Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
 1 Samuel 20:42 (NIV)
“Jonathan said to David, ‘Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD, saying, ‘The LORD is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.’ Then David left, and Jonathan went back to the town.”

Reflection:
The friendship between Jonathan and David is one of the most remarkable examples of loyalty, love, and faith in the Bible. Despite the fact that Jonathan’s father, King Saul, sought David’s life, Jonathan remained steadfast in his loyalty to David, knowing that God had chosen David for a great purpose. Their bond was so strong that they made a covenant before the Lord, entrusting their futures to God’s hands.

This moment in Scripture is a powerful reminder that true friendship is rooted in faith and loyalty, not circumstance. Jonathan and David’s trust in the Lord allowed them to part in peace, even as they faced uncertain futures. They trusted that their covenant, sealed in the name of the Lord, would extend to their descendants, showing us that God honors relationships built on love and faithfulness.

Our Father knows best, even in the midst of difficult separations and challenges. When we put our trust in Him, we can face life’s trials with the assurance that His will is greater than our own. Just as Jonathan and David parted in peace, trusting in God’s plan, we too can find peace in trusting that God will guide us through whatever challenges we face, protecting and blessing the relationships that honor Him.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of true friendship, grounded in faith and love. Help me to build relationships that reflect Your will, and teach me to trust You with the future of these bonds. Like Jonathan and David, may I always place my faith in You, knowing that You are the witness of all that is done in Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Application:

	1.	Reflect on Your Friendships: Consider the friendships in your life. Are they rooted in faith and mutual love for God? Take time to thank God for the friends who bring you closer to Him.
	2.	Strengthen Bonds in Christ: Just as Jonathan and David made a covenant before the Lord, seek ways to honor God in your friendships. Pray with and for your friends, and encourage one another in your faith journeys.
	3.	Trust God with Your Relationships: Even in times of separation or challenge, trust that God will protect and guide your relationships, just as He did with Jonathan and David.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture: 
Exodus 2:11 (KJV)
“And it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown, that he went out unto his brethren, and looked on their burdens: and he spied an Egyptian smiting an Hebrew, one of his brethren.”

Reflection:
Moses, raised in the privilege of Pharaoh’s house, was not blind to the suffering of his people, the Hebrews. When he witnessed an Egyptian abusing one of his fellow Hebrews, Moses was moved to act. This moment marked a significant turning point in his life, as he began to identify with his oppressed people and felt the stirring of a greater purpose within him.

Often in life, we find ourselves in situations where we must make decisions between comfort and action. Like Moses, we might see the suffering of others and feel compelled to do something, even when it requires stepping out of our comfort zone. God places us in certain circumstances for a reason, and sometimes, it takes a moment of compassion, outrage, or empathy to realize the calling He has set before us.

Our Father knows best, even when we face challenging situations that test our morals and convictions. Moses’ journey was not without mistakes, but God was shaping him to become the leader who would one day deliver His people. In the same way, God is shaping us through the burdens we witness and the actions we take. Let us trust His process, knowing that He sees the bigger picture.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me eyes to see the burdens of others. Help me to act with wisdom and compassion, just as You led Moses to respond to the suffering of his people. Guide me in Your will and give me the courage to step out in faith, trusting that You are preparing me for a greater purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Application:

	1.	Notice the Burdens Around You: Take time today to reflect on the struggles of those in your life. How can you be a source of encouragement or support?
	2.	Pray for Guidance: Ask God for wisdom in how to respond when you see someone in need. Let His guidance direct your actions.
	3.	Act with Compassion: Even small acts of kindness can have a significant impact. Look for opportunities to be a blessing to others today.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture: 
Isaiah 14:12-15 (KJV)
“How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.”

Reflection:
The fall of Lucifer is a sobering reminder of the dangers of pride and rebellion against God. Lucifer, once a magnificent angel, desired to elevate himself above God, seeking power and glory that were not his to claim. His pride and ambition led to his downfall, showing that even the most exalted creature is subject to the authority of the Creator.

Our Father knows best, and He desires that we walk humbly before Him. Pride can blind us, leading us to believe we can navigate life by our own wisdom and strength. But when we seek to exalt ourselves, we stray from God’s will, just as Lucifer did. God’s plans for us are rooted in love and righteousness, and they require us to trust in His wisdom, not in our own ambitions.

Let Lucifer’s fall serve as a warning: no matter how much we achieve or how powerful we think we are, it is God’s will that prevails. Our greatest strength lies not in our ability to rise above others, but in our humility and submission to God’s authority.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, protect me from the dangers of pride and self-exaltation. Help me to remember that all I have comes from You, and that Your plans are always greater than my own. Teach me to walk humbly in Your ways and to seek Your will above my own desires. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Application:

	1.	Check Your Heart: Regularly examine your motives and actions. Are you seeking to elevate yourself, or are you seeking to glorify God?
	2.	Cultivate Humility: Practice humility by serving others and recognizing God’s hand in your accomplishments.
	3.	Surrender to God’s Will: In all your plans and ambitions, continually ask, “Is this in line with God’s will for my life?”

