Standing in Grace (Part 5 of 5): Grace Sustains Us
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. — 2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
In this passage, Paul shares how he pleaded with God three times to remove what he called “a thorn in the flesh.” God did not take it away, but instead gave Paul something far greater — a revelation of sustaining grace.
Paul explains that the thorn was allowed “to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations.” (2 Corinthians 12:7) In other words, God knew Paul so intimately that He allowed this weakness to keep him humble, dependent, and aligned with His will.
What a beautiful reminder that God knows exactly what we need to keep us close to Him. Sometimes His grace doesn’t remove the struggle; it strengthens us through it. God told Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you.” That means His grace is enough — more than enough — for every weakness, every hardship, every season of our lives.
When we are weak, God’s power shines the brightest. Our limitations become the very place where His strength is perfected.
This truth brings such peace to my heart. When God calls us — even when we feel unqualified, inexperienced, or uncertain — that’s exactly where He wants us to be. Our insufficiency creates space for His sufficiency. His power is displayed through our dependence on Him.
Just like Paul, we can rejoice in our weaknesses because they become a platform for God’s glory. The focus is no longer on what we can do, but on what He can do through us.
We see this same pattern all throughout Scripture. Jesus called disciples who had no formal training, no wealth, and no social status — yet by His grace, they turned the world upside down. God’s grace didn’t just call them; it sustained them. And that same sustaining grace is still at work in us today.
No matter what challenges or weaknesses we face, God’s grace is our constant source of strength. Like Paul, we can boldly declare:
“Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
Hallelujah!
Key Takeaways
Our weakness is not a limitation — it’s an invitation. God’s grace works best where our strength runs out.
Grace empowers us to fulfill God’s design. We can move forward confidently, knowing His power sustains every step.
Sustaining grace is our strength. Whatever situation we face, His grace is sufficient — always enough.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Standing in Grace (Part 4 of 5): Grace Empowers the Unqualified
“And he said to him, ‘If now I have found favor in your eyes, then show me a sign that it is you who speak with me. Please do not depart from here until I come to you and bring out my present and set it before you.’ And he said, ‘I will stay till you return.’” — Judges 6:17–18 (ESV)
In this passage, the angel of the Lord appears to Gideon and tells him that God has chosen him to deliver Israel from the Midianites. But Gideon’s first response reveals his insecurity and doubt.
“Please, Lord, how can I save Israel? Behold, my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house.” — Judges 6:15 (ESV)
The Lord’s answer is simple and powerful:
“But I will be with you, and you shall strike the Midianites as one man.” — Judges 6:16 (ESV)
Even after hearing this promise, Gideon still wrestled with uncertainty. He asked for a sign — some assurance that it was truly God speaking to him. Despite his hesitation, God patiently met him where he was. Gideon’s doubts didn’t disqualify him; instead, they became the backdrop for God’s grace to shine.
Gideon gave God every reason why he shouldn’t be chosen — his background, his lack of strength, his position in society — but notice this: God never answered Gideon’s excuses. He simply assured him, “I will be with you.”
That’s the essence of grace. Grace doesn’t focus on our qualifications; it magnifies God’s presence. When God’s grace is upon your life, it empowers you to do what you could never do on your own.
Gideon didn’t earn God’s favor. He didn’t seek it out or perform some ritual to receive it. God simply showed up and extended grace. That’s the mystery and beauty of divine favor — it’s not fair. God’s grace goes beyond what we deserve and calls us into what only He can accomplish through us.
Grace took a fearful, uncertain man and transformed him into a mighty warrior. The same grace still empowers us today. Even when we feel weak, overlooked, or unqualified, God’s grace equips us to fulfill His purpose.
When we stand in grace, we stand in God’s power, not our own.
Key Takeaways
Grace empowers, not excuses. God doesn’t remove our weakness; He works through it to reveal His strength.
Grace chooses the unlikely. God delights in using those who feel unqualified, proving that His power is greater than our limitations.
Grace meets us in our doubt. Like Gideon, we may question or hesitate, but God’s presence is the assurance that we are standing in His favor.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Standing in Grace (Part 3 of 5): Grace Elevates Through Humility
“The king loved Esther more than all the women, and she won grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins, so that he set the royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti.” — Esther 2:17 (ESV)
Many of us know the story of Esther — a young Jewish woman raised by her cousin Mordecai after the loss of her parents.
“Now there was a Jew in Susa the citadel whose name was Mordecai, the son of Jair, son of Shimei, son of Kish, a Benjaminite, who had been carried away from Jerusalem among the captives. He was bringing up Hadassah (that is, Esther), the daughter of his uncle, for she had neither father nor mother.” — Esther 2:5–7 (ESV)
When King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) removed Queen Vashti from her royal position because of her disobedience, he sought a new queen. A royal decree went out, gathering many young women from across the kingdom to the citadel of Susa. Among them was Esther, who was taken into the palace and placed under the care of Hegai, the king’s eunuch in charge of the women.
Scripture tells us that Esther “pleased Hegai and won his favor.” He immediately provided her with beauty treatments, special food, attendants, and the best place in the harem. Though the Bible doesn’t specify exactly what Esther did to gain such favor, her character speaks volumes.
