Highrock Church

The Book of Ezekiel begins shortly after Israel had been taken into captivity and the people surely wondered, "Where is God? Has God abandoned us?" As God appears to Ezekiel, the first image he sees was like an answer to this questioning plea. Amidst all the other sights, Ezekiel sees the cloud and the fire, the two images of God's presence with Israel when God led Israel out of Egypt. God was with them then and God is with them, and with us, even now.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:During the darkest times in our lives, we are often tempted to doubt God's power for us or God's presence with us. Ezekiel's vision speaks to both truths.- During the most challenging times in your life, how have you been reminded of God's power and presence with you? Did you have to learn something new about God, or see God in a new way?- We are often strengthened through people, places, and practices. Who are the people, what are the places, and what practices might help you to not lose sight of God's power and presence, or to see God in new ways?

Feeling defeated by headlines, home drama, or politics you can’t change? If you’ve prayed, posted, protested - and still feel stuck - maybe you’re fighting the wrong enemy. Hear why the prophet Ezekiel’s strange assignment suggests the solution is learning to share God’s grief - and why inner change is the lever for everything else.· ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons: https://tinyurl.com/3rdw4x8n👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals: https://tinyurl.com/38d4aryd

As David comes to the end of his life, he passes on to Solomon the one central lesson he has learned. In passing on this lesson to Solomon (and to us), David also recalls the promise God made to him -- but with one critical difference. What do we have to learn from David's life and what can we learn about God from the way David might have underestimated the faithfulness of God?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:The central lesson of David's life is to always trust and obey the Lord.- As you think through David's life, what are some of the ways that you see this lesson illustrated in his successes and failures?- In your own life, what are some of the successes and failures that illustrate this same principle?- If you were to share final advice with those you love, how might your advice be similar to or different from David's?

The great advisor Ahithopel had wisely declared that Absalom's violent rebellion could be ended with the death of just one man. As it turned out, it was Absalom's death that ended the war. Overcome with grief, King David ignores the needs of the people who had risked their lives to protect David. Thankfully, there was someone who could speak the truth that David needed to hear in that moment. Do we have such people, and would we listen?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:David needed to remember not only his own needs but the powerful needs of others as well. Thankfully, he was willing to listen to Joab.- Recall a time when you were divided like David. Perhaps you had conflicting roles, feelings, or desires. Was there someone who was able to speak the truth that you needed to hear? What happened?- Are there people who are able to speak difficult truths into your life today? If so, thank them. If not, what step might you take towards those kinds of relationships?

David seems unwilling or unable to take action in one of the most consequential moments in his reign. In fact, Absalom busies himself doing the job that David was supposed to be doing. He also uses his father's inaction to set up a coup that would further divide the fragile nation. Grace, mercy, and justice are never passive, whether in David's life or ours!Pastor Meghan's sermon on Absalom's rebellion:https://youtu.be/aksRdBUcyjsLooking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Sometimes sin is less about what we have done and more about what we have failed to do.- What are some things that David might have done or should have done in this situation and the lead up to this "after this..." moment?- In your own life, does trouble usually arise from what you have done or what you have failed to do?- Is there anything that God might want you to take initiative with today?

[Note: An earlier upload had faulty audio]In the process of confessing and repenting of his sin, David recalls the joy he once had. The absence of the joy of the Lord made him vulnerable to temptation in the first place and now he longs for that joy to be restored. In essence, David asks to be restored from a relationship of rebellion to a relationship of worship -- the goal of all true repentance!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:David asks for more than forgiveness; he asks for the restoration of joy.- Imagine that you are teaching a children's Sunday school class and a child asks, "Why should we ask for forgiveness when God already knows what we did?" How might you address that child's question?- The "joy of the Lord is my strength" (Neh 8:10) and "restore to me the joy of your salvation" (Ps. 51:12) both give joy a central role in the Christian life. What might God invite you to do in response to those scriptures?

