John 1:19–42 – Who Are You, Really?

📖 Scripture Focus: John 1:19–42

“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.”
— John 1:29

This chapter of John stirred something deep in me.

It reminded me how loud the world can be when it’s trying to define you… and how quiet you have to become to hear who God says you are. This passage isn’t just about John the Baptist preparing the way — it’s about identity, calling, and the courage to point others to Christ when the spotlight wants to land on you.

📖 Section 1: The Question of Identity (vv. 19–23)

The priests and Levites came straight to John and asked:
“Who are you?”

He could’ve said a lot. He was known. He had a following. But his answer?

“I am not the Christ.”
“I am not Elijah.”
“I am not the Prophet.”

And finally — when pressed — he said:

“I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness: Make straight the way of the Lord.”

No titles. No need to impress.
Just obedience.

💭 Reflection:

John didn’t define himself by his family name, his reputation, or public opinion. He didn’t grasp for validation. He defined himself by his purpose: a voice, not a name.

And that spoke so deeply to me.

We live in a world obsessed with personal branding, titles, and making a name — but in the kingdom, the goal is to make His name known.

✅ Knowing who you’re not is just as important as knowing who you are.
✅ Your assignment doesn’t require applause — just obedience.

✍🏽 Note:

“John’s humility and understanding of his purpose really struck me. He didn’t let others hype him up or call him something God didn’t. He knew his lane — and he stayed faithful in it.”

“Sometimes the most anointed thing we can do is stay in position. Not be the main character… just the voice that prepares the way.”

🛐 Prayer Prompt:

Lord, help me be content being a voice for You — not a name for myself. Strip away every false label. Make me bold in purpose, steady in humility, and faithful to the call You’ve placed on my life.

📖 Section 2: Behold the Lamb (vv. 29–34)

The next day, John saw Jesus coming toward him and said:

“Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”

He didn’t introduce Him as “Jesus of Nazareth” or “my cousin.”
He spoke of His assignment — the Lamb sent to carry the sin of the world.

And then John said something that paused me in my spirit:

“I did not know Him…” (v. 31)

This is his own family. They likely crossed paths growing up.
But John still had to wait on the Spirit to reveal who Jesus really was.

✍🏽 Note:

“That humbled me. Sometimes we’re around Jesus — even in His presence, even doing His work — and still don’t fully know Him.
John was faithful to his assignment before the revelation came.”

“And because he didn’t chase a title, he was in position to see the truth clearly — and declare it boldly:
‘Behold the Lamb of God!’”

💭 Reflection:

Sometimes we want clarity before obedience…
But what if obedience is the road to clarity?

John stayed the course — baptizing, preparing, watching.
And when the Spirit descended like a dove, he knew.
That was the Lamb.
That was the One.

🛐 Prayer Prompt:

Lord, help me stay faithful while I wait.
Let my heart be soft enough to behold You when You pass by — even if I’ve seen You before.
Reveal more of Yourself to me.
I don’t want to just serve You — I want to know You.

📖 Section 3: Come and See (vv. 35–42)

The very next day, John pointed to Jesus again. This time, two of his own disciples followed Him.
Jesus turned and asked the question that still echoes in our hearts today:

“What are you seeking?” (v. 38)

They didn’t respond with theology.
They didn’t ask for signs.
They just said: “Where are You staying?”

They wanted to be near Him.
And Jesus simply replied: “Come and see.”

💭 Reflection:

That’s how it starts. Not with qualifications. Not with credentials. Just curiosity. They came and saw — and never turned back. One of them, Andrew, went and got his brother Simon. And when Jesus saw Simon, He called out something beyond what Simon knew about himself.

“You shall be called Cephas (Peter)”
— The Rock.

Before Peter ever preached. Before he failed. Before he followed —
Jesus saw the rock inside the man.

✍🏽 Grace Journal Note from Erica:

“There’s something so beautiful about how this all unfolds. John didn’t cling to his disciples. He let them go. And Jesus welcomed them without a résumé.
He just said, Come. And from there, a movement began.”

🛐 Prayer Prompt:

Jesus, I want to be near You — not for blessings, but because You’re worthy. Let me be the one who comes, who sees, who stays. Reveal who I really am — not who the world says, but who You call me to be.

📓 Journal Prompt:

Ask the Lord honestly:
“What am I truly seeking from You right now?”
Write down what comes up.
Then ask Him:
“What do You see in me that I don’t yet see?”

Sit quietly, and listen. The answer may change your life.

🌿 Final Whisper

You don’t need a spotlight to fulfill your calling.
You just need obedience, humility, and eyes to see the Lamb when He passes by.

Stay in position.
Speak when He tells you to.
And always — always — point to Jesus.

John 1:1–18 — The Light That Came Close

Series: The Word Made Known – A Journey Through John

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
— John 1:1 (NIV)

“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God,
to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.”
— John 1:12–13 (NKJV)

🌿 Why “The Light That Came Close”?

John opens his gospel with divine weight — not with a manger, but with eternity.
Jesus is the Word, eternal and creative, not just present at the beginning… but the beginning itself.

But He’s also called the Light:

• “In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.” (v.4)

• “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (v.5)

• “The true Light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” (v.9)

And in verse 14, that Light did something unimaginable:

“The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us…”

God didn’t stay distant.
The Light came close.

That’s why this entry bears this name — because it reflects what Jesus did: He entered the world He created, not to condemn it, but to illuminate it… and to draw near to us in love, truth, and grace.

🕊️ Full Reflection:

Jesus, the eternal Word, was not a poetic idea or a distant deity.
He was with God, He was God, and He came for us.

He entered a world that was made through Him, yet rejected Him.

“He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.” (v.11)

The heartbreak of rejection is real — and Jesus felt it.
But the story doesn’t stop there.

💛 And Yet... Redemption

“But as many as received Him…”

That phrase changes everything.

