioned us, and he has identified us as his own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the first installment that guarantees everything he has promised us.
One Year Bible
Job 23:1-27:23 Psalm 41:1-13
2 Corinthians 1:12-2:11 Proverbs 22:5-6
Today’s Equipping
August 28
Truth
God desires not only that we serve Him, but that we do so in His way – and with willing hearts.
Key Verse
2 Corinthians 2:14 (NLT) But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ’s triumphal procession. Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume.
One Year Bible
Job 28:1-30:31 Psalm 42:1-11
2 Corinthians 2:12-17 Proverbs 22:7
Today’s Equipping
121
August 29
Truth
Decisions made without regard for God’s will can never receive His blessings.
Key Verse
Job 32:8-9 (NLT) But there is a spirit within people, the breath of the Almighty within them, that makes them intelligent. Sometimes the elders are not wise. Sometimes the aged do not understand justice.
One Year Bible
Job 31:1-33:33 Psalm 43:1-5
2 Corinthians 3:1-18 Proverbs 22:8-9
Today’s Equipping
August 30
Truth
Spiritual blindness is overcome only through the Light of the World.
Key Verse
2 Corinthians 4:7 (NLT) We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves.
One Year Bible
Job 34:1-36:33 Psalm 44:1-8
122
2 Corinthians 4:1-12 Proverbs 22:10-12
Today’s Equipping
August 31
Truth
Don’t let unexpected circumstances hinder your usefulness to Christ.
Key Verse
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (NLT) For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.
One Year Bible
Job 37:1-39:30 Psalm 44:9-26
2 Corinthians 4:13-5:10 Proverbs 22:13
Today’s Equipping
September 1
Truth
Christ came that we might have life and have it in abundance.
Key Verse
2 Corinthians 5:14 (NLT) Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life.
One Year Bible
Job 40:1-42-17 Psalm 45:1-17
2 Corinthians 5:11-21 Proverbs 22:14
Today’s Equipping
123
September 2
Truth
The peculiar mark of a Christian is inward peace, even when everything seems to be going wrong.
Key Verse
Psalm 46:1-2 (NLT) God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.
One Year Bible
Ecclesiastes 1:1-3:22 Psalm 46:1-11
2 Corinthians 6:1-13 Proverbs 22:15
Today’s Equipping
September 3
Truth
Some Christians have discovered too late the damages of being unequally yoked with unbelievers.
Key Verse
2 Corinthians 6:14 (NLT) Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness?
One Year Bible
Ecclesiastes 4:1-6:12 Psalm 47:1-9
124
2 Corinthians 6:14-7:7 Proverbs 22:16
Today’s Equipping
September 4
Truth
Trials have helped many people come to know God’s will for their lives.
Key Verse
2 Corinthians 7:10 (NLT) For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death.
One Year Bible
Ecclesiastes 7:1-9:18 Psalm 48:1-14
2 Corinthians 7:8-16 Proverbs 22:17-19
Today’s Equipping
September 5
Truth
We forfeit God’s best when we fail to keep His commandments.
Key Verse
Ecclesiastes 12:1 (NLT) Don’t let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and say, “Life is not pleasant anymore.”
One Year Bible
Ecclesiastes 10:1-12:14 Psalm 49:1-20
2 Corinthians 8:1-15 Proverbs 22:20-21
Today’s Equipping
125
September 6
Truth
God is all wise, all powerful, and ever present. How could it be otherwise?
Key Verse
Psalm 50:1-2 (NLT) The LORD, the Mighty One, is God, and he has spoken; he has summoned all humanity from where the sun rises to where it sets. From Mount Zion, the perfection of beauty, God shines in glorious radiance.
One Year Bible
Song of Solomon 1:1-4:16 Psalm 50:1-23
2 Corinthians 8:16-24 Proverbs 22:22-23
Today’s Equipping
September 7
Truth
Have you wandered away from God? Turn back to the Father. He is lovingly waiting to welcome you home.
Key Verse
Psalm 51:1-2 (NLT) Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin.
One Year Bible
Song of Solomon 5:1-8:14 Psalm 51:1-19
126
2 Corinthians 9:1-15 Proverbs 22: 24-25
Today’s Equipping
September 8
Truth
Only Jesus can forgive sin and restore us to fellowship with the Father.
Key Verse
Isaiah 1:18 (NLT) “Come now, let’s settle this,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool.”
One Year Bible
Isaiah 1:1-2:22 Psalm 52:1-9
2 Corinthians 10:1-18 Proverbs 22:26-27
Today’s Equipping
September 9
Truth
Sin often appears attractive, but the end results are very ugly.
Key Verse
2 Corinthians 11:14-15 (NLT) But I am not surprised! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no wonder that his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. In the end they will get the punishment their wicked deeds deserve.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 3:1-5:30 Psalm 53:1-6
2 Corinthians 11:1-15 Proverbs 22:28-29
Today’s Equipping
127
September 10
Truth
How foolish are those who question the Scriptures.
Key Verse
Isaiah 6:1 (NLT) It was in the year King Uzziah died that I saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 6:1-7:25 Psalm 54:1-7
2 Corinthians 11:16-33 Proverbs 23:1-3
Today’s Equipping
September 11
Truth
The wise men and the shepherds determined to see Jesus. It is vital to have a personal relationship with Jesus, the Christ, and worship Him.
Key Verse
Isaiah 9:6 (NLT) For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 8:1-9:21 Psalm 55:1-23
128
2 Corinthians 12:1-10 Proverbs 23:4-5
Today’s Equipping
September 12
Truth
Christ has planned that we be an expression of Himself.
Key Verse
Isaiah 11:6 (NLT) In that day the wolf and the lamb will live together; the leopard will lie down with the baby goat. The calf and the yearling will be safe with the lion, and a little child will lead them all.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 10:1-11:16 Psalm 56:1-13
2 Corinthians 12:11-21 Proverbs 23:6-8
Today’s Equipping
September 13
Truth
Since God’s love is upon all who trust Him, there is no need to fear.
Key Verse
Psalm 57:7-8 (NLT) My heart is confident in you, O God; my heart is confident. No wonder I can sing your praises! Wake up, my heart! Wake up, O lyre and harp! I will wake the dawn with my song.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 12:1-14:32 Psalm 57:1-11
2 Corinthians 13:1-14 Proverbs 23:9-11
Today’s Equipping
129
September 14
Truth
All that we are as Christians is because of God’s grace through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Key Verse
Galatians 1:3-5 (NLT) May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. Jesus gave his life for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from this evil world in which we live. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 15:1-18:7 Psalm 58:1-11
Galatians 1:1-24 Proverbs 23:12
Today’s Equipping
September 15
Truth
God’s written Word is accepted through the eyes of faith.
Key Verse
Galatians 2:15-16a (NLT) You and I are Jews by birth, not ‘sinners’ like the Gentiles. Yet we know that a person is made right with God by faith in Jesus Christ, not by obeying the law.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 19:1-21:17 Psalm 59:1-17
130
Galatians 2:1-16 Proverbs 23:13-14
Today’s Equipping
September 16
Truth
Love is God-given. Perfect love is imparted through the new life by Christ Jesus.
Key Verse
Galatians 2:20 (NLT) My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 22:1-24:23 Psalm 60:1-12
Galatians 2:17-3:9 Proverbs 23:15-16
Today’s Equipping
September 17
Truth
One who knows the truth, but does not live it, deceives himself.
Key Verse
Galatians 3:22 (NLT) But the Scriptures declare that we are all prisoners of sin, so we receive God’s promise of freedom only by believing in Jesus Christ.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 25:1-28:13 Psalm 61:1-8
Galatians 3:10-22 Proverbs 23:17-18
Today’s Equipping
131
September 18
Truth
Christ died for all people regardless of their nationality, importance, or insignificance.
Key Verse
Galatians 3:26-28 (NLT) For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 28:14-30:11 Psalm 62:1-12
Galatians 3:23-4:31 Proverbs 23:19-21
Today’s Equipping
September 19
Truth
We can depend on God to supply us with the answer that satisfies – Christ.
Key Verse
Galatians 5:5-6 (NLT) But we who live by the Spirit eagerly wait to receive by faith the righteousness God has promised to us. For when we place our faith in Christ Jesus, there is no benefit in being circumcised or being uncircumcised. What is important is faith expressing itself in love.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 30:12-33:9 Psalm 63:1-11
132
Galatians 5:1-12 Proverbs 23:22
Today’s Equipping
September 20
Truth
Be an expression of God’s love, peace, and joy even when you face opposition.
Key Verse
Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
One Year Bible
Isaiah 33:10-36:22 Psalm 64:1-10
Galatians 5:13-26 Proverbs 23:23
Today’s Equipping
September 21
Truth
A Christian should welcome every opportunity to help others.
