Your Nightly Scripture

Evening Scripture Psalm 73 Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. They are free from common human burdens; they are not plagued by human ills. Therefore pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence. From their callous hearts comes iniquity; their evil imaginations have no limits. They scoff, and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression. Their mouths lay claim to heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth. Therefore their people turn to them and drink up waters in abundance. They say, “How would God know? Does the Most High know anything?” This is what the wicked are like— always free of care, they go on amassing wealth. Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure and have washed my hands in innocence. All day long I have been afflicted, and every morning brings new punishments. If I had spoken out like that, I would have betrayed your children. When I tried to understand all this, it troubled me deeply till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny. Surely you place them on slippery ground; you cast them down to ruin. How suddenly are they destroyed, completely swept away by terrors! They are like a dream when one awakes; when you arise, Lord, you will despise them as fantasies. When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered, I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before you. Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Those who are far from you will perish; you destroy all who are unfaithful to you. But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds. Evening Reflection I worked for a company for 13 years and performed well in my role. There were never any performance issues, and if you asked colleagues or clients, they would tell you my work was stellar. Yet after 13 years of working, I was laid off from my job. Honestly, it did not make sense to me, but when it happened, the first thing the Holy Spirit whispered to my heart was, " Trust me. Over the next several months, God would reveal what he was doing and where he was leading. What initially seemed confusing or uncertain became clear as he unfolded his plan for my life. This season of life has taught me two invaluable lessons. The first is that God can be trusted with your whole life. That sounds simple, but how many times have you been like Asaph in Psalm 73, wondering what is going on and why this is working for everyone else but not for me? This is not a lack of faith, but a legitimate question because we see life through a small lens. However, God sees the entire picture, and he knows not only what is best for you, but how to get you to the place he wants you to be. For that reason alone, you can trust him fully. The second lesson I learned is that we often don’t truly trust God until we run out of options. It is easy to say you trust when the path forward is clear. However, when the way is cloudy, and your next steps are uncertain, that is when you have no choice but to trust. As scary as that can feel sometimes, you are in the right place, because all other options are gone, and all that is left is to trust God. It may not feel like it in the moment, but that is the best place to be in life. When you feel a little uncertain or shaky, then do what Asaph did. "When I tried to understand all this, it troubled me deeply till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny." - Psalm 73:16-17 When you enter God’s sanctuary, your perspective shifts. Instead of your eyes focusing on what is happening around you, they focus on who is walking with you. It is there that you can remind yourself of God’s faithfulness in your life, which is displayed time and time again. It is that track record that gives you the confidence to know if he did it before, he will do it again. As you think through your day, begin to identify all the ways God showed up in your life. I strongly believe your heart will be drawn to thanksgiving and praise, which is the way we enter his sanctuary. When you get there, it will give you the confidence to remember you serve a God who can be trusted. Your trust is not based on the confusion that life can bring. Your trust is based on the certainty of a God who has promised he will be with you until the end. Evening Prayer Lord, As I look back on the day, it's easy to focus on all the things that went wrong. However, in doing so, I might miss how your faithfulness shows up daily. Help me to end each day thinking of your love, your goodness, your kindness, and your faithfulness. Allow me to look for your hand in everything and help me to trust what you are doing in my life, even when I can’t see it, and my life doesn’t make sense. In those moments, draw me to the peace of your presence and the confidence that comes from resting in your arms. Renew my hope and trust, knowing that no matter what I see, you are still in control. I pray all this in Jesus’ name. Amen. Want More? If tonight’s episode blessed you, be sure to follow the show so your next nightly scripture is ready when you are. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. 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Evening Scripture Hebrews, Chapter 13 Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering. Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral. Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings. It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace, not by eating ceremonial foods, which is of no benefit to those who do so. We have an altar from which those who minister at the tabernacle have no right to eat. The high priest carries the blood of animals into the Most Holy Place as a sin offering, but the bodies are burned outside the camp. And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood. Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore. For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come. Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you. Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way. I particularly urge you to pray so that I may be restored to you soon. Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Brothers and sisters, I urge you to bear with my word of exhortation, for in fact I have written to you quite briefly. I want you to know that our brother Timothy has been released. If he arrives soon, I will come with him to see you. Greet all your leaders and all the Lord’s people. Those from Italy send you their greetings. Grace be with you all. Evening Reflection Millions of followers of various religions are called upon to make spiritual pilgrimages, offer sacrifices, bring gifts to fulfill certain requirements, and gain favor with the gods they worship. Yet, as Christians, God is the one who made the pilgrimage from Heaven to earth and provided the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Because He did, we don’t ever have to travel far distances to find Him, or give gifts to gain His favor, or plead for Him to notice or be with us. As Hebrews 13 assures us, He will never leave us or forsake us. Our most loving and gracious Heavenly Father sent His one and only beloved, perfect Son, Jesus, Emmanuel--God with us, to be with us on earth. And, after He died, rose from the dead, and ascended to Heaven, God sent His Holy Spirit to come and live within us, so that we aren’t alone and may find rest in the God who is with us. We don’t have to call out to God from afar because He is right with us, comforting, leading, teaching, and helping us in ways we may not even realize. As the Spirit of Truth, we can rely on His guidance all the days of our lives to help us know what is true and right. Because God is with us, we don’t ever have to be afraid or feel alone. He is our constant companion, ever present, so that wherever we go, live, find ourselves, or even drift for a time, He is with us. Evening Prayer God, Thank you for sending Jesus, Your perfect Son, who never changes but is the same yesterday, today, and forever. As well, my heart is grateful to you for sending Your Holy Spirit to live inside me here on earth. Because of you, I am never alone or have to feel lonely. In times when I may forget this, Lord, feeling sorry for myself, please nudge me with Your Spirit, so that I remember you are here with me. Fill my heart and lips with a sacrifice of praise to You, to remember that you are present with me all the days of my life. Amen. Want More? If tonight’s episode blessed you, be sure to follow the show so your next nightly scripture is ready when you are. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Proverbs 30 The sayings of Agur son of Jakeh—an inspired utterance. This man’s utterance to Ithiel: “I am weary, God, but I can prevail. Surely I am only a brute, not a man; I do not have human understanding. I have not learned wisdom, nor have I attained to the knowledge of the Holy One. Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Whose hands have gathered up the wind? Who has wrapped up the waters in a cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is the name of his son? Surely you know! “Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar. “Two things I ask of you, Lord; do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God. “Do not slander a servant to their master, or they will curse you, and you will pay for it. “There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers; those who are pure in their own eyes and yet are not cleansed of their filth; those whose eyes are ever so haughty, whose glances are so disdainful; those whose teeth are swords and whose jaws are set with knives to devour the poor from the earth and the needy from among mankind. “The leech has two daughters.‘Give! Give!’ they cry. “There are three things that are never satisfied, four that never say, ‘Enough!’: the grave, the barren womb, land, which is never satisfied with water, and fire, which never says, ‘Enough!’ “The eye that mocks a father, that scorns an aged mother, will be pecked out by the ravens of the valley, will be eaten by the vultures. “There are three things that are too amazing for me, four that I do not understand: the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a snake on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a young woman. “This is the way of an adulterous woman: She eats and wipes her mouth and says, ‘I’ve done nothing wrong.’ “Under three things the earth trembles, under four it cannot bear up: a servant who becomes king, a godless fool who gets plenty to eat, a contemptible woman who gets married, and a servant who displaces her mistress. “Four things on earth are small, yet they are extremely wise: Ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer; hyraxes are creatures of little power, yet they make their home in the crags; locusts have no king, yet they advance together in ranks; a lizard can be caught with the hand, yet it is found in kings’ palaces. “There are three things that are stately in their stride, four that move with stately bearing: a lion, mighty among beasts, who retreats before nothing; a strutting rooster, a he-goat, and a king secure against revolt. “If you play the fool and exalt yourself, or if you plan evil, clap your hand over your mouth! For as churning cream produces butter, and as twisting the nose produces blood, so stirring up anger produces strife.” Evening Reflection What do you do when you don't know the answer to a question? Do you lie, stumble over your words, or admit that you aren't quite sure and will get back to them? We live in a world that loves confidence, opinions, and having all the "right answers." But spiritually, wisdom comes from humility, not being a "know-it-all." Because those who are willing to become wise are the ones willing to say, "I'm not sure, but God, grant me the knowledge to learn." And that's where tonight's verse comes in. Proverbs 30:2-3 says, "Surely I am only a brute, not a man; I do not have human understanding. I have not learned wisdom, nor have I attained to the knowledge of the Holy One." Proverbs 30:5 says it this way: "Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him." What we notice in these few verses is that our author doesn't start by bragging about his knowledge, but rather admitting his limitations. Humility isn't hating yourself or pretending to be stupid; it's recognizing God is God and you're not. It's acknowledging that, as smart or wise as we may be, we all still need God's discipline, knowledge, truth, and guidance. Pride can easily sneak into our lives. It sounds like: "I already know this." "I'm fine on my own." But wisdom says, "Lord, teach me." "I need you." And even Solomon, one of the wisest men the scriptures knew this. Because a teachable spirit always matters more than appearing intelligent. It's the humble who draw near to God and grow. It's the prideful who close their ears and grow standoffish. Are you humble to the Lord's correction, or have you become resistant to growth? Are you more concerned with looking wise or becoming wise? When was the last time you asked God to teach you? Reflect openly and honestly on these questions with Him now. Evening Prayer Dear God, Your Word reminds me that I don't need to know everything to grow in wisdom. Today, my heart cries out for you. Teach me to receive wisdom with humility, and to lay down pride, defensiveness, or the need to "have it all together." Give me a teachable heart that listens to your instruction and trusts your Word over my own. Help me walk in your ways. Amen. Want More? If tonight’s episode blessed you, be sure to follow the show so your next nightly scripture is ready when you are. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture John, Chapter 8 But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. At dawn he appeared again in the temple courts, where all the people gathered around him, and he sat down to teach them. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." The Pharisees challenged him, “Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid.” Jesus answered, “Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going. But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going. You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. But if I do judge, my decisions are true, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me. In your own Law it is written that the testimony of two witnesses is true. I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me.” Then they asked him, “Where is your father?” “You do not know me or my Father,” Jesus replied. “If you knew me, you would know my Father also.” He spoke these words while teaching in the temple courts near the place where the offerings were put. Yet no one seized him, because his hour had not yet come. Once more Jesus said to them, “I am going away, and you will look for me, and you will die in your sin. Where I go, you cannot come.” This made the Jews ask, “Will he kill himself? Is that why he says, ‘Where I go, you cannot come’?” But he continued, “You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am he, you will indeed die in your sins.” “Who are you?” they asked. “Just what I have been telling you from the beginning,” Jesus replied. “I have much to say in judgment of you. But he who sent me is trustworthy, and what I have heard from him I tell the world.” They did not understand that he was telling them about his Father. So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he and that I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me. The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him.” Even as he spoke, many believed in him. To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” They answered him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?” Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. I know that you are Abraham’s descendants. Yet you are looking for a way to kill me, because you have no room for my word. I am telling you what I have seen in the Father’s presence, and you are doing what you have heard from your father.” “Abraham is our father,” they answered. “If you were Abraham’s children,” said Jesus, “then you would do what Abraham did. As it is, you are looking for a way to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham did not do such things. You are doing the works of your own father.” “We are not illegitimate children,” they protested. “The only Father we have is God himself.” Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me. Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me? Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.” The Jews answered him, “Aren’t we right in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?” “I am not possessed by a demon,” said Jesus, “but I honor my Father and you dishonor me. I am not seeking glory for myself; but there is one who seeks it, and he is the judge. Very truly I tell you, whoever obeys my word will never see death.” At this they exclaimed, “Now we know that you are demon-possessed! Abraham died and so did the prophets, yet you say that whoever obeys your word will never taste death. Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?” Jesus replied, “If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me. Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and obey his word. Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad.” “You are not yet fifty years old,” they said to him, “and you have seen Abraham!” “Very truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!” At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds. Evening Reflection One of the most profound aspects of the creation story in Genesis is that God brought light into existence by speaking it into existence. And when he did, God called this light "good" and then separated it from the darkness (Genesis 1:2-4). Think about that: God not only created something out of nothing, but what he created was literally light itself! This means at least two things. First, it means that in order for God to produce light, he must consist of it. Darkness has never produced light. Secondly, this means that before God "turned on the switch," the earth was completely dark. This second truth also applies to our souls. Until our hearts are illuminated with the truth and love of Jesus Christ, we "sit in darkness and in the shadow of death" as Zechariah stated (quoting the prophet Isaiah) in Luke 1:79. Light and darkness cannot occupy the same space (which is good news for us who have the Light of Christ). The darkness of sin is obvious and prevalent in the lost world in which we live. The only cure for this darkness is the same cure for darkness before God created light in Genesis 1: light. But not only that, darkness can even be seen in the lives of Christians when we try to live our days without seeking God's will and without following God's Word. So as Jesus (the true "Light of the World") declared in John 8:12, if we follow him, we "will not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." Evening Prayer Heavenly Father, Thank you for providing the light in the darkest spaces of this world and for lighting up the darkness that once was in my soul. If not for you, I would be hopeless and helpless. Apart from your miraculous grace applied to my life, I would be lost and blind. And since the day you saved me, you have been lighting the path in front of me and keeping my feet from stumbling as I read your Word. Thank you for caring so much for me that you did not leave me in my darkness. Help me to open up any areas in my life that have been kept in the shadows so truth and love can shine in. And help me to reflect your light to the people around me so they can see the Way, the Truth, and the Life, too. In Jesus's name, Amen. Want More? If tonight’s episode blessed you, be sure to follow the show so your next nightly scripture is ready when you are. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Romans, Chapter 15 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the Jews on behalf of God’s truth, so that the promises made to the patriarchs might be confirmed and, moreover, that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written: “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing the praises of your name.” Again, it says, “Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people." And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles; let all the peoples extol him.” And again, Isaiah says, “The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations; in him the Gentiles will hope.” May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another. Yet I have written you quite boldly on some points to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. He gave me the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God. I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done— by the power of signs and wonders, through the power of the Spirit of God. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ. It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else’s foundation. Rather, as it is written: “Those who were not told about him will see, and those who have not heard will understand.” This is why I have often been hindered from coming to you. But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to visit you, I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to see you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while. Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem in the service of the Lord’s people there. For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the Lord’s people in Jerusalem. They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in the Jews’ spiritual blessings, they owe it to the Jews to share with them their material blessings. So after I have completed this task and have made sure that they have received this contribution, I will go to Spain and visit you on the way. I know that when I come to you, I will come in the full measure of the blessing of Christ. I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. Pray that I may be kept safe from the unbelievers in Judea and that the contribution I take to Jerusalem may be favorably received by the Lord’s people there, so that I may come to you with joy, by God’s will, and in your company be refreshed. The God of peace be with you all. Amen. Evening Reflection Our Scripture comes tonight from the book of Romans, a letter to the churches of Rome written by Paul. Paul’s heart throughout the text was to help unify the greater Church. At the time, there was a great divide between Jewish and Gentile believers, with deep confusion over what practices still held merit and which ones were unnecessary to continue as a believer in Jesus. Paul addressed customs over food, days of observation, and festivals, and most importantly, how to treat one another. Paul’s vision for the Church was that both Jew and Gentile would eat at the same table, serve their community together, and worship Christ together as Christ preached. Paul wrote, “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 15:5-6). Christ desired his Church to have one mind and one voice to glorify God. Tonight, as we reflect upon our passage, where can you have the same attitude Christ had with the heart for one mind and one voice? Where in your life do you need endurance and encouragement? Paul knew the answer didn’t rest on doing more charitable acts, going to the “right” church, or keeping cultural customs. Paul urged the believer to receive the mind and heart of Christ: to love one another and expand the kingdom. It wasn’t about the believer filling themselves up with knowledge, rules, or religion. Instead, it was a filling from the Holy Spirit that empowered the believer to see, with wisdom and discernment, the heart of Christ. Paul said, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13). Who doesn’t want more joy and peace?! How can you position yourself tonight to receive His filling? Tonight, my heart is to encourage you to continue to trust in Him so you naturally overflow with hope, telling all who need to hear the good news of Jesus Christ. As we close the day, I want to repeat John’s words to you: “I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another.” Dear reader, you are full of goddess energy and knowledge, and you are able to lead and teach others. Can you trust a good God to lead you into the right conversations? To be bold in your faith and testimony? May your love for Him and His people carry you closer to your calling and deepen your faith! Evening Prayer Father, I want to receive a filling of your love, truth, and hope tonight. I empty myself of the things that take my mind off of you. Forgive me for the disagreements I’ve had that haven’t honored you. Forgive me for trying to take control of the details of my life that you’ve called me to surrender. I pray for your peace and joy tonight as I rest and renew my mind and spirit. My heart is to please you and to have the same mind and heart as Christ. Draw me closer, Lord. I am so grateful for your pursuit of me. Thank you, God. I love you and pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen. Want More? If tonight’s episode blessed you, be sure to follow the show so your next nightly scripture is ready when you are. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Psalm 100 A psalm. For giving grateful praise. Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. Evening Reflection We open locked doors with keys. I need the fob in my pocket to start the car. These days, a website requires more than a password; it sends me a special code. God often feels far away. Elusive. Yet Psalm 100 gives us the key, the fob, the password, and the code. All to enter his presence. Praise and thanks. Gratitude allows us entry to his presence in the heavenly places, symbolized here by courts and gates. The psalmist likely wrote this about worshipping in Solomon’s Temple, complete with gates and courts (inner, outer). Revelation gives us a vision of God’s throne room, surrounded by praising angels (4:8). To reach God, we must pass through those magnificent beings, lifting up his name. There’s no other way. Psalm 100 gives us reasons to praise. He made us; we didn’t make ourselves. We are the sheep of his pasture. The Lord is good, and his mercy is everlasting. All these eternal things exist beyond our current, temporary situation. God is worthy to be praised simply because of who he is and who he’s made us. Even when we don’t feel like it, he alone is worthy of thanks and praise. As we long to enter his presence, the place of blessing and life, let us lift up his name and experience his love. Evening Prayer Heavenly Father, I come to you with praise and thanksgiving, the key you have given us to enter your presence. I lift up your name above my feelings and circumstances. You made me. I belong to you. You paid for me with your living blood to redeem me. We are the sheep of your pasture. You are good, and your mercy endures forever. Open my heart to see beyond what is temporary and fix my eyes on your eternal truth. Teach me to walk through your gates with gratitude and stand in your courts with joy. Let my praise join in with the angels in heaven, declaring you are holy. Father, I draw near to you with worship, even when you feel distant. Draw near to me. I choose to thank you, worship you, and rest in your presence today. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Want More? If tonight’s episode blessed you, be sure to follow the show so your next nightly scripture is ready when you are. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Philippians, Chapter 4 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Greet all God’s people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings. All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. Evening Reflection If you’ve come across this tonight, it’s because the Lord wants you to know that worry is not from Him; however, He understands, in our frailty, that worry is part of the human condition. We see throughout the Bible that God meets worry with the confirmation that He is in control. He sees the circumstances and situations. He is not surprised by where you find yourself, even though you may be. He isn’t wrestling with how He’s going to make a way forward for you. He knows the way forward. He knows what you need and when you will need it. We read in Philippians 4 a letter of encouragement, exhortation, and prayer. We see God speaking clearly through Paul's writing, reminding believers not to be anxious but to be faithful in prayer. Knowing that we can bring all our requests to the Lord, we do not need to feel shame but should be overcome with gratitude and thanksgiving that we have a Savior to whom we can bring our anxieties. Within the prayers of our burdens and thanksgiving, we will find peace. Real peace. The fullness of God’s guardianship over our hearts and minds. He will give us what we need to bring us through the valley. He will prompt us to meditate on the things that are lovely, pure, honorable, and excellent. Reminding us that what God has put into motion in creation and us as His created image bearers will be taken care of. Evening Prayer Father, As evening comes and the world seems to shut down, my racing thoughts do not. Please, help me find peace in your presence. Remind me that you are a God of listening. You hear the cries of our hearts, and you lead us to what is true. I pray for rest and a release of the anxieties I carry. You ask me to carry nothing but your light, rid me of the load I’m carrying that you’ve not asked me to bear. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Want More? If tonight’s episode blessed you, be sure to follow the show so your next nightly scripture is ready when you are. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Joshua, Chapter 1 After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” So Joshua ordered the officers of the people: “Go through the camp and tell the people, ‘Get your provisions ready. Three days from now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you for your own.’” But to the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh, Joshua said, “Remember the command that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you after he said, ‘The Lord your God will give you rest by giving you this land.’ Your wives, your children and your livestock may stay in the land that Moses gave you east of the Jordan, but all your fighting men, ready for battle, must cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites. You are to help them until the Lord gives them rest, as he has done for you, and until they too have taken possession of the land the Lord your God is giving them. After that, you may go back and occupy your own land, which Moses the servant of the Lord gave you east of the Jordan toward the sunrise.” Then they answered Joshua, “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you. Only may the Lord your God be with you as he was with Moses. Whoever rebels against your word and does not obey it, whatever you may command them, will be put to death. Only be strong and courageous!” Evening Reflection Moses would be a tough act to follow. We can certainly understand Joshua’s hesitation and lack of confidence here. Not only was he trying to muster up the courage to obey God in a very difficult calling, but comparison would be impossible to resist given his circumstances. God tells Joshua to be strong and courageous several times. Repetition in Scripture is never coincidental and always important. Here, God is telling Joshua what to proclaim over himself …instructing him to adjust his perspective and choose to see himself the way God sees him. The following portions of tonight’s text are worth repeating, and marinating in … “No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.” – Joshua 1:5-6 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:7 “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:8-9 When we remember who God is, and what He’s done …both in our own lives, personally, and historically throughout the pages of Scripture, we are able to see differently through a godly perspective that allows us to be strong and courageous in obedience to God. So much of this depends on meditating on God’s Word, as He commanded Joshua, “day and night.” Evening Prayer Father God, Thank you for the instructions you provide through Scripture. Your Word, as the Psalm says, “is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” It illuminates the direction of your will for every single day of my life, and I could not survive without it. Help me to remember your truth and see through your perspective as I walk through my days, God. May the strength and wisdom of the Holy Spirit dwell in my through Christ Jesus, give me courage and strength to accomplish your purposes for my life and bring glory to your name, In Jesus’ Name, Amen. Want More? If tonight’s episode blessed you, be sure to follow the show so your next nightly scripture is ready when you are. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Colossians, Chapter 2 I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority. In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh was put off when you were circumcised by Christ, having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead. When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you. Such a person also goes into great detail about what they have seen; they are puffed up with idle notions by their unspiritual mind. They have lost connection with the head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow. Since you died with Christ to the elemental spiritual forces of this world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules: “Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!”? These rules, which have to do with things that are all destined to perish with use, are based on merely human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence. Evening Reflection Our Scripture tonight encourages believers to know the truth and stand firm on what they have been taught. Paul, the author of Colossians, employs Christ-followers to be rooted in Christ. He writes, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness” (Colossians 2:6-7). When I think about being rooted, I am reminded of the Mesquite tree. These specific trees thrive in harsh desert environments, and it is their root systems that set them apart. Their taproots can grow down over 100 feet to find water! The root system of the Mesquite is essential for its survival. The roots have to find living water to both grow and flourish. How can we make sure our roots are growing deep in Christ? First, we can start by being taught about Him. Psalm 92:12-13 writes, “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God.” If you want your roots to grow, get plugged into a Bible-believing church! Next, we see Paul encourage us to “overflow with thankfulness.” First, we must remember the ways He has blessed us. Isaiah 46:9 declares, “Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.” When we recall God’s faithfulness and authority in our lives, gratitude naturally flows. A heart of gratitude is a humble heart, rooted deeply in Him. Finally, we must continue to die to the flesh and keep our eyes focused on Christ (Colossians 2:20). The ways of the world, selfish ambition, greed, lust, contentment, pride (the list goes on!) will only kill the root system of your faith. But pursuing the way of Christ, His kingdom, righteousness, and love for Him and others, will cause your roots to go deep and wide. When the drought comes, the dark night, or the storm approaches, you will be unshakable. Stay deeply rooted in Him! Evening Prayer Father, This is my desire: to know you and grow in you deeper tonight. Root me in Christ! If there is anything in the way of my faith growing deep like roots in you, show me. Reveal to me any hindrances that are causing me to stumble. Forgive my sins and renew my faith. Lead me to eternal water, and may I grow into a living testimony of your love, grace, and strength in my life. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen. Want More? If tonight’s episode blessed you, be sure to follow the show so your next nightly scripture is ready when you are. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Isaiah, Chapter 65 “I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, ‘Here am I, here am I.’ All day long I have held out my hands to an obstinate people, who walk in ways not good, pursuing their own imaginations—a people who continually provoke me to my very face, offering sacrifices in gardens and burning incense on altars of brick; who sit among the graves and spend their nights keeping secret vigil; who eat the flesh of pigs, and whose pots hold broth of impure meat; who say, ‘Keep away; don’t come near me, for I am too sacred for you!’ Such people are smoke in my nostrils, a fire that keeps burning all day. “See, it stands written before me: I will not keep silent but will pay back in full; I will pay it back into their laps— both your sins and the sins of your ancestors,” says the Lord. “Because they burned sacrifices on the mountains and defied me on the hills, I will measure into their laps the full payment for their former deeds.” This is what the Lord says: “As when juice is still found in a cluster of grapes and people say, ‘Don’t destroy it, there is still a blessing in it,’ so will I do in behalf of my servants; I will not destroy them all. I will bring forth descendants from Jacob, and from Judah those who will possess my mountains; my chosen people will inherit them, and there will my servants live. Sharon will become a pasture for flocks, and the Valley of Achor a resting place for herds, for my people who seek me. “But as for you who forsake the Lord and forget my holy mountain, who spread a table for Fortune and fill bowls of mixed wine for Destiny, I will destine you for the sword, and all of you will fall in the slaughter; for I called but you did not answer, I spoke but you did not listen. You did evil in my sight and chose what displeases me.” Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: “My servants will eat, but you will go hungry; my servants will drink, but you will go thirsty; my servants will rejoice, but you will be put to shame. My servants will sing out of the joy of their hearts, but you will cry out from anguish of heart and wail in brokenness of spirit. You will leave your name for my chosen ones to use in their curses; the Sovereign Lord will put you to death, but to his servants he will give another name. Whoever invokes a blessing in the land will do so by the one true God; whoever takes an oath in the land will swear by the one true God. For the past troubles will be forgotten and hidden from my eyes. “See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in what I will create, for I will create Jerusalem to be a delight and its people a joy. I will rejoice over Jerusalem and take delight in my people; the sound of weeping and of crying will be heard in it no more. “Never again will there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not live out his years; the one who dies at a hundred will be thought a mere child; the one who fails to reach a hundred will be considered accursed. They will build houses and dwell in them; they will plant vineyards and eat their fruit. No longer will they build houses and others live in them, or plant and others eat. For as the days of a tree, so will be the days of my people; my chosen ones will long enjoy the work of their hands. They will not labor in vain, nor will they bear children doomed to misfortune; for they will be a people blessed by the Lord, they and their descendants with them. Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear. The wolf and the lamb will feed together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox, and dust will be the serpent’s food. They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain,” says the Lord. Evening Reflection We often carry into the night the weight of the day’s worries, regrets, and painful “former things.” Nighttime can easily become a breeding ground for amplifying our problems and for dredging up the memories we’d rather forget. However, Isaiah 65, particularly verses 17-19, invites us to think in a completely new way. As we read Isaiah 65, the promise of new heavens and a new earth appears to speak only of future events. But, this newness of life is available to us for today, rather than being an out-of-reach tomorrow. Three times this passage in Isaiah uses the word “create.” God is the Creator of the earth and the heavens, acting not just at the beginning of time but as the Giver of life today. God is making all things new—physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. As believers in Christ, we participate in God’s creative work here and now. We are becoming new creations. Each morning His steadfast faithfulness allows us to be restored by His compassion and His mercies. Each day, we are moving closer towards the promise of a glorious future where the pains of the past will finally be forgotten. Reflect on the newness that God has brought to your life today. Think of just one thing for which you can be glad and rejoice. The Creator, your heavenly Father, holds the world, the heavens, and your life in His creative hands. Your glorious future has already begun. Evening Prayer Lord God, As I lay down to sleep tonight, I want to release the day’s worries and the “former things” of the past that so often plague my night. Guard my mind as I rest and quiet the anxious thoughts that keep me awake. Instead, I choose to focus my thoughts on Your abundant mercies, and all that You are currently making new in my life. Thank You for being the Creator who never stops making all things new. I surrender this day into Your hands, knowing that You are working even while I sleep. I place my hope and trust in You, believing that beautiful and joyful newness will rise out of what seems hopeless and regretful. Renew my soul tonight. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Want More? If tonight’s episode blessed you, be sure to follow the show so your next nightly scripture is ready when you are. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.