Daily Devotional

Grace for Every Season

08/01/22 – 08/04/22

When the Lord Wrestles with You

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  08/02/22

Read Genesis 32:1-32.

Jacob was afraid. The entire reason he had fled to his uncle Laban those many years ago was to escape his brother, Esau, who had threatened his life (see Genesis 27:41-45). Now he was on his way back home with no assurance that Esau’s feelings toward him had changed. So, he tried to buy his brother off. He separated his flocks and herds and counted out a substantial gift for Esau. “For he thought, ‘I will pacify him with these gifts I am sending on ahead; later, when I see him, perhaps he will receive me'” (Genesis 32:20). It was a smart plan, but it was unnecessary. God was with Jacob and was watching over him as He had promised (see Genesis 28:15). No evil thing would come upon him without the Lord’s say-so.

Of course, Jacob didn’t understand that. He let his fears and worries overtake him. But then, in the midst of his trepidation, when he was all by himself at night on the bank of the Jabbok River, the Lord appeared. You may have heard this passage preached before, and you may have heard that Jacob wrestled with God. But that’s not quite right. The text says the Lord wrestled with Jacob. God showed up so that He might wrestle with Jacob, rather than the other way around.

While Jacob did ask for blessing during the struggle, in His grace, God did not grant it until Jacob surrendered. God initiated this meeting to deliver Jacob from his willfulness and anxiety. He wrestled with Jacob to bring him to the point of surrender, that he might rest and trust in His promises.

God will wrestle with His beloved children until they surrender. He may be wrestling with you right now. When you and I persist in our stubbornness, when you and I persist in our disobedience, when you and I persist in going our own way, God does not give up and say, “Oh, what can I do? I can’t get her attention. I can’t get him to listen. I give up.” He chooses instead to wrestle with us so that we might surrender to His good and perfect will.

There can be no real blessing without utter surrender. There can be no true success without genuine submission. There can be no actual victory without relinquishing control. There can be no effectiveness for God without yielding. I promise you this: Your blessing, and possibly your life, is dependent on your losing and God winning

Prayer: Father, thank You that You wrestle with me to bring me peace that transcends understanding. You challenge me to lay down my burdens and cast my cares on You because You love me and are with me. Help me to trust You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak” (Genesis 32:24).

Grace for Every Season

08/01/22 – 08/04/22

When You Work for the Lord

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  08/01/22

Read Genesis 30:25-43.

The word prosperity often has a bad connotation today. When we think of prosperity, we frequently associate it with the prosperity gospel—a false gospel that entices people with promises of wealth and material possessions. Of course, if someone bends their knee to Jesus in order to receive money, then money is their god, not Jesus. And there is no greater tragedy than for a person to neglect the true riches of heaven for the poverty of financial security in this life alone.

With that said, we need to understand that prosperity is a Biblical word. God does, at times, prosper His people with financial and material blessings. He prospered Abraham (see Genesis 12:1-3, 7). He prospered the Israelites (see Acts 13:17). He prospered King David and King Solomon (see 1 Samuel 18:14, 1 Kings 3:11-14). And God also prospered young Jacob.

If you recall, Jacob had gone to work for his uncle Laban. Laban didn’t treat Jacob fairly. He tricked his nephew and cheated him. It certainly wasn’t Laban’s intention to make Jacob wealthy. Nevertheless, Jacob prospered despite Laban’s attempted manipulation. You see, his success was supernatural. Jacob knew he wasn’t really working for Laban—he was working for God.

Regardless of who your earthly boss might be, you must realize that all your work is actually in service to God (see Colossians 3:23). He is the one who’s watching you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and He is the one who will reward your faithfulness. Jacob discovered this amazing Truth—and it set him free. Jacob knew that God would be the one to bless him, not his uncle Laban. So Jacob consciously and consistently devoted himself and his work to the Lord.

There’s a lesson in that for all of us: Do more than is required of you, and one way or another, you will be blessed. You will be rewarded. Even when your efforts seem unappreciated and unseen, know that God both sees and is pleased by your efforts to honor Him. When your own prosperity is not your all-consuming focus, sooner or later God will prosper and reward your faithfulness. At the same time, when you are a faithful and diligent worker, even the pagans will eventually take notice. It’s one of the ways you can be salt and light in this world (see Matthew 5:13-16). Our faithful work is a witness to a dark world of the grace of God at work in our lives.

Prayer: Lord, help me to remember that all my work is in service to You and that You have called me to each task for a reason and for good. I ask Your blessing upon my mind, my mouth, my hands, and my feet to serve in drawing lost souls to Your Kingdom for Your glory. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“In this way the man grew exceedingly prosperous and came to own large flocks, and female and male servants, and camels and donkeys” (Genesis 30:43).

