How Does the Bible Relate to Everyday Life?
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Hey friend—Tricia here.
I’ll be honest, there was a time when the Bible felt intimidating to me—like an ancient book for people holier or smarter than I was. I believed in its truth, but I didn’t always know how it connected to my messy Monday mornings or my “I’m-too-tired-to-pray” nights.
But here’s what I’ve discovered over decades of walking with Jesus:
The Bible isn’t just information—it’s invitation.
It’s not meant to sit on a shelf; it’s meant to sit in the middle of your story.
Let’s chat about how the Word of God becomes a way of life.
Understanding God’s Word and Living It Out
1. The Bible Is a Love Story—Not a Rulebook
When I first started reading the Bible as a new believer, I looked for “what to do” and “what not to do.” But the more I read, the more I realized that every verse was pointing to a Person, not a performance.
From Genesis to Revelation, it’s a story of God reaching out to His people—again and again—with love, mercy, and purpose.
So when you open the Bible, don’t ask first, “What do I have to do today?” Ask instead, “What does this teach me about who God is?”
Because when you know His heart, obedience naturally follows.
God’s Word isn’t about your perfect obedience—it’s about His pursuit.
I used to read the Bible like it was a self-help manual. But when I started seeing it as God’s personal letter, everything changed.
Now I look for His character on every page: His patience with David, His compassion toward the woman at the well, His faithfulness to me—even when I’m inconsistent.
That’s what fuels my faith on the hard days.
2. The Bible Is Meant to Be Lived—Not Just Learned
It’s easy to highlight verses and still feel far from God. But real transformation happens when we take what we’ve read and put it into motion.
Every time I choose forgiveness, humility, or gratitude because of what I’ve read—God’s Word moves from the page to my life.
That’s what James meant when he said, “Be doers of the Word, not hearers only.”
The Bible was never meant to stay in your notebook—it’s meant to walk out your front door.
When Scripture says to love your neighbor, it’s not theory—it’s practice. It looks like bringing a meal to a struggling family, texting encouragement to a friend, or praying for your child’s teacher. The Bible doesn’t pull us out of the real world; it prepares us for it.
3. God’s Word Speaks to Everyday Struggles
One of my favorite things about the Bible is how alive it is. It doesn’t just speak to kings and prophets—it speaks to moms, employees, students, caregivers, and dreamers.
When I’m anxious, I read Philippians 4 and remember peace is a prayer away. When I’m discouraged, I turn to Isaiah 40 and remember that strength comes from waiting on the Lord. When I’m uncertain, Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds me to trust and not lean on my own understanding.
Every problem we face has a promise that meets it.
Just last week, I was feeling overwhelmed, and Psalm 46 whispered, “Be still and know that I am God.” It wasn’t just comfort—it was a command. And obeying it brought calm in a storm I couldn’t control.
The Bible doesn’t make our struggles disappear—it helps us walk through them with perspective.
4. The Bible Builds Relationship, Not Religion
The more I read, the more I realize—God’s goal isn’t for me to know about Him; it’s for me to know Him. That means my Bible reading isn’t about checking boxes—it’s about connection.
Some mornings I underline.
Some mornings I cry.
Some mornings I read one verse and just sit there.
It all counts because it’s all conversation.
The Bible is how we hear from God, and prayer is how we talk back. It’s relationship, plain and simple.
When I think of it that way, I don’t feel guilt for missing a day—I feel homesick when I do.
Religion checks a box. Relationship pulls up a chair.
Bonus: Join the Daily Bible Podcast Facebook Group for daily Bible discussion & community!
5. How to Bring the Bible into Your Everyday Life
| Habit | Real-Life Example | Scripture to Anchor It |
| 1. Start your morning with one verse and one prayer. | “Lord, help me live this out today.” | Psalm 143:8 |
| 2. Write Scripture on sticky notes around your home. | Kitchen sink, mirror, car dashboard. | Deuteronomy 6:6–9 |
| 3. Read or listen to the Bible while doing chores. | Fold laundry + hear God’s Word. | Romans 10:17 |
| 4. Apply what you learn immediately. | Forgive, call, encourage, act. | James 1:22 |
| 5. Share what God is teaching you. | Text a verse to a friend. | Hebrews 10:24–25 |
Final Word
Friend, the Bible isn’t a book to master—it’s a book that masters us in love. It’s God’s heartbeat written down, inviting you to walk with Him in every moment of your day.