Key Verse
Galatians 6:9-10 (NLT) So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 37:1-38:22 Psalm 65:1-13
Galatians 6:1-18 Proverbs 23:24
Today’s Equipping
133
September 22
Truth
A nation’s true success is dependent upon its faithfulness to God.
Key Verse
Isaiah 40:1-2 (NLT) “Comfort, comfort my people,” says your God. “Speak tenderly to Jerusalem. Tell her that her sad days are gone and her sins are pardoned. Yes, the LORD has punished her twice over for all her sins.”
One Year Bible
Isaiah 39:1-41:16 Psalm 66:1-20
Ephesians 1:1-23 Proverbs 23:25-28
Today’s Equipping
September 23
Truth
The more we recognize our unworthiness, the more we appreciate God’s mercy and loving-kindness.
Key Verse
Ephesians 2:8-9 (NLT) God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 41:17-43:13 Psalm 67:1-7
134
Ephesians 2:1-22 Proverbs 23:29-35
Today’s Equipping
September 24
Truth
A slothful person forfeits the privilege of being the person God wants him to be.
Key Verse
Ephesians 3:20-21 (NLT) Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 43:14-45:10 Psalm 68:1-18
Ephesians 3:1-21 Proverbs 24:1-2
Today’s Equipping
September 25
Truth
Much can be accomplished when Christians work together.
Key Verse
Ephesians 4:15-16 (NLT) Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 45:11-48:11 Psalm 68:19-35
Ephesians 4:1-16 Proverbs 24:3-4
Today’s Equipping
135
September 26
Truth
As we think on things which are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, we will not be as likely to think evil of others or to criticize them.
Key Verse
Ephesians 4:29 (NLT) Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 48:12-50:11 Psalm 69:1-18
Ephesians 4:17-32 Proverbs 24:5-6
Today’s Equipping
September 27
Truth
God reveals His ways through His Word.
Key Verse
Isaiah 53:5 (NLT) But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 51:1-53:12 Psalm 69:19-36
136
Ephesians 5:1-33 Proverbs 24:7
Today’s Equipping
September 28
Truth
Spiritual victory is not dependent on human strength or reasoning.
Key Verse
Ephesians 6:12 (NLT) For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 54:1-57:14 Psalm 70:1-5
Ephesians 6:1-24 Proverbs 24:8
Today’s Equipping
September 29
Truth
Have you presented your whole self to the Lord for His glory and service?
Key Verse
Philippians 1:20-21 (NLT) For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 57:15-59:21 Psalm 71:1-24
Philippians 1:1-26 Proverbs 24:9-10
Today’s Equipping
137
September 30
Truth
Self-seeking and sin break our communion with the Lord and keep us from receiving true peace, joy, and wisdom.
Key Verse
Philippians 2:3-4 (NLT) Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 60:1-62:5 Psalm 72:1-20
Philippians 1:27-2:18 Proverbs 24:11-12
Today’s Equipping
October 1
Truth
No one can experience true satisfaction until his desire to please God is greater than his desire to please self or anyone else.
Key Verse
Psalm 73:25-26 (NLT) Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 62:6-65:25 Psalm 73:1-28
138
Philippians 2:19-3:4 Proverbs 24:13-14
Today’s Equipping
October 2
Truth
If living for Christ is worth anything, it is worth everything.
Key Verse
Philippians 3:13-14 (NLT) No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
One Year Bible
Isaiah 66:1-24 Psalm 74:1-23
Philippians 3:5-21 Proverbs 24:15-16
Today’s Equipping
October 3
Truth
Always remain true to God and His Word, regardless of your circumstances.
Key Verse
Philippians 4:8 (NLT) And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 1:1-2:30 Psalm 75:1-10
Philippians 4:1-23 Proverbs 24:17-20
Today’s Equipping
139
October 4
Truth
It is a serious thing to know the truth about Jesus and turn from Him.
Key Verse
Colossians 1:13-14 (NLT) For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 2:31-4:18 Psalm 76:1-12
Colossians 1:1-17 Proverbs 24:21-22
Today’s Equipping
October 5
Truth
Your spiritual growth is dependent on the amount of time you spend with the Lord in reading His Word.
Key Verse
Colossians 2:6-7 (NLT) And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 4:19-6:15 Psalm 77:1-20
140
Colossians 1:18-2:7 Proverbs 24:23-25
Today’s Equipping
October 6
Truth
What excuse have we to fail when the Word of God reveals how we can be filled with the knowledge of His will?
Key Verse
Colossians 2:9-10 (NLT) For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 6:16-8:7 Psalm 78:1-31
Colossians 2:8-23 Proverbs 24:26
Today’s Equipping
October 7
Truth
Each day, let us do what we believe will please the Lord.
Key Verse
Colossians 3:17 (NLT) And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 8:8-9:26 Psalm 78:32-55
Colossians 3:1-17 Proverbs 24:27
Today’s Equipping
141
October 8
Truth
God will always supply His willing servants with the ability necessary to perform the work He has given them to do.
Key Verse
Colossians 3:23-24 (NLT) Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 10:1-11:23 Psalm 78:56-72
Colossians 3:18-14:18 Proverbs 24:28-29
Today’s Equipping
October 9
Truth
The consequences of sin are always more than we expect.
Key Verse
Psalm 79:9 (NLT) Help us, O God of our salvation! Help us for the glory of your name. Save us and forgive our sins for the honor of your name.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 12:1-14:10 Psalm 79:1-13
142
1 Thessalonians 1:1-2:8 Proverbs 24:30-34
Today’s Equipping
October 10
Truth
Our love for God is in direct proportion to our love for others.
Key Verse
1 Thessalonians 3:12 (NLT) And may the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 14:11-16:15 Psalm 80:1-19
1 Thessalonians 2:9-3:13 Proverbs 25:1-5
Today’s Equipping
October 11
Truth
Just as Christ was raised from death, those who sleep in death will also be raised.
Key Verse
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 (NLT) And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 16:16-18:23 Psalm 81:1-16
1 Thessalonians 4:1-5:3 Proverbs 25:6-8
Today’s Equipping
143
October 12
Truth
For the Christian, death is but a stepping stone to everlasting life.
Key Verse
1 Thessalonians 5:9-10 (NLT) For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 19:1-21:14 Psalm 82:1-8
1 Thessalonians 5:4-28 Proverbs 25:9-10
Today’s Equipping
October 13
Truth
Each child of God is uniquely gifted with abilities to serve and glorify Him in a way no one else can.
Key Verse
2 Thessalonians 1:11 (NLT) So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 22:1-23:20 Psalm 83:1-18
144
2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 Proverbs 25:11-14
Today’s Equipping
October 14
Truth
Fellowship with Christ brings a fullness of life that overflows with blessings for others.
Key Verse
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (NLT) Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope, comfort you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 23:21-25:38 Psalm 84:1-12
2 Thessalonians 2:1-17 Proverbs 25:15
Today’s Equipping
October 15
Truth
Make the most of each opportunity to bring glory to the Lord.
Key Verse
Psalm 85:10-11 (NLT) Unfailing love and truth have met together. Righteousness and peace have kissed! Truth springs up from the earth and righteousness smiles down from heaven.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 26:1-27:22 Psalm 85:1-13
2 Thessalonians 3:1-18 Proverbs 25:16
Today’s Equipping
145
October 16
Truth
The love of Christ is rewarded through us to the extent of our gratitude for His forgiveness and compassion to us.
Key Verse
Psalm 86:5-7 (NLT) O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help. Listen closely to my prayer, O LORD; hear my urgent cry. I will call to you whenever I’m in trouble, and you will answer me.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 28:1-29:32 Psalm 86:1-17
1 Timothy 1:1-20 Proverbs 25:17
Today’s Equipping
October 17
Truth
Your boldness to speak out for Christ helps others escape the deceptions of secular influence.
Key Verse
1 Timothy 2:5-6 (NLT) For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 30:1-31:26 Psalm 87:1-7
146
1 Timothy 2:1-15 Proverbs 25:18-19
Today’s Equipping
October 18
Truth
Remember that God never forsakes His children.
Key Verse
Jeremiah 31:33 (NLT) “But this is the new covenant I will make with the people of Israel on that day,” says the LORD. “I will put my instructions deep within them, and I will write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.”
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 31:27-32:44 Psalm 88:1-18
1 Timothy 3:1-16 Proverbs 25:20-22
Today’s Equipping
October 19
Truth
God does not show favoritism. He treats everyone the same.
Key Verse
1 Timothy 4:12 (NLT) Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 33:1-34:22 Psalm 89:1-13
1 Timothy 4:1-16 Proverbs 25:23-24
Today’s Equipping
147
October 20
Truth
Let us live each day in the reality that our lives are influencing others, whether it be for good or for bad.
