Author: Steve Pederson

Affirmations - Scripture

Affirmations for God’s Goodness, Greatness and Glory

December 13, 2022 by 0 Comments
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Affirmations for God’s Goodness, Greatness and Glory is a guided meditation from Daily Christian Affirmations that will take you through several Psalms to that reflect God’s goodness, greatness and glory.

These are the Psalms the affirmations are based on…

  1. O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! (Psalm 8:1 ESV)
  2. You have set your glory above the heavens. (Psalm 8:1 ESV)
  3. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! (Psalm 118:1 NLT)
  4. Taste and see that the LORD is good. (Psalm 34:8 CSB)
  5. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. (Psalm 107:1 NIV)
  6. The LORD is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation. (Psalm 145:9 NLT)
  7. I will put my hope in your name, for it is good. (Psalm 52:9 CSB)
  8. You are good, and what you do is good; teach me your decrees. (Psalm 119:68 NIV)
  9. Everyone will share the story of your wonderful goodness. (Psalm 145:7 NLT)
  10. How great is Your goodness, which You have stored up for those who take refuge in You. (Psalm 31:19 NASB)
  11. For the LORD is good and his gracious love stands forever. (Psalm 100:5 ISV)
  12. Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. (Psalm 145:3 NIV)
  13. For the LORD Most High is awesome. He is the great King of all the earth. (Psalm 47:2 NLT)
  14. So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you. (Psalm 66:3 NIV)
  15. Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like our God? (Psalm 77:13 ESV)
  16. For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God. (Psalm 86:10 NIV)
  17. How magnificent are your works, LORD, how profound your thoughts! (Psalm 92:5 CSB)
  18. For the LORD is an awesome God; a great king above all divine beings. (Psalm 95:3 ISV)
  19. LORD my God, you are very great; you are clothed with splendor and majesty. (Psalm 104:1 NIV)
  20. Indeed, I know that the LORD is great, and that our Lord surpasses all gods. (Psalm 135:5 ISV)
  21. He alone does great wonders. His love is eternal. (Psalm 136:4 HCSB)
  22. Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit. (Psalm 147:5 NIV)
  23. The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. (Psalm 19:1 NIV)
  24. Who is the King of glory? The LORD, strong and mighty; the LORD, invincible in battle. (Psalm 24:8 NLT)
  25. Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name. (Psalm 29:2 CSB)
  26. They will sing of the ways of the LORD, for the glory of the LORD is great. (Psalm 138:5 BSB)
  27. Be exalted above the heavens, God! May your glory cover the earth! (Psalm 57:5 ISV)
  28. Sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise! (Psalm 66:2 ESV)
  29. Praise his glorious name forever! Let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and amen! (Psalm 72:19 NLT)
  30. O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! (Psalm 8:1 ESV)

Articles

Top 10 Free Resources for Christian Devotionals

August 11, 2021 by
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Okay, here it is! The Top 10 Free Resources for Christian Devotionals – on and off line. Enjoy!

And then you say, “You mean, that’s it? There’s not a bunch of filler content that I have to read through before I get to the list? Man, that’s unusual.”

10 – Google

It’s so obvious that often times we don’t even remember that an entire world of information is at our fingertips if we just search for it. You can search for anything in Google. It’s the number one search engine in the world. I just typed in “Christian devotionals for” and Google automatically suggested, “couples, seniors, newlyweds, college students, young adults, new moms, dating couples and anxiety” to name a few. Is there something specific you’re looking for? Type it into Google and you will more than likely have thousands of results in an instant.

Obviously, one of the reasons people hesitate to use Google is because anything goes on the internet. You never know if what you find is going to be helpful or not. I have discovered both helpful and unhelpful stuff out there.

9 – YouTube

Second only to Google, YouTube is the top search engine for anything you might be looking for. As you type in your search it will give recommendations based on the hottest topics. The nice thing about YouTube, of course, is that all your results will be video based. As with Google, however, you have to be discerning. There can be a lot of material to sift through, and not all of it is accurate or helpful. However, YouTube does host some of the best content out there, so it’s worth it to take the time to look into it.

8 – Personal Bookshelves

Between you and your friends I’ll bet you have more than enough devotional material on your own bookshelves to keep you busy for years. I was going to list the devotional and spiritual books that my wife and I have, but it was too overwhelming to even think about. We have the classics like Pilgrim’s Progress, The Imitation of Christ by Thomas À Kempis, The Confessions of Saint Augustine and many others.

