Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul Begins His Third Missionary Journey by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 18:21-28 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples." - Acts 18:23 KJV

Paul's missionary journeys were not simply about reaching new people. They were also about strengthening people who had already believed. After returning to Antioch, Paul begins another journey. He travels through Galatia and Phrygia with a specific purpose: “Strengthening all the disciples.” This is an important reminder that Christian ministry involves both evangelism and discipleship.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul in Corinth by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 18:1-11 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:" - Acts 18:9 KJV

After leaving Athens, Paul travels to Corinth, a large and influential city known for its commerce, wealth, and moral corruption. Paul begins his ministry there by working with Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers. He supports himself through his trade while continuing to preach the gospel. As usual, Paul faces opposition. Some reject his message, but others believe. Among them is Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, who believes in the Lord with his entire household.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul in Athens, The Unknown God by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 17:22-31 KJV 

Key Verse:  "For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, To The Unknown God. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you." - Acts 17:23 KJV

Paul arrives in Athens and finds a city filled with idols. As he walks through the city, he sees evidence everywhere of people searching for something beyond themselves. Among the many altars, he discovers one bearing the inscription: “TO THE UNKNOWN GOD.” Paul sees an opportunity.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - The Bereans Search the Scriptures by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 17:7-14 KJV

Key Verse:  "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." - Acts 17:11 KJV

After the opposition in Thessalonica, Paul and Silas travel to Berea. Once again, Paul enters the synagogue and begins preaching the gospel. But the response in Berea is different. The Bereans listen carefully to what Paul says. They are receptive to the message, but they don't simply accept it because Paul is an apostle or because he speaks with confidence. Instead, they search the Scriptures.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul in Thessalonica by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 17:1-10 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ." - Acts 17:3 KJV

After leaving Philippi, Paul and Silas arrive in Thessalonica. As was his custom, Paul goes to the synagogue and begins reasoning with the people from the Scriptures. His message centers on Jesus. Paul explains that the Messiah had to suffer, die, and rise again, and then makes the conclusion unmistakable: “This Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.”

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul and Silas in Prison by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 16:25-34 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them." - Acts 16:25 KJV

Paul and Silas had followed God's direction into Macedonia. Yet their obedience did not lead immediately to comfort or success. Instead, it led them to prison. After Paul cast a spirit out of a servant girl, her owners became angry because their source of profit was gone. They stirred up the crowd, and Paul and Silas were beaten and thrown into the inner prison. Their feet were fastened in stocks.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul’s Macedonian Call by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 16:5-12 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us." - Acts 16:9 KJV

Paul and his companions are ready to preach the gospel, but something unexpected happens. The Holy Ghost forbids them from preaching in certain places. Then they try another direction, but again, the Spirit does not permit them to go. At first glance, this might seem confusing. They are trying to do something good so why would God close the doors?

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul and Barnabas Separate by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 15:35-41 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;" - Acts 15:39 KJV

After the great success of the Jerusalem Council, Paul and Barnabas prepare to begin another journey. Their intention is good: they want to return to the churches they previously visited and encourage the believers. But then a disagreement arises. Barnabas wants to take John Mark with them. Paul does not.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - The Jerusalem Council by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 15:1-11 KJV 

Key Verse:  "But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they." - Acts 15:11 KJV

The early church had reached an important crossroads. The gospel was spreading rapidly among the Gentiles, but a disagreement arose over a fundamental question: Did Gentile believers have to follow the Law of Moses in order to be saved? Some believers insisted that circumcision and obedience to the Jewish law were necessary for salvation. The apostles and elders gathered in Jerusalem to consider the matter. This gathering became known as the Jerusalem Council.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul and Barnabas Return to Antioch by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 14:21-28 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God." - Acts 14:22 KJV

Paul and Barnabas have just completed an extraordinary missionary journey. They have preached the gospel, witnessed people come to Christ, experienced miracles, endured fierce opposition, and faced persecution. Yet when the journey is nearly over, they do something remarkable.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul Heals a Lame Man at Lystra by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 14:8-20 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:" - Acts 14:15 KJV

