Yesterday was Thanksgiving—a day set aside to give thanks for all the blessings in our lives. But how many of us truly pause and take time to give thanks? If you did, way to go! 

The truth is for many, Thanksgiving has become little more than an excuse to eat turkey, watch football, and plan Black Friday shopping trips. And in the rush of all the planned activities, it’s easy to overlook the real purpose of the day: Gratitude.

And, just like worship is not ONLY singing, gratitude is not ONLY saying something we’re thankful for at the table on Thanksgiving day. Gratitude is a way of life that requires ongoing practice.

Gratitude doesn’t always come naturally in a world where we take so many things for granted. We’ve grown accustomed to our blessings and often fail to notice them. I once read, “If the stars came out only once a year, everyone would stay up all night to see them.” But because the stars appear nightly, we rarely look up to marvel at them. The same is true of our blessings. When we become accustomed to them, we lose our sense of awe and thankfulness.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 the Apostle Paul writes, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” At first glance, this command may seem impossible. How can we rejoice always? How can we give thanks in all circumstances, especially the difficult ones? The answer lies not in our own strength, but in the power of the Holy Spirit. When we invite the Holy Spirit into our lives, He transforms our perspective. He helps us see the beauty in the ordinary, the purpose in trials, and the abundant blessings—big and small—all around us.

In Luke 17:11-19, ten Lepers call out to Jesus and ask Him to have pity on them. Jesus healed all ten of them, but only one returned to thank Him. That one man, a Samaritan, recognized the gift he had received and chose to come back and express his gratitude. Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?” This story challenges us to reflect on our own hearts. Are we like the nine who received blessings without giving thanks, or like the one who took the time to thank God?

Gratitude is not just a feeling; it’s an intentional choice. It’s choosing to pause and acknowledge God’s goodness in every situation. It’s realizing that there is grace, even in hardships—a lesson, a provision, a promise of His presence. Psalm 103:2 (NLT) tells us, “Let all that I am praise the LORD ; may I never forget the good things he does for me.” This verse reminds us to actively remember and recount God’s blessings.

As we move beyond the Thanksgiving holiday, let’s strive to cultivate a lifestyle of thankfulness. Start small: thank God for the sunrise, the laughter of loved ones, the meal on our tables, and the gift of salvation. Let the Holy Spirit awaken in each of us a deep awareness of God’s goodness. 

This gratitude will not only honor God but also transform our hearts and bring us joy. So let’s ask the Holy Spirit to open our eyes to the blessings we’ve overlooked and allow His joy to draw us closer to Him and fill our hearts with thanksgiving.

In Matthew 5:1-2, it tells us: “Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them.”

This passage introduces one of the most profound moments in Scripture: the Sermon on the Mount. And as Jesus begins to teach, there’s an important detail worth noting. There are two distinct groups that are present—The crowd and His disciples. And understanding the difference between these two groups can help us reflect on where we are in our relationship with Jesus.

The crowd was large, diverse, and ever-changing. They were drawn by the excitement surrounding Jesus—the miracles, the authority in His teaching, and the hope of witnessing something extraordinary. They were intrigued by Him, perhaps even inspired. But their commitment was shallow. For many, their connection to Jesus was just temporary, based on what He could offer them in the moment.

The disciples, however, were different. They weren’t just curious observers; they were committed followers. They had made a decision to leave behind their old lives and fully embrace the new life that Jesus offered. They didn’t just want to learn from Him; they wanted to live like Him.

This distinction is still relevant today. We still have crowds and disciples. And the question we have to ask ourselves is this: Are we part of the crowd, content to admire Jesus from a distance, or are we disciples, devoted to walking with Him daily?

A few years back, our men’s group did a study titled “Not a Fan.” It asked the tough question: Are we fans of Jesus—enthusiastic spectators—or are we followers who seek to truly know Him and obey His teachings, even when it’s hard?