To the ones who did recognize Him — who received and believed — Jesus gave more than forgiveness.
He gave identity.
He gave access.
He gave rebirth.

✨ “He gave them the right to become children of God.”

Not born of family line…
Not of effort or intention…
But born of God — born again, by His Spirit.

We were all created by God, but not all are automatically children of God.
That comes by receiving Him — believing in His name — and being born of the Spirit, not the flesh.

🪞 Journal Prompts:

• What does it mean to you that Jesus is the Word?

• Have you fully received Him — or just acknowledged Him?

• Do you walk in the identity of a child born of God — with full access, intimacy, and purpose?

🙏🏽 Prayer:

Jesus, You are the eternal Word — the Light that came close.
You stepped into the world You created to bring truth, healing, and belonging.
Thank You for inviting me to be not just near You, but born of You — a child of the living God.
Help me live each day fully aware of who You are and who I am in You.
Amen.

🌿 Releasing What’s Already Inside You

“We have this treasure in jars of clay…” – 2 Corinthians 4:7

There’s something powerful about realizing that when God formed us on the Potter’s wheel, He didn’t leave us empty. He shaped us with care, filled us with gifts, strength, identity, and purpose—everything we’d ever need to walk in Him.

But the question becomes: How do we release what He already placed within us?

This has been sitting on my heart lately. I want to grow. I want to be who He called me to be. And I know I can’t rely on emotion, motivation, or timing to get there. I need the Holy Spirit’s help to unlock what’s been planted.

So here’s what I’ve been learning on this journey:

1. Understand the Potter’s Intent

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you...” – Jeremiah 1:5
“We have this treasure in jars of clay...” – 2 Corinthians 4:7

You were not created empty. You were created intentional. Formed by God’s own hands, He placed purpose, identity, gifts, and discipline within you. But just like a seed, what’s within needs conditions to grow and emerge.

🔑 Truth: Everything you need is in you, but not everything is active. That takes intimacy with the Source.

2. Study the Word (Fuel the Fire Within)

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Psalm 119:105
“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind...” – Romans 12:2

The Word is both mirror and map. Studying Scripture reveals what’s in you and what’s hindering you. It renews your mind so your inner man can rise and your outer man aligns with heaven’s truth.

🛠 Tool: Make time for daily Word consumption—not for information, but transformation.

3. Develop Intimacy With God

“Abide in Me, and I in you... apart from Me you can do nothing.” – John 15:4–5
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” – James 4:8

The gifts inside of you are activated in His presence. Prayer is not just asking—it’s aligning. Worship is not just praise—it’s access. Time with God allows His Spirit to stir the gift, fan the flame, and release what He hid in you for such a time as this.

📿 Practice: Invite God daily to activate what He’s already planted.

4. Obey, Even When It’s Small

“If you are faithful in little, you will be faithful in much.” – Luke 16:10
“Do not despise small beginnings...” – Zechariah 4:10

Releasing what’s in you doesn’t require a spotlight—it requires a yes. Every act of obedience chips away what hides the glory within. Speak when He says speak. Write when He says write. Serve when He nudges.

🌱 Note: Obedience is how you release the river within.

5. Train the Flesh, Feed the Spirit

“The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” – Matthew 26:41
“Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness.” – 1 Timothy 4:7

The treasure is in you, but so are distractions. Spiritual discipline (fasting, prayer, worship, confession, community) quiets the noise so the still, small voice can lead. These practices stir up what lies dormant and sharpen your sensitivity to His direction.

🔥 Truth: Discipline is not denying yourself—it’s discovering yourself in Christ.

6. Speak Life Over What’s Inside

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue...” – Proverbs 18:21
“Fan into flame the gift of God that is in you...” – 2 Timothy 1:6

Sometimes, the activation comes by declaration. Speak what God says about you, even if your emotions or situation don’t agree. Stir the gifts with your words. Bless your hands, your steps, your mind, and your calling.

🎙️ Practice: Start your day with declarations of who you are in Christ and what He’s placed within.

Declaration Prayer

Father,
Thank You for forming me with care and placing Your treasure within me. I declare that I was made on purpose, with purpose. I release fear and embrace the spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. Fan into flame every dormant gift. Align my steps and train me in Your truth.
What You placed in me, I now release by obedience, faith, and intimacy with You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

✨ Journal With Me

If this resonated with you, I created a printable journal with scriptures, reflections, and space to write what God is doing in your heart.

📄 Download the Free Journal Here (Insert your uploaded file link once available on your store or blog)

💬 Let’s Grow Together

I’d love to hear from you. What has God placed in you that’s ready to be released? Leave a comment, or share how you’re walking this out.

Grace and peace,
Erica W.

Does the Bible Say That Just Believing Is Enough?

The Bible makes it clear that faith is essential — but it also teaches that true faith produces obedience, transformation, and fruit. In other words, believing in God or Jesus is the foundation — but not the end.

Let’s break it down:

💡 1. Belief Alone Is Not Enough (Without Action)

🔹 James 2:19 (NIV)

“You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.”

• This is a strong warning. Demons believe God exists — but they don’t follow Him.

• True faith goes beyond mental belief — it changes how we live.

🔹 James 2:17 (NIV)

“Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”

• Real faith will always produce action — obedience, love, repentance.

💡 2. Jesus Calls Us to Follow, Not Just Believe

🔹 Luke 9:23 (NIV)

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

• Belief leads to a life of discipleship — daily surrender, sacrifice, and trust.

🔹 John 14:15 (NIV)

“If you love me, keep my commands.”

• Jesus connects love and belief in Him with obedience.

💡 3. Salvation Is By Faith — But Faith is Living and Active

🔹 Ephesians 2:8–10 (NIV)

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast.
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

• We are saved by grace, not our performance.

• But true saving faith always leads us into a life of purpose and obedience.

💡 4. Jesus Warns Against Empty Confession

🔹 Matthew 7:21 (NIV)

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”

• Saying "I believe" is not enough without doing the will of God.