Just as Noah found grace in God’s eyes through his obedience and righteous heart, Esther’s favor came through her posture of humility and submission. She respected those in authority, listened to instruction, and honored the process she was placed in.
When it was her turn to go before the king, Esther did not rely on her beauty or her own ideas. Instead, she sought wisdom:
“She asked for nothing except what Hegai, the king’s eunuch who had charge of the women, advised.” — Esther 2:15 (ESV)
That single choice reveals the depth of Esther’s heart. She trusted the guidance given to her. She was teachable, obedient, and wise enough to understand that favor flows through submission.
It wasn’t Esther’s outward beauty that positioned her as queen — it was the beauty of her heart. Her humility, obedience, and reverence created an atmosphere for grace to operate. Grace elevated her because her heart was aligned with God’s will.
When we stand in grace, it may not always be in a palace or before a king, but grace still elevates us — not through striving or self-promotion, but through a humble heart yielded to God’s direction.
Key Takeaways
Esther’s humility was her grace. Her heart posture positioned her for divine favor and advancement.
Grace flows through submission. When we honor authority and follow godly guidance, grace opens doors that effort alone cannot.
True elevation begins in the heart. Standing in grace means cultivating a spirit of humility, obedience, and quiet confidence in God’s timing.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Standing in Grace (Part 2 of 5): Grace Brings Restoration
“I have cattle and donkeys, sheep and goats, male and female servants. Now I am sending this message to my lord, that I may find favor in your eyes.” — Genesis 32:5 (NIV)
In the previous devotional, we saw how Noah stood in grace and was positioned for purpose. In this devotional, we see another example of grace at work — not in building an ark, but in rebuilding a broken relationship.
After the angels of God met Jacob, something shifted in his heart. He decided it was time to make things right with his brother Esau. Years earlier, Jacob had deceived Esau and taken the blessing that belonged to him. But now, after encountering God, Jacob chose humility. He divided portions of his wealth — cattle, donkeys, sheep, goats, and servants — and sent them ahead as gifts to his brother, hoping to find favor in his eyes.
“Thus says your servant Jacob, ‘I have sojourned with Laban and stayed until now. I have oxen, donkeys, flocks, male servants, and female servants. I have sent this message to my lord, in order that I may find favor in your sight.’” — Genesis 32:4–5 (ESV)
Jacob knew he couldn’t change the past. He couldn’t undo the pain he caused or erase his deception. But he also didn’t try to excuse his behavior. Instead, he approached his brother in humility — not as an equal, but as a servant — seeking forgiveness and reconciliation.
The gifts Jacob offered were more than material; they were acts of grace. What God had blessed him with during his time in Laban’s fields became the very means by which he sought peace. Jacob stood in grace — both in giving and in seeking restoration.
When we think about the people we’ve wronged or the relationships that have been broken, we often realize that apologies alone can’t undo the hurt. But when we come with a humble and sincere heart, grace begins to work. The grace of God softens hearts, heals wounds, and restores what once was broken.
Grace bridges the gap that offense creates. It gives both the offender and the offended a new way forward — one built on humility, forgiveness, and love.
Jacob’s story reminds us that grace not only restores us to God; it restores us to others. When we stand in grace, we open the door for healing and reconciliation that only God can bring.
Key Takeaways
Forgiveness is a gift of grace. It cannot be earned, but it can be received when we humble ourselves before God and others.
Standing in grace empowers right action. Grace gives us the courage to confront our past and make peace where we once caused pain.
Grace humbles and heals. When we stand in grace, it transforms pride into humility and restores relationships through the love of God.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Standing in Grace (Part 1 of 5)
In the last devotional, we asked the question the Holy Spirit placed on my heart: “What are you standing in?” We discovered that one of the foundations we stand upon is grace — the unearned, empowering favor of God.
“But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.” — Genesis 6:8 (KJV)
At first, I wondered, How do we stand in grace? When I thought of grace, the word favor always came to mind — God’s undeserved goodness. But as I began to study deeper, my soul was set on fire. Grace is so much more than favor; it is divine empowerment. It’s the strength, wisdom, and positioning God gives us to fulfill His purpose.
The first mention of grace in Scripture is found in Genesis 6:8, and it appears in the story of Noah. Scripture describes Noah as “a righteous man, blameless in his generation, and Noah walked with God.” To walk with God means to live in close fellowship and obedience to Him. Noah’s relationship with God set him apart from the corruption of his generation.
Because Noah walked with God, he was aligned with God — and grace flowed from that alignment. Grace gave Noah access to divine insight. While others were blind to what was coming, grace revealed to Noah the blueprint for survival — the ark. Grace positioned him to hear and to act on what God was saying.
Think about that: grace put Noah in position for knowledge, favor, and divine protection. It wasn’t just about escaping destruction; it was about being chosen to begin again. The grace Noah received became the bridge between the old world and the new. Through grace, Noah became the father of a new generation — a symbol of renewal and restoration.
When we stand in grace, we, too, are given access to divine wisdom. Grace opens doors we could never open on our own. It positions us for assignments that are beyond our natural ability. Standing in grace means standing in God’s plan, His provision, and His power.
