Tuesday, February 3
In Community...
By Gary Bittner
Together we share both the joys and the tears,
In moments of silence, or wild, happy cheers,
We gather for meals, around tables so wide,
Each story a thread, woven deep inside.
From early in the morning to dusk's gentle glow,
In the garden of His love together we grow,
With hearts joined in service, as encouragement we speak,
In the strength of our unity, it’s connection we seek.
We celebrate triumphs, both very big and quite small,
In the chorus of our voices, we find we can stand tall,
When one of us falters, the others are near,
In the fabric of our friendship, we can banish all fear.
So let’s cherish each moment, and nurture our ties,
In the garden of living, where the heart truly flies,
For in the embrace of togetherness is found,
In our community’s circle, His true love knows no bounds.
Monday, February 2nd
What do you stand for?
By Jonah Lang
Joshua 24:15 NIV
As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord…
This verse can serve as an encouragement to the onlooker to do likewise… Joshua is challenging the people to decide something.
Set up a standard for your family’s future… to do different than your past.
Father, give us the boldness to set you as the standard for our lives and to serve you even if those around us don’t follow…
AMEN.
Thursday, January 28th
A Solid Foundation
By Galen Troyer
“Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
But everyone who hears these sayings of mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” Matthew 7:24-27 (NKJV)
Even though it isn’t seen, the foundation is most important when building a structure.
Jesus was referring to humans in this illustration of building a “house”. A house can look beautiful, but its foundation isn’t apparent until the storm comes. So it is with our lives. It’s easy to communicate and enjoy good relationships when things are going well.
It’s not until stress or conflict comes-and it comes to all of us-that our foundation is exposed: someone disagrees with me, challenges me, or doesn’t give me the respect I feel that I deserve.
The quality of my foundation is determined by my roots.
Nicky Gumbel (Alpha) said, “Your spiritual roots are the parts of your life that no one else sees-your secret life with God. This includes your prayers, your giving and your thought life. If you want to fulfill your potential, make sure you develop deep, strong and healthy roots in your relationship with God.”
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Ps. 19:14 NLT
Monday, January 26th
Where your thoughts go, so goes your heart also
By Jonah Lang
Philippians 4:8 NIV
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Such good advice here, but very challenging. I’ve heard some say that we aren't in control of our thoughts… we are only in control of what we do with our thoughts or how long we let them linger unchecked… but this scripture says otherwise. We can choose to think about truth, we can choose noble and right thoughts, we can choose admirable thoughts…
Whether it’s thoughts about ourselves or others, thoughts about the Kingdom of God or worldly pleasures (if I think about golf too much), etc., etc., etc.
God, teach us how to think. Open our eyes to your truth. AMEN...
Tuesday, January 20
When the Heart Feels Heavy
By Gary Bittner
Have you ever had one of those days when your heart feels heavy, and your spirit is just… down? Maybe it’s been more than a day; perhaps it’s been a season. Life has its way of throwing curveballs, and sometimes, it’s hard to keep our heads up.
The psalmist in Psalm 42:11 gets it. He writes, “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” It’s like he’s having a heart-to-heart with himself, acknowledging the weight he’s carrying but also reminding himself where his hope truly lies.
It’s okay to feel down. It’s human. Even the most faithful among us have moments of doubt, fear, and sadness. But in those moments, let’s gently remind ourselves to place our hope in God. He is our Savior, our constant, and He promises to be with us through every high and low.
So, if today feels heavy, know that you’re not alone. Take a deep breath, say a little prayer, and remember that brighter days are ahead. Let’s keep our eyes on Him and trust that, in time, we’ll find reasons to praise once more.
Monday January 19th
Love (a verb). Just Do It
By Jonah Lang
1 Corinthians 13 1-3 NIV
If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
How do we love like Jesus?
Love Unconditionally. Jesus was a rebel, love rebelliously
Love In Truth. Jesus’ love confronts sin, let your love light the path to Jesus.
Love Sacrificially. Love is a choice, resolve to show love to others even and especially when they don’t deserve it...
Monday, January 12
2026 is Bright
By Gary Bittner
Each year comes and goes
They seem to come faster each year
But there is one thing we know
Our God is always with us, now, here
So, each new year starts
And we all make our new year plans
But too often we soon falter
And cover our red faces with our hands
How can we go forward?
Having so soon failed again
Our God is always with us, now, here
And He takes my face, lifts my chin
“My child, I am pleased with you
You are forever my chosen and adopted one
And as I said in John 17:23
I love you the same as I love my Son
You are not what others may say
When they say ‘See, he failed again.’
No, I see you clean, redeemed and whole
No longer bound by sin
So, lift up your head and smile
And ever be at peace
For I am your God, with you now, here
Let all striving cease
With me all things are possible
Even that resolution you already broke
But be of good cheer, my child
And make sure you’re wearing my yoke
For my yoke is easy
And my burden is light
And as you lean into me and let me carry you
2026 is bright.” ❤️❤️❤️
Sunday, January 11
Expectations
By Galen Troyer
In our church, in our families, and personally, we all have hopes and expectations for what 2026 will bring.
