A Joyful Noise for the King
During the Christmas season, many of us hear the song “Joy to the World.” This beloved hymn, written by Isaac Watts, was inspired by Psalm 98, a psalm that celebrates the goodness of God, all that He has done for us, and His promised return to judge and rule the earth with righteousness.
As you hear this song this holiday season, let your heart reflect on the words of this psalm and be uplifted.
Psalm 98 (ESV)
Oh sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous things! His right hand and His holy arm have worked salvation for Him. The Lord has made known His salvation; He has revealed His righteousness in the sight of the nations.
He has remembered His steadfast love and faithfulness to the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises!
Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody! With trumpets and the sound of the horn, make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord!
Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who dwell in it! Let the rivers clap their hands; let the hills sing for joy together before the Lord, for He comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity.
This psalm reminds us that worship is not just about singing a familiar song—it is about celebrating all that God has done and rejoicing in His presence with hearts full of gratitude. When we make a joyful noise unto the Lord, we are not only praising Him for His past deeds but also expressing our faith in His righteous rule over the earth.
This season, let your joy be vocal and heartfelt. Sing with thanksgiving, dance with gratitude, and lift your heart in praise. Let your spirit join the rivers, hills, and all creation in declaring the marvelous works of God. God is worthy of our song—today, tomorrow, and always.
Key Takeaways
Worship God with a new song of praise, recognizing all He has done.
Rejoice in God’s steadfast love, faithfulness, and righteousness.
Make your joy visible and vocal—let it overflow in your praise and thanksgiving.
Celebrate not just what God has done, but also His promised return and righteous reign.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Reverence
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” —Proverbs 9:10, ESV
In the verse above, Scripture tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. When we look up the Hebrew meaning of “fear,” we find that it includes not just terror, but respect, reverence, and deep honor. This means that the person who holds God in deep reverence—who respects Him above all else—has taken the first step toward true wisdom.
God requires us to reverence Him, and the primary way we do this is through obedience. Moses reminded Israel of this when he said:
“And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the Lord… for your good?”
(Deuteronomy 10:12–13)
As I was writing this devotional, the Holy Spirit showed me something important: before we became children of the Most High God, our reverence and obedience were directed toward Satan, whether we realized it or not. We followed the desires of our flesh, obeying his influence as we worshiped self-gratification.
When God called Israel as His chosen people, He began teaching them—through Moses—how to honor and serve Him. He made it clear that they could no longer behave as they had in the past. They were now a holy people, set apart for God. He was not impressed by lip service; He was looking at their hearts. Their obedience—or lack of it—revealed what was truly inside them.
The same truth applies to us today. We are called to worship the Lord our God and to serve Him alone. Singing worship songs and offering verbal praise are beautiful expressions, but they are not the fullness of what God requires. True reverence is demonstrated through obedience. Anything less is disobedience.
So let us honor God with every part of our lives. May our reverence be seen not only in our words, but in our actions, choices, and daily submission to His commandments.
Key Takeaways
Reverence for God is demonstrated through obedience, not just worshipful words.
The fear of the Lord—deep respect and honor—is the foundation of true wisdom.
God looks at the heart, and our actions reveal whether we truly revere Him.
To reverence God fully, we must walk in His ways, love Him, and keep His commands.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Loved Beyond Measure
“For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [one and] [only] begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life.”John 3:16 (AMP)
In the passage above, Jesus was speaking to Nicodemus about salvation. He told him that God so loved the world—and that truth resonates deeply within my soul. The world was so bent toward evil, yet God looked beyond all of our behaviors and gave Jesus to us so that we might choose to have life with Him.
It would seem that after God had destroyed the world through Noah, and the world had again turned back to evil, the last thing He would do would be to give the world the gift of His only Son! To comprehend this kind of love feels unfathomable. Yet Jesus said,
“I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too are to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you have love and unselfish concern for one another.” John 13:34–35 (AMP)
In our human nature, it is impossible to love as Jesus loves us. But Jesus told His disciples that He would send them a Helper through the Holy Spirit. They were instructed to wait for the Holy Spirit before moving into the ministry of sharing the gospel with the world. Scripture says,
“But when the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby) comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—that is, the Spirit of Truth who comes from the Father—He will testify and bear witness about Me.” John 15:26 (AMP)
When we find ourselves struggling to pray for our enemies and for those who persecute or misuse us, we can turn to the Holy Spirit and ensure that we are leaning on Him, not on ourselves. God gave us emotions so that we can feel His presence and understand His love, even as we face the ugliness of Satan’s attacks.
God promises that He will never leave us nor forsake us, meaning He is with us through the hardest of times. Jesus told us that we would have trouble in this world, but to take heart because He has overcome the world. He understands everything we will ever face, and He has given us the Holy Spirit to provide all we need to make it through.
The amazing part about this life is that we never have to go through it alone.