Freedom from Pessimism

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/31/22

Over the past couple of days, we’ve been learning about overcoming pessimism. The doubting we’ve read about in the apostle Thomas’ life culminated in his doubting the resurrected Christ, but when Christ appeared to him, he received the ultimate freedom from pessimism.

The effect freedom from pessimism brings is clearly seen in Thomas’ life following that experience. Thomas’ transformation was not just intellectual. His transformation changed every area of his life and moved him to do something great for God in response. Thomas took the Gospel into some of the toughest parts of the world in his day, areas such as Nineveh and India.

Freedom from pessimism begins when we understand what our calling teaches us about how loved by God we are. Our understanding is enhanced by remembering what God, in His power and awesome grace, has done on our behalf. When we experience, by faith, the resurrection power of our Lord Jesus Christ on a deep and personal level like Thomas did, Jesus will transform us from being pessimistic to visionary, suspicious to victorious, uncertain to confident, and hopeless to joyful as we trust in the promises of God to make all things new in His perfect time.

Prayer: Father, thank You that I can have hope because I have experienced the power of the resurrected Christ in my life. Thank You for setting me free from pessimism. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).

God Overpowers Our Pessimism

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/30/22

Yesterday we read that the first step in overcoming pessimism is understanding who you are in Christ Jesus.

The second step in overcoming pessimism is knowing how to handle setbacks—those moments when we lose our confidence. We all have hot buttons and weaknesses that cause us to doubt and falter in faith. Thomas had those buttons, too.

We learn about one of his buttons in John 11. He was afraid of the growing opposition from the Jews. When Jesus told the disciples that they were going to Bethany because Lazarus had died, Thomas was sure they would die too (see v. 16). But then Jesus overwhelmed Thomas’ pessimism with His matchless power—power even over death—by raising Lazarus from the grave.

Our hope also lies in witnessing and receiving Jesus’ life-giving power. How can we be pessimistic when Jesus has the power to redeem any situation?

The final step in overcoming pessimism is believing in the resurrected Christ. Following Jesus’ crucifixion, the disciples were confused about what would happen next, and they gathered together for support—everyone but Thomas.

He expected nothing to happen, and when he was told by the other disciples that the resurrected Christ had appeared to them, he still refused to believe, saying, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe” (John 20:25).

When Jesus appeared again to them a week later, Thomas was given the chance to do just that, and when he had experienced the resurrected Christ, he exclaimed, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). His ultimate liberation from pessimism had come. Likewise, we must remember that in every situation, Jesus is at work—sitting at the right hand of the Father in heaven. Our God is alive and coming soon!

Prayer: God, thank You for the reminder that You have the power to redeem any situation and that I can have confidence in the power of my Lord, the resurrected Christ. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Come and see what God has done, his awesome deeds for mankind!” (Psalm 66:5)

Overcoming Pessimism with God’s Love

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/29/22

Pessimism is a cunning enemy of a growing faith in Christ. One of the reasons it is so sneaky is that there are times when it masquerades as a virtue. We call it discernment, cautious wisdom, and sometimes even a realistic worldview. At its core, pessimism is unbelief. It is a lack of faith in God and His ability or desire to keep His promises.

A great example of pessimism rightly labeled is found in Mark 9. A father brings his possessed son to Jesus and says, “[I]f you can do anything, take pity on us and help us” (v. 22). Jesus responds by saying, “‘If you can’? . . . Everything is possible for one who believes” (v. 23). In a moment of clarity, the father cries out, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (v. 24). Face to face with Christ, the father had to admit that the issue was with his faith and not with Jesus’ power.

Deliverance from pessimism is possible. We see it in the apostle Thomas’ life. Thomas had a history of unbelief, so much so that he is often referred to as “doubting Thomas.” Jesus defeated pessimism in Thomas’ life, giving us insight into how Christ can defeat it in our own lives.

The first step in defeating pessimism is understanding who you are in Christ. Thomas was specifically called by Jesus to be one of His disciples. Knowing that he was chosen by the Lord Jesus Christ and that he was loved unconditionally by Him was the first step in Thomas’ transformation.

It can be the beginning for us, as well. God called us to be His own because of His great love for us and His unique design for each of our lives. We are loved specially and unconditionally by His grace, and the God of the universe holds each one of us forever in His hand. There is nothing we can do to affect God’s calling. He freely called us because we are special to Him.

Prayer: Lord, I admit that at times I struggle with unbelief like the father with the possessed son, but today I cry out, “Help my unbelief!” Thank You for Your love for me and for the calling You’ve placed on my life. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” (1 John 3:1).

The Power of Christ

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/28 /22

Only Christ’s resurrection power can satisfy our empty hearts. Only His power can defeat our temptations and turn our trials into triumphs. Only His power can exchange our weaknesses for His strength. Any earthly assets that we draw on are rubbish compared to Christ’s power.

As imperfect humans, it is easy for us to revert to our independent ways, especially when things seem to go well for us. We quickly forget about Christ’s strength and joy when we find comfort and happiness in our circumstances.

