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Verse of the Day - Ephesians 3:17-19

2026-06-06T04:19:43.788-04:00

I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge — that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

—Ephesians 3:17-19

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Love that surpasses knowledge is truly powerful, but difficult to explain. However, when you have loved your spouse for decades, and he or she is as close to you as any bodily organ, you experience what this means. Love that surpasses knowledge. You know each other, and each other's faults and weaknesses, but your love is deeper than when you first fell in love. When you love a child and do for them what you never dreamed you could do for another human being, you understand this phrase. Love that surpasses knowledge. And when you stand before God, adopted as a full heir of all his great riches (Romans 8:14, 16-17), a full sibling to Jesus Christ the LORD (Hebrews 2:14-15; 1 John 3:1-2), and Jesus presents you to the Father as holy, without reproach, and blameless (Colossians 1:22), you begin to understand this phrase. Love that surpasses knowledge.

My Prayer...

Holy and incredible God, help me to know in my soul the love that is greater than words and greater than knowledge, so that I may not only be like you, but that I may know you in experience just as I know you in faith. Thank you for loving me first, now use me to love others with a love that surpasses knowledge. Through Jesus, and by his authority, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. Questions or comments can be sent to help@verseoftheday.com.

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Verse of the Day - 1 Thessalonians 5:11

2026-06-05T03:19:45.025-04:00

Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

—1 Thessalonians 5:11

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

While Paul's exhortation here is excellent, it is the style of the exhortation we should especially notice. We live in an age where we are constantly pressured to emphasize the novel, new, or improved versions of things. But in our lives as Christians, our knowledge always exceeds our obedience - we very seldom live up to the truth we know, even though it is old truth and established truth. So, more often than we like to think, we need to remind each other of what we are doing that is right, good, obedient, and holy. Our words of affirmation and encouragement don't need to be elaborate or profound or novel or new. We can say, "Hey, you're doing well; just keep doing what you're doing! I know your Father in heaven is pleased with you!" Let's encourage each other and build each other up, as in fact some of us are already doing, and need to do so more and more.

Video Commentary...

ToGather Worship Guide | More ToGather Videos

My Prayer...

Faithful Father, thank you for noticing and keeping record of the things I've done that are good and pleasing to you. Thank you for choosing to forget those things you have forgiven me. Please help me to keep doing those things that please you, only help me do them better, more completely, so that you may be pleased and glorified. And, dear Father, help me see the good things others do, and encourage and affirm their goodness. I want to be the kind of disciple who catches people doing good things, then lets them know I appreciate them. In Jesus name and to become more JESUShaped, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. Questions or comments can be sent to help@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - 1 Chronicles 29:11

2026-06-04T06:19:37.416-04:00

Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.

—1 Chronicles 29:11

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Praise is the direct address of God that lets him know we recognize him for who he is, what he has done, and what he is doing. But more than informing God of his greatness, praise is rejoicing before him in his greatness, while recognizing that not only is his grace without comparison, his majesty and might and holiness and faithfulness and righteousness and mercy and love and forgiveness and justice... are all without comparison. The LORD God is God. My praise is my thankful celebration and recognition of him as God, my God, the one and only true God, and let's him know I rejoice in him!

My Prayer...

Great and gracious God, the Holy One who is without anyone to compare. You and you alone are truly worthy of my best words, deepest thoughts, and greatest imaginings. I not only worship and submit to you, but I also rejoice that you are who you are, and that you have revealed yourself to us, your creations. I celebrate what you have done. I long for what you are yet to do. You are magnificent, my Father and my God. In the name of Jesus, and because of your matchless love, I praise you for all you are to me, and what more of you I have yet to discover. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. Questions or comments can be sent to help@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Proverbs 15:1

2026-06-03T05:19:37.563-04:00

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

—Proverbs 15:1

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Why is it so hard to endure unjust and unfair criticism? Why do we feel that we have to defend ourselves regardless of how ridiculous or unfair the accusations against us are? Why do we have to have the last word in any argument, or look to get even if we don't?
Often, the problems we have with others in an argument escalate because we do not choose "a gentle answer."
So, why do we not choose "a gentle answer"? These are the excuses I hear from others, and sometimes I make them myself:

"I don't want to appear to be weak!"
"I don't like to lose at anything!"
"I don't want that person to have the last word!"
"I resent the unfair things, the demeaning things, that person called me!"