Webster defines hope as “a desire accompanied by anticipation or expectation of something good or welcome, or the belief that it is attainable—differing from mere wish by including that expectation.”
Expectation is defined as “the act or state of expecting.”
I may look with expectation to many sources, including, but not limited to, my spouse, my family, my church, my friends, my job, sports, and other things in the world.
All of these most likely will disappoint me at times, just like I sometimes disappoint those who look to me. It’s always been that way, and King David knew it too.
I know that God has good plans for us, individually and corporately, in 2026.
It’s important that I take time to listen to Him if I want to know His plans for me.
These scriptures remind us of that.
He will hear my voice in the morning because I’m calling out to Him each morning, and my expectations are from Him. He never disappoints.My soul, wait silently for God alone,
For my expectation is from Him.
He only is my rock and my salvation;
He is my defense;
I shall not be moved.
In God is my salvation and my glory;
The rock of my strength,
And my refuge is in God.
Trust in Him at all times, you people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us. Ps. 62:5–8 (NKJV)Give ear to my words, O LORD,
Consider my meditation.
Give heed to the voice of my cry,
My King and my God,
For to You I will pray.My voice You shall hear in the morning, O LORD;
In the morning I will direct it to You,
And I will look up. Ps. 5:1–3
As we listen to Him, together we will be a blessing in our city, state, nation, and around the world, even more than we are now.
Carol and I are blessed to serve with you all.
Saturday, January 2nd
It’s a New Year, and Jesus Is Near
By Gary Bittner
The new year is once again here,
Causing some to cheer,
Causing others to shed a tear.
Whether a tear or cheer,
Remember, Jesus is still near.
If last year’s plans worked out great,
Or if last year’s plans met a dismal fate,
Whether a tear or a cheer,
Remember, Jesus is still near.
Look steadily toward, with just a few glances at the past.
Your life is being formed by Him.
The die is not forever cast.
Whether a cheer or tear,
Remember, Jesus is still near.
If last year your heart was broken,
If last year your heart was healed,
Know that His love to you will be revealed.
Whether a cheer or tear,
Remember, Jesus is still near.
If God spoke promises to you last year,
And you are still waiting to see them true,
Know that if He said it, they are still true for you.
Whether a cheer or tear,
Remember, Jesus is still near.
Jesus is for you in every way.
He is faithful to you every day.
So if the new year brings a cheer or brings a tear,
Remember, your Jesus is still near.
And the Father is saying, “My child, do not fear.”
Sunday, December 28
Choose Life and Peace
By Galen Troyer
We all make choices every day. Some are easy to make and some are not.
Choices make a difference in how my life goes.
So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature. So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin’s control over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins. He did this so the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit.
Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.
But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.) And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. The Spirit of God who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.
Therefore,dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you live by its dictates you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. Romans 8:1-14(NLT)
This is why Jesus-God’s gift to us- came to earth. Because of him, we have Life and Peace.
I’m so thankful!
Saturday, December 20
Good News of Great Joy—for All People
By Gary Bittner
“And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.’” Luke 2:10 (ESV)
The first words spoken over the birth of Jesus were words of comfort and celebration: “Fear not.” Heaven knew that before joy could be received, fear had to be addressed. And then the angel announced something the world had never heard before—good news, great joy, all the people.
This joy was not reserved for the powerful, the religious elite, or the morally impressive. It was first spoken to shepherds—ordinary people, overlooked and undervalued. That alone tells us something profound: God’s joy is not exclusive; it is inclusive and expansive. It reaches into fields and homes, into busy lives and broken hearts. It is joy for all people.
Notice the angel didn’t say, “good news of possible joy,” or “temporary joy,” or “joy if circumstances cooperate.” This is great joy—deep, weighty, unshakable joy—because it is anchored not in what we feel or achieve, but in what God has done. A Savior has been born. God has come near.
So much of our fear comes from the belief that we are alone, forgotten, or beyond hope. Christmas answers that fear with a Person. Jesus is God’s declaration that no one is too far, too small, or too lost to be included. His coming means joy is not something we chase—it is something we receive.
And this joy is not just personal; it is for all people. No matter your past, your doubts, your failures, or your fears—this good news includes you. The joy of Christ crosses every boundary: age, background, status, and story.
Today, hear the angel’s words as if they are spoken directly to you: Fear not. God has good news. And that good news is joy—great joy—meant for you, and for the whole world.
Friday, December 19
Strength You Can Count On
By Galen Troyer
In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul. - Ps. 138:3
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. - Phil. 4:13 (NKJV)
Most of us have been in situations where we didn’t see how we could get through them successfully, and sometimes we haven’t. I know that I’ve failed more times than I care to remember. Each failure was a result of relying on my own strength.
