Highrock Church

Everyone wants to learn how to grow. Everyone wants to learn how to have healthy community. The topic that few want to hear about is financial giving. There are so many reasons to give, including the opportunity to create the personal growth and community we desire — but the deepest reason is that Jesus is a giver. He became poor in order to make us rich and the invitation is to actually follow Jesus by joining God in blessing the world.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What stands out to you about the generosity of the Macedonian believers?- Why do you think Paul connects generosity with God's grace?- How does Jesus' willingness to become poor for our sake shape your understanding of giving?- In what ways might God be inviting you to be more generous with your time, resources, or abilities?- Prayer: Lord, thank you for your generosity to me. Help me to respond by eagerly following you into a generous life.

How can the same emotion (grief) produce such different results? Paul contrasts godly sorrow with worldly sorrow. Worldly sorrow focuses on loss, embarrassment, or consequences and ultimately leads to spiritual death. Godly sorrow, however, leads to repentance, restoration, and life. Feeling bad about sin or about ourselves can actually be destructive. True repentance is more than feeling bad about sin; it is a change of heart that leads to a change of direction. Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- Does Paul's vulnerability here surprise you? In what ways does he seem different than how you previously imagined?- How would you describe the difference between godly sorrow and worldly sorrow? Can you think of an example of each in your life?- How would you describe God's purpose in confronting sin in our lives? - Prayer: Lord, give me a humble heart that responds to your correction, and lead me to the kind of repentance that brings life, freedom, and restoration.

Welcome to a new ministry year! After a big launch day yesterday, we're going to replay a devotional on today's passage from June 28, 2023. In this text, we see a broken-hearted Paul addressing a church that has not loved him in return. Rather than assert his authority as an apostle, Paul chooses to pour out his heart, asking the Corinthians to open their hearts to him as well. Like a spiritual parent, he has made incredible sacrifices for them out of love. Paul deeply wants the church to grow and change, but we follow a God who uses kindness and love to lead us to repentance (Romans 2:4). Are we willing to join Paul in following God's example of humble, sacrificial, vulnerable love?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Rather than demand respect, Paul vulnerably opens his heart so the Corinthians can see his love.- Have you ever been tempted to use power or authority when vulnerable love might have been more effective? Which impulse prevailed, and why?- Which has been effective in changing your heart — God's authority or God's sincere love? Both?

Have you ever done something that looked brave while secretly terrified of something much smaller like admitting a mistake, asking for help, or letting someone see behind the curtain? What if real courage has nothing to do with being fearless? And how might this kind of courage help you value the things that really matter? · · ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals

This passage is one of Paul's most profound chapters on the difference between the old covenant of the Law and the new covenant of the Spirit. The new covenant is a new way of relating, as different as being an employee is from being family. He argues that the gospel brings a greater glory than the covenant given through Moses because it transforms people from the inside out.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Paul explains several key differences between the old and new covenants. Which of these is significant to you, and why?- The Holy Spirit writes God's law on the heart (v3)- The Law exposes sin; the Spirit gives life (v6)- Christ removes the veil of spiritual blindness (v16)- Spiritual growth (sanctification) comes from beholding Christ and being transformed by the Spirit (v18)

Paul explains that he chose not to make another painful visit to the Corinthians because his desire was not to cause sorrow but to build them up in love. Instead, he gave them time to resolve a difficult matter before he might visit them again. Paul uses this incident to reminds us of the importance of both truth and grace. Sin must be confronted, but repentance should be met with forgiveness and restoration. The tension between justice and mercy must always remain true to both.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What does this passage teach about balancing accountability with grace?- What do you think Paul means when he describes believers as the "aroma" or "fragrance" of Christ?- Is there anyone you need to forgive, encourage, or help restore? Do you need the same from someone else?- Prayer: Lord, help me extend the same grace and forgiveness that I have received from you, and may my life reflect the fragrance of Christ wherever I go.