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 5:15 (KJV)
“As he came forth of his mother’s womb, naked shall he return to go as he came, and shall take nothing of his labour, which he may carry away in his hand.”

Reflection:
This verse reminds us of the transient nature of life. We come into this world with nothing, and we leave with nothing. All the labor, possessions, and accomplishments we accumulate in this world are ultimately left behind when we return to God. The real treasures we carry are not material but spiritual—the love, faith, and deeds done for His glory.

God, in His wisdom, knows what truly matters. When we live with the understanding that earthly pursuits are temporary, we are better able to focus on the eternal—our relationship with God, our service to others, and the growth of our spirit. Our Father knows that these are the things that carry eternal value, and He calls us to trust Him and live accordingly.

As we navigate our daily lives, let us remember that everything we do should be aligned with His purpose and guided by His wisdom. Our Father knows best, and His plans for us are far greater than anything we could accumulate or achieve on our own.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help me to remember that my time on earth is temporary and that my true treasures lie in You. Guide me to live with eternal purpose, serving You and others with love and humility. May I find peace in knowing that You are in control, and may I seek Your wisdom in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Application:

	1.	Examine Priorities: Reflect on what you’re striving for in life. Are your goals centered around temporary gains, or are you seeking what has eternal value?
	2.	Practice Generosity: Since we take nothing with us, practice giving—whether it’s time, resources, or encouragement—to those around you.
	3.	Seek God’s Will: In your prayers and actions, continually seek to align with God’s purpose, trusting that He knows what is best for you.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
1 Corinthians 10:13 – “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

Reflection:
In life, we all face challenges, temptations, and struggles that feel overwhelming. Sometimes it seems as though we are walking through storms we cannot handle. But this verse reminds us that we are not alone in our trials. What we experience is not unique; it’s part of the human condition. God, in His infinite wisdom, knows our limits better than we do.

Our Father is faithful. He does not allow us to endure more than we can bear, even when it feels impossible. When we feel tempted or burdened, God has already prepared a way of escape, a path to stand firm and endure. Sometimes that way out may be strength to resist, wisdom to choose differently, or even the grace to ask for help. Whatever the situation, we can trust that God is with us, offering a way forward.

When we face moments of weakness, we need to remember that God’s faithfulness provides the strength we need. Rather than feeling defeated, we can stand confidently, knowing that He will always provide a way for us to endure and overcome.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness. In moments of temptation and trial, remind me that You are with me, providing strength and a way out. Help me to trust in Your plan and Your power to carry me through. Amen.

Thought for the Day:
When temptation strikes, God’s faithfulness guarantees a way to stand firm—trust Him to provide the strength you need.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Acts 17:34 – “Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.”

Reflection:
In this verse, Paul’s message in Athens at the Areopagus, where he proclaimed the unknown God, reached diverse individuals. Dionysius, a respected intellectual, and Damaris, an unnamed woman, both heard and believed. What a reminder that God’s call reaches every heart, regardless of status or background! He knows exactly who will hear His voice and respond.

In our daily walk, we may not always understand how our actions or words are impacting others. We often focus on the results we can see, but God is working in ways far beyond our comprehension. His wisdom surpasses ours, and He knows best who will come to faith through our obedience.

When we share the Gospel or serve in His name, we should trust that God is orchestrating everything for His purpose. Even when our efforts seem small or fruitless, we are part of His greater plan. Like Paul, we may not witness immediate change, but God knows the hearts of those listening.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to trust in Your wisdom and timing. Even when I can’t see the results of my efforts, I know You are working for good. Use me, like Paul, to share Your message faithfully, trusting that You know best who will hear and believe. Amen.

Thought for the Day:
Trust God’s plan, for He knows whose hearts are ready to receive Him, even when we don’t.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Philippians 1:9-10
“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.”

Reflection:
There are times in life when we face decisions that seem overwhelming, choices that test our understanding and wisdom. In those moments, it’s easy to rely on our own limited insight, but as followers of Christ, we are reminded that our Heavenly Father knows best.

Paul’s prayer in Philippians is a beautiful reminder of this truth. He prays that love—God’s love in us—will grow deeper and deeper, leading to greater knowledge and insight. With that love guiding us, we are able to discern what is truly best, making decisions that reflect purity and righteousness as we look toward the day of Christ’s return.

God doesn’t just give us rules to follow; He fills us with His love, shaping our thoughts, actions, and desires. As we allow His love to abound in us, we gain the clarity we need to live lives that are blameless and pleasing to Him. Trust in His wisdom, for He always knows what is best for our hearts and lives.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Psalm 133:1-3 – “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.”