Key Verse
1 Timothy 5:24-25 (NLT) Remember, the sins of some people are obvious, leading them to certain judgment. But there are others whose sins will not be revealed until later. In the same way, the good deeds of some people are obvious. And the good deeds done in secret will someday come to light.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 35:1-36:32 Psalm 89:14-37
1 Timothy 5:1-25 Proverbs 25:25-27
Today’s Equipping
October 21
Truth
We have no need to grasp after material things; God still sustains His people.
Key Verse
1 Timothy 6:6-8 (NLT) Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 37:1-38:28 Psalm 89:38-52
148
1 Timothy 6:1-21 Proverbs 25:28
Today’s Equipping
October 22
Truth
God’s grace can enable us to go through affliction in a way that will bring glory to Him.
Key Verse
2 Timothy 1:12 (NLT) That is why I am suffering here in prison. But I am not ashamed of it, for I know the one in whom I trust, and I am sure that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until the day of his return.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 39:1-41:18 Psalm 90:1-91:16
2 Timothy 1:1-18 Proverbs 26:1-2
Today’s Equipping
October 23
Truth
The Christian’s greatest desire should be to allow Christ to control our actions in this life every moment of every day.
Key Verse
2 Timothy 2:15 (NLT) Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 42:1-44:23 Psalm 92:1-93:5
2 Timothy 2:1-21 Proverbs 26:3-5
Today’s Equipping
149
October 24
Truth
God’s Word is our only trustworthy guide.
Key Verse
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT) All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 44:24-47:7 Psalm 94:1-23
2 Timothy 2:22-3:17 Proverbs 26:6-8
Today’s Equipping
October 25
Truth
Every Christian can be a helper in ministering the Word of God to others.
Key Verse
2 Timothy 4:2 (NLT) Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 48:1-49:22 Psalm 95:1-96:13
150
2 Timothy 4:1-22 Proverbs 26:9-12
Today’s Equipping
October 26
Truth
Our righteousness is Christ in us – “The Lord our Righteousness.”
Key Verse
Psalm 98:2 (NLT) The LORD has announced his victory and has revealed his righteousness to every nation!
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 49:23-50:46 Psalm 97:1-98:9
Titus 1:1-16 Proverbs 26:13-16
Today’s Equipping
October 27
Truth
Express praise to God – regardless of your circumstances. Your response may be God’s means of leading another to know Him.
Key Verse
Psalm 99:4-5 (NLT) Mighty King, lover of justice, you have established fairness. You have acted with justice and righteousness throughout Israel. Exalt the LORD our God! Bow low before his feet, for he is holy!
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 51:1-53 Psalm 99:1-9
Titus 2:1-15 Proverbs 26:17
Today’s Equipping
151
October 28
Truth
Praise to the Lord comes from a heart that is experiencing His power in daily living.
Key Verse
Psalm 100:4-5 (NLT) Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
One Year Bible
Jeremiah 51:54-52:34 Psalm 100:1-5
Titus 3:1-15 Proverbs 26:18-19
Today’s Equipping
October 29
Truth
Prayerfully weigh each decision in the light of God’s Word so your conversation, conduct, and daily walk fully honor the Lord.
Key Verse
Psalm 101:1-2 (NLT) I will sing of your love and justice, LORD. I will praise you with songs. I will be careful to live a blameless life— when will you come to help me? I will lead a life of integrity in my own home.
One Year Bible
Lamentations 1:1-2:22 Psalm 101:1-8
152
Philemon 1:1-25 Proverbs 26:20
Today’s Equipping
October 30
Truth
Christ is mankind’s only hope of eternal life.
Key Verse
Hebrews 1:3 (NLT) The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command. When he had cleansed us from our sins, he sat down in the place of honor at the right hand of the majestic God in heaven.
One Year Bible
Lamentations 3:1-66 Psalm 102:1-28
Hebrews 1:1-14 Proverbs 26:21-22
Today’s Equipping
October 31
Truth
Because of Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross, each of us has the privilege of being in His presence through prayer and hearing Him speak to us as we read His Word.
Key Verse
Hebrews 2:9 (NLT) What we do see is Jesus, who was given a position “a little lower than the angels”; and because he suffered death for us, he is now “crowned with glory and honor.” Yes, by God’s grace, Jesus tasted death for everyone.
One Year Bible
Lamentations 4:1-5:22 Psalm 103:1-22
Hebrews 2:1-18 Proverbs 26:23
Today’s Equipping
153
November 1
Truth
Faith is like a muscle – it grows with exercise, gaining strength over time.
Key Verse
Hebrews 3:12-13 (NLT) Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God. You must warn each other every day, while it is still “today,” so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 1:1-3:15 Psalm 104:1-23
Hebrews 3:1-19 Proverbs 26:24-26
Today’s Equipping
November 2
Truth
God’s Word is the only reliable “plumb line” for our lives as it reveals God’s viewpoint to us.
Key Verse
Hebrews 4:12 (NLT) For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 3:16-6:14 Psalm 104:24-35
154
Hebrews 4:1-16 Proverbs 26:27
Today’s Equipping
November 3
Truth
We must determine whether we will let Christ, the Prince of Peace, rule our hearts, or insist on having things our way thus suffering the consequences of frustration and despair.
Key Verse
Hebrews 5:8-9 (NLT) Even though Jesus was God’s Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered. In this way, God qualified him as a perfect High Priest, and he became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey him.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 7:1-9:11 Psalm 105:1-15
Hebrews 5:1-14 Proverbs 26:28
Today’s Equipping
November 4
Truth
In giving to others, we give to God and put into service what already belongs to Him.
Key Verse
Hebrews 6:10 (NLT) For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 10:1-11:25 Psalm 105:16-36
Hebrews 6:1-20 Proverbs 27:1-2
Today’s Equipping
155
November 5
Truth
An abundance of living water is available to all who “hunger and thirst after righteousness.”
Key Verse
Psalm 105:39-41 (NLT) The LORD spread a cloud above them as a covering and gave them a great fire to light the darkness. They asked for meat, and he sent them quail; he satisfied their hunger with manna— bread from heaven. He split open a rock, and water gushed out to form a river through the dry wasteland.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 12:1-14:11 Psalm 105:37-45
Hebrews 7:1-17 Proverbs 27:3
Today’s Equipping
November 6
Truth
Jesus’ death on the cross brought victory over the power of sin so that we might have forgiveness of sin and enjoy eternal life.
Key Verse
Hebrews 7:28 (NLT) The law appointed high priests who were limited by human weakness. But after the law was given, God appointed his Son with an oath, and his Son has been made the perfect High Priest forever.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 14:12-16:41 Psalm 106:1-12
156
Hebrews 7:18-28 Proverbs 27:4-6
Today’s Equipping
November 7
Truth
No one can defeat God’s purposes. The wicked are successful only until God’s purposes have been fulfilled.
Key Verse
Ezekiel 17:24 (NLT) And all the trees will know that it is I, the LORD, who cuts the tall tree down and makes the short tree grow tall. It is I who makes the green tree wither and gives the dead tree new life. I, the LORD, have spoken, and I will do what I said!
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 16:42-17:24 Psalm 106:13-31
Hebrews 8:1-13 Proverbs 27:7-9
Today’s Equipping
November 8
Truth
The most honored of God’s servants fail when they fail to pray.
Key Verse
Ezekiel 18:31-32 (NLT) “Put all your rebellion behind you, and find yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. For why should you die, O people of Israel? I don’t want you to die,” says the Sovereign LORD. “Turn back and live!”
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 18:1-19:14 Psalm 106:32-48
Hebrews 9:1-10 Proverbs 27:10
Today’s Equipping
157
November 9
Truth
The mind cannot imagine all the wonders prepared for those who accept Christ as Lord and Savior.
Key Verse
Hebrews 9:27-28 (NLT) And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ died once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 20:1-49 Psalm 107:1-43
Hebrews 9:11-28 Proverbs 27:11
Today’s Equipping
November 10
Truth
Christ is the great victor who lives in our hearts and we must be willingly cooperative with Him.
Key Verse
Hebrews 10:12 (NLT) But our High Priest offered himself to God as a single sacrifice for sins, good for all time. Then he sat down in the place of honor at God’s right hand.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 21:1-22:31 Psalm 108:1-13
158
Hebrews 10:1-17 Proverbs 27:12
Today’s Equipping
November 11
Truth
God never asks us to do anything that He doesn’t supply the strength to accomplish.
Key Verse
Hebrews 10:23-24 (NLT) Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 23:1-49 Psalm 109:1-31
Hebrews 10:18-39 Proverbs 27:13
Today’s Equipping
November 12
Truth
Faith is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us even though we cannot see it.
Key Verse
Hebrews 11:1 (NLT) Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 24:1-26:21 Psalm 110:1-7
Hebrews 11:1-16 Proverbs 27:14
Today’s Equipping
159
November 13
Truth
Are you living in the power of the resurrected Christ?
