The Daily Devotional by Vince Miller

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today’s shout-out goes to Bruce Bowler from Cedar Falls, IA. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your support is helping others reach for Jesus—maybe for the first time. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 6:53-56: When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and moored to the shore. And when they got out of the boat, the people immediately recognized him and ran about the whole region and began to bring the sick people on their beds to wherever they heard he was. And wherever he came, in villages, cities, or countryside, they laid the sick in the marketplaces and implored him that they might touch even the fringe of his garment. And as many as touched it were made well. — Mark 6:53-56 Jesus steps out of the boat in Gennesaret—and the people move fast. They recognize him. They run through towns and villages. They gather the sick, the broken, the weary—laying them out in streets and marketplaces. But what they want is simple. Not a lesson. Not a meeting. Not even a touch from his hand. “If we could just touch the fringe of his garment.” That’s what they were after. Just the edge. The tassel. The outermost thread. Because they believed the power of Jesus extended even to the fringe. And it did. “As many as touched it were made well.” Faith doesn’t always walk in with swagger. Sometimes, it crawls in with desperation. Sometimes, it’s not bold enough to stand tall— but just enough to stretch out an arm. Faith reaches for the fringe. The people in this story knew they weren’t worthy to ask for much. But they believed Jesus was more than enough. So they reached. And Jesus healed. It’s the same today. You may not feel like your faith is strong. You may not feel like you have the words. You may not even feel worthy of asking. But Jesus still honors those who reach out to him. Even if all you can manage today is a whisper. A prayer through tears. A step toward the church. A breath of surrender. A call of repentance. That’s faith. And Jesus sees it and responds to it. So wherever you are, however far off you feel—reach. The fringe of his robe still holds the fullness of his power. ASK THIS: DO THIS: Take one small action today that symbolizes reaching for Jesus—pray, read one verse, confess, or ask for help. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I don’t always feel strong or worthy, but I’m reaching for you anyway. Meet me in my weakness with your healing power. Amen. PLAY THIS: Touch the Hem of His Garment.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today’s shout-out goes to Henry Kunkel from West Islip, NY. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. You’re helping others find peace in the middle of their storms. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 6:45-52: Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. And after he had taken leave of them, he went up on the mountain to pray. And when evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and he was alone on the land. And he saw that they were making headway painfully, for the wind was against them. And about the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them, but when they saw him walking on the sea they thought it was a ghost, and cried out, for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded, for they did not understand about the loaves, but their hearts were hardened. — Mark 6:45-52 After feeding thousands, Jesus sends the disciples ahead in a boat while he goes up the mountain to pray. They head out across the water, probably expecting a simple trip to the other side. But as night falls, things get difficult. The wind picks up. The boat stalls. And the disciples are stuck—rowing with everything they’ve got but making little progress. It’s late, probably around 3:00 a.m. They’re exhausted, confused, and afraid. And Jesus sees them stuck in the middle. But he doesn’t shout from the shoreline or send instructions from the mountain. He walks out to them—on the water. But when they see him, they don’t recognize him. They think he’s a ghost. Fear takes over. And they cry out. But Jesus responds with calm assurance: “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” Right in the middle of the storm, he shows up. He gets into the boat with them. The wind dies down. Peace returns. It’s a miracle and an important one. Jesus doesn’t meet them at the beginning of the storm or the end of the storm. He meets them in the middle of it. When they are the most exhausted. When they are about to give up hope. And he still does that. Jesus doesn’t always wait for the waves to settle or the skies to clear. Sometimes, he steps right into your chaos—right in the middle of your confusion and fear. Then he comes close. Not to condemn your fear but to calm your heart. And often, his presence is the peace you’ve been looking for all along. If you're weary, stuck, or straining against the wind—know this: He meets you in the middle. Not when it’s over. Not when you’ve figured it out. But right in the thick of it. Are you in the storm today? Stop fearing, call out to him. Jesus, we call out for you in our storm. Come to us. Give us peace. Command our storm. Call it calm. Amen ASK THIS: DO THIS: Write down one area of your life that feels stuck or stormy. Take a few minutes today to sit quietly and ask Jesus to meet you in that space. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I’m tired of trying to row through this on my own. Thank you for coming close. Help me feel your presence and trust your peace, even in the middle of the storm. Amen. PLAY THIS: Peace be Still.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today’s shout-out goes to Bob & Shannon Maxiner from Lake Elmo, MN. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your support reminds us that Jesus is always more than enough. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 6:35-44: And when it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the hour is now late. Send them away to go into the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” But he answered them, “You give them something to eat.” And they said to him, “Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread and give it to them to eat?” And he said to them, “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.” And when they had found out, they said, “Five, and two fish.” Then he commanded them all to sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups, by hundreds and by fifties. And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the people. And he divided the two fish among them all. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and of the fish. And those who ate the loaves were five thousand men. — Mark 6:35-44 The sun was setting. The crowd was huge. And the disciples were doing the math. After a few quick calculations, they concluded that there was not enough. Enough time. Enough money. Enough food. It’s a rational thought about the necessary rations. Five thousand men, not counting women and children. In a remote location. But Jesus challenges their rational logic with a divine line: “You give them something to eat.” And their scarcity mentality kicks in. “Are we supposed to spend two hundred denarii on bread?” “We only have five loaves and two fish.” The disciples only perceived natural impossibilities. Jesus perceived spiritual possibilities. Scarcity sees lack—but faith sees the Lord. Jesus tells them to organize the crowd. He blesses the bread. He breaks the fish. What wasn’t enough in their hands becomes more than enough in his. “And they all ate and were satisfied.” Every need was met. No one went hungry. It cost nothing. They traveled nowhere. And there were twelve baskets of leftovers. This is what happens when we surrender scarcity to the Savior. Too many believers live day-by-day with a scarcity mentality. Not enough time. Not enough talent. Not enough experience. Not enough influence. Not enough faith. And so we play it safe. We hold back. We tell Jesus to “send them/it away.” However, Jesus never operates from a place of scarcity or lack. He’s not concerned about how much you have—he's asking if you’ll have faith, bring what you have, and give it to him. Because what feels insufficient to us becomes sufficient in Jesus's hands. So stop living with a scarcity mentality. Live by faith. Bring what you have. Let Jesus multiply and make it more than enough. ASK THIS: DO THIS: Identify one area where you’ve been operating from a scarcity mindset. Write it down, bring it to Jesus in prayer, and trust Him to do more than you can see. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I confess I’ve been focused on what I lack. Today I choose to bring what I have to you. Help me trust that your hands are better than mine. Amen. PLAY THIS: "More Than Able" by Elevation Worship

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today’s shout-out goes to Terry White from Dodge City, KS. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. You’re helping others find rest in Christ and strength in His Word. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 6:30-34: The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things. — Mark 6:30-34 The disciples return from their first mission trip—tired, drained, and hungry. They’ve been pouring themselves out in ministry. And Jesus sees it. “Come away by yourselves… and rest a while.” This is the heart of Jesus. He doesn’t just care about the mission—he realizes they are the mission. He invites them to recover, to respire, to rest. But before they get to their quiet place, the crowd shows up. Not a few people—thousands. Uninvited. Unexpected. Undeterred. And Jesus? He sees the crowd. He knows what it’ll cost. But he doesn’t send them away. Looking past the obligation, he sees who they are: "sheep without a shepherd." Therefore, he teaches them. He puts down his plan and picks up their burden. Because with Jesus, compassion always overrides convenience. Recognize that Jesus and the disciples were tired. But compassion made space for the crowd. That’s not soft leadership—it’s spiritual maturity. And it’s the kind of heart Jesus is forming in us. Let’s be honest—most of us guard our convenience with everything we’ve got. We guard our calendars, our boundaries, our margin, and our entertainment. But sometimes the Spirit brings the “crowd” to the shore of your day. And the question is—will you see them as a problem or a person? Will you protect your comfort, or extend compassion? Compassion will cost you something. It always does. But it’s how we love like Jesus. It’s how we lead like Jesus. It’s how we point people to Jesus. So today—who’s the crowd in front of you? Stop seeing your colleagues, children, and spouse as an inconvenience. See them as an opportunity to soften your heart and have a heart of compassion like Jesus. ASK THIS: DO THIS: Think of one time recently when convenience won over compassion. Ask Jesus for the grace to make space—and love like He does next time. PRAY THIS: Jesus, give me your eyes to see people—especially when it’s inconvenient. Teach me to love like you, even when I’m tired, interrupted, or busy. Amen. PLAY THIS: "God of Justice" by Tim Hughes.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today’s shout-out goes to Bobby McCalpine from Tahlequah, OK. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your courage to stand for truth is helping others do the same. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 6:14-29: King Herod heard of it, for Jesus' name had become known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him.” But others said, “He is Elijah.” And others said, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.” For it was Herod who had sent and seized John and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because he had married her. For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly. But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his nobles and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. For when Herodias's daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests. And the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it to you.” And he vowed to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half of my kingdom.” And she went out and said to her mother, “For what should I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist.” And she came in immediately with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” And the king was exceedingly sorry, but because of his oaths and his guests he did not want to break his word to her. And immediately the king sent an executioner with orders to bring John's head. He went and beheaded him in the prison and brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard of it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb. — Mark 6:14-29 This story is disturbing. John the Baptist is executed, not for a crime, but for telling the truth. He called out King Herod’s sin—and it cost him everything. But John didn’t flinch. He didn’t soften the truth. He didn’t adjust the message to