Grace isn’t passive. It doesn’t simply rest on us; it propels us forward into purpose. Just as grace empowered Noah to build in obedience, grace empowers us to stand firm in faith and move in alignment with God’s will.
Key Takeaways
Grace is divine positioning. It places you in alignment with God’s will and gives you access to His wisdom and direction.
Grace empowers obedience. Just as Noah received the blueprint for the ark, grace equips you to walk out God’s instructions in your life.
Grace produces renewal. When you stand in grace, you become part of God’s redemptive plan — a vessel He uses to bring forth new beginnings.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
“When God Says Go”
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’” Isaiah 6:8 NIV
The Holy Spirit prompted me some time ago to start a ministry called The Healing Center. When He first placed this in my spirit, He didn’t say, “Start a ministry.” He said, “I want you to go to the mall and pray for people.”
I remember thinking, Go sit in the mall and pray? He said, “Yes.”
When I said, “Okay, but I’m not sure how to do this,” He began to show me step by step exactly what to do.
I gathered the materials He instructed me to prepare and contacted our local mall. To my surprise, they said yes! They even provided chairs, tables, and tablecloths. I realized then that when God tells us to do something—no matter how impossible it sounds—He has already made a way.
Many times, I’ve sat at the mall with our banner and materials, and no one comes. People read the sign, smile politely, but keep walking. I asked God, “Why am I here if no one comes?” He didn’t answer immediately—but later, He showed me.
We usually have an assigned spot, but twice after I asked that question, I was placed in different locations. Each time, another organization would tell me I was in their area, and mall security would come, apologize, and move me. The last time it happened, I said to God, “I don’t understand.”
He replied, “Twice you were moved from vendors who were spreading false religion. Where is the Church?”
Then He showed me that my sitting in the mall represents Him standing at the door of each person’s heart—waiting for them to let Him in. I wear a shirt that says, “How can I pray for you?” and I sit because Jesus is waiting for anyone who wants Him to come in.
He helped me understand that I am His servant, and wherever He needs me—that’s where I am to be.
Key Takeaways
God’s plans rarely look like what we expect.
He is simply looking for your “yes.”
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
It Is Not as Bad as It Looks
Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha 2 Kings 6:17, ESV
One of the pastor at our church taught a sermon with the title above. Often, when we find ourselves in very difficult situations, it can be hard to understand that things are not really as bad as they seem. Our pastor took us to the passage in 2 Kings 6 about Elisha’s servant.
When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
— 2 Kings 6:15–17 (ESV)
From the servant’s perspective, things looked hopeless — they were surrounded and surely about to die. But after Elisha prayed for him, his eyes were opened, and he was able to see that things were not as bad as they appeared.
A few days before I heard this message, one of my dear sister-friends attended a conference. She shared with me that they had been learning how we only see about one percent of what is actually around us. When information like this comes to you so unexpectedly, you can be sure it is not random — it’s God speaking.
I started doing some research online and came across the work of David Eagleman, a neuroscientist at Stanford University. In his book The Brain: The Story of You, Eagleman explains that the visible spectrum of light makes up only a tiny fraction of the total electromagnetic spectrum — which includes everything from radio waves to gamma rays. According to Eagleman, the visible spectrum corresponds to just 0.0035% of the total electromagnetic spectrum. To put that in perspective, if the entire spectrum were a 1,000-mile road trip, the visible portion would be just a few feet of that journey.
As I was reading this, I couldn’t help but think: No wonder the sovereign God who created the universe and placed us in it consistently tells us in the Bible not to fear. In Isaiah, He says:
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
— Isaiah 41:10
God also tells us not to focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. Everything in the visible world originates from the invisible one. Our God has a panoramic view of everything happening in both realms. He created them, and they exist completely under His sovereign rule.
Many of us walk around with our spiritual eyes closed, so when trouble arises, we tend to respond like Elisha’s servant — reacting in fear because we are only seeing with our natural eyes.
We must pray and ask God to open our spiritual eyes, so that we can see from His perspective. Elisha had such a close relationship with God that he was not moved by the army surrounding them. He was focused on God’s plan and his next steps in obedience. When we are aligned with God, we can have such peace that, no matter what happens, we can say, “It’s not as bad as it looks,” because we are no longer viewing things only from our physical perspective.
Let us seek and trust God as He opens our eyes to the spiritual realities around us. Amen.
Key Takeaways
Things are never as they appear to be to our natural eyes.
Asking God for our daily bread gives us the spiritual tools we need to walk in faith.
Without God’s guidance, we navigate through this world both physically and spiritually blinded.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Alignment
“In the morning the Lord will show who is His, and who is holy, and will bring him near to Him.”
— Numbers 16:5, ESV
Korah has been coming up in my mind regularly during prayer. In Scripture, Korah was a Levite who became so consumed with himself that he missed God entirely. He was focused on gaining a higher position and greater recognition, and in doing so, he lost all sense of God’s presence. This pride ultimately led to his downfall—along with the destruction of his family, friends, and a large portion of their community.
