Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
2 Corinthians 9:7 (KJV)
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

Reflection:
Giving is a personal act of worship, one that is meant to come from the heart. This verse speaks to the importance of intention in our giving. God doesn't want us to give out of obligation or with a heavy heart. Instead, He desires that we give joyfully, with love and gratitude for what He has given us.

When we give cheerfully, we reflect the nature of our Heavenly Father, who delights in blessing His children. Whether it’s our time, resources, or love, our offerings are precious to God when they come from a heart that willingly serves. It’s not the size of the gift but the spirit in which it is given that matters most to Him.

Our Father knows what is best for us, and when we trust Him with our giving, we experience the joy of partnering with Him in His work. In His kingdom, a heart that gives freely and cheerfully is one that understands the true meaning of generosity. It is a reflection of the abundant grace we have received from God and a way to show our love and gratitude toward Him.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to give from a heart that is filled with joy and gratitude. Teach me to trust You fully in my giving, knowing that You love a cheerful giver. May I never give out of obligation or with reluctance, but always out of love for You and others. Thank You for blessing me so that I can be a blessing to others. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
2 Corinthians 8:1-5 (KJV)
Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.

Reflection:
The churches of Macedonia were going through incredible hardship, yet in the midst of their affliction, they experienced an abundance of joy. What stands out in this passage is how their joy and deep poverty overflowed into generosity. Even though they had little, they gave much—not just financially, but they first gave themselves fully to God.

In our lives, we often face trials that test our faith. It’s tempting to hold back or cling to what we think we need to survive. But the Macedonian believers remind us of a powerful truth: when we trust God with all that we are—our time, talents, and treasures—He does more than we could ever imagine.

God’s grace enables us to give beyond our own strength. It’s not about the size of the gift, but the heart that’s fully surrendered to Him. When we put Him first, He leads us to greater joy, even in the midst of affliction. Our Father truly knows best, and His ways are higher than ours. As we walk in faith, let’s remember to trust His will, offering ourselves to Him in love and obedience.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your abundant grace and the example of the Macedonian believers. Help us to trust You fully, especially in times of trial. Teach us to give not only from our resources but from our very selves, knowing that You will always provide for us. May we walk in obedience to Your will, finding joy in serving You and others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Isaiah 65:17-18
"See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in what I will create, for I will create Jerusalem to be a delight and its people a joy."

In a world full of uncertainties, it is comforting to remember that God has a perfect plan for His creation. He promises a future where all the pain, struggles, and brokenness of this life will fade away, replaced by something far greater—a new heaven and a new earth. Our Father knows best, and He is working towards a future full of joy, peace, and delight.

Often, we get caught up in the challenges of today, worrying about what lies ahead or lamenting what has passed. But God’s word reminds us to look beyond our current circumstances. His plan is much larger than what we can see or understand. He calls us to trust Him, to rejoice in His promises, and to place our hope in the new creation He is preparing for us.

God’s wisdom far exceeds ours. He knows exactly what we need, when we need it, and how it will unfold. Even when we don’t understand, we can rest assured that our Father is in control, working all things together for good (Romans 8:28).

Let us rejoice in His promise today. The former things will pass away, and His new creation will bring endless joy. In this, we can find peace and comfort, knowing that our Father truly knows best.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise of a new heaven and a new earth. Help us to trust in Your perfect plan, even when we don’t understand what is happening in our lives. Teach us to rejoice in the future You are preparing, knowing that You always know what’s best. Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture: Matthew 5:41
"If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles."

In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus calls us to a radical way of living, one that goes beyond mere obligation and into the realm of grace and love. The world often tells us to do only what is required, but Jesus teaches a different path — one of selfless generosity and unexpected kindness. 

In this verse, He challenges us to go the extra mile, literally and figuratively. It’s not just about fulfilling the minimum requirements or doing what’s expected, but about serving others with a willing heart, even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable. When we go beyond what’s asked of us, we reflect the heart of our Father, who always knows best.

God knows that it is in these moments of going the extra mile that we grow in humility and compassion. He uses these acts of grace to shape our character and to be a light to others. This kind of love can change the hearts of those around us, breaking down barriers and showing the world what it means to live in Christ’s love.