Being part of the crowd is easy. It doesn’t require change or sacrifice. But Jesus calls us to something deeper—to be His disciples, people who live out His teachings with courage and faith.

This call isn’t just about our proximity to Jesus—it’s about our transformation in and through Him. While the crowd admired Jesus’ words, the disciples let His words shape their lives.

So, where do we find ourselves? Are we simply fascinated by Jesus, or are we committed to following Him, no matter the cost? Jesus is calling us to be more than just a fan and to step out of the crowd into deeper relationship with Him. He’s inviting us to move from being admirers to being followers who experience the fullness of this life that He offers.

My prayer for all of us is that we wouldn’t settle for being part of the crowd, but instead seek to be His disciples and live lives that reflect His unconditional love and grace.

As we enter the rainy season in Oregon, it serves as a reminder of the natural rhythms God has woven into creation—not just in the changing weather, but in the patterns of our own lives. Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” 

Each season, whether in nature or in life, has its purpose and brings a unique opportunity for growth, reflection, and renewal. Some seasons are marked by joy and abundance, while others bring challenge and discomfort. Yet through them all, God is present, leading us and helping us to grow in Him.

At the start of the fall season, we are surrounded by the beauty of change: the crisp air; the vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold; and the gentle falling of leaves. It’s a season of transition, a time when nature prepares for rest after the growth of spring and the abundance of summer. And then…it gets colder, rainier, and darker. The leaves turn brown and we see also the pain that change can bring. Fall is a powerful teacher concerning the spiritual and life seasons we go through. It reminds us that change, while sometimes bittersweet, is part of God’s plan for our growth and renewal.

The cold of winter can sometimes feel harsh and lifeless, but essential work is taking place beneath the surface. In our spiritual lives, these times of stillness may feel like silence or even abandonment, but they are seasons where God invites us to draw nearer to Him. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” It’s in the quiet of winter that our roots grow deeper, finding nourishment in God’s Word and presence. Just as trees in winter prepare for new growth by strengthening their roots, we too find strength and renewal during times when everything on the surface seems dormant or dead. 

The new colors of spring are a picture of resurrection: of hope fulfilled and life renewed. After enduring the rain and the cold, we finally see the vibrant evidence of growth and the beauty that comes from perseverance. In spring, we celebrate the fulfillment of God’s promises. It is a season of answered prayers, fresh starts, and abundant joy. We are reminded of Psalm 30:5, “Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” The flowers that bloom after the severe cold and rain are a testament to God’s faithfulness; they remind us that no hardship is wasted when placed in His hands.

And then summer is often seen as the culmination of growth and a time of enjoyment. It’s a reminder to cherish the blessings God has given us and to be grateful for the journey that led us there. The warmth and abundance of summer teach us to praise God not only in times of need but in times of plenty. These joyful seasons remind us that God’s goodness is ever-present, encouraging us to give thanks for the fruit that comes from patient endurance.

Every season in life has its purpose and is part of the greater story God is telling through us. Whether you find yourself in a time of change, a time of cold silence, or rejoicing in the bloom of spring, or joy and abundance of summer, trust that God is with you. Ask Him to show Himself to you in each season—how He’s working, where He’s moving. He is using each moment to draw you closer to Him and to shape you into who you are meant to be. May we learn to embrace each season, finding joy and purpose in the fact that God is at work in our lives.

Today is November 8th, but I’m writing this devotional a week in advance because my wife and I are going away for a few nights to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. So I’m actually writing this before the elections take place.

Right now, I have no idea what the outcome will be, and it’s possible that by the time you read this, the results may still be unclear. But one thing is certain: no matter who wins and what measures pass, there will be people on either side who feel let down, worried, and even fearful about the future. In a country that’s as divided as ours, these times can bring uncertainty that stirs up deep anxieties.

In times like these, it’s easy to focus on our own understanding, to rely on the things we see and feel. But Proverbs 3:5-6 calls us to something deeper as it tells us to: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” 

This is a call to let go of our worries and place our trust fully in God’s hands, even when things don’t go the way we hoped or expected. God sees what we cannot, and His wisdom and purpose extend beyond the limitations of our understanding.