One word comes through clearly and repeatedly in the opening of Paul's letter, and that word is "comfort". We might be tempted to think that God is absent (or even non-existent!) when we suffer, but Paul assures us that God is the one who comforts us in our troubles, even when that comfort comes through other people. And Paul is not just engaging in wishful thinking; he is speaking from the recent experience of intense suffering. What's more, Paul assures us that our suffering will open us up to a comfort that gets us more of Jesus, and a comfort that can even make us more like Jesus. Our God is the "God of all comfort"!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- How have you experienced comfort from others and from God in times that tested your trust in God?- According to Paul and according to your own experience, why does God so often use people who have suffered to comfort others?- Is there anyone in your life whom God may be inviting you to comfort with the comfort you have received from God?- Prayer: Lord, thank you for meeting me in my struggles — help me trust you in difficult times, and to then comfort others with the same comfort that was given to me.

Throughout this letter, Paul has been encouraging the Corinthians to move from spiritual adolescence into greater spiritual maturity, to move from a focus on "me" to a focus on "us" and God. As Paul concludes this letter, he gives a very practical way to live what they have learned — he challenges them to put aside money every week for a large gift for a church in need and he exhorts them to receive and support Paul's ministry coworkers. In addition to this challenge, he gives them one final exhortation -- to stand firm in the faith, and to do everything with love. This final encouragement is a perfect summary of every answer that Paul has provided to their many questions. Let us stand firm and do everything with love.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What might it mean to "stand firm in the faith" in today's world?- Paul gives the Corinthians a final challenge in his answer to their question about money. Do you think that money is a good test of spiritual maturity? Why or why not?- What might God be inviting you to respond to this closing challenge (vv13-14): "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love."?- Prayer: Lord, help me remain faithful and brave in my walk with you, and may everything I do be guided by your love.

Happy Labor Day! In this replay from March 14, 2022, we consider Paul's description of what the resurrection body will be like. Like a seed that falls into the ground and emerges as new life, so it will be with our bodies. Jesus' resurrection body gives us some clues as to what life will be like but there is so much that we are not told. What we do know is that we will no longer live in fear of disease, injury, hunger, and deprivation. We will be able to see God and love God and one another without fear.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

Have you ever felt like your faith and your job live in two completely different worlds?One for Sunday mornings and one for Monday - Friday.What if there was never supposed to be a divide? How do you close that gap? · · ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals

Spiritual gifts are important, but what truly matters is love. In that light, some gifts are to be more desired than others. We might desire talents or gifts that elevate us above others but the way of Jesus is the way of love. Therefore, the gifts we should seek to use are the ones that are best able to lift others in love. God will not be impressed by how gifted we are, especially when all those gifts come from God. Instead, God eagerly desires for us to grow up into people who live and love like Jesus, using all that God gives us to lift one another up rather than ourselves.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What gifts and talents has God given to you?- How might God be inviting you to use your gifts more intentionally to encourage and strengthen those around you?- Think of one or two people in your life whom you admire. How do you see their lives exemplifying the encouragement that Paul offers in this passage?- Prayer: Lord, help me use the gifts you have given me with love, humility, and a desire to build up others in their faith.

How do you know if you are more or less spiritual than someone else? The Corinthians had been using their spiritual gifts as a measuring stick to judge one another. Paul makes it clear that they had it all wrong. Spiritual gifts (or any good thing) are not something to elevate your status. Instead, spiritual gifts are given to us by God so we can lift others up, not ourselves. God gives us spiritual gifts so we can love one another, not judge one another. In God's eyes, everything is measured by love, and without love, nothing else matters!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- Why do you think that God elevates love over every other aspect of spirituality?- How is this picture of love different from the way love is often depicted in our culture?- The description of love in this passage is a description of God's love, which we see displayed in Jesus. Which aspects of that love do you find most inspiring or challenging?- Prayer: Lord, fill my heart with your love and help me reflect the patience, kindness, and selflessness of Jesus in all I do.

