Margarita & Stace Crews – Page 129

September 13, 2026

TAKE HIS CROSS / Matthew 10:38

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 10:38

And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.

Take His Cross: What It Truly Means to Follow Jesus

We live in a world obsessed with comfort, convenience, and self-promotion. We are constantly told to “find ourselves,” chase our own happiness, and avoid discomfort at all costs. But when we open the Gospels, we find a message from Jesus that radically contradicts our modern culture.

In Matthew 10:38, Jesus issues a stark, uncompromising boundary line for anyone who wants to be called His disciple:

“And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.”

These words can feel heavy, even jarring. But if we look closer at what Jesus is truly asking, we discover that the heavy wooden cross He calls us to carry is actually the path to ultimate freedom, purpose, and joy.

The Reality of the Cross

To understand this verse, we have to look at it through the eyes of the first-century disciples. When Jesus spoke these words, the crucifixion had not yet happened. However, the disciples knew exactly what a cross meant.

In the Roman world, seeing someone carry a cross meant only one thing: they were on death row, walking toward their execution. It was a public display of total submission to a higher authority.

When Jesus tells us to take up our cross, He isn’t talking about enduring a minor daily annoyance, a difficult boss, or an annoying traffic jam. He is calling for something far more radical. He is calling for the death of our self-will.

Denying Self vs. Self-Denial

There is a major difference between practicing self-denial and denying self.

Self-denial is occasionally giving up something good—like fasting from social media or sweets for a season.
Denying self means surrendering the driver’s seat of your life to Jesus Christ entirely. It means saying, “Not my will, but Yours be done.”

To take His cross means we choose Christ when temptation whispers, when comfort competes with obedience, and when popularity pulls against conviction. It means exchanging our small, temporary plans for His eternal, magnificent plans.

The Paradox of Worthiness

Jesus says that if we don’t take up the cross, we are “not worthy” of Him. This doesn’t mean we have to earn our salvation through suffering. Rather, it means that a faith without sacrifice isn’t real discipleship.

The beautiful paradox of the cross is found in the very next verse: “He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matthew 10:39).

When we try to fiercely protect our own comfort, safety, and desires, we end up empty handed. But when we willingly lay our lives down at the feet of Jesus, we find the true, abundant, eternal life we were always searching for.

Carrying It Daily

You do not have to carry your cross alone. The One who asks you to follow Him is the same Savior who went down death row for you first. He knows the weight of the wood, and He provides the exact grace and strength you need for every single step.

Today, choose commitment over convenience. Pick up your cross, fix your eyes on Jesus, and follow Him.

A Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus,

Thank You for willingly carrying the ultimate cross for my sake, taking the punishment and shame that belonged to me so that I could be rescued. Forgive me for the times I have chased comfort and convenience over true obedience to Your Word.

Today, I surrender my own desires, my pride, and my plans into Your hands. Give me the courage and strength to pick up my cross daily and follow You faithfully. When the road is narrow and difficult, remind my heart that You are walking right beside me, and that true life is found only in You.

May my life be a living sacrifice that brings glory to Your holy name.

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 13, 2026

I DID NOT COME TO BRING PEACE / MATTHEW 10:34

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 10:34

Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.

The Hard Truth of the Gospel: Why the Prince of Peace Brings a Sword

We often love to focus on the comforting, serene images of Jesus. We rightly call Him the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6), celebrate His promise of peace to the peacemakers (Matthew 5:9), and rejoice that He came to restore our broken relationship with God, granting us ultimate peace with the Father (Romans 5:1).

But if we read the Gospels closely, we run into words that shock our modern sensibilities. In Matthew 10:34, Jesus declares: “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.”

How do we reconcile the Prince of Peace with the bearer of a sword?

The truth is, the message of Jesus Christ demands a choice—and that choice inherently brings division.

1. A Divide Between the Kingdom and the World

True faith in Christ immediately separates His followers from the ungodly ways of the world (Matthew 10:32-37). Jesus warned us that the Gospel would slice through the closest human relationships, creating deep divisions even within families (Luke 12:51-53). When you choose to follow Christ, your allegiances change. You can no longer walk in step with a culture that rejects its Creator, and that shift naturally creates a rift.

2. The Truth Invites Opposition

The preaching of God’s Word is beautiful, but to a world living in darkness, it is deeply confrontational. Throughout the New Testament, we see that the truth brings opposition, division, and persecution.