I’ve often said in church that God’s ways are not our ways, echoing Isaiah 55:8-9: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. This truth is an invitation to trust, especially when we don’t understand. 

The outcome of any election will influence our nation’s course, but it doesn’t change who God is, and it doesn’t change our mission as His followers. The greatest commandments still remain—to love God and love people. This doesn’t change based on political outcomes.

When we anchor ourselves in the truth of Proverbs 3:5-6, we realize that we’re called to keep trusting God above all else. Who the next president is will never affect God’s sovereignty or our identity in Christ. 

Our purpose—to be ambassadors of His love, grace, and peace—endures beyond any election cycle. So, as we reflect on these words today, let’s choose to trust God’s plan and remember that He remains firmly on the throne. And in doing so, may we find the courage to love others well, regardless of how divided the world around us may feel.

In John 15, Jesus invites us into a life of deep, intentional connection with Him. “I am the vine; you are the branches,” He says in verse 5. “If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” This call to “abide” is not just a suggestion; it’s a reminder that real, lasting growth only happens when we intentionally make space for His presence and draw from His strength.

Abiding is about intentionally taking time each day to be in His presence, to sit with Him and let Him speak to us through His Word, and to listen for His still, small voice. Imagine a branch connected to the vine on which it grows. It doesn’t produce fruit through its own effort; instead, it draws everything it needs—nourishment, strength, and life—from the vine itself. In the same way, our spiritual growth and fruitfulness come from abiding in the Lord. 

We live in a world that constantly pulls us in different directions, where productivity and busyness often take center stage. But Jesus reminds us that without Him, we can do nothing. When we pause to abide in His presence and seek Him, we receive His strength, and that strength becomes the foundation from which we live, work, and love others.

Most of us are probably familiar with the story of Mary and Martha found in Luke 10. Martha busied herself with serving, while Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet and simply be with Him. When Martha became frustrated, Jesus gently reminded her that “only one thing is needed” (Luke 10:42). He was reminding her—and us—that the most important choice we can make is to take time to be with Him. Our strength and ability to love others grows as we remain connected to Him.

So the question is: Are we taking time to intentionally abide in Jesus? Are we making time to be still in His presence, to pray, or to read His Word? Are we asking Him to fill us with His strength, to guide us, and to produce His fruit in us? Are we asking Him to show us what He’s up to, so that we can partner with Him in the work of His kingdom?

When we prioritize abiding in Him, we experience His love and His life in greater ways, and our connection with Him becomes the foundation from which we live our lives. And this call to abide isn’t about achieving or proving anything—it’s about resting in the presence of the One who is the true source of life.

Last week I spoke out of 1 Samuel where King Saul had been pursuing David, hoping to kill him. From the moment he was anointed by Samuel, David faced many challenges—none more daunting than being pursued by King Saul. Yet, despite the danger and uncertainty, David’s heart was anchored in God’s promises. He knew that the God who had anointed him was the same God who would protect him from harm.

Psalm18:2 is a powerful reminder of this truth. Listen to what it says: “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”

There is comfort in knowing that God is our protector. Throughout the scriptures, we find the assurance that God watches over us, defends us, and shelters us in times of trouble. One of the clearest examples of this was found in the life of David.

It’s believed that David wrote this Psalm shortly after being delivered from Saul and his many attempts to kill him. God was his deliverer, but David’s situation reminds us that God’s protection doesn’t always mean the absence of difficulty. 

David had to flee, hide in caves, and live as a fugitive. But in those dark moments, he turned to God as his refuge and strength. Psalm 34:7 says, “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.” David experienced this truth firsthand. His life was often in danger, but he knew that God’s hand was upon him, guiding him and shielding him from harm.