✅ Summary:

• Believing in Jesus is the starting point of salvation — and it is through His grace alone that we are saved.

• But that belief is proven genuine through a life of repentance, obedience, and relationship with Him.

• Faith that is alive walks, obeys, grows, and endures.

If You're Encouraging Someone:

“Believing in Jesus is not just about saying you believe — it’s about trusting Him enough to follow. Real faith walks with Him, listens to Him, and is transformed by Him.”

🙏 Prayer: A Heart That Believes and Follows

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for revealing Yourself to me — not just as a God to believe in, but as a Savior to follow, a Shepherd to trust, and a King to obey.
You are holy and loving, full of mercy and truth. I confess that sometimes I’ve been content with just believing, without becoming who You’ve called me to be. But I don’t want a faith that is passive or lukewarm. I want a faith that is alive, moving, and yielded to You.

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me (Psalm 51:10).
Help me to take up my cross daily and follow You — not in words only, but in action, in humility, in trust, and in love.
Teach me to obey not out of fear, but out of delight — because I know that Your ways lead to life, freedom, and purpose.

Holy Spirit, stir up within me a hunger for Your Word and a desire to walk in it.
Let my belief in Jesus overflow into transformation.
Make me bold when I’m afraid, consistent when I’m weary, and faithful when I don’t understand.
Let my life be a reflection of true discipleship — not just belief, but daily surrender.

I pray for my family, friends, and all who read this:
That we wouldn’t just know about You, but that we would know You personally.
That we would not only believe in You, but also follow You — wherever You lead.
Because belief without obedience is incomplete — and obedience without love is empty.
But when we believe and follow You from the heart, we find the abundant life You promised.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

God’s Testing vs. Tribulations: Knowing the Difference

“In this world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
– John 16:33 (ESV)

“God tested Abraham...”
– Genesis 22:1 (NIV)

Life is full of hardships—but not all hardship is the same. Sometimes we’re being tested by God, and other times we’re enduring tribulation from the world around us. Understanding the difference can help you respond with wisdom, faith, and peace.

🔍 What Is God’s Testing?

God’s testing is a divine process of refining and strengthening us. It’s not punishment. It’s preparation. When God tests us, He is revealing the depth of our faith and inviting us into deeper trust.

🕊️ Examples from Scripture:

• Abraham was tested with the ultimate sacrifice—his son Isaac (Genesis 22).

• The Israelites were tested in the wilderness (Deuteronomy 8:2).

• James encouraged believers to embrace trials as growth opportunities (James 1:2–3).

✅ Purpose:

• To develop perseverance

• To reveal what’s in our hearts

• To produce genuine, mature faith (1 Peter 1:7)

🌍 What Are Tribulations?

Tribulations refer to the hardships, suffering, or persecution that come simply from living in a fallen world. Jesus Himself warned us that they would come—but He also gave us hope: “I have overcome the world.”

💥 Examples from Scripture:

• Early Christians faced persecution for their faith.

• Paul endured beatings, shipwrecks, and prison.

• Jesus spoke of “tribulation” as a reality of life (John 16:33).

✅ Purpose:

• To drive us to rely on Christ

• To remind us of our eternal hope

• To allow God's strength to be made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9)

🪔 The Key Differences

Aspect God’s Testing Tribulations

Source Comes from God Comes from the world, sin, or Satan

Purpose To refine, strengthen, and mature us To oppose, discourage, or pressure us

Spiritual Goal Builds obedience and perseverance Deepens dependence on Christ

Biblical Examples Abraham, Job, James, Israelites Early Church, Paul, Jesus’ warning

God’s Role Initiator and Refiner Redeemer and Sustainer

🙏 What It Means for You

Whether you’re in a test or facing tribulation, God is with you. He doesn’t waste your pain. He uses both to prepare you, shape your heart, and bring glory to His name.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him…”
– Romans 8:28 (NIV)

You may not be able to choose your trial, but you can choose your response: faith, surrender, and trust.

✨ Journal Prompt:

Are you currently in a test or a tribulation?
How can you tell the difference?
What is God teaching you in this season?

🙌 Prayer:

Father,
Help me discern the difference between Your testing and the tribulations of life.
Whether You are refining me or I am under pressure from the world, remind me that I am never alone.
Use every moment—every fire, every trial—for my growth and Your glory.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

When God Tests Us: Refined by Fire, Held by Grace"For you, God, tested us; you refined us like silver." – Psalm 66:10 (NIV)

🔥 A Heartfelt Reflection

Have you ever felt like your faith was being stretched thin—like the weight of your circumstances was more than you could carry? You’re not alone. The Bible is filled with people who faced seasons of deep testing, and yet those very tests were the soil where their faith grew strongest.

God doesn’t test us to trap us. He tests us to train us, to reveal what’s inside us, and to refine us for something greater.

• In Genesis 22, Abraham was tested with the unthinkable—offering Isaac. But through it, his trust in God deepened.

• In Deuteronomy 8:2, the Israelites wandered 40 years, not aimlessly, but under divine training to see what was in their hearts.

• In James 1:2–3, we’re encouraged to find joy in trials because they produce perseverance.

• And 1 Peter 1:7 reminds us that trials prove our faith genuine, like gold tested in fire.

So when you're facing the heat, remember: you are being refined, not rejected.

📖 Scriptures for Your Journey

• Genesis 22:1 – “God tested Abraham…”

• Deuteronomy 8:2 – “…to humble and test you…”

• James 1:2–3 – “...the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

• 1 Peter 1:6–7 – “...so that the proven genuineness of your faith...”

• Psalm 66:10 – “You refined us like silver.”

📝 Journal Prompt

What season of testing are you walking through right now?
Can you see how it’s growing you, even if it’s uncomfortable?

Write a prayer of surrender. Ask God to help you see the refining, not just the fire.