But we must be on guard against spiritual stagnation. We must place our relationship with Christ first in our lives. We often shy away from spiritual growth because we know that growth is often accompanied by pain. We want to run from our troubles rather than press forward. But the Bible tells us, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus” (Hebrews 12:1-2).

Paul encouraged the Philippians, “But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14). While we may have to strain our spiritual muscles in order to grow, we will find joy in the midst of our struggles if we focus on Christ, applying the power of His grace to our lives.

Prayer: Father, thank You for using Your infinite power to save me and satisfy my heart. Help me not to run from spiritual growth but to press forward to win the prize of Your nearness for eternity. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit” (Psalm 147:5).

Staying on the Way of Contentment

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/27/22

Today we will consider two more detours that can divert us from the way of contentment—the way of Christ.

The first is the pitfall of pride. Pride lurks at the core of our weaknesses. Pride presents itself as righteousness, but in reality, it is self-serving. Pride hinders our prayers because we seek to glorify ourselves instead of glorifying God in all things. It fosters arrogance as we place our confidence in ourselves instead of placing it in God.

Our focus on ourselves will only lead to discontentment. But if we set our hope in Christ, we have abounding joy and godly purpose:

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. (Titus 2:11-14).

Another detour from contentment is a lack of generosity. Even when life grows financially difficult, a generous person can remain joyful. God wants us to give out of love and gratitude to Him, not out of obligation or for the sake of appearances. God is concerned with the heart of our giving.

Mark 12:41-44 gives us an example of generous and wholehearted giving:

Jesus . . . watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, . . . Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”

Have you experienced a detour in your Christian walk? Are you allowing pride to determine your own path? Has your generosity crumbled?

Prayer: Father, forgive me for allowing roadblocks in my life that have sent me on detours. Help me identify and overcome these obstacles so that I might find my contentment in You alone. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“But godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6).

Confronting Our Weaknesses with God’s Grace

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/26/22

There are several detours that can throw us off course in our Christian walk. They are designed by the enemy to keep us restless and to steal our peace and joy. Today we will look at the problem of being unwilling to confront our weaknesses.

We all have weaknesses that cause us pain. We may have a physical weakness that has led us to depression. We may have a moral weakness that leads us into sin. We may have a character flaw or a lack of spiritual discipline. Whatever our weaknesses are—whether physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual—they can lead to discontentment if we do not apply God’s grace to those areas.

Paul wrote, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

If we find that God’s grace is not sufficient for us, then that insufficiency is signaling a problem. Either we are focusing too much on the problem itself and not on God’s grace, or we are ignoring our weaknesses altogether. As Paul explains, the secret to dealing with weaknesses is to trust in God’s grace, allowing Him to give us victory in those areas.

Prayer: Father, I recognize that I have weaknesses and that I need Your grace. I know that Your grace is sufficient and that You will give me victory as I trust You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin” (Hebrews 4:15).

Sufficient Grace

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/25/22

Without a doubt, no matter what storms you face in life, God will pull you to safety if you call on Him. He is the one that can save you from certain defeat and give you the hope you need. When you pray to Him, He will deliver you from the sin that threatens your fellowship with Him.

An eternal sense of peace and security is readily available to us through prayer. Panic and anxiety are no match for God’s grace. He goes before us into life’s battles. The victory is ours, though it does not come through our efforts or strength. It comes from His hands and His grace. No one is more committed to our success than Christ.

No matter what you face, God’s grace is sufficient. His power is revealed and made perfect through your weakness. Never be ashamed to cry out to the Lord. He listens for you and will come to you, fulfilling the promise of His matchless, perfect grace.

Prayer: Lord, my Savior, thank You for coming to my rescue. I know that Your grace is sufficient for me. Thank You for being my peace and security. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God” (Psalm 20:7).

Our Power Source

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/24/22

Paul knew the source of his power: “For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith'” (Romans 1:17). From beginning to end, from Old Testament to New Testament, it is always the same—the righteous will live by faith. The word faith here is past, present, and future.

In the past, you exercised faith the moment you put your trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. And today, you are putting your trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, knowing that He is providing for your needs, strengthening you against sin, empowering you to have victory, and giving you wisdom for each day. Your faith also focuses on the future. You know that the moment you check out of this earth, you are going to check in with Jesus.

Are you ashamed of the Gospel? Do you get quiet when someone tells you it is bigoted to say Jesus is the only way to heaven? Do you get intimidated when someone tells you that it is narrow-minded to believe that there is no salvation from hell other than Jesus Christ? Remember your power source—and move ahead in obedience and faith, trusting God to see you through.

Prayer: God, help me remember that You are the source of my power. Give me courage and boldness to lovingly stand for Gospel Truth. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith'” (Romans 1:17).