When I look at these excuses - some of them are my excuses - the same pronoun appears again and again: the pronoun, "I." And what is in the middle of all sin? A great big ol' "I," always - sIn! We lose sight of saying what is in "the interests of others" (Philippians 2:3-4) and poison our influence on others because of our selfish, "I"-infected speech. In place of the "I" problem, let's focus on saying "only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen" (Ephesians 4:29). To do that means that we use "a gentle answer"!

My Prayer...

Precious and Holy God, please help me more carefully guard my speech from things you despise, especially gossip, slander, rage, malice, and meanness. I know that those ways of speaking and treating my brothers and sisters grieve the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). I open my heart and close my mouth, inviting the Holy Spirit to produce the holy fruit of the Spirit in me. May this fruit be evident in me, especially when I speak and give "a gentle answer." Thank you. In Jesus name and by Jesus' grace, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. Questions or comments can be sent to help@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Hebrews 9:28

2026-06-02T04:19:37.114-04:00

Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.

—Hebrews 9:28

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Can you think of anything more exciting than waiting for Jesus to come take us home to share with him in his glory?!
Ours isn't a passive wait. Jesus gave us a commission to take his story to the whole world and invite others to prepare and join with us in awaiting his glorious return. We worship and praise our great God as we anticipate this great day - as we eagerly await him. We joyfully anticipate our salvation, trusting that it is nearer now than when we first believed (Romans 13:11). We stand on spiritual tiptoe, eagerly awaiting our Savior, the LORD Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:20). We not only believe, we anticipate his return to bring the full experience of salvation promised to "those who are waiting for him." But until then, we work on mission so that others will join us in our anticipation, and say with us, "Maranatha! Come, O LORD (1 Corinthians 16:22).

My Prayer...

Majestic King of the Ages, may your Kingdom come in all its fullness as every knee bows to your Savior, and our King, the LORD Jesus Christ. We anticipate this day when every knee will bow (Philippians 2:9-10)! Please grant that this glorious day may come to pass in our generation as we work to bring others to know Jesus and anticipate his coming with us. Through Jesus, I expectantly pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. Questions or comments can be sent to help@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Revelation 21:2-4

2026-06-01T03:19:39.539-04:00

I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride, beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.

—Revelation 21:2-4

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

I don't know about you, but I'm kind of ready for that old order stuff to go away. The end of tears, death, mourning, crying, violence, abuse, suffering, war, divisive politics, and pain sounds pretty good to me! No wonder the early Christians would say, "Marantha. Come, O LORD" (1 Corinthians 16:22). They couldn't wait. How about us? How about you? What is keeping you from saying, "LORD Jesus, please come, and come soon? I urge you to put it aside, or put it under the lordship of Jesus, and use those moves to make you ready to receive the glory yet to be revealed in us (Romans 8:18; Colossians 3:3-4). Let's make ourselves ready for the time when:

He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.

Hallelujah!

My Prayer...

Holy God, please help me as I try to serve you faithfully and yearn for Jesus' return. I desire to be steadfast in my love, living for you until the glorious day that so many of your children have longed to experience over the centuries. I long to see you in your glory, to share in your presence, and to join with the saints of all ages praising you around your glorious throne. And yes, dear Father, I long for you to wipe away all my tears and welcome me home. Because of Jesus' victory, and by his authority, I offer my prayer in holy expectation. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. Questions or comments can be sent to help@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

2026-05-31T06:19:27.904-04:00

The Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

—1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

What do you have that is forever?
Most of what we have in this world falls apart, breaks, or wears out quickly. But we have three things that last forever: God (Father, Son, Spirit), our Christian friends, and our praise of God. These are eternal. The glorious truth is that Jesus is going to return, the dead who died in him will be raised to receive their eternal bodies, and those living at his return will have their bodies changed into their immortal bodies. The best part of all of this is we will be reunited with all the faithful of all the centuries, and we all will be with the Lord forever. As the old hymn says it, "One day He's coming, O glorious day."

My Prayer...

