The One Year New Testament

Devotional for 10.21.26

2026-10-21T17:25:04Z

Acts 3:1-10

Reflection

Chapter 1 of the book of Acts showed the apostles waiting for the Spirit, chapter 2 marked the coming of the Spirit, and now chapter 3 shows the apostles being empowered with the Spirit (on being “filled” with the Holy Spirit, cf. Acts 2:4; 4:8; 4:31).

The power of God’s salvation not only creates generosity (cf. 2:42–47) but also drives concern for the weak and afflicted, as seen in Peter and John’s interaction with this beggar. He is not just a statistic to them but a person. No wealth was required to transform this man’s body and heart. While Peter and John have no money, neither does the beggar; he has nothing whatsoever to offer in exchange for healing, but that is no hindrance to the grace of Christ. He freely extends his power of healing to one who has no right or ability to claim it.

1 Peter 5:6-14

Reflection

Peter connects every command to a gospel promise. “Humble yourselves” because God will exalt you (1 Pet. 4:6). “[Cast] all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you” (v. 7). “Be sober-minded” and “watchful,” because you are now an enemy of the Devil (v. 8). “Resist” the Devil and stand “firm,” because you are not alone: your Christian brothers and sisters throughout the world share that struggle with you (v. 9). Thus, the good news of Christ’s grace becomes the motivation and compulsion for faithful living.

We are not left to wonder about the logic of gospel-empowered obedience: Jesus himself will “restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish” us (v. 10). What a comfort to know we do not have an absentee Father, a distant Savior, or a “hands off” Spirit! The Lord who has eternal dominion over all things (v. 11) has restored us and secured us to himself. We endure suffering and confidently live for him because he has provided such overwhelming, sustaining, eternal, and compelling grace for us.

Psalm 72:13

Thoughts For Prayer

Just as Peter and John had compassion on the disabled beggar (Acts 3:1–10), the grace of God should give us compassion for those who are in need. Ask God to give you a tender heart for those who have nothing to offer, so that you will be eager to offer God’s grace in the gospel of his Son.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Mark & Patti Bean

Country:

Peru, United States of America

The four long weeks of working with Quechua teams are over, but the work has not slowed down. Please pray for Mark, as he is going over edits that the teams made to Ecclesiastes and the book of Proverbs. Also, pray for him as he prepares drafts for the book of Job that need to be completed for the November workshop.

Panama (Latin America). Population: 4,571,000 Believers: 19.3%. Proximity to Colombia and the prevalence of offshore finance in Panama mean that drug cartels and other undesirables have a strong presence. Much of Panama’s economy is in service to either these offshore banks or is used to launder money. In 2016, the leak of the Panama Papers exposed massive scales of international tax evasion and fraud facilitated through Panama-based services. Pray for a government that will root out corruption, oppose wickedness, and uphold righteousness. From Operation World DVD-ROM 2010 and www.operationworld.org

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The One Year New Testament Copyright Tyndale House Publishers, used by Permission. NIV Bible copyright International Bible Society.

Devotional for 10.20.26

2026-10-20T17:25:04Z

Acts 2:42-47

Reflection

The Holy Spirit brings forth a devotion to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, community, and prayer. Notice also the unity of mind and heart of these first believers. Though believers retained rights over their property (cf. Acts 5:4), the community generously cared for one another and “had all things in common” (2:44).

The Spirit’s ministry also grew the church: “the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved” (v. 47). The Spirit produces not only inward spiritual growth but also expansion and numerical growth of the church (though we will see later in Acts that this growth may require difficulty, persecution, and time). Gospel-fueled, Spirit-empowered growth is a repeated theme that runs throughout the rest of Acts. We will see that “more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women” (5:14) and “the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily” (16:5; see also 6:7; 9:31; 12:24; 13:49; 19:20).

1 Peter 5:1-5

Reflection

In verse 1, Peter identifies himself as a witness of Christ’s sufferings. His witness to Christ gives him credentials of authority to instruct church elders, but as a sinner himself, Peter is also a partaker in the grace of Christ just like all other church leaders (1 Pet. 5:1). Peter not only saw the sacrifice of Christ; he needs it. The gospel is for sinners like Peter and the rest of us.