We also have a friend that works at a Christian bookstore that brings us many brand new titles as well. And then there’s everything in between, and that’s just our bookcases (plural on cases). We could go over to our friend’s homes and the list would go on. Usually friends are very accommodating at letting you borrow their books.

7 – Your Local Library: On- and Off-line

Speaking of borrowing books, why not go to one of the bigger libraries around? Your local library has tons of materials to check out at no cost. What’s more, nowadays most libraries have an online component where you can borrow ebooks and audiobooks even in the middle of a pandemic, a snowstorm or any other reason that might keep you from leaving your home.

You can access your local library’s online resources, if you have a valid library card, through mobile apps such as Hoopla for Android, Hoopla for iOS and Libby.

6 – Your Church

Your local church organization will most likely have both online and offline resources for your devotional needs. Ask your pastor – or anyone in your church for that matter – what resources are available. If they don’t have anything that fits your needs, ask if there is a sister congregation that would have something for you.

5 – Your Denomination’s Main Website

Most likely the local fellowship that you are a part of is part of a larger fellowship of churches. It may be organized on the regional, national and even international levels. Each of these levels will probably have their own website with devotional resources.

For example, for Catholics there is a website called “Catholic Online” at https://www.catholic.org/. For more local chapters of Catholic organizations you can search for your local diocese. If you’re not sure about what websites are connected with your local congregation, check your local congregation’s website or ask your pastor.

4 – YouVersion Bible App Plans

The YouVersion Bible App has been installed on hundreds of millions of devices for a good reason. It’s filled with tons of great free resources and study tools. It even has a community component so you can connect with friends. Within the app there are a number of study plans and daily devotionals that you can sign up for at no cost. They even have a separate bible app for kids. Check them out at https://www.youversion.com/

3 – Podcasts

What’s surprising to me is how many people are still not aware of what a podcast is or how it works. Hey, no judgment here. It’s just surprising to me because they’re so awesome, so accessible and oh so free! If you’re not aware, a podcast is basically like an on-demand radio show. If you have any kind of device that’s connected to the internet, you can access them. In fact, you probably already have an app on your mobile phone to start listening to them right now.

One of the most impressive, informative and enlightening podcasts that I have heard is the BEMA Discipleship podcast. Unbelievably mind-blowing. Dudes, you GOTTA check it out! Visit their website here. What I love about their podcast – in addition to the fact that it’s so amazing – is that they include links to study materials in the show notes of their episodes.

Lastly, I also have to put in a plug for the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast put out by Premier Christian Radio. If you’re not familiar with NT Wright, I’m sorry. You’re REALLY missing out. He is probably the wisest, most brilliant, funniest, warmest theologian of our day. He also has an incredible voice! Please listen to him and read his books.

2 – The Bible Project

O. M. G. If I wasn’t a Christian I’d swear. The Bible Project is practically the best resource on the planet EVER to have come about. Please tell me you’ve watched at least one of their videos. However, they are like like Lay’s potato chips: No one can eat just one.

The Bible Project is a collection of short 5-10 minute videos that explain the Bible and its story in a way like no-other. One video and your mind will be completely blown. Check out the website here.

And guess what…they even have a podcast!

1 – The Bible

Okay, now we’re treading on holy ground. The Bible, along with the Holy Spirit, is a combination that inspires awe and reverence. Logically this is the number one resource for daily devotionals and inspiration. Plus, even if you have the most basic bible around, chances are it’s going to have references and possibly even a small concordance to help guide you through the scriptures.

First, begin with prayer. Ask the Spirit to guide you. Then, open the Bible. Read it. Take notes on what strikes you, even if it makes no sense. Meditate on it. Memorize it. Ask questions – lots of questions. Use the footnotes to cross-reference verses. Use the maps, notes and concordance to make it a richer experience.

Okay, Now What?

As you’re probably well aware, the problem is never a lack of information. If all we needed was information the world would be a much better place. We have more than we could ever consume in a million lifetimes.

The problem is direction and motivation. What do we choose? Why do we take the time to consume and process it?

The main thing you have to do is ask. If you’re not sure what to study, the first thing to do would be to pray about it and then ask a pastor or several trusted friends for their suggestion. However, when it comes right down to it, it’s the Bible, so can you really go wrong? Can you really make a “bad” or “wrong” decision about what to study? It only becomes problematic when it turns into spiritual pride. “Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up,” as Paul once said.