On this Labor Day, we return to a discussion about work from the book of Ecclesiastes from June 13, 2024. The Teacher makes a surprising assertion -- that hard work is better than wealth. Hard work leaves us satisfied while wealth often just increases our insecurities. In other words, good work is to be preferred to the wealth we imagine might free us from having to work at all! What brings you satisfaction? What draws you closer to the Lord and a sense of purpose?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:The Teacher asserts that hard work is better than wealth. - Work brings joy and satisfaction while wealth paradoxically magnifies our sense of insecurity. Have you seen this dynamic in your life or the life of others?- Recall a moment of deep satisfaction. What helped create that moment? Was it wealth, work, or something else?- Taylor said that wealth might be good or bad depending on the reasons we pursue it. What are your reasons?

If you knew your time was short, what would you say? King David’s parting advice to Solomon isn’t the simple blessing we might expect—it’s complicated, even troubling. Yet hidden in that tension is wisdom that can change the way we live today. · ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons: https://tinyurl.com/3rdw4x8n👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals: https://tinyurl.com/38d4aryd

In this flashback to June 12, 2023, we return to a word from the Apostle Paul on forgiveness. We know that we are to forgive, but forgive and forget? Is that even possible? This depth of forgiveness is actually something promised by God (Hebrews 10:17) and may be easier for us if we recall the forgiveness God has given to us.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Paul refers to a case where discipline was necessary but after repentance, restoration is equally necessary.- Have you seen church discipline done well, or poorly, or not at all? What were the consequences?- What does it mean that God forgets our sins (cf. Psalm 103:12, Hebrews 10:17)? What might it mean for us to forgive and forget as well?

No one likes to admit they are wrong. We have even perfected the non-apology apology: "I'm sorry if you were offended!" Rather than evade guilt, David publicly lays out the dimensions of his sin and calls upon the mercy of God, depending not on his own merits but on the compassion and kindness of God. Psalm 51 serves as a template for how we also can call upon God's mercy and forgiveness in true repentance.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." - 1 John 1:9- Have you ever received or given a non-apology apology? What happened and what was the response to the non-apology?- Why do you think we hesitate to fully confess our sins to one another, and to God?- What reasons do you have to believe that God is "faithful and just and will forgive us our sins"?

David sins with Bathsheba, Bathsheba ends up pregnant, so David kills her husband Uriah. Problem solved! No one is wise to the truth! No one except God. God sends Nathan the prophet to confront David. Nathan has much to teach us in the way that he confronts sin. He also serves to remind us that God always knows the truth and stands ready to forgive and heal.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:It is never easy to confront someone with their sin, especially when that person has the power of a king!- What do you learn from Nathan in this passage? Is there something about the way that he confronts David that can help you to help to disciple others?- What do you learn about God in this passage? What do you see about how God views us and how God views our sin?

David's moral failure does not end with Bathsheba. What starts as perhaps a wayward glance leads to deception, betrayal, and eventually the murder of one of his most honorable and loyal warriors. Like a great fire that starts from a single spark, David's life is on the verge of burning down. What can we learn from David's hard turn away from God?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." - Proverbs 4:23- Imagine David made a list of reasons for and against killing Uriah. What reasons might he have listed in the "for" column and the "against" column? - Why do you imagine that David ultimately decided to kill Uriah? What reasons might he have given to Joab, his army commander that agreed to set Uriah up to die in battle? - What do you learn from this part of David's story?

People unfamiliar with the Bible often know two stories about David -- David & Goliath, and David & Bathsheba. The first is one of David's greatest victories and the second is one of his greatest failures. In our own lives, we often has as much to learn from failure as we do success, and so it is with David.Pastor Dave's sermon on David & Bathsheba:https://youtu.be/8s4t211UB24Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:David's monumental failure begins almost "innocently" -- a wayward glance after a midday nap.- How have you seen people ignore or justify potentially dangerous sins as small, innocent, and not worth worrying about?- Pastor Dave pointed to our strength being rooted in the "joy of the Lord" (Nehemiah 8:10). How might such a joy have protected David? How might it protect you?- How might God be inviting you to grow in your joy in the Lord?