After giving several instructions for church leaders (vv. 2–3), Peter reminds the elders of their reward (v. 4). The chief Shepherd will provide a crown of glory to those who serve with selfless leadership for his flock. The power to obey comes from looking back to Jesus’ sacrifice and looking forward to his return. All is taken care of. God’s grace has provided for everything we need, enabling us to live, serve, and lead with selfless confidence in him.

Psalm 51:15

Thoughts For Prayer

God grows his church as the gospel is preached by Spirit-empowered believers. Pray that this would mark your Christian community so that disciples might be made, and Jesus would be glorified.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

The City Mission

Country:

United States of America

They are proud of their residents who successfully completed Tri-C’s Workforce Skills Workshop and those residents who graduated from Laura’s Home. Please pray for continued courage, resilience, and determination for these men and women as they rebuild their lives.

Palestine (Asia). Population: 5,590,000 Believers: 0.1%. The horrific Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, not only escalated murderous violence in this region, but also provoked deep division on the Israel-Palestine situation globally—not least among Christians. Pray for improved living conditions for those in Gaza who have been displaced. Pray for a just settlement of land issues. There are hundreds of Jewish settlements (including many illegal outposts) in Palestinian territory, and there are over two million Arab Israeli in Israel. Both sides feel strong claims to the land. Both feel aggrieved at past—and very real—injustices. Both believe God is on their side. Pray that the God of all justice will bring true justice and mercy to both Jews and Arabs in the Holy Land. Pray not only for the peace of Jerusalem, but also that both sides will meet the Prince of Peace. It is through him alone that any meaningful reconciliation will come. From Operation World DVD-ROM 2010 and www.operationworld.org

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The One Year New Testament Copyright Tyndale House Publishers, used by Permission. NIV Bible copyright International Bible Society.

Devotional for 10.19.26

2026-10-19T17:25:04Z

Acts 2:22-41

Reflection

In Peter’s first sermon, several elements of gospel proclamation are clear. To begin with, Jesus is Lord (Acts 2:36); he is the fulfillment of God’s promise for an eternal kingdom in the line of David (vv. 29–36). However, the lordship of Jesus poses a huge problem for Peter’s audience because this Jesus is the One “whom you crucified” (v. 36). Furthermore, Jesus did not stay dead —“God raised him up” (v. 24), exalted him, and gave him the Holy Spirit to be poured out on God’s people (v. 33). Therefore, because of their rejection and crucifixion of Christ the Lord, these guilty sinners were “cut to the heart” (v. 37). But Peter explains another crucial component of the gospel: “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins” (v. 38). Despite their original rejection of Jesus, those who turn from sin to God (i.e., repent) and identify themselves with Christ by faith (symbolized by baptism) are freely forgiven. The result of this repentance and faith is that we will receive the countless blessings of God’s kingdom, including “the gift of the Holy Spirit” (v. 38).

The gospel is good news for all people who have failed to honor God and his Son. Just as Peter proclaimed God’s gracious forgiveness and blessing to the crowd, God’s offer extends to us today: “the promise is . . . for all who are far off” (v. 39). The gospel is not confined by ethnic or geographical boundaries. It is universal in scope. By his death and resurrection, Jesus Christ has reconciled to himself all of us who were formerly “far off” from God (Eph. 2:17–19). None are so far removed that God cannot rescue them.

1 Peter 4:12-19

Reflection

To “obey the gospel of God” (1 Pet. 4:17) is to set our minds and hearts on the truth of the finished work of Christ for the forgiveness of sins and eternal life. We are motivated to holy, worshipful lives as we see the glorious beauty of Jesus in the good news of his grace for sinners.

Sadly, those who do not find Christ to be glorious will not receive the grace of Christ’s righteousness to cover them (v. 18), and they will face God’s judgment for their sin. Believers have been freed from this judgment since their sentence was already carried out by Christ on the cross. Those who have been released from the final judgment demonstrate their freedom by doing God’s will and entrusting their souls to their faithful Creator (v. 19).

Psalm 33:22

Thoughts For Prayer

Christ’s righteousness is what provides our right standing in God’s courtroom. Spend some time declaring your faith in the completed work of Christ, embracing and basking in the gift of his righteousness for you.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Equipping Servants International (ESI) in Africa, Europe and the Americas

Country:

Praise God for the ESI groups studying Romans in Toronto, Canada, under the leadership of the Brazil ESI leader, Elias. Thank God and pray for the 30 pastors and church leaders who are now meeting in two ESI groups in San Jose, Costa Rica, under the leadership of Jose Gutierrez, ESI coordinator for Central America. Pray that pastors will experience deep gospel transformation as they study the Bible which will impact their local churches. Praise God for the 4,000 pastors and church leaders in 40 countries studying the Bible in ESI groups in the Americas, Africa, Europe and Asia. Every day, Kep and Debbie James hear encouraging testimonies of how God is growing people in grace—helping them to experience real change as they look to Jesus to apply Scripture in their personal lives, marriages, and families. Pray that they will be faithful in preaching and teaching the Bible in their local churches.