In Numbers 16, Korah and his followers challenged Moses and Aaron, accusing them of exalting themselves. Scripture says:
“And they rose up before Moses, with a number of the people of Israel, 250 chiefs of the congregation, chosen from the assembly, well-known men. They assembled themselves together against Moses and against Aaron and said to them, ‘You have gone too far! For all in the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the Lord is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the Lord?’
When Moses heard it, he fell on his face, and he said to Korah and all his company, ‘In the morning the Lord will show who is His, and who is holy, and will bring him near to Him. The one whom He chooses He will bring near to Him.’”
— Numbers 16:2–5, ESV
Korah was so full of pride and arrogance that he became blind to the truth and convinced others that he was right. But Moses humbled himself before God, saying, in effect, “Let the Lord decide who is holy and righteous.”
Scripture tells us:
“...the wicked will act wickedly; none of the wicked will understand, but those who are wise will understand.” — Daniel 12:10
“The way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know over what they stumble.” — Proverbs 4:19, ESV
Pride blinds us and leads us to reject the truth. Korah was so confident in himself that he dared to stand against Moses—the very man through whom God had delivered Israel from Egypt with His mighty hand. As Scripture reminds us, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18).
Korah and his followers allowed pride and self-importance to blind them—the very thing they accused Moses and Aaron of was the sin they themselves were committing. Moses responded:
“Hear now, you sons of Levi: is it too small a thing for you that the God of Israel has separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to Himself, to do service in the tabernacle of the Lord and to stand before the congregation to minister to them, and that He has brought you near Him, and all your brothers, the sons of Levi, with you? And would you seek the priesthood also? Therefore it is against the Lord that you and all your company have gathered together. What is Aaron that you grumble against him?”
— Numbers 16:8–11, ESV
One person’s ego and pride started a movement that convinced hundreds to follow him into darkness. As the story continues, when Korah and his company stood before the Lord, the ground opened up and swallowed them alive. The 250 men who followed him and offered incense were consumed by fire from the Lord.
You would think that would be the end of the rebellion, but pride is persistent. The very next day, the entire congregation grumbled against Moses and Aaron, saying, “You have killed the people of the Lord.” In response, the Lord sent a plague, and 14,700 people died that day (Numbers 16:41–49).
This passage powerfully reminds us that grumbling, complaining, pride, arrogance, and haughtiness pull us out of alignment with God and into the hands of the enemy. It is vital that we continually examine our hearts and align ourselves with the Lord.
Jesus modeled perfect alignment when He said, “I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will but the will of Him who sent Me.” (John 6:38)
If we keep our eyes fixed on God’s will, we will remain in alignment with His purpose for our lives.
Key Takeaways
Pride will always bring you out of alignment with God.
We were sent to earth to do the will of our Father.
Having the heart posture of Jesus keeps us aligned with God: “Not my will, but Yours be done.”
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
“Prayer: God’s Gift of Relationship”
“At that time people began to call upon the name of the Lord.” — Genesis 4:26
The purpose of prayer is to intervene, intercede, communicate, and fellowship with God. In the beginning, there was no need for prayer. When God placed Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, He had already provided everything they needed. They lived continually in His presence and were perfectly aligned with His will.
It wasn’t until Adam and Eve sinned and broke their relationship with God that communication with Him was severed.
As we see in Genesis 4:26, people later began to “call upon the name of the Lord.” Humanity recognized its need for God and began to seek Him. Scripture reinforces this in Psalm 50:15 (ESV):
“Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.”
God promises that when we are in need, we can call on Him and He will answer. Yet, seeking God only for help is not the ultimate purpose of prayer. God created us for Himself so that we might have a personal and loving relationship with Him.
We know from Scripture that God spoke regularly with Adam and Eve. After they disobeyed, the Bible says:
“They heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.” (Genesis 3:8)
They recognized His presence because communion with Him was part of their daily life.
Throughout Scripture, we are called to seek God with all our hearts and to bring our concerns before Him. God promises to provide for our needs, but what He truly desires is that we “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with [our] God” (Micah 6:8).
Prayer is not merely about asking—it is about relationship. It allows us to communicate with God, listen to His voice, and grow closer to Him. Even though sin separated humanity from God, He made a way for reconciliation. Through Jesus Christ—who died for our sins and offers us eternal life—we can again experience that intimate relationship with our Creator.
Prayer is, therefore, a gift of love from a sovereign God who desires a deep, personal connection with each of us.
Key Takeaways
Prayer is a gift that God offers to everyone.
Prayer is the gateway to an intimate relationship with God.
Prayer is essential for spiritual life.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
The Whisper of God
“And after the fire, the sound of a low whisper. And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave.”
— 1 Kings 19:12–13 (ESV)
I was headed to the couch to sit down when I heard the voice of God say, “Go get your other writing tablet.”
I already had my laptop in hand, so my first thought was, I don’t need my other tablet—they’re synced to my computer. But as I began to settle onto the couch, something within me said, Nope, get up. So I went into the other room and picked up my tablet. On top of it were my glasses and the book I would need for my study.
A few days ago, my dad had to undergo emergency surgery. As I was sending out requests for some dear friends to pray with me for my father, I heard a whisper from God—two specific names of people I was to ask. When I reached out to each of them, both said that God had just whispered my name to their hearts and they were preparing to pray for me.