🙏 A Prayer to Carry You Through

Heavenly Father,
I don’t always understand the trials in my life, but I choose to trust You.
Refine me like silver. Teach me to walk in faith like Abraham,
To follow You daily like Israel in the wilderness,
To rejoice in hardship like James encourages us,
And to endure knowing that my faith is being made strong.
I surrender this season to You. Let it glorify Your name.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

Faith in the Storm: When You Know the Word, But Still Waver

Opening Reflection: Have you ever found yourself in a storm—not just a physical one, but a life storm—and realized that despite knowing God's Word, you're still panicking? It's that tension between head knowledge and heart trust. You remember the verses. You know what was just preached. But suddenly, the waves rise, the boat rocks, and fear creeps in.

You're not alone. Even the disciples, after hearing Jesus teach about faith and the Word falling on good ground, panicked when the winds picked up. And yet Jesus, calm and resting, reminded them (and us) that faith is more than memory—it's trust.

Scripture Foundation:

• Mark 4:35–41: Jesus calms the storm. The disciples are terrified even after hearing Him teach.

• Luke 8:22–25: The parallel account shows Jesus asleep in peace, while His followers tremble in fear.

• Acts 27:21–44: Paul, in the middle of a terrifying shipwreck, stands in peace. He reminds everyone that God has spoken, and he believes Him.

Devotional Insight: Jesus had just finished teaching about the seed and the soil. The Word was sown, but when the storm came, the disciples' hearts showed just how shallow that soil still was. That’s not shame—it’s insight. It shows us where God wants to dig deeper.

Paul’s faith in Acts 27 is different. Tested. Mature. Anchored. When everything is falling apart, he doesn’t panic—he stands. Why? Because He believed what God said.

And that’s what we want: not just knowledge, but anchored faith. Faith that rests when life "lifes." Faith that sleeps like Jesus in the storm. Faith that stands like Paul when the ship breaks.

A Prayer When Life Starts "Lifing": Father, I believe Your Word. But sometimes, I forget when the winds rise. I want the kind of faith that rests in You—that remembers what You said even when it doesn't look like it's working out. Give me deep roots, not shallow soil. Let me sleep through storms, not because I don't care, but because I trust You that much. And when I need to stand, let me stand on Your promises. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Journal Prompts:

• What storm are you currently facing?

• What Word has God already spoken over that situation?

• When storms come, do I react like the disciples or rest like Jesus?

• How can I shift my focus from the waves to the Word?

Closing Encouragement: If you've found yourself forgetting what He just taught you, you're not failing—you're growing. God doesn't test us to break us. He allows storms to show us where we're rooted, and where He wants to deepen our faith. Keep going. Keep believing. Let faith rise.

Download the Free Printable: "Faith in the Storm" Devotional + Prayer Card 

With grace,

Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

Walk By Faith, Not By Sight

🌊 "For we walk by faith, not by sight." — 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NKJV)

This short verse from Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians holds profound truth for every believer. In just ten words, it reveals the foundation of a life rooted in the Spirit, not in the senses. It teaches us to move in obedience—not because we see the outcome—but because we trust the One who directs our steps.

To walk by faith means we let go of the need to understand everything. It means believing in God’s promises even when there’s no evidence yet. It means our confidence is not in what is visible, but in who is invisible.

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." — Hebrews 11:1

Sight is natural. Faith is supernatural. And the Christian walk requires us to lean not on what we can analyze, calculate, or control—but on God’s eternal truth.

This verse doesn’t minimize our human desire for clarity. It simply reminds us that God’s clarity comes through trust—not always visibility. He is trustworthy even when the road is foggy.

When Paul wrote this, he was enduring hardship, persecution, and uncertainty. Yet he declared: “We walk by faith.” That means forward motion. Movement. Momentum. Even when you can’t see clearly, you can keep walking—because faith is a lens that sees beyond the moment.

🙏 Prayer:

Lord, strengthen my faith to walk even when the path is unclear. Help me to lean not on what I feel or see, but on what You’ve said. Let Your Word be my compass and Your promises my anchor. I choose to walk by faith—step by step, day by day—trusting You fully. In Jesus’ name, amen.

📝 Journal Prompt:

• In what area of my life am I relying more on sight than faith?

• What promise of God do I need to hold onto right now?

• How can I strengthen my faith through prayer, scripture, and action?

  📥 Download the Walk By Faith printable journal sheet: Click here to access your free reflection page — print it out, write it down, and walk it out.

Faith leads even when the eyes cannot.

With grace,

Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

Ask. Seek. Knock. A Promise Worth Pursuing

🔑 "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you." — Matthew 7:7 (NKJV)

Have you ever felt unsure how to pray—or whether your prayers even matter?

Jesus answers that question with a simple, powerful invitation: Ask. Seek. Knock.

These aren’t passive suggestions. They’re active pursuits, grounded in faith and built on trust that your Heavenly Father hears and responds.

🙋🏽‍♀️ ASK — The Posture of Dependence

To ask means to admit you can’t do it on your own. It requires humility, faith, and courage to speak your need aloud—to say, "Lord, I need You." Whether you whisper it in weariness or cry it out in desperation, He hears you.

“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father... give good things to those who ask Him!” — Matthew 7:11

🔍 SEEK — The Pursuit of His Presence

To seek God means to move closer. It means searching not just for answers but for intimacy. When we seek Him—through prayer, worship, fasting, and His Word—we discover the treasure isn’t just what we receive, but who He is.

“You will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” — Jeremiah 29:13

🚪 KNOCK — The Persistence of Faith

Knocking implies resistance. A closed door. An unanswered question. But it also implies action. Knocking means you didn’t give up. It means you're standing at the threshold of promise, believing that when it opens, it will be God who answers.

“To the one who knocks it will be opened.” — Matthew 7:8

🙏 Prayer:

Father, thank You for inviting me into this kind of relationship with You. Help me to ask boldly, seek continually, and knock faithfully. May I never lose hope when the answer is delayed. Teach me to trust Your timing and to rest in Your presence while I wait. In Jesus’ name, amen.