Key Verse
Psalm 111:2-3 (NLT) How amazing are the deeds of the LORD! All who delight in him should ponder them. Everything he does reveals his glory and majesty. His righteousness never fails.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 27:1-28:26 Psalm 111:1-10
Hebrews 11:17-31 Proverbs 27:15-16
Today’s Equipping
November 14
Truth
True success depends on living in accordance with God’s Word, not on our well-laid plans.
Key Verse
Hebrews 12:1 (NLT) Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 29:1-30:26 Psalm 112:1-10
160
Hebrews 11:32-12:13 Proverbs 27:17
Today’s Equipping
November 15
Truth
Acceptable praise is not primarily praising Him for what He gives us; but for who He is.
Key Verse
Psalm 113:3-4 (NLT) Everywhere—from east to west— praise the name of the LORD. For the LORD is high above the nations; his glory is higher than the heavens.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 31:1-32:32 Psalm 113:1-114:8
Hebrews 12:14-29 Proverbs 27:18-20
Today’s Equipping
November 16
Truth
Praise is the detergent which purifies faith and purges doubt from the heart.
Key Verse
Hebrews 13:15-16 (NLT) Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 33:1-34:31 Psalm 115:1-18
Hebrews 13:1-25 Proverbs 27:21-22
Today’s Equipping
161
November 17
Truth
All of our circumstances are allowed by the Lord for our good.
Key Verse
James 1:12 (NLT) God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 35:1-36:38 Psalm 116:1-19
James 1:1-18 Proverbs 27:23-27
Today’s Equipping
November 18
Truth
Prayerfully weigh each decision in the light of God’s Word so your conversation, conduct, and daily walk fully honor the Lord.
Key Verse
James 1:27 (NLT) Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 37:1-38:23 Psalm 117:1-2
162
James 1:19-2:17 Proverbs 28:1
Today’s Equipping
November 19
Truth
It’s how much of God’s Word that controls our hearts that really matters, not how much of it we know.
Key Verse
James 3:17 (NLT) But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 39:1-40:27 Psalm 118:1-18
James 2:18-3:18 Proverbs 28:2
Today’s Equipping
November 20
Truth
Victory over satan has been won by our Lord, who died for our sins.
Key Verse
James 4:7-8 (NLT) So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 40:28-41:26 Psalm 118:19-29
James 4:1-17 Proverbs 28:3-5
Today’s Equipping
163
November 21
Truth
Our fruitfulness for the Lord is dependent upon how much His Word controls our lives.
Key Verse
Psalm 119:10-11 (NLT) I have tried hard to find you— don’t let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 42:1-43:27 Psalm 119:1-16
James 5:1-20 Proverbs 28:6-7
Today’s Equipping
November 22
Truth
The power of victorious Christian living is experienced through prayer and hearing what God has to say as we read His Word.
Key Verse
Psalm 119:31-32 (NLT) I have chosen to be faithful; I have determined to live by your regulations. I cling to your laws. LORD, don’t let me be put to shame! I will pursue your commands, for you expand my understanding.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 44:1-45:12 Psalm 119:17-32
164
1 Peter 1:1-12 Proverbs 28:8-10
Today’s Equipping
November 23
Truth
If the world cannot see a difference between the life of a Christian and that of an unbeliever; then the Christian is not serving the Lord effectively.
Key Verse
1 Peter 2:9 (NLT) But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 45:13-46:24 Psalm 119:33-48
1 Peter 1:13-2:10 Proverbs 28:11
Today’s Equipping
November 24
Truth
True success in life comes from humbly knowing and obeying God’s Word; not in seeking popularity or praise of others.
Key Verse
Psalm 119:54-56 (NLT) Your decrees have been the theme of my songs wherever I have lived. I reflect at night on who you are, O LORD; therefore, I obey your instructions. This is how I spend my life: obeying your commandments.
One Year Bible
Ezekiel 47:1-48:35 Psalm 119:49-64
1 Peter 2:11-3:7 Proverbs 28:12-13
Today’s Equipping
165
November 25
Truth
Our daily prayer should be “Heavenly Father, glorify your name through me today.”
Key Verse
1 Peter 3:15 (NLT) Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it.
One Year Bible
Daniel 1:1-2:23 Psalm 119:65-80
1 Peter 3:8-4:6 Proverbs 28:14
Today’s Equipping
November 26
Truth
Satan can’t do anything to you apart from fear; anymore than God can do for you apart from faith.
Key Verse
1 Peter 5:6-7 (NLT) So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
One Year Bible
Daniel 2:24-3:30 Psalm 119:81-96
166
1 Peter 4:7-5:14 Proverbs 28:15-16
Today’s Equipping
November 27
Truth
The Holy Spirit, through the Word of God, empowers the believer to do the will of God.
Key Verse
2 Peter 1:20-21 (NLT) Above all, you must realize that no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet’s own understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God.
One Year Bible
Daniel 4:1-37 Psalm 119:97-112
2 Peter 1:1-21 Proverbs 28:17-18
Today’s Equipping
November 28
Truth
The answers to our prayers are sometimes postponed until we lose confidence in self-effort.
Key Verse
Psalm 119:123-124 (NLT) My eyes strain to see your rescue, to see the truth of your promise fulfilled. I am your servant; deal with me in unfailing love, and teach me your decrees.
One Year Bible
Daniel 5:1-31 Psalm 119:113-128
2 Peter 2:1-22 Proverbs 28:19-20
Today’s Equipping
167
November 29
Truth
God always knows the best time to answer prayers.
Key Verse
2 Peter 3:9 (NLT) The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.
One Year Bible
Daniel 6:1-28 Psalm 119:129-152
2 Peter 3:1-18 Proverbs 28:21-22
Today’s Equipping
November 30
Truth
Has your attitude today been a reflection of God’s love toward you?
Key Verse
1 John 1:7 (NLT) But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
One Year Bible
Daniel 7:1-28 Psalm 119:153-176
168
1 John 1:1-10 Proverbs 28:23-24
Today’s Equipping
December 1
Truth
To obey the Lord Jesus Christ should be the primary desire of our hearts.
Key Verse
1 John 2:5-6 (NLT) But those who obey God’s word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him. Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.
One Year Bible
Daniel 8:1-27 Psalm 120:1-7
1 John 2:1-17 Proverbs 28:25-26
Today’s Equipping
December 2
Truth
God loves me so much He can’t keep His eyes off me!
Key Verse
1 John 3:1 (NLT) See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know him.
One Year Bible
Daniel 9:1-11:1 Psalm 121:1-8
1 John 2:18-3:6 Proverbs 28:27-28
Today’s Equipping
169
December 3
Truth
Every Christian has a responsibility to participate in the work of God.
Key Verse
1 John 3:16 (NLT) We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters.
One Year Bible
Daniel 11:2-35 Psalm 122:1-9
1 John 3:7-24 Proverbs 29:1
Today’s Equipping
December 4
Truth
Are you allowing Christ to truly be Lord in your life?
Key Verse
1 John 4:10-11 (NLT) This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other.
One Year Bible
Daniel 11:36-12:13 Psalm 123:1-4
170
1 John 4:1-21 Proverbs 29:2-4
Today’s Equipping
December 5
Truth
There is a great gulf separating those who have rejected God and those who are living to please Him.
Key Verse
1 John 5:11-12 (NLT) And this is what God has testified: He has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God’s Son does not have life.
One Year Bible
Hosea 1:1-3:5 Psalm 124:1-8
1 John 5:1-21 Proverbs 29:5-8
Today’s Equipping
December 6
Truth
How sweet will be the heavenly song when all the enemies of the soul are forever defeated!
Key Verse
Psalm 125:1-2 (NLT) Those who trust in the LORD are as secure as Mount Zion; they will not be defeated but will endure forever. Just as the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people, both now and forever.
One Year Bible
Hosea 4:1-5:15 Psalm 125:1-5
2 John 1:1-13 Proverbs 29:9-11
Today’s Equipping
171
December 7
Truth
It is not necessary to understand God’s reason for our trials; but it is of utmost importance that we remain faithful to Him.
Key Verse
Psalm 126:4-6 (NLT) Restore our fortunes, LORD, as streams renew the desert. Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.
One Year Bible
Hosea 6:1-9:17 Psalm 126:1-6
3 John 1:1-15 Proverbs 29:12-14
Today’s Equipping
December 8
Truth
Every person has an influence on others; either to encourage and bless or to hinder.
Key Verse
Jude 1:20-21 (NLT) But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God’s love.
One Year Bible
Hosea 10:1-14:9 Psalm 127:1-5
172
Jude 1:1-25 Proverbs 29:15-17
Today’s Equipping
December 9
Truth
We can depend upon God’s prophecies; they cannot fail.
Key Verse
Joel 2:28-29 (NLT) Then, after doing all those things, I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams and your young men will see visions. In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on servants—men and women alike.