God’ voice
Whisper: calm, quiet, silence, stillness.
When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray, He said, “Pray then like this: ‘Our Father in heaven…’”
Jesus specifically told them to call His Father our Father. When we call out to God as our Father, we receive His response the way a good father would answer his children.
As I reflected on my childhood, I remembered how my dad would often speak to me in a calm, quiet voice. There were times he raised his voice, but even when he was angry or disciplining us, his tone remained steady and gentle.
If you take a moment and think back to the time God spoke to your heart about accepting Him as your personal Savior, His voice was calm, quiet, and still. He spoke directly to you, drawing you into His love. It was a beautiful whisper.
Scripture says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” He still speaks to us in that same whisper, but many times we ignore His voice, mistaking it for a passing thought. His voice is just loud enough for the individual to hear, because He isn’t speaking to anyone else in that moment.
When I heard Him tell me to get my tablet, the words came and went quickly. I had been given guidance, but it was up to me to move.
Hearing and Responding
It reminds me of how one of my dear friends described hearing God’s voice. She said it’s like being at a bus stop—the bus driver pulls up, opens the door, and in that moment you must choose whether to get on the bus or let it pass by. Either way, it’s your choice.
When God speaks to us, He brings clarity. You may not always understand the who, what, when, why, or how—but if you pause and respond to Him, He will open a dialogue and guide you on how to move forward.
That quiet voice is an invitation to come and commune with Him. When my friends heard God drop my name into their spirit, they didn’t know the details, but they recognized that God was speaking—and they responded. My text message asking for prayer was simply confirmation of what they had already heard. They had been invited to sit with God and serve Him on my behalf.
Why We Miss His Voice
The reason so many miss His voice is because we dismiss it as a passing thought. Then, the enemy quickly comes to steal the word by distracting us with something else.
Listen—when a quiet, still thought passes through your mind, don’t ignore it. Pause. Wait. Listen. God is speaking to you.
Key Takeaways
Don’t ignore the quiet thoughts that come across your mind.
God speaks to us as a Father to His children.
Stop. Pause. Listen. You are being invited to serve the Almighty God.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
It Has Been Established
“And the Angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, ‘The Lord is with you, you mighty man of [fearless] courage.’” — Judges 6:12 (AMPC)
Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites when the Angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, “Mighty hero! The Lord is with you.”
Gideon, however, was not focused on what the angel called him. Instead, he was more concerned with why Adonai had not delivered Israel. He replied, “Excuse me, sir, but if Adonai is with us, then why has all this happened to us? And where are all His miracles that our ancestors told us about when they said, ‘Didn’t Adonai bring us up from Egypt?’ But now Adonai has abandoned us and handed us over to Midian.”
What Gideon failed to recognize was that Israel had disobeyed God, and their oppression was the result of their own behavior. Yet the angel did not address Gideon’s questions—he simply gave him instructions: “Go in this strength of yours and save Israel from the hands of Midian. Have I not sent you?”
It’s interesting how, when God gives us an assignment that feels far too big for us, our first instinct is often to make excuses about why we aren’t qualified. Gideon did the same thing—he focused on what he couldn’t do instead of what God was going to do through him.
As I was praying, the Holy Spirit revealed to me that even though Gideon was hiding in the winepress, it had already been established that he was the warrior who would save Israel. Gideon would never have believed he was the one God had chosen. When the angel spoke to him, Gideon began listing his background and social status as reasons he wasn’t qualified.
God, however, had sent His angel from heaven specifically to meet with Gideon and give him instructions. Yet Gideon still felt the need to remind God of his limitations. What Gideon didn’t understand was that God had already anointed him to be the warrior Israel needed for that season—long before Gideon even knew his own potential.
Gideon looked at his weaknesses in comparison to the other tribes of Israel. This reminds me of what God told Paul: “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”
We must never allow what we perceive as weakness to make us doubt what God has called us to do. God continually shows us in His Word how He works. He has given us a blueprint for how He moves and how we should respond.
It doesn’t matter what we think or how things appear—when God declares something, it is already established. Our responsibility is simply to come into agreement with Him and follow His instructions.
Key Takeaways
God has already placed within us everything we need to fulfill His plans.
God’s call and timing will challenge you—it will require faith, trust, and courage.
God welcomes your questions and your desire for confirmation.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Depend on Him
Psalm 62:5–8 (ESV)
For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. Selah
I was sitting and writing when the Holy Spirit prompted me to listen to the song Depending on You. As I wrote and listened, the Holy Spirit suddenly filled my spirit. It felt as though He came upon me so strongly that I stopped what I was doing and began praising Him in my spiritual language. His presence was overwhelming, and my soul overflowed with joy.
As I prayed in my spiritual language, He began to give me a message for those who are single. He said:
“Tell them to depend on Me. Whatever they desire in a spouse, ask Me. I do not want them to depend on themselves. I know when they feel lonely or lost—call out to Me, for I am right there with them. Depend on Me. Not on your job, your money, your girlfriends or boyfriends—but on Me.”