God’s Grace Throughout Our Lives

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/23/22

As God pursues us with His wonderful grace, something magnificent takes place in our lives. Before God’s grace was extended to us, we were dead in our sins and powerless to overcome them. We were in bondage to the enemy, and the future never looked so grim. Then, God entered the scene, delighting to demonstrate the power of His grace.

After Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, the Bible begins to tell the unfolding tale of God’s pursuit of the human heart through the goodness of His grace. And it is through this Gospel of the grace of God that our once-dead souls become alive! Instead of being unable to fight sin’s strongholds, God’s grace gives us power to overcome them through the Holy Spirit.

As children of the living God, we come to the battle equipped to win—not just to survive another round. God’s grace empowers us to be conquerors through Christ.

God entered our lives to save us, not just to show up and to impress us with His omnipotence. He came to deliver us from all the bondage of the past and to bring us ultimate redemption as we follow Him. We now can say no to sin, find deepest fulfillment in obedience to God, and experience incomparable joy in a personal relationship with the Father.

Through salvation, we receive God’s grace, and then His transformation begins in our hearts. All along, He pursues us with His grace. When He captures us, the parts of our hearts that were cold toward Him suddenly warm and come to life.

Though at times we may stray, God is faithful and steadfast. He is the “hound of heaven.” Just as He pursued us to bring us to salvation, He sustains us today with His grace to bring us peace in His presence and hope for eternity.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the way You pursued me and called me into relationship with You! I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given” (John 1:16).

The Truth About God’s Nature

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/22/22

Tragedy is unavoidable. Not only will we have to face personal tragedies in our lives, but each generation faces gut-wrenching communal tragedies. In tragic moments, it seems evil has prevailed and we are reminded of the undeniable presence of sin in this world. In these moments, the question quickly arises: “Where is God?”

The Truth is God is not afraid of our questions. He is not surprised, offended, or threatened by our inability to comprehend every spiritual working of the universe. He has nothing to hide from us because He is blameless in character. In the face of what we do not know, we can cling to what we do know about Christ’s character.

In John 10:10-11, Jesus likens His leadership to that of a trustworthy shepherd. In stark contrast, He describes Satan’s role as that of a thief who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. Many live in terror of their gods, offering sacrifices with the hope that their god will withhold sickness, death, and destruction from their families and cities. But our God is not like these false gods.

Jesus specifically came “to destroy the devil’s work” (1 John 3:8). Our God became like us, entering into our suffering so that He could bring us life. Our God does not deceive, but abhors evil, delights in the Truth, and brings justice. Our God does not add to our misery or demand the impossible from us, but He paid our penalty on the cross. He is not passive; He is at work in us and around us. When we pray, He responds, breaking spiritual strongholds and delivering us from snares we aren’t even aware of.

So where is God? He is with us, in us, and ahead of us. In the midst of tragedy, He is working behind the scenes with a plan to glorify Himself and bless those who follow Him. What is God’s response to evil? He overcomes it.

Are you confident that the light of Christ is more powerful than evil? Are you searching for perfect answers, or are you willing to trust that God is good, God is in control, and He loves you? Whether you are hurting or looking for answers, bring your struggles before the Lord today. He is not the antagonist in the story—He is the one ready to comfort us and lead us into all Truth.

Prayer: Lord, even when my circumstances seem hopeless, I know that You are still good. Help me to trust in You and depend on You in every circumstance. Help me to be ready to share Your love and Your Truth when tragedy strikes. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work” (1 John 3:8).

The Gardener of Your Life

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/21/22

Have you ever toured a vineyard? There is constant attention given to the condition of each vine. The gardener takes particular care of each vine and its branches. Because he is interested in producing quality grapes, he prunes the wild shoots that produce leaves and no fruit.

God is the gardener of your life. He trims the troublesome shoots so that you will be productive and fruitful for Him. Often, pruning looks and feels painful, merciless, and wasteful. But with God there is no random cutting. He trims away what is harmful and bad for you.

When self-centeredness and selfishness grow in your heart, God reaches down and begins to prune. The nutrients of God’s Word bring new life. As you allow God to work, you begin to live a new life of holiness and righteousness.

How do you abide and continue to abide in Christ? The answer is by spending adequate time studying, learning, and comprehending God’s Word—but not merely as words, facts, or sentiments. God’s Word must be the basis for all your actions so that you are nourished and fulfilled and can go out to nourish and fulfill others with the Truth.

It is easy to forget that producing fruit is impossible without the pain of pruning. Jesus said: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful” (John 15:1-2).

At the end of your days, will your life be a fruitless shell or a bountiful garden? Will you be able to look in Jesus’ eyes on that final day and say, “Lord, I used my time, money, talents, and gifts for Your glory”? Make it your prayer today for God to prune you, that you may produce His fruit.

Prayer: Lord, please prune me so I may produce fruit for You. I pray when the pruning becomes painful, I will trust in Your plan for my good and Your glory. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things, and the work of their hands brings reward” (Proverbs 12:14).