Reflection:

In Psalm 133, David paints a beautiful picture of unity among God’s people. He describes it as “good and pleasant,” a gift from God that brings peace and harmony. Unity is compared to the anointing oil poured on Aaron, symbolizing the consecration of a priest, setting him apart for God’s service. This imagery reminds us that living in harmony with others is not just desirable—it is holy. It’s a reflection of God’s grace at work in our relationships.

The psalm also likens unity to the refreshing dew on Mount Hermon, which nourishes and brings life. In the same way, when we live in unity, we experience a renewal of spirit and a sense of God’s presence among us. This unity brings about blessings—life that is rich with God’s peace and abundance.

As believers, we are called to seek and protect this unity. Whether in our families, churches, or communities, God delights when we live in harmony with one another, for it is there that He bestows His blessings.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of unity among Your people. Help me to be an instrument of peace and harmony in all my relationships. May I seek unity with others, knowing that it brings Your blessings and life everlasting. Teach me to live in a way that reflects Your love and grace. Amen.

Takeaway:
Today, strive to live in unity with others, reflecting God’s peace and love. Unity is not only a source of joy but a channel for God’s blessings to flow.


May 29
Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Matthew 11:25 – “At that time Jesus said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.’”

Reflection:

In this verse, Jesus praises God for revealing His truths not to the “wise and learned,” but to “little children.” This is a powerful reminder that God’s wisdom often transcends human intellect and pride. The “little children” here represent those with childlike faith—those who humbly trust in God and are open to His guidance without trying to control or outthink Him.

We live in a world that celebrates human knowledge and achievement, but Jesus shows us a different path. God’s greatest truths—about love, grace, and salvation—are not grasped through cleverness or academic prowess. They are revealed to hearts that are simple, open, and ready to trust.

This teaches us a vital lesson: the key to understanding God’s will and purpose is not found in striving for worldly wisdom, but in coming to Him with humility. When we approach God with the innocence and trust of a child, He opens our eyes to His deeper truths, giving us peace and understanding beyond what the world can offer.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for revealing Your truths to those who come to You with a humble heart. Help me to approach You with childlike faith, setting aside my pride and intellectual striving. Teach me to trust You fully, knowing that Your wisdom is greater than anything I can imagine. Open my heart to receive Your guidance today. Amen.

Takeaway:
Today, embrace childlike faith. Trust God’s wisdom, even when you don’t fully understand it, and He will reveal His deep truths to your hea

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Matthew 11:25 – “At that time Jesus said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.’”

Reflection:

In this verse, Jesus praises God for revealing His truths not to the “wise and learned,” but to “little children.” This is a powerful reminder that God’s wisdom often transcends human intellect and pride. The “little children” here represent those with childlike faith—those who humbly trust in God and are open to His guidance without trying to control or outthink Him.

We live in a world that celebrates human knowledge and achievement, but Jesus shows us a different path. God’s greatest truths—about love, grace, and salvation—are not grasped through cleverness or academic prowess. They are revealed to hearts that are simple, open, and ready to trust.

This teaches us a vital lesson: the key to understanding God’s will and purpose is not found in striving for worldly wisdom, but in coming to Him with humility. When we approach God with the innocence and trust of a child, He opens our eyes to His deeper truths, giving us peace and understanding beyond what the world can offer.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for revealing Your truths to those who come to You with a humble heart. Help me to approach You with childlike faith, setting aside my pride and intellectual striving. Teach me to trust You fully, knowing that Your wisdom is greater than anything I can imagine. Open my heart to receive Your guidance today. Amen.

Takeaway:
Today, embrace childlike faith. Trust God’s wisdom, even when you don’t fully understand it, and He will reveal His deep truths to your heart.

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Proverbs 19:20 – “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.”
Proverbs 19:21 – “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.”

Reflection:

As we go through life, we often make our own plans, set our own goals, and chart our own paths. It’s easy to believe that if we work hard enough, we can control our future. But the wisdom of Proverbs 19:21 reminds us that no matter how many plans we make, it is ultimately God’s purpose that prevails. His ways are higher, His knowledge is greater, and His love for us is deeper than we can comprehend.

God’s guidance comes through discipline and advice, as Proverbs 19:20 teaches. Sometimes, we need correction or a nudge to stay on course. These moments can be uncomfortable, but they are expressions of His care. When we accept them, we grow in wisdom and align ourselves more fully with His will.

Life might not always go according to our plans, but we can take comfort in knowing that God’s purpose is perfect. His path for us may not be the easiest, but it is the best. Trusting in His guidance and sovereignty brings peace, especially when we face uncertainties or detours.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for knowing what is best for my life. Help me to listen to Your voice, accept Your discipline, and seek wisdom in all things. Even when my plans fall apart, remind me that Your purpose prevails. Teach me to trust in You fully, knowing that Your love and guidance will never fail me. Amen.

Takeaway:
Today, embrace the wisdom that comes from trusting in God’s purpose. Even when your plans change, remember that His plans are always for your good.