One Year Bible
Joel 1:1-3:21 Psalm 128:1-6
Revelation 1:1-20 Proverbs 29:18
Today’s Equipping
December 10
Truth
God’s spirit can perfect His strength in anyone, great or small, who is willing to be used by Him.
Key Verse
Revelation 2:10 (NLT) Don’t be afraid of what you are about to suffer. The devil will throw some of you into prison to test you. You will suffer for ten days. But if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life.
One Year Bible
Amos 1:1-3:15 Psalm 129:1-8
Revelation 2:1-17 Proverbs 29:19-20
Today’s Equipping
173
December 11
Truth
Christ intercedes for all in his house who come to the Father through Him.
Key Verse
Revelation 3:5 (NLT) All who are victorious will be clothed in white. I will never erase their names from the Book of Life, but I will announce before my Father and his angels that they are mine.
One Year Bible
Amos 4:1-6:14 Psalm 130:1-8
Revelation 2:18-3:6 Proverbs 29:21-22
Today’s Equipping
December 12
Truth
You can trust God’s promises; He always honors His Word.
Key Verse
Amos 9:13-14 (NLT) “The time will come,” says the LORD, “when the grain and grapes will grow faster than they can be harvested. Then the terraced vineyards on the hills of Israel will drip with sweet wine! I will bring my exiled people of Israel back from distant lands, and they will rebuild their ruined cities and live in them again. They will plant vineyards and gardens; they will eat their crops and drink their wine.”
One Year Bible
Amos 7:1-9:15 Psalm 131:1-3
174
Revelation 3:7-22 Proverbs 29:23
Today’s Equipping
December 13
Truth
Daily praise to God should be the natural response of every Christian.
Key Verse
Revelation 4:11 (NLT) You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.
One Year Bible
Obadiah 1:1-21 Psalm 132:1-18
Revelation 4:1-11 Proverbs 29:24-25
Today’s Equipping
December 14
Truth
We can praise God, the victory is His.
Key Verse
Revelation 5:12 (NLT) And they sang in a mighty chorus: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered— to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.”
One Year Bible
Jonah 1:1-4:11 Psalm 133:1-3
Revelation 5:1-14 Proverbs 29:26-27
Today’s Equipping
175
December 15
Truth
The peace of God can rule our hearts, regardless of outward circumstances.
Key Verse
Micah 4:3 (NLT) The LORD will mediate between peoples and will settle disputes between strong nations far away. They will hammer their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer fight against nation, nor train for war anymore.
One Year Bible
Micah 1:1-4:13 Psalm 134:1-3
Revelation 6:1-17 Proverbs 30:1-4
Today’s Equipping
December 16
Truth
True success in life comes from humbly knowing and obeying God’s Word; not in seeking popularity or praise of others.
Key Verse
Micah 6:8 (NLT) No, O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.
One Year Bible
Micah 5:1-7:20 Psalm 135:1-21
176
Revelation 7:1-17 Proverbs 30:5-6
Today’s Equipping
December 17
Truth
God is full of compassion toward all who repent and turn to Him.
Key Verse
Nahum 1:3 (NLT) The LORD is slow to get angry, but his power is great, and he never lets the guilty go unpunished. He displays his power in the whirlwind and the storm. The billowing clouds are the dust beneath his feet.
One Year Bible
Nahum 1:1-3:19 Psalm 136:1-26
Revelation 8:1-13 Proverbs 30:7-9
Today’s Equipping
December 18
Truth
God’s mercy always goes beyond man’s ability to see His great plan.
Key Verse
Habakkuk 3:2 (NLT) I have heard all about you, LORD. I am filled with awe by your amazing works. In this time of our deep need, help us again as you did in years gone by. And in your anger, remember your mercy.
One Year Bible
Habakkuk 1:1-3:19 Psalm 137:1-9
Revelation 9:1-21 Proverbs 30:10
Today’s Equipping
177
December 19
Truth
Pride blinds the mind to the will of God.
Key Verse
Psalm 138:6 (NLT) Though the LORD is great, he cares for the humble, but he keeps his distance from the proud.
One Year Bible
Zephaniah 1:1-3:20 Psalm 138:1-8
Revelation 10:1-11 Proverbs 30:11-14
Today’s Equipping
December 20
Truth
The King of Kings will soon return!
Key Verse
Revelation 11:15 (NLT) Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices shouting in heaven: The world has now become the Kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever.
One Year Bible
Haggai 1:1-2:23 Psalm 139:1-24
178
Revelation 11:1-19 Proverbs 30:15-16
Today’s Equipping
December 21
Truth
Our Lord’s wells of life-giving water are overflowing and inexhaustible.
Key Verse
Psalm 140:12-13 (NLT) But I know the LORD will help those they persecute; he will give justice to the poor. Surely righteous people are praising your name; the godly will live in your presence.
One Year Bible
Zechariah 1:1-21 Psalm 140:1-13
Revelation 12:1-17 Proverbs 30:17
Today’s Equipping
December 22
Truth
At this moment, pray for someone you know who seems discouraged.
Key Verse
Psalm 141:1-2 (NLT) O LORD, I am calling to you. Please hurry! Listen when I cry to you for help! Accept my prayer as incense offered to you, and my upraised hands as an evening offering.
One Year Bible
Zechariah 2:1-3:10 Psalm 141:1-10
Revelation 12:18-13:18 Proverbs 30:18-20
Today’s Equipping
179
December 23
Truth
Are you allowing Christ to truly be Lord in your life?
Key Verse
Psalm 142:5-6 (NLT) Then I pray to you, O LORD. I say, “You are my place of refuge. You are all I really want in life. Hear my cry, for I am very low. Rescue me from my persecutors, for they are too strong for me.”
One Year Bible
Zechariah 4:1-5:11 Psalm 142:1-7
Revelation 14:1-20 Proverbs 30:21-23
Today’s Equipping
December 24
Truth
Jesus willingly died for you; are you willing to live for Him?
Key Verse
Zechariah 7:9-10 (NLT) This is what the LORD of Heaven’s Armies says: Judge fairly, and show mercy and kindness to one another. Do not oppress widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor. And do not scheme against each other.
One Year Bible
Zechariah 6:1-7:14 Psalm 143:1-12
180
Revelation 15:1-8 Proverbs 30:24-28
Today’s Equipping
December 25
Truth
We can welcome the difficulties in our lives as opportunities for the Lord’s power to be manifested.
Key Verse
Psalm 144:1-2 (NLT) Praise the LORD, who is my rock. He trains my hands for war and gives my fingers skill for battle. He is my loving ally and my fortress, my tower of safety, my rescuer. He is my shield, and I take refuge in him. He makes the nations submit to me.
One Year Bible
Zechariah 8:1-23 Psalm 144:1-15
Revelation 16:1-21 Proverbs 30:29-31
Today’s Equipping
December 26
Truth
Afflictions become blessings when they cause us to turn to Him.
Key Verse
Psalm 145:13b-14 (NLT) The LORD always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does. The LORD helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads.
One Year Bible
Zechariah 9:1-17 Psalm 145:1-21
Revelation 17:1-18 Proverbs 30:32
Today’s Equipping
181
December 27
Truth
Christ is able to heal the broken-hearted anytime – anywhere.
Key Verse
Psalm 146:9 (NLT) The LORD protects the foreigners among us. He cares for the orphans and widows, but he frustrates the plans of the wicked.
One Year Bible
Zechariah 10:1-11:17 Psalm 146:1-10
Revelation 18:1-24 Proverbs 30:33
Today’s Equipping
December 28
Truth
The beauty of the Christian is the presence of God who dwells within and radiates without.
Key Verse
Revelation 19:7 (NLT) Let us be glad and rejoice, and let us give honor to him. For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself.
One Year Bible
Zechariah 12:1-13:9 Psalm 147:1-20
182
Revelation 19:1-21 Proverbs 31:1-7
Today’s Equipping
December 29
Truth
Don’t wait until the difficulty is over to praise the Lord.
Key Verse
Psalm 148:1-2 (NLT) Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD from the heavens! Praise him from the skies! Praise him, all his angels! Praise him, all the armies of heaven!
One Year Bible
Zechariah 14:1-21 Psalm 148:1-14
Revelation 20:1-15 Proverbs 31:8-9
Today’s Equipping
December 30
Truth
Let us live as if we were to meet the Lord today.
Key Verse
Revelation 21:6-7 (NLT) And he also said, “It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life. All who are victorious will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children.”
One Year Bible
Malachi 1:1-2:17 Psalm 149:1-9
Revelation 21:1-27 Proverbs 31:10-24
Today’s Equipping
183
December 31
Truth
God created man with a heart so unique that nothing less than fellowship with God can really satisfy him.
Key Verse
Revelation 22:17 (NLT) The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Let anyone who hears this say, “Come.” Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life.
