I Choose Today...

I Choose Today to Work the Gift

God doesn’t give us finished loaves. He gives us seeds. That thought came to me as I reflected on the story of manna in the wilderness. Each morning, God provided just enough for the day—a daily portion of provision. But it didn’t come in the form of warm bread ready to eat. It came as a seed-like substance the Israelites had to gather, grind, and bake into something useful (Numbers 11:7-9). In other words, He gave them the gift, but invited them to work it. And isn’t that still true of the way God works with us? Whether it’s a talent, an idea, a calling, or a word of encouragement—He often gives us something in seed form. The potential is there. The blessing is real. But the fullness comes in the co-laboring. Sometimes I look at the things He’s placed in my hands and feel the pressure to have them all polished and perfect right away. But God isn’t asking for perfection—He’s inviting me into participation. The manna wasn’t about convenience. It was about connection. It required trust—gathering only enough for today, not storing up for tomorrow. It required obedience—doing it His way, on His timing. And it required effort—working

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Episode 10: I Choose Today to Share What I Have

The Boy. The Basket. The Miracle. There’s a boy in the crowd—one most people overlook. He’s young, likely poor, holding five small barley loaves and two fish. Maybe it was a lunch packed by his mama. Just enough to sustain him. Certainly not enough to feed thousands. But then Jesus speaks. A need is revealed. And the boy has a choice. He could hide. Eat his lunch in silence. Keep it to himself. Or… he could step forward and offer what he has—small as it may be. He chooses to give. And Jesus takes it. He doesn’t mock it. He doesn’t belittle its size. He gives thanks for it. Then He multiplies it. And that simple, surrendered offering becomes the catalyst for one of the most remembered miracles in Scripture.   I’ve thought a lot about that boy. About the courage it took to step forward. About the humility to hand over what little he had. And honestly? I see myself in him. When God called me to start this podcast, I didn’t feel like I had much to offer. Just a story. A heart to encourage. A willingness to obey. I could’ve stayed quiet. Blended in. Kept my “loaves

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I Choose Today to Be Filled Before I Feed

There’s a sacred call we have—to encourage, to serve, to lead, to disciple, to feed His sheep.But as I was praying today, God gently reminded me: I can’t feed unless I’m being fed. I can’t pour out what I haven’t first received. Just like a mother who breastfeeds must nourish her own body in order to nourish her child, we too must be nourished—by the Word, by time in God’s presence, and most importantly, by the power of the Holy Spirit. We often rush into our vocations, our callings, our ordinary, even our ministries with empty cups, offering stale crumbs instead of living bread. But even Jesus didn’t start His ministry without the filling of the Spirit. He waited until the Spirit descended like a dove at His baptism. He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. He was filled with the Spirit when He stood up in the temple and declared Isaiah 61 over Himself: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me…” If Jesus needed to be filled with the Spirit before He began to feed others—how much more do we? It’s true—if you are a believer, the Holy Spirit already dwells

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I Choose Today to Stay Close to the Father

I read a story recently about a father who spent a lot of time making things for his daughter. Thoughtful things. Beautiful things. His hands were busy, his heart full of love. But as I sat with the story, something stirred—something deeper. The Holy Spirit nudged me with a gentle question: What if she needed more of him, not more from him? He had limited time—like we all do. And instead of using it to make memories with her, he spent it making gifts for her. Sweet? Yes. But something essential was missed: presence. She would’ve learned more, grown more, and likely cherished more, simply being with her father than receiving all the things he crafted. And just like that, I felt the Lord turn that mirror on me. How often do I long for what God can do for me instead of simply sitting with Him? How often do I run ahead chasing something good and miss out on the One who is better? It reminds me of the choice Abraham and Lot had to make* (credit to Paul Waters). When their herds grew too large to share land, Abraham offered Lot first pick. Lot lifted his eyes and

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I Choose Today Let God’s Word Fortify My Soul

Sometimes we just need to be reminded of where our real strength comes from. I wrote this reflection a while ago, but it’s one I keep coming back to—especially when I feel drained, uncertain, or just needing a reset. God’s Word doesn’t just encourage me—it fortifies me. I hope these words do the same for you today. ⸻ I love words—maybe that’s one reason I love God’s Word so much! David captures this same love for God’s Word, expressing awe and wonder through his writing. In Psalm 119:175 (MSG), David ends his heartfelt prayer with these powerful words: “Invigorate my soul so I can praise You well; use Your decrees to put iron in my soul.” I love the way this translation puts it: “Invigorate my soul.” To invigorate means to strengthen and give energy. Think about a time you’ve felt invigorated—maybe after spending time at the beach, hearing an inspiring sermon, or listening to a meaningful song. In those moments, you’re energized, ready to take on the world, to fight the good fight, and to step into whatever God is calling you to. David’s prayer is that God’s principles, instructions, and truths would empower him to live with energy

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