These verses are recorded by men who found themselves in difficult circumstances many times. They wrote from life experiences; it wasn’t just a theory they embraced. They succeeded because they relied on a strength greater than their own.
When we call on Him who gives us strength, we can have confidence to face whatever comes our way.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Tuesday, December 16
A Sabbath in the Moment
By Gary Bittner
By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.
- Hebrews 11:8
Rather than making excuses as to why we cannot, should not, or other, today let's live our lives like a journey, filled with faith, trust, and the fulfillment of God's promises. Hebrews 11:8 says, "By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going."
Abraham, known as the father of faith, teaches us a powerful lesson through his unwavering trust in God. He faced a pivotal moment when God called him to leave everything behind and venture into the unknown. Imagine the weight of that decision—the uncertainty, the questions, and the fear that might have lingered in his heart. Yet, Abraham chose to embrace God's call with a resolute faith.
Faith is not about having all the answers; it is about having absolute confidence in God's character and His promises. Abraham's response was marked by obedience, even though he did not have a clear roadmap or a detailed itinerary. He stepped out in faith, entrusting God with the destination and the journey itself.
In our lives, we often encounter moments where God calls us to step into the unknown. It may not be a physical journey like Abraham, but it could be a new career, a relationship, a change in location, or a leap of faith in pursuing a God-given dream. In these moments, doubts and fears may arise, attempting to hold us back from embracing God's call.
Let us be inspired by Abraham's example. He obeyed, not because he had all the answers, but because he believed in the One who called him. His faith propelled him forward, enabling him to overcome uncertainty and embrace the promises God had in store for him.
When we choose to step out in faith, we encounter the very heart of God and His faithfulness. During the unknown times, God unfolds His plans and reveals His purposes to those who trust Him. It is in our obedience and surrender that we witness His provision, guidance, and the fulfillment of His promises.
Wherever you find yourself today, whether facing uncertainty or grappling with a decision, remember that God is with you. Embrace Hebrews 11:8 as an invitation to step out in faith, knowing that God's hand is guiding you. Trust in His faithfulness and allow His promises to light your path.\
December 14, 2025
How Will They Know?
By Galen Troyer
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:35 (ESV)
Jesus was near the end of his life on earth when he said these words to his disciples. He had been with them for about three years and knew each of them very well.
Love was not the motivation for religious leaders in Jesus’ day. They were critical of those who didn’t see things the way they did. The disciples had grown up in this culture. Now he was giving a new commandment.
Jesus didn’t just tell them to love each other; he told them how to love each other. It was the perfect way: love the way I have loved you.
Monday, December 8
Are You "Johning"?
By Jonah Lang
John 1 6-8 NIV
6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
Where are you at in life? Who do you regularly have contact with? Can you and do you share your story with those around you?
Are you “Johning”? That’s not a typo… as believers we are called to do like Jesus, to extend grace to unbelievers around us.
We are also called to reflect Gods light by witnessing and testifying and telling people who God is. God is the light of the world and the world needs this light
Sunday, December 7
The Weary World Rejoices
By Gary Bittner
For this week’s devotional, I’m forwarding the latest newsletter from our kids in Ukraine, written by one of their amazing team members. God bless, Gary B.
The Weary World Rejoices
As we enter the Advent season, the time when Christians all over the world wait expectantly for the coming of Christ, we have reasons to feel weary.
Life with our boys is a life close to unhealed trauma, and that can be wearying. Sometimes it’s the weariness of being up in the middle of the night because someone is smearing poop over every part of his bedroom. Other times, it’s the weariness of trying to connect with someone, knowing that if you make eye contact or speak to him, he will immediately (unhappily and insistently) ask to be given something, even though you just met his physical needs.
We have team members and babies who are under the weather, a precious preemie girl who can’t seem to gain weight (or eat by mouth, or keep her food down when tube-fed), and loved ones of team members who are seriously ill, chronically ill, or mobilized by the military.
The Johnsons are spending their first holiday season apart instead of together as a family. Sending adult kids out into the world is already hard when you live abroad and college is an ocean away. But having a kid still ‘at home’ who needs to be in America—with a parent!—when you serve overseas is a different kind of hard.
After showing the parents of our friend at Romaniv the life we could offer him here, they’ve said that they want their son to stay at the institution. Will we just watch him deteriorate toward a death that feels preventable but that we are powerless to stop?
We look around and see our country, our neighbors, and even ourselves ground down by this war. How much will we have to endure? Is the cost we’ve already borne paying into a future of peace and freedom for Ukraine, or will powerful men engineer a 1938-style “peace for our time” appeasement while we wait for eventual Russian occupation of our whole country?
Advent is not merely a band-aid for these troubles. “Sure, life is hard and the sun hasn’t shone for nine days, but just wait until December 25th because Jesus will be born (~2000 years ago), and celebrating Christmas will make everything feel better.”