Key Takeaways
We can only love like Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus did not wait for the world to change before offering His love—He loved us at our worst.
We will feel and experience the ugliness of the enemy, but that is exactly where we are called to share God’s love most.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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“Born of the Spirit: The True Gift of Salvation”
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” — Romans 6:23 (KJV)
I was sitting with a dear friend whom I have known for over forty years as she spoke to me about salvation. She shared how someone she has known for a long time had never asked the Holy Spirit into her life. This individual had served in the church for years, yet she did not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
When Jesus spoke to Nicodemus, He told him that he must be born again. Nicodemus asked, “Can a man enter his mother’s womb a second time?” Jesus replied that one must be born of the Spirit. Entering into a relationship with Jesus Christ has nothing to do with our works or how much we serve in the church — we must be born again of the Spirit. Jesus communicates with us through our spirit. If we are living in spiritual darkness, we cannot hear Christ speaking to us, nor can we have a relationship with Him.
It is so important to understand that serving in the church and doing all the right things will not give us eternal life. We must be born again in the Spirit. Jesus said, “They that worship Me must worship Me in spirit and in truth.” We cannot truly worship, praise, or give thanks to God without being born of His Spirit.
I write so much about salvation because, as a believer, my calling is to evangelize — to tell everyone I meet about the goodness of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
And Romans 10:9 declares, “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
If you desire a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, I invite you to ask Him to come into your life.
Please repeat these words:
“God, I confess with my mouth and believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Lord, and that You raised Him from the dead. I know that I am a sinner and that I need You. I ask that You come and live in my heart. I want a personal relationship with You through the Holy Spirit. Come, Jesus, and live in me.”
That’s it — you now have the Holy Spirit living within you!
If you do not have a church home, I invite you to join us for the Center of Praise Ministries online celebrations at 9:15 AM on cop.church, YouTube, or Facebook. We also have in-person celebrations at 7:45 AM, 9:30 AM, and 11:15 AM at the Center of Praise Ministries Cathedral, 2223 Capitol Avenue, Sacramento, California 95816.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Wisdom from Above
“But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.” — James 3:14–15, ESV
Every time you read or listen to the Bible, something new has the power to speak to you. As I was listening to the book of James, the passage above leapt out at me. I found myself thinking, Did James just say earthly wisdom is demonic?
As I listened further and studied more closely, I realized James was addressing the spirit of jealousy and selfish ambition within our hearts. These do not come from God; they are earthly, and ultimately from Satan.
James was speaking to believers about true wisdom. He asks the question: “Who is wise and understanding among you?” His answer is that wisdom is demonstrated through good conduct and “the meekness of wisdom.” At the time, the Greeks considered meekness to be weakness. But James teaches that wisdom is not only intellectual—it is also practical and behavioral.
Jesus echoes this in the Sermon on the Mount: “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5, ESV). As the ESV commentary notes, Jesus is referring to those who are gentle, who do not assert themselves over others to further their own agenda in their own strength, but instead trust God.
It is God who honors and uplifts His people, as we see repeatedly throughout Scripture: David was raised up to be king, Esther to be queen, and Joseph to second in command over Egypt. God does not need our help to place us in the position He has already ordained for us. What He desires is a humble, gentle heart and an obedient spirit.
When we pursue self-honor, we step out of alignment with God and into alignment with the enemy. This was Satan’s downfall: “You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; above the stars of God I will set my throne on high… I will make myself like the Most High.’” (Isaiah 14:12–14, ESV).
James warns us that “where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice” (James 3:16, ESV). We see this truth at work in the world around us today. That’s why we must continually return to God’s Word. As Joyce Meyer often says, we should “run to the throne, not to the phone.”
James gives us a clear picture of what true wisdom looks like: “But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere” (James 3:17, ESV).
Key Takeaways
Meekness is not weakness, but a gentle, kind spirit that comes from above.
Moving outside of God’s will places us in alignment with the enemy.
Wisdom from above will always produce a harvest of righteousness.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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The Voice of the Lord
I was listening to the book of Psalms playing in the background while I worked when, all of a sudden, the speaker began to read about the voice of the Lord. I immediately stopped what I was doing and just listened. It made me wonder: Why do we worry so much? The very voice of God holds power over everything. His voice created the heavens, the earth, and all that exists. If His word brought all things into being, then surely all things must submit to Him.
The passage below reminds us to rejoice, to praise, and to give thanks—for the God we serve loves us, and His power has no limits. Nothing is greater or more powerful than Him, for all things were created by His word! When we feel overwhelmed or fearful, we can rest in this truth: nothing can stand against the power of His voice. His word brings peace in chaos, strength in weakness, and hope in despair. My prayer is that this scripture lifts your soul just as it did mine.
Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness. The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord, over many waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.
