The One Year New Testament

Devotional for 05.05.26

2026-05-05T19:11:06Z

Mark 14:26-42

Reflection

Jesus prays in the garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:32–42) as he prepares to sacrifice his life for his people (10:45). Here we are given a unique window into the nature of Christ’s suffering and his heart. As he considers the looming judgment and loneliness he is about to face, he begins to feel the horrific weight of what it will mean to be forsaken by his Father. This is why he repeatedly cries out for deliverance (14:35–39); Jesus is facing the “cup” of God’s wrath (v. 36). He knows that only the Father can deliver him from the cup of judgment (Heb. 5:7), but he humbly submits himself (Mark 14:36), certain that his heavenly Father knows what is best.

According to the Father’s will and wisdom, the cup is not removed from Jesus. The Son of God chooses to go to the place where we belong. Utterly alone, Christ endures the furious anger of God on behalf of his still largely clueless disciples, whom he loves. Indeed, the saving work of that weekend long ago was the most critical moment in all of human history. The anger of God toward our sin came crashing down on his only Son. On the cross sin was forgiven, heaven was secured, joy was restored, and peace was won for sinners who trust in Christ.

Galatians 3:10-14

Reflection

When people try to earn God’s blessing by performing the works of the law, they will not find life. Instead, they will find only a deadly curse (Gal. 3:10). The only way to be found blameless in God’s courtroom and gain eternal life is to forsake all attempts of earning it and receive God’s grace by faith (v. 11).

Because of our disobedience to God’s law, Jesus took the curse of the law upon himself at the cross —even though he did not deserve it (v. 13). He substituted his life for ours, ensuring that eternal life, righteousness, and the Holy Spirit would be given to all who believe in him.

Psalm 27:9

Thoughts For Prayer

Because of the cross, God’s fury has been turned away from us forever. If you are trusting in Christ, there is no need to fear his judgment. Draw near to him and give praise and thanks for your curse-bearing Savior.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

The City Mission

Country:

United States of America

In April, The City Mission hosted its annual fundraiser. They are thankful for the generous donations that will allow them to continue to serve men, women, and children in crisis—offering shelter, food, safety, and hope in the gospel. Pray for enough volunteers and staff to support every aspect of The City Mission—Crossroads for men in crisis and Laura’s Home and Pathways for women and children in need of a safe home.

Spain (Europe). Population: 47,890,000 Believers: 1.0%. Spain has experienced a profound transformation since 1978. It abandoned a dictatorship for democratic rule, moved from poverty toward wealth, integrated into Europe, and increased religious freedom. But economic progress and increasing secularization seem to have deeply eroded moral foundations and have accelerated a rapid decline of spirituality. Spain’s younger generations are among the most spiritually disengaged in Europe. Materialism and hedonism have brought about widespread prostitution, alcohol overconsumption, and illicit drug use. Pray for Spain to wake up to the lies that have blinded it to the truth of the gospel. 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 05.04.26

2026-05-04T19:11:06Z

Mark 14:12-25

Reflection

In Israel’s Passover meal, they celebrated the time when God’s people were protected from judgment by the shedding of animal blood. In the Lord’s Supper, we celebrate being “passed over” by God’s judgment because of the blood of Christ (Lev. 17:11; Heb. 9:22). The eating of the bread represents Jesus’ body, which was broken for us. The cup represents the blood of Christ that established a new contract (“covenant”) between God and his people (Mark 14:24).

When followers of Christ celebrate the Lord’s Supper, they uniquely enjoy the presence of God. By eating the bread and drinking of the cup, they reiterate the value of the blood Christ shed on the cross. The gospel is tangibly remembered as they eat and drink, and believers are spiritually nourished. Through the Lord’s Supper, the disciples of Christ can enjoy Christ’s spiritual presence, his forgiveness, and his purifying love. He has given his body and his blood for us.