In most areas of life, a gift is intended just for the pleasure of the one who receives it (for instance, a birthday gift). Gifts from the Spirit are intended for something more -- they are meant to give each of us a vital way to serve and bless others. We each are given a gift so we might become givers.(This devotional was originally shared on February 22, 2022.)Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

The celebration of the Lord's Supper is often called "communion" because it brings us together with Christ, or at least, that's what it's supposed to do. The Corinthians were experiencing the exact opposite effect. The wealthy members of their church didn't have the eyes to see how they were excluding and diminishing the poorer believers. How might we similarly be killing community because of a lack of vision for others?(This devotional was originally shared on February 18, 2022.)Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

People today will often point to this passage in an attempt to (mistakenly) argue that the apostle Paul had a low view of women. To this day, scholars debate over the difficulties in translating this passage. Whatever might be debatable, it is clear that Paul expresses support for a woman's authority to pray and speak in church, even in cases where there are social norms that might need to be addressed. The relationship between men and women is one of interdependence and mutual respect, never domination or dismissal.(This devotional was originally shared on February 17, 2022.)Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

Most of us know exactly what we should do and choose the easier thing anyway.We call it self-care. We call it being realistic. We call it just the way things are.But what if that "easier thing" has a name and a grip on you that only gets tighter?· · ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals

As we consider Paul's discussion of spiritual maturity and freedom in Christ, we return to a discussion from February 7, 2022. Many of the problems in the Corinthian church arose because of people insisting on their rights, but in a way that left little room for love. Paul offers his own life as an example of another path. We can follow Jesus, asserting our rights or even laying them aside in order to help people encounter the risen Christ.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

The Apostle Paul would be the first person to speak up about the value of knowledge and wisdom, so why does he seem to diminish the value of knowledge here? Paul, of course, believes that knowledge is important — this very letter has been a series of answers to their questions! The real point is that anything, even something as valuable as knowledge, is worthless without love. Without love, good things like knowledge just make us feel superior to others and can lead to actions and attitudes that destroy others rather than building them up. Instead, we must have the mind of Christ to build up others in love. Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- Why does Paul say that knowledge without love is dangerous?- What are some ways that you have seen Christian freedom become a stumbling block to others?- How might you summarize Paul's view of the relationship between freedom and love?- How might God be inviting you to prioritize love over personal rights in your relationships?- Prayer: Lord, help me use my freedom with wisdom and love, always seeking to build up others.

In answering the many questions raised by the Corinthian church, Paul next turns to questions of marriage and singleness. He first begins by admitting that he has no clear instruction from God but he can offer some godly advice as people make their own decisions. What principles would Paul want us to consider as we choose whom we marry, or if we marry at all? In the end, Paul affirms that we have considerable freedom in the choices we make, but these choices also have considerable consequences and we bear incredible responsibility in the freedom that God has given to us.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- How would you summarize Paul's advice on marriage and singleness? - What decisions do you face in which Paul might encourage you to have an eternal, Jesus-centered perspective?- Paul also asks people to consider their "present crisis". What crises do we face today that we should consider in our life decisions?- Prayer: Lord, help me seek to please you rather than myself or others, and help me to have an eternal perspective in the decisions you give me to make.

We return to a previous devotional on today's passage where Paul is writing on the subject of marriage and so much more! Sometimes it's easy to believe that our lives would be so much better, so much more fulfilling, if only this or that thing were to change. If only I could earn more money, if only I could get this person to love me, if only I could gain entrance into that school, if only, if only. Against this notion, Paul instructs us that in Christ, we can access fullness of life right now, in whatever circumstances we find ourselves. What we need more than a change in our external circumstances is a change of heart!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

What does Jesus have to do with issues like settling disputes or sexual expression? According to Paul, Jesus has everything to do with such issues because Jesus is Lord of all and our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Again, like adolescents, the Corinthians were very focused on their own rights while remaining largely unaware of their responsibility to love and serve. Freedom can be used to please and protect one's self, but mature believers can use their freedom to serve God, to serve their sisters and brothers in the faith, and to serve a world that needs the hope of Jesus Christ.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What principles can you take away from this text about handling conflict among Christians?- What do you think it means to say that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit? What implications does that belief have for how we live and love?- In what area of your life might God be calling you to live more fully?- Prayer: Lord, thank you for redeeming me through the sacrifice of Christ — help me honor you in all my relationships and choices.