Religious leaders falsely accused Jesus (Matthew 12:24).
John the Baptist was imprisoned and executed for speaking truth to power (Matthew 14:4-12).
The early church faced constant violent backlash for refusing to stay silent (Acts 5:17, 7:54-60).

When we stand firmly on biblical truth, we should not be surprised when we face the same resistance.

3. Living by a Different Standard

Living according to Christ’s standards of righteousness makes you a misfit in a broken world. Jesus didn’t sugarcoat this reality; He explicitly told us that living righteously would bring ridicule and scorn from those who reject Him (Matthew 5:10-11). The world often tolerates a lot of things, but it rarely tolerates a life that exposes its own need for repentance.

4. Guarding the Faith from Within

The division Jesus speaks of doesn’t just happen between the church and the secular world. Defending the truth of God’s Word against spiritual distortion and false teaching brings division even within the church (2 Corinthians 11:12-15; Galatians 1:9). Standing up for sound doctrine is rarely popular, but Scripture commands us to contend for the faith, even when it causes friction among those who claim to be brothers and sisters in Christ (Philippians 1:15-17; 2 Timothy 1:15).

Embracing the Real Jesus

We are called to pursue peace, build unity, and spread the Gospel in absolute love (Ephesians 4:15). But we must do so with our eyes wide open. Loving people does not mean compromising the truth to avoid conflict.

Jesus’ sword is not a weapon of hatred or physical violence; it is the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. It cuts through lies, exposes hearts, and demands a decision. True peace with God requires a total surrender that the world simply will not understand. May we have the courage to hold the line, speak the truth in love, and follow the Prince of Peace—even when His truth brings the sword.

🧎 A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who reconciled us to You and gave us a peace that passes all human understanding. Lord, give us the courage to face the reality of the gospel. When standing for Your truth brings division, isolation, or ridicule, strengthen our hearts.

Help us to love our families and our neighbors deeply, but help us to love You above all else. Deliver us from the temptation to water down Your Word just to keep a false peace with the world. Arm us with the sword of the Spirit, and let Your truth guide our speech and our actions. May we speak boldly, love selflessly, and stand unshakeable in the face of opposition.

In Jesus’ mighty and holy name, we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 13, 2026

ACKNOWLEDGES ME BEFORE MEN / MATTHEW 10:32

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 10:32

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.

Beyond Casual Belief: What It Truly Means to Acknowledge Christ

We live in a culture where alignment is often measured by a simple click, a bio update, or a casual nod of approval. It is easy to fit into a crowd and quietly assent to a set of values. However, when Jesus speaks to His disciples in Matthew 10:32, He sets a standard that demands far more than casual agreement:

“Everyone therefore who acknowledges me before others, I also will acknowledge before my Father in heaven.”

To fully grasp the weight of this promise, we have to look closely at what Jesus meant when He spoke those words.

The True Weight of Homologeo

In our modern language, the word “acknowledge” can feel passive—like nodding at an acquaintance in a hallway or admitting that a statement is true. But the original Greek word used in this passage is homologeo.

Homologeo means much more than simply admitting our belief in or association with Christ. It is a powerful combination of two concepts: to agree with and to speak openly.

When you homologeo Christ, you are doing two distinct things:

Professing Him as Lord: You are declaring that He is the ultimate Leader and authority of your life. You agree with His standards, His truth, and His identity.
Doing so openly and unashamedly: You declare this truth publicly, even when facing those who actively oppose God, His ways, and His standards.

Homologeo is a bold act of allegiance. It is a covenant promise not to deny Him, a willingness to stand firm and speak out freely regardless of the social, personal, or professional cost.

Acknowledging Him “Before Men”

Jesus explicitly states that this acknowledgment must happen “before others”. True discipleship is never meant to be a hidden, private insurance policy.

It is easy to acknowledge Christ in the safety of a church building or around like-minded believers. The real test of homologeo comes when we step into the public square:

In our conversations: Speaking His name with confidence, sharing how He has transformed our lives, and refusing to compromise on biblical truth just to avoid awkwardness.
In our actions: Letting our choices, integrity, and daily conduct reflect His leadership, even when it makes us stand out or face criticism.
In the face of opposition: Choosing loyalty to Jesus over the approval of a culture that frequently pushes us to silence our faith.