Galatians 3:7-9

Reflection

In Galatians 3:6 Paul uses Abraham as an example of someone being counted as righteous through faith. In the Old Testament, believers looked forward to the grace that would come from the promised Messiah; New Testament believers look back to the death and resurrection of Jesus in order to receive God’s grace. In each case, it is faith that includes people in God’s generous promises to Abraham. Faith has always been and always will be the means by which God’s people receive the blessing of his eternal grace (vv. 8–9).

Psalm 107:31-32

Thoughts For Prayer

It is important that you regularly gather with a church family for countless reasons —and one of them is so that you can partake of the Lord’s Supper together. If you are not already partnered with a Bible-loving, gospel-teaching church, pray that God would help you find one and plug in. If you’re already there, invest in it and pray for those who need to find one.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Emily (& Blake) Ackerson

Country:

Australia

Pray for their annual Vision Dinner, when nearly 200 guests will gather to celebrate all that God has done through this ministry for both international and Australian students. Pray for the Lord to provide their goal of $30,000 toward their team’s ministry for next year. May is the last month of the semester before exams. Pray that students who are exploring Jesus will decide to follow him and that Christian students will take steps of faith to make him known. At the end of May, a team from the U.S. will join Blake and Emily’s team at UNSW to help reach more than 30,000 international students. Pray that they will be able to identify students who are actively seeking Christ.

South Sudan (Africa). Population: 12,189,000 Believers: 29.5%. South Sudan is the world’s newest country. The nation was born in a great spirit of unity, happiness, and hope. Yet little more than 10 years on, over a quarter of the population relies on aid agencies for food, the majority of females has suffered sexual violence, and progress is continually stalled by ethnic rivalries who refuse to share power, reconcile, or build a better future together. Every family in South Sudan suffers lasting effects from the horrors of war and conflict. Pray for the church to have a good influence in society and leadership, to make life better for all people. 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 05.03.26

2026-05-03T19:11:06Z

Mark 14:1-11

Reflection

The Messiah (God’s chosen King) must be “cut off” (Dan. 9:26; cf. Isa. 53:8; Mark 3:6). Even though the enemies of Jesus are resisting God, they are unintentionally accomplishing God’s perfect will. His great plan of salvation will be achieved through the execution of Jesus.

We can trust in God’s wisdom and power (Rom. 8:28). Often his ways, especially in our suffering, are impossible to explain, but we can always trust that he is good. Everything that happens to believers comes to us from God’s great heart of love. The cross of Christ teaches us that even when circumstances are awful and inexplicable, God will ultimately bring about the good he intends.

Galatians 3:1-6

Reflection

The Galatians are in danger of making the same mistake as Peter did in Antioch (Gal. 2:11–14). False teachers are saying that circumcision and obedience to the law is necessary for membership in the people of God.

Paul and Barnabas had taught the Galatians the message of the crucifixion, and the Galatians had responded by “hearing with faith” (3:2, 5). The result was that the Galatians received the gift of the Holy Spirit, who had produced miracles within the church (v. 5). The Spirit’s presence was a sign that those who had trusted in Christ had been accepted before God (cf. Rom. 5:5; 8:9; 1 Cor. 2:14). God has accepted people by faith alone, apart from circumcision or any other form of human obedience. Faith is what fuels the Christian life. We “receive the Spirit” not “by works of the law” but rather “by hearing with faith” (Gal. 3:2)—and it is this faith that not only begins the Christian life but also sustains it (v. 3).

Psalm 13:5

Thoughts For Prayer

Continue to fuel your faith by regularly “hearing” (Gal. 3:2) the message of the gospel through God’s Word. Pray that God would help you find a way to make Bible reading a daily priority.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Parkside Kent

Country:

United States of America

They thank the Lord for their first Good Friday and Easter services in the new building. They are also thankful that 85 women signed up to attend their first women’s gathering last month! This summer, they will hold book discussion groups using the book Honor by Adam Ramsey. Please pray that these groups, which will include specific groups for women and young adults, will draw people into Christian community and serve as a connection point for those who lack biblical friendship.