God’s Grace Is Greater

07/17/22 – 07/20/22

Greater Than Our Scars

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/20/22

Read Genesis 29:1-30.

When Jacob first arrived in Harran, he was immediately smitten with his cousin Rachel. So, he made a deal with his uncle: “I’ll work for you seven years in return for your younger daughter Rachel” (Genesis 29:18). In those days, it was more appropriate to work for one or two years in such an arrangement. But Laban didn’t bat an eye. He took advantage of Jacob and took him up on his generous offer.

For Jacob, the seven years of hard work went quickly because he was so in love. But when the day finally came for him to marry Rachel, Laban pulled a fast one. In the dark of night, Laban gave him his oldest daughter, Leah, instead of Rachel. And just like that, the deceiver was deceived.

Jacob’s trickery had finally caught up with him. Though Jacob was to be served (see Genesis 25:23), he wound up serving Laban. When Jacob realized he’d wed Leah, he must have felt just like Esau had when he’d realized he’d traded his birthright for a bowl of stew (see 25:34). And when Jacob felt the sting of Laban’s deception, he finally understood the hurt he had caused his own father (see 27:1-37). God cannot be mocked—and Jacob was now reaping what he had sown. And for the rest of his life, he had the scars to prove it. But those scars did not nullify the grace of God. The Lord still used Jacob, and through him, the twelve tribes of Israel were born.

You may be thinking, I have some scars, and they are keeping me from sowing good seeds. Let me tell you this: The grace of God can overrule. That’s precisely what He did in the life of Jacob, and He can do so in your life as well. God’s grace is more powerful than all your past scars. God’s grace can polish even the roughest of diamonds. God’s grace calls the unworthy, loves the unlovable, and uses the unusable. God’s grace is more than we could ever hope for or imagine

Prayer: Father, Your grace is sufficient. You empower me to do good work despite my scars. You restore my soul, and one day my redemption will be complete when You return to make all things new. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“When morning came, there was Leah! So Jacob said to Laban, ‘What is this you have done to me? I served you for Rachel, didn’t I? Why have you deceived me?'” (Genesis 29:25).

God’s Grace Is Greater

07/17/22 – 07/20/22

Greater Than Our Fears

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/19/22

Read Genesis 28:10-22.

Personally, I have found that times of trial are the very times when I grow in Christ by leaps and bounds. During periods like these, I grow in my love for the Word of God. In trials I receive supernatural strength that I didn’t think possible and unique blessings that can only be found in seasons of brokenness.

Jacob experienced this reality for himself. Though Jacob was “content to stay at home among the tents” (Genesis 25:27), he soon found himself on the run, all alone, en route to his Uncle Laban. He was far away from the comfort, peace, and security of home, but he never got away from the watchful eye of his heavenly Father.

One night on his journey, Jacob camped at Bethel. There is no doubt in my mind that Jacob’s heart was filled with fear and anxiety at this time. He likely asked himself over and over again, Will I see Mom and Dad again? Will my brother, Esau, catch up with me? Will I ever return home?

It was there at Bethel, while he was tossing and turning on his rock-pillow, that God gave Jacob a dream. He saw a stairway to heaven and angels ascending and descending—a sign that God was very much aware of everything Jacob was going through. And if that weren’t enough, he heard the Lord Himself say, “I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you” (Genesis 28:15).

Perhaps you are going through a Bethel experience of brokenness and pain right now. Perhaps you have just stepped out of such a season. Or maybe you are about to enter one. Whatever your situation, I urge you to remember that the God who met you at Bethel in the past is going to meet you there again. The God who forgave you in the past will forgive you again. The God who blessed you in the past will bless you again.

In times of pain, fear, and uncertainty, we must go back to the places where we have encountered God’s grace and experienced His mercy and love. As we remember His faithfulness, we will, like Jacob, be able to say even in difficult times, “Surely the LORD is in this place, and I was not aware of it” (Genesis 28:16).

Prayer: Lord, thank You that You are faithful. You are near to me in my distress, and You alone offer the peace I long for. Help me to recall Your goodness and Your sure promises that will uphold me in trials. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, ‘Surely the LORD is in this place, and I was not aware of it'” (Genesis 28:16).

God’s Grace Is Greater

07/17/22 – 07/20/22

Greater Than Our Disobedience

By Michael Youssef, Ph D. 07/18/22

Read Genesis 27:1-28:5.

I think we are all more like Isaac than we’d care to admit. That’s because, without a gut-check from the Holy Spirit, we tend to act on our emotions instead of on the Truth of God’s Word.

Isaac knew what God wanted for his family—for his sons. The Lord had told Rebekah, “[T]he older will serve the younger” (Genesis 25:23). But Isaac wanted his oldest boy, Esau, to be favored, and he became more resolved to favor him with each passing year. Thus in his old age, Isaac made a secret deal with Esau (see Genesis 27:2–4)—willfully going against the will of God.