God, I look forward to the day of your next great surprise, the return of Jesus in glory. I join the angels in standing on tiptoe as I look to the clouds to see my LORD and your Son return in glory and receive the welcome and honor he deserves. I praise you for that day now, even though I only see it by faith. Until I see you on that day, please know my heart's desire is to serve you, even when my weakness gets in the way of showing it as fully as I should, and my heart loses touch with the promise of Jesus' return. I offer you my sincerest thanks and praise in Jesus' name. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. Questions or comments can be sent to help@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Psalm 56:4

2026-05-30T05:19:24.855-04:00

In God, whose word I praise — in God I trust, and I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?

—Psalm 56:4

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

One of the powerful things about having a Bible as a repository of God's words is that its age and influence across diverse countries and cultures remind us how enduring God's truth is. Still, we remember that it is God in whom we put our trust! His enduring presence across cultures, centuries, and countries reminds us that eternity is beyond our grasp. Still, the Eternal One holds us in his hands as we journey toward the destination he has for us. Our lives, with our future secured, are hidden with Christ in God and are destined for his glory (Colossians 3:1-4). Our worst days, months, and years of suffering, hardship, difficulty, and challenges cannot compare to the glory that is yet to be revealed in us (Romans 8:18-21). Our trust is in our eternal Savior, so let's keep our eyes focused and our hopes centered on him and the glory that awaits us (Colossians 3:2; Hebrews 12:1-2). In God I trust, and I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me if God is my God!

My Prayer...

O Great and Eternal God, thank you that you are more stable than the ground on which I stand, more enduring than the mountain peaks I admire, and more constant than the waves upon the oceans that I love. I trust my life, future, and soul with you. I want to please you in the way I live. I want my life to be marked by consistent faithfulness to you, for in you I trust. In the name of Jesus, I ask for the Spirit's help to keep my focus on you. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Psalm 103:17-18

2026-05-29T04:19:28.847-04:00

But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children — with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.

—Psalm 103:17-18

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Forever love is sometimes talked about in dime store novels, but this kind of love is only found in God's faithful lovingkindness. Thankfully, we can tap into that reservoir of eternal and divine love through the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus pours into our hearts to help us both receive that kind of forever love and share it with others (John 7:37-39; Romans 5:5). Importantly, our verse emphasizes how God's kind of love is multigenerational - generations before us passed it along to us, and we must pass it on to the generations that come after us. This multigenerational principle is not just a practice of celebrating God's love and our love for others found under the Old Covenant; it is also one that the apostle Paul taught Timothy to pass on to Jesus' disciples (2 Timothy 2:1-2). Ours is a multigenerational celebration of the goodness of God - "from everlasting to everlasting the Lord's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children." We must celebrate the goodness and love of our God so that our grandchildren can know God and celebrate his goodness in their day and share it with their children, and children's children!

Video Commentary...

ToGather Worship Guide | More ToGather Videos

My Prayer...

O God of glory and grace, thank you for your promises, your covenants, and your love. May I live in such a way that others, especially those who come after me in my family and church family, know that your love is from everlasting to everlasting. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Romans 12:15

2026-05-28T03:19:26.629-04:00

Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.

—Romans 12:15

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

We are not alone. God promised that he would never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-6). He has given us Jesus' family to find support and share our joys. Along the way, we want to share each other's burdens and soar on each other's joys. We want to love each other through our hurts and mourn with each other through our grief. There should be no such thing as a solo Christian, whether joyful or in sorrow, excited or downtrodden. If we see a brother or sister struggling in life and feeling alone, let's decide to walk with them. If we see one in joyful celebration, we should join them in that celebration. If they feel horrible sorrows and grief, we should sit with them and let them share their grief with us. We demonstrate our love for Jesus by the ways we love each other, and demonstrate that love in clear, practical ways of being with them, serving them, and sharing in their joys and sorrows (John 13:34-35; 1 John 3:16-18).

My Prayer...

Loving Father, lead me to the people today who need their burdens lifted and their joys celebrated. Let me be your presence in the life of another believer today, whether they face good times or hard times. I ask to be more like Jesus, to sense the needs of my brothers and sisters, and to be present for them. I pray this in the power and authority of Jesus' name. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Acts 20:24

2026-05-27T06:19:16.269-04:00

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given to me — the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.