South Africa (Africa). Population: 64,747,320 Believers: 21.1%. Biblical Christianity has a strong legacy in South Africa. But poverty, injustice, corruption, and terrible violence are alarmingly widespread for a nation with so many claiming to be Christian. The legacy of racism and injustice do not justify the lawlessness and wickedness evident. Pray for the many Christian agencies that serve among the needy sections of society. Pray that the spirit of violence might be bound under the authority of Christ. 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 05.02.26

2026-05-02T19:11:06Z

Mark 13:1-37

Reflection

Jesus looks to the future and warns his disciples to be alert to God’s will and ways. He speaks of coming events, some of them happening very soon (e.g., Mark 13:2 occurred in a. d. 70), while others would be in the more distant future. Christians today should be careful in speculating about specific future events. It is more important to be alert to the essential mission of discipleship, ready to suffer, and confident in God’s power to overcome all evil.

Galatians 2:15-21

Reflection

The gospel truth that Peter fumbled in Antioch (Gal. 2:11–14) is taught clearly here by Paul: both Jews and non-Jews (Gentiles) can be justified by faith apart from works of the law (vv. 15–16). To be justified is to be found “not guilty” before God’s judgment seat. Because of Christ’s death and resurrection, Christians are not condemned in the sight of God (Rom. 8:1); we can look at the cross and see that Christ already endured our final judgment in our place. The “works of the law” are God’s holy requirements, which we sinners cannot fulfill in our own strength (cf. Gal. 3:10–11). The problem is not the law but us.

Jesus was born under the law, he kept it perfectly, and he died to rescue those who had broken the law (4:4–5). When we put our faith in Christ, we are united to him and share in his identity (2:16, 20). As a consequence, we have been crucified with him and have begun living a new life (v. 20). Therefore, by faith, we are united to both the death and the life of Christ—free from our past sin, and free to live for him. The false teachers were canceling out this gift of grace by seeking to add their own personal obedience to Christ’s death and resurrection (v. 21).

Psalm 117:1-2

Thoughts For Prayer

God is concerned about the salvation of people from every nation, and therefore we should care about it too. Pray that you and your church would reflect God’s heart for the nations.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Kep & Debbie James in Africa, Europe, and the Americas

Country:

Last month, Kep and Debbie spent three weeks in Africa visiting Equipping Servants International (ESI) groups. Pray for these groups and their leaders to stay strong, as many in them face opposition for their faith. During their time in Africa, Debbie had the opportunity to teach the first group of female leaders. Pray that the training will open doors into homes that are often closed to gospel influence. Continue to pray for Fulani Christians who witnessed some 300 people trusting in Christ when they saw the strong faith of Christians who were willing to risk all for the spread of the gospel. Pray that God will provide good translators to translate ESI material into the Fulani language so that the teaching and interaction will be clear and meaningful.

Somalia (Africa). Population: 19,655,000 Believers: <0.1%. Somalia now has a parliament and recognized national leaders after 20 years without an effective central government. But the militant Islamist group Al-Shabaab (linked to Al-Qaeda) still controls much of southern and central Somalia and continues to hold influence in rural areas. Pray that Somalia’s rulers might learn from the past, govern for the good of the people, and respect human rights and religious freedom. Pray that those deceived by the enemy into committing terrorism might encounter Jesus, who loves them and died on their behalf. 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 05.01.26

2026-05-01T19:11:06Z

Mark 12:38-44

Reflection

Jesus praises the sacrificial devotion of a poor widow. Her offering shows her complete dependence on God, giving all that she has to him and expecting him to provide all that she needs. Her willingness to put God’s honor above everything applies to all of us, even as we carry out the responsibility to provide for those in our care.

Jesus does not separate belief from action. Authentic faith always bears the fruit of sincere and godly action. A living faith cannot sit still; it must act in love (cf. James 2:14–26).