You don’t have to understand it all to start. Just open it. God will meet you right where you are. His Word is alive, and He’s still speaking—through Scripture, through stories, through your very life.
The Bible isn’t just ancient truth—it’s today’s invitation.
Go Deeper: Walk It Out by Tricia Goyer
If this post inspired you, grab Walk It Out—Tricia’s book about discovering how God’s Word becomes the map for your daily life.
Inside, you’ll find:
- How to move from reading Scripture to living it
- Stories of modern obedience that bring the Bible to life
- Practical steps for aligning your plans with God’s purposes
- Encouragement to walk out your faith—one small yes at a time
God’s Word doesn’t just inform you—it transforms you.
Want more insight? Join us on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
October 13
Mark 9:14-29, Matthew 17:14-21, Luke 9:37-43, Mark 9:30-32, Matthew 17:22-23, Luke 9:43-45, Matthew 17:24-27, Mark 9:33-37, Matthew 18:1-6, Luke 9:46-48, Mark 9:38-41, Luke 9:49-50, Mark 9:42-50, Matthew 18:7-35
Debating Greatness
As we journey through today’s readings, we encounter a theme that resonates deeply: debate. The disciples, much like us, had their own struggles and questions as they followed Jesus. They debated who among them was the greatest, asked questions about spiritual authority, and tried to understand the deeper meanings behind Jesus’ teachings.
The Healing of a Demon-Possessed Boy (Mark 9:14-29)
After coming down from the Mount of Transfiguration, Jesus and His disciples were immediately met by a crowd and a desperate father. His son was possessed by a spirit that caused seizures and physical harm, and the disciples had been unable to heal him. Can you imagine the scene? A bustling crowd, onlookers waiting to see what Jesus would do next, but for the father, this wasn’t a spectacle—this was his last hope. His words to Jesus were both a plea and a challenge: “If you can do anything, take pity on us and help us” (Mark 9:22).
Jesus’ response was filled with grace and authority: “If you can? Everything is possible for one who believes.” The father’s response is something I believe we all relate to: “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24). How many times have we approached God with doubts, yet a deep desire to believe more fully? Jesus doesn’t rebuke the father for his uncertainty but instead heals his son, showing that even faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains.
This story reminds us that faith is not about having it all figured out. It’s about bringing our doubts, fears, and unbelief to Jesus and asking for His help. It’s okay to pray, “Lord, I believe, but help me with my unbelief.” Jesus responds not to the size of our faith but to the sincerity of our heart.
The Greatest in the Kingdom (Mark 9:33-37)
Later, the disciples found themselves caught in a debate. Who among them was the greatest? Jesus used this moment as a teaching opportunity. He didn’t rebuke their desire for greatness but reframed it. “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all” (Mark 9:35). To drive His point home, Jesus brought a child into their midst, stating that to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, they must become like children—humble, trusting, and dependent.
In our culture, we often equate greatness with power, success, and recognition. But in the Kingdom of God, greatness is defined by humility, service, and a willingness to care for others, especially the least among us. Jesus wasn’t concerned with titles or ranks. Instead, He taught that true greatness is about putting others first and having a servant’s heart.
Forgiveness: Seventy Times Seven (Matthew 18:21-35)
Later, Jesus tells the parable of the unforgiving debtor to emphasize the importance of forgiveness. Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who sins against him. Jesus’ reply? “Not seven times, but seventy-seven times” (Matthew 18:22). This wasn’t a literal number but a call to infinite forgiveness. Jesus went on to explain that we must forgive others as God has forgiven us. If we refuse to forgive, we jeopardize our relationship with God.
Forgiveness isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a command that reflects God’s character. Just as we have received mercy, we are to extend mercy to others, no matter how many times they wrong us.
Word of the Day: Debate
Definition: An argument about a subject, especially in a formal manner.
Debating Faith
Today’s readings remind us that it’s not about winning debates but about understanding and aligning ourselves with God’s truth. When we argue, especially about matters of faith, our goal should be to grow in our relationship with Jesus and reflect His love and humility.
Just like the disciples, we often find ourselves in debates about faith. Whether it’s in our personal conversations or on social media, we argue about theology, church practices, and even who’s doing Christianity “right.” But what if, instead of trying to win debates, we took a step back and focused on understanding what’s right from God’s perspective?