Pakistan (Asia). Population: 255,220,000 Believers: 0.6%. The church continues to grow despite many obstacles. Poverty, illiteracy, and lack of teaching opened the door to corruption, immorality, and low spiritual standards among Christians. Some Christians live devoted lives, committed to God, but the majority have a weak, immature faith. Ask God to raise up humble, committed spiritual leaders with passion to serve the church. Pray for more students in Bible and leadership training, wise and godly leaders, and adequate financial resources for Christian work. From Operation World DVD-ROM 2010 and www.operationworld.org

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The One Year New Testament Copyright Tyndale House Publishers, used by Permission. NIV Bible copyright International Bible Society.

Devotional for 10.18.26

2026-10-18T17:25:04Z

Acts 2:14-21

Reflection

Peter begins his famous Pentecost sermon with a reference to the Old Testament prophet Joel, who predicted that God’s Spirit would be poured out in the last days, before the final judgment (the “day of the Lord”; Acts 2:20). According to Peter, the last days have begun. This “new religion” is actually the continuation of what God has been doing through Israel all along. Better yet, God made promises years ago that these “last days” would come, and at Pentecost God is demonstrating that he is faithful and powerful to keep his word. As he promised, God is pouring out his Spirit on all flesh—men and women, young and old, Jew and Gentile. He is mercifully and joyfully calling all people to salvation.

1 Peter 4:7-11

Reflection

The work of a Christian is simply this: love. This is the fulfillment of all the law (Rom. 13:8–10). Yet love is hard. How do we love others? And how do we do so “earnestly” (1 Pet. 4:8)? Only the gospel of God’s grace generates the heart we need to serve others with the love of Jesus Christ. The key to loving others earnestly is to first behold the earnest love of Christ for us (cf. Eph. 4:32–5:2).

Psalm 86:12-13

Thoughts For Prayer

Keep fueling your love for others by reflecting on the love of God for you in Jesus Christ. Despite our sin, he has forgiven us and adopted us as his own, and he will strengthen us to finish the race. Give glory to God for the abundance of his great love.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Nancy Collins

Country:

United States of America

Wes passed into the Lord’s presence on July 5 and is now rejoicing with his Savior. Nancy, their daughter Elisa, and her family had the privilege of taking loving care of him since January. A celebration of life was held on July 11. Please pray for the whole Collins family as they walk through this difficult time. Continue to pray for believers around the world to be faithful to God’s Word and to make disciples. Pray specifically for leaders in Comitancillo, Guatemala, to spread the news within their community and beyond and that Satan would not get a foothold in their lives. Pray for health and safety for translators around the world.

Oman (Asia). Population: 5,495,000 Believers: 0.8%. Praise God that Oman enjoys an open and modern society compared to others in the region. All residents may practice their faith, and the government gave them land to build places of worship! Pray now for spiritual openness to the gospel among all peoples of Oman. From Operation World DVD-ROM 2010 and www.operationworld.org

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The One Year New Testament Copyright Tyndale House Publishers, used by Permission. NIV Bible copyright International Bible Society.

Devotional for 10.17.26

2026-10-17T17:25:04Z

Acts 2:1-13

Reflection

Since the time of Babel (Gen. 11:1–9), the nations of the earth were divided by language, unable to come together as a result of their rebellion against God. In the Old Testament we learn that God singled out the Jewish nation to deliver his blessing to the world, and therefore the good news of God’s grace was originally communicated only in the Hebrew language. With the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, however, the curse of Babel begins to unravel. No longer is the gospel confined to Hebrew; it is available directly to all nations and all languages. A new age has begun! One day Christ’s reign will be fully realized, and the effects of sin will fall away completely.

The story in Acts is also our story, because we are participating in God’s story. The descent of the Spirit on these apostles is really the birth story of all who are in Christ. If this had never happened, if God had not looked on Christ’s work on the cross and said “It is good,” raised him from the dead, and set him at his right side to pour out his Spirit on his people, then we would still be dead in our sins. We would still be without the spiritual life of the new birth, lost and without hope.