The Eternal Echo

Jesus couples this profound command with an equally profound reward. He promises that when we stand up for Him on earth, He will stand up for us in eternity. He will advocate for us, claiming us as His own before the Father.

Our public acknowledgment of Him today has an eternal echo. Let us cast off the temptation to blend in or hide our light. Let us choose to live unashamedly, declaring by our words and our lives that Jesus Christ is Lord.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the incredible promise found in Your Word—that when we confess Jesus before others, He will confess us before You. Lord, forgive us for the moments where we have stayed silent out of fear, pride, or a desire to fit in with the world.

We ask for the grace and boldness to truly acknowledge Your Son. Let our faith be more than a private opinion; let it be a public reality. Grant us the courage to profess Jesus as the ultimate authority of our lives openly and unashamedly, even when facing opposition.

Fill us with the Holy Spirit so that our words, our character, and our choices clearly point others toward the Light. May our allegiance rest entirely in You.

In the mighty name of Jesus we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 13, 2026

YOU ARE WORTH MORE / MATTHEW 10:31

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 10:31

Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

You Are Worth More: Embracing God’s Ultimate Valuation of You

We live in a world that constantly tries to appraise our value. Society tells us our worth is tied to our achievements, our financial standing, our appearance, or our social circles. When we fall short of these shifting standards, it is easy to feel small, unnoticed, or forgotten.

But Jesus gives us a completely different standard of measurement. In Matthew 10:31, He delivers a profound truth that can quiet every insecurity:

“So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”

The Father Who Knows Every Detail

To understand the weight of this verse, look at what Jesus says just right before it. He notes that two sparrows are sold for a mere penny, yet not one of them falls to the ground apart from the Father’s care. Then He adds, “And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.”

Think about that. If God intricately tracks the lives of tiny, common birds, how much more does He track yours? You are not a random speck in a vast universe. God values you for exactly who you are. He hand-crafted your special abilities and is deeply aware of your personal needs.

Loved Beyond Measure

God desires your love and companionship so intensely that He did not stop at simply watching over you from a distance. He proved your worth on Mount Calvary. He sent Jesus to die on the cross to pay the price for your sin (John 3:16). You were bought with an incredibly high price, which means you are of priceless value to the Creator of the universe.

Because you are His child, you are never truly isolated. You are never separated from His presence, His care, or His deepest concern. He doesn’t just look at your life from a high altitude; He knows your specific difficulties, your quietest needs, and your heaviest sorrows (Matthew 6:8).

A Faith That Honors Him

You are so important to God that He treasures your faithfulness, love, and loyalty above all earthly things. Life will inevitably bring seasons of great difficulty or trouble. However, when you maintain a steady faith in Christ through those storms, that faith becomes a beautiful testimony. Your trust in Him during hard times is precious to God and brings Him immense honor.

When your circumstances scream that you are alone, let the true Word of God anchor your soul. You can find beautiful, unwavering assurances of His protection and love throughout Scripture:

Rest and Refuge: Find comfort in His promises to answer you in trouble (Psalms 91:14-16) and invite you to find rest for your soul (Matthew 11:28-29).
Eternal Security: Rest in the truth that He will never lose His own (John 14:3; John 17:24) and that nothing can separate you from His purpose (Romans 8:28).
Inscribed on His Hands: Remember that He has literally engraved you on the palms of His hands (Isaiah 49:16) and loves you with an everlasting, foundational love (1 John 4:19).

Stop letting the world appraise your heart. Walk forward today in the quiet confidence that the Lord of heaven and earth knows your name, counts the hairs on your head, and affirms that you are worth more.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the beautiful reminder that I am never hidden from Your sight. Forgive me for the times I look to the world for validation or let fear tell me that I am forgotten. Lord, settle my heart in the truth of Matthew 10:31 today. Help me truly grasp how deeply I am loved, valued, and known by You.

Thank You for sending Jesus to pay the ultimate price for my life. When trials come and my faith is tested, strengthen my resolve and let my loyalty bring honor to Your name. I rest in Your presence, knowing that You care for the sparrows and that You will surely care for me.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 13, 2026

HELL / MATTHEW 10:28

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 10:28

And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

The Heavy and Necessary Truth of Matthew 10:28

In a world that constantly encourages us to seek comfort, certain truths in Scripture can feel incredibly difficult to process. One of those truths is the reality of hell. In Matthew 10:28, Jesus delivers a sobering command to His disciples:

“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”

As believers, it can be tempting to focus exclusively on the themes of God’s love, grace, and mercy while sweeping His teachings on judgment under the rug. Yet, if we take the words of Jesus seriously, we cannot ignore the reality of what He calls Gehenna—the place of eternal punishment and separation from God.