—Acts 20:24

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

How important is grace? Paul said that sharing the good news of God's grace was more important to him than his life! In fact, that was his life after his conversion to Jesus. The wonderful thing for Paul is that he aligned his life's mission to be an expression of God's grace. That's why he could tell the Philippians:

I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain (Philippians 1:20-21).

The challenge for us is to find out where we fit in God's story of unfolding grace and live into that role as our life's mission. We don't have to be a missionary, preacher, pastor, or evangelist to have such a mission. God longs for each of us to see living for him and sharing his mercy, grace, and love in Jesus as essential - as our life. No matter what we do to earn a living, lead a family, live as a single for Jesus, or influence others as a teen, God has a mission for us in who we are and where he has placed us. In whatever place we find ourselves, let's live as Jesus' salt and light in a world of decay and darkness so that others can discover grace and glorify our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:13-16).

My Prayer...

Almighty God, thank you for your lavish grace, demonstrated and fully expressed in sending Jesus to save us and give meaning to our lives. As your children, and in thanks for your sacrificial gift, we pledge to you our lives, our love, and our all. We ask for the Holy Spirit's help to know and complete the mission you have for each of us. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - John 3:17

2026-05-26T05:19:17.797-04:00

God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

—John 3:17

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

How do you view God?
Is he someone looking for a way to condemn or punish you? Is he an out-of-touch ol' curmudgeon who doesn't really know what it's like in our modern world? Is he too pious and holy to soil himself with the concerns of mere mortals and has left it up to us to work everything out for ourselves, including earning our salvation?
No. NO. NO!
God chose to enter our world and experience it from the side of mortality (John 1:14-18; Hebrews 2:14-18, 4:14-16). Why? Because he loves us and yearns to save us. God chose to enter our world, not to condemn us or it, but to redeem it and each of us. Jesus is the great reminder that God longs to save us, not condemn us. He's looking for ways to give us life, not to exclude us from his presence. Thank God for God! Thank God for Jesus, who was and is Immanuel, God with us (Matthew 1:23).

My Prayer...

Holy and Heavenly Father, thank you for choosing to be with those of us who are contrite and repentant and who long for your presence (Isaiah 57:15). You know we are only mortal, broken, but still you chose to love us in Jesus. You know that we are deeply flawed, but you've redeemed us. You know that we are not perfect, but God sent Jesus as the perfect sacrifice to save us. Thank you. Through your Son and my Savior, Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ, the Son of God, I offer you my sincerest gratitude, praise, and life. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - James 1:19

2026-05-25T04:19:15.778-04:00

My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.

—James 1:19

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Let's just put this in cornbread English: "We must pump the brake on our speech and hit the throttle for our ears." When possible, we should let our emotional temperature cool for a few days before responding, pray to determine whether we need to respond, craft a response (written or verbal) with care, and then carefully edit and filter it before delivering our message - especially when we've had a zinger come our way. We keep our mouths shut, our hearts pure, and our ears open. Now, if we would all obey what James 1:19-21 teaches in this whole passage, we'd all be more blessed:

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

My Prayer...

Mighty and Holy God, you are incredible - beyond my comprehension. How you put up with all the drivel, senseless verbal barbs, gossip, and hurtful speech that your other children spew out is beyond my understanding. I ask you, dear Father, to release the Holy Spirit to convict my heart and guard my lips from any form of hurtful speech. So, dear Father, we ask that you develop the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and a genuine Christ-likeness in us (2 Corinthians 3:18) so that our words and hearts reflect you and bless others in the ways you desire. We pray this to treat others more as Jesus did. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Romans 12:10

2026-05-24T03:19:16.428-04:00

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.

—Romans 12:10

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Being "devoted to another in brotherly love" requires that our church talk - we're family, brothers and sisters, children of God - be more than mere words. We must enter into each other's lives, getting to know one another so that we can serve, love, and bless one another. The many "one another" commands of the New Testament remind us that this is the heart of being followers of Jesus. Each of us needs to ask ourselves: "What have I done lately to get more involved in the lives of my fellow Christians?" Devotion to others follows a commitment to know and be known by them, so that we can honor each other appropriately, love each other fully, and bless each other based on each person's needs.

My Prayer...