Galatians 2:11-14

Reflection

Paul continues to defend his faithfulness to the gospel by telling a story about a time when he actually had to help Peter stay on target. When Peter arrived in the city of Antioch, he gladly ate with Gentiles (non-Jews; cf. Acts 10:9–16). However, when Peter later refused to eat with them just because they weren’t Jewish, he essentially pressured the Gentiles to obey the Jewish food laws (Gal. 2:14). Paul confronted Peter about his hypocritical behavior (v. 13) because he could see that it did not line up with the gospel truth that God accepts all people who put their faith in Christ alone, regardless of their religious or ethnic heritage.

Peter’s racist ways were caused by his failure to walk “in step with the truth of the gospel” (v. 14). For Paul, the gospel is not only something for believers to pass on to unbelievers; it is also the daily bread that nourishes Christians (cf. 3:3). Peter evidently had forgotten that he had already been freely accepted by God’s grace, and was now trying to earn the approval of “certain men” (2:12). God’s grace and eternal approval should free us from the burdensome trap of people pleasing —a problem that the gospel had cured in Paul’s own life (1:10).

Psalm 56:11

Thoughts For Prayer

Battle the temptation to be a people pleaser by continuing to dwell on God’s acceptance of you apart from your merits. Spend some time thinking about this amazing truth and talking to God about it: we are fully embraced by our heavenly Father, not because we are worthy, but because Christ is worthy.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Mike & Joan Ross

Country:

Mexico, United States of America

Pray for Mike as he travels to Mexico early this month. Pray that God will use him to be an encouragement to Edgar and Lety Rivera. Pray for wisdom regarding the future of the MAF work and assets in Mexico and that all will be used for God's glory. Pray for the pastors in Amoltepec to use the resources they have to reach the lost. Pray that God will guide the steps of Gregorio and Eily toward missions, as they have recently joined MAF. Pray for Amos, who has accepted an assignment to serve with MAF in Ecuador. Pray that God will bless the work of MAF around the world and bring much spiritual fruit for his kingdom.

Slovenia (Europe). Population: 2,117,072 Believers: 0.1%. Slovenia has had a Protestant witness since the Reformation, but it still has very few evangelical churches and needs church-planting teams. The very small evangelical population is divided by ethnic group. Pray for unity and for an evangelical alliance to unite the churches. Most congregations lack a full-time pastor and need outside financial assistance. Pray for Slovene believers to evangelize their country, to support their pastors, and even to send missionaries! 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 04.30.26

2026-04-30T19:11:06Z

Mark 12:13-37

Reflection

Even though Jesus is not guilty of breaking the law of Moses, there is growing opposition to him. In these four encounters we find Jesus facing the challenges of the religious leadership. In each case he is providing a proper interpretation of the law with regard to taxes (Mark 12:13–17), divorce and resurrection (vv. 18–27), the chief commandments (vv. 24–34), and the “Christ” (God’s promised King; vv. 35–37).

The passage reminds us once again that unless God purifies our hearts, we are going to mishandle and misunderstand God’s Word (the Bible), ethics (moral values), social issues, etc. The eternal Son of God must transform us on the inside in order for us to see and experience God and the world properly.

Galatians 2:1-10

Reflection

Paul returned to Jerusalem after 14 years (Gal. 2:1; see Acts 11:27–30). During this visit he presented the content of his gospel message to James, Cephas (Peter), and John (Gal. 2:2, 9) —who accepted both Paul and his message. The Jerusalem apostles gave Paul the “right hand of fellowship” (v. 9), endorsing his ministry and recognizing that God’s grace was upon his work with the Gentiles (non-Jews), just as Peter had been entrusted with gospel ministry to the Jews (vv. 7–8).

The false teachers in Jerusalem were saying that non-Jews (Gentiles) needed to embrace the obligations of Judaism (starting with circumcision) in order to truly become part of the people of God (v. 4). If this or any other sort of human performance becomes a requirement for God’s acceptance, then Paul regards it as a form of slavery (v. 4). The contrast between the freedom of the gospel and the slavery of the “law” becomes a major theme later in Galatians (4:1, 7, 22–26, 31; 5:1, 13).