My friend, in the course of our lives, we all face situations like these. Satan tempts us daily to act on our emotions rather than the Truth of God’s Word. The choice before us is this: Will we allow our sinful impulses to get the best of us, or will we allow God’s will and His Word to drive every decision we make?

Instead of being open with his family, Isaac made his own secret plans because he knew he was going against God’s revelation spoken to Rebekah. Then in response to Isaac’s stubborn, self-guided resolve, Rebekah betrayed her husband, plotting with Jacob to deceive his father so that Isaac did give his blessing to Jacob instead of Esau. Learning from the misdeeds of this family, we must ask ourselves, “Am I living my life in secret or in the open?”

When Isaac realized he had been tricked, Scripture tells us he “trembled violently” (Genesis 27:33). This was the trembling of repentance, of godly sorrow for his prideful actions. At that moment, he was filled with guilt—but it was a good guilt, for it led him to repentance. And that is why, two thousand years later, the New Testament describes Isaac as a man of faith: “By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau in regard to their future” (Hebrews 11:20).

You see, even God’s chosen people make mistakes. But in His grace, God does not demand perfection of us—that would be impossible, which is why He secured our righteousness through the perfect life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Rather, God is looking for humble obedience, a broken and contrite heart in those times when we stumble, so that He might lift us up (see James 4:10; Psalm 51:17, 147:6).

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for giving me Your righteousness. May I remember Your goodness when I sin so that I turn to You in repentance with humble confidence that Your love overcomes my transgressions. I long to be transformed. May Your Spirit work in my heart to make me new day by day. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Isaac trembled violently and said, ‘Who was it, then, that hunted game and brought it to me? I ate it just before you came and I blessed him—and indeed he will be blessed!'” (Genesis 27:33).

God’s Grace Is Greater

07/17/22 – 07/20/22

Greater Than Our Bad Parenting

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/17/22

Read Genesis 25:19-34.

There is tremendous grace for believing parents. In fact, the grace of God is so rich and so deep that it can overwhelm and overrule even our worst mistakes. In Scripture, we see an example of this grace at work in the lives of parents Isaac and Rebekah, who failed spectacularly when it came to raising their twin boys.

Before Jacob and Esau were even born, God revealed that the way things worked within this family would be unique. While the cultural norms of the day said the younger son should serve the older, God said, “. . . the older will serve the younger” (Genesis 25:23).

Isaac and Rebekah knew God had chosen Jacob to continue the line of God’s promise that had begun with Abraham, continued through Isaac, and would culminate in the birth of the Messiah. But in spite of this knowledge, they didn’t train Jacob for his role or teach him to wait on God’s perfect timing. They didn’t tell their sons that God had different plans for each of them—plans they should seek, obey, and rejoice over.

Instead of training their children to know and trust God’s revelation, God’s will, and God’s plans, Isaac and Rebekah followed their own emotions—their own feelings and preferences. Thus, Isaac loved Esau, and Rebekah loved Jacob.

This sinful favoritism led to dysfunction at every level within the family. The brothers were at odds, embroiled in a state of constant competition, and the parents learned to distrust each other (see Genesis 27). For a moment of satisfaction, Esau sold his birthright, making a shipwreck of his life. Similarly, Jacob experienced his own unnecessary trials by taking matters into his own hands. But God’s grace overruled in this family’s life—their transgressions could not thwart His good, pleasing, and perfect will—but they did suffer the consequences of their choices. Let their story of struggle and strife be a warning and lesson for all of us: Trust in God’s grace. Believe in His promises. Take Him at His Word. The sooner, the better!

Prayer: Father, thank You that I am freed by Your grace to live without fear of ruining Your purposes. Help me to walk in obedience to Your will and to turn away from sin for my good and the good of those around me. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Two nations are in your womb, . . . and the older will serve the younger” (Genesis 25:23).

The Claims of Christ

07/08/22 – 07/16/22

Listen for His Voice

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/16/22

In the Middle East, the relationship between the shepherd and the sheep is special. Sheep know their shepherd’s voice, and they follow him when he calls. If a stranger comes along, the sheep shrink back.

It is no surprise that during World War I, when a group of Turkish soldiers decided to steal a flock of sheep from a hillside near Jerusalem, they had to face the fact that the shepherd was the only one who could control the sheep. But even he knew he could not recapture his flock single-handed against all those soldiers.

He did the only thing he could; he put his hand to his mouth and gave his own particular call that he used each day to gather his sheep. When the sheep heard the familiar sound, they stopped, turned, and came back to their shepherd.

The same is true with us—the body of Christ. Those who are children of God will hear His voice through His Word. Jesus says in John 10:27-28, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.”

