Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

John 15:4-5
“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”

In these powerful words, Jesus reminds us that true fruitfulness in our lives only comes from a deep connection with Him. Like a branch attached to the vine, we draw our strength, our nourishment, and our ability to flourish from Jesus Himself. When we abide in Him—rest in His presence, lean on His wisdom, and depend on His love—we are empowered to bear fruit that will last. 

Apart from Him, we can do nothing of lasting significance. Our plans and efforts may seem successful in the moment, but without the life-giving connection to the true Vine, they fade away. Yet, when we rely on Jesus, trusting Him with our hearts and lives, we will see fruit that brings glory to God and blesses others.

Abiding in Christ is not a one-time event; it’s a daily choice. It’s choosing to stay connected to Him in prayer, to listen to His voice in the Word, and to trust His leading in every situation. Our Father knows best, and as we abide in Jesus, we can be confident that He will bring forth the fruit He desires for our lives.

Prayer
Father, help me to abide in Your Son, Jesus, each and every day. Teach me to depend on You fully and to trust that apart from You, I can do nothing. May my life bear the fruit of Your love and grace, as I remain connected to the true Vine. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

As we walk through life’s ups and downs, it can be difficult to always rejoice or give thanks in the midst of trials. Yet, these verses remind us that God’s will for us is not just to endure our circumstances but to embrace them with joy and gratitude. He knows what is best for us, even when we don’t fully understand.

Rejoicing always doesn’t mean that we ignore pain or pretend struggles don’t exist. It means we trust that God is at work, even in the difficulties. When we pray without ceasing, we keep an open, ongoing conversation with our Father, leaning on Him through every moment of our day. And when we give thanks in all circumstances, we acknowledge that His plans are greater than our own, that He is working all things together for good.

Today, as you move through your day, remember that our Father knows best. Rejoice in His goodness, pray in every moment, and give thanks, even when it’s hard to see the bigger picture. His will for your life is filled with purpose, and He is with you every step of the way.

Prayer
Father, thank You for Your constant presence and Your perfect plan. Help me to trust You more each day, to rejoice in Your goodness, to pray continually, and to give thanks in all things. You know what’s best for me, and I surrender my will to Yours. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Luke 10:41-42
“And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”

In this familiar passage, Martha is busy and anxious with many tasks, while her sister Mary chooses to sit at the feet of Jesus and listen to His teaching. Martha’s intentions were good, but she became overwhelmed by the demands of daily life. Jesus gently reminds her that amidst all the worries and tasks, only one thing is truly necessary — to be close to Him.

Sometimes, we are like Martha — busy, stressed, and consumed by the demands of life. We feel the pressure to get everything done, to handle every responsibility, and to solve every problem. But Jesus reminds us that our true peace and purpose come from spending time with Him. God knows what we need before we even ask. He sees the big picture, and He knows what’s best for us.

When life becomes overwhelming, we must remember to pause, seek His presence, and trust that our Father knows best. Let us choose the good part, like Mary, and rest in the knowledge that what we receive from God can never be taken away.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to focus on what truly matters and not be overwhelmed by the busyness of life. Remind me to seek Your presence daily and trust in Your perfect wisdom. Amen.  

Reflection:
What things in your life are causing you anxiety or distraction? How can you turn to God for peace and guidance today?

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

2 Corinthians 5:8
“We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”

As believers, we long for the day when we will be fully present with the Lord, free from the struggles of this world. It’s natural to yearn for our eternal home, where we will be in perfect union with God. Yet, while we are here on earth, we must trust that our Father knows best. He has us in this world for a reason—our work, our growth, and His purpose for our lives are not yet complete.

Though we may feel weary at times, God’s timing is perfect. There are still hearts to touch, love to share, and a journey of faith to walk. When we feel the tug of eternity pulling us, we must remember that our Father holds us in His hands, guiding us in His wisdom.

Each day we are given is an opportunity to glorify Him, to live with purpose, and to reflect His love to others. Let us trust in His plan, knowing that when the time comes, we will be at home with Him, where peace and joy are everlasting.

Prayer:
Father, we trust in Your perfect timing and wisdom. Help us to live each day with purpose, knowing that You have us here for a reason. Strengthen our hearts when we feel weary, and remind us that our true home is with You. Until that day, may we serve You with joy and faithfulness. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Give us today our daily bread. Matthew 6:11

Reflection:
In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus teaches us to ask for “our daily bread.” These simple words reveal a profound truth: God is the source of all we need—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Asking for our “daily bread” reminds us to rely on God’s provision each day and to trust Him for our needs.

Too often, we focus on tomorrow’s worries or yesterday’s regrets. But Jesus calls us to live in the present, depending on our Father to give us what we need today. He knows exactly what’s best for us, far better than we do ourselves. He asks us to trust Him daily and receive His provisions one day at a time.

Just as the Israelites in the wilderness received manna each day, we, too, receive daily sustenance from God’s hand. This is not just physical bread but also spiritual nourishment—His grace, wisdom, and strength to face whatever the day brings. When we ask God for our daily bread, we are acknowledging that He alone is our provider, and we express our faith in His perfect timing and care.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for being the source of all I need. Help me to trust You today and not worry about tomorrow. Give me the faith to rely on Your perfect provision. Teach me to seek Your will and find satisfaction in the daily bread You provide. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Thought for the Day:
Trust God for today—He knows what’s best and will always provide in His perfect timing.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best 
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture: Matthew 18:1-4

Mat 18:1  At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?"
Mat 18:2  He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them.
Mat 18:3  And he said: "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
Mat 18:4  Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

In Matthew 18, the disciples ask Jesus a question many of us have probably wondered at some point: "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" We live in a world that often rewards power, status, and achievement, so it's easy to assume that greatness in God’s kingdom works the same way. But Jesus' response is both simple and profound: He places a little child before them and tells them that unless they change and become like children, they will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

What does it mean to become like a child? Children trust without reservation. They approach life with humility and wonder. They are not weighed down by pride or the need to prove themselves. Jesus calls us to that same childlike faith, one that leans wholly on the Father, trusting that He knows best, even when we don't fully understand.