One Year Bible
Malachi 3:1-4:6 Psalm 150:1-6
184
Revelation 22:1-21 Proverbs 31:25-31
Today’s Equipping
Tom Thornton’s Truths Index At times on your journey, you often find that just a nugget of truth can make all the difference. In the following pages, you will find Tom’s Truths indexed into categories such as faith, trust, and eternity; also the date referenced is the day the truth was given as the daily thought. It is our prayer that these nuggets of truth, combined with the Word of God, will deepen your walk with Him.
185
Contents Character of God Eternity Faith Intimacy with God Obedience Power Praise Prayer Righteous Living Salvation Service Sin Trials Trust Victory Will of God Word of God
186
Character of God
187
All that we are as Christians is because of God’s grace through our Lord Jesus Christ. 3/9, 9/14 Be an expression of God’s love, peace, and joy even when you face opposition. 9/20
God never forsakes one of His children.
1/29
God no longer lives in a tabernacle; He dwells within the heart of every believer. 5/28
God’s love never changes. Every good thing, as well as every chastisement, comes from His hand of love. 2/17
188
God’s mercy always goes beyond man’s ability to see His great plan. 12/18
Nothing is too hard for God! 1/26 Our Lord’s love to us is inexhaustible. 1/15, 7/24
Our righteousness is Christ in us – “The Lord our Righteousness.” 10/26 The more we recognize our unworthiness, the more we appreciate God’s mercy and loving-kindness. 2/11, 9/23
The promises of God give assurance that He is our all-sufficient Guardian. 6/9 The vastness of the universe reveals God’s unlimited resources and matchless wisdom. 5/14, 7/10 God is full of compassion toward all who repent and turn to Him. 12/17
When all else fails, we are aware of the everlasting arms of our heavenly Father. 1/16 The love of Christ is rewarded through us to the extent of our gratitude for His forgiveness and compassion to us. 10/16
189
Expressing the love of God is one of the Christian’s greatest privileges. 1/6, 8/20
Our Lord will supply all our needs. 1/28
Are you allowing Christ to truly be Lord in your life? 12/4
Only Christ – the Living Water – can satisfy the longings of the human soul. 5/11 Remember that God never forsakes His children. 10/18
We can trust our lives to the protective care of our Almighty God. 2/12 , 6/5 190
God will always keep the promises of His Word. 8/21
God does not show favoritism. He treats everyone the same. 10/19
As we think on things which are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, we will not be as likely to think evil of others or to criticize them. 9/26
When you make a promise, God expects you to keep your word. 6/28 191
Eternity
192
A Christian can lay up treasures in Heaven which no earthly power can destroy. 1/20 Be diligent and ever prepared for Christ’s return. 8/4
Christians who do God’s will, can expect to receive eternal rewards. 1/10, 4/9
I want to live this life like wearing an old coat; ready to shed it any time. 2/22, 7/30 If living for Christ is worth anything, it is worth everything. 10/2 If the Lord were to come today, would you rejoice to see Him face to face? 3/10 193
All who reject God’s Word will one day be judged by the very Word they have rejected. 4/20 Because Christ died and rose again, we can live for all eternity with Him. What precious assurance! 4/29
For the Christian, death is but a stepping stone to everlasting life. 10/12 In all our circumstances, we should remember that God is preparing His own (you and me) for the promised inheritance. 3/27 Don’t be deceived by trusting in anything or anyone but the Lord Jesus Christ for your eternal salvation. 5/21 194
If you were to die tonight, would you be prepared to meet the King? 4/8 Let us live as if we were to meet the Lord today. 12/30 The eternal destiny of every person’s rest is in his acceptance or rejection of Jesus Christ. 5/4
The King of Kings will soon return! 12/20
Everything that we do that has eternal value is the result of Christ who lives in us. 4/12
The rewards for both good and evil are everlasting. 5/8 Christ is the pathway to life; all else leads to eternal death. 3/7
195
Faith
196
Faith is our response to God’s ability. 7/18 Faith is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us even though we cannot see it. 11/12
God sometimes calls on us to part with something especially near and dear to us to test the genuineness of our faith. 1/4
Have you placed your faith in Christ, our living Redeemer? 7/17
It is our faith in God – not our strength or wisdom – that leads to victory. 3/1 Our faith is like a muscle – it grows with exercise, gaining strength over time. 6/29, 11/1 Our faith is strengthened as we obey God’s Word – the source of faith. 7/27 197
Spiritual strength is imparted as we remain faithful. 8/22 God’s written Word is accepted through the eyes of faith. 9/15 We can depend upon God’s prophecies; they cannot fail. 12/9
To enjoy God’s blessings and protection, we must remain faithful to Him. 2/4 The Lord knows those who trust in Him and will bless them accordingly. 8/3 198
198
Our faithfulness to God must never be compromised, regardless of the situation we may face. 1/19 Our relationship with God can grow dearer as we trust Him during times of trials, suffering, and problems. 6/13
Relying on God always brings greater blessings than depending on human wisdom. 4/3
Satan can’t do anything to you apart from fear; anymore than God can do for you apart from faith. 11/26 Unbelief bars access to God’s promises. 2/27
We can depend on God to supply us with the answer that satisfies – Christ. 9/19
199
Intimacy With God
200
An abundance of living water is available to all who “hunger and thirst after righteousness.” 11/5 God carefully takes note of every thought and intent of the heart. 7/9
God created man with a heart so unique that nothing less than fellowship with God can really satisfy him. 6/26, 12/31 Oh, how much we need to become more aware of the ministry of the Holy Spirit. 7/23
The most insignificant person is not insignificant in the eyes of God! 1/17
The tender voice of our Good Shepherd is still calling “come unto me.” 5/19 We need to give God our undivided attention. He has something important to say to us. 4/15 201
God created us in such a way that we can be truly happy only when we are praising our wonderful Lord. 2/26 The highest calling of God in Christ Jesus is that you may know Him and make Him known to others. 3/2, 6/7 Only Jesus can forgive sin and restore us to fellowship with the Father. 5/10 Fellowship with Christ brings a fullness of life that overflows with blessings for others. 1/22, 10/14
When you love the Lord with all your heart, love for others will be a natural overflow. 6/27 Enjoying fellowship with God is dependent upon one’s attitude toward others. 2/19
202
God loves me so much He can’t keep His eyes off me! 7/25, 12/2
202
When God gives you a task to do; remember that He is with you. 5/26 The more our thoughts are occupied with Christ and His Word, the more we realize His presence. 4/21 Are you allowing Christ to truly be Lord in your life? 12/23
Has your attitude today been a reflection of God’s love toward you? 5/3, 11/30 Our love for God is in direct proportion to our love for others. 2/5, 10/10
Life’s greatest satisfaction should come from knowing that we have pleased the Lord. 1/23 Self-seeking and sin break our communion with the Lord and keep us from receiving true peace, joy, and wisdom. 9/30
203
Obedience
204
All who love the Lord should exemplify obedience and submission to God. 7/20 A nation’s true success is dependent upon its faithfulness to God. 9/22
All other voices fade into insignificance as we obey the voice from heaven. 1/27 Are you faithfully following the spiritual leader that God put in authority over you? 5/5
As Christians we must live in the world, but we don’t have to live by its standards. 2/21
Christ came that we might have life and have it in abundance. 9/1 Determine today that you and your household will serve the Lord. 3/28 205
Empowered by God’s spirit, we are able to do His will. 7/21 Giving Christ first place in your life is merely giving Him His rightful place. 1/2
God is at work within each Christian, giving him a desire to obey. 3/23 God is more concerned with willingness than He is with eloquence. 4/14
It is the obedient one who enjoys God’s presence. 5/29
One of the greatest contributions we can make to our children’s happiness is to teach them obedience to authority; first to God, then to parents and then to the laws of the land. 4/22 206
206
Only that which pleases the Father will truly be profitable and bring lasting pleasure. 2/15 Surely the highest of all wisdom is to obey the Lord in all things. 4/6
God gives His best to those who leave the choices to Him. 1/11 We must determine whether we will let Christ, the Prince of Peace, rule our hearts; or insist on having things our way thus suffering the consequences of frustration and despair. 11/3 We forfeit God’s best when we fail to keep His commandments. 9/5 To obey the Lord Jesus Christ should be the primary desire of our hearts. 12/1 207
True success in life comes from humbly knowing and obeying God’s Word; not in seeking popularity or praise of others. 11/24
Peace comes to those who joyfully submit to God and His Word. 6/14
Children are not likely to obey their parents, if the parents themselves are not living in obedience to the will of God. 3/26 Men of faith find ways to obey God and please Him; others settle for excuses. 5/7 208
208
Power
209
The power of God provides through us what we are unable to do for ourselves. 3/3 Are you living in the power of the resurrected Christ? 11/13
God imparts His strength to those who remain faithful to Him. 1/21 God is all wise, all powerful, and ever present. How could it be otherwise? 9/6
God never asks us to anything that He doesn’t supply the strength to accomplish. 11/11