It’s okay to participate in a group study if it’s meeting your needs, but you may need to supplement a group study program with something that is more specifically tailored to your needs. You may even want to consult a Christian coach about it.

How about getting and/or staying motivated? It can be really easy to get excited about a new book or devotional series only to drop it like a diet plan within a couple days. This is where asking a friend to join you in the journey may be of some help. You could “spur one another on toward love and good deeds” as the scripture says.

Happy Studying!

Scripture

25 Bible Verses for God’s Grace

June 19, 2021 by
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When these 25 Bible verses for God’s grace are read in succession, they actually form a story. You can read and savor each one individually, or read them all as a whole. Either way you will find tremendous benefit and encouragement. All verses are taken from the World English Bible (WEB) version. In each verse I have bolded the word “grace”.

A video with narration of all these verses is available at the end of the post.

Enjoy! 😁

1 Corinthians 1:3-4

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I always thank my God concerning you, for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus.

1 Corinthians 1:3-4

John 1:16

From his fullness we all received grace upon grace.

John 1:16

Ephesians 4:7

To each one of us, the grace was given according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

Ephesians 4:7

2 Corinthians 8:9

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for our sakes he became poor, that we through his poverty might become rich. 

2 Corinthians 8:9

Ephesians 2:4-8

God, being rich in mercy, for his great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace we have been saved— and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus; for by grace we have been saved through faith, and that not of ourselves; it is the gift of God. 

Ephesians 2:4-8

Romans 3:23-24

For all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God; being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.

Romans 3:23-24

2 Timothy 2:1

You therefore, my child, be strengthened in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 2:1

Titus 2:11

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all mankind. 

Titus 2:11

Romans 6:14

Sin will not have dominion over you. For you are not under law, but under grace.

Romans 6:14

Galatians 2:21

I don’t reject the grace of God. For if righteousness is through the law, then Christ died for nothing!

Galatians 2:21

1 Corinthians 15:10

But by the grace of God I am what I am. His grace which was given to me was not futile, but I worked more than all of them; yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

1 Corinthians 15:10

1 Timothy 1:14

I obtained mercy, because I acted ignorantly in unbelief. The grace of our Lord abounded exceedingly with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

1 Timothy 1:14

2 Corinthians 12:9

He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Most gladly therefore I will rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest on me.

2 Corinthians 12:9

Philippians 1:7

It is even right for me to think this way on behalf of all of you, because I have you in my heart, because both in my bonds and in the defense and confirmation of the Good News, you all are partakers with me of grace.

Philippians 1:7

Hebrews 2:9

But we see him who has been made a little lower than the angels, Jesus, because of the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that by the grace of God he should taste of death for everyone. 

Hebrews 2:9

Titus 3:5-7

He saved us through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly, through Jesus Christ our Savior; that being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 

Titus 3:5-7

1 Peter 1:10

Concerning this salvation, the prophets sought and searched diligently. They prophesied of the grace that would come to you.

1 Peter 1:10

Hebrews 4:16

Let’s therefore draw near with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace for help in time of need.

Hebrews 4:16

Hebrews 13:9

Don’t be carried away by various and strange teachings, for it is good that the heart be established by grace, not by food, through which those who were so occupied were not benefited.

Hebrews 13:9

James 4:6

But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

James 4:6

1 Peter 1:13

Therefore prepare your minds for action. Be sober, and set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 1:13

2 Corinthians 9:8

And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that you, always having all sufficiency in everything, may abound to every good work.

2 Corinthians 9:8

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish you in every good work and word.

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

Romans 16:20

And the God of peace will quickly crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

Romans 16:20

2 Peter 1:2

Grace to you and peace be multiplied in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord

2 Peter 1:2
Journey Through the Proverbs

Journey Through the Proverbs | Day 27

January 27, 2021 by 0 Comments

Learn more about this journey and sign up for email notifications here.

“Because life is uncertain, we shoud be all the more diligent in preparing for the future. We should act with foresight, giving responsible attention to our home, our family, and our career. We should be responsible stewards, like a farmer with his lands and herds. Thinking ahead is a duty, not an option, for God’s people.” – NLT Life Application Bible

1 Timothy 5:8 “Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”