“Who Are You Becoming? The Power of Daily Choices in Shaping Your Faith

As followers of Christ, we often hear the phrase “walk in faith.” But have you ever stopped to think about what shapes that walk? Who you are becoming in Christ isn’t defined by one grand moment—it’s formed in the small, often unseen choices you make every single day.

The Quiet Impact of Daily Choices

Each morning, you wake up with a new opportunity to choose who you will serve (Joshua 24:15). Whether it’s a decision to spend time in prayer, show kindness to a stranger, or meditate on Scripture instead of scrolling social media, every choice points your heart toward—or away from—God.

The truth is, we don’t drift toward godliness by accident. Left unchecked, our human nature leads us away from the things of God. That’s why intentionality is so crucial. As Galatians 6:7-8 reminds us, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit will reap eternal life.”

Habits Shape Your Heart

Think about the habits you’ve formed over time. Are they nurturing your faith or pulling you away from it? For example:

• Are you prioritizing time with God in prayer and Scripture?

• Do your conversations reflect the love and grace of Jesus?

• Are you guarding your heart from influences that dull your spiritual sensitivity?

It’s easy to underestimate how small decisions—choosing to forgive, turning off the TV to spend time in the Word, or resisting gossip—can have a profound impact on your spiritual life. These moments may feel insignificant, but together, they create a lifestyle of faithfulness.

Becoming More Like Christ

As Christians, our goal is to grow into the likeness of Christ (Romans 8:29). That transformation doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a journey of surrendering our will, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide us, and making choices that reflect God’s kingdom.

When you choose to love sacrificially, forgive relentlessly, and serve selflessly, you are allowing God to mold you into who He’s called you to be. These daily acts of obedience lead to a deeper relationship with Him and a stronger witness to the world.

Reflect and Realign

Take a moment to reflect: Who are you becoming? Are your daily choices drawing you closer to Jesus or farther away? If you feel convicted, don’t despair. God’s grace is abundant, and His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). Ask the Holy Spirit to help you realign your heart and habits with His purposes.

Start Today

You don’t need to wait for a New Year’s resolution or a spiritual retreat to begin making changes. Start today. Commit to spending more time in God’s presence, practicing gratitude, and loving those around you well. Small, consistent steps of faith will lead to a transformed life, one that glorifies God and fulfills His purpose for you.

Who you are becoming is determined by what you do today. Let your choices reflect the person you are in Christ and the person He is calling you to be.

Am I Living My Life on Purpose of Just Getting Through the Day?

Life moves fast. Between work, family, and countless obligations, it’s easy to find ourselves simply “getting through the day.” We check off tasks, meet deadlines, and fall into bed exhausted, only to do it all again tomorrow. But is this really living? Or is it just existing?

This question—“Am I living my life on purpose or just getting through the day?”—invites us to take a hard look at how we spend our time and whether our actions align with God’s purpose for us.

The Difference Between Existing and Living

When we’re merely existing, life feels reactive. We’re responding to circumstances, running on autopilot, and often feeling unfulfilled. On the other hand, living on purpose means approaching each day with intentionality, grounded in the understanding that God created us for a reason.

Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” This verse challenges us to go beyond the mundane and actively pursue the good works God has laid out for us. But how do we get there?

Evaluating Our Priorities

To live on purpose, we first need to evaluate our priorities. Ask yourself:

• What consumes most of my time and energy?

• Does what I’m doing reflect God’s values or my own ambitions?

• Am I making time to seek God’s guidance for my life?

Too often, our schedules are filled with activities that may be important but don’t align with God’s larger purpose for us. It’s essential to create space to pray, reflect, and listen for His direction.

Aligning Actions with God’s Purpose

Living intentionally starts with understanding our role in God’s plan. He calls each of us uniquely, equipping us with specific talents and opportunities to make a difference.

• Spend time in God’s Word. Scripture reveals God’s heart and can guide us in making decisions that align with His will.