protect himself. He spoke with clarity, conviction, and courage directly about the king's lack of integrity. John wouldn’t trade conviction for approval. Herod, on the other hand, did. He liked listening to John. He respected him. He knew John was holy. But Herod was more concerned about his image than his soul. So when the moment came—when the crowd was watching, and the pressure was on—Herod made the trade. Approval over conviction. Comfort over repentance. And John lost his life because of it. This isn’t just ancient history. It’s a modern temptation. Today, people still trade conviction for approval: —to protect a platform —to avoid awkward conversations —to keep a job —to hold on to relationships —to stay liked But when we soften the message of Jesus to preserve our status, we don't just lose the truth—we lose our witness. The Gospel isn’t ours to edit. It’s ours to exalt—with boldness and love. Jesus said, “Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words... the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him.” They are strong words. But central ones. When we trade conviction for approval, we stop pointing people to the only One who can actually save them so we can try to save ourselves. So here’s the question: Where are you tempted to soften, silence, or sidestep the truth to protect yourself? And what would it look like to follow John’s example instead? ASK THIS: DO THIS: Name one place in your life where approval is tempting you to dilute conviction. Ask...

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today’s shout-out goes to Darrin Baker from Manhattan, KS. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your faith and generosity are helping send the Word to those who need it most. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 6:7-13: And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts— but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics. And he said to them, “Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there. And if any place will not receive you and they will not listen to you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.” So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent. And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them. — Mark 6:7-13 Jesus had just been rejected in his hometown. He could have pulled back from his mission due to this shame and embarrassment. He could have tightened the circle. Instead, he does the opposite. He expands it. He calls the Twelve and sends them out two by two. He gives them mission and authority but tells them to bring almost nothing with them. “Take no bread. No bag. No money.” No food. No clothes. No cash. That's not a preparation. That's complete trust. There are no extra supplies. There's no backup plan. This is just straight-up trust in Jesus. That’s not how most of us operate. We want a safety net. We want to know the whole strategy. We want a sustainable five-year plan. But Jesus gives them something different. Something better: His mission. His message. His authority. His power. His presence. They weren’t sent because they were ready. They were ready because they were sent. Because when Jesus sends, he sustains. That’s the point of the moment. Jesus is not trying to deprive them—but trying to teach them dependence. He does not want them to depend on themselves but him. He is not going to make them influencers but use them for his influence and show even them that he is all the influence the world will ever need. And the result? They go. They preach repentance. They cast out demons. They anoint. They heal. Ordinary men do extraordinary things because they trust the one who sent them. The mission hasn’t changed. Jesus still sends. And when He sends, He still sustains. This means you don’t have to feel fully equipped to be effective. You just have to be willing to go and trust that Jesus will provide what you need along the way. ASK THIS: DO THIS: Write down one area in your life where Jesus may be sending you—into a conversation, a relationship, a role, a moment. Step into it, trusting that where He sends, He sustains. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I often feel unprepared—but I know you are faithful. Help me take the next step with confidence, believing you will provide all I need. Amen. PLAY THIS: Same God.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today’s shout-out goes to Marvin Steele from Garland, TX. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your support helps people have faith in Jesus. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 6:1-6: He went away from there and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? How are such mighty works done by his hands? Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.” And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them. And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went about among the villages teaching. — Mark 6:1-6 Jesus returns to his hometown, Nazareth. This is where Jesus grew up, where he learned the trade of a carpenter, and where people watched him grow from a baby to a boy into a man. And now he's back. But not as a carpenter. But as a Lord. He’s teaching with wisdom. He’s performing mighty works. He’s stepping fully into His divine calling. And what’s the response? Listen to the skepticism: “Isn’t this Mary’s son? The carpenter? The kid we used to know?” They’re amazed—but not expectantly and excitedly. They simply can’t reconcile who Jesus is with who they remember he was. Familiarity breeds unbelief. They couldn’t see the Messiah standing before them—because how they remembered him and formerly knew him for so many years. And because of that, Mark proclaims something staggering: “He could do no mighty work there… and he marveled because of their unbelief.” Let that sink in: Unbelief shut the door on what Jesus wanted to do. Not because he lacked power—but because the people lacked faith. Jesus doesn’t force his way upon us, and he doesn’t perform signs to show off to his skeptics. He responds to faith, not familiarity. And the warning of this scripture is simple. You can grow up around Jesus. You can hear his teaching every Sunday. You can know the stories, quote the verses, sing the songs—and still not have faith in him. Familiarity is not faith. Proximity is not surrender. Faith is seeing Jesus for who he truly is—and responding with awe, trust, and obedience. So today, the question isn’t: “Are you familiar with Jesus?” The question is: “Do you have faith in Jesus?” #FaithOverFamiliarity, #PowerOfUnbelief, #JesusInNazareth ASK THIS: DO THIS: Take a moment to reflect on the areas of your life where familiarity with Jesus has replaced faith and trust. Ask God to reveal new aspects of His character to you today. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I don’t want to merely know about You, I want to truly know You and trust You. Help me see You clearly and respond with faith, awe, and obedience today. Amen. PLAY THIS: King of Kings.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today’s shout-out goes to Bob Smotherman from Temperance, MI. Bob, thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your support helps rewrite endings for so many. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 5:35-43: While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler's house some who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.” And he allowed no one to follow him except Peter and James and John the brother of James. They came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and Jesus saw a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. And when he had entered, he said to them, “Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But he put them all outside and took the child's father and mother and those who were with him and went in where the child was. Taking her by the hand he said to her, “Talitha cumi,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” And immediately the girl got up and began walking (for she was twelve years of age), and they were immediately overcome with amazement. And he strictly charged them that no one should know this, and told them to give her something to eat. — Mark 5:35-43 The crowd was still processing the healing of the woman. But before Jairus could take another step, his worst fear arrived: “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” It was over. Too late. Or so they thought. But Jesus hears the report and immediately speaks to Jairus: “Do not fear. Only believe.” That one sentence reframes everything. Jesus doesn’t explain. He simply calls Jairus to trust—beyond the news, beyond the evidence, beyond the grief, beyond the noise. They arrive at the house, and the wailing has already begun. People mourning. People mocking. Jesus says, “She’s not dead but sleeping,” and they laugh. But their laughter doesn’t stop him. He clears the room. He takes her hand. And He speaks the words only Jesus could say: “Talitha cumi.” And she does. This is who Jesus is. He speaks life where others have accepted death. He walks into impossible rooms and rewrites the ending. He turns mourning into miracles. If you're holding onto grief, fear, or finality today. Remember, Jesus can rewrite the ending of any story. Hear his words again: “Do not fear. Only believe.” #OnlyBelieve, #JesusHeals, #MarkFive ASK THIS: DO THIS: Speak aloud the words of Jesus today—“Do not fear. Only believe”—and let them confront one specific fear you're facing. PRAY THIS: Jesus, when fear and doubt try to take over, help me hear Your voice above the noise. I choose to believe—even when others laugh, even when it seems too late. Amen. PLAY THIS: Graves Into Gardens.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today’s shout-out goes to Kevin Ontiveros from Sylmar, CA. Kevin, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your support helps deliver healing to people. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 5:30-34: And Jesus, perceiving in himself that power had gone out from him, immediately turned about in the crowd and said, “Who touched my garments?” And his disciples said to him, “You see the crowd pressing around you, and yet you say, ‘Who touched me?’” And he looked around to see who had done it. But the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came in fear and trembling and fell down before him and told him the whole truth. And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease.” — Mark 5:30-34 This woman thought she could slip away unnoticed by Jesus. She had reached for healing, and it worked. The bleeding stopped. Her body felt whole. But Jesus wasn’t finished. “Who touched my garments?” It’s a strange question in the middle of a crowd. People were pressing in from all sides. But Jesus knew. He felt power leave him—and he wanted to know who received it. Not because he didn’t know. But because he wanted her to know she wasn’t invisible. She comes forward, trembling. She tells the truth. And Jesus doesn’t scold her. He doesn’t shame her. He gives her a name: “Daughter!” Not “woman with the issue of blood.” Not “unclean.” Not “interruption.” Daughter. That’s what Jesus does. He doesn’t just heal the body—he restores the soul. He gives a new name, a new identity, a new peace. You may come to Jesus because of some issue—but he will always give you more than you came for. If you’ve ever felt unseen, unnoticed, or unworthy—hear this: Jesus sees you. Jesus knows you. And Jesus calls you daughter... son... his. And if you come to him, he will give you a new life, which is always more than expected. Are you ready to come? And if you’re ready to come—come all the way. Don’t just reach for a quick fix or temporary relief. Come for the deeper healing only Jesus offers. Jesus, I come to you today. Heal me. Restore me. Make me whole, amen. #FaithRestores, #JesusSeesYou, #HealingInChrist ASK THIS: DO THIS: Today, tell Jesus the whole truth—come to him vulnerably, not just for healing, but for identity and peace. PRAY THIS: Jesus, thank you for seeing me when I feel unseen. I come to you for healing, restoration, and the new name only you can give. Amen. PLAY THIS: You Say.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today’s shout-out goes to Jay T Patterson from Verona, MO. Jay, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your support helps deliver healing to people. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 5:25-29: And a great crowd followed him and thronged about him. And there was a woman who had had a discharge of blood for twelve years, and who had suffered much under many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was no better but rather grew worse. She had heard the reports about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his garment. For she said, “If I touch even his garments, I will be made well.” And immediately the flow of blood dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of her disease. — Mark 5:25-29 As Jesus walks with Jairus toward a dying daughter, another story unfolds in the crowd. A woman. Unnamed. Unnoticed. Twelve years of bleeding. Twelve years of suffering. Twelve years of disappointment. Twelve years of uncleanliness. She’s spent everything she had—physically, financially, emotionally—and she’s only gotten worse. By every account, she should have stayed home. She was considered physically and spiritually unclean. She wasn’t supposed to be there. But faith doesn’t wait for permission. She pushes through the crowd. Quietly. Carefully. She doesn’t shout. She doesn’t stop Jesus. She reaches out, thinking: “If I touch even his garments, I will be made well.” And in that moment—she is. The bleeding stops. The suffering ends. The healing begins. That’s the power of quiet faith. It’s not always loud or public. It doesn’t always make headlines or draw attention. But it moves. It reaches. It touches Jesus. And Jesus responds. Sometimes, all you’ve got left—is a reach. But if you reach for the right One, that’s all you’ll ever need. What if the issue you’re facing isn’t about trying harder. But finally, reaching for Jesus? #FaithThatHeals, #TouchOfJesus, #Mark52529 ASK THIS: DO THIS: Push past the fear or shame today—pray boldly and reach out to Jesus with that one issue you’ve been hiding. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I come quietly but boldly, reaching for You with the pain I’ve carried far too long. Heal what doctors and efforts cannot—touch my life with Your power. Amen. PLAY THIS: “He Knows My Name” by Tasha Cobbs Leonard.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today’s shout-out goes to Rick Morris from Bunnell, FL. Rick, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your support helps deliver God's Word to families across the globe. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 5:21-24: And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him, and he was beside the sea. Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, and seeing him, he fell at his feet and implored him earnestly, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well and live.” And he went with him. — Mark 5:21-24 Jesus returns to the Jewish side of the Sea of Galilee, and as usual, the crowds are already waiting. But this time, someone pushes through the crowd—not a leper, not a tax collector, not a fisherman. It’s a father. And a synagogue ruler. His name is Jairus. He’s a respected man. A religious leader. A person of status in the community. But on this day, none of that matters to him. The only thing on his mind is the life of his daughter—sick and close to death. Jairus doesn't send a servant. He leaves her bedside, falls at Jesus’ feet, and begs: “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well and live.” This is more than desperation—it’s faith. That’s what faith does. It moves into and through imperfect conditions. It walks into uncertainty. It reaches through desperation—toward the only one who holds hope and healing: Jesus. Jairus didn’t know how his request would be received. But he had heard about Jesus. And he knew Jesus was the only one who could help. And Jesus responds with mercy—he goes with him. Faith is often seen most clearly in our moments of desperation. The singular focus of our heart, mind, and soul in crisis directs everything toward the one object worthy of our trust. For Jairus, it wasn’t a physician. It was the Miracle Worker from Nazareth. He fell at His feet—believing He could heal and save. Maybe today, you’re carrying a desperate burden. Maybe it’s not a daughter—but a decision. Maybe not a disease—but a disappointment. Don’t carry it alone. Bring it to Jesus. Run to Him. Fall before Him. Ask boldly. And trust—He still walks with those who cry out in faith. #FaithInCrisis, #JesusHeals, #BoldBelief ASK THIS: “fall at Jesus’ feet” DO THIS: Run to Jesus today with your burden—don’t delay. Speak to him out loud, laying your needs at his feet. PRAY THIS: Jesus, in my desperation, I bring my burden to You, trusting You alone can save. Strengthen my faith as I wait for Your mercy. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Run to the Father" by Cody Carnes.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today’s shout-out goes to Cary Lemasters from Wellsville, OH. Cary, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your support helps deliver the Word where it’s needed most. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 5:14-20: The herdsmen fled and told it in the city and in the country. And people came to see what it was that had happened. And they came to Jesus and saw the demon-possessed man, the one who had had the legion, sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. And those who had seen it described to them what had happened to the demon-possessed man and to the pigs. And they began to beg Jesus to depart from their region. As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. And he did not permit him but said to him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled. — Mark 5:14-20 The people come running because they’ve heard what happened and want to see it for themselves. And what they see shocks them. The same man who once lived naked in the tombs. The man who cried out night and day. The one who broke shackles and couldn’t be subdued is now sitting. Clothed. Calm. In his right mind. It’s such a radical transformation the crowd doesn’t celebrate—they tremble in fear. The power of Jesus disturbs them more than the chaos of Legion. So they demand something tragic—they ask Jesus to leave. But not the man who was freed. He doesn’t want Jesus to go without him. He begs to follow. But Jesus gives him a more important assignment: “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” And the man obeys. He tells his story. And people marvel. That’s the power of a testimony. Theologians can argue. Skeptics can question. But no one can refute a changed life. This man didn’t go to seminary—he came out of the tombs. And now he’s a missionary to the very region that once feared him. That’s what Jesus does. So—what has Jesus done for you that someone else needs to hear? You may not have a “Legion” story. But you do have a mercy story. Share it. Tell it. Live the mission. Don’t keep it to yourself. God wants to use the story He’s given you to preach the good news to others. You are the mouth he wants to use to tell the world about his mercy. #FromDarknessToLight, #MercyStory, #JesusSaves ASK THIS: DO THIS: Write down your story—one moment or season where Jesus met you with mercy. Then, ask God to show you who needs to hear it this week. PRAY THIS: Jesus, thank you for the mercy you’ve shown me. Don’t let me keep it to myself. Use my story to point others to your love and power. Amen. PLAY THIS: "My Story" by Big Daddy Weave.