Psalm 119:58

Thoughts For Prayer

Our performance will never be the basis of our acceptance with God, though Christians can sometimes mistakenly forget this. Pray that you and your Christian community continue to base your assurance of God’s favor squarely on the finished work of Christ alone.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Bobby & Julie in Central Asia

Country:

Pray that God will open a door for the evangelism in central Asia, breaking down barriers to the gospel in society and in the hearts of the people. Their team leader, Cliff, is holding meetings to see how the fitness business can be more effective in their mission. Pray that God will show them how to create gospel opportunities and encourage local believers this spring and summer.

Slovakia (Europe). Population: 5,475,000 Believers: 1.2%. Evangelical congregations are few and small. The growth of recent years has slowed, but there is a new desire to reach out and be more active in church planting. Pray for the quality of spiritual life and for fervor in evangelical churches. 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 04.29.26

2026-04-29T19:11:06Z

Mark 12:1-12

Reflection

Jesus tells a story that illustrates the true nature of the relationship between God and the Jewish leadership. God is like the owner of a vineyard, and the leaders are like those who have been called to care for the vineyard (Mark 12:1). The vineyard itself symbolizes Israel (cf. Isa. 5:1–7), and the servants are the prophets who have been sent by God to Israel throughout the centuries (Mark 12:2).

The story describes the tendency of Israel’s leaders to mistreat and even kill the prophets that God has sent to his people (vv. 2–5; cf. Jer. 26:20–23; 2 Chron. 24:20–21). Eventually God sends his own “beloved son” (Mark 12:6), but Israel’s leaders are so jealous for ownership that they will murder him as well (vv. 7–8).

Like the leaders of Israel, all of us are guilty of rejecting God’s Son and thus we deserve his destructive punishment (v. 9). The one we have rejected, however, is the very “cornerstone” of God’s kingdom work (v. 10), and through his death he has made a way to reconcile God and sinners. Because of the sacrifice of Christ, God will never reject those who humbly admit their guilt and come to him for grace. Truly, the work of the Lord should be marvelous in our eyes (v. 11)!

Galatians 1:18-24

Reflection

Paul is trying to explain that he did not learn the gospel from the apostles in Jerusalem (cf. Gal. 1:1, 17). He didn’t even meet Cephas (Peter) until three years after his encounter with Jesus on the Damascus Road, and then he only saw him for two weeks. When he finally did meet Peter, they did not come up with a new “gospel.” Paul’s point is that the message he preaches is the true gospel, and even though he didn’t learn it from the Jerusalem apostles, it is the same message that the other apostles had embraced.

God does not speak conflicting messages. The gospel of Jesus Christ has always been, and will always be, the unchanging news about the gracious gift of salvation that was purchased for sinners by the life, death, and resurrection of our perfectly righteous Savior and King, Jesus Christ.

Psalm 118:21-24

Thoughts For Prayer

Christ is the cornerstone of God’s kingdom work and has purchased our salvation by his sacrifice. Spend some time asking God to give your church family a deeper appreciation for the gospel, so that the message will continue to transform you and spread into the lives of those who have yet to know our great Savior.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Parkside Kent

Country:

United States of America

Thank you for praying for Parkside Kent. They are only 18 months old, and a lot has happened in this first season. They are excited to welcome Cate as a new member of their administrative team; they are adding to their facility maintenance team and have started the process of identifying qualified men to begin an elder internship. Please pray that each person in each role will use his or her gifts for God’s glory and for the good of his church.

Singapore (Asia). Population: 5,871,000 Believers: 7.8%. Singapore is a strategic center for regional and global Christian mission due to its infrastructure, stability, location, and strong Christian population. Pray that Singapore will be a blessing to the least-evangelized nations and peoples around it and a servant leader that facilitates the emerging missions movement from other Asian nations. 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 04.28.26

2026-04-28T19:11:06Z

Mark 11:27-33

Reflection

The cleansing of the temple (Mark 11:15–17) was a direct challenge to the power of the religious leadership in Israel. In response to Christ’s bold actions, they were eager to destroy him (v. 18) and undermine his authority (v. 28).