You know you are one of His sheep when you respond to His voice and His Word. Do you recognize the voice of Jesus? He knows you better than you know yourself.

Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me” (John 10:14). Jesus is the Good Shepherd who gave His life for you. He longs for you to draw closer to Him. Can you hear His voice? Do you know His special call to you? Be still, listen, and pray, and you will be blessed by the Savior’s intimate care.

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for being the Good Shepherd. Train my ear to recognize Your voice and my heart to respond to Your call. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“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” (Psalm 100:3).

The Claims of Christ

07/08/22 – 07/16/22

I Am the True Vine

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/15/22

There is a tree that grows in the tropics called the banyan tree. This particular tree’s height, spread, and trunk thickness make it a glorious tree in terms of shade and beauty. Its branches reach out and down to the ground. Wherever the tips of the branches touch the earth, there they take root and new trees begin to grow.

Is your life spreading and multiplying itself in the lives of others—like the banyan? Are you sharing the love of God with friends, family members, and co-workers?

God has given us the Great Commission to make Him known—to bring men, women, and children to a saving knowledge of Him. Jesus brings healing, forgiveness, and deliverance. His acceptance is unconditional.

Jesus told the disciples, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener” (John 15:1). Without abiding in Christ, you cannot be fruitful. Jesus says, “No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me” (John 15:4).

You must abide in Christ. You become one with Christ when you seek and follow His purpose for Your life—adopting His perspective as your own. Are you abiding in Christ today?

Prayer: Lord, please forgive me for the times when I have not remained in You—forging my own way rather than abiding in You and bearing fruit for You. Thank You for Your forgiveness and for Your guidance. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).

The Claims of Christ

07/08/22 – 07/16/22

I Am the Bread of Life

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/14/22

Jesus offered all of us a sure way to experience peace, contentment, and complete satisfaction. In John, He tells us: “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. . . . All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away” (6:35, 37).

Jesus embraces us with an unconditional love; one that will never cease. Just when we think there is no hope, no understanding, and no way out of our predicament, our loving Lord speaks words of affirmation and encouragement to our hearts.

In times of extreme difficulty, it is important to trust Him and not to faint with weariness. Remember that whatever He does concerning our lives will end up being for our good and for His glory. Are you fit for the battle? Are you partaking of the true Bread of Life, the one who will sustain you through times of victory and disappointment?

If you are eating from the bowl of the world’s expectations and dreams, then you will be soundly disappointed. You will probably experience defeat in your spiritual and emotional life. You can spend your lifetime trying to gain wealth and prominence, but no amount of money is sufficient to purchase the gift that God offers you through the life of His Son.

If you want to be sure of your eternal salvation, then take and eat of God’s beloved manna, Jesus Christ. No one nor anything else can satisfy your needs. Only Jesus can fill you, and this is exactly what He promises those who listen and accept His Word and nourishment.

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for meeting my every need—for filling my spiritual hunger. You are the Bread of Life. Help me to daily feast on Your Truth, goodness, and grace. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven'” (John 6:32).

The Claims of Christ

07/08/22 – 07/16/22

I Am the Light of the World

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/13/22

Some years ago, there were a number of scientific writings dealing with the nova experience (from the Latin word novus or “new”). The nova phenomenon occurs when a medium-sized star suddenly gets brighter and hotter for a period of about one to two weeks. Then it becomes darker and cooler. Each year, observers discover about 10 of these novae.

As scientists observed other stars “go nova” as soon as half of their hydrogen was exhausted, it became popular to believe that the same could happen to our sun.

Can the sun suddenly become a danger, ceasing to warm us and provide the perfect balance of energy we trust in and seek each day? The answer is yes! In Revelation, we read that in the final days the earth will be destroyed. There will be a new earth and a new heaven. And there will be no need for a sun because we will have the Lord Jesus Christ. He will be our source of light, which will be much brighter and warmer than the sun.

Jesus is the light of the world (see John 8:12), and we do not have to wait until the end to walk in His light. Today, He is the one who brings light to the murky areas of our lives. No darkness is powerful enough to extinguish His light. When you step into the light of His love, your pathway will be lit with heaven’s hope.

Prayer: Father, thank You for Jesus, the Light of the World. I choose to step into the light of His love today. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“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'” (John 8:12).

The Claims of Christ

07/08/22 – 07/16/22

I Am the Resurrection and the Life

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/12/22

Just before Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, He spoke these words to Martha: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die” (John 11:25-26).

When the stone was removed, Jesus commanded Lazarus to come out of the grave, and he did. Similarly, when you were dead in your sins, God called you by name. You were called to come out of your sins and to experience the power of the resurrection.

Jesus also faced death, but God raised Him from the dead. Jesus’ resurrection was physical and spiritual. It was not like Lazarus’ resurrection, for Lazarus later died again. But Jesus rose as the firstfruits of those called by the Father to eternal life.