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today’s shout-out goes to John & Cindy Brannum from Sioux Falls, SD. John & Cindy, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your support helps deliver the Word where it’s needed most. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 5:6-13: And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. And crying out with a loud voice, he said, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me.” For he was saying to him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” And Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “My name is Legion, for we are many.” And he begged him earnestly not to send them out of the country. Now a great herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, and they begged him, saying, “Send us to the pigs; let us enter them.” So he gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out and entered the pigs; and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the sea. — Mark 5:6-13 Jesus steps onto the shore, and the man possessed by demons does something shocking—he runs toward Jesus. But as soon as he gets close, the demons take over. They fall. They scream. They beg for mercy. This is how evil responds to the holy—it bows in the presence of God. There’s no battle. No contest. This isn’t two equal forces clashing—it’s total authority confronting total darkness. Jesus commands the spirit to come out. Then he asks for the demon's identity: “What is your name?” The answer is chilling: “My name is Legion, for we are many.” Literally—thousands of demons. And still, Jesus doesn’t flinch, falter, or fear. It’s as if he’s handled situations like this a hundred times before. Then Legion pleads with Jesus. He begs for mercy—because they know they’ve encountered the all-powerful God, something even the disciples have yet to fully understand. They plead for dispersion rather than destruction. They beg Jesus to send them into a field of swine. There are all kinds of theories about why the pigs—but the simplest answer is this: The time for complete demonic defeat had not yet come. Jesus’s mission was first to redeem mankind from the bondage of sin—before destroying evil entirely. So, Legion is cast into the pigs. And the entire herd rushes down the hillside and drowns in the sea. I believe many people today feel overwhelmed by darkness—whether internal or external. And too often, we try to manage it, medicate it, or manipulate it. But Jesus doesn’t ask us to control the darkness. He asks us to surrender it—so He can confront it. If Jesus can cast out thousands of demons with a single word, he can confront the darkness you face today. So stop trying to manage the situation. Let Jesus confront it. Let him remove it. And let him cast it far from you—deep into the sea. #JesusOverDarkness, #Mark5, #SpiritualWarfare ASK THIS: DO THIS: Identify one area of darkness you’ve tried to manage and surrender it to Jesus in prayer today. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I confess the darkness I’ve tried to manage alone. I surrender it to You—cast it out and replace it with Your peace. Amen. PLAY THIS: “Break Every Chain” by Jesus Culture.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today’s shout-out goes to Cory Baron from North Oaks, MN. Cory, thank you for standing with us through Project23. Your commitment is helping others step out of darkness and into the light. This one’s for you. Our text today is Mark 5:1-5: They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the Gerasenes. And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones. — Mark 5:1-5 Jesus and his disciples land in Gentile territory—on the far side of the sea. And the moment they step out of the boat, they’re met by a man. But not just any man. He’s a strange man who lives among the dead. He’s naked. Bleeding. Tormented. Possessed by a legion of demons. (A legion was about 6,000—so this was a case of extreme demonization.) We read that no one could bind him. Not with ropes. Not even with chains. He had legion-like strength—and a soul consumed by suffering. So he lived alone. Crying out. Cutting himself. Unreachable. Unrestrained. Unhealed. This is what evil does. When we give ourselves over to it, evil isolates. It dehumanizes. It pulls us away from people—and pushes us further from peace. But notice—Jesus went out of his way to reach this far-out man. He crossed a violent sea to reach a violent man in a foreign land. To reach an outcast, everyone else had given up on. Jesus doesn’t move away from the broken. He moves toward them. Maybe today you feel like this man—alone, tormented, ashamed. Or maybe you’ve written someone off, thinking they’re too far gone. You’re wrong. No one is too far from Jesus—not you, not them. Because Jesus can reach anyone, anywhere, at any time. Today, if you’ve drifted—come back to Jesus, the one who came for you. And if you’ve given up on someone—don’t. Pray that God would send someone who represents Him to move close. Or ask Him if that someone is you. #TheDaily #Mark5 #JesusHeals #NoOneTooFarGone #FreedomInChrist #ComeBackToJesus ASK THIS: What does this man's condition reveal about the power of evil? How does Jesus' arrival in this scene reflect His character and mission? Have you ever felt unreachable—or believed someone else was? What would it look like for Jesus to step into that place today? DO THIS: Think of one person (maybe it's even you) who seems beyond hope—and pray specifically for Jesus to move toward them in power, just as He did for the man among the tombs. PRAY THIS: Jesus, thank you for stepping into places no one else would. Help me believe you can reach anyone—including me. And help me not to give up on those who still need your touch. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Rescue" by Lauren Daigle.