📝 Journal Prompt:

• What am I asking God for right now?

• Where is He inviting me to seek Him more deeply?

• What door have I stopped knocking on that may still open by faith?

Keep knocking. You’re closer than you think.

📥 Download the Ask. Seek. Knock journal sheet: Click here to access your free reflection page — print it out, write it down, and walk it out.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

Why Does Biblical Fasting Begin with Food? A Closer Look at the Scriptures

When we fast, why is it usually food that’s laid on the altar?

In today’s world, we often hear: “You can fast anything—TV, social media, even gossip.” While these are meaningful sacrifices, true biblical fasting has always started with something much deeper: food.

Let’s walk through the scriptures to understand why fasting in the Bible begins with food, and why that still matters today.

🍽️ What Does the Bible Say About Fasting?

The word "fast" or "fasting" appears around 70 times in the NKJV Bible. It’s most often used in the context of:

• Seeking divine help (Ezra 8:23)

• Repentance and humility (Jonah 3:5-10)

• Spiritual warfare and breakthrough (Matthew 17:21)

• Preparation for ministry (Acts 13:2-3)

Key Verse:

“Is this not the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of wickedness... to let the oppressed go free?” — Isaiah 58:6

🥖 Why Food? Doesn’t It Nourish Us?

Yes—and that’s why it’s so powerful.

Food is our most basic physical need. When we fast from it, we challenge the flesh and declare that:

“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” — Matthew 4:4

Fasting food breaks the cycle of self-reliance. It reminds us that only God truly sustains us.

📖 Examples of Food-Based Fasts in Scripture:

• Absolute Fast – Esther 4:16: “No food or water for three days.”

• Partial Fast – Daniel 10:3: “I ate no pleasant food.”

• Corporate Fast – Joel 2:15: “Blow the trumpet… sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly.”

• Jesus' 40-Day Fast – Luke 4:2: “He ate nothing.”

These weren’t about self-control. They were about God-dependence.

📺 What About Other Forms of Fasting?

In the Old and New Testaments, people had entertainment—feasts, music, theater, and celebrations. But those weren’t daily essentials.

Food was universal. Everyone needed it. So fasting from food was a clear, collective act of devotion.

In modern times, fasting from TV, social media, or digital distractions can absolutely help refocus our minds—but these are usually supplemental fasts. They don’t carry the same physical sacrifice as food.

🔑 So Why Start with Food?

Reason Why It Matters

Dependency Food is necessary. Fasting reminds us of our need for God.

Sacrifice It costs something physical and spiritual.

Scriptural Pattern Nearly every biblical fast involved food.

Clarity Fasting food breaks fleshly habits so you can hear God clearer.

🙏 Final Reflection:

Ask the Lord what He is calling you to fast. Whether it's a full fast, a Daniel-style fast, or removing distractions—make sure it’s Spirit-led.

When God chooses the fast, the fruit always follows: healing, clarity, direction, and spiritual freedom.

“When you fast…” — Jesus (Matthew 6:16) — not if.

So yes—fasting begins with food. But it ends in freedom.

📥 Download the Fasting Start with the Heart journal sheet: Click here to access your free reflection page — print it out, write it down, and walk it out.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

Little Feet, Big Faith: Planting the Seeds of God’s Word in Young Hearts

📖 Opening Reflection:

There’s a holy weight in raising or even temporarily caring for young children—especially in a season of disruption. But what if this is the moment the roots of their faith are planted?

Right now, my days are filled with tiny footsteps, snack requests, and sudden outbursts—but underneath the noise is a quiet mission: to cover these little ones in love, prayer, and scripture until Jesus becomes the foundation of their lives.

📜 Key Scriptures for Spiritual Foundation

1. Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (NLT)

“And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands... Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up.”

📌 Teaching truth doesn’t require a classroom. It starts in the daily rhythms—when brushing teeth, sharing Cheerios, or calming a tantrum.

2. Isaiah 54:13 (NIV)

“All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace.”

📌 Even in chaos, God promises peace to the children we bring before Him.

3. Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV)

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

📌 The training doesn’t start when they’re old enough to read—it starts with lullabies filled with scripture, bedtime prayers, and spirit-led example.

🙏 A Prayer for the Grandmother (or Caregiver)

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for entrusting me with these little ones—even in a season I didn’t plan for. Cover them with Your presence. Let their tiny ears hear truth, their eyes see grace, and their hearts be softened for You. Help me show them Jesus not just through Bible stories but through how I love, protect, and speak to them.

Let this home become a sanctuary. Let laughter echo as worship and correction be laced with compassion. Make me a mirror of Your patience, even on the messy days.

And when I feel weary, remind me: I’m not just babysitting—I’m building a legacy.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

📓 Journal Prompt:

• What spiritual practices can I begin, even in small moments, to help build faith in the children under my care?

• What has God shown me about His patience through caring for little ones?

• Where do I need to invite peace into my home today?

Tiny feet may run wild in your home, but big faith can grow there too. May we plant seeds that heaven waters and eternity honors.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

🕊️ Digging Deeper: Psalm 57 — Under His Wings

📖 Psalm 57 (NKJV)

Verses 1–3: A Cry for Mercy
“Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You; and in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge, until these calamities have passed by.”
“I will cry out to God Most High, to God who performs all things for me. He shall send from heaven and save me.”

David begins with repetition—"Be merciful"—because he's desperate. He knows God is his only safe place. The “shadow of Your wings” is a picture of closeness, protection, and divine care—like a mother bird shielding her chicks from harm. Even while hiding in a cave from Saul, David sees God's presence as his true refuge.

Verses 4–6: A Realistic Picture of Trouble
“My soul is among lions… they have prepared a net for my steps; my soul is bowed down.”

David doesn’t deny his fear or danger. He feels surrounded by enemies and even emotionally crushed. But instead of giving into despair, he declares God's greatness in verse 5:

“Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let Your glory be above all the earth.”