Paul and Barnabas arrive in Lystra, where they encounter a man who had never walked. Paul sees that the man has faith and commands him: “Stand upright on thy feet.” Immediately, the man leaps up and walks. The people are astonished. But instead of recognizing the power of the true God, they assume that Paul and Barnabas are gods who have come down in human form. They begin preparing to worship them and even want to offer sacrifices to them.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul and Barnabas in Iconium by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 14:1-7 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands." - Acts 14:3 KJV

Paul and Barnabas arrive in Iconium and immediately begin doing what God called them to do: they preach the gospel. And God blesses their message. A great number of both Jews and Gentiles believe. But once again, opposition appears. Some reject the message and begin stirring up hostility against the believers. The city becomes divided, and eventually a plot develops to stone Paul and Barnabas.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul and Barnabas Face Opposition by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 13:45-52 KJV

Key Verse:  "And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost."
- Acts 13:52 KJV

The gospel is spreading rapidly. After Paul preaches in Antioch of Pisidia, almost the entire city gathers the following Sabbath to hear the Word of God. What an incredible opportunity! Yet instead of rejoicing over so many people hearing the truth, some become jealous. Opposition begins.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Paul Preaches in Antioch of Pisidia by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 13:31-39 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:" - Acts 13:38 KJV

Paul and Barnabas arrive in Antioch of Pisidia, and on the Sabbath they enter the synagogue. Paul is invited to speak, and he takes the opportunity to tell the story of God's faithfulness. His message begins with Israel's history. He speaks of Abraham, the Exodus, the kings, and especially David. But Paul is not simply giving a history lesson. He is showing how God's promises were leading to Jesus Christ.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Barnabas and Saul Sent Off by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 13:1-12 KJV 

Key Verse:  "As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them." - Acts 13:2 KJV

The church at Antioch was growing and thriving, but God had something more in store. As the believers “ministered to the Lord, and fasted,” the Holy Ghost gave them a specific calling: Barnabas and Saul were to be set apart for a special work. Notice how this missionary journey began. It began with worship, prayer, fasting, and listening.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Delivered by God, Peter’s Miraculous Escape by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 12:1–19 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands."
- Acts 12:7 KJV

As the church continued to grow, opposition intensified. King Herod began to persecute believers, even executing James, the brother of John. Seeing that this pleased certain groups, he arrested Peter as well, intending to put him on trial after the Passover. Peter was heavily guarded in prison, bound with chains and watched by soldiers, his situation seemed hopeless.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - A Thriving Church in Antioch by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 11:19–30 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch." - Acts 11:26 KJV

As persecution scattered the believers after Stephen’s death, what seemed like a setback became a powerful step forward. Those who were dispersed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, sharing the message of Jesus. At first, they spoke only to Jews, but soon some began preaching to Greeks also, spreading the good news beyond traditional boundaries.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Trusting God’s Work Beyond Our Expectations

Bible Reading: Acts 11:1–18 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them." - Acts 11:3 KJV

When Peter returned to Jerusalem after visiting Cornelius, news had already spread: Gentiles had received the word of God. While this was a remarkable development, it also stirred concern among some believers. They questioned Peter, saying, “You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them!”

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - No Partiality Peter and Cornelius by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 10:1–8 KJV 

Key Verse:  "There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,"
- Acts 10:1 KJV

In Caesarea lived a Roman centurion named Cornelius, a Gentile, yet a devout man who feared God, gave generously, and prayed continually. One day, he received a vision from an angel instructing him to send for Peter, who was staying in Joppa.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Compassion in Action Peter Heals Aeneas and Raises Tabitha by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 9:32–42 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda." - Acts 9:42 KJV

As the church continued to grow, the apostles traveled to strengthen and encourage believers. Peter, moving from place to place, came to Lydda where he met a man named Aeneas. Aeneas had been bedridden for eight years, paralyzed and unable to help himself. Peter said to him, “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and make your bed.” Immediately, Aeneas rose. The miracle was undeniable, and many in Lydda and Sharon turned to the Lord.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Saul Begins to Preach A Transformed Voice by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 9:20–31 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God."
- Acts 9:20 KJV