Father, thank you for giving me a worldwide family. Thank you for loving me so completely. Father, I ask that you help me be more open with myself and my time with those in your family. Give me a heart that burns to bless and be blessed by those you have made your children. Through our older brother, Jesus, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Romans 15:2

2026-05-23T06:19:08.046-04:00

Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.

—Romans 15:2

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Being disappointed and dissatisfied with life can stem from a myriad of problems. For many of us, however, these disappointments are symptoms that we have focused too much on ourselves and have allowed ourselves to become angry with life. We have forgotten to count our blessings, neglected to give thanks to God, grown silent in our praise to our Father, and quit helping those around us. Thinking of others is how Christ lived, and we are going to live for others if we are going to have a JESUShaped life. When we follow his example, our actions make a difference in the lives of those we bless, and we find ourselves immensely blessed as well. Let's get our focus off ourselves and look to bless our neighbors! As the ancient Christian hymn Paul quoted reminds us:

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death - even death on a cross! (Philippians 2:6-8)

My Prayer...

Holy and matchless God, help me see the brokenness, hurt, and difficulties in the lives around me. Please also help me see the blessings, joys, and reasons to give thanks that you have placed in my life. I ask for the Holy Spirit's help to humble myself and find ways to bless others who so desperately need to experience the joy of your love and grace. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Galatians 5:13

2026-05-22T05:19:07.804-04:00

You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.

—Galatians 5:13

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Our freedom as followers of Jesus, the freedom to live by the power of the Spirit and not by law (Romans 8:1-4; Galatians 5:1), is a wonderful gift, especially when it is handled with responsibility and grace (Romans 14:13; 1 Peter 2:16). Not being under law is such a sweet grace, but we want to pass that sweetness on to each other through service, kindness, and care (Romans 13:10). Just because we are free to do something doesn't mean doing it is beneficial to our brothers and sisters in Christ or to those we are trying to influence toward Jesus. Freedom gives us the opportunity to do things in love, not just because we are commanded to do them. Love should be, could be, and must mean more than law.

Video Commentary...

ToGather Worship Guide | More ToGather Videos

My Prayer...

O Great God of Deliverance, thank you for rescuing Israel from Pharaoh's grasp, David from the sword of Goliath, and Daniel from the mouths of lions. But O Great Deliverer, thank you most of all for the triumph of Jesus over sin, hell, and the law at Calvary. Thank you for his victory over death at the empty tomb. I long to see you face-to-face and thank you for my freedom, won by Jesus and fulfilled in me through the transformation of the Holy Spirit at work within me (2 Corinthians 3:17-18). May my love for others and for you mean more than any law could mean toward me being a blessing. Until the day Jesus returns, please Father, guide me as I use this gift of freedom to serve your children and live for you. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - 1 Corinthians 1:10

2026-05-21T04:19:10.519-04:00

I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought.

—1 Corinthians 1:10

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

If people in our congregations are ever going to get along, the leaders of those churches must remind God's people of the importance of unity. Shortly before facing his passion, Jesus' prayer was that we would be one (John 17:1-26). Why? If the world knows we are Christians because of our love for one another (John 13:34-35), then the world needs to see our loving unity so that the lost can know that the Father has sent Jesus to save them (John 17:20-21, 23). When we are divided, we tell the world we're not offering them something the world doesn't have on its own. All we have is just a religious message that doesn't produce consequential changes. So, unity is not only important; it is also essential. It's not just a theory or a test of theology, but a daily practice among the people who claim Jesus as LORD. If we love Jesus and move closer to him, we'll be brought closer to each other (1 John 1:1-4). We are called to be "perfectly united in mind and thought" because we love Jesus and the people he died to save.

My Prayer...

LORD Jesus, I believe you have presented all of my prayers to our Father. And Father, I thank you for the grace of Jesus, who lives to make intercession for me at this moment (Hebrews 7:25). I promise, dear Father, to do all I can to bring you glory, and to live at peace with my brothers and sisters in Christ, and to serve in unity with those who belong to you. Please bless our church family with more passion for the unity that you desire as we focus more on leading those who do not know Jesus into a saving relationship with him. In Jesus' name, and through the blessed Holy Spirit, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Romans 15:5-6

2026-05-20T03:19:08.018-04:00

May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

—Romans 15:5-6

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Unity comes from God's Spirit as we all draw closer to Jesus (John 17:20-21). As we are drawn to Jesus through the Spirit, we immediately find ourselves drawn closer to one another (1 John 1:1-4). Unity also has a purpose much deeper than our getting along with each other. Jesus prayed we would be one so that the world would know that God sent him into the world as the Son to save the world (John 3:16-17, 17:21, 23). We want to be united so that our praise can bring glory to God and lead others to him. Unity is far more than a goal; it is a process through which the world learns of Jesus. At the same time, we glorify the Father who sent Jesus to save us when we live together in unity. Leading others to Jesus and glorifying God are what living for Jesus is all about! Let's make unity one of our deepest passions.

