The Truth Sets Free

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     The Truth Sets Free

Pretending to be Christian won’t carry you far,
A mask soon slips, revealing who you are.
It drains the soul, it weakens the song,
For pretense can’t hold very long.

But with Jesus within and the Spirit to guide,
Your burden is lifted, with peace inside.
His strength will carry, His mercy will lead,
Supplying each step with the grace you need.

For pretending is false, but truth is the key,
Only through Christ can the captive go free.
Without His light, confusion will reign,
But His truth brings hope and eternal gain.

So cast off the mask, let His love shine through,
For freedom is found when His Word is true.

Jhn 8:32  And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. 

Mark C. Waldrop

From the message of Pastor Garrett McNew Wednesday evening, August 20, 2025  
Lighthouse Baptist Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado

August 22

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Our Father Knows Best
Daily Devotional: 
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Psa 34:1 Of David, when he changed his behavior before Abimelech, so that he drove him out, and he went away. I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

Scripture furnished by Les Connell Jr

Reflection:
David’s declaration to bless the Lord at all times, even in the midst of challenging circumstances, is a powerful testimony of faith and trust in God. When David feigned madness before Abimelech to escape danger, he still found reason to praise the Lord. This verse reminds us that our Father knows best and is worthy of praise in every situation, whether in times of joy or in times of trial.

Praising God continually, as David did, shifts our focus from our problems to His greatness. It strengthens our faith and brings us into a closer relationship with Him. By keeping His praise on our lips, we acknowledge His sovereignty and trust in His perfect plan for our lives. This act of worship not only honors God but also transforms our perspective, filling us with hope and gratitude.

Meditation:
Consider the times when you have faced difficulties and how praising God has helped you navigate those moments. Reflect on God’s faithfulness and provision in your life. How can you incorporate continual praise into your daily routine, regardless of your circumstances?

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I choose to bless Your name at all times. Help me to keep Your praise continually in my mouth, no matter what I face. Thank You for Your faithfulness and for guiding me through every situation. Teach me to trust in Your wisdom and to find joy in Your presence. Fill my heart with gratitude and my lips with praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Step:
Today, make a conscious effort to praise God throughout your day. Set aside moments to thank Him for His blessings and to acknowledge His goodness. Whether through prayer, singing, or speaking words of praise, let your heart and mouth be filled with continual worship. Share a testimony of God’s faithfulness with someone to encourage them in their faith.

Closing Thought:
Our Father knows best. Praising Him continually helps us to stay connected to His heart and to trust in His perfect will. Let His praise be ever on your lips, bringing you strength and joy in every circumstance.

May this devotional inspire you to keep God's praise continually in your mouth, drawing you closer to His presence and filling you with His peace and joy.

Jesus, The Cornerstone of Life

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   Jesus, The Cornerstone of Life

Upon the shifting sands of earth,
Where hopes can fade, and fears give birth,
A solid Rock stands strong, secure
The Cornerstone, both firm and pure.

No storm can shake, no tide can move,
The One who built His house with love.
In Christ alone, our lives are laid,
The sure foundation God has made.

When walls collapse and dreams take flight,
His strength remains, His truth is light.
Our faith is anchored, hearts made whole,
For Jesus is the Builder’s goal.

The stone once cast aside in scorn,
Now crowns the arch, new life reborn.
Through Him, the temple stands upright
The Cornerstone of grace and might.

So build your days on Him alone,
Let Christ be Lord, and Christ be known.
For life endures through every strife,
With Jesus as the Rock of life.

Eph 2:20  And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone; 

For God’s Honor and Glory
MarkWaldrop

Because We Are Blessed

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Because We Are Blessed

We give not to be blessed, but because we are blessed
Not chasing reward, nor seeking a test.
Our hands are full from heaven’s own store,
So we open our hearts and give even more.

Not gold, not praise, nor a crown on our head,
But love in abundance is what we’re fed.
So we pour it out, like rain on the land,
Not out of duty, but because we can.

For grace is a river that flows through the soul,
And giving is part of making it whole.
We give not to rise, nor to impress
We give, simply, because we are blessed.