Your closest friends may know your politics, your career plans, your family stories, and what you had for dinner.But do they know why Jesus matters to you?If our faith has changed our lives, what would it look like to share it with courage, humility, and love?· · ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals

In this flashback to January 12, 2022, we return to Paul addressing an immature group of believers who have lost their direction. What if our goal and mission is something outside of our power to accomplish? Like a gardener, we can create good conditions for growth but we cannot make anything actually grow -- only God can do that. As a builder, we can build only on the foundation of Jesus. Even Apollos and Paul were not essential, only Christ. God invites us to play a limited but important role.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

Paul is writing to a church filled with spiritual adolescents — people with a growing awareness of their rights but little awareness of their responsibilities. And what kind of advice would you give to adolescents? Paul starts by warning them to be discerning about whose judgments they trust. The world is filled with enticing ideas and invitations, but few of those voices are truly wise. Similarly, we need to be spiritually wise about which voices we listen to. Whose perspective and judgments do you trust?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- How would you explain the difference between human wisdom and the wisdom that comes from God?- Why is the Holy Spirit essential for understanding spiritual truth?- How might God be inviting you to lean more on what God says and less on the many voices of the world?- Prayer: Holy Spirit, help me listen to your voice and to embrace the mind of Christ in all I do.

For our opening of 1st Corinthians, we return to a previous devo from January 3, 2022. The apostle Paul had spent more time in the city of Corinth than just about anywhere else in his travels. It should be no surprise that he had much to say to them, writing one of the longest of his many letters. Corinth shares a number of surprising similarities with places like Boston, and so we should expect that Paul's message to them will have relevance for us as well. Right from the start, Paul emphasizes their shared mission and ours -- to step into Jesus' invitation to full partnership.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

As Paul concludes his letter, he warns believers to watch out for those who create divisions and lead people away from the true teaching of the gospel. Instead, we should remain wise about what is good and innocent regarding evil. We each have to ask ourselves if we are working to build up ourselves or to build up the unity of Christ's body, the Church. After all, we are serving the God of peace (v20). It is the God of peace who will ultimately silence those who seek to harm rather than heal.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- The first 16 verses are filled with people who have helped Paul and others in bringing honor to God. Who are some of the people who you would commend or thank in your life?- How might God want to use you to build bridges and unity rather than cause divisions (vv17-20)?- What do you think it means to be "wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil" (v19)?- Prayer: Lord, help me grow in wisdom, love, and faithfulness, bringing glory to you through the way I live each day.

Paul's closing reveals his deep dependence, not only on God, but on fellow believers as well. Christian ministry is never a solo endeavor. God often works through the encouragement, generosity, and partnership that we offer one another, starting with the call to lift one another up in prayer. Paul also reminds us that we can face uncertainty with confidence in God's faithfulness, including the people God will use to help, support, and encourage us along the way.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What can we learn from Paul's willingness to make decisions and serve despite uncertainty and risk?- How might God be inviting you to more intentionally support others through prayer, encouragement, or generosity? Does anyone specifically come to mind?- Is there an area of your life where you are called to trust God in a time or place of uncertainty?- Prayer: Lord, help me serve you and others, and with others, faithfully and generously!

What if something you’re convinced is “God’s way” is actually just your way?Our culture shapes what feels right, normal, and even biblical to us, often without us realizing it.So how can we tell the difference between the Gospel and the culture we’ve wrapped around it?· · ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals

In this flashback to May 27, 2025, we consider a passage that has historically been used to demand submission to all kinds of abuses and inequalities coming from governing authorities. Is Paul complicit in supporting such corrupt governments? By basing the authority of government in God, Paul appears to give legitimacy to such authorities but only within limits. Those authorities are also under authority (God's) and must submit to authority as well. What is the purpose of government and what are those limits?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Christians have had great differences in understanding how to apply Paul's instructions from this passage.- Given Paul's word about the legitimacy of government, its purpose (to promote good and restrain evil), and its limitations (its authority comes from God), when and how do you think it is appropriate to resist authority?- Paul was not living under a democratic government in which authority comes from the people. How might that context affect how we apply Paul's instructions, if at all?

After eleven chapters explaining what God has done for us, Paul turns to how we should respond. He urges Christians to offer their whole lives to God as living sacrifices of woship. Rather than conforming to the patterns and values of the world, believers are to be transformed by the renewing of their minds so they can discern and follow God's will. The life God wants for us is more than just believing the right things. The goal is not simply moral improvement but becoming people through whom God's love and grace are made visible.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What do you think it means to offer your life to God as a "living sacrifice"?- How might God want you to resist being shaped by the world and instead allow God to renew your mind (v2)?- What spiritual gifts or abilities has God given you to serve others?- What would it look like for you to overcome evil with good in a current situation?- Prayer: Lord, transform my mind and heart so I might join you in overcoming evil with your goodness.