Jesus’ teaching challenges us to reframe our spiritual debates. Instead of seeking to be right, we should seek to grow in humility and understanding. The goal isn’t to win arguments but to grow closer to God and to each other. Remember, “Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else.” So, in our debates, let’s be slow to speak and quick to listen, aiming to promote unity and understanding in the Body of Christ.
When it comes to debates—whether they are spiritual, relational, or personal—it’s not about being right; it’s about doing what’s right in God’s eyes. Humility, service, forgiveness, and faith are what Jesus values most, and those should be the foundation of any discussion we have. Let’s approach every conversation with a heart that seeks to understand, grow, and reflect Christ.
October 14
John 7:1-9, Luke 9:51-56, Matthew 8:18-22, Luke 9:57-62, John 7:10-8:20
Are We Willing?
In today’s readings, we see Jesus continuing to heal, teach, and navigate the opposition around Him. He moves from town to town, all while knowing that the leaders are plotting His death. The pressure must have been immense, but Jesus was willing to follow God’s plan, trusting in His perfect timing.
We start with John 7:1-9, where Jesus’ brothers urge Him to go to the festival and show His power, but they say it in disbelief. It’s interesting to note that Jesus’ own brothers weren’t supportive of His ministry at this point. Yet, Jesus responds with patience, reminding them—and us—that God’s timing is everything. Jesus was not concerned with public approval or the opinions of those around Him. He was willing to wait for God’s perfect timing, even when pressured to act prematurely.
Then we see Luke 9:51-56, where Jesus heads to Jerusalem and stops in a Samaritan village. The people reject Him because He’s on His way to Jerusalem. In their zeal, His disciples ask Jesus if they should call down fire from heaven to destroy the village! But Jesus rebukes them, showing that God’s way is not about vengeance or retaliation. Instead, Jesus is willing to move forward in peace, even when others oppose or reject Him.
In Matthew 8:18-22 and Luke 9:57-62, Jesus encounters people who say they want to follow Him, but they also have personal matters to attend to first. Jesus’ response is striking: “Follow me now,” He says. The cost of discipleship is real. It’s not easy, and Jesus makes it clear that following Him means being willing to forsake comfort and security, and even personal obligations, to pursue the calling of God.
Finally, John 7:10-8:20 takes us to the Feast of Tabernacles, where Jesus teaches in secret. The Jewish leaders are amazed at His wisdom, but they question His authority because He didn’t have formal training. Yet Jesus’ response is profound: “My teaching is not my own. It comes from the one who sent me.” (John 7:16) Jesus also confronts a group ready to stone a woman caught in adultery, offering mercy where others demanded judgment. He saw beyond her sin to her potential redemption.
Word of the Day: Willing
Definition: Being ready, eager, or prepared to do something.
In today’s passages, we see Jesus’ willingness to follow God’s plan, to confront opposition, and to offer grace over judgment. The question we must ask ourselves is: Are we willing to follow Jesus even when it’s hard, inconvenient, or goes against what the world tells us?
What Does It Take to Be Willing?
1. Willingness to Wait on God’s Timing:
In John 7:1-9, Jesus shows us that just because others want us to act doesn’t mean it’s the right time. He waited for God’s direction, not man’s opinion. Are we willing to wait for God’s perfect timing in our lives, even when the world pressures us to act?
2. Willingness to Walk in Peace:
When the Samaritans rejected Jesus, His disciples wanted to retaliate (Luke 9:51-56). Jesus’ response reminds us that being willing to follow God means choosing peace over vengeance, even when we feel hurt or rejected. Are we willing to choose peace and trust God with the outcome?
3. Willingness to Count the Cost of Discipleship:
Following Jesus isn’t just about saying the right things—it’s about doing the right things. In Matthew 8:18-22, Jesus makes it clear that following Him requires sacrifice. It means letting go of comforts and being willing to follow Him, even when the road is tough. Are we willing to follow Jesus, no matter the cost?
4. Willingness to See People Through Jesus’ Eyes:
In John 7:10-8:20, the Pharisees saw the woman caught in adultery as deserving of punishment, but Jesus saw her potential for redemption. Are we willing to see people not for their mistakes, but for who they can become in Christ? Are we willing to extend grace instead of judgment?