He continued:
“When you attend a gathering filled with couples and you feel awkward or left out, call to Me. Do not try to ignore or suppress those feelings, or turn to a glass of wine for comfort. Call on Me. You may feel alone, but I am with you in the midst of it all. Let Me be your spouse. I can give you more than any human spouse ever could, because I made you and I know the deepest desires of your heart. I am calling you to depend fully on Me—especially when it comes to experiencing love—for I am love.”
Key Takeaways
He promises to be all that you need.
He knows exactly how you feel—depend on Him.
You are never alone.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Presence and Authority
When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’s knees and said, “Go away from me, because I’m a sinful man, Lord!” — Luke 5:8, CSB
I had an appointment at an office, and when I walked in, I could immediately feel the energy of the room—and it made me uncomfortable. I thought, Lord, what is this? I began to pray, but the prayer felt heavy, as though nothing was getting through. I remember saying, Okay God, I don’t want to feel this way. I need Your help. After the appointment, as soon as I stepped out of the office, I felt an immediate shift in my spirit.
The week before that appointment, I had attended a Bible study with Behind Her Faith. Part of the discussion was about the presence of God. The facilitator asked, What kind of presence do you bring? The truth is, the amount of time we spend with God shapes the presence we carry. My mind went straight to Apostle Peter. Scripture says the people even carried the sick into the streets and laid them on cots and mats, so that as Peter passed by, at least his shadow might fall on some of them. People came from the surrounding towns, bringing the sick and those tormented by unclean spirits—and they were all healed.
The people knew Peter’s presence. They recognized that power followed him wherever he went. I thought about when Jesus performed the miracle of the fish on Peter’s boat. Peter fell to his knees and said, Go away from me, because I’m a sinful man, Lord! He had no idea that moment was the beginning of his journey to walking in the power of God.
Our God is so good! He has placed His Spirit inside every believer, and we all carry that same authority. This power—this presence—comes simply by spending time with the Source. Yeshua told the disciples when He sent them out to preach, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.”
So when you walk into a room, does God’s presence fill the space—or is there still too much of you?
Key Takeaways
God should be glorified when believers walk into a room.
The more time you spend with God, the more you are transformed.
God wants to do the impossible through you.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Ordinary Day 5 - Elevation
“And you have said, ‘No, appoint a king over us.’ So now present yourselves before the Lord by your tribes and clans.” When Samuel had all Israel come forward by tribes, the tribe of Benjamin was taken by lot. Then he brought forward the tribe of Benjamin, clan by clan, and Matri’s clan was taken. Finally, Saul son of Kish was taken. But when they looked for him, he was not to be found.
—1 Samuel 10:19–21, ESV
I love this passage because it reminds us that when God has a plan for our lives, He takes care of every detail. If His plan involves elevation, we will never have to promote ourselves or strive to make it happen in our own strength. Samuel already knew that God had anointed Saul as king over Israel, but when the right time came for the nation to know, God instructed Samuel to reveal it publicly.
In the same way, Mary, the mother of Jesus, didn’t go around announcing her pregnancy. She wasn’t even sure how Joseph, her fiancé, would respond, knowing he wasn’t the father. Yet even in those uncertain and difficult moments, God had already arranged the details. The angels proclaimed the good news to the shepherds. God revealed it to the wise men, who traveled to worship the newborn King. Mary was surprised by the visitors who came to see her child—she never had to tell anyone she was the mother of Jesus. God Himself made it known.
These stories give us confidence and assurance that we can rest in the Lord and trust His word. He will never fail us. He is directing our path, preparing the way ahead of us, and keeping every promise He has spoken. As Scripture says:
“Not one word of all the good promises that the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass.”
—Joshua 21:45, ESV
Key Takeaways
God has a plan for your life—and it is good.
Even in the most difficult situations, God has already worked out the details.
We can move forward with confident assurance because God keeps His promises.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Ordinary Day 4 - The Call
“But am I not a Benjamite, from the smallest tribe of Israel, and is not my clan the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why do you say such a thing to me?”
—1 Samuel 9:21, NIV
In this passage, Samuel had just begun to reveal part of God’s plan for Saul’s life. Saul, a young man, was completely caught off guard. His immediate reaction was to question what Samuel told him: “Why me? I’m not qualified.”
The Benjamites were indeed the smallest tribe of Israel, and their reputation carried the weight of past failures. In the book of Judges, we read of the horrific crime committed in Gibeah—a city belonging to the tribe of Benjamin—where a Levite’s concubine was brutally murdered. When the rest of Israel demanded justice, the Benjamites refused to hand over the guilty men. As a result, the other tribes waged war against them, leaving only 600 surviving men. From that time forward, Benjamin was considered the weakest and least significant tribe.
So when Samuel told Saul that God had chosen him, Saul probably reflected on his tribe’s broken past and his own family’s insignificance. From his perspective, he lacked the qualifications to lead.
But when God chooses us, His call is always bigger than what we can imagine—and it never depends on our qualifications. He isn’t looking for our skills, experience, or pedigree; He’s looking for our yes. The problem is, we often assume it’s up to us to make His plans succeed, forgetting that the assignment was never our idea in the first place—it was His.