Paul continues his discussion of God's dealings with Israel by warning the Gentile believers not to become proud. Just as some branches were broken off because of their hard hearts, we are just as accountable for the condition of our hearts. Paul then reveals a mystery: Israel's present hardening is partial and temporary, and God's plan ultimately includes showing mercy to all. If we comprehend nothing else, we must understand that God's ways are often beyond our understanding and should move us to humility, gratitude, and ultimately, worship.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What can we learn from Paul's confidence in God's larger plan and character, even when God's present actions are difficult to understand?- Why do you think Paul ends this section with worship (vv.33-36) rather than explanation?- Are there areas of your life where you need to trust God's wisdom even when you cannot see the full picture?- Prayer: Lord, your ways are above and beyond our ways! Help us to walk in humility and gratitude, always trusting your purposes and character.

Did God reject Israel because so many in Israel rejected the good news of Jesus? Paul answers with an emphatic, "No!" Paul points to his own faith as evidence that God has not abandoned his people and reminds his readers of Elijah's day, when God preserved a faithful remnant during a time when most people betrayed God. In the same way, God continues to save people by grace, not because of their works or achievements. No one earns a place in God's family, therefore our attitude should never be pride or judgmentalism but always humility and gratitude! Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- How would you summarize God's continued faithfulness to Israel in light of what Paul says?- Why might some of the Roman Christians have felt unwarranted pride? What attitude should they have had instead, and why?- In what ways have you seen God's faithfulness even when people have been unfaithful?- Prayer: Lord, help me to live with humility, gratitude, and confidence in your unchanging promises.

Paul here reminds us that salvation is not earned through religious effort or moral excellence. It is a gift received through faith in Jesus Christ. There is no distinction between Jew and Gentile or any people in this regard, as we all come to God through the grace of Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes the simplicity and accessibility of the gospel: those who confess Jesus as Lord and believe that God raised him from the dead will be saved.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- Why is zeal for God alone not enough according to Paul?- How does the promise that "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (v13) encourage you?- Who has helped you hear and understand the good news of Jesus? Whose life has made you jealous (v19) for what Jesus offers? - Is there someone in your life with whom God may be calling you to share your faith?- Prayer: Lord, help me trust in your grace and boldly and lovingly share the good news with others.

Following Jesus can change what we believe, how we live, and even the kind of people we become.But what about the people we still can't stand? What might they reveal about how much further we have to go?· · ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals

Most of us spend our lives trying to make a name for ourselves - to prove we're enough and to find where we belong. But what if the identity you've built isn't the one that matters most?· · ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals

Pouring gas into an electric car would be disastrous -- an engine needs proper fuel. In this flashback to November 18, 2024, we join Paul as he explores the kind of fuel that our new nature requires. Just as it would be disastrous to pour gas into an electric car, it would be similarly disastrous if those who are in the Spirit turn to the old fuel of the sinful nature, which leads to death rather than life. This most basic choice opens or closes the door to so many other important choices in our lives. Let's choose the right fuel!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- Think for a moment about the people, places, and practices that used to fuel or recharge you in the past. How different are your choices today? What differences do those choices make?- Is there anything that God might be inviting you to change about the people, places, and practices you turn to for energy and renewal in your life? Why might God be inviting you to consider those changes?

Paul describes the painful inner struggle of wanting to do the right thing yet continuing to choose the wrong. This conflict reveals both the weakness of human effort and the weakness of God's Law itself! Because of this corrupting force living in us, even God's Law often just gives us new ideas about sins we never even considered before! This confession ends with Paul crying out for relief and then pointing to the answer: Jesus Christ. Though sin remains a reality in this life, ultimate victory comes not through willpower but through the saving power of Jesus.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What does this passage teach about the purpose of God’s law?- How does Paul’s description of his inner struggle resonate with your own experience?- Pastor Dave used the example of a motorcyclist focusing on where they need to go rather than the obstacle they need to avoid. How might your focus need to change in following Christ?- Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me rely on your strength each day as I seek to follow you faithfully.