1 Peter 4:1-6

Reflection

To suffer for belief in God’s will is to follow in the footsteps of the sufferings of Christ. Peter wants believers to “arm” themselves (1 Pet. 4:1) with this reality, as they focus on “the will of God” rather than on “human passions.” While such suffering may not eliminate every sin in our lives, godly priorities establish a wholesome pattern of life (vv. 1–2).

Note that Peter speaks not simply of making better decisions but of living for something —the will of God (v. 2). Only in the gospel of grace are we given the power to surrender all our rights and live for Christ (cf. Phil. 3:7–9). Peter also reminds those who suffer that to die having lived a life of holiness is no waste. God will make all things right in the end (1 Pet. 4:5–6).

Psalm 40:8

Thoughts For Prayer

The Holy Spirit is the only one who can help us gladly surrender all rights to God. Remember Christ’s surrender to the will of his Father (Matt. 26:42), and entrust your life fully into the hands of God and his ways.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Edgar (& Lety) Rivera, Neri (& Karina) Rivera

Country:

Mexico

Pray that God will continue to give Edgar wisdom as he advises the Mexican board for the Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) work in Mexico. Pray for the two ESI groups that Edgar is leading in Oaxaca and for a new group forming in Pachuca. Pray for wisdom and safety for Edgar and Lety as they have received threats but desire to continue to encourage the pastors and believers in Oaxaca. Pray that Gelasio will come to know the Lord. Pray that Neri will have wisdom as he facilitates ESI groups in the state of Chiapas. Pray for continued growth of the church plant and that it will be self-sustaining financially. Praise God for good test results after the chemotherapy Neri has received. Pray for strength and healing for Neri as he continues to recover and for wisdom to work within his physical limitations. Pray for extra strength for Karina during this difficult season in their lives. Pray for family life as they coordinate getting eight young people living in their home to and from four different schools each weekday and provide a main meal for around 15 people each day.

Norway (Europe). Population: 5,623,000 Believers: 8.4%. Norway has a powerful spiritual heritage, and influence from prayer and revival movements across the last 200 years remains clear. But Norway faces the same battles as other European societies, where people believe that different religions or moral practices can be true for different people or in different situations. Pray for a new revival and for a deep commitment to biblical faith and practice. Pray for God to reestablish the roots of Norway’s rich Christian past. From Operation World DVD-ROM 2010 and www.operationworld.org

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The One Year New Testament Copyright Tyndale House Publishers, used by Permission. NIV Bible copyright International Bible Society.

Devotional for 10.16.26

2026-10-16T17:25:04Z

Acts 1:12-26

Reflection

In Acts 1:4, Jesus told his disciples not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the arrival of the Holy Spirit. Rather than taking the mission into their own hands, the immediate response of the apostles was to devote themselves to prayer while they waited (v. 14).

Christians today should adopt the same attitude of dependence upon God, knowing that the true power needed for the disciple-making mission comes from God alone (v. 8; cf. 2:1–12; 4:8–13, 31). Though we now have the Spirit these believers were waiting for, we should continue to prayerfully seek God, asking him to empower us with his Spirit and use us for the sake of his purposes in the lives of others.

1 Peter 3:18-22

Reflection

Here is one of the richest, clearest, and briefest New Testament summaries of the work of Christ. Theologians describe the heart of the gospel as penal substitutionary atonement. Jesus paid the penalty for sins (penal) as a substitute in our place (substitutionary) to undo the effects of our sin and restore us to God (atonement, or “at-one-ment”). This is precisely what we find in this verse: Christ “suffered once for sins [penal], the righteous for the unrighteous [substitutionary], that he might bring us to God [atonement]” (1 Pet. 3:18). The penal substitution is the fundamental heart of the gospel. All the other countless benefits of Christ’s work flow from this.

Because of the work of Christ proclaimed in the gospel of grace, we are restored to God. The wreckage we have introduced into our lives through sin and failure and error is canceled. All is forgiven, and one day we will be with Christ in the new earth, in perfect joy. The act of baptism does not accomplish this salvation, but indicates what God accomplishes for us through faith (v. 21). Our baptism is a pledge that gives us the knowledge that we are made eternally secure by Christ’s work on our behalf through faith.