Remember Gideon, He said the same thing when he angel of the Lord approached him. “Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.”
There’s another important truth here: we must be careful not to judge whom God selects. His choices rarely align with human expectations. Samuel gave Saul clear instructions about what would happen, and Scripture says:
“As Saul turned to leave Samuel, God changed Saul’s heart, and all these signs were fulfilled that day. When he and his servant arrived at Gibeah, a procession of prophets met him; the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he joined in their prophesying. When all those who had formerly known him saw him prophesying with the prophets, they asked each other, ‘What is this that has happened to the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?’”
—1 Samuel 10:9–11
God always calls the unqualified and then qualifies them. His assignments are intentionally bigger than us because He is the one who accomplishes the work through us. Just as Moses could not lead Israel without God’s power, we cannot fulfill our assignments without Him.
Key Takeaways
Our past does not hinder God’s plans for our future.
God qualifies the unqualified.
Our job is simple: follow the Leader.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Ordinary Day 3 - Manifestation
As I’ve shared before, my father was a pastor, which meant church was a non-negotiable part of my life. Every Sunday, we were there. It became routine. Our church wasn’t large—maybe around 200 members—so whenever someone new visited, you noticed right away.
At the time, I was twenty-one, still living at home, working, and growing restless about my future. I had an interest in becoming a California Highway Patrol officer, but I wanted God’s direction before pursuing that path. One Sunday morning, during early prayer in the sanctuary, I knelt down and prayed:
“Lord, I’m considering going into the CHP, but if this isn’t what You want for me, please show me. And if marriage is part of Your plan for me, let me know that too. I won’t go looking for a husband; I’m just going to trust You.”
After praying, I stood up and took my seat, not thinking much more of it.
Then, as the doors opened and people began to enter the sanctuary, a very handsome young man I had never seen before walked in. Immediately, I heard God speak to my heart: “That is your husband.”
That Sunday morning had felt like any other—ordinary, routine, predictable. I had no expectation of meeting my husband that day. I was simply doing what I had always done: going to church, seeking God, and trying to live faithfully. I hadn’t even been dating anyone, so when I prayed about marriage, I wasn’t really planning for it—I believe now that God Himself placed that prayer in my spirit.
Later, my husband told me that he had come to church that day specifically to find a wife. He said he was done with the club scene and wanted to meet a woman who loved God.
When we stay faithful to what God has called us to do and continue seeking His face, He works out the details of our lives behind the scenes. Our part is simply to trust Him.
Most of the time, there isn’t a dramatic announcement or a grand event when God brings something to pass. It happens in the middle of ordinary days, while we are faithfully doing what He’s already placed in our hands.
Joseph was in prison when the opportunity came for him to be elevated to second-in-command in Egypt. Mary was at home, preparing for marriage, when the angel appeared and told her she would bear the Son of God.
God is omnipresent. He knows exactly where we are and exactly when to bring forth His plans in our lives. Our call is to trust Him completely:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”—Proverbs 3:5–6
Key Takeaways
God’s plans often manifest in the middle of ordinary days.
Faithfulness in the small things prepares us for His greater purposes.
Trusting God is more important than knowing all the details.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Ordinary Day 2 - Prearranged
In ancient Israel, when someone wanted to inquire of God, they would say, “Come, let’s go to the seer.” At that time, what we now call a prophet was commonly referred to as a seer. 1 Samuel 9:9
Saul’s father, Kish, had instructed him to take a servant and search for the donkeys that had wandered off. After several days of looking without success, Saul suggested turning back, reasoning that his father would by now be more concerned about his safety than about the animals. But the servant had another idea: “Let’s go see the seer. He can tell us what has happened to the donkeys.” So the two of them headed up to the city to find the prophet.
Samuel was the prophet during those days. Even before Saul arrived, God had already spoken to Samuel, saying that He would send a man from the tribe of Benjamin—someone He had chosen to rule over Israel. Samuel, following God’s instructions, prepared for Saul’s arrival even without knowing his name. He invited certain guests to a sacrifice at the high place and asked the cook to set aside a special portion of meat for Saul. Everything was prearranged according to God’s plan before Saul ever appeared.
When Saul finally arrived, he had no idea that the details of his visit had already been set in place. He was simply going about his ordinary day, and Samuel was doing the same. Yet God was orchestrating something far greater than either of them could have imagined.
This reminds us that we don’t need to worry about how things will come together or waste energy trying to figure out God’s methods. Scripture declares:
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.
“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” —Isaiah 55:8–9, NIV
Our responsibility is simple: obey and follow the instructions God gives. The Creator of the world knows exactly what He is doing, and He has already arranged the details.
Key Takeaways
Your journey was prearranged before the foundation of the world.
Peace is the thermostat that keeps us aligned with God.
Knowing every detail of the journey is God’s job, not ours.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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The Ordinary Day - Divine Purpose
“Now the donkeys of Kish, Saul's father, were lost. So Kish said to Saul his son, ‘Take one of the young men with you, and arise, go and look for the donkeys.’”