We all want to pass on a positive, lasting legacy — but what if what we’re really passing on is our brokenness? King David's life exposes how sin seeps into generations. What would it take to break the cycle?· ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons: https://tinyurl.com/3rdw4x8n👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals: https://tinyurl.com/38d4aryd

In this flashback to January 28, 2025, we see Jesus under attack from the religious leaders. Jesus declared that he did not desire their approval because they did not have the love of God in their hearts. How much more whole might our lives be if we were to seek God's love rather than seeking the "likes" of others?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Jesus had told the religious leaders that they did not have the words of God in their hearts. Here Jesus adds that they do not have the love of God in their hearts.- What are some of the ways that God's Word has helped you know God's love for you? What are some of the ways that God's Word has encouraged you to show that love to others?- Jesus declares that he does not seek the approval of the religious leaders because they do not have the love of God in their hearts. How might your life be different if you were to seek approval only from those who love God?

With the kingdom united and with the Philistines no longer a threat, King David has a moment to consider unfinished business. At the top of his mind is his promise to bless Jonathan's family, so David seeks out Jonathan's one surviving son, Mephibosheth. David's kindness to Mephibosheth serves to remind us of the grace of God toward us, a grace that is free to us but very costly to God. God invites us to likewise consider showing kindness to those who may not expect nor deserve it.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:David made good on his promise to show kindness to Jonathan's family.- Has anyone ever shown unexpected kindness and grace to you? What were the circumstances? How did it affect you? How did if affect your relationship with that person? Did it have an impact on your relationship with God?- Are there any people to whom you have promised kindness? Is there anyone God might be inviting you to show kindness to? How might you take a step toward extending that kindness today?

David notices that he lives in a grand palace while God dwells in a simple tent. David wants to correct the situation by building God an even grander palace, the Temple, but God says, "No." Even so, God chooses this moment to bless David. Because David wanted to build God's house, God will build David's house, promising that one of David's descendants will sit on the throne forever!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:David wanted to build God's house but it is God who will establish David's house, forever!- Nathan assumed what God wanted but was mistaken. What are some of the ways that you too might make plans without considering what God's priorities might be?- What might it look like for you to show greater concern for building up God's house rather than your own?- Is there something that God might be inviting you to do in response to what you see in David's and Nathan's story?

There is a constant temptation to define ourselves in terms of our work. It's one of the first questions we ask of others, "What do you do for work?" In this scene of worship, David strips off all the vestments of his "job". Before the Lord, the king himself is just a worshiper like everyone else. You are not your job. In the Lord, your identity and worth has a far greater foundation!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:People worship in many ways. Our entire lives are meant to be lived as an act of worship (cf. Romans 12:1, Colossians 3:17). - How do you experience worship? When do you find yourself best able to focus on God and begin to lose sight of yourself, as David does in music and dance?- Just as David is able to forget about himself in worship, the presence of God also reminds him and us of who we truly are. Who and what are the people, places, and practices that help you remember who you truly are in Christ?

Saul was a terrible king in many ways but his death still represented the death of a dream. He was Israel's first king and the nation had put its trust in him. With his death, the nation would fall into civil war and their enemies would exploit this time of weakness. But Israel should never have put its trust in human kings. That dream was an idol that needed to be broken before Israel would be able to see God's vision for its future.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Most people do not have literal idols but an idol can be anything we turn to instead of God, especially if we hope that it will bring us security, significance, and "the good life" (however we might define that idea).- What are the idols that you are most likely to turn to instead of God for security, significance, and blessings in life? - When facing challenges, is prayer your first resort or your last resort? What might a first step toward trusting more in God look like for you?