The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars; the Lord breaks the cedars of Lebanon. He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox. The voice of the Lord flashes forth flames of fire. The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness; the Lord shakes the wilderness of Kadesh.
The voice of the Lord makes the deer give birth and strips the forests bare, and in his temple all cry, “Glory!” The Lord sits enthroned over the flood; the Lord sits enthroned as King forever.
May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace!— Psalm 29
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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The Hard Work Has Been Completed
“For whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his.” – Hebrews 4:10, ESV
When Jesus died, He completed all the work necessary for us to have a relationship with Him. I used to think that I needed to do a lot of spiritual “warring” in prayer, but I have since learned that what God truly desires is prayer from the depth of my soul—honest, sincere, and trusting.
That doesn’t mean I haven’t spent hours in prayer, because I certainly have, and I know I will again. But those extended times are not about striving; they are about listening. Often, God speaks, gives direction, and guides me in how to pray.
In those moments, He shows me how to pray for others. He brings specific Scriptures to mind to pray on their behalf. He even stirs songs in my spirit to remind me of who He is and what He has already accomplished. Not long ago, He brought to mind the song Able by Jonathan McReynolds. Its words reminded me that I can come to God with confidence and peace, knowing He will take care of everything—because, in truth, He already has. There is no problem too big for Him.
God is so good that He has provided Scriptures for every situation we face. When sick, we can pray healing Scriptures. When in need, we can pray Scriptures of provision. In grief, we can lean on Scriptures of comfort. In trouble, we can pray for direction and peace. He has given us His Word because His Word is enough. When we pray it back to Him, it carries His authority to bring about what we ask according to His will.
Sometimes, as I pray, it feels as though God Himself is praying through me, giving me the words. I remember once, while riding the subway in New York City, I noticed a woman standing on the platform who looked completely broken. Quietly, I whispered a prayer for her. Later, I asked God, “Why did You let me see her?” He responded, “Because I knew you would pray. She cannot pray for herself, but when you pray, it gives Me the authority to move and bring healing to her.”
Jesus has already done the work. Our role is simply to speak His Word in faith, knowing it will never return void. When we pray in agreement with His will, He hears—and He answers. This is our confidence.
Key Takeaways
We are not called to redo what Jesus has already finished.
He has given us everything we need.
Pause, receive His gift, and rest—the work has been completed.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Steadfast Love
"How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! The children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings."
— Psalm 36:7, AMP
There are times when I’m not sure what to read in the Bible. For some reason, I often find myself drawn back to the book of Psalms. I’m always encouraged and uplifted when I read them. Those writings lead my heart to a place of praise, thanksgiving, and gratitude. In the passage above, David speaks to God about His lovingkindness and how we can find refuge in Him.
Sometimes, we find ourselves in a season where everything feels right with God and life is going well—only to suddenly enter a season where we wonder, “God, where are You?” We know God is always present, yet something in our spirit feels unsettled. I was in that kind of season when I came across the verse above, and my heart was lifted. He is our refuge, even when it doesn’t feel like it. I remember praying, “God, I thank You that You are my refuge, and I am seeking You because I feel empty.” In that moment, God reminded me of the story of Jacob.
Do you remember when Jacob fled from home because his brother Esau planned to kill him? (Genesis 28) Esau was angry because Jacob had stolen his blessing. Isaac, their father, sent Jacob away to Padan Aram to find a wife. On his journey, Jacob stopped for the night, using a stone for a pillow. While he slept, God met him there, speaking encouragement and revealing his future. In that moment, Jacob was resting in the refuge of God—under the shadow of His wings. God’s love is so steadfast and unshakable that He meets us in our most desperate moments, pouring out peace, direction, and joy—even when we don’t deserve it.
When the Lord called Moses up Mount Sinai to give him the commandments a second time, He proclaimed:
"The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin…" — Exodus 34
In Psalm 36, David echoes the very words God spoke to Moses, proclaiming God’s own declaration about Himself!
What joy fills our hearts when we return to Scripture and remember that God Himself said His love for us is unchanging. He is faithful, keeping His promises to each one of us. Let me encourage you—as I encourage myself—God’s love is precious, steadfast, and unchanging. He is forever in love with us! Hallelujah!
Key Takeaways
In the midst of difficulty, God’s love never changes.
We are protected from danger, trouble, and pursuit.
He knows how to find us wherever we are.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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One Way
Yeshua said, “I AM the Way—and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
— John 14:6, TCJB
In the passage above, Jesus makes it clear that He is the only way to the Father. This conversation took place during the Last Supper, as He was preparing His disciples for His departure. He told them He was going away and that they were to follow Him. One of the disciples asked, “How can we follow You if we don’t know where You are going or the way?” Jesus reassured them by explaining that they did, in fact, know the way—because He is the Way.