Final Thought:
Being willing to follow Jesus is more than just saying, “I’ll follow You.” It’s a daily decision to trust Him, even when it’s hard. It’s about being willing to wait, willing to walk in peace, willing to count the cost, and willing to see others as He sees them.
In John 7:17, Jesus says, “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know about the teaching, whether it is of God, or I am speaking from Myself.”
When we are willing to follow God’s will, even when it’s uncomfortable or unclear, we begin to see His work in our lives. We may not always understand the path, but we can trust the One who leads us.
October 15
John 8:21-59, Luke 10, 11:1-13
Walking with God and Each Other
In today’s reading, Jesus continues His confrontation with the Jewish leaders, making profound declarations about His relationship with God the Father. He tells them plainly that they are from below—earthly—while He is from above—heavenly. Jesus goes on to warn them that if they do not believe in Him, they will die in their sins.
One of the most powerful verses from this passage is when Jesus says:
“I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin … So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.” (John 8:34, 36)
What a promise! True freedom is found only in Him.
But then, Jesus goes even further and claims, “Before Abraham was, I am.” This statement is monumental. By using the term “I Am,” Jesus is directly aligning Himself with God, the same God who spoke to Moses in Exodus, declaring, “I AM WHO I AM.” The Jewish leaders immediately recognize that Jesus is claiming divinity, which is why they pick up stones to kill Him. Yet, Jesus escapes because His time had not yet come.
There’s more going on here, though. Jesus wasn’t just declaring His identity—He was challenging everything the Jewish leaders believed about themselves. In a collectivist culture like theirs, identity was rooted in their lineage, in being descendants of Abraham. But Jesus was telling them that their collective identity was not enough—they needed to believe in Him personally. This would have shaken their worldview. They believed they were already free, but Jesus reveals that only He, the Son, can truly set them free.
Luke 10:1-11:13 – The Power of Interdependence
Next, we move to Luke, where we read about Jesus sending out seventy-two disciples. He instructs them to go in pairs, showing the importance of community in ministry. They are sent with the message: “The Kingdom of God is near.” Jesus warns them that not everyone will welcome them, but He gives them authority over the power of the enemy.
The theme of interdependence is strong here. Jesus didn’t send His disciples out alone. He knew they would need each other for strength and support. This is a reminder that we are not meant to walk this journey alone. We need each other—our faith grows stronger when we serve, pray, and live out our mission in community.
Later, we read the famous story of the Good Samaritan. The Samaritan helps a man beaten and left for dead, while others—who should have helped—passed by. Jesus teaches us through this parable that loving our neighbor means showing mercy to those in need, regardless of their background.
Then we see Mary and Martha. While Martha is busy preparing for her guests, Mary sits at Jesus’ feet, focused on Him. Jesus gently tells Martha that Mary has chosen the better thing. This story highlights the importance of focusing on Jesus rather than getting caught up in the busyness of life.
Finally, Jesus teaches His disciples how to pray, giving us the Lord’s Prayer—a beautiful reminder of our dependence on God for everything. In this prayer, we see the deep relationship Jesus invites us into—a relationship marked by persistence and trust in God’s provision and timing.
Word of the Day: Interdependence
Definition: The dependence of two or more people or things on each other.
We see the theme of interdependence woven throughout today’s readings. Jesus’ ministry wasn’t about individuals doing their own thing; it was about community, reliance on God, and leaning on each other. The disciples were sent out in pairs. They were instructed to pray for workers for the harvest. The Samaritan stopped to help a stranger, while Mary set aside the busyness of life to sit at Jesus’ feet.
This reminds us that, while we may live in a world that values independence, we are called to something different. We are called to be part of a body—dependent on God and interdependent with one another.
Application:
In John 8, Jesus emphasizes His relationship with the Father, showing us that He is nothing apart from God. How often do we try to go about life, relying on our own strength? Today, let’s be reminded that we, too, are nothing apart from our heavenly Father. Our strength, identity, and purpose are found in Him.
In Luke, Jesus sent out seventy-two disciples—together. This is a beautiful picture of the Christian life. We were never meant to walk alone. God designed us for community, and as believers, we need to embrace that interdependence, whether through serving together, praying together, or simply being there for each other in times of need.