An illustration of this protection can be seen in the story of a shepherd who tends to his sheep. The shepherd doesn’t always keep the sheep in a pen where no danger exists. Instead, he leads them through valleys and pastures, watching over them carefully. When a predator comes near, the shepherd is ready with his staff to defend the sheep. God is our Good Shepherd. He may allow us to walk through difficult valleys, but He is always there, ready to protect us.

We may not face a physical enemy like David did with Saul, but there are times when we feel pursued by anxiety, fear, or uncertainty. In those moments, we can take refuge in God’s promises and remember that He has not left us defenseless. As Romans 8:31 declares, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” This is not a promise of a trouble-free life, but rather an assurance that God’s power and presence will sustain us through every battle.

This week, I had the privilege of going to our district conference and one of the speakers talked about the church in Antioch. He referenced Acts 13:2, where we see a pivotal moment in the early church’s history. This is what it says: “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” 

Those words, “set apart for me,” hold profound significance. God had a specific plan for Barnabas and Saul, using them to spread the Gospel to the Gentile world. Their obedience led to countless lives being changed, cities transformed, and the message of Jesus reaching places it had never been before. It’s awe-inspiring to think about the ripple effects of their willingness to be set apart.

This moment in Scripture isn’t just about two men in the early church. It’s a reminder that God has a plan for each of us. In the same way He set apart Barnabas and Saul, He desires to set us apart for His purposes. 

Being “set apart” might look like leading a Bible study, teaching a Sunday school class, or even mentoring a younger believer. But it can also be a matter of the heart—choosing to love a difficult neighbor, extending grace to someone who has hurt us, or standing up for what is right even when it’s not easy. Our callings may look different, but they all flow from the same source: God’s desire to use us in His Kingdom.

Imagine a gardener planting seeds in different parts of a garden. Some seeds grow into large trees that provide shade and fruit, while others are smaller flowers that add color and fragrance. Each plant is different, but each has a role in making the garden beautiful. In the same way, God places each of us where we’re meant to grow. The question is, are we open to being set apart for His work, even if it looks different than we imagined?

We may never find ourselves traveling to distant lands like Paul and Barnabas, but that doesn’t mean our calling is any less significant. Sometimes, the most profound impact comes from the quiet, everyday faithfulness of shining a light at work, being a godly influence to our children, or being a source of encouragement in our community. All of it matters, because it’s all a part of the bigger picture—of loving God, loving others, and extending His Kingdom wherever we go.

So, take a moment to pause and seek the Lord. What might He be calling you to do in this season of life? Maybe it’s a new opportunity or a challenge that’s been on your heart. Perhaps it’s a step of faith you’ve been hesitant to take. As you spend time in prayer, be open to the Holy Spirit’s voice, just like the believers in Antioch were. Let Him show you the unique ways He wants to set you apart for His work, knowing that when you say yes to God, you never know whose life might be changed through your obedience.

If you’ve been at church the last few weeks, you know that I’ve been in a series on Jesus and Politics. The truth is, this political climate we find ourselves in has been divisive and polarizing. We see people taking sides, digging in their heels, and sometimes even dehumanizing others who don’t share their views. And instead of putting others first they focus on their own wants, opinions, and desires.

But in Philippians 2:3-4, Paul writes, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” This is such a challenging scripture because it calls us to an uncomfortable place: a place of humility where we set aside our pride and personal agendas to truly care about others. It goes against the grain of our culture that tells us to look out for ourselves first.

Have you ever been in a conversation where it was obvious that the other person wasn’t listening? Where they were just waiting for their chance to jump in, so they could share their thoughts or opinions. We’ve all experienced that. It’s frustrating, isn’t it? It makes us feel unheard and undervalued. But how often do we do that to others? Where we get so caught up in our own perspective that we forget to listen, understand, and actually care for the other person.

This is the call of Philippians 2. It’s not just about being kind or generous—it’s about a radical shift in how we live our lives, putting others’ needs above our own. This is absolutely countercultural. It’s so easy to get caught up in our own frustrations, or our own convictions, we forget that the person on the other side of the debate is someone created in the image of God.