“Freely you have received; freely give.”
Matthew 10:8b


For God’s Honor and Glory
MarkWaldrop

Hank Fallek WA3KK
“We give not to be blessed but because we are blessed”

Plant the Seed

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         Plant the Seed

Your job is simple, clear, and true,
To plant the seed God gave to you.
Not to change a hardened heart,
For only His Spirit can do that part.

Scatter the Word with gentle care,
Water with love, surround with prayer.
But leave the growth to Heaven’s hand,
For He alone makes fruit to stand.

Don’t trade your role, don’t cross the line,
The harvest is His, the planting is mine.
Trust the One whose plans are sure,
God’s work is perfect, steady, pure.

So plant with faith, and don’t despair,
The Gardener of souls is always there.
Do your part, then let it be
He’ll change the heart, He holds the key.

1Co 3:6  I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 

For God’s Honor and Glory
Mark Waldrop

Tom “Biscuit” Sims
“Your job is to plant the seed not change their hearts. Don't get your roll and God’s roll mixed up.”

Our Weakness, God’s Strength

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  Our Weakness, God’s Strength

When shadows fall and strength feels small,
When burdens rise and courage stalls,
The path of weakness, worn and frail,
Leads to a God whose power prevails.

For broken hearts and trembling hands
Are met by grace that understands.
Our empty cup, His love will fill,
Our fainting steps, His sovereign will.

In weakness, pride is stripped away,
And heaven’s strength comes forth to stay.
The less of me, the more of Him,
His power shines where mine grows dim.

So boast not in what you can do,
But in the God who carries you.
Our weakness opens wide the door—
His strength is perfect, evermore.

2Co 12:9  And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 

For God’s Honor and Glory
MarkWaldrop

Gunny Cakste KE8RTS
“Our weakness is the pathway to God’s Strength”

August 21

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Our Father Knows Best
Daily Devotional: 
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Num 6:24 The LORD bless you and keep you;  
Num 6:25 the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you;  
Num 6:26 the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.”

Scripture Num 6:24-26 furnished by Hank Fallek

Reflection:
In these verses, God instructs Aaron and his sons to bless the people of Israel with a beautiful and powerful blessing. This blessing reflects God's desire to protect, favor, and bring peace to His people. Our Father knows our need for His presence, grace, and peace in our lives.

The blessing is a reminder of God's enduring love and faithfulness. When God’s face shines upon us, it signifies His favor and attention. His graciousness reminds us of His unmerited kindness, and His peace is a gift that transcends understanding, calming our hearts and minds. This blessing assures us that our Heavenly Father is always watching over us, providing for our needs, and guiding us with His loving care.

Meditation:
Reflect on the meaning of each line of this blessing. Consider how the Lord has blessed and kept you, how His grace has been evident in your life, and how His peace has sustained you through various situations. Let these truths fill your heart with gratitude and trust in God’s continued care.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessings You bestow upon me daily. I am grateful for Your protection, Your favor, and Your peace. Help me to trust in Your loving care and to rest in the assurance that You are always with me. May Your face shine upon me and may I live each day in the light of Your grace and peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Step:
Today, take a moment to bless someone in your life with these words. Speak or write this blessing to a family member, friend, or coworker, reminding them of God’s love and care for them. As you do, reflect on the impact of speaking blessings over others and the power of God’s word in their lives.

Closing Thought:
Our Father knows best. He desires to bless us, keep us, shine His face upon us, be gracious to us, and give us peace. Embrace this blessing, and let it shape your life and interactions with others, bringing hope and encouragement.

May this devotional fill you with a deep sense of God’s blessing and peace, encouraging you to trust in His unwavering care and love.

August 20

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Our Father Knows Best
Daily Devotional: 
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Pro 24:13 My son, eat honey, for it is good, and the drippings of the honeycomb are sweet to your taste.  
Pro 24:14 Know that wisdom is such to your soul; if you find it, there will be a future, and your hope will not be cut off.
Scripture furnished by George Ferguson

Reflection:
The comparison of honey's sweetness to the value of wisdom in these verses is a powerful illustration. Just as honey is a natural source of delight and nourishment, wisdom is essential for the well-being of our souls. Our Father knows that true wisdom, which comes from Him, is vital for a fulfilling and hopeful life.