It’s easy to drift: the joy fades, the sacrifices feel heavy, and before long we’re just going through the motions. Left unchecked, that drift can open the door to regret and destruction. In this message, Pastor Dave Swaim names the subtle danger we’d rather not see.· ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons: https://tinyurl.com/3rdw4x8n👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals: https://tinyurl.com/38d4aryd

In this flashback from October 30, 2024, we consider the times that it might be tempting to doubt that God is for us. But because our relationship with God is based on God's faithfulness rather than ours, we can have great confidence that God is for us. More than that, we are called "friends of God". Family is a given but you choose your friends. God chooses us!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Family may be a given, but you choose your friends. We are called "friends of God" -- God chooses us!- Are there times when you find yourself doubting that God is for you? That God loves you or even likes you? What is usually happening in those moments?- God chose us while we were still sinners, so how much more will God choose us while we are friends? God has done the really hard thing so why wouldn't God do the much easier thing? Does this reasoning encourage you? Is there anything else that works for you in those moments?

In a moment of ungodly anger, David sets out to exact vengeance upon a man named Nabal. Hearing of the events that have been set in motion, Abigail intercepts David and is able to stop him with grace and humility. Despite his anger, David is able to see she is a literal godsend, saving him from himself.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." - Proverbs 15:1- Can you recall a time when you attempted to turn someone away from their anger, or a time when someone attempted to turn you away from yours? What was helpful or unhelpful in that particular situation?- What are some of the challenges to responding with gentleness, kindness, and humility?- What do you find helpful in encouraging a gracious response in yourself or others?

Once again, David has an opportunity to take Saul's life and, once again, David demonstrates mercy rather than judgment. David's kindness toward Saul and trust in God were not one-time decisions but evidence of a heart in harmony with the heart of God. Perhaps God chose David to be the honored ancestor of Jesus for illustrating the grace that would be fully demonstrated in Christ.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/Pastor Richard Lee's Sermon on David in 1 Samuel 24:https://youtu.be/lLYmRfXiE9gFor Reflection:Imagine David's frustration at having to prove himself repeatedly to Saul. - Have you ever had to forgive someone repeatedly? What, if anything, has helped you to respond more like David?- In the cave (1 Sam 24) and here, David experiences only a temporary repentance from Saul. In each case, David forgives Saul but wisely does not trust him. How would you explain the difference between forgiveness (which David grants) and reconciliation (which does not happen).

Refusing to take matters into his own hand, David finds himself on the run. Stripped of all other security, David finds himself hiding out in a cave with darkness all around him and darkness within him. In that darkness, David finds a light of hope that will never go out. In this psalm, this prayer, this song, David shows us that God's light can often be seen most clearly in the darkest of places.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/Pastor Richard Lee's Sermon on David:https://youtu.be/lLYmRfXiE9gFor Reflection:In the darkness of the cave, David discovers a clearer vision of God.- Have you had a Cave of Adullam experience in your life? Has there been a dark time when you came to see God more clearly? Who or what helped you to turn to God?- Some people feel comfortable talking about their spiritual disappointments with others but not with God. David shows us that we can bring those desolations directly to God. Do you feel comfortable praying to God that openly and honestly? Why or why not?

Friendships that allow for emotions that are raw and real can be rare, especially when those feelings express opposing perspectives. David and Jonathan have that rare kind of relationship that makes room for the kind of emotional honesty that we see in Jesus in Gethsemane and from the cross. Do we feel permission to have this kind of intimacy with God, and hopefully with others as well?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:One of the first things that God ever said about humanity is that it is not good for us to be alone (Genesis 2:18).- Do you feel comfortable identifying and expressing your deeper emotions to yourself? To God?- Have you ever had the kind of friendship that allowed for the kind of openness and honesty shown by David and Jonathan?- Is there anything that God might be inviting you to do to strengthen or grow such a relationship?

In this flashback to December 9, 2024, we consider how waiting can be especially challenging when you are waiting for the fulfillment of (what appears to be) a broken promise. God had promised that a descendant of King David would sit on the throne forever, so what had happened? Israel waited for centuries without any such king in sight. Had God forgotten the promise? Today, many might feel similarly forgotten. What are we to do in such times?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:It is always difficult to wait, especially for something that seems impossible. It can be even harder to wait and trust when it seems that God has already failed to keep a promise.- Have you ever felt like God had failed to be faithful to you? What happened? Did those feelings ever change, and why?- Psalms are worship songs. Psalm 89 expresses a significant doubt. But how can the expression of doubt be a part of honoring God? What do you think makes the doubt of Psalm 89 an example of worship?

Saul had tried to impale David with a spear, twice. Afterwards, Saul sent David repeatedly into harm's way, hoping that David might be killed in battle. Saul then resorted to more direct plans to simply assassinate David. Jonathan bravely and lovingly chooses to step in front of his father Saul's animosity to intercede for David.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Jesus is the ultimate intercessor (Hebrews 7:25) and we are invited to intercede for others as well.- Have you ever had the experience of someone else interceding for you with an authority, perhaps with a parent, a teacher, a boss, or even a court? Have you done it for someone else? What happened and why did you or they take the risk and effort to intercede?- Is there a way that God might be inviting you to be a Jonathan for someone else, or to join Jesus in interceding for others? (cf. 1 Tim 2:1-2, Eph 6:18)

David was successful in all that Saul gave him to do. Rather than gratitude, Saul was jealous, especially as people began to take notice of David's victories. Are we also provoked to envy in our lives? How did David respond to Saul's envy and anger, and what might we learn about how to respond to those who oppose us?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:"Saul kept a jealous eye on David" but David continued to serve faithfully.- Have you ever experienced a jealous rivalry with someone close to you? What happened?- What questions does David's example raise for you? What do you think might have been the reasons he continued to serve Saul faithfully, even if from a distance?- Jesus said to "love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!" (Matt 5:44). How might you pray for such a person in your life today?

Why did Jonathan love David? In contrast to the cowardice and self-centeredness of his father, King Saul, Jonathan saw in David a kindred spirit. They shared a bold courage and faith in God, and that shared love bonded them together. Any shared love will draw people closer together, especially the love of God.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:A shared love of God draws people together, as it does powerfully for Jonathan and David.- How has your understanding of love been challenged, changed, and enriched by following Christ?- Jonathan's love of God and David motivated him to make a profound sacrifice -- he gave up his claim to the throne in favor of David. How has God's love motivated you to make sacrificial choices?- Is there a way in which God might be inviting you to make a sacrificial choice out of love right now?

Many want to be leaders; few want to be followers. One of the principles of biblical leadership on display in David's life is that being a good leader starts with being a good follower. How can we lead others into a life of following God if we ourselves resist being good followers? David here begins to display his faithfulness to God by being faithful in serving others -- in particular, the problematic King Saul.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Not all followers make good leaders, but all godly leaders start by being good followers, just as David shows.- Who are some of the leaders and influencers that you admire? To what degree do they demonstrate the heart of a servant, and how does that heart show up in what they do (or not)?- What areas of influence and leadership do you have? (Home, work, school, neighborhood, friendships, family, etc.?) In what areas do you have responsibilities as a follower?- How might God be inviting you to be a better follower and servant?

In this flashback to March 22, 2023, we see that Jesus was often very secretive about his identity as the Messiah. Even more rarely, such as in this passage, Jesus hints at his identity as not only the Messiah, the son of David, but his identity as the Son of God! Understanding Jesus as both human and divine is more important than we might realize. Because of his divinity, we can know God; because of his humanity, God can know us.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What have you learned about God by looking at the life and teachings of Jesus? How has God been revealed to you through him?- Through Jesus, God also knows you better, being able to empathize with all our struggles (Heb 4:15). What does it mean to you to know that God knows you in this way?