Spiritual blindness is overcome only through the Light of the World. 8/30 The Lord is our strength and our shield. 2/9 210
210
The Word of God is not only the life-giving power: it is also a life-keeping strength. 1/9 We can welcome the difficulties in our lives as opportunities for the Lord’s power to be manifested. 12/25 When it seems there is no hope, it is because we are relying on human strength instead of God’s strength. 1/3
May our eyes be open to see the ways of God behind the acts of God in our lives. 4/28 The beauty of the Christian is the presence of God who dwells within and radiates without. 6/21, 12/28
God’s spirit can perfect His strength in anyone, great or small, who is willing to be used by Him. 12/10
211
Only the Holy Spirit can prompt us to speak what will honor Him. 3/20 How much of the Word do you make available for God to use in your life? 5/17
Spiritual strength is imparted as we remain faithful. 6/25 God will always supply His willing servants with the ability necessary to perform the work He has given them to do. 10/8
Your boldness to speak out for Christ helps others escape the deceptions of secular influence. 10/17
As we daily read God’s Word, our confidence in the Lord’s power and protection will increase. 8/5 212
212
Christ, the Bread of Life, is the Sustainer of every believer. 8/23
God can use the weakest, smallest, or the least likely in man’s eyes to perform His work. 4/1 The peace of God can rule our hearts, regardless of outward circumstances. 12/15
God’s spirit can perfect His strength in the weakest believer. 6/4
Every believer can be assured that God can transform even the most hopeless situation. His Word has the answer for every need. 2/20 213
Praise
214
Praise the Lord for who He is and what He has done for us. 6/2 Acceptable praise is not primarily praising Him for what He gives us; but for who He is. 11/15 Are we so busy expecting recognition and praise from others that we fail to praise Him? 7/15 Christians have much reason to rejoice, for we serve a risen Lord. 5/12
Daily praise to God should be the natural response of every Christian. 12/13 Don’t wait until the difficulty is over to praise the Lord. 6/6, 12/29 Express praise to God – regardless of your circumstances. Your response may be God’s means of leading another to know Him. 10/27 215
Praise is the highest form of prayer because it combines petition with faith. 3/15 Praise to the Lord comes from a heart that is experiencing His power in daily living. 10/28
It is impossible to praise the Lord and complain at the same time. 3/21
Let us freely offer our praise to God continually. 6/3
Make the most of each opportunity to bring glory to the Lord. 6/17, 10/15
216
Praise is the detergent which purifies faith and it purges doubt from the heart. 3/14, 11/16
216
God satisfies all who allow Him to do so. Praise springs naturally from the heart that is grateful for God’s blessing. 7/1 Have you remembered to praise and thank the Lord for the victories in your life today? 4/24
How can we help but love and worship Him who gave Himself for our sins! 4/17 The mind, body, and spirit of every Christian should bring honor to a loving and holy God. 7/29
The worship, love, and loyalty due Christ, cannot be shared with man. 7/28
Think back on your life and recognize how the Lord has cared for you along the way. 5/6 We can praise God, the victory is His. 12/14
217
We can thank God that He always gives His best when it is best for us. 8/17
What a privilege to know that the living Christ is in our midst. 6/18 How slow we are to express gratefulness for the amazing love of our God. 8/25
You can give thanks to God today in every situation. Praise the Lord today regardless of your circumstances. 5/13 Our daily prayer should be “Heavenly Father, glorify your name through me today.� 11/25
218
Let me praise God continually. 6/15
218
Let us praise the Lord continually – whether we are waiting for Him to reveal His will or we are actively involved in carrying out His will for our lives. 4/27
Our Lord’s wells of life-giving water are overflowing and inexhaustible. 12/21 Unwavering confidence in God brings a spontaneous spirit of gratitude and praise. 1/24
The wise men and the shepherds determined to see Jesus. It is vital to have a personal relationship with Jesus, the Christ, and worship Him. 9/11
When you are tempted to complain, thank God for all His blessings and praise Him for all he allows to come into your life. 3/30 219
Prayer
220
Pray for God to accomplish through you that for which He created you. 1/1
Spiritual work that is not upheld in prayer, will be weakened and eventually fail or fall short of God’s best. 1/7 Talking to our Heavenly Father in prayer is vital to living a victorious Christian life. 8/12
The answers to our prayers are sometimes postponed until we lose confidence in self-effort. 11/28
The most honored of God’s servants fail when they fail to pray. 11/8
221
We must always remember that God answers our prayers according to His timetable, not ours. 4/16
Prayerfully weigh each decision in the light of God’s Word so your conversation, conduct, and daily walk fully honor the Lord. 11/18
God always knows the best time to answer prayers. 11/29
At this moment, pray for someone you know who seems discouraged. 12/22 222
222
Righteous Living
223
As God’s Word fills our thoughts each day, we become a living expression of His life. 2/24 As we are controlled by the indwelling Holy Spirit, we become pleasing to God. 6/16
Be careful how you react to those who are unkind to you. 3/24 Christ is not just the world’s Savior in the sweet by and by, but also in the here and now. 5/9
Does my attitude today glorify God? 3/25
Each day, let us do what we believe will please the Lord. 10/7 Every person has an influence on others; either to encourage and bless or to hinder. 7/31, 12/8 224
224
God is not merely concerned with what we do, but also with our motives for doing it. 1/5 If the world cannot see a difference between the life of a Christian and that of an unbeliever; then the Christian is not serving the Lord effectively. 11/23 It is impossible to gain God’s best when our hearts are set on the things of the world. 3/5
Jesus willingly died for you; are you willing to live for Him? 12/24 Let us live each day in the reality that our lives are influencing others – whether it be for good or for bad. 1/18, 10/20 Many lives are empty because God is not asked to fill them. Oh, the high cost of pleasing self, rather than God! 5/18 Our attitude, words, and actions should be a testimony to others that we want our lives to be controlled by God. 8/1 225
Our daily actions, attitudes, and conversations will express the thoughts of our hearts. 6/23 Our greatest satisfaction comes through living for the Lord. 7/2
Since we are greatly influenced by those with whom we associate, we need to choose friends who will lead us closer to the Lord. 7/19 The Christian who serves the Lord acceptably will have a desire to be clean in body and spirit. 8/9
The Christian’s greatest desire should be to allow Christ to control our actions in this life every moment of every day. 10/23 The meek are gentle toward others. 2/25 To reject the Bible as the standard for one’s life is to reject God Himself. 8/10 226
Unless you have something good to say about someone, it’s best not to say anything. 1/8
226
Lord, please apply the oil of your Spirit to my mind; both at the conscious and the sub-conscious levels of my thought life. Enable me to act and react as You would do. 8/11 True success in life comes from humbly knowing and obeying God’s Word; not in seeking popularity or praise of others. 12/16
We have no need to grasp after material things; God still sustains His people. 10/21
God can use the weakest, smallest, or the least likely in man’s eyes to perform His work. 3/22 What excuse have we to fail when the Word of God reveals how we can be filled with the knowledge of His will. 10/6 Prayerfully weigh each decision in the light of God’s Word so your conversation, conduct, and daily walk fully honor the Lord. 10/29
227
Walking in fellowship with the Lord often means suffering with Him. 4/25 Not until a person realizes his need for cleansing from sin, will he look to Christ for spiritual healing. 2/16
Some Christians have discovered too late the damages of being unequally yoked with unbelievers. 9/3
Afflictions become blessings when they cause us to turn to Him. 12/26
228
Because of Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross, each of us has the privilege of being in His presence through prayer and hearing Him speak to us as we read His Word. 10/31
228
To be led by God’s Word is to be led by Truth. 4/26 The unity of believers can be compared to a great orchestra of many instruments that produces beautiful harmony. 8/19
Is your life wrapped up in the things of the world, or have you committed yourself to serve and worship the Lord? 7/3
We receive the joy of the Lord as we share His love with others. 8/26
Have you presented your whole self to the Lord for His glory and service? 9/29 229
Salvation
230
All who are set free by Christ’s blood are free indeed. 6/20 All mankind is unworthy of God’s blessings, but He bestows His forgiving love upon all who believe in Christ. 2/10
Are you taking advantage of every opportunity to tell others about Christ? 7/12 Christ intercedes for all in his house who come to the Father through Him. 12/11
Christ is mankind’s only hope of eternal life. 10/30 Christ willingly suffered death to make it possible for mankind to have fellowship with Him. 2/13 Christ’s resurrection is the assurance of victory over death for all who are saved. 7/8
231
Does your manner of life make others want to become followers of Christ? 4/18 Eternal destiny is determined by choice, not chance. 1/25 Every Christian has a personal “world” to which he is responsible for showing and telling God’s saving power. 7/13
Everyone can do something to help others come to know the Lord and read His Word. 2/14 God in His mercy has provided a way for even the vilest sinner to be saved. 8/8