Understanding the Reality of Hell

The word Jesus uses for hell in this passage originates from the Valley of Hinnom (Gehinnom), a physical valley located on the southern edge of Jerusalem. In the Old Testament, it was a place of horrific tragedy where children were sacrificed to the false god Molech. King Josiah later declared it unclean, and it eventually became the city’s garbage dump, characterized by smoldering, continuous fires.

Jesus uses this vivid, historical imagery to describe a terrifying spiritual reality. Hell is not a metaphor or a temporary state; it is the final place of eternal punishment, equated with the “lake of fire” in Revelation 20:11-15.

Scripture consistently paints a sobering picture of the condition of those who are spiritually lost:

Eternal Separation: It is a reality of total confinement and darkness, permanently separated from the presence and comfort of the Lord (Matthew 22:13; 2 Thessalonians 1:9).
Agony and Regret: The New Testament describes it as a place of torment, characterized by “weeping and gnashing of teeth” and a “fire that never goes out” (Matthew 13:42; Mark 9:43).
Certain Judgment: The early church pioneers and writers reaffirm that God’s justice is certain, and He will ultimately judge those who reject and rebel against His message (2 Thessalonians 1:5-9).

A Choice of Our Own Making

This doctrine is understandably hard to accept. It can feel incompatible with a loving God. However, God’s Word remains our final authority, and we must trust His perfect justice.

We must always remember that it is not God’s desire to send anyone to hell. As 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us, He is patient and wants everyone to come to repentance. God loved the world so deeply that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross so that absolutely no one would have to perish spiritually (John 3:16).

Hell is reserved for those who ultimately choose it by resisting God’s grace, rejecting His forgiveness, and refusing to entrust their lives to Christ.

Our Response as Believers

The reality of hell should not leave us paralyzed by fear, but it should completely transform how we live out our faith. Understanding the weight of eternity should cause us to:

Hate sin intensely, recognizing its destructive power and how it separates us from a holy God.
Share the Gospel urgently, working continually to reach those who do not yet know Christ.
Warn others faithfully, lovingly sharing the truth of God’s future judgment alongside the beautiful hope of His salvation.

The cross is meaningful precisely because of what Jesus rescued us from. Let the weight of Matthew 10:28 drive us to a deeper gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice and a greater urgency to share His saving love with a broken world.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, Your Word is truth, even when it challenges our hearts and brings us face-to-face with the sobering reality of Your judgment. Thank You for being a God of perfect justice, but thank You even more for being a God of perfect love. We praise You for sending Jesus to bear the punishment we deserved, rescuing us from eternal separation and the reality of hell.

Forgive us for the times we have been complacent about eternity. Break our hearts for the lost, Lord. Grant us an unquenchable urgency and holy boldness to share Your Gospel with the people around us. May our lives reflect a deep hatred for sin and a profound gratitude for Your grace. Guard our hearts, anchor us in Your truth, and use us to lead others into the life-giving salvation found only in Jesus Christ. In His holy and precious name, we pray. Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 13, 2026September 13, 2026

DO NOT BE AFRAID OF THEM / MATTHEW 10:26

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 10:26

Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known.

Standing Boldly: Why We Don’t Have to Fear the Spiritual Battle

When Jesus sent His disciples out to share the Gospel, He did not promise them an easy path or a comfortable journey. Instead, He gave them a sobering reality check. In the verses leading up to Matthew 10:26, He warned them that their work for the Kingdom would expose them to fierce counterattacks from the enemy. He spoke of wolves, floggings, and deep betrayals.

Yet, right in the middle of these heavy warnings, Jesus shifts the atmosphere completely with a powerful command: “So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known.”

If you are trying to live out your faith authentically today, this message is explicitly for you.

Understanding the True Enemy

It is easy to get discouraged when we face modern cultural pushback, criticism, or isolation because of our faith. It often feels like a deeply personal conflict between us and the people around us. However, Scripture pulls back the curtain to show us a different reality: our real battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of darkness.