Finally, Jesus teaches about the power of persistent prayer. Prayer isn’t just something we do when we need something from God; it’s how we stay connected to Him. It’s how we acknowledge our dependence on Him and allow His will to shape our lives. Keep asking, keep seeking, keep knocking, because God delights in our persistence and faith.
October 16
Luke 11:14-54. 12:1-34
Jesus’ Call to Authenticity
Today’s reading from Luke 11:14-54 and Luke 12:1-12 challenges us to examine the authenticity of our faith. As Jesus teaches and confronts the Pharisees, He exposes the importance of genuine faith that comes from the heart, not just external actions.
Confronting Accusations (Luke 11:14-28):
When Jesus casts out a demon from a mute man, the crowd accuses Him of working with Satan. In response, Jesus explains that a divided kingdom cannot stand and that He is working with the authority of God. He encourages the people to look beyond the surface and recognize the true power and authority of His message. Jesus tells them to ensure that their light is genuine and not false: “Make sure that the light you think you have is not actually darkness” (Luke 11:35 NLT). This is a call for self-examination—are we truly living in the light of Christ, or just pretending?
Authenticity vs. Hypocrisy (Luke 11:37-54):
When Jesus dines with a Pharisee, He does not wash His hands before the meal, prompting a question from His host. Jesus uses this moment to emphasize that it is the heart that matters. Outward cleanliness or religious rituals mean nothing if our hearts are not right with God. He rebukes the Pharisees for focusing on external appearances while neglecting inner purity. Jesus calls for authenticity, warning that hypocrisy will only lead to judgment.
This theme continues in Luke 12:1-12, where Jesus teaches His disciples to beware of the Pharisees’ hypocrisy. He explains that nothing is hidden from God and that our true selves will eventually be revealed. We are to live with integrity and humility, recognizing that our lives are in God’s hands.
Word of the Day: Authenticity
Definition: Authenticity means you’re true to your personality, values, and spirit, regardless of the pressure that you’re under to act otherwise. You’re honest with yourself and others and take responsibility for your mistakes.
Authentic Faith Starts with the Heart
The message of today’s reading is clear—God desires authenticity in our relationship with Him. Jesus wasn’t interested in superficial displays of piety; He was concerned with the state of the heart. When we focus on external appearances, we miss the point of what it means to follow Christ. True faith is about aligning our hearts with God’s will and living out that faith with sincerity and humility.
Are we, like the Pharisees, more concerned with how we appear to others, or are we committed to a heart-level relationship with Jesus? Authenticity in faith means examining our motives, confessing our shortcomings, and seeking God’s transformation from the inside out.
Living in the Light of Christ
When Jesus says, “Make sure that the light you think you have is not actually darkness,” He is challenging us to live in true light. We may think we’re doing everything right on the outside, but if our hearts aren’t right, our actions mean little. Authentic faith is about letting the light of Christ shine through us—not just in public, but in every area of our lives.
As we follow Jesus, let’s make sure we are living in His light, not just going through the motions. Let’s allow God to cleanse our hearts so that we can reflect His love, grace, and truth to others.
October 17
Luke 12:35-59, 13:1-21, John 9
Being Ready: Lessons in Vigilance and Faith
In today’s readings, we are reminded about the necessity of being ready—not just for the expected, but for the unknown moments when God calls. Jesus, through parables and real-life encounters, teaches His followers about vigilance, preparedness, and faith.
In Luke 12:35-48, Jesus compares His followers to servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet. The faithful servant, who remains alert and ready, will be rewarded, but those who are not will face consequences. This passage echoes the importance of being spiritually prepared, as we never know when God will call us to act. Jesus also addresses the responsibility that comes with being given much—if we have been blessed, we are also expected to give and serve much.
Further in Luke, Jesus speaks about bringing division, not peace, as His message challenges societal norms and family structures. He rebukes the crowd for interpreting earthly signs but missing the spiritual ones right before them. He also emphasizes the urgency of reconciling with others quickly—highlighting the importance of being “ready” in our relationships, both with God and people.
In the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree, Jesus demonstrates God’s patience but also the need for repentance and fruitfulness in our lives. We are given time, but we must not take it for granted.
Later in Luke 13:10-21, Jesus heals a woman crippled for eighteen years, despite it being the Sabbath. The synagogue leader criticizes Him for healing on the Sabbath, but Jesus points out the hypocrisy. Through this healing, Jesus not only restores the woman but also reveals the importance of compassion and mercy over rigid adherence to tradition. He then teaches about the Kingdom of God, using the parables of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast—small beginnings leading to great outcomes, just like the small steps of faith that lead to readiness for God’s work.