The Jewish leaders now demand that Jesus answer for his actions: what gives him the right to do these things (v. 28)? Jesus, however, does not take orders from these men. Instead, he exposes their incompetency by asking a question about the ministry of John the Baptist that they are unwilling and unable to answer (vv. 29–33). The Son of God does not answer to a human court of religious pride, and he refuses to discuss the matter any further (v. 33). Christ’s authority and power were clearly established throughout his public ministry. He was not merely a zealous leader making bold claims. Those with a humble heart of faith will have no trouble seeing that Jesus came in the authority and power of God himself (see 2:5–12).

Galatians 1:11-17

Reflection

Paul insists that the gospel message he proclaims is from God (Gal. 1:11–12). Prior to his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1–7), Paul was zealous for the traditions of Judaism. This enthusiasm drove him to persecute the church, seeking to destroy it (Gal. 1:13). After Jesus revealed himself to Paul (vv. 15–16), Paul understood that the gospel is the fulfillment of Jewish law (4:4–5; Rom. 10:4), and he became a follower of Christ. Jesus commanded him to declare this gospel of grace to the Gentiles (non-Jews), an assignment that God had graciously prepared for Paul even prior to his birth (Gal. 1:15).

Moral zeal is necessary even for the Christian (Titus 2:14), but if our religious devotion is pursued in our own strength or for the sake of personal praise (Gal. 1:14) we will find ourselves deceived and heading for destruction. Paul’s misguided zeal blinded him to his need for Christ. The only thing that disrupted his deadly course was the grace of God (v. 15).

Psalm 115:3

Thoughts For Prayer

Like the religious leaders, we sometimes do not understand what God is doing in our lives, but that does not mean that he has to answer to us. God has his reasons, and they are always good and wise. Humble yourself before him and submit your unanswered questions to him in faith, trusting that he does all things well.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

E & J North Africa

Country:

Pray for the many believers in North Africa who faced tremendous pressure to participate last month during Ramadan (the month of fasting in Islam). Pray that their lost friends and family, who during fasting attempted to draw near to the creator, will find the true God as revealed in Jesus Christ. E and J encourage us to take the opportunities God gives us to love and share Christ with our Muslim neighbors.

Sierra Leone (Africa). Population: 8,820,000 Believers: 3.9%. Sierra Leone continues its effort to move forward and away from its tragic recent history. The horrifying civil war of the 90s and the crippling effect of Ebola in 2014-2015 both reversed efforts at nation-building. Many Christian ministries and aid agencies continue to help the long-term process of meeting people’s physical, psychological, and spiritual needs. Praise God for their freedom to minister. Pray for their fruitfulness. 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 04.27.26

2026-04-27T19:11:06Z

Mark 11:12-25

Reflection

The cursing of the fig tree that was unfruitful is symbolic of what God is going to do with the “fruitless” temple in Jerusalem (see Mark 13:1–2). The temple was meant for true worship, not corrupt business and personal gain (1 Chron. 29:10–19; 2 Chron. 6:14–42), which is why Jesus passionately cleansed it in this confrontation (Mark 11:15–17).

Because God’s chosen people (the nation of Israel) had proven to be a fruitless fig tree, he is extending his kingdom to every corner of the globe. Anyone who will receive the gospel with childlike trust in Christ is gladly welcomed into his kingdom. The followers of Christ bear the fruit of worship, prayer, and godliness through faith in God and his Son Jesus (vv. 22–23).

Galatians 1:6-10

Reflection

Here we see the main concern of Paul’s letter: God has called the Galatians to himself (Gal. 1:6), but they are distorting and deserting the good news of his grace (v. 7). False teachers had taught the Galatians that, in order to be fully acceptable to God, people are required to contribute their own personal efforts to the finished work of Christ (5:2–6; 6:12–13; cf. 2:3–5)—a teaching that Paul fervently condemns (1:8).