God will hear the cry of any repentant sinner who forsakes sin to follow the Savior. 3/11 232
232
God’s concern has always been that man turn from his sins and enjoy His protection and provisions. 5/20
Have you been born into God’s spiritual family? 7/26 Jesus’ death on the cross brought victory over the power of sin so that we might have forgiveness of sin and enjoy eternal life. 11/6
Let’s make every effort to encourage someone else to be ready to meet the Lord. 3/29 Love is God-given. Perfect love is imparted through the new life by Christ Jesus. 9/16 Restoration is always available to those who repent. 7/16 The greatest of all fools is the one who lives as if there were no God. 4/30
233
The mind cannot imagine all the wonders prepared for those who accept Christ as Lord and Savior. 11/9
There is a great gulf separating those who have rejected God and those who are living to please Him. 12/5 Tell someone today what great things the Lord has done for you. 8/16
Have you been to Jesus for His cleansing power? Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb? 7/22 We receive the joy of the Lord as we share His love with others. 2/3
It is a serious thing to know the truth about Jesus and turn from Him. 10/4 234
234
Service
235
God desires not only that we serve Him, but that we do so in His way – and with willing hearts. 8/28 A slothful person forfeits the privilege of being the person God wants him to be. 9/24
A true servant of the Lord willingly follows his Master’s instructions. 1/14 Are you willingly serving the Lord? 1/13
Be watchful for opportunities to serve the Lord. 6/19 Each child of God is uniquely gifted with abilities to serve and glorify Him in a way no one else can. 4/10, 10/13 236
236
Every Christian has a responsibility to participate in the work of God. 12/3
God records every act of service done in His name – even a cup of water. 2/8 In giving to others, we give to God and put into service what already belongs to Him. 11/4
It is one thing to serve God, but quite another thing to show compassion to those who are less fortunate than we. 8/18 It is only by the grace of God that we are anything or can do anything of eternal value. 2/2 Serving the Lord acceptably requires single-hearted love for Him. 1/30 237
The highest position in the church is that of a servant of Christ. 2/28 The very nature of love compels us to give of ourselves for the sake of others. 5/24
Those who seek the welfare of others find it for themselves. 5/15 True humility before God will always result in a demonstration of that humility before men. 5/23
God will always supply His willing servants with the ability necessary to perform the work He has given them to do. 8/7
Much can be accomplished when Christians work together. 9/25
238
A Christian should welcome every opportunity to help others. 9/21
238
Sin
239
Have you wandered away from God? Turn back to the Father. He is lovingly waiting to welcome you home. 9/7 No matter how strong our temptations may be, God’s grace is sufficient to help us overcome them. 5/27 No one can serve two masters and succeed in making the best of two worlds. 4/13
One who knows the truth, but does not live it deceives himself. 9/17 Our sins are always much greater than they appear to be. 5/16
Pride blinds the mind to the will of God. 12/19 240
240
Rebellion against God is “exceedingly sinful.� 7/4 Sin is always deceiving; for it leads a person into believing that something can be gained through wicked conduct. 4/19
Sin often appears attractive, but the end results are very ugly. 9/9
The consequences of sin are always more than we expect. 10/9
241
The holiness of God reveals the vileness of sin. 1/12, 6/12 The Lord desires to release His people from the power of sin, but too many are willing to be captives of Satan. 5/2
Only Jesus can forgive sin and restore us to fellowship with the Father. 9/8
The more our hearts are cleansed from sin, the more room there is for Christ, the Living Word. 3/8 242
242
Trials
243
All of our circumstances are allowed by the Lord for our good. 11/17 Behind every problem in a Christian’s life is our Creator’s wise, well-designed plan for our benefit. 5/22
Do the events in your life cause you to lose confidence in self and create a greater dependence upon God? 4/2 Don’t let unexpected circumstances hinder your usefulness to Christ. 8/31
Every trial gives us an opportunity to draw closer to God and to make us more like the person He wants us to be. 7/6 God is our strength in times of trouble. 6/22 God, our wise and loving Father, comes in our moments of weakness to restore and strengthen us. 3/12 244
244
God’s grace can enable us to go through affliction in a way that will bring glory to Him. 10/22 God’s grace is sufficient to sustain us in every situation – regardless of its severity or duration. 7/5
It is not necessary to understand God’s reason for our trials; but it is of utmost importance that we remain faithful to Him. 12/7
Obedience to God’s Word and dependence upon the Lord through prayer gives us strength in times of testing. 7/7 The peculiar mark of a Christian is inward peace, even when everything seems to be going wrong. 9/2
245
Trials have helped many people come to know God’s will for their lives. 9/4 Always remain true to God and His Word, regardless of your circumstances. 10/3 Our life is like a raging sea until we turn to the Lord, who is able to bring about sweet peace. 8/2
Quietness and confidence in the midst of trials are the result of our faith in Christ and the certainty of the Scriptures. 6/30
In the midst of temptation, determine in your heart that you will remain faithful to God. 8/15 246
246
Trust
247
Those who entrust their all to God receive His best. 2/18
Trusting in the Lord’s unsearchable ways is better than hoping in men’s predictable ways. 6/24
When we put God first in our lives, He will take care of our needs. 4/7 Remember that God never forsakes His children. 7/11
We can trust our lives to the protective care of our Almighty God. 3/18 Fears vanish as we trust God. 2/1, 7/14 248
248
Since God’s love is upon all who trust Him, there is no need to fear. 9/13 God will take care of your tomorrows if you live for Him today. 4/23
There are problems to which no one but God has the full answer. Just trust Him. 3/19
Read God’s Word with willingness and desire to accept His wisdom and reproof. 5/31 You can trust God’s promises; He always honors His Word. 12/12
249
Victory
250
Christ died for all people regardless of their nationality, importance, or insignificance. 9/18 Christ is the great victor who lives in our hearts and we must be willingly cooperative with Him. 11/10
God moves on behalf of His people who continue to pray. 2/23
Just as Christ was raised from death, those who sleep in death will also be raised. 10/11
No one can experience true satisfaction until his desire to please God is greater than his desire to please self or anyone else. 10/1 251
Spiritual victory is not dependent on human strength or reasoning. 2/7, 9/28
Material prosperity has kept many from seeking spiritual prosperity. 5/25
We experience true freedom when we follow the leading of the Lord as revealed in His Word. 6/10
When we are weak in human strength, then we can rely on God’s all-sufficient strength. 1/31, 8/27
True success depends on living in accordance with God’s Word, not on our well-laid plans. 11/14 252
252
No, the Isaacs and Esaus cannot defeat the purposes of God. 5/30
Spiritual accomplishments are never obtained without a battle. 4/4 The weapons of our warfare are not carnal; they are mighty – but only through God. 2/6
Victory over Satan has been won by our Lord, who died for our sins. 6/11, 11/20
How sweet will be the heavenly song when all the enemies of the soul are forever defeated! 12/6 253
Will of God
254
Christ has planned that we be an expression of Himself. 9/12 Christ is able to heal the broken-hearted anytime – anywhere. 12/27
Decisions made without regard for God’s will can never receive His blessings. 8/29
Each of us is in God’s plan; no one else can fill our place. 5/1 255
God alone is the final authority on how we should live. 3/17 No one can defeat God’s purposes. The wicked are successful only until God’s purposes have been fulfilled. 11/7 Out of the bitterest experiences, God can perfect His will. 3/16
The person who lives to satisfy self cannot fulfill God’s purpose for his life. 4/11 As we read God’s Word with a desire to do His will, the Holy Spirit will teach us His ways. 3/4 256
256
Word of God
257
Are you setting your hope in things of this world or in the precious promises of God’s Word? 8/14
Faithfully reading and obeying God’s Word prepares our hearts for the Holy Spirit to work in and through us. 3/31 God’s Word is our only trustworthy guide. 10/24
God’s Word is the only reliable “plumb line” for our lives as it reveals God’s viewpoint to us. 11/2 History is a witness to the importance of obeying God’s Word. 3/13 258
258
How foolish are those who question the Scriptures. 9/10 It’s how much of God’s Word that controls our hearts that really matters – not how much of it we know. 11/19 Our fruitfulness for the Lord is dependent upon how much His Word controls our lives. 11/21
Our true enjoyment of life is in direct relation to our desire to obey God’s Word. 3/6 The first step to attaining true wisdom is reading God’s Word. 6/8 The power of victorious Christian living is experienced through prayer and hearing what God has to say as we read His Word. 11/22
259
Every Christian can be a helper in ministering the Word of God to others.10/25 God reveals His ways through His Word. 9/27
Your spiritual growth is dependent on the amount of time you spend with the Lord in reading His Word. 8/6, 10/5 Christ, the living Word, can transform your life. 6/1, 8/24
The Holy Spirit, through the Word of God, empowers the believer to do the will of God. 11/27
Let the Word of God guide you in every area of your life. 4/5 260
260