Psalm 38:15

Thoughts For Prayer

In God’s love for us, he brings us through seasons that require us to wait for him. Embrace these times as opportunities for great growth, asking God to change you as you look to him for his timing and will.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Fieldstone Counseling

Country:

United States of America

Fieldstone is thankful for our continued prayers. This month, several members of their team are attending the 2026 Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF) Conference, where they are also hosting a booth. Please pray for safe travels, a sweet time together as a team, and fruitful conversations with attendees. They are also in full swing preparing for their annual fundraiser, Fieldstone Forward. They would be grateful for prayer for their team as preparations continue and for an evening where guests can learn more about Fieldstone, celebrate what the Lord has done, and consider partnering with them as they seek to bring lasting hope for life’s hardships.

North Macedonia (Europe). Population: 1,814,000 Believers: 0.2%. The evangelical witness is small but growing. Almost every Protestant/Independent expression of faith is active and increasing. Even so, there are fewer than 100 evangelical congregations. Pray for the many challenges of and opportunities for the church. From Operation World DVD-ROM 2010 and www.operationworld.org

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The One Year New Testament Copyright Tyndale House Publishers, used by Permission. NIV Bible copyright International Bible Society.

Devotional for 10.15.26

2026-10-15T17:25:04Z

Acts 1:1-11

Reflection

Despite its traditional title, “The Acts of the Apostles” is a book about Jesus, depicting the continuing actions and teachings of Christ in a way that no other book of the Bible does. Luke claims that as the budding Christian movement spreads, Jesus himself is at work (cf. Acts 1:8; 4:10, 30; 5:32; 7:55, 59–60; 9:5, 15–17). The church is Jesus’ vehicle for continuing his work in the world.

The first item on Jesus’ mind after the resurrection is that the apostles wait for the power of the Holy Spirit. This power is what allows them to be Christ’s “witnesses” in the world (1:8), which is the primary task of the people of God. The first disciples were charged to bear witness to the risen Christ, whom they had seen with their eyes, by beginning in Jerusalem and then moving outward to “the end of the earth” (v. 8). This concept is not unique to Acts or the New Testament. God has always been concerned that his people reflect on what he has done and tell others about it. God’s people have always been called to proclaim his greatness. “I have redeemed you,” God says in Isaiah. “ ‘You are my witnesses. . . . and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he’ ” (Isa. 43:1, 10). God’s command for us to “Declare his glory among the nations” (Ps. 96:3) is fulfilled in the calling to now take the gospel to the ends of the earth.

1 Peter 3:8-17

Reflection

Whatever we face in this world, as long as we are looking to Christ as Lord we cannot ultimately be harmed. The good life is the hard life of trusting Christ. In the gospel we have been promised an eternal inheritance, ours freely for the taking, all because of the grace of God. This is “the hope that is in [us]” (1 Pet. 3:15), through which we can quietly endure all things. We await an eternal glory that will make the hardships of this life, though genuinely painful, prove to be light and momentary (Rom. 8:18; 2 Cor. 4:16–18). Our calling now is to “honor Christ the Lord as holy” in our hearts (1 Pet. 3:15), knowing that our reward will make all other concerns small in comparison.

Psalm 96:1-6

Thoughts For Prayer

The book of Acts demonstrates the centrality of gospel proclamation in the church’s disciple-making mission. Pray that you and your church family would have an increasing appreciation for the need to understand, hear, and declare the gospel.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Ruth (& Artis) Powell

Country:

United States of America, Zambia

Praise God that three schools have welcomed After-School Bible Clubs again this school year. They rejoice that students are attending the clubs and are grateful for the parents who enrolled their children. Please pray that students will have an opportunity to hear the gospel at Bluestone Elementary School in Euclid. The principal has again declined permission for a Bible club this school year. Students from Euclid Park Elementary School, where they have conducted a Bible club since 2012, have been merged into East Clark. They are still working through the logistics of starting a club there. Pray that they will be able to serve there as well.

Nigeria (Africa). Population: 237,528,000 Believers: 30.8%. Africa and Nigeria’s greatest spiritual challenge is discipleship, not Islam, not corruption, and not even the need for missions. The church grew so fast that many new believers have little chance to be discipled. Much division and false teaching enters churches. Prosperity teaching distorts the gospel. A form of Christianity mixed with African tribal religious practices is common. Many Christians seem to live by other values than what the Bible clearly teaches. Pray that humility, simplicity, and holiness might become the motto of the Nigerian church. From Operation World DVD-ROM 2010 and www.operationworld.org

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The One Year New Testament Copyright Tyndale House Publishers, used by Permission. NIV Bible copyright International Bible Society.