The truth of the gospel never changes, even if respectable people begin to promote false teaching (see 2:11–14). Our ultimate loyalty is to God, not to the trendy spiritual ideas of our culture. Paul’s desire was to please God, not people (v. 10), even if his faithfulness to the gospel resulted in many hardships (5:11; 6:17). The good news about Jesus Christ has the power to calm our quest for human approval. The gospel tells us that we are freely given the full approval of God apart from our personal merits. We are accepted and approved by faith alone.

Psalm 63:5-8

Thoughts For Prayer

Christianity requires the people of God to stand up for their faith in Christ (Mark 11:22). The human heart tends toward unbelief, which is why it is important to fuel our faith with the gospel on a regular basis. Spend some time with God recounting the gospel and sharing your appreciation for what Jesus has done for you.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Wes & Nancy Collins

Country:

Guatemala, United States of America

Please pray for Byron, Samuel, Marie, and others in Comitancillo, Guatemala, as they plan celebrations of the finished translations of the whole Bible in the many languages in the area. Pray for good response to the gospel message as they share it and that they will be shining testimonies of Jesus’ love and salvation plan for all. Pray that any of Satan’s attempts to disrupt will be thwarted. Also, continue to pray for Wes and the hospice staff who care for him. Pray that the Lord will give them words that speak to hearts as they interact with many medical workers. Pray for energy for Nancy as she cares for Wes and comes to grips with all the changes.

Seychelles (Africa). Population: 133,000 Believers: 5.9%. The vast majority of Seychellois claim to be Christian, but evidence of true spiritual transformation seems outweighed by superstition and nominalism. Pray that the Holy Spirit may bring new life evidenced by repentance and sustained fruit.

Solomon Islands (Pacific). Population: 839,000 Believers: 33.3%. Ethnic diversity and a divided geography (six major island groups) create a divided society. These language and culture barriers also inhibit Christian work. Pray that Christianity may take root in each group in a relevant way and can overcome division. Pray for true forgiveness and reconciliation that come only through repentance. 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 04.26.26

2026-04-26T19:11:06Z

Mark 11:1-11

Reflection

When Jesus enters into Jerusalem, the crowd praises him and rejoices at the hope of “the coming kingdom” they are expecting him to establish (Mark 11:10). This reminds us of the scene foretold in the Old Testament: “Rejoice greatly. . . . Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey . . .” (Zech. 9:9). Given the fact that Jesus already displayed his divine nature (esp. Mark 2:5–12; 9:2–7), his entry into Jerusalem and his upcoming visit to the temple (11:15–19) should be seen as God himself coming to the heart of Israel.

The infinite God comes to be with his people, both where they live and where they worship. Sadly, Jesus will find that corruption has infested the temple and that he is not welcome in the city. He will be dead within a matter of days, and yet we must realize that Jesus is not walking into a trap. He is on a mission to give his life (10:45).

Galatians 1:1-5

Reflection

Paul begins the letter by claiming his authority as an apostle. False teachers, on the other hand, were undermining Paul’s authority by claiming that he was self-appointed and lacking the endorsement of the apostles who were in Jerusalem. Paul must defend himself against this charge, and he begins by pointing out that the risen Lord Jesus was the One who appointed him (Gal. 1:1).

Even though the introduction to Galatians does not include Paul’s normal prayer of thanksgiving (e.g., Phil. 1:3–11), he does pray that God will bestow grace and peace upon his readers (v. 3). This peace is available only because of Jesus’ crucifixion, which purchased the forgiveness of sins and delivers us from the power and deception of “the present evil age” (v. 4; cf. 2 Cor. 5:17; Col. 1:13–14). This is the gospel message that Paul will promote throughout the letter.

Psalm 4:6-8

Thoughts For Prayer

The gospel provides a peace that cannot be found through political power, military force, or any other human effort. Pray for those in your life who have yet to experience the life-giving peace with God that is found only in Jesus Christ.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

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

Country:

Mexico

Pray that God will continue to give Edgar wisdom as he works with the Mexican board for the MAF work in Mexico. Praise the Lord that their daughter Esther is back in college after dealing with some health issues. 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 as he has received threats but desires to continue to encourage the pastors and believers in Amoltepec. Pray that Neri will have wisdom as he facilitates ESI groups in the state of Chiapas. Pray for continued growth of the church plant. Pray for strength for Neri as he continues battling lymphoma and for wisdom to work within his physical limitations. Praise the Lord for the encouraging results in recent blood work. Pray for healing for Neri and for extra strength for Karina during this difficult season in their lives.