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today’s shout-out goes to William Hanson from Bagley, MN. William, thank you for your support of Project23. I pray this study will give you peace in your storm today. Our text today is Mark 4:35-41: On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” — Mark 4:35-41 It started as a simple boat ride across the lake. But halfway through, everything changed. A sudden storm. Water crashing in. Panic is setting in. And where’s Jesus? Peacefully asleep—on a cushion. That image alone speaks volumes: Jesus, undisturbed, while chaos rages. The disciples, frantic, ask the question many of us whisper when life gets hard: “Do you not care?” But Jesus does more than care—he commands. He stands up, rebukes the wind, and speaks peace over the storm: “Peace! Be still!” And just like that, the elements of life obey. The storm stops. Here’s the kicker: the storm outside wasn’t the biggest one. The real storm was inside them—fear, doubt, forgetfulness. And Jesus quiets that, too, with a question that echoes into our own lives: “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” The storms of life are inevitable. But panic is optional when Jesus is in your boat. Because the One who commands the sea also calms the soul. And the more we walk with him, the more we learn: Jesus may not always stop the storm before it hits—but he always brings peace in the middle of it. Lay the storm in your soul on the cushion of Jesus. You know you can't control your present storm. But he can. #FaithInTheStorm, #PeaceBeStill, #Mark43541 ASK THIS: DO THIS: Speak the words “Peace, be still” over one area of your life today—and trust Jesus to meet you in it. PRAY THIS: Jesus, when fear fills my heart, remind me that you are present and powerful in every storm. Help me trust your peace more than I fear the waves. Amen. PLAY THIS: Still.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today’s shout-out goes to Daniel Gifford from Marrietta, GA. Daniel, thank you for believing in the slow, steady work of God’s Word. Because of your support of Project23, others are learning to walk by faith. This one’s for you. Today, we’re looking at Mark 4:30-34: And he said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.” With many such parables he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it. He did not speak to them without a parable, but privately to his own disciples he explained everything. — Mark 4:30-34 Jesus gives us yet another picture of the kingdom of God—and this one flips expectations. He says the kingdom is like a mustard seed. Small. Insignificant. Easy to miss. One of the tiniest seeds you could hold between your fingers. But when planted, it grows. And not just a little. It becomes the largest plant in the garden. Big enough for birds to land in and build their nests. Remember, Jesus isn’t giving us a lesson in agriculture. He’s describing spiritual hope. The kingdom doesn’t always start loud or impressive. It often begins in hidden places. In quiet faithfulness. In small decisions. In the unseen crevices of our lives. God does massive things through small beginnings. This is how the kingdom grows in your heart. This is how it expands in a community. This is how it breaks into a home, a workplace, a school, a nation. Not with a splash—but with a seed. And when that seed takes root, it grows beyond expectation. It creates space for others. It becomes something only God could grow—out of something no one else noticed. So if your faith feels small today—good. That’s exactly what God uses. Your "mustard seed" may not look like much, but when surrendered, it becomes a tree of grace. #MustardSeedFaith, #KingdomGrowth, #Project23 ASK THIS: DO THIS: Plant one small, intentional act of faith today—something quiet, consistent, and surrendered to God. PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for using the small things I offer for your great purposes. Grow your kingdom in me, even when I can’t see it. Amen. PLAY THIS: Do It Again.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today, we’re thanking Michael Greiner from Dallas, TX. Your faithfulness in supporting Project23 is planting seeds in countless lives. This one’s for you. Today, we’re looking at Mark 4:26-29: And he said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground. He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how. The earth produces by itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.” — Mark 4:26-29 In this short parable, Jesus gives us another window into the nature of the kingdom of God. He describes a farmer who scatters seeds and then continues his life. He scatters. He sleeps. He wakes. He repeats. Meanwhile, something unseen is happening within the soil. The seed grows—but the farmer doesn’t fully comprehend how. Jesus puts it plainly, “The seed sprouts and grows—he knows not how.” Jesus is explaining how the kingdom works. God does something unseen long before we see visible results. The seed is scattered, but growth is gradual—first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain. It’s not instant. It's not showy. But it's happening. When the time is right, there is a harvest to enjoy. This parable is a gentle reminder of the difference between our duty and God's duty. We scatter the seed, but only God gives the growth. Our job is to scatter the truth we’ve been given generously. We are called to sow the Word everywhere we go. We scatter it in how we act and what we say. At home. At work. At school. At play. And sometimes, you may feel like this is less than productive. Like you are wasting your time and wasting the seed. But don’t forget—sometimes God is doing something below the surface you can’t yet see. Something you might actually miss. He might be nourishing a seed in your friend, in your spouse, in your son, in your daughter, in a grandchild that might bear fruit down the road. It might bear a harvest you never get to witness. So don't give up. Keep scattering. Believe that God is doing something you merely cannot see. And anticipate the harvest. Because with God, no faithful seed is ever wasted. #KingdomGrowth, #ScatterSeedFaithfully, #Mark4Devotional ASK THIS: DO THIS: Keep sowing God's Word—even when you see no results. PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for working in ways I cannot see. Help me to stay faithful in sowing your truth and trust you with the results. Amen. PLAY THIS: Seasons.