My Prayer...

Great and Almighty God, you are the eternal strength for all who call on your name. I apologize and ask your forgiveness for everything I've done and every word I've spoken that has hurt others in your family. I do not want to cause a wound to the unity of your Body, the church. So please, bless my efforts as I seek less of my will, long to live for your glory, and seek to draw close and encourage others. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - James 3:17-18

2026-05-19T06:18:59.503-04:00

The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.

—James 3:17-18

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Now I know why righteousness is so hard to find these days. We don't have many in our world who are full of heavenly wisdom - if that means being considerate, submitting to others' needs, living with mercy toward those who are different, bearing good fruit, treating others with impartiality, and demonstrating genuine concern for our neighbors. These traits of wisdom are hard to find in our world, probably because they are often associated with weakness. And, while many claim to love peace, so few are willing to make peace and to sow peace into the lives of others. Heavenly wisdom is full of sacrificial earthly action. That's a powerful reminder to me that wisdom is not what we know but what we sow! We don't produce "a harvest of righteousness" by spewing hate and seeking our own way at the expense of others.

My Prayer...

Holy and Wise Father, thank you for demonstrating purity, peace-making, impartiality, submissiveness, mercy, good fruit, and sincerity in the life of Jesus. I ask for the power and courage to demonstrate these Christlike qualities as I seek to live a more JESUShaped life. In the name of Christ Jesus, my LORD, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Hebrews 6:10

2026-05-18T05:19:00.424-04:00

God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.

—Hebrews 6:10

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

The Holy Spirit offers us great assurance in today's verse! God is not unjust. Oh, that is such an understatement: God furnished the atoning sacrifice for our sins by sending Jesus (1 John 2:1-2). When we seek after him, Jesus promised we could find him (Matthew 7:7-8; Acts 17:27). God will not forget the work and love we share with others. God has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:10-12). He chooses to keep an eternal record of the good we have done. We are his people. He claims us. He is gracious and loving, remembering the good we have done to others while forgiving and forgetting our sins. Wow! What great motivation for us to keep maturing into the likeness of Jesus Christ as we become more JESUShaped (2 Corinthians 3:18).

My Prayer...

God, you are so gracious. Thank you. Words cannot express my joy at hearing such a simple and profound statement describing your virtues:

God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.

I am so glad, dear Father, that I am your child. Through my gracious brother, Jesus, I thank you. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Romans 11:33

2026-05-17T04:18:59.292-04:00

Oh, the depth and riches of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out.

—Romans 11:33

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

God's plan to save us is incredible. His blueprints for the creation of our universe are beyond our imagining. He is so rich in wisdom and knowledge that we cannot even imagine his greatness. What else can we do but go to him and ask him to open our minds to his work, will, and presence in our lives? God is far greater than our minds can comprehend. His judgments are not fully comprehensible to us, and ways beyond us, but we do know this:

What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all - how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? (Romans 8:31-32)

"Oh, the depth and riches of the wisdom and the knowledge of God!" And on top of his greatness, he loves us and has great plans for us. Oh, yes; God is gracious and good.

My Prayer...

Precious and Almighty Father, thank you for reawakening me each spring to the power of your sustaining presence in the world and in my life. I see the beauty of creation reemerge, and it reminds me of your goodness, creativity, colorfulness, and grace. As I seek to put you first in all I do, please use me to bring you glory, and please, bless others through my thoughts, words, and deeds. In Jesus name, I thank you and praise you. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Zephaniah 3:17

2026-05-16T03:18:59.415-04:00

The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.