Devotional for 10.14.26

2026-10-14T17:25:04Z

John 21:20-25

Reflection

Peter had just been told to expect a death similar to the one his Savior experienced, but his thoughts immediately shifted to John. A fully restored Peter is not a fully transformed Peter. How easy it is for us to become distracted and envious of one another’s callings. But the Good Shepherd, who knows us by name, leads us as he pleases. Jesus gives us saving grace and he also gives us serving grace so that we have strength to follow him wherever he leads us.

1 Peter 3:1-7

Reflection

Peter now focuses on the duties of gospel-believers in their immediate “society”— their home. As Christians ought to trust God enough to honor legal authority, Christian wives ought to trust God enough to honor their husbands’ authority (1 Pet. 3:1–2). Peter is essentially telling wives of unbelieving husbands that faith without works is dead (James 2:17), and that constant “God-talk” without abundant godly action is likely to have a negative effect on the marriage (cf. Prov. 21:19; 25:24).

The godly womanhood that Peter is calling for must flow from the heart. The teaching in 1 Peter 3:3–4 is not so much a prohibition of hairdos and jewelry as it is a prohibition of superficial vanity —a problem in Peter’s day and in ours as well. Women are constantly being bombarded with worldly ideals relating to beauty and identity. But while our human drives tend to fixate on appearances, God’s chief concern is the quality of our hearts (1 Sam. 16:7). The gospel works from the inside out, resulting in humility, modesty, and submission that flow from a heart captivated by Christ. Of course, the humble submission commanded of wives is partnered with a command for husbands to exercise humble and gentle authority (1 Pet. 3:7). A husband’s leadership of his wife is meant to be a picture of Christ’s sacrificial lordship over us, driven by selfless love, full of grace, and aimed squarely at providing benefit and joy to another. Christ himself, the eternal Lord of the universe, is “gentle and lowly in heart” (Matt. 11:29). Christian husbands are called to this same heart, and they will find their prayers hindered if they do not embrace it (1 Pet. 3:7).

Psalm 73:24

Thoughts For Prayer

Every Christian has a unique role to play in God’s story. Rather than being envious of someone else’s calling, pray that God would help you to embrace and become all that he intends for you to be.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Parkside Kent

Country:

United States of America

On September 13, Parkside Kent celebrated its second birthday at their annual fall picnic. They are so thankful for what God has done in these past 24 months. Please pray for the leadership of Parkside Kent as they continue to pray and plan for the installation of elders and for the membership process that follows. Pray that those two goals will be in place by the summer of 2027. Pray that they would please the Lord in the way that they shepherd and equip the flock at Parkside Kent.

Niger (Africa). Population: 27,918,000 Believers: 0.1%. The numbers of those who follow Christ increases, but Niger’s high birthrates far outpace Christianity’s growth rate. There is great pressure to remain in—or return to—Islam. New believers feel isolated. Below the radar, movements are forming of Jesus followers who have seen enough of Islam to choose a different path. Pray for those from a Muslim background who have chosen to follow Jesus; may they persevere and remain faithful amidst all the difficulties they will face. From Operation World DVD-ROM 2010 and www.operationworld.org

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The One Year New Testament Copyright Tyndale House Publishers, used by Permission. NIV Bible copyright International Bible Society.

Devotional for 10.13.26

2026-10-13T17:25:04Z

John 21:9-19

Reflection

There are only two times when a charcoal fire is mentioned in the New Testament: here, and earlier in John’s Gospel when Peter stood by a fire and denied Jesus (John 18:15–27). Now, Peter experiences the reconciling and healing power of the gospel.

Jesus didn’t hurry the process of Peter’s restoration. Just as he had denied Christ three times, the Lord asked Peter to affirm his love three times. Gospel surgery is free, but not always easy. The gospel of grace brings godly grief that turns us from sin to our forgiving Savior (2 Cor. 7:10–11). “Do you love me more than these?” It would have been easier on Peter had Jesus asked him, “Do you promise not to fail me again?” But Jesus knew better than to ask that question; Peter would fail again (e.g., Gal. 2:11–21). Jesus focuses on internal transformation in order to bring about genuine change in our lives. If he has our hearts, he’ll have everything else.