We long for the darkness to be made light. We ache for wrong to be made right. We yearn for weariness to be turned into joy. And as we feel this need deep in our bones during the darkest month of the year, we have the opportunity to orient our hearts correctly again toward Christ:
"Come, Lord Jesus, come!"
We don’t simply remember the first advent of Christ as a preamble for Christmas celebrations. We also look toward the second advent of Christ. We remember that we need him, and HE IS COMING.
A thrill of hope.
His kingdom is coming on earth, and we see a glimpse of that now as we take boys from the institution to lives of love and safety and family. But that’s just a glimpse because HE IS COMING, and he will usher in a kingdom fully under his command. We will experience such complete redemption in this kingdom that the redemption and beauty that take our breath away now will pale in comparison. He has not forgotten our boys. HE IS COMING for them. He knows our pain, our weariness, our fear, our grief over all of the things that are broken now, and HE IS COMING to make it right through his very presence.
A thrill of hope.
As we wait expectantly this Advent, I encourage you to delve into this hope with us.
Tuesday, December 2
A Simple, Right Perspective
By Gary Bittner
Here is today’s devotional, based on Psalm 73. God bless.
A Simple, Right Perspective
There’s a common problem that applies to all people
Yes, even to you and me
It’s not an uncommon problem, it’s existed for a long time
As we see in Psalm 73
It seems like the wicked are blessed
Everything they do seems to work
Even if they treat people badly
Even if they act like a jerk
They seem to have no problems
They seem blessed again and again
Even though their life is not righteous
And even though they continue to sin
But what about me, I try to live right
And yet blessings seem to pass me by
Oh well I say to myself, I guess it’s my lot in life
It’ll be that way until I die
The unrighteous prosper
While the righteous go without
The unrighteous are blessed and have no problems
It’s hard for me to figure out
Yep I just don’t understand
And don’t know where can I find advice
I need some help, I’m not thinking straight
My own wisdom does not suffice
And so it was very hard for me
For quite a few dreary years
It was difficult for me and I struggled a lot
Through many trials and tears
I thought, ‘wow is this really worth it
Trying to serve the Lord every day’
When the wicked seemed to prosper
In their own arrogant way
But then one day while I was in prayer
I began to understand
That I need to see these things with a new perspective
And not the perspective of man
I AM blessed beyond measure
I AM covered in His love
I AM always and never forsaken
I AM lavished with grace from above
And, when it all comes to an end
And when it’s all said and done
Only what’s done for Jesus will last
Only what glorifies the Son
In the end all the temporary riches
And all the temporary joys
And all the temporary pleasures
And all the temporary toys
They will all go by the wayside
And be found no more
But as for me I draw near unto God
And my spirit begins to soar
For when I’m in his presence
I see things as they really are
I see things from a close-up perspective
No longer from afar
I see things a little like He does
I see He’s pleased with me every day
Regardless of what I might feel
Regardless of what others may say
The Lord is my portion
He is good to me every single day
And in him I am blessed beyond measure
And that’s all I have to say!
Monday, December 1
Most Satisfying
By Galen Troyer
O God, you are my God;
I earnestly search for you.
My soul thirsts for you;
my whole body longs for you
in this parched and weary land
where there is no water.
I have seen you in your sanctuary
and gazed upon your power and glory.
Your unfailing love is better than life itself;
how I praise you!
I will praise you as long as I live,
lifting up my hands to you in prayer.
You satisfy me more than the richest feast.
I will praise you with songs of joy.
I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night.
Because you are my helper,
I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.
I cling to you;
your strong right hand holds me securely.
Ps. 63:1-8 (NLT)
The richest feast, though very satisfying, does not compare to the satisfaction that comes from a relationship with God. One is temporary; the other is eternal.
When I lie awake at night, I think of Him. I’m not worrying about things that I can’t control. I cling to Him, and I can always count on Him.
That’s why I sing for joy.
Tuesday, November 25th
‘When Your Heart Is Overwhelmed’
By Gary Bittner
Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth I will cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
Psalm 61:1–2 (KJV)
There’s something really honest in David’s prayer. He doesn’t pretend. He doesn’t put on a spiritual mask. He simply cries out: “When my heart is overwhelmed.”
It’s not if our hearts become overwhelmed. It’s when.
David—the giant-slayer, the king, the man after God’s own heart—knew what it meant to feel crushed beneath the weight of circumstances. And here’s what I want us to hear today: your overwhelmed heart doesn’t disqualify you from God’s presence. It qualifies you for His tender mercy.
Think about those moments when you’ve felt overwhelmed: that heaviness in your chest, that sensation of drowning in responsibilities, grief, uncertainty, or fear. When the bills pile up faster than the paychecks. When the diagnosis comes back uncertain. When relationships fall apart and you don’t know how to repair them. When you’re doing everything you know to do, yet it feels like you’re barely keeping your head above water.