The opposition we experience from human critics is frequently just the surface-level reflection of Satan’s resistance to the advance of the Gospel. Recognizing this changes how we respond. We no longer see people as the enemy; we see them as souls who need the very truth we are carrying.

Sustained by a Higher Power

Why can we stand firm when the spiritual temperature rises? Jesus tells us that we do not fight in our own strength. We are completely empowered and sustained by God the Father and the Holy Spirit.

When you find yourself unsure of what to say or how to defend your faith, remember the promise in Matthew 10:19-20: it is not you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Furthermore, Jesus reminds us of our immense value to the Creator. If God numbers the very hairs on your head and watches over the smallest sparrow, He will undoubtedly sustain you through every trial and spiritual counterattack. His sovereign protection means that while the world may push against your earthly body, your eternal soul remains perfectly secure in His hands.

Preaching Openly and Courageously

True victory in the Christian walk has never been achieved by shrinking back or hiding in the shadows. The calling on our lives requires us to remain unswervingly faithful to the Word of Christ.

Jesus commands us to take what He whispers to us in the quiet moments of prayer and study, and shout it from the housetops. We are called to speak the truth openly, directly, and courageously. When we live out our faith transparently, we trust that divine truth will ultimately prevail over every lie of the enemy.

Let us stop letting fear dictate our silence. Walk forward today knowing that the One who is in you is infinitely greater than the forces aligned against you.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the powerful reminder that we do not have to live in fear of spiritual opposition or human disapproval. We confess that sometimes our hearts grow timid when we face the pressures of this world. Forgive us for the times we have stayed silent when You called us to speak.

We ask that Your Holy Spirit fill us with fresh courage today. Remind us of our deep value in Your eyes, and anchor our souls in Your sovereign protection. When the enemy attempts to push us into retreat, give us the strength to stand firm, rooted deeply in Your Word. Let Your truth speak through us clearly, directly, and boldly. May our lives bring glory to Your name as we openly proclaim the hope of Jesus Christ to a world in need.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 13, 2026

CITIES OF ISRAEL / MATTHEW 10:23

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 10:23

But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.

The Enduring Mission: Understanding the Cities of Israel in Matthew 10:23

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus delivers a powerful, challenging commissioning address to His disciples. He gives them authority, warns them of impending opposition, and outlines the scope of their ministry. Among these instructions lies one of the most intriguing and debated statements in the New Testament: “When they persecute you in this city, flee to another. For assuredly, I say to you, you will not have gone through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes” (Matthew 10:23).

What did Jesus mean when He spoke about not finishing the cities of Israel before His return? While scholars have wrestled with various interpretations, one compelling perspective is that Jesus was outlining the enduring nature of the evangelistic mission to the Jewish people. Rather than a localized, short-term assignment, Christ may have been telling His disciples that His message would continue to be proclaimed to Israel right up until His second coming.

A Perpetual Witness to the House of Israel

When Jesus first sent out the twelve, He initially restricted their immediate route, telling them to go rather to the “lost sheep of the house of Israel.” As the discourse unfolds in Matthew 10, however, the scope of His warnings expands significantly. He mentions standing before governors, kings, and Gentiles—realities that the disciples would only fully encounter much later, after the resurrection.

Commentators noted that this specific phrase in Matthew 10:23 hints that the gospel will continue to be preached to the Jewish people throughout the entire age of the Church. In this view, the “cities of Israel” represent more than just a 1st-century geographical checklist; they symbolize the ongoing, historical witness to the Jewish community worldwide.

Faithful Proclamation Amid Persecution

The text emphasizes that this long-term mission will not be easy. Jesus explicitly commands His followers to flee when persecuted, moving from one city to the next. The urgency is palpable. The work is vast, the opposition is real, and the timeline is entirely in God’s hands.

This perspective brings immense comfort and clarity to believers. It underscores that God has not abandoned His original covenant people. As summarized by theological studies on Wednesday in the Word, the complete restoration and ultimate response of Israel remains a future hope tied to the return of Christ. Until the Son of Man comes, the call remains the same: to faithfully, persistently, and lovingly share the good news of the Kingdom.