God doesn't look at us the way the world does. In fact, God often chooses people precisely because the world does not understand or value their most important qualities -- qualities like faithfulness. Before David became king, he was someone who was easily overlooked both by the prophet Samuel and his own father, Jesse. The world treasures outward appearances but God looks at the heart (1 Sam 16:7).Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:The world treasures outward appearances but God looks at the heart (1 Sam 16:7)- Why do you think underdog stories are so appealing to people? Are they simply wish fulfillment for underachievers or is there some truth that they call out in us? - What are one or two of the top qualities that make you a "high value" person in the world's eyes? What are one of two of the top qualities that might make you a high value in God's eyes? What about in your eyes?

We begin with David's story on what started out as just an ordinary day. David was doing what he was tasked to do on every other day – to tend his father’s sheep. When God enters the picture, ordinary days have a way of becoming extraordinary!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:David was faithful in ordinary ways, which prepared him for an extraordinary calling from God.- What might faithfulness look like on an ordinary day for you? - Do you find it easy or challenging to remain faithful in your everyday responsibilities? What are the biggest spiritual challenges you regularly face?- If God were to invite you to take a step toward greater faithfulness in the ordinary routines of your life, what change might you consider?

In closing his letter, James reminds us all of the purpose of his letter and the purpose of our lives. Rather than living for ourselves, Jesus invites us to join him in a search and rescue mission. This is a mission that is motivated by truth, grace, and love.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Search and rescue is a noble mission, but those who engage in it know that it comes at personal cost and risk to those who move out in love.- How much thought do you give to this search & rescue mission into which Jesus invites us?- Why do you think this mission is so difficult to keep in focus?- Is there anyone that God has put on your heart, someone to whom you might reach out in friendship and concern?

We return to the end of the passage we covered last time, which is James's encouragement for us to confess our sins to one another. James connected powerful prayer with the healing that comes through confession, and yet, confession is the least favorite part of prayer for many. God wants to heal us, not to hurt us, so is it possible that we have misunderstood the practice and purpose of confession?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:"Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed" (v16)- Whatever you may think or believe about the importance of confession, how do you feel about confessing to one another?- Where do you think your negative feelings about confession come from? Personal experiences? Misunderstanding? Fear? Something else?- Did today's scripture and discussion impact your understanding or feelings about confession, and if so, how?

In this flashback to March 21, 2024, we see Jesus sharing back-to-back parables about prayer. One exhorts us to be persistent in prayer and the other commends an attitude of humility, a constant dependence on God's grace rather than our own supposed goodness. We may not fully understand why God wants us to pray or how prayer works, but we can be confident that God does meet us in prayer, and we are changed forever in the encounter!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Jesus shares back-to-back parables that center around prayer.- The first parable teaches us to never give up on God hearing our prayers. How does this image of the persistent widow affect how you want to pray? What questions does it raise?- The story of the Pharisee and tax collector commends a prayer rooted in humility and God's grace. Rather than looking down on those who appear less spiritual or mature, true trowth will lead us to become mroe aware of our own need for grace. What might Jesus want you to learn from this story?

James earlier said we often do not have because we do not ask. Now he adds that we should ask in all circumstances; with requests, praises, confession, and intercession. Not only should we pray, but we should be confident that God is listening and that the prayers of those who are close to God are powerful!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:James encourages us to pray in all circumstances with requests, praise, intercession, and confession.- Of those four forms of prayer, which do you prefer and which do you avoid? What might you be missing?- Why do we need to confess to one another rather than just to God? It's difficult to understand the depths of our sin and the even greater depths of God's forgiveness without hearing it from one another. Do you have such relationships? If so, thank God and thank them. If not, pray that you might and commit to a step in that direction.

James opened his letter with an encouragement to be patient (James 1:2-4). He now returns to that same theme in his closing, but patience is not waiting for something, but someone -- that is, God. We do not need to be anxious or to take matters into our own hands. Jesus will return to judge, heal, and restore. Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Farmers work very hard but for all their efforts, they still must wait and trust God to do what the farmer cannot.- Have you experienced this farming-like dynamic in your life? Like a farmer, what part is up to you? How much is not within your control?- Pastor Richard spoke about the connection between patience, courage, and faith hinted at in v8. How might you describe the connection between patience, courage, and faith and how have you experienced that dynamic in your life?