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And today, we’re thanking Kim Sheffield from San Jose, CA. Kim, your support through Project23 helps others see the light of Christ in Scripture—day by day. This one’s for you. Today, we’re looking at Mark 4:21-25: And he said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret except to come to light. If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” And he said to them, “Pay attention to what you hear: with the measure you use, it will be measured to you, and still more will be added to you. For to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.” — Mark 4:21-25 Jesus moves from seeds and soil to lamps and light. He asks the room a simple question: "Who lights a lamp and hides it under a basket or under a bed?" The question is rhetorical, and the answer is obvious—"Nobody does that!" That would defeat the purpose. But then Jesus connects that lamp to truth—to revelation, understanding, and obedience. God’s truth isn’t meant to be tucked away or kept in private. His truth is meant to shine. Jesus then says: “For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest.” In other words, God reveals truth so it can be shared. He uncovers things not to conceal—but to display. And when he illuminates your life, he expects you to live in the light of understanding and share that understanding. He expects you to use it. Then He presses in further: “Pay attention to what you hear.” With the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. That’s both encouragement and warning. The more open you are to the Word, the more light you’ll receive. But the more you ignore it, the easier it is to lose even what you had. Truth is a gift given—but it’s also a responsibility to bear. We’re not just called to hear it and consume it. We’re called to live it and share it. So, what are you doing with the light you’ve been given? Are you hiding it in fear? Are you keeping it to yourself? Or are you projecting and proclaiming it for others to see? #LiveTheLight, #Mark4Devotional, #Project23 ASK THIS: DO THIS: Take one truth God has revealed to you—and share it boldly with someone today. PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for revealing your truth to me through your Word. Help me not to hide it, but to live and share it boldly today. Amen. PLAY THIS: Shine On Us.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And a big shout-out to James Walker from Laredo, TX. James, thank you for being a vital part of Project23. Because of you, we’re helping people across the world receive and respond to the Word of God. This one’s for you. Today, we’re looking at Mark 4:13-20: And he said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? The sower sows the word. And these are the ones along the path, where the word is sown: when they hear, Satan immediately comes and takes away the word that is sown in them. And these are the ones sown on rocky ground: the ones who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy. And they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away. And others are the ones sown among thorns. They are those who hear the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.” — Mark 4:13-20 The disciples asked Jesus to explain the parable—and he did. No mystery. No guessing. Just clarity to those who ask, seek, and knock. He told them that the seed is the Word of God. And the soil? That’s our hearts. What makes this parable so powerful is that it doesn't just explain how to grow—but why so many don’t. The prevalence and prominence of the Word is never the problem. The condition of our hearts is always the problem. And this parable isn’t about four different kinds of people. It’s about four different kinds of hearts and their responses. And if we’re honest, we’ve probably been all four in our lives. So the personal and probing question is: What kind of soil is my heart today? And here’s the good news: soil can change. The Spirit can till, soften, clear, and prepare your heart again. You just have to ask. Are your ready to ask? Spirit, soften my calloused heart to the seed of truth. Multiply your Word and truth through me. May I bear a bountiful harvest. Amen. #HeartCheck, #GoodSoil, #FruitfulFaith ASK THIS: DO THIS: Write down one thing that’s currently choking or distracting you from fully receiving God’s Word. Then pray and ask God to help you clear it out. PRAY THIS: God, I want to be good soil. Help me uproot what’s shallow, hardened, or distracting. Let your Word go deep—and bear lasting fruit in my life. Amen. PLAY THIS: Clear the Stage.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And here is a shout-out today to Steve & Susan Webb from Apple Valley, MN. Thank you for your partnership in Project23. You’re helping others hear the Word and respond to it. This one’s for you. Today, we’re looking at Mark 4:10-12: And when he was alone, those around him with the twelve asked him about the parables. And he said to them, “To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables, so that “‘they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand, lest they should turn and be forgiven.’” — Mark 4:10-12 After teaching the Parable of the Sower, Jesus has a moment alone with the Twelve and a few close followers and they proceed to ask him about the meaning of the parables. And what Jesus says next stops us in our tracks: “To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God… but for those outside, everything is in parables.” It sounds almost backward. Shouldn't Jesus be trying to help people understand the truth? Yes—but he is also revealing a deeper reality. Parables don’t just teach truth—they test the heart. To those who are spiritually hungry, they invite. To those who are spiritually calloused, they conceal. Then Jesus, quotes from Isaiah the prophet. An ancient text where God tells the prophet that many will hear and not understand, see and not perceive. Not because God is ever unclear—but because people's hearts are closed to God's message. This is a sobering reminder that spiritual understanding isn’t merely intellectual—it’s formational. Notice the disciples didn’t understand everything either. You will see their confusion about Jesus and the things he did and said all the way through the story. But they did something others didn't do—they asked. They leaned in. They stayed close to Jesus. And because they drew near, Jesus drew them deeper. Jesus wasn’t hiding the truth from people. He was inviting those who wanted the truth to come closer. And he still is. If you feel confused about things God says in his Word—don’t walk away. Lean in. Ask questions. Listen again. Keep listening to me every day. Take notes. Dig deeper. The difference between seeing and perceiving… hearing and understanding… is the willingness to stay close to Jesus even when we are confused and seeking clarity. So, in your life today, is there a place you feel a little confused about what Jesus is doing? Don't lean out. Lean in. #LeanInToJesus, #SpiritualHunger, #Mark4Devotional ASK THIS: DO THIS: Stay close to Jesus by asking one honest question in prayer today about something you don’t understand in his Word. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I don’t always understand what you’re doing, but I choose to lean in rather than walk away. Open my heart to see and hear your truth. Amen. PLAY THIS: Speak To Me.