• Pray for clarity. Ask God to show you where He wants you to invest your time and energy.

• Take small, faithful steps. Whether it’s reaching out to someone in need, serving in your community, or stepping out in faith to pursue a God-given dream, small actions can lead to big impact.

Moving From Survival to Significance

Living with purpose doesn’t mean we won’t have tough days. Life’s challenges can leave us feeling drained and overwhelmed. However, when we’re anchored in God’s purpose, even the hardest days have meaning. We’re no longer just surviving; we’re contributing to something eternal.

Jesus said in John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” A full life isn’t about busyness or worldly success. It’s about living in alignment with God’s will, experiencing His joy, and sharing His love with others.

A Call to Action

So, take a moment today to reflect: Are you living on purpose, or are you just getting through the day? If the answer is the latter, don’t be discouraged. God’s grace is sufficient, and He is ready to guide you toward a life of purpose.

Make the choice to live intentionally. Seek God daily. Let Him realign your heart and your actions. As you do, you’ll discover the deep fulfillment that comes from walking in His purpose, one step at a time.

How to Deepen Your Relationship with God Daily

One of the greatest desires we can have as followers of Christ is to know God more deeply. Our faith isn’t meant to be stagnant—it’s a living, breathing relationship with our Creator. Just like any relationship, it requires intentional time, effort, and heart. The good news is, God is always ready to meet us where we are. Here are some practical ways you can deepen your relationship with Him daily.

1. Prioritize Daily Prayer

Prayer is the foundation of our relationship with God. It’s not just a duty; it’s a privilege. Through prayer, we have a direct line to the Creator of the universe.

Start small if you’re not sure where to begin. Set aside 5–10 minutes each morning to talk with God. Thank Him for who He is, bring your needs before Him, and listen for His guidance. Over time, let this grow into an ongoing conversation throughout your day. As 1 Thessalonians 5:17 reminds us, “Pray without ceasing.”

Practical Tip: Keep a prayer journal. Write down your prayers and record when you see God’s answers. This will encourage you to keep trusting Him.

2. Engage in Daily Bible Study

God’s Word is alive and active, a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). If you want to know God’s heart, you have to spend time in His Word.

Start with a manageable goal. Read one chapter a day, or follow a reading plan. The key is not how much you read, but how much you absorb. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal truths to you as you read.

Practical Tip: Find a study Bible or a devotional that aligns with where you are in your faith journey. Apps like YouVersion or Bible Gateway also provide helpful resources to keep you on track.

3. Worship Consistently

Worship is more than singing songs on Sunday mornings—it’s a lifestyle. Worship happens when we fix our eyes on God and give Him the glory He deserves. This can be through music, gratitude, or simply marveling at His creation.

Set aside time each day for personal worship. Play worship music while you’re driving, sing praises in the shower, or spend a moment thanking God for His blessings. Worship lifts our hearts and reminds us of who He is.

Practical Tip: Create a playlist of worship songs that resonate with you and play it during your quiet time or while doing mundane tasks.

4. Develop a Habit of Gratitude

A grateful heart draws us closer to God. When we take the time to thank Him for His blessings, both big and small, we’re reminded of His faithfulness.

Each day, write down three things you’re thankful for. Over time, you’ll begin to see how God is working in your life in ways you might have overlooked.

Practical Tip: Start or end your day by thanking God out loud for specific blessings.

5. Connect with a Faith Community

While a personal relationship with God is vital, we’re also called to live in community with other believers. Hebrews 10:25 encourages us not to give up meeting together but to encourage one another.

Surround yourself with people who will pray with you, study God’s Word with you, and hold you accountable. When we share our faith journey with others, we grow stronger together.

Practical Tip: Join a small group at your church or connect with an online community of believers.

6. Practice Obedience

Deepening your relationship with God also means aligning your life with His will. When God speaks to your heart—through His Word, prayer, or others—respond with obedience.