Wealth can be a great blessing but like almost all blessings, it can be a curse for those who are not prepared. James summarizes several scriptural statements about wealth and arranges them in the form of a trail with evidence and witnesses. If we were on trial, would our wealth be evidence of our generosity or evidence of our indifference to the suffering of others?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Wealth can be a great blessing or a great curse, as James warns here.- How would you describe your own relationship to money?- When Jesus was speaking to a rich young man who was struggling under the grip of money, it says that "Jesus looked at him and loved him" (Mark 10:21). Imagine Jesus looked at you in the same way. What might Jesus say to you about your relationship to money?- How much is enough for you?

This question is often not a question, but a challenge. We often act as if we know things we cannot know. James says that we act in arrogance when we make plans as if we know what will happen or as if we are in complete control of our destinies. Instead, we should make all plans with the acknowledgment that God alone is in control.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:"We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps." (Proverbs 16:9)- Imagine you are teaching a children's Sunday School class on this passage and one of the children asks, "Does this mean that I shouldn't make promises?" How might you address this child's question?- There are "sins of commission" (bad things we do) and "sins of omission" (good things we fail to do). How might this awareness help lead you away from pride and closer to Christ?

In this flashback to September 4, 2024, we looked at the Fruit of the Spirit called "self-control" and its connection to humility. Speaking to the Corinthian church, Paul counsels them to be humble in their approach to temptation. They should not think too much of themselves nor too little, especially because God is faithful and will be with them!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:The temptations we face are common to all. We should not forget our vulnerability nor should we lose hope, especially because God is faithful!- Can you recall a time when you underestimated your vulnerability to temptation? What do you believe led to that vulnerability?- Taylor mentioned "H.A.L.T." -- Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired. We are especially vulnerable when our own basic needs are unmet. What might help you to be more spiritually, physically, and emotionally healthy?

James exhorts us to draw close to God. How? By avoiding temptation, by resisting the Tempter, and by humbling ourselves so that God might lift us up. Once again, one of the most important ways we can humble ourselves is to refuse to judge one another. Only God can judge and any "judgments" we make must be based on what God has declared to be true.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Draw near to God and God will draw near to you (v8).- Why do you think James places such importance on "resisting the Devil" (v7)? What temptations most commonly interfere with your connection to God?- James tells us that our job is to obey God's law, not to judge whether it applies to us (v11, like when we decide that we are justified in speaking against one another). What are some of the ways that believers today are tempted to disregard God's law? In what ways are you likewise tempted?

The world tells us that success is an upward climb but James reminds us that in God's world, we descend into greatness. Rather than climbing over others, we will be lifted up by God when we lower ourselves to become servants, just like Jesus. The lure of the upward climb is strong, and thankfully God is more gracious than our failures. God pours out grace on the humble.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:We all struggle with divided loyalties and the world's vision of "the good life" can exercise a strong pull on our hearts.- What aspect of the world's vision of "the good life" is most tempting to you, and why?- How might an exercise like "counting the costs" be helpful (or not) when facing such temptations?- Who do you know and trust who follows God in such a way that it helps to make God's vision for a good life more powerfully appealing?

If you were to unpack the reasons for your most recent fight with someone else, what might those reasons be? We might think it is because the other person is wrong and cannot or will not see how we are right! Whatever reasons we might give, James says that the underlying reasons are often the sinful desires at war within us. If James is right, then we will never resolve the conflicts we face until we allow God to bring peace to the conflict within our own souls!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:James tells us that in order to understand the conflicts around us, we have to understand the conflict within us.- Think of some of the conflicts you regularly witness or experience. How do you see selfish desires feeding into those conflicts?- Sometimes we want the wrong things. Sometimes we fail to want the right things. Sometimes we want the right things for the wrong reasons. How might God's Spirit be inviting you to be more aware of these desires and to allow God to change them?