In those moments, God doesn’t ask you to pull yourself together first. He invites you to cry out from exactly where you are—even if it feels like “the end of the earth.”
Notice what David does in his overwhelmed state: he doesn’t run away from God; he runs toward Him. He cries out for the Rock that is higher than himself. Awesome! When floodwaters rise, you need something higher to stand on. When your own strength gives out, you need a foundation that cannot be shaken.
That Rock is Jesus. He is higher, stronger, and more secure than anything this world can throw your way.
Listen, God already knows about your overwhelmed heart, and He’s not disappointed in you. He’s not frustrated by your weakness. In fact, it’s in your weakness that His strength is made perfect.
You don’t have to have it all figured out. You don’t have to be strong enough on your own. You just have to be willing to cry out to the One who hears you.
So today, whatever is overwhelming your heart, lift it up to Him. He’s listening. He’s near. And He will lead you to that higher place of peace, perspective, and rest.
You’re not alone.
Friday, Nov. 21
Cast Them Off
By Galen Troyer
Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life. Philippians 4:6-7 (MSG)
At prayer meeting Wednesday evening, we prayed for numerous loved ones who are dealing with serious medical conditions. Some have only been diagnosed recently; others have been courageously battling cancer and/or other diseases for a long time.
There are plenty of other things going on that can cause us to stress and worry, maybe finances, a job or lack thereof, relationships, etc.
It’s not what is most pressing today that matters, because that can change tomorrow when something else happens.
What matters is how you and I handle the pressure. Has fretting or worrying ever changed your predicament? I know that it never has worked for me.
The best way to get rid of anything that’s worrying you is to throw (cast) it off.
Cast all your cares on him, because he cares for you. I Peter 5:7
When we rely on His promises, knowing that He cares about everything that’s going on in our lives, He gives wisdom and strength, showing us things we can do that honor Him, all the while encouraging others and ourselves.
Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers…
Wednesday, November 19
HOPE
By Gary Bittner
Here is this week’s devo. A little acronym ❤️
Hang
On
Pain
Ends
Saturday, November 8th
God’s Victory Parade
By Gary Bittner
Scripture: In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade. Through us, He brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. 2 Corinthians 2:14–15, MSG
These words paint a beautiful picture of the impact that our lives can have when we allow God to lead us. We are not mere wanderers but participants in a perpetual victory parade orchestrated by God Himself.
As we walk in obedience and faith, we carry the fragrance of Christ’s love, grace, and truth with us. Everywhere we go, people have the opportunity to “breathe in this life fragrance” and encounter the love of God and the power of the Gospel.
God is always leading us from place to place, from circumstance to circumstance, in His victory parade. Even in the midst of challenges and uncertainties, we can trust that He is working all things together for our good and for His glory.
May our lives testify to the love of God, and may the fragrance of His love permeate everything we do and every relationship we find ourselves in.
As we walk with Him through life and life’s challenges, let us remember that God guides us along in His perpetual victory parade.
Friday, Nov. 7
Real Identity
By Galen Troyer
Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus. — Acts 4:13 (ESV)
Peter and John created quite a stir when they healed the crippled beggar. This beggar was known by everyone because he sat in the same place (at the temple gate called Beautiful) every day, begging from the people going into the temple courts.
Because Jesus healed the beggar, the news spread quickly, and all the people were astonished and came running to Peter and John, who shared the truth about Jesus and invited them to repent and believe the good news (read Acts 3).
That day, many—up to about 5,000—believed their message.
While they were still speaking, some of the religious leaders seized Peter and John and put them in prison.
The next day, they were brought before the leaders to be questioned.
Not surprisingly, when they ran out of questions, they were astonished, and the only explanation they had for it was that they had been with Jesus!
As it was then, so it is today.
It matters who we are with.
“Can men tell that you love Jesus?
Can they, by your life and mine,
See in daily walk and action,
That we have His life divine?”
Monday, November 3
The Blessing That Overflows
By Gary Bittner
Psalm 67 (ESV)
“May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, that your way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations.”
Have you ever noticed how the best blessings in life are never meant to stop with us? They’re meant to flow through us, like a river that brings life everywhere it goes.
Psalm 67 reveals this truth: God blesses us so that we can be a blessing to others. This isn’t a burden—it’s an invitation to participate in something bigger than ourselves.
The psalmist begins with a prayer that we also see echoed in Numbers 6: “May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us.” To me, that verse evokes an image—God’s face shining upon you like the sun breaking through clouds on a cold morning. That’s not the face of a distant God; that’s the face of a loving Father who delights in you.
But it gets better. The prayer doesn’t end with “bless us.” It continues—“that your way may be known on earth.” The blessing has a purpose! God pours His grace into your life not just for your comfort but so His goodness can ripple outward to touch others.
You are blessed to be a blessing!