While the Holy Spirit may use many different paths to draw someone to Jesus, there is only one way to YHWH, and that is through Jesus Christ. Scripture teaches that none of us can come to Jesus on our own; it is only by the drawing of the Holy Spirit. As Jesus said in John 6:44: “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day.”
This is why Jesus also said, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”
Sadly, many false teachings claim there are other ways to God. But the Bible clearly teaches that God has established one path to salvation—and that path is through Jesus Christ. It amazes me how some people argue when you tell them that Jesus is the only way to God. Yet, those same people don’t argue when told they must meet specific educational requirements to become a doctor. They willingly submit to those standards.
When it comes to God, however, many expect Him to conform to their thoughts and ways. But Scripture reminds us otherwise. In Isaiah, we read:
“Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the Lord, and He will have mercy on them, and to our God, for He will freely pardon. ‘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.’”
Many of us can’t begin to comprehend a free pardon for the wicked. We’re conditioned to believe that people must “pay the price” for their wrongdoing. But God's grace doesn’t operate like our justice systems. We are not capable of fully grasping the gracious love of God.
In the same way, we cannot redefine the way to God. I remember something Dr. Myles Munroe once said: No matter how many degrees you earn or how educated you become, no one will ever match the wisdom and knowledge of God. He is omniscient—He knows everything, because everything comes from Him.
Key Takeaways:
There is only one way to God.
Jesus Christ is the Way.
Any other way leads to destruction.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Put Out The Doubters
But He put them all outside, took her by the hand and called, saying, “Little girl, arise.” Then her spirit returned, and she arose immediately.
—Luke 8:54–55, NKJV
In this passage, Jairus—a ruler of the synagogue—fell at Jesus’ feet, pleading with Him to come and heal his only daughter, who was twelve years old and dying. As they made their way to Jairus’ home, Jesus paused to speak with the woman who had been healed by touching the hem of His garment. While He was still speaking, someone came and told Jairus that his daughter had died.
But Jesus turned to Jairus and reassured him: “Do not be afraid; only believe.”
When they arrived at the house, Jesus put out everyone who did not believe. He removed the doubters and naysayers from the room before taking the little girl by the hand and saying, “Little girl, arise.” Her spirit returned to her, and she immediately got up.
This moment teaches us something powerful about faith: when we are believing God for something miraculous, we must be intentional about removing doubt and negativity from our environment. It’s already hard enough to believe when the situation seems hopeless—the last thing we need is the presence of voices that speak against what we’re trusting God to do.
Jesus removed those who said she was dead because their unbelief had no place in the miracle He was about to perform. Negativity can weaken your faith and open the door to doubt. I’ve learned that when I’m standing in faith for something, I often don’t tell anyone—unless the Holy Spirit prompts me to share it with someone who I know will stand in faith with me.
While writing this devotional, I received a text message from a dear sister. Her brother was going into surgery, and she was asking her prayer circle to pray. In that moment, I realized I had the opportunity to activate my faith on his behalf. I prayed boldly and declared healing over him. Among other things, I said, “Arise and be healed in Jesus’ name. Take up your bed and walk!” I envisioned her brother rising from that hospital bed and walking out, whole and restored.
That is our call—to pray and believe. God does the rest.
Key Takeaways:
Remove yourself from any negative environment when you're believing for a promise.
Speak the words of Yeshua in faith, and watch Him do the rest.
Doubt and unbelief can hinder the flow of faith—put the doubters out.
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Jesus Said
Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.’” — Matthew 4:10, ESV
Some time ago, I was sitting outside spending quiet time with God. I love going to a peaceful place just to listen—to allow Him to speak. Many times, He moves my heart into a place of deep gratitude by revealing Himself in the beauty of everything around me.
On this particular day, as I sat in stillness, my spirit was suddenly stirred by the awareness of some of the evil things happening in the world. I began to pray and ask God to teach me how to pray against this darkness. As I continued, I clearly heard Jesus say, “Say what I said.” He repeated it again: “When you're thinking about what to pray in warfare, say what I said.”
So I began searching the Scriptures, specifically focusing on the words, “Jesus said.” That brought me to the passage above.
After Jesus was baptized, He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting for forty days and nights, Satan came to tempt Him. Matthew 4:10 records Jesus' response during the third temptation, when Satan tried to get Jesus to bow to him. Jesus replied boldly and directly: “Be gone, Satan! For it is written: ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve.’”
Jesus didn’t entertain or reason with Satan. He gave a clear command—“Be gone!”—and immediately backed it up with Scripture. That was all it took. Satan left because Jesus told him to leave.
In contrast, when Eve was tempted by the serpent, she engaged in conversation with him. She didn’t command him to leave, and as a result, she opened the door for confusion and deception. Genesis 3:1–6 (CSB) says:
Now the serpent was the most cunning of all the wild animals that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You can’t eat from any tree in the garden’?” The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat the fruit from the trees in the garden. But about the fruit of the tree in the middle of the garden, God said, ‘You must not eat it or touch it, or you will die.’”