In John 9, we see another powerful healing—Jesus restores the sight of a man born blind. His disciples, reflecting cultural assumptions, ask whether the man’s blindness was due to sin. Jesus corrects them, saying that the man’s condition was an opportunity for God’s work to be revealed. As the Pharisees interrogate the man and his parents, their blindness to the truth of who Jesus is becomes apparent. The healed man’s faith and Jesus’ actions show that spiritual sight—being truly ready to see and accept God’s truth—is far more important than physical sight.
Word of the Day: Ready
Definition: In a suitable state for an activity, action, or situation; fully prepared.
Being Ready Requires Vigilance and Faith
Are you ready? Jesus’ analogy of servants waiting for their master’s return in Luke 12 paints a vivid picture of the kind of vigilance and faith He calls us to. Being “ready” doesn’t mean living in fear but keeping our hearts open, our spirits willing, and our eyes on Jesus. The disciples, the Pharisees, and the crowds who followed Jesus often missed the mark—not because they lacked desire, but because they were focused on the wrong things.
Being ready means being willing to see things through God’s eyes. It’s about aligning our priorities with His. Whether in prayer, relationships, or the unexpected challenges of life, being ready is an act of faith that says, “Lord, I’m listening. I trust You.” When the Lord calls, will you be prepared to respond, or will you be too distracted by the world around you?
Being ready also means repentance and seeking a heart of transformation. The barren fig tree had time to bear fruit, just as we have time to turn to God. But time is not infinite. Our readiness to turn to God in moments of conviction, to seek His guidance, and to lean on His promises is essential for bearing fruit in our spiritual walk.
Ready, Set, Go!
The phrase “ready, set, go” often takes me back to track meets. I think of the preparation that went into those moments—months of training, practice, and discipline. The thrill of hearing “Ready” would send my heart racing, and at “Go!” I would push forward with all the strength and preparation behind me.
Spiritually, being ready requires that same level of preparation and commitment. It’s the behind-the-scenes work of prayer, reading God’s Word, and being obedient in the little things that gets us ready for the big moments. We can’t be ready for God’s call if we’re not consistently preparing ourselves for what He might ask of us. Just like a runner who’s trained for months, we must train our hearts to be in tune with God, ready to act when He says, “Go.”
October 18
John 10, Luke 13:22-35, 14:1-24
The Good Shepherd
In today’s reading from John 10, Jesus paints a vivid picture of the difference between the True Shepherd and the false shepherds who mislead the people. Just before this, Jesus had healed a blind man, only for the Pharisees to cast him out of the synagogue, proving once again that they were more focused on rules than on caring for people’s hearts. Jesus contrasts Himself with these false leaders, explaining that His sheep recognize His voice and follow Him because He is the Good Shepherd.
What does it mean for Jesus to be our Shepherd? Jesus tells us that He came to give His sheep a rich and satisfying life—also known as an abundant life. This abundance doesn’t necessarily mean a life free from struggle or hardship, but it is a life of contentment and fulfillment found in Him.
One powerful story illustrates this beautifully. During World War I, some soldiers tried to steal a flock of sheep from a hillside near Jerusalem. The shepherd, upon realizing what was happening, didn’t attempt to fight off the soldiers with force. Instead, he called out to his flock with his distinct call. The sheep recognized their shepherd’s voice and returned to him, leaving the soldiers behind, unable to stop them. Just like those sheep, when we hear the Good Shepherd’s voice, we are drawn back to Him, finding safety, peace, and purpose in His care.
Word of the Day: Shepherd
Definition: Someone who cares for sheep. In Biblical times, shepherding was a common profession.
The Good Shepherd Leads Us to Abundant Life
Jesus, our Good Shepherd, doesn’t just call us into a life of following rules—He calls us into a life of abundance. But what does that abundant life look like? According to James Montgomery Boice, the Greek word for “abundance,” perissos, denotes a surplus, a life of overflowing contentment. This abundant life isn’t necessarily an easy one, nor is it about material wealth. It’s a life where we can trust that God will supply our needs and walk with us through every season.