Maybe today you’re feeling small, overlooked, or wondering if your life really matters. Let me tell you: when God’s light shines on you, you become a light for others. Every kindness you show, every word of encouragement you speak, every act of love you extend—these are the ways God’s grace flows through you to a world that desperately needs it.
The psalm ends with joyful confidence: “Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you! The earth has yielded its increase; God, our God, shall bless us.”
What a promise! When we live as conduits of God’s blessing, something miraculous happens—increase, fruitfulness, multiplication. Not just in material ways but in joy, peace, and purpose.
Amen? Of course, AMEN!
Tuesday, October 28
If You Hope in the Lord, Take Heart
By Jonah Lang
Psalms 31:24 NIV
Be strong and take heart all you who hope in the Lord.
What does it mean to take heart?
The Psalmist is reminding us, if you are one who hopes in the lord to take heart... remember and rely on the hope you have in the Lord and to find our confidence in God's strength instead of our own. God loves you, that is something worth taking heart in... He is always faithful.
Monday, October 27
An Unsung Hero
By Gary Bittner
I read this story recently and wanted to share it with you. God bless.
—-
“I'm getting ready to tell you the story of the most spiritually significant man in our nation's history you have never heard of. This guy, his name was Mordecai Ham. Not a famous guy. He was a he was a, an American tent revival preacher in the late 1800’s/early 1900’s.
In 1934 he was preaching a tent revival in Charlotte, North Carolina, and two 14 year old boys saw the tent and they saw the commotion of people, and they heard this man preaching about bold love of the Father.
They just happen to be walking by and they're like ‘let’s go listen.’ But as they walk up, they see there are no seats available. However, as they walk away, an usher whose name no one knows to this day, ran after these two 14 year old boys and grabbed them, and he said, ‘hey, we can find two seats for you boys together.’ And he walked them back, asked a couple people to scoot over, and found those two 14 year old boy seats. That day, those boys ended up giving their lives to Christ and consecrating themselves for the purposes of God in their generation. One of those boys was a man we now know as Billy Graham.
Billy Graham ended up preaching the gospel to more people than anyone else has ever preached to in the history of the world. Tens of millions of people were caught up into the kingdom of God under the preaching of Billy Graham. The other boy's name was Grady Wilson. And he was the man that ended up helping Billy Graham organize all of his evangelistic crusades. He changed the world.
But, who is the hero of the story? Not Billy Graham, not Grady Wilson, not Mordecai Hamm. The usher is the hero. That one man that saw two 14 year old boys walking away from the faith and said, ‘not on my watch.’”
Like that usher, our job is not to change the whole world. Our job is to change somebody's world.
Monday, October 20
When Your Heart Feels Heavy, Remember Who Holds It
By Gary Bittner
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” — Psalm 73:26
There are seasons when life just doesn’t make sense.
You try to do what’s right. You pray, you give, you serve… and yet things still fall apart. Meanwhile, you look around, and it seems like people who don’t even acknowledge God are doing great — healthy, wealthy, happy. If you’ve ever felt that way, you’re in good company.
The psalmist Asaph — a worship leader, a man devoted to God — felt the same frustration. He begins Psalm 73 honestly:
“But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold.” (v. 2)
Asaph was discouraged. He was tired of trying to live faithfully while life seemed unfair. And sometimes, we feel that same spiritual exhaustion. But something beautiful happens in the middle of this psalm: “When I tried to understand all this, it troubled me deeply till I entered the sanctuary of God…” (vv. 16–17)
In other words, everything changed when Asaph came back into God’s presence. He didn’t get all the answers — but he got perspective.
He saw that earthly success is fleeting, but God’s faithfulness is forever. He remembered that life isn’t measured by comfort but by closeness to God.
When we stop comparing and start communing — when we turn our eyes from others and fix them on Him — peace begins to return. Asaph realized something we all need to remember:
“Whom have I in heaven but You? And earth has nothing I desire besides You.” (v. 25)
He discovered that God Himself is enough. Not what God gives, but who God is. And that’s the heart of this psalm: when everything else is uncertain, God remains our portion — steady, unchanging, and faithful.
So if your heart feels weary today… If your prayers seem unanswered… If life feels unfair…
Step back into His presence. Let His peace settle your spirit. Say this like Asaph did: “God, even if my heart and my flesh fail, You are the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (v. 26)
That’s the kind of security no circumstance can steal.
Sunday, October 19
Watch
By Galen Troyer
Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps; each word a gift.
Don’t grieve God. Don’t break His heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for Himself. Don’t take such a gift for granted.
Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, and profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you. — Ephesians 4:29–32 (MSG)
The Apostle Paul gives clear teachings in this chapter regarding our old life and our own ways. They need to go; we need to turn away from them so that we can embrace our new life in Jesus Christ.
Chapter 5 is all about living this new life in Christ.
Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with Him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn’t love in order to get something from us but to give everything of Himself to us. Love like that. — Ephesians 5:1–2 (MSG)
God’s love is perfect because it also includes discipline or training. If He didn’t care enough to correct us, it wouldn’t be love.
Sunday, October 12
Freed by What the Law Could Never Do
By Gary Bittner
“Let it be known to you, therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you,
and by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses.”
— Acts 13:38–39 (ESV)
There’s a quiet sigh that comes when the soul finally realizes… it’s finished.
For so long, we’ve tried to do enough, pray enough, behave enough, serve enough—to somehow convince God that we’re worthy of His love. But Paul’s words here remind us: freedom doesn’t come through our effort. It comes through a Person.
Through this Man—Jesus.
Not through the law.
Not through our performance.
Not through striving.
The law of Moses could tell you what was right, but it could never make you right. It could expose sin, but it couldn’t remove it. Like a mirror, it showed the dirt—but offered no soap.
Then came Jesus.
And through Him, forgiveness isn’t achieved—it’s received. You don’t earn forgiveness. You simply believe it.
So today, if you feel the weight of guilt, the exhaustion of trying to “get it right,” take a breath. You are freed—completely, eternally, beautifully—by the One who already fulfilled every requirement on your behalf.
God isn’t waiting for you to be perfect before He loves you.
He loved you first.
He forgave you fully.
And now He calls you free.
Let this truth soak in today:
“By Him, everyone who believes is freed.” That includes you. That includes everything.
Saturday, October 11
I Run In The Path…
By Galen Troyer
More than twenty years ago, I wrote six verses of scripture on the back of my business card and put it in my wallet, behind my drivers license. These verses have travelled thousands of miles with me and the card is well worn. I’m reminded of them each time I reach for my license.
I don’t recall the circumstances, but I know why I wrote them down. I’m always reminded of the day that Jesus set my heart free. That day, everything changed.
Here are the verses:
I have chosen the way of truth;
I have set my heart on your laws.
I hold fast to your statutes, O Lord;
do not let me be put to shame.
I run in the path of your commands,
FOR YOU HAVE SET MY HEART FREE.
Psalm 119: 27-32 (NIV 1983)
Tuesday, October 7th
Where Do We Find Rest?
By Jonah Lang
Psalms 4:8 NIV: In peace I will lay down and sleep, for in you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.
I’ve been super busy lately and today God reminded me how important it is to take a Sabbath. The things I’m doing are good things but if I don’t take time for rest I will inevitably tire myself out. God alone can make me dwell in safety. Meaning, I am safe and secure to get the rest I need. God’s care and concern for us is so deep and compete.
God, thank you for giving me rest...
Sunday, October 5
The God of the Past, Present, and Future
By Gary Bittner
“He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us.” — 2 Corinthians 1:10 (NIV)
I love the encouragement in this verse. It doesn’t just speak of God working as a one-time event or a distant hope. He paints a complete picture: God has delivered, God will deliver, and God will continue to deliver. Past, present, and future—all covered by the faithfulness of our God.
Paul wrote these words after experiencing what he called “deadly peril.” Yet in this dark moment, he discovered something: God’s deliverance isn’t just about the crisis we’ve survived; it’s about building unshakable confidence for today and the battles still ahead.
Look Back and Remember:
“He has delivered us.” Before you worry about tomorrow, look back at yesterday. What has God already brought you through? That relationship that almost destroyed you? That financial crisis that seemed impossible? That diagnosis that terrified you? That season of depression that felt endless?
These times aren’t just memories—they’re testimonies. They’re evidence that God shows up. When doubt whispers that God has forgotten you, let your history with Him shout back louder.
Stand Firm Today:
“He will deliver us again.” Right now, you might be facing something that feels too big, too overwhelming, too impossible. But know this: the same God who delivered you before is still on the throne. He hasn’t retired. He hasn’t lost His power. He hasn’t changed His nature.
Your current crisis isn’t a surprise to Him. In fact, it’s an opportunity for Him to show Himself faithful once more today.
Set Your Hope Forward:
“On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us.” This is where faith becomes intentional. Paul doesn’t say he feels hopeful or he wishes for deliverance. He says he has set his hope—a deliberate, willful choice to anchor his confidence in God’s character.
You’re not just hoping in deliverance; you’re hoping in the Deliverer Himself. And that changes everything. Because even when the how and when are unclear, the Who is certain. God’s track record is flawless. His promises are unbreakable. His love for you is unstoppable.
Amen? Amen!
Friday, October 3
It’s Why You’re Here
By Galen Troyer
Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.
Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? Im putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand, shine! Keep open house, be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God,this generous Father in Heaven. Mt. 5:13-16 (MSG)
Sunday, September 28
The Spirit Within You
By Gary Bittner
“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” — 2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV)
In a world that seems designed to cultivate fear, God whispers a profound truth into our hearts: fear was never part of His plan for you. When Paul wrote these words to young Timothy, he wasn’t offering empty platitudes or wishful thinking. He was declaring a spiritual reality that changes everything about how we face each day.