A practical way to live this out is to simply listen more than we speak. We need to ask ourself, “How can I serve this person today? How can I honor their needs, their struggles, their story?” It doesn’t mean we abandon our convictions or our passions, but it means we hold them with an open hand, allowing space for others. 

Jesus modeled this perfectly when He washed the feet of His disciples. He didn’t need to assert His power or prove His worth, instead He took the role of a servant. That’s what Paul is calling us to do in this passage. In a world that often encourages us to push forward, to fight for what’s ours, and to demand our way, God is inviting us to a different path—the way of humility. 

May we be people who, in the midst of political tensions and personal struggles, reflect the heart of Jesus by putting others first. And in doing so, we not only reflect Christ’s love, but we’ll also help heal the divisions in our relationships and communities.

In Philippians 1:3, Paul’s words, “I thank my God every time I remember you,” offer a powerful reminder of the importance of relationships in our lives. We were created for relationship—relationship with God and relationship with others. God has placed people around us, not by accident, but as part of His divine plan. Yet, the question arises: do we take these relationships for granted?

Paul didn’t just appreciate the Philippians; he was intentional in expressing his gratitude to God for them. His heart overflowed with thankfulness every time he remembered them, acknowledging their significance in his life and ministry. This shows us that deep, meaningful relationships aren’t just something we should enjoy; they are something to be cherished, nurtured, and, most importantly, given thanks for.

It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and forget how much the people around us mean to us. But when was the last time we paused to thank God for the friends, family, and community He has placed in our lives? And beyond thanking God, when was the last time we actually expressed that gratitude to the people themselves? Do they know how much we appreciate them? Do we let them know how they’ve impacted our lives?

Paul’s example challenges us to cultivate relationships marked by gratitude and intentionality. Relationships require effort and attention, but they are among the greatest gifts God has given us. Today, take a moment to reflect on the people He’s placed in your life. Offer up a prayer of thanks for them and, like Paul, make the effort to let them know how much they mean to you. Let your gratitude draw you closer to them and, ultimately, closer to God.

This week in my devotions, I’ve been reading in the book of Joshua and it talks about the Promised Land that was being divided up amongst the tribes of Israel. And at the very end of chapter 21, in verse 45, it says: “Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.” 

This is an affirmation of God’s unwavering commitment to His people. Yet, as we reflect on the journey of the Israelites, we can’t ignore the fact that it took them 40 years longer to reach the Promised Land than it should have. When the generation before Joshua and Caleb stood on the edge of the land God promised, they allowed fear to take over. Instead of trusting in God’s power, they saw the giants in the land and chose to remain where they were.

This delay wasn’t because God was unfaithful to His promises, but because the people were unwilling to step out in faith and trust in Him: trust in a promise that He had made to them. How often do we find ourselves in similar situations? 

God gives us promises through His Word—promises of hope, peace, purpose, provision, and victory. Yet, like the Israelites, we sometimes allow fear to paralyze us. We see the “giants” in our lives—the obstacles, challenges, or uncertainties—and we fail to move forward. We miss out on experiencing our own “Promised Land” in life because we fail to step out in faith.

In our lives, we sometimes experience spiritual “wilderness” seasons—times when we feel lost, stuck, or unsure of what God is doing. It’s easy to grow discouraged in these times but these moments don’t have to last 40 years. Just as the Israelites wandered, waiting to step into God’s promise, we too may find ourselves wandering. 

However, God’s desire is for us to move forward in faith, believing that He is faithful to fulfill His promises. Hebrews 10:23 encourages us: “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”

As we reflect on Joshua 21:45, we’re reminded that God’s promises never fail. The question is, are we willing to trust Him and take steps of faith, or will we let fear keep us wandering? God is calling us to experience our own Promised Land moments—to step into the fullness of His plans for our lives. May we be people who grab hold of His promises, and move forward in faith, knowing that just as He was faithful to Israel, He will be faithful to us.