Today, consider where God may be calling you to go the extra mile. Whether it’s in your relationships, your work, or your service to others, trust that your Father knows best and will bless you as you walk in obedience to His higher calling.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to a life of love and service. Help me to go the extra mile, not out of obligation, but out of a heart that reflects Your grace. Teach me to love others as You have loved me, trusting that You know what’s best for my growth and for the good of those I serve. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture: 1 John 2:1
"My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One."

We are all on a journey of faith, striving to live a life that honors God. But along the way, we stumble and fall. Sin sometimes sneaks into our lives, and it can leave us feeling ashamed, distant from God, and unworthy of His love. Yet, in His infinite wisdom and love, our Father knew this would happen, and He made provision for us.

God doesn’t want us to sin, but He also knows we are not perfect. That’s why He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to be our advocate. Jesus, the Righteous One, stands in our place, defending us before the Father when we fall short. He took upon Himself the penalty for our sins, so that we could stand forgiven and redeemed.

What a comforting truth! We are not left to bear the weight of our mistakes alone. When we confess our sins, we have a Savior who is faithful to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Our Father knows best — He knows we need grace, and He offers it freely through His Son.

Today, if you find yourself struggling with sin or guilt, remember that Jesus is your advocate. He stands in the gap for you, offering you the gift of grace and a path back to the Father. Don’t carry the burden of sin any longer — bring it to the One who knows you fully and loves you completely.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for knowing my heart and for providing Jesus as my advocate. When I fall, remind me of the grace that is available to me through Christ. Help me to turn away from sin and trust in Your forgiveness. Thank You for Your perfect plan and endless love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture: Psalm 61:1-2
"For the director of music. With stringed instruments. Of David. Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I."

In times of weariness, when the weight of the world seems too heavy to bear, it's natural to cry out to God, as David did. David knew where to turn when his heart grew faint — not to his own strength, but to the One who holds all strength and wisdom. He sought refuge in a rock higher than himself, a place of security and peace that only God could provide.

Sometimes we don’t understand why we face certain trials or why our hearts feel so heavy, but it is in these moments that we must trust that our Father knows best. Like a child running into their parent’s arms, we find rest in His embrace, knowing that He sees the bigger picture, even when we cannot. His ways are higher than ours, and His love for us is unfailing.

Today, whatever burden you are carrying, remember to call upon the Lord. Allow Him to lift you up to that higher place — a place of safety, trust, and rest in His divine plan. Though our hearts may grow faint, our Father hears every cry, and He knows exactly what we need. He is our rock, and we can trust in Him.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come before You today, trusting that You know what’s best for me. As I cry out to You with my burdens, lead me to the Rock that is higher than I. Help me to rest in Your wisdom and love, knowing that You hear my prayers and will guide me through every trial. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop
  
Scripture:
Hebrews 10:35 – "So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded."  
Hebrews 10:36 – "You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised."

Reflection:
In moments of hardship, doubt, or waiting, it's easy to lose confidence in God's promises. We might wonder if we're on the right path or feel discouraged when we don’t see immediate results. But these verses remind us to hold on to our confidence and trust in God’s faithfulness.

God sees the bigger picture. When we do His will, even in seasons of difficulty, we are storing up a reward far greater than anything this world can offer. It takes perseverance—holding firm in faith, trusting that God knows what’s best and that His promises are sure. Just as we cannot rush the growth of a seed, so too must we wait with patient trust for the fulfillment of God's promises. Our Father, who is faithful, will reward those who hold fast and stay the course.

Prayer:
Lord, strengthen my faith to trust in Your timing and plans. When I feel weak or discouraged, remind me of Your promises. Help me to persevere in doing Your will, knowing that Your rewards are eternal and sure. Amen.

Reflection Question:
How can you strengthen your confidence in God's promises today, especially in areas where you are waiting for His reward? 

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop
  
Scripture:
1 John 2:17 – "The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever."

