T.G.I.F. (Today God Is First), with Os Hillman

When life's adversity strikes, how do you respond? Will you succumb to anger and bitterness or adopt a stoic facade, or will you choose to rest in God's love and trust His plan, even when it's hard?

The ancient Israelites' defeat of a wicked king through unity and cooperation serves as a powerful metaphor for the modern-day challenge of uniting churches, workplace leaders, and intercessors to combat evil in cities. By embracing unity and collaboration, Christians can experience a profound impact on their communities, leading to fruitful evangelism, favor among city leaders, and unprecedented fruitfulness in representing Christ to the world.

The Israelites' decision to make peace with the Gibeonites without inquiring of God led to a devastating deception, resulting in the enslavement of an entire people and compromising the faith of Joshua and his people. This cautionary tale warns us against making assumptions about opportunities or relationships that may seem too good to be true, reminding us to always seek guidance from God before making decisions that can have far-reaching consequences.

As revealed in John 15:16, being "picked" by God is not about innate talent or skill, but about being chosen for a greater purpose. By embracing this calling and focusing on knowing and serving the One who chose us, we can bear fruit that will last, transforming our daily lives into opportunities to share God's love with others.

A courageous Christian executive, Sherron Watkins, risked her job and reputation to expose a massive accounting scandal at Enron, bringing down the company and its corrupt leaders, in a remarkable example of faith and moral courage. By confronting evil head-on, Watkins became an unlikely modern-day Esther, inspiring others with her bravery and conviction.

...the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness (Isaiah 61:3).

A technology CEO's unexpected spiritual awakening occurred during a phone conversation about his daily devotional, leading him to invite Jesus into his life and sparking a profound shift in his perspective on faith and control. This remarkable story highlights the power of genuine connection and spiritual guidance, offering hope for those seeking a deeper relationship with Christ.

A woman's journey of faith is turned upside down when she feels abandoned by God, leading her to a profound moment of introspection and spiritual awakening that ultimately reveals the power of forgiveness and redemption. Through her story, she shares a powerful message of hope and encouragement for those struggling with darkness and despair, inviting readers to share their true feelings with God.

A biblical census taken by King David to assess his military strength led to a devastating plague that killed 70,000 men, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of placing one's confidence in earthly sources rather than God. By examining this ancient story, readers can gain valuable insights into how to cultivate a healthy trust in God and avoid falling prey to similar pitfalls in their own lives today.

The ancient Hebrews employed a unique form of logic known as Block Logic, which differs from the Greek step-by-step approach that has dominated Western thought patterns for centuries, leading to seemingly illogical or irrational decisions in biblical stories such as Jeremiah's purchase of land before its impending invasion. By understanding and embracing this distinct way of thinking, Christians can gain a deeper appreciation for God's instructions and obedience over logic and reason.

The question of why God allows evil has puzzled people for centuries, with many struggling to reconcile a loving and just God with the suffering of good people. According to Evangelist Billy Graham, it is essential to remember that God did not create evil, but rather man's sin brought it into the world, and Jesus Christ's ultimate triumph over evil offers hope and purpose in the midst of suffering.

A 17th-century monk's discovery of finding God in everyday life has timeless relevance for believers today, offering a practical guide to cultivating a deeper relationship with their Heavenly Father through daily prayer and conversation. By embracing the ordinary moments of life as opportunities to connect with God, individuals can experience profound faithfulness and intimacy with their Creator.

D.L. Moody's life was forever changed when two holy women prayed for him, revealing to him a deep-seated need for the power of the Holy Spirit, which he experienced in a profound and transformative way in New York City. This pivotal moment marked a turning point in his ministry, leading to a renewed sense of purpose and passion that enabled him to preach with greater effectiveness and inspire countless conversions.

Mother Teresa's profound message from Matthew 25:42-43 challenges believers to reevaluate their actions and consider the impact on others, revealing that true love requires sacrifice and a willingness to give until it hurts. By embracing this mindset, individuals can transform their lives and relationships, putting into practice the very essence of Jesus' teachings as He thirsts for our love.

When life brings you to a season of isolation and waiting, it can be a challenging time to trust in God's sovereignty. In this article, discover how God uses times of "nothingness" to fashion something new within you, and learn to find comfort in His presence amidst uncertainty.