True greatness in God’s kingdom is not about achieving success, but about humbling ourselves. It's about surrendering our self-reliance and pride, and acknowledging that we need God every day. Just as a child depends on a parent for guidance, provision, and protection, we must depend on our Heavenly Father in the same way. 

Reflection:
Today, reflect on areas in your life where you’ve been relying on your own strength instead of trusting in God's plan. Are you willing to let go of control and humble yourself like a child, trusting that your Father knows best?  

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, teach me to approach You with childlike faith and humility. Help me to trust You fully, knowing that Your plans are better than mine. Remind me daily that true greatness is found in surrendering to Your will. Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Isaiah 40:12 – "Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens? Who has held the dust of the earth in a basket, or weighed the mountains on the scales and the hills in a balance?"

In the vastness of creation, it’s easy to feel small and insignificant. When we think about the oceans, the mountains, the skies, and the intricate balance of nature, we can’t help but be awestruck by the power and majesty of God. Isaiah 40:12 reminds us of the greatness of our Creator. He holds the entire universe in His hands—every drop of water, every grain of sand, and every mountain peak is under His control.

This truth brings us incredible comfort, knowing that the same God who created and sustains the universe also knows the details of our lives. If He can measure the waters and balance the mountains, how much more can He handle the concerns of our hearts? Our Father truly knows best. His wisdom is beyond measure, and His care for us is personal and profound.

No matter the challenges or uncertainties you face, remember that you are in the hands of the One who has measured the seas and marked the heavens. He is in control, and His plans for you are perfectly timed and perfectly measured.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for being the Creator of all things and for holding the universe together. Help me to trust You in every aspect of my life, knowing that Your wisdom is far beyond what I can comprehend. May I rest in the assurance that You know best and are always in control. Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

1 Corinthians 10:31 – "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."

In life, we often find ourselves overwhelmed by the choices we must make and the responsibilities we bear. Whether it's decisions about our career, family, or even the small daily tasks, we can sometimes feel uncertain about the best way forward. But as believers, we are reminded that our Father knows best. Every action we take—whether it's something as simple as eating or drinking—can be done in a way that glorifies God.

God's desire is for us to seek Him in all that we do, trusting that His wisdom surpasses our understanding. We don't need to have all the answers. Instead, we are called to place our faith in Him, knowing that when we live with the intent to honor Him, we are walking in the right direction.

Today, take a moment to reflect on how even the smallest actions in your life can be transformed into an act of worship. Whether it's through kindness to a neighbor, diligence in your work, or patience in trials, know that your Father is guiding you. His wisdom is perfect, and His plans for you are good. Whatever you do today, do it for His glory, and trust that He will take care of the rest.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your wisdom and guidance in my life. Help me to seek Your glory in all that I do, whether in big decisions or small actions. May my life be a reflection of Your love and grace. I trust that You know what is best for me. Amen.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.”  
Matthew 6:1

Reflection:
Our natural desire for recognition and approval can often tempt us to display our good deeds for others to see. We might feel validated when others praise us, yet Jesus reminds us that God sees beyond outward appearances. He sees the intentions of our hearts. When we serve others or practice righteousness, it should be with a heart that seeks to glorify God, not gain attention or approval from people.

God promises that when we do things in secret, without the desire for human praise, He will reward us. His rewards are far greater and more enduring than the fleeting approval of others. Trust that our Father, who knows all things, sees your heart and is pleased when your actions flow from a place of love and humility.

*Prayer:*  
Heavenly Father, help me to seek Your approval alone. Purify my motives so that all I do is for Your glory and not for human recognition. Remind me daily that You see my heart and will reward me according to Your perfect will. May I serve You faithfully in all I do, trusting that You know what’s best for me. Amen. 

Thought for the Day:
God's reward comes when we serve Him with pure hearts, not seeking human praise but seeking to glorify Him.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture: Isaiah 48:17
"This is what the LORD says your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: 'I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.'"

Reflection:

Life often feels like a journey full of choices, paths, and uncertainties. We try to navigate through the twists and turns, sometimes unsure if we're heading in the right direction. It's easy to rely on our understanding or the wisdom of others, but there’s a greater guide available to us—our Heavenly Father.

In Isaiah 48:17, God reminds us that He is not only our Creator but also our Redeemer, the One who knows us intimately and has our best interests at heart. He promises to teach us what is best and to direct our steps. This is not just guidance; it’s a loving assurance that He knows the path we should take, even when we cannot see the way ahead.

Our Father doesn’t just leave us to figure things out on our own. He actively teaches and directs us, leading us away from harm and towards what will truly benefit us. When we trust in His wisdom and lean on His understanding, we find peace and security in the knowledge that He knows what’s best.

Today, let’s commit to seeking His guidance in every decision, big or small. Let us be humble enough to acknowledge that His ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:9). In doing so, we will walk confidently in the path He has laid out for us, assured that it is the best path.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for being my guide and teacher. Help me to trust in Your wisdom and to seek Your direction in all things. I surrender my plans and desires to You, knowing that You know what is best for me. Lead me in the way I should go, and give me the strength to follow Your guidance with faith and obedience. In Jesus' name, Amen.