When we focus on God's Law, the underlying question is always, "How far is too far? How much can I sin and still be ok with God?" When we focus instead of God's grace, the underlying focus shifts to "Where can I find life?" In other words, the Gospel is about more than just forgiveness; it's about transformation. Because of our connection with Christ, we have a new identity and a new way of life. Though we still struggle with sin, it is no longer our master. In Christ, we have the power to follow Jesus into new life!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- How does understanding your new identity in Christ affect the way you view temptation?- What are some practical ways to present yourself to God as an instrument of righteousness (v13)?- Does knowing that sin is no longer your master (v14) give you any encouragement, or raise any questions? Explain.- Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for setting me free from the power of sin; help me to experience new life in offering myself fully to you.

One of the great mysteries of humanity is that we are all connected. We all inherit our lives from common ancestors and there seems to be some sense in which whatever happens to one affects all. This connectedness makes us vulnerable to the sin that entered into the world through Adam. However, this connectedness also makes us open to the grace of God. When God became a human in Jesus, his grace became available to us all. What's more, the power of God's grace is far greater than the power of Adam's (and our) sin!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What do we inherit from our connection to Adam? What do we inherit from our connection to Jesus?- How does this passage deepen your appreciation for what Jesus has done for you?- Are there areas where you need to trust more fully in the power of God's grace rather than focusing on your failures?- Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for overcoming sin and death through your perfect faithfulness. Help me to fully live in joy and gratitude for that gift!

Paul now describes the blessings that flow from our restored relationship with God. Because of Jesus Christ, we have peace with God. This healed relationship gives us reason to celebrate, even when facing difficult times. Instead of wondering if God is angry or punishing us, we can face hardship as an opportunity to grow in spiritual endurance, character, and hope. And when we are tempted to doubt God's love for us, we can remember that God has loved us at our worst and will not stop now!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- Why do you think Paul connects suffering with perseverance, character, and hope?- Why is it significant that Christ died for us while we were still sinners?- In Psalm 23 terms, do you see yourself more in green pastures or dark valleys? What advice or encouragement could you take from today's passage?- Prayer: Lord, thank you for restoring our relationship through Jesus. Help me to trust you through every trial.

In this flashback to October 11, 2024, we see Paul continuing to address a congregation divided by spiritual pedigree and ethnicity. Despite their differences, Paul emphasizes that they all share a connection to God's law. Jews had the Scriptures and were educated to know the Lord from a young age. Gentiles, even without the written Law, have a sense of God's law written into their consciences. We thus all share a connection to God's law and we all share the experience of breaking that law. We therefore have no excuse to judge others! Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:Whether raised in the faith or not, we all have some knowledge of God's will.- Some people are raised to know the Lord from a young age, including the Jews of Paul's day. Were you raised in such a way? Did you see this blessing as a blessing?- Others were not raised in the faith. Their consciences are less clear than the Scriptures. Were you raised in such a way? How did you view those raised in the faith?- If you have children, which path do you want for them, and why?

In introducing himself to the Roman church community that he has never visited, Paul also introduces the major themes of the good news of Jesus. Paul will address these themes throughout his letter in a way that speaks to the many problems of this mixed community of Jews and Gentiles. Whatever their differences, they are united by their common need for Jesus. We are not made right through our ancestry, our heritage, our morality, or any human effort or achievement. Instead, it is in faith that we find full life in God!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- How might you explain the good news about Jesus?- What stands out to you about Paul's description of the gospel?- Why was Paul eager to share and "not ashamed" of the gospel? In what situations might you be tempted to feel hesitant about your faith?- What do you think it means to "live by faith" or to find life through faith each day?- Prayer: Lord, help me to be eager to share and never ashamed of the good news of Jesus.

As Paul finally arrives in Rome, we are able to reflect on many of the themes that converge in this moment. Despite Paul’s house arrest, we see the continuing fulfillment of Acts 1:8, that the message of Jesus would go out even to the ends of the earth. We also see the power of the Holy Spirit, accomplishing what no person could do on their own. And we also see, once again, that faithfulness to Jesus does not mean smooth sailing. Paul is still a prisoner, yet is free to bring the good news about Jesus into the heart of the Roman Empire itself. Where might God want to use you to bring the good news?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What are you thoughts on Paul's journey from one who arrested Christians to one who iving under house arrest in Rome for bringing people to Christ?- Are there circumstances in your life that you have allowed to become barriers to serving God fully?- How can you find confidence and peace in Christ even when your situation is difficult or uncertain?- Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me remain faithful in all circumstances, trusting in your purposes and presence.