Honey is pleasant and beneficial to our physical bodies, but wisdom nourishes our inner being, providing guidance, understanding, and a sense of purpose. When we seek and embrace God's wisdom, we lay a foundation for a secure and hopeful future. God's wisdom helps us navigate life's complexities and challenges, leading us toward a life that aligns with His perfect will.

Meditation:
Think about the sweetness of honey and how it brings pleasure and sustenance. Reflect on how God's wisdom has been sweet and beneficial in your life. Consider moments where divine wisdom has guided you through difficult decisions or brought clarity and peace.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your wisdom, which is sweeter than honey and more valuable than any earthly treasure. Help me to seek Your wisdom daily and to apply it to my life. Grant me understanding and discernment in all my decisions, knowing that Your wisdom leads to a hopeful and secure future. Fill my heart with Your truth and guide me by Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Step:
Today, spend time reading and meditating on a passage of Scripture that speaks about wisdom. Ask God to reveal His wisdom to you and how you can apply it in your current circumstances. Share a nugget of wisdom you’ve learned with a friend or family member, encouraging them to seek God’s guidance as well.

Closing Thought:
Our Father knows best. He provides us with wisdom that is sweet to our souls and essential for our future. Embrace His wisdom, and you will find hope and security that will never be cut off.

May this devotional encourage you to seek and cherish God’s wisdom, knowing that it leads to a fulfilling and hopeful life.

August 19

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Our Father Knows Best
Daily Devotional: 
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Jhn 7:38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.
Scripture provided by Ernie Blevins K3EB

Reflection:
In this verse, Jesus offers a profound promise to those who believe in Him: the presence of the Holy Spirit within us will be like rivers of living water, constantly refreshing and sustaining us. This living water symbolizes the life and vitality that comes from a relationship with Jesus. It is an assurance that our Father knows our deepest needs and provides for them in ways that bring true fulfillment and peace.

The imagery of rivers of living water suggests abundance and continuous flow. Just as rivers bring life to everything they touch, the Holy Spirit brings renewal, growth, and vitality to our lives. Believing in Jesus means more than just acknowledging His existence; it involves trusting Him fully and allowing His Spirit to work within us, transforming us and flowing through us to bless others.

Meditation:
Reflect on the promise of living water in your life. Consider how the Holy Spirit has been a source of comfort, guidance, and strength for you. Think about the areas in your life where you need more of this living water and ask God to fill you anew.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit, the living water that flows within me. Help me to believe in You more deeply and to trust in Your provision and guidance. Let Your Spirit refresh and renew me daily, bringing life and vitality to every part of my being. Use me as a vessel to share Your love and grace with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Step:
Today, take a moment to sit quietly and invite the Holy Spirit to fill you afresh. Listen for His guidance and allow His presence to bring peace and clarity to your heart. Look for an opportunity to share God’s love and encouragement with someone else, letting the rivers of living water flow through you.

Closing Thought:
Our Father knows best. He provides the living water of His Spirit to refresh, sustain, and guide us. Trust in Him and allow His abundant life to flow through you, bringing renewal and blessing to yourself and others.

May this devotional inspire you to draw closer to Jesus and experience the life-giving flow of the Holy Spirit in every aspect of your life.

Have You Witnessed

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    Have You Witnessed

Have you witnessed the Crucifixion of Jesus?
Have you seen His nail-pierced hands?
The crown of thorns, the cruel cross,
The weight of sin none else withstands?

Have you heard the cry, “It is finished,”
As heaven’s veil was torn in two?
The Lamb of God, despised, afflicted,
Yet bleeding out His love for you?

Until you gaze upon that sorrow,
Until you see what mercy planned,
The truth remains but dim and distant—
It dawns through scars in nail-pierced hands.

And when you do, your heart surrenders,
No longer blind, but given sight.
For at the cross, the grave defeated,
The Truth Himself makes dark things light.

Jhn 20:27 Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe."
Jhn 20:28  Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!"
Jhn 20:29  Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

For God’s Honor and Glory
MarkWaldrop