“No! You will certainly not die,” the serpent said to the woman. “In fact, God knows that when you eat it your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” The woman saw that the tree was good for food and delightful to look at, and that it was desirable for obtaining wisdom. So she took some of its fruit and ate it; she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
We must follow Jesus’ example in spiritual warfare. When Satan comes with his lies, our response should mirror Christ’s: speak the Word with authority. When we do what Jesus did, we will see the same results He saw.
I remember a time when my husband and I were getting snappy with each other, and it was escalating into an argument. I could feel the tension and knew the conversation wasn’t aligned with God’s Spirit. I turned to my husband and said, “Hold on a second—I need to say something, but it’s not directed at you.” Then I turned my attention to the real enemy and said, “Satan, get out of my husband and get out of me, in the name of Jesus!”
And just like that—the atmosphere shifted. I praised God, thanked Jesus, and my husband and I went on to enjoy a peaceful morning together at a coffee shop, reading the Word.
We must recognize when the enemy is lurking. He is strategic and has been at this a long time. But we have the Holy Spirit, who equips and alerts us when something is off. God has given us power and authority over the enemy. Luke 10:17–20 (CSB) says:
The seventy-two returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name!” He said to them, “I watched Satan fall from heaven like lightning. Look, I have given you the authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy; nothing at all will harm you. However, don’t rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
We walk in victory when we do and say what Jesus did.
Key Takeaways:
Satan has no power over you.
Speak what Jesus spoke and walk in victory.
Do not engage Satan—he is the father of lies.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Need a Healing
“Get up,” Jesus told him, “pick up your mat and walk.” Instantly the man got well, picked up his mat, and started to walk.
—John 5:8–9, CSB
In the passage above, Jesus was walking past the pool called Bethesda (in Aramaic), where He saw a lame man lying by the water. Jesus asked the man if he wanted to be healed. Then He said to him, “Pick up your mat and walk.” Instantly, the man was healed. He picked up his mat and began to walk.
So often, we believe that healing requires long prayers or elaborate words. But when we speak the same words Jesus spoke—with faith—healing happens! We may not always see the healing immediately, but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t taken place.
Later in Scripture, we see Peter and John heal a lame man in a similar way. They used the same kind of faith-filled words, and healing followed:
Now Peter and John were going up to the temple for the time of prayer at three in the afternoon. A man who was lame from birth was being carried there. He was placed each day at the temple gate called Beautiful, so that he could beg from those entering the temple. When he saw Peter and John about to enter the temple, he asked for money. Peter, along with John, looked straight at him and said, “Look at us.” So he turned to them, expecting to get something from them. But Peter said, “I don’t have silver or gold, but what I do have, I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!” Then, taking him by the right hand he raised him up, and at once his feet and ankles became strong. So he jumped up and started to walk, and he entered the temple with them—walking, leaping, and praising God.
—Acts 3:1–8, CSB
Jesus also appointed seventy others and sent them out two by two. He told them:
“… Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves.”
He instructed them to heal the sick and to proclaim, “The kingdom of God has come near you.” He equipped them with authority over all the power of the enemy and assured them that nothing would harm them. That same power and authority has been given to us as believers. We are called to walk in it.
You may not see the healing manifest right away, but that’s not your responsibility. Manifestation is God’s work—ours is to believe and obey what He has said.
Key Takeaways:
The manifestation of a miracle is not your responsibility.
Faith is what draws the miracle.
Manifestation happens through the Holy Spirit.
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The Word Provides
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” —Psalm 119:105 (CSB)
In this season, you may notice that my writings have shifted slightly. During a recent time of prayer, I asked God, “How do I fight these demonic spirits?” I shared with Him that there are so many books and resources on spiritual warfare—so many perspectives on how to approach the enemy. “Which ones should I read and follow?” I asked.
His response was clear: “Read the Bible and do what I did.”
Immediately, I began searching for every scripture that showed how Jesus responded when He encountered demonic spirits. What I found surprised me—Jesus spoke only a few words, with authority and faith, and the spirits left.
After reading those passages, I felt the Lord say, “I want you to take every verse that begins with ‘Jesus said’ and write about them. I want you to reflect on what I said in each situation so that believers can clearly understand how to move in the Spirit.” He reminded me: “This is not complicated. I’ve made it simple. I have sent the Holy Spirit to lead and guide you.”
From this point forward, the devotionals you receive will focus on what Jesus said—His words in response to various situations—until the Holy Spirit instructs me otherwise. The goal is to help us walk in faith, using His words, and to remind God of what He said when we face our own challenges. YHWH desires for us to understand His Word and move as Jesus did. Just as He trained His disciples to be messengers who spoke His words, we are called to do the same.