After his dramatic encounter with Jesus and the restoration of his sight, Saul did not waste time. Almost immediately, he began to proclaim in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. The very man who once tried to destroy the church was now boldly defending the truth he had once opposed.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Saul’s Conversion From Persecutor to Proclaimer by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 9:1-19 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?"
- Acts 9:4 KJV

Saul of Tarsus was a man driven by zeal. Convinced that followers of Jesus were a threat, he actively sought to silence them. With authority from the high priest, he traveled toward Damascus, intent on arresting believers and bringing them to Jerusalem. But on that journey, everything changed.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Stephen’s Courage and Faith by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 6:8-15 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people." - Acts 6:8 KJV

Stephen, one of the first deacons chosen to serve the early church, was described as “full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.” He did great wonders and signs among the people, boldly proclaiming the truth of Jesus Christ. Yet his faithfulness stirred opposition. False witnesses accused him, and he was brought before the council.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Ananias and Sapphira by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 5:1-11 KJV 

Key Verse:  "But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?" - Acts 5:3 KJV

In the midst of the early church’s unity and generosity, a sobering moment unfolds. Ananias and Sapphira sell a piece of property, but secretly keep back part of the money while pretending to give it all. Their sin is not in withholding a portion, it was theirs to give, but in deception. They want the appearance of full devotion without the reality of it.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - The Believers Share Their Possessions by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 4:31-37 KJV

Key Verse:  "And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common."
- Acts 4:32 KJV

As the early church continues to grow, something beautiful begins to take shape, not just in their message, but in their lifestyle. They are described as being of “one heart and one soul.” This unity goes beyond words, it is reflected in how they treat one another. They no longer see their possessions as their own, but as resources to be used for the good of the entire community. Needs are met. No one is lacking.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - The Believers Pray for Boldness by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 4:30-37 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness." - Acts 4:31 KJV

After being threatened and warned not to speak in the name of Jesus, Peter and John return to the other believers. Instead of responding with fear or discouragement, the early church does something powerful: They pray. Not quietly or individually, but together, in unity. They lift their voices “with one accord,” recognizing God’s sovereignty over everything that has happened. Even the opposition they face is not outside of God’s control.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 4:9-16 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."
- Acts 4:12 KJV

As the message of Jesus spreads, opposition quickly follows. Peter and John are arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin, the same council that had condemned Jesus. The question they are asked is direct: “By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?” This moment could have been intimidating. These were powerful leaders, and the consequences could be severe. But something is different now.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Peter Preaches in Solomon’s Porch by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 3:17-24 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord." - Acts 3:19 KJV

The miraculous healing at the temple draws a crowd—and Peter immediately recognizes an opportunity. But instead of drawing attention to himself, he points everything back to Jesus. “Why look ye so earnestly on us?” Peter makes it clear: this miracle was not by human power, but through faith in the name of Jesus Christ.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - Peter Heals a Lame Man by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 3:1-8 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk."
- Acts 3:6 KJV

After Pentecost, the power of the Holy Spirit begins to move through the apostles in remarkable ways. One day, as Peter and John go to the temple to pray, they encounter a man who has never walked. Day after day, he has sat at the gate, asking for money hoping only for temporary help. But that day, he receives something far greater.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - The Day of Pentecost by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 2:36-43 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."
- Acts 2:38 KJV

The waiting is over. On the Day of Pentecost, everything changes. Suddenly, the sound of a rushing mighty wind fills the house. Tongues of fire appear, resting on each of the disciples. And just as Jesus promised, they are filled with the Holy Spirit. This is not a quiet moment, instead it is powerful, visible, and undeniable.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - The Promise of the Holy Spirit by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 1:1-8 KJV 

Key Verse:  "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
- Acts 1:8 KJV

As the book of Acts begins, we find the disciples in a season of waiting. Jesus has risen. He has appeared to them. He has given them their mission. But before they go out into the world, He gives them one crucial instruction: Wait. “Wait for the promise of the Father.”