Reflection:
In a world filled with fleeting pleasures, success, and distractions, it can be easy to chase after things that won’t last. The desires of this world—wealth, status, and temporary happiness—are often seen as the ultimate goals. But Scripture reminds us that these desires are passing, mere shadows that will fade away.

God, our loving Father, knows what is truly best for us. He calls us to focus not on temporary pursuits, but on His eternal will. When we align ourselves with God's purpose, we find meaning that transcends this world and leads to everlasting life. The fulfillment we find in God’s will is not fleeting, but enduring—promising joy and peace that lasts forever.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help me to seek Your will above all else. Teach me to recognize the temporary nature of this world’s desires, and guide me to pursue what matters eternally. Thank You for the promise of eternal life through obedience to You. Amen.

Reflection Question:
Are there any desires or pursuits in your life that may be distracting you from God's eternal will? How can you shift your focus toward His lasting purpose? 

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop 

Psalm 90:14

“Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.”

Each day is a gift from God, and as we rise each morning, we have the opportunity to be filled with His unfailing love. This verse from Psalm 90 reminds us that true satisfaction and joy are found not in our circumstances, but in the love of our Heavenly Father. When we begin our day by seeking His presence, we are renewed, strengthened, and able to face whatever comes our way with a heart full of gladness.

Life can often feel overwhelming, but God offers us the peace and joy that transcend any trial. He satisfies our deepest needs with His love, and this satisfaction brings about a lasting joy that nothing else can provide. As we trust in Him, we find that the joy He gives becomes our strength for the entire day and beyond.

Today, invite God to satisfy you with His love. Make space in your morning to connect with Him, and let the joy of His presence fill your heart, so that you may carry that gladness throughout all your days.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, satisfy me this morning with Your unfailing love. Let Your presence fill my heart with joy and peace, no matter what lies ahead. Help me to find my true contentment in You alone, and may Your love be the source of my gladness all the days of my life. Amen.

April 15
Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Romans 12:5

So in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.

In the body of Christ, we are not meant to walk this journey alone. Every believer is a unique part of a greater whole, each with gifts, roles, and responsibilities. God, in His infinite wisdom, has designed us to need one another, to support, encourage, and uplift each other as we serve Him.

Though we come from different backgrounds and have different experiences, in Christ, we are united. We belong to one another, called to love, serve, and carry one another’s burdens. When one part of the body rejoices, we all rejoice. When one part suffers, we all feel the weight of that pain.

This interdependence is part of God’s perfect plan. He knows that through community, we grow stronger, reflect His love more clearly, and accomplish more for His kingdom than we ever could alone. By leaning into this truth, we acknowledge that our gifts are not for ourselves alone but for the building up of the entire body of Christ.

Today, remember that you are a vital part of God's family. Ask Him to show you how you can contribute to the growth and well-being of others in the body of Christ. Our Father knows best, and He has placed us together for a reason.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for placing me within the body of Christ. Help me to see the ways I can serve, encourage, and support my brothers and sisters. Remind me that my gifts and talents are meant for the good of others, and may I always seek to glorify You in how I live in community. 

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Romans 12:5

So in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.

In the body of Christ, we are not meant to walk this journey alone. Every believer is a unique part of a greater whole, each with gifts, roles, and responsibilities. God, in His infinite wisdom, has designed us to need one another, to support, encourage, and uplift each other as we serve Him.

Though we come from different backgrounds and have different experiences, in Christ, we are united. We belong to one another, called to love, serve, and carry one another’s burdens. When one part of the body rejoices, we all rejoice. When one part suffers, we all feel the weight of that pain.

This interdependence is part of God’s perfect plan. He knows that through community, we grow stronger, reflect His love more clearly, and accomplish more for His kingdom than we ever could alone. By leaning into this truth, we acknowledge that our gifts are not for ourselves alone but for the building up of the entire body of Christ.

Today, remember that you are a vital part of God's family. Ask Him to show you how you can contribute to the growth and well-being of others in the body of Christ. Our Father knows best, and He has placed us together for a reason.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for placing me within the body of Christ. Help me to see the ways I can serve, encourage, and support my brothers and sisters. Remind me that my gifts and talents are meant for the good of others, and may I always seek to glorify You in how I live in community. Amen.