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” —2 Timothy 3:16–17 (CSB)
Prayer
Father, we thank You for Your Word that provides everything we need to face whatever comes our way. You have already equipped us. I pray that any unbelief be cast out, so that we may walk according to Your Word and witness the manifestation of Your promises. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Key Takeaways
God’s Word is all you need.
We move by faith, not by sight.
The Word is the lamp. Jesus is the Word.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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The Messenger
“…I have commanded the ravens to provide for you there.” So he proceeded to do what the Lord commanded. Elijah left and lived at the Wadi Cherith where it enters the Jordan. The ravens kept bringing him bread and meat in the morning and in the evening, and he would drink from the wadi.
—1 Kings 17:4-6, CSB
In the passage above, God gave Elijah specific instructions on how he would be fed during the drought in the land. He commanded birds—specifically ravens—to bring Elijah food throughout the day.
I was sitting in my backyard writing when I noticed a blue jay repeatedly flying past me. At first, I didn’t think much of it. But when I looked up, I saw the bird had a blueberry in its mouth.
We have two blueberry bushes growing in pots in our backyard. I knew they had fruit on them, but from what I could see, the berries hadn’t ripened yet. I wondered why the bird would pick sour fruit from the bush. Still, I kept writing, only half-paying attention—until the third time the bird flew past, this time with a small branch of fruit in its beak.
That’s when I thought, Let me go check this bush. When I walked over, I was shocked to find ripe fruit hidden among the inner branches. I had only been paying attention to the outer branches. I quickly picked the ripe berries before the bird could eat them all and then returned to writing.
But just a few moments later, the bird returned—this time to the second bush—and began picking fruit from that one as well. I thought, What? Let me check this bush too. Sure enough, the inner branches of that bush were also full of ripe berries.
Looking back now, it’s funny to realize that both bushes were abundantly full of fruit, yet I had begun to think they were no longer producing. I hadn't taken the time to look closely. Meanwhile, the birds were enjoying the fruit of my labor.
God used that moment to remind me: when I’m in a rush and not paying attention to His quiet nudges, I can miss the blessings He’s trying to reveal. That bird had to fly past me three, maybe four times before I finally noticed what God was showing me.
The presence of our God is beautiful and often speaks with a quiet spirit that touches our soul—when we’re paying attention. He uses everything, even a blue jay, to bring us His message.
Key Takeaways
Stay alert—God is always guiding us.
He often speaks in ways that are not obvious or expected.
If you miss His voice, you may miss the blessing He’s trying to give.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Jaw-Dropping, Mind-Blowing Jesus
“…that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures.”
—1 Corinthians 15:4, ESV
I was listening to a song on YouTube when the artist sang the words: “My jaw-dropping Jesus, my mind-blowing Jesus.” As soon as I heard that phrase, my spirit stirred. I began to reflect on the jaw-dropping moments Jesus had brought into my life. Had I truly been expecting Him to do the miraculous things He is known for—those awe-inspiring, mind-blowing miracles He constantly performs for those who believe?
I sat quietly and remembered one powerful moment from over forty-two years ago when I was in church. I had prayed and asked God, “If You want me to be married, You’ll have to bring me a husband, because I’m not looking and I’m not dating anyone.” Immediately after finishing that prayer, a man walked into our church—someone I had never met before, and someone who had never visited our church until that day. God said to me, “There is your husband.” And He was.
That was just one of those awe-struck miracles—but Jesus continues to do incredible things in my life, and I am deeply grateful. Prior to hearing that song, I had been praying again—this time, asking God to let me live in the supernatural, abundant life. I want to experience the jaw-dropping, mind-blowing Jesus I know Him to be.
Let me be clear: I am full of gratitude for all God has done for me and for those I love. But I’ve also come to realize something important—when people look at our lives, they often attribute our blessings to our own efforts: good jobs, pensions, or wise planning. I asked God to make our life a testimony so unmistakably miraculous that when people see or hear about it, they’ll know without a doubt: “That it had to be God.”
When Israel crossed the Red Sea, everyone knew it was God. When they went to battle for the Promised Land, their enemies were terrified—so much so that the Gibeonites devised a cunning plan to deceive Israel just so they could survive (Joshua 9). The hand of God was undeniable.
When we live with the expectation of our jaw-dropping, mind-blowing, miracle-working, chain-breaking, yoke-destroying Jesus, the world takes notice—and many are drawn to serve Him.
How about you?
When was the last time you experienced your own jaw-dropping, mind-blowing moment with God? Maybe now is the time to bring that deep, impossible-seeming request before Him—the one hidden in the belly of your soul. He’s tugging at your heart, nudging you to ask and believe. And if belief feels hard, ask Him to help your unbelief. Step into the extraordinary journey He has already prepared for you and your family.
Key Takeaways
Jaw-dropping: Esther, a Jewish woman, became Queen of Persia.
Mind-blowing: David, the youngest of his brothers, defeated Goliath.