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - The Ascension of Jesus by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 1:4-11 KJV

Key Verse:  "Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven." - Acts 1:11 KJV

After His resurrection and final teachings, Jesus leads His disciples to the Mount of Olives. There, He lifts His hands and blesses them as a final act of love and assurance. Then, before their eyes, He ascends into heaven. A cloud receives Him, and He is taken out of their sight.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - The Great Commission by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Matthew 28:16-20 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:"
- Matthew 28:19 KJV

After His resurrection, Jesus gathers His disciples one final time on a mountain in Galilee. These are the same men who had once doubted, feared, and even fled—but now they stand before their risen Savior. Jesus begins with a powerful declaration:
“All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” This is the foundation of the mission. The authority behind the command is absolute.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - Jesus Appears to His Disciples by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: John 20:18-25 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you."
- John 20:19 KJV

After the resurrection, the disciples are hiding behind closed doors, gripped by fear and uncertainty. Everything they thought they understood had been shaken. Then suddenly, Jesus appears. No barrier can keep Him out. No fear can keep Him away. His first words are simple yet powerful: “Peace be unto you.”

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - The Resurrection of Jesus by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Matthew 28:1-8 KJV 

Key Verse:  "He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay." - Matthew 28:6 KJV

The resurrection of Jesus is the greatest victory in all of history. After the silence of the tomb, early on the first day of the week, everything changes. The stone is rolled away, not to let Jesus out, but to let the world see that the tomb is empty. Death could not hold Him. The angel’s words echo through time: “He is not here: for he is risen.”

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - The Burial of Jesus by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Isaiah 53 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth."
- Isaiah 53:9 KJV

After the agony of the cross comes a quiet, somber moment, the burial of Jesus. Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy and respected man, courageously steps forward to care for Jesus’ body. Along with Nicodemus, he wraps Him in linen with spices and lays Him in a new tomb. This act fulfills prophecy and shows that even in death, God’s plan is unfolding perfectly.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - The Crucifixion of Jesus by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Isaiah 53:1-12 KJV 

Key Verse:  "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." - Isaiah 53:5 KJV

The crucifixion is the central moment of all history—the place where love and sacrifice meet. Jesus is led to Calvary, mocked, beaten, and nailed to a cross. Yet even in His suffering, His words reveal His heart: “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” Instead of anger, He offers forgiveness.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - Jesus Before Pilate by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: John 18:33-40 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice."
- John 18:37 KJV

Jesus now stands before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor. This is no longer a religious trial, it is a political one. Yet even here, the truth is clear: Jesus is innocent. Pilate himself declares, “I find no fault in this man.” And yet, despite recognizing the truth, Pilate gives in to the pressure of the crowd. This moment reveals a tragic exchange.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - Jesus Before the Sanhedrin and Peter’s Denial by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Matthew 26:62-70 KJV 

Key Verse:  "But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest."
- Matthew 26:70 KJV

As Jesus is brought before the Sanhedrin, the highest religious court, injustice unfolds. False witnesses are brought forward, accusations are twisted, and the outcome is already decided. Through it all, Jesus remains remarkably silent. When finally asked directly if He is the Christ, the Son of God, Jesus answers truthfully, even though He knows it will lead to His condemnation. He stands firm in truth, regardless of the cost.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Luke 22:47-54 KJV 

Key Verse:  "But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?" - Luke 22:48 KJV

In the stillness of the night, the moment of betrayal arrives. Judas, one of the twelve, approaches Jesus, not with open hostility, but with a kiss, a sign of affection twisted into betrayal. Jesus’ words cut to the heart: “Betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?” This moment reminds us that betrayal often comes from those closest to us.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - Jesus Prays in Gethsemane by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Luke 22:39-46 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done."
- Luke 22:42 KJV