Serbia (Europe). Population: 6,689,000 Believers: 0.6%. Evangelicals in Serbia face many difficulties. The recent religion law creates difficulty for all new religious groups, including many new evangelical groups. Protestants have a long history among Hungarians and Slovak minorities but little impact among Serbs and Albanians. Many do not live out their faith. Pray for revival. For groups where ethnic identity determines religious identity, evangelicals can appear to be traitors and part of a religious sect. But through all these challenges, newer churches do grow and minister Christ to others! 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 04.25.26

2026-04-25T19:11:06Z

Mark 10:46-52

Reflection

No matter who we are, Jesus offers his grace to us. All we need to do is call out as Bartimaeus did: “Son of David, have mercy on me!” (Mark 10:48).

In this passage we see a contrast between James and John, and the blind Bartimaeus. In both cases Jesus asks, “What do you want me to do for you?” (vv. 36, 51). James and John request glory, but Bartimaeus requests mercy. James and John, though physically seeing, were spiritually blind. Bartimaeus, though physically blind, was spiritually seeing. God pours out mercy on those who know their need, not those who assume their superiority.

2 Corinthians 13:1-14

Reflection

The apostle lovingly and sternly addresses the Corinthians’ sin as he concludes his letter (2 Cor. 13:1–4). Because he is weak, he is confident to address sin with the power of the resurrected Christ (v. 4). Gospel-love never overlooks sin, but lovingly confronts it so that people can be restored (vv. 9–10; 12:19).

Because we are prone to sin, it is our responsibility regularly to examine ourselves for evidence that the good news of God’s grace to us in Jesus (the gospel) is bearing fruit in our lives (13:5). Am I experiencing and sharing the comfort of Christ in times of suffering (1:3–11)? Is the forgiveness I have experienced leading me to forgive others (2:1–11)? Are the permanent promises of God more important to me than momentary afflictions (4:7–18)? Is my love for other Christians hindered by my sin (6:1–13)? Am I eager to give sacrificially to those in need (8:1–15)? When we see the fruit of the gospel in our lives we should rejoice (13:11), but when we spot sin in our hearts, we must take action. Because Christ was crucified for our sake (v. 4), we can freely run to the self-sacrificing God of love and peace (v. 11). This is the heart of the gospel, and the note that rings in our ears as Paul’s letter comes to an end.

Psalm 1:1-3

Thoughts For Prayer

Is your trust in Jesus bearing fruit? Give God the glory for his good work in your life, and continue to confess your sin as you see it. The only way forward is to humbly trust in Christ to forgive your sin and empower your continued growth.

Missions Prayer Requests

Supported Worker:

Parkside Church: Westside

Country:

United States of America

Pray for Parkside Westside’s community groups as they continue studying Romans together. Pray for their high school students as they plan and prepare for this summer's mission trip to Serbia. As their congregation seeks to serve the needs of their community, pray for their work with International Friendships; with Building Hope in the City; and with the Cleveland Pregnancy Center. Also, continue to pray for their missionaries working with a minority language group to advance the gospel in all languages. Pray for the safety of Ryan and Samantha S. as they seek to share the gospel with Somalian refugees in Africa and continue to pray for the health and safety of Nathanael Wiles as he works with WGM at Tenwek Hospital in Kenya. Senegal (Africa). Population: 18,932,000 Believers: 0.2%. Senegal is both open and closed spiritually. The nation enjoys religious freedom and tolerates many faiths, and Senegalese feel proud about this. But few of the Muslim majority have ever come to Christ. Even after long-standing Christian presence and outreach, a spiritual heaviness covers the land. Pray for the spiritual breakthrough for which so many wait. 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.