—Zephaniah 3:17

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

I still remember trying to learn to affirm my son's value to him. I didn't know exactly what that looked like or what I was supposed to do or say. Then, the Holy Spirit gently reminded me of what God the Father did to affirm Jesus the Son at his baptism.

"You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased" (Luke 3:21).

God affirmed his relationship with Jesus, "You are my Son..." God affirmed his love and affection for Jesus, "...my Son, whom I love..." God affirmed his delight in Jesus, "...with you I am well pleased."
Zephaniah reminds us that the Father feels much the same about us as his children: "He will take great delight in you..." On top of that, he calms us with his love and rejoices over us in singing! God sees and values us as his children. He calms us in our fears and sings lullabies over us in his joy. We are his children whom he loves and in whom he takes delight!

My Prayer...

O God, I pray that when the storms of life rage against me, I will remember these precious words and find my refuge, comfort, identity, acceptance, and peace in your sheltering care. Please, dear Father, make me more aware of your singing over me and your delight in me. Through my Savior Jesus, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Ecclesiastes 11:5

2026-05-15T02:18:58.799-04:00

As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things.

—Ecclesiastes 11:5

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

"I don't know!"
This sure seems to be one of the hardest phrases for us to say. When thinking about God and his ways, especially his work on us and plans for us made when we were in the womb, that's really all we can say. "I don't know!" The truths we know about God and his ways with us when we were in the womb are only what he has chosen to reveal to us. He is the Mystery of mysteries. He is the supreme unknowable Knowable. Yet what we do know of him, what he has revealed to us in Jesus, is not only mighty and awesome, but loving, tender, and merciful. We know his love is willing to sacrifice for us, so we could seek after him and find his grace. So in reverence, we kneel to pray to the Father we cannot fully know - at least not yet, but will one day (1 John 3:1-3) - but can be fully assured that he loves us and wants us near to him.

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My Prayer...

To you, O LORD God, I offer my wonder and awe. When I consider the vastness of the universe in which our tiny blue planet spins through its existence, I am humbled by your wonderfully complex and expansive sovereignty, often expressed in tender mercy. As I ponder your greatness, dear Abba Father, I also treasure your nearness. You are the good Father who transcends space and time, yet you also are the almighty God who is ever near. Thank you for being accessible while being sovereign, available while not controllable. I thank you and praise you in the name of Jesus as I draw near to experience you more fully. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Psalm 139:13-14

2026-05-14T06:18:59.456-04:00

You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

—Psalm 139:13-14

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

You are made by God. Just as surely as ANYone has been made by God, we have been made by God. He knew us before anyone knew we were in the womb. He knew us before our mother had even felt our flutter inside of her. God had plans for us before anyone even planned our arrival. He fashioned us for his purpose with plans for our lives. He made us purposely, faithfully, and he made us wonderfully. We are wonderfully made by a loving Creator!

My Prayer...

God Almighty, my Savior and Redeemer, thank you for knowing me before I was able to know. Thank you for choosing my life and giving it to me. Thank you for giving me the gifts, abilities, and talents that you have given me. Now, dear Father, please help me to live with a reverential awareness that you fashioned me and knew me before my mother knew I was in her womb. O, Father, and please reawaken me to the sanctity and sacredness of every other person I meet, realizing that you fashioned and knew them from their conception, too! Through Jesus, I pray and thank you that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.

Verse of the Day - Proverbs 31:30

2026-05-13T05:18:58.115-04:00

Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

—Proverbs 31:30

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

So many things we honor and exalt in our culture are shallow and temporary. The one thing that lasts in a beautiful woman is not her charm or her external beauty, but her godliness. Let's make sure that our church families and our physical families value godly women and give them the praise they deserve. Then, we will recognize true beauty and true charm, because they reflect the beauty and charm of God! (See also the related thoughts from May 9.)

My Prayer...

Holy God, please give us better eyes and more faithful hearts that we may see value in all people, especially those godly women whose character reflects your holiness, goodness, and grace. Please bless us as we raise our children, that we may instill in them a sense of proper values as they choose their life partners. And dear Father, please help us in our churches to value and praise women for their holy character, sacrificial service, and faithful examples of strength, courage, and perseverance as they use their spiritual gifts to bless your people and reach others for Jesus, in whose name, we pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. You can email questions or comments to phil@verseoftheday.com.