In the Garden of Gethsemane, we see one of the most intimate and powerful moments in the life of Jesus. Just hours before His arrest, He withdraws to pray. Here, the weight of what lies ahead presses heavily upon Him. Jesus is “sorrowful… even unto death.” He knows the suffering of the cross is coming, not only physical pain, but the burden of bearing the sins of the world. In His humanity, He cries out: “If it be possible, let this cup pass from me…”

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - The Last Supper by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Luke 22:19-26 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me." - Luke 22:19 KJV

On the night before the cross, Jesus gathers with His disciples for a final meal. What should have been a simple Passover becomes one of the most profound moments in Scripture. Jesus knows what lies ahead, betrayal, suffering, and death,yet His focus is on love, service, and sacrifice.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - The Olivet Discourse by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Matthew 24:1-8 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?"
- Matthew 24:3 KJV

As Jesus sits on the Mount of Olives overlooking Jerusalem, His disciples ask a question that has echoed through the centuries: “When will these things be, and what will be the sign of Your coming?” Jesus responds with both warning and encouragement.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - Jesus Cleanses the Temple by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Matthew 21:8-13 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves."
- Matthew 21:13 KJV

After His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, Jesus goes straight to the temple, the very center of worship. But instead of finding reverence and prayer, He finds corruption. Merchants and money changers had turned a sacred place into a marketplace. What was meant to be a house of prayer had become a place of profit and exploitation.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Mark 10:46-52 KJV 

Key Verse:  "And Jesus said unto him, Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole. And immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus in the way."
- Mark 10:52 KJV

As Jesus leaves Jericho, surrounded by a large crowd, one voice rises above the noise, a blind beggar named Bartimaeus. Though he cannot see Jesus, he recognizes who He is and cries out, “Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me.” The crowd tries to silence him, but Bartimaeus refuses to be quiet. In fact, he cries out even louder. His persistence reveals a deep, desperate faith, he believes Jesus is his only hope.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - The Request of James and John by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Mark 10:35-45 KJV

Key Verse:  "And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto him, saying, Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire."
- Mark 10:35 KJV

Just after Jesus speaks about His coming suffering, James and John make a bold request: they want positions of honor in His glory. Their desire reveals a misunderstanding, they are still thinking in terms of earthly status and recognition. Jesus responds with patience and truth. He asks if they are willing to share in His “cup,” a symbol of suffering and sacrifice. Though they confidently say yes, they do not yet fully grasp what that means.

Daily Devotion: The Acts of the Apostles - The Jerusalem Council by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Acts 15:1-10 KJV 

Key Verse:  "But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they." - Acts 15:11 KJV

The early church had reached an important crossroads. The gospel was spreading rapidly among the Gentiles, but a disagreement arose over a fundamental question: Did Gentile believers have to follow the Law of Moses in order to be saved?Some believers insisted that circumcision and obedience to the Jewish law were necessary for salvation. The apostles and elders gathered in Jerusalem to consider the matter. This gathering became known as the Jerusalem Council.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - The Triumphal Entry by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: John 12:12-19 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord."
- John 12:13 KJV

As Jesus entered Jerusalem, the atmosphere was electric with excitement. Crowds gathered, laying down palm branches and garments along the road, shouting praises: “Hosanna… Blessed is the King!” This moment fulfilled prophecy and publicly revealed Jesus as the promised King. Yet, the way He entered was unexpected. He did not come riding a war horse, but a humble donkey, symbolizing peace, not political conquest.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - Jesus Foretells His Death and Resurrection by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Matthew 20:16-19 KJV 

Key Verse:  "Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death," - Matthew 20:18 KJV

As Jesus journeyed toward Jerusalem, He began preparing His disciples for what was ahead. He spoke plainly about His suffering, rejection, death, and resurrection. This was not a surprise ending, it was a divine plan unfolding exactly as God intended.

Daily Devotion: The Life of Jesus - The Rich Young Ruler by J.E. Smith

Bible Reading: Mark 10:17-24 KJV

Key Verse:  "Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me."
- Mark 10:21 KJV

The rich young ruler comes to Jesus with what seems like the perfect question: “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” He is sincere, respectful, and morally upright. By outward standards, he appears to have everything together. Yet Jesus sees deeper.