1 Peter 2:13-25

Reflection

Christians are called to be submissive to earthly authorities, trusting that earthly authorities are in place only by God’s permission (see also Rom. 13:1– 7). In other passages the Bible will help believers consider how to deal with unlawful authorities. Here, however, the focus is on honoring the government that maintains a society’s order, so that God might use us for the progress of the gospel.

At times, submission to authority results in unjust suffering. Why is it a “gracious thing” to suffer unjustly (1 Pet. 2:19–20)? Because, when we refuse to react in sinful ways, we are responding like Jesus. Peter helpfully reminds us that God will not ask of us anything his Son was not willing to undergo himself. By his suffering, we know that any injustice we suffer in this world is merely temporary. In the end, God will ensure that justice is done (v. 23; cf. Deut. 32:35; Rom. 12:19; Heb. 10:30). We also must keep God’s gracious purposes in mind when we suffer so that we do not despair over our suffering as if it were God’s punishment. “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree” (1 Pet. 2:24) so that we do not have to. The punishment for our sin was taken by Christ in his crucifixion. It is comforting to know that our suffering is not a sign of God’s anger. As Paul reminds us, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 8:1). As we suffer the wrath of those who despise us for our faith, our hearts can remain calm knowing that God’s wrath toward us has already been extinguished by the death of his Son.

Psalm 85:4

Thoughts For Prayer

Jesus’ restoration of Peter is an amazing example of the love available to sinners in the gospel. Pray for those who need to be encouraged by God’s restoring love, and ask God how he wants to use you to provide that encouragement.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Indigenous Church Plant Training Ministry in Asia

Country:

Pray for the After School Tuition and Adult Literacy programs that help children and adults alike. Please pray as well for the health care training that offers free check-ups and treatments to underserved communities. Pray for the safety and protection of the pastors as persecution is on the rise. Pray for the targets set for the year to be reached. Pray for the one-week training to be held in more churches.

Nicaragua (Latin America). Population: 7,008,000 Believers: 29.8%. Nicaragua’s authoritarian president is taking aim at many churches and mission organizations, shutting down hundreds of them in recent years. The nation has become one of the more difficult places to be a Christian. This came on the back of a season when evangelicals—over a quarter of the population—began to wield considerable influence in the public sphere. Despite these challenges, the church continues to grow, and Nicaraguans remain spiritually open. Pray that believers might have the wisdom and determination to be a righteous influence on the nation. From Operation World DVD-ROM 2010 and www.operationworld.org

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The One Year New Testament Copyright Tyndale House Publishers, used by Permission. NIV Bible copyright International Bible Society.

Devotional for 10.12.26

2026-10-12T17:25:04Z

John 21:1-8

Reflection

Just as the apostle Paul would continue to make tents, so the apostles who preceded him continued to be fishermen (John 21:3). Whatever our vocation, Jesus meets us there, but he doesn’t leave what we do untouched. Fishers of fish are also called to be fishers of men (Matt. 4:19), and both require the help of Jesus. Peter hauled 153 fish ashore (John 21:11) only because Jesus filled the nets. Peter would see 3,000 conversions on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:41) only because Jesus is filling his church. Without him we can do nothing (John 15:5).

1 Peter 2:9-12

Reflection

Peter refers to the church in the same way the Old Testament referred to Israel: “a royal priesthood” and “a holy nation” (1 Pet. 2:9; Ex. 19:5–6). This indicates that all people, Jews and non-Jews (Gentiles), who find their identity in Christ are now considered the true Israel (cf. Rom. 9:6; 11:25; 1 Cor. 12:13; Gal. 3:28; Col. 3:11).

Now that the church is launched and growing through the gospel, Peter urges us to live in a way that demonstrates the excellencies of the God who has saved us (1 Pet. 2:10–12). In verses 9–12, Peter reminds Christians that holiness means not just being set apart from something (sin and its worldly systems) but being set apart for something (God’s glory). When we truly experience God’s “mercy” (v. 10), it always leads to a new kind of “conduct” (v. 12).