Obedience is an act of trust and love. When we follow God’s direction, we experience His blessings and grow closer to Him.

Practical Tip: Identify one area of your life where you sense God calling you to grow. Take one small step of obedience this week.

Final Encouragement

Remember, building a deeper relationship with God is not about perfection—it’s about connection. He’s not looking for flawless habits; He’s looking for your heart.

As you intentionally prioritize prayer, Bible study, worship, and obedience, you’ll find yourself growing closer to Him day by day. And in every step, you’ll discover that God is faithful, present, and full of love for you.

Let today be the day you say, “Lord, I’m ready to go deeper.” God is waiting with open arms.

“Crossroads: Seeking God to Discern Next Steps: A Forty-Day Devotional”

Ryan Stratton’s Crossroads is a deeply moving and spiritually enriching devotional that serves as a guide for those facing pivotal moments in life. Through its forty-day journey, the book offers readers a space to pause, reflect, and seek God’s direction with clarity and intention.

Stratton writes with authenticity and warmth, drawing on his pastoral experience and personal insights to connect with readers on a profound level. Each devotional entry is thoughtfully crafted, blending Scripture, relatable anecdotes, and thought-provoking questions to inspire deeper self-examination and spiritual growth.

What sets Crossroads apart is its emphasis on transformation and hope. Stratton’s stories of God turning hopeless situations into good resonate deeply, offering encouragement to anyone wrestling with uncertainty. His approachable writing style ensures that readers feel guided rather than lectured, creating a sense of partnership in the journey.

The book is perfect for individuals, small groups, or anyone seeking direction during challenging seasons. Its structure makes it easy to integrate into daily routines, with each day providing just the right amount of content to reflect on and pray through.

In Crossroads, Stratton reminds us that life’s uncertainties are opportunities for divine intervention. By the end of the devotional, readers will feel equipped not only to discern their next steps but also to trust more fully in God’s plan for their lives.

This book is a must-read for those seeking guidance, encouragement, and a renewed sense of purpose in their spiritual journey.

Get your copy here: https://a.co/d/1lUGqRz

When God Seems Distant

As believers, we all encounter seasons when God feels distant. The prayers seem unanswered, the comfort feels absent, and we’re left wondering if He’s really there. Yet, the truth of Scripture assures us that God never leaves or forsakes His children (Deuteronomy 31:8). These seasons of perceived distance are not a sign of His absence but an invitation to grow in faith and trust.

Here are some biblical truths and practical steps to help you live faithfully when God feels distant.

1. Remember the Truth of God’s Presence

Feelings can be misleading. When God feels distant, it’s essential to anchor ourselves in the truth of His Word:

• “The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth” (Psalm 145:18).

• “I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).

Even when you don’t feel His presence, God’s promises remain unchanged. Cling to these truths and remind yourself that He is closer than you realize.

2. Seek Him in the Word

When God feels far away, Scripture becomes our lifeline. His Word is living and active (Hebrews 4:12) and provides reassurance when we feel lost. Read Psalms of lament, like Psalm 13 or Psalm 42, where the writers express their struggles but ultimately place their hope in God.

As you meditate on His Word, you’ll discover His presence through the pages of Scripture and be reminded of His unchanging love.

3. Pray Persistently

It’s tempting to withdraw from prayer when God feels distant, but this is the time to lean in even more. In Luke 18, Jesus shares the parable of the persistent widow to encourage us to pray without losing heart. Even when you don’t feel like it, pour out your heart to God.

Your prayers don’t have to be perfect or eloquent. Romans 8:26 assures us that the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness and intercedes on our behalf.

4. Reflect on God’s Faithfulness

In times of distance, look back on moments when you clearly experienced God’s presence and provision. Journaling these memories can help you recall His faithfulness during challenging times.

Psalm 77:11-12 says, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.” Reflecting on what God has done will remind you that He is still at work, even if you can’t see it now.