—1 Samuel 9:3, ESV
Saul, a young man from the tribe of Benjamin, was simply obeying his father’s instructions. Kish’s donkeys had wandered off, so he told his son Saul to take a servant and go look for them. For three days they searched with no success. Finally, Saul suggested they return home, reasoning that by now his father was probably more worried about him than about the missing animals.
But the servant had another idea: they should go ask the man of God for help. When Saul hesitated, pointing out that they had nothing to bring as an offering, the servant assured him he had money to give. Saul agreed, and they set off to find the prophet.
To Saul, it all seemed like an ordinary day—just a routine task, filled with small decisions. But in reality, his life was about to change forever. God had ordained Saul to be king of Israel, and the prophet was about to deliver that message.
So often we get anxious about discovering our purpose, striving to figure out what God has called us to do. Yet the truth is that the very place He has us right now—the work we are doing today—is often exactly where He wants us to be.
As I thought about Saul’s story and how God placed him in the right place at the right time, my favorite teacup came to mind. Each time I wash it, I put it back in the cupboard. I don’t need the cup to go anywhere else. I just need it to be where I placed it, ready for me when I want to use it.
In the same way, we are like that teacup in God’s hands. He has placed us in a specific space to serve His purposes, just as He has ordained.
We don’t need to stress over where we are or what we’re doing. YHWH is omnipresent—He knows exactly where we are and what we are doing. Even if it feels as though we’ve made countless mistakes, moving backward instead of forward, when we repent and turn back to Him, He has already made room for that. He sets us back on track.
So do not beat yourself up. Do not walk in condemnation—that only serves the enemy. Instead, surrender to God and move forward with what He has placed before you.
Key Takeaways
Ordinary days are purposefully ordained by God.
Do not lose hope when it seems like nothing is happening.
God is always working behind the scenes.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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The Goodness of God
Isaiah 65:24
“Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear.”
Psalm 139:1–4 (ESV)
O Lord, you have searched me and known me!
You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar.
You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways.
Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.
The promise in Isaiah—“Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear”—brings such deep comfort. As I sat reflecting on these words, Psalm 139 came to mind. King David reminds us how intimately God knows us and how deeply He loves us.
For a moment, I wondered: if God already knows what we need and what we will ask, why do we even need to pray? Then I remembered: “By him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together” (Colossians 1:16–17).
We were created for Him. One of His instructions to us is to communicate with Him through prayer. He designed us for an intimate relationship with Himself! What an amazing God—that He would create us in His image and give us the privilege of fellowship with Him. He invites us to know Him, just as He fully knows us.
This brings us incredible assurance: no matter what we face or what is happening in the world, the God of the universe invites those who belong to Him to ask for what they need. He already has the answer prepared. We don’t have to force anything to work. God sees us, He is with us, and He knows exactly what we are going through. The key is to pray according to His will and to believe that He hears and responds: “And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith” (Matthew 21:22).
At times, it may feel as though God is slow to answer. Yet Scripture encourages us: “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). Waiting on the Lord takes courage and trust. Spiritual waiting is not passive—it is active faith, believing that God’s timing is perfect and that He is working behind the scenes. His plans are always better than ours. Letting go of control allows us to rest in the truth that God has already gone ahead of us and prepared the way.
I’ve found that keeping my mind fixed on His Word and worshipping Him fills my heart with peace while I wait for His promises to unfold.
Key Takeaways
You are so precious to God that He chose you for a relationship with Him.
Nothing you bring before God is a surprise to Him.
The answer is already prepared before the problem arises.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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The Hidden Things
"Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known."
— Jeremiah 33:3
I was listening to a message entitled Your Vision Is Your Victory when the speaker mentioned the verse above. He said that the “great and hidden things” Jesus promises to reveal are the visions He has prepared uniquely for each of us. These visions are hidden from the world but given personally to us.
Later, as I reflected on the message, my thoughts turned to the heroes of faith and the journeys they walked to fulfill the hidden things God revealed to them. Do you remember Noah? He built the ark that carried the seed of humanity. God met Noah in the Spirit and gave him precise instructions—how to build the ark, which materials to use, and who to bring inside once it was finished.
As far as we know, Noah had never built a boat before. Yet God called him to create something that had been hidden until the appointed time. I imagine Noah must have faced doubts and endured criticism from those around him. But he trusted the vision God had given him and continually returned to God’s instructions to stay aligned with the plan.
The visions God gives us often come with challenges and rarely make sense from a human perspective. The Lord told Noah to build a boat because it would rain for forty days and forty nights—yet, up to that point, it had never rained on the earth. Still, Noah obeyed, and through his obedience, humanity was preserved.
Each of us carries hidden secrets—God-given assignments meant to be fulfilled in the earth. We are not called to figure out every detail or fully understand the plan; we are called to follow His instructions step by step. The world may never understand the vision God has entrusted to you, because it was not given to them. But as you walk with Him in obedience, impossible doors will open, and you will witness His vision come to life before your very eyes.
When you call to Him in the secret place, He will reveal to you the great and hidden things He has prepared.
Key Takeaways
God shares His secrets with you.
Do not be discouraged by those who don’t understand your vision.
The vision is between you and God, giving you a personal, intimate relationship with Him. Don’t miss it!
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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