The Bible says that Jesus died, was buried, was raised, and appeared numerous times after the resurrection. Christ’s tomb was empty then; it remains empty today. He is our risen Lord and Savior. Even the Romans, with all their power, could not produce His body. The Jewish leaders, with all their hatred and bitterness toward Jesus, could not produce His body. And if the disciples stole His body, as some have asserted, can you imagine the disciples’ willingness to die for a hoax they themselves had perpetrated?

Jesus appeared to Mary and told her, “Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God'” (John 20:17).

Have you experienced the power of the resurrection? Are you living in triumph or defeat? Jesus conquered the grave, and you also can conquer eternal death—but only by placing your faith in Him. He sacrificially died on the cross for your sins and rose again that you might spend eternity with Him.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your wondrous love. Thank You for the power and promise of the resurrection. You have made me new here and now, and I know Your work in me will come to completion because You are loving, faithful, and almighty. I praise You! I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57).

The Claims of Christ

07/08/22 – 07/16/22

The Living Water

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/11/22

We all understand the importance of water for survival. In fact, next to air, water is the most important substance for life.

The Bible teaches that Jesus is God incarnate and that He was also human. He experienced the same feelings and temptations that we encounter each day. However, He never succumbed to even one temptation.

In John 4:4-9, we read how the Savior became tired and stopped to rest beside the well of Jacob. While His disciples were buying food in a nearby town, a Samaritan woman arrived at the well to draw water. Jesus, being thirsty, asked her for a drink of the well’s water. Immediately, she protested and reminded Him that she was a Samaritan and He was a Jew.

Jews believed the Samaritans were unclean. Another fact to consider is that this woman was at the well alone at high noon. More than likely, she also was considered unclean by her own people and came to the well at a time when no one else would see her.

We know her story. She had been married many times and needed a Savior, and Jesus met her need. He told her:

Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life. (John 4:13-14).

Christ confronted the deepest need of this woman and offered her a chance to begin life anew. Are you restless and discontent? Just as He offered living water to the woman at the well, Jesus offers it to you. When you drink of Him, you will thirst no more.

rayer: Lord, please forgive me for the times I forsake You, the source of living water. I am thirsty and ask today for You to fill me to overflowing with Your life-giving water. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“‘[H]e will lead them to springs of living water.’ ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes'” (Revelation 7:17).

The Claims of Christ

07/08/22 – 07/16/22

I Am the Good Shepherd

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/10/22

Many Americans will never forget the newscast from Washington, D.C., after an Air Florida plane crashed into the Potomac River in 1982. Millions heard the reports of a courageous young man saving others as he lost his own life.

Each time the helicopter sent the lifeline his way, he would pass it to someone else. No doubt he knew he could not hold on any longer as he passed the line to the last person. This man’s death, as a result of rescuing others instead of saving himself, was heroic—the result of a tragic accident.

Jesus’ sacrifice for others was no accident. He said, “I lay down my life for the sheep” (John 10:15). He came from heaven so He could die for His sheep—every person who calls upon His name.

It was not by chance that Jesus came to earth, took on human form, and gave His life so we might be saved. He says:

No one takes [my life] from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. (John 10:18).

Give thanks today for Jesus’ perfect sacrifice through which the children of God are rescued from sin and death and given eternal life.

Prayer: Father, thank You for sacrificing Your Son, Jesus Christ, so I might live eternally with You. Help me to share Your Truth with others. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away” (1 Peter 5:4).

The Claims of Christ

07/08/22 – 07/16/22

I Am the Door

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/09/22

At the turn of the twentieth century, Sir George Adam Smith, a prominent British visitor to the Syrian hills, watched with fascination one evening as shepherds drove their sheep into the sheepfold.

He noticed that the fold was no more than a simple four-wall enclosure with only one opening—no door and no gate. He asked the shepherd: “How can you ensure the sheep will not wander off at night? And what about the wild beasts—will they not come and attack these helpless sheep?”

“No,” was the shepherd’s reply, “because I am the one whose body blocks the opening at night. I lie down across this opening; no sheep can get out without going over me, and no thief or wolf can get in except over my body.”

In John 10, Jesus says:

I am the gate for the sheep. . . . whoever enters through me will be saved. . . . The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:7, 9-10).

Only Jesus can save you from sin. Nobody opens heaven’s door except the one who is the door, Christ Jesus. The moment a person prays the following prayer, Jesus opens heaven’s door: “Lord, You are the Son of God. In You and You alone, I find eternal security. To You and You alone, I surrender my life. I repent of my sins. Please forgive me.”

There is no discrimination—no one is refused. Our loving heavenly Father will welcome us with words of love and acceptance: “Come right in. I have been waiting for you, and I am so glad you have come.”

Prayer: Lord, thank You for being my eternal security. Thank You for Your love, acceptance, guidance, and protection. Please forgive my sins and lead me in Your ways. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture” (John 10:9).