"Sticks and stones may break my bones..." but words cause lasting damage. The true children of God will be peacemakers and healers, including how we speak to and about one another. As James put it, we cannot praise God and also curse those who are created in God's image. Once again, there are two paths and we must choose one.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:James tells us that the mouth that blesses God should not also curse people, who are made in God's image.- Recall a time where you were in the wrong. What did others do that was helpful or not helpful in persuading you to change direction?- What can you learn from that experience (or others) that might help you to more fully embrace the path of wisdom as laid out by James? What might help you to remember the image of God in others?

In this flashback from June 12, 2024, we see the Teacher turn to the idea of worship as the foundation of true wisdom. We are continually tempted to speak in ways that sway others to think better of us, whether true or not. With God, word and deed are the same, and so it should be for us. Let us be careful about making promises and let us honor each promise as we honor a God who does the same.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:After speaking about his own thoughts and experiences, the Teacher turns directly to us with instructions about true wisdom's foundation in worship and reverence.- What do you think of the connection the Teacher draws between worship and wisdom? How has your identity as a worshiper changed your understanding of yourself, others, and what is good in life?- We are told to make few promises and to keep those we make. If someone were to notice a mismatch between your words and deeds, what would they have perhaps seen you do and say?

James returns to the topic of the way we speak to and about one another. We might be tempted to think that words are small things, and they are, but they have the power to redirect a person's very life. Just as a spark sets an entire forest ablaze, so the tongue can set fire to our lives -- individuals, communities, and even entire nations!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Words may be small and passing, but they have great power for good or evil.- Think back to some of the power that words have had over your life. Perhaps it was a taunt or insult, or maybe an encouragement or blessing. Do you think the other person had any idea of the lasting impact of those words?- How might God be inviting you to be more careful with your words? Might God be inviting you to make amends with someone else for what was said, or something left unsaid?

As James continues to argue for the necessity of a faithful response to God's grace, he brings us two examples of such faith. First, he goes back to Abraham, the very father of our faith. Next, he points to the mother of all converts to the faith, Rahab. Both Abraham and Rahab were blessed by God not just for intellectually believing in God, but for trusting God by taking sacrificial risks to put that faith into action.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:The authenticity of Abraham's and Rahab's faith was proven by their faithful actions.- Abraham's and Rahab's faith demanded a willingness to take great risks or to make gut-wrenching sacrifices. What are some of the risks or sacrifices that your faith has asked of you?- Abraham had many years of stumbling towards faithfulness before he was ready for that great test. Is there a way that God may be training you and inviting you to trust more deeply today?

Are we not saved by faith? How can James say that faith alone cannot save us? But is James alone? Paul said that a faith that can move mountains but without love is worthless (1 Cor 13:2). Jesus said that the person who hears his words but does not put them into practice will be swept away with the storms of life (Mt 7:27). For James, a merely intellectual faith that does not produce a faithful response in us is not true faith at all -- even demons have that kind of faith. Real faith must move us to love God and others. Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Paul says that we cannot earn God's favor, it is a gift (Eph 2:8), but we are also created to do good works (Eph 2:10). Or as James says here, faith without good deeds is dead.- Supposed a child asked you about the relation between faith and good deeds? How might you address this child's question?- What are some of the transforming effects that faith has had on your life over time? What have others noticed in you for which you might point to God's grace at work in you? Take some time to thank God for those things.

God is merciful, yet James tells us that there are certain conditions under which God will not show us mercy! When will God not be merciful? When we refuse to show mercy to others. If we refuse to imitate God's mercy, God will imitate us in our lack of mercy. It is just as Jesus taught us to pray, "Forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us."Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:In case we may be tempted to judge others, James reminds us that we all break God's Law and thus have no right to judge others.- In the moments when you are tempted to be judgmental, what helps you to be more understanding and merciful?- Suppose you were teaching this passage in a Sunday School class and a young child asked you, "Why won't God be merciful to you if you are not merciful?" How might you answer that child's question?