5. Trust in God’s Timing

God’s silence or perceived distance is never accidental. Often, He uses these seasons to deepen our faith, refine our character, and teach us to rely on Him. James 1:2-4 encourages us to count it joy when we face trials, knowing that they produce perseverance and maturity.

Trust that God’s plan for your life is unfolding perfectly, even if it feels unclear in the moment.

6. Stay Connected to Community

When you feel distant from God, surround yourself with fellow believers who can encourage and pray for you. Hebrews 10:25 reminds us of the importance of gathering together to spur one another on in faith.

Share your struggles with trusted friends, a pastor, or a small group. Sometimes, God uses His people to speak His truth into our lives when we’re struggling to hear His voice.

7. Choose Faith Over Feelings

Walking in faith means trusting God even when you don’t feel Him. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”

God’s presence is not dependent on our emotions; it’s a reality grounded in His promises. Choosing to trust Him in the silence honors Him and strengthens your faith.

Conclusion: God Is Closer Than You Think

Even in seasons of spiritual dryness, God is working. He’s using the silence to draw you closer, teach you patience, and build a deeper relationship with Him. Keep seeking, praying, and trusting, knowing that He is faithful and will reveal Himself in His perfect timing.

Remember, God may feel distant, but He is never far away. Continue to walk in faith, holding onto the truth that His love for you is steadfast and unchanging.

Priorities for 2025

How Was 2024 for You?

Did you accomplish what you set out to achieve? Did you grow into the person you hoped to become? How much stress did you endure along the way?

Every year, I hear people reflect on how difficult the previous year was. We long for smooth sailing, but life rarely goes exactly the way we hope. So how do we respond when things don’t work out as planned?

There are major life changes that we cannot control—such as the death of a loved one or the end of a significant relationship. Yet, there are also challenges we bring upon ourselves—financial struggles due to poor decisions or losing a job because of a lack of focus.

The reality is simple: life happens.

Take a moment to reflect on the past year:

• What consumed most of your focus?

• What did your daily routines look like?

• How valuable were your relationships?

• How would you describe your relationship with God?

As a new year begins, it’s easy to set big aspirations—promising ourselves to “be better” or “do better.” Yet by mid-January, many of us fall back into familiar habits and routines.

If there’s one thing you could change this year, one area to prioritize above all else, let it be this:

Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God.

Now, before you start thinking, “I’ve got this—I just need to (insert plan here),” consider this: perhaps the first step is aligning your priorities with God’s.

Ephesians 2:10 reminds us:

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.”

This verse is powerful because it reveals that God has already envisioned something extraordinary for each of us. Our role is to take the time to listen and discover what He has purposed for us.

When we live into who God says we are—using the gifts, talents, and passions He’s given us—we find purpose and meaning. Our lives become a reflection of His image and glory.

So, how can this be accomplished?

1. Pray – Prioritize communicating with God. Share your heart—your hopes, fears, and desires, big or small.

2. Read – Dedicate time to scripture to understand God’s character and how He is shaping you to reflect Christ.

3. Worship – Make worship a central part of your life, celebrating who God is and all He has done.

4. Speak – Tell others about the ways God is working in your life.

5. Serve – Take intentional steps to make someone else’s life better.

Be patient with yourself. Studies show it takes about six weeks for new habits to take root. There will be days you miss the mark, but don’t give up. Start again and keep going. Growth takes time—just as a seed takes time to sprout and grow leaves, your journey with God requires persistence and care.

Imagine what your year could look like if you shifted your priorities to align with God’s. Imagine the transformation that could take place as you grow closer to the person He created you to be.

So, as we look ahead, ask yourself:

• What will you prioritize in 2025?

• What steps will you take to focus on God this year?

This could be the year your life takes a new direction—one led by His purpose and guided by His grace.

Is Peace Possible?