In the wilderness moments of life, where we may feel like we are wandering, hungry, and thirsty, Jesus promises that He will guide us to springs of living water (Revelation 7:16-17). This is a life marked by satisfaction in Him, no matter the circumstances. The question for us is: Are we listening for the Shepherd’s voice, and are we willing to follow where He leads?
The Good Shepherd Guides and Protects Us
In Luke 13:22-14:24, we see Jesus continually guiding His followers and teaching them what it means to be part of the Kingdom of God. As He moves towards Jerusalem, He warns His listeners to strive to enter through the narrow door, emphasizing that many will seek entrance but won’t be able to. Jesus, like a shepherd, is leading His sheep, urging them to stay on the right path, even when the way is narrow and difficult.
Throughout His teachings and parables, Jesus highlights His deep care for His followers. He is the Shepherd who guides us, not just through the green pastures but through the valleys as well. When we feel lost, overwhelmed, or unsure, we can trust that the Good Shepherd is always leading us toward a greater purpose—toward springs of living water and eternal life.
October 19
Luke 14:25-35, Luke 15, Luke 16, Luke 17:1-10, John 11:1-37
The Parables of the Lost
In today’s readings from Luke 14-16 and John 11, Jesus emphasizes the cost of following Him, the joy of recovering the lost, and the call to invest in eternal matters. As we continue journeying through the Gospel of Luke, we come across three parables that reveal the heart of God for the lost: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son (also known as the prodigal son).
Each of these parables captures a beautiful truth: when something valuable is lost, there is a persistent search, and when it is found, there is great rejoicing. Jesus shows us that God’s heart is filled with joy when even one sinner repents and returns to Him. The parable of the prodigal son, in particular, tugs at our hearts as we see the extravagant love of a father who runs to welcome his wayward son back home. Though the older brother struggles with bitterness, the father’s response is clear:
"This is a happy day, for your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!" (Luke 15:32)
In contrast, Jesus also warns about the dangers of being lost in a different way—through greed and misplaced priorities. In the Parable of the Shrewd Manager, He highlights the importance of being faithful with what we have and ensuring that our investments are for the Kingdom of God, not for fleeting, worldly gain. He also makes it clear that we cannot serve both God and money.
Then, in John 11, we see the beginnings of a powerful miracle in the story of Lazarus, where Jesus is about to reveal Himself as the resurrection and the life. But before that, we witness the deep compassion and humanity of Jesus as He weeps with those who are mourning. This passage reminds us that while we may feel lost or overwhelmed by the trials of life, Jesus walks with us in our pain and has the power to bring life out of death.
Word of the Day: Lost
Definition: Denoting something that has been taken away or cannot be recovered.
The Joy in Finding the Lost
Throughout these parables, Jesus reveals the deep joy that comes from recovering what was lost. Whether it’s the lost sheep, the lost coin, or the lost son, the consistent theme is that God does not rest until He has found His lost ones. For God, no one is too far gone or too broken to be brought back into His arms. This is a beautiful reminder of the heart of the Gospel. Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10).
The joy in heaven over one sinner who repents is indescribable. It’s the joy of a shepherd who finds his sheep, of a woman who finds her valuable coin, of a father who embraces his long-lost son. For those of us who have been found by God’s grace, we are called to rejoice with Him and to be part of this ongoing search for the lost. God’s heart is always open, and He wants us to mirror that in our lives.
Is there someone in your life who feels far from God? Someone who needs to know the love and grace that’s been extended to them? Pray for them, love them, and ask God to work through you to show them the way back to the Father’s heart.
The Other Kind of Lost
Sometimes, being lost isn’t about running away physically—it’s about a state of the heart. The older brother in the story of the prodigal son stayed home, worked hard, and did everything right, but he still felt distant from his father’s love. His heart was consumed with comparison, self-righteousness, and bitterness. Though he was physically “home,” his heart was far from the joy and grace that his father freely offered.
This is a warning for those of us who may feel like we’re doing all the right things, yet still feel lost or disconnected from God’s love. It’s a reminder that we can be “home” and still miss out on the celebration. Sometimes, we need to check our own hearts to see if we’re harboring bitterness, resentment, or pride—things that can keep us from experiencing the fullness of God’s grace.
Are you struggling with feelings of resentment or comparison, like the older brother? Ask God to soften your heart and help you experience the joy and freedom that come from knowing His grace.