Living out the Urgency Today

For modern believers, Matthew 10:23 serves as a reminder of the persistence required in evangelism. When we face rejection or indifference in one area, we are not called to give up. We are called to dust off our feet and carry the message to the next town, the next neighbor, or the next community. The mission fields are vast, the time is short, and our witness must continue undeterred until Christ returns in glory.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unfailing faithfulness and Your relentless pursuit of Your people. We thank You that Your gospel is a message of hope that endures through every age and triumphs over every persecution.

Lord, give us the courage and endurance of the early disciples. Help us to be bold witnesses of Your Kingdom, never giving up when we face opposition or rejection. We pray especially for the continuous proclamation of the gospel to the house of Israel, asking that hearts would be softened and eyes opened to recognize Jesus as the true Messiah. Keep us urgent, keep us faithful, and let our lives reflect Your love until the day the Son of Man returns.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 13, 2026September 13, 2026

GIVEN WHAT TO SAY / MATTHEW 10:19-20

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 10:19-20

But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. ²⁰For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.

Given What to Say: Trusting God Natively When the Pressure is On

Have you ever found yourself completely caught off guard, needing to speak up about your faith, or handle a difficult situation, and your mind went completely blank? It is a terrifying feeling—your chest tightens, your mouth goes dry, and you wonder if you have the strength or wisdom to handle the moment.

When we are doing Christ’s work in obedience to Him, it is natural to worry about our own limitations. But scripture gives us a beautiful, concrete promise: He will never abandon us and will always give us what we need—including the right words—at just the right time.

In Matthew 10:19-20, Jesus prepares His disciples for the realities of ministry:

“But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given you in that hour. For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.”

This isn’t an excuse to avoid preparation or study. Rather, it is a divine insurance policy for our anxiety. Jesus is telling us that when the pressure is on, we do not have to rely on our own eloquence or sharp wit. The Holy Spirit will step in.

The Promise in Action

We don’t just have to take this as an abstract concept; we see Christ’s promise perfectly in operation throughout the early Church. Look at the life of the Apostle Paul and the early believers in the Book of Acts. Time and time again, they were backed into corners, arrested, and put on trial before hostile crowds, governors, and kings. Yet, exactly as Jesus promised, the right words were given:

Peter before the Sanhedrin (Acts 4:8-12, 19-20): Uneducated fishermen spoke with such boldness and precision that the religious elite were completely astounded.
Paul’s Defenses Under Pressure: Whether addressing an angry mob in Jerusalem (Acts 21:39–22:21), dividing a hostile council (Acts 23:1, 6), frustrating Governor Felix (Acts 24:10-21), or presenting the gospel so powerfully that King Agrippa was almost persuaded (Acts 26:1-29), Paul never had to walk alone.

Every single time these believers faced opposition, the Holy Spirit supplied the text, the tone, and the truth required for the moment.

Empowered by the Spirit

The very same Spirit that filled Peter and Paul lives inside you. Jesus explicitly laid out the blueprint for our mission in Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses…”

Through His Holy Spirit, Christ empowers us to speak for and testify about Him. You don’t need a doctorate in theology to share how God has changed your life. You don’t need a perfectly polished script to step out in faith. You simply need a willing heart and a spirit of obedience. When you open your mouth to serve Him, He will fill it.

Trust the promise today. Stop worrying about the “what ifs,” and trust that the Father who loves you will give you exactly what to say when the time comes.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the comforting reminder that I never have to navigate this world or fulfill Your mission in my own strength. Forgive me for the times I let anxiety, fear, or a lack of confidence keep me silent. Lord, I want to be an obedient instrument of Your love.

Fill me afresh with Your Holy Spirit today. Grant me the boldness to stand up for truth and the grace to speak it with love. I rely completely on Your promise that You will never leave me nor forsake me. When I am put on the spot, silence my anxieties and let Your Spirit speak through me. Give me the right words at the exact right moment to testify of Your goodness.

In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

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Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 13, 2026September 13, 2026

PREACH THE KINGDOM / MATTHEW 10:7

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 10:7

And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Preach the Kingdom: Bringing Heaven Close to Earth

In Matthew 10:7, Jesus gives His disciples a direct, unmistakable command: “As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’”

This wasn’t just a suggestion for a Sunday sermon. It was a rallying cry for a new way of living. When we look at the full context of this passage—gazing at the surrounding verses in Matthew 10:1 and Matthew 10:8—we see a profound truth: the preaching of the Kingdom is never meant to be words alone. It is meant to be accompanied by the undeniable evidence of God’s might, authority, and power over sin, sickness, and spiritual darkness.