Is Peace Truly Possible? A Reflection on Mark 1:1-8

The concept of peace often feels elusive in today’s fast-paced, chaotic world. We long for it in our hearts, our relationships, and our communities, yet true peace seems like an unreachable ideal. However, the Gospel of Mark opens with a bold proclamation of good news that promises a path to genuine peace—not just fleeting moments of calm, but a deep and abiding peace grounded in God’s kingdom.

Mark 1:1-8 introduces us to John the Baptist, the one sent to prepare the way for Jesus, the Prince of Peace. John’s message was one of repentance and renewal. He called people to turn from their sins, be baptized, and align their hearts with God’s will. In this passage, we find profound truths about how peace is not only possible but accessible to all who seek it in Christ.

1. Peace Begins with Preparation

John’s role was to prepare the way for Jesus, and his ministry reminds us that peace requires intentional preparation. Just as a rough road must be smoothed out for a king’s arrival, our hearts need to be cleared of the obstacles that block peace—pride, unforgiveness, and fear. Repentance, as John preached, is the first step toward inner peace. By turning away from sin and surrendering to God, we make space for His peace to reign in our lives.

2. Peace Is Found in the Presence of God

John’s message was not about himself but about the One who was coming after him—Jesus. He declared, “After me comes one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie” (Mark 1:7). This points us to an essential truth: peace is not something we can manufacture on our own. It is found in the presence of Jesus.

Jesus came to reconcile humanity with God, offering a peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). This peace is not dependent on external circumstances but flows from the assurance of God’s love and sovereignty. When we invite Jesus into our lives, we receive the gift of His peace—a peace that calms our anxieties and anchors us in hope.

3. Peace Is Empowered by the Holy Spirit

John baptized with water, but he foretold of Jesus, who would baptize with the Holy Spirit (Mark 1:8). The Holy Spirit is the source of true peace, working within us to transform our hearts and minds. Through the Spirit, we are empowered to live in harmony with God and others.

The Spirit helps us let go of past hurts, heal broken relationships, and extend grace where it’s needed most. This divine empowerment is what makes lasting peace possible, even in a world marked by conflict and division.

Living in the Reality of Peace

So, is peace truly possible? The answer is a resounding yes, but only through Jesus Christ. The good news of Mark’s Gospel is that peace is not a distant dream; it is a present reality for those who prepare their hearts, embrace God’s presence, and walk in the Spirit’s power.

As we continue in this season of Advent—a time of waiting and preparation—let John’s message inspire us to seek the peace that only Christ can bring. It starts with repentance, grows through relationship, and flourishes in the Spirit’s work within us.

May we be reminded today that peace is not just possible; it is promised. And in Jesus, that promise is fulfilled.

What obstacles might be blocking God’s peace in your life? How can you prepare the way for Christ to bring His peace into your heart today?

Look Up, Look Out

What do you carry with you when you walk into a room? When you wake up in the morning, what’s on your mind? Are there burdens from your past that still weigh you down, shaping how you see others and how you interact? How often do you find yourself focusing on the things that are broken, the things that need fixing? And how hard is it to shift your gaze toward the good around you, to see the opportunities instead?

In Genesis 12 and 13, we meet Abram, later called Abraham. I encourage you to take some time to read these chapters.

Abraham is known for his great faith in God—the God who called him out of his homeland, away from his family, security, and all that was familiar. In Genesis 12, God invites Abram on a journey of faith, instructing him to leave everything behind. But Abram brings along his nephew Lot.

As they travel, both Abram and Lot become wealthy, and the land they share can no longer support them. So, Abram offers Lot the choice of where to settle. Lot chooses the fertile plains near the cities of Sodom. Abram, on the other hand, receives a vision from God. God tells him to lift his eyes and see the vast land that will belong to him, a promise of safety, prosperity, and blessing. With this assurance, Abram continues on his journey, confident that God will provide all he needs.

What about us today? What are we focused on? Do we fixate on what’s wrong, on the problems that demand our attention? It’s easy to focus on the immediate, the obvious. But maybe we should pause and ask ourselves where we’re struggling to trust God. Are there places in our lives where we’re so eager to take control, to rely on our own abilities, that we forget to lean on Him?