This praise in the middle of trouble is the heartbeat of the psalm.

Verses 7–11: A Heart Fixed in Praise
“My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and give praise.”
“Awake, my glory! Awake, lute and harp! I will awaken the dawn.”

Though still in danger, David decides to praise. His "heart is fixed"—immovable. He chooses worship before rescue. By verse 10, his perspective is heavenward:

“For Your mercy reaches unto the heavens, and Your truth unto the clouds.”

✨ Key Reflections

1. You can worship in the waiting.
   David was still in the cave, yet his spirit soared in praise.

2. God is your refuge, not the cave.
   The cave might provide temporary shelter, but God is the true hiding place. David trusted not in the walls of the cave, but in the wings of God.

3. Pain doesn’t cancel praise.
   Even in deep fear, David lifted his voice—not because of what he felt, but because of who God is.

🪞 Journal Prompts

• “Where is my ‘cave’ right now?”
  What situation feels dark, tight, or fearful in this season?

• “What does ‘taking refuge in the shadow of His wings’ look like for me today?”
  Reflect on the places, people, or moments where you’ve experienced God’s protection.

• “Is my heart fixed, or faltering?”
  Be honest—what helps steady your heart, and what shakes it?

• “What praise can I offer in this cave?”
  Write a short praise declaration, even if the answer hasn’t come yet.

🙏 Prayer: A Cry and a Confession of Trust

Heavenly Father,
Be merciful to me, O God. In moments when I feel cornered, confused, or crushed, remind me that I am hidden not by chance, but by Your divine wings. Teach me to find safety in Your presence and to praise You before the breakthrough. May my heart be fixed on You—not on outcomes, not on fears, but on Your everlasting mercy and truth. Just as David praised You from the cave, may my song rise even from hard places. Be exalted, O God, above my feelings, above my circumstances, above all the earth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

Walking on Water Faith: Eyes on Jesus, Not the Storm

📝 Devotional: Walking on Water Faith

Have you ever felt the waves rising all around you—uncertainty swelling, wind howling, and fear creeping in? Life doesn’t always wait for us to feel ready. But “walking on water” faith isn’t about being fearless—it’s about focusing our eyes on Jesus in spite of the fear.

In Matthew 14:28–31, Peter steps out of the boat in faith. As long as his eyes were locked on Jesus, he walked on water. But the moment he noticed the wind, he began to sink. Jesus didn’t scold him for stepping out—He reached out and saved him when fear took hold.

That’s what walking on water faith teaches us:
Don’t look at the storm. Don’t get distracted by the waves. Keep your eyes on Jesus.

Some days, you might not hear clear direction from the Lord—but even in the silence, you can still walk with purpose. If you’ve committed your plans to Him (Proverbs 16:3), then carry them out with excellence, confidence, and a desire to glorify God in all you do.

And if your only prayer today is, “Lord, what would You have me do?”—trust that even the quiet moments are part of your calling.

You are an ambassador for Christ.
Your life is a living message of hope, peace, and truth in a broken world. Don’t shrink back. Walk forward. Even if it feels like water beneath your feet.

📖 Scriptures to Anchor This Message

• Matthew 14:28–31 (NKJV) – “So He said, ‘Come.’ And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus.”

• Proverbs 16:3 (NIV) – “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”

• 2 Corinthians 5:20 (NLT) – “So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us.”

• Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV) – “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.”

• Hebrews 12:2 (NIV) – “Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith...”

📓 Journal Reflection Prompt

• What does “walking on water” look like in your life right now?

• Are you focusing more on your circumstances or on Christ?

• Take a moment to write out today’s plans and commit them to God in prayer.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

When Intimacy is Withheld: Remembering You’re Still Chosen

📖 Introduction:

What do you do when the one who vowed to love you turns away—not in anger, but in silence? When intimacy becomes absence, and you’re left wondering if something is wrong with you?

Rejection from the one who once drew near can feel like abandonment. When your spouse withdraws physically or emotionally, it can shake your identity and leave you questioning everything—your worth, your beauty, your marriage, even your faith.

But beloved, this post isn’t about pointing blame. It’s about helping you remember: You are not the problem. And more importantly, you are not forgotten by God.

This post offers scripture-based reflection, affirmation, and hope to women facing emotional and physical rejection in marriage—reminding you of God’s unwavering love, His healing promises, and the truth of your worth.

🔍 Scripture to Anchor Your Heart:

• Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

• Isaiah 54:5 – “For your Maker is your husband—the Lord Almighty is His name.”

• Isaiah 49:16 – “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.”

• Psalm 139:14 – “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made…”

💡 Reflection:

You may be navigating sleepless nights, aching questions, and an emptiness you don’t talk about out loud. You’ve prayed. You’ve asked. You’ve cried in silence.

But in every moment of absence—God is present.

Rejection by man does not cancel the affection of God. And while intimacy may be lacking in one space, you are fully known, fully loved, and fully wanted by the One who calls you His bride.

This isn't just about healing what’s been lost—it’s about reclaiming what is true:
🌿 You are valuable.
🌿 You are beautiful.
🌿 You are still worthy of love.

🧠 Journaling Prompts:

1. What has rejection made you believe about yourself that God does not say?

2. How does Psalm 34:18 shift your perspective in this season?

3. Write a letter to God about what you wish your husband understood.

4. What would healing and restoration look like for you, personally?

🕊️ Prayer:

Father, You see what I’ve tried to hide. You know the ache of rejection and the silence I live in. Remind me of my worth. Remind me that I am still Yours. Heal the broken places in my heart and hold me close when I feel most alone. You are my refuge, my comfort, my steady love. Amen.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

Keep Going – Your Harvest is Coming (Galatians 6:9)

Scripture:

“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”
— Galatians 6:9 (NKJV)

Have you ever felt like doing good was costing you everything—but bringing you nothing in return?