The Power of the Kingdom “Near”

Jesus’ deepest desire is for the Kingdom of Heaven to be brought close to broken people. He doesn’t want humanity to view God as distant or detached. Instead, through the lives of His followers and the bold declaration of His truth, the reality of Christ’s authority breaks into our everyday spaces.

When the Kingdom comes near, it brings:

Salvation for the lost and weary.
Help for those carrying burdens too heavy to bear.
Healing for the physical, emotional, and spiritual wounds holding us back.

As believers, we are the vessels meant to carry this atmosphere of heaven into a desperate world.

A Time for Self-Examination

If we look around our communities, our churches, or our own hearts and notice a distinct lack of God’s moving power, it is not because His hand has shortened. Rather, it is a signal that it is time to examine our own lives.

Are we blocking the flow of the Spirit? To truly “seek first His kingdom and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33), we must be willing to ruthlessly evaluate what we are holding onto. This means intentionally removing and releasing anything that is worldly, ungodly, or displeasing to God. When we clear away the clutter of compromise, we create space for His supernatural power to break through.

When we pray “Your kingdom come, Your will be done” (Matthew 6:10), we are asking for an invasion of God’s holiness into our earthly reality. Let us live lives that back up that prayer, stepping out in faith to preach, heal, and love just as Jesus commanded.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before You recognizing that Your Kingdom is full of power, authority, and unbroken victory. Forgive us for the times we have settled for a form of godliness but denied its power, or let the distractions of this world dim our spiritual sight.

We ask today that You examine our hearts. Reveal anything within us that is ungodly, worldly, or displeasing to You, and give us the grace to release it completely. We want to seek Your Kingdom and Your righteousness above all else.

Fill us afresh with Your Holy Spirit. As we go out into our workplaces, our homes, and our neighborhoods, empower us to bring Your Kingdom near to those who are hurting. May our lives be living proof of Your love, Your healing, and Your freedom. Let Your Kingdom come and Your will be done right here on earth, just as it is in heaven.

In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

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Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 13, 2026September 13, 2026

AUTHORITY TO DRIVE OUT EVIL SPIRITS / MATTHEW 10:1

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 10:1

And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.

Walking in the Kingdom: Understanding Our Authority Over Evil Spirits

In Matthew 10:1, Jesus calls His followers to stand firmly against the forces of evil by extending His divine healing and spiritual authority to a broken world. This foundational verse demonstrates how the power and purpose of God’s kingdom remain active on earth today.

“Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.”

— Matthew 10:1

The Nature of Spiritual Authority

Jesus does not want His church to be passive observers in a spiritual conflict. Instead, He equips believers to confront darkness directly through two primary actions:

Driving out evil spirits: This means commanding unclean spirits to release their control over individuals whose bodies they have inhabited.
Healing the sick: Physical ailments are often accompanied by the heavy burdens of trouble, fear, and discouragement planted by the enemy. Healing restores both body and spirit.

Driven by Christ, Not Ourselves

It is vital to remember that we do not possess this supernatural authority inherent in ourselves. We cannot combat spiritual forces through human intellect, willpower, or strength.

Our mandate operates entirely through the power and name of Jesus Christ. When we command the enemy to flee, we are enforcing the victory that Jesus already secured on the cross. We are simply the vessels displaying His kingdom rule on earth.

The Call to a Worthy Life

Spiritual authority requires spiritual integrity. If we attempt to fight spiritual battles while harboring unconfessed sin or living compromised lives, we compromise our spiritual protection.

Pursue holiness: Living a life worthy of Christ ensures that our spiritual armor remains intact.
Maintain intimacy: Regular prayer and alignment with God’s Word build the spiritual endurance needed to face direct supernatural attacks.
Close the doors: Do not leave footholds for fear, compromise, or bitterness, which the enemy uses to diminish your effectiveness.

Closing Prayer

Father God, we thank You for the absolute victory and authority You have given us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. We recognize that we have no power of our own, but through the name of Jesus, the enemy must flee.

Lord, teach us to live lives that are completely pleasing and worthy of You. Cleanse our hearts and strengthen our spirits so that we do not falter under the attacks of darkness. Give us the courage to drive out evil, comfort the brokenhearted, and pray for the sick with bold faith. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done in our lives today. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace