Devotional Journal

Words from the heart of our ministry — faith reflections by Pamela Otts on loving our neighbors, trusting God's provision, and the everyday miracle of the widow's oil.

Acts 6:8

Shine Like Stephen

They saw his face shine like the face of an angel. They knew they were telling lies. They thought his death would fix their problems. It didn't.

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John 4:50

Believe It Before You See It

The man believed what Jesus said and started home. He had not seen it. Did not hold the miracle in his hands. But he turned and headed home — because he believed. That's the thing that activates your miracle.

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John 21:15–17

He Knew What Was Coming

Jesus asked Peter three times. Peter was justly upset. But Jesus knew what was coming for Peter — and he wanted him to remember that conversation.

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John 18:25–27

Heard Any Roosters Lately?

The city won't allow roosters, so I've heard. I might need to test that one day. But not today. Today I'm thinking about Peter.

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Joshua 24:15

I'd Still Choose Jesus

What if someone proved it all wrong beyond any shadow of a doubt? I don't have wisdom to impart here. I just know that even then, I'd still choose Jesus. Every single day.

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Matthew 25:40

Whatever God Sends Us

When asked 'What do you do?' the only answer I have is: Whatever God sends us. There's lots of wants that show up. But God sends the needs.

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John 15:13

Are You a Disciple or Just a Christian?

Do you believe in him, or do you just know about him? There's a difference. A friend is someone you'd take a bullet for. Jesus called his disciples friends — and literally died for them.

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John 14:15

He's First. Every Single Day.

I fall so short of what I need to be and do and act and think, all 7 days of the week. My constant 'sorry' is not okay. He gets all that I am. He is first.

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John 10:14

I Have a Shepherd

I have a Shepherd — someone I can keep my eyes on, follow, trust. I know his voice. The only time it's bad to be a sheep is when you are not guided by the right one.

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John 14:26

I Want to KNOW Know Him

I've always thought of the Holy Spirit as a benevolent space-saver between the resurrection and the second coming. I think I may have missed the boat on this one. I think I owe him an apology.

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John 6:29

What Would It Take?

What miracle would it take for us to drop all of our doubts and be all in? Take a look in the mirror. If you are a true believer, you have already seen a miracle or two.

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Luke 24:5-6

Then Came the Dawn

I do not ever watch a sunrise and not think of that long-ago morning. Early morning is always filled with a promise.

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Mark 10:16

Bare Feet and His Hand Upon Me

I love sitting at my desk in my bare feet and pajamas. My spirit knows I'm not hurried. My mind is focused. And I'm excited to begin my day with the Father.

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