Notice how Abram didn’t see the promise until God told him to look. It was only then that he noticed the potential, the hope, and the future that God had for him. In the same way, it’s not just about what we think needs to happen. It’s about waiting for God to lead, trusting Him to reveal the path forward.

So, where in your life are you struggling to trust God? And how can you learn to wait, to trust that God will show you the way in His time?

God will reveal what He has in store for you. Trust Him. Wait on Him. Keep your eyes fixed on what God is doing now, and what He has promised to do. Trust in God, always.

DEEP DIVE: The Prodigal Son

The gospel message is clearly found in the parable of the Prodigal Son that Jesus tells in Luke 15. The reality is this parable is so much more than just a “lost son.” This parable is about the compassion of the Father.

These three videos are from a three-part sermon series on the Lost Son (Prodigal Son) parable. Take time to watch and see where you are in the story. What might God be saying to you those the scripture and through the sermons today?

The Journey Home (Luke 15:11-21)
The Heart of the Father (Luke 15:22-24)
Rediscovering Grace (Luke 15:25-31)

Limitation of “I”

“I said…” “It is mine…” “I can do…” “I have to do…”

These phrases are all part of our everyday vernacular. We tend to focus on “I/me/self” over anyone else. We’ll over exaggerate our part and what we have to do, and (possibly?) inadvertently discredit the work of others which elevates our own self in the eyes of others and causes ill feelings and attitudes toward those we may be in relationship with.

If we are truly doing everything we say, or think we are, that’s one thing. But I have observed our own notion of what we accomplish, or “have to do”, isn’t nearly as big or busy as we may think. Part of this comes from, I think, the notion we have to appear busy so we maintain credibility with others.

However our intentions may be, there does seem to be a need to shift our vocabulary. Instead of “I”, we should remember that we are actually part of a community, a group of other people, and should be saying “We” more often.

“We” is actually a more empowering word to use. Why? Because “we” are not as strong, as smart, as funny, as accomplished, as we are when we are connected with other people. Simply stating “I” all the time leaves the impression life is all about you and what you can do. That’s not how we are supposed to live. We are supposed to live in community.

There are people, most likely, thinking they have risen to their position in life on “their own merits” and “nobody helped them.” In fact, our entire American society seems to be focused on the “I” and individuality. Because of this, we have lost what it means to live collectively.

Every single one of us is who we are because of other people. There is no such thing as a “self-made person.” We have all had people guide, mentor, help make connections, etc., for us to achieve what we have achieved. We are always looking to connect and network with people. But, when we get rushed or when we get too focused on our own tasks, we can easily “forget” to ask for help. What this does is give people the chance to feel sorry for us because of all we have to get done. We can make it seem like no one is there to help. But is this true?

This is why we should take the focus off of “I” and place it back on the “We.” It’s not really about what you and I can accomplish on our own. In fact, we miss out on the opportunity for others to help, get recognition, or to strengthen their own gifts if we do not include them in what we say.

We can easily become so narrow minded and focused that we miss opportunities to let others see how we can live in community, and that’s the only way we can be successful.

There are many limitations we place on ourselves when we focus on “I.”

One of the biggest limitations is that we end up taking God out of the equation. Face it. You and I would not be here, or who we are, if God had not created us. We have been given the greatest gift, the gift of life, and we forget the One who created, who empowers, who gifted, who is with us always. Forgetting God ultimately puts us as the god(s) of our own life and we will miss the bullseye of who we were meant to be.

This post barely skims the surface of how limiting the over use of “I” is. So now, I invite you to pay attention to your words. What do you say most often? What/Who do you think about the most? How to others feel about those who “should be there to help?” Where do you see God in your everyday life?

My hope is that “we” begin to shift the focus so we can become a closer community, all working together to build each other up and to see the working of God in and through each one of us, especially as a community.