Two of the great symbols of evil in the ancient world were the sea and the serpent. Paul survives the sea in a shipwreck only to be immediately assaulted by the other, the bite of a deadly snake. The locals immediately suspect that justice has caught up to Paul. He may have survived the sea but he could not outrun his fate. The locals expect him to die. Instead, Paul is unharmed. What does this all mean? Why does Paul suffer such evils while living faithfully, and how should we respond when we face undeserved evil?Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- What does Paul's experience teach you about the relationship between obedience and suffering?- How do you see God's protection and provision throughout this passage? - Have you ever had the experience of God's protection and provision during a difficult time? What happened?- What can you learn from Paul's willingness to continue serving others despite his own hardships?- Prayer: Lord, help me trust your faithfulness through every trial!

The entire book of Acts makes clear that following God does not guarantee smooth sailing. Paul's faithfulness to God meant being under arrest and sailing into literal storms, shipwrecks, and hardship. Jesus' promise was not that there would be no storm, but that he would be present and faithful through it. The peace Paul demonstrated came not from peaceful circumstances but from the presence of the God of peace with him. Even in life's troubled water, Jesus can be our anchor, our hope, and our peace.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- How does this passage challenge the idea that following God should make life easy?- Why is it important to distinguish between peaceful circumstances and the peace that comes from Christ?- What storms or uncertainties are you currently facing, and how might God be inviting you to trust him in the middle of them?- Prayer: Jesus, help me to seek peace in you rather than in my circumstances.

Talking about faith can feel awkward.Say too much, and we risk pushing people away. Say nothing, and they may never know what has changed our lives.What if there’s another way to share our faith - one that actually feels like love?· · ·👉🏻 Check out other Highrock sermons👉🏻 Check out Highrock's 15-min daily devotionals

In this flashback to August 9, 2021, we find the Roman governor Festus at a loss. He has to send Paul to Rome but cannot imagine what the charge might be. Thankfully, King Herod Agrippa shows up, one who is familiar with both the Roman world and the Jewish world. Sometimes, we need a Herod who can help connect the secular and sacred worlds. Without these folks who can speak both "languages," the message of Jesus can be lost in translation.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

In this Throwback Thursday from August 5, 2021, Governor Felix refuses to take action on Paul's case. In the end, Paul had to wait in prison for two years! Paul wanted to preach, to share the good news, and to complete his mission to Rome. Why would God allow Paul to languish in prison for two years when there was so much work to do? Perhaps for Paul and for us, choosing to wait can allow God to accomplish other important work in, for, and through us.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

(In addition to Flashback Fridays, this week will also feature a Throwback Thursday and a Wayback Wednesday. New devos will return next week.)In this Wayback Wednesday from August 2, 2021, we see the Roman commander passing Paul off to Governor Felix like a hot potato, many miles away. Felix makes an attempt to pass Paul off as well, but he is unable to evade responsibility to judge Paul's case. No matter who is in power, they all serve God's will -- that Paul will be safely delivered to Rome to be God's witness there.Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

As Paul stands before the Jewish council, he begins by stating that he has lived before God with a clear conscience. This angers the high priest, who orders Paul to be struck. Paul then shifts the discussion to the issue of the resurrection of the dead, a belief that divides the council: Pharisees who believe in the resurrection vs. Sadducees who reject the idea. The debate quickly escalates and the Roman commander removes Paul from the council. That night, the Lord appears to Paul and encourages him that he will now have the opportunity to testify not just in Jerusalem, but in Rome itself!Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/For Reflection:- Why do you imagine that Paul thought it important to assert that his conscience was clear? Why do you think the high priest was so angered by Paul's statement?- Why do you think the doctrine of the resurrection was so important to Paul?- What do you think and feel about Paul's strategy of dividing the council over the resurrection? Can you think of any application to your own situation in life? - Prayer: Lord, in difficult times, help me remain faithful to you and confident in the hope of the resurrection.