Notice that Paul doesn’t say God will give us this spirit—He says God gave us this spirit. Past tense. Done deal. This isn’t something you need to earn, achieve, or wait for. It’s already yours, woven into the very fabric of your spiritual DNA.
Power — The divine strength that enables you to rise above circumstances that would normally crush you. This is the same power that raised Christ from the dead, and it lives in you. When you feel weak, remember: His power is made perfect in your weakness.
Love — Not mere sentiment, but the transformative force that drives out fear and compels us to action. This love doesn’t just feel good; it does good. It moves us beyond ourselves to serve others, to forgive the unforgivable, to hope when hope seems foolish.
Self-control — In a culture of instant gratification and emotional reactivity, God has given you the ability to pause, to choose, to respond rather than react. This isn’t willpower; it’s God’s power working through your will.
Fear whispers lies: “You’re not enough. You can’t handle this. Something terrible is going to happen.” But God’s Spirit speaks truth: “I am with you. I have equipped you. You are more than a conqueror.”
Today, whatever fear is knocking at the door of your heart—fear of failure, rejection, the unknown, or even fear of your own inadequacy—remember who you are. You are not defined by your fears but by the Spirit God has placed within you.
Fear may knock, but you don’t have to answer the door. Amen?!
Saturday, September 27th
His Steadfast Love Endures..
By Galen Troyer
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of gods, for his steadfast love endures forever.
Give thanks to the Lord of lords, for his steadfast love endures forever;
to him who alone does great wonders, for his steadfast love endures forever;
to him who by understanding made the heavens, for his steadfast love
endures forever;
to him who spread out the earth above the waters, for his steadfast love endures forever;
to him who made the great lights, for his steadfast love endures forever;
the sun to rule the day, for his steadfast love endures forever;
the moon and stars to rule by night, for his steadfast love endures forever… Psalm 136:1-9 (ESV)
Steadfast love is a great thing, and there’s no greater love than Steadfast love that lasts forever. David knew this kind of love because he experienced it.
Jesus also knew of his Father’s steadfast love and he described how great it was, like this:
For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son; that whoever (that means anyone and everyone)believes in him will not perish, but have everlasting (forever) life. John 3:16
You can count it, because Jesus said so.
His steadfast love endures forever.
Monday September 22nd
He is Good
By Jonah Lang
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
God is so good...
Sunday, September 21
Peace, Be Still
By Gary Bittner
Hi River Center,
Here is today’s devotional video, followed by another video that make mention of.
God bless!
Mentioned video:
Saturday, September 20
His Heart is Steadfast
By Galen Troyer
A good man deals graciously and lends; he will guide his affairs with discretion. Surely he will never be shaken; the righteous will be in everlasting remembrance.
He will not be afraid of evil tidings;
His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord. Psalm 112:5-7 (NKJV)
These verses were some of my dad’s favorites. His birthday was this week, and I spent considerable time thinking of the many fond memories I have of him. He went through some difficult times, never because of anything he’d done wrong, yet he never wavered in his faith.
Toward the end of his life, on one occasion, I asked him if he had any favorite Scripture that I could read to him. He replied, “I like it all.”
He was a gentle man, and his family was blessed by his love and care and the life he lived.
I couldn’t have had a better dad, and I’m thankful.
His heart was steadfast, always trusting in the Lord.
Sunday, September 14
By Gary Bittner
Hi River Center Family, here is this weekend's devotional!
Psalm 62:5-8
Friday, Sept 12
Sermon in Shoes
By Galen Troyer
Maybe you’ve been told, or heard it said that “You may be the only Bible that some people read.”
Recently I recalled a song we sang in Sunday School at the little church where I grew up in Nebraska. Here are the words:
Don’t you know, O Christian,
You’re a sermon in shoes.
Don’t you know, O Christian,
You’re a sermon in shoes.
Jesus counts upon you
To spread the gospel news,
So know it and show it,
A sermon in shoes.
2nd verse.. So walk it and talk it
3rd verse ..So live it and give it
4th verse..So teach it and preach it
And, as kids we liked singing the 5th verse best because we said them all together.
Jesus counts on us to spread the Gospel news. So, let’s know it and show it and walk it and talk it and live it and give it and teach it and preach it, a Sermon in Shoes.
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others,
so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV)
Sunday, September 7
from Gary Bittner
He is Good!!!
https://youtu.be/jdyWZVMgJOk?si=Qhh5qdUDSWXLpEyo
Saturday, Sept 6
Pray Always
By Galen Troyer
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thess. 5:16–18 (ESV)
“I pray because I can’t help myself. I pray because I’m helpless. I pray because the need flows out of me all the time—waking and sleeping. It does not change God—it changes me.” —C. S. Lewis
“Don’t confide in God only when you’re in a crisis and you’ve run out of answers. He wants you to sing His song when the sun is shining as well as cry to Him when a storm hits.” —Terry Virgo