Whether you're loving others, parenting with patience, running a business with integrity, or showing up faithfully in ministry or work… it can feel heavy sometimes. Especially when the harvest doesn’t come fast.

But Galatians 6:9 reminds us that the work is not in vain. The promise is sure: we will reap—if we do not lose heart.

God is a perfect timekeeper. The season of reaping has already been appointed. Your job isn’t to predict the outcome, but to remain faithful in the sowing.

This verse isn’t just encouragement—it’s permission to rest your emotions while trusting God’s results.

💡 Reflection Questions:

1. Where have you been tempted to give up lately?

2. What does “due season” look like for you?

3. How can you protect your heart from growing weary while waiting?

🙏 Prayer:

Lord, strengthen me when I feel unseen or tired.
Remind me that my faithfulness matters—even when no one else notices.
Help me keep going, knowing You are the One who brings the harvest.
I will trust Your timing, not mine. I won’t lose heart.
In Jesus’ name, amen.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

“A Mother’s Legacy: Faith Passed Down”

2 Timothy 1:5

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.”

There’s something sacred about a mother’s prayers. The unseen tears. The quiet encouragement. The steady presence.

When Paul wrote to Timothy, he didn’t just praise his faith—he honored the women who poured it into him. Lois and Eunice never stood on a stage. They weren’t apostles or evangelists. But their faith shaped one.

This Mother’s Day, we pause to reflect on the legacy we’ve inherited and the one we’re building. Whether you’re a biological mom, a bonus mom, a spiritual mom, or a woman who simply chooses to nurture others—you are seen. You are vital. And your faith matters.

Reflection:

• Who helped plant the seeds of faith in your life?

• How are you intentionally passing on that faith today?

• What would you want your children—or spiritual children—to say about your legacy?

Supporting Scriptures:

• Proverbs 31:28 – “Her children arise and call her blessed...”

• Titus 2:3–5 – Encouragement to teach the younger women.

• Isaiah 66:13 – “As a mother comforts her child…”

A Prayer for Mothers:

Lord, thank You for the women who have loved us, prayed for us, and gently led us closer to You. Strengthen every mother reading this today. Let her see the value of her calling—even in the ordinary moments. May her legacy be one of faith, grace, and eternal impact. Amen.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

Still Worth Building

Scripture Anchor: Psalm 138:8 (NKJV)

“The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.”

🌿 Devotional Reflection

Today was not a simple day. I faced reminders of how much was given — and how little was returned. I looked at contracts and promises that cost thousands but never fulfilled their word. I saw my own name printed on paper that others used, but never protected.

And yet… God was still with me.

There’s a quiet kind of courage that comes when you finally say, “Enough.” Not in anger, but in wisdom. Today, I claimed my idea back. I claimed my voice back. I took the steps to protect what God placed in me.

“A vision that I’ve been carrying for years — one that cost us more than just money — but one I believe God is still breathing on.

💬 Heart Reflection

“The Lord will perfect that which concerns me…”

He sees what concerns you. What kept you up at night. What you hoped would be different. And He’s not asking you to pretend it didn’t hurt — He’s asking you to trust that He’s not finished.

He’s not done perfecting the parts of your journey that didn’t make sense.
And He’s not done redeeming what others may have mishandled.

You didn’t lose your vision today — you clarified it.

🙏🏽 Prayer

Father, I thank You for protecting what I couldn’t see and restoring what I thought was lost. Thank You for giving me the strength to stand, to let go of false partnerships, and to move forward with peace. You are perfecting what concerns me — even when I don’t feel in control. I trust You with the vision You gave me. Let Your grace fill every gap.

📓 Journal Prompt

1. What’s one dream or assignment you’ve felt uncertain about lately?

2. Have you ever been afraid to try again after a financial or emotional loss?

3. How can you give God the space to perfect what concerns you?

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

Digging Deeper: John 11:38–44

Believing in the face of finality

Verse-by-Verse Breakdown

Verse 38
"Then Jesus, again groaning in Himself, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it."
Jesus is emotionally moved—not just because of Lazarus' death, but because of the pain death causes humanity. This moment shows both His compassion and intentionality. He approaches the tomb not with defeat, but with divine authority.

Verse 39
"Jesus said, 'Take away the stone.' Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to Him, 'Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.'"
Martha is practical—she knows the situation is beyond repair. But Jesus invites her (and us) to obey even when logic protests. Sometimes faith asks us to move stones we’d rather leave untouched.

Verse 40
"Jesus said to her, 'Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?'"
This is the heart of the passage. Faith is the gateway to experiencing God's glory. Belief isn't passive—it's a lens that lets us see beyond the natural.

Verse 41
"Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was lying. And Jesus lifted up His eyes and said, 'Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.'"
Jesus thanks the Father before the miracle happens. This models a posture of gratitude before breakthrough. It reveals His constant communion with God.

Verse 42
"And I know that You always hear Me, but because of the people who are standing by I said this, that they may believe that You sent Me."
Jesus' public prayer is for the sake of the crowd—that they might believe. The miracle is not just about Lazarus, it’s about pointing to the Messiah.

Verse 43
"Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, 'Lazarus, come forth!'"
Jesus speaks directly to the dead. The command is personal. This is a foreshadowing of resurrection power for all who believe.

Verse 44
"And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, 'Loose him, and let him go.'"
Lazarus comes out alive but still bound. Resurrection is instant, but freedom is a process. Jesus invites the community to participate in his unbinding.

✨ Deep Dive: John 11:38–44

In these verses, we find Jesus deeply moved, approaching the tomb of Lazarus. It’s not just a story of resurrection—it's a moment where belief is tested and the glory of God is revealed.

• Verse 38: Jesus’ emotions show His humanity. He’s not distant from our pain—He enters it.

• Verse 39: Martha hesitates, focusing on the reality of death. Sometimes faith must push past logic.

• Verse 40: The verse of emphasis—Jesus gently calls Martha back to belief.

• Verses 41–42: Jesus prays aloud, modeling trust in the Father even before the miracle.