Yoke-destroying: Egypt’s mighty army drowned in the Red Sea.
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Releasing Control
“Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.”
—Luke 22:42, KJV
Control: To exercise restraining or directing influence over; to have power over; to rule.
In the passage above, Jesus is praying to the Father, asking if the cup of wrath—the suffering He was about to endure—could be removed. Yet before God responds, Jesus adds a powerful declaration: “Not my will, but Yours be done.” Though Jesus had full authority and the power to come down from the cross, He surrendered His will to YHWH.
There’s a song by William McDowell called I Give Myself Away. One of the lines says, “I give myself away so You can use me.” Another says, “Lord, my life is in Your hands.” I used to sing that song often, and I meant every word. But over the years, I’ve realized that while it’s easy to say those words, truly releasing my will is harder than I expected. We can be sincere in what we say, but when the opportunity comes to actually submit our will, it often comes with a challenge.
Some time ago, my husband and I were navigating an insurance claim for one of our homes. I thought I had released control and was letting him handle it—until one day, while we were in the car, he received a call from the insurance adjuster. The call was on speaker because he was driving, and as I listened, I felt myself getting increasingly upset. I didn’t understand the decision he had made or how it would affect our claim. As soon as he hung up, I jumped in with my frustration.
In that moment, I could feel the Holy Spirit gently reminding me that I had released control. But my emotions were so strong that I couldn’t stop myself. My husband calmly said something like, “I prayed about this, and I believe this is what God is leading me to do.” His words made me pause and reflect on my behavior.
Satan is always looking for opportunities to trip us up. He’s strategic. Until that moment, I thought I had let go of control—but the situation revealed otherwise. That’s why Scripture tells us to pray about everything: because we truly can’t do this on our own. Jesus told the disciples, “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:41)
Even with good intentions, our flesh is weak. Without prayer and the help of the Holy Spirit, we will fall back into what we thought we had surrendered.
Key Takeaways:
Good intentions do not always lead to right actions.
Releasing our will to control only happens through the help of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer is the power source for releasing control.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Long Life
“My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; for they will add length of days, long life, and peace to you.”— Proverbs 3:1–2, AMP
In today’s world, there is an overwhelming amount of information on how to live a long and healthy life. The focus is usually on what to eat, how much water to drink, how often to exercise, and how many hours of sleep to get. While all of these things are important and impact how our bodies function during our time on earth, many of these messages leave out the most essential key—the one Scripture guarantees will bring long life, peace, and goodness.
That key is keeping God’s commandments. We must obey His instructions.
It reminds me of my childhood. As long as I followed my parents’ instructions, things went well. But when I chose to disobey and do my own thing, I usually ended up in trouble. It didn’t matter how healthy my habits were—if I disobeyed their guidance, life didn’t go well for me.
When God appointed Joshua to lead Israel into the Promised Land, He said to him:
"This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to meditate on it day and night so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do. Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
— Joshua 1:8–9, ESV
Joshua obeyed the Lord’s commands and lived a long, prosperous life. Scripture tells us he died at the age of 110.
God is the Creator of all things, and everything exists for His purpose—including us. He brought each one of us into the world with intention and design. So, it only makes sense that we would listen to what He says and follow His commands if we want to truly enjoy this life.
I remember a line from an old television show where a father was speaking to his disobedient son and said, “I brought you into this world, and I can take you out.” It’s a humorous line—but it also echoes a sobering truth. YHWH brought us into this world, and if we live in disobedience, we shouldn’t be surprised if our choices lead to consequences.
Long life is found in Christ Jesus.
Key Takeaways:
A long, healthy life is found in the Word of God.
Our Creator has given us specific guidance for how to live well.
The world’s suggestions will never satisfy what your soul truly desires.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
I Am Loved
For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
— Romans 8:38–39, ESV
Every morning and evening, I make a declaration: I am loved. I quote the verse above as a powerful reminder of God’s unfailing love. It strengthens my spirit and counters the lies the enemy tries to whisper. No matter what comes our way, nothing can separate us from God’s love.
As I meditated on this truth, I went for a walk. Everywhere I looked, I saw expressions of God’s love. The trees, shrubs, grass, sky, birds—even the very air I breathed—spoke of His care and creativity. Then I noticed something unexpected: the weeds. Some were so intricate, detailed, and oddly beautiful. I paused and thought, Lord, there is so much of You we have yet to understand.
If sin had never entered the world, we would have never known weeds. Scripture tells us that because Adam disobeyed, God issued a consequence:
"And He said to the man, 'Because you listened to your wife and ate from the tree about which I commanded you, “Do not eat from it”: The ground is cursed because of you. You will eat from it by means of painful labor all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field.'"
— Genesis 3:17–18, CSB
Thorns, thistles, and weeds were never part of God's original design for the earth. Yet even in His discipline, God didn’t remove beauty from the landscape. His love was still visible—woven into creation. That’s how deeply He loves us.