Psalm 150:2

Thoughts For Prayer

Being a Christian means that we are called to proclaim the excellencies of our Savior (1 Pet. 2:9). Ask God how he wants to use your life and words to proclaim his greatness to others this week.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Parkside Cenla Church Plant

Country:

United States of America

As they settle into their home and office, the Spurgeons plans to begin a Bible study this month with about 30 interested people. Pray they will attend, hear Scripture taught and Christ proclaimed, and that the Spirit will bless the time. Ask God for wisdom in reaching others and that he will continue bringing people to them. Pray for the Spurgeon family during this transition: for the children at their new school, for Ally as she returns to teaching there, and that they would help cultivate a stronger gospel culture. Pray that the men Nick regularly meets with for lunch will come to faith in Jesus and thank God for these opportunities. Ask the Lord to provide Nick with a trusted “right-hand man” for the church plant and join them in thanking him for his faithful provision and providence.

New Zealand (Pacific). Population: 5,252,000 Believers: 18.2%. Christianity is on a precipitous decline in New Zealand. The largest group is now “no religion” at 48%. New Age spirituality focuses on individualism and nature and attracts many Kiwis (New Zealanders) who feel disappointed by the church. But 24/7 prayer rooms and other recent prayer groups prove that God still moves in the Kiwi church! The recent decline is more a case of the pruning of nominal Christianity—what remains is much more alive. Pray that God will pour his Holy Spirit into the church and draw back the many who have left. From Operation World DVD-ROM 2010 and www.operationworld.org

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The One Year New Testament Copyright Tyndale House Publishers, used by Permission. NIV Bible copyright International Bible Society.

Devotional for 10.11.26

2026-10-11T17:25:04Z

John 20:19-31

Reflection

Jesus’ gracious encounter with the fearful, guilt-ridden disciples is a model of what should happen every time we gather together in Jesus’ name to worship God. Jesus comes into our midst (John 20:19), speaks to us by his Word (vv. 19–27), applies the gospel of peace to our souls (v. 19), breathes his Spirit upon us (v. 22), and commissions us to go forth as servants of the gospel (vv. 21–23).

The authority Jesus gave the apostles to pronounce the forgiveness of sins (v. 23) is extended through the church by the preaching of the gospel. Only by believing the gospel of God’s grace can anyone expect to hear Jesus say, “Peace be with you.”

1 Peter 2:1-8

Reflection

It has been said that Christ will not taste sweet to us until sin tastes bitter, and the reverse is true as well. Christ and sin cannot both look beautiful to us simultaneously; as the beauty of one rises, the other falls.

Once we have tasted the goodness of Christ and his gospel, we will long for more (1 Pet. 2:2), and it is this longing that fuels our continued growth. Believers “grow up into salvation” (v. 2) by “the pure spiritual milk” of the Word of God and especially the gospel (cf. 1:25). Gospel grace not only begins our walk with God; it also changes us over time so that we become more like the people we truly are as the children of God. Grace leads to godliness as we are transformed by Christ’s love and learn to honor him more and more as we grow in Christian maturity. Remember, even this growth in maturity is only “acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (v. 5). Our sacrificial lives of devotion to the Lord are not what makes us acceptable to God. Jesus himself made the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf; in light of his great work of salvation, we devote ourselves wholeheartedly to the Lord of mercy.

Psalm 40:1-3

Thoughts For Prayer

There is no way to have our sins forgiven other than hearing and responding to the message of the gospel. Pray for the millions in the world who have never heard the good news of God’s grace in Christ. Ask God to send believers to them and create churches among them so that many might hear the truth and put their trust in the Lord.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Bobby & Julie in Central Asia

Country:

Please pray for Julie and the children as they continue to adjust to a new school year. Pray for Bobby as he decides the best way to study local languages this semester.

New Caledonia (Pacific). Population: 295,000 Believers: 7.0%. Most Kanaks are Christianized, and most villages have a church, but the gospel is often confused with Western culture. Animist practices usually underlie a Christian veneer. Pray for pastors to discern between tradition and the pure gospel and that a truly biblical, truly Kanak church may continue to grow and demonstrate the power of Jesus over the evil one.

Northern Mariana Islands (Pacific). Population: 44,000 Believers: 12.7%. The indigenous Chamorro majority were baptized as Catholics, but their deeper beliefs and worldview betray an underlying animist outlook. Pray that the light of the gospel may shine on this people. Pray for the ministry of the numerous Bible-believing churches from various denominations. From Operation World DVD-ROM 2010 and www.operationworld.org

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The One Year New Testament Copyright Tyndale House Publishers, used by Permission. NIV Bible copyright International Bible Society.