• Verse 43: The command, “Lazarus, come forth!” breaks every limitation.

• Verse 44: Lazarus emerges—still bound, but alive. It’s a picture of how Jesus calls us out, then unwraps us from what held us.

Takeaway: God isn’t asking us to pretend the tomb isn’t there. He’s asking us to believe that He can speak into it.

Reflection Thought: Where have I placed a stone that Jesus is asking me to roll away?

Prayer Prompt: Jesus, help me to believe—even when what I see looks final. Remind me that You still speak to dead things and that resurrection is always possible with You. Amen.

Cross-Reference:

• Romans 4:17 — "...God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did."

• Isaiah 43:19 — "Behold, I will do a new thing... shall you not know it?"

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

Did I Not Say to You…

John 11:38-44

Scripture Focus:

"Jesus said to her, 'Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?'" — John 11:40 (NKJV)

A Faith-Based Journey Toward Grace

There’s a flame rising in my spirit again—one I thought might’ve been smothered by delay, disappointment, or just plain life. But in these past weeks, between the blog, my invention ideas, and even prayers for my family, I’ve started to see movement in areas that once felt sealed shut.

That’s why John 11:40 hit me so hard: "Did I not say to you that if you would believe, you would see the glory of God?" It’s a call not just to remember His promises—but to believe them in the face of what looks hopeless.

Scripture Reflection: John 11:38–44

In this scene, Jesus is standing in front of a tomb. Lazarus has been dead four days. His sisters, Mary and Martha, are grieving. The crowd has already written the ending.

But Jesus hadn’t.

He turns to Martha and asks for the stone to be taken away. She hesitates—because in her mind, it’s already over. The decay has begun, the loss is final. But then Jesus speaks: “Did I not say to you…”

It’s not just a reminder. It’s a re-invitation to believe. And though Martha doesn’t physically move the stone herself, her heart surrenders. The text says, “Then they took away the stone...” because belief often begins with letting go of resistance—even if someone else rolls it back.

Sometimes, faith looks like simply stepping aside so the miracle can begin.

Devotional Insight:

Like Martha, we may believe God in theory. But when we’re staring at something dead—an idea, a relationship, a vision—we’re tempted to shrink back into doubt.

Still, Jesus gently leans in and reminds us: "If you would believe, you would see..."

Faith isn't neat. It’s not always polished. But it is powerful.

Whether it’s in a family reconciliation you thought was impossible, a blog that feels small, or a God-inspired product idea that no one sees yet—faith still moves stones.

I’m seeing things shift. Things I didn’t expect. Things I once buried. And every little resurrection whispers, “Did I not say to you?”

Grace Notes (Journal Prompts):

• What “sealed tomb” in your life is Jesus asking you to trust Him with?

• Where have you seen God move after choosing to believe again?

• What promise do you need to revisit and cling to today?

Closing Prayer:

Lord, thank You for reminding me that nothing is beyond Your reach. Help me to trust You—not just in words, but in action. Let my life be evidence of Your glory. When I doubt, whisper again what You’ve already said: "If you believe, you will see..." Amen.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿

📖 Digging Deeper: Luke 7:1–17

📖 Scripture: Luke 7:1–17 (ESV)

When Jesus had finished saying all this to the people who were listening, he entered Capernaum. There a centurion's servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die. The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant. When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, "This man deserves to have you do this, because he loves our nation and has built our synagogue." So Jesus went with them.

He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: "Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."

When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, "I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel." Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well.

Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, "Don’t cry."

Then he went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, "Young man, I say to you, get up!" The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother.

They were all filled with awe and praised God. "A great prophet has appeared among us," they said. "God has come to help his people." This news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country.

🔍 Verse-by-Verse Reflections

Luke 7:1-2
Jesus finishes His sermon and enters Capernaum. A Roman centurion’s servant is sick and near death. We’re immediately shown a contrast between power (the centurion) and need (the servant).

Luke 7:3-5
The centurion shows humility by sending Jewish elders to ask for help. His good relationship with the Jewish people is notable—he’s respected and generous. This opens the door for intercession.

Luke 7:6-8
Before Jesus even gets to his house, the centurion sends a message: I am not worthy. This is radical humility for someone with status and authority. He recognizes Jesus’ power and compares it to military command: "Just say the word." It’s one of the clearest declarations of faith in all of Scripture.

Luke 7:9-10
Jesus is amazed. The faith of this Gentile centurion outshines all He’s seen in Israel. This affirms that faith is not about religious background—but about heart posture.

Luke 7:11-12
Now in Nain, we meet a grieving widow. The situation is dire—she's lost her only son, and with him, likely her security and livelihood. Jesus is surrounded by a crowd, but still sees her.

Luke 7:13
His compassion leads. "Don’t cry," He says, not dismissively, but as One about to intervene. His heart is moved deeply—this is God with us.

Luke 7:14-15
Jesus touches the bier—a shocking act for a Jew (it made one unclean). But Jesus isn’t concerned with contamination—He is the source of life. His words carry authority: "Young man, I say to you, get up!" And the dead obey.

Luke 7:16-17
The people are in awe. They recognize Jesus as a prophet, but more: "God has come to help His people." The miracle spreads like wildfire. Jesus isn’t just a healer. He’s the embodiment of divine mercy.

📝 Journal Prompts

• Where do I need to say, "Lord, just say the word"?

• Am I approaching God with the centurion’s humility?

• Do I trust Jesus to see and respond to the pain I think is hidden?

• What miracle of compassion do I need to invite into my life today?

🙏 Closing Prayer: Jesus, You are the Word that heals, restores, and raises what I thought was dead. Teach me the kind of faith that trusts without needing proof. Help me walk with a posture of humility and expectation. Speak into my broken places, and bring life where grief has settled. I believe You are the God who sees, who comes near, and who acts in love. Amen.

With grace,
Erica

✨ What spoke to you in today’s reflection? I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below! 🌿