During prayer, I was reflecting on the depth of His love, and I felt the Holy Spirit gently prompt me with this thought: “If I knew from the beginning that you would need a Savior—and I prepared a body for that purpose—how could you doubt that I also know and will provide for your daily needs?” I sat quietly, letting that truth settle in.
Then I was reminded of Jeremiah 29:11:
"For I know the plans I have for you”—this is the Lord’s declaration—“plans for your well-being, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
You are so deeply, eternally loved. Receive that love. Rest in it. Let it be your foundation every day.
Key Takeaways
You are loved.
Nothing can separate you from His love.
The more you understand His love, the more you can rest in it.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
You Never Stop Working
“But Jesus answered them, ‘My Father is working until now, and I am working.’” – John 5:17 (ESV)
While browsing YouTube for some music to listen to, a video popped up that deeply disturbed my spirit. As I played worship music in the background, I began to pray. Even after the first song ended, I continued pouring out my concerns to God about what I had seen.
Then, the song Way Maker began to play. I wasn’t fully tuned in at first—until I heard the lyrics:
“Even when I don’t see that You’re working, even when I don’t feel that You’re working, You never stop, You never stop working.”
In that moment, I knew God was answering my prayers. The enemy had tried to drag my mind into a spiral of sorrow, but the Lord interrupted it with a reminder of His constant presence and power.
I couldn’t help but thank God! Things might look bleak or feel overwhelming, but appearances don’t define reality. Time and time again in Scripture, whenever Israel found itself in a desperate situation and cried out to God, He was already at work behind the scenes, orchestrating their deliverance.
I’m convinced that as I was praying, God was saying, “I hear you, and I’ve already taken care of it.”
I’m reminded of the Jews living in Persia when Haman—second in command to the king—issued a decree sealed with the king’s signet ring to annihilate them. The news caused great mourning. They put on sackcloth and ashes and cried out to God with loud, bitter wailing.
But here’s the powerful truth: God already had the answer prepared before the problem ever surfaced. He positioned Esther for such a time as that—to bring about their deliverance.
The Bible teaches us that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). He never changes. Just as He cared for His people then, He still moves on behalf of those He has called today.
He is always working—even when we can’t see it or feel it.
Hallelujah! He is our King! He is the Way Maker, Miracle Worker, Promise Keeper, Light in the darkness—and so much more.
Key Takeaways
Don’t let what you see discourage you.
God has already worked out your problem.
What you can’t see is greater than what you can see.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Honor the King
"And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords." — Revelation 19:16
I recently had the opportunity to lead a Bible study teaching from the book The Power of Jesus’ Names by Tony Evans. The chapter I spoke from was focused on the title "King," emphasizing how we are to reverence and serve Jesus as our King. One of the insights the Holy Spirit revealed is that because the United States is not a monarchy, many of us struggle to fully grasp our role under a king.
A monarchy is a system of government in which a single person—usually a king or queen—reigns as head of state, often through hereditary succession. In contrast, we live in a democracy, but it's important to note that this country was built on rebellion. One example is the Boston Tea Party, a pivotal event leading up to the American Revolution. It symbolized colonial defiance against British rule and taxation, ultimately becoming a landmark of the fight for liberty and independence. From the beginning, Americans have resisted ruling authority.
When we are called to truly honor Jesus as King, as the book describes, it demands responses like obedience, dependence, honor, respect, and self-sacrifice—all of which run counter to the values our culture often promotes.
In doing some additional research, I found an article that explained how the subconscious mind is largely formed between birth and around age 7 or 8. By that age, most of us have been conditioned to believe that our government works for us, not the other way around. So when we hear that Jesus is our King and that we are to serve and honor Him, our flesh often resists—reacting to what has been ingrained in our subconscious.
After the Bible study, the Holy Spirit prompted me to research how many countries are democracies. When I reached the United States, I discovered it is classified as a "flawed democracy." As I continued reading, I found statistics showing that in our country, there is a birth every 8.6 seconds and a death every 10.2 seconds. That revelation led me to declare: whether or not we choose to acknowledge Jesus as our King, He is King and Ruler of the universe.
I began looking into birth and death rates in other countries and found that each nation’s data was tracked down to the precise second. It was a powerful reminder that we do not choose the moment we are born, and unless we make the tragic decision to end our own lives, we do not choose when we die. Our lifespan has already been ordained. That decision was made by Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, before we were ever born.
If we desire to live eternally, we must surrender ourselves to Yeshua and walk in obedience to the commands of King Jesus.
Command: "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’" — Matthew 22:36-40 (ESV)
Key Takeaways:
Jesus is King.
Although we were shaped by a spirit of rebellion, through Jesus Christ we are made new.
